Bandar Seri Begawan - Brunei Darussalam has always been in support of strengthening mutual relations between nations to promote unity and valuable understanding between cultures, no matter how different they may be.

Differences are often seen as the starting point of conflict, although they are also the prime factors in increasing efforts of communication to help understand and develop the community building process. A mutual term of respect might be applied to identify our differences, whether it is culture, political views or religion.

This was highlighted by Haji Mohamad bin Hj Abdul Rahman, Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports as the guest of honour at the opening ceremony for the Asean-COCI People to People Exchange Programme yesterday.

The Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary lauded "the agenda of giving priority to activities that promote educational exchanges among youths in the field of arts, strengthening networks amongst professionals whilst promoting dialogue on cultural policy, which are worthwhile investments in the preservation of cultural heritage. They help provide an open-minded view on how to perceive things, thus improving creativity, a willingness to increase self knowledge and subconsciously instil respect for our own as well as other cultures".

As a member ofAsean, he said,`Brunei Darussalam is committed to working closely with the other members. The spirit ofAsean is reflected in the projects and programmes under the Asean-COCI flagship, all of which are designed to enhance the understanding of cultures in terms of individualism as well as the similarities that often arise.

"Asean-COCI People to People Exchange Programmes in particular, have always successfully formed the basis for grassroot level knowledge for all its participants with each individual experiencing first-hand, a deeper accolade of understanding in the host country's culture and lifestyle. In other words, it is the opportunity to equip ourselves with the knowledge about a certain culture and civilisation. It is here that we can manage to delve a little deeper into whatever misunderstandings and preconceptions we might have," he said.

Dr Mataim bin Bakar, Chairman of the Asean-COCI National Committee of Brunei Darussalam, in his speech hoped that cultural values and morals could be upheld and the national culture policy could be promoted, strengthened and coordinated through the involvement of cultural organisations, the government, the media and other sectors of society.

He also highlighted that "this programme is indeed a very significant event in the development of cultural promotion and preservation in Brunei Darussalam. Being a member of Asean, we remain committed and active in the collaboration of Asean member states on preserving our cultural individuality and distinctiveness".

During the four-day programme, participants will learn about the cultural industry in Brunei Darussalam, Brunei's social stratification and its manifestation and preserving Brunei's traditional games. A visit will also be conducted to the Temburong Heritage Gallery. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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