Hjh Zainab M.A. Omar

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Starting Point

The Human Resources Society (HRS) aims to provide a platform for sharing of HR best practices and knowledge, to further develop and grow both experienced and new HR talents and professionals. It is affiliated with the International Society for Performance Management (ISPI).

Hajah Zainab joined Brunei Shell Petroleum in 1983, with international experience in Oman, Qatar, UK, and Norway. When she was the HR Director, she focused on Talent Management, Bruneianisation, and Employee Engagement.

Peace Journey

“One of the most significant initiatives I’ve been involved in is the IDEAS Project, which is focused on empowering women entrepreneurs in Brunei. Sponsored by a South Korean university through the Asian Women Entrepreneurs Network, the project operates under Darussalam Enterprise and runs for two years, engaging women in monthly cohorts. The program begins with comprehensive workshops covering essential skills like digital tools (e.g., Canva), cyber security, marketing, and business digitalization. These workshops equip women with practical tools to navigate modern business challenges, especially through social media platforms like TikTok and Facebook. After this initial training, the participants move into the mentoring phase, where I play a critical role. My role involves assessing their progress, identifying gaps in their business knowledge or strategies, and providing tailored guidance. This could range from improving financial management to helping them design effective marketing

strategies. The program has already seen notable successes—one of my mentees recently won the Vietnam Women Entrepreneurs Award, showcasing the impact of such focused efforts.

“Beyond IDEAS, I have been deeply involved in the Human Resource Society of Brunei, which I founded to enhance HR professionalism in the country. Over the past two years, we’ve hosted quarterly Learn and Connect sessions aimed at empowering HR professionals with core skills like talent management, succession planning, and change management. These sessions also address contemporary issues like HR digitalization, ensuring that professionals remain relevant in a rapidly evolving field. This initiative not only upskills HR professionals but also creates a ripple effect, as better HR practices lead to safer and more inclusive workplaces for women and youth.

“In addition to these structured programs, I have also worked informally with grassroots entrepreneurs, connecting them with resources to overcome hurdles. For instance, I’ve guided women on accessing shared kitchens for halal-certified food production and on using affordable facilities to kickstart their ventures. Many of these women are initially overwhelmed, but with motivation and access to resources, they gain the confidence to move forward. One such entrepreneur, with my support, was able to package her products professionally and begin exporting internationally, including to Dubai. Her success story, like many others, reinforces the transformative power of empowerment initiatives. Lastly, I’ve contributed to mental health advocacy through my mentoring work. Many women and youth face self-doubt and psychological barriers that hinder their potential. By providing a safe and supportive environment where they can share their struggles, I’ve been able to help them rebuild their confidence, address their mental blocks, and rediscover their capabilities.”

Success Stories

“It is absolutely crucial for women to be involved in initiatives that address the well-being of women and youth. Women bring a unique perspective to these efforts, as they often have firsthand experience with the challenges being addressed. For example, in my HR roles, I’ve advocated for policies like period leave, which many women need but are hesitant to request due to stigma. Without women in decision-making spaces, such issues would likely be ignored or misunderstood. Women leaders and mentors also serve as role models, inspiring others to believe in their potential and pursue their dreams.

“Moreover, women’s involvement often creates safer and more inclusive spaces where others feel comfortable sharing their struggles. This accelerates progress because it allows issues to be addressed at their root. Empowered women can inspire others, creating a ripple effect that benefits families, communities, and future generations. When women are equipped with confidence and resources, they not only uplift themselves but also contribute to the broader

well-being of society. This is why I always emphasise the importance of teaching women “how to fish,” ensuring that they gain the skills and resilience needed for lifelong success. Empowering

women is not just about individual progress; it’s about creating a foundation for sustainable, inclusive growth.”