THE  Ministry of Health (MoH) has issued an alert to members of the public about four cosmetic products which have been tested by the Pharmacy Laboratory Services, Ministry of Health and found to be adulterated with undeclared substance.

The adulterants found in these products can cause adverse eff-ects that are potentially haz-ardous to the people using them.

Mercury is a potent ingredient that is prohibited in cosmetic products as stipulated in the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations 2007.

Mercury is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its hazardous effects on human health. It is readily absorbed through the skin on topical application and tends to accumulate in the body. Exposure to mercury can cause skin rashes, memory loss and muscle weakness while high exposures may result in damage to the brain and kidneys.

It is also extremely toxic to unborn children.

Tretinoin is used in western prescription medicines to treat skin conditions and is prohibited in skincare cosmetic products under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations. Inappropriate use of tretinoin could lead to redness, peeling and scarring of the skin.

Malia Melia Magic Skincare – Magic Cream

Yanko Whitening Cream Night Cream YK-883

DMS 360 Dermax Superskin 360 Comprehensive Enlightenment – Day. – PHOTOS: MOH

The ministry has not issued any approval for the importation and/or Cosmetic Notification Acknowledgement Letter for the sale of the rest of affected products.

Following these findings, the products are not allowed to be imported and sold in Brunei Darussalam.

Members of the public who have purchased or used these products are advised to stop using them immediately. They should also consult a medical practitioner if they feel unwell or experience any undesirable reactions as a result of using them.

Members of the public involved in the retail of these products (including online retail such as through Facebook, etc) have been reminded that it is an offence under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations, 2007 to import and market cosmetic products in the local market without a Cosmetic Product Notification Acknowledgement Letter issued by the authority, where the penalty for contravening these regulations upon conviction, is a fine not exceeding $5,000, imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or both.

The ministry requested public cooperation and to report to the Health Regulations Services if any of these products are still found in the market in the country.

For further information, the public can contact the Health Regulations Services at 2384182, send an e-mail to health.regulations@moh.gov.bn or visit the Health Regulations Services, 1st Floor, Ministry of Health, Commonwealth Drive, Brunei Darussalam. The public can also contact Darussalam line 123.

The post Cosmetic products found adulterated appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Aziz Idris     |

THE Brunei Darussalam Hokkien Association expressed its commitment towards encouraging students to continuously strive for success in their studies and future careers.

This was highlighted by Lim Han Chiong, Chairperson of the Brunei Darussalam Hokkien Association in his speech on Tuesday night during the association’s Chinese New Year celebration dinner held at the International Convention Centre (ICC).

The reception was attended by Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs as guest of honour, Yang Jian, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam, and Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin.

The event was also used to honour students – children of the association’s members – who had achieved excellent results in their studies. Altogether, a total of 233 students, ranging from kindergarteners to university graduates, were awarded with scholarships, certificates of appreciation and cash prizes for their excellent academic performances.

The chairperson emphasised the importance of education as a “key to success” and reminded parents to always be a “strong motivator” in their children’s education, especially in this era of technological advancement.

“Without education, the future prospects of our children is bleak. Parents should encourage their children to be well-read through the use of technology, to increase their self-esteem,” he added.

Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs, Yang Jian, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam, Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin and Lim Han Chiong, Chairperson of the Brunei Darussalam Hokkien Association at the Chinese New Year celebration dinner

Photos above & below show Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar and Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin presenting certificates to students at the dinner on Tuesday night. – PHOTOS: AZIZ IDRIS

Lim also said that Tuesday night’s Chinese New Year dinner – enlivened with performances from students, local artistes and a lucky draw – was an annual event held by the association to remind every member of the association to appreciate the festivities and strengthen bonds between one another.

Certificates and prizes were presented to the students by Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar and key members of the association.

The minister, together with members of the association, also launched the association’s website

http://hokkienassociationbd.gbs2u.com which will be used to update happenings and upcoming events related to the association.

The Brunei Darussalam Hokkien Association was established in 1998. To date, it has more than 1,000 members.

The post Top students honoured during CNY dinner appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

ONCE  they ran against the society, now they want to run towards it – to be a part of it.

On April 30, 2017, Brunei will see some 40 Rakan Seliaan, or former inmates, participating in the Prison Reintegration Run to mark the 63rd anniversary of the Prisons Department at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien.

Prisoners often struggle to find a place in society. Many of them feel rejected by society once they are released. Prejudice, intolerance and stereotypes abound, making them think that they do not stand a chance in the community once they belonged to.

According to academics and criminal experts, society has a responsibility in taking part in the rehabilitation process. Trusting ex-prisoners to turn their lives around can turn into a self-fulfilling prophecy. There’s still a life after prison, though re-entering society is no easy task, they say. The Prison Reintegration Run is an initiative based on this noble vision.

Details of the first-of-its-kind event were announced at a press conference yesterday by Sarifudin bin Haji Abdul Karim, head of prison officers who is also the chairperson of the run and senior prison counsellor Pengiran Omar bin Pengiran Haji Othman, head of counselling services and the deputy chairperson of the event.

The Prison Reintegration Run, which will be attended by 40 former inmates who have voluntarily registered for the counselling services and supervision of the Prisons Department, is held in hopes of helping the Rakan Seliaan to overcome the social stigma faced by them and to raise community awareness on the need for creating opportunities for ex-prisoners to make self-improvement and encouraging them to positively contribute to nation building.

According to Pengiran Omar, “The objective of the event is to provide a better understanding to the community on its role to help in the integration of Rakan Seliaan back to their family and community.

Sarifudin bin Haji Abdul Karim, head of prison officers who is also the chairperson of the run and senior prison counsellor Pengiran Omar bin Pengiran Haji Othman, head of counselling services and the deputy chairperson of the event in a group photo at the press conference. – JAMES KON

“The run also aims to highlight the responsibility of Rakan Seliaan towards the community and show that they are not isolated and still needed by the society as well as to raise funds for rehabilitation programmes that are currently held or will be carried out for Rakan Seliaan.”

