|     Hakim Hayat     |

BRUNEI Darussalam’s new scheme to provide free diapers and breast pumps for newborns, a practice prevalent in many developed countries, will not only ease the financial burden of parents but also ensure the new-borns are well taken care of, YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, the Minister of Health, said yesterday.

The minister was responding to comments that went viral on social media recently that questioned the rationale of giving free diapers and breast pumps to families who can afford them, during a press conference held at the Legislative Council (LegCo) building yesterday.

He said that research conducted before this scheme was announced has found that in many developed countries child benefits are given to all, irrespective of their income bracket, because the governments there realised the need to give the children the best opportunities in life and to ensure that their welfare, nutrition and health are all cared for.

The reasoning behind giving away breast pumps, the minister said is because of the proven research done on breast feeding.

“Exclusive breast feeding gives a host of benefits to a baby in terms of development, immunity from infections and others.. for the mother it is also beneficial and will help them in terms of going back to their normal weight and in maintaining the bond between their babies which is very important,” he said, adding that this will also help alleviate costs of buying baby foods which can be very expensive.

YB Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, the Minister of Health. – AZROL AZMI

The objective of the scheme is also for the betterment of the society as a whole, said the minister, who underlined that if the child’s health is being well taken care of from early stages, it will guarantee better health in future, by reducing the chances of contracting chronic diseases and even obesity. “Of course it all depends on how they are being brought up, but this will help ease the burden to the society, the government and the country… which is why the government comes in to help…” he added.

The issue on the provision of diapers to all newborns was also brought up at the 13th LegCo session yesterday, and responding to it, the minister said some of the comments on social media questioning the scheme are welcome, but said that “at the end of the day, we have to move on. It depends on an individual… if some people feel responsible enough and decide not to take them, they may give it away to those who need it more…these are the kind of citizens we want..” he added.

The minister said they are still in the process of working out the distribution method for the new scheme which will be implemented from April 1 throughout all hospitals in the country. “Perhaps what we can do is to create a system whereby we can allow people not to take it if they feel that they can afford it,” he said.

He explained that the scheme was introduced for a good reason and doesn’t come from the Ministry of Health’s budget, as scrutinised by the public, but rather from revenue that will be generated from the revised import tax and excise duties that will come into force next month.

“With the new tax amendments, now there will be more tax on food and beverages with high sugar and sodium content and these revenues will be provisioned for the scheme,” he said.

The minister added that Brunei records an average 5,000 births per year, noting that these numbers mean that the amount spent on this scheme is negligible.

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|     Azrol Azmi     |

HER Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam yesterday received in audience Alouny Kommasith, the spouse of Saleumxay Kommasith, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

Accompanying Alouny Kommasith was Phimpa Kindavong, the spouse of the Ambassador of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to Brunei Darussalam, Amphay Kindavong.

Also in attendance was Datin Paduka Tan Bee Yong, the spouse of Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Lim Jock Seng, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II.

The audience ceremony took place at the Istana Nurul Iman.

Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam during the audience with Alouny Kommasith, the spouse of Saleumxay Kommasith, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Also in the photo are Datin Paduka Tan Bee Yong, the spouse of Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Lim Jock Seng, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II, and Phimpa Kindavong, the spouse of the Ambassador of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to Brunei Darussalam, Amphay Kindavong. – AZROL AZMI

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THE Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yusoff bin Haji Ismail, yesterday presented his Letter of Credence accrediting him as the Permanent Representative of Brunei Darussalam to the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) to the OIC Secretary General Dr Yousef A Al-Othaimeen.

During the discussion that took place after the presentation of credentials, the ambassador reiterated Brunei’s commitment to the OIC and its programmes and activities. He also expressed his interest in working closely with the General Secretariat for the benefit of the OIC and its member states.

Welcoming the ambassador, the secretary general underlined the important role of Brunei in materialising the objectives of the OIC. Dr Al-Othaimeen assured the ambassador of the required support and assistance from the general secretariat during his assignment at the OIC.

Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yusoff bin Haji Ismail with OIC Secretary General Dr Yousef A Al-Othaimeen

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|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

THE Ministry of Communications (MinCom) has been allocated a budget of 122.28 million for the 2017-2018 financial year.

This was announced by the Minister of Communications Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat in his budget speech on the ninth day of the 13th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday.

“Of this allocation, approximately $41 million has been set aside for the payment of staff salaries, $26 million for recurring expenses and $54 million for development expenditure,” he noted.

Although the allocation, particularly in relation to staff salaries and recurring expenses, shows a slight reduction compared to last year, MinCom will be able to meet its goals, notwithstanding the current economic environment, the minister added.

According to him, this reduction also reflects the efforts undertaken by the departments under MinCom so far to save money such as privatisation of services that are not cost-effective among others.

File photo shows the construction of the flyover at Jalan Babu Raja/Jalan Tutong. – AZROL AZMI

“The Government of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has never slacked in providing communication and transport infrastructure and facilities in hopes that this commitment will bring prosperity to the people.

“Through MinCom, the intention of the government is to expand the communications sector and improve the public transport system to make them more sustainable and inclusive for the benefit of all levels of society,” he said.

The minister said that MinCom believes that the government’s effort in providing a communication and public transport system that is efficient and effective will also open up more employment and trade opportunities, which will help boost economic growth and reduce social problems.

“Communications and transportation also contribute to various aspects of development such as education, health, safety, tourism, diplomacy and so on. It is like the veins that supply oxygen and food to the body. Without this supply, the body (body of society) will run out of essential nutrients.”

The minister said that as Brunei Darussalam is faced with the challenges of economic and social development, the role of transport and communications sector cannot be ignored.

“A communication and transportation system that is efficient and effective is a system that links the movement of people and citizens from one destination to another for the purposes of trade, education and so on. A communication and transportation system that is efficient and effective is also a system that offers reliability,” he noted, adding that “MinCom is currently actively implementing the Strategic Plan 2008-2017 towards improving communication and transport sectors”.

The vision of His Majesty for developing the communications and transport sector will contribute to the progress and prosperity of the country, he added.

During the budget speech, the minister highlighted the ministry’s achievements in various sectors such as civil aviation, maritime transportation and information and communication technology, besides detailing its development plans for the future.

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|      Ishan Ibrahim      |

ALTHOUGH costly, there is a need for an alternative traffic classification to smoothen traffic flow.

An efficient public bus transport system would include giving priority to buses and having a dedicated bus lane to efficiently ferry passengers to their intended destination.

Minister of Communications YB Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat said this at the Legislative Council (LegCo) meeting in response to a traffic jam-related question posed by Mukim Gadong ‘A’ Penghulu YB Haji Tahamit bin Haji Nudin.

Connectivity in the Brunei-Muara District will see buses available within 200 metres of a building, with 70 per cent coverage to work places, 100 per cent coverage to universities, 45 per cent coverage to secondary schools, 65 per cent coverage to primary and religious schools, and 71 per cent coverage to higher educational institutions, the minister elaborated.

The bus system will hopefully help reduce traffic jams in the country with buses available at critical points (such as schools) to lower the number of motorists on the road, he said.

Agreeing with a statement made by LegCo Speaker YB Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Lela Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Dato Setia Haji Mohamed Taib that traffic jams here aren’t as bad as those in neighbouring countries, the minister did however add that early action should be taken to prevent its exacerbation.

Traffic congestion caused by road accidents was also discussed, but with the advent of the Motor Claims Guidelines system, such accidents can be expeditiously managed – with the exception of those involving injuries, deaths or damage to public property.

The new Motor Claims Guidelines system can hopefully be implemented soon, the minister said, adding that insurance companies agree with the system, which can be managed without a police report being made.

Mukim Gadong ‘A’ Penghulu YB Haji Tahamit bin Haji Nudin. – AZROL AZMI

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

THE prize presentation and closing Negara ceremony for the Adat Istiadat Department Goodwill Games was held yesterday, graced by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara.

The honours’ list for this year’s Games included Haji Abidin bin Haji Rashid in individual table tennis, the pair of Asmadi bin Asmad and Julika bin Haji Serudin in the doubles’ dart, the duo of Mohd Zaim bin Mahmud and Haji Mohd Abidin bin Haji Rashid in the badminton doubles’ open and the Dissemination Team ‘B’ in the inter-section futsal tournament.

The purpose of the Games was to help officers and staff be active in sports.

Winners in a group photo with their prizes

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI-Muara District have underlined their desire to retain their Brunei Darussalam National Games 2017 (SKBD) overall title.

“At the last Brunei Darussalam National Games, the Brunei-Muara District contingent retained the overall title by collecting 54 gold, 34 silver and 47 bronze medals,” said Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim, Acting Brunei-Muara District Officer in his welcoming remarks during the shirt presentation for the contingent at the Theatre Hall of the Brunei-Muara District Office yesterday.

“We hope that the representatives or athletes in the third edition of SKBD at the minimum match the accomplishments of the previous contingent which is winning the overall title,” the acting district officer said.

“Probably the medal collection will not be the same considering that the championship is only open to only eight sports but it is hoped that the athletes will defend the title just as in the first and second edition.

“Certainly success cannot be blocked through sacrifice, tireless efforts and discipline as long as we set it in our hearts and do it earnestly,” he further said.

He also advised the sportspersons to safeguard values such as good sportsmanship adding that they must accept defeat with grace and demonstrate humility in victory.

Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim, Acting Brunei-Muara District Officer, is targeting a top finish for the district at the Brunei Darussalam National Games. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

The acting district officer added that the athletes should not only perform steadily but also instil the spirit of sportsmanship by respecting their opponents.

He also hoped that the athletes will not suffer injuries after the competition and will constantly be in a healthy state to take part in the event with healthy competition.

He concluded that the athletes will provide best competition and said that hopes lies in the shoulders of the Brunei Muara District’s contingent.

Brunei-Muara futsal head coach Mohd Qasmal Haji Abdul Ghani expressed his hopes that his charges will be providing stern competition to all teams in the Brunei Darussalam National Games 2017.

“We hope that we will provide competition until we reach the final stage,” said Mohd Qasmal.

He added that only one player has represented Brunei-Muara noting that there are a lot of new faces in the squad.

Touching on the team’s preparations, Qasmal continued that they began preparing for the side in early February.

Brunei-Muara netball team will be hoping to deliver a strong performance and contribute towards defending the SKBD crown.

“Representing Brunei-Muara we hope that we would be able to get the gold medal and as well as to try and defend. Hopefully we’ll be able to defend our Brunei-Muara title,” said netball player Adi Khairun Norinsan Haji Kassim.

“Most of us are first-timers representing Brunei-Muara. This is the new and young generation level because previously it was all seniority and this is a young squad.”

Leading the contingent as the Chef De Mission is Pengiran Kamal Ariffin bin Pengiran Haji Ahmad Yassin, Acting Deputy Brunei-Muara District Officer.

During the ceremony, each team across various sports representing Brunei Muara received bottled water and 100 Plus sports drink.

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|      Azaraimy HH      |

THE Minister of Communications, YB Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, said that boat operators connecting the Brunei-Muara and Temburong districts will eventually face a changing situation once the two bridges – one connecting Brunei-Muara and Temburong and the other connecting Bandar Seri Begawan and Sungai Kebun – are completed.

During the 13th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday, the minister said the two bridges will bring about many benefits, but it will also affect the business of water taxis.

Thus, he asked the boat operators to be prepared when the time comes and to embrace the changes by considering the opportunities, such as an increase in demand and tourism-related advantages, which the bridges will bring.

He urged the operators to be positive and ‘berhijrah’ (migrate) from the past to the new situation.

He added that the government has established many facilities to encourage Bruneians to do business, as well as facilities to help locals upgrade themselves or obtain new skills.

File photo shows a water taxi in Kampong Ayer. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

A scale model of the Temburong bridge

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|      Aziz Idris      |

FREER movement of people within the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines – East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) routes will enhance cross-border connectivity and opportunities to upgrade the infrastructural transportation projects in the region.

However, a feasible study should be carried out before Brunei decides to implement any projects to identify the sustainability towards activities that help narrow linkages within the routes.

This was shared by YB Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, the Minister of Communications, on the 10th day of the 13th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday in response to a suggestion by YB Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii to develop an infrastructural railway that links BIMP-EAGA routes.

Such linkages can boost economic cooperation among economies in the sub-region and ultimately increase trade investments and tourism within the participating areas through cross-border cooperation, she added.

The minister also pointed out that there is a need for a holistic approach towards the national land transport system.

The transportation sector is a key enabler as well as a key beneficiary in realising the BIMP-EAGA’s goals.

Brunei can potentially tap into a multi-model transportation system that will influence how and where the movement of people will be located.

This, in turn, will lead to potential economic spin-offs and enhanced quality of life for the people in BIMP-EAGA.

YB Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii. – AZROL AZMI

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|      Azlan Othman      |

THE bridge linking Bandar Seri Begawan to Temburong – expected to be completed by the end of 2019 – is facing delay, however, contractors have added on more machineries and employees to expedite the process.

Minister of Development YB Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah yesterday said this at the Legislative Council (LegCo) meeting in response to a query by YB Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Rahim on the Temburong Bridge project.

The factors behind the delay include mobilisation and the provision of casting yard, storage of heavy machineries, sites to place employees and a construction office, which have taken quite some time. Site provision alone has taken eight months, he said.

At present, the mega project is 17 per cent completed.

The minister listed the other issues which include difficulty accessing the area, especially the mangrove section in Temburong. The initial stage proved to be an obstacle for heavy machineries attempting to enter by means of land and sea.

YB Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Rahim. – AZROL AZMI

There was also the problem of the water access being too low to cross, for which 13 kilometres of the river needed to be dug out and deepened for goods barge and piling to be transported. A total area of 100 metres (and 25 metres deep) of soil had to be dug out and removed.

The geology strata of soil underwater in the area also affected piling works. The average piling work is 600-900 metres deep, where 900mm concrete pipes are used for piling.

Also delaying the process were uncertain weather conditions as well as the unavailability of construction materials and special machineries, which then had to be imported from China, South Korea and Malaysia via sea.

Technical issues have also sprung up but with the expertise and experience available, we will monitor the project, the minister added.

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|      Ishan Ibrahim      |

SOME foreign companies are keen on investing in the country to produce electric cars, Minister of Communications YB Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat said.

The Land Transport Department (JPD) welcomes this move, the minister said on the 10th day of the 13th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday.

Responding to a query by YB Iswandy bin Ahmad, he said that the JPD follows the directives from the Energy and Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office which stipulates government policies concerning fuel efficient vehicles.

There has been several positive developments taking place in the field of hybrid or fuel efficient vehicles and vehicle suppliers also have a general awareness on the issue of hybrid cars, especially on the advancement of these types of vehicles, he added.

“What’s important is the infrastructure that should be in place such as charging stations,” the minister noted.

File photo shows the Minister of Communications YB Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat. – AZROL AZMI

In response to another issue raised by the LegCo member on developing a communication link between the government and the public, the minister said that forums for discussions are currently available online where the public can participate and the Information Department can give more details on this issue.

He said the discussions should adhere to the customs and regulations of the country and participants should refrain from posting images, information and accusations that may embarrass an individual or a group.

