Mitsubishi Corporation, through its Brunei Liaison Office, spearheaded a transformative community development initiative in Kampong Ayer that took part for the entire month of November, providing essential support to local communities of the water village and fostering environmental stewardship.
The project, conducted in collaboration with Green Brunei and supported by Ministry of Home Affairs and the Youth Development Centre, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, showcased the commitment of Mitsubishi Corporation to making a positive impact on the communities.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Minister of Home Affairs, attended as the Guest of Honour. Accompanying him was His Excellency MAEDA Toru, the Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam, and Members of the Legislative Council.
During the event, Tadashi Hara, the Country Representative of Mitsubishi Corporation (Brunei Liaison Office), shared his insights in a speech, stating, “The initiative of this project was not only to improve the area’s infrastructure but also prioritizing the well-being, safety and convenience of both the residents and its visitors. Through the workshop conducted it also aims to help the community finding their ways in generating side income through their home-based business”. His words underscored the company’s dedication in creating sustainable and positive change in the community.
Key highlights of the project involved the repair of 150 metres of boardwalk and jetty in Kampong Sungai Pandan, enhancing local access and promoting community connectivity as well as to improve safety in the water village.
Donations were also distributed to 100 families in the form of household supplies, as well as school supplies to 30 children. In a strategic move to enhance community safety, six Penghulu and Ketua Kampong were equipped with fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and first aid kits. Over 30 residents actively engaged in seven workshops focusing on culinary, baking, and traditional food-making skills, fostering community development and empowerment and to provide them with the capacity to embark in entrepreneurship.
In a commitment to environmental sustainability, the initiative concluded with a river cleanup during the closing ceremony. Thirty-two volunteers from the Youth Development Centre actively participated, collecting an impressive 194.6 kilograms of trash and highlighting the importance of environmental preservation.
Mitsubishi Corporation expresses gratitude to all partners, supporters, and participants who contributed to the success of this impactful community development project. The corporation remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering positive change and looks forward to continued collaboration with the community for a brighter future.