AGP Executive Report

ASEAN Culture & People-to-People Ties: Lawmakers from Brunei and eight other Southeast Asian countries wrapped up a weeklong ASEAN Parliamentarians Seminar in China’s Hainan, touring Haikou, Wenchang and Qionghai while discussing shared legislative priorities like environmental protection, agricultural modernization and the digital economy. Regional Health & Environment: Indonesia’s El Niño-fuelled wildfires are driving dangerous haze across Borneo and Sumatra, with millions at risk of respiratory infections and schools forced to close in places like Pekanbaru and Jambi. Cross-border Disaster Response: Malaysia received clearance to conduct cloud seeding in Indonesia’s airspace to help tackle the haze, with both sides coordinating prevention and early suppression efforts. Brunei Creative Economy: Bandar Seri Begawan hosts the People Arts Festival, spotlighting local talent and businesses while bringing in Malaysia for added cultural and community exchange. Lifestyle & Heritage: A spotlight on samping explains the waist-wrapping cloth tradition shared across Thailand’s south, the Malay Peninsula, Indonesia and Brunei, often worn for weddings and religious ceremonies.

Haze & Health: Indonesia’s El Niño-fuelled wildfires are choking Borneo and Sumatra, with the health ministry warning 3.4 million people face respiratory risks as schools close and families report coughing and breathing trouble. Cross-border Response: Malaysia and Indonesia are coordinating cloud seeding and firefighting after Indonesia cleared Malaysian aircraft to operate in its airspace, as smoke continues to hit Brunei and the region. Local Education Impact: In Sarawak, Education Minister Fadhlina was criticised over a haze post that critics say ignored how long unhealthy air has already been affecting schools and communities. Brunei-Malaysia Talks: At the 27th Annual Leaders’ Consultation, Malaysia and Brunei agreed in principle to streamline travel with a possible single-checkpoint system and pushed to speed up immigration processes. Culture & Lifestyle: Brunei’s People Arts Festival in Bandar Seri Begawan spotlights the growing creative economy, with community, food and coffee, plus cultural participation from Malaysia. Sports & Youth: Miri will host Malaysia’s first UCI Pump Track World Championships qualifier on Sept 5–6, aiming to grow cycling skills and youth participation.

Haze Health Crisis: Indonesia’s El Niño-fuelled wildfires are blanketing Borneo and Sumatra, with the health ministry warning 3.4 million people in seven provinces face respiratory infections; schools are shutting and families report coughing and breathing trouble as smoke crosses borders. Sarawak Accountability: In Kuching, Sarawak Anglican Mission Schools leaders chided Education Minister Fadhlina for a Facebook post implying haze “starting” to reach unhealthy levels, arguing Sarawak had already been affected weeks earlier. Cross-Border Fire Response: Malaysia and Indonesia are coordinating cloud seeding, with Indonesia allowing Malaysian aircraft to operate in its airspace, while both sides push prevention and early suppression as dry conditions worsen. Brunei-Malaysia People Flow: At ALC-27, Malaysia and Brunei agreed in principle to ease travel, including exploring a single-checkpoint system and speeding immigration processes with technical committees. Brunei Creative Economy: Bandar Seri Begawan’s People Arts Festival spotlights local lifestyle, food and community creativity, with Malaysia participation adding regional cultural exchange. Textile Spotlight: Nene Royal brought southern Malay textile heritage to the AGT stage, highlighting samping traditions across the Malay world.

Regional Health & Environment: Thick haze from El Niño-fuelled wildfires is worsening across Indonesia, with the health ministry warning 3.4 million people in seven provinces on Borneo and Sumatra face respiratory risks; in Pekanbaru, schools have been shut and residents urged to stay indoors as smog thickens at night, while Jambi has ordered home schooling for younger pupils. Cross-Border Response: Indonesia has cleared Malaysian cloud-seeding aircraft to operate in Indonesian airspace, as both sides step up prevention and early suppression ahead of expected intensification toward October. Brunei–Malaysia Cooperation: Malaysia and Brunei, meeting in Bandar Seri Begawan for ALC-27, agreed in principle to facilitate easier movement of people and are exploring a single-checkpoint system, alongside progress on border demarcation (about 50% surveyed). Culture & Community: Brunei’s People Arts Festival in Bandar Seri Begawan spotlights the growing creative economy, bringing together local talent and community lifestyle experiences, with Malaysia also participating. Lifestyle & Identity: A report highlights growing fear among some LGBTI Bruneians after the penal code’s death-penalty provision for same-sex sexual relations took effect earlier this year.

