DAY 4 AFTERNOON
2ND MARCH 2024 - AFTERNOON
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Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, all praise be to Allah, Lord of the worlds, and prayers and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon all his family and companions. Your Honourable Members, the State Legislative Council is still discussing the Supply Bill (2024), (2024/2025) proposed by Yang Berhormat Menteri di Jabatan Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan dan Ekonomi II.
Before we delve into the next topics, I would first like to welcome our friends from the Federal Republic of Germany who are visiting us at this time and are with us.
I would like to welcome you for coming to visit us at the Legislative Council and we are now in the midst of discussing our budget proposals. We know we had a chat a few minutes ago, but let me welcome you formally to Brunei and also to our assembly.
Therefore, to allow us to examine the topics contained in the Bill, I adjourn this session of the State Legislative Council, and we will convene in full Committee Stage.
(The Legislative Council is adjourned)
(The meeting convenes as a Committee)
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Your Honourable Members. Now this Council is convening in full Committee Stage to discuss the Supply Bill (2024), (2025/2024) for detailed examination one by one.
At the Committee Meeting held this morning, we have started discussing and examining the budget of the Ministry of Home Affairs and its Departments.
With me here still, there is a list of Your Honourable Members who would like to participate in discussing this ministry's topic. To begin, I give the floor to Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd. Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd. Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. We are honored to host the vice-presidential representation of the Federal Republic of Germany, and that opportunity granted us some conversation a short while ago, and I am honored to formally welcome you to Brunei and in our respectable assembly. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, for giving kaola the opportunity to discuss the allocation for the Ministry of Home Affairs and its Departments.
Thank you also to the speech by Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri for the comprehensive introduction that also includes the direction of focus, aspirations, achievements, and initiatives that have been, are being, and will be implemented by Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri.
Actually, kaola do not have many issues to raise because colleagues who spoke earlier this morning have already touched on most of the issues kaola wanted to discuss. Moreover, the two main issues concerning long stay pass (visa) and work permit for foreign residents over the age of 60 have already been clarified by Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri, and kaola extend my heartfelt thanks.
However, we would like to see transparent and streamlined issuance regarding the procedures, criteria, and conditions required in the implementation of this policy so that it is easy to understand by applicants and stakeholders and can be executed by the implementing officers orderly and perfectly so that the application process can be shortened and align with the regulations.
Therefore, kaola will only focus kaola's intervention on a few matters:
Regarding the increase in the number of positions for the Departments under the Ministry of Home Affairs. If kaola are not mistaken, there are a total of 83 positions in the clerical and other sections. The largest increase is for the Brunei Muara Town Council, followed by the Brunei Muara District Office and Kuala Belait and Seria Town Council.
Alhamdulillah, congratulations to Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri, at least it will open up more employment opportunities for job seekers. The important thing is that the filling of these positions can later be streamlined in process, God willing.
However, kaola would also like clarification on the actual need for this increase. Kaola myself examine if it is intended to increase the revenue collection of agencies, it seems that in the main performance closure, the intended revenue closure target is constant without increase.
For example, for Brunei Muara District Office, it is suggested to only increase a little like the Bandar Seri Begawan City Council.
Kaola understand from the explanation of Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri that there was a $46 million increase in overdue tax collection over 3 years and for the year 2021, congratulations and well done.
However, kaola would also like to request information sharing on additional strategic steps by the Ministry of Home Affairs in further increasing new revenue or collecting overdue revenue.;
Regarding the 1205-001 redevelopment project of Kampung Air. If kaola are not mistaken, it has been discussed at length last year. In the 2024/2025 Financial Title, the Government only provides as much as 1% of the total plan price of $32.8 million.
This means the project is still at the drawing board or preliminary stage only. Kaola request clarification, what is the real problem with this project because it has not been running smoothly even though allocations have been provided in recent years.;
Regarding the master plan for land use, especially in Temburong District. If kaola are not mistaken, in 2017, the Department of Town and Country Planning was initially requested to prepare this plan during the planning and relocation of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Bridge.
It aims to align the economic activities of the Temburong District with the use of the bridge so that it will help the overall development of the district. Therefore, kaola would like to request clarification whether the land allocation plan for Temburong District is ready and can be made a basis for overall land development and business ecosystem of the district.
Because in the 2024/2025 Financial Budget, kaola do not see a specific title related to the advancement of Temburong District whereas in the previous budget, this title was indeed provided for under the Miscellaneous Title.
Request clarification whether this project has been postponed or canceled altogether.; and
Regarding the allocation for the Ministry of Home Affairs SE01A under minor title 1213/020 there is a project called one MOHA system allocated with $12 million. While under SE01A Minor Title 1209/019 for the Immigration and Registration Department, there is a project titled e-gate system. Yang Berhormat Dato has explained about the purpose and objectives of both these projects which are to enhance the service delivery of departments under Yang Berhormat Dato's ministry.
