The project is designed according to the methodology Geographical Information System (GIS) that integrates all related information. GIS is beneficial because of its ability to compile information based on geographical information and its location.
GIS is different from the static map because it shows various layers of information that can benefit the public.
The system also has the capability to make effective and fast solution.
According to the Surveyor General, Pengiran Haji Metussin, the project is meant for use by the penghulus and village headmen.
However it can also be extended to government agencies such as the fire services, post offices, health, police and other units.
He added that the project was not only for Kampong Ayer. It will also be extended to other kampongs and mukims situated on land.
The surveyor general also mentioned that Kampong Ayer is currently having a pilot project, which would be useful in the outbreak of fire in the water village.
The information system of Kampong Ayer combines text from digital information with that of data based graphic especially designed for the water village.
The information on Kampong Ayer available in his department included house number, household name, identity card and colour as well number of families.
Meanwhile, the graphic database stores the information on government buildings such as schools, fire services, permanent buildings, building that have collapsed or destroyed by fires as well as the demarcation of mukims and kampongs.
The result of the compilation of this information would answer related enquiries, the official said.
It is also to enable the accuracy in map-making.
Pengiran Haji Metussin added the system has so far identified houses and its occupants.
This is what the Survey Department hopes so that the information could be shared and used among other agencies.
The system, he said, could benefit the people and expressed the hope that other government agencies will come forward to help his department to develop the system jointly.
The Surveyor General said the information on Kampong Ayer has been used since 1981 during the first fire tragedy in the water village.
During that time the system used analogue and it only showed the positions of houses from air.
This is far different with the use of computers today where the information could be obtained more accurately and quickly.
He said the collection of data began many years ago. It sent officers to the water village to gain house data such as house numbers, household information and the demarcation of mukims and kampongs.
He said the system could identify strategic position of the police, hospitals and village chief, residents and other useful information.
He added that during the outbreak of fires in the water village, the system was really useful in identifying houses involved in the blaze and also of fire victims.
Quelle: Brunei Direct, 03.11.2003
