|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

COFFEE lovers of Brunei who are seeking the experience of real Italian coffee can now drop by the Segafredo Espresso Café, which officially opened its doors for business in the Sultanate yesterday.

The café, located in the same building as Hua Ho Tanjung Bunut, is the first café to serve 100 per cent Halal products and is the first Italian coffee shop with worldwide Halal recognition.

When asked why Halal recognition was important for Segafredo, the CEO of Segafredo Zanetti Espresso Worldwide Limited, Pascal Héritier explained to the Bulletin that since the majority of people in Brunei are Muslims, people will have the opportunity to appreciate the coffee chain that respects not only tradition, but also delivers high quality Halal products.

“We also hope that coffee lovers in the Sultanate – who are considered as one of the highest consumers of coffee with a per capita coffee consumption rate of more than 4kgs per year compared to Japan around 3kgs, South Korea more than 2kgs while China only few grammes – enjoy a perfect espresso, cappuccino or the other products that we serve here at the perfection of our Segafredo Espresso Cafe,” he said.

“With our constant drive in providing excellence in the quality of our product and efficient service, a friendly atmosphere is also one of the important factors that could attract more consumers to the café.”

Photo shows the Minister of Home Affairs, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong and his spouse, Datin Paduka Hajah Jahrah binti Haji Mohammad, during a ribbon cutting ceremony

The CEO of Segafredo Zanetti Espresso Worldwide Ltd Pascal Héritier delivering his speech

The Minister of Home Affairs, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong and his spouse, Datin Paduka Hajah Jahrah binti Haji Mohammad in a group photo with members and employees of Segafredo Espresso. – PHOTOS: ROKIAH MAHMUD

The official launching ceremony of Segafredo Espresso Cafe was marked with a ribbon cutting ceremony by the Minister of Home Affairs, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong and his spouse, Datin Paduka Hajah Jahrah binti Haji Mohammad.

Also joining the ribbon cutting were the CEO of Segafredo Zanetti Espresso Worldwide Ltd Pascal Héritier, President for the Asia Coffee Shop Development and in charge of the Japan subsidiary Toshiro Brian Mori, CEO of Boncafe in Singapore Joe Mohan, and the Managing Director of Segafredo Espresso Cafe Brunei Francis Tee.

With the main goal to serve real Italian Coffee experience, Segafredo has placed their coffee shops in roughly 50 countries with more than 330 cafés worldwide.

In a dialogue with the Minister of Home Affairs, when asked for his view on the newly opened international brand coffee shop in the Sultanate, he expressed that not only does it carries their brand name; Segafredo Brunei’s employees are 90 per cent local.

“This is a very good opportunity for the locals to not only earn an income for their hard work, but also at the same time to learn skills and techniques on how to make excellent tasting coffee. Once they earn these skills, they may expand their skills to other Segafredo chains either in Asia or worldwide.”

“In their efforts to attract locals to enjoy real Italian coffee, Segafredo also became a pioneer in obtaining the Brunei Halal certification which is still in the process of approval. This is a good move and can match the competition of other coffee brands,” the minister added.

Segafredo Espresso Cafe opens from 7.45am until 11.45pm except on Friday when they close from 12pm to 2pm.

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|     Siti Hajar     |

OVER 500 participants took to the streets early yesterday morning, in a show of solidarity for those afflicted with HIV and AIDS.

Organised by the Brunei Darussalam AIDS Council (BDAC), participants of the Red Ribbon Run 2016 includes employees from the government and private sector.

The run, which also saw the presentation of prizes in several categories, ranging from three kilometres to 10 kilometres, was held to spread awareness on HIV, while encouraging those at risk to get tested at health centres and clinics.

Proceeds from the event will go to BDAC’s existing HIV programmes, as well as youth empowerment.

As part of BDAC’s efforts to maximise its message, HIV and AIDS awareness quotes were placed alongside inspirational quotes along the running route.

“Running reflects a healthy lifestyle,” said three Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) students who intern at BDAC and working as the event’s project coordinators.

ABOVE & BELOW: In a show of solidarity for those afflicted with HIV and AIDS, over 500 participants took part in the Red Ribbon Run 2016 by the Brunei Darussalam AIDS Council (BDAC)

Proceeds from the event will go to BDAC’s existing HIV programmes, as well as youth empowerment

President of Brunei Darussalam AIDS Council, Iswandy Ahmad (L) presenting the 2nd winning trophy to Muhd Qamarul Arifin Hifni, a male runner in the 10km category

ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show some of the runners with their medals after the completion of the Red Ribbon Run. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

“We’d like to spread the message that people living with HIV and AIDS can continue to lead a healthy life, provided that they take their medication regularly. More importantly, those involved in any risky behaviour need to be tested and diagnosed as early as possible.”

There are only certain ways by which HIV is transmitted: through certain bodily fluids, needle or syringe use, and from an infected mother to the foetus, with the latter avoidable through screenings in the early stages of pregnancy.

In his remarks as Captain of the Penyinar Club, the youth-wing of BDAC, Mohd Rafee Isa said, “Young people need to step up and discuss issues concerning their personal health, such as the prevention of HIV and AIDS, as well as sexually-transmitted diseases and infections.

