1. Brunei Economic Bulletin
Quarter 1
2012
Highlights:
Contents:
Page
Gross Domestic Product
2
Consumer Price Index
7
Gross Domestic Product
The growth in the economy in Q1 2012 was propelled by domestic demand,
particularly personal consumption expenditure (PCE) which expanded by 3.5 per
cent y-o-y. The oil and gas sector contracted by 1.3 per cent y-o-y in Q1 2012,
External Trade
10
Public Finance
14
Special Articles
18
following a contraction of 3.5 per cent y-o-y in Q4 2011. Meanwhile, the non-oil and
gas sector registered a 2.6 per cent y-o-y growth in Q1 2012.
Consumer Price Index
Brunei Darussalam’s average consumer price index (CPI) in Q1 2012 was recorded
at 107. 0 with an average y-o-y inflation rate of 0.6 per cent. Between Q1 2011 and
Q1 2012, the highest quarterly inflation was in Q3 2011 at 2.4 per cent y-o-y. The
price of Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages grew by 1.4 per cent y-o-y in Q1 2012;
from a 2.8 per cent y-o-y growth in Q4 2011.
External Trade
Total exports posted a lower growth rate with a 26.8 per cent y-o-y increase in Q1
2012. Total
imports in Q1 2012 surged up by 33.0 per cent y-o-y; after registering
a 17.6 per cent growth in Q4 2011. Trade surplus was at 62.5 per cent of GDP in Q1
2012; up from 61.8 per cent of GDP in Q4 2011. Oil and LNG exports in Q1 2012
accounted for 94.0 per cent of total exports.
Public Finance
In Q1 2012, Brunei Darussalam recorded a fiscal surplus of BND1,163.2 million,
which was about 21.1 per cent of GDP. In comparison to Q4 2011, the oil and gas
revenues in Q1 2012 were lower mainly due to the lower levels of production and
exports of crude petroleum.
Special Articles:
Department of Economic Planning and
Development, Prime Minister’s Office,
Brunei Darussalam
1.
Consumer Protection in Brunei Darussalam
2.
The Tenth National Development Plan

2. Gross Domestic Product
Brunei Darussalam’s gross domestic product (GDP) at constant prices grew
Brunei Darussalam’s
GDP at constant prices
grew by 0.7 per cent
y-o-y in the first quarter
of 2012
by 0.7 per cent year-on-year (y-o-y) in the first quarter of 2012 (Q1 2012), down
from a 1.3 per cent y-o-y growth in the fourth quarter of 2011 (Q4 2011). As a
result, constant prices GDP in Q1 2011 went up to BND3,042.6 million in Q1 2012.
During the same period, GDP in current prices was BND5,364.4 million. (Table
1.1).
The real GDP growth was contributed primarily by the non-oil and gas
sector at 1.3 percentage points (pp). This sector registered a 2.6 per cent y-o-y
growth in Q1 2012, after a 5.1 per cent y-o-y growth in Q4 2011. The oil and gas
sector, in the meantime, contributed -0.6 pp to the real GDP growth and
contracted y-o-y by 1.3 per cent in Q1 2012. In the previous period, this sector
contracted by 3.5 per cent y-o-y.
In terms of distribution, the oil and gas sector constituted 48.1 per cent of
real GDP; up from 42.3 per cent in the preceding period. In nominal terms, the oil
and gas sector’s share in the economy was 69.4 per cent of GDP in Q1 2012. In Q4
2011, its share was 66.3 per cent.
Table 1.1: Gross Domestic Product (Summary)
Levels
(BND million)
Q4
2011
Q1
2012
3,298.2
3,042.6
Oil and gas
1,394.9
Non-oil and gas
Growth rates
(y-o-y %
change)
GDP at current prices
Q1
2012
Q4
2011
Q1
2012
1.3
0.7
-
-
0.7
1,464.2
-3.5
-1.3
42.3
48.1
-0.6
1,903.3
GDP at constant (2000) prices
Q4
2011
Growth
contributions
(pp)
Distribution
(% of GDP)
1,578.4
5.1
2.6
57.7
51.9
1.3
Q1 2012
5,521.4
5,364.4
-
-
-
-
-
Oil and gas
3,658.2
3,724.8
-
-
66.3
69.4
-
Non-oil and gas
1,863.2
1,639.6
-
-
33.7
30.6
-
Source:
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.
Between Q1 2011 and Q1 2012, GDP was highest in Q1 2011, growing at
2.8 per cent y-o-y (Chart 1.1). The growth rate in Q1 2012 is the lowest in the last
five quarters. Non-oil and gas GDP contributed more towards growth for all five
periods with the exception of Q3 2011. In the previous two periods, the oil and
gas sector contracted and the relatively good performance of the non-oil and gas
sector prevented the overall growth rates to be even lower or negative.
2

3. Chart 1.1: GDP Growth Rates and Contributions (Q1 2011 to Q1 2012)
Total GDP
Total GDP
% change and pp
Non gas GDP
Non-oil andoil and gas GDP
Source:
Oil and gas GDP
Oil and gas GDP
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.
The growth in the economy in Q1 2012 was propelled by domestic demand,
particularly personal consumption expenditure (PCE) which expanded by 3.5 per
cent y-o-y. The corresponding rate in Q4 2011 was 8.8 per cent y-o-y (Table 1.2).
This expansion was partly brought about by a 2.9 per cent real improvement in
the wholesale and retail sector.
The growth in the
economy in Q1 2012
was propelled by
domestic demand,
particularly PCE which
expanded by 3.5 per
cent y-o-y
Gross fixed capital formation (GFCF) recorded a y-o-y growth rate of 0.6 per
cent, following a 3.2 per cent y-o-y growth in Q4 2011. The expansion was
supported by a 2.8 per cent y-o-y rise in investment in machinery and equipment.
Other charges special expenditure (OCSE) which principally consisted of the
government’s procurement of capital goods, increased by 10.7 per cent. On the
other hand, government consumption expenditure (GCE) posted a reduction of
0.2 per cent y-o-y in Q1 2012 after growing by 3.3 per cent y-o-y in Q4 2011. This
was caused by the 23.2 per cent decrease in the government’s other charges
annually recurrent (OCAR) expenditure in Q1 2012.
The period of Q1 2012 also saw a fall in exports of goods and services by
1.6 per cent y-o-y, following a drop of 17.5 per cent y-o-y in Q4 2011. This was
primarily due to the 11.7 per cent y-o-y contraction in the export of services in Q1
2012. Despite the positive y-o-y growth of merchandise exports of 0.3 per cent;
an improvement from the 20.3 per cent y-o-y contraction in the previous period,
the overall external demand still contracted. The main reason for the expansion in
The period of Q1 2012
also saw a fall in exports
of goods and services by
1.6 per cent y-o-y,
following a drop of 17.5
per cent y-o-y in Q4
2011
merchandise trade was the increase in the export of methanol from 175,693
tonnes in Q1 2011 to 259,526 tonnes in Q1 2012, a 47.7 per cent rise.
3

4. Imports of goods and services registered a 5.0 per cent y-o-y growth in Q1
2012, after a 17.4 per cent y-o-y growth in the previous quarter. This was
attributed to the 12.3 per cent y-o-y growth in the imports of goods. In the
preceding period, it rose by 25.8 per cent y-o-y.
In Q1 2012, total aggregate demand was up by 0.2 per cent y-o-y, with
domestic demand being the principal contributor at 0.8 pp. (Table 1.2). Within
domestic demand, PCE registered a growth contribution of 0.8 pp to the growth
in total demand, while GCFC also contributed positively to growth, at 0.1 pp. On
the other hand, GCE reduced the overall growth by 0.04 pp. The positive
contribution of the domestic economy was undermined by external demand,
which shaved 0.7 pp off the overall growth.
Current prices
(BND million)
Q1 2012
Q1 2012
Q4 2011
Q1 2012
3,042.6
5,364.4
1.3
0.7
-
Personal consumption expenditure (PCE)
968.8
998.6
8.8
3.5
0.8
Government consumption expenditure (GCE)
774.6
667.4
3.3
-0.2
-0.04
Capital formation
587.1
638.2
3.2
0.6
0.1
587.0
638.1
3.2
0.6
0.1
Construction
392.5
410.6
5.6
-0.5
-0.0
Machinery and equipment
194.4
227.5
-1.3
2.8
0.1
0.1
0.1
-
-
-
1,725.0
4,757.4
-17.5
-1.6
-0.7
1,486.8
4,422.7
-20.3
0.3
0.1
238.3
334.7
1.7
-11.8
-0.8
1,448.8
1,598.8
17.4
5.0
1.7
1,008.8
1,073.5
25.8
12.3
2.7
Imports of services
440.0
525.3
1.3
-8.7
-1.0
Statistical discrepancy
435.8
-98.3
-
-
-
Total aggregate demand
4,055.6
7,061.6
-4.6
0.2
0.2
Domestic demand
2,330.6
2,304.2
5.1
1.5
0.8
External demand
1,725.0
4,757.4
-17.5
-1.6
-0.7
Types of expenditures
Gross domestic product
Gross fixed capital formation (GFCF)
Change in stocks
Exports of goods and services
Exports of goods
Exports of services
Imports of goods and services
Imports of goods
Source:
4
Growth
contributions
(pp)
Constant
(2000) prices
(BND million)
Table 1.2: GDP by Expenditure
Growth rates
(y-o-y % change)
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.
Q1 2012

5. The oil and gas sector contracted by 1.3 per cent y-o-y in Q1 2012,
following a contraction of 3.5 per cent y-o-y in Q4 2011 (Table 1.3). The fall was
due to a y-o-y contraction of 1.6 per cent in the oil and gas mining sub-sector;
brought about by a 3.5 per cent decrease in the production of crude petroleum
from 170,700 barrels per day (bpd) in Q1 2011 to 164,736 bpd in Q1 2012.
Manufacture of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and methanol sub-sector also
The oil and gas sector
contracted by 1.3 per
cent y-o-y in Q1 2012,
following a contraction
of 3.5 per cent y-o-y in
Q4 2011
contracted by 0.4 per cent y-o-y after a 1.0 per cent y-o-y growth in Q4 2011
mainly as a result of the decrease in the production of LNG from 1,130,757 million
British thermal units (MMBtu) in Q1 2011 to 1,064,490 MMBtu in Q1 2012; a 5.9
per cent y-o-y drop.
Meanwhile, the non-oil and gas sector registered a 2.6 per cent y-o-y
growth in Q1 2012, maintaining its good momentum in growth after a 5.1 per
cent y-o-y growth in the previous period. Having recorded a 3.6 per cent y-o-y
growth in Q4 2011, the government services sector’s growth in Q1 2012 stood at
3.9 per cent y-o-y. Private sector services also registered an expansion of 1.9 per
cent y-o-y; following a 6.2 per cent y-o-y growth in the previous quarter.
Q1 2012 saw strong growth in several non-oil and gas sub-sectors
particularly forestry, vegetable, fruits & other agriculture and electricity and
water.
The forestry sub-sector’s growth greatly improved by 185.7 per cent y-o-y
in Q1 2012, following a growth of 41.7 per cent y-o-y in Q4 2011. The vegetable,
fruits & other agriculture sub-sector also grew significantly at 42.3 per cent y-o-y
in Q1 2012; having recorded a growth of 15.8 per cent y-o-y in Q4 2011. The
growth was brought about by the increases in the production of fruits and
vegetables. The production of fruits shot up by 160.9 per cent y-o-y from 649.6
metric tonnes (mT) in Q1 2011 to 1,695.0 mT in Q1 2012. Vegetable production
increased by 29.0 per cent y-o-y from 2,812.1 mT in Q1 2011 to 3,627.5 mT in Q1
2012.
The electricity & water sub-sector grew by 7.5 per cent y-o-y in Q1 2012;
higher than the previous quarter’s growth of 1.5 per cent y-o-y. The growth was a
result of the increase in electricity production by 9.7 per cent y-o-y to 951.0
gigawatt hour (gWh) in Q1 2012 from 866.8 gWh in Q1 2011.
5
odd pages

6. Current prices
(BND million)
Q1 2012
Q1 2012
Q4 2011
Q1 2012
Q1 2012
Gross domestic product
3,042.6
5,364.4
1.3
0.7
0.7
Oil and gas sector
Oil and gas mining
Manufacture of liquefied natural gas (LNG)
& methanol
Non-oil and gas sector
Government services
Private sector
Vegetables, fruits & other agriculture
Livestock & poultry
Forestry
Fishery
Manufacture of wearing apparel & textile
Other manufacturing
Electricity & water
Construction
Wholesale & retail trade
Water transport
Air transport
Other transport services
Communication
Finance
Real estate & ownership of dwellings
Hotels & restaurants
Private health & education services
Business services
Domestic services
Other private services
1,464.2
1,080.6
3,724.8
3,188.7
-3.5
-5.1
-1.3
-1.6
-0.6
-0.6
383.7
536.2
1.0
-0.4
-0.1
1,578.4
569.1
1,009.3
10.4
15.7
1.9
9.9
10.9
21.9
26.5
113.2
169.8
64.3
18.3
38.5
22.5
107.5
107.6
21.0
44.8
177.6
13.7
13.2
1,639.6
586.7
1,052.9
9.7
13.4
1.9
12.7
14.1
19.5
36.1
122.5
183.2
44.0
34.2
51.8
20.8
117.2
109.2
19.6
45.6
166.1
14.1
17.1
5.1
3.6
6.2
15.8
24.7
41.7
1.0
-8.5
0.8
1.5
6.7
9.2
3.1
6.7
11.5
8.8
1.3
5.7
14.0
4.9
7.4
7.9
13.2
2.6
3.9
1.9
42.3
-1.4
185.7
4.2
-7.0
3.3
7.5
-0.8
2.9
-0.4
-0.4
-0.4
-0.4
0.5
0.1
3.5
3.5
3.5
3.5
3.9
1.3
0.7
0.6
0.1
-0.0
0.0
0.0
-0.0
0.0
0.1
-0.0
0.2
-0.0
-0.0
-0.0
-0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.2
0.0
0.0
Type of economic activities
Source:
In Q1 2012, the non-oil
and gas sector continued
to be the leading
contributor to the
country’s real GDP
growth at 1.3 pp
Growth
(y-o-y % change)
Growth
contributions
(pp)
Constant
(2000) prices
(BND million)
Table 1.3: GDP by Production
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.
In Q1 2012, the non-oil and gas sector continued to be the leading
contributor to the country’s real GDP growth at 1.3 pp (Table 1.3). Within this
sector, the government services sector contributed relatively more at 0.7 pp in
comparison to the private sector’s contribution of 0.6 pp.
Within the private sector, the highest contributions came from the business
services and wholesale & retail trade sub-sectors at 0.2 pp each, followed by the
vegetables, fruits & other agriculture, electricity & water as well as private health
& education services sub-sectors at 0.1 pp each.
On the other hand, the oil and gas sector contributed negatively to GDP
growth in Q1 2012, reducing 0.6 pp from the overall growth rate. This was due to
the negative contribution of both the oil and gas mining, and manufacture of LNG
and methanol sub-sectors.
6

7. Consumer Price Index
Brunei Darussalam’s average consumer price index (CPI) in Q1 2012 was
recorded at 107.0 (Table 2.1). This translated into an average y-o-y inflation rate of
0.6 per cent. The inflation rate for Food and Non-alcoholic Beverages was 1.4 per
cent y-o-y in Q1 2012; down from 2.8 per cent y-o-y in Q4 2011. For non-food
items, average inflation rate was 0.4 per cent y-o-y in Q1 2012; lower than the 1.8
per cent y-o-y recorded in Q4 2011.
Table 2.1:
Consumer Price Index and Inflation (Summary)
Consumer price index
(CPI) levels
Q4 2011
Overall
Q1 2012
Inflation rates
(y-o-y % change)
Q4 2011
Q1 2012
107.3
107.0
2.0
0.6
Food and Non-alcoholic Beverages
114.4
115.1
2.8
1.4
Non-food
105.6
105.1
1.8
0.4
Source:
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.
Between Q1 2011 and Q1 2012, the highest quarterly inflation was in Q3
2011 at 2.4 per cent y-o-y (Chart 2.1). The lowest rate of inflation in the five
quarter period was recorded in in Q1 2012, when the inflation rate was 0.7 per
cent. For the food and alcoholic beverages, the highest was recorded in Q2 2012.
Chart 2.1:
Between Q1 2011 and
Q1 2012, the highest
quarterly inflation was in
Q3 2011 at 2.4 per cent
y-o-y
Overall, Food & Non-alcoholic Beverages and Non-food Inflation
4.5
4.0
3.5
y-o-y % change
3.0
Food & Non-alcoholic Beverages
2.5
2.0
Overall
1.5
Non-food
1.0
0.5
0.0
Q1 2011
Q2 2011
Q3 2011
Q4 2011
Q1 2012
(Q1 2011 to Q1 2012)
Source:
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.
7

8. In Q1 2012, four major groups; Health, Education, Communication and
Transport experienced a y-o-y decline by 1.4 per cent, 0.8 per cent, 0.7 per cent
and 0.1 per cent, respectively (Table 2.2). Other groups recorded a y-o-y
increase; with Recreation and Culture showing the highest y-o-y increase at 3.3
Based on contribution to
inflation, Food and
Non-alcoholic Beverages
contributed the most at
0.3 pp
per cent in Q1 2012.
Based on contribution to inflation, Food and Non-alcoholic Beverages
contributed the most at 0.3 pp (Table 2.2). Recreation and Culture came second
at 0.2 pp. These are followed by Clothing and Footwear and Miscellaneous Goods
and Services at 0.1 pp each.
Consumer Price Index and Inflation
Major Groups
Overall
Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Tobacco
Clothing and Footwear
Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and
Other Fuels
Furnishings, Household Equipment
and Routine Household Maintenance
Health
Transport
Communication
Recreation and Culture
Education
Restaurants and Hotels
Miscellaneous Goods and Services
Weights (%)
Table 2.2:
CPI levels
Inflation rates
(y-o-y %
change)
100.0
19.1
0.4
4.3
107.0
115.1
246.6
104.8
Q4
2011
2.0
2.8
23.9
3.8
10.7
101.1
1.1
0.1
10.3
106.2
0.4
0.1
0.9
22.5
6.4
7.4
5.7
7.2
103.9
104.0
97.6
105.3
99.8
105.9
-2.9
1.8
0.4
2.9
-1.8
0.8
-1.4
-0.1
-0.7
3.3
-0.8
0.3
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.2
0.0
0.0
5.3
117.4
6.7
2.0
0.1
Q1 2012
Q1
2012
0.6
1.4
0.0
1.3
Contribution
to inflation
(pp)
0.6
0.3
0.0
0.1
0.0
Note: 0.0 means less than 0.05 .
Source:
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.
The price of Food and
Non-alcoholic Beverages
grew by 1.4 per cent
y-o-y in Q1 2012, from a
2.8 per cent y-o-y
growth in Q4 2011
The price of Food and Non-alcoholic Beverages grew by 1.4 per cent y-o-y
in Q1 2012, from a 2.8 per cent y-o-y growth in Q4 2011 (Table 2.2). This was
mostly generated by the 9.9 per cent y-o-y increase in the price of Chicken.
In Q1 2012, the price of Clothing and Footwear grew by 1.3 per cent y-o-y
after a 3.8 per cent y-o-y growth in Q4 2011. This was mainly attributed to the
higher prices of Women’s Outer Clothing (1.1 per cent y-o-y).
The cost of Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels increased by
0.1 per cent y-o-y in Q1 2012; down from a y-o-y growth of 1.1 per cent in Q4
2011. The price of Materials for the Maintenance and Repair of the Dwelling rose
the highest; by 3.6 per cent y-o-y.
8