The theme of the Prison Integration Run is ‘Menyurus Jalan Pulang’, loosely translated to ‘Back on the Right Track Home’.

Sarifudin said that there are seven categories in the run, namely Male Open 12km, Female Open 12km, Veteran Male (above 50 years) 5Km, Veteran Female (above 45 years) 5Km, Male Open (49 years and below) 5Km, Female Open (45 years and below) 5Km and Fun Run 3km. Members of the public are welcome to participate in the event.

Each participant will get a free T-shirt, a medal as well as certificate. The Bib number can be used to get discounts at gyms as well as Asma Boy carwash or Rakan Seliaan carwash at Sumbangsih Mulia.

To raise fund, donation cards will be given to all participants that can be handed over to the organiser by April 28.

The fund raised will be used for conducting programmes for Rakan Seliaan as well as for Dana Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah untuk Anak-Anak Yatim (DANA).

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

WIDENING the scope and reach of Brunei’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs), a new centre was launched yesterday.

The Longrich Centre Brunei Darussalam which aims at promoting self-employment among locals was inaugurated by Dr Haji Kamaruddin bin Dato Seri Paduka Haji Talib, Chairman of the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Brunei Darussalam (NCCIBD).

The centre will act as a platform for Brunei SMEs to promote their products locally as well as abroad.

The chamber will seek to expand on local self-employment through the new centre in Kampong Tanjung Bunut, while promoting locally-made products for export.

The launching ceremony also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between Mollo & Co and Longrich Bioscience Brunei Darussalam.

In a speech, Captain (Rtd) Zailan bin Pehin Dato Mohd Don, Advisor to the NCCIBD in his capacity as the Principal Mentor of the Cottage and Youth Initiative Programme (CYiP), described the NCCIBD as a means of providing assurance and confidence for both foreign and local enterprises to set up business in Brunei Darussalam.

CYiP is a private sector initiative under NCCIBD. It currently houses 19 brands at the iCentre and Mollo Spice of Mollo & Co is one of them.

Mollo Spice was established to create a purely local brand and high-end health products to cater to the local and international markets while Longrich is one of the largest and most advanced centres for research, development, manufacture and sale of cosmetics and healthcare products in China.

“The current task is to promote Brunei’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) on the global and local market,” he said. “The available market is insufficient to propel SMEs to contribute towards the GDP, and Brunei must widen its scope to include the rest of the region.”

He pointed out that there is a tendency for SMEs to differ according to their respective countries and economic conditions. “In Brunei, SMEs are considered as small-scale dealers and retailers, instead of the production industries that they are in China.

Captain (Rtd) Zailan bin Pehin Dato Mohd Don, Advisor to the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Brunei Darussalam, representing Mollo & Co and Charlie Qian Junbiao, International Marketing President of Longrich Bioscience Brunei Darussalam during the signing of the MoA

Captain (Rtd) Zailan bin Pehin Dato Mohd Don, Advisor to the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Brunei Darussalam and Charlie Qian Junbiao, International Marketing President of Longrich Bioscience Brunei Darussalam in a group photo at the event. – PHOTOS: ROKIAH MAHMUD

Captain (Rtd) Zailan speaking at the ceremony

The official launching of Longrich Centre Brunei Darussalam

“In China, SMEs contribute 60 per cent to China’s industrial output and create 80 per cent of its jobs. Meanwhile, in Thailand, the unemployment rate is at 0.56 per cent, because many of the citizens are self-employed. This is mainly due to the flow of foreign direct investments (FDIs) to Thailand and its tourism markets, which create sustainable downstream services for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), leading to both employment and self-employment.

“Overall, the benefits of SMEs in the economic development of several countries are the same: Creating jobs and self-employment, stimulating industrial development and trade, and supporting the domestic economy.

“Given Brunei’s location at the centre of Asean and BIMP-EAGA, it will surely see the benefits of partnership on production capacity in Halal products,” he said. “With the establishment of the Brunei Free Trade Zone (FTZ), a Halal fulfilment hub will be developed within the FTZ to cater to both local and international products for re-export. It will capitalise on the strong Brunei Halal certification mechanism, as well as the vast growth of global Halal markets.”

Captain (Rtd) Zailan represented Mollo & Co during the signing of the MoA, while Longrich Bioscience Darussalam was represented by Charlie Qian Junbiao, its International Marketing President.

The MoA signing was witnessed by the guest of honour, the Chairman of NCCIBD.

The launching ceremony concluded with a presentation of pin awards to the Longrich leaders of Brunei Darussalam.

The post Centre to boost SMEs appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

THE drama ‘Zaman Pendudukan Jepun Di Brunei’ by students of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit Girls Arabic Religious Secondary School was placed first in the Stage Drama Competition held in conjunction with the 33rd National Day celebration 2017.

Pengiran Anak Puteri Hajah Masna Secondary School with their drama ‘Perang Kastila’ was placed second while third and fourth places were won by Sultan Hassan Bangar Secondary School and Sufri Bolkiah Secondary School, respectively.

The final competition was held at Dewan Raya Radio Televisyen Brunei in the capital yesterday.

Drama is one of the chosen subjects offered in National Education System for the 21st Century (SPN2) for secondary school students in the country.

The Co-Curriculum Education Department through Akil Unit in collaboration with TV Children Unit, Radio Televisyen Brunei, Putra Seni Group and PPC Quarry Company for the first time organised the Stage Drama Competition to support this endeavour.

These comments were made by Roslin bin Suhailee, Acting Director of Co-Curriculum Education, at the final of Stage Drama Competition for secondary school and colleges nationwide in conjunction with the National Day celebration.

Guest of honour Hajah Nortijah binti Haji Mohd. Hassan, Acting Director of the Language and Literature Bureau, presenting prizes to members of the winning team. – ACHONG TANJONG

He said the competition aims to give challenges to students in persuing their drama career and at the same time unearth their talent and potential in the performing field.

Roslin said it also encourages them to perform before the public with confidence and skills.

He said the department hopes the initiative will become a platform to produce quality actors and actresses in the future.

Guest of honour Hajah Nortijah binti Haji Mohd. Hassan Acting Director of the Language and Literature Bureau presented prizes to members of the winning team.

Four teams participated in the final competition yesterday. It included Pengiran Anak Puteri Hajah Masna Secondary School, Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit Girls Arabic Religious Secondary School, Sultan Hassan Secondary school and Sufri Bolkiah Secondary School.

Winners

First: Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit Girls Arabic Religious Secondary School

Second: Pengiran Anak Puteri Hajah Masna Secondary School

Third: Sultan Hassan Bangar Secondary School

Fourth: Sufri Bolkiah Secondary School

The post And the winner is… appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

THE Institution of Chemical Engineers – Universiti Teknologi Brunei (IChemE-UTB) Student Chapter was recently launched by Mohan Balasingam, Regional Manager of the IChemE Southeast Asia.

Held at UTB, the event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat by IChemE-UTB Student Chapter Religious Officer Muhammad Amri Yusri bin Haji Mohamed Jefri.

This was followed by opening remarks by IChemE-UTB Student Chapter First President Muhamad Ridha Firdaus bin Hamdani and a multimedia show of the Student Chapter’s past events since February 2017.

Balasingam delivered an overview presentation on the Global IChemE membership, while an industrial talk titled ‘Past Working Experiences in Brunei LNG’ was delivered by George Wong Ling Ming, former Senior Operative Technician and Process Competence Advisor at Brunei LNG.

UTB Dean of Student Affairs Joffry bin Haji Bungsu; Petroleum and Chemical Engineering Programme Leader Associate Professor Dr David Hassell; lecturers and students of the Petroleum and Chemical Engineering, as well as IChemE-UTB Student Chapter members attended the event.

Front row from left – UTB Dean of Student Affairs Joffry bin Haji Bungsu; IChemE Southeast Asia Regional Manager Mohan Balasingam; and Petroleum and Chemical Engineering Programme Leader Associate Professor Dr David Hassell in a group photo with IChemE-UTB Student Chapter members

IChemE-UTB Student Chapter First President Muhamad Ridha Firdaus bin Hamdani receiving an award from IChemE Southeast Asia Regional Manager Mohan Balasingam

In its effort to provide avenues for students to be exposed to industrial engineering practice to enhance their experiential learning at the university, four other Student Chapters have previously been established in UTB, affiliated with the respective professional engineering bodies, namely: The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), the Brunei Association of Surveyors, Engineers and Architects (PUJA Brunei), Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

The IChemE-UTB Student Chapter is a newly established student chapter under the renowned Institutions of Chemical Engineering organisation.

The student chapter is the very first IChemE Student Chapter in Brunei. It was established through the students’ initiatives, and aims to expose students to real life situations faced by chemical and process engineers worldwide.

There are currently 91 official members of IChemE-UTB Student Chapter, made up of Chemical, Process and Petroleum Engineering students of UTB.

The post IChemE – UTB Student Chapter launched appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Daniel Lim     |

LIANG Lumut Recreational Club (LLRC)’s 9th annual carnival officially opened to the public yesterday, around the theme ‘Let’s Go to LLRC.’

Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Acting Director cum guest of honour Haji Mohd Jaffari bin Haji Mahadi presided over the opening ceremony.

Also present was Mukim Liang Penghulu YB Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin, a representative for the Belait District at the Legislative Council (LegCo).

The carnival is a collaborative effort between the LLRC and the Mukim Liang Consultative Council, as a means of promoting local attractions and encouraging everyone to have fun during the two-week school break.

Several booths have already been set up at the LLRC, as a platform for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to gain greater public exposure.

Local trader Juned bin Haji Jumaat, who manages a booth selling burgers and satay, told the Bulletin that this is his fifth participation at the carnival.

Narcotics Control Bureau Acting Director Haji Mohd Jaffari bin Haji Mahadi during the ribbon-cutting

Haji Mohd Jaffari in conversation with a booth operator at the carnival. – PHOTOS: DANIEL LIM

Having served in the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) for 21 years, Juned feels that the carnival is a good way of promoting his small business and forging closer bonds with his family, who is helping him run the booth.

A host of activities have been scheduled for the five-day event, including henna-painting, a cat show, ‘mukun’ performances and acts by local musicians.

The NCB has also set up its own roadshow at the carnival, showcasing the dangers of illicit drug consumption, in addition to organising colouring competitions and quizzes for children.

The carnival is being held at the LLRC, and will end on March 26.

The post LLRC carnival beckons appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

CAMPING activity provides an opportunity for scouts to practise their knowledge obtained through scouting activities, Haji Ismail bin Pehin Orang Kaya Ratna Setia Dato Setia Haji Hapidz (photo below), Deputy Chief Commissioner of the Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association (PPNBD) said.

He made these comments at the 22nd Brunei National Scouts Camp which concluded yesterday.

The closing ceremony was held at the National Scouts Training and Activity Centre, Scouts Complex.

The camp held from March 19 to 23 saw the participation of 554 scouts from Brunei and abroad.

The camp was held under the theme ‘Building the Young Generation’s Personality through Scouting’.

Among the objectives of the camp were to encourage physical development among members, thinking, spiritual and emotional development as well as training the participants on good values not only for themselves but also towards their families, community, religion and nation.

The foreign participants were from Indonesia, Labuan, Miri, Terengganu, Sabah and Sarawak.

A Messenger of Peace (MoP) was also carried out in raising awareness on environment through rubbish hunting activity around their camp site, educational tour to Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery, Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex and Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque.

Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh, Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education was also present.

Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh (R), Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education, and other officials at the closing ceremony of the 22nd Brunei National Scouts Camp

Scouts at the event. – PHOTOS: ROKIAH MAHMUD

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|     Azlan Othman     |

THE Green Building Council (GBC) has called for a reduction in carbon footprint in construction by embracing green technology and by minimising waste.

