Baiduri Bank marked a significant milestone in its journey of community empowerment with the official launch of the Financial Wellness Centre (FWC) at the Atrium of Baiduri Bank Headquarters yesterday.

Marking the first facility of its kind in Brunei dedicated to strengthening financial literacy and providing personalised guidance for individuals at every stage of life, Managing Director of Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB) and Chair of the National Financial Literacy Council (NFLC) Pillar 3 Hajah Rashidah binti Haji Sabtu officiated the ceremony.

In today’s fast-changing world, financial decisions have become increasingly complex and, for many, intimidating, whether it is receiving a first pay cheque, planning for marriage, purchasing a first home, or venturing into investments, individuals often struggle with knowing where to begin.

The FWC was created to address this challenge and is more than just a facility, it embodies Baiduri Bank’s belief that financial wellness is a right, not a privilege and by providing a safe, approachable, and trusted environment, the centre offers Bruneians the tools and support they need to navigate their financial decisions with clarity and confidence.

“Our vision is for the Financial Wellness Centre to grow into the national hub for financial empowerment – a trusted place where Bruneians, regardless of their starting point, know they can turn for support,” said Chief Executive Officer of Baiduri Bank Ti Eng Hui. At the heart of the centre are interactive tools such as money personality and investment personality quizzes, alongside one-on-one consultations with trained financial plan planners, tailored to meet people at every stage of life and are open to all Bruneians, not just their customers, as Baiduri Bank believes financial literacy should be a right, not a privilege.

He noted that it is not just another advisory desk but a dedicated, welcoming environment where learning is encouraged, questions are welcomed, and guidance is personal and it is about creating a safe space where individuals feel heard, respected, and empowered to make informed financial decisions.

“Financial literacy has always been a core priority for us at Baiduri Bank. Over the years, we’ve expanded our reach through school roadshows, community events, and internal volunteer training. We have also collaborated with Universiti Brunei Darussalam, through Baiduri Capital, to introduce investment literacy into academic environments.”

The bank is also proud to support the efforts of BDCB, including National Financial Literacy Day and the broader goals of the NFLC 2025-2035 vision: strengthening understanding, broadening inclusion, and helping Bruneians build stronger foundations for financial wellness.

Visitors can explore self-assessment tools that help them understand their money and investment personalities, as well as engage in one-on-one consultations with financial planners who provide practical, goal-oriented advice.

The centre will also host workshops and offer resources to guide individuals through major life milestones, from saving for education to planning for retirement.

Through this combination of personalised support and practical tools, Baiduri Bank seeks to build the confidence of Bruneians to take charge of their financial well-being, whatever stage of life they may be in. Launching of the FWC highlights Baiduri Bank’s role as a financial institution that goes beyond products and transactions and by championing financial education, providing practical tools, and creating spaces for lifelong learning, the bank continues to position itself as a leader in financial empowerment in Brunei.

With this initiative, the bank is reinforcing its belief that knowledge is the foundation of empowerment, and that a financially aware community is key to building a more sustainable and resilient future for the nation.

For the wider community, the FWC represents a new opportunity to take the first step towards financial confidence and a more secure future. Members of the public are encouraged to visit the FWC at the Baiduri Bank Headquarters to explore its facilities, try out the interactive tools, and speak directly with financial planners.  – Lyna Mohamad

-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin