DAY 4 MORNING
27TH FEB 2022 - MORNING
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YANG DI-PERTUA
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Lela Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Dato Setia Haji Mohamed Taib, PSNB., SLJ., PHBS., PJK., PKL., Yang Di-Pertua Majlis Mesyuarat Negara, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
OFFICIAL MEMBERS DUE TO POSITION (PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTERS)
His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Minister of Finance and Economy and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
His Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, DKBM., DPKT., King Abdul Aziz Ribbon, First Class (Saudi Arabia), The Order of the Renaissance (First Degree) (Jordan), Grand Cross of Crown Order - G.K.K. (Netherlands), Medal of Honour (Lao), DSO (Singapore), Order of Lakandula with the Rank of Grand Cross (Philippines), The Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise, Second Class (Ukraine), DSO (Military) (Singapore), PHBS., Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Di-Raja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa bin Pehin Datu Perdana Menteri Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Ibrahim, DK., SPMB., DSNB., PHBS., PBIL., PJK., PKL., Special Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr.) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, PSNB., DSLJ., SMB., PHBS., PJK., PKL., Minister of Home Affairs, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, PSSUB., DPMB., PHBS., PBLI., PJK., PKL., Minister of Religious Affairs, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong, PSNB., DPMB., PJK., PIKB., PKL., Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (B) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd. Yussof, DPKT., SMB., PHBS., Minister of Defence II, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohamad Isham bin Haji Jaafar, PSNB., DPMB., Minister of Health, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, PSNB., SPMB., PJK., PKL., Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
(Attended virtually)
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohd. Amin Liew bin Abdullah, PSNB., SPMB., Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd. Yusof, PSNB., SPMB., PJK., PIKB., PKL., Minister of Foreign Affairs II, Negara Brunei Darussalam. (Absent on official business)
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Ir. Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar, PSNB., SPMB., PIKB., PKL., Minister of Development, Negara Brunei Darussalam. (Attended virtually)
Yang Berhormat Dato Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein, PSNB., DPMB., PJK., Minister of Energy, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman, PSNB., DPMB., PJK., Minister of Education, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohammad Yusof, PSNB., SMB., PIFKB., Minister of Transport and Infocommunication, Negara Brunei Darussalam. (Attended virtually)
Yang Berhormat Major General (B) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, DPKT., SMB., Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Negara Brunei Darussalam. (Attended virtually)
APPOINTED MEMBERS FROM HONORABLE TITLES
Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Imam Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Hamid bin Bakal, PSSUB., DSNB., PHBS., PBLI., PKL.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Pendikar Alam Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Hasrin bin Dato Paduka Haji Sabtu, DPKT., DPMB., SNB., PBLI., PJK., PKLP.
(Attended virtually)
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Dato Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Rahim, DPMB., SNB., PJK., PKL.
APPOINTED MEMBERS WHO HAVE ACHIEVED EXCELLENCE
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Umarali bin Esung, PSB., PIBK., PKL.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Hamid @ Sabil bin Haji Arshad, SMB.
Yang Berhormat Awang Ong Tiong Oh.
Yang Berhormat Fdr. Ar. Dayang Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman, PSB., PIBK.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadi, PSB.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Khairunnisa binti Awang Haji Ash'ari, PIBK.
Yang Berhormat Awang Iswandy bin Ahmad, PIBK.
APPOINTED MEMBERS REPRESENTING DISTRICTS
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Ali bin Pengiran Maon, PSB., PJK., PIBK., PKL., Penghulu Mukim Berakas ‘B’, Zone 1 - Brunei-Muara District.
(Attended virtually)
Yang Berhormat Awang Naim bin Haji Kamis, PSB., PJK., PIBK., PKL., Penghulu Mukim Kota Batu, Zone 3 - Brunei-Muara District.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Tahamit bin Haji Nudin, PIBK., PKL., Penghulu Mukim Gadong ‘A’, Zone 4 - Brunei-Muara District.
(Absent in the morning and afternoon)
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Momin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari, Village Head of Limau Manis, Zone 5 - Brunei-Muara District.
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Mohamed bin Pengiran Haji Osman @ Othman, PSB., PIBK., PKL., Village Head of Old Mosque, Pekan Muara, Sabun and Pelumpong, Zone 2 - Brunei-Muara District.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin, PJK., PKL., Penghulu Mukim Liang, Zone 1 - Belait District.
Yang Berhormat Awang Hanapi bin Mohd. Siput, PIK.B., Village Head of Labi I, Zone 2 - Belait District.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Wahab bin Apong, SUB., PJK., PIK.B., PKL., Penghulu Mukim Tanjong Maya, Zone 1 - Tutong District.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Ramli bin Haji Talit, PIK.B., PRL., Penghulu Mukim Telisai, Zone 2 - Tutong District.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu, SMB., PSB., PIK.B., PKL., Penghulu Mukim Bokok, all five Mukims of Temburong District.
PRESENT WITH
Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Jaya Dato Paduka Awang Haji Judin Haji Asar, DPMB., SLJ., POAS., PHBS., PBLI., PJK., PKL., Clerk of the Legislative Council, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Mulia Dayang Rose Aminah binti Haji Ismail, PSB., PIBK., Deputy Clerk of the Legislative Council, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
(The meeting commenced at 9.30 a.m.)
Yang Dimuliakan Clerk
In the name of Allah, the most gracious, the most merciful, the first meeting of the eighteenth Legislative Council session commenced today, Sunday, 26th of Rejab 1443 equivalent to 27th February 2022, commenced with a Doa Selamat.
DOA SELAMAT
The Doa Selamat was recited by Yang Dimuliakan Begawan Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Haji Mustapa bin Haji Murat.
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
In the name of Allah, the most gracious, the most merciful, we are thankful to Allah for with His blessing we are able to gather here this morning for the fourth day of the first meeting of the eighteenth Legislative Council session. Blessings and peace upon Junab Muhammad, our beloved, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, his family, his companions, and his faithful followers until the end of time.
Your Honourable Members. Last evening, our discussion commenced on the Schedule Titles for the Bill (2022) Supply, 2022/2023, which law was debated by Yang Berhormat Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II.
Without further ado, we now need to scrutinize the related schedules in detail. To allow us to do so, I adjourn this session for us to reconvene fully at the Committee Stage.
(The session was adjourned)
(The meeting reconvened as Committee)
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
In the name of Allah, the most gracious, the most merciful Your Honourable Members, the committee now reconvenes fully to consider the Supply Bill (2022), 2022/2023 each recommendation proposed by Yang Berhormat Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II. As we are aware, last evening we have already discussed and approved titles under the Prime Minister's Office and departments under it as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Now we shall continue to discuss and debate the following titles.
Yang Dimuliakan Jurutulis
Titles SB01A to SB04A - Ministry of Defence.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Your Honourable Members. Now the meeting will discuss the Ministry of Defence from Topic SB01A to Topic SB04A.
As usual and as we have practised before, the Ministry of Defence is also a closed ministry because it is directly related to the strategic affairs of national security and
it is not suitable to be discussed openly. However, I would like to give way to Yang Berhormat Menteri Pertahanan II to deliver his introduction about the budget preparation for this Ministry of Defence. I now invite Yang Berhormat Menteri Pertahanan II. Please, Yang Berhormat.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Pertahanan II
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, all praise and gratitude are for Allah for with His mercy and guidance, we are still given the opportunity to be in this noble hall. I bear witness that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah. I also want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members whom Allah has blessed and whom I respect. Allow me first to express my deepest thanks to Yang Berhormat Pengerusi for granting the opportunity to share the introduction in explaining the priorities and strategic objectives of the Ministry of Defence for the Fiscal Year 2022/2023. Accordingly, the allocated amount is $597,673,680.00.