9. Despite noticeable y-o-y declines in the costs of Household Utensils
(Non-electrical) and Other Household Textiles; by 8.0 per cent and 7.4 per cent
respectively in Q1 2012, the overall cost of Furnishing, Household Equipment and
Routine Household Maintenance recorded a lower growth of 0.1 per cent y-o-y
following a 0.4 per cent y-o-y growth in Q4 2011. Cleaning and Maintenance Products
registered the highest rate of inflation with 6.3 per cent.
The Recreation and Culture price grew by 3.3 per cent y-o-y in Q1 2012;
following a 2.9 per cent y-o-y growth in Q4 2011. This was mainly due to the higher
price for Television and Radio Broadcasting; which grew by 7.6 per cent y-o-y.
As for Restaurants and Hotels, the cost rose by 0.3 per cent y-o-y from a
positive y-o-y growth of 0.8 per cent in Q4 2011; mainly as a result of inflationary
pressure in the Restaurant and Cafes sub-class, which increased by 0.7 per cent
y-o-y.
The prices of Miscellaneous Goods and Services increased by 2.0 per cent
y-o-y in Q1 2012 from a positive y-o-y growth of 6.7 per cent in Q4 2011. This was
primarily caused by the higher price of Jewellery, Made of Precious Stone which
increased by 19.4 per cent y-o-y.
After a negative growth of 2.9 per cent y-o-y in Q4 2011, the cost of Health
continued to fall by 1.4 per cent y-o-y in Q1 2012. The fall in the prices of Medical
Preparations and Patent Medicines, by 2.9 per cent y-o-y contributed to the
decline.
Education cost also continued to fall by 0.8 per cent y-o-y in Q1 2012 following a 1.8 per cent y-o-y decline in Q4 2011. This was principally due to the drop in
price of Primary Education (1.9 per cent y-o-y).
The cost of Communication, fell by 0.7 per cent y-o-y in Q1 2012 following a
positive growth of 0.4 per cent y-o-y in Q4 2011.This was mainly due to the fall in
the Telephone and Telefax Services (0.2 per cent y-o-y).
For Transport, the cost fell by 0.1 per cent y-o-y in Q1 2012 after a 1.8 per
cent y-o-y growth in Q4 2011. This was due to the lower cost of Passenger
Transport by Air; which dropped by 5.9 per cent y-o-y.
9

10. External Trade
Trade balance (surplus) in Q1 2012 was at 62.5 per cent of GDP up from 61.8
Trade surplus was at
62.5 per cent of GDP in
Q1 2012; up from 61.8
per cent of GDP in Q4
2011
per cent of GDP in Q4 2011 (Table 3.1). In absolute terms, this translated to a
quarterly trade surplus of BND3,505.1 million. In terms of y-o-y growth rates, trade
surplus increased by 25.0 per cent; lower than the 39.7 per cent recorded in Q4
2011.
Total exports of goods was 83.3 per cent of GDP in Q1 2012; higher than the
corresponding figure in Q4 2011 (79.5 per cent). Imports in Q1 2012 constituted
In Q1 2012, total exports
and imports were 83.3
per cent and 20.8 per
cent of GDP respectively
about 20.8 per cent of GDP; which was also higher than the 17.7 per cent registered
in Q4 2011.
In terms of growth, total exports posted a lower growth rate with a 26.8 per
cent y-o-y increase in Q1 2012, after a 34.1 per cent growth in Q4 2011. Total
imports in Q1 2012 surged up by 33.0 per cent y-o-y; after registering a 17.6 per
cent growth in Q4 2011.
Table 3.1: External Trade (Summary)
Levels (BND million)
Q4 2011
3,411.9
4,387.6
Q1 2012
3,505.1
4,578.6
Q4 2011
39.7
34.1
Q1 2012
25.0
26.8
Q4 2011
61.8
79.5
Q1 2012
62.5
83.3
4,280.8
4,415.8
36.1
26.6
77.5
82.4
106.8
162.8
-16.6
32.3
1.9
0.9
1,073.5
17.6
33.3
17.7
20.8
Imports of goods
The highest trade
surplus during the last
five quarters was
recorded in Q1 2012
Distribution
(% of GDP)
975.7
Trade balance
Exports of goods
Domestic exports of
goods
Re-exports of goods
Source:
Growth rates
(y-o-y % change)
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.
In terms of per cent of GDP, the highest amount of trade surplus in the last
five periods was recorded in the latest quarter (Chart 3.1). The lowest trade surplus
was registered in Q2 2011; at 53.8 per cent of GDP.
Chart 3.1: Exports, Imports and Trade Balances (Q1 2011 to Q1 2012)
% of GDP
Exports
Trade Balances
Imports
Source:
10
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.

11. The Q1 2012 export proceeds of BND4,578.6 million were mainly generated
by two main commodities; crude oil and LNG. These two export products
constituted about 94.0 per cent of total exports.
Oil exports, the largest source of foreign exchange receipts in Q1 2012 (48.7
Oil and LNG exports in
Q1 2012 accounted for
94.0 per cent of total
exports
per cent in terms of share) increased by 19.5 per cent y-o-y to BND2,231.4 million
(Table 3.2). The increase was attributed to a higher weighted average crude oil
price (WACOP); which was estimated at USD125.84 per barrel in Q1 2012 compared
to USD105.50 per barrel in Q1 2011.
LNG, which accounted for 45.3 per cent of total exports in Q1 2012, was the
second biggest source of foreign exchange earnings. Export of this commodity in Q1
2012 expanded by 33.7 per cent y-o-y due to higher prices of LNG in that period by
23.5 per cent y-o-y which was estimated at USD17.71 per million British thermal
unit (MMBtu).
Methanol ,in Q1 2012, only made up of 2.3 per cent of total exports as its
first production only started in the second quarter of 2010. However during Q1
2012, methanol exports went up by 67.2 per cent y-o-y.
The US dollar depreciated against the Brunei dollar by about 1.9 per cent
from an exchange rate of 1.29 in Q4 2011 to 1.26 in Q1 2012. Despite this, the
overall merchandise export earnings still increased.
Re-exports, accounted for 3.6 per cent of total exports; of which machinery
and transport equipment made up the biggest share; 76.2% of total
re-exports .
Table 3.2: Major Exports of Goods
*Note:
Methanol’s first shipment was at the end of May 2010.
Total exports of goods
Crude oil
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)
Methanol
Source:
Levels
(BND
million)
Q1 2012
4,578.6
2,231.4
Q4 2011
34.1
32.0
Q1 2012
26.8
19.5
2,074.8
106.7
43.6
-8.1
33.7
67.2
Growth rates
(y-o-y % change)
Distribution
(% of total exports)
Q4 2011
Q1 2012
51.5
48.7
44.7
1.3
45.3
2.3
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.
Brunei Darussalam’s top four export destinations in Q1 2012 were Japan,
South Korea, India and Australia (Table 3.3). Altogether, they accounted for almost
three-quarters of Brunei Darussalam’s total exports during that period. Mineral
fuels were the major exports commodities; which accounted for almost 100 per
cent of the total exports to these countries.
11

