Singapore govt may weaken Sing dollar
Dreary: Cranes are seen at the Brani container terminal in Singapore. Trade numbers have fallen since New Year's Day. Pictures: Reuters, AFP
SINGAPORE
Thursday, January 22, 2009
SINGAPORE'S economy shrank the most on record in the last quarter of 2008 and the government forecast a five per cent contraction this year and a possible fall in consumer prices, which may prompt a one-off currency devaluation.
A government declaration that the economy was suffering its worst ever recession and official forecasts of a continued slump suggested to analysts the central bank could push down the centre of the trading band for the Singapore dollar, effectively devaluing it to help the key export sector.
The Brunei dollar is pegged against the Singapore dollar 1:1 under a bilateral agreement.
The grim figures, largely a reflection of Singapore's exposure to the slump in global trade, also pave the way for an expansionary budget today as the government scrambles to shelter the economy from the worst global financial crisis in decades.
"The Singapore economy is going through its sharpest, deepest and most protracted recession," the Trade Ministry's Second Permanent Secretary Ravi Menon told journalists.
Government data showed gross domestic product shrank in the fourth quarter at a deeper-than-expected and seasonally adjusted rate of 16.9 per cent, the biggest fall on record and the third consecutive quarterly contraction. Provisional figures had reported a 12.5 per cent slump.
From a year earlier, gross domestic product fell 3.7 per cent. That left 2008 growth at just 1.2 per cent, an abrupt turnaround from a 7.7 per cent expansion in 2007 when the stock market, financial services and property prices were booming.
The government downgraded its view of the economy for the second time in just three weeks, reflecting the rapid deterioration in the global economy that has seen much of the developed world slip into recession.
Singapore now sees GDP falling between two percent and five per cent this year, which would be the worst performance on record, with consumer prices flat to down one per cent.
"The official acknowledgement of deflation risks keeps alive a strong possibility that an eventual downward band re-centring could be on the cards in April," said Kit Wei Zheng at Citigroup, adding it could also restore some cost competitiveness.
However, the central bank said yesterday its monetary policy stance was intact after it moved to zero appreciation for the currency in October to counter the financial crisis.
It said it had no plans to review policy before a scheduled meeting in April.
Singapore manages monetary policy by adjusting the value of its currency in a secret trade-weighted band.
A sustained slide in prices can be damaging for an economy if it leads to a fall in demand as buyers hold back from making purchases in anticipation of yet lower prices.
However, Prakriti Sofat, an economist at HSBC, said in a note that the risk of sustained deflation in Singapore was remote since consumer prices would fall as the boost from high food and other commodity prices drops out of the annual price comparison.
The Singapore dollar fell to a low of S$1.512 against the US dollar after the GDP data.
The central bank said it saw no reason for a persistent weakening of the currency after it fell from a record high in July.
For key central bank and government quotes
"I'm bearish for the Singapore dollar," said Irene Cheung, currency strategist at Royal Bank of Scotland in Singapore.
"I expect monetary policy to remain accommodative they should have recentred the band earlier, but they might still do it the sooner the better."
The government expects non-oil domestic exports, which make up around 70 per cent of the city-state's economy, to shrink nine per cent to 11 per cent.Reuters
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Monday, January 12, 2009
Main reason for complacency in the civil service
Main reason for complacency in the civil service
Hj Duraman Tuah: Ex-Civil Service Institute senior officer. Picture: Rasidah HAB
RASIDAH HAB
BRUNEI MUARA
Monday, January 12, 2009
Poor enforcement of discipline has led to lack of work ethics, poor morale
THE lackadaisical attitude towards enforcement of discipline in the civil service is a major reason for complacency and poor morale among its ranks, a seminar was told yesterday.
A retired senior officer from the Civil Service Institute, Prime Minister's Office, Hj Duraman Tuah said this in an interview with The Brunei Times, after presenting his working paper titled " The Achievement of the Civil Service after Independence" on the final day of the "Regional Seminar: History" held yesterday at Universiti Brunei Darussalam.
The seminar was co-organised by the Sultan Hj Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation and Brunei History Association (Pesebar).
Hj Duraman said though his presentation focused mainly on the role of the Civil Service Institute in supporting all the government projects in the development of the country, his working paper, also highlighted the issues of poor discipline, complacency and low morale.
He said while still working with Civil Service Institute, he was involved in conducting courses and delivering talks to government departments, with the hope that the civil service would function better, but the main problem lay in the poor enforcement of government regulations.
He said if there was proper enforcement, civil servants would not be complacent, breach work discipline or take the matter half-heartedly.
" They think that the government would not take any action against them even if they come to work late," he said adding that all this boiled down to discipline problems which should no longer exist as the government could no longer tolerate complacency.