This was stated by GBC Brunei President Dato Paduka Ar Haji Idris bin Haji Abas, during a one-day seminar titled ‘Ready to Last: Recipe for Durable Concrete’ held at Universiti Brunei Darussalam.

Dato Paduka Haji Idris spoke of the use of ‘fly ash’ – a fine powder and by-product from powdered coal.

“It is environment-friendly and GBC has a special interest in it and our main vision is to promote Brunei Darussalam as a green nation and maybe one day it can set a benchmark for sustainable environment,” he said.

Dato Paduka Haji Idris also said the seminar is one way to promote GBC Brunei as a centre for sustainable building practices.

GBC Brunei President Dato Paduka Ar Haji Idris bin Haji Abas speaking at the conference

Participants at the seminar. – PHOTOS: AZLAN OTHMAN

Two invited professionals, Balamohan Balakrishnan and Parnam Singh from Kuala Lumpur also shared their insights on the ‘Benefits of fly ash in ready mixed concrete’ and ‘Advance Concrete Knowledge and Practices: Common Concrete Problems and Solutions’ at the seminar.

Meanwhile, Readymix CEO, Nicholas Campbell Cocks expressed his gratitude to GBC Brunei and all participants and shared how Readymix will continue to support the country’s green initiatives.

Over 200 professionals consisting of architects, quantity surveyors, engineers, contractors and local authorities attended the conference.

The post GBC Brunei promotes green initiative in construction appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Azlan Othman & James Kon     |

THE Berakas Power Management Company Sdn Bhd (BPMC) confirmed in a statement that all non-essential staff was evacuated from the Berakas Power Station yesterday, due to a minimal gas leak.

Following an emergency call to the Fire and Rescue Department at 1.13pm, personnel from the Berakas, Lambak Kanan, Rimba, Spark fire stations; the Hazmat unit, a special firefighting squad and the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) were rushed to the scene.

Led by SSFR Shahrin bin Haji Jawie, 36 firefighters were involved in the operation.

On their arrival at the Berakas Power Station, the firefighting personnel were informed by BPMC engineering officer Norman Kurz that a gas leak had occurred at the low explosion level (LEL) valve. The gas is Cyclopentane, which is highly flammable.

Two BPMC officials and two firefighters then entered the premises to assess the conditions, while SSFR Nooraflan led in the establishment of a ‘staging area’ at the entrance to the power station.

Three Hazmat personnel led by ASO Haji Jublee, together with three firefighters and four BPMC engineers led by Kurz, then formed a plan to enter the plant and successfully switched off the valve located on the top floor.

Hazmat Unit and RBPF personnel gather at the staging area. – FIRE AND RESCUE DEPARTMENT

The situation was finally declared as stable when the gas detector dropped from 10 LEL (low-explosion level) to 5 LEL at 4.58pm.

No injuries, disruption of power or contamination occurred during the incident. “The public is advised not to be alarmed, since the situation has been brought under control,” said the BPMC in a statement that was released following the circulation of pictures on social media, showing fire engines and police vehicles at the power station.

The cause of the leak and damages incurred from the incident are still being investigated.

The post Power station staff evacuated after gas leak appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Azlan Othman     |

MOST parts of Brunei will go dark on March 25 as thousands of Bruneians with glow sticks and candles join people from 178 countries and territories in the global Earth Hour campaign, organised in the Sultanate by Earth Hour Brunei to raise awareness on climate change.

The world’s largest grassroots movement founded for the environment by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) will see millions of participants around the globe switching off lights for one hour starting 8.30pm in an effort to shine a light on climate action and the role people can play in the global efforts to fight climate change.

In Brunei, Earth Hour will be observed on Saturday night with two iconic landmarks in the capital – Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex and Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque – as focal points as the event rolls across the globe simultaneously, uniting individuals, communities and organisations in the spirit of love for the nature.

“While the world is experiencing the impacts of climate change, we are also watching countries uniting to create climate-friendly legislation across the globe.

In Brunei, from a humble start in 2010, Earth Hour shows that even though we are affected by climate change, there are communities and organisations in the Sultanate putting their efforts to reduce our carbon footprint,” said Mohd Rimey, Country Manager, Earth Hour Brunei.

“More efforts are on the way to further highlight the importance of our natural resources, their benefits, contribution to communities as well as promote a green economy in our country… Switching off lights and/or changing one’s profile picture (on social media) are symbolic gestures – the first steps towards taking a stand on climate action.

“These are powerful visual reminders that not only make people care about climate change. When individuals unite, the power of the collective can create a massive impact as we have seen with Earth Hour observations over the past decade,” he added.

This year in Brunei, there will be cross events between Brunei-Muara, Tutong, Temburong and Belait districts.

Earth Hour was initially launched in 2007 as a global movement of solidarity for climate action and comes only months after governments agreed a new global climate deal and it is marked as the world’s largest grassroots movement for the environment.

After 10 years of the world’s first Earth Hour in Sydney, WWF’s landmark movement has seen unprecedented developments taking place in the battle against climate change.

The post Let’s spare an hour for Earth appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Aziz Idris     |

IN MARKING World Meteorological Day, the Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department (BDMD) yesterday launched its first coffee-book at a ceremony held at the Brunei International Airport.

Minister of Communications cum guest of honour Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat launched the book.

Titled ‘Nubivagant,’ which means ‘Wandering through Clouds,’ the book offers readers a better understanding of the different types of clouds that roll across our skies. Various places of interest are also featured.

Members of the public keen on picking up a copy of the book can contact the department for more information.

In remarks made prior to the launch, Acting Director of Meteorology Muhamad Hussaini bin Aji said the department remains committed to providing accurate weather warnings, forecast and advisories for government and non-government agencies as well as the general public.

The department produced 370,000 weather forecasts in a year, including 200 weather warnings for the public and a further 23,000 forecast for the aviation sector, he added.

World Meteorological Day is observed every March 23 to commemorate the establishment of the United Nation’s World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) on March 23, 1950.

Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, Minister of Communications during the launching of the first book produced by the Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department (BDMD) at Brunei International Airport yesterday

Minister of Communications Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat takes a look at the newly launched book ‘Nubivagant’

Copies of Nubivagant displayed at the launch. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

It also acknowledges the vast contribution made by the national meteorological and hydrological services around the world in ensuring the safety and well-being of society.

This year’s theme, ‘Understanding Clouds,’ highlights the vital role of clouds in regulating Earth’s energy balance, water cycle, weather and the entire climate system.

Understanding clouds is necessary in weather forecasting, modelling the impacts of future climate change and predicting the availability of water resources.

Also present at the ceremony were Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications Haji Azhar bin Haji Ahmad, directors, departments heads and officials from the ministry.

Earlier in the morning, a recitation of Surah Yaasiin and a Tahlil ceremony was held at the Ministry of Communications to mark World Meteorological Day.

The post BDMD book takes readers wandering through clouds appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

IN THE latest charity drive that elicited massive response from across the Sultanate, the fund for victims of the Kampong Pandai Besi ‘A’ and Kampong Lorong Dalam fires raised $291,344.36 until January 31, 2017, once again highlighting Bruneians’ generosity to help those who are less fortunate and suffering.

The fund was established with the consent 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 on December 13, 2016 to provide assistance to victims of the massive fire that broke out on December 7 in Kampong Ayer which razed 32 houses.

The donations were presented to the victims by Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs along with Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, in a ceremony held yesterday at the Brunei-Muara District Office.

Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs who is also the co-chair of the charity fund, in his remarks expressed his gratitude to the individuals, associations, companies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and government agencies that contributed to the charity fund.

He said that besides the amount collected through the charity fund, the Government of His Majesty through the Community Development Department has contributed $159,000 to the fire victims.

The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of donations worth $65,511 collected through SMS by DST and Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd. DST handed over its contribution to the Minister of Home Affairs while Progresif handed over its share ($19,303) to the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports.

ABOVE & BELOW: Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs along with Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports presenting the donations at the ceremony yesterday. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Pengiran Mohd Hasrul bin Pengiran Hassan, one of the recipients, said, “I am speechless over the kind gesture of the public. This has demonstrated that Brunei is a caring society.”

Pengiran Mohd Hasrul with his family of eight including seven children lost their home in the fire in Kampong Pandai Besi. They are currently accommodated at the Temporary Shelter Centre Belimbing, Subok (PPSBS).

Until last week, the family was sheltered in a makeshift hall.

Pengiran Mohd Hasrul said he is hopefully looking to get a place of his own to call home.

Meanwhile, another recipient Siti Nazibah said, “I am so touched and feel blessed with the donation from the caring public.”

She and her mother are currently staying at their new home in RPN Kampong Panchor Mengkubau.

Recalling the fire, she said that there were no one home during the incident and all their belongings were destroyed.

Also present at the ceremony were senior government officials, victims of the fire as well as members of the charity fund committee.

The post Caring, generous Brunei appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

THE Prime Minister’s Office, through its Health, Safety, Security and Environmental Affair (HSSE PMO) as well as the and Corporate Affairs and Coordination Division at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), held a ceremony to renew the appointment of its Fire Marshals at the premise yesterday.

A total of 41 Fire Marshals comprising of officers from the Prime Minister’s Office (PROPER) and the Department of Energy and Industry, Prime Minister’s Office, received heir certificates and renewed their appointment yesterday after successfully completing their Fire Marshal training.

The certificates were presented by the guest of honour, Dato Paduka Haji Yahya bin Haji Idris, Permanent Secretary (Corporate and Governance) at the Prime Minister’s Office.

In his speech, Dato Paduka Haji Yahya stressed the need for cooperation and coordination among all parties in maintaining and improving workplace safety to ensure a secure and prosperous society, essential for organisational productivity.

He added that the implementation of occupational safety framework should also be strengthened in all agencies, in accordance to the regulations stipulated under the Fire Safety Order 2016 and the Workplace Safety and Health Order 2009. Witnessing the ceremony were Haji Ahmad bin Haji Mohd Daud, the Head of Public Relations, and other officials from the Brunei Fire and Rescue Department, as well as senior officials at the PMO.

Officers from the Prime Minister’s Office (PROPER) and the of Energy and Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office in a group photo

Prime Minister’s Office staff during the fire drill in the building

A total of 41 Fire Marshals renewed their appointment after completing their Fire Marshal training course held at the Fire and Rescue Department, Old Airport Berakas.

The main goal of the three day course is for the participants to be equipped with the means to cope in emergency situations, fire and subsequent evacuation of the PMO Building Complex.

In his speech, Nor Iswandi bin Haji Rajali, Chief Fire Marshal for the PMO Building Complex, said that the training is hoped to build a solid foundation for progress in the individuals in terms of discipline, responsibilities, aptitude, honesty and self-confidence as a lifelong practice. The PMO also held a number of fire drills at its premise prior to the ceremony.

The exercise aims to assess the competency of the Fire Marshals in handling various emergency situations, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of the emergency response procedures and plans that are used.

Fire drills will continue to be held regularly to increase the readiness and competency of the PMO in controlling emergency situations.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE 39th Asean Law Association (ALA) Governing Council Meeting was held at the Indera Samudra Grand Hall of The Empire Hotel & Country Club yesterday, hosted by the Judiciary Department in collaboration with the Attorney General’s Chambers and the Law Society.

The event which took place on March 24-25, saw the attendance of members of the ALA, comprising Chief Justices, Supreme Court Justices, Attorneys General, Deans of Law Faculties, legal practitioners and government legal officers from all Asean member countries.

The Brunei Darussalam delegation was headed by Dato Seri Paduka Haji Kifrawi bin Dato Paduka Haji Kifli, the Chief Justice of the Brunei Supreme Court. The meeting was chaired by the current President of the ALA, Avelino V Cruz from the Philippines.

The main objective of the meeting was to prepare for the next ALA General Assembly Meeting, which will be hosted by Singapore in 2018, with the proposed theme, “Asean Economic Community – Opportunities and Challenges for the Legal Community”.

