The DBNS Youth Advisory Group in cooperation with the Brunei Youth Council (BYC) and supported by the Youth and Sports Department under the Temburong District Office, held an outreach programme for the National Youth Policy and Strategy 2020-2035 (DBNS) at Belalong Hall, Pekan Bangar, in the Temburong District on Saturday.
The programme was a direct feedback mechanism tool initiated by the DBNS Youth Advisory Group from January to March 2021.
The event introduced DBNS 2020-2035 to youth aged between 15 and 35 to increase awareness of ongoing youth programmes and initiatives as well as gather input and perspectives for the nation’s development.
Over 60 youth from the Temburong District comprising students from secondary schools, government departments, youth in uniform, and non-governmental organisations attended the session.
Legislative Council member and DBNS Youth Advisory Group Chairperson Yang Berhormat Khairunnisa binti Haji Ash’ari gave an introduction on DBNS and the Youth Advisory Group.
Along with the strategic partners from the government including Manpower Planning and Employment Council (MPEC), JobCentre Brunei, Sekretariat Tinggi Wawasan Brunei, Brunei Climate Change Secretariat, and the Youth and Sports Department, they shared information on youth and self-development programmes and opportunities.
Participants’ input have identified several issues of interest such as lack of entrepreneurial and employment opportunities, as well as higher education institutions in Temburong.
Other issues included lack of infrastructure, facilities, and public transport.
Suggestions from the participants included improving infrastructure and public facilities, as well as holding more programmes such as career fairs.
In line with the DBNS’s first core strategy, which is nationwide cooperation, the DBNS Youth Advisory Group was established to provide an official direct feedback mechanism between the government and youth communities.
It also functions as a channel for feedback and suggestions for the implementation and development of an effective youth policy.
The group members are appointed for a one-year term and represent youth from four districts, age group, socioeconomic status, and occupation.