Throughout history, global shifts have affected peace and security. These changes have transformed national security priorities, expanding focus from traditional self-centric threats to a broader spectrum of non-traditional challenges.
Although a small nation, Brunei enjoys peace and stability, supported by a stable government upholding the Malay Islamic Monarchy philosophy and abundant natural resources, particularly oil and gas.
Brunei’s strategic location in Southeast Asia, combined with increasing global interconnectivity, exposes it to challenges brought by globalisation, especially in maintaining peace and stability. This makes a “Whole of Nation” approach vital in addressing complex threats such as regional tensions, terrorism and extremism, transnational crime, cybersecurity, and economic security concerns. Key government agencies have undertaken various domestic, regional, and international initiatives to address these issues.
The formation of the National Security Council (NSC), supported by relevant stakeholders, has successfully managed many of these challenges. However, the NSC’s long-term effectiveness remains uncertain, especially since Brunei has yet to formalise a comprehensive National Security Policy (NSP). National security directives flow through the NSC, benefiting from easier information sharing given the country’s small size.
Nonetheless, some gaps remain in achieving a collective understanding of national security across committees, resulting in unclear resource allocation. Different agencies face complications in managing their specific threats, which can reduce commitment and resource allocation. Issues such as varying budget levels, lack of assets, bureaucracy, and jurisdictional challenges hinder collaboration. These gaps risk growing as emerging threats evolve alongside dynamic global developments.
To enhance NSC efforts and close these gaps, establishing a robust NSP is essential. It would provide a clear security framework and strengthen cohesion among national security stakeholders. The NSP would also offer clear guidance for the NSC, supporting task delegation and execution.
In developing Brunei’s NSP, key principles must be emphasised and translated into organisational policies supporting the overall strategy. Maintaining national sovereignty is paramount, underpinning Brunei’s existence. This should include policies on national defence, security, and society’s role in defending sovereignty.
Stability reflects the nation’s well-being and requires collective effort. Upholding the Malay Islamic Monarchy philosophy is fundamental, bridging government and society to foster a sense of belonging and nationalism.
Economic prosperity also plays a critical role in national stability and should align with Brunei’s current Economic Blueprint, providing broader support for development initiatives.
Policy implementation must prioritise legality, especially in defence and internal security matters. Addressing legal grey areas beforehand is necessary to avoid contradictions that could hinder national security.
Transparency and socialising the NSP are vital for effective implementation. Stakeholders must understand their roles and collaborate closely with society. Transparency and awareness foster trust and encourage public involvement in national security efforts.
To improve coordination, the NSP should align with existing policies and strategies. It would provide a comprehensive perspective, reducing isolated efforts and enabling effective task delegation across stakeholders.
Sustaining the policy requires the NSC secretariat to conduct periodic reviews with stakeholders to keep the NSP current and identify emerging threats. Anticipating these threats allows for timely preparations in finances, capability, and capacity building.
In conclusion, globalisation has introduced complexity to challenges affecting Brunei’s stability. Given its geostrategic location and global interconnectivity, Brunei faces widening security concerns impacting its people’s stability and livelihood. The government, under His Majesty the Sultan’s command, has enacted multiple strategies to counter these challenges. Vision 2035 guides the country’s stability and prosperity, demanding commitment across all levels. The “Whole of Nation” approach is vital in realising this vision and securing Brunei’s national security. With the NSC and its committees, a national security management system exists; producing a formal National Security Policy is crucial to provide guidelines and strategic direction to enhance efficiency and adopt a holistic approach to national security.
Captain Mohammad Azrin Mahmud is a naval officer from the Royal Brunei Navy and is currently attending the National Resilience College, PUSPAHANAS.
The views expressed here are the personal opinion of the writer and do not necessarily represent that of Twentytwo13.