However, kaola would like to request clarification whether this system will also upgrade the passenger arrival system at Brunei International Airport.
As we may all experience the current passenger arrival system still uses fingerprints which sometimes can be difficult to detect.
This causes delays and long queues especially when the arrival schedules of airplanes are almost at the same time.
Therefore, kaola would like to suggest that the upgrading of the passenger arrival system at the airport be included in whatever system is to be implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs if there is no such proposal yet, as a measure to facilitate immigration matters of passengers and make it more customer-friendly. As we are all aware, the airport is an important place that will form the first impression of visitors/tourists about the country they visit.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, actually, before the introduction by Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri earlier, kaola intended to request clarification on the target cookie 12019-019 under the Prisons Department - SE11A, which is the Maraburong Prison Phase 5 project with a plan allocation of $5 million.
Kaola welcome the initiative of Yang Berhormat Menteri's ministry to place this controlled place in the same area to facilitate logistics and control. However, kaola still would like to know whether the government's construction of this project is so urgent that its implementation cannot be postponed to make way for projects with their own priorities that have greater spin-off and impact on the health of the people or the local economy.
Kaola did not state that this project is unimportant. With our limited financial situation, we need to consider how much opportunity cost or options in the use of the provided allocations, so that it creates a more comprehensive impact on the public health. For example, if this allocation is used to build national housing for applicants waiting in line, it would definitely facilitate the construction of about 500 houses.
This, Kaola feel, would certainly provide comfortable homes for approximately 2,500 residents. Or to increase facilities for implementing the major clusters that have been identified, for example, to augment facilities for the people in districts, which Kaola observe, none of the district departments have proposed any project in the 12th National Development Plan.
Alternatively, perhaps this expenditure could also be used to provide tourism infrastructure in all four districts or to construct exhibition facilities or industrial sites to generate economy for the citizens and residents including ex-prisoners who have been released from detention. I seek enlightenment from Yang Berhormat Menteri.
And lastly, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, it's about the facilities provided at recreational sites. Lately, we have witnessed a lot of people, especially the youth, practicing a healthy lifestyle by walking, jogging, hiking, and so on.
We have also seen several new trekking areas and recreational parks opened for the public. The question Kaola would like to raise is about the facilities and maintenance of these facilities.
Some of these recreational places have been equipped with toilets and other facilities yet, sadly, the toilets in some of these places are in a very disappointing state, not maintained, with broken and dirty toilet bowls.
Kaola suggest that if the allocation given to ministries and agencies to maintain these facilities is not sufficient, the ministry could initiate a sponsorship program from companies that want to improve and maintain these facilities or, thinking outside the box, another option is to organize online fundraising as done for emergency relief donations for foreign countries because the culture of Bruneians is to like to do charity, donate, and give alms.
That's all Kaola can convey. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri
Thank you, Yang Berhormat, for the question and suggestions.
Regarding the addition of positions in the Ministry of Home Affairs, it's not actually an addition but an alignment from the previous daily wage positions open vote absorbed for monthly wages and indeed it seems to increase.
Concerning strategic additional measures in increasing revenue collection as Kaola stated, the actions taken by the Department of Municipalities Bandar Seri Begawan and other municipalities, especially when it comes from these revenue collection efforts, are in collaboration with the relevant agencies. Meaning, the permission or actions are approved through the Municipality Department if the place in question requires an OP, it must be paid upfront for the said arrears.
Regarding other revenues, it is indeed in the ministry's plan, for example, the Immigration Department, the Labour Department, and so on.
Regarding Kampong Ayer, actually, the scope for this project will be discussed in the State Development Plan in terms of scope change and revitalisation of Kampong Ayer as an example to provide the needed development for residents in Kampong Ayer.
Regarding the master plan in terms of land use is under the Ministry of Development concerning Temburong District. Maybe Kaola can't answer Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, maybe my colleague Kaola concerning the master plan in Temburong District from the aspect of land use will be answered by the Ministry of Development. But one thing Kaola can share here is about the transfer of authority for the development of Temburong District to Yang Berhormat has indeed been accepted through the Ministry of Finance and Economy.
As in the introduction Kaola, in terms of urban planning including the districts have already been discussed for the development of each district. Regarding One MOHA System and E-Gate, Kaola expresses thousands of thanks for the suggestion from Yang Berhormat whether using 4 fingers or for the upgrade.
Indeed, in the current border control system usage, Yang Berhormat has been upgraded, using 4 fingers is for tolerance, meaning if 1 finger doesn't work, 3 fingers will be used. It's to ensure readability in terms of fingerprints. God willing, abiskaola will conduct a study regarding E-Gate.