“As a young person, I believe that early awareness and self-empowerment are important. We understand that this topic is still taboo, but being silent or negative does not provide solutions, and is not the way to address this issue.”

The youth representative also called for more awareness on reproductive health, together with the message that prevention is better than cure.

Stressing on the need for empowerment, he said, “We will not burden the country with unnecessary health care costs that can be prevented in the first place.”

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|     Siti Hajar     |

THERE has been concern over the potential perpetuation of the spread of sexually transmitted infections and diseases (STIDs) and HIV through the convenient access of the Internet, a concern that the non-government organisation Brunei Darussalam AIDS Council (BDAC) has voiced especially with the rise of social media.

In an interview with the Bulletin yesterday, the President of BDAC, Iswandy Ahmad, pointed out that social media networks such as chat groups that can be logged on through web browsers and smartphone applications, which are downloadable for free, have made it easier for users to “hook-up” referring to the unrestrained practice of premarital sexual activities.

“We believe more people may be infected if they are not aware of HIV or the health statuses of their sexual partners that they may have met from these platforms,” he lamented.

In December last year, the Ministry of Health (MoH) in conjunction with World AIDS Day 2016 released data that showed an increase of HIV patients with 24 new cases in 2015 and the cumulative total is 110 cases since the first local case was reported in 1986 whilst 38 new cases were reported between 2012 to 2014. The number of HIV women patients have also risen to seven, which BDAC pointed out, represents a worrying trend more so considering that HIV is often associated with homosexual relations among men.

Statistics released by the Global Information Technology report showed that in 2014 the country’s Internet penetration rose to about 60 per cent from 56 per cent the year before whilst active social media users accessing social media on a mobile device stood at 240,000 as of January the same year.

President of Brunei Darussalam AIDS Council, Iswandy Ahmad (L) presenting a trophy to Maggie Rait, one of the winners of the Red Ribbon Run 2016. – DEAN KASSIM

The highest age demographic accessing the likes of Facebook were those aged between 18 to 24 years old at 33 per cent followed by 25 to 34 years old at 30 per cent and 13 to 17 years old at 17 per cent.

Despite Internet safeguards put in place by regulators to protect the country’s morals closely linked to religion, these safeguards, especially on web browsers, can be bypassed via proxies that are easily found on the Internet through a simple search, making the war against the growth of social ills a difficult one. As for mobile applications, dozens can be found on the likes of Google Play and the Apple Store, with many more introduced and developed almost on a regular basis that can be easily downloaded by Bruneians.

With regulating the use of the Internet and social media proving to be a gargantuan task, public education on HIV and STIDs have been considered the best arsenal for local authorities to use, according to Iswandy, who noted that; BDAC has been pushing for sexual education to be made available by the likes of the Ministry of Education and the MoH.

At home, Iswandy said that “parents and family members play an important role for the prevention of issues related to reproductive health that include STIDs, HIV, teenage pregnancies and extramarital sex,” urging 21st Century families to finally open up the topic of sex with the younger generation, especially children.

Acknowledging that the topic of sex is still considered taboo in conservative Brunei, the conversation is hardly addressed, with Iswandy pointing that “as reproductive health is considered an ‘adult only’ topic, people assume that it comes naturally to adults,” but equipping the community with knowledge on reproductive health empowers individuals for steps in prevention versus the notion that conversing on the topic of sex could lead to unsafe sexual behaviours.

Though HIV awareness in the country is on the rise, he added that “we believe more needs to be done where all sectors need to be on board”, with more research into HIV still in need to enable an evidence-based approach on the country’s HIV/AIDS response. Among the recommended research topics include the level of knowledge among population groups such as students, young people, married couples and the working population in general.

In Brunei, HIV surveillance is conducted through a variety of means including antenatal checkups where expecting mothers are screened for HIV, screening blood donors for diseases including HIV, screening tuberculosis patients, mandatory HIV test once every two years for foreign workers as well as screening for detainees such as prisoners and drug users.

The BDAC advises for sexually active people of unsafe sexual behaviour, especially those at higher risk of HIV, to consider and conduct regular checkups. Under the Infectious Disease Order 2003, legislation protects the identities of those infected with HIV.

However, the lingering stigma of this disease still remains.

“Stigma has long been a major issue not just for BDAC but for the HIV community as a whole in Brunei. Society needs to accept People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) and address the HIV issue, and not the person infected with it.”

The community, he encouraged, “Should also treat PLHIV with respect similar to the ways others are respected.”

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|     James Kon     |

BRUNEI’S first female athlete to compete at the London Olympics 2012, Maziah Mahusin, managed to capture her first bronze medal abroad when she completed the 200m run in a photo finish at the Philippines National Open on Sunday.

Maziah finished with the time of 25.96s, slightly ahead of her opponent from the Philippines.

Maziah said, “It was a tough race. I didn’t realise I got a podium finish until the announcement was made. I am happy with the result and hope to carry on with the momentum.”

