By Lyna Mohamad & Zaim Zaini
Scholars in their respective fields have different roles to play in developing the nation and are the human capital generators, while students on the other hand must be seen as educated citizens. Scholars and students are role models on the basis of their ideals and characteristics.
His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam said this in his titah at the Hari Raya Celebration of Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation, which His Majesty consented to grace yesterday morning at the ICC.
Accompanying His Majesty to the event were HRH Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, HRH Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah and HRH Prince Abdul Malik.
Intellectuals including students are those who are to be followed because of their good character and attitude but they themselves must not become followers of immoral activities, no matter who they are, said His Majesty.
"This is our vision. Intellectuals and students should mould the future generation, act as thinkers and present and future leaders," His Majesty added.
Their sincere dedication and strong commitment towards the responsibilities of leadership will further strengthen their authority and credibility among the community.
Scholars and students must act as mentors, teachers and thinking specialists as they are the sources of the intellectual culture and they must be supported to develop this healthy culture, the monarch added.
"All of us and those who administrate educational affairs must provide them with support, not just morally but also financial support to achieve excellence," said the ruler.
As an example, added His Majesty, academic members who are aware of their respective expertise and have the authority to carry out research in their respective fields, should be able to find practical solutions to current issues that are being faced by the community, be they on economy, finance or medicine.
The global community today faces the dilemma of poverty and in this regard His Majesty asked why experts are not taken advantage of to study issues that are increasing poverty and how to overcome them.
The same applies in the field of economy. Experts should be used to guide, advise and create new ideas that are more innovative and progressive so that SMEs will develop to the extent of becoming catalysts in the nation's growth.
In the field of finance, His Majesty asked why experts are not involved in doing research on fundamental issues to develop finance and Islamic insurance.
His Majesty's pertinent points are hoped to be a reference to be shared by all.
- Borneo Bulletin
(24th Oct 2007)
