Berakas, 28 April 2026 – The Safety, Health and Environment National Authority (SHENA) today marked the annual World Day for Safety and Health at Work with the official launch of  Safety Month 2026, held at the Design & Technology Building in Kampong Anggerek Desa.

This year’s theme, designated by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) – “Good Psychosocial Working Environments: A Pathway to Thriving Workers and Strong Organisations,” underscores the growing importance of addressing psychosocial risks in the workplace. It highlights the critical role of mental wellbeing, psychological safety and supportive working environments as integral components of a resilient and sustainable safety culture.

The launch ceremony was officiated by Yang Mulia Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Sufian bin Haji Sabtu, Deputy Minister (Security and Law), Prime Minister’s Office, in his capacity as Chairman of the Board of Directors of SHENA, who attended as Guest of Honour.

In his opening remarks, Yang Mulia Dato emphasised that while significant progress has been made in managing physical and operational risks, equal attention must now be accorded to psychosocial risks. These include excessive workloads, role ambiguity, workplace harassment and prolonged stress, all of which can impair judgement, diminish performance, and heighten the risk of accidents and errors.

He further stressed that mental wellbeing is a fundamental pillar of a strong safety culture, and encouraged employers and industry leaders to view psychosocial risk management as a strategic investment that supports safer operations, stronger workforce engagement and sustained productivity.

Yang Mulia Dato also underscored the importance of adopting a holistic and forward-looking approach to workplace safety and health in supporting Wawasan Brunei 2035, moving beyond reactive enforcement towards proactive prevention, robust governance, and workplace cultures founded on respect, dignity and accountability.

Following the opening address, a keynote presentation entitled, “Thriving Workers, Strong Organisations: An Islamic Reflection on Psychosocial Working Environments” was delivered by Yang Mulia Ustaz Muhd Yussof bin Haji Abdul Majid, Head of Counselling and Religious Understanding (KAFA) Division, Department of Syariah Affairs, Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Distinguished attendees included Members of the SHENA Board of Directors, senior government officials, industry representatives, employers, workers’ representatives, and stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.

Safety Month 2026 will feature a series of programmes and stakeholder-led initiatives throughout the month, including engagement sessions and awareness activities. The programme will culminate in the Safety Forum 2026, scheduled for 20 May 2026, which aims to sustain dialogue and advance collective action on psychosocial well-being and workplace safety.