THE ROLE OF ‘MELAYU ISLAM BERAJA’ (MIB) IN SHAPING A RESILIENT AND ETHICAL SOCIETY

Abstract

Melayu Islam Beraja (MIB) is the national philosophy of Brunei Darussalam, integrating Malay culture, Islamic values, and the monarchical system as the foundation of society and governance. This paper examines the role of MIB in fostering ethical development and social resilience amid contemporary challenges such as globalization, digital influence, and shifting social norms. It highlights how MIB shapes moral conduct through education, governance, family institutions, and religious guidance, while reinforcing social cohesion through communal solidarity and monarchical leadership. The paper also identifies opportunities to strengthen the relevance of MIB for younger generations through digital engagement, experiential learning, and youth participation. This study applied a qualitative methodology with a document content analysis design. The data was analyzed inductively and deductively to identify themes and constructs related to the study objectives. It concludes that MIB remains a dynamic and relevant framework for sustaining ethical integrity, national identity, and societal resilience in the modern era.