On another issue, the minister said that the Authority for Infocommunications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) is working closely with mobile and phone operators such as TelBru, DST and Progresif Cellular in a bid to keep abreast with the current developments in weather prediction technologies. DST, for instance, has introduced 4G, the fourth generation of wireless mobile telecommunications technology, he noted.

The advent of the 5G system could be the future in Brunei. AITI has announced concepts where these new technologies can be efficiently utilised such as ‘Smart Nation’ and ‘Smart Society’, and such programmes can be disseminated to the public and with the participation of the private sector and relevant parties, the new technologies can be developed sustainably, the minister said.

On the issue of weather forecasting, the minister said that the Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department operates on a 24-hour basis that gives advanced information to relevant parties, adding that warnings on earthquakes, tsunamis and other similar disasters are outside the scope of the department. The department only gives information to the public on rainfall, winds, ocean tides and others, he added.

On this note, the Minister of Home Affairs YB Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong said disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis are handled by the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) in cooperation with the Jakarta-based Asean Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (AHA) Centre where disaster-related information is shared between the two parties.

Hence any information that arrives at the AHA will be conveyed to the NDMC, added the minister.

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|      Azlan Othman      |

BRUNEI Darussalam’s passport is continuing its powerful journey allowing its holders to move across borders without having to undergo the ordeal of a cumbersome visa application process.

The Sultanate’s passport has been ranked sixth in Asia and retained its 23rd place globally in this year’s Visa Restrictions Index of Henley & Partners, bucking a global trend of decreased travel freedom.

In the Index for Asia, Brunei was ranked after Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia and Hong Kong.

Brunei was also ranked third among South-east Asian countries, behind Singapore and Malaysia. The number of countries and territories that Brunei passport holders enjoy visa-free access to has remained unchanged from last year at 151 out of the 218 countries and territories surveyed.

Germany (176) and Sweden (175) retained their last year’s first and second positions respectively, although both lost visa-free access to one country.

File photo of the immigration checkpoint at the Brunei International Airport. – AZROL AZMI

Brunei’s rank of 23 in 2016 was a drop from 18th place in 2015 and 17th in 2014.

In January this year, the passport index devised by global financial advisory firm Arton Capital ranked the Sultanate as the world’s 20th most powerful passport with a visa-free score of 134.

Dr Christian H Kälin, Chairman of Henley & Partners, said that although the size and make-up of the top 10 remain the same as last year, the changing geopolitical climate could well affect the rankings over the next 12 months.

“We have witnessed several major events recently that are likely to have an impact on global mobility – including Brexit and the election of US President Donald Trump,” explained Dr Kälin, a leading authority on international immigration and citizenship law and policy.

“Both can be interpreted as steps toward restricting movement and creating barriers to entry. This trend towards curbing travel freedom is already apparent in the shift in rankings on this year’s Visa Restrictions Index,” Dr Kälin said.

The Henley & Partners Visa Restrictions Index is a global ranking of countries according to the travel freedom that their citizens enjoy.

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|      Hakim Hayat      |

THE slower pace of economic growth due to global oil price woes and a tight overall budget for the 2017-2018 fiscal did not deter the government to do a pump-priming to catalise the economy.

A budget totalling $1 billion has been proposed to fund projects and programmes under the 10th National Development Plan (NDP) during the new financial year, a 30 per cent increase compared to the $700 million allocated for the 2016-17 NDP.

This was announced by YB Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim, the Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and Minister of Finance II, on the 10th day of the 13th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday.

During the budget deliberation, he said that the new financial year’s proposed budget for the 10th NDP has been devised to sustain the focus and priorities of the budget theme for 2017-2018 which emphasises objective spending to support sustainable economic growth.

The distribution of the budget will focus on the commitment for completed projects with liability and ongoing projects, while projects that are in the process of bidding/design/planning will be given priority only if they are in line with the new financial year budget’s focus, the minister said.

He added that 24.8 per cent of the allocation will be for completed projects with liabilities while 73.4 per cent will go to projects that are in progress and 1.7 per cent will be for projects that are still in bidding/design/planning stages.

