Oman-Brunei discuss ways to boost trade opportunities

Officials at the three day event also discussed the need for optimisation in technology and management processes of companies.

MUSCAT: The second Oman Brunei summit opened at the Grand Hyatt yesterday, with officials from both Oman and Brunei highlighting potentials and achievements of their respective countries.

Officials at the three day event discussed the need for optimisation in technology and management processes of companies.

According to Dato Paduka Awang Haji Jamain, Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister’s office, Brunei did not have to cut jobs in the oil and gas sector, even during low oil prices, due to its policies of optimising technology and the workforce.

“We have reduced unit operational costs from around $12 to $9.3 since 2005. We have optimised our contracts awarded technique and supply chain, therefore, there is a decreased spending in the oil and gas sector,” he said.

Also, Ibtisam Barakat Al Riyami, People and Change Director at Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), highlighted the use of the LEAN programme in enhancing PDO’s efficiency and output.

“The LEAN programme has enhanced PDO’s efficiency, in terms of human resources and production capabilities. It’s a philosophy which not only helps in cutting costs and efficiency, but improves people’s mindsets in a way which makes every PDO employee think about relentlessly cutting out extra costs,” she said.

Speakers at the conference also highlighted in-country value projects undertaken by their respective companies.

Participants will attend a technical visit on the second day of the conference, followed by a workshop on the third day, which will focus on trade and partnership opportunities between the countries. Outcomes and recommendations from discussions will be announced following the workshop.