BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

THE recently-established unit under the Prime Minister’s Office will immediately address problems and challenges that hinder agencies from meeting development targets, the Second Minister of Finance at the Prime Minister’s Office said.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Hj Abd Rahman Hj Ibrahim said the unit will be responsible for monitoring targets of the National Development Plan using key performance indicators.

He said the unit will be working closely with agencies to create plans, monitor implementation as well as provide advice and assistance.

During the 10th Legislative Council session, he said the permanent secretary at the Prime Minister’s Office will head the new unit.

The unit will report directly to the steering committee chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, he said.

The minister further said the head of the unit will be supported by project teams assigned to accomplish targets in key areas together with relevant ministries.

It will operate by creating strong relationships across multiple fields with stakeholders including the public and the agencies responsible for achieving the targets, he added.

YB Pehin Dato Hj Abd Rahman said periodic reports will be presented to the Steering Committee.

“The approach of this unit may be described as a supporting agency that helps other agencies to succeed. All credits of the success are owned by the agencies.

“The approach, Insya Allah is expected to ensure that the implementation of development projects will be successfully implemented in accordance with the provision and utilisation of the plan,” he added.

The minister said the Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE) has also taken measures to ensure the implementation of the National Development Plan projects run smoothly.

During the LegCo proceedings, YB Datin Paduka Hjh Salbiah suggested the department to provide key performance indicators of projects in progress to ensure the objectives are achieved.

“Among the projects taken into account include projects that can lead to revenue increase and also reduce the country’s expenses along with projects that will create employment opportunities, particularly in the private sector,” said YB Pehin Dato Hj Abd Rahman.

Projects that can improve commercial activity, particularly exports of non-oil and gas and attract foreign investments are considered.

Other projects that will be taken into account are those that will contribute to social development and improve the living standards of the country’s citizens and residents.

Projects that can provide sustainable infrastructure to help improve productivity in the public and private sectors are also included.

JPKE will also remove National Development Plan projects that have no progress in the first year as well as ensure payment is made according to the contract, he added.

The Brunei Times