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Ambassador Todd

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Ambassador Todd

Ask the Ambassador

Ambassasor Todd invites you to send him questions at ask_usambassador@yahoo.com. Below is a listing of the weekly columns as appeared on the Borneo Bulletin's Weekend edition.

June 12, 2009

I recently read of some truly remarkable Bruneian athletes.  As I am sure many of you know, Bruneian Special Olympics athletes won 8 medals (gold and silver) in Singapore.  Special Olympics is just one of a number of ways that we can involve ourselves in society. Today I would like to talk about questions I often get asked on both a personal and professional level.  As always, I encourage you to send me your questions and ideas to ask_usambassador@yahoo.com

Q:  What are the best ways to volunteer? To get involved?  What have you done in terms of volunteering?

Great set of questions. First, I’d like to talk a bit more about my respect and admiration for the Special Olympics. Since its founding n 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the Special Olympics has developed , supported by a vast network of sponsors and volunteers, into a global program that enhances not only the lives of the athletes who participate but of those who have the honor and privilege of being part of their lives.  Brunei should be especially proud of its athletes and of the support they receive from throughout the country. 

Special Olympics is just one avenue to volunteer and get involved.  I volunteered a number of years ago in a home for Autistic children.  Autism was and still is often misunderstood, but working and interacting with the kids, I knew that not only was I helping them but they were helping me.  It has made me a better parent and, I believe,  a more patient and understanding mentor both in in my personal and professional life.

Mentoring is one of the most important ways we can contribute and get involved in our societies. In my professional life, I have served as a mentor for many in a number of positions I have held with the U.S. Government. Many of those I have mentored have stayed in close contact with me and been very successful professionally.  Serving as mentor means getting involved and staying involved. Too often, we believe that volunteering only involves writing a check, making a donation, or hosting a fundraiser. These are all important in support ingworthwhile causes but I think getting involved takes more than this and I call it using your “3 Ts”

First is your Time.  Your time is limited but it is what people often end up valuing the most. Whether it is time you spent coaching a Special Olympian, preparing meals for the less fortunate, or taking the time to listen to someone you are mentoring at work, your time is what often provides the most impact and reward. Second is your Talent. We all have talents we can share. It could be your organizational skills, your ability to motivate, or that fact that you are always willing to put in a hard day’s work helping others. Third is your Treasures. This is the best term I have come up for what it is that makes us all unique. We all possess this attribute and it makes us distinct.  This distinctiveness combined with your talent and your time allows you to bring a unique set of skills to your volunteerism.

Volunteerism is not limited to the wealthy or privileged.  We all have the opportunity to get involved.  Volunteerism does not mean only assisting those who might be considered less fortunate.  Special Olympians are not less fortunate, in fact many Special Olympians are blessed with a positive attitude that we would all be lucky to have. Brunei is fortunate to have so much but there are plenty of opportunities to get more involved. Through our personal, social, and religious obligations and connections we have an opportunity to better the lives of others and ourselves and to make each of our societies a better place to live.

I would welcome your suggestions on opportunities in Brunei. Perhaps you have had an idea and wanted to get involved and just need some extra support to get started. Maybe you belong to an organization and want to do more.  I look forward to hearing from you.

As always, have a safe and fun weekend.


June 6, 2009

On June 4th in Cairo, Egypt, President Obama spoke to the world, but most especially the Muslim world. I know many of you had a chance to listen to his speech. President Obama made an extra effort to have the speech available in a variety of media outlets, including allowing Brunei subscribers to receive SMS updates of the speech. President Obama’s speech is an important part of his effort to strengthen U.S. tie to the Muslims around the world through strategic partnerships. I would like to talk more about his speech in today’s column. I welcome your questions, including follow up questions about President Obama’s speech, at
ask_usambassador@yahoo.com.

Q: Can you discuss President Obama’s speech? Why he gave it and why it was important?

President Obama’s speech in Cairo, Egypt on June 4th is one important part of the United State’s commitment to new beginning in our relations with the Muslim world. President Obama, since the first days of his administration, has reached out to our friends in the Muslim world. He started in his Inaugural address and continued in interviews with Al Arabiya, his Nowruz message, and in his speech and town hall meeting in Turkey.

In his speech, President Obama proposed a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world. This new beginning is based on mutual interest and mutual respect, including a sustained effort to listen to each other, learn from each other and respect one another. Specifically, President Obama said the U.S. would pursue new partnerships with governments, citizens, community organizations, religious leaders, businesses, and international organizations in the areas of education, economic development, science, technology, and health.

I have written before about my personal experiences living and working in the Islamic world as well as the important and vital roles Muslims have in the growth and prosperity of the United States. President Obama spoke from the heart about how he has seen firsthand the dignity and peace that Muslims have found in their faith. He talked of being part of a family that has generations of followers of Islam in Kenya, of his experience living in Indonesia, and working in Chicago communities that are home to African American Muslims. President Obama also spoke of how Islam has always been a part of America’s story, with nearly seven million American Muslims living and working throughout the U.S. He noted that the first country to recognize our independence was Morocco. Our ties to Islam are strong and exemplified by our first Muslim American congressman taking the oath of office on a Koran that came from the library of one of our most famous presidents, Thomas Jefferson.

A key element of President Obama’s message was the acknowledgement of civilization’s debt to Islam and Muslims for their historic contributions to education, innovation, science, medicine, religious tolerance, and racial equality. He spoke of the innovations that allowed us to explore the world that came from Islam. During times of darkness in Europe, it was the Muslim world that kept the light of knowledge on.

