Vice President of the Law Society of Brunei Darussalam, On Hung Zheng, delivered a speech on behalf of President Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Ahmad Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Di-Raja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa at the Opening of the Legal Year 2026 today, highlighting the Society’s priorities for the 2026–2027 term.
In his address, delivered in the President’s stead, On noted the Society’s commitment to maintaining high professional and ethical standards, reinforcing public trust in the legal profession, and ensuring that practitioners are supported in a complex and evolving legal landscape. He said these objectives remain central as the Society celebrates its 20th anniversary, reflecting on the growth of the legal fraternity and the changing scope and complexity of legal practice in Brunei Darussalam.
On highlighted achievements of the previous Council, including engagement with governmental institutions such as the Land Department, which led to the implementation of amendments to the Land Code, and participation in the Judiciary-led Joint Legal Affairs Committee. The Society also strengthened international ties, concluding memoranda of understanding with the Law Society of Singapore, the Bar Association of India, and the Singapore Academy of Law, expanding opportunities for professional exchange and development.
The speech underscored the Law Society’s continued focus on professional development. Advocacy training was provided for UNISSA students, and mooting teams received support to participate in regional competitions, providing younger members with practical exposure and experience.
Looking ahead, the Society aims to uphold professional credibility by ensuring all members—local and foreign—meet high standards of ethics, conduct and competence. On emphasised the importance of continuous learning, collaboration with institutions, and constructive engagement with governmental authorities to assist in drafting and implementing laws that are clear, practicable, and aligned with the rule of law.
He also stressed the Society’s role as an independent and professional stakeholder in promoting access to justice, strengthening the legal profession, and safeguarding the public interest. On reaffirmed the Society’s readiness to contribute to legislative and judicial processes in good faith and in the public interest.
Concluding the address, he noted that the Law Society will continue to build on the achievements of the past, reinforcing trust and credibility in the profession while navigating the challenges and opportunities ahead.