Brunei’s MIB Concept Takes Deeper Root In the Sultanate

Bandar Seri Begawan – The government of His Majesty Sultan of Brunei understands the importance of instilling national identity in all Bruneians.

In line with this, the government has introduced a curriculum to promote national identity by introducing subjects such as civics and MIB (Melayu Islam Beraja) in primary and secondary schools, and at the university.

Melayu Islam Berja (MIB), the Malay Islamic Monarchy concept is a homegrown frame work cementing the centuries old rule of the sultan and that of his people in the context of religion, culture and royal traditional values enveloping national identity.

That was the topic of a working paper presented by Pengiran Dr Haji Abu Bakar Bin Pengiran Haji Sarifuddin, the Director of the Academy of Brunei Students at UBD.

The paper was aimed at discussing the importance of the education system in implanting the concept of MIB among the young.

There is a perception among parents, teachers and students that the study of MIB has no practical value, compared to subjects such as Science, Mathematics and English.

However, MIB is still extremely important in that it gives the youth an understanding of MIB from an early age.

The study of civics at primary level covers aspects of our culture and religion.

Students start learning of our customs or Adat Istiadat and cultural history.

They also start learning about the Muslim calendar and living as a Muslim.

In primary schools, students assemble each morning and sing the national anthem while raising our flag.

They recite a 'doa' at the beginning of the day and are taught to treat their teachers with respect.

These young students begin to understand and practice the values imparted to them at school, and this will further strengthen our national identity.

The Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) is vital in carrying on the study of MIB beyond primary and secondary level, as they assist government agencies in holding public lectures on the subject.

The University has also made MIB a compulsory subject in their curriculum.

From this, students can understand the many facets of MIB, as the university adopts an in-depth approach to the subject by covering topics such as the origins of MIB and the application of MIB in individual, family and community life.

MIB was only implemented in schools in the late 80's but it is now a fundamental part of the school curriculum. If we hope to instil the many aspects of our national identity at all levels of the community, the educational system seems to be the best place to start, said a university official. -- Courtesy of Radio Television Brunei 

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