DAY 10 MORNING
15TH MARCH 2023 - MORNING
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(The meeting began at 9.30 am)
Deputy Clerk
َّ الرحْ َٰم ِن الرحْ يم ِ ِبس ِْم هThe First Meeting َّ ّٰللا of the Nineteenth Session of the National Assembly Meeting was held on the tenth day, Wednesday, 22nd of Syaaban 1444H corresponding to the 15th of March 2023M, preceded by a Prayer of Safety.
PRAYER OF SAFETY
The Prayer of Safety was recited by the Honorable Begawan Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Awang Haji Emran bin Haji Kunchang, (Imam of Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque).
Your Honorable Speaker
ُالرحْ يم السَّال ُم عل ْي ُك ْم ورحْ مةُ هللاِ وبركاتُه َّ الرحْ َٰم ِن َّ ّٰللا ِ س ِْم ه أ ْلح ْمدُ ِلِلهwe thank Allah the Almighty for His abundant grace and permission that we are able to gather again today on the tenth day of the First Meeting of the Nineteenth Session of the National Assembly Meeting.
Blessings and peace be upon our Great Leader, Prophet Muhammad, his family, companions, and followers who remain faithful and obedient until the end of time.
Honorable Members. The National Assembly Meeting is still discussing the Supply Bill (2023), Supply (2023/2024) which was proposed by the Honorable Minister in the Prime Minister's Department and Second Minister of Finance and Economy.
To enable us to continue our discussion on the topics contained in this Bill, I propose that we adjourn this National Assembly Meeting and convene at the Committee Level.
(The National Assembly Meeting was adjourned) (The meeting continued as a Committee)
Your Honorable Speaker
بسم هللا الرحمن الرحيمThe Committee is now fully convened to consider and discuss the Supply Bill (2023), Supply (2023/2024) one by one. Before this Committee meeting continues to discuss the topic of the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, I understand that there are several Honorable Cabinet Ministers who would like to make a statement and now I invite the Honorable Minister in the Prime Minister's Department and Second Minister of Defense II to speak. Please proceed, Your Honorable.
Your Honorable Minister in the Prime Minister's Department and Second Minister of Defense II
Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker. بسم هللا الرحمن الرحيم السالم عليكم ورحمة هللا وبركاته َ ش ْـرف َ أ َلى ع س َـَل ُم َ ال َح ْم ُد هلل َرب العَالَم ْينَ َوالص َّ َّـَلةُ َوال َ األ َ ْنبيَـاء َوال ُم ْر َسل ْيـن I would like to thank Your Honorable Speaker for giving me the opportunity to answer the question asked by the Honorable Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Mohd Yusuf regarding the power supply that was cut off in the prawn farm. Perhaps it would be better if I read the question in full for everyone's attention.
Your Honorable Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Mohd Yusuf has raised concerns regarding the frequent power outages in shrimp farms that have resulted in significant losses and deaths of the shrimp, posing high risks to the shrimp production companies and hindering their exportation.
The Honorable Member requests clarification from the relevant Minister on how to address this issue to increase confidence and competitiveness among local entrepreneurs in the shrimp market. Kaola also seeks guidance on this matter to enhance the confidence and competitiveness of local entrepreneurs.
Your Honorable Speaker, in general, continuous power supply is prioritized to boost the country's economic activities and promote the development of various sectors of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The Department of Electrical Services, Prime Minister's Department welcomes the relevant authorities to share their plans early on that lead to the demand for electricity supply for MSMEs under their respective sectors for infrastructure alignment that matches the required demand.
Regarding the Honorable Member's request for guidance on how to address this issue to increase confidence and competitiveness among local entrepreneurs in the shrimp market, Kaola seeks guidance on this matter to enhance the confidence and competitiveness of local entrepreneurs.
At present, Kaola would like to share that the Department of Electrical Services, Prime Minister's Department has already provided electricity supply to several entrepreneurs, some at the implementation stage and some at the planning stage.
In this regard, the Department of Electrical Services, Prime Minister's Department will always work closely with other ministries to ensure holistic planning that aligns with the development of MSMEs.
At the same time, it is also appropriate for entrepreneurs who rely on electricity supply and may face similar risks, to provide a personal emergency generator as a backup at all times, as is currently practiced by companies everywhere.
On this occasion, the Department of Electrical Services, Prime Minister's Department welcomes the Honorable Members, relevant ministries and also entrepreneurs to hold a discussion to further discuss this matter in detail.
Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker, for the explanation and proposed steps forward to deal with disrupted supply, especially in shrimp farms that have been questioned. Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker.
Your Honorable Speaker
Thank you, Honorable Minister in the Prime Minister's Department and Second Minister of Defense.
Are there any other Honorable Cabinet Ministers who would like to provide further information regarding the questions raised so far or yesterday?
So, let us continue the discussion which has been followed by several appointed Members and answers have been given by Cabinet Ministers.
Therefore, I will resume the discussion which we have previously had by first inviting the Honorable Mr. Zainol bin Haji Mohamed to ask his question.
Your Honorable Mr. Zainol bin Haji Mohamed
Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker. بسم هللا الرحمن الرحيم السالم عليكم ورحمة هللا وبركاتهand greetings.
Firstly, I would like to express my congratulations and gratitude for the opening remarks of the Honorable Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism regarding the planning and direction of the ministry. I would like to seek clarification regarding Topic SH04A - Department of Agriculture and Agrifood.
Your Honorable Speaker, I would like to recall the royal address of 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 Negara Brunei Darussalam in this august House on the occasion of the Official Opening Ceremony of the First Meeting of the Fourth Session of the 14th Legislative Council of the Council year 2018, which was about five years ago.
Among other things, His Majesty has stated, "I have mentioned many times about the agriculture sector, which is very urgent to be developed."
Kaola would like to know the effectiveness of the efforts of the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood in implementing as instructed? May I have permission to seek clarification. Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker.
Your Honorable Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism
Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh, Bismillahirrahmanirrahim.
Your Honorable Speaker, Your Honorable Awang Zainol bin Haji Mohamed, first of all, I would like to thank you for the question raised regarding the extent of the achievement of the agriculture sector towards realizing the command of His Majesty the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam.
As Kaola stated in the preamble, overall performance of the output of the agriculture and fisheries sector is increasing from year to year. For example, in 2021, it was $781.26 million and in 2022 it has increased by 3% to $857 million.
We have a target to achieve $1 billion in a few years. That is the proposed target that the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism wants to achieve.
In addition, we have already exported agricultural products as stated since last November 2022, we have started exporting eggs to Singapore and will continue to export eggs not only to Singapore but also to other states. In addition, there is a lot of involvement of young people as Kaola stated yesterday, where 162 youths participated in agriculture in 2022 compared to 137 youths who were involved in 2021.
In addition, in terms of rice cultivation, productivity has increased from 1 to 2 tons to 4 to 5 tons last year and will soon be increased to at least 7 to 8 tons per hectare.
Those are some of the achievements that have been accomplished by the agriculture sector in realizing the command of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam in the past 5 years.
Thank you. Your Honorable Speaker.
Your Honorable Speaker
Your Honorable Awang Zainol bin Haji Mohamed, has the question regarding your understanding been answered?
Your Honorable Awang Zainol bin Haji Mohamed
Praise be to Allah. Your Honorable Speaker.
Your Honorable Speaker
Now I invite Your Honorable Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin.
Your Honorable Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Thank you. Your Honorable Speaker and Honorable Members.
Peace be upon you and may the blessings of Allah be upon you. Greetings and salutations to our Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, and his honest and loyal companions throughout time.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to contribute to the debate this morning. Thank you to Your Honorable Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism for the explanation regarding the development and achievements of the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, which targets a $1.026 billion (1.1 billion) increase in revenue stream from the 2022/2023 target.
I understand that yesterday, Kaola was informed by the information from Your Honorable Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism that the country's target has not been achieved for this year as of December 2022.
However, congratulations, I believe that if the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism's target to generate a $1.1 billion revenue stream is achieved with an investment of $86 million in the ministry, which is not included in the industry's own budget, this is still a good return on investment and if the budget can be increased to achieve even higher returns.
Kaola has some issues to seek clarification, some suggestions for Your Honorable Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism to evaluate its suitability, and some comments and grievances from the general public:
Food Security Philosophy. Strategic Food Stock. We have learned a lot from the experience during the COVID-19 pandemic and isolation orders in several countries that have restricted the free movement of food, goods, people, and machines and had a negative impact on the country as 70% of our food is imported from abroad.
Food security and its availability within the country as emergency stock and strategic stock must be emphasized and conscious decisions must be made. During the discussion, I understand that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism has tried to contact food suppliers to create an inventory of domestic food. Alhamdulillah, at that time, the inventory was known and sufficient.
My proposal:
I propose that we have a national strategy to ensure food security, where basic foods are stored, known where and who is responsible for storing them at all times, not just by chance, relying on someone to store them.
I believe that a conscious decision strategy should be implemented by the government to either stockpile basic food supplies in the country's warehouses or ensure that they are kept by the suppliers if this...
Your Honorable Speaker
Your Honorable. I think this question of food security is a sensitive issue and it is known that our government has established guidelines that are solid and mature, which are already directed and we know during the COVID-19 pandemic that we face.
We have been able to solve our food security problems consciously, not unconsciously, not by accident but consciously because we have a certain framework and a certain platform.
And I do not understand what the Honorable Member meant by the unconscious decision made earlier.
Your Honorable Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin
I apologize, Your Honorable Speaker, because during the discussion it was not clear that it was a conscious decision to...
Your Honorable Speaker
We are discussing openly here and whatever we say here is always leaked out of this House and reported outside. So let us not be in a situation where it seems that the government is not doing anything about this matter.
I am conscious of this matter because we are one of the entities in the government, supporting the government and I hope the relevant Ministers should maintain this position. If we are in a situation where an unconscious decision is made, then there must be something very wrong.
Your Honorable Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin
Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker, for the clarification. I will proceed with the next question, thank you for correcting me.
Your Honorable Speaker
Your Honorable. I do not object to Honorable Members voicing questions, suggestions, and proposals.
Please do so. But let us not make it seem like our government has not done anything about these matters.
Our government is a sovereign government, which is enshrined in our constitution as a government that the whole world knows is a sovereign, fair, and based on our own philosophy. So, that is what we must uphold. Please proceed, Your Honorable.
Your Honorable Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin
Your Honorable Speaker, I do not intend to challenge the sovereignty of the country, but only to seek clarification so that people can be more confident in their tasks. If I may make a second suggestion on the same issue, which is national food security, it is to be given priority. I will stop on that issue.
The second issue is inviting FDI that has synergy with internal strengths or helps to achieve the country's agenda. Many efforts have been made to accelerate the achievement of the national agenda.
I believe and recommend that the FDI or GLC that we invite should focus on helping creativity that supplements or helps towards achieving our daily focus goals.
For example, to help achieve the food security target, I believe that we do not need to and are not currently fighting to increase investment towards new farming techniques or manufacturing technology that uses machinery and automation and creates new knowledge focused on high-value product production in agriculture.
I believe that GLC investments in joint ventures with new proven technology industries, mechanization and automation in the industry, and aquaculture will be able to attract more local children to enter the modern agricultural industry.
Our children are not afraid of hard and hot work as long as the rewards and returns, whether in salary or in their own companies, are worth the effort.
My first suggestion is that GLCs must initiate exploration and reporting on high mechanization and automation in farms, for example, to prove the concept. Modern farmers are worth exploring. Prove the concept of the model to show what commercial farming is all about.
My second suggestion is regarding any successful commercial farms abroad that use their technology and work practices that we want to follow or bring back to Brunei for GLCs to invest in so that we can place our agricultural officers, farmers, and expose them to cooperation in research on any successful commercial farms abroad with their technology and work practices that we want to follow or bring back to Brunei for GLCs to invest in so that we can place our agricultural officers, cooperate in research, and expose our farmers to gain experience.
Thirdly, increasing the number of places and various fields. Account Code 002/001000, the efforts of MPRT to increase agricultural sites and raise a new generation to respond to the challenge that farming as a sustainable alternative economic source needs to be supported and promoted. This can be used as an indicator of the effectiveness of this initiative. The farm area opens up new places for farming.
In the effort to open up new agricultural areas, it should not only be in figures but the sites should be divided with basic infrastructure. Because without basic infrastructure, it will require large capital expenditure and may be prohibitive for first-time farmers.
