The unveiling of Brunei Darussalam’s new Cabinet yesterday has understandably attracted significant public attention. Much of the discussion has centred on the appointment of new ministers, the entry of younger leaders into government, and the elevation of several familiar faces into more prominent roles. Yet beyond the headlines and photographs,…
Category: Brunei & Governance
Commentary on Brunei’s national policy, governance, and public affairs
Brunei & Governance
Thoughts While Watching a Distant War…
The news over the past few days has felt surreal. On 28 February 2026, the United States and Israel launched a massive coordinated strike on Iran. Within hours, airstrikes were reported across Tehran and ballistic missiles were flying across the Gulf. Just like that, the Middle East tipped into a…
Brunei & Governance
When the Tap Goes Silent
Last week’s water disruption was uncomfortable. Buckets replaced showers. Routines became workarounds. It was inconvenient, but also humbling. For a brief moment, we were reminded how dependent we are on something we usually take for granted. How quickly comfort slips when a basic need falters. This was not a crisis….
Brunei & Governance
Clean Toilets as a Licensing Requirement? Yes Please!
Hey, fellow Bruneians! If you’ve ever stepped into a hawker centre, mamak stall, or fancy café only to be hit with that unpleasant surprise in the back—yeah, the one that makes you question your life choices—you know exactly what I’m talking about. Clean food? Absolutely essential. But clean toilets? That’s…
Brunei & Governance
Brunei’s Own Road in 1963 – Bukan Menolak Tapi Menjaga
On 27th August 2025, the front page of Pelita Brunei carried a striking photograph: our beloved Sultan, Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, shaking hands with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia. The headline read, “Hubungan NBD, Malaysia Kekal Erat, Mesra.” It…
Brunei & Governance
A Bruneian’s Take on Healthcare Reform: Balancing Progress and Compassion
As a proud Bruneian citizen, I deeply value the care our government provides for its people. The recent policy change, effective July 1, 2025, which ends free healthcare for non-citizens, including permanent residents with foreign nationalities and foreign spouses of Bruneians, has sparked much discussion. Reflecting on my own experience…
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