Transboundary Health Alert: Indonesia’s haze crisis is worsening, with the health ministry warning 3.4 million people across seven provinces on Borneo and Sumatra face respiratory infection risks as thick smoke forces school closures and keeps families indoors. Cross-Border Response: Malaysia has been cleared to conduct cloud seeding in Indonesia’s airspace, while both countries push tighter firefighting cooperation as El Niño-driven blazes continue to spread haze toward Brunei and beyond. Brunei-Malaysia Mobility & Borders: At ALC-27 in Bandar Seri Begawan, Malaysia and Brunei agreed in principle to explore a single-checkpoint system and speed up immigration processes, alongside progress on border demarcation and cooperation on security and search-and-rescue. Creative Economy Spotlight: Brunei’s People Arts Festival in Bandar Seri Begawan is drawing attention to the country’s growing creative economy, with lifestyle, food, and local entrepreneurship—plus participation from Malaysia. Culture & Identity Debate: A new wave of discussion is emerging around Brunei’s penal code and its impact on LGBTI Bruneians, as fear grows around enforcement and international backlash.

Health & Ageing: Amway Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei’s Jason Leng says a new Healthspan Summit is pushing Malaysians toward preventive care, with 2,000 participants and 60,000 health-screening passes used so far. Lifestyle & Sports: Onitsuka Tiger’s “Club 66” in Spain celebrated the MEXICO 66™ GOLF shoe, featuring Brunei-born actor Wu Chun and a two-day mix of golf, fashion and local cuisine. Regional Environment: Indonesia has authorised Malaysian cloud-seeding aircraft to operate in its airspace as haze worsens across Borneo, with both sides coordinating prevention and early suppression ahead of stronger El Niño conditions. Culture & Community: Brunei’s People Arts Festival in Bandar Seri Begawan spotlights the growing creative economy, blending local entrepreneurship with cultural exchange from Malaysia. Brunei–Malaysia Links: Malaysia and Brunei discussed easing border travel, including exploring a single-checkpoint system, while also progressing land border demarcation work. Rights & Society: More LGBTI Bruneians are speaking out against the country’s penal code, which includes the death penalty for same-sex sexual relations.

Transboundary Haze Crisis: Indonesia’s forest and peatland fires are worsening, with residents in Kalimantan describing breathing as “like smoking a cigarette,” rising respiratory cases, and some schools shifting to online learning as smoke spreads toward Malaysia and Singapore. Regional Fire Response: Indonesia says it has arrested 72 people suspected of starting fires and is ramping up ground and aerial firefighting amid El Niño-driven dry conditions. Brunei-Malaysia Travel Ease: Malaysia and Brunei, via ALC-27, agreed in principle to streamline border movement, including exploring a “single checkpoint” to cut delays and reduce repeated immigration endorsements. Border Demarcation Progress: Leaders also noted about 50% of the land boundary has been surveyed and demarcated, aiming to complete the process by 2034. Brunei Creative Economy: Bandar Seri Begawan’s People Arts Festival is spotlighting local talent and community entrepreneurship, with Malaysia participation adding cross-border cultural exchange. LGBTQ Rights Debate: Two LGBTI Bruneians say fear remains high under the penal code’s death penalty provisions for same-sex relations, amid ongoing international criticism.

Brunei–Malaysia Border & Travel: At the 27th Annual Leaders’ Consultation in Bandar Seri Begawan, Malaysia and Brunei agreed in principle to ease cross-border movement, including exploring a “single checkpoint” to cut down on lengthy, multi-stop immigration procedures and outdated regulations. Regional Diplomacy: The two leaders also voiced deep concern over escalating West Asia hostilities, urging restraint, respect for sovereignty, and safer maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Creative Economy Spotlight: Brunei’s People Arts Festival in Bandar Seri Begawan is drawing attention to the country’s growing creative economy, with local businesses and talent plus cultural participation from Malaysia. Culture & Lifestyle Tourism: Malaysia’s Tourism Malaysia signed an MoU with Foodie Media to boost Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 promotion, using digital content to highlight gastronomy, culture, and lifestyle for local and international audiences. Environment & Health: Indonesia intensified firefighting after forest and peatland fires spread haze that crossed into Malaysia and Brunei; police arrested 72 suspected arsonists and investigations target alleged fire-setting by companies. Rights & Community Voices: More LGBTI Bruneians are speaking out against the country’s penal code, with fear rising around enforcement and international backlash.