The ALA president delivered a speech at yesterday’s meeting, in which he highlighted the increasing relevance of ALA in moving along Asean Community goals through sustained and energetic programmes for the harmonisation of laws and fast track effective channels of legal communications with the Asean Summit and its various ministerial agencies to seek approval of ALA’s proposals.

Dato Seri Paduka Haji Kifrawi bin Dato Paduka Haji Kifli, the Chief Justice of the Brunei Supreme Court and members of the Brunei delegation during the council meeting

President of the ALA, Avelino V Cruz delivering his speech. – PHOTOS: DANIAL NORJIDI

A section of the attendees

He urged all officials and members of ALA “to be mindful of a strong sense of urgency of the need to harness the resources of our organisation and its national committees for the goals we have set”.

“I am confident that with our strong and vibrant organisation for legal cooperation, we can with success buckle down to this exciting work in these exciting days for ALA,” he added.

Chief Justice Dato Seri Paduka Haji Kifrawi also delivered remarks, in which he welcomed the delegates.

“Our meeting comprises of a number of matters and decisions for us to take and I am optimistic that we will reach them through respectful discussions and thoughtful consideration of ALA’s objectives, as well as what is expected from ALA as laid out in the Asean Political Security Community Blueprint, which we are honoured to be included in.” Touching on the theme for the next ALA General Assembly Meeting, he said, “One vital component of an economy community is an effective dispute settlement mechanism, which includes alternative dispute resolution or ADR.”

“I am sure that all of us can agree that ADR, when properly administered, has the potential to save time and resources whilst also providing a variety of benefits as an alternative to traditional litigation, such as greater satisfaction by the disputing parties, producing innovative methods of resolving disputes and achieving greater efficiency in reaching settlements,” he said.

On this note, he spoke on the recent establishment of the Brunei Darussalam Arbitration Centre (BDAC) as of March 9, 2016, which has the objectives of promoting and providing facilities for domestic and international commercial arbitration and mediation for the settlement of commercial disputes, as an alternative to litigation.

“Being the only centre in Brunei Darussalam handling arbitration and mediation on commercial cases, I believe BDAC has great potential in administering and managing more arbitration cases in the future, taking into consideration the proliferation in the number of contracts and agreements that adopt the usage of arbitration as a dispute settlement mechanism.”

The issues discussed focused on closer legal cooperation amongst the Asean countries in the area of trade and investment, particularly how Asean can progress in its Economic Community goals.

The ALA National Committee of Brunei Darussalam also tabled a proposal paper calling for an update to the Asean Legal Systems E-Book.

The Chief Justice of the Brunei Supreme Court touched on this in his welcoming remarks, describing it as “an invaluable tool in disseminating much needed information on the diverse Asean Laws and Legal Systems”.

In addition to the meeting itself, Brunei Darussalam also hosted the ALA Golf Championship held on March 24 at The Empire Golf & Country Club where 74 golfers from the Asean member countries participated in the Championship..

The post Call to harness Asean Law Association resources appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

A TALK session on Brunei Vision 2035 titled ‘Majlis Pemberigaan Wawasan 2035’ was held in the Tutong District yesterday which provided a platform for mukim penghulus and village heads in the district an opportunity to raise questions on current issues relating to the Vision.

The session was organised by the Permanent Secretariat of Brunei Vision 2035 under the Prime Minister’s Office at the official residence of Tutong District Officer.

It was the first talk session of the Majlis Pemberigaan Wawasan 2035 series. Similar events will be held in other districts as well. The inaugural session was attended by 26 mukim penghulus and village heads in the Tutong District.

The event aimed to provide awareness on the national agenda under Brunei Vision 2035 and nurture a feeling of self-responsibility towards realising the vision.

With the awareness gained from the talk session, it is hoped that the grassroots leaders will encourage villagers to more actively participate in achieving the objectives of the vision.

Nazdeny Ardian bin Haji Johan (C), Senior Public Relations Officer, Permanent Secretariat of the Brunei Vision 2035, giving a presentation. – PHOTOS: AZARAIMY HH

Officer from Permanent Secretariat of the Brunei Vision 2035, addressing questions from the audience

In his speech, Nadzri bin Haji Yahya, Acting Director of Permanent Secretariat of Brunei Vision 2035, Prime Minister’s Office recalled a titah 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 which highlighted the importance of realising the Brunei Vision 2035 with full commitment to produce high impact outcomes towards the development of the country.

Nadzri reminded that Brunei Vision 2035 is a long-term vision or aspiration of the country and its success depends on the hard work and cooperation from all.

“Fulfilling the Vision is the responsibility of all, not just the government ministries and departments, and this is where the important roles of mukim penghulus and village heads as grassroots leaders are needed to assist in inculcating the aspiration among the people in the country,” he added.

Nadzri said the Pemberigaan programme was launched in 2016, with a session assembling various officers from government ministries and departments, Civil Service Institute, Information Department and DARe (Darussalam Enterprise), and the effort now focuses on grassroots leaders, business leaders, academic institutions and the general public.

Also present during the session were Shamsul Bahrin bin Haji Mohd Hussain, the Tutong District Officer and Haji Azmi bin Haji Abdul Rahim, Chairman of Tutong Municipal Board.

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|     Azrol Azmi     |

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 yesterday afternoon received in audience delegations comprising Asean Chief Justices and Heads of the Asean Law Association (ALA) attending the 5th Council of Asean Chief Justices (CACJ) Meeting and the 39th ALA Governing Council Meeting, held from March 24-25.

His Majesty received in audience Professor Dr Muhammad Hatta Ali, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Indonesia; Tun Arifin bin Zakaria, Chief Justice of the Federal Court of Malaysia; Presbitero Jose Velasco Jr, Associate Justice of Supreme Court of the Philippines; Sundaresh Menon, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Singapore; Chao Hick Tin, Vice President of the Court of Appeal, Singapore; Chief Justice Veerapol Tungsuwan, President of the Supreme Court of Thailand; Avelino V Cruz, President of the ALA, Philippines; Chief Justice (Rtd) Artemio v Panganiban, Chairman of the ALA, Philippines; Regina Padila Geraldez, Secretary General of the ALA, Philippines; You Ottara, Chairman of the ALA, Cambodia; Dr Thi Da Oo, Director General, Union Attorney General’s Office, Myanmar; Le Thin Kim Thanh, Vice President of the Vietnam Lawyers Association (VLA); and Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Haji Mohamed Apandi bin Haji Ali, Attorney General, Malaysia.

