BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

GRASSROOTS leaders were urged to be well informed and aware of existing Development Acts on land and buildings as unauthorised projects could warrant unwanted consequences.

During the opening of the development enforcement roadshow and briefing organised by the Ministry of Development for grassroot leaders of the Brunei-Muara district, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Suyoi Hj Osman highlighted the significance of the responsibilities held by village heads and penghulus.

“The role of the Penghulu and Village Heads in monitoring land and building developments around their mukim and villages are as the eyes and ears of the government.

"They are also the advisors to villagers should any of the acts and laws be broken,” said YB Pehin Dato Hj Suyoi.

Pointing out relevant agencies and stakeholders for such involvements, the minister named agencies such as the Town and Country Planning Department, the Land Department, Fire and Rescue Department, Electrical Services Department, Roads Department, Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation, and the Department of Environmental Health at the Ministry of Health.

“I recommend the Penghulu and Village Head assist the government in advising their villagers on the existing acts and laws and not side with them should any violations occur,” added the development minister.

Failure to relay any information regarding violations on the existing acts and laws would result in potential fire hazards, loss of life, and the destruction of property.

The minister also urged relevant stakeholders to take an integrated approach in dealing with the matter and be steadfast in carrying out their duties.

“Complete and necessary information of violation is required before any enforcement can be carried out. Each report regarding a breach or wrongdoing has to be investigated so we avoid taking action without a solid foundation as this could give rise to (public) concern and a lack of confidence from the public regarding the acts,” explained the development minister.

In view of this, the minister urged the relevant stakeholders to collect information that is relevant, precise and accompanied with additional photos and information that can be used to give rise to a decision that is fair and impartial.

Additionally, YB Pehin Dato Hj Suyoi said that members of the public should play their part as well and respect the existing acts that has exists only for the better good for all parties.

The Brunei Times