Been browsing thru some 'Brunei' blogs of late and most recently the 'lack of substance' idea brought up on formely LSM.com and seconded on Turquoise and Roses.
We can blame it on the education system or even our own culture for this 'sydrome'. The idea of voicing out ideas, concerns and criticisms are some what not part of our 'operating system'. Perhaps one has to be of a certain age or hold a certain position to be allowed to declare something.
We are looking at less than 5 to 10 % of students in each school in Brunei who have the confidence to outshine his/her peers. The question then is - How is that possible? When you have thousands of undergrads every year enrolling to take up an education dergee course? Is it not a requirement of a teacher to be able to speak infront of a class confidently? I should know because I am one and have been in the profession for only 2 and a half years.
Recently I have had the privilage to meet my peers from across the commonwealth. Young, Vibrant, educated, 'Outspoken' Youths all in their early 20's fighting for a cause in their respective countries. Trying to eradicate poverty, creating awareness campaigns about HIV and AIDS, persuading their governments to push for policies to ensure that Youths have equal rights. A famous quote to highlight Youths 'Youths are the leaders of the future'. Yes We are and no one can deny that, but what about now? Youths are here now and if they are not given the opportunity to lead, then when?
Its not wise to compare ourselves with other people in the world even with neighbours north of the South China Sea. We are talking about a difference of governments, education systems, laws and the most evident, population.
So why then are we lacking the credibility to comment on issues that concern the 'future' stakes of our country. Are we not 'bright' enough to discuss these issues? Why then can we discuss such issues in a mamak restaurant enjoying a cup of 'teh tarik' after a hard day in the office?
Awareness is the answer. I believe we have a handful of intellectual Bruneians but not knowing the medium with which one can express thoughts within the boundaries of what is permitted. So please shed some light on this matter. I do have some concerns about some of the matters that have been discussed but I will reserve my comments for now.
This post is just beating around the bush. Just going around in circles. 5.40 a.m. after watching Brasil beat Croats, so go firgure.
Good Morning