Present at the audience ceremony was Chief Justice of the Brunei Supreme Court Dato Seri Paduka Haji Kifrawi bin Dato Paduka Haji Kifli.

Also present were Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Hayati binti Pehin Orang Kaya Shahbandar Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohd Salleh, Attorney General; Dato Paduka Steven Chong, High Court Judge; Dato Paduka Haji Hairol Arni bin Haji Abdul Majid, High Court Judge; Pengiran Hajah Rostaina binti Pengiran Haji Duraman, Judicial Commissioner / Chief Registrar of the Brunei Supreme Court; and Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Juanda bin Haji Abdul Rashid, Permanent Secretary (Law and Welfare) at the Prime Minister’s Office and Solicitor General at the Attorney General’s Chamber.

The audience ceremony took place at the Istana Nurul Iman.

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 yesterday afternoon received in audience delegations comprising Asean Chief Justices and heads of the Asean Law Association (ALA) attending for the 5th Council of Asean Chief Justices (CACJ) Meeting and the 39th Asean Law Association Governing Council Meeting, held from March 24-25

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 in a group photo with the Asean Chief Justices and Heads of the Asean Law Association delegation

ABOVE & BELOW: His Majesty being greeted by Asean Chief Justices and Heads of Asean Law Association delegation during the audience ceremony yesterday at the Istana Nurul Iman. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

His Majesty mingling with the Asean Chief Justices and Heads of Asean Law Association delegation

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|     Azlan Othman     |

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 presented prizes to winners of the Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB) Entrepreneurship Programme during a ceremony held in conjunction with the company’s 25th anniversary at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas yesterday.

Al-Huffaz Management, a company that provides religious classes and functions, was voted as the winner of the programme and received $5,000 as the prize.

Haji Mohammad Loqman Al-Hakim bin Haji Hamdan, founder of Al-Huffaz Management, expressed his delight in winning the programme and thanked TAIB and DARe (Darussalam Enterprise) for guiding them.

“My presentation, vision, market validation and profit and loss were looked at in the competition. Al-Huffaz is the only one that provides religious services such Khatam Al-Quran and Al-Quran classes to residential houses where 67 educators from Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan and some from Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) are involved in teaching 347 students,” Loqman said.

“We are certified by the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB) and business is really good and have received an overwhelming res-ponse. I don’t even have to spend a single penny to hire a new student.

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 presenting the TAIB Entrepreneurship Programme first prize award to Haji Mohammad Loqman Al-Hakim bin Haji Hamdan, founder of Al-Huffaz Management

His Majesty presenting the TAIB Entrepreneurship Programme second prize award to Awangku Ahmad Akram bin Pengiran Haji Mohd Idrus, the Proprietor of Steamy Ridez and Cleaning Services

His Majesty in a group photo with the 10 finalists of the TAIB Entrepreneurship Programme

“People call us every day and our aspiration is to make Bruneians Al-Quran literate. We plan to teach Arabic Language to carry-out an Islamic leadership course and Islamic finance,” he added.

Awangku Ahmad Akram bin Pengiran Haji Mohd Idrus, the Proprietor of Steamy Ridez and Cleaning Services, won the second prize and received $3,000.

Awangku Ahmad said income from the business is enough to pay his eight workers.

“The TAIB Entreprenuership Programme assisted me a lot in developing my business. TAIB assessed us in terms of pitching our business and revenue model,” he said.

The programme aimed to provide opportunities to local company owners to enhance their knowledge in the field of business, marketing and finance as well as to build their self-confidence when meeting customers and local and foreign investors.

The TAIB Entrepreneurship Programme was conducted from January 4-18. Fifty-four participants joined the programme.

Ten finalists were selected to pitch their business ideas and strategies within a limited period to three local and foreign judges. Three winners were identified.

In an effort to have entre-preneurs develop and contribute towards economic diversification, TAIB is offering financing without profits under the ‘Qardhul Hasan’ concept with a maximum of $25,000 subject to terms and conditions.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

THE setting up of Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB) is the starting point of an Islamic financial institution in the country to support the far-sighted vision 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 to establish an Islamic financial institution to carry out a financial system without interest, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports who is also the Chairman of Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors said.

Speaking at Perbadanan TAIB’s 25th anniversary celebrations at the International Convention Centre, Berakas yesterday, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi said Perbadanan TAIB was set up on September 29, 1991 under Section 163 of the TAIB Brunei Order to manage funds and implement bank management, financing, trade and investment and to take part in industrial and economic projects domestically and abroad and other aspirations.

Transactions in accordance to Hukum Syarak is a new change inaugurated in this country. The public understanding in general on Islamic financial system was initially low. Perbadanan TAIB had to frame-out continuous educational programmes to create an awareness on the Islamic financial system, he said.

“For instance, among the programmes conducted with the cooperation of various government agencies was the Employees Trust Fund (TAP) which was to manage financing according to Islam. The programme was to make the public aware about financial management according to Syariah for the present and hereafter. These efforts were challenging to Perbadanan TAIB but had to be carried out as a responsibility to fulfil collective obligation or ‘Fardhu Kifayah’,” he said.

Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi also said throughout 25 years of its establishment, Perbadanan TAIB has stood out as an Islamic financial institution that gave priority in nurturing the habit of saving to perform Haj.

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 His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel while touring the Perbadanan TAIB exhibition

His Majesty signing a memento for the Insurans Islam TAIB exhibition booth. Also in the photo Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports who is also the Chairman of Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

His Majesty taking a closer look at some of the baggages designed under Darussalam Holdings Sdn Bhd for Haj pilgrims

From the savings account called Al-Wadiah introduced during its establishment, Perbadanan TAIB promoted the savings culture by introducing various accounts from infant to adulthood to support the culture of savings for the future, he said.