Differ from the strategy of big established commercial farming. Therefore, I believe that the ministry should conduct land surveys, including sampling to study the suitability of agricultural sites for targeted crops and products, including opening up new areas to provide plots for farmers to know flood-prone areas and provide infrastructure for flood control and irrigation to provide facilities for farmers.
Suggestions:
Make KPI an indicator of the performance of newly opened farming areas and the number of successful new generation farmers operating within a few years after it is opened.
Always hold short courses to increase farmers' knowledge with new techniques and sources of knowledge or help lines when they encounter problems.
Increase initiatives to teach farmers to cultivate supplementary cash crops while waiting for yields from the fields, such as planting high-value crops such as herbs, salads, and breeding ornamental fish.
Praise be to Allah, many young farmers are excited about the opportunity to invite Your Honorable Minister and authorize visits such as visiting KKP Tungku and KKP Lampaki, not only successful ones but also visiting farm areas that have problems they seek help for.
I turn to Account Code SA 002/000 and Account Code SA 004/000 Tourism Industry in Education, International Sports, and Medical. Adding a little to what Your Honorable Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim has suggested in MPRT's strategic plan targeting $1.026 million, in a way, the $1.1 billion tourism industry targets 74,000 visitors by air, bringing in $86 million in revenue. This is roughly calculated as $1,200 per visitor who stays for 3 days or spends $300 per day while in Brunei.
Besides efforts to strengthen, increase and diversify premier products with main tourist attractions within the country and developing new products.
Kaola suggests and has previously suggested several new initiatives. These include collaborating with the Ministry of Health to introduce the medical tourism industry to fill gaps or increase authorisation of specialist centers without compromising services for locals. Collaborating with the Ministry of Education (private institutions) to promote Brunei as a learning destination that showcases the strength of family values in Islam, collaborating with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports with the Brunei Olympic Council and sports agencies to promote the country as a sports destination at the international and regional levels, especially in youth sports development. There are many opportunities to host international sports events such as university sports, youth sports including football, and the like.
Collaborating with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports to promote the longest bridge in Southeast Asia by holding an international marathon on the longest bridge in Southeast Asia and ending in Temburong, and promoting a half triathlon involving swimming, cycling and running on the bridge, and taking the opportunity to promote transit passengers using Royal Brunei Airlines and Brunei International Airport for Umrah destinations.
When we see many foreigners using RB and the airport for their Umrah, the KPI for jobs in the tourism and hospitality industry in the country will increase with this themed tourism.
Title SA003000 - National Rice Production. Kaola wants to add to the suggestion of the Honorable Pehin Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan to increase rice yields from farms outside the country but from a different angle.
The target to increase the country's rice crop yield from the initial sub-sufficient target decreased to 35% to be achieved in 2000 and further reduced to 15%, and now the target is to achieve 85% by 2024.
Will the target yield per season per acre of rice help us achieve the national agenda for self-sufficiency within the set time frame?
With persistent efforts and almost $100 million in investment, the country still faces difficulties in achieving the goal of self-sufficiency for national rice.
To address the initiative of sufficient rice supply while waiting for the initiative for the country's own rice cultivation to reach the targeted level,
Kaola suggests evaluating its suitability to supplement this self-sufficiency initiative by strengthening the security of supply strategy with sources and import routes for rice from outside the country not focused on one location or region only.
Assessing the suitability of our GLCs to invest in established farms and companies outside of the country, taking into account the infrastructure, research facilities, skilled and affordable labor, and overall production of the farm that is specific to Brunei or if we have the rights of first refusal.
This strategy not only (1) increases our supply of attentive root safety or supply, (2) provides a place for our agricultural employees to gain management and research knowledge, (3) provides exposure for local children to training, and (4) provides a place for farmers to work on fully automated and mechanized farms outside of Brunei.
Incorporate monitoring features and safety standards in the agricultural industry under Title SA00200 and Title SA00400, which include the use of toxic fertilizer, chemical storage, and the disposal of waste and agricultural residue in connecting rivers and waterways as recommended by the call to action of Your Honorable Haji Md. Salleh bin Haji Othman.
Under the reign of His Majesty Paduka Seri Baginda 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, the workplace health safety competency framework was emphasized in His Majesty's speech during the Opening Ceremony of the Nineteenth Legislative Council Meeting.
This shows His Majesty's concern for safety in the industry, monitored by qualified industries and workers. In the oil and gas industry, Workplace Health Safety Environmental Order has always been given high attention to safety standards.
On the SHENA website, the number of reported injuries due to accidents in the agricultural industry is much lower compared to the construction industry.
This may be due to the fact that this industry is still in its infancy, but even though it is small, the number is increasing. This may be due to the fact that awareness or initiatives to report accidents are still in the early stages in this industry and this activity has not yet developed rapidly.
However, the consequences for workers, the public, the environment, and the surrounding nature due to the misuse of chemicals, toxins, and water source pollution, if not aware early on, may be irreversible and may not be able to be returned to their original state.
Kaola question, are there proactive efforts by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism to introduce or implement a SHENA standard in the agricultural industry, such as ensuring that full environmental standards, toxic chemical hindering, and storage standards are understood and practiced in the agricultural industry?
At least raising awareness to use proper clothing during operations involving the use of pesticides and reporting environmental incidents involving excessive use of chemical toxins that contaminate vegetables in food and incidents that can contaminate water sources.
I understand that we have many standards to monitor environmental protection, but I am concerned that their enforcement is not at the expected level. Considering that this industry will move and grow in the largest skill, I suggest that the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism increase efforts to raise awareness among entrepreneurs, farmers, and provide a schedule notice for implementing SHENA work standards and work practices in the agricultural industry.
Training agricultural officers to obtain work health and safety environmental competency standards that they need to assess, help them perform their work during visits, and increase random monitoring to ensure that the use of toxic substances in agriculture is at an acceptable level and no environmental pollution occurs. To add a line for the public to make complaints; and
The quota of Indonesian citizens in Borneo. Has the ministry assessed opportunities for cooperation in agricultural economics, air, sea, and land transportation, either directly with agencies in Indonesia or the business community that will also take advantage of the opportunity in the migration of the Indonesian capital to the Borneo Islands?
For example, investment opportunities in rice fields and any opportunities that can be used for the business community to participate. If these opportunities are already known and assessed, this opportunity must be given to bring the business community to invest together.
A little complaint to be conveyed about frozen meat raised by Your Honorable Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin. Considering the import of 1.6 million tons of frozen meat, if compared to a 300-kilogram buffalo and its meat weighing 100-200 kilograms, 1.6 million metric tons are equivalent to 6-7 thousand buffaloes imported as frozen meat, while the annual consumption of raw meat in the country is only 2,000 heads per year.
The farmers' complaint is that they were not given the opportunity to apply for early imports. Alhamdulillah, now import permits have been granted, but the initial complaint is that they were not given the opportunity to import frozen meat to compete with importers who have been allowed.
That is all I can convey, apologies if the issues I raised cannot be addressed in this House. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Your Honorable Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism
Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker and thank you to Your Honorable Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin for the suggestions and questions.
There are many questions and suggestions, let me try to address them one by one.
Regarding ensuring the country's food supply, as mentioned in the preamble, one of the main objectives of the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism is to ensure increased production of our own food sources and also to strengthen the value chain of the industry in this country.
So, Alhamdulillah, it is currently being implemented. Overall, everything is being examined, especially in terms of addressing the parent, offspring, breed, shrimp, fish, and chicken. Hopefully, the whole value chain can stand on its own without relying on imports.
In addition to strengthening production in this country, the ministry is also working with food importers to diversify food imports.
As suggested earlier, efforts are being made to produce food from other countries. Currently, the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, together with the Ministry of Finance and Economy, is exploring this possibility, especially in neighboring countries. This is to further strengthen it.
There are several proactive initiatives that have been appreciated by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam's Government to ensure that food sources are guaranteed and sufficient.
In terms of attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and the role of government-linked companies (GLCs) to strengthen food production sources, this has been practiced by BEDB, DARe, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Fisheries, all working together to ensure that there is FDI coming to Brunei not only to invest but also to introduce new technologies so that our agricultural and fisheries industries have high productivity.
Similarly, the role of GLCs is to participate in large projects that require high costs, where GLCs invest and try to increase the productivity of the country's food sources. This has been continuously pursued.
From the perspective of expanding farmland, currently there are over 9,000 hectares of land under agriculture and food production in the Agricultural Development Area.
About 64% of this land has already been used by entrepreneurs and those related to agriculture and fisheries.
At present, there are still 3,000 hectares of land that have not been opened up, which is about 36%, and will be offered to foreign and local investors.
As mentioned earlier by Your Honorable, it is recognized that it is important to have a larger market for the benefit of farmers to cultivate their land. It is a priority for the Department of Agriculture and Agri-food to select new farm locations while ensuring that initial infrastructure is provided.
Any new farm that is opened will be provided with infrastructure such as main electricity supply, domestic water supply, and main roads, which will be promoted and provided with basic infrastructure to enable entrepreneurs to start their businesses.
In terms of the tourism industry, Your Honorable has suggested the Medical Tourism, Education, and National Sports Tourism Plan.
This matter was addressed yesterday by colleagues regarding medical and education tourism, and the Ministry will cooperate with relevant ministries and agencies to promote this matter, God willing.
Regarding rice production, currently our productivity is about 4% to 5%, and the target is 7% to 8%, God willing. If we can achieve 8 tons per hectare, our self-sufficiency will increase from 8.5% to 20%, God willing.
So this is targeted at the Dusun Cybereal Estate, but we pray that we will get seeds that have high productivity and also meet our taste preferences.
The issue of exploring opportunities for planting abroad, as mentioned by myself earlier, is currently being explored by the Ministry and the Ministry of Finance and Economy.
Regarding the absorption of monitoring and safety standards in the agricultural industry, has the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism made proactive efforts to introduce the SHENA safety standard in the agricultural industry?
In response, prioritizing safety, including for farmers, the Department of Agriculture and Agri-food emphasizes that farmers should practice good agricultural practices, which involve proper storage of pesticides and fertilizers.
Management of farms includes the proper use of pesticides and quality control after harvesting, including ensuring that samples are not contaminated with pesticide residues exceeding the maximum national limit allowed.
In addition, the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood also organizes special programs to increase awareness of the importance of safety when using chemical pesticides and to train farmers on the proper procedures for using agricultural pesticides or pesticide application training.
This program focuses on the proper use of pesticides by explaining the important elements in the pesticide label, such as the class of hazardous pesticides, the content of the pesticide, the dosage rate, the distance of use, and the harvest period. Participants in the program are also taught the importance of using personal protective equipment (PPE) when spraying pesticides.
This course is conducted every year in all districts in the country. To ensure the safety of agricultural products from farms in all districts, including imports from outside the country, the Department of Agriculture, in cooperation with the Brunei Darussalam Food Authority, also conducts random sampling under the residual pesticide monitoring program for every import at the border post.
For local production, samples are taken twice a month. That's how we monitor the pesticide label for both local and imported products.
One of the new initiatives related to work safety standards is the recent cooperation with SHENA in implementing work safety standards on farms. Any deficiencies in work safety standards at the farm level are identified and steps are taken to improve them.
Regarding opportunities in the region, I think the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, along with relevant ministries, agencies, including MAFA and MOFE, are looking for opportunities to collaborate in the field of agriculture.
Regarding imports, I don't think we import millions of tons. I think it's millions of kilograms, not tons. Currently, there are only 5 to 6 companies that import meat. This is a temporary measure, and we will review it once the prices stabilize. Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker.
Your Honorable Speaker
Your Honorable Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin wishes to ask further questions or if the given answer is not sufficient.
Your Honorable Awang Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin
In sha Allah, I will have a discussion with the ministry.
Your Honorable Speaker
Thank you. I now turn to Your Honorable Dr. Awang Haji Mahali bin Haji Momin.
Your Honorable Dr. Awang Haji Mahali bin Haji Momin
Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker.
Bismillahirrahmanirrahim.
Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Thank you to Your Honorable Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism for the introduction on the efforts made. Alhamdulillah, Your Honorable Speaker, I am pleased to refer to the allocation under Title SH02A - Forestry Department.
Forests in Brunei Darussalam are a valuable heritage and asset to be preserved as they are part of the heart of Borneo, a project that has received widespread support from international organizations such as UNESCO and the World Wildlife Fund.