President Obama also noted that this is a time of tension between the United States and many Muslims in the world. He noted that all sides must face the sources of the tensions squarely and focus on our mutual interests that we must confront together. I would like to talk more about these mutual interests.

We must first confront violent extremism. The President declared, again, that America is not and never will be at war with Islam We all share a common interest in confronting violent extremists. In Afghanistan and Pakistan, we confront violent extremists who are determined to kill as many Americans as they possibly can. President Obama declared it is his duty to protect the American people. We must work together there to ensure that violent extremists are not allowed to spread their hate and destruction. The U.S. plans to invest $1.5 billion each year over the next five years to partner with Pakistanis to build schools and hospitals, roads, and businesses. The U.S. will spend hundreds of millions to hope those who have been displaced. In Afghanistan, the U.S. is providing more than $2.8 billion to help Afghans develop their economy and deliver services that their citizens depend on. The U.S is also helping Iraq train its security forces and develop its economy while at the same time honoring our agreement to remove U.S. combat troops from
Iraqi cities by July, removing combat brigades by next August and removing all U.S. troops by 2012. The President also noted that he has taken concrete actions to ensure that extremism does not alter American principles, including unequivocally prohibiting the use of torture by the U.S. and ordering the closing of Guantanamo Bay prison by early next year.

President Obama reaffirmed that the United States will align its policies with those who pursue peace. Israel’s right to exist cannot be denied. At the same time, Israel must recognize that Israeli settlements must stop, that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza does not serve Israel’s security and that Israel must live up to its obligations to ensure Palestinians can live, and work, and develop their society. Palestinians must have a state of their own while at the same time they must abandon the violence that kills the innocent and surrenders moral authority. Hamas must put an end to violence and recognize Israel’s right to exist. Arab nations must help the Palestinian people develop institutions that are self sustaining; recognize Israel’s legitimacy, and chose progress over self-defeating focus on the past.

The U.S. is committed to a world in which no nations hold nuclear weapons. To prevent a regional nuclear arms race that would devastate the global non-proliferation regime, the President reaffirms his commitment to discuss the many issues between the U.S. and the Islamic Republic of Iran. This includes a willingness to move forward without preconditions on the basis of mutual respect. Although it will be hard to overcome decades of mistrust between the U.S. and Iran, President Obama will proceed with courage, rectitude, and resolve.

The United States believes that no system of government can or should be imposed on one nation by any other. However, the U.S. will support human rights throughout the world. The ability of people to speak their mind and have a say in how they are governed and well as confidence in the rule of law and the equal administration of justice. Governments must be transparent and not steal from their people. Governments that protect these rights are ultimately more stable, successful, and secure.

President Obama declared that people in every country should be free to choose and live their faith based upon the persuasion in their minds, heart and soul. For American Muslims, because the rules on charitable giving have made it harder to fulfill their religious obligations, the President said that he is committed to working with them to ensure they can fulfill zakat.

Countries were women are well educated, like Brunei, are far more likely to be prosperous. When our daughters can contribute just as much to our society as our sons then our common prosperity will be advanced by allowing all humanity –men and women- to reach their full potential. The U.S. will partner with any Muslim-majority country to support expanding literacy for girls and will help young women pursue employment so they can live their dreams.

In the midst of a world economic downturn, President Obama knows that economic development and opportunity are fundamental to strengthen the ties of the Muslim world to the United States. The U.S. has focused on oil and gas but now must seek a broader engagement with the Muslim world. This must include new partnerships in education, economic development, science, technology and health. The Islamic world gave us great advances in all of these areas and the United States seeks to work with the people of all Islamic nations to make the next great advances possible.

President Obama’s speech was inspiring while also speaking honestly of the challenges we all face in the future. Working together and addressing one another with mutual respect and understanding we can make progress and ensure a better future for ourselves and our children.

As the U.S. Ambassador, I look forward to supporting the President’s efforts. As an American citizen, I am proud of my president and his willingness to reach out to the world, especially the Muslim world. In my most important role as a father, I am inspired and hopeful that my children will be able to live in a world safer, peaceful, and full of opportunities and hope. As President Obama said, we are at a new beginning and it is one that can lead us to a brighter future.

 I would like to conclude by offering this quote from President Obama and I wish everyone has a safe and enjoyable weekend.

“All of us share this world for but a brief moment in time. The question is whether we spend that time focused on what pushes us apart, or whether we commit ourselves to an effort – a sustained effort – to find common ground, to focus on the future we seek for our children, and to respect the dignity of all human beings.” Barack Obama


May 29, 2009

It is the midst of changing and dynamic times that having a plan is essential.  Nations’ strategic goals and objectives must be linked and measurable to a broader national agenda.  Many countries have attempted to do this but remained rigid in their interpretation and implementation of strategic planning. This week I’d like to answer a question that I had briefly mentioned before on the role of strategic plans, especially in terms of a nation’s development and prosperity.  Before answering the question, I would like to congratulate Brunei’s Armed Forces and all Brunei on the occasion of Brunei’s Armed Forces Day.  I welcome your questions at ask_usambassador@yahoo.com.

Q:  What is the role of strategic planning, especially in terms of a nation’s development and prosperity?

