Nurul Izyan binti Anver

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Starting Point

Nurul Izyan binti Anver is the Country Managing Director of the ASEAN Chief Information Officer Association. She is also the Deputy President of the National Youth Council and an Ambassador for Women TechMakers. During the last COVID-19 outbreak, she was the Database Administrator for the Electronic System for the Management of Youth Volunteer Operations.

Izyan Anver is a dedicated advocate for digital inclusion, youth development, and positive change, particularly in Brunei Darussalam and the Southeast Asia region. With a strong background in technology, leadership, and community engagement, she has been actively involved in various organisations, both locally and internationally. Izyan’s passion lies in creating opportunities for youth, fostering innovation in the tech ecosystem, and ensuring digital transformation is accessible to all.

Peace Journey

Her contributions to peace and security for women and youth have largely focused on advocating against early marriages and supporting initiatives that empower women and adolescents. In Brunei Darussalam, early marriage is often viewed as a way to avoid social vices like zina or as a form of economic security for families. While she is not deeply involved in direct intervention, she has participated in forums discussing issues such as sexual harassment, domestic violence, and societal pressures that lead to early marriages.

On a more personal level, she has had individuals approach her about specific cases. While she cannot take direct action, she provides advice and strongly encourages them to seek official channels or professional resources. She also engages in dialogues with community groups and committees to understand the root causes of these issues. For example, she has worked on a task force that focuses on addressing the needs of troubled youth and adolescents, offering therapy consultations and other forms of support. This task force brings together representatives from various ministries, including health and law enforcement, to provide holistic solutions. However, the bureaucratic approval process and budget constraints often make it difficult to implement meaningful changes quickly.

Additionally, she has participated in organising events aimed at empowering women to recognise their potential beyond traditional roles. These events create platforms for education, networking, and self-awareness, particularly for married women who often juggle familial responsibilities.

Success Stories 

Women’s involvement is critical because they bring unique perspectives and lived experiences that are essential for addressing the challenges faced by women and youth. Women who have experienced early marriages, societal pressures, or other forms of inequality are better equipped to advocate for practical and empathetic solutions.

For example, she has seen how empowering women through education and skill-building initiatives can have a ripple effect on their families and communities. Programmes that teach women about self-care, financial independence, and leadership help them not only improve their own lives but also inspire others to follow their example. Women’s involvement also ensures that policies and programmes are designed with a clear understanding of the specific needs and struggles of both women and youth.

She believes that by challenging outdated norms and creating opportunities for dialogues, women can drive systemic change that addresses issues like early marriages, gender inequality, and lack of access to education. Their participation ensures that solutions are inclusive, sustainable, and reflective of the realities faced by marginalised groups, paving the way for a more equitable society.