" There is also the question of morale, he said adding that morale in the civil service had fallen — no matter how well or bad they do their work, nobody cares," he said.
Enforcement is the main obstacle. Disciplinary action must applied equally to all, regardless of rank. "It is our culture in Brunei, that the subordinates would follow the example of the top people but they do not think that this involves issues of job responsibility or commitment on their part.
If comprehensive training were to accompany enforcement, with emphasis on character and work ethics, it will greatly benefit the country's development. "But we have not seen this," he added.
Since retiring two years ago, Hj Duraman felt that the situation had deteriorated and expressed his dismay considering that the effort put towards organising talks and courses had not really borne fruit.
"Don't put the blame on the system, the system is fine. The problem is in the way we implement it?" he said.
"The problem happens when those responsible have the perception that regardless of how they perform, they would still be getting their salaries."
If the authorities want to take action, there are appropriate regulations for them to do so, as specified in the General Orders (GO).
" Take action once to set an example, then probably the culprits would not dare to break the rules again," he said.
"Brunei cannot afford such complacency, not with the total number of civil servants in the country. However, it appears that this will continue to happen. How long are we going to tolerate this?" he asked.
" This is a reminder to us all. It is us that will have to take any good or bad implications from this. That is why in this seminar, element of history is included, so that we can learn from what has happened and not repeat the mistakes.
The Brunei Times
Hj Duraman Tuah: Ex-Civil Service Institute senior officer. Picture: Rasidah HAB
RASIDAH HAB
BRUNEI MUARA
Monday, January 12, 2009
Poor enforcement of discipline has led to lack of work ethics, poor morale
THE lackadaisical attitude towards enforcement of discipline in the civil service is a major reason for complacency and poor morale among its ranks, a seminar was told yesterday.
A retired senior officer from the Civil Service Institute, Prime Minister's Office, Hj Duraman Tuah said this in an interview with The Brunei Times, after presenting his working paper titled " The Achievement of the Civil Service after Independence" on the final day of the "Regional Seminar: History" held yesterday at Universiti Brunei Darussalam.
The seminar was co-organised by the Sultan Hj Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation and Brunei History Association (Pesebar).
Hj Duraman said though his presentation focused mainly on the role of the Civil Service Institute in supporting all the government projects in the development of the country, his working paper, also highlighted the issues of poor discipline, complacency and low morale.
He said while still working with Civil Service Institute, he was involved in conducting courses and delivering talks to government departments, with the hope that the civil service would function better, but the main problem lay in the poor enforcement of government regulations.
He said if there was proper enforcement, civil servants would not be complacent, breach work discipline or take the matter half-heartedly.
" They think that the government would not take any action against them even if they come to work late," he said adding that all this boiled down to discipline problems which should no longer exist as the government could no longer tolerate complacency.
" There is also the question of morale, he said adding that morale in the civil service had fallen — no matter how well or bad they do their work, nobody cares," he said.
Enforcement is the main obstacle. Disciplinary action must applied equally to all, regardless of rank. "It is our culture in Brunei, that the subordinates would follow the example of the top people but they do not think that this involves issues of job responsibility or commitment on their part.
If comprehensive training were to accompany enforcement, with emphasis on character and work ethics, it will greatly benefit the country's development. "But we have not seen this," he added.
Since retiring two years ago, Hj Duraman felt that the situation had deteriorated and expressed his dismay considering that the effort put towards organising talks and courses had not really borne fruit.
"Don't put the blame on the system, the system is fine. The problem is in the way we implement it?" he said.
"The problem happens when those responsible have the perception that regardless of how they perform, they would still be getting their salaries."
If the authorities want to take action, there are appropriate regulations for them to do so, as specified in the General Orders (GO).
" Take action once to set an example, then probably the culprits would not dare to break the rules again," he said.
"Brunei cannot afford such complacency, not with the total number of civil servants in the country. However, it appears that this will continue to happen. How long are we going to tolerate this?" he asked.
" This is a reminder to us all. It is us that will have to take any good or bad implications from this. That is why in this seminar, element of history is included, so that we can learn from what has happened and not repeat the mistakes.
The Brunei Times
Sunday, January 11, 2009
$22 million allocated for poverty alleviation
$22 million allocated for poverty alleviation
History seminar: Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Ahmad Hj Jumat speaking at the seminar. Picture: BT/Saifulizam
BRUNEI-MUARA
Sunday, January 11, 2009
IN 2007 alone, a total of 21,608 or 5.54 per cent of Brunei's total population received financial aid from the Community Development Department of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and the Islamic Religious Council. With a total budget allocation of $22.6 million per year, the fund is intended for the group of people classified under the relative poverty line.
This was noted in a key address by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Ahmad Hj Jumat, at the opening ceremony of the two-day regional seminar themed 'History in the country's development' co-organised by the Sultan Hj Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation and Brunei History Association (Pesebar) at Universiti Brunei Darussalam.