The allocation will also take into account the focus on a number of main sectors, with the transportation and communications sector getting the largest share of 37.8 per cent. Industry and trade sector will receive 19 per cent.

The social services sector will be allocated 9.8 per cent of the budget while the public consumption sector will have a 6.4 per cent share.

The science, information technology, research, development and innovation sector will be allocated 1.1 per cent of the budget while one per cent will be earmarked for the security sector.

The public building sector will receive a budget share of 0.3 per cent.

Earlier in the speech, the minister said the NDP is envisioned to support the country’s economic diversification policies and boost the source of national revenue.

“It does not just pave the way for growth of the private sector, including micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and support the ease of doing business initiatives in the country, but what’s more visible today is a change in mindset among the people, which is evident from the emergence of new entrepreneurs among the youth who are contributing to the country’s economic activities,” he added.

The minister also informed the session that out of the 567 projects under the 10th NDP, 416, or 73.5 per cent, have been completed while 13.2 per cent are still in various stages of implementation.

Some 41 projects are still in bidding process while 35 projects are in design and planning stages.

He revealed that until the end of February 2017, the actual expenditure under the 10th NDP during the last financial year stands at 90.3 per cent of the original allocation of $700 million.

This brings the total expenditure so far for the 10th NDP to over $5 billion to date.

The minister also highlighted some of the efforts made by the Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE) to ensure the projects are being completed according to schedule, adding that close monitoring of their progress will continue.

JPKE will also continuously assess the suitability of planned projects so that they will be sustainable and effective in realising the socio-economic growth of the country and ensuring that all purchases are made according to the allocated budget.

The 13th LegCo session was adjourned to tomorrow morning, where the members are expected to deliberate on the 10th NDP budget before it is approved.

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|      Abdul Hakiim Yakof      |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) attended the Santap ceremony in conjunction with the 96th Police Day celebration held at the Banquet Hall of the RBPF Officers Mess yesterday evening.

Also attending the event were His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Honorary Commissioner of Police; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Commandant of the Women Police; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Nor’ain, Deputy Commandant of the Women Police.

Upon arrival, His Majesty and Their Royal Highnesses were greeted by Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, Commissioner of Police, and senior police officials.

His Majesty then officiated the launching of RBPF’s new Officers Mess building with the signing of a plaque.

The ceremony also saw the Takbir and Doa Selamat, led by Muhammad Aimi Safwan bin Zailidin, Assistant Superintendent of Police.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) attends the Santap ceremony in conjunction with the 96th Police Day celebration. Also seen is His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Honorary Commissioner of Police

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF); in a group photo. Also seen were His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Honorary Commissioner of Police; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Commandant of the Women Police; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Nor’ain, Deputy Commandant of the Women Police

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) during the Junjung Ziarah

His Majesty signing the royal parchment

His Majesty and His Royal Highness during the Santap ceremony

Their Royal Highnesses during the event

A section of RBPF officers at the Santap ceremony. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR

ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show some of the RBPF officers at the Santap ceremony, in conjunction with the 96th Police Day celebration

His Majesty signed a royal parchment and consented to pose for group photo at the lobby of the Banquet Hall before entering it.

Following the national anthem, the emblem of the Royal Brunei Police Force was brought into the Banquet Hall as Serunai and Tambur music played in the background.

The dinner ensued, accompanied by music played by the RBPF Brass Band.

At the end of the dinner, the emblem of the RBPF was taken out of the Banquet Hall and the national anthem was played again.

Following this, the monarch greeted the senior police officials before leaving the ceremony.

The RBPF’s Police Day celebration this year carries the theme ‘Unity and Harmony Strengthen Security’.

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|      Ishan Ibrahim      |

SIX youth leaders from various agencies and youth associations within the country departed for the People’s Republic of China yesterday to take part in the 45th Asean Young Leaders Training Programme.