On this occasion, the Ministry of Defence and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces respectfully and humbly offer our highest gratitude to His Majesty Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for the provision of the Ministry of Defence budget year after year, reflecting the high and consistent commitment of the government in establishing a mature and capable national defence.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. As in the past year, once again we are at a time when the country and the world are struggling to navigate the currents of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. Apart from impacting daily life, this cross-border threat has also claimed the lives of our citizens. On behalf of the Ministry of Defence and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, I would like to express condolences to families who have lost loved ones to this pandemic.
The Ministry of Defence, along with other ministries, is pleased to take this opportunity to express sincere appreciation to frontline workers and volunteers who have bravely and steadfastly provided services in a pandemic environment that is very challenging and frightening.
With trust and surrendering to Allah, the best protector, what is clear, based on our experience over the past two years, is that we need to continue striving and the spirit of adopting a whole of nation approach to improve quality of life, adapting to this new norm. The Ministry of Defence employs determination in continuing to bear the responsibility towards ensuring a strong national security environment foundation to support recovery during these challenging times.
To this day, the threat of the pandemic is still difficult to predict from various aspects, especially when it will end. This is what is considered as the manifestation of uncertainty often mentioned regarding future security threats and risks.
Based on such uncertainty, the Ministry of Defence and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces remain vigilant of the importance of establishing a level of capacity, capability readiness that is effective in enabling resolution and adaptability and prompt response to any form of threat that may arise.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members.
In the name of Allah, as proven, strategic planning and implementation of capacity development, capability and readiness in military medicine and military operations other than war (MOOTW) in particular have increased the level of responsiveness and allowed the Ministry of Defence and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces to provide effective support to national response in facing the pandemic threat in our beloved country.
Since the start of the pandemic wave last August, the Royal Brunei Armed Forces have been given greater trust and responsibility compared to the first phase through the establishment of the National Coordination Centre for COVID-19 or known as N3C19 in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.
This centre acts as the main driver in determining administrative needs and planning non-clinical operations together with ministries, agencies, and departments. Although we are not in a war against conventional enemies, existing operational planning elements based on military principles, concepts and doctrines such as command and control and Civil Military Cooperation (CIMIC) are also considered relevant and applied in coordinating more orderly, effective national response in complex operations.
Apart from N3C19, the COVID-19 Task Force was also established since 2020 to provide various operational assistance in augmenting the capacity of the Ministry of Health through the roles of manpower assistance and leadership at isolation centers, logistical assistance, laboratory testing and COVID-19 screening, implementation of vaccination programs, mosque operations and funeral services assistance.
Through these existing and newly established mechanisms, approximately 3,000 members of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces have been deployed to 18 locations across the country in jointly curbing the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, over 100 officers and public servants of the Ministry of Defence have also contributed to the government by serving as frontliners and volunteers at N3C19, the Ministry of Health, and the Medical and Health Services Centre or MRS Bolikah Garrison.
Although the involvement of the RBAF during this pandemic crisis seems more oriented towards non-traditional operations, the readiness of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces to carry out conventional operations and routine assistance operations has not been compromised at all. The protection of the country's main infrastructures, security patrols on land borders and maritime areas including "rat trails", aerial surveillance, and humanitarian and natural disaster assistance (HADR) continue to be held at all times.
One of the security trends identified since the start of the pandemic 2 years ago is an increase in cross-border crime activities including illegal drug smuggling. This trend is very worrying, however, with cooperation from security agencies and the country's enforcement, we have been successful in curbing these illegal activities and conducted more operations during this uncertain situation. The whole of nation approach practiced also involves the Royal Brunei Armed Forces which has expanded its operational footprint in areas of this country in jointly achieving our collective agenda towards enhancing government effectiveness in combating cross-border crime.
Overall, the capability of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces in providing significant contributions in containing emergencies or crises like the COVID-19 pandemic is a dividend or return on significant government investment over the years. If evaluated from the effectiveness of military exercises, courses, and continuous efforts in fostering civil-military cooperation since its establishment 60 years ago.
In line with His Majesty Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam's titah during the Sovereign’s Parade Speech of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Officer Cadet School this past January, the Ministry of Defence and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces will confidently continue to provide meaningful contributions in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic as needed. Indeed, the appreciation speech from a sovereign and wise king has and continues to inspire the members of the Ministry of Defence and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces towards the effective performance of duties and responsibilities.
Your Honourable Chairman. As a main pillar in protecting and defending the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country, the importance for the Ministry of Defence, especially during times of challenge, to exist as a strong and credible defense entity in terms of capacity, capability, spirit, and commitment has been proven. This is manifested in the Ministry of Defence's updated vision to create "A Respected Armed Force and a Solid Partner".
Achieving this inspired defense posture largely requires alignment with the security and geopolitical landscape around us. Dynamic strategic developments both within and outside the region constantly bring changes to the threat spectrum which then have implications on national defense.
These include political instability, economic fragility crises, resource over-demand, natural disasters, climate change, and the use and escalation of extremism. These developments are expected to continue to impact and shape our security outlook over the next 15 years, leading up to and beyond the year Brunei Vision 2035 is achieved. This will also largely depend on various driving factors such as globalization, digitization, automation, and migration.
Although such developments are also shrouded with aspects of uncertainty, what becomes increasingly clear is the need to establish an effective deterrent factor and the ability to rapidly respond to the spectrum of threats and challenges coming from various directions, traditional or non-traditional, as I have previously presented in my opening speech and the Budget Speech at the last State Legislative Council session.
With determination and spirit, the Ministry of Defence and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, even amidst the pandemic atmosphere, have conducted rapid and comprehensive assessments from which they have formulated a more organized and directed development planning for the Ministry of Defence.
This is manifested in the launch of the Defence White Paper 2021, "Defending The Nation's Sovereignty: A Secure and Resilient Future" by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, in conjunction with the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Diamond Jubilee Celebration on 31 May last.
Your Honourable Ministers have been briefed on the contents of this Defence White Paper last July. Being forward-looking, this latest Defence White Paper outlines specific strategic challenges through the lens of Negara Brunei Darussalam and presents updated defense strategies and priorities from the previous Defence White Paper in line with the increasing demands on the defense role and in accordance with the maturity of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces having reached 60 years of age. Also outlined are more comprehensive defense tasks based on current priorities including:
- Determining the strategic environment to ensure early warnings.;
- Defending the country from external threats.;
- Cooperating with relevant agencies in jointly protecting national interests in the maritime region and land borders and further enhancing the country's capabilities in handling terrorism and cyber threats.;
- Providing support to public agencies especially if the challenges faced are beyond the scale and capabilities of the public agencies.;
- Closely cooperating with other countries through defense diplomacy whether ASEAN countries or countries outside the region.; and
- Supporting broader regional and international efforts towards regional stability in general or specifically in peacekeeping operations and humanitarian aid operations in addition to gaining experience and improving personnel knowledge.
Equally important is the review of the strategic defense planning that has also been carried out to ensure the environment and the achievement of the goals outlined in defense documents based on three defense pillars namely Deterrence, Defense Diplomacy, and Holistic Defense towards achieving and maintaining the defense key result areas under the acronym IKWONDAMAI as I have previously described during the last State Legislative Council session, if I may repeat namely:
I - Strong territorial integrity.; K - High level of combat capability and readiness.; WON - Supporting a Whole Of Nation approach.; D - Effective defense diplomacy.; A - Defense involvement in International Missions.; MA - High-quality human resource.; and I - Credible defense image.
Similarly, the review on capability planning and the restructuring of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces is actively being carried out through medium and long-term documents namely Force 2035 and Force Structure Review in line with the goals of Brunei Vision 2035. Based on the priorities outlined in the Defence White Paper 2021, this comprehensive plan aims to further enhance the effectiveness of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces through the introduction of new platforms and capabilities, focusing on filling capability gaps, jointness, capability development based on Defence Lines of Development (DLODs) and the reinforcement of modern technology and innovation not only covering conventional domains such as land, air, and maritime but also cyber and space. For example, recently we have successfully operated the Unmanned Aerial System or UAS based on modern technology to carry out missions for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) purposes. Further implementation phases are already planned and are on track and it is also desired to contribute to national needs such as humanitarian aid and natural disaster response, search and locate, fire extinguishing, border control, and law enforcement operations.