The future generation must play an important role in improving the quality of citizen awareness to an esteemed level. History can be used as a yardstick for the progress of a nation.
"For us to reap the benefits, we have to start appreciating history," he said.
"History is the best teacher in life for its major role in determining the greatness of a civilisation, race and nation," he said.
Through history, a generation would be able to know and appreciate their roots and distinguish right from wrong. The understanding of the progression of a country, especially in this unpredictable era, is imperative.
The minister hoped that the discussions from the seminar would help educate people on the importance of history in the development of a nation.
"We need to accept the fact that we are now in an environment filled with challenges, problems and competitions that must be conquered, managed and handled, he said.
"The future is impossible to predict. Change is the only thing that is constant." He added that Bruneians should not be afraid and must be prepared to take on future changes.
One of the government's main agenda in maintaining nation-building and to protect the country's competitiveness in the future was by investing in its human capital.
"Human capital is the only significant national asset, hence never compare human capital to other non-renewable resource."
To move forward in the global educational landscapes, Pehin Dato Dr Hj Ahmad mentioned that currently 30 per cent of Brunei's total population possess tertiary qualification compared to the current 9.58 per cent or 35,444 individuals with a university degree. Developed nations such as Singapore has a tertiary-educated population of around 35 per cent, United States and Australia averaging around 60 per cent, and United Kingdom with 52 per cent.
According to the minister, the seminar was held in accordance with the National Day Silver Jubilee celebration. Since the country's independence, its citizens in the Sultanate have enjoyed a good standard of living due to the sacrifices of our former leaders.
He said that in the next 25 years, Bruneians will have to ask themselves what they can do to contribute to the country rather than what the country can do for them.
The event also saw the launching of a book titled Tunggak, authored by Dato Paduka Dr Hj Abdul Latif Hj Ibrahim and a followed by a lecture titled " Physical development in history" by Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Abdullah Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar, the Minister of Development.
The seminar featured 16 working papers from local and international presenters. A total of 10 working papers will be presented today. (RSH1)
The Brunei Times
History seminar: Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Ahmad Hj Jumat speaking at the seminar. Picture: BT/Saifulizam
BRUNEI-MUARA
Sunday, January 11, 2009
IN 2007 alone, a total of 21,608 or 5.54 per cent of Brunei's total population received financial aid from the Community Development Department of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and the Islamic Religious Council. With a total budget allocation of $22.6 million per year, the fund is intended for the group of people classified under the relative poverty line.
This was noted in a key address by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Ahmad Hj Jumat, at the opening ceremony of the two-day regional seminar themed 'History in the country's development' co-organised by the Sultan Hj Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation and Brunei History Association (Pesebar) at Universiti Brunei Darussalam.
The future generation must play an important role in improving the quality of citizen awareness to an esteemed level. History can be used as a yardstick for the progress of a nation.
"For us to reap the benefits, we have to start appreciating history," he said.
"History is the best teacher in life for its major role in determining the greatness of a civilisation, race and nation," he said.
Through history, a generation would be able to know and appreciate their roots and distinguish right from wrong. The understanding of the progression of a country, especially in this unpredictable era, is imperative.
The minister hoped that the discussions from the seminar would help educate people on the importance of history in the development of a nation.
"We need to accept the fact that we are now in an environment filled with challenges, problems and competitions that must be conquered, managed and handled, he said.
"The future is impossible to predict. Change is the only thing that is constant." He added that Bruneians should not be afraid and must be prepared to take on future changes.
One of the government's main agenda in maintaining nation-building and to protect the country's competitiveness in the future was by investing in its human capital.
"Human capital is the only significant national asset, hence never compare human capital to other non-renewable resource."
To move forward in the global educational landscapes, Pehin Dato Dr Hj Ahmad mentioned that currently 30 per cent of Brunei's total population possess tertiary qualification compared to the current 9.58 per cent or 35,444 individuals with a university degree. Developed nations such as Singapore has a tertiary-educated population of around 35 per cent, United States and Australia averaging around 60 per cent, and United Kingdom with 52 per cent.
According to the minister, the seminar was held in accordance with the National Day Silver Jubilee celebration. Since the country's independence, its citizens in the Sultanate have enjoyed a good standard of living due to the sacrifices of our former leaders.
He said that in the next 25 years, Bruneians will have to ask themselves what they can do to contribute to the country rather than what the country can do for them.
The event also saw the launching of a book titled Tunggak, authored by Dato Paduka Dr Hj Abdul Latif Hj Ibrahim and a followed by a lecture titled " Physical development in history" by Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Abdullah Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar, the Minister of Development.
The seminar featured 16 working papers from local and international presenters. A total of 10 working papers will be presented today. (RSH1)
The Brunei Times
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Unemployment May Affect Stability
Unemployment May Affect Stability
By James Kon
Bandar Seri Begawan - Statistics from the Labour Department last year showed that 113,621 foreigners and locals were employed in the private sector. Out of the total, 78,658 or 69.2 per cent are foreign workers, while the rest (30.8 per cent) are locals and permanent residents.
Most of the foreign workers are employed in construction, mining and manufacturing. While most of the local and permanent resident workers are employed in the financial, insurance and commercial sectors.
The statistics show that there are areas in confronting the issue of unemployment, especially by attracting more locals to seek employment in the private sector.
This observation was made by Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Awang Hj Md Yusof, the Minister of Home Affairs in his capacity as chairman of the first
meeting of the committee on tackling unemployment, yesterday.
The minister noted, "With the establishment of the committee on tackling unemployment, I hope that we together also can curb social problems like crime and drug abuse and at the same time support His Majesty's (the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam) aspiration in achieving further stability."
"Unemployment is a national issue that needs to be addressed and tackled by all stakeholders in the private and public sectors and the community itself. If left unchecked, it will have a negative impact on the social-economic stability and prosperity of the country."
Held at the new Ministry of Home Affairs building, the meeting was told by the Minister of Home Affairs said that in August 2008, a total of 6,025 jobseekers were registered with the Labour Department with 92.9 per cent of them holding qualifications below '0' Level.
"Many of these jobseekers still prefer to look for jobs that do not match their qualification," he said.
"Although jobseekers are employed in the private sector, many couldn't fulfill their obligations, causing very high turnover in the private sector.
"The sad part is that most of the jobseekers are classified in the productive group and are physically fit, however couldn't contribute to the economy of the country."
To tackle the worrying trend of unemployment, a committee on tackling unemployment was set up with the consent of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.
He said the committee on tackling unemployment is comprised of officials from the private and public sectors. Among the aims of establishing such the committee are to examine real situation in the job market; to identify the causes of unemployment among locals; to prepare policies and action plans as well as mechanism in tackling unemployment; to prepare and organise courses or programmes and activities that are more comprehensive as well as effective. "The committee also can invite any relevant authorities that can contribute information and opinions to tackle unemployment issues. The committee can also appoint a working committee to oversee the effectiveness of the committee."
The co-chairpersons of the committee are Pehin Orang Kaya Dewa Pahlawan Dato Paduka Haji Awang Dani bin Haji Ibrahim, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, and Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Eusoff Agaki Haji Ismail, Deputy Minister at Prime Minister's Office. Other members of the committee include senior government officials and prominent figures from the private sector. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin
By James Kon
Bandar Seri Begawan - Statistics from the Labour Department last year showed that 113,621 foreigners and locals were employed in the private sector. Out of the total, 78,658 or 69.2 per cent are foreign workers, while the rest (30.8 per cent) are locals and permanent residents.
Most of the foreign workers are employed in construction, mining and manufacturing. While most of the local and permanent resident workers are employed in the financial, insurance and commercial sectors.
The statistics show that there are areas in confronting the issue of unemployment, especially by attracting more locals to seek employment in the private sector.
This observation was made by Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Awang Hj Md Yusof, the Minister of Home Affairs in his capacity as chairman of the first
meeting of the committee on tackling unemployment, yesterday.
The minister noted, "With the establishment of the committee on tackling unemployment, I hope that we together also can curb social problems like crime and drug abuse and at the same time support His Majesty's (the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam) aspiration in achieving further stability."
"Unemployment is a national issue that needs to be addressed and tackled by all stakeholders in the private and public sectors and the community itself. If left unchecked, it will have a negative impact on the social-economic stability and prosperity of the country."
Held at the new Ministry of Home Affairs building, the meeting was told by the Minister of Home Affairs said that in August 2008, a total of 6,025 jobseekers were registered with the Labour Department with 92.9 per cent of them holding qualifications below '0' Level.
"Many of these jobseekers still prefer to look for jobs that do not match their qualification," he said.
"Although jobseekers are employed in the private sector, many couldn't fulfill their obligations, causing very high turnover in the private sector.
"The sad part is that most of the jobseekers are classified in the productive group and are physically fit, however couldn't contribute to the economy of the country."
To tackle the worrying trend of unemployment, a committee on tackling unemployment was set up with the consent of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.
He said the committee on tackling unemployment is comprised of officials from the private and public sectors. Among the aims of establishing such the committee are to examine real situation in the job market; to identify the causes of unemployment among locals; to prepare policies and action plans as well as mechanism in tackling unemployment; to prepare and organise courses or programmes and activities that are more comprehensive as well as effective. "The committee also can invite any relevant authorities that can contribute information and opinions to tackle unemployment issues. The committee can also appoint a working committee to oversee the effectiveness of the committee."
The co-chairpersons of the committee are Pehin Orang Kaya Dewa Pahlawan Dato Paduka Haji Awang Dani bin Haji Ibrahim, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, and Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Eusoff Agaki Haji Ismail, Deputy Minister at Prime Minister's Office. Other members of the committee include senior government officials and prominent figures from the private sector. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin
Monday, January 5, 2009
Reforming school in Brunei
Reforming school in Brunei
Extreme caution: A file picture showing students setting up the robot at Robotech Olympiad competition at the PAP Hjh Masna Secondary School, Lambak Kanan. School reform should be carried out with extreme caution. No one is certain about the results of the intended and incidental actions brought about during the change.Picture: BT / Zamri Zainal
DR YONG CHEE TUAN
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Monday, January 5, 2009
STRATEGIC execution is an important component of strategic management in an organisation. Whether it is a for-profit or non-profit organisation, the change or the reform generally refers to the processes that support the strategic plan with defined objectives, indicators and targets. This plan must have considered all possible existing strengths and weaknesses of the internal environment including the board interaction with the school. The most commonly focussed areas are about structure, policies, systems, products, processes, finance, facilities, human resources and communications.
In assessing the internal environment, one must also identify the gaps between the existing conditions and the desired outcomes. These outcomes are about dealing with the external environment- tapping into the foreseeable opportunities or averting from the imminent threats. These external parameters are often related to the national and regional socio-economic development coupled with technological, environmental and political (STEP) changes.
During the process of strategic plan development, a number of iterative exercises on the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats, gaps, alignment, and desirable achievements of an organisation will need to be carried out. Some may conclude that the outputs would produce the most fitting strategic plan. Not quite, many consultants argue that these findings will vary according to the facilitator, leaders of the organisations, and any prevalent conditions. More interestingly, different set of prioritised issues being considered in the workshops will yield a different plan. Some sceptics dislike strategic study mainly because of this inconsistency and subjective arrangement for crafting a plan to suit a certain set of conditions.
From a commercial organisation perspective, this approach of creating change is necessary to garner confidence-employees, suppliers, customers and investors. New products, services or process improvements leading to cost reduction, efficiency, focus, and innovation are likely products of change. Total confidence is needed during turbulent times to effectively outperform the competitors.
But the limitation of this approach becomes noticeable when it is applied to non-profit organisations. The issues of bottom-line, growth, expansion and competitiveness are no longer the priorities. Customers are less likely to be influenced by cost leadership or differentiation strategies, and neither are quick fixes. Branding, consistency of purposes, improvement in the delivery of services and management stability are more critical in an NGO.
In the case of a school, reform should be carried out with extreme caution. No one is certain about the results of the intended and incidental actions brought about during the change. Effects in education improvement can only become visible over a number of cohorts of students. Meanwhile, providing any remedial intervention in between is made more difficult because of the lack of proper indicators.
Here, the author provides a glimpse of the major components of a school reform that is currently being implemented. The process begins at the board level- the fundamentals of decision-making are being examined and applied.
While consensual view is preferred, the board should adopt majority views of the members who should have equal access to information and adequate opportunities to hear and voice opinions.
At the end of the day, if a consensus cannot be reached, then the members shall respect the decision of the majority members, and adopt appropriate actions to support the decision. Naturally, the board needs to identify and embrace a set of shared values, priorities, and objectives of reform. Roles and responsibilities of subcommittees are defined and given adequate empowerment and resources.
The views of the subcommittees shall not be disregarded without proper deliberation.
More significantly, the strategic plan covers seven major initiatives:
1. Physical infrastructure development: It looks into the buildings, classrooms, labs, furniture, and information communication technology resources. For examples, use of projectors and multimedia systems are encouraged.
2. Academic reform: This examines the styles, pedagogies, psychologies and interactions of teaching and learning. The key concepts like "teach less, learn more", "immersive learning", and "be excited, have fun" are explored and introduced where appropriate.
3. Governance and management system: This provides clear guidelines on the administrative activities, communications, reporting mechanisms and authorisation. The basis of management system is continual improvement while maintaining consistency of purposes that are "balanced and objective".
4. Core and extra curricular activities: These areas are complementary to academic performance of students. Leadership, communication, presentation, analytical, artistic, and athletic capabilities are nurtured and promoted in the school.
5. Financial matters: Although these matters are directly related to governance and management system, they are separately classified because of the importance in the overall performance of a school. A school that is starved with finance is unlikely to provide meaningful incentives for change.
6. Interagency interactions: This component acts as a public affair or international office that deals with various levels of communications and involvement between the school and other national and international organisations. Teachers and students are now being encouraged to spend time in overseas institutions to acquire new skills and knowledge.
7. Human resource development: A component that focuses on the recognition of performance, motivation and training for teachers and staff. This is an area that requires the maximum support because the teachers are the front line change agents.
Strategically, the board shall attempt to reap low hanging fruits first and leverage on resources to gain benefits-for the students, teachers, parents and the society. This is not the time for complacency and leisure. Work hard and play well.
The author teaches Operations Management in the MBA Programme at UBD. He can be contacted at ctyong@fbeps.ubd.edu.bn
The Brunei Times
Extreme caution: A file picture showing students setting up the robot at Robotech Olympiad competition at the PAP Hjh Masna Secondary School, Lambak Kanan. School reform should be carried out with extreme caution. No one is certain about the results of the intended and incidental actions brought about during the change.Picture: BT / Zamri Zainal
DR YONG CHEE TUAN
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Monday, January 5, 2009
STRATEGIC execution is an important component of strategic management in an organisation. Whether it is a for-profit or non-profit organisation, the change or the reform generally refers to the processes that support the strategic plan with defined objectives, indicators and targets. This plan must have considered all possible existing strengths and weaknesses of the internal environment including the board interaction with the school. The most commonly focussed areas are about structure, policies, systems, products, processes, finance, facilities, human resources and communications.
In assessing the internal environment, one must also identify the gaps between the existing conditions and the desired outcomes. These outcomes are about dealing with the external environment- tapping into the foreseeable opportunities or averting from the imminent threats. These external parameters are often related to the national and regional socio-economic development coupled with technological, environmental and political (STEP) changes.
During the process of strategic plan development, a number of iterative exercises on the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats, gaps, alignment, and desirable achievements of an organisation will need to be carried out. Some may conclude that the outputs would produce the most fitting strategic plan. Not quite, many consultants argue that these findings will vary according to the facilitator, leaders of the organisations, and any prevalent conditions. More interestingly, different set of prioritised issues being considered in the workshops will yield a different plan. Some sceptics dislike strategic study mainly because of this inconsistency and subjective arrangement for crafting a plan to suit a certain set of conditions.
From a commercial organisation perspective, this approach of creating change is necessary to garner confidence-employees, suppliers, customers and investors. New products, services or process improvements leading to cost reduction, efficiency, focus, and innovation are likely products of change. Total confidence is needed during turbulent times to effectively outperform the competitors.
But the limitation of this approach becomes noticeable when it is applied to non-profit organisations. The issues of bottom-line, growth, expansion and competitiveness are no longer the priorities. Customers are less likely to be influenced by cost leadership or differentiation strategies, and neither are quick fixes. Branding, consistency of purposes, improvement in the delivery of services and management stability are more critical in an NGO.
In the case of a school, reform should be carried out with extreme caution. No one is certain about the results of the intended and incidental actions brought about during the change. Effects in education improvement can only become visible over a number of cohorts of students. Meanwhile, providing any remedial intervention in between is made more difficult because of the lack of proper indicators.
Here, the author provides a glimpse of the major components of a school reform that is currently being implemented. The process begins at the board level- the fundamentals of decision-making are being examined and applied.
While consensual view is preferred, the board should adopt majority views of the members who should have equal access to information and adequate opportunities to hear and voice opinions.
At the end of the day, if a consensus cannot be reached, then the members shall respect the decision of the majority members, and adopt appropriate actions to support the decision. Naturally, the board needs to identify and embrace a set of shared values, priorities, and objectives of reform. Roles and responsibilities of subcommittees are defined and given adequate empowerment and resources.
The views of the subcommittees shall not be disregarded without proper deliberation.
More significantly, the strategic plan covers seven major initiatives:
1. Physical infrastructure development: It looks into the buildings, classrooms, labs, furniture, and information communication technology resources. For examples, use of projectors and multimedia systems are encouraged.
2. Academic reform: This examines the styles, pedagogies, psychologies and interactions of teaching and learning. The key concepts like "teach less, learn more", "immersive learning", and "be excited, have fun" are explored and introduced where appropriate.
3. Governance and management system: This provides clear guidelines on the administrative activities, communications, reporting mechanisms and authorisation. The basis of management system is continual improvement while maintaining consistency of purposes that are "balanced and objective".
4. Core and extra curricular activities: These areas are complementary to academic performance of students. Leadership, communication, presentation, analytical, artistic, and athletic capabilities are nurtured and promoted in the school.
5. Financial matters: Although these matters are directly related to governance and management system, they are separately classified because of the importance in the overall performance of a school. A school that is starved with finance is unlikely to provide meaningful incentives for change.
6. Interagency interactions: This component acts as a public affair or international office that deals with various levels of communications and involvement between the school and other national and international organisations. Teachers and students are now being encouraged to spend time in overseas institutions to acquire new skills and knowledge.