“At the end of December 31, 2016 (before auditing), 202,993 savings accounts were opened. If we compare to the population of Brunei Darussalam which stood at 432,687 people, 46.91 per cent of the total population are account holders of Perbadanan TAIB.”

Meanwhile for Tekad Haji or Haj account, there has been an 11 per cent growth annually (or 977 accounts annually) over the past 17 years. This indicates that efforts of Perbadanan TAIB to nurture the savings habit has been successful, thanks due to the efforts of several branches in the four districts for customers to conveniently carry-out transactions.

Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi also said cooperation and support from the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB) of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in tithe saving service for Perbadanan TAIB saving holders has also brought awareness and facilities to depositors to fulfil the obligation to pay tithe (Zakat) for their savings. Perbadanan TAIB is a sole Islamic financial institution that provides such service.

The collection of tithe savings has shown an increase with the highest ever recorded being at the end of December 31, 2015 totaling $4.27 million or an increase of 224 per cent compared to 2001 when the tithe saving service was introduced, he said.

Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi said to mark Perbadanan TAIB’s 25th anniversary, several programmes have been arranged in the form of education, religious, small and medium sized entrepreneurs and patriotism in line with the Brunei Vision 2035.

The activities conducted since September 29, 2016 include the Tarbiyyah project for underprivileged children registered with MUIB, premier talk and entrepreneurship programme among others.

Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi also highlighted the award to 10 finalists of the TAIB entrepreneurship programme conducted in cooperation with DARe (Darussalam Enterprise) to support the government’s initiative in developing small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Meanwhile, as an effort by Perbadanan TAIB for entrepreneurs to develop and contribute towards economic diversification, Perbadanan TAIB is offering financing without profits under the ‘Qardhul Hasan’ concept with a maximum of $25,000 subject to terms and conditions. Such a scheme will assist entrepreneurs to achieve and realise their business target in the next three to five years.

An educational assistance programme for students under the category of Poor and Destitute and registered under MUIB and the Community Development Department (JAPEM) will also be held. Assistance provided will be obtained from the Public Charitable Fund of Perbadanan TAIB. It is aimed to build educational human capacity and to enhance their lifestyle.

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|    Fadhil Yunus    |

TWO former Kashima Antlers players, club ambassador Koji Nakata and academy coach Akira Narahashi, held a football clinic for a batch of young Projek Ikan Pusu (PIP) players who were in the country as part of the J League Football Clinic at the Jerudong Mini Stadium yesterday.

Nakata enjoyed a trophy laden career domestically with Kashima Antlers after winning the J1 League title five times as well as two Emperor’s Cup trophies and four J League Cup titles.

The former versatile player who can operate as a defender or midfielder also represented his country at international level and featured for Japan 57 times including in the 2002 World Cup co-hosted by South Korea and Japan and the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany.

His stellar performances for the current J1 League holders led to interest by Ligue 1 side Olympique Marseille though he only had limited appearances over two seasons.

However, his travails in Europe were a success after joining Swiss giants FC Basel and helping them to the league championship in the 2007- 08 season whereby he featured 18 times for the club.

Kashima Antlers representatives Koji Nakata and Akira Narahashi in a group picture with the clinic participants and management of DPMM FC. – FADHIL YUNUS

The Japanese was an ever present in the side the season before having played 34 times, his most league appearances at any club in a single season.

Academy coach Akira Naharashi was capped 38 times for Japan and featured in the 1998 World Cup for his country three times in France.

The former defender is one of the longest serving players in the history of Kashima Antlers having made nearly 200 appearances for the Japanese giants.

Kashima Antlers was chosen for Brunei Darussalam in the exchange programme which helps foster closer relationship between Japan and the Asean region.

“The J League Football Clinic is a bigger initiative that J League and Asia Center has started between Asean countries and Japan,” said Erika Hirose from the Arts, Culture and Exchange Section II at the Japan Foundation Asia Center in an interview with the Sunday Bulletin.

“We sent professional Japanese coaches to Asean countries to do this kind of football classes to deepen the relationship between the countries,” she further added.

One J League club is assigned in each Asean country and Kashima Antlers was assigned for Brunei Darussalam.

As Brunei Darussalam welcomed two former players who represented Kashima Antlers with distinction, Hirose said that the number of coaches allocated to each country varies on the Asean country.

“Some have three coaches and one staff coming and for Brunei we have two coaches and some staff.”

The programme first came into fruition two years ago in other Asean countries and this is the first time that they have involved Brunei Darussalam with the possibility of continuing the programme before the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

“We plan to continue this programme until the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. We hope that Kashima Antlers would continually do this project with Brunei.

“For our programme, it’s once a year but we would like to keep Kashima Antlers to be the one in charge of Brunei for the whole time,” she further continued.

She accepted that there is a possibility that the Kashima Antlers representatives will return in the future.

Hirose was visibly pleased with the attitude showcased by the young players during the training session which drew out a crowd made up of parents and guardians.

“I think what was coming into session was how energetic and active the players are and they really enjoy playing football.

“I believe the motivation to play football is very important which would lead to wanting to get better at playing football so I think there’s this mind-set in the children of wanting to get better at playing football,” she said.

Asked what they are trying to achieve at the end of the programme, Hirose replied that “in the big view, through football in the exchange programme we hope to deepen the relationship and friendship between Japan and the Asean countries and at the same time to encourage improvement of football level in each country including Japan and to make the Asean region stronger as a whole and to work together to become better”.

Hirose confirmed that they have been actively engaging contact with representatives from DPMM FC- who organised the training session with the support of the Asia Center- and the football association of Brunei (NFABD).

Kashima Antlers will conduct a football clinic today to conclude their one-and-a-half day long programme.

Earlier in the day, the notable Kashima Antlers former players held a separate training session for the Tabuan Under-18 players at the NFABD Football Field.

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