AGP Executive Report

Digital Transformation: Brunei’s Digital Brunei 2030 is set to steer the next phase of the country’s digital push, aligning government, society, business, data and AI under Brunei Vision 2035, with the minister stressing close government–private sector collaboration at the Digital Brunei Economy Forum 2026. Tourism Tech: Brunei has launched “Nakhoda,” a digital tourism platform to help travellers plan and book experiences ahead of Visit Brunei Year 2027, featuring an AI trip planner and a marketplace for local operators with cashless payments. Education & Skills: ACER and Brunei introduced the Brunei Darussalam Digital Literacy Standards (BDDLS) for Years 1–11, weaving AI literacy in from early years with updated ICT and related curriculum support for teachers. Regional Security: The U.S. and Royal Brunei Armed Forces held the CARAT Brunei 2026 final planning conference, underscoring growing maritime cooperation and a planned upgrade to a strategic partnership. Property Market: Brunei’s residential property prices rose 13.0% year-on-year in Q1 2026, with Brunei Muara remaining the main area for purchases. Oil & Gas: TGS won exclusive rights for a new multi-client 3D seismic survey offshore Brunei, aiming to improve resource assessment ahead of future licensing rounds. Cross-Border Crime: Sarawak and Brunei police strengthened cooperation on intelligence sharing and coordinated operations along the Malaysia–Brunei border.

Digital Tourism Push: Brunei has launched “Nakhoda,” a digital tourism platform to help travellers discover, plan and book experiences ahead of Visit Brunei Year 2027, featuring an AI trip planner and a marketplace for local operators to list services and take cashless payments. Education & Skills: ACER and Brunei delivered new Brunei Darussalam Digital Literacy Standards (BDDLS), setting a single national digital capability benchmark for Years 1–11, with AI literacy built in from early years and updated ICT and related curriculum materials for teachers. Property Market: Brunei’s Residential Property Price Index rose 13.0% year-on-year in Q1 2026, reaching 99.2, with most purchases recorded in Brunei-Muara. Oil & Gas Data: Norwegian firm TGS won an exclusive contract for a new multi-client 3D seismic survey offshore Brunei to support future licensing and investment decisions. Regional Security: Sarawak and Brunei police strengthened cross-border crime cooperation, including intelligence sharing and coordinated land and maritime operations. Flood & Ecotourism (Limbang): A 250-metre Kampung Poyan river embankment project will boost flood mitigation and ecotourism, with funding split across 2026 and 2027.

Brunei–Malaysia Security: Sarawak Police and the Royal Brunei Police Force strengthened cooperation to tackle cross-border crime, agreeing on tighter intelligence sharing, coordinated land and maritime operations, better search-and-rescue, and smoother detainee transfer procedures. Digital Tourism Push: Brunei launched “Nakhoda,” a digital marketplace for local tourism operators with cashless payments and an AI trip planner, aimed at fixing fragmented online listings ahead of Visit Brunei Year 2027. Education & Skills: ACER and Brunei rolled out the Brunei Darussalam Digital Literacy Standards (BDDLS) for Years 1–11, including embedded AI literacy and updated ICT and Business/Art/Technology curricula with teacher guides. Oil & Gas Exploration: TGS won exclusive rights for a new multi-client 3D seismic survey offshore Brunei to help assess resources and support future licensing rounds. Property Market: Brunei’s Residential Property Price Index rose 13% year-on-year in Q1 2026, with most purchases in Brunei-Muara.

Digital Tourism Push: Brunei has launched “Nakhoda,” a digital marketplace for local tourism operators with cashless payments and an AI trip planner to help travellers plan and book experiences ahead of Visit Brunei Year 2027. Education & Skills: ACER and Brunei rolled out the Brunei Darussalam Digital Literacy Standards (BDDLS) for Years 1–11, weaving in AI literacy and revised ICT and Business/Art/Technology curricula with teacher guides for classroom rollout. Property Market: Brunei’s Residential Property Price Index rose 13% year-on-year in Q1 2026, reaching 99.2, with most purchases in Brunei Muara. Oil & Gas Exploration: TGS secured exclusive rights for a multi-client 3D seismic survey offshore Brunei to support future licensing and better assess offshore resources. Regional Security Ties: Sarawak and Brunei police strengthened bilateral cooperation in Bandar Seri Begawan to tackle cross-border crime and share best practices on internal security. Senior Citizen Cooperation: Sarawak and Brunei stepped up collaboration on ageing and senior citizen wellbeing through exchanges between senior citizens activity centres and officials.