I discussed this issue briefly in a previous article when I noted that the U.S. State Department uses a variety of strategic planning procedures to provide a “road map” for the Department.  The State Department’s strategic planning provides the benchmarks for senior leaders to gauge how well the Department has performed.  More importantly, it provides the context and basis on which to develop policy in both the short and long term.

While the State Department does an excellent job of strategic planning, the Department is only one of many within the U.S. federal government.  With that in mind, any administration is well served to think of a broader strategic plan.  There must be specific guidance that bring together various government agencies (not to mention NGOs and the private sector) to achieve policy goals and objectives.   A good example of a policy objective is Job Creation.  Job creation as a goal should not simply rely on one federal agency to develop a plan, promote the plan and carrying out that plan and not take into account the roles other federal, state, and local departments play.  What we have all seen too often is a garbled patch work of initiatives and plans that achieve little because there was no effort to link them to a larger set of goals and objectives.

I will give another example to illustrate my point.  In the U.S., small businesses are highly valued. They are the backbone of our economy.  President Obama, like many presidents before him, knows that our economic prosperity is directly tied to the ability of our small businesses to develop and grow.  What is important to note is that the U.S. does not leave this responsibility to one federal agency. We have a myriad of programs, spread throughout all federal, state, and local government agencies. We also have NGOs and private sector partnerships to help grow small business.  The programs all have one common goal: Growing and encouraging small business development.  As important, agencies have milestones and measurements toward achieving that goal.

The United States is such a large nation that our system of strategic planning is always adapting and growing.   Ours is not a perfect system but we believe in the value of strategic planning.   The U.S., like many nations, has learned the lessons of not linking goals and objectives to a broader national policy agenda.

Brunei is in a unique and advantageous position.  Strategic plans, if developed with the conditions I noted above in mind, can provide measurable and achieve goals and milestones.   A long term vision that focus beyond short term gains will further enhances Brunei’s ability to develop strategic frameworks.  With any plan, the key is implementation. Brunei possesses a well educated workforce and leadership in this regard.  If goals, such as improving education, economic diversification are tied to realistic and measurable goals under a broader national agenda, then the achievements are both realistic and beneficial.  On the hand, when programs are undertaken and not part of a broader policy agenda, then they often only achieve short term gains. They are not sustainable because a number of stakeholders have been excluded from the process. The U.S. has learned this through much trial and error.

I recently heard a very smart and distinguished Bruneian say that “Brunei is an excellent success story to tell, in the midst of truly turbulent economic times.”   This is so true and will continue to be so as Brunei looks to build on the success in certain fields (i.e. energy production) to develop other key areas (education, economic diversification).  I believe both of our nations have much we can learn from each other in this area and look forward to an ongoing exchange of ideas and recommendations.

I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable long weekend.

Q: What is the significance of Memorial Day in the United States?  Can you talk a little about the role of the U.S. military in American life?

Memorial Day is a very important holiday for Americans. Memorial Day is a U.S. federal holiday that is observed on the last Monday of May.  It commemorates U.S men and women who have died in military service.  One of the most powerful images from Memorial Day is of all the American flags that are placed by volunteers on the thousands and thousands of graves at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. Over 300,000 people are buried on Arlington’s 624 acres (2.53 km2). 
Before Arlington National Cemetery was made into a national cemetery, it was the estate of Robert E. Lee.  Lee was the leading Confederate General during the U.S. Civil War.   In 1864, before the Confederacy surrendered, it was determined that the graves of those that died during the civil war would be placed on Lee’s estate. The graves were placed in front of his house so that as long as he lived, he and others would not forget all the Americans that died during this bloody war. 

Also on the summit of Arlington National Cemetery is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the World Wars I and II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. This seventy-two ton block of carved white marble bears the poignant inscription: Here lies in Honored Glory an American Soldier known but to God.  The 3rd United States Infantry and official Presidential Unit, known as the Honor Guard, resolutely guards this sacred tomb site, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, come rain or shine.

Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day. The holiday was originally enacted to honor Union soldiers who died during our civil war.  After World War I, American casualties of any war or military action were honored. There is a great quote from the Memorial Day Order of 1868 that I would like to share with you. “Let no neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided republic.”

Many Americans have close ties to the U.S. military. As a child, I grew up on many military bases as my father served in the U.S. Army.  I know firsthand the sacrifices that men and women in the military make.  Our military families must endure great hardships and separation, especially during times of war.  I remember during the Vietnam War what it was like to see military families, including some of friends, suffer from the loss of loved ones.  I still have vivid memories of when I was a child living on the military base. I remember seeing a military police car followed by a Military Chaplain’s car pulling into the housing area. Everyone knew that if the car stopped at your house your mother or father had fallen in the war.  This memory is just one reason I have great respect for the honor and dignity that the military bestows on those who have fallen in the service and defense of our nation. 

Ronald, thanks for your questions.  First, if I might, I’d like to thank you for your kind words on my column. I believe the greatest achievement of this column is the opportunity to increase the dialogue and understanding between our two great nations.  I believe the root cause of many of the questions that I receive is the result of a lack of readily available information.  Hopefully my column provides a bit more clarity and useful information to the many Borneo Bulletin readers.