12. Japan remained the dominant export market for Brunei Darussalam
Japan remained the
dominant export market
with a 39.7 per cent
share in Q1 2012
accounting for 39.7 per cent of total exports, followed by South Korea (18.0 per
cent), India (8.3 per cent), and Australia (7.5 per cent).
Table 3.3: Top Four Export and Import Markets
Exports
Imports
Levels
(BND
million)
Distribution
(% of total
exports)
Distribution
(% of total
exports)
Levels
(BND
million)
Distribution
(% of total
imports)
Distribution
(% of total
imports)
Q1 2012
Countries
Q4 2011
Q1 2012
Q1 2012
Q4 2011
Q1 2012
Export markets
Japan
1,816.4
South Korea
India
Australia
41.7
39.7
-
-
-
823.1
379.8
342.2
17.4
6.0
9.3
18.0
8.3
7.5
-
-
-
-
-
-
316.6
23.7
29.5
-
-
-
163.5
19.9
15.2
-
-
-
93.3
93.2
8.6
9.0
8.7
8.7
Import markets
Singapore
Peninsular
Malaysia
United States
China
Source:
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.
Brunei Darussalam’s total imports in Q1 2012 stood at BND1,073.5 million.
Accounting for 26.8 per cent of the aggregate imports bill was payment for
Machinery and
transport equipment
formed the largest
import commodity
group with a 26.8 per
cent share
machinery and transport equipment; which in Q1 2012 increased by 1.9 per cent
y-o-y (Table 3.4). In the previous period, it fell by 4.4 per cent.
Manufactured goods, contributed 25.3 per cent to Brunei Darussalam’s
total imports. In Q1 2012, it increased by per cent 54.3 y-o-y. In comparison, the
Q4 2011 figure was 33.2 per cent.
Imports of mineral fuels, lubricants and related materials in Q1 2012 rose
further by 210.8 per cent y-o-y, after a 171.5 per cent increase in Q4 2011. This
group of commodity accounted for 17.1 per cent of total imports.
Food and live animals accounted for 12.3 per cent of total imports. The
imports of this commodity group recorded a lower growth rate of 12.0 per cent
y-o-y compared to a 12.5 per cent y-o-y growth in Q4 2011.
12

13. Table 3.4: Imports of Goods
Levels
(BND
million)
Q1 2012
Growth rates
(y-o-y % change)
Distribution
(% of total imports)
Q4 2011
Q1 2012
Q4 2011
Q1 2012
Total imports of goods
1,073.5
17.6
33.3
-
-
Food & live animals
132.0
15.1
12.5
12.0
14.6
12.3
13.5
42.1
1.7
1.4
16.8
44.0
48.7
1.6
1.6
184.0
171.5
210.8
13.4
17.1
5.0
69.6
272.0
288.1
85.2
16.7
42.0
0.4
0.5
5.7
Beverages & tobacco
Crude materials, inedible except
fuels
Mineral fuels, lubricants & related
materials
Animal & vegetable oils & fats
Chemicals
Manufactured goods
Machinery & transport equipment
Misc. manufactured articles
Misc. transactions & commodities,
n.e.c
Source:
-2.2
-2.6
7.9
6.5
33.2
54.3
22.7
25.3
-4.4
1.9
28.0
26.8
-4.4
27.2
8.7
7.9
50.0
9.0
1.0
0.5
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.
In Q1 2012, Singapore retained its position as the biggest source of imports
with a 29.5 per cent share (Table 3.3). Since Q1 2011, Brunei Darussalam
Singapore was the
biggest import market
with a 29.5 per cent
share in Q1 2012
imported more mineral fuels from Singapore rather than machinery and transport
equipment.
Peninsular Malaysia was the second biggest source of imports in Q1 2012;
accounting for 15.2 per cent share. Brunei Darussalam’s imports from Peninsular
Malaysia constituted mostly of food items.
The next biggest source of imports in Q1 2012 was the United States with
an 8.7 per cent share. The biggest import commodity from that market was
machinery and transport equipment.
13

14. Public Finance
In Q1 2012, Brunei Darussalam recorded a fiscal surplus of BND1,163.2
million; which was about 21.1 per cent of GDP (Table 4.1). In the previous quarter,
fiscal surplus was BND1,839.6 million (33.3 per cent of GDP).
In Q1 2012, Brunei
Darussalam recorded a
fiscal surplus of
BND1,163.2 million,
which was about 21.1
per cent of GDP
In terms of y-o-y growth, the fiscal balance increased by 12.1 per cent in Q1
2012; while the corresponding figures was 266.8 per cent in Q4 2011. The lower
percentage increase was due to the relatively lower growth in total revenues in Q1
2012 compared with Q4 2011 (0.5 per cent versus 68.2 per cent). Total
expenditures actually fell by 5.3 per cent y-o-y; compared to a 9.2 per cent y-o-y
increase in Q4 2011.
In terms of distribution, fiscal revenues and expenditures made up around
56.0 per cent and 35.0 per cent of GDP, respectively. In Q4 2011, fiscal revenues
were 66.7 per cent of GDP, while fiscal expenditures were 33.4 per cent of GDP.
Table 4.1:
Public Finance (Summary)
Value (BND million)
Q4 2011
Q1 2012
Growth rates
(y-o-y % change)
Q4 2011
Distribution
(% of GDP)
Q1 2012
Q4 2011
Q1 2012
Fiscal balance
1,839.6
1,163.2
266.8
12.1
33.3
21.1
Total revenues
3,682.5
3,093.0
68.2
0.5
66.7
56.0
Total expenditures
1,842.9
1,929.8
9.2
(5.3)
33.4
35.0
Sources:
Ministry of Finance.
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.
In the last five quarters, the highest fiscal surplus was registered in Q3 2011
at 35.0 per cent of GDP (Chart 4.1). In contrast, Q1 2011 recorded the lowest fiscal
balance in terms of per cent of GDP at 20.8 per cent.
Chart 4.1:
Revenues, Expenditures and Fiscal Balances (Q1 2011 to Q1 2012)
% of GDP
Revenues
Expenditures
Fiscal balances
Sources:
14
Ministry of Finance
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.

