His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, recently emphasized the importance of the family institution in monitoring children’s activities, both inside and outside the home. Speaking at the 13th convocation ceremony of the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB), His Majesty highlighted the crucial role that families play in the education and upbringing of children.
According to His Majesty, the family is where true education begins, as children spend more time at home than in school. Therefore, it is essential for parents to be aware of their children’s activities and to provide guidance and support in their learning journey. His Majesty also pointed out the challenges posed by social media, which can have a negative impact on mental health and promote unrealistic fantasies.
In response to these challenges, His Majesty called on relevant parties in the information technology and communication sector to increase efforts in monitoring and controlling harmful content on websites, mobile applications, video games, and social media platforms. By safeguarding faith, morale, health, and discipline, these measures can help protect the well-being of individuals, especially the youth.
His Majesty commended KUPU SB for its efforts in enhancing co-curricular activities while maintaining its focus on producing pious graduates. He praised the university for collaborating with the Mosque Affairs Department to promote the Leadership and Glorifying Mosque Programme, which aims to engage students in mosque management and leadership roles. His Majesty also acknowledged the university’s role in educating students on the responsible use of social media and in providing a well-rounded education that includes both Islamic studies and general subjects.
During the ceremony, His Majesty approved the establishment of the Faculty of Social Science Education at KUPU SB, demonstrating his support for the university’s continued growth and development. He expressed gratitude to the university’s council members, administrators, faculty, and staff for their dedication and service. His Majesty also congratulated the graduates on their achievements and thanked their families for their support and prayers.
In conclusion, His Majesty’s remarks underscore the importance of family involvement in children’s education and the need for vigilance in addressing the challenges posed by modern technology. By working together to instill values of faith, discipline, and responsibility, families and educational institutions can help nurture a generation of well-rounded individuals who are equipped to navigate the complexities of the digital age.