As the U.S. Ambassador, I travel often for business. As the father of four active children, I also enjoy traveling for pleasure.  Within in the region, I usually fly with Royal Brunei Airlines (RBA).  On the long flights back to America, I fly U.S. or U.S. Code Share Air Lines. This usually means that I fly from Brunei to Singapore, then Tokyo and then, finally to Washington DC. These trips usually take 2 or 3 days.  A direct flight, from Brunei to a major U.S. destination city would indeed be welcome.   The key, as any good airline executive will tell you, is demand and is the cost worth the benefit.   In addition, are there planes and crew available that can make a flight that will be fourteen hours or more?  We all know there is excellent Boeing aircraft, such as the 787 Dreamliner, built for such long distance flights, but many airlines do not currently have these types of planes.   Any airline, including RBA, needs to balance the market in a city like New York (which also is a major U.S. domestic airport) with all other long haul routes, like Auckland, and then determine which would make the best market?  I can only say, and this is of course my personal opinion, if you look at the U.S. as a tourism and business destination, you will find the world’s best.

I also believe that if airline travel was easier or less expensive, more people, particularly families and younger people (students, young professionals, etc) could travel more often.     With the world’s economies struggling, many potential travelers are tightening their belts.  As expected, many are not going far from home for unless they can find a great travel deal.   In the U.S., it used to be that the closer you got to your departure date the more expensive your ticket would be.  Today that can still be the case, but I know all of the U.S .major airlines believe that an unfilled seat is lost revenue. Therefore, several airlines are sending out “e-fares” a week or so before less than adequately filled domestic or international flights are to depart.  The fares are deeply discounted, so more people can afford to travel.  This often results in more people flying, more much needed revenues, and a happier customer base.    I think something like this would be good for airlines that fly to and from Brunei.

For my family, international travel gives us a better understanding of other cultures, economies, and also how truly blessed we are to be from the USA and live in Brunei.    Over the last year I took my children to several less developed countries, and it really opened their eyes to how fortunate they are.  These trips motivated them to make positive changes in their lives. My children are more socially conscious as well as more empathetic of others. 

I would encourage any Bruneian interested in traveling to the U.S. for business and tourism reasons to do so whenever they are ready.  Notwithstanding the standard precautions that are in effect because of the H1N1 virus, the U.S. offers a wealth of tourism opportunities. I have spoken before on all that the Washington DC area has to offer but I might also encourage Bruneians to consider our West Coast.  There are the beaches of California, the beautiful forests of Oregon, and the misty mountains of Washington State.  All are easily accessible from gateway cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle.  Please remember too that all Bruneian citizens, with the appropriate passport, are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program which means you do not need a visa to enter the U.S. All you have to do is pre-register with our Electronic System Travel Authorization (ESTA) program prior to your travel. I also provided more information at the end of this column.

Thank you for mentioning our mention New Embassy which is under construction and is coming along very well.  I am excited and proud that we are now constructing a permanent home for the U.S. Embassy.  The building will be a beautiful testament to the strong ties the Brunei and the USA share.  We appreciate the ongoing support from His Majesty’s government. Whether it is much needed roads, drainage, or power supply, we welcome the ongoing and close relationship with the various Bruneian ministries.  Most of the day to day work is being completed by Bruneian construction company in conjunction with a U.S. firm.  Our embassy is a multi-million dollar project that injects money directly into Brunei’s economy. I look forward to opening the embassy in a little over eighteen months from now.  It will be a beautiful building and one all U.S. Embassy employees will be happy to work in and our guests will be pleased to visit.

I hope you all enjoy a safe and wonderful weekend.

Additional information:-
• Electronic System for Travel Authorization

May 8, 2009

Writing this column, I have found that some of my toughest critics are those closest to me.  As a parent, I am always involved in my children’s lives, no matter where they are. I have found that these days my kids can keep track of me just as well, no matter where I am.  My sons, both of whom are college students in the US, have given me not only questions they want answered but also told me areas that they think I should talk with Brunei about.   As their Dad, I think their questions and comments are funny and insightful. As the US Ambassador, there is one question and concern that they raise that I am going to address today.  It is one I think is shared both parents and leaders of many countries.  Before I begin, please feel free to send your questions at ask_usambassador@yahoo.com.

Q:  What are your thoughts on the changes and the future for our younger generations?

This is an excellent question and if Twitter had more character space I could send you all my response via my cell phone.  Speaking of Twitter, not to mention Facebook, Google, IPhone, and technologies yet to be developed, this is the fast paced, highly connected world we and our children live in.  However, I am concerned that this level of connection actually has the possibility to disconnect us from our fellow citizens in the most basic forms of human interactions. I also believe we must address how these changes affect our economies and ability to be productive members of society.

In the United States, we have seen both the highs and lows of the explosion of innovative information technology. Our President, Barrack Obama, ran what many political experts say,was a masterful campaign that truly used the Internet to rally an entire generation. We have seen politicians in the U.S. try and use the internet before (i.e. Howard Dean), but, according to many, no one did this as successfully as President Obama. This change will likely affect our political campaigns for the foreseeable future.   Campaign communications were instantaneous and kept supporters “in the know” on the campaign.  The ability to give and receive instant feedback has become the norm.

As I said last week, the free flow of information is vital. With that in mind, I do wonder if with all the information available, there is not a sense of overload, especially amongst our younger generation.  Do our children ever unplug and truly enjoy a non-connected world?  The U.S. has seen declining health scores amongst our children and  young adults. The latest internet game takes hours away from what could be more productive activities. While many of the internet and other IT based activities can engage the mind, there is a lot more that needs that should be done person’s well being and growth.