Brunei Property Watch: Brunei’s Residential Property Price Index rose 13% year-on-year in Q1 2026, reaching 99.2, with a 6.4% quarter-on-quarter gain, and most purchases recorded in Brunei-Muara (72 properties). Tourism Digital Push: Brunei officially launched “Nakhoda,” a digital tourism marketplace for local operators, with cashless payments and an AI trip planner, aimed at fixing fragmented online visibility ahead of Visit Brunei Year 2027. Oil & Gas Outlook: A report expects Q2 2026 results to improve as Brent stays around US$97 and domestic oil and gas projects ramp up, with upstream seen as the strongest segment. Upstream Investment Signal: Norwegian firm TGS secured exclusive rights for a multi-client 3D seismic survey offshore Brunei, to help assess resources ahead of future licensing rounds. Regional Cooperation: Sarawak and Brunei stepped up senior citizen wellbeing cooperation, sharing best practices as both move toward ageing societies. Maritime Security Link: Brunei was among focal points attending a ReCAAP senior officers meeting in Manila focused on port security and tackling piracy and sea robbery.

CPTPP Expansion Moves: CPTPP ministers met virtually on 26 June and backed next steps on accession, with Costa Rica’s talks “substantially concluded” and Uruguay’s process set to speed up. They also confirmed preparatory discussions for the UAE, the Philippines and Indonesia—an early step toward possible accession negotiations—while reaffirming the bloc’s push for an open, rules-based trading system. Offshore Brunei Energy Push: TGS secured exclusive rights from Brunei’s Petroleum Authority for a new multi-client 3D seismic survey offshore Brunei, aiming to attract international investment and help de-risk exploration ahead of future licensing rounds. Regional Maritime Security (Brunei in the mix): The ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre, with the Philippine Coast Guard, held a five-day senior officers meeting in Manila with participation from Brunei and other focal points to strengthen port security and cooperation against piracy and sea robbery. ASEAN Border Security: Indonesia and Australia agreed to deepen ASEAN-Australia border security cooperation, including intelligence sharing and cybersecurity, noting Brunei citizens already have access to Australia’s SmartGate. Haze Warning for Southeast Asia: A think tank report flagged high risk of severe transboundary haze in 2026, with Brunei among the countries urged to prepare.

South China Sea Tensions: Four Chinese warships confronted a Philippine Navy frigate near Scarborough Shoal as Manila wrapped up Salaknib 2026, with radio challenges exchanged and China accusing a helicopter of entering its airspace. Regional Security & Maritime Cooperation: ReCAAP ISC and the Philippine Coast Guard held a five-day senior officers meeting with Brunei and other focal points to strengthen port security and crack down on piracy and sea robbery. Brunei-Linked Regional Mobility: Indonesia and Australia discussed tighter border security cooperation, noting Brunei citizens already have access to Australia’s SmartGate. ASEAN Trade Push: CPTPP members agreed to start preliminary talks toward adding Costa Rica and Uruguay, and to begin preparatory discussions with the Philippines, Indonesia and the UAE. Haze Warning for Brunei: A “red alert” haze outlook flags high risk of severe transboundary haze for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, warning energy and fertiliser costs could weaken fire-prevention efforts. Local Community & Youth: Malaysia’s youth minister said the Scouts remain key for character-building and volunteerism, while also warning that excessive screen time is reducing face-to-face interaction.

Regional Security & Diplomacy: The Philippines’ DND hit back at China after Beijing rejected the 2016 West Philippine Sea arbitral ruling, calling the Chinese Embassy’s response “insincere and duplicitous.” Maritime Cooperation: ReCAAP ISC and the Philippine Coast Guard ran a five-day senior officers meeting in Manila with Brunei among focal points, focusing on port security and curbing piracy and sea robbery. Climate & Carbon Policy: Sarawak Premier Abang Johari renewed calls for Sabah and Sarawak to get at least 70% of any federal carbon tax revenue, arguing the states are Malaysia’s main carbon sinks. Haze Watch: A Singapore think tank issued a “red alert” for severe transboundary haze risk for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, warning higher costs could push land-clearing fires. Local People & Community: In Miri, Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Abdul Karim said Scouts help build character and volunteerism even as kids grow more dependent on digital devices. Tourism in the Region: Limbang in Sarawak is ramping up ecotourism with Santaba Jetty set for further development after strong visitor numbers.