Brunei–Malaysia Diplomacy & Borders: At ALC-27 in Bandar Seri Begawan, Malaysia’s PM Anwar Ibrahim and Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah discussed deepening cooperation, with about 50% of the land border demarcation already surveyed and plans to streamline people movement, including exploring a “single checkpoint” to ease immigration steps. Regional Security & Humanitarian Concern: The two leaders also voiced deep concern over escalating West Asia hostilities, urging restraint, respect for sovereignty, and safer maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Creative Economy Spotlight (Brunei): Bandar Seri Begawan hosts the People Arts Festival, running Friday to Sunday, promoting local talent and businesses while welcoming Malaysian participation for cultural and community exchange. Culture, Faith & Rights Debate (Brunei-linked): A report highlights fear among LGBTI Bruneians after the penal code’s death-penalty provisions for same-sex sexual relations took effect, amid ongoing international criticism. Lifestyle & Community Cleanliness (ASEAN): Brunei-linked ASEAN U.N.I.T.E events in Singapore bring together participants from across the region for clean-up activities and cultural performances, tied to the Public Hygiene Council’s “Keep Singapore Clean” campaign. Environment & Health (Indonesia–Malaysia impact): Indonesia arrested 72 people suspected of starting forest and peatland fires as haze from major blazes spread across the region.

Brunei–Malaysia Relations: At ALC-27 in Bandar Seri Begawan, Malaysia and Brunei agreed in principle to ease travel with a possible “single-checkpoint” system, while also pushing immigration updates and accelerating border work (about 50% surveyed/demarcated, with completion targeted by 2034). Regional Culture & Lifestyle: Brunei’s People Arts Festival is spotlighting the country’s growing creative economy, blending culture, community, food and local entrepreneurship, with Malaysia participation. LGBTQ+ Rights: More LGBTI Bruneians are speaking out against Brunei’s penal code, with fears rising around death-penalty provisions for same-sex sexual relations. Public Hygiene & Community: Singapore’s Public Hygiene Council is rolling out a “Keep Singapore Clean” campaign on trains and buses, with ASEAN U.N.I.T.E events drawing participants from Brunei and other countries for clean-ups and cultural performances. Cross-Border Craft & Fashion: Sarawak social enterprise Tanoti is bringing Borneo’s living craft traditions into Kuala Lumpur mainstream retail and fashion, including a KL pop-up and runway presence. Environment & Health: Indonesian police arrested 72 people suspected of starting forest and peat fires, worsening haze that has affected Malaysia.

Malaysia–Brunei Leaders’ Consultations: PM Anwar Ibrahim met Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah in Bandar Seri Begawan for ALC-27, reaffirming deepening cooperation and strengthening federal ties with Sabah and Sarawak, while also discussing preparations for the MA63 Implementation Action Council. Border & Travel Ease: Malaysia and Brunei agreed in principle to facilitate people movement, including exploring a single-checkpoint system and speeding up immigration processes via technical committees, as about half of the land border demarcation work is reportedly completed. Regional Security & Humanitarian Concern: The leaders voiced deep concern over escalating West Asia hostilities, urging restraint and dialogue, and highlighting disruption to maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Brunei Creative Economy: Bandar Seri Begawan hosted the People Arts Festival, spotlighting Brunei’s growing creative economy with local talent, community entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange with Malaysia. LGBTQ+ Rights Debate: More LGBTI Bruneians spoke out against the country’s penal code, with fear and concerns about enforcement and international backlash. Aviation Cooperation: ASEAN air forces completed an education and training program to improve interoperability, with Brunei among participating forces. Local Business for Kids: Anwar supported Malaysia’s Little Entrepreneurs Day for children, encouraging early interest in business and saving profits.

Brunei–Malaysia Diplomacy: At ALC-27 in Bandar Seri Begawan, PM Anwar Ibrahim and Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah pledged to deepen cooperation and discussed MA63 implementation, while also agreeing in principle to ease cross-border movement and tackle immigration delays. Border Travel Simplification: Malaysia and Brunei are exploring a “single checkpoint” approach and directing technical committees to streamline procedures for travellers between Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei. West Asia Concern: The leaders issued a joint statement expressing deep concern over escalating West Asia hostilities, urging restraint, dialogue and safer maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Creative Economy Spotlight: Brunei’s People Arts Festival is drawing visitors with a mix of culture, lifestyle, food and local entrepreneurship, with Malaysia participation highlighting regional creative exchange. Young Entrepreneurs: Anwar backed Little Entrepreneurs Day in Selangor, encouraging children to develop business interest early. Royal Headlines: Social media chatter continues after Brunei’s Sultan revoked his daughter-in-law’s royal titles for conduct deemed “unbecoming,” sparking comparisons and debate beyond Brunei. LGBTQ+ Rights: More LGBTI Bruneians spoke out against the country’s penal code, which includes the death penalty for same-sex sexual relations, saying fear and uncertainty persist.

