| Azlan Othman |
THE Legislative Council (LegCo) members during the closing of the 14th LegCo session yesterday called on relevant agencies to implement projects properly and manage the country’s wealth wisely, and urged the country’s youths to engage in large-scale agricultural projects.
YB Pengiran Haji Ali bin Pengiran Maon, a member of LegCo and Penghulu of Mukim Berakas ‘B’, in his closing remarks said that proper implementation of government projects is needed if the nation wants to see rapid and optimal development.
“All programmes, capacity-building initiatives and human capital must be managed wisely. People must work together to drive the nation’s economy and development, and government agencies must be efficient and wise in managing the nation’s resources,” YB Pengiran Haji Ali said.
“We need firm commitment from all parties, including the private sector. Every government project must achieve their target and achieve tangible results. Sometimes, improvements would not need high costs but only honest dedication and proper thought to determine the root causes of problems.”
LegCo member, YB Naim bin Haji Kamis, Penghulu of Mukim Kota Batu, said global economic growth is forecast to be low and as an oil-producing country. Brunei Darussalam’s revenues are also affected and hence prudent spending needs to be exercised.
He urged fellow council members to analyse the nation’s expenditure quarterly to ensure that it does not exceed government targets and to avoid budget loophole issues and misuse.
Every ministry and department must have their own up-to-date financial management procedures in place, he added.
On agriculture, YB Naim said, “We must encourage people, especially the youth and fresh graduates, to come forward and get involved in the agricultural industry to reduce heavy dependence from outside sources for agriculture and fisheries products.”
LegCo member YB Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari, Village Head of Kampong Limau Manis urged the government to do all it can to attract local and foreign investors to develop agricultural sites near the border on a large-scale basis.
He said this could help boost Brunei’s tourism industry and subsequently provide the country’s economy an extra push.
“It would be great to see Bank Usahawan introducing financing schemes for start-up businesses and overdraft loans, credit grants, and other related services,” he added. “Projects, be they large or small, should also get equal access to such services.”
YB Haji Mohimin also suggested a U-turn flyover at Telanai, Madewa, Bunut and Tasek Meradun to avoid traffic jams at U-turn locations.