38 Facts About Badaruddin Othman

Badaruddin Othman has served as the minister of religious affairs since 2015.

Badaruddin Othman's advocacy extended to encouraging non-Muslims to convert to Islam to integrate into Bruneian society, while seeking to counter materialistic and consumer-driven cultural trends.

Badaruddin Othman pursued his education at several notable institutions, including Brunei Town Malay School from 1950 to 1956, Madrasah Aljunied Al-Islamiah in Singapore from 1956 to 1961, and Kolej Islam Malaya in Klang, Selangor, from 1962 to 1967.

Badaruddin Othman's career began in 1968 as a teacher before being appointed by the Brunei government in 1971 as a religious officer at the Arabic Secondary School.

Badaruddin Othman then became the head of broadcasting and information in 1976, head of information officer in 1979, and subsequently promoted to director of Information at the State Secretary's Office in 1980.

On 16 March 1983, Badaruddin Othman praised the monarchy for promoting and defending religion, emphasising the importance of implementing Islamic principles in daily life and applauding Brunei's moderation in religious sentiment.

Badaruddin Othman highlighted the significance of societal harmony in achieving the government's goals and stressed the authority of the 1959 Constitution, especially its legislative aspects.

In June 1983, Badaruddin Othman expressed concerns that the public might not fully align their self-interest with the government's development goals, urging citizens to actively participate in progress and contribute to independence.

Badaruddin Othman encouraged the public to adapt to new challenges, protect Brunei's sovereignty, and not relinquish responsibility to the state.

Badaruddin Othman played a role in preparing the public for Brunei's transition to independence, addressing confusion and concerns through speeches in July and August 1983.

Badaruddin Othman stressed the importance of presenting an open and honest view of Brunei's political system to protect the country's identity and unity.

Badaruddin Othman highlighted the distinct political structure based on the monarchy and the shared experiences of the people, which were vital for maintaining sovereignty and preventing unrest.

Badaruddin Othman addressed the legitimacy of Brunei's democratic system, emphasising the need for broad support rooted in the people's self-interest.

Badaruddin Othman stressed the importance of the public's patriotic support for the government and justified the use of Emergency Laws to maintain stability.

In 1984, Badaruddin Othman expressed concerns about the Western media misrepresentation of ASEAN states, particularly the use of the term "absolute monarchy" to describe Brunei and other ASEAN members.

In 1985, Badaruddin Othman played a key role in establishing Brunei as a MIB.

Badaruddin Othman clarified that while Brunei had historically been a Malay sultanate, the 1959 Constitution explicitly enshrined Islamic principles and Malay culture, which are central to Bruneian identity.

Badaruddin Othman emphasised that being "Bruneian" is shaped by Islamic and Malay traditions, and as such, Brunei should not be regarded as a multiracial or multi-religious society.

Badaruddin Othman went on to serve as ambassador to Indonesia and non-resident high commissioner to Papua New Guinea from August 1986 to March 1987.

Badaruddin Othman served as acting chairman of the Public Service Commission from 19 May 2001 to 23 May 2005.

Badaruddin Othman noted that religious programming on television and radio had reached a level of daily prominence, highlighted by the establishment of the TV Dakwah Unit and the Nur Islam radio channel.

On 28 March 2011, Badaruddin Othman led a selection committee that reviewed the results of the nomination and voting process for Brunei's Legislative Council.

Badaruddin Othman spoke at the Regata Brunei Darussalam on 21 January 2012, highlighting its aim to revive Bruneians' sentimental ties to Kampong Ayer and the Brunei River.

On 25 February 2012, Badaruddin Othman highlighted the importance of both new and experienced municipal board members in enhancing local government effectiveness.

Badaruddin Othman encouraged the sharing of ideas and suggested focusing on maintaining a clean environment, improving business property fee collection, and managing arrears more effectively.

Badaruddin Othman acknowledged efforts to facilitate business permits and welcomed suggestions to streamline the business licensing process.

Badaruddin Othman highlighted the importance of assessing DBP's initial goals, particularly in the fields of language and literature.

On 22 October 2015, Badaruddin Othman was appointed minister of religious affairs as part of a broader cabinet reshuffle, during which several senior officials were reassigned to new positions.

Badaruddin Othman succeeded Pengiran Mohammad Abdul Rahman in the role.

Badaruddin Othman explained that final changes were being made to ensure the SPCO's enforcement was fair and in line with Islamic law.

Badaruddin Othman mentioned ongoing training programs and staff exchanges with foreign institutions experienced in Islamic criminal law.

Badaruddin Othman retained his position in the 2018 Bruneian cabinet reshuffle, which replaced six ministers.

Badaruddin Othman later criticised remarks made by non-LegCo parties who argued that the increased budget allocation for his ministry was wasteful and impeded the nation's development strategy.

On 20 November 2021, Badaruddin Othman urged the public to get vaccinated against COVID-19, addressing concerns about the relatively low number of MoRA employees and members of the public who were hesitant to receive the vaccine.

Badaruddin Othman retained his position as minister of religious affairs during the 2022 cabinet reshuffle on 7 June.

Badaruddin Othman's poetry is often analysed using a da'wah theoretical framework, highlighting elements of divine majesty and employing a gentle linguistic style to convey religious messages effectively.

Badaruddin Othman is married and has six children, including Nabil Daraina.

Badaruddin Othman's home is located at Daraina 8, Spg 530, Jalan Kota Batu, Kampong Sungai Besar.