15. Total revenues in Q1 2012 were BND3,093.0 million; which was a y-o-y
increase of 0.5 per cent. In Q4 2011, total revenues stood at BND3,682.5 million
when it increased y-o-y by 68.2 per cent. Oil and gas revenues went up by 8.5 per
cent y-o-y in this period, lower than the 72.0 per cent y-o-y increase recorded in
Q4 2011. This component constituted about 94.0 per cent (BND2,934.1 million)
of the total revenues; which was 0.9 per cent lower than that of Q4 2011 (Table
4.2). In comparison to Q4 2011, the oil and gas revenues in Q1 2012 were lower
mainly due to the lower levels of production and export volume of crude petroleum as well as the weaker US dollar.
Table 4.2:
Government Revenues
Types of revenues
Value
(BND million)
Growth rates
(y-o-y %
change)
Q4
Q1
2011
2012
68.2
0.5
Distribution
(% of Total
revenues)
Q4
Q1
2011
2012
100.0
100.0
Q4
2011
3,682.5
Revenues from government operations
Taxes
Fees, charges and rent
Other
Returns from investments and savings
3,462.9
2,934.1
72.0
8.5
94.9
94.0
218.0
156.5
24.9
(15.2)
5.1
5.9
70.2
35.2
(16.9)
2.3
3.6
81.3
78.1
11.9
(7.1)
2.5
2.2
4.1
Oil and gas revenues
Q1
2012
3,093.0
132.6
Total revenues
Sources:
The oil and gas revenues
in Q1 2012 were lower
mainly due to the lower
levels of production and
export volume of crude
petroleum, as well as the
weaker US dollar
8.2
7.1
(48.8)
0.3
0.1
1.6
2.5
96.0
(98.7)
0.1
0.0
Ministry of Finance.
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.
In Q1 2012, production and exports of crude petroleum were 164,736
bpd and 157,182 bpd, respectively. In Q4 2011, the corresponding figures were
167,058 bpd and 170,621 bpd, respectively. The WACOP was USD125.84 per
barrel in Q1 2012; higher than the corresponding price in Q4 2011 (USD 117.34
per barrel).
Unlike crude petroleum, the production and exports of LNG were higher in
Q1 2012 compared to those in Q4 2011. The weighted average price of LNG was
also higher. In Q1 2012, LNG production and exports were 1,064,490 million
British thermal units (MMBtu) per day and 1,049,475 MMBtu per day,
respectively. In Q4 2011, LNG production was 960,468 MMBtu per day, while
exports were 923,566 MMBtu per day. The weighted average price for LNG in Q1
2012 was USD17.71 per MMBtu; higher than the price recorded in Q4 2011 (USD
17.14 per MMBtu ).
Revenues from government operations fell by 15.2 per cent y-o-y after
rising by 24.9 per cent y-o-y in Q4 2011. In Q1 2012, these constituted around 5.9
per cent of total revenues in Q1 2012; higher than 5.1 per cent share recorded in
Q4 2011.
15

16. Out of this, taxes were the largest component (3.6 per cent); followed by
fees, charges and rent (2.2 per cent) and other (0.1 per cent). All the components
from government operations experienced drops in the revenue levels; with taxes
falling by 16.9 per cent, fees, charges and rent by 7.1 per cent and other by 48.8
per cent. Despite the fall in absolute values, taxes from government operations
actually grew in terms of the overall share in total revenues.
The returns from investments and savings also fell in terms of its absolute
value and share. In Q1 2012, it went down by 98.7 per cent y-o-y after growing
96.0 per cent y-o-y in Q4 2011. The value in Q1 2012 was BND2.5 million; which
was about 0.04 per cent of total revenues.
The government’s total expenditures in Q1 2012 fell by 5.3 per cent y-o-y
after growing by 9.2 per cent y-o-y in Q4 2011 (Table 4.3). This brought the total
expenditures figure to BND1,929.8 million in Q1 2012. The fall in total expenditures
was attributed to the 7.5 per cent y-o-y decrease in current expenditures. In Q1
2011, current expenditures were BND1,383.8 million. Capital expenditures actually
increased to BND546.0 million; a y-o-y increase of 0.8 per cent in the same period.
In the previous period of Q4 2011, current expenditures rose by 13.3 per
cent y-o-y, while capital expenditures dropped by 2.6 per cent y-o-y. Despite the
fall in current expenditures, it was still the biggest component of government
spending in Q1 2012 (76.9 per cent of total expenditures). By comparison, capital
expenditures made up around 23.1 per cent.
Table 4.3:
Government Expenditures
Types of expenditures
Value
(BND
million)
Growth rates
(y-o-y % change)
Distribution
(% of
total expenditures)
Q1 2012
Q4 2011
Q1 2012
Q4 2011
Q1 2012
1,929.8
9.2
-5.3
100.0
100.0
1,383.8
13.3
-7.5
71.7
76.9
Charged expenditures
421.7
25.0
12.0
21.9
23.9
Personal emoluments (PE)
442.3
7.3
-0.3
22.9
30.7
519.8
10.8
-23.2
26.9
22.4
546.0
-2.6
0.8
28.3
23.1
Development expenditure (DE)
323.3
20.9
-5.1
16.8
16.7
Other charges special expenditure
(OCSE)
222.6
-35.3
10.7
11.5
6.4
Total expenditures
Current expenditures
Other charges annually recurrent
(OCAR)
Capital expenditures
Source:
16
Ministry of Finance.
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.

17. In Q1 2012, personal emoluments (PE) was the biggest share of current
expenditures with 30.7 per cent of total expenditures; despite experiencing a 0.3
per cent y-o-y decrease. OCAR was the smallest component of current
expenditures making up 22.4 per cent of GDP after falling by 23.2 per cent y-o-y.
In terms of capital expenditures, development expenditures (DE) for the
implementation of infrastructural projects of the National Development Plan
(RKN) fell by 5.1 per cent y-o-y in Q1 2012. By contrast, OCSE which was mainly
made up of the government’s purchases of capital goods went up by 10.7 per
In Q1 2012, personal
emoluments (PE) was the
biggest share of current
expenditures with 30.7
per cent of total
expenditures, despite
experiencing a 0.3 per
cent y-o-y decrease
cent. Despite these, DE was the biggest component of the government’s capital
spending with a 16.7 per cent share of total expenditures. OCSE made up 6.4 per
cent of total expenditures in Q1 2012.
17

18. Special Article 1. Consumer Protection in Brunei Darussalam
Introduction
The subject of consumer protection can be seen as a relatively new area of
development in Brunei Darussalam. The Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Order
2011 (CPFTO 2011) was enacted on 10 November 2011 and was enforced on 1 January 2012. The Order was under the initiative of the Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE) which will also be the government agency
sible for its implementation. Before the enforcement of the Order,
responcomplaints
have only been dealt with administratively.
ASEAN Committee on Consumer Protection
The ASEAN Committee on Consumer Protection (ACCP) was established in
2007 in the attempt to help implement and develop consumer protection policy in
ASEAN. By 2015, ASEAN member states (AMSs) are expected to have consumer
protection policy in place. It is also by the same year that the ASEAN goal of
regional economic integration of becoming ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) is
hoped to be achieved. Consumer interest and welfare are crucial elements to be
considered in all measures implemented in order to achieve the goal of an
integrated economic region.
Since then, the ACCP have had major progress in promoting the importance
of consumer protection around the region. The ACCP introduced and launched The
ASEAN Consumer Complaints leaflet on 3 April 2012. The leaflet contains
information on hotlines and/or national focal points in all AMSs for consumer
complaints to ensure better regional awareness, understanding and information
dissemination among both ASEAN and non-ASEAN consumers; and more generally,
the regional and extra-regional public at large.
Recently, the ACCP introduced and launched the ACCP website
(www.aseanconsumer.org) at its Fifth Meeting on 2-4 May 2012 in Bali, Indonesia.
This website will serve as the main reference point for consumers on matters
pertaining to recalled/banned products (excluding food, pharmaceuticals, health
supplements, traditional medicines, cosmetics and medical equipment), consumer
redress mechanism, training and education information.
18