7. Human resource development: A component that focuses on the recognition of performance, motivation and training for teachers and staff. This is an area that requires the maximum support because the teachers are the front line change agents.
Strategically, the board shall attempt to reap low hanging fruits first and leverage on resources to gain benefits-for the students, teachers, parents and the society. This is not the time for complacency and leisure. Work hard and play well.
The author teaches Operations Management in the MBA Programme at UBD. He can be contacted at ctyong@fbeps.ubd.edu.bn
The Brunei Times
Friday, January 2, 2009
National resilience can face new global challenges: HM
National resilience can face new global challenges: HM
New Year titah: His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam delivering his New Near titah at Istana Nurul Iman. Picture: BT/ Saifulizam
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Make effective time management part of our culture
HIS Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in his New Year titah yesterday said the country, which is not free from new global challenges, can face them through national resilience.
The monarch affirmed that Brunei will continue holding consultations and making appropriate decisions in the international arena, as well as national level, adding that "plans and long-term solutions will be drawn up to face the unpredictable future."
"Even though we don't know the answers to the complex global challenges today, we need to prepare ourselves for the future. My government will always create evaluations and appropriate improvements wherever necessary," said the monarch, who was speaking in a customary titah delivered annually to mark the New Year.
"We are not free from various new challenges which no person can predict. This in turn will establish national resilience, which plays an important role in guaranteeing national development and prosperity." Citing the financial crisis, economic turmoil, social ills, environmental degradation and political instability experienced in the majority of countries worldwide, the monarch said: "With the blessing of Allah SWT, our country is free from problems and we are fortunate to enjoy peace and harmony."
His Majesty alluded to the Wawasan Brunei 2035 (National Vision 2035), which outlines strategies and policies for the development of all sectors in the country and also includes the National Development Plan (RKN 2007-2012).
"Wawasan consists of an outline for the future — driving development in a more systematic way in line with the aim of becoming a country with high-skilled, educated, quality and successful citizens — with a goal of possessing a dynamic and sustainable economy," His Majesty said.
The monarch underscored the significance of time, which he said is one of the more important factors in ensuring success in national development and productivity. "The characteristics of time is unique and different compared to those of knowledge, skill or wealth. It is not uncommon for humans to chase after knowledge and wealth — but not many are not aware of the importance of time, more than anything else," the monarch said.
"That said, time is one of the essence in carrying out the development of national productivity and other progresses."
"Every plan must be executed quickly and completed on time. This is the way to place value on time, by making it part of our culture."
"Efficiency creates change, and renewal and improvements are the usual practices of a successful country," he said.
The monarch in his titah expressed gratitude to all levels within the civil service, security forces, the private sector and all Bruneian citizens for their genuine efforts in conducting their duties and responsibilities in achieving happiness, prosperity and the development of the country. (HHM1)
The Brunei Times
New Year titah: His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam delivering his New Near titah at Istana Nurul Iman. Picture: BT/ Saifulizam
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Make effective time management part of our culture
HIS Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in his New Year titah yesterday said the country, which is not free from new global challenges, can face them through national resilience.
The monarch affirmed that Brunei will continue holding consultations and making appropriate decisions in the international arena, as well as national level, adding that "plans and long-term solutions will be drawn up to face the unpredictable future."
"Even though we don't know the answers to the complex global challenges today, we need to prepare ourselves for the future. My government will always create evaluations and appropriate improvements wherever necessary," said the monarch, who was speaking in a customary titah delivered annually to mark the New Year.
"We are not free from various new challenges which no person can predict. This in turn will establish national resilience, which plays an important role in guaranteeing national development and prosperity." Citing the financial crisis, economic turmoil, social ills, environmental degradation and political instability experienced in the majority of countries worldwide, the monarch said: "With the blessing of Allah SWT, our country is free from problems and we are fortunate to enjoy peace and harmony."
His Majesty alluded to the Wawasan Brunei 2035 (National Vision 2035), which outlines strategies and policies for the development of all sectors in the country and also includes the National Development Plan (RKN 2007-2012).
"Wawasan consists of an outline for the future — driving development in a more systematic way in line with the aim of becoming a country with high-skilled, educated, quality and successful citizens — with a goal of possessing a dynamic and sustainable economy," His Majesty said.
The monarch underscored the significance of time, which he said is one of the more important factors in ensuring success in national development and productivity. "The characteristics of time is unique and different compared to those of knowledge, skill or wealth. It is not uncommon for humans to chase after knowledge and wealth — but not many are not aware of the importance of time, more than anything else," the monarch said.
"That said, time is one of the essence in carrying out the development of national productivity and other progresses."
"Every plan must be executed quickly and completed on time. This is the way to place value on time, by making it part of our culture."
"Efficiency creates change, and renewal and improvements are the usual practices of a successful country," he said.
