Bandar Seri Begawan - Numerous issues were yesterday discussed at the first meeting of the 9th Legislative Council, among them being the need for more doctors, an extension in service hours, as well as the construction of more bridges.

YB Awg Hj Jumat bin Akim called for more doctors for hospitals/clinics, an extension in operation hours, and also the availability of more ambulances.

Meanwhile, to tackle the issue of unemployment, it was suggested that the government looks for bigger and medium-sized investors, which should become the country's agenda.

To preserve the environment, he called for a systematic rubbish disposal and for the enforcement of strict regulations for business premises and contractors to uphold cleanliness.

With regard to the two new bridges linking BSBLumapas and BSB-Temburong, he said, residents wanted to know when these mega projects would start, the duration it would take, and whether local `bumiputera' companies would be given these multi-billion dollar projects. At the same time, residents of Menunggol Island wanted to know whether there were plans to link the island to BSB.

Meanwhile, YB Awg Hj Ramli bin Hj Lahit called for more police posts and police personnel to monitor the nation, particularly at night, and to provide the police force with more scooters/motorcycles to allow for them to enter small roads. He also urged for more CCTVs to be installed to protect the people, especially women and children, who could become victims of extortion.

He also pointed out that fertile land in Ukong, Rambai, Labi and Kuala Balai could be developed, having the potential to produce paddy, thus supporting the country's aspiration to become self-sufficient in terms of rice production.

He also called for the Ministry of Health to come up with guidelines when organising sports activities, and revealed that some people are now scared to consume certain food in fear of endangering their lives.

Speaking on the issue of boosting the national economy and to ensure it continues to grow, which the monarch has repeatedly highlighted in his titahs, YB Datin Paduka Hjh Salbiah biti Hj Sulaiman explained that the government has handed out numerous incentives to the private sector.

Though Brunei is stable in terms of the economy, politics and security, many assumptions have been made, and steps taken so far have yet to show encouraging signs. In this context the government should review and analyse in-depth the strategy, plan of action as well as implementation that have been carried out.

Any proposals tabled at the session should be taken positively by members, and any action taken should be accompanied by constructive explanation, taking into account the means oftackling the problems encountered by the people. This is for them to understand and to accept the actions taken by the government, she added.

She also pointed out that His Majesty's generosity in abolishing Estate Duty has shown His Majesty's concern towards the difficulties faced by his people. With this incentive, it will generate harmony among family members. We, as the people, should be grateful for this, she said.

--Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin