BDAC'S RAMADHAN INITIATIVE: SUPPORTING THOSE IN NEED DURING THE HOLY MONNTH

Brunei Darussalam Arbitration Centre Berhad (BDAC) organised the Ramadhan Donation Drive 2026, distributing household essentials and financial aid to families in need across all four districts of Brunei Darussalam. The initiative reflects BDAC's commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility by helping ease the burdens of underprivileged families and promoting compassion and togetherness during the holy month of Ramadhan. Since its establishment in 2016, BDAC has remained dedicated to promoting arbitration and mediation as effective dispute resolution methods and will continue raising awareness of Alternative Dispute Resolution practices in Brunei Darussalam.

Courtesy Visit by Mr Mark Fenhalls KC

Courtesy Visit by Mr Mark Fenhalls KC to BDAC, aimed at strengthening collaboration and exchanging insights on the progress and development of mediation practices. The visit provided an opportunity to catch up and discuss ongoing efforts in enhancing Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in Brunei Darussalam.

Strategic Conflict Management for Professional Course 2025

The Brunei Darussalam Arbitration Centre (BDAC) held its annual Strategic Conflict Management for Professionals (SCMP) training at Dewan At-Taqwa, officiated by Acting Permanent Secretary (Security and Law), Awang Zulhusam bin Haji Abdul Samad, who emphasised the importance of dialogue in achieving lasting peace and highlighted how initiatives like SCMP and the Pro Bono Mediation Initiative support national goals under Brunei Vision 2035. BDAC Director Haji Muhammad Zainidi bin Haji Abdul Hamid noted that the course, now in its fourth year, reflects the growing importance of conflict management skills and outlined BDAC's recent achievements, including participation in regional ADR events and the launch of the National ADR Survey for the maritime sector. A total of 18 participants from government and private agencies attended the training, delivered by experienced trainers from the Singapore Mediation Centre (SMC), and will undertake the Mediation Skills Assessment (MSA) on 26 - 27 November for the opportunity to earn internationally recognised mediator accreditation.

BDAC hosted a panel discussion today as part of Borneo ADR Week 2025.

The Brunei Darussalam Arbitration Centre (BDAC) hosted a panel discussion today as part of Borneo ADR Week 2025, highlighting the transformative potential of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in Brunei, the “Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures.” In his speech, BDAC Director Ahmad Basuni Haji Abbas emphasized the strong and steady shift towards ADR, crediting coordinated efforts in legal frameworks, institutional support, and capacity development for making ADR both accessible and reliable. The panel discussion, moderated by experienced panellists, provided a platform for participants from public and private sectors to engage on the future directions and opportunities within Brunei’s ADR landscape. The event concluded with a networking session, fostering connections and collaborations among attendees and speakers.

BDAC Ramadan Drive 2025: Spreading Compassion and Support During the Holy Month

The Brunei Darussalam Arbitration Centre (BDAC) proudly organised its annual Ramadan Drive 2025, held on 25 March 2025, to extend care and support to underprivileged families across the country during the blessed month of Ramadan. In line with the spirit of giving and community solidarity, the BDAC Ramadan Drive focused on collecting and distributing essential food items, including staples and household necessities. This initiative reflects BDAC’s commitment to social responsibility beyond its core mission of promoting alternative dispute resolution and legal excellence. The event saw active participation from BDAC officers, staff, and volunteers who came together to prepare and deliver care packages to families in need. Through this heartfelt outreach, BDAC reaffirmed its dedication to fostering not only professional excellence but also compassion and unity within the Bruneian community. “Ramadan is a time for reflection, generosity, and community. At BDAC, we believe in supporting our neighbours and sharing our blessings,” said a BDAC spokesperson. “This drive is a meaningful way to contribute towards the wellbeing of those who need it most during this sacred month.” The Ramadan Drive also strengthened BDAC’s relationship with local partners and charitable organisations, ensuring that aid reached the right hands efficiently and respectfully. As BDAC continues to grow as a regional hub for arbitration and dispute resolution, initiatives like the Ramadan Drive demonstrate the Centre’s holistic approach—one that values social impact as much as professional achievement.

AALCO Annual Arbitration Forum 2025

The AALCO Annual Arbitration Forum 2025 successfully convened legal experts, institutions, and stakeholders from across Asia and Africa to strengthen regional cooperation and innovation in dispute resolution. Two officers from the Brunei Darussalam Arbitration Centre (BDAC) also participated, reaffirming BDAC's commitment to regional collaboration and best practices in arbitration.

Opening of the Legal Year 2025

The Brunei Darussalam Arbitration Centre (BDAC) actively participated in the Opening of the Legal Year 2025, held on 23 January at the Supreme Court in Bandar Seri Begawan. This event marked a significant milestone in Brunei's legal calendar, highlighting the judiciary's achievements and commitment to enhancing the justice system. With a historic 100% clearance rate for civil cases in 2024, BDAC's involvement underscores its dedication to supporting legal reform and promoting Alternative Dispute Resolution as a vital component of Brunei's evolving legal landscape.

BDAC Participates in Brunei Startup Summit 2025 to Support Innovation and Cross-Border Collaboration

Brunei Darussalam Arbitration Centre Participates in AIAC Forum 2024: Shaping the Future of Arbitration

The Brunei Darussalam Arbitration Centre (BDAC) participated in the Kuala Lumpur Forum on International Arbitration 2024, held on 13 November 2024 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. Under the theme “The Future of International Arbitration: Reforms and Innovations”, the forum marked a significant milestone as Malaysia introduced amendments to its Arbitration Act 2005, elevating its global arbitration standards. As Malaysia assumes the ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, the forum provided a platform for regional collaboration, promoting international arbitration and addressing emerging trends in the region. BDAC's participation underscores its commitment to enhancing alternative dispute resolution mechanisms and fostering international cooperation in arbitration.

BDAC Engages Future Leaders with ADR Lecture at UBD 2025

The Brunei Darussalam Arbitration Centre (BDAC) continues to strengthen its collaboration with academic institutions in 2025, notably through its engagement with Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD). In February, BDAC experts delivered a guest lecture on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) at the Centre for Communication, Teaching and Learning (CCTL) at Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), highlighting BDAC's commitment to promoting ADR education and practice. Additionally, BDAC's participation in the 1st International Conference on Islamic Finance & Sustainability (ICIFS) 2025 at UBD underscored its role in supporting sustainable financial practices within Brunei's legal and economic frameworks. These initiatives reflect BDAC's ongoing efforts to foster academic partnerships and contribute to the development of Brunei's legal and financial sectors.

Courtesy visit of Secretary of Justice of Hong Kong

On September 23, 2024, The Honourable Radin Safiee bin Radin Mas Basiuni, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Brunei Darussalam Arbitration Centre (BDAC), welcomed a courtesy visit from His Excellency Mr. Paul Lam SC, Secretary for Justice of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. He was accompanied by officials from the Hong Kong Department of Justice and representatives from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) in Jakarta, Indonesia. During the meeting, both sides discussed potential areas of cooperation between BDAC and the Department of Justice of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, focusing on promoting alternative dispute resolution in Brunei Darussalam and Hong Kong. They also discussed capacity-building initiatives in legal and dispute resolution fields, with the goal of increasing the number of local arbitrators by collaborating with the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC) and other leading institutions. Members of the BDAC Board of Directors and management were also present at the visit, which concluded with an exchange of gifts between the parties, followed by a group photo to mark the occasion.

