Brunei Darussalam: Developing Within Its Own Paradigm

Summary

Most writings on Brunei's development have been by non-locals. The focus of these writers is development in terms of the physical and the tangible. The development paradigm from a Bruneian perception is somewhat different. In addition to the conventional meaning of development, emphasis is also put on values such as peace and tranquillity. Brunei Darussalam develops within the ambit of Islamic tenets. This article discusses the economic as well as sociopolitical development process of Brunei Darussalam from an insider's perspective. Both physical and non-physical development are addressed in the discussion.

Development from a Bruneian Perspective

Even Western scholars recognize that the concept of development has several connotations. Traditionally, the term “development” implies not only increases in total output, labour, capital, trade, and so on, but also an improvement in income distribution and the eradication of poverty. It also includes changes in attitudes and institutions which accompany and produce economic growth, but are ignored in the measurement of gross national product. Increasingly, other elements desired in development include non-measurables such as culture, values, and freedom.

Brunei has managed to retain its traditional values, customs, and monarchial system throughout the process of development. From a Bruneian perspective, “development” accords with the broad form mentioned above. Factors such as culture, values, and religion are given importance in Brunei's development strategy.

In particular, Brunei's development policies are based on Islamic principles. Islam is the official religion, and has been the state religion since the first ruler. It is the central state philosophy, and has been incorporated in the educational policy as well as administrative functions of the government.3 His Majesty the Sultan proclaimed the country's ideological goal on the eve of independence as follows:

… Brunei Darussalam shall be forever a sovereign and independent Malay Muslim Monarchy upon the teaching of Islam according to the Ahli Sunnah Waljamaah and based upon the principle of liberty, trust and justice and ever seeking the guidance and blessing of Allah (to whom be praise and Whose name be exalted), the peace and security, welfare and happiness of the people of Brunei Darussalam …