BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Brunei's Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah announced the setting-up of Digital Economy Council to explore the economic potential of the industry on Monday.

The sultan, in a speech, highlighted the need for Brunei to further explore the digital economy, particularly in the creative industry.

The sultan stressed that effort in expanding the creative industry must not only limited to the work related to preserving the nation's cultural heritage, but also in other areas that can contribute to the nation's economic diversification.

According to the sultan, currently a master plan is being developed, with the aim to transform the country into a smart nation.