19. Consumer Rights
The consumer rights under the United Nations Guidelines on Consumer
Protection can be summed up as follows:
1. The right to satisfy basic needs
2. The right to safety
3. The right to information
4. The right to choose
5. The right to representation
6. The right to be redress
7. The right to consumer education
8. The right to a healthy environment
Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Order (CPFTO) 2011
Subsidiary Regulations and Objectives
Consumer protection is an essential tool in safeguarding consumer rights,
interests and welfare. It also helps to promote and ensure the existence of a fair
trading environment.
In Brunei Darussalam, the CPFTO 2011 objectives are to protect
consumers’ interests and uphold their rights against any unfair practices by
suppliers. It too aims in contributing to the economic growth and diversification
by enhancing foreign investors’ confidence to invest in the country.
Under the Order, there are 20 sections and two subsidiary regulations
namely the Cancellation of Contracts Regulations 2011 and the Opt-Out Practices
Regulations 2011. The Cancellation of Contracts Regulations 2011 allows
consumers to cancel direct sales, time-share and time-share related contracts
within a 5-day cancellation period, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and public
holidays.
Under the Opt-Out Practices Regulations, a consumer, unless he has
acknowledged in writing his willingness to accept and pay for unsolicited goods
and services, is allowed to treat all such goods and services as unconditional gifts
from suppliers.
19

20. Excluded Transactions
The CPFTO 2011 only covers consumer transactions that are related to
personal, family and household matters. It does not cover any transaction made for
commercial purposes.
The Order also excludes any transactions related to areas that are already
covered by other Acts or Orders in Brunei Darussalam. The excluded transactions
can be summarize as follows:
1. Property
4. Banking
7. Contracts
2. Employment
5. Business
8. Criminal
3. Finance
6. Insurance
10. Halal
9. Fisheries
Unfair Practices, Consumers and Suppliers
The Brunei Darussalam consumer protection order focuses specifically on
fair trading practices in relation to goods or services bought for personal use. There
are 20 specific unfair practices under the Order which amongst others include
deceiving or misleading consumers, making false claims regarding products and
services, and taking advantage of consumers who have no knowledge about the
products and services.
Under the Order, a consumer refers to a person who receives or has the
right to receive goods or services from a supplier. A consumer can also be seen as a
person who has a legal obligation to pay a supplier for goods or services that have
been or able to be supplied to another individual. Hence in general, any person
who is residing or conducting a transaction in Brunei Darussalam; including
foreign residents and tourists, can be considered a consumer.
A supplier on the other hand, is a person who in the course of business,
provides, manufactures, assembles or produces goods or services to consumers. A
supplier is also a person who promotes the use of goods or services, or receives or
is entitled to receive money or other consideration as a result of the provision of
goods or services to consumers.
Consumer Complaints
A consumer aggrieved by an unfair practice can seek redress by lodging a
consumer complaint at JPKE, provided that the claim is within the prescribed limit
and limitation period. The prescribed limit under the order is below BND10,000. A
consumer must file his/her complaint within two years from the occurrence of the
unfair practice or the earliest date when the consumer can reasonably have
discovered the unfair practice.
20

21. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
The brief standard operating procedures are as follows:
Complaint received
Complaint recorded
Complaint logged and entered into system
Evaluation report
Complaint forwarded to
the relevant agencies
Covered under the CPFTO
No
Yes
Preliminary Investigation
Consultation and negotiation
Mediation
Is it successful?
No
Yes
Case resolved
Small Claims Tribunal/court
Case resolved
21

22. Challenges Ahead
One of the major challenges of the CPFTO 2011 is to ensure the effective
implementation and coordination of the Order. Strong and solid coordination and
cooperation between JPKE, the relevant government agencies and the judiciary is
very important in ensuring the enforcement and implementation of the Order are
done in the most efficient and effective manners possible.
Equally crucial is to carry out continuous consumer awareness and education
programmes for the public. The significance of this is not only in having a better
informed and well-aware public but also to create the much needed support from
the public to the newly-enforced consumer protection order. Furthermore, in
order to implement and enforce the CPFTO 2011 efficiently, adequate human and
financial resources are necessary as well as advanced trainings for officers and staff
such as in handling complaints, managing negotiations and mediation.
Contact Details:
Hotline/fax:
673-2230223
Email address:
aduanpengguna@jpke.gov.bn
consumercomplaint@jpke.gov.bn
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/AduanPenggunaJPKE
Building address: Room 3.04, Level 3, West wing, , Block 2A, Jalan Ong Sum Ping,
Bandar Seri Begawan, BA 1311
Written by:
Haji Muhamad Azim bin Haji Abdul Hamid and Nurulizzati binti Haji Jahari,
Price Control Division (Consumer Protection),
Department of Administration and Info Communication Technology,
Department of Economic Planning and Development,
Prime Minister’s Office
22

23. References:
Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Order 2011, Available on:
http://www.depd.gov.bn
Consumer Protection in ASEAN, Available on:
http://www.aseansec.org/Fact%20Sheet/AEC/AEC-07.pdf
ASEAN Economic Community, Available on:
http://www.aseansec.org/18757.htm
ACCP Website, Available on:
http://aseanconsumer.org
The ASEAN consumer complaints leaflet, Available on:
http://www.asean.org/26836.htm
23

24. Special Article 2. The Tenth National Development Plan
(Excerpt from the Tenth National Development Plan publication of the
Department of Economic Planning and Development)
Introduction
The Tenth National Development Plan, 2012-2017 (RKN10) is the second five
-year national development plan under the Brunei Darussalam Long-Term
Development Plan (2007-2035).
Through
the
five-year
national
development
plans,
development
programmes in the forms of physical infrastructure as well as non-physical
infrastructure were planned and implemented. Such programmes have been one
of the key drivers to economic prosperity, improvements in quality of life and political stability enjoyed by the citizens and people of this country.
NDP10 Theme
In line with the Outline of Strategies and Policies for Development (OSPD) in
the Wawasan Brunei 2035, NDP10 will continue towards achieving the average
annual economic growth target of 6.0 per cent. However, to achieve this growth
target, significant structural changes in the economy are vital. Brunei Darussalam
has to explore new frontiers in development that can transform it into a fast
growing economy. In this respect, the theme for RKN10 has been formulated:
Figure 1: NDP10 Theme
In realising this theme, RKN10 will thus focus on the acceleration of
economic growth. High economic growth will help the nation increase income and
accelerate development. It will also create numerous job opportunities for its
citizens and permanent residents and will enable the private sector to become
more active as envisioned.
24