Strategic Conflict Management for Professionals Training Course

BDAC recently held its third Strategic Conflict Management for Professionals (SCMP) training course in collaboration with the Singapore Mediation Centre (SMC). The five day programme, conducted from 9th to 13th October 2024, was facilitated by renowned SMC trainers Mr. Loong Seng Onn and Mr. Zechariah J.H. Chan. More than 25 participants from both the government and private sectors attended the training, which took place at BDAC’s office. Throughout the course, participants learned effective methods for managing conflicts and resolving disputes through mediation. The training emphasized real-world applications, making it an invaluable resource for participants seeking to enhance their mediation and negotiation techniques in both corporate and legal setting. The practical nature of the training ensured that attendees gained hands-on experience through roleplays and exercises. BDAC hopes that the participants will apply the valuable skills acquired during the course in their daily professional and personal lives.

Signing of MOU with the Singapore Mediation Centre

BDAC signed first Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Singapore Mediation Centre (SMC). The MOU was signed by BDAC`s Chairperson The Honourable Radin Safiee bin Radin Mas Basiuni and SMC`S Board of Director The Honourable Justice Andre Manian.

ADR in the Abode of Peace

In conjunction with the Borneo ADR Week, BDAC organised 2 panel discussions, The first, "The Abode of Peace: Harmonizing Society through ADR," explored the history of ADR in the Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures, with a panel moderated by Hajah Zuraidah binti POKPI P Haji Sidek. The second session, "Embracing Technology in an Effective Dispute Resolution Landscape," focused on the shift to digital ADR platforms like online mediation and virtual arbitration, with a panel moderated by Muhammad Abdul Raafe` bin Haji Ibrahim.

Towards A More Efficient Dispute Resolution: Best Practice in Asia and Beyond

On 29 May 2024, BDAC recently hosted a hybrid seminar titled, "Towards A More Efficient Dispute Resolution: Best Practice in Asia and Beyond". It was a day filled with insightful discussions and networking. The event began with a keynote lecture delivered by Dr Michael Hwang SC and followed by a panel discussion on embracing shifts towards arbitration and mediation. The panel speakers consists of Professor Luke Nottage, Dr Michael Hwang SC and Mr. David Ravenscroft. Our panel of speakers shared best practices and proven techniques for navigating legal disputes, highlighting how ADR can significantly benefit the involved parties.

Visit from Dewan Perniagaan & Perusahaan Melayu Brunei

BDAC had the pleasure of welcoming a delegation from the Brunei Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DPPMB) to its office. The visit provided an opportunity for BDAC to present an overview of its alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services, including arbitration and mediation, and to discuss how these mechanisms can support the business community in resolving commercial disputes efficiently. Both parties engaged in meaningful dialogue on potential areas of collaboration, with a shared commitment to fostering a more robust and accessible ADR ecosystem in Brunei Darussalam.

Ramadhan Donation Drive

In the holy month of Ramadan, BDAC conducted its second Ramadhan Drive as a form of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

Challenges in Implementing a Mediation Regime

BDAC organized a private discussion with esteemed guest speakers from Singapore, Australia, United Kingdom and Bangladesh which was held on Friday, 1st March 2024 at the Hearing Room 1. The session has in attendance the Attorney General, Yang Berhormat Datin Paduka Hajah Nor Hashimah Haji Muhammed Taib, BDAC`s Chairperson, Yang Mulia Radin Safiee bin Radin Mas Basiuni, Members and Board of Directors of BDAC. The speakers highlighted the importance of a mediation framework which can further promote mediation as a pivotal tool to resolve disputes efficiently and effectively. Challenges in implementing a mediation regime and best practices to promote mediation were also addressed during the private session. The private discussion was also attended by Yang Mulia Nur `Azizah binti Dato Seri Paduka Haji Ahmad, President of Law Society, Judicial Officers and Legal Counsels from the Attorney General`s Chambers and the Ministry of Finance and Economy.

Navigating Conflict and Disputes in Every Spectrum

BDAC in collaboration with HLR Law organized its first mediation seminar series on Thursday, 29th February 2024 at the Hearing Room 1.The interactive event witnessed a remarkable turnout with more than 40 attendees both in-person and online from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Singapore and the United Kingdom. Awang Haji Ahmad Nizam bin Dato Paduka Haji Ismail, as one of the Directors of BDAC delivered the opening remarks. In his speech, Awang Haji Ahmad Nizam mentioned that the collective aim of the event is to explore and understand the transformative power of mediation not just as a tool, but a bridge to understanding, empathy and a lasting resolution. The event was then followed by a series of discussions on how to navigate conflict and disputes in every spectrum. The speakers for the event consisted of local and international mediation practitioners from Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, Singapore and the United Kingdom. With their diverse background and expertise, the panel of speakers enriched the seminar by sharing their knowledge and experiences pertaining to mediation including best practices and proven techniques on how to manage conflicts amongst others in personal injury disputes, construction disputes and family disputes.

Platinum Sponsor for the ALSA Conference Brunei 2024 (29 January 2024)

As a proud platinum sponsor of the conference, BDAC welcomed a distinguished group of international delegates to the Centre who had the opportunity to explore the nuances of arbitration within Brunei’s legal framework.

Opening of Legal Year 2024

BDAC officers recently attended the Opening of Legal Year 2024 at the Supreme Court of Brunei.

Navigating Disputes: Alternative Dispute Resolution as the First Port of Call

BDAC recently delivered a talk on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) at Seri Kerna Hall, Maritime and Port Authority Brunei Darussalam (MPABD). The ADR talk series for the maritime industry is centered on the theme of "Navigating Disputes: Alternative Dispute Resolution As The First Port Of Call" in line with BDAC’s ongoing initiatives to raise awareness on ADR in the country. The objective of the talk is to promote the use of ADR as an efficient conflict resolution mechanism to the stakeholders in the maritime sector.

Working Visit to DEPS

BDAC made a working visit to the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics (DEPS). Our delegation to DEPS were headed by our Chief Interim Executive Officer, Awang Omsarule bin Haji Awang Omar and Deputy Interim Chief Executive Officer, Hajah Zuraidah binti POKPI DP Haji Sidek. The meeting was chaired by Acting Deputy Director of DEPS, Heidi Farah Sia Binti Abd Rahman and several representatives from the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics and Department of Consumer Affairs. It was a fruitful discussion for both parties especially on how the consumers in Brunei may benefit from using the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) to resolve disputes. BDAC and DEPS further discussed potential collaborations between both institutions to increase awareness on ADR and at the same time to strengthen the public’s access to justice.

Working visit to HKIAC

BDAC made a working visit to Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre led by Deputy Interim Chief Executive Officer, Hajah Zuraidah binti POKPI DP Haji Sidek. During the visit, the HKIAC and BDAC shared insights on the arbitration landscape in the Asian region. The two institutions also discussed potential collaborations between the two centres in continuing efforts to promote arbitration.

AALCO-HKRAC Annual Arbitration Forum 2023

BDAC recently attended Annual Arbitration Forum 2023 jointly organized by Asian-African Legal Consultative Organization (AALCO) from 5 December 2023 until 6 December 2023 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). BDAC delegation is headed by Hajah Zuraidah binti POKPI DP Haji Sidek, Deputy Interim Chief Executive Officer and accompanied by BDAC`s Legal Officers to the Annual Forum.

Courtesy Visit from Indonesian Business Chambers

BDAC is delighted to received a delegation from Indonesian Business Chambers (IBC) headed by Pak Acep Prasojo, President of IBC. During the visit, BDAC delivered a short briefing on alternative dispute resolution and its services. BDAC and IBC also shared discussions on how ADR can benefit businesses as another viable mechanism to resolve conflicts.