As understood, forests in our country cover more than 70% of our land area. The tropical forests in our country are one of the oldest in the world and are said to be a hidden paradise for nature lovers. Although our country is small, it supports various types of forests due to its topography and geology.
My question is, does the Forestry Department have a strategy to improve and maintain its conservation efforts as these forests are at risk of being encroached upon by irresponsible individuals who take valuable forest products such as agarwood. The Forestry Department has 20 forest rangers.
I would like to suggest that a special group be formed to monitor especially the border areas, in addition to using the latest technology such as drones. This initiative aims to protect the encroached borders and preserve assets for future generations.
In addition, I suggest that when conducting reforestation projects, high-value trees such as meranti, selangan batu, and agarwood trees be planted in the project. That's all, thank you, Your Honorable Speaker.
Your Honorable Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism
Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker, and thank you also to Your Honorable Dr. Awang Haji Mahali bin Haji Momin.
There are two questions and suggestions. The first question is whether the Forestry Department has a strategy to improve maintenance as there is a fear of encroachment, for example, stealing agarwood. Perhaps, as mentioned by Your Honorable Awang Haji Mohamad Danial @ Tekpin bin Ya'akub regarding the conditions for logging, the control of logging has been explained.
Efforts are being made by the Forestry Department to actively maintain these forests. Currently, one of the projects being undertaken is the forest inventory project, where we are currently measuring or assessing the value of our forests, whether they are rich in diversity. Insha'Allah, this will be done soon, which will further demonstrate that our forests are a very important asset in this country.
Regarding encroachment and theft, it is already known that the Forestry Department is working with the Forest Police and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces to ensure that patrols are always conducted to prevent encroachment.
Efforts are being made to prevent our forest areas from being encroached upon for people to steal logs or agarwood. This is always active, perhaps by using drones, the Forestry Department will bring up the matter for further discussion. A good suggestion to further increase effectiveness in monitoring and maintaining our forests to preserve the forest treasures in this country.
Reforestation projects for meranti, selangan batu, and agarwood are being carried out based on the suitability of the land. This has already been implemented by Your Honorable Speaker, with rangers and logs monitoring, as well as using drones, as suggested by Kaola, which is a good suggestion that we will take into consideration.
Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker.
Your Honorable Speaker
I now invite Your Honorable Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Suyoi bin Haji Osman.
Your Honorable Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Suyoi bin Haji Osman
Bismillahirrahmanirrahim, Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh and greetings.
I would like to thank the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism for the presentation on the achievements and plans of the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism towards achieving self-sufficiency in food and moving towards food security.
The increase in the value of production from the agriculture and agri-food, fisheries, and forestry sectors is very encouraging, although we still face challenges such as weather, diseases, and so on, and further efforts to increase yields and income must be doubled with full support from the ministry, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations.
As a whole-of-government approach, to what extent or what is the status of the following matters that I will list below, which have been provided by the ministry and agencies such as water drainage, water and electricity supply, infrastructure such as roads, access roads, small roads, loan facilities, market infrastructure at home and abroad, land studies, expert advice, research and development services, and so on.
I feel it would be beneficial if we have percentages to indicate the progress we have made in this matter, for example, if we have achieved 80% in water supply and 100% in drainage in agricultural areas. This way, we will know how far we have come and what else needs to be done. If we are still uncertain, it will create doubts among farmers and others who want to venture into this field.
Therefore, if the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism and other government agencies, as well as other ministries, can provide us with the percentages we have achieved in specific areas, it would be helpful.
I apologize, Your Honorable Speaker, if this matter has been repeatedly mentioned by many Honorable Members here. It is because it is a problem that has not been fully addressed by the relevant parties, which is why it keeps being brought up.
Your Honorable Speaker, I understand that there are several Agricultural Extension Stations in all districts under Title 002/001 - District Development Services to assist small and medium-sized farmers in various aspects. Among the roles and responsibilities of this department are providing advice and transferring planting technology to farmers, facilitating aid schemes, monitoring and conducting tests on the quality of fertilizers, conducting research on soil fertility and nutritional value of crops, monitoring for pesticides on crops, monitoring and assessing the need for foreign labor, and many more listed under the responsibility of this station.
My question is, to what extent has this department reached out to small and medium-sized farmers? How many farmers have been assisted by this department? I ask this so that farmers who are aware of the assistance provided by this station can share their experiences. I hope that this station will function efficiently, proactively, and always be ready to provide assistance to farmers who face various problems. Sometimes, our farmers face problems, but they feel that no one is willing to help them.
Furthermore, in the preamble of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, young people are called upon to come forward and participate in agriculture. My question is, how does one become a farmer? Are there any assistance packages provided by the ministry, such as land, financial loans, expert advice, basic infrastructure assistance, fertilizers, and so on, to help a university or school graduate start their life or career as a farmer? If such assistance is not provided, it will be difficult for young people or university or school graduates to become farmers unless they have their own financial resources.
As we all know, the results of agriculture cannot be enjoyed immediately, it takes time. Meanwhile, how do they support themselves and if they have families, how do they support their families? It's different if someone just wants to be a farm worker who gets paid a monthly salary, that's a different story, Your Honorable Speaker.
I request clarification on this matter and if there are packages offered, they should be given to attract our youth to become farmers. It's not enough to just call for them to become farmers but not explain how they can become farmers and what assistance can be given to them.
Your Honorable Speaker, I would like to shift to the tourism sector which many of our Honorable Members have touched on. I will briefly state that if we look at the infrastructure available to us at this time, such as inadequate public transportation, places of interest to visit, public facilities that need to be provided, and so on, the tourism sector seems to be unsatisfactory and in its infancy stage.
The Honorable Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism mentioned yesterday that his ministry has conducted research and will create a roadmap along with other ministries to advance tourism in the country, although I feel that we should not just look at the roadmap but already implement what is available.
I hope this matter can be given attention so that it continues to develop and receive strong support from all other ministries. I want to emphasize the strong support of other ministries because if only one ministry is involved in this matter and other ministries do not move together, this matter will not happen.
I would like to emphasize that whatever we do with the Whole of Nation Approach and Whole of Government Approach, it must be a true whole of government, whole of nation approach as ordered and proclaimed by the relevant ministers.
It is hoped that this approach will be taken comprehensively and any assistance needed by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism will also be assisted by other ministries. Your Honorable Speaker, thank you.
