Brunei Darussalam is set to assume a key regional leadership role in occupational safety and health (OSH) in 2027, reinforcing ASEAN’s commitment to building safer, healthier and more resilient workplaces across Southeast Asia.
As part of its new responsibilities, Brunei will serve as Chair of the ASEAN Occupational Safety and Health Network (ASEAN-OSHNET) in 2027 while also acting as the ASEAN-OSHNET Secretariat from 2027 to 2029, coordinating regional programmes, policy implementation and technical cooperation among ASEAN Member States and partner organisations.
Driving Regional Cooperation on Workplace Safety
Brunei’s leadership follows the successful conclusion of the 13th ASEAN-OSHNET Conference and the 27th ASEAN-OSHNET Coordinating Board Meeting held in Da Nang, Viet Nam, where ASEAN members reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening occupational safety and health throughout the region.
In 2027, Brunei will host three major regional events:
- The 14th ASEAN-OSHNET Conference (AOC-14)
- The 28th ASEAN-OSHNET Coordinating Board Meeting (CBM-28)
- The 7th ASEAN-OSHNET Awards
These events are expected to bring together policymakers, regulators, industry leaders, employers, labour organisations and international partners to exchange best practices and advance workplace safety standards across ASEAN.
Supporting Safer and Healthier Workplaces
Occupational safety and health has become an increasingly important priority as ASEAN economies continue to modernise, industrialise and embrace digital transformation.
Regional cooperation under ASEAN-OSHNET focuses on:
- Strengthening workplace safety standards
- Promoting occupational health and employee well-being
- Building institutional capacity and technical expertise
- Sharing regional best practices
- Addressing emerging workplace risks associated with new technologies and changing work environments
These efforts contribute to creating safer workplaces while improving productivity, workforce resilience and sustainable economic growth throughout the region.
Implementing the ASEAN-OSHNET Work Plan 2026–2030
Brunei’s chairmanship will support the implementation of the newly adopted ASEAN-OSHNET Work Plan 2026–2030, which outlines the region’s strategic priorities over the next five years.
The work plan addresses emerging challenges including:
- Artificial intelligence and digital technologies in the workplace
- Occupational safety in the informal economy
- Mental health and psychosocial risks
- Climate change and green jobs
- Capacity building and regional knowledge sharing
By coordinating these initiatives, Brunei will help ensure greater consistency in occupational safety practices while strengthening regional preparedness for future workplace challenges. (ASEAN Main Portal)
Advancing ASEAN Community Vision 2045
Brunei’s leadership also supports the broader objectives of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which emphasises inclusive development, sustainable economic growth and people-centred regional integration.
A stronger occupational safety and health framework not only protects workers but also enhances business competitiveness by reducing workplace accidents, improving operational efficiency and fostering healthier working environments.
Through closer cooperation, ASEAN Member States aim to build a workforce that is better equipped to meet the demands of an increasingly dynamic regional economy.
Looking Ahead
As Brunei prepares to lead ASEAN-OSHNET in 2027, its expanded role reflects the region’s continued commitment to strengthening occupational safety and health through collaboration, innovation and shared responsibility.
By coordinating regional initiatives and fostering stronger partnerships among governments, employers and international organisations, Brunei will play an important role in advancing safer workplaces and supporting ASEAN’s long-term vision of sustainable, resilient and inclusive economic development.
