Government Launches Hi-Tech Passport

Bandar Seri Begawan - Brunei Darussalam launched yesterday the electronic passport which would facilitate faster processing times and greater security for travellers passing through immigration checkpoints. Only two other Asean countries, Thailand and Singapore, have launched the production of such passport.

Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hi Adanan Begawan Pehin Dato Seri Setia Hj Md Yusof said the utilisation of the new travel document, also known as the Brunei Darussalam Biometric Passport, constituted "another historical moment that carves (the path to) advancement and development as well as promoting the image of Brunei Darussalam on the international (level)."

During the launching yesterday at the immigration and National Registration Department building, Pehin Dato Hj Adanan applauds the department for its initiative in the launching of the passport since it was one of the innovations which could be used worldwide on a large scale.

The minister also said the introduction of the biometric passport proved the nation's capability to be on par with international standards in the field.

"We have also proven that we are not only observant towards the developments in information technology, but with total confidence and commitment, we are able to join other advanced nations in carrying out the best practices according to global standards," he added.

Pehin Dato Hj Adanan also spoke of a new global era, which he referred to as the "Information Revolution", where ICT (Information' and Communication Technology) was the forerunner.

The passport constituted one of the mechanisms involved in information technology, according to the home affairs minister.

He was especially proud of the involvement of a local company, Information Technology Protective Security Services (ITPSS) Sdn Bhd, in the electronic passport's development project.

ITPSS supplied the microprocessor chip which held the fingerprint scans and facial images of the passport holder in the document.

He expressed his hope that further initiative would be undertaken by the department in ensuring the best service for customers.

He said organisation which have become "complacent" would be left behind, in terms of technological advancements, and would not be able to fulfil the needs of the customers.

The passport was designed with the intention of promoting Brunei Darussalam, its pages embossed with images of famous landmarks found around the capital, such as the Istana Nurul Iman and Kampong Ayer. -- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

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