In addition to the aspect of capability, the complexities and risks assessed as increasingly complex due to the more fragmented strategic environment recently also require us to continuously commit towards deepening the level of trust and confidence with friendly nations through defense diplomacy and involvement in international missions. Therefore, we must also remain actively engaged in leveraging efforts at various levels, as is the case with our success in assuming the responsibility as Chair of the 15th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and the 8th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) last year, when Negara Brunei Darussalam was the ASEAN Chair, in building a more inclusive, positive, and robust ASEAN-centric security architecture to ensure ASEAN's future remains a prosperous, stable, and safe region. As a developing country with an open economy policy, our development and security are highly dependent on such external environments.
Your Honourable Chairman and Your Honourable Members.
To effectively spearhead the implementation of defense policies and strategies, the execution of functional-level programs and initiatives is also emphasized towards:
- Strengthening capability planning.;
- Enhancing logistic support.;
- Strengthening human resource management and usage including welfare and wellbeing of members.;
- Optimizing the use of defense science and technology;
- Enhancing the effectiveness of infrastructure development and performance.; and
- Strengthening financial stewardship in the management of allocated finances.
Accompanying the effectiveness of defense planning is an emphasis on its implementation and the integrity and best governance at all levels from the leadership line, the entire staff, and defense members of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces. Based on core values, Trust in God, Courage, and Professionalism, and the values of Maqasid Syariah, which for the first time are highlighted in the latest Defence White Paper. Attention and efforts will continue to be enhanced, as is the recognition of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Religious Department or JAMA'AT from the unit level to the departmental level since last May, to embed and strengthen these values into the character as noble traits in performing entrusted responsibilities and management practices in the Ministry of Defence. This combination will further strengthen the confidence and trust level in the defense service as a holistic defense pillar of the country whole of government and whole of nation.
Your Honourable Chairman and Your Honourable Members.
As we enter this new fiscal year, I would like to emphasize again that the work of national defense development will continue to focus and be kept on track according to the comprehensive defense planning framework that I have just shared.
God willing, this will enable the Ministry of Defence and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces to move efficiently and fulfill their roles in defending the sovereignty and religion, the stability and prosperity of the country, and the wellbeing of its people, providing a safe space for the smooth and unobstructed development and progress of the country, and supporting the achievement of the goals of Brunei Vision 2035.
In this opening opportunity, I once again express my utmost gratitude to all members of the national security services, especially the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, who are always resilient, brave, sincere, and earnest in defending the sovereignty and peace of the country. I personally always pray that their sacrifices in defending religion, king, nation, and country are rewarded fittingly by Allah, the Almighty.
I am pleased to reiterate the call to arms by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam that "...defense and security are a collective responsibility and something that must not be compromised and will always be prioritized...".
Thank you, Chairman.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Your Honourable Members. We thank the Minister of Defence II for the clear and detailed presentation, which indeed need not be debated further. Therefore, I would like to ask all Your Honourable Members who agree for this Schedule to be approved, please raise your hand.
(All Members raise their hands in agreement)
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Thank you, all agree.
Yang Dimuliakan Jurutulis
Titles SD01A to SD01A become part of the Schedule, namely the Ministry of Defence.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Your Honourable Members, the Committee Meeting now moves to scrutinize the Ministry of Finance and Economy starting with its departments. Before these sub-titles are opened for debate, I would like to give the opportunity to the Minister at the Prime Minister's Department and Minister of Finance and Economy II to present their plans for preparing the budget for this ministry, please go ahead.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman. I will briefly explain the proposed allocation for the Ministry of Finance and Economy, totaling $1,11,516,668 billion, to finance:
Staff salaries amounting to $68,864,090 million, an increase of approximately $1.47 million from the 2021/2022 Financial Year. The increase is due to the actual calculation of salaries and allowances for the listed positions, the request for four positions from Printplus, and preparations for absorbing 76 open vote positions and 4 daily wage positions;
Recurrent Expenditure totaling $931,281,030, an increase of $86,309,621 from the 2021/2022 Financial Year allocation; and
Miscellaneous Services allocated $790.8 million to finance the following:
Security and Defence amounting to $121.8 million;
Medical Services amounting to $30 million;
Managing infectious disease outbreaks including the purchase of COVID-19 vaccines amounting to $124.5 million;
Expenditures for addressing natural disasters such as implementing long-term protection work for landslides and floods amounting to $15 million;
Public Safety amounting to $3.2 million;
Information Technology projects amounting to $12.4 million;
Development of Temburong District amounting to $6.7 million;
Assistance program for students under the Miftahun Najaah scheme from less privileged families, which includes in-kind support such as school uniforms, workbooks, writing instruments, and school fees amounting to $1.5 million and other expenditures; and
Development Expenditure of $11,371,548 million with Plan Price amounting to $295,223,991 million to finance studies in science, technology and innovation, census and socioeconomic studies, government human resources management system, and others.
Your Honourable Chairman. Noting the priority areas of the budget, including the achievements made by the Ministry of Finance and Economy throughout the 2021/2022 financial year, the Ministry of Finance and Economy will continue its commitment to implementing and supporting efforts contributing to the economic development of the country through a whole of government approach, involvement of GLCs and statutory bodies, and through Foreign Direct Investment.
At the same time, I take this opportunity in this august chamber to express my highest appreciation and thanks for the cooperation given and fully believe and hope that the projects in planning will be realized as expected.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Your Honourable Members. I feel the statement presented by the Minister at the Prime Minister's Department and Minister of Finance and Economy II on the direction of his ministry is quite clear. As known, Your Honourable Members had the opportunity to have discussions with the relevant ministries, including sitting together with the respective ministers and discussing matters at length. I hope matters that have been discussed with the relevant ministries do not need to be brought up in this assembly because it will take a long time.
However, I now want to open the discussion for the Ministry of Finance and Economy, thus I invite Your Honourable Awang Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman. Your Honourable Chairman, I bring up 6 matters under the title SDOK10 - Ministry of Finance and Economy:
Is there a plan for Brunei Darussalam to conduct a committee study for the underprivileged citizens requiring assistance from the Community Development Department and the Islamic Religious Council of Brunei? From the results of this survey, strategies will be developed to improve the socio-economic status of this group and elevate their standard of living;
It is proposed to provide incentive allocations and grants to tourism companies in a fixed amount, create an early action plan after the world recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, and the tourism industry actively recovers;
It is suggested to improve the Agricultural Fertilizer Subsidy Program, especially for paddy cultivation to increase the country's output, because fertilizer is an important medium to increase the yield or yield of paddy besides focusing on hybrid variety;
Provide some allocations for comprehensive training for those interested in the digital economy;
It is hoped that the financial sector collaborates with the government to build a better future for the citizens of Brunei Darussalam. That the financial sector is a unit to meet economic needs, improve lives, and livelihoods.
Finally, financial services should help citizens and businesses grow their businesses and build resilience. The financial industry is expected to be in the best position to play a strong role in leading transformation and change at the industry level. The financial sector is an agency that can help the government ensure long-term economic growth of the people towards prosperity; and
There are still foreign nationals who are guaranteed by another enterprise company but create ‘private limited companies’. Although currently, conditions do not allow green Brunei Identification Card holders. This matter should be examined and action taken. Part of their purpose in creating 'private limited' companies after the age of 55 is still able to stay and live in Brunei.
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II
Thank you also to Your Honourable for the 6 questions raised earlier. In fact, not all these questions are related to the Ministry of Finance and Economy, although the Ministry of Finance and Economy always cooperates with other ministries to consider the best strategies for advancing the efforts of each ministry.