Strategic Conflict Management for Professionals training course

BDAC recently organized its second Strategic Conflict Management for Professionals training course in collaboration with the Singapore Mediation Centre (SMC). The 5 days training which was held from 09 - 13 October 2023 were facilitated by the SMC trainers, Mr. Loong Seng Onn and Mr. Francis Goh. Over 20 participants from the government and private sectors joined the training course which was held at BDAC’s office. During the training course, participants learnt how to manage conflicts and resolve disputes through mediation. It is our hope that the participants will be able to use the skills that they have gained through the training course and apply it in their daily life.

Courtesy Visit from Bank Usahawan

BDAC was delighted to host a delegation from Bank Usahawan led by Ms. Nurhayrah Sadava, Chief Executive Officer and other representatives from the Bank. It was a fruitful discussion between the BDAC and the Bank on how parties especially for micro, small and medium-entreprises (MSMEs) can benefit from using ADR as an alternative mean to resolve disputes outside of court litigation. The meeting also served as an impetus for potential areas of collaboration for both parties.

Courtesy Visit from K & L Gates Straits Law

Mr. Srineevasan Narayanan, Managing Partner of K & L Gates Straits Law, Singapore to the BDAC. Key discussions were centred around the arbitration and mediation landscape within the Asian region.

Courtesy Visit from K & L Gates Straits Law

Mr. Sreenivasan Narayanan S.C, Managing Partner of K & L Gates Straits Law, Singapore paid a visit to the BDAC. Key discussions were centred around the Altenative Dispute Resolution Landscape in the Asian region.

Beyond the Courtroom: Unlocking the Power of Alternative Dispute Resolution

BDAC recently organized a seminar on ADR as mechanisms for effective conflict resolution at its office. Mr. Darshendev Singh, a Partner with Lee Hishammuddin Allen & Gledhill, Malaysia was the guest speaker for the event and was moderated by Ms. Lenny Rahman, a Partner with HLR Law.

Beyond the Courtroom: Unlocking the Power of Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanism for Effective Dispute Resolution

BDAC recently organized a seminar on ADR as mechanisms for effective conflict resolution at its office. Mr. Darshendev Singh, a Partner with Lee Hishammuddin Allen & Gledhill, Malaysia was the guest speaker for the event and was moderated by Ms. Lenny Rahman, a Partner with HLR Law.

Practice and Procedure of Mediation

Ir. Harbans Singh donated his newly launched book `Practice and Procedure of Mediation` to BDAC`s library.

Village Roadshows on Alternative Dispute Resolution

The Roadshows for BDAC kicked off in Brunei-Muara District on Monday, 12th June 2023 with its final roadshow to raise awareness on alternative dispute resolution and BDAC`s services ended in Belait District. The event saw participation from the Members of Legislative Councils, Village Chiefs, Acting Village Chiefs, Village Heads and Acting Village Heads.

Courtesy visit from Peter & Kim

On 7th June 2023, BDAC received a courtesy visit from Peter & Kim`s delegation, Ms. Charis Tan from its Singapore`s office and Mr. Konstantin Christie from its Geneva`s Office. BDAC enjoyed the insightful discussion on the alternative dispute resolution landscape around the world.

Effective Mediation Advocacy

BDAC recently organized its first inaugural training course on Effective Mediation Advocacy at its office from 5 - 7 June 2023. The training course was in collaboration with Singapore Mediation Centre.

Controlling Costs in International Arbitration

Professor Luke Nottage delivered a special lecture titled, "Controlling Costs in International Arbitration". Joined with us on the day, Hajah Nor Hashimah binti Haji Mohammed Taib, Permanent Secretary (Security and Law) at the Prime Minister`s Office, Hajah Zuraini binti Haji Sharbawi, Solicitor General at the Attorney`s General Chambers, counsels from the government and members of the private sector.

