AGP Executive Report

ASEAN at 59: As ASEAN marks its 59th anniversary, analysts say the bloc’s next test is strengthening internal unity and integration to protect its central role amid rising geopolitical pressure and energy/trade disruptions. Brunei Vision 2035 push: In Brunei’s Legislative Council, a minister said Vision 2035 needs resilient growth, productivity gains through technology and innovation, and a stronger private sector—especially SMEs—along with stable inflation and more jobs. Entrepreneurship surge: Brunei saw a 125% jump in new company registrations in 2025 (354 vs 157 in 2024), with 200 more registered in the first half of 2026. PPP for energy, tourism, ports: Brunei is advancing public-private partnership projects, including a 30MW AC solar plant near the capital (aiming to start operations by end-2026) and upgrades to Muara Port operations to boost maritime connectivity. Digital skills & AI governance: DFCE 2026 highlighted building future-ready digital capability and AI governance that balances trust, innovation, and data sovereignty. Maritime Week: Brunei Darussalam Maritime Week 2026 opened under a “safe seas, thriving economy” theme, linking maritime safety and environmental protection to investment and jobs. Regional rights spotlight: A Thai InterPride leader urged global LGBTQ+ solidarity, noting Myanmar, Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia still criminalise same-sex relationships or gender-diverse people.

Brunei Vision 2035 & jobs: A minister told the Legislative Council that Brunei needs resilient, people-centred growth, with higher productivity driven by technology and innovation, plus a stronger private sector and more employment. Private sector momentum: Brunei saw a 125% jump in new company registrations in 2025 (354 vs 157 in 2024), with 200 registrations already recorded in the first half of 2026. Tourism push for Visit Brunei Year 2027: Brunei is targeting high-value visitors with longer stays and higher spending, using stronger promotion, digital marketing, and new product lines like adventure, nature, arts and culinary tourism. Investment-ready land & ports: The Ministry of Development identified 17,526 hectares for future development, including 3,324 hectares for transport to boost logistics and support Muara Port expansion and freight road networks. Maritime strategy: Brunei’s Maritime Week 2026 opened with a focus on “safe seas” and building trust in governance, safety standards and reliable maritime services. Energy planning: Brunei is drafting integrated, outcome-driven energy strategies aligned with Vision 2035, balancing oil-and-gas competitiveness with higher-value downstream growth. PPP delivery: Brunei is advancing public-private partnership projects, including a 30MW AC solar plant near the capital expected to start operations by end-2026, and upgrades to Muara Port operations via a PPP.

Maritime Focus: Brunei Darussalam Maritime Week 2026 opened in Bandar Seri Begawan, with the message that “safe seas” build confidence, which then attracts investment and creates opportunities for people. Tourism Push: Brunei is stepping up promotion ahead of Visit Brunei Year 2027, aiming for longer stays and higher spending through adventure, nature, arts and food tourism. Business Climate: Brunei saw a 125% jump in new company registrations in 2025 (354 vs 157 in 2024), with 200 registrations already recorded in the first half of 2026. Energy & PPP Delivery: Brunei is advancing public-private partnership projects, including a 30MW AC solar plant near the capital expected to start operations by end-2026, and upgrades at Muara Port to improve efficiency. Digital Skills & AI Governance: DFCE 2026 highlighted building future-ready digital skills and getting AI governance right, while EVYD discussed trust in AI and risk-based approaches. Investment Land Supply: The Ministry of Development identified 17,526 hectares for future development, including land for port expansion and freight road networks.

Business & Jobs: Brunei saw a 125% jump in new company registrations in 2025 (354 vs 157 in 2024), with momentum continuing into 2026 (200 registrations in the first half), as the Brunei Economic Development Board supports investors through assessments and industrial site facilitation. Public-Private Partnerships: Brunei is pushing PPPs to lift renewable energy, tourism infrastructure and maritime connectivity, including a 30MW AC solar plant near the capital (aiming to start operations by end-2026) and upgrades at Muara Port Company to improve port efficiency. Maritime Focus: Brunei Darussalam Maritime Week 2026 opened under “Powering Maritime Excellence,” with the transport minister stressing Brunei should be among the most trusted maritime nations, linking safe seas to confidence, investment and jobs. Tourism Push: Brunei is targeting high-value tourism ahead of Visit Brunei Year 2027, promoting longer stays and higher spending through adventure, nature, arts, heritage, community and food tourism. Digital Skills & AI Governance: DFCE 2026 highlighted building future-ready digital skills and AI governance, with EVYD discussing trust, risk-based AI oversight and balancing data sovereignty with wider integration. Energy Planning: Brunei is drafting a more integrated, outcome-driven energy strategy aligned with Vision 2035, aiming to strengthen oil and gas competitiveness and grow high-value downstream industries.

