BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – Growth of Brunei’s maritime sector will be crucial to the country’s economic competitiveness in the coming years, the Minister of Transport and Infocommunications said on Thursday.
Speaking at the launch of Brunei Darussalam Maritime Week 2026, Dato Mohd Riza DP Hj Mohd Yunos said maritime development is “not simply a sectoral priority”, but will be fundamental to economic growth and resilience.
“The sea has always been the sultanate’s gateway to trade, food security, energy and international connectivity. Today, that gateway is more important than ever,” he said.
MTIC Minister Dato Mohd Riza and Chief Executive of MPABD Captain (Ret.) Zil Husam Hj Abdul Rahman officiate the launch of Brunei Maritime Week 2026. Photo: MPABD
Brunei has made significant investments in maritime infrastructure, including the expansion of Muara Port, which is slated for completion in the third quarter of 2027. Once completed, the project will more than double the port’s annual container handling capacity from 220,000 TEU to 500,000 TEU annually.
The project will also include a 3.26-hectare Port Trade Zone — conceived as a fully-fledged free-trade zone to streamline importing, production, repackaging, and exporting.
However, the minister emphasised that infrastructure alone will not generate economic value, but that true value comes from greater cargo volumes, more reliable shipping services, efficient regulation, and competitive maritime businesses.
“Our objective is therefore clear: to translate infrastructure into increased trade, stronger investment, higher productivity and quality employment opportunities for Bruneians,” Dato Mohd Riza said.
Guests walk by an exhibition detailing Brunei’s maritime history. Photo: The Scoop
He also highlighted the importance of maritime security, noting that safe seas are vital to attracting investment.
According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, global seaborne trade grew by only 0.5% in 2025. That stagnant growth has been compounded by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz since the outbreak of the US-Iran war.
“Global supply chains continue to face geopolitical uncertainty, climate-related disruptions and increasing operational costs,” the minister said. “Safe seas build confidence, confidence strengthens the economy, and a future-ready workforce transforms opportunity into lasting national progress.”
Author and historian Rozan Yunos gives a talk on Brunei’s maritime history. Photo: MPABD
Public invited to explore Brunei Maritime Week
Now in its third edition, Brunei Darussalam Maritime Week serves as a platform for dialogue, innovation, and collaboration across the maritime sector.
Organised by the Maritime and Port Authority of Brunei Darussalam, the showcase brings together leaders from industry, academia, government agencies, and international organisations.
Visitors stop by a booth displaying artifacts from Brunei’s maritime history. Photo: The Scoop
Carrying the theme “Powering Maritime Excellence: Safe Seas, Thriving Economy, Future-Ready People,” the three-day event runs from August 6 to 8 at Dermaga Diraja. It features an exhibition with 70 international exhibitors alongside an industry forum where experts will share perspectives on critical maritime issues.
The event is open to the public daily from 8am-5pm (with a break for Friday prayers from 12pm-2pm). For the full schedule of forums, exhibitions, and activities, visit www.bruneimaritimeweek.com