Carbon Tax Revenue: Sarawak Premier Abang Johari urged Malaysia to return at least 70% of carbon tax revenue to Sabah and Sarawak, saying the states act as the country’s main carbon sinks and oxygen producers. Regional Security & Borders: Indonesia and Australia agreed to strengthen ASEAN-Australia border security through closer intelligence sharing, immigration coordination and cybersecurity, noting Brunei and Indonesia already use Australia’s SmartGate. CPTPP Expansion Moves: CPTPP members began preliminary talks toward adding Costa Rica and Uruguay, and set up preparatory discussions with the Philippines, Indonesia and the UAE as a step toward accession negotiations. Haze Warning for Brunei: The Singapore Institute of International Affairs issued a “red alert” for severe transboundary haze risk affecting Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, warning rising costs could push land-clearing fires. Limbang Tourism Boost: In Sarawak’s Limbang, Santaba Jetty is set for an ecotourism push, with visitor arrivals climbing and a RM50 million development plan in the works. Brunei Link in Aviation: A Brunei-bound escape follows a Busan subway graffiti case, with police seeking extradition.

CPTPP Expansion: CPTPP ministers have agreed to move quickly on Costa Rica’s membership and expedite work for Uruguay, while also starting preparatory talks with the Philippines, Indonesia and the UAE—setting up a framework that could lead to formal accession negotiations. Regional Security: Indonesia and Australia agreed to strengthen border security cooperation in Cambodia, including closer intelligence sharing, immigration coordination and cybersecurity, with Brunei and Indonesia already able to use Australia’s SmartGate. Brunei-Sarawak Tourism: Limbang tourism is picking up steam, with the Santaba Jetty area set for an ecotourism push; officials say visitor arrivals are already around 400,000–500,000 this year, aiming to top 1.5 million by year-end. Haze Warning: A “red alert” haze outlook flags high risk of severe transboundary haze for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, warning rising costs could push land clearing toward fire. Brunei Link in Aviation: Two Airbus H145 Jupiter helicopters have arrived in Cyprus for RAF emergency response, with earlier deliveries also noted for Brunei.

Brunei Business & Tourism: Tutong’s Food Festival 2026 runs until June 28, with 60 vendors spotlighting local food and drinks to boost entrepreneurship and draw visitors. Regional Environment: A Singapore think tank has issued a “red alert” haze outlook for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, warning severe transboundary haze risk could rise as energy and fertiliser costs push some land clearing toward fire. Islamic Economy: Brunei says the Islamic economy is a strategic growth opportunity, pointing to its halal industry, regulatory framework and national philosophy as foundations to build a more integrated sector. Regional Security (ASEAN-Australia): Indonesia and Australia agreed to strengthen border security cooperation, including intelligence sharing and immigration coordination; the report notes Brunei citizens already have access to Australia’s SmartGate. Local Culture: Brunei’s participation is also reflected in regional events, including the Golden Melody Awards’ live streaming options via Astro for viewers in Malaysia and Brunei.

Brunei Business & Economy: Brunei’s Islamic economy is being pitched as a growth lever, with a minister saying the country already has the regulatory base, halal industry and Malay Islamic Monarchy foundations needed to build a stronger ecosystem. Local Events: Tutong’s Food Festival 2026 runs until June 28, with 60 vendors and a mix of traditional and modern food aimed at boosting small businesses and tourism. Regional Environment: A Singapore think tank has issued a “red alert” for severe transboundary haze risk this year, flagging Brunei alongside Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, with peak danger expected around August to September. Regional Energy Trade: Sarawak Energy says it’s pushing the Borneo grid and is in talks with Brunei on an interconnection, while also eyeing a Sarawak–Singapore subsea cable. Brunei Industry: A new seafood processing plant in Serasa is set to start, targeting tuna and other species for regional and international markets. International: Two foreigners accused of vandalising a Busan subway fled to Brunei before authorities sought Interpol action.