Regarding the plan for studies in terms of aid, as we all know, we have recently launched the National Welfare System, which is an example of the Ministry of Finance and Economy working together with several stakeholders such as the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, and the Brunei Islamic Religious Council as well as the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation. This is a collaborative effort to produce a National Welfare System that we see already at this time the number of people needing assistance within the system.
Proposal for incentives for the tourism sector. This is not an effort defined by the Ministry of Finance and Economy alone. It must be a collaboration between the Ministry of Finance and Economy and the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism. What strategies the Ministry of Finance and Economy will have regarding this, God willing, let us all think together. This is not just for the Ministry of Finance and Economy to think about whether to offer incentive assistance and so on.
About fertilizer to further increase our agricultural produce in paddy planting, at this time subsidies and so on have already been provided, not just fertilizers but also including tools and so on. Moreover, in a presentation the other day regarding the allocation provided for buying back paddy amounting to $9.0 million for the upcoming year.
Regarding the Digital Economy, this effort falls under the Digital Economy Council, collectively considering ways to advance our digital economy. What's important in this digital economy effort, we must provide suitable infrastructure; thus, efforts like payment gateway, for instance. Also, various efforts to provide like people-hubs and so on. This is important, not just for our country, where regardless of in any Deliverable under our ASEAN Chairmanship 2022 we prioritize our efforts in the digital economy but not just this country, also in ASEAN.
Regarding the financial industry. At this point, we have significantly advanced the financial industry. Compared to several years ago, we now have local banks, several local banks each enhancing services like investment funds and so on insurance amongst others. This effort can continue, God willing, an important industry for any economy.
The question was not clearly heard, what I heard, individuals who possess a Green Identity Card who have been residing here for a long time who are now 55 years old whether they are given the opportunity to continue running businesses in Brunei. If so, it cannot be denied many foreigners are doing business within this country. When the time comes, they will not be here forever. We provide opportunities to our people. We must be cautious so they are not here forever. Thus, opportunities must be given to our people. Hopefully, the questions posed earlier have been answered as much as hoped. Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Thank you, Your Honourable, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy. I now invite, Your Honourable Dayang Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman.
Yang Berhormat Fdr. Ar. Dayang Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman. Your Honourable, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy. I would like to present under Title SDO9A, Code 001/002 under Programs and Activities – Account (B) Recurrent Expenditure - Account B00300 - Rent amounting to $115 million.
It is about rent. Until now, the government has provided various facilities to the public especially to civil servants. This includes the renting of government houses to civil servants who are married.
In our effort to realize the Vision Brunei 2035, we also need to be sensitive towards the main areas that need to be emphasized to achieve all our goals. I would like to focus on Goal 2 in Vision Brunei 2035 which is High Quality of Life. One of the targeted welfare achievements is to have a high standard of living with one of its main areas being to have a high ownership rate of residences.
Can we find other alternatives other than renting government houses in achieving our main goal to achieve a high rate for citizens to own their own homes especially for civil servants in the Division III salary scale and below because I believe they are in great need of their own residence.
In connection, to also find mechanisms perhaps introduce a Rent to Own Scheme or (Rent to Own) and this scheme allows renters to own the said residence after the agreed rental period is over. This indirectly can help reduce the number of people depending on the queue to own houses under the National Housing Scheme. Indirectly we can also reduce our expenses for rental payments and use it for more beneficial purposes for Production and development of the country. With this reduction, God willing, it can be used for implementing various initiatives for strengthening the country's progress and dynamic economy.
Your Honourable Chairman, I would like to also ask for clarification from Your Honourable, Minister on the question I posed the other afternoon regarding the substantive deficit our country is experiencing lately. I understand that various strategies are being implemented and the country's relentless efforts in implementing these strategies. However, looking at the needs and importance of the country to act towards sustainability.
What other options do we have and how does the country intend to address this long-term deficit issue? The country has also reduced expenses as much as possible but we also should not continuously use the state's reserve fund.
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman. There were two questions posed by Your Honourable.
The first one, regarding the expenditure in the Rental Expenditure of $115 million, by encouraging so the relations of public service to further increase home ownership and so on. This is a good suggestion, not something new, indeed for a long time we have encouraged the public not necessarily working with the government or with the private sector to build their own homes earlier. Do not wait for retirement. This matter is considered by the Housing Focus Committee under the Ministry of Development. That is the answer for this question.
The second, regarding our efforts trying to reduce the deficit or ways to reduce the deficit in the future. As Your Honourable previously presented from some years ago, our efforts with the theme we proposed that day, which is looking into investment in our future. What's important, what is spent, is producing benefits for the future.
To date, several projects have been implemented for the purpose of enhancing productivity. Secondly, also reducing government spending in the future. This question is somewhat like what was posed by Your Honourable Awang Haji Abdul Wahab bin Apong the other day about projects that are value for money.
If Your Honourable can briefly share some projects that we are implementing to together enhance productivity and save government spending such as the implementation of the Facility Management project on assets under the control of the Ministry of Education that replaced the conventional contract for maintenance work and preservation of areas in primary and secondary educational institutions that have been running since 2020 with savings of $6.8 million.
Similarly, for some projects like the construction of the Company Muara Maritime Services Sdn Berhad. It is a joint venture between Darussalam Asset Sdn Bhd and Lürssen International GmbH (Lürssen) from Germany as a service provider with expertise in maintaining, repairing, refurbishing ships. The MMS Company is actively working to improve and develop innovations that will promote quality service delivery and added value services to its current and future customers.
As of September 2020, the MMS Company has as many as 250 employees, with 230 being local residents and 41 employees under the i-Ready scheme. Other projects, perhaps it is apt Your Honourable names only a few projects like the Scan It Project under the Ministry of Defence, implementation of the One Common Billing System that aims to facilitate the monitoring and payment of government bills, also the launch of the Human Resource Management System and also several projects implemented together with Government Linked Companies including the supply of medications and others and also several PPP (Public Private Partnership) projects that are being planned at this time.
What is important, as kaola have shared or suggested during our cooperation in the presentation the other day, if kaola could repeat once again. Kaola urge both the public and private sectors to continue working together in further diversifying economic activities, enhancing the implementation of projects through Public Private Partnerships, and increasing efforts to attract more Foreign Direct Investment in order to enhance the nation's productivity and create more job opportunities for the local populace.
These efforts are crucial for relying on the government for fiscal sustainability so that the prosperity and well-being we enjoy today will continue and can be enjoyed by future generations. That is all the response kaola has for the question posed earlier.
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II. I now invite Yang Berhormat Dayang Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, and peace be upon you.
Replying to a question under Title SA01A - Kaola Ministry of Finance and Economy. At the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Legislative Council Session, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam delivered a speech about the Employee Trust Fund Scheme. Let me briefly revisit His Majesty's speech.
"...Slightly about the issue of the Employee Trust Fund (TAP) scheme, Bismillah ir-Rahman ir-Rahim, I am aware that a study has been completed by the Ministry of Finance and Economy in cooperation with the Employee Trust Fund (TAP) and full implementation will begin in 2023...".
Kaola's question is what preliminary suggestions can be shared for this scheme.
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, and thank you, Yang Berhormat, for the question regarding the new Retirement Scheme to be launched in 2023.
Previously, kaola also referred to and expressed gratitude for the speech by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam during the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Legislative Council Session on Thursday, 24th February 2022, especially regarding the study for improvements to the TAP and SCP Scheme. This was also raised by several Honourable Members in their respective motions of thanks.
At this stage, what can be informed is that the objective of this new scheme is to further strengthen the social welfare of TAP members during their retirement, taking into account several factors such as the income that members will receive during retirement, Income Replacement Rate, current inflation, encouraging the productivity of TAP members, encouraging employment as well as sustainability and inclusivity.
These are some of the factors considered in the new TAP Scheme that kaola can share. Further actions are in progress including the provision and amendment of relevant acts, and improvements to the IT system, especially for TAP, ensuring the smooth implementation of this new scheme. Once all relevant actions are completed, the detailed structure of this new scheme will be shared with TAP members and employers thereafter. That is all that kaola can convey.
