Brunei Darussalam has reaffirmed its commitment to regional cooperation by pledging strong support for Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) initiatives across economic integration, digitalisation and multilateral engagement.
His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah emphasised that deeper economic regional integration is essential in the face of global uncertainties. He underlined the importance of trade facilitation, green transition and digital economy as key pillars of ASEAN’s forward-looking agenda.
Highlighting specific sectors of engagement, the Sultan announced Brunei’s intention to:
- Welcome investments to enhance digital skills and infrastructure, aligning with ASEAN’s drive towards a more connected and resilient region.
- Strengthen intra-ASEAN economic linkages and trade resilience amidst global shifts, reaffirming Brunei’s backing of mechanisms such as the ASEAN‑Korea Free Trade Agreement. (The Star)
- Uphold multilateralism and collective regional action, supporting frameworks that reinforce ASEAN centrality and meaningful partnerships with external players.
Implications:
- For businesses and investors: Brunei’s commitment signals increased opportunities for regional digital economy collaboration, trade facilitation and cross-border investment under ASEAN’s integration agenda.
- For policy-makers and regional actors: Brunei’s stance adds momentum to ASEAN’s economic and connectivity-priorities, especially at a time when external headwinds and geopolitical fragmentation pose challenges.
- For citizens and the community: Enhanced digital skills and stronger regional linkages bode well for inclusive growth, especially for youth and micro/small enterprises.
Quote:
“As ASEAN charts its path forward, we must deepen our economic links, embrace the digital frontier and engage meaningfully with global partners while remaining true to ASEAN’s central role.” – Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah
