National resilience can face new global challenges: HM

Make effective time management part of our culture

HIS Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in his New Year titah yesterday said the country, which is not free from new global challenges, can face them through national resilience.

The monarch affirmed that Brunei will continue holding consultations and making appropriate decisions in the international arena, as well as national level, adding that "plans and long-term solutions will be drawn up to face the unpredictable future."

"Even though we don't know the answers to the complex global challenges today, we need to prepare ourselves for the future. My government will always create evaluations and appropriate improvements wherever necessary," said the monarch, who was speaking in a customary titah delivered annually to mark the New Year.

"We are not free from various new challenges which no person can predict. This in turn will establish national resilience, which plays an important role in guaranteeing national development and prosperity." Citing the financial crisis, economic turmoil, social ills, environmental degradation and political instability experienced in the majority of countries worldwide, the monarch said: "With the blessing of Allah SWT, our country is free from problems and we are fortunate to enjoy peace and harmony."

His Majesty alluded to the Wawasan Brunei 2035 (National Vision 2035), which outlines strategies and policies for the development of all sectors in the country and also includes the National Development Plan (RKN 2007-2012).

"Wawasan consists of an outline for the future — driving development in a more systematic way in line with the aim of becoming a country with high-skilled, educated, quality and successful citizens — with a goal of possessing a dynamic and sustainable economy," His Majesty said.

The monarch underscored the significance of time, which he said is one of the more important factors in ensuring success in national development and productivity. "The characteristics of time is unique and different compared to those of knowledge, skill or wealth. It is not uncommon for humans to chase after knowledge and wealth — but not many are not aware of the importance of time, more than anything else," the monarch said.

"That said, time is one of the essence in carrying out the development of national productivity and other progresses."

"Every plan must be executed quickly and completed on time. This is the way to place value on time, by making it part of our culture."

"Efficiency creates change, and renewal and improvements are the usual practices of a successful country," he said.

The monarch in his titah expressed gratitude to all levels within the civil service, security forces, the private sector and all Bruneian citizens for their genuine efforts in conducting their duties and responsibilities in achieving happiness, prosperity and the development of the country.