Many would say the Internet allows for more connections with many people. I think that’s a very valid point but I would also point out that connections are not simply in typed words but in being able to look someone in the eye, shake their hand, and hear what they have to say in person.  While I think it is wonderful to be able to SMS at the speed of light, as it seems all my children can do, I am concerned that in our rush to embrace new technologies we often leave behind some basic fundamentals.

Our leaders and government must take this into account. In the U.S., as we have moved further and further from a manufacturing to a service economy, our education and economic systems must not only embrace the latest technologies but also still rely on solid foundation in basic business principles.  A company must actually earn real money.  In the U.S. we realize that we must ensure basic fundamentals in our economy.  We do this not just for my generation but for my children’s (and one day, grandchildren’s) future.

Brunei, as I have said often, has a unique ability to enact positive developments.  The focus on education and the well being of the young is a sign of a nation and leadership dedicated to a continued prosperous future. I am impressed with the concerns raised at the highest levels about what Brunei’s children are truly learning and how can they become productive members of society. We in the U.S. share this same concern and desire.  Both our nations and our leaders want to ensure a safe and prosperous future for our children.  We must find ways to use Information Technology effectively but never letting the technology override our fundamental values or the basic building blocks that made our countries a success.

I am sure my sons will let me know how I did this week and if I answered their question well.  I’m hoping they will give a call on that old fashion telephone but more than likely I’ll get an SMS telling me to go look at my email so I can get an update to see the latest posting on Facebook. 

As always, have a great weekend and please keep those questions coming.


April 30, 2009

With all that is happening around the world, from the H1N1 virus to the ongoing world economic situation, I have received several questions about how the USG gets information out to the public.  I think this is a very timely question as this Sunday May 3, 2009 is World Press Freedom Day.   I will also take a brief moment to clear up a misconception that has recently appeared in Brunei’s online community regarding Brunei’s culinary delights.  Before I address these issues, as always, please feel free to send me your questions at ask_usambassador@yahoo.com.

Q:  How does the U.S. get information out to the public and how important is the free exchange of information to the average American?

This is an excellent question and with the recent developments regarding H1N1 flu, not to mention the world economic situation, I think we can all see the value of a free and unfettered exchange of information.   In terms of how we get information out to the public, we use all of classic media outlets that everyone is aware of.  The challenge is keeping up with ever evolving media, such as Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, or the growing blog community.  The speed at which news travels has made receiving news almost instantaneous.    We have found that as the world media environment evolves getting the facts to the public in a timely, reliable, and accurate manner is all the more important.  

Americans are very passionate about our ability to access information from a number of sources.  We also believe that the US Government should err on the side of providing too much information on a news story than too little.  Our system is not perfect in this regard, but we believe it is one of the key pillars in our long-term prosperity. 

In honor of that tradition and belief, the United States is joining nations throughout the world in recognizing May 3rd as World Press Freedom Day.  Many times Americans may not agree with what our journalists report but we do believe in our right to watch, listen, and learn from what they say.  In our 21st century world, the free flow of information and ideas within countries and across international borders can be a powerful force for understanding.   

With the flow of information so rapid and instantaneous, we all have more access to information than ever before in our history. It probably won’t surprise you but many times the U.S. Government gets its news in real time from CNN, BBC, or Al Jezeera as it is happening.    Many U.S. Government Offices have one thing in common, a wide bank of TVs, all tuned to news from around the world and they are the best source of  key world events as they occur.

As the internet and other electronic mediums evolve and develop, we believe that not only should our government have access to this important information, our citizens should as well.

Q:  So what is the official US position on ambuyat?

Recently, I have read in the local blogs that an old news article, with some comments made by a former US embassy employee, has stirred up a bit of concern regarding the US government and its official position on Brunei’s national dishes.  As Americans, we are all free to speak our mind, but I can reassure you that no one in the US Government believes that ambuyat; much less nasi katok, beef rendang, or any of the other Bruneian dishes are any less desirable than the scores of other national dishes available worldwide.  

As many of you know, I am a big fan of Bruneian cuisine. So much so that I’m now “enjoying” my time in the local gym for the ten kilos in weight I put on since I arrived in Brunei last summer.  The several times I have had ambuyat, I have liked it. I am especially fond of ambuyat with sambal sauce with chilies.  The hotter the sauce, the better. 

My wife, Ann, is also a huge fan of Bruneian cuisine.  As a matter of fact, she recently received a Brunei cook book as a gift from a Bruneian because she was so impressed with the local dishes that were served at luncheon that was held in her honor.   Ann is really pleased that she is able to bring the book home the U.S.A.  She plans on cooking some of Brunei’s culinary delights back at our home in Washington D.C. 

I would like to close this week’s column by saying that my wife, Ann, will be returning to Washington, DC.   It has been a great visit and the kids and I are always sad to see her go back to the United States.  She has really enjoyed her time in Brunei and is looking forward to her next visit here.

As always, have a great weekend and I look forward to more of your questions and comments. 


April 28, 2009

I am having a wonderful week as my wife, Ann, is here from Washington. We have had chance to explore more of Brunei together. The more we see, the more impressed we are with all that Brunei has to offer. As we were out and about in Brunei it got me to thinking about an important issue that has been in the news lately and which I will discuss this week. Before I address this issue, as always, please feel free to send me your questions at ask_usambassador@yahoo.com.

Ambassador William E. Todd

Q: How are Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) linked to other key issues, like the environment?

On April 26, the World Intellectual Property Organization and the international community will observe the ninth annual World Intellectual Property Day to raise international awareness about the importance of intellectual property to our wellbeing. This year's theme, "Promoting Green Innovation," emphasizes the importance of intellectual property (IP) to advancing the development of green technologies and eco-friendly products that support a healthy environment and promote sustainable agricultural and economic development.

We are in a period of heightened concern about both climate change and global economic crisis. Historically such challenges have sparked innovation, presenting new opportunities to benefit from intellectual property. By encouraging enforcement of trade rules, including intellectual property protection, we can support innovative industries, create new jobs and solve global challenges.

Creative individuals and industries continue to generate solutions to some of the most difficult problems that face the world today. Intellectual property protections help foster environments in which creativity and innovation can thrive and contribute to economic development and improved quality of life around the world:

The Alternative Indigenous Development Foundation Inc. (AIDFI), a Philippine non-governmental organization, took a pump first developed in 1772 and improved it by creating a design that uses locally-available replacement parts. As of May 2007, 98 of the new pumps were installed in 68 communities, providing clean water to villagers living on hillsides, who previously had to climb down steep slopes to collect it from a river or stream. This innovative pump uses the best of the original version, but simplifies its maintenance with easily replaceable parts accessible to technicians in the local villages.

We should also look to the recent initiatives here in Brunei. Whether it is cleaning up the Brunei River, sustainable aquaculture, or the Heart of Borneo initiative, Brunei has an important role to play in environmental preservation. New technologies should be a key element in these efforts. Without intellectual property rights (IPR) and enforcement of said rights, Brunei will find itself falling behind other nations in multiple areas, not just environment preservation. Brunei enjoys a unique position as a well developed country with a well educated population. However, the lack of IPR enforcement will deter the much needed innovation that will drive Brunei's continued prosperity.

Innovation is at the heart of civilization. The pursuit of new knowledge is at the center of human spirit and is what led Thomas Edison to invent and develop technologies like the light bulb. The U.S. IP system allowed others to build upon Edison's work by granting him patent protection that allowed him to reap financial benefit for his significant contribution to society. We must ask ourselves: Who are the Thomas Edisons of today? Where are they? And, how do we ensure that IP protections are in place to encourage their innovative spirit and support the safe and secure distribution of technologies to those who desperately need them?

In his inaugural speech, U.S. President Barack Obama reminded us that "our minds are no less inventive" and "our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year." As we work to address global challenges such as the current international economic crisis, climate change and clean energy, we must redouble our efforts to encourage and protect intellectual property rights and foster a robust environment for global innovation.

April 20, 2009

This week, I received an interesting question, one related to an issue very important to me, travel to the US. Before I begin to answer questions, as always, I look forward to hearing from you via our email: ask_usambassador@yahoo.com <mailto:ask_usambassador@yahoo.com>

Q: Ambassador, who needs a visa to visit the US and more importantly, how can one obtain a visa if needed?

Thank you for posing what I must say is a very relevant and important question I'm faced with often as Ambassador to the United States. Recently we've seen a surge in visa requests. I believe this is a direct link to the global economic situation picking up and a realization that it is a good time to travel to the United States. In fact there are some very competitive tour deals to be found if one looks in the right places. Let me break down my response further into a couple of different categories a) Brunei Citizens with Bruneian passports and b) Non-Brunei Nationals living in Brunei.

I first want to emphasize that travel to the US is very easy for Bruneians as long as you have the right travel documents processed. Brunei Citizens with current biometric passports issued after October 25, 2006 have the right to travel to the US without need of a non-immigrant visa as a visitor. They do need to register through the online Electronic Security Transit Authorization process newly implemented, which they can do through the following website; http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/id_visa/ This process should be done at least a week in advance of your anticipated visit to ensure clearance is processed and received. For those with passports issued before October 25, 2006 or after this date but without an electronic bio-chip passport, please contact our visa office at the Embassy directly to ensure what steps you need to take for travel. It is important to note that Brunei is the sole Islamic country that shares such accessibility to the United States through our Visa Waiver Program and this is a vivid statement of the strong relationship we share as two sovereign nations.

For applicants living and working in Brunei from other countries, the process will really depend on your nationality and the relationship the United States has with your country of origin. When applying for a non-immigrant visa there is no scientific formula one must obtain in order to qualify for a visa. If you go to our Embassy website at the following address; http://brunei.usembassy.gov/non-immigrant_visas.html you will find all the information needed to get your application ready for processing and for an interview at the Embassy.

As you may know the United States developed out of a population of immigrants originally. In fact my grandparents immigrated to the US in the early 1900's from Italy. To be honest, there are many visas classifications available for visiting the US for reasons ranging from tourism to study or even working and living in the US. We are strongly encouraging students to consider higher education study and exchange programs in the US as well. The most important thing for you is to obtain the appropriate visa for your determined reason of travel before arriving in the United States. We look forward to welcoming all visitors from Brunei and stand ready to answer questions through my forum in this column or directly at the Embassy.

Maybe someday when we meet on the streets in Brunei we can share a story about a historic landmark or tourist destination you visited or maybe even a US sporting event you attended like a good old American baseball game!

As always, I welcome your future questions and wish you a relaxing and wonderful weekend.


January 30, 2009

As I mentioned last week, I’d like to address a variety of questions I have received during my time in Brunei about the renewed relations of the U.S. with the Muslim world and Muslim communities in America.

