Bruneians should practise moderation in celebrating festivals in line with the teachings of Islam, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam said.

"All Bruneians should feel grateful for the continuing peace and prosperity in the Sultanate. But, this peace and prosperity should not be a reason for the country to relax and to be complacent," His Majesty said in a titah delivered during the Investiture Ceremony held in conjunction with the monarch's 70th birthday celebration at Istana Nurul Iman yesterday.

Taking into account the global economic slowdown, His Majesty emphasised that Brunei must not slacken its efforts and diversify its economy, while continuously increasing its gross domestic product (GDP), with a more active and organised agenda to reach its grand objectives.

The monarch also highlighted that the efforts to increase GDP must be wholesome in priority areas such as agriculture and basic food, and these fields must be augmented to realise the goal of self-sufficiency.

This matter must be given serious attention by the government and it is now time for Brunei to launch all-out efforts without delay, His Majesty said.

Underscoring the country's seriousness in driving the economy forward, the monarch said Brunei is building up a comprehensive transport system which is safe and efficient.

This ambitious project envisages extending the length of the Muara Port and expansion of the Muara container terminal, as part of the country's efforts to attract more foreign direct investment into the country, His Majesty pointed out.

Brunei also encourages creativity and innovation in implementing developmental projects through public-private partnership. This method aims to encourage partnership between the public and the private sector in implanting government projects, His Majesty noted.

Touching on global economic problems, His majesty mentioned about British people's referendum to exit the European Union, or Brexit.

This decision has made many investors worried because it is seen to be capable of affecting international stock exchanges, and in fact has a high level of risk on the value of pound sterling.

Brunei, which also involves in international trade, is not spared from the impact of the decision, His Majesty said.

"However, Alhamdulillah, with the government's policy of balanced investment, we are able to handle the situation in an orderly manner."

The monarch said he is fully confident that the Government of Great Britain will be able to handle various issues that may surface as a result of Brexit, because of its vast experience in tackling such issues.

Brunei will continue to value and strengthen its relationship with the United Kingdom, especially the long-existed trade relations, His Majesty added.

Towards economic integration, the government will continue to strengthen education development as it is a core asset and has the power to ensure the survival of people, His Majesty said.

"This is why the quality of education cannot be compromised and we have to continuously enrich and upgrade it.

"It is our aspiration for the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Religious Affairs to work together with the 'Unit Penggerak' (Delivery Unit) at the Prime Minister's Office and look for ways to enhance the performance of primary and secondary education in the country."

His Majesty said he has personally found out that there are matters that need to be improved, and as the prime pillar of Brunei Vision 2035, education cannot be at the bottom, but at the top and to be taken care of well.

"This is because education is a life-long investment that will determine the progress or regress of a nation. If our education is weak, then no one will regard highly of us," reminded His Majesty.

Speaking on international relations, the monarch stressed that the Sultanate will continue to cooperate with its regional and international partners in generating economic development.

Brunei will also carry its role in the affairs of regional or international security, other than contributing towards humanitarian efforts in accordance to the capability of the nation.

In the titah, His Majesty expressed heartfelt gratitude to all subjects and residents working in the public and private sectors including those who are currently working overseas as well as those in security forces for their support and contributions to the government.

His Majesty also acknowledged all members of the committee for royal birthday celebration at the national and district levels for their services and contributions towards the success of the celebration.

His Majesty prayed that all the people in Brunei Darussalam may always be blessed and be prosperous under the protection of Allah the Almighty.

The monarch also expressed his sincere gratitude to the special foreign guests and those who sent His Majesty birthday greetings as well as all who gathered to participate in the celebration.

Source:
@BRUDIRECT.COM

by BruDirect.com

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