Digital Future Conference (DFCE) 2026: EVYD Technology backed Brunei’s push for AI governance at DFCE 2026, urging risk-based rules that speed up low-risk tools while keeping clear shared responsibility and balancing data sovereignty with global integration. Digital Skills: The DFCE finale put future-ready digital capability in focus, with AITI leaders citing rising digital literacy and lifelong learning as key to Wawasan Brunei 2035 and Digital Brunei 2030. Maritime Growth: Brunei Darussalam Maritime Week 2026 opened with a “safe seas, thriving economy” message, stressing trust in safety and governance as the base for investment and jobs. Energy Planning: Brunei is drafting a more integrated, outcome-driven energy strategy to keep oil and gas competitive while building high-value downstream industries. Tourism Push: Brunei targets high-value tourism for Visit Brunei Year 2027, aiming for longer stays and more distinctive experiences through promotion and new product themes. Investment Land Supply: The government identified 17,526 hectares for development, including land for logistics and Muara Port expansion, plus a new government land lease programme. AI in Food: Antrique Holdings launched an Nvidia-powered AI food innovation initiative in Brunei, starting with a planned 14-hectare coffee plantation in Tungku. Finance & Governance: BIBD highlighted its Client Service Charter pledge, while Brunei’s financial intelligence agencies also continued regional AML/CFT engagement via APG meetings. Regional Business Deal: Allianz agreed to buy UOB’s asset management arm for S$555m, with coverage including Brunei—expected to close in 2027.

Tourism Push: Brunei is stepping up efforts to attract high-value visitors ahead of Visit Brunei Year 2027, with a focus on longer stays, higher spending, and more distinctive experiences ranging from adventure and nature to arts, culture, sports and food. Investment Land Supply: The Ministry of Development has identified 17,526 hectares for future development to improve the investment climate, including 3,324 hectares for the transport sector to boost logistics, plus plans linked to Muara Port expansion and freight road networks. Maritime Trust Agenda: At Brunei Darussalam Maritime Week 2026, the Transport and Infocommunications minister said Brunei aims to be among the most trusted maritime nations, stressing governance, safety standards and reliable services to draw investment. Energy Planning for Vision 2035: Brunei is drafting comprehensive energy-sector strategic plans to support Vision 2035, keeping oil and gas competitive while strengthening high-value downstream industries and creating opportunities for people. Maritime Security Drills: RIMPAC 2026 wrapped up with 30 nations taking part, underscoring Indo-Pacific maritime security cooperation. Regional Finance Deal: UOB is selling its asset management arm to Allianz Global Investors in a S$555m deal covering Brunei and other Asian markets, with a long-term distribution partnership. AI Scam Warnings: Brunei’s central bank and BDCB warned the public about AI-generated scam videos.

ASEAN & Diplomacy: PM Hun Manet urged people-centered, results-oriented innovation in civil services at an ASEAN meeting in Siem Reap, pushing cross-border cooperation to bridge the digital gap. Finance & Banking: UOB will sell its asset management arm to Allianz Global Investors for S$555m, covering operations in Singapore and Brunei among other markets, with a long-term distribution partnership that keeps UOB advising customers. Business & Trade: Proton reported exporting 1,398 cars in July—its best month in 13 years—citing stronger demand and expanded regional production, with Brunei among recent export-linked launches. Local Public Safety (Brunei): Brunei’s central bank warned the public against AI-generated scam videos and AI investment scams. Environment & Research (Brunei-linked): A new study on Asian oaks found 74% of 54 threatened or data-deficient species lack living backup in botanical collections, including Brunei; another report warns tropical forests could face unprecedented heat by 2050. Culture & Education (Brunei): The Sultan Qaboos Institute in Manah concluded its 62nd Arabic course, with a Brunei student presenting on AI in learning.

