HM Sultan Brunei: Be Wary of Cyber Threats

Be wary of threats to peace, cyber menace
on: January 01, 2017

| Azlan Othman |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam urged the nation to be wary of threats against peace and harmony as well as threats coming from the cyberworld.

In a titah delivered on the eve of New Year 2017, His Majesty said, “We are leaving 2016 with a thousand memories of enjoying peace and harmony in this fortunate nation… We are thankful and pray to Allah the Almighty for such a blessing to be enjoyed in 2017. Peace is paramount without which no development is possible. We should also uphold strong religious values, abide by the law, live in harmony and stay united.

“But we should bear in mind that elements that are against peace and harmony will always try to create chaos. Hence, we should be cautious with these elements and it is a big responsibility for all parties, especially those who deal with security affairs,” the monarch said.

“Efforts should also be undertaken to face cyber-threats, especially the danger posed by social media, by strengthening strategic partnership with international cyber organisations,” His Majesty added.

The monarch said the world is grappling with economic uncertainties. “However, we are happy with our reformation efforts and the whole-of-nation approach that have improved our global ranking in Ease of Doing Business by the World Bank.

“Our achievement is the by-product of our commitment and the firm cooperation among the government agencies and other stakeholders.

“But we should not be complacent, but be active in upgrading our achievement. We have been luring foreign investors to invest in this country, and Alhamdulillah several FDIs have already started making a foothold in the Sultanate. Various initiatives have been planned and implemented to assist local businesses, especially micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to make the country globally more competitive,” His Majesty added.

Touching on public service, the monarch said it needs to be productive. “I believe there are many areas that need improvement in upholding the core values of public service. I want the government machinery to be more disciplined.”

In education, the monarch said, efforts have been made to widen the streams and enhance quality of education to realise the Brunei Vision 2035. Priorities are to enrich the quality of teachers to make them high-performing individuals.

In the international arena, the ruler said, Brunei will continue to play a positive role towards ensuring regional and international peace. “Honestly, we hope that Asean will continue to be a respectable regional organisation due to its principled stand for regional peace and welfare.

“This year (2017), we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Asean and it is hoped that Asean member countries will continue their good cooperation in their bid to realise the Asean Community Vision 2025.”

As the nation will mark the golden jubilee anniversary of His Majesty’s accession to the throne this year, the monarch said, “The celebration is of great meaning to us to appreciate history,” urging everyone to be moderate in commemorating the event.

“The celebration or festival should be a sign of history. History is the tongue of civilisation that will speak for generations without getting tired or bored. That is the value of history…Moderation means prioritising it.”

His Majesty concluded his titah by expressing hope that the people would strengthen their determination and efforts to be more proactive, creative in facing challenges with integrity.

“I would like to use this occasion to express my gratitude to all levels in the public sector, security personnel and members of the private sector for their sincere efforts in implementing their respective tasks throughout 2016.

“My family and I would also like to wish everyone a happy New Year 2017 and may Allah the Almighty shower all blessings, good health, peace and stability upon the nation.”

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin