AGP Executive Report

Cabinet & Succession: Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah announced a major cabinet reshuffle, creating new portfolios and appointing two younger sons as ministers—Prince Abdul Malik to the Prime Minister’s Office and Prince Abdul Mateen as foreign minister—signalling possible succession planning ahead of the Sultan’s diamond jubilee. Sports Tourism: Labuan kicks off its first-ever international 42km full marathon (June 6–7) with 3,372 runners registered from 16 countries, starting and finishing at Dataran Labuan, aiming to boost the duty-free island’s events calendar. Aviation & Careers: Royal Brunei Airlines welcomed 30 trainees under Cabin Crew Intake 151, its largest-ever cabin crew recruitment drive, with a two-year training programme. Blue Economy & Eco-Travel: Ocean Week Brunei 2026 launched at UBD, spotlighting marine conservation, sustainable ocean livelihoods and eco-tourism as part of a month-long programme. Regional Connectivity: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed an MoU at ITB China 2026 to strengthen access and position Sarawak as the “Gateway to Borneo.” Tourism Demand Watch: UN Tourism reported international arrivals up 2% in Q1 2026, but Middle East arrivals fell 14% amid ongoing disruption—potentially shifting travel demand toward closer destinations.

Cabinet & Succession: Brunei’s Sultan announced a major cabinet reshuffle, creating new portfolios and appointing two younger sons as ministers—an apparent succession-planning move amid global energy pressure. Aviation & Careers: Royal Brunei Airlines welcomed 30 trainees for Cabin Crew Intake 151, its largest-ever cabin crew recruitment, with a structured two-year training programme. Blue Economy & Tourism: Ocean Week Brunei 2026 kicked off at UBD, spotlighting ocean sustainability, marine conservation, eco-tourism and blue economy opportunities for Brunei. Regional Connectivity: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed an MoU at ITB China 2026 to strengthen access and boost Sarawak’s “Gateway to Borneo” visibility. Tourism Demand Watch: UN Tourism reported international arrivals up 2% in Q1 2026, but Middle East arrivals fell 14% after March disruption—likely affecting travel patterns and accommodation demand. Cross-border Health Tourism: Gleneagles Jerudong Park Medical Centre expanded its medical tourism push into East Kalimantan via partnerships with local hospitals.

Cabinet & Succession Watch: Brunei’s Sultan announced a major cabinet reshuffle, creating new ministerial portfolios and appointing two younger sons as ministers—an early sign of succession planning as the country navigates wider energy-market pressure. Aviation & Careers: Royal Brunei Airlines welcomed 30 new cabin crew trainees under Cabin Crew Intake 151, highlighting a structured two-year training programme and the airline’s push to grow its service talent. Blue Economy Tourism: Ocean Week Brunei 2026 kicked off with a month-long programme on marine conservation, community livelihoods and blue economy opportunities, positioning the ocean as both an environmental priority and a tourism-and-jobs driver. Regional Tourism Links: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed an MoU to strengthen connectivity and boost Sarawak’s international tourism visibility as the “Gateway to Borneo.” Medical Tourism: Gleneagles Jerudong Park Medical Centre expanded its medical tourism outreach into East Kalimantan via partnerships with local institutions, aiming to deepen cross-border healthcare ties in Borneo. Culture & Festivities: Gawai Taee celebrations in Kampung Taee drew thousands of visitors with parades, traditional food hospitality and performances, reinforcing Brunei-region cultural tourism momentum.

Regional Air Access & Tourism Partnerships: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed an MoU at ITB China 2026 to boost connectivity and lift Sarawak’s international tourism visibility, positioning the state as the “Gateway to Borneo.” Brunei-Linked Marine Agenda: Ocean Week Brunei 2026 launches 2 June at UBD, spotlighting “Ocean of Opportunities” and the blue economy, with Brunei’s maritime space tied to fisheries, coastal resilience and tourism potential. Cross-Border Medical Tourism: Gleneagles Jerudong Park Medical Centre expanded its medical tourism outreach into East Kalimantan via sessions with RS Parikesit and Bank Danamon, aiming to strengthen Borneo healthcare ties. Halal Travel Momentum in the Region: The Philippines pushes further as a Muslim-friendly destination, with halal-certified accommodation and dining, plus training for about 3,000 tourism frontliners. Events & Culture for Visitors: Kampung Taee in Serian drew thousands for the Birarak Gawai Taee Parade 2026, with traditional food and hospitality turning the celebration into a cultural tourism draw. Tourism Recovery Calendar: Malaysia’s Matta Fair plans to return in October with a stronger focus on tourism recovery, sustainable travel and the Visit Sabah Year 2027 campaign.

BIMP-EAGA & Connectivity: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed an MoU at ITB China 2026 to strengthen access to Sarawak and position it as the “Gateway to Borneo,” underlining how airline links can boost cross-border travel. Blue Economy Spotlight: Ocean Week Brunei 2026 launches 2 June at UBD’s Pro Chancellor Arts Centre, focusing on ocean opportunities and the blue economy—linking marine health to tourism, fisheries, food security and future industries. Medical Tourism Link: Gleneagles Jerudong Park Medical Centre expanded its medical tourism push into East Kalimantan via partnerships with RS Parikesit and Bank Danamon, aiming to deepen Borneo healthcare ties. Regional Relocation Interest: A survey on Southeast Asians’ relocation preferences found Singapore is the top ASEAN choice for living or working, with strong interest reported from Brunei among others—useful context for regional travel demand. Halal Tourism Momentum: The Philippines highlighted its growing halal-friendly tourism ecosystem, while Davao hosts the 11th Philippine Halal Trade and Tourism Expo (3–5 June) with a new Universal Halal Hub soft opening. International Tourism Outlook: UN Tourism reported international arrivals up 2% in Q1 2026, but noted Middle East arrivals fell 14% after March disruption—potentially shifting demand toward nearer destinations. Local Events for Visitors: Sarawak’s Nash Hash 5.0 in Sibu drew about 370 participants (including from Brunei) and was timed with Gawai Dayak to pull in visitors.

Borneo Connectivity Boost: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed an MoU at ITB China 2026 to strengthen access to Sarawak and push it as the “Gateway to Borneo,” underlining how airline partnerships can lift destination visibility. Ocean Economy Spotlight: Ocean Week Brunei 2026 launches 2 June at UBD, focusing on “Ocean of Opportunities” and the blue economy—linking marine health to jobs, fisheries, tourism potential, food security and climate resilience. Medical Tourism Link-Up: Gleneagles Jerudong Park Medical Centre expanded its medical tourism outreach into East Kalimantan via sessions with RS Parikesit and Bank Danamon, aiming to deepen Brunei–Indonesia healthcare ties in Borneo. Halal Tourism Momentum (Region): The Philippines ramps up Muslim-friendly travel with more halal-certified stays and dining, plus training for tourism frontliners—positioning itself as a growing halal tourism hub. Global Travel Watch: UN Tourism reports international arrivals up 2% in Q1 2026, but Middle East arrivals fell 14% after March disruption, with uncertainty and higher fares nudging demand toward closer destinations. Live Events for Visitors (Sarawak): Miri’s tourism deputy minister urged more performers to bring shows to the city, pitching live comedy and entertainment as a tourism and business boost.

Global Tourism Watch: UN Tourism data shows international arrivals rose 2% in Q1 2026 to about 307 million, but the Middle East saw a 14% drop as March conflict disruptions hit flights, confidence, and even capacity—potentially nudging travellers toward closer destinations. Brunei Industry & Tourism Safety: Brunei’s Tourism Development Department, with Brunei Shell Petroleum, held an engagement session for licensed travel agencies and tourist guides on safe tour procedures and managing visitor movements in restricted areas. Borneo Medical Tourism: Gleneagles Jerudong Park Medical Centre expanded its medical tourism outreach into East Kalimantan via partnerships with RS Parikesit and Bank Danamon, highlighting cardiac case discussions and Brunei-based advanced services. Ocean Economy Spotlight: Ocean Week Brunei 2026 launches 2 June at UBD, focusing on “Ocean of Opportunities” and the blue economy’s links to jobs, fisheries, tourism potential, food security, and environmental protection. Regional Connectivity for Brunei Travellers: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed an MoU at ITB China 2026 to strengthen connectivity and boost Sarawak’s international tourism presence. Halal Tourism Momentum (Regional): The Philippines is pushing harder as a Muslim-friendly destination, expanding halal-certified dining, accommodation recognition, prayer facilities, and frontliner training—an angle that may resonate with Brunei visitors planning regional trips. Travel Trade Push: Brunei is set to be spotlighted at Travel Meet Asia 2026 in Jakarta (23–24 June) as Official Partner Country, alongside the launch of Visit Brunei 2027.

Ocean Week Brunei 2026: The 2 June launch at Universiti Brunei Darussalam’s Pro Chancellor Arts Centre will spotlight “Ocean of Opportunities: Blue Economy for a Sustainable Future,” linking Brunei’s marine ecosystems to tourism, fisheries, coastal resilience and future industries. Medical Tourism: Gleneagles Jerudong Park Medical Centre expanded its medical tourism outreach into East Kalimantan via sessions with RS Parikesit and Bank Danamon, aiming to strengthen cross-border healthcare ties and position Brunei as a Borneo medical destination. Travel Industry Engagement: Brunei’s Tourism Development Department, with Brunei Shell Petroleum, held an engagement session for licensed travel agencies and tourist guides on safe, orderly, compliant tour operations and managing visitor movements. Connectivity for Sarawak–Brunei: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed an MoU at ITB China 2026 to boost regional connectivity and international tourism into Sarawak. Trade & Tourism Promotion: Brunei is set to be spotlighted at Travel Meet Asia 2026 in Jakarta (23–24 June) as Official Partner Country, alongside the launch of Visit Brunei 2027. Halal-Friendly Tourism Context: The Philippines pushed its “Muslim-friendly” tourism push, highlighting halal accommodations and dining, and linking growth to regional ties under BIMP-EAGA.

Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines connectivity: Royal Brunei Airlines and Sarawak Tourism Board signed an MoU at ITB China 2026 in Shanghai to strengthen regional connectivity and boost Sarawak’s “Gateway to Borneo” tourism push. Brunei tourism industry readiness: Brunei’s Tourism Development Department, with Brunei Shell Petroleum, held an engagement session for licensed travel agencies and tourist guides on safe tour procedures and managing visitor movements in restricted areas. MICE spotlight for Brunei: Travel Meet Asia 2026 returns to Jakarta (23–24 June) with Brunei as Official Partner Country and the launch of “Visit Brunei 2027,” positioning the sultanate for new travel trade deals. Muslim-friendly travel momentum in the region: The Philippines highlighted its halal- and Muslim-friendly tourism ecosystem, noting growing accommodation, dining, and services—an angle that aligns with Brunei’s wider BIMP-EAGA ties. Live events in nearby Sarawak: Miri’s tourism deputy minister urged more performers to bring shows to the city, calling it a strong base for live entertainment that supports local businesses.

Brunei Tourism Training: Brunei’s Tourism Development Department, with Brunei Shell Petroleum, held an engagement session for licensed travel agencies and tourist guides to reinforce safe, orderly, and compliant tour procedures—aimed at improving visitor safety and the industry’s credibility. Regional Air Connectivity: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed an MoU at ITB China 2026 to strengthen connectivity and boost Sarawak’s international tourism visibility, positioning Sarawak as the “Gateway to Borneo.” Muslim-Friendly Travel Spotlight: The Philippines is pushing harder as a Muslim-friendly destination, highlighting halal-certified dining, supportive accommodations, and cultural services—while pointing to strong ties with Brunei under BIMP-EAGA. Trade & Tourism Networking: Brunei is set to be the Official Partner Country at Travel Meet Asia 2026 in Jakarta (23–24 June), with the launch of Visit Brunei 2027. On-the-Ground Events: Miri’s tourism deputy minister urged more performers—singers and comedians included—to bring live shows to the city, saying it helps both tourism and local businesses. Eid Timing Watch: Brunei is among countries announcing Eid Al Adha a day later (Thursday) based on moon-sighting determinations.

Tourism Industry Training: Brunei’s Tourism Development Department, with Brunei Shell Petroleum, held an engagement and awareness session for licensed travel agencies and tourist guides, focusing on safe tour procedures, responsibilities around visitor movement, and understanding restricted areas to boost safety and professionalism. Regional Travel Connectivity: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed a strategic MoU at ITB China 2026 in Shanghai to strengthen connectivity and raise Sarawak’s international tourism visibility, positioning the state as the “Gateway to Borneo.” Industry Networking & Trade: Brunei was spotlighted as Official Partner Country for Travel Meet Asia 2026 in Jakarta (23–24 June), with the event set to launch Visit Brunei 2027 and bring together 1,500 travel professionals, buyers, and exhibitors. Live Events for Tourism: In Miri, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture encouraged more performers—singers and comedians included—to bring shows to the city, saying live events can energise local businesses and tourism. Muslim-Friendly Travel Calendar: Brunei is among countries that will mark Eid al-Adha a day later (Thursday), following regional moon-sighting determinations—useful for travellers planning faith-based trips. Adventure Tourism: Brunei riders featured strongly in Sarawak’s Borneo Island International Big Bike Festival (BIBBF) 2026, with large cross-border participation and a convoy ride to Kampung Lot Bako.

Tourism Safety & Compliance: Brunei’s Tourism Development Department, with Brunei Shell Petroleum, held an engagement session for licensed travel agencies and tourist guides on safe tour procedures, responsibilities, and managing visitor movement in an orderly, compliant way. Regional Connectivity for Borneo: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed an MoU to boost international access to Sarawak and strengthen its “Gateway to Borneo” push. Industry Networking in the Region: Brunei was spotlighted as Official Partner Country for Travel Meet Asia 2026 in Jakarta, with the event also marking the launch of Visit Brunei 2027. Halal Tourism Momentum (Regional): The Philippines promoted its 11th Philippine Halal Trade and Tourism Expo (June 3–5), featuring halal tourism promotions and a permanent Universal Halal Hub for MSMEs after the event. Muslim Travel Calendar (Regional): Several countries, including Brunei, announced Eid Al Adha will be observed on Thursday after moon-sighting decisions. Health Alert for Travellers: Brunei’s Ministry of Health said the risk of Bundibugyo virus disease spreading locally remains low, advising travellers to avoid non-essential trips to affected areas in DRC and Uganda. Ocean Creative Opportunities: Ocean Week Brunei opened entries for the Brunei Ocean Arts photography competition and youth ocean initiatives, with over BND5,000 in prizes and grants.

Tourism Industry Training: Brunei’s Tourism Development Department, with Brunei Shell Petroleum, held an engagement session for licensed travel agencies and tourist guides to reinforce safe tour procedures, responsibilities, and proper handling of visitor movements in orderly, compliant ways. Regional Air Connectivity: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed an MoU to strengthen connectivity and boost Sarawak’s international tourism push as the “Gateway to Borneo,” underlining Brunei’s role in regional travel links. MICE & Trade Spotlight: Brunei is set to be the Official Partner Country at Travel Meet Asia 2026 in Jakarta (23–24 June), with the event also launching “Visit Brunei 2027” to drive travel trade and business matchmaking. Halal Tourism Benchmarking: Brunei-linked regional coverage highlights the Philippines’ push to position itself as a Muslim-friendly destination, with more halal-certified dining, accommodations, and services—useful context for Brunei operators targeting similar travellers. Health Advisory: Brunei’s Ministry of Health says the risk of Bundibugyo virus disease spreading locally remains low, advising travellers to avoid non-essential trips to affected areas in the DRC and Uganda. Culture & Events: Ocean Week Brunei opened entries for the Brunei Ocean Arts photography competition and youth ocean initiatives, adding fresh creative angles for visitors and locals ahead of Ocean Week 2026.

Brunei Tourism Safety & Compliance: Brunei’s Tourism Development Department, with Brunei Shell Petroleum, held an engagement session for licensed travel agencies and tourist guides to reinforce safe tour procedures, responsibilities, and proper handling of visitor movements in restricted areas. Regional Air Connectivity: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed an MoU at ITB China 2026 to strengthen connectivity and boost Sarawak’s international tourism reach, positioning Sarawak as the “Gateway to Borneo.” Industry Networking: Brunei was spotlighted as Official Partner Country for Travel Meet Asia 2026 in Jakarta (23–24 June), with the event also launching “Visit Brunei 2027.” Muslim-Friendly Travel Benchmark: The Philippines promoted its push for halal- and Muslim-friendly tourism, citing recognition in the Global Muslim Travel Index—relevant for Brunei travellers planning regional itineraries. Eid Timing Watch: Brunei is among countries marking Eid Al Adha a day later (Thursday), based on moon-sighting determinations—useful for holiday travel planning. Ocean Week Brunei Opens Creative Calls: Ocean Week Brunei launched entries for the Brunei Ocean Arts photography competition and youth ocean initiatives, with prizes and grants exceeding BND5,000.

Tourism Industry Briefing: Brunei’s Tourism Development Department, with Brunei Shell Petroleum, held an engagement session for licensed travel agencies and tourist guides on safe, orderly, compliant tour operations and managing visitor movements. Air Connectivity & Partnerships: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed an MoU at ITB China 2026 in Shanghai to strengthen regional connectivity and boost Sarawak’s international tourism presence as the “Gateway to Borneo.” Industry Engagement: Brunei’s travel industry frontliners were invited to an engagement session aimed at improving how tourism services are delivered on the ground. Ocean Arts Call: Ocean Week Brunei opened entries for the Brunei Ocean Arts – Photography Competition 2026, plus Ocean Hero, Ocean Youth Grant, and Ocean Voices video initiatives, with over BND5,000 in prizes and grants. Health Watch: Brunei’s MoH said the risk of Bundibugyo virus disease spreading to Brunei remains low, advising travellers to avoid non-essential trips to affected areas in DRC and Uganda. Travel Trade Calendar: Travel Meet Asia 2026 returns to Jakarta (23–24 June) with Brunei as Official Partner Country and a Visit Brunei 2027 launch. Regional Travel Policy: Thailand tightened visa-free rules, cutting stays to 30 days for 54 countries including Brunei, and shifting some nationalities to visa-on-arrival.

Orchid & Floral Tourism: Resorts World Awana is hosting BUNGA 2026 (3–7 June) with an international orchid showcase and competition, featuring exhibitors from across Asia including Brunei—another botanical draw for regional travellers. Travel Trade & Partnerships: Brunei is spotlighted at Travel Meet Asia 2026 in Jakarta (23–24 June) as Official Partner Country, with the launch of Visit Brunei 2027 aimed at boosting regional connectivity. Industry Readiness: Brunei’s Tourism Development Department, with BSP, held an engagement session for licensed travel agencies and tourist guides on safe, orderly, compliant tour operations. Connectivity Boost for Borneo: Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines signed an MoU at ITB China 2026 in Shanghai to strengthen Sarawak’s international tourism presence under the “Gateway to Borneo” push. Ocean Arts Call: Ocean Week Brunei has opened entries for the Brunei Ocean Arts photography competition (plus Ocean Hero and youth grants), backing blue-economy storytelling ahead of Ocean Week 2026. Health Watch: Brunei’s MoH says Ebola-related Bundibugyo virus disease risk remains low, advising travellers to avoid affected areas in DR Congo and Uganda.