The Power of Mediation: Importance of Mediation to Legal Professionals

In collaboration with Singapore Mediation Centre (SMC) successfully organised a Brown Bag session entitled “The Power of Mediation: Importance of Mediation to Legal Professionals” via Zoom. The guest speaker was Mr. Loong Seng Onn, SMC’s Principal Trainer. During the Brown Bag session, Mr. Loong shared his perspectives on the importance of mediation and how it can benefit legal professionals and their clients especially. As an experienced mediator, he also shared best practices in achieving successful outcomes for the parties in disputes.

Ramadhan Food Drive

BDAC organized a donation drive for the underprivileged families as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts. BDAC presented food contribution to 8 underprivileged families in various districts across Brunei Darussalam. This initiative is aimed to provide assistance to those in need in order to alleviate their burden and also to foster the spirit of togetherness that is encouraged in the month of Ramadhan.

UBD Guest Lecture

BDAC were invited to give lecture on the topics of alternative dispute resolution to the students of School of Business and Economics (SBE) at Universiti Brunei Darussalam.

Law Seminar

Orgnanized by the Prime Ministers Office in collaboration with the Attorney Generals Chambers with its theme titled, Law and Technology: Challenges, Opportunities and Way Forward held at the Prime Ministers Office. BDAC were invited to present on the how alternative dispute resolution can help parties to work their differences and achieve a win-win solution.

PASB Seminar: Resolving Disputes in the Construction Industry

BDAC has jointly organized a seminar on resolving disputes in construction industry in collaboration with Institution of Surveyors, Engineers and Architects at Dewan Betabur, Ministry of Development. The seminar was attended by YM Dayang Aldila binti Hj Mohd Salleh, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Development, PUJA Members, Professionals and officers from the Ministry of Development, Ministry of Religious Affairs, and the Private Sectors.

Courtesy visit from Shariah Court

BDAC received Courtesy visit from Shariah Court to discuss on the possibilities for future collaborations for the areas of alternative dispute resolution and to promote BDAC as a Centre for Alternative Dispute Resolution as one of the avenues to resolve disputes in Brunei Darussalam. The delegation from the Shariah Court was led by Pg Mohammaddin bin Pg Haji Aliakbar, Acting Chief Registrars, Shariah Court of Appeal; Kartini binti Haji Abdullah, Registrar, Shariah Court of Appeal; Hairani binti Haji Mohd Jais, Acting Registrar, Shariah High Court; Hjh Zuraina binti DSS Haji Abd Rahman, Deputy Registrar of Shariah Subordinate Court; Hajah Amiyusmawati binti Haji Yusop, Religious Officer.

World Cafe Event: Rethinking Future of Dispute Resolution in Brunei Darussalam

Reexamining the history of Dispute Resolution in Brunei Darussalam, Brunei`s next generation of thought leaders gathered at BDAC`s office to identify the lessons learned from the past and examined the present issues to foresee how dispute resolution will develop in Brunei in the future as a way forward.

Courtesy visit

BDAC received a courtesy visit from the Institution of Surveyors, Engineers and Architects (PUJA) to discuss on the potential collaboration between BDAC and PUJA to promote alternative dispute resolution as one of the avenues to resolve disputes in the construction industry. In attendance were President of PUJA, Sr Awang Haji Mohammad Hanafi bin Pehin Orang Kaya Di-Gadong Seri Diraja Dato Laila Utama Haji Abdul Rahman and SR. Mohamed Humdhan, Member of PUJA.

Fireside Chat : A Mediator`s Take On Peace Building

The guest speaker Mr. Anil Changaroth, a mediator from Changaroth Chambers LLC, Singapore and the panelists includes SMC-BDAC Accredited Mediators; Mr. Camran Riaz from HLR Law and Ms. Nur’ Azizah binti Ahmad from AIP Law while Ms Lenny Rahman from HLR Law was the moderator.

Singapore Convention Week

BDAC`s Legal Officers, Hisyamuddin Ali and Rafidah Raffi in attendance for UNCITRAL Academy Conference as part of Singapore Convention Week on Tuesday, 30th August 2022 at Shangri La Hotel, Singapore.