Royal Updates: Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah has revoked his daughter-in-law Pengiran Raabi’atul Adawiyyah’s royal titles, citing conduct “unbecoming” and damage to the monarchy’s reputation, with details still not fully spelled out. LGBTQ+ Rights: More LGBTI Bruneians are speaking out against the country’s penal code, describing fear around the death penalty for same-sex sexual relations and the wider international backlash. Cross-Border Travel & Culture: Malaysia and Brunei are simplifying immigration procedures at border checkpoints to make travel smoother between Sabah/Sarawak and Brunei, with technical committees also working through remaining land-boundary issues. Regional Air & Training: The Royal Brunei Air Force joined an ASEAN air forces education and training interoperability meeting, aimed at improving cooperation across member states. Food & Lifestyle Trade: Korean food franchises are pushing further into Southeast Asia, including Brunei, as brands expand beyond earlier limited markets. Craft & Fashion: Sarawak social enterprise Tanoti is bringing Borneo’s living craft traditions into Kuala Lumpur via a major retail and fashion push.

Brunei–Malaysia Travel: Malaysia and Brunei are simplifying immigration procedures at border checkpoints to make return trips between Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei smoother, with technical committees also pushing to finish remaining land-boundary work and noting progress on Petronas Carigali cooperation and gas output plans. Brunei Royal Watch: Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah has revoked his daughter-in-law Pengiran Raabi’atul Adawiyyah’s royal titles, citing “unbecoming” conduct and “lack of respect,” though details of the alleged behaviour were not disclosed; her husband Prince Abdul Malik remains fourth in the succession line. LGBTQ+ Rights: More LGBTI Bruneians are speaking out against Brunei’s penal code, which includes the death penalty for same-sex sexual relations, saying fear and international backlash shape how the law is experienced. Modest Fashion & Identity: A look at how Malaysian hijab brands like Naelofar and TudungPeople helped make tudung a mainstream, fashion-forward lifestyle—an angle that resonates across Brunei’s shared cultural scene. Regional Culture & Mobility: China expands visa-free transit for Vietnam and Kyrgyzstan, while Sarawak’s AirBorneo maps out new routes to boost Borneo tourism. Community & Learning: ThinkX Global launches a Singapore “Ventures with Impact Living Lab” to help purpose-driven startups become sustainable businesses.

Brunei Royal Affairs: Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah has stripped his daughter-in-law, Pengiran Raabi’atul Adawiyyah, of her royal titles with immediate effect, citing conduct deemed “unbecoming” and “lack of respect” that tarnished the monarchy’s good name—details of the alleged behaviour were not disclosed, and her four children’s titles were reported to remain unchanged. LGBTQ+ Rights: Two LGBTI Bruneians say the country’s penal code provisions—linked to the death penalty for same-sex sexual relations—continue to fuel fear and uncertainty since taking effect in April, with concerns about enforcement and international backlash. Regional Mobility & Travel: China expanded visa-free transit for Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam citizens, including 10-day transit through 65 airports/ports and 30-day visa-free entry for Hainan, while still requiring visas for work, study, or journalism. Culture & Lifestyle in the Region: AirBorneo plans to grow its Asian network, including Kuching–Singapore and new routes such as Kuching–Jeju, as Sarawak pushes tourism growth across Borneo (including Brunei links). Community & Learning: A Philippines proposal would embed South China Sea “West Philippine Sea” education into school curriculums, aiming to build public support for Manila’s claims.

Royal Updates: Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah has revoked his daughter-in-law Pengiran Raabi’atul Adawiyyah’s royal titles with immediate effect, citing “unbecoming” conduct and “lack of respect” that tarnished the monarchy’s name, though no specific incident was disclosed; her four children’s titles reportedly remain unchanged. LGBTI Rights: Two LGBTI Bruneians say fear is still high under the country’s penal code provisions that include the death penalty for same-sex sexual relations, with concerns about enforcement and international backlash. Education & Identity: A proposed sweeping textbook review in Indonesia is framed as fixing basics like production quality, but critics warn content changes tied to “nationalism and nationhood” could shift curriculum in a politically charged direction. Regional Travel & Culture: AirBorneo plans to expand its Asian routes, including links to Jakarta, Bangkok and Jeju, as Sarawak pushes to position itself as a Borneo tourism gateway—relevant for Brunei travellers and cross-border lifestyle ties. Halal Lifestyle Tourism: Vietnam’s Khanh Hoa province is building a Halal ecosystem—tourism, food production, logistics and certification—aiming to attract Muslim visitors from markets including Brunei. Sports & Youth: The SEA Badminton regional championships in Cambodia feature Brunei among participating countries, with young athletes competing across U16, U19 and U23 categories.