Haji Noor Jusmin bin Haji Abdul Samad, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, and Fu Feng Shan, a counsellor from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, were present at the Brunei International Airport to see the delegation off.

The youth delegation was led by Awangku Hussni bin Pengiran Hassan, Assistant Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.

Another one of the programme’s participants, 22-year-old Anna Sophia, told the Bulletin that the training programme in China is an excellent opportunity for members of the Brunei contingent to share and exchange ideas and viewpoints with counterparts from other countries, and learn from each other about the diversity and differences of their respective cultures and traditions.

She also expressed hope that she will be able to impart invaluable knowledge to her peers at home after going through the programme.

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports speaking to the youth participants

Haji Noor Jusmin bin Haji Abdul Samad, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, with the Brunei delegates. – PHOTOS: ISHAN IBRAHIM

Organised by the All-China Youth Federation, the Asean Young Leaders Training Programme is aimed at enhancing relations and mutual understanding between the youths of China and the Asean member countries; countries which include Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.

The leadership programme will take place in Yunnan Province of the Guangxi Zhuang region in China.

The itinerary for the programme participants during their time in China will include a visit to historic places of interest such as Zhuang Cultural Village, the attendance of lectures and learning about the culture of the local region, as well as joining an International Youth Camp.

The delegates will also learn about China’s rapid development and opportunities to enhance friendship and ties between the youths of Brunei and China.

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CULTURAL performances enlivened Self-Actualisation ‘Every Child is a Gift’ Camp organised by the Special Education Unit, Ministry of Education (MoE) at the camp grounds at Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College recently.

The performances were presented by participants of the camp comprising 34 special needs students from Years 9 and 11.

Present as guest of honour was Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, Deputy Minister of Education.

Parents, officers from the MoE and various volunteers from organisations including the Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association, Humanitarian Emergency Aid Response Team (HEART), Politeknik Brunei and the netball team from the Brunei Darussalam Sports Council were also present.

The event began with a welcoming speech from Haji Ali bin Yusri Abdul Ghafor, Head of the Special Education Unit, followed by camp participants showcasing various traditional local songs and dances.

Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, Deputy Minister of Education, in a group photo at the event. – PHOTOS: MOE

A camper presenting the friendship badge to the Deputy Minister of Education

Student campers during a performance

Students engaged in a hand painting activity

Campers during a team building activity

Those in attendance were also treated to a group singing performance led by local artiste Aziz Harun.

The event concluded with the guest of honour presenting certificates to the camp par-ticipants as well as the various volunteers.

The camp, held from March 17 – 19, aimed to foster independence, social and team building skills among participants through various activities.

“The camp would not have be-en possible without the support from our dedicated volunteers, our energetic campers and our sponsors,” said Haji Ali Yusri.

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|      Dean Kassim      |

THE Forestry Department, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT), hosted a mass Maghrib prayer ceremony at the Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, Kampong Kiarong, in conjunction with the International Forestry Day 2017. The event also saw recitations of Surah Yaasiin, Doa Selamat and also mass Isyak prayer.

The guest of honour at the event was the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong. The congregation comprised heads of departments and divisions as well as officers, staff and operators of the ministry and departments under it.

The religious ceremony was organised by the Forestry Department as a curtain-raiser for other activities lined up to commemorate this year’s International Forestry Day.

Also in attendance were Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, Permanent Secretary at the MPRT and Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali, Deputy Per-manent Secretary (Tourism) at the MPRT.

Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong at the ceremony. – DEAN KASSIM

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INDERA Motors Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of Jaguar and Land Rover in Brunei Darussalam, will launch its first road show for the year 2017 at the Grand Seria Bowling Centre, in the Belait District on March 27. The Jaguar Land Rover road show will be held from 12pm to 8pm daily, until March 30.

