• Today: October 20, 2026

Brunei highlights importance of regional connectivity, trade, investment

Brunei Darussalam underscored the importance of strengthening regional connectivity, trade, investment and economic diversification at the Second Borneo Economic Forum in Kuching, Sarawak, from October 7 to 8, 2026.

Deputy Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Tutiaty binti Haji Abdul Wahab, delivered a keynote address on ‘Brunei Darussalam’s Vision for Borneo: Strengthening Regional Connectivity, Trade, Investment and Economic Diversification’.

In her keynote address, Brunei Darussalam reaffirmed its vision for Borneo is that of a more connected, integrated and prosperous region, where stronger connectivity drives trade, investment creates new opportunities, and economic diversification contributes to sustainable and inclusive opportunities for the people of the region. The address also underscored the importance of aligning Brunei Darussalam’s economic priorities under Brunei Vision 2035 with broader regional frameworks, including the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and BIMP-EAGA Vision 2035.

These frameworks provide opportunities to strengthen regional integration, develop economic corridors and deepen participation in regional and global value chains.

Brunei Darussalam also highlighted the potential for greater cross-border cooperation with Sarawak, Sabah and Kalimantan, particularly in agriculture, fisheries, livestock and food production.

Potential areas for collaboration include commercial paddy development and opportunities in livestock and aquaculture production, reflecting efforts to strengthen regional food security, develop integrated supply chains and create new economic opportunities.

Alongside the forum, roundtable discussions were held on topics including ‘Borneo Grid: Powering ASEAN’s Growth’, ‘Digital Borneo: Powering the New Economy’ and ‘Towards a Unified Borneo Integrated Industrial Hubs’.

These discussions formed part of the forum’s programme on regional economic cooperation.

The forum also witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Borneo Economic Community and the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia, aimed at strengthening economic cooperation and connectivity between Borneo and the wider ASEAN region.

Following the forum, a business-to-business matching session was held on October 8, bringing together companies, investors and key stakeholders based on shared interests and business opportunities.

The session provided a platform to explore potential partnerships, facilitate business connections and translate discussions from the forum into concrete business opportunities.

The forum was also attended by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, who delivered a keynote address.

The Third Borneo Economic Forum will be held in Nusantara, East Kalimantan, Indonesia. – James Kon

Deputy Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Tutiaty binti Haji Abdul Wahab in a group photo. PHOTO: METI

 

SOURCE/AUTHOR : BORNEO BULLETIN/JAMES KON

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