PART 2:The BSB Masterplan, the WHAT-WHO-WHEN-HOW & WHY?...

Greetings,

So, WHAT is the BSB Masterplan all about? WHO is in charge of formulating the plan and to whom should we refer if we have any questions about it? WHEN does it all begin? HOW is the masterplan done and WHY is the masterplan important to us? In all reality, you can get all the exact information by simply surfing the official BSB-Masterplan website. But for some who still "don't get it" after reading the website, don't worry. You are not alone as I was in similar situation before, hence, allow me to break it all down for you (I will try my best do so). Here we go.....

WHAT is the BSB Masterplan?

In simplest terms, it is the latest and the biggest plan initiated by our government to develop our country's urban area. Initially, the area that is focused upon is definitely the capital city - Bandar Seri Begawan. However the development will be expanded and linked to other areas such as Gadong, Kiulap, Serusop (just to name a few).

WHO is behind the BSB Masterplan?

The specific government body that is authorized in designing, compiling and publishing the masterplan is the Municipal Department. However, decisions with regards to BSB Masterplan was not made solely by the department as various stakeholders and members of the public were involved in the process of making the plan right from the very beginning.

WHEN did it all begin?

The project was launched on 5th October 2009 and the first "discussion" was conducted the day after on 6th October at The Rizqun International Hotel. The discussion was called Visioning Workshop 1 where it involved specific public members (e.g. government departments).

HOW is the masterplan formulated?

As mentioned previously, countless discussions were held upon reaching the finalized BSB Masterplan.  After the 'Visioning Workshop 1', it was followed by these events:

• 17th November 2009 - Visioning Workshop 2
• 27th January 2010 -      Public Participation 1
• May 2010 -                     Design Workshop
• Jun 2010 -                       Public Forum

All these events contributed to the final BSB Masterplan.

WHY is the masterplan important to us?

Considering the process involved upon finalizing the BSB Masterplan, it shows that the plan represent what Brunei will look like in the future. The future of Brunei citizens depend greatly on the success of the masterplan as we will experience the "by-product" of the masterplan and all the project it comprises.


In the next post, I'll share with you the journey of the masterplan so far and its current projects & status....