Sincerely, "Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings. May God grant us success and guidance."
Your Honorable Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism
Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker and thank you, Your Honorable, for the questions and suggestions that have been raised.
Regarding statistics and percentage of achievements in terms of infrastructure and also in agricultural areas, God willing, Your Honorable Speaker, I will provide a written answer with more clarity and will be given to anyone who needs that information. It is known that the existence of this infrastructure is essential to enable the farm or land to be cultivated.
So, praise be to God, we will work together with other ministries to provide the infrastructure used and the percentage of achievements data, God willing, will be conveyed in writing.
Regarding agricultural extension matters for districts. Actually, there are two agricultural agencies. The first is the industry section and the agricultural extension section. Both are responsible for the industrial part, focusing on large-scale entrepreneurs, large companies, and also expansion for small entrepreneurs and also villagers to teach and guide them in cultivating their crops.
As far as its effectiveness, we may come up again with statistics. The current efforts are any small companies that migrate to medium-sized, home-based to proper premises, that is the measure we can say how effective it is. God willing, it will also be shared with Your Honorable.
Regarding the encouragement of youth to engage in agriculture, Your Honorable Awang Lau How Teck raised a question and highlighted this matter. There is a youth exposure program that has the potential to enter the field of high-tech agriculture every year.
Currently, 7 series of programs involving 116 youths have been implemented. An introduction on how to cultivate and packages such as pilot projects will be provided. Two hectares of land will be provided for them to start their enterprise. In addition, the ministry is also collaborating with DARe and the Entrepreneur Bank to introduce them.
At this time, not only agricultural entrepreneurs but also entrepreneurs from agri-food, tourism, and downstream wood companies. This is organized proactively in cooperation with DARe to enable them, especially young people, to start their businesses in the primary resources sector.
Most of them, such as those in the food-based agrifood and timber industries, operate their businesses from home. The Biskaola initiative aims to improve their standards and move them to a proper place so that they can be more comfortable and conducive to running their businesses.
This is an initiative by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism. I think there may be questions from Your Honorable related to tourism. Biskaola thanks Your Honorable for emphasizing the need for sufficient infrastructure to support the development of tourism.
In terms of support, the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism has received a lot of support from not only the Tourism Department but also other ministries such as the Accuadity Authority and the Temburong District Development Authority, which have invested heavily in developing the Temburong District.
In addition, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports are also related to improving the facilities available for tourism in the country. Furthermore, I am pleased to hear from Your Honorable Minister of Home Affairs that even the entry infrastructure at border posts will be further facilitated with the online and visa programs, God willing.
That's all I have to say. Thank you.
Your Honorable Speaker
I now invite Your Honorable Awang Mohamad Ali bin Tanjong to speak.
Your Honorable Awang Mohamad Ali bin Tanjong
Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Kaola touched on the topic of SH04A, the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood. The government has provided opportunities for locals in agricultural enterprises, such as rice cultivation, whether through associations, Mukim and Kampung Consultative Councils, or even individuals.
Some areas have modernized their operations using machines, while others still use traditional methods. One reason why private entrepreneurs use these old methods is because the land cannot be accessed by machines for fertilization, planting, or harvesting. This is one of the reasons for the lower yields compared to modern methods.
Kaola suggests that the relevant authorities should review these areas to help them advance their businesses. Furthermore, regarding the subsidized services for plowing, planting, and harvesting rice provided by the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood to entrepreneurs, they are no longer provided, and entrepreneurs are directed to use private services without subsidies if they want to obtain these services. Kaola feels that this adds to the cost for entrepreneurs.
Kaola would like to ask why the department no longer provides these services and what is the status of the machines? Are they being kept for reuse or not?
Regarding fertilizers, the fertilizers needed that are sold by the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood often run out. Every time entrepreneurs try to get them, the stock is already gone, and to obtain them, the entrepreneurs will buy them at a high price without subsidies. Kaola would like clarification on this matter. Thank you. Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Your Honorable Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism
Your Honorable, can you repeat the first question earlier, is it about land?
Your Honorable Awang Mohamad Ali bin Tanjong
Regarding private entrepreneurs who require paddy fields that cannot be used by machines for plowing, planting, and tilling due to the land being uneven and unable to be entered by the machines.
Your Honorable Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism
Regarding the use of machines, there are certain areas, half of the areas that are not suitable for machine use because, for example, the land has not yet properly settled, so mostly in newly opened areas. If the area has not yet settled, it can cause the land to sink and can cause the machine to be buried. It is good for Your Honorable to specify the location so that the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood can examine and study the area and suggest a way forward.
Secondly, the question is about machines that are not provided by the department and are currently privatized. If viewed from the perspective of paddy subsidies, it costs a lot to the government. Due to productivity having increased, productivity in the past was only 1 to 2 tons, meaning that the margin at that time was indeed low in profit. But now, إن شاء الله, with high-yielding paddy, high productivity, there is higher profit.
When it has reached 4 to 5 tons, it is considered sufficient for companies and paddy farmers to use their own expenses to provide machines in paddy planting areas. If calculated, the purchase of fertilizer is still subsidized by the government. The purchase of paddy is still heavily subsidized by the government.
In addition, the sale of paddy seeds is also subsidized by the government. It means that it has been considered and studied considering that productivity has increased by 2 to 3 tons. It is reasonable for these machines to be purchased by private entrepreneurs.
Regarding the insufficient fertilizer, it will be studied. The whole demand for fertilizer at this time is high throughout the country, not only in the paddy sector but also in other farmers. That is why there is a shortage of fertilizer. The Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism will review the supply of fertilizer. How to overcome and enable these fertilizers to be distributed to small farmers.
الحمدُ لله, as Kaola mentioned and explained in the introduction, since the existence of Brunei Fertilizer Industry, which currently sells more competitive fertilizers than ordinary commercial imports. It is recommended for farmers to contact Ghanim International Corporation Sdn. Bhd. which is currently the sole distributor of urea fertilizers in the country.
That's all, Your Honorable Speaker.
