“Perintah Pekerjaan 2009 – ever heard of it?” a man in a blue uniform whispered to his companion. They stood in the modest queue leading into the Labour Department in Bandar Seri Begawan. The Labour Department might seem unassuming at first glance, but it plays a crucial role in Brunei’s economic landscape. Established back in 1955, the department was initially conceived in response to the burgeoning oil industry. Brunei, at the time, lacked a skilled workforce. The solution? Migrant workers. Since then, the Labour Department has been responsible for regulating the flow of foreign workers into Brunei. This includes issuing licenses for foreign workers and supporting work permit applications. But its role goes beyond just foreign labor. The department also acts as a facilitator, connecting local job seekers with opportunities in the private sector. It’s a balancing act, ensuring a vibrant economy while protecting the rights and opportunities of both local and foreign workers.
Lan Zhou La Mian Restaurant
“Limp mouth feel” is a phrase no one wants to associate with noodles. But at Lan Zhou La Mian Restaurant,