My Thoughts on Growing Grains, Trees, and People

“If you want a year of prosperity, grow grain; 10 years of prosperity, grow trees; 100 years of prosperity, grow people.”

This Chinese proverb got me thinking. As someone born and raised in Brunei—an anakbrunei—its wisdom feels especially relevant to our little nation. We’ve been blessed with immense natural wealth, but we all know deep down that oil and gas won’t last forever. This proverb provides a simple yet profound way of thinking about how we can secure not just a comfortable present, but a thriving and sustainable future.

So, what do “grain,” “trees,” and “people” mean for Brunei?

Short-Term Wins: Growing Grain

For Brunei, our “grain” is obvious—it’s oil and gas. This has been our bread and butter, funding everything from roads and schools to our enviable social welfare system. But grain doesn’t last. It’s harvested, consumed, and then we need another crop.

The same goes for our reliance on oil and gas revenues. Yes, we’ve built stability with this income, but relying too much on one resource is risky. Prices fluctuate, demand changes, and the global push for greener energy is accelerating. We can’t just keep planting the same “grain” and expect to thrive long-term.

In the short term, we need to diversify our economy. Things like tourism, financial services, and small-medium enterprises (SMEs) are steps in the right direction. But let’s be honest—it’s not just about adding new industries. It’s about making sure they’re competitive and sustainable in a rapidly changing world. Short-term wins are important, but they’re just the beginning.

Planning Ahead: Planting Trees

Now, when it comes to “trees,” we’re talking about investments that take time to grow but pay off over the medium term. For Brunei, this could mean developing infrastructure, strengthening industries, and investing in technology. The government’s push for digitalisation and efforts to attract foreign direct investment are like planting seedlings. These initiatives won’t bear fruit immediately, but they’re necessary if we want something to fall back on when the oil wells run dry.

But planting trees isn’t just about digging holes. Trees need nurturing—they need water, sunlight, and care. The same applies to our economy. If we’re going to invest in industries like ICT, green energy, or halal manufacturing, we need consistent policies, skilled workers, and long-term commitment. Half-hearted efforts won’t cut it.

A Legacy That Lasts: Growing People

The proverb’s last line is the most powerful: “Grow people.” It’s a reminder that true, lasting prosperity comes from investing in our greatest resource—our people. For a small nation like Brunei, this couldn’t be more true. Our population is tiny, which means we can’t afford to waste talent. Every Bruneian has the potential to contribute to the nation’s growth, but only if we invest in the right skills, mindset, and opportunities.

This is where I think we need to shift gears. It’s not just about education—it’s about the right education. Are we preparing our kids for the jobs of the future, or are we still stuck in outdated thinking? Are we encouraging innovation, entrepreneurship, and critical thinking? And are we equipping people to take on roles in emerging industries like renewable energy, digital media, and sustainable manufacturing?

Beyond skills, we also need to foster a growth mindset. Bruneians need to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and push boundaries. It’s about shifting the narrative from “playing it safe” to “thinking big.” Initiatives like i-Ready and entrepreneurship programs are steps in the right direction, but we need to make these opportunities more accessible and impactful.

Why This Matters to Us, anakbrunei

As an anakbrunei, I’ve seen how much potential we have as a nation. We’re small but capable. We’re rich in resources and talent. But if we want Brunei to thrive for generations to come, we need to think long-term. Grain sustains us for now, trees will carry us for a decade or two, but it’s people—our people—who will shape the next century.

It’s about balance. We need to use our oil wealth wisely to fund infrastructure and invest in our future industries. But more importantly, we need to grow our people—nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and inspiring a shared vision for Brunei’s future.

Our prosperity, as a nation, isn’t something that happens by chance. It’s something we cultivate. And like any good farmer, we need to be patient, strategic, and committed. Because at the end of the day, it’s the seeds we plant today that will determine what Brunei looks like in 100 years.

So, to my fellow anakbrunei, let’s ask ourselves: What seeds are we planting for the future?