HM raises concern over road fatalities

Says Vision 2035 needs more agility

HIS Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday said that all parties, especially members of the police force, need to increase their alertness and presence in implementing laws to prevent road accidents.

Delivering the titah on the eve of the 28th National Day Celebration, His Majesty also commented on the issue of road safety. "The fatality rate caused by road accidents is deeply worrying," he added.

"What is more worrying is that the majority of these accidents involve young people, with causes attributed to carelessness, lack of courtesy, driving beyond the speed limit and not observing (road) regulations," said the monarch.

"If these are the causes, do we not need to find ways to prevent them?" His Majesty asked, adding that finding ways to prevent these accidents is an urgent necessity.

"One preventive measure is through law enforcement. Regulations are already in place, whether they pertain to safety belts or the usage of mobile phones while driving. But are these regulations fully enforced? If they are not, then this indicates that we have yet to undertake preventive measures," said His Majesty.

"So what is needed here is for all parties to step forward. In particular, the police force must be more vigilant and increase their presence in the implementation of regulations," he added.

A further important aspect of prevention is to ensure that the main roads are in excellent condition so as to comply with safety requirements of the highest standards, His Majesty said.

"All these prevention methods will only bring results that are effective when cultivated through promotion and enforcement that is consistent," said His Majesty.

Another issue His Majesty touched on was the 10th National Development Plan or Rancangan Kemajuan Negara ke-10 (RKN 10).

"Soon we will be entering the 2012/2013 fiscal year and will begin the 10th National Development Plan (RKN ke-10)," said His Majesty.

"We realise that with the performance of implementation of development programmes, we are not free from facing various challenges, especially the challenge of capacity that is limited. However, this is not an excuse for us to be weak," said His Majesty.

"In our journey towards achieving the target of Vision 2035, we need to be more agile and assertive. Any target missed or delayed needs to be quicken and targets that have gone out of focus need to be put back in place," said His Majesty.

"In any of our actions, well-mapped out plans are a basic necessity. And for accomplishments, the targets need to be measured more objectively," said His Majesty.

Earlier in his titah, His Majesty said we need to strengthen our self-identity (jati diri) as Bruneians.

'Throughout the 28 years since independence, this country, Alhamdulillah has succeeded in preserving peace and prosperity," said His Majesty.

His Majesty then prayed that this would be continued so that it can be enjoyed by the generations to come.

"Our orientation in mapping out development follows a global pattern. Because we do not only look at the twists and turns of life in the country, but need to learn from incidents and happenings in a world without boundaries," said His Majesty.

"However, in all cases, we need to strengthen our self-identity as Bruneian people who are obedient to religion, respectful and courteous, refined and well-mannered," said His Majesty.

"Do not be quick in following trends, but be courteous and patriotic in defending and practising valuable heritage, such as good morals, the national language and such. All these elements signify our existence," said His Majesty.

His Majesty had also touched on the roles of the Civil Service.

The Civil Service, as government "machinery" for administration, plays a main role in continuing the generating of new ideas, improving capacity and finding non-conventional means of handling the country's needs that is becoming more complex and challenging in the 21st century, said His Majesty.

Towards the end of the titah, His Majesty touched on maintaining good diplomatic relationships with neighbouring countries.

"Apart from our development in the country, diplomatic relations with friendly nations will continue to be strengthened and enhanced," said His Majesty. "I also extend my appreciation to all levels of rakyat, participating citizens and leaders, including all members of the Civil Service, security forces as well as those in the private sector for their contribution towards the peace and development of this country."

The Brunei Times