AGP Executive Report

Digital Economy & Education: Brunei’s Digital Brunei 2030 push was outlined by the Transport and Infocommunications Ministry, with a one-day forum stressing tighter government–private sector collaboration to deliver trusted, inclusive digital services. AI-Ready Schools: ACER and Brunei’s education authorities rolled out the Brunei Darussalam Digital Literacy Standards (BDDLS), a single Years 1–11 benchmark that weaves in AI literacy and ethics, alongside updated ICT and Business/Art/Technology curricula. Tourism Digitisation: Brunei launched “Nakhoda,” a digital tourism marketplace for local operators, featuring an AI trip planner and cashless booking to help Visit Brunei Year 2027. Property Market: Brunei’s Residential Property Price Index rose 13.0% year-on-year in Q1 2026, with most purchases in Brunei Muara. Oil & Gas: Norwegian TGS won an exclusive contract for a new multi-client 3D seismic survey offshore Brunei, aimed at improving resource assessment ahead of future licensing rounds. Islamic Finance Deal: BlueFive Capital and Al Murjan Group closed a stake acquisition and plan a global Sharia-compliant platform headquartered in Singapore, targeting savers across GCC and Southeast Asia including Brunei.

Digital Brunei 2030: Brunei’s Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications says the Digital Brunei 2030 push will align government, society, business, data and AI under Brunei Vision 2035, with success hinging on tight public-private collaboration. Education & Skills: ACER and Brunei rolled out new Brunei Darussalam Digital Literacy Standards for Years 1–11, including AI literacy built across the curriculum, alongside updated ICT and Business, Art and Technology teaching materials. Tourism Tech: Brunei launched “Nakhoda,” a digital tourism marketplace with an AI trip planner to help local operators sell online and support Visit Brunei Year 2027. Property Market: Brunei’s Residential Property Price Index rose 13.0% year-on-year in Q1 2026, with most purchases in Brunei Muara. Energy & Data for Oil & Gas: Norway’s TGS won an exclusive multi-client 3D seismic survey contract offshore Brunei to support future licensing and investment decisions. Regional Climate Watch: Indonesia warns an emerging strong El Niño could worsen peatland fires in Borneo and Sumatra, especially where food estate projects expanded rice on peat. Finance & Trade Links: BlueFive Capital and Al Murjan Group completed a deal to create a global Islamic finance platform, targeting savers across GCC and Southeast Asia including Brunei.

Brunei Tourism Push: Brunei has launched “Nakhoda,” a digital tourism platform to help travellers plan and book experiences ahead of Visit Brunei Year 2027, with local operators listing packages, cashless payments, and an AI trip planner to build personalised itineraries. Flood & Ecotourism in Limbang: A 250-metre river embankment project at Kampung Poyan in Limbang is set to strengthen flood protection and boost ecotourism, funded in two phases (RM500,000 this year and RM500,000 in 2027). Digital Skills Upgrade: ACER and Brunei’s education authorities rolled out the Brunei Darussalam Digital Literacy Standards (BDDLS) for Years 1–11, including AI literacy built into the curriculum and updated ICT and Business/Art/Technology teaching materials. Property Market: Brunei’s Residential Property Price Index rose 13.0% year-on-year in Q1 2026, with Brunei Muara the main area for purchases. Energy & Exploration: Norwegian firm TGS won an exclusive multi-client 3D seismic survey contract offshore Brunei to support future licensing and better assess resources.

Education & Digital Skills: Brunei and ACER rolled out the 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 Business/Art/Technology curricula plus teacher guides. Tourism Digitisation: Brunei launched “Nakhoda,” a digital tourism marketplace for local operators with cashless payments and an AI trip planner, aimed at fixing fragmented online access ahead of Visit Brunei Year 2027. Property Market: Brunei’s Residential Property Price Index rose 13.0% year-on-year in Q1 2026, with most purchases in Brunei Muara. Energy & Oil/Gas: Norway’s TGS won an exclusive multi-client 3D seismic survey contract offshore Brunei to support future licensing and upstream investment. Islamic Finance Deal: BlueFive Capital completed its stake acquisition in Sidra Capital, rebranding it as BlueFiveSidra and setting up a global Sharia-compliant platform headquartered in Singapore, targeting Brunei among other Southeast Asian markets. Aviation Carbon Rules: A UN-backed airline carbon scheme could boost demand for high-integrity offsets across ASEAN if governments quickly authorise qualifying projects.

Digital Skills Push: Brunei and ACER rolled out the Brunei Darussalam Digital Literacy Standards (BDDLS), a single national benchmark for Years 1–11 that also weaves in AI literacy and ethics, alongside updated ICT and Business/Art/Technology curricula and teacher guides. Tourism Goes Online: Brunei launched “Nakhoda,” a digital tourism marketplace for local operators with cashless payments and an AI trip planner, aiming to fix fragmented online listings ahead of Visit Brunei Year 2027. Property Market: Brunei’s Residential Property Price Index rose 13% year-on-year in Q1 2026, with most purchases in Brunei Muara. Energy & Data for Oil and Gas: Norwegian TGS won an exclusive multi-client 3D seismic survey contract offshore Brunei to support future licensing and investment decisions. Regional Trade Talks: CPTPP ministers advanced expansion work, including preparatory discussions with the UAE, Philippines and Indonesia, while pushing accession steps and deeper ASEAN-EU trade dialogue.

Property & Housing: Brunei’s Residential Property Price Index rose 13% year-on-year in Q1 2026 to 99.2, with prices also up 6.4% quarter-on-quarter, and most purchases concentrated in Brunei Muara (72 properties). Tourism Digital Push: Brunei launched “Nakhoda,” a digital tourism platform for Visit Brunei Year 2027, letting local operators list bookable experiences and offering an AI trip planner with cashless payments to tackle fragmented online visibility. Oil & Gas Outlook: A new MBS Research note points to stronger Q2 business results for Brunei’s oil and gas sector, with upstream expected to benefit most as Brent averages around $97 per barrel and domestic project rollouts accelerate. Energy Exploration Investment: Norwegian firm TGS secured exclusive rights for a multi-client 3D seismic survey offshore Brunei, aiming to improve resource assessment ahead of future licensing rounds. Trade & Regional Integration: CPTPP ministers advanced expansion work, including preparatory discussions with the UAE, the Philippines and Indonesia, while pushing accession progress for Costa Rica and Uruguay. SME Support: Business Bridge Asia expanded Southeast Asia market entry consulting, adding country-specific guidance and on-the-ground support for SMEs.

CPTPP Expansion Push: CPTPP ministers met virtually on 26 June, reaffirming support for an open, rules-based trade system and moving ahead with accession work—Costa Rica’s talks are largely concluded, while Uruguay’s accession working group is being asked to speed up; the bloc also began preparatory discussions with the UAE, the Philippines and Indonesia after identifying them as meeting its standards. SME Market Entry Support: Business Bridge Asia announced an expanded Southeast Asia market entry consulting push for SMEs, adding country-specific guidance and on-the-ground support across 14-plus markets. AI Regulation Watch: A look at the Philippines’ approach to AI rules says governance is moving, but remains scattered across agencies, while ASEAN’s AI guidance is still non-binding. Water and Energy Funding: The World Bank approved a $1.02b package for the Philippines to expand electricity and water access, including support for renewable energy and an offshore wind auction. South China Sea Tensions: The Philippines accused China of “insincerity and hypocrisy” after Beijing rejected Manila’s call to comply with the 2016 arbitral ruling, as a fresh near-Scarborough Shoal naval confrontation was reported. Haze Risk Alert: A regional “red alert” warns Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore to prepare for severe transboundary haze later in 2026, with higher costs potentially pushing some land-clearing toward fire. Brunei-Linked Regional STI: Malaysia’s STI minister highlighted the need for a more integrated ASEAN science and innovation ecosystem, with Brunei chairing AMMSTI-22 discussions noted in coverage.

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—another sign of rising friction around US-Philippines drills. Diplomatic Back-and-Forth: Philippines Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. hit back at China after Beijing rejected Manila’s push to comply with the 2016 arbitral ruling, calling the Chinese Embassy’s stance “insincere” and “duplicity,” while insisting the award is “final and binding.” ASEAN Policy Watch: A new analysis notes ASEAN’s AI guidance exists but remains non-binding, leaving protections uneven across member states as governments race to regulate. Regional Environment: The Singapore Institute of International Affairs issued a “red alert” for severe transboundary haze risk for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, warning higher energy and fertiliser costs could weaken fire-prevention efforts. Brunei-Linked Culture & Economy: Brunei is among countries highlighted in coverage of China’s overseas release of “Dear You,” while Brunei also appears in regional discussions on ASEAN science and innovation cooperation.