E-Gate, actually, if we see from other countries, indeed uses fingerprint as identifier or facial recognition. So, it’s still in discussion whether to use facial recognition or four fingerprints which one is more appropriate in terms of safety. So, the E-Gate that exists in the airport control posts at this time has indeed been upgraded in its system and can be utilised. One MOHA System indeed, as Kaola stated earlier in the preamble, it involves in terms of National Emergency Response System for the Fire and Rescue Department, the National Disaster Management Centre and others alike in the Ministry of Home Affairs will be able to be digitalised in terms of its services and other services in the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Second, regarding Maraburong Prison Phase 4 and Phase 5, actually, this is a strategic initiative of the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Prison Department. The first, to consolidate. The second, to ensure optimisation of manpower in terms of warders working in two prison institutions currently, which are Jerudong Prison and Maraburong Prison. If we look from an economic perspective, with the budget provided, we could build 500 houses, but we must balance in terms of security and also the welfare of residents in Brunei Darussalam.
Meaning, this prison intuition needs a consolidation place. Currently, we acknowledge in Jerudong, in terms of its infrastructure, it's not very secure, so it needs to be newly made. In terms of the number of capacities in prison, it’s actually already controlled.
At this time, repairs are being made to the Maraburong prison cell to ensure safety. So, 'kitani' actually many factors cause these projects to need to be continued to ensure security and also optimisation of manpower of the Prison Department.
There's a question from Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khattib Dato Seri Setia Haji Mohd Yusuf regarding the number of people entering prison. Based on the 2022 record, those released from prison were as many as 395 people. From those 395 people, 74 were found committing crimes again, which are 71 males and 3 females. If looked from a demographic perspective, those under 30 years old, 28 males among youths have committed repeated offenses.
Same also in 2023, 585 people were released, as many as 102 people, which are 98 males and 40 females were found committing crimes again. From that, among the youths 24 males and one female. Most of the cases re-entering are theft, drugs, and trespassing cases.
Based on research conducted by CSPS, among the reasons why they re-enter is the lack of self-resilience in facing external challenges. This is what Kaola meant earlier in terms of community outreach program and family institution, influenced again by old friends, habitual offending, difficulties in finding a job, financial resource problems, and society itself is not ready to accept them. That’s all Kaola can share, Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua, thank you.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Thank you Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri. I now invite Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Rosmawatty binti Haji Abdul Mumin.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Rosmawatty binti Haji Abdul Mumin
Thank you Yang Berhormat Yang Di-Pertua. In the name of Allah, the Merciful and Compassionate
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members, respected Lady Hafsa binti the late Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Muhammad bin Salam, may Allah the Almighty grant her mercy, and greetings of peace
Kaola have 2 questions:
Regarding Aspiration 2 in the ministry. In the past five years, kaola have seen a little big transformation in the development of urban and rural areas, especially in the Belait and Temburong Districts. Kaola also raised concerns in the reply magazine of Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri to the question of Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Datu Seri Setia Awang Haji Adnan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Datu Seri Setia Haji Mohd. Yusuf in the morning session regarding Urban Affairs and the renewal of Bandar Seri Begawan. In this morning session, there were initiatives from the ministry to refer to all the BSB Masterplans. Kaola just brought up about the BSB Masterplan which was informed in 2010 which also created many major infrastructure projects such as the RIPAS urban area and BSB Eco Corridor. This also raises some concerns about the current position of this BSB Masterplan in making our capital more vibrant. Also referring to Aspiration 2 in the 2023-2027 Strategic Plan of the Ministry of Home Affairs that is Urban and Rural Development Transformation and Empowering Community Development.
Kaola's first question, how does the ministry assess the achievement of this Aspiration 2? With only 4 years left to achieve it, what are the detailed plans of the ministry to ensure the achievement of this aspiration?
Secondly, what is the overall impact of this aspiration on the quality of life of the local community in urban and rural areas? What progress has been made including access to basic services, economic opportunities or physical environment? How many jobs are expected to be created through this aspiration? and lastly, does the ministry plan to conduct a review of the 2010 BSB Masterplan for urban and rural development transformation. Are there also similar plans to plan the development of towns and other districts in Brunei Darussalam? If so, will these masterplans be given to the general public especially for private and public stakeholders?
Kaola suggests that this second aspiration be included in the ministry's upcoming KPI with a special allocation for the proposed incentives and it would be good for the urban and rural areas to have a more detailed masterplan that aligns with other government initiatives for short, medium, and long-term development.
Involvement of foreigners in business. Kaola noticed in newspapers and news from neighboring countries about the involvement that 98% are discussed by foreigners in the facilities provided by the government. Learning from this matter, although the situation in this country is not critical, it would be better for the authorities to address this issue as soon as possible. The entry of foreigners into this country, especially to the Temburong District, has been more noticeable since the opening of the Sultan Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Bridge, this condition should be monitored by the ministry.
