BEDB Brings Businesses and Agencies Together to Discuss The New Medical Insurance Policy

Bandar Seri Begawan, 24 October 2025 - The Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB) continued its BEDB Engagement Series with the fourth session held on 21 and 22 October 2025 at the Main Auditorium, Design & Technology Building, Kg Anggerek Desa. 

The session focused on the socialisation of the new medical insurance coverage policy for various categories of Immigration Passes and Entry Permits, which is being implemented in two phases. Phase 1 officially came into effect on 1 July 2025, while Phase 2 is scheduled to commence on 1 January 2026. 

Organised in collaboration with key government agencies and industry stakeholders, the session aimed to enhance awareness, transparency, and understanding of the new policy among Brunei’s business community. By bringing together policymakers, insurance providers, and enterprises, the event provided a platform to address questions, clarify policy requirements, and strengthen collaboration in support of workforce and business development. 

Participating agencies included the Department of Labour and Department of Immigration and National Registration under the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Department of Policy and Planning under the Ministry of Health, and the Brunei Insurance and Takaful Association (BITA) representing 11 insurance and takaful providers. 

The event also saw participation from Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) companies, tenants under the BEDB industrial sites, and members of business associations including the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Brunei Darussalam (NCCIBD), Dewan Perniagaan dan Perusahaan Melayu Brunei (DPPMB), Persekutuan Peniaga–Peniaga Melayu Brunei (PPPMB), Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Indian Chamber of Commerce and the Chinese Enterprises Association Brunei (CEAB). 

Participants welcomed the opportunity to hear directly from the agencies and insurers on how the policy would affect their operations. 

“Having the chance to hear directly from the agencies and insurance providers helps us plan more effectively for our employees’ welfare. The clarity we gained here will support smoother implementation in our company,” said a representative from Digital Sage Enterprise. 

“It was encouraging to see agencies, insurers, and businesses come together. This open discussion not only clarified processes but also created a sense of partnership moving forward,” said the Secretary General of the Dewan Perniagaan dan Perusahaan Melayu Brunei (DPPMB). 

Dr. Li Feng, President of the Chinese Enterprises Association Brunei (CEAB), expressed appreciation for the briefing, noting that it was of great significance in facilitating the entry and exit of personnel from Chinese companies operating in Brunei. He added that the session provided valuable clarity and practical guidance on policy implementation, which would greatly assist companies in planning and compliance efforts. 

Mr. Shi Rongke, Economic and Commercial Counsellor at the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Brunei Darussalam, also conveyed his appreciation to BEDB for arranging the briefing for CEAB members. He commended BEDB’s efforts in supporting stronger engagement between Chinese enterprises and local authorities, describing the session as a timely and meaningful platform for knowledge sharing. 

Hajah Majidah Salleh, a local business representative, echoed similar sentiments, commending BEDB’s role in fostering stronger linkages between the government and business community. “BEDB has been an effective connector and facilitator, providing an important platform that encourages open dialogue and constructive engagement. This is important for small businesses to raise our concerns, seek clarifications, and develop a clearer understanding of government policies and initiatives that may impact our operations. This proactive approach has contributed to building confidence among industry players, enhancing transparency, and promoting a more collaborative business environment in Brunei,” she said. 

The two-day programme featured a total of four sessions comprising briefings on the new medical insurance policy followed by interactive Q&A sessions moderated by the BEDB, attended by about 375 participants who raised questions and concerns, seek clarification, and share constructive feedbacks. 

Through these sessions, the Engagement Series successfully enhanced understanding among employers, promoted transparency, and strengthened collaboration between government agencies, insurers, and businesses — thereby achieving the key objectives of the briefing sessions in supporting workforce welfare and ensuring business continuity. 

The BEDB Engagement Series continues to serve as a key platform for collaboration, transparency, and dialogue between the public and private sectors, ensuring that Brunei’s businesses remain well-informed, engaged, and supported as they navigate policy changes. 

Information about upcoming sessions can be found on social media @bedbrunei and via www.bedb.gov.bn