Brunei Community & Economy: Brunei’s Tutong Food Festival 2026 runs until June 28, bringing 60 food and beverage vendors to boost local entrepreneurship and tourism. Islamic Finance & Trade: A Brunei minister says the Islamic economy is a strategic growth path, pointing to strong halal industry foundations and Brunei’s regulatory setup as the base for a more integrated sector. Youth & Digital Life: Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah says scouting still builds character and volunteer spirit even as children spend more time on digital devices. Regional Environment & Haze Risk: A Singapore think tank issues a “red alert” for severe transboundary haze risk in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, warning rising costs could push land clearing toward fire. Regional Energy & Connectivity: Sarawak Energy highlights progress on the Borneo grid and talks with Brunei on interconnection, while also eyeing wider cross-border links.

Carbon Tax Revenue: Sarawak and Sabah should get at least 70% of Malaysia’s carbon tax proceeds, with Premier Abang Johari saying the two states act as the nation’s main carbon sinks and oxygen producers. South China Sea Tensions: The Philippines accused China of “insincerity and hypocrisy” after Beijing rejected Manila’s call to comply with the 2016 arbitral ruling, escalating diplomatic sparring. Transboundary Haze Watch: A Singapore think tank issued a “red alert” for severe haze risk for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore later in 2026, warning that higher costs may push land clearing using fire. Regional Energy Links: Sarawak Energy says it is driving the Borneo grid, already exporting power to Kalimantan and Sabah, and is in talks with Brunei on interconnection, with plans for further cross-border links. Tourism Push: Brunei is set to hold “Visit Brunei Year 2027” to boost tourism and support economic diversification, with a logo and mascots unveiled for the campaign.

Brunei Tourism & Economy: Brunei’s Tutong Food Festival 2026 runs until June 28, bringing 60 vendors and a boost for local entrepreneurs and tourism. Islamic Finance & Growth: Brunei says the Islamic economy is a strategic opportunity, citing its halal industry, regulatory framework and Malay Islamic Monarchy philosophy as key foundations. Regional Energy Links: Sarawak Energy is pushing stronger cross-border power connectivity, including talks with Brunei on an interconnection, alongside plans for a Sarawak–Singapore subsea cable. Haze Watch: A Singapore think tank issues a “red alert” for severe transboundary haze risk for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore later in 2026, warning higher costs could push land clearing with fire. Trade & Access: CPTPP members begin preliminary accession talks with Indonesia, the Philippines and the UAE, a process that could reshape regional trade rules over time. Global Spotlight: A Chinese diaspora film, “Dear You,” is drawing overseas audiences, including in Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei, as it expands internationally.

Trans-Pacific Trade: CPTPP ministers have agreed to start preliminary talks to add Indonesia, the Philippines and the UAE, setting up groundwork for possible accession negotiations. Regional Energy Links: Sarawak Energy says it is pushing the ASEAN Power Grid by strengthening the Borneo grid, including power exports to Kalimantan and Sabah and talks with Brunei on interconnection. Haze Alert for Brunei: A Singapore think tank has issued a “red alert” for severe transboundary haze risk for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, warning higher energy and fertiliser costs could push land clearing toward burning. Tourism Push in Brunei: Tutong’s Food Festival 2026 is running until June 28 to boost local entrepreneurship and tourism, while Brunei also announced “Visit Brunei Year 2027” with a new logo and mascots. Islamic Economy: A Brunei minister says the Islamic economy is a strategic opportunity, citing strong halal industry foundations and a supportive regulatory framework. Sports and Defence: Brunei is listed among countries taking part in RIMPAC in Hawaii, while Lawas MP in Sarawak wants local festivals to become permanent tourism fixtures.

Brunei Tourism & Economy: Brunei’s Tutong Food Festival 2026 runs until June 28, bringing 60 vendors and giving local food entrepreneurs a boost while positioning Tutong for more community and business events. Islamic Finance & Trade: Brunei is pushing to grow its Islamic economy, with a minister citing strong halal industry foundations, regulatory support, and the national Malay Islamic Monarchy philosophy as key building blocks. Regional Haze Watch: A Singapore think tank has issued a “red alert” for severe transboundary haze risk for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, warning that El Niño-linked dry conditions and higher costs could drive more land clearing by fire. ASEAN Science Push: Malaysia called for ASEAN to move toward a more integrated, mission-oriented science, technology and innovation ecosystem—covering energy transition, food security, public health and climate resilience. Infrastructure Links (BIMP-EAGA): Mindanao’s MinDA is looking to expand infrastructure cooperation with China Road and Bridge Corporation, including updates on major bridge connectivity projects. ASEAN Energy Connectivity: Sarawak Energy says it is strengthening the Borneo grid and discussing an interconnection with Brunei, while also planning cross-border links beyond Borneo.

Trans-Pacific Trade: CPTPP members have started preliminary talks to add Indonesia, the Philippines and the UAE, setting the stage for formal accession negotiations once applicants meet tariff and IP standards. Regional Haze Watch: Singapore’s SIIA has issued a rare “red alert” for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, warning August–September could bring severe transboundary haze as El Niño and the Indian Ocean Dipole combine with higher fuel and fertiliser costs that may push some land clearing toward fire. Energy Connectivity: Sarawak Energy says it is driving the Borneo grid and discussing an interconnection with Brunei, while also advancing plans for cross-border links including a proposed Sarawak–Singapore subsea cable. Tourism & Local Business: Tutong’s Food Festival 2026 runs until June 28, bringing 60 vendors and aiming to boost entrepreneurship and tourism. Islamic Economy: Brunei’s minister says the Islamic economy is a strategic growth opportunity, citing strong halal industry foundations and a supportive regulatory ecosystem. Brunei 2027 Tourism Push: “Visit Brunei Year 2027” has been launched with a logo and mascots to support tourism-led diversification.

Regional Energy & Connectivity: Sarawak Energy says it’s pushing the ASEAN Power Grid by strengthening the Borneo grid first, exporting power to Kalimantan since 2016 and starting Sabah exports, while discussing an interconnection with Brunei and looking at subsea links toward Singapore. Brunei Tourism Push: Brunei is set to hold “Visit Brunei Year 2027,” unveiling its logo and mascots to drive tourism and economic diversification. Islamic Economy Spotlight: A Brunei minister says the country is well-positioned to grow its Islamic economy, citing halal industry strengths and a solid regulatory base. Severe Haze Warning: Singapore’s think tank flags a “red” risk of severe transboundary haze for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, with August–September the peak period driven by El Niño and Indian Ocean Dipole, worsened by costs and land-clearing pressures. Local Business & Food: Tutong’s Food Festival 2026 runs until June 28, bringing 60 vendors to boost entrepreneurship and tourism. ASEAN Defence & Drills: RIMPAC kicks off in Hawaii with Brunei among 30 participating countries, as regional defence ties deepen without formal alliances. Trade & Industry Linkages: Sarawak’s STIDC is showcasing timber and sustainable wood-based products at Brunei’s CFTE to tap regional buyers. Maritime Business: Wintermar gains full control of Fast Offshore Supply, expanding crew transfer vessel supply tied to Brunei offshore operations.

Tourism & Local Business: Brunei’s Tutong is hosting the 5-day Food Festival 2026 (June 25–28), drawing 60 vendors and aiming to spur entrepreneurship and tourism. Islamic Economy: A minister says Brunei’s Islamic economy is ready to scale up, citing strong halal industry foundations, regulation, and the Malay Islamic Monarchy philosophy as key building blocks. Tourism Push: Brunei is set to hold “Visit Brunei Year 2027,” unveiling its logo and mascots to drive tourism and economic diversification. Regional Environment: A Singapore think-tank has issued a rare “red” haze warning for Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, flagging August–September as peak risk tied to El Niño and Indian Ocean Dipole, plus economic pressures that can worsen land-clearing fires. Regional Trade & Industry: Wintermar Offshore Marine has acquired full control of Singapore’s Fast Offshore Supply and its Indonesia unit, with Brunei crew transfer vessel deliveries planned for 2027. Regional Security: Coverage highlights how Southeast Asia is building a web of defence access deals and cooperation, including new Philippines–Vietnam defence arrangements.