Kaola also proposes that all fifteen store doors around Bangar Town, known as the "Green Jewel" of Brunei Darussalam, be fully operated by locals. 'Biasing' of Bangar Town has consumed high costs fully borne by the government. This government investment should be enjoyed by the residents of the Temburong District.
Kaola suggests that the Ministry of Home Affairs lead along with other government agencies to address these issues immediately before they become a major problem in Brunei Darussalam.
That's all Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Thank you.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Dato Abdul Hajid Rasomatwerty bin Haji Dayang Muhiman regarding the question and suggestion on the second aspiration.
In fact, in the Strategic Plan of the Ministry of Home Affairs, there are KPIs established for each aspiration. As the question leads to the second aspiration, that is Urban and Rural Development Transformation, and Empowering Community Development. For example, for clean cities and districts, there are 5 KPIs provided as examples.
This question also touches on a question that kaola have not answered, that is the question from Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd. Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim about public toilets, so for example; the KPIs that are set under the goal of clean cities and districts, implementation is carried out for the Misconduct Act.
In terms of offenses and compliance, the percentage of public toilets under the control of the ministry that their grading is excellent, compliance with the Misconduct Act, that is the compound issued, including also from the aspect of cleanliness or the amount of land location of urban development. As the introduction kaola also mentioned earlier, urban and rural development transformation and empowering community development as kaola mentioned regarding the BSB Masterplan that kaola shared about its achievements.
It has been discussed at the Working Committee level to be implemented in the districts, that is the development of districts and also if kaola can share, in terms of the third goal, the availability of infrastructure in urban and rural areas, that is the number of infrastructures taken action to increase the outcomes from visits and monitoring, the percentage of infrastructure in village mukims being used.
All these aspirations and goals are not implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs alone. It involves other ministries that can perform infrastructure. The role of the ministry in terms of district development has also been questioned.
Actually, the Ministry of Home Affairs and other ministries play an important role in development, district development. For example, the development of hospitals in terms of their business centres. For example, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi in terms of the second question, the entry of foreigners into the Temburong District. If 'kitani' look before, before there was a bridge for them to Temburong District, they had to buy so for 'subaluh' they need to go through immigration procedures, that's why before the bridge indeed the entry of foreigners into the Temburong District was not noticeable but with this bridge indeed accessibility becomes easy.
But in terms of control actually, kaola do not see it as an issue.
One of them in terms of labour policy, indeed all applications for foreign worker licenses are assessed in terms of their necessity.
Secondly, the role of 'kitani' who hold these licensing licenses also needs to be scrutinized so actually this worker must have a balance in terms of give and take. Moreover, if foreign nationals are seen to also contribute to 'kitani's economic progress, so kaola cannot answer specifically whether the entry of foreigners into the Temburong District becomes an issue. If the store doors in Bangar are operated by locals indeed that is actually the aspiration for 'kitani' to also give. It is encouraged to reflect whether the doors for locals and it is also seen also the license owner to conduct the relevant business.
As kaola also explained earlier the entry of foreigners indeed there are certain processes. That's all, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi that kaola can answer regarding the question and suggestion from Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Rosmawatty binti Haji Abdul Mumin.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
I now invite Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abd. Salam.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abd. Salam
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members. We praise Him and we pray on His Messenger.
On this occasion, kaola directly want to refer to the statement of Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri this morning in response to the debate brought by Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Datu Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Mohd. Yusuf regarding the production of 1K1P products.
وَرَفَعْنا لَكَ ذِكْرَك efforts to develop this product are being carried out solely through the cooperation of interested parties such as Ghannim International Corporation Sdn. Bhd., but what caught kaola's attention earlier, what Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri stated and also stated by government leaderships in the operation plan to counter this product is regarding mass production of 1K1P products and this morning Yang Berhormat Menteri also said that the reception from entrepreneurs where only one company agreed to collaborate with Ghannim International Corporation while what kaola understood earlier this collaboration has the potential to elevate this program as an economically viable source for the village community.
Here kaola would like to ask, request clarification from Yang Berhormat Menteri regarding the earlier statement, what are the reasons given by those entrepreneurs to refuse the collaboration and what support can be provided by the government or the ministry and other relevant parties to those entrepreneurs to be ready to participate in this beneficial cooperation in kaola's view.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members. To encourage the production of 1K1P products and make it more economically sustainable, then in kaola's view the program's objective should focus on meeting the local market and expanding to regional and international markets. Therefore, kaola also products suggest that the 1K1P program be undertaken on a franchise basis and they identify unique products that have high demand and potential to be developed and produced together by entrepreneurs on a large scale.
The products can go through a selection and assessment process as well as continuous trials with selection and improvement, and the selected products shared with other interested entrepreneurs for joint venture. For example, if it's food, then it can be jointly ventured with the same recipe and the same method of preparation to ensure its consistency and the expected yield will increase for higher quality and wide acceptance, each product's halal status certified by Halal Brunei Certification.
The Yang Berhormat Menteri also touched on the packaging of products that have been upgraded. So, the packaging of these products is crucial to attract consumers to meet national and international standards. The success of the 1K1P projects depends on the commitment of the companies as entrepreneurs. Therefore, to attract entrepreneurs to participate in this project on a large scale, it is crucial to inform or provide clear knowledge and awareness to the entrepreneurs about the importance of the project to their economic future and the country's. Transparent and open explanations may attract these entrepreneurs to participate in the project.
Providing guidance from various aspects of economy, finance, handling, and marketing of products with the involvement of other agencies and involving ministries such as the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to support and assist in market and overseas promotion.
The second matter that kaola would like to bring up here is about the Key Performance Indicators (KPI) related to the 1K1P products contained in the budget book, which is the percentage of the total number of 1K1P entrepreneurs participating in activities to enhance the economy of the village communities, and the target for 2024/2025 is 60%. So, in kaola's view, the participation number contained in the KPI does not reflect economic improvement. The improvement in living standards is assessed from the income earned by the entrepreneurs from the production of the concerned products. Therefore, kaola suggests that for the future, this KPI be reviewed and updated further.
Next, kaola touches on market availability for the community as referred to by the holder Yang Berhormat Menteri this morning regarding cooperation with the Ministry of Development about 13 sites declared to replace roadside vending sites. Considering safety and welfare aspects of the concerned vendors, besides ensuring the regulation of trading of the association project and the less conducive vending place sales are prioritized and expedited.
Kaola uses the example of the sales area for vegetables or fruits and food located by the road in Jerudong Fish Market and also Tamu Selera in Bandar Seri Begawan. The immediate standardization of places like these with permanent buildings that are proportional and more conducive will provide comfort to the local community and create a safe and clean environment.
Entrepreneurs must also be determined with sole responsibility to maintain cleanliness and preserve the original building conditions. This condition will also provide a good impression to the locals and tourists visiting this country about the government's commitment to the welfare and well-being of all levels of citizens and residents in this country.
That is what kaola would like to present. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, and thanks also to Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abd. Salam.
There are several questions regarding 1K1P. Koala mentioned that it's not a disagreement, exactly. 11 entrepreneurs were invited, and only 1 was willing or accepted the proposal from Ghanim International Corporation. So, when we talk about this business, if previously 1K1P meant whatever one-dollar sold, one-dollar goes into the pocket. But with the collaboration with Ghanim International Corporation, with its mass production, it becomes a deduction from operational costs. Understanding of business dealings has been discussed with these entrepreneurs.
So, if we look at why the reasons often given by 1K1P entrepreneurs:
- They do not feel sufficient with the profit received from home-based operation;
- 1K1P is more of a hobby rather than a business;
- Disagreement with the offered price negotiations;
- Unwillingness to share recipes, meaning each has their own recipe.
So the role of the Ministry of Home Affairs to ensure mass production to get them high sales is one of the aspirations of the Ministry. As shared by koala, almost 900 thousand from sales made by 1K1P entrepreneurs from 160 entrepreneurs koala shared just now and compared to 2022. So these are the challenges in terms of packaging, there's no cost to entrepreneurs if it is carried out by the respective companies. In terms of its halal status, the halalness will indeed be guaranteed, further more the kitchen that will be used is a "certified kitchen".
So, koala also suggests the role from the Mukim and Village Consultative Council, Mukim Chiefs and Village Chiefs to ensure these 1K1P entrepreneurs also understand the aspirations of the Ministry to raise the economy or living standards.
So, if we make the math, 900 thousand divided by the number of entrepreneurs. The number of entrepreneurs is in the range of 5 or 6 people per entrepreneur, so in terms of income, it is indeed low. This is the Ministry's advice to ensure the Ministry collaborates with Ghanim International Sdn. Bhd.
There are products that have been proposed for collaboration, for example in Brunei Muara district kueh kipang, pineapple, shrimp crackers. For MPK Tungku Katok, the Ministry will also assist the Ministry to expand agricultural enterprises such as in Tutong District with sweet potato chips, sambal products, and so on.
So there are already some products identified by Ghanim International Sdn. Bhd., only acceptance from the entrepreneurs is very important.
Regarding the 13 sites where one has been declared to Brunei-Muara District Department and 12 more in process. As many as 7 sites have been allocated for early development.