Your Honorable Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin
Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker, for allowing me to continue with questions and suggestions. بسم هللا الرحمن الرحيم السالم عليكم ورحمة هللا وبركاته صد ِري َو َيسِر لِي أَم ِري َواحلُل عُقدَة مِ ن َ ب اش َرح لِي ِ َر َ َ سانِي َيفق ُهوا قولِي َ ِل Your Honorable Speaker and Wise Honorable Members. I have 3 questions, Your Honorable:
- Regarding tourism. Has MPRT considered or proposed Sultan Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Bridge as a sports event venue such as triathlons, ironman, running, cycling, and swimming?;
- Regarding the Forestry Department. What is the status of the Gaharu tree and what has the Forestry Department done about downstream Gaharu trees? And
- Department of Agriculture and Agrifood. Has the Department of Agriculture planted grass for the cows imported from Australia for PDS Company and others?
Your Honorable Speaker, allow me to continue on the issue of buffalo imports. I would like to quote the words of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam on the occasion of His Majesty's 74th birthday in 2020: 'Touching on the main sources of the government's أ َ ْل َح ْم ُد ِ ٰلِل, the relevant institutions will continue to strive towards ensuring that food supplies in the country are sufficient and guaranteed.
Therefore, I hope that entrepreneurs, farmers, fishermen, and farmers will take the opportunity to increase their productivity as a step towards meeting their food needs and safety.'
The next issue, Your Honorable Speaker, is regarding chicken meat imports. Recently, a company imported 1,000,612 kilograms of meat, importing between 500,000 to 600,000 kilograms of chicken. It is not known from where, Thailand or Malaysia. During the discussion, it was stated that the poultry industry has reached 100%, which means that there is no need for imports. However, it is understood that this chicken import is only for processing. To make sausages, nuggets, and so on.
The issue at hand is that it is puzzling why an entire chicken is imported instead of its various parts, especially since the speaker and their fellow comrades who raise chickens know how to calculate the weight of each part. According to the speaker, one chicken weighs one kilogram, with the wings weighing 140 grams and the tail weighing 95 grams. If 500,000 kilograms of chicken are taken from the total weight, it would result in 70,000 kilograms of chicken wings. Chicken wings are highly sought after in Brunei Darussalam and if multiplied by $7.50, the profit would be $500,000.00. Similarly, with over 200,000 kilograms of chicken thighs, it would be easy to make $1,000,000.00.
The chicken farmers have to build coops, construct walls, connect electricity which is difficult to obtain, struggle to get a water supply, and hire foreign workers through the Labor Department, agents, Immigration and National Registration Department, and so on. These are the complaints that they have to deal with while competing with these importers who make easy money. If they want to import 100 million tons to be processed and exported out of the country, they are welcome to do so. The same goes for importing meat.
Your Honorable Speaker, allow me to convey the message of trust from agricultural entrepreneurs regarding their complaints and challenges faced with some members of the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, and there are also entrepreneurs who did not proceed. Initially, they proceeded but did not continue due to 'negligence perhaps'. Many discussions have been held with entrepreneurs and those who did not proceed, and they were told to inform the National Assembly Meeting. We hope that this issue will be addressed.
One of the issues, Your Honorable, is as follows:
It is difficult to obtain land. We are asked to submit proposals. "Even if we go to the city, it's difficult. If we go to the office, we have to take off our shoes. We are villagers who are skilled in planting citrus and so on, but we are asked to submit proposals." This has hurt the heart of Your Honorable Speaker.
There is no electricity supply. Some places are not supplied, while others are difficult to supply; and
There is also no water supply. How can we farm?
Many complaints are made, but if someone has $10,000, they will end up planting tomatoes and chili that should have yielded results, but instead they have to pay $2,500 to fill out a proposal form, $3,000 for a surveyor's license, and $10,000 for land clearing. In the end, they will be in debt for $15,500.
Your Honorable Speaker, allow me to share my experience as a poultry farmer dealing with the whims of a few little Napoleons who consider us unworthy, even though we are the ones producing products for agriculture. The Department of Agriculture and Agro-based Industry would not exist without entrepreneurs like us.
Your Honorable Speaker, this experience is similar to that of other entrepreneurs.
Firstly, in terms of land. If I may refer to Your Honorable Speaker's time as the Minister of Industrial and Primary Resources (MIPR) in 2003.
At that time, I wanted to venture into poultry farming and requested a plot of land from the Agricultural Development Area, which took three years to obtain, equivalent to three Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations. It was like playing ping pong back and forth until, by the grace of Allah, I was able to send a letter directly to Your Honorable Speaker and it was finally approved. Not only was land available, but I was given a choice of three plots. This is an example.
The question is, what about the young people, entrepreneurs, and villagers who do not know the Minister? This is what needs to be fixed first, starting from the bottom, with the 60,000-70,000 machinery. Correct me if I'm wrong, but most of the government officials come from the bottom. This needs to be fixed because if the calf is still sore, how can it run? Don't let it be in the hereafter: "Hey! Pengiran Isa, why didn't you inform us during the MMN season? You had the power to do so at that time. Don't wait until 2035 to start scrambling. Why didn't you succeed? Because you weren't informed. This is what needs to be fixed."
Kaola suggests that the term "little napoleon" be given a course or important religious knowledge. Secondly, they need to know how bitter it is to do business.
Secondly, Your Honorable, they need to know how bitter it is for business people. This happens a lot, I believe not only in the Department of Agriculture and Agro-based Industry, but also in other departments' entrepreneurs and businesses under them.
Having obtained the site, Your Honorable Speaker. Sometimes what is given, thankfully, is just giving. The site area is not 'bisai'. Already the site is a 'jin dumping ground', not suitable for humans, let alone 'jin'. The site is in the middle of the forest that must be cleared, there is no infrastructure. Although the entrepreneur wants to take the site without infrastructure, "Please, come down to the field, see us, entrepreneurs who are in our office in the forest." "What are the problems, electricity or water, we are comfortable being cared for."
Your Honorable Speaker, if told, next week will not be enough if this problem is discussed. But enough of what Kaola and fellow fighters in agriculture business ask for. "Please help us, visit us, check on us, bring a little Versace scarf or whatever, if the shoes are beautiful, don't leave us behind. We are the ones who increase productivity, we are the ones who respond to the call of His Majesty the Sultan, the King whom we love.
We have responded, but please don't leave us behind. Don't take only chickens from Thailand, care about us too, where Kaola himself had difficulty getting electricity, only recently available last month. Busy going back to Thailand to import chickens, while we who have prepared the coop, are not cared for."
I apologize, Your Honorable Speaker, if Kaola is a little emotional. It is indeed very sad, complaints but listen to all ministries, "care about these business people" ان شاء هللا Wawasan Brunei 2035 will be achieved as soon as possible if we cooperate, coordinate between ministries.
That's all. ُعلَ ْي ُك ْم َو َرحْ َمةُ هللاِ َو َب َركَاتُه َ سالَ ُم َّ َو ال.وباهلل التوفيق والهداية (English: Thank you, Allah's peace and blessings be upon you)
Your Honorable Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism
Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker and also thank you to Your Honorable ones, especially regarding the complaints that have been faced. But Your Honorable Speaker, first abiskaola will answer the questions regarding the tourism proposal.
The Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, have you considered presenting the Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Bridge for sports events? This has been discussed with the relevant parties including the Ministry of Development and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports for the possibility of organizing and showcasing sports events. If possible, it could be held at the Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Bridge.
Secondly, regarding forestry. What is the status of agarwood trees and what is being done with these trees? As mentioned earlier by Your Honorable Speaker, this project has a scheme to assist downstream timber projects including agarwood trees where a workshop has been organized.
There are 21 identified entrepreneurs in downstream timber projects including agarwood trees under the Forestry Department, who are currently working from home. أ ْلح ْمدُ ِ هلِلwith this initiative, in collaboration with DARe and the Entrepreneur Bank, we will try to further enhance their efforts in increasing their production, improve their company areas to be more conducive.
That is ان شاء هللاso far أ ْلح ْمدُ ِ هلِل, two workshops have been organized. After the workshop, it was followed up with a boot camp conducted by DARe, where 2 participants took part in preparing a business plan for further development.
Regarding pasture grass, there are currently 2 projects for planting grass. One is for the PDS and the other is a project for a company in Kuala Belait where an area has been given to them to plant grass for their feedlot and goat projects respectively.
So أْلحْمدُ ِ هلِلthe project has been running, but it is known that for a large area, it will only be sufficient to support cattle and goat farming.
Regarding imports, as mentioned earlier by Kaola. The purpose of imports is to supplement processing at this time. As for the imported chickens, the focus is currently on developing processing to support the processing because the demand for processing is expected to increase with the ministry's efforts to open up export markets. So, in the interim, to establish export projects, we need a lot of raw materials. This is one way, besides disrupting the country's food, we have already imported, hopefully ان شاء هللا in a short time, we will be able to penetrate foreign markets.
Regarding the complaint of Your Honorable and also the half-hearted farmers, it is known that these farmers, as well as breeders and fishermen, are the backbone of efforts to further increase the contribution of agriculture and food to the country's economy, which is acknowledged.
All efforts to ensure that the difficulties and complexities faced become a learning point, a lesson that not only the ministry's entrepreneurs, especially Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in this country, can learn from. Indeed, the Government under the leadership of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has a goal to facilitate ways to help these entrepreneurs to grow.
Because without them, our economy will not develop. Employment will not be created, so these entrepreneurs are recognized as a machinery to develop the country's economy and generate job opportunities in the country. It is acknowledged that any problems that arise will be addressed.
I hope Your Honorable will continue to meet with us to address specific issues faced. The complaint made by Your Honorable 2 or 3 years ago regarding electricity has been resolved last month with close cooperation with the Electricity Services Department.
In addition, agencies such as abiskaola with senior officials do conduct field visits. As abiskaola stated, usually on Saturdays either in the morning or the whole day depending on the location visited, not necessarily in flood-prone areas.
Abiskaola does have programs to visit farmers, breeders, and fishermen. The aim is to ensure that complaints, problems, and achievements can be achieved and known so that efforts can be made to ensure that they operate smoothly for the development of the country's economy.
Insha Allah, Your Honorable Speaker, the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism will do its utmost to further examine the processes and procedures to enable and facilitate not only start-ups but also other companies to grow.
That's how Your Honorable Speaker is. I have an explanation for now, but I would also like to remind that if there are any issues or complaints, please do not hesitate to meet. If I am not available, the Permanent Secretary is available to handle any challenges and obstacles faced. Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker.
Your Honorable Speaker
Are there any other Honorable Members who would like to make statements or comments? I thank Your Honorable Pengiran Haji Isa for sincerely expressing his comments as he is a true entrepreneur.
So I hope the relevant department will examine and learn from what was touched upon by Your Honorable Pengiran Haji Isa earlier so that this matter can be resolved.
That's it, Your Honorable Speaker. Abiskaola has an explanation for now, but I would also like to remind you that if there are any problems or complaints, do not hesitate to meet. If I am not available, my Permanent Secretary is available to handle any challenges and obstacles faced. Thank you, Your Honorable Speaker.
I actually do not usually give specific comments, but as you know, I also have my own opinion on these matters. As someone who is of a rather advanced age and has been involved in administrative affairs, I believe it is my responsibility to voice what I think is appropriate.
So I hope what I have stated is not a reprimand or criticism to any party. It is a sincere reminder that I make for the good of us all. I see that our meeting in this noble chamber is a noble manifestation that is enshrined in our constitution for us to discuss, consult and make decisions that can bring benefits to the people and residents of Brunei Darussalam.
What more with the hope that has been commanded by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, every time His Majesty graces this Council. So I hope both sides of the Honorable Members and also myself, I hope we will sincerely give opinions and suggestions so that we can achieve success in whatever we try to implement.
If there are no more issues raised regarding the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, then I think it is appropriate that we conclude this negotiation and discussion by taking a vote.
Now I would like to ask the Honorable Members who agree to approve the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Title, namely Title SH01A to Title SH06A, please raise your hand.
(All Members raise their hands in agreement)
Your Honorable Speaker
Thank you, everyone agrees. The Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Title is approved.
Deputy Clerk
Title SH01A to Title SH06A - Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism are included in the Schedule.
Your Honorable Speaker
Honorable Members, we have discussed many matters this morning. I think it is appropriate for us to adjourn this Committee Meeting now to allow us to move to the National Assembly.
(The Committee Meeting is adjourned) (The National Assembly reconvenes)
Your Honorable Speaker
Honorable Members, we are now reconvening in the National Assembly Session. I propose that we adjourn this session to allow us to rest and we will reconvene this afternoon at 2.30 pm as usual. Thank you.
Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
ADJOURNED
(The National Assembly is adjourned)
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