Sultan Says Strong Private Sector Curbs Unemployment

Bandar Seri Begawan - His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei highlighted the importance of strengthening the private sector as an alternative to curb the current unemployment problem.

The Brunei ruler made his speech last night to mark the 19th National Day of Brunei set to be celebrated today.

He said the government sector could no longer support the sultanate's employment needs indefinitely.

"One of the major steps towards developing the private sector and the economy is the new initiative that is expected to build two industrial sites at Sungai Liang in the Belait District and Pulau Muara Besar," he said.

His Majesty's government has launched this new initiative through the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB).

The implementation of this initiative His Majesty said would uplift the country's image as an investment destination and boost foreign investors' confidence.

In his speech, the Brunei ruler also called on youths to discard their dislike of working in the private sector and replace it with the dedication and commitment to work, regardless of whether their employer is the government or the private sector.

He also highlighted the importance of public sector involvement in the country's national development.

The Sultan said the public sector must be proactive in exploring and grabbing existing opportunities to expedite the sultanate's economic growth.

His Majesty also emphasised on the importance of peace and patriotism in preserving prosperity.

In his speech, he stressed that Brunei has always adhered strongly to the principles of justice and peace.

His Majesty said the country's stand is clear, neither supporting nor condoning any form of action that jeopardises peace.

He said that Brunei never neglects efforts to preserve peace and order, which ultimately leads to prosperity. "Effective development can only be achieved when there is peace," he added.

"The people must possess great love for their country because without patriotism, no national machinery will be able to function," he said.

The Brunei ruler added that with patriotism the people will move in solidarity to build a nation in their own way, based on the same basic principles of mutual respect, tolerance and adherence to Islamic teachings as the main pillar of national harmony and prosperity.

"This is the key that ensures the country's competitive edge in the challenging international arena," he said.

His Majesty also said the government continues to consider as top priority all efforts towards upgrading the country's socio-economy.

He also lauded the private sector's involvement in various education services. "I am very pleased by their proactiveness in the development of education in the sultanate."

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