Human capital is the backbone of Brunei’s MSME sector, yet many enterprises face persistent challenges in hiring, retaining, and developing talent. Long recruitment processes, shortages of skilled workers, and high employee turnover hinder business growth, competitiveness, and service standards.
The 2nd MSME Roundtable Series will focus on manpower and workforce challenges faced by MSMEs. The dialogue will serve as a platform for business leaders, policymakers, workforce agencies and relevant stakeholders to exchange perspectives, identify systemic issues, and co-develop practical solutions. This roundtable directly supports Brunei Vision 2035 by striving towards a highly skilled, productive, and adaptable workforce that can meet the demands of a dynamic economy.
The Roundtable is hosted by the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB) and supported by the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Brunei Darussalam (NCCIBD), the ASEAN and APEC Business Advisory Councils of Brunei, and the BIMP-EAGA Business Council (BEBC Brunei), forming part of an MSME Series aimed at strengthening key sectors of Brunei’s economy.
Agenda
Registration and Networking
Recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah
Welcoming Remarks
By Yang Mulia Awang Daniel Leong,
Acting Chief Executive Officer, Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB)
Keynote Address & Scene Setting
An Overview of the Workforce and Manpower Challenges for MSMEs in Brunei Darussalam
By Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II, Cum BEDB Chairman
Session 1: Perspectives from Government Agencies
Insights on policies, current initiatives, and workforce issues
Session 2: Reflections from MSMEs and Open Dialogue
Sharing experiences and highlighting gaps in manpower practices
Session 3: Responses and Way Forward
Clarifications and commitments from agencies
Session 4: Next Steps
Strategic discussion on the way forward and key priorities to grow the manpower and workforce industry.
Closing Remarks
2:15 PM
3:00 PM
5:30 PM
End