8th Day of Deliberations Focuses on Flood Mitigation and Education Reforms

Bandar Seri Begawan: A proposal to build a dam as a long-term flood mitigation measure and alternative assessment methods other than the ‘O’ Level examinations were among the focus of deliberations on the eighth day of the First Meeting of the 21st Legislative Council session on 10th March. The council first heard the responses to several queries by appointed members.

According to Radio Television Brunei, Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Muhammad Juanda bin Haji Abdul Rashid, Minister of Development, outlined that 21 reservoirs were built under the Eleventh National Development Plan and have successfully reduced flooding in nine areas. The issue of which government entity can be contacted to assist in flood cleanup was also raised. In responding to the issue, the Minister of Development explained that the departments within the district authority area play a role in carrying out cleanup work in public areas.

Meanwhile, on efforts to conserve and preserve historic buildings, Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Nazmi bin Haji Awang Mohamad, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, explained that several measures have been taken and planned, including collaborating with UNESCO to obtain expertise in heritage conservation.

Regarding an alternative assessment other than the ‘O’ Level examinations, Yang Berhormat Datin Seri Setia Doctor Dayang Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Md Salleh, Minister of Education, explained that there are plans to change it, but it requires thorough preparation.