CPTPP Expansion Talks: CPTPP members have started preliminary talks to add Indonesia, the Philippines and the UAE, setting the stage for possible accession negotiations if all current members agree. Regional Haze Alert: The Singapore Institute of International Affairs issued a “red alert” for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, warning severe transboundary haze risk later in 2026 as El Niño dries conditions and higher costs may push more land clearing by fire. Brunei Tourism Push: Brunei is set to hold “Visit Brunei Year 2027,” unveiling the logo and mascots as a whole-of-nation effort to boost tourism and economic diversification. Islamic Economy Focus: A Brunei minister said the Islamic economy is a strategic opportunity, pointing to halal industry strengths and a supportive regulatory base as foundations for growth. Energy Connectivity: Sarawak Energy says it is driving the Borneo grid and discussing interconnection with Brunei, while also planning further cross-border links. Local Business & Food: Tutong’s Food Festival 2026 runs until June 28 with 60 vendors, aiming to grow entrepreneurship and tourism. RIMPAC Update: Brunei is among the 30 nations taking part in RIMPAC in Hawaii, the major naval exercise now underway. Aviation/Defense: RAF Cyprus received two Airbus H145 Jupiter HC Mk2 helicopters, part of a wider MoD upgrade that also includes Brunei deliveries. Sports: Pakistan will face India at the Asia Pacific Padel Cup 2026 tomorrow, with Brunei also on the schedule.

Haze Alert for Brunei: A Singapore think tank has issued a rare “red” warning that Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore face a high risk of severe transboundary haze later this year, with August to September flagged as the peak period as El Niño and the Indian Ocean Dipole bring hotter, drier conditions, while higher fuel and fertiliser costs and rising biofuel demand could push some land clearing toward slash-and-burn methods. Islamic Economy Push: Brunei’s minister says the Islamic economy is a strategic opportunity, pointing to the country’s halal industry, regulatory foundations and Malay Islamic Monarchy philosophy as a base to build a more integrated sector. Tourism & Business in Brunei: Tutong’s Food Festival 2026 runs until June 28 with 60 vendors, while Visit Brunei Year 2027 has been officially launched with new logo and mascots to support tourism-led diversification. Seafood Expansion: A new seafood processing plant project in Serasa is set to start, aiming to build premium tuna and other seafood processing capacity for regional and international markets. Regional Energy Links: Sarawak Energy says it is discussing interconnection with Brunei as part of broader plans to strengthen Borneo’s power grid and move toward an ASEAN Power Grid. RIMPAC in Hawaii: The Rim of the Pacific naval exercise is underway in Hawaii with Brunei among the participating countries.

Haze Alert: A Singapore think tank has issued a rare “red” warning for severe transboundary haze, with Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore at risk—especially in August to September—driven by El Niño, possible positive Indian Ocean Dipole, and economic pressures that can push land clearing. Tourism Push: Brunei’s Visit Brunei Year 2027 campaign has been launched, with logo and mascots unveiled, as the government aims to boost tourism and support economic diversification. Local Business & Food: Tutong’s Food Festival 2026 runs until June 28, bringing 60 vendors and giving entrepreneurs a platform to grow sales and visibility. Industry Growth: A new seafood processing plant project in Serasa is set to start, targeting tuna and other seafood for regional and international markets. Regional Trade Links: Sarawak is showcasing timber and sustainable wood-based products at Brunei’s CFTE expo to expand regional buyers and investment. Regional Defence Context: RIMPAC has kicked off in Hawaii with Brunei among participating nations, as the major naval exercise strengthens ties through drills and operations. Islamic Economy: A minister says Brunei’s Islamic economy has strong foundations—regulation, halal industry recognition and national philosophy—positioning it for deeper integration and long-term growth. Brunei in Sports: Brunei’s Mohammad Julaihi has been elected to the Asian School Sports Federation board for 2026–2030.

Transboundary Haze Alert: A Singapore think-tank has issued a rare “red” warning for severe haze in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, with the worst risk expected in August–September as El Niño and a possible positive Indian Ocean Dipole bring hotter, drier conditions. The report warns that fire risks could rise amid economic pressure, higher fuel and fertiliser costs, and growing biofuel demand that may push some land-clearing toward burning. Local Tourism Push: Lawas MP Datuk Henry Sum Agong says the Beyond Waves & Dance Rhythms Festival and the Dragon Boat Regatta should become permanent fixtures to draw outside visitors and strengthen the district’s tourism calendar. Brunei-linked Aviation Update: The RAF has taken delivery of two new Airbus H145 Jupiter helicopters for Cyprus, with more aircraft expected to reach Brunei by end-July as part of a modernisation programme. Regional Trade & Industry: Sarawak’s STIDC is showcasing timber and sustainable wood-based products at Brunei’s CFTE expo to expand regional market reach. BIMP-EAGA Coordination: Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah urges BIMP-EAGA to study Sarawak’s Statos model and set up more regional offices to speed up trade and tourism growth. Brunei Navy Link: The Royal Brunei Navy met Philippine counterparts in Manila to discuss ways to further strengthen naval partnership.