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
I invite Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Hamid @ Sabli bin Haji Arshad.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Hamid @ Sabli bin Haji Arshad
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Bismillah ir-Rahman ir-Rahim and peace be upon you. Kaola has 3 matters to raise under the Ministry of Finance and Economy under Titles SD01A – Title SD09A - Ministry of Finance and Economy. Koala does not need an answer today, perhaps these matters require further study and time:
Regarding the audit of companies that are no longer active. What is meant by inactive companies that have not been operating for decades, have owners who have passed away, and do not have a bank account, do not keep records. Qualified accountants as required also demand high fees. Entrepreneurs hope for mercy and appropriate consideration because taking them to court is feared not the best way and feared towards bankruptcy; and
Regarding housing loans and public service. First of all, a thousand thanks for the ministry's assistance in providing housing loans for the public service not only to allow the loans but also have given permission to buy land and houses. What is seen at this time, developers are not interested in selling houses to the public service due to the complex and time-consuming process. Hence, it is requested to conduct a detailed study so that developers are interested in selling to the public service; and
If understood, rice is a controlled commodity. Some entrepreneurs are interested in importing various types of rice such as basmati rice, poni rice, rice from Australia and others, and they also sell it not as a subsidy, even more expensive than what is sold and subsidized by the government. But there are still many who need it. At this time, only a permit for 10 cents from the total purchase of rice from each store is given. Is there a plan to provide opportunities by increasing the quota or open it up widely to importers. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Thank you, Yang Berhormat. There are 3 questions, kaola will try to answer.
First, regarding companies that are no longer active but are still required to conduct audits and spend heavily. Actually, this is a regulation if there is a company registered under 'private limited' must conduct annual audits. If the company has been inactive for decades, they can apply to ROCBN for deregistration. If not active there's no need for it to linger for years.
But if it still requires it, auditing does not necessarily have to be comprehensive. If it's inactive it's easy to audit but if the registration is still there with ROCBN, it's a regulation that must be held. We must be fair to all companies under 'private limited'.
The second question, the house loan. The process is long. This matter can later, God willing, be reviewed by the Ministry of Finance and Economy whether it's truly long, what are the reasons for the delay, we might not be able to list the reasons here in this Council. God willing, it will be reviewed again.
The third, rice imported by companies themselves not subsidized. Only a small permit is given. We import this rice as it's basic food for people. Although we will order, previously tried by the private sector to import but that effort seems not quite suitable.
Returning the government to import all this rice hopefully makes it more competitively priced. If the private sector wants to import that type of rice, it's their choice. It's a personal choice, what the government imports is what's needed by the public, that alone, basic responsibility offered by the government. Other choices of more sophisticated rice, subject to the private sector themselves.
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
I invite Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Ramli bin Haji Lahit.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Ramli bin Haji Lahit
Thank you. Bismillah ir-Rahman ir-Rahim, All praise is due to Allah, Lord of the Worlds, and peace and blessings be upon our Master Muhammad and all his family and companions and peace be upon you.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, kaola speaks about Code 001/000 – Human Resource Development and Corporate Affairs Program with a total Budget Expenditure 2022/2023 of $20,494,043 relating to the public's demand for fingertip services implemented by departments within the Ministry of Finance and Economy. The revolution in the sophistication of gadget use and information and communication technology applications have greatly influenced society's life becoming a new element in facilitating various tasks wanting all services to be at the fingertips transcending the world without borders.
Your Honourable Members, kaola, recognizing how important it is for people who dislike being confined to meet officers or to fill out documents to make payments and claim payments in relevant departments, what are the types of online services that currently seem to be very extensive or receive the highest response from the community? Because the COVID-19 situation has affected and influenced the way people interact and cooperate.
Meanwhile, the government and businesses have adapted to work remotely and have leveraged information technology to enable them to carry out their operations virtually, including possibly departments in the Ministry of Finance and Economy.
Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairperson. Thank you, Your Honourable Member, for your question about the public's demand for fingertip services, information technology. What types of online services are very effective in receiving a high response from the community because of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
At this time, we are facing the COVID-19 pandemic, indeed we are facing many challenges. In terms of how we can continue to deliver government services to the public. Not only at the Ministry of Finance and Economy but also in several ministries.
Regarding the Ministry of Finance and Economy, there are some initiatives we can continue to provide services to the public such as people can submit invoices and so on for payment from our treasury during the COVID-19 pandemic, making it easier for the public so they can just upload the invoices online, no need to come in person.
With a response that is indeed fast without any delay. So, the expenditure in information technology, one very important thing not only for the Ministry of Finance and Economy but for any ministry, so the Ministry of Finance and Economy cooperates with several ministries. Together looking for ways so that we can advance towards digitalization.
One project that kaola has already shared earlier is the One Common Billing System. A system that all ministries can use this system. Not only each ministry creating its own system. This is a Common Billing System used by all ministries.
Another important project is the Human Resource Management System. This is not only where we manage payroll and so forth. At this time we have used it online but also how we manage leave, allowances, payment of allowances and so forth.
These are some of the projects the Ministry of Finance and Economy cooperates with other ministries to facilitate so that we can advance further in our efforts toward digitalization. That's all perhaps, Your Honourable Chairperson, that kaola can share.
Thank you, Your Honourable Member.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
I invite Your Honourable Dayang Khairunnisa binti Awang Haji Ash'ari.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Khairunnisa binti Awang Haji Ash'ari
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairperson, kaola / I refer to the decree by Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam regarding Financial Regulation. Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam had consented to amendments to the Constitution Order (Financial Procedure) (Amendment) 2022 and the Financial Regulations 2022 which will come into effect on April 1, 2022.
Under Title SD01A. I would like clarification on the new Financial Regulation. In terms of how it differs from the current FR and what can be expected. I also want to address issues of transparency and violations of FRGO and hope that these amendments will also reduce or prevent misappropriation in government administration.
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairperson.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairperson. Thank you to the Honourable Member. This is a good question, so to answer this question, kaola would like to share among other things this update was made taking into consideration several matters as follows:
Before this, the last year the Financial Regulations 1983 were changed was in 1983, that is 38 years ago. So it needed to be updated and to further set the regulations in the Financial Regulations 1983 so that it is more suitable with the current needs and conditions and there were some regulations and processes in the Financial Regulations 1983 that are no longer relevant and obsolete considering that now we have IT processes that can be used for payment processes and so forth.
We needed to take into account what is obsolete. It needed to be briefly changed to the Financial Regulations 1983 to tidy up the Regulations into 2 documents such as:
The main text containing only the main policy of the Financial Regulations for the government; and
Providing guidelines according to topics included in the main text including detailed procedures and information. The Financial Regulations 2022 are more concise and straightforward and easier to understand. While the guidelines by topics outline in detail, procedures, according to the current condition like the use of IT. These guidelines are carefully classified from time to time according to the current needs and if compared what are the differences, for example, the format seen in the Financial Regulations 1983 was too comprehensive and not easy to understand. We 'address' this format so it's more concise, compact, and easier to understand. One important thing about the duties and responsibilities of the Controlling Officer and the Estimating Officer. If seen in the Financial Regulations 2022, it states in detail the duties and responsibilities of the Controlling Officer and the Estimating Officer. But if seen in the Financial Regulations 1983, duties and responsibilities are not stated clearly and are located in several parts not explained. So that’s one shortcoming of the old Financial Regulations.
The methods of government revenue collection and payment in the new regulations take into account the method of electronic revenue collection and payment. Indeed, the Financial Regulations 1983 did not take into account electronic methods in old times. Also, several issues like the definition of Controlling Officer, the Financial Regulations 1983 did not state and now it is included. Several other things like warrants, revenue, store goods storage, annual account as examples.
Annual account we state must be prepared but, in the Financial Regulations 1983, it wasn't stated. What's important in the change to the Financial Regulations is that it's easy to understand by the Controlling Officer, officers, and staff who are entrusted to manage the state’s money, then will further enhance the monitoring of financial regulations and guidelines directly strengthening government financial management to avoid and from the misuse of government money. The Treasury Department will make an announcement to ministries and departments in March 2022 to enable its implementation starting from April 1, 2022. Thank you, Your Honourable Chairperson.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
I invite Your Honourable Awang Haji Abdul Hamid @ Sabli bin Haji Arshad.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Abdul Hamid @ Sabli bin Haji Arshad
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairperson. Kaola is also delighted to take part in this debate for a minute or two, kaola is delighted to speak under Title SDO1A - Department of the Ministry of Finance and Economy. In this matter, kaola wants to raise regarding there are projects such as paying for outstanding or overdue projects or there are problems of damage inside or outside of government buildings or long-standing damage issues that should be rectified by obtaining allocations. But in this case, when the financial year budget allocation is approved, the overdue and unpaid projects as well as the neglected damage issues, use the existing annual budget allocation. Thus, the finance used is affected because of paying the arrears.
It would be better kaola suggest to apply for allocations for overdue payments in the coming year's budget allocation. So that overdue payments will not cause problems in the future. So, it will not arise again when asked to the relevant departments why this has not been done, why is it neglected. The reason for not having a budget, will not arise again if a special application is made for the matters kaola mentioned. Not to go back and forth and not to disturb the annual allocation as well. How can this matter be addressed?
That's all, Your Honourable Chairperson. Thank you, والســـلام عليكم ورحمـة الله وبركاتــه.
Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairperson. Thank you, Your Honourable Member, regarding the unpaid or damaged payments. Indeed, each year in the process of preparing allocations for the upcoming financial year, each ministry has a plan for new projects, work to be done, so allocations are provided. Payment not yet settled can be included. It can be applied for in the upcoming financial allocation.
It is subjected to each ministry to include unpaid payments not necessarily the allocations provided for the upcoming fiscal year exclusively for new projects. Unsettled payments can also be included in the allocations for the coming financial year. For example, from the RKN and all, we indeed include the outstanding liabilities in the RKN. The financial year budget for other ministries is indeed included, but if there is a shortfall, they have to apply again. It is subject to each ministry when we provide allocations for the upcoming financial year.
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Thank you to Your Honourable Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy.
Your Honourable Members, I think we have discussed enough about the Schedule for the Ministry of Finance and Economy II, and I would now like to vote. Members who agree to pass this Schedule, please raise your hand.
(All Members raise their hands in agreement)
Thank you. All Members agree.
Yang Dimuliakan Jurutulis
The Ministry of Finance and Economy II, from Title SD01A to Title SD09A, has been made part of the Schedule. The Ministry of Home Affairs from Title SE01A to Title SE12A.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Your Honourable Members, the Committee Meeting is now moving to the Title of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Before these titles are opened for debate, I would now like to give the opportunity to the Honourable Minister of Home Affairs to provide explanations and details on the budget preparation for the said ministry. Please, Your Honourable Minister of Home Affairs.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman.
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praises are to Allah, Lord of the Worlds, and may peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon all his family and companions.
Your Honourable Chairman and Your Honourable Members.
Firstly, kaola express gratitude to Your Honourable Chairman for giving me the opportunity to present the introduction to guide the discussion on the Budget Allocation for the Ministry of Home Affairs for the Financial Year 2022/2023.
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, kaola humbly offer my highest appreciation and gratitude for the gracious consent of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in allocating a Budget Expenditure amounting to $128,343,070.00 for the Ministry of Home Affairs for the Financial Year 2022/2023.
In line with the budget theme: "Empowering Public Welfare Towards a More Resilient Socio-Economic", the Ministry of Home Affairs and its departments are tasked to continue focusing on the planning and implementation of initiatives that align with the theme.
Your Honourable Chairman and Your Honourable Members.
As the country and the world still face the COVID-19 pandemic, it requires the ministry to make changes in terms of initiatives, policies, acts, and legislation including a consistent and continuous approach, the use of information technology in the management of the ministry and departments in providing services to the public. In supporting the nation's aspiration of Smart Nation and the 4.0 industrial revolution, the changes made are appropriate to face the challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Based on the theme and main focus of the National Budget for the Financial Year 2021/2022, the initiatives of the Ministry of Home Affairs are as follows:
To preserve the safety and welfare of the public, the Labour Department and the Department of Immigration and National Registration continuously improve the level of service to the public in various services. The Department of Immigration and National Registration is in the final phase of implementing the IRNRS-Immigration and National Registration System, which aims to collect and integrate individual personal information comprehensively, including biometric data. This will also enable the sharing of data information resources among related government agencies. In this connection, the Border Control System (BCS) under the Immigration and National Registration (INRS) system will start to be used in April 2022. It will be implemented at the International Airport to inspect every visitor entering and exiting the country using a biometric system, namely by taking fingerprint and facial recognition. Through this method, it will also be able to check the demographic record of visitors and more effectively detect undesirable visitors in this country. This Border Control System will later be directed to all control posts in phases.
In addition, the Labour Department and the Department of Immigration and National Registration will continue to review and coordinate procedures and regulations from time to time. This includes the improvement and enforcement of the Employment Order 2009 and immigration acts or regulations through continuous and consistent inspection and enforcement actions independently or in collaboration with relevant agencies as well as the assistance of the public and grassroots leaders. With this, it will ensure control in terms of the entry of foreign citizens or foreign workers and also in maintaining the welfare of workers is always preserved and protected, and subsequently take action against offenders who violate labor and immigration laws. ; and
The Fire and Rescue Department and the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) play a role towards creating a community that is always emergency and disaster ready. Towards this, steps to increase capacity in terms of logistics and community competency development through the supply of logistical needs and community competency development programs are implemented continuously to achieve the objective of fostering a culture of readiness and creating a resilient society.
The program conducted by the Fire and Rescue Department has produced as many as 48 meritorious community members in 2021. Until now, it has been proven that villages with trained volunteer firefighters have been able to help extinguish small fires before the fire brigade arrives at the scene.
In addition, the Fire and Rescue Department has also begun implementing compound fines for types of offenses under the Fire Offenses Order 2016 known as the Fire Safety Order, 2016 (FSO,2016) since August 2021. It is hoped that this will ensure exclusion and reduction of the risk of fire incidents and also ensure that owners and tenants of premises, especially the business sector, comply with Fire Safety Regulations.
In 2021, a total of 142 fires were recorded including 58 houses with a total loss of $973,000.00. However, from this number, only 2.9% of these houses had insurance protection.
As we face the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are also facing challenges from climate change. We have faced several types of disasters including floods, landslides, fallen trees, and strong winds. Based on these incidents and experiences facing various natural disasters, we need to improve our readiness and alertness at all times.
The National Disaster Management Centre has reviewed and reactivated the draft Disaster Management Strategic Policy Framework and the National Climate Change Policy of Brunei Darussalam.
Priority programs in this policy are formed to promote safety, resilience, and economic prosperity and environmental well-being through a whole of nation approach in protecting community safety through 7 priority programs that contain objectives aligned with the Brunei Vision 2035 goals.
Your Honourable Chairman and Your Honourable Members.
In efforts of this ministry to strengthen community unity, the district departments continuously implement suitable actions to strengthen the institution of mukims and villages. These efforts include, first, the Mukim and Village Rezoning Project. This project has been implemented for areas in Kampung Air and also for mukims and villages in land areas in stages.
Most of the positions of Mukim Penghulu and Village Head involved in the rezoning project are in the process of being filled. While for areas that still require boundary changes, this matter is in the process of resolution together with relevant agencies, in accordance with the purpose of rezoning, so it will help Mukim Penghulus and Village Heads to improve the effectiveness of management and administration of mukims and villages with appropriate population sizes.
The current situation of the country facing the COVID-19 pandemic until now has slightly affected the plans for filling the positions of Mukim Penghulus and Village Heads. Therefore, the e-Voting application launched on October 2, 2021, aims as an addition to the existing voting method that can help the voting and selection process of candidates for Mukim Penghulus and Village Heads to run smoothly.
