HM: We must change mindset

Monarch also lays stress on right attitude, ethics to stimulate growth

ON THE eve of the 25th National Day, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam again emphasised accelerating growth in non-oil and gas industries, renewed efforts to spur agricultural output, dealing with poverty effectively and stressed the need for a more productive, efficient and service-oriented civil service.

In a titah broadcast nationwide, the monarch reminded Bruneians that to stimulate growth and achieve excellence as a country, "we need to change our mindset and attitude and strengthen our moral base and ethics".

The monarch hailed his late father Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, also known as the "Architect of Modern Brunei", for laying the foundation for the Sultanate's future with the first national development plan.

"One of his biggest merits was launching the first five-year national development plan in 1953. Early investments, amounting to $100 million, was a formula that signalled the start of Brunei's modernisation on a wide scope and a big scale," His Majesty said.

"During that time, roads measured only up to 160 kilometres. There were very few houses and schools. There was only one hospital, and very few people could read and write.

"With his vision and foresight, my late father sought out to fulfil several basic needs, such as healthcare and education, houses, roads, power stations, communication systems, the development of the oil industry, agriculture and fisheries.

"Overall the national development plan has successfully brought harmony and prosperity for the citizens and residents of this country," said the monarch.

His Majesty highlighted the importance of an educated human resource, a need recognised in the national vision. "This is important as we are a small country with a very small population. A quality human resource is the deciding factor for a country's capability to enjoy prolonged progress," he said.

"Because of this, we have never neglected education. The underlying principle is clear, that is to produce intellectuals with expertise in various disciplines, and from here, we hope to see the rise of credible leaders, thinkers and entrepreneurs," said His Majesty.

The monarch touched upon the recent floods, saying that it was a challenge that should serve as a reminder and a lesson for the country. "With the maturity that we have achieved, it is important for us to be determined and prepared in carrying out correct changes and renewals."

His Majesty extolled the mutual understanding and friendly relations that Brunei has forged with many countries, saying that it brings about a "complete achievement", and took the opportunity to express the Sultanate's appreciation towards friendly nations that have always given their cooperation, particularly since Brunei achieved full independence.

The monarch also thanked the national day celebrations committee and expressed his highest appreciation for the citizens, residents and leaders involved, including civil servants, security personnel from the government and the private sector.

The Brunei Times