ASEAN Civil Service Innovation: Prime Minister Hun Manet urged people-centered, results-driven innovation to bridge the digital gap at ASEAN’s civil service meeting in Siem Reap, stressing cross-border knowledge sharing. Brunei in Regional Culture & Learning: A student from Brunei presented on “Artificial Intelligence and its application in learning” at the Sultan Qaboos Institute’s conclusion ceremony for its 62nd Arabic course, which welcomed learners from 17 countries. Wealth & Banking Deal: UOB is selling its asset management arm to Allianz Global Investors for S$555 million, with a long-term distribution partnership covering UOBAM’s franchise across Singapore, Brunei and more markets. EV Export Momentum: JMEV said overseas sales jumped 99% in the first half of 2026, adding export markets including Brunei and expanding right-hand-drive models. AI Jobs Warning: A World Bank report says job displacement risk from AI is far higher in high-income countries than in lower-income economies. Fertiliser Relief for Farmers: Ravensdown returned to profit and will restart farmer rebates after a four-year gap, with $15 per tonne payouts on qualifying tonnes.

Brunei-Linked Energy & Infrastructure: Subsea7 won a contract worth up to $150m from Brunei Shell Petroleum for offshore pipeline replacement work, with engineering starting from its Kuala Lumpur office. Regional Trade Policy: Korea said it will review joining CPTPP to expand export markets beyond traditional destinations, with Brunei listed as a CPTPP member. Finance & Wealth: UOB agreed to sell its asset management arm to Allianz Global Investors for S$555m, covering the UOB Asset Management franchise across Singapore and Brunei, as UOB shifts toward wealth advisory and distribution. Local Community & Tourism: Tutong District held a festival with a parade, fireworks and bazaar, aiming to boost community ties and support micro, small and medium enterprises while promoting Tutong as a business and tourism destination. Maritime Security: RIMPAC 2026 wrapped up after five weeks of drills involving 30 nations, reinforcing Indo-Pacific sea-lane security cooperation.

Brunei & ASEAN Spotlight: A new World Bank push highlights how regional economies are trying to stay resilient amid shocks—on the Philippines side, the lender urged widening the tax base and accelerating power reforms to cut electricity costs and reduce dependence on imported fuel. Maritime Security: RIMPAC 2026 wrapped its 30th run with 30 nations and record participation, underscoring Indo-Pacific readiness and interoperability. South China Sea / Cables: Taiwan warned a Chinese-flagged “research vessel” after it was spotted loitering over the US-Taiwan Pacific Light Cable Network, raising fresh concerns about intelligence-gathering near critical infrastructure. Trade Policy: Korea said it will review joining CPTPP to expand export markets, including ASEAN, while managing sensitive impacts on agriculture and fisheries. Brunei-linked Energy Contract: Subsea7 won a pipeline replacement job offshore Brunei Shell Petroleum worth up to $150m, with engineering starting from its Kuala Lumpur office. Local Community: Tutong’s festival drew hundreds with a parade, fireworks and bazaar, aiming to boost micro, small and medium enterprises and tourism.

Brunei & Regional Security: RIMPAC 2026, the world’s biggest maritime drill, wrapped up after five weeks of training with 30 nations and more than 30,000 personnel, reinforcing Indo-Pacific sea-lane security. ASEAN Diplomacy: ASEAN upgraded ties with Turkey to a full dialogue partnership, with Malaysia coordinating the relationship. Brunei-Linked Energy/Industry: Subsea7 won a contract worth up to $150m from Brunei Shell Petroleum for offshore pipeline replacement work. Finance & Payments: Mastercard reshuffled Asia Pacific leadership, naming Ling Hai as CFO and adding new senior executives including Joyce Bo for core payments. Philippines Development Watch: The World Bank approved a $268.62m water and sanitation project for Philippine islands, while keeping 2026 growth forecast at 3.7% and warning 2027 could be slower amid weak investment. Local Governance & Community: Tutong’s festival drew hundreds for a parade, fireworks and bazaar, aimed at boosting micro, small and medium enterprises and tourism. Scams Alert (Brunei): Brunei’s central bank and BDCB warned the public about AI-generated investment and scam videos.

Brunei Finance Watch: Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB) warned the public about AI-generated scam videos after a fraudulent clip used its name to push an investment scheme, stressing it has not assessed, approved or endorsed anything promoted in the video. Energy & Growth: The World Bank urged the Philippines to accelerate power sector reforms to cut electricity costs and reduce dependence on imported fuel, warning external shocks can quickly hit an economy that relies heavily on fossil fuels and imported crude. Regional Economy: A World Bank update kept the Philippines’ 2026 growth forecast at 3.7% but trimmed 2027 to 5.2%, citing weaker investment and slower project execution. ASEAN Outlook: An issue brief says ASEAN-5 is well placed for sustained growth amid geoeconomic fragmentation, but faces trade disruptions and climate risks. Brunei Business: Subsea7 won a contract worth up to $150m from Brunei Shell Petroleum for offshore pipeline replacement work. Local Culture: Tutong’s festival drew hundreds with a parade, fireworks and bazaar, aiming to boost community ties and support micro, small and medium enterprises.