Indeed, it is desirable to move to these sites. The sites chosen have also been negotiated with MPM/MPK and not a selection made by the Ministry. It has been negotiated and classified where suitable sites for these roadside entrepreneurs are, and safety considerations are taken into account.
There were also points made about Jerudong Market and others in terms of cleanliness, which is already under the ministry's scrutiny.
Regarding the KPI that does not reflect economic improvement, actually based on the number from sales but if we look at this KPI as a benchmark. So the ministry is looking into it deeply, thinking whether getting the sales amount can improve an entrepreneur's economy but if seen from a mathematical perspective even if divided among the total 1K1P entrepreneurs, it's not significantly large.
So, expanding the 1K1P products is one of the ways for us to press on the standards from the top-down approach that is given is sufficient concerning the items sold, unwillingness to share recipes.
God willing, this will be something koala will negotiate with Your Honourable Members representing the zones on how we ensure the acceptance from 1K1P entrepreneurs in terms of economy, in terms of diversifying products and so on;
Regarding Tamu Selera, indeed at this time in the planning of the design to accommodate, has been negotiated with the traders there to implement in terms of its permanent structure. So this matter is hindered concerning structural issues due to several matters.
God willing, this matter is handled by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Brunei-Muara District Department. In terms of the land site, it has also been negotiated with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports where the land site at Tamu Selera currently is indeed under the control of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.
That's all Yang Berhormat Pengerusi that koala can explain. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
I now invite Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee.
Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pehin Pengerusi, for the opportunity for this colloquium to discuss this Title. Kaola also wishes to congratulate and thank Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri for the comprehensive presentation delivered on the direction and efforts in achieving the development and progress of Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Yang Berhormat Pehin Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members, kaola's first question is under titles SE01A and SE08A regarding the key performance indicators for the Tutong District Office. The collection from economic project revenues of the Kampung Consultative Muzakarah Council for 2022/2023 has shown a significant increase of 107.13% from $191,983.84 to $397,653.55.
However, the target for the following year seems low, estimated at $120,000 to $150,000. Is this target yet to be reviewed to reflect such economic growth, and what are the factors contributing to this significant increase in revenue?
Next, kaola would like to discuss the Village Consultative Councils (MPK), villages that have progressed indeed contribute towards the economic, social, environmental, and cultural dimensions thus providing a positive and holistic impact on both urban and rural areas. MPK plays a significant role in providing advice and support to the village heads in implementing community programs, enhancing the welfare and safety of the village as well as assisting the country with government tasks.
Kaola feels happy and thrilled to see more youths stepping forward to take on the roles of village heads, making a significant impact on the progress of the village and the country. This trend not only revitalizes community leadership but also promises innovative approaches in addressing the unique challenges of our villages.
However, the effectiveness of MPK needs to be further enhanced through better guidance and training for newly elected members. Especially given their status and actions as volunteers and the limited funding available.
Kaola acknowledges the information shared this morning that a competency and capability framework has been referred to for penghulus and village heads. Therefore, kaola would also like to propose a similar initiative for MPK, which is a standard manual and a structured induction program to ensure they can fulfill their roles and responsibilities as best as possible, thereby strengthening their commitment to community welfare and development.
Lastly, regarding our country's culinary heritage. Ambuyat is a dish that embodies the soul of our nation yet remains an untapped delicacy beyond our borders. This dish, deeply rooted in our heritage, made from sago, has a rich history dating back 800 years, documented by the Ukong people from the Southern Sung Dynasty. Since ambuyat symbolizes Brunei's food tradition and the glory of food technology, kaola’s questions are:
What efforts are being made to elevate the profile of ambuyat on the global stage and to become recognized as Brunei Darussalam's symbol worldwide?;
It is suggested that the ministry work together with the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports to make Ukong a major area and a source for ambuyat production as a dynamic tourism hub. This development and change will innovate sago and offer an authentic exploration of Brunei's cultural and food tradition significance. By promoting ambuyat and Ukong, not only can we enrich and further enhance the tourism sector in Brunei but also attract and preserve our unique cultural heritage for future generations.
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Thank you, Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee for the questions and suggestions.
Regarding the increase in yield. Factors contributing to the increase in economic yield of 1K1P include the rise in tourism platforms that have offered opportunities for entrepreneur participation.
For instance, this income was attained monthly through expo sales and sales participated by entrepreneurs, visits to products contributing to economic activities, 3K youth programs, 1K1P Weekly Tamu, Monthly MPK Tamu, etc. Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, thus, the Village and Community Consultative Councils are also actively organizing economic activities, such as Monthly Tamu, Fruit Festivals, etc., and sales of products at their respective venues. These are the factors that have increased the outputs from the Village and Community Consultative Councils.