At the entrance of the Grand Seria Bowling Centre, customers can enjoy a close-up view of exciting models from Jaguar and Land Rover. The four-day road show offers an attractive deal for selected units of Jaguar XF, Jaguar XJ and Range Rover Evoque with free insurance of up to the three years. This offer lasts from March 27 to April 2. In addition, customers are also entitled to an Aftersales package of five-year free service, three-year warranty and three-year roadside assistance.

For those who wish to experience the driving capabilities and performance of any Jaguar and Land Rover models, they can choose a wide selection of both super-premium brands for an exclusive drive within the proximity of Seria Town. A gift voucher is given for every test drive.

The Jaguar XF delivers an utterly seductive blend of design, dynamics and refinement to create a car that offers both excitement and efficiency. – WWW.JAGUAR.COM.BN

During the road show, a complimentary 30-Point Vehicle Health Check at the Grand Seria Bowling Centre is offered exclusively for Jaguar Land Rover customers residing in Belait District. The inspection includes diagnostic checks of the vehicle by qualified Jaguar Land Rover technicians. Customers, who registered and attended the Vehicle Health Check, will be given free cinema ticket vouchers for them to enjoy any movie of their choice whilst their cars are being taken care of by our qualified technicians.

“This road show is specifically organised for our customers in Belait District including the residence in general. It is our way of showing our appreciation for their continuous support and our care for their driving pleasure, which is the very much the DNA of Jaguar Land Rover. Also, for all Jaguar and Land Rover enthusiast out there, we would like to give them the opportunity to witness, experience and eventually own the brand with our very special promotion.” said Alfred Yong Foh Sen, the General Manager of Indera Motors Sdn Bhd.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

AHMAD Taufiq Murni scored another major win in the billiards and snooker calendar after a thrilling 3-2 win over Teo Chee Soon in the Brunei Snooker Championship 2017 final at the Billiards and Snooker Hall II of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex recently.

The latest title triumph represents the multi-disciplined cueist second major trophy this year after scooping the Brunei Darussalam Cue Sports Association (BCSA) National 9-Ball Ranking Challenge Grand Final 2016 at ProX Pool House last month.

The current Brunei number one ranked pool player wasted little time to check out with a 53 before Soon recorded 69 points to level the tie.

Ahmad Taufiq Murni (right) wins his second major title of the year in the Brunei Snooker Championship 2017

Taufiq regained the lead after completing the frame with a defiant 63 before Soon- a national ranked pool player- brought the game to a decider with a 41 score.

However, Taufiq was not to be denied as he wrapped up the best of seven frame match with a convincing 71 finish to take down the championship.

Fellow pool team-mates Md Alias and Md Azim were awarded joint third place in the competition.

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|      James Kon      |

YB HAJI Abdul Hamid @ Sabli bin Haji Arshad has called for the private sector to support the I-RDY (i-Ready) Apprenticeship Programme.

In closing remarks during the 13th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday, the LegCo member also urged the government sector to review its current strategies, action plans and procedures more effectively in addressing the various problems raised during the council deliberations.

He also expressed gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for the concern shown towards the welfare of the people of Brunei, and congratulated the LegCo Speaker for leading the session with responsibility, commitment and patience.

“I fully support all the recommendations made during the deliberations with the Cabinet Ministers. However, there is still a need to review the strategies to address the problems that were raised,” he added.

“In this uncertain and unstable economic situation, citizens and residents of the country should be prudent in their spending as the government has provided subsidies for every community in the country.”

YB Haji Abdul Hamid @ Sabli bin Haji Arshad. – AZROL AZMI

A file photo of members of the public registering for jobs at JobCentre Brunei. – DEAN KASSIM

All the ministries “look seriously committed to provide opportunities to local businesses as well as employment to locals.”

“Local businesses will feel at ease with the establishment of a SME Bank in the near future. It is hoped by providing better access to financing, the bank will further boost the development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the country,” he said.

On the I-RDY programme which was announced by His Majesty during the opening of the LegCo session, he urged that all in the private sector should participate in and support this initiative to reduce unemployment of graduates in the country.

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