Arya News - Carrying the theme ‘Openness, Connectivity and Synergy’, the 2026 report outlines business-driven recommendations to strengthen regional integration, harness digital innovation, and advance sustainable, inclusive growth across the Asia-Pacific.
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry received the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) Report for 2026 on Saturday, with Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies and Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin receiving the report presented by ABAC Brunei members, Standard Chartered Brunei Chief Executive Officer Pengiran Aki Ismasufian Ibrahim and Exceltech Solutions Sdn Bhd Managing Director Hafriz Fayadh.
Carrying the theme ‘Openness, Connectivity and Synergy’, the 2026 report outlines business-driven recommendations to strengthen regional integration, harness digital innovation, and advance sustainable, inclusive growth across the Asia-Pacific.
The report emphasises the importance of openness in trade and investment, including progress towards the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific and reforms to ensure predictable, rules-based commerce.
It highlights connectivity as a driver of resilience, calling for stronger transport and logistics networks, paperless trade, and interoperable digital payment systems.
It underscores synergy between technology, sustainability, and human development, ranging from enabling artificial intelligence and quantum innovation to advancing healthcare, energy transition, and climate resilience.
Pengiran Aki Ismasufian Ibrahim noted that the ABAC 2026 report reflects a collective commitment to building a more connected, resilient, and inclusive Asia-Pacific economy.
He said that for Brunei Darussalam, the document provides an important platform to advance priorities that are particularly relevant to the national development agenda, including economic diversification, sustainable finance, digital transformation, and greater regional connectivity.
He added that the handover of this report to the minister represents an important opportunity to strengthen the partnership between the public and private sectors.
By translating ABAC’s recommendations into practical initiatives and meaningful collaboration, both sectors can unlock new opportunities for Brunei’s businesses, enhance national regional competitiveness, and contribute to a more prosperous and sustainable Asia-Pacific.
The recommendations will be formally presented to APEC Economic Leaders at the ABAC Dialogue with Leaders in Shenzhen, China, in November 2026, reaffirming ABAC’s commitment to shaping an open, connected, and synergistic Asia-Pacific economy.