The monarch in his titah expressed gratitude to all levels within the civil service, security forces, the private sector and all Bruneian citizens for their genuine efforts in conducting their duties and responsibilities in achieving happiness, prosperity and the development of the country. (HHM1)
The Brunei Times
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Locals' new year expectations
Locals' new year expectations
MELVIN JONG
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Thursday, January 1, 2009
MANY locals are glad to see the year 2008 end due to concerns over the global financial crisis and hoping the new year will bring a more relaxing environment in all aspects.
"I am just going to take it easy and relax a bit in 2009," said a father of three who only wanted to be known as Martin.
The man in his mid-40s who runs a private business said that even though 2008 was a good year despite the global economic crisis, it had taken its toll on him both mentally and physically.
"It was tough. It might get even tougher in 2009 but I am hoping for the best," said Martin.
When asked about his expectations in 2009, Martin replied that he would be happy if everything remained the same.
"The country is already very good in terms of looking after the population. The country is very safe, has good benefits and also very good social services."
These sentiments were also agreed upon by a mother working in the construction line who requested to be known as Hjh.
"Brunei has done really well despite the global economic crisis, maybe because of the rise in oil prices," she said.
Hjh said that she is looking forward to 2009 as there will be a number of new construction projects which could help boost the economy of the country while also assuring her job security.
She also spoke about her anticipation of the implementation of the new national education system (SPN21) as her child will be part of the intake in just another couple of years.
Hjh added that what she really wanted for 2009 was world peace for everyone to live in peace and harmony, especially after all the wars and disasters that has burdened other parts of the world this year.
"I just want to get credits for all of my subjects in the upcoming GCE 'O' level exams while getting enough sleep," said Wang Eynn, a 16-year-old student of Chung Hwa Middle School in the capital. He said that he was a "bit worried" about the upcoming examinations and feeling anxious to meet the challenge.
However, the eldest of three siblings said that he would prefer to spend more time with his friends and classmates in the new year instead of studying as it would be his last year of school.
"I just hope that everyone will stay healthy and enjoy themselves as much as they can," said Wang Eynn.
Ling, who is in her 20s, hopes to be in a more serious relationship with her boyfriend this year.
"I have already settled comfortably with my job so I am hoping to concentrate on some of my other issues in life," said the Malaysian who has been living in Brunei for the past 12 years.
She added that 2008 was just like any other year as it did not make a significant impact in her life. "It went by quietly, maybe because I am not really up to date about what has been going on in the country,"she said.
She said that it would be better to focus on the present than the future.The Brunei Times
MELVIN JONG
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Thursday, January 1, 2009
MANY locals are glad to see the year 2008 end due to concerns over the global financial crisis and hoping the new year will bring a more relaxing environment in all aspects.
"I am just going to take it easy and relax a bit in 2009," said a father of three who only wanted to be known as Martin.
The man in his mid-40s who runs a private business said that even though 2008 was a good year despite the global economic crisis, it had taken its toll on him both mentally and physically.
"It was tough. It might get even tougher in 2009 but I am hoping for the best," said Martin.
When asked about his expectations in 2009, Martin replied that he would be happy if everything remained the same.
"The country is already very good in terms of looking after the population. The country is very safe, has good benefits and also very good social services."
These sentiments were also agreed upon by a mother working in the construction line who requested to be known as Hjh.
"Brunei has done really well despite the global economic crisis, maybe because of the rise in oil prices," she said.
Hjh said that she is looking forward to 2009 as there will be a number of new construction projects which could help boost the economy of the country while also assuring her job security.
She also spoke about her anticipation of the implementation of the new national education system (SPN21) as her child will be part of the intake in just another couple of years.
Hjh added that what she really wanted for 2009 was world peace for everyone to live in peace and harmony, especially after all the wars and disasters that has burdened other parts of the world this year.
"I just want to get credits for all of my subjects in the upcoming GCE 'O' level exams while getting enough sleep," said Wang Eynn, a 16-year-old student of Chung Hwa Middle School in the capital. He said that he was a "bit worried" about the upcoming examinations and feeling anxious to meet the challenge.
However, the eldest of three siblings said that he would prefer to spend more time with his friends and classmates in the new year instead of studying as it would be his last year of school.
"I just hope that everyone will stay healthy and enjoy themselves as much as they can," said Wang Eynn.
Ling, who is in her 20s, hopes to be in a more serious relationship with her boyfriend this year.
"I have already settled comfortably with my job so I am hoping to concentrate on some of my other issues in life," said the Malaysian who has been living in Brunei for the past 12 years.
She added that 2008 was just like any other year as it did not make a significant impact in her life. "It went by quietly, maybe because I am not really up to date about what has been going on in the country,"she said.
She said that it would be better to focus on the present than the future.The Brunei Times
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