Some 35 participants from the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), and local farmers completed 45 days of training on hybrid rice technology under the Project on Hybrid Rice Senior Expert Consultants in Brunei Darussalam.
Acting Director of the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood Abuzar bin Haji Md Tahir, in his welcoming remarks, highlighted the significance of the training in advancing hybrid rice technology.
“Over the past weeks, participants gained comprehensive knowledge in hybrid rice seed production, field management, soil improvement, and the application of advanced technologies,” he said. “This training has strengthened our collective efforts to enhance rice yields and ensure food security for Brunei Darussalam.”
Abuzar noted the experts’ visits to key agricultural development areas, including Wasan in Brunei-Muara District, Kandol in Belait District, and Lekiun in Temburong District, which provided insights into the nation’s unique rice cultivation conditions, challenges, and opportunities.
He added, “This exchange of knowledge has enriched both sides. While our farmers and professionals gained expertise in hybrid rice technology, the visiting experts deepened their understanding of Brunei’s agricultural context. This mutual learning underscores the strength of our collaboration.”
Abuzar shared that rice self-sufficiency in Brunei has increased from four to eight per cent, emphasising the training’s contribution to ongoing efforts in hybrid rice production.
He urged the participants to apply their newly acquired skills to improve practices in their roles. Looking ahead, he outlined plans to establish a Brunei Rice Research Centre to develop rice varieties suited to local conditions and set up local hybrid seed production centres, with the long-term aim of positioning Brunei as a regional hub for hybrid rice technology.
“We aim to build a sustainable and robust rice industry that not only achieves self-sufficiency but also contributes to economic diversification and regional collaboration,” he said. The training programme was organised by the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood in collaboration with Yuan Long Ping High-Tech Agriculture Co Ltd, with support from China’s Ministry of Commerce. Six experts and a translator from China facilitated the course.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) Hajah Tutiaty binti Haji Abdul Wahab was the guest of honour during the closing ceremony yesterday at the Setia Pahlawan Hall of the MPRT. Ambassador of China to Brunei Darussalam Xiao Jianguo, senior officials from the MPRT, and representatives from Yuan Long Ping High-Tech Agriculture Co Ltd were also present. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates by the guest of honour and the Chinese ambassador. – James Kon