With the advent of this application, in addition to facilitating the way to vote online, this application also provides information and explanations as well as manifestos of the candidates for village chiefs and headmen. This certainly makes it easier for residents of the villages and districts to recognize their respective leadership candidates.
The application, which began implementation in December 2021, clearly has a positive impact, namely by increasing voter participation among the youth who vote through the e-Voting system, from 30% of youth voting using paper ballots to 54% with e-Voting. We believe this number will increase over time.
Based on the data available, we are also grateful that out of the many candidates for village chiefs and headmen who have been selected, those who have been invited for selection, and those in the process of being invited, 73% are under the age of 50 years. In terms of academic qualifications, 38 individuals are graduates from higher education institutions.
With the improved profile of these candidates, it is hoped that the respective village chiefs and headmen will be able to lead the leadership of a village or district with more authority and strive to develop the socio-economy of the village or district, in addition to striving to foster and create a community that is united and cares about the welfare and well-being of the residents of the village or district.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members.
In the ministry's efforts to catalyze socio-economic growth, the Town Council and District Departments continue to explore plans that can help and provide opportunities for Micro, Small and Medium Entrepreneurs to earn a living through business activities.
In addition to implementing plans to provide places for doing business that have already issued a request for proposal, several other places have also been identified for development.
The economy at the village and district level was quite affected since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. This can be seen with the decrease in revenue from One Village One Product (1K1P) from $800,000.00 in 2019 to $710,000.00 in 2020 and $556,842.00 in 2021.
However, the average income of 19 entrepreneurs involved in the 1K1P Transformation Project in 2021 has successfully increased their income by more than 106% to the extent that some have earned income of $5,000 to $7,000 per month. We are grateful and proud because some of them have made bold approaches and wisely turned the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic into opportunities. From this, we will consistently take steps together with strategic partners to further advance village products in the hope of penetrating regional markets, God willing.
Apart from providing infrastructure to catalyze socio-economics, this ministry will also focus on the high and increasing backlog of building taxes from year to year. This ministry will implement more effective actions to reduce and avoid arrears. In addition to continuing initiatives that have been implemented before, this ministry will strive to strengthen actions to make claims through court procedures.
This ministry is also in discussions with other government agencies to stipulate that building taxes be paid first before several types of applications are approved. Meanwhile, this ministry is also in the implementation stage of the Municipal Property Database Project (EP-TAX) under the 11th National Development Plan, which is to have a database system for property information in urban areas and subsequently allow property owners to pay building taxes online through the system.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members.
Based on the provisions and initiatives that have been presented, and taking into account the constantly changing environment in line with current needs and requirements, the Ministry of Home Affairs and its departments will always strive to provide services that can help improve high-quality life and generate an advanced and resilient economy that can be enjoyed by the current and future generations, and further realize the country's objectives, especially in providing Brunei Vision 2035. That is all, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and companions.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Your Honourable Members. We thank the Yang Berhormat Minister of Home Affairs, who has provided his introduction regarding the budget preparation for the concerned ministry.
Now, I open the discussion by inviting Yang Berhormat Awang Iswandy bin Ahmad.
Yang Berhormat Awang Iswandy bin Ahmad
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and companions.
Directly to my question. I would like to touch on the following regarding Title SE12A – Fire and Rescue Department. Two things:
I would like to request clarification on the matter presented in 2017, namely the Emergency Medical Ambulance Services (EMAS) Integration Program together with the Fire and Rescue Department on its effectiveness and whether it is being implemented?; and
I would also like to suggest a centralized national hotline number for emergency lines for public use. The benefit of this is to reduce the time taken from calling each one by one. The model already exists, namely the ‘Darussalam 123’ line, for non-essential services. Certainly, its advantage is the coordination and whole of government approach between the Fire and Rescue Department, Royal Brunei Police Force, and ambulances. Conveying feedback from the public, for instance, if involved in a car accident on the highway and there are injuries. For example, the public can figure out which one should be called or contacted because among the three, it often happens that the safety party that arrives asks, have the others been contacted?
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, and thank you also to Yang Berhormat.
Regarding the Emergency Medical Ambulance Services (EMAS), which began in 2017. This service is still ongoing, and what happened at that time, an enhancement by combining ambulance services at the fire stations and we have more than 25 fire stations and ambulances can also be placed. When there is an emergency at this time, both parties operate at the same location. When there is a call, as stated by Yang Berhormat earlier, for example, a car accident so both parties immediately proceed to the scene. This is done in an integrated manner.; and
Regarding the plan for emergency lines to be streamlined, this matter is currently under evaluation. God willing, it will be continued and we will notify the public when it has reached its stages of achievement later.
Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Thank you, Yang Berhormat. I now invite, Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari.
Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. May God forgive and have mercy on him
Our Lord, give us good in this world and in the Hereafter and protect us from the torment of the fire.
Kaola brings up only 2 Titles:
Under Title SEO1A – Ministry of Home Affairs Department. It is proposed to empower the Village and District Consultative Councils in the future era with the appointment of Village Heads and Chiefs as grassroots leaders from among the youth. It is proposed for the Ministry of Home Affairs to appoint professional consultants to create strategic plan and short-term and long-term action plans to advance the progress of the Village and District Consultative Councils, to allocate a grant or special allocation to each Village and District Consultative Council currently at least worth $20,000.00 per year. This is because the national achievement percentage of advancing 1K1P through the councils is still low. It is hoped that this allocation will be able to empower the 1K1P Project. This is if there are no plans yet made by the Ministry of Home Affairs; and
Under Title SEO5A – Labour Department. It is suggested that the age of foreign workers allowed in certain sectors be restricted to those aged 30 and above because what is observed is young foreign talents filling positions such as cashiers, salesmen, store attendants, and others. This restriction acts as an age levy to make opportunities broader for Brunei youth in certain sectors.
That will be all, thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri
Thank you, Your Honourable Chair and thank you as well to Your Honourable.
- The suggestion for the Village and Mukim Consultative Council to map out its course, its strategic plan. Regarding allocations to empower 1K1P, it is currently in progress subject to the planning of the villages or mukims. They must present their project first. For example, a mukim that has shown its excellence in terms of producing and selling its products and requires improvement in terms of kitchen facilities because if their kitchen is not certified, they will face difficulties in obtaining halal certification. When it is assessed and seen that there is a need, then the project will be granted assistance amounting to what they can provide to meet the requirements for certification and also to enhance their product later.;
This matter has a 1K1P Steering Committee, so these matters can also be examined by the 1K1P Steering Committee, on how else we can empower or enhance the productivity of a mukim or village that has proven its success.
- Regarding Labour, there are indeed age limits at present. To address the question presented by Your Honourable earlier, when discussing the Ministry of Finance and Economy, for Green Identity Cards it means foreigners, over 55 years old. In terms of labour, there indeed are age limits, if it is just ordinary labour, 55 years old. Over 55 years old cannot work here anymore. If they are professionals, then it will be considered beyond 55 years old. For instance, professionals up to 58 years old. If it is technical, can be up to 60 years old. Just now regarding the goods, that company, if he/she becomes a partner to that company, can also exceed 55 years old. So, there are age limits that have been determined in considering work permits, extensions for foreign workers in this country.
Thank you. Your Honourable Chair.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
I invite Your Honourable Awang Hanapi bin Mohd. Siput.
Yang Berhormat Awang Hanapi bin Mohd. Siput
Thank you. Your Honourable Chair.
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
Your Honourable Chair, kaola would first like to record appreciation and thanks as well as highest congratulations on the comprehensive presentation and explanation regarding the allocations under the Ministry of Home Affairs and its departments. Kaola would like to bring attention under Title SE07A – Belait District Office, Code/Account 003-000 – Rural Development.