25. Sustainable high growth rates can be achieved through continuous
increases in productivity in the public and private sectors, including in existing
industries and new ones. Such increases in productivity will help reduce costs,
improve work quality continuously and ensure continuous increases in output.
Efforts towards the generation of high productivity may not be a simple task and
will require integrated efforts from all parties. This includes maintaining and
strengthening existing efforts such as investments in human resources, research
and innovation as well as encouraging the use of latest technologies.
In this challenging era of globalisation and in realising the need for efforts
that are more effective and relevant, NDP10 will give high priority in exploring
approaches for increasing productivity through the use of knowledge and
innovation. The concept of knowledge and innovation emphasised in NDP10
focuses on the generation of high productivity through increasing knowledge,
skills and competency of the workforce in strategic areas; increasing research
activities that have high commercial value; and instilling the culture of innovation
and creativity among local youths. All of these will contribute to economic
growth, particularly through the generation of high value-added industries. A
highly skilled and competent workforce equipped with the latest technology will
not only be able to increase their productivity but will also improve the nation’s
competitiveness in the global market.
Research activities that have high commercial values will boost
productivity and also enhance the diversification of high value added non-oil and
gas industries. Nevertheless, efforts in commercialising researches are expected
to face numerous external challenges. Therefore it is necessary to have
concerted efforts; not only from the public sector especially higher learning
institutions but also commitment from the private sector to be active in research
and development (R&D). A conducive environment will be put in place to further
encourage research activities that can eventually produce commercially valuable
research output.
Innovation and creativity among youths are also important foundations for
the development of a knowledge-based economy. The outcome of innovation
and creativity can be transformed into intellectual property that will enhance the
nation’s ability to compete globally. The contribution to the economy can be
significantly increased if the locals are also equipped with entrepreneurial skills.
25

26. NDP10’s Strategic Development Thrusts
In supporting the NDP theme, six strategic development thrusts have been
outlined to provide directions in the selection of programmes and projects under
NDP10 (Figure 2). With this, Brunei Darussalam will be able to achieve its desired
development objectives and work towards realising the goals of Wawasan Brunei
2035.
Figure 2: NDP10’s Strategic Development Thrusts
Thrust One is Educated and Highly Skilled Population. Seven factors contributing to this thrusts are 1) Quality education infrastructure and facilities; 2) Quality
teachers; 3) Professional and highly skilled workforce; 4) Life-long education; 5)
Entrepreneurship education; 6) Science, technology and innovation; and 7) Private
sector involvement. All these factors will focus on enhancing the levels of education and skills of the human workforce.
Thrust Two is High Quality of Life, which includes seven factors: 1) Sustainable and inclusive development; 2) Quality and sufficient housing; 3) Comprehensive
medical and health services; 4) Clean and healthy environment; 5) Public security;
6) Access to basic amenities: water, electricity, communication and transportation;
and 7) Cultural, sports and recreational infrastructure. These factors aim to enhance the quality of life of the population of the nation and henceforth towards
the achievement of better welfare.
26

27. Thrust Three is Conducive Business Environment. This thrust focuses on
efforts that can flourish the nation’s private sector and further enhance its
attractiveness as a destination for foreign direct investment, that is: 1) Fast and
easy process for starting a business; 2) Strong business capacity and capability;
and 3) Protection of intellectual property rights.
Thrust Four is Progressive and Productive Economy Based on Knowledge
and Innovation which focuses on the generation of high and sustainable
economic growth through investments in knowledge and innovation, high
technology, as well as non-oil and gas exports towards diversifying the economy.
This thrust has five main factors: 1) Knowledge infrastructure and facilities;
2) R&D that has
commercial value; 3) High technology private investments;
4) Entrepreneurship development; and 5) Non-oil and gas investment and
exports.
Thrust Five is Good Governance and Government Modernisation. This
thrust concentrates on efforts that enhance the quality and productivity level of
the public sector. Three factors identified in establishing and enhancing public
sector productivity are: 1) Quality public infrastructure and facilities;
2) Professional public sector workforce; and 3) Laws and regulations that meet
current needs.
Thrust Six is High Quality and Sustainable Development Infrastructure. This
thrust includes six factors that prepare the nation for the development of the
private sector in general and in attracting foreign direct investment specifically:
1) Water supply, drainage and sewerage infrastructure; 2) Electric power
infrastructure;
3)
Communication
and
transportation
infrastructure;
4) Info-communication network infrastructure; 5) Sustainable and environmental
friendly growth and development; and 6) Industrial sites.
Budget Allocation of NDP10
The government has allocated BND6.5 billion in implementing 682 projects
of which BND2.7 billion is allocated to finance 202 new projects and BND3.8 billion is allocated to finance 480 carried forward projects from NDP 2007-2012.
This
allocation represents an increase of 25.1 per cent from RKN2007-2012’s
allocation of BND5.2 billion. The social services sector received the biggest share
with a total allocation of BND2.0 billion (Figure 3).
27

28. Several special funds have been provided in the NDP10. An amount of
BND250 million has been allocated under the Human Resources Development
Fund. Another BND200 million has been allocated to expand research activities and
BND100 million has been allocated under the Small and Medium Enterprises
Development Fund.
Figure 3: Allocation of NDP10 by Sectors
Source:
Department of Economic Planning and Development, Prime Minister’s Office.
Concluding remarks
As a conclusion, NDP10 emphasizes and places priority on efforts to
accelerate economic growth through continuous increases in productivity that is
based on knowledge and innovation. High economic growth based on productivity,
knowledge and innovation will not only contribute to high added value in economic
sectors but will also improve Brunei Darussalam’s competitiveness in the global
economic climate which is challenging, competitive and rapidly changing.
28

29. Brunei Economic Bulletin Editorial Team
Contact Address:
Department of Economic Planning
and Development
Editors
Block 2A Jalan Ong Sum Ping
Department of Economic Planning and Development
Bandar Seri Begawan BA1311
Deputy Director General,
Telephone: 673-2233344
Fax: 673-2230226
Director General,
Department of Economic Planning and Development
Directors,
Department of Economic, Planning and Development
Website: www.depd.gov.bn
Contributors
Haji Aminuddin bin Haji Mohamad Taib
Asnawi Faisal bin Haji Kamis
Hajah Zureidah binti Haji Abit
Dayangku Norhanidah binti Pengiran Haji Masshor
Nur Edzalina binti Haji Idris
Mohamad Adi Hamdi bin Haji Aminuddin
Lai Yea Liang
Haji Muhamad Azim bin Haji Abdul Hamid
Nurulizzati binti Haji Jahari
National Statistics provided by the Department of Statistics
Layout and Design
Awangku Muhammad Hazwan bin Pengiran Haji Kamarulzaman