America’s renewed commitment and friendship with the Muslim world finds no better example than in the words and actions of our new President. President Obama spoke directly to the Muslims world wide both in his Inaugural Address and in his first formal interview which was conducted with Al-Arabiya. President Obama said “My job is to communicate the fact that United States has a stake in the well being of the Muslim world, that the language we use here is the language of respect. I have Muslim members of my family. I have lived in Muslim countries.” I would like to focus on two key points that our President made. Respect. During my time in Brunei, I have talked with many people and when issues of faith and belief arise, respect is always mentioned as the base upon which we must build our ties to one another. It is a shared value all moral and just people share, regardless of religion or belief. The people of the United States have the core values of respect instilled in our political systems, our laws, and our customs. However, we must ensure we convey this respect to others in the same manner in which we wish to have our belief respected.

Like President Obama, I have lived and worked in many Muslim countries. I have found that the shared value of respect and our common dreams and aspirations bridge almost all differences. One of my goals as U.S. Ambassador is to ensure that we convey a message of respect and shared values. My experience in the Muslim world has taught me that we in the U.S. have a lot to learn and to share. However, we must do a better job of presenting our values and beliefs.

These core American values and beliefs are already part of a strong and diverse Muslim community. That is our growing Muslim-American community. Over 65% of Muslim-American immigrants are first generation immigrants and many arrived in the 1990’s. The graph below highlights the diverse nature of the Muslim-American community. 77% of Muslims living in the US are Citizens. Muslim-Americans have an exceptionally high rate of naturalization, exceeding many other immigrant groups. Muslim Americans are leaders in industry, education and government.
Many associate our Muslim communities with large urban centers, such as New York City, but some of the largest Muslim communities are in the Midwest. Our largest mosque is in Dearborn, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. However most Muslims, in fact, live in our southern states. The number of mosques in the U.S. is growing and we have seen many of our universities incorporate Islamic studies into their curriculum. Knowledge is a fundamental component of respect. Our Muslim-American friends and neighbors have taught us much about Islam, but I think we can learn more. More importantly, I think I can learn more from Bruneians. I ask you to send me your ideas on how we at the U.S. Embassy-Brunei and the U.S. State Department can do a better job of communicating with the Muslim world. We know that there is not one simple solution but I believe Bruneians can offer insights and creative ideas.  Have a great weekend and I’ll leave you with one final thought from President Obama: “To the broader Muslim world what we are going to offer is the hand of friendship.


January 23, 2009

Q: Ambassador, you mentioned an announcement for this week, something that would improve communications with Brunei?
I do indeed have an announcement of an initiative that I am very proud of. Our Embassy has a new and improved website. Our address (http://brunei.usembassy.gov) remains the same but our site is vastly enhanced. One of my goals has been to make the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Government more accessible and relevant to Brunei. Our new website has enhanced interactivity that provides me the ability talk with Brunei and for Brunei to talk with me more. I encourage you to visit our website often, leave us your comments and thoughts, and to learn more about the U.S. and our foreign policy. President Obama noted that the U.S. should reach out to all our friends and neighbors. As many of you saw during his campaign, he used the internet and modern media very effectively. Our new website is an additional and fun way for the U.S. Embassy to bring America’s story to our friends in Brunei.

Q: If you were visiting Washington DC, where would you go?
That’s a great question and we have talked a bit in the past about areas to visit and tourism in the U.S., but I wanted to focus in one of my favorite places and President Obama’s Inaugural address made me think of it again. Mt. Vernon is the home of our 1st President, George Washington. Along the shores of the Potomac River, Mt. Vernon is a great place to visit. It’s easily accessible from the metro DC area by car, bus, or rail. Mt. Vernon has gone through extensive renovations to make it more accessible and more educational. Visitors will not only learn a tremendous amount about George Washington but also about the founding of our nation. Whether you visit the main house with wonderful views of the Potomac or the other areas of the park, you realize why President Washington chose this site and you cannot help but be inspired. Walking through the Mt. Vernon estate I realized how far we have come as a nation. We were a small, poor country in 1776 but we have been blessed with strong men and women who have lead us through tough times and we remain fortunate that this grand tradition continues to this day. Insider’s Tip: Visit Washington and Mt. Vernon in the spring. It’s less crowded and you can really enjoy the entire estate better. For more information, please visit the following website (http://www.mountvernon.org) Q. Any updates on the State Department and the Department’s leadership? Another question I get asked every day. As many of you may know, our new Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, was confirmed earlier in the week by the U.S. Senate. She made her official arrival to the State Department on Thursday where she was met by a large and enthusiastic gathering of State Department employees.

In addition, President Obama and Vice President Biden visited the State Department on Thursday (Jan 22). The State Department was the first Executive Branch agency that the President visited. We are honored that he did so and know that foreign policy are key elements of his presidential agenda. This was evident in his appointment of two special envoys: Ambassador Richard Holbrooke as Senior Representative to Pakistan and Afghanistan and Senator George Mitchell as Special Envoy for Middle East Peace. Ambassador Holbrooke lead our efforts to find peace in Bosnia and former Senator Mitchell played a crucial role in bringing peace to Northern Ireland as part of the Good Friday Accords. I have included some additional information from the White House that discusses the White House’s foreign policy agenda. As always, have a great weekend and I extend special Year of the Ox, Chinese New Year’s greetings to the Chinese community in Brunei. Gong Xi Fa Chai!

In next week’s column I will answer some of your questions about America’s diverse population including the growing number of Muslim communities throughout the U.S. Some additional websites of interest:
President Obama’s Foreign Policy agenda: http://www.whitehouse.gov/agenda/foreign_policy/
Department of State: http://www.state.gov



January 16, 2009
Q: Can you tell us a little bit more about the inauguration ceremony for President-elect Obama? Does this year’s ceremony have any special significance?
I have been looking forward to answering this question.for some time. Previously I mentioned how proud the U.S. is of our tradition of peaceful transition between Presidents. This grand tradition will continue with the inauguration ceremony of President Elect Obama on January 20th. The inauguration of our first African American president is a point of tremendous pride and honor for the U.S. In addition, this year’s ceremony is also significant as the U.S. honors two of our greatest and most influential leaders: Dr. Martin Luther King and President Abraham Lincoln. Dr. King inspired all Americans to better ourselves. His words and actions were powerful reminders and inspiration that we in America have come a long way in the way we treat our fellow citizens but that we still have progress to make. I believe Dr. King would be proud of where our nation is today. Our federal holiday on January 19th, the day before the inauguration ceremony, will be of special significance this year.

Both President Elect Obama and Dr. King looked to the legacy of one of our greatest presidents for guidance. President Abraham Lincoln, our 16th president, changed the course of our nation’s history. President Lincoln’s 200th birthday anniversary is this year and our friends at the Borneo Bulletin had an excellent story earlier in the week on this historic event. I would strongly encourage you to take a moment to read some of Lincoln’s speeches, such as the Gettysburg address. I think you will find that Lincoln’s words still hold true to this day and that all Americans, especially our leaders, live and learn from his example. The Inauguration ceremony itself is organized by the Presidential Inauguration Committee. The celebration will be an all day and night event but the official portions begin at or around 10:00 am Eastern Standard Time in Washington DC (11:00 pm, January 20th in Brunei). The swearing in ceremony is scheduled to start around 11:30 am (approximately 12:30am, January 21st in Brunei) according to the latest information we have. Because of the size of the crowds expected and possible weather conditions (the ceremony is held outside) the times may be subject to change. I fully expect wide coverage of the event on all major international television channels. Please check the local listings for more information on times and coverage. Like America, the ceremony has changed greatly over time. However, the Oath of Office and the President’s inauguration speech remain of great importance. The inauguration speech serves as the President’s chance to speak to Americans and the world about his vision of the United States and our future, both domestically and internationally. I look forward to watching and listening during this historic moment on Tuesday evening. While it will be a late evening for me, I believe this is historic moment that should not be missed. The ceremony will also include a parade after President Elect Obama’s speech and in the evening, the celebration really begins with many balls and other parties. It is truly a great time to be in the nation’s capitol. I have included a few websites where you can find a wealth of information about the Inauguration and the history of the ceremony. Our Embassy website has a special page devoted to the Inauguration which we will update constantly with new information before and after the ceremony. I also wanted to take a brief moment to let you all know that I will have an announcement next week that I believe will further enhance the great outreach and communication Brunei and the U.S. Embassy have. So, please look out for our announcement next week and, as always, have a great weekend. Some useful website on Inauguration:
http://pic2009.org; http://brunei.usembassy.gov/inauguration_day.html

January 9, 2009
Q: What is the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) program and where can I get more information?
That’s an excellent question. I hope many of you have read our press release earlier in the week about the ESTA program. Most importantly, ESTA is not a visa. ESTA, similar to travel registration programs in other countries, is simply a means for our Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to better monitor travel to the U.S. ESTA registration is simple and free. Some registrants may be asked to visit their local U.S. Embassy and will need a visa. However, to date, the numbers of those who need to apply for a visa at a U.S. Embassy have been very low.

Brunei is amongst a select, but growing, group of nations who are part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This means that Bruneian citizens who are going to the U.S. for tourism or short term business trips do not need a visa. All VWP countries and their citizens who wish to travel without a visa must register via the ESTA program starting on January 12, 2009. Applicants are encouraged to submit the ESTA application as soon as they begin planning for U.S. bound travel, and no later than 72 hours prior to travel.

The best sources for more information are the following websites: The Department of Homeland and Security ESTA website (https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov) and the U.S. Embassy-Brunei website where you will be able to find some useful fact sheets about the ESTA program (http://brunei.usembassy.gov). Let’s finish with a fun question and one that I get asked all the time.

Q: Ambassador, what is your favorite food in Brunei?
I think I must start by saying; I really like the food in Brunei. However, one of my New Year’s resolutions and one I think I might share with many of you is to exercise more and have a healthy diet. So, with that in mind, I’m going to talk for a moment about all the great food here, especially since I might not be able to eat as much of it this year. I have spent a lot of time in Asia, including Southeast Asia. While I love fine dining, I also am a big fan of more simple local dishes. You are likely to find me eating Nasi Katok from any number of great restaurants, big and small, around Brunei. I also am a big fan of Chinese food, having spent a considerable amount of time in China. I enjoy good, spicy dishes. Speaking of spicy, you have to include the excellent Indian and Thai food we have here in Brunei. This is what I like so much about Brunei. Like the diverse background of Bruneians, there is a also great mix of cuisine. Eating out at local restaurants or being invited in to homes to enjoy these great meals is truly one of the most memorable parts of my time in Brunei.