Brunei Economy & Finance: Brunei’s central bank (BDCB) has warned the public about AI-generated scam videos that impersonate officials and push fake investment schemes, stressing it has not approved or endorsed any such products and urging people to verify via official BDCB channels. Energy & Infrastructure: Subsea7 has won a contract worth up to $150m from Brunei Shell Petroleum for offshore pipeline replacement work, with engineering starting from its Kuala Lumpur office. Tourism & Growth: Brunei’s Tutong District festival drew hundreds with a parade, fireworks and bazaar, with organisers saying it supports micro, small and medium enterprises and boosts the district’s tourism appeal. Mobility & Research: UTB hosted an international sharing session on smart mobility and sustainable cities, focusing on traffic management, transportation systems and electric vehicles. Regional Business & Talent: YEAB represented Brunei at the ASEAN-China Young Leaders Exchange Festival 2026, meeting regional partners and touring major renewable energy and smart grid facilities.

AI Scam Alerts: Brunei’s central bank (BDCB) warned the public about AI-generated or manipulated videos that impersonate officials to push fake investment schemes, stressing it has not approved or endorsed any such product and urging people to verify via official BDCB channels. Local Festival Buzz: Tutong District held a community festival with a parade, fireworks and bazaar, aiming to strengthen social ties and boost micro, small and medium enterprises while promoting Tutong as a tourism and business destination. Regional Finance & Payments: Boubyan Bank said it successfully closed a $300 million, three-year Sharia-compliant syndicated facility with HSBC leading and participation including Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, while a separate ASEAN payments push highlights linked QR systems across the region. Transport & Mobility: UTB hosted an international sharing session on smart mobility and sustainable cities, focusing on traffic management, transport systems and electric vehicles. Business in Brunei: Maju Motors launched the BYD ATTO 2 compact plug-in hybrid SUV in Brunei, positioning it as a more accessible hybrid option.

Fuel Prices: Australia’s fuel excise cut ends at midnight, with petrol pump prices set to rise as the rate returns to a higher level. South China Sea: China issued tighter management rules for the Huangyan Dao National Nature Reserve, including bans on fishing, mining and extracting corals without approval, after military drills around the disputed shoal. Brunei Finance Watch: Brunei’s central bank (BDCB) warned the public about AI-generated scam videos that impersonate officials and push fake investment schemes, urging people to verify via official BDCB channels. Brunei Jobs & Trade: Brunei’s foreign ministry talks with Bangladesh focused on expanding employment for Bangladeshi workers in Brunei, plus stronger business links, a possible chamber of commerce, and better market access for products like pharmaceuticals and jute. Regional Water Funding: The World Bank approved a $268.62m Philippines project to expand climate-resilient water and sanitation in Bohol, Siargao and Jolo, aiming to create thousands of jobs. Transport & Mobility: UTB hosted an international sharing session on smart mobility and sustainable cities, featuring speakers on traffic management and electric vehicles.

Financial Scams Watch: Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB) warned the public about AI-generated or manipulated videos that impersonate officials to push fake investment schemes, stressing it has not approved or endorsed any such product and urging people to verify via BDCB’s official channels. Regional Finance & Payments: A new ASEAN-linked QR system is now live across multiple countries, letting consumers pay across borders more easily—while businesses still face the tougher work of scaling adoption. Brunei Mobility & Innovation: UTB hosted an international sharing session on smart mobility and sustainable cities, focusing on traffic management, transport systems and electric vehicles. ASEAN Youth Links: YEAB represented Brunei at the 12th ASEAN-China Young Leaders Exchange Festival, discussing green development and visiting renewable energy and smart grid facilities. Labour Market Talks: Brunei’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs discussed expanding employment opportunities for Bangladeshi workers, alongside manpower, trade, investment, energy and air connectivity. South China Sea Tensions: China issued new management measures for Huangyan Dao in the disputed South China Sea, including restrictions on activities like fishing and extraction—likely to further inflame the row.