Regarding the suggestion from Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee, in terms of providing MPK industry guides, it is well received. For example, the Human Resources Committee Framework for penghulus and village heads can be adapted to the Village and Community Consultative Councils. Just as the core business of the Ministry of Home Affairs is not just to "observe" penghulus and village heads, but also the entire community in the respective villages. The Ministry welcomes any Village and Community Consultative Councils that are interested in the Human Resources Committees Framework, and since the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for penghulus and village heads have been introduced, the role of penghulus and village heads also include overseeing the development of MPK/MPM. God willing, the Ministry is always open, whether in terms of the discussion session kaola shared earlier and also discussion sessions between penghulus and village heads with district officials at their respective places.
Regarding culinary. "How to" make ambuyat well-known internationally. Indeed, a good suggestion, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, for "us" to promote our local culinary. For instance, ambuyat, as suggested by Yang Berhormat Dayang Chong Chin Yee earlier. This matter was already in the process during the ministry's visit with the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, to identify opportunities to enhance the rural economy as strategic partners, for example, ambuyat mentioned earlier. Kaola shares, indeed, the Village Consultative Council (MPK) of Ukong, Village Consultative Council (MPK) of Batu Apoi, indeed, both councils are ambuyat entrepreneurs, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
The visit of kaola to both places in Batu Apoi, for example, Batu Apoi is currently in the phase of obtaining more suitable salt, and presently in Ukong, the construction of a new ambuyat cleaning factory with a large site and obtaining sago yield. This was also voiced whether a collaboration could happen, as also suggested by Yang Berhormat Dayang Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abd. Salam, regarding sharing recipes. This could also happen, maybe Batu Apoi could supply the sago and in Ukong, a large factory to be built, maybe it could become a Brunei product that could be marketed domestically and globally. That could be a collaboration, between the Village Consultative Councils themselves to collaborate. The Ministry supports any collaboration that can enhance the economy of a particular village.
That's all, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi from kaola, thank you.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
I invite, Yang Berhormat Dr. Awang Haji Mahali bin Haji Momin.
Yang Berhormat Dr. Awang Haji Mahali bin Haji Momin
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. And with His help. All praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds. Prayers and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, companions, and followers.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and Your Honourable Members, peace be upon you, and God’s mercy and blessings and salutations to all.
Thank you to the Minister of Home Affairs for the comprehensive prelude this morning and congratulations on the initiatives and efforts that have been extended.
Currently, there is an increase in the number of stray dogs, monkeys, and crocodiles. This has caused considerable concern for public safety and welfare, especially in residential areas.
Wild animals roaming in public places can lead to various issues besides safety and also pose health risks. Crocodiles have been seen at beaches, rivers, and even large drains near residences, which was unheard of before.
Non-government organizations such as Sejathera Community Bureau and Post-Up are using the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program strategy to manage their numbers by neutering stray dogs and releasing them.
As koala understands, this program also depends on public funding to operate. However, their efforts face challenges in reducing the number of animals, especially dogs, in various places.
Kaola notes that the Ministry of Home Affairs has continued the operation of clearing stray and abandoned dogs in phases and has established an animal shelter to accommodate stray dogs recovered from public places including mosques, schools, night markets, and shopping centers. It was explained this morning that 13 dogs have been captured, however, kaola requests further clarification and explanation regarding the capacity of the shelter.
Concerns have been raised by the public about the shelter's capacity of only accommodating up to 150 stray dogs. From what kaola mentioned above, it is clear that the shelter space for these dogs is not sufficient. What are the ministry's further efforts to accommodate dogs that are still roaming not only in public places like kindergartens but also in residential areas? Are male and female dogs segregated to prevent their breeding and also to prevent the spread of rabies? Are the dogs at the shelter being given to reduce the number of stray dogs? Moreover, these stray dogs are likely to carry diseases like rabies, so what are the preventative measures to ensure this disease does not occur and spread widely? Lastly, what are the ministry's long-term plans in reducing the number of wild animals like dogs, crocodiles, and monkeys?
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi. Thank you to Yang Berhormat Dr. Awang Haji Mahali bin Haji Momin for the question posed.
The number of dogs in the national shelter is not 13 but 31. So, at this moment, the ministry has made 54 dog traps. In each cage, 1 shelter can accommodate 150 to 200 dogs. This is not only established there, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi, indeed the ministry also offers to those who want to adopt these dogs either to guard their gardens or to become pets to those interested. So, another question regarding whether female and male dogs are neutered? The answer is no. They are also separated to ensure there is no breeding of these dogs and indeed cooperates with NGOs, Sejahtera, and Post Up to address this dog issue.
If we see, they are neutered and released. The issue that arises is not because of breeding, but because of the dogs themselves causing issues with the public. So, it's up to the ministry to provide knowledge to the public on how to ensure when breeding with these dogs, to ensure no harm comes from these dogs.