The allocation for the Belait District Department for the year 2022 to 2023 amounting to about $4,453,010.00 is in line with the efforts of the Ministry of Home Affairs through the Belait District Department in orchestrating and sculpting infrastructure development and further modernizing the logistics in rural areas. Kaola would like to ask:
What other plans will be implemented for rural development with the provided budget.
To further strengthen and as a continuous effort in bolstering the village and mukim residents' economy and to support the suggestion by Your Honourable Awang Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari earlier, kaola also proposes that the district departments through the IKIP scheme can create a Sustainable Village Program to focus on strengthening economic activities handled by Village and Mukim Consultative Councils based on their special potentials.
That's all from me, Your Honourable Chair.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri
Thank you. Your Honourable Chair. Thank you to Your Honourable.
Regarding rural areas in Kuala Belait. This is coordinated by the districts. But what is clear with the budget that we have, we have to make priorities for the relevant areas. For instance, in Kuala Belait, there were issues mentioned about small roads. So, with the available allocation, through the wisdom of the District Officer with consultations through the Penghulus and Village Heads and relevant agencies will be able to utilize the budget or allocations for purposes considered priorities in those areas; and
Regarding the economy of mukims and villages, Sustainable Programme as also mentioned earlier أنا أُحِبُّكَ we will strive to identify types of programs that can be implemented. In executing such programs, it is crucial we can maximize the facilities available not just within government agencies but also through GLC companies. For example, the need for the district or mukim to have a central kitchen. So, we know some among these GLCs have their central kitchens and have excess capacity that could be offered to mukims and villages.
We do not need to build or create our own central kitchen, but strive on how they can utilize the facilities already available in other companies and by this method any allocations provided in the ministry can be optimized to strengthen the economy.
In this relation, for 1K1P we cooperated that time with BIBD to train these entrepreneurs and I am impressed with participants from Belait District far from Teraja. Imagine the distance from Teraja to Bandar Seri Begawan to attend a workshop on the weekend, 3 days a week. Imagine they have dedication. Likewise, with participants from Mumong, Belait District, not young people, those who are over 50 years old but still attended.
This provides a challenge to the participants in Brunei and Muara District that are close to where we conduct these workshops. Therefore, it requires commitment and I think perhaps Village and Mukim Consultative Council can bolster the commitment, dedication like these participants. So, that's why they are successful as I mentioned earlier, that is, after they undergo transformation. In that transformation, not only do they transform the product yes but also importantly how to manage their finances. That is an important aspect. One perhaps our loss we always face is financial management. So, hoping with the support of penghulus, village heads this issue can be successfully addressed (missing Jawi words).
Thank you Your Honourable Chair.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
I invite Your Honourable Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Rahim.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Rahim
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, I praise Him, exalted be He, and by Him, we seek aid, and upon His trustworthy Prophet and upon all His family and Companions together. And so it is narrated in the hadith, and you believe in it, the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "Whoever takes a path in seeking knowledge, Allah will make easy for him a path to Paradise. And indeed, the angels lower their wings in approval for the seeker of knowledge, and indeed, the scholar is forgiven by those in the heavens and the earth, even the fish in the water": a hadith.
Thank you, Your Honourable Chair, for giving me the opportunity to discuss the Title of the Ministry of Home Affairs. Kaola will touch on topics involving the district departments and also the Ministry of Home Affairs, that is under Title SEO6A to Title SEO9A - Brunei and Muara District Office.
Kaola has taken note of the new scheme for village heads and village chiefs from the Ministry of Home Affairs actively filling the vacancies for these positions. In this regard, kaola would like to propose that the institution of village heads and chiefs as grassroots leaders be further empowered by injecting new spirit and pace in governance more in line with current conditions including in terms of imparting knowledge to village heads and chiefs and exposing them to administrative, management knowledge, and related fields by organizing specific programs such as seminars and the like accordingly. Not to forget, also organizing programs to enhance the knowledge and wisdom of these leaders in matters related to the appreciation of Melayu Islam Beraja philosophy so that these grassroots leaders can become an example to the people they lead in their villages and districts.
Kaola finds this matter very important because "leadership through example" is the best policy and will create a trustful atmosphere towards their leaders among the village people because the leaders are an example to the village children. Whatever is done or said by the leader will become their example and it will be easy for these grassroots leaders to become the eyes and ears of the government. That's all, Your Honourable Chairman. Hopefully, it can breathe new life into the village head and village chief institutions. Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman, and thank you to Your Honourable for the proposal or suggestion to organize programs or courses that can enhance and intensify the knowledge, the administrative knowledge, so that the village heads and chiefs can act more swiftly in carrying out their duties and also need to practice and appreciate the Melayu Islam Beraja philosophy.
Indeed, such courses have been held but on a small scale. The Ministry has prepared a more robust program or curriculum for the incoming village heads and chiefs to follow by providing certain models, and they are required to follow these modules throughout the specified period and this, as also suggested by Your Honourable includes modules on administration, they must know the General Order, know the Financial Regulations, understand the philosophy of Melayu Islam Beraja, administration according to Sharia, implementation of Maqasid Shariah as leaders.
So, some of these modules have been reviewed and, God willing, the intention is also to invite for the socialization of this work with the village chiefs and chiefs and those experienced to review their suitability before it is implemented. This is an improvement from the courses or seminar programs that were implemented previously. Thank you, Your Honourable. The Ministry of Home Affairs welcomes the proposal. Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Finally, I invite Your Honourable Awang Naim bin Haji Kamis.
Yang Berhormat Awang Naim bin Haji Kamis
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman.
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, kaola would like to refer under Title SE01A - Department of the Ministry of Home Affairs. In this matter, it is a joy to know what kind of new planning the ministry has for the future to help reduce unemployment somewhat and to encourage more youth to engage in developing One Village, One Product (1V1P). Furthermore, how does the ministry ensure that the supply of One Village One Product (1V1P) will continue to generate the economy of its entrepreneurs and how to control the quality of its outputs?
That is all, Your Honourable Chairman. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri
Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman, and thank you, Your Honourable for the questions posed.
The issue related to unemployment can be addressed or addressed by several government agencies and specifically at this time is the Manpower Employment Council. As far as the Ministry of Home Affairs is concerned, our previous desire was, if the 1V1P Program succeeded as an economic program for districts and villages. It would at least provide employment for youth. For example, districts that have made tourism products as their products.
Similarly with food products, for example in Batu Apoi, Temburong District the process of making 'ambulung' but also its spin-off from 'ambulung' is making 'ambulung' biscuits and so on. In processing sago palm to make it 'ambulung' several youths have worked some of them part-time and some full-time. This is what we hope for. All of this requires the cooperation and support of how we can implement it.
In my introduction earlier, I touched on the facility infrastructure in towns to provide facilities for those engaged in business, stalls for example will be able to use the facilities available. The problem for us is to identify who is genuinely interested in venturing into these fields. God willing, if there is agreement from all parties concerned these matters can be addressed together. Perhaps that is kaola's answer regarding how far the ministry can contribute towards providing employment opportunities for this unemployed youth. Thank you, Your Honourable Chairman.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Minister of Home Affairs, for answering the questions posed by Your Honourable Members. I think it is good now that we vote on this topic.
Your Honourable Members who agree that this topic be approved, please raise your hands.
(All Members raise their hands in agreement)
Thank you. It seems all Members agree.
Yang Dimuliakan Jurutulis
The Ministry of Home Affairs Title SA01A to Title SA12A are made part of the Schedule.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Your Honourable Members. I think it is enough for us to discuss the topic under the Bill (2022) Supply, 2022/2023, and with that, I adjourn this Committee Meeting and we will reconvene in the State Legislative Council Conference.
(The Committee Meeting is adjourned)
(The Council Meeting resumes)
Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
Your Honourable Members. We have fully convened in Committee this morning, then I would like to adjourn the State Legislative Council Conference and we will reconvene this afternoon at 2.30 pm as usual.
That's all,
God's help, guidance, and blessing
(The Council Meeting is adjourned)
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