Brunei Economic Development Board meets lawmakers to expand foreign investment spillover

KUALA LUMPUR, 24 JULY 2026 —

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, June 23, 2026 – Brunei’s Economic Development Board (BEDB) convened Members of the Legislative Council on Monday to discuss how foreign direct investment (FDI) can better support local employment, small businesses, and long-term economic growth.

The dialogue, held at the Combined Security Operations Center in Serasa Industrial Park, focused on aligning FDI projects with Brunei’s economic priorities under the Economic Blueprint and Wawasan Brunei 2035. Discussions centered on maximizing spillover benefits beyond capital inflows, including job creation, skills development, technology transfer, and stronger participation from micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

BEDB Acting CEO Awang Daniel Leong emphasized the board’s role in ensuring investments generate inclusive benefits for Brunei. “Our mandate is not just to attract capital but to ensure these investments create meaningful opportunities for locals, strengthen industry-relevant skills, and open pathways for MSMEs to integrate into the broader economy,” he said.

A briefing by BEDB’s Head of Facilitation and Coordination, Muhammad Firdaus Haji Abdul Kadir, outlined key FDI projects in implementation and operational phases. Details on sectors involved, employment potential, skill requirements, and coordination needs were discussed, highlighting the need for continued collaboration between investors, government agencies, and local businesses.

The session also addressed workforce readiness, infrastructure support, and policy alignment to ensure FDI projects translate into tangible economic benefits. Members of the Legislative Council later toured two FDI-linked companies—Barramundi Group (B) Sdn Bhd and Muara International Fish Landing Sdn Bhd—to observe aquaculture operations, fish landing infrastructure, and export ecosystem contributions.

BEDB reiterated its commitment to strengthening linkages between foreign investors and local enterprises, supporting MSME readiness, and fostering greater participation in strategic sectors. The board aims to ensure FDI projects align with national development goals while maximizing local economic participation.

Malaysia Market Impact Brunei’s push for FDI spillovers could influence Malaysian businesses, particularly in supply chain integration, aquaculture, and logistics. Malaysian MSMEs in related sectors may explore partnerships or subcontracting opportunities with Brunei-based FDI projects, especially in food processing and export-oriented industries.

Sector & Company Specifics Barramundi Group (B) Sdn Bhd and Muara International Fish Landing Sdn Bhd were highlighted for their roles in Brunei’s aquaculture and export ecosystem. Their operations underscore Brunei’s focus on food security and downstream value addition.

Outlook Brunei’s strategy to deepen FDI benefits aligns with its economic diversification goals. Future policy measures may prioritize workforce upskilling, infrastructure upgrades, and MSME integration to sustain long-term growth. Further coordination between Brunei and neighboring economies, including Malaysia, could emerge as a key trend in regional investment flows.