Most of the incidents kaola received are due to these animals being startled, they have their own defense mechanism. So, that's what causes the dogs to attack. The ministry under the Municipal Department and District Office indeed decided to capture these dogs and to neuter them, they will be placed in the national shelter to ensure the presence of dogs in hotspot areas, especially in places where people recreate, will decrease.
However, in terms of their care, it indeed follows certain standards adopted by NGOs that have long handled these issues of stray dogs.
Regarding rabies, it's under the control of MPRT Zoonatic Task Force in collaboration with three ministries, namely the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, Ministry of Health, and Ministry of Home Affairs. This has entered the force join taskforce Zoonatic Task Force, as much as on 19 August 2023 regarding the rabies infection cases in Miri, Sarawak, and it's announced that no rabies infection cases among humans or animals have been recorded in Negara Brunei Darussalam.
So, Negara Brunei Darussalam is rabies free but surrounded by countries where rabies is endemic. So, in terms of knowledge, it is indeed implemented from time to time.
In terms of shelters, if it's necessary to create more, indeed the ministry will implement it. Kaola also takes this opportunity to inform that dog owners in Negara Brunei Darussalam, after registering their dogs as prescribed under Chapter 2 Dog Reduction Act, and the dogs registered are 60 and given a numbered metal tag.
If dog owners fail to register their dogs, if convicted of an offense, will be fined $250 or if failing to pay will be imprisoned for 14 days. So, at this time, the dog licensing program has been running, and the dog which has been registered and previously inspected for the presence of these dogs. So, the ministry and the Municipal Department, Bandar Seri Begawan will assess these new license applications and the old licenses issued by the Municipal Department. It's the role of every owner to also help the government to ensure the welfare of the community.
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Please proceed, Yang Berhormat Menteri Sumber-Sumber Utama dan Pelancongan.
Yang Berhormat Menteri Sumber-Sumber Utama dan Pelancongan
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi and also thank you to Yang Berhormat Dr. Awang Haji Mahali bin Haji Mohd regarding the question about crocodiles and also wild monkeys.
Actually, both matters are under the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism. Regarding the crocodile issue, this issue is indeed being discussed as it becomes more serious, not only in this country but also in neighboring countries.
So, to date, the effort has been under the Wildlife Division Unit actively controlling this situation. To date, 57 crocodiles have been captured as a result of reports and also public observations. From the year 2023 until the end of February 2024, 57 crocodiles have been captured. Regarding the initiatives taken by the Wildlife Department, the Forestry Department has taken several initiatives, apart from conducting road shows and also placing signs in the areas where crocodiles are present, the Forestry Department Wildlife Division conducts the Joint Crocodile Capture program, which involves the cooperation of the village youth and Wildlife Division with the Fire and Rescue Department and the Royal Brunei Police Force to capture under the ‘Joint Crocodile Capture Program’. To date, involving Kampung Ayer where 51 'jails' have been installed which resulted in 6 crocodiles being captured.
Moreover, the Ministry of Primary Resources, under the Wildlife Division, Forestry Department is also striving to engage experts to capture these crocodiles, which will be stored in the sanctuary area in Kampung Snuut to be collected so they no longer roam around.
Hopefully, with the experts, it will be more effective in terms of capturing crocodiles, especially in areas close to residents, the public, or villagers. In addition, there is also a program on crocodile population study, which is also an issue made in the Brunei River and will be extended to the Tutong River, Belait River, and Temburong River where once the crocodile population study is completed, we will be able to establish whether it's endangered or population spread if it's proven not to be at the endangered level, we can make 'fencing'. From there, we will be able to make exceptions from regulation and then proceed to commercialize crocodile egg results. Alhamdulillah, this project will be completed in more than a year.
Regarding other monkeys, there is a problem with the lack of food and also habitat that has been destroyed in urban areas and residential places. This is one reason why many monkeys search for food in garbage bins, sometimes stealing food.
So, if this problem arises, it will be addressed through the capture of these wild monkeys and then sent to suitable areas. That's the initiative being carried out at this time by the Wildlife Department, Forestry Department, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism.
Thank you, Yang Berhormat Pengerusi.
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Any further input to reduce the danger of crocodiles or to stop them from roaming in the villages? Your Honourable Members, I guess that’s enough for our committee meeting discussion, so I suggest we move on to the National Assembly Conference.
(Committee meeting adjourned)
(National Assembly resumes sitting)
Yang Berhormat Pengerusi
Your Honourable Members, we are all sitting at the National Assembly Conference. I would like to propose that this conference be adjourned, and we will resume on Monday, 4 March 2024 starting at 2:00 pm.
Thank you, وبلتوفيق والهداية، والسلامة والسعادة والأمن والأمان
(National Assembly adjourned)
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