BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, 22nd JULY 2026 – Universiti Brunei Darussalam School of Business and Economics (UBDSBE) hosted the 3rd International Summer Leadership Programme (ISLP) 2026 from 22nd to 28th July 2026, bringing together more than 40 students from local higher education institutions (HEIs) and international HEIs from the Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia, alongside members of the UBDSBE Student Council, for a week of leadership development, cross-cultural exchange, and experiential learning. Aligned with UBDSBE’s mission to develop innovative and digitally competent leaders who contribute positively to society, the programme equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and values related to leadership, entrepreneurship, sustainability, ethics, and cultural intelligence, enabling them to lead responsibly in an increasingly interconnected world.
The opening ceremony was officiated by the Guest of Honour, Dr Haji Masairol Haji Masri, Acting Vice-Chancellor and Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Industry Engagement and Enterprise Development), UBD. The ceremony also featured welcoming remarks by Dr Wardah Azimah Haji Sumardi, Dean of the UBD School of Business and Economics, reaffirming the School’s commitment to developing future leaders through meaningful international engagement. As stated by the Dean ”This year’s programme reflects that commitment through its focus on leadership, entrepreneurship, and sustainability three interconnected themes that are increasingly essential in addressing today’s global challenges. Throughout the programme, we hope the participants will strengthen their leadership capabilities, cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset, deepen their appreciation of sustainable development, and gain the confidence to lead positive change within their communities and organisations.”
A key highlight of the ceremony was ‘A Journey of Learning’, a sharing session delivered by Harina Ramlee, Corporate Services and Ethics Manager of Hibiscus EP (Brunei) B.V., followed by the official launch of the Hibiscus Academy, officiated jointly by Hibiscus EP (Brunei) B.V. and UBD. The event also witnessed a scholarship award to a UBD student for the Master of Digital Science (Cybersecurity and Forensics) by Research, Iffah Shahfrien, reflecting Hibiscus EP (Brunei) B.V.’s commitment to talent development and its growing partnership with UBD in nurturing future-ready professionals through industry-academia collaboration.
Throughout the week, participants took part in sessions led by academics and industry professionals, including Hibiscus EP (Brunei) B.V., the SDG Office (PMO), the Faculty of Military Studies (UBD), the Industry Engagement and Enterprise Development Office (UBD), PricewaterhouseCoopers Brunei, and the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). The programme also receives sponsorship support from GoMamam and Treasure Cove. Through interactive workshops with real-world challenges, team-based activities, and community engagement, participants strengthen their communication, creative problem-solving, and intercultural collaboration while gaining practical insights into leadership, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and responsible decision-making.
Participants also had the opportunity to exchange ideas and broaden their perspectives by learning alongside peers from diverse cultural backgrounds. Beyond the classroom, participants were involved in an Amazing Race team-building challenge that develops teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills in an engaging environment. The programme also introduces participants to Brunei Darussalam’s rich cultural heritage through visits to Kampong Ayer Water Village, Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque, the Energy Hub, and other local attractions.
As a business school accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), UBDSBE ensures that the programme reflects AACSB’s commitment to societal impact and responsible leadership. Participants also engage in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives with local communities, encouraging them to appreciate diverse perspectives while working collaboratively to address real-world challenges.
For more information about the International Summer Leadership Programme 2026 and other initiatives by the Universiti Brunei Darussalam School of Business and Economics, please visit www.sbe.ubd.edu.bn.
