A strong call for collaboration among urban planners, technologists, policymakers, civil society, and residents was made in shaping Brunei Darussalam’s sustainable urban future through equal partnership.
The call underscored the nation’s commitment to ensuring that technology serves the people, leveraging innovation to enhance safety, resilience, and convenience while building a smarter, more connected, and inclusive future for all.
This was highlighted during the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Seminar themed ‘People-Centred Smart Cities’ organised by the Brunei Institution of Geomatics (BIG) on October 20 at Bertabur Hall, Ministry of Development.
The seminar was held in conjunction with United Nations World Cities Day 2025, reflecting the global effort towards sustainable and inclusive urban development.
Deputy Permanent Secretary (Corporate and Law) at the Ministry of Development Aldina binti Haji Mohd Salleh officiated as the guest of honour.
The seminar brought together experts from Malaysia, The Netherlands, and Poland, along with local representatives, to exchange insights and experiences on advancing Brunei’s urban landscape. Discussions focused on how urban design, digital tools, and spatial innovation can support the nation’s aspirations under Brunei Vision 2035.
Speakers emphasised the importance of public spaces in creating liveable and connected cities, particularly through pedestrian-friendly designs that enhance the walkability of Bandar Seri Begawan within a tropical setting.
Public urban spaces were highlighted as essential components of Brunei’s cityscape, serving as areas for recreation, social interaction, and healthy living. These spaces contribute to community engagement and a vibrant city life, aligning with Brunei Vision 2035’s goal of ensuring a high quality of life for all citizens.
It was also noted that school grounds can serve as valuable public spaces, promoting child well-being and social interaction.
Transforming school environments into safe, active areas supports efforts to reduce child obesity and bullying while encouraging holistic development and extracurricular learning.
The seminar discussed the role of digital technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) in transforming urban management. Smart sensors that collect real-time data on energy use, flood monitoring, and fire detection were identified as key tools for agencies such as the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) and the Fire and Rescue Department in enhancing public safety and disaster response.
Speakers reiterated that technology should always serve people’s needs, ensuring that innovation remains grounded in human values and social benefit.
The people-centred smart city concept reflects Brunei’s progress towards Brunei Vision 2035, rooted in the national philosophy of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB), which places social harmony, community well-being, and environmental stewardship at the core of development.
The seminar concluded with the presentation of five guiding principles for smart city development – inclusivity, participation, transparency and trust, accessibility, and sustainability and resilience.
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Dieser Artikel ist neu veröffentlicht von / This article is republished from: Borneo Bulletin, 25.10.2025
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