Brunei's Maritime Sector: A Pathway to Economic Resilience

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – The growth of Brunei's maritime sector is poised to be a pivotal factor in the country's economic competitiveness, according to Dato Mohd Riza DP Hj Mohd Yunos, the Minister of Transport and Infocommunications. Speaking at the launch of Brunei Darussalam Maritime Week 2026, he emphasized that maritime development is not merely a sectoral priority but a fundamental component of 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, Dato Mohd Riza stated. To bolster this gateway, Brunei has initiated significant investments in maritime infrastructure, notably the expansion of Muara Port, which is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2027. This expansion aims to more than double the port's annual container handling capacity from 220,000 TEUs to 500,000 TEUs.

“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.”Dato Mohd Riza DP Hj Mohd Yunos, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications

In addition to increasing capacity, the project will introduce a 3.26-hectare Port Trade Zone, designed as a fully-fledged free-trade zone to facilitate the processes of importing, production, repackaging, and exporting. However, the minister cautioned that infrastructure alone will not suffice to generate economic value. He stressed that true value is derived from increased cargo volumes, 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, he remarked. The minister also highlighted the critical nature of maritime security, asserting that safe seas are essential for attracting investment.

“Our objective is therefore clear: to translate infrastructure into increased trade, stronger investment, higher productivity and quality employment opportunities for Bruneians.”Dato Mohd Riza DP Hj Mohd Yunos, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications

According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, global seaborne trade experienced a mere 0.5% growth in 2025, a stagnation exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, such as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing US-Iran conflict. Dato Mohd Riza noted that global supply chains continue to face geopolitical uncertainty, climate-related disruptions and increasing operational costs. He added that safe seas build confidence, which strengthens the economy, and a future-ready workforce transforms opportunity into lasting national progress.

“Safe seas build confidence, confidence strengthens the economy, and a future-ready workforce transforms opportunity into lasting national progress.”Dato Mohd Riza DP Hj Mohd Yunos, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications

The third edition of Brunei Darussalam Maritime Week serves as an important platform for dialogue, innovation, and collaboration within the maritime sector. Organized by the Maritime and Port Authority of Brunei Darussalam, the event brings together leaders from industry, academia, government agencies, and international organizations. This year’s theme, "Powering Maritime Excellence: Safe Seas, Thriving Economy, Future-Ready People," encapsulates the event's focus on fostering a robust maritime environment.

The three-day event, running from August 6 to 8 at Dermaga Diraja, features an exhibition with 70 international exhibitors and an industry forum where experts will discuss critical maritime issues. The event is open to the public daily from 8 am to 5 pm, with a break for Friday prayers from 12 pm to 2 pm. For more details, attendees can visit www.bruneimaritimeweek.com.