SYMPOSIUM TO STRENGTHEN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GROUNDED IN ISLAMIC VALUES

Today’s world requires more than just rapid progress; it demands principled, identity-driven development that yields enduring benefits.

In Islam, the concept of barakah (blessings) dictates that all development must be guided by pure intentions, executed through trustworthy governance, and culminate in outcomes that benefit both humanity and the environment.

This was highlighted by Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies and Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, during the opening ceremony of the Islamic Architecture Symposium 2026: ‘Barakah in Architectural Practices and Sustainability in Brunei Darussalam’, held at the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Islamic Khazanah Hall (BKISHHB) today.

Yang Berhormat noted that historical Islamic architecture has long demonstrated that aesthetic beauty and functionality can seamlessly coexist with spiritual values, modesty, and ecological balance. Consequently, this approach remains highly relevant in addressing contemporary challenges such as rapid urbanization, climate change, and the demand for sustainable development.

Furthermore, Brunei Darussalam, anchored by its national philosophy of Melayu Islam Beraja (Malay Islamic Monarchy), possesses a solid foundation to lead development efforts that preserve both its national identity and Islamic values.

Yang Berhormat further emphasized that buildings in the Sultanate should not merely be modern and functional, but must also reflect the nation’s distinct identity and aspirations.

Earlier in the event, the Minister extended his congratulations and appreciation to BKISHHB and the Organizing Committees for their efforts in hosting this significant symposium. He stated that such a program clearly reflects a continuous commitment to cultivating knowledge and fostering strategic thinking in nation-building.

He added that organizing the symposium aligns perfectly with the primary objectives of the Brunei Mid-Year Conference and Exhibition 2026 (Brunei MYCE 2026). The event aims to promote and expand initiatives centered on knowledge sharing, intellectual discourse, the dissemination of new findings, and the enhancement of networking opportunities among local and international scholars, which is expected to contribute to the growth of the tourism sector and the overall economy of Brunei Darussalam.

Yang Berhormat the Minister also expressed his hope that more symposium or similar initiatives will be organized in the future to support the hosting and implementation of the upcoming Visit Brunei Year 2027.

“I hope this symposium will yield resolutions, recommendations, and strategic collaborations that can contribute to a more sustainable and blessed future for national development. I also hope the younger generation will draw inspiration from this program to pursue careers in architecture, design, and future innovations,” The Honorable Minister further stated.