Meanwhile, Maizurah binti Abdul Rahim completed the final of the women’s 200m with 27.85s in the final and also 13.15s in the final of 100m, recording her personal best.

The recipient of the IOC training scholarship for Rio Olympics 2016 said she was satisfied with the result and would continue to work hard to improve.

Maziah Mahusin (Centre) in a photo with other Brunei athletes and coach, Fidel Gallenero

Her next competition will be the SEA Youth in Thailand on April 23.

Another recipient of the IOC training scholarship, Mohammad Fakhri Ismail, finished his 100m race with a season best time of 10.75s finishing 6th place, while Mohd Ammar Safwan Haji Zaidin also recorded a season best time of 51.09s in the men’s 400m.

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|     Fadhil Yunus in Singapore     |

BRUNEI women national team fell to an 8-0 defeat at the hands of Kazakhstan on the third day of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) Hockey World League at Sengkang Hockey Stadium in Singapore yesterday.

National coach Shaiful Azli bin Abdul Rahman noted that the structure of the team was still present despite back-to-back losses against quality oppositions in Thailand and Kazakhstan.

However, performance levels dropped slightly against the world 33rd ranked team with fitness concerns taking a toll after two gruelling encounters.

“Our drop in fitness shows that we cannot cope with the speed,” said the coach in an interview with the Bulletin after the match.

The tie was packed with incidents, with the umpires’ officiating coming into question.

A Brunei hockey player in action during the match against Kazakhstan yesterday. – FADHIL YUNUS

Leading 4-0, Kazakhstan were awarded a penalty stroke after Latifah Sawal was alleged to have denied a clear goal after the ball had bounced off a goalkeeper from a penalty corner.

The Brunei camp thought the ball was heading out of play with Latifah protesting the call but as a second official entered the pitch, the decision was made.

“The ball was not towards the goal. The goalkeeper already saved but the ball was not towards the goal,” said Shaiful Azli.

The penalty, however was saved by the goalkeeper.

Of the 19 penalty corners Kazakhstan conceded, Shaiful Azli felt that three or four should not have been awarded.

Despite the manner of the defeat, Shaiful Azli maintains that the team was progressing since returning to the international scene last year.

“Overall, I think our team is improving. Now, they can combine and attack,” he said.

The post Eight to forget: Brunei suffer heavy loss appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

THE Rotary Club of Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB) has been doing its small part for the past 15 years in helping needy students to stay in school by providing bursary awards to students up to tertiary level in the country.

The Rotary Charity Golf tournaments have been a means to raise funds for the Rotary Education Assistance Project, a means seen by the organisation as way to help eradicate poverty.

Over the years of Rotary Charity golf tournaments, generous support and contributions have permitted the club to financially support over 250 needy local students to enable them to stay in school.

The Bursary Awards are given to selected needy students from chosen schools whose education may be jeopardised due to financial difficulties.

PP Jeff Yong delivers his speech. – ACHONG TANJONG

The first Rotary Charity Golf tournament was successfully held in 2001, which attracted 78 golfers and netted $10,200 for the club.

In the Rotary 2001/2002, the Rotary Bursary Awards amounting to $15,060 were given to 14 needy students from three secondary schools.

The most recent 15th Rotary Charity Golf tournament, whereby 90 golfers took part in, was held last year at the RBA Golf Club and netted $30,000.

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BANK Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) was conferred with Islamic Banking Finance Institute Malaysia (IBFIM)’s Islamic Finance Talent Development Champion Award in the International Category at the 3rd Certifications Award Ceremony from IBFIM.

Also in the International Category, BIBD and Brunei’s very own Dayangku Noruldiana Shim binti Pengiran Haji Hashim was conferred with Highest Achiever Award in the Islamic Financial Planner (IFP) Category.

The event was held at the Mahkota Ballroom, Istana Hotel, Kuala Lumpur City Centre.

BIBD Deputy Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer, Hajah Noraini binti Haji Sulaiman mentioned in reference to BIBD’s recognition, “The programme also allows BIBD to develop their capabilities to provide more robust Islamic financial and wealth management solutions for our customers.

Former Malaysian prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad presenting BIBD with Islamic Finance Tal-ent Development Champion Award in the International Category

Dayangku Noruldiana Shim binti Pengiran Haji Hashim receiving her award. – PHOTOS: BIBD

“These efforts also reflect our continuing efforts to meet the growing demands of our customers along with innovations in Islamic financial products.”

BIBD currently has a team of 42 certified Islamic Financial Planners (IFP), four of whom are also Chartered Financial Consultants (ChFC), a number which is constantly growing as more and more BIBD personnel are enrolled into becoming certified financial planners.

The IFP programme is a professional qualification developed in collaboration between IBFIM and Financial Planning Association of Malaysia (FPAM).

The programme aims to develop experts in financial planning and wealth management to cater to the increasing standards of competency and ethical practice of financial planning professionals.

The ceremony is recognition to holders of IBFIM’s certified qualifications along with recognition to organisations that had fervently supported IBFIM’s talent development initiatives by awarding them the prestigious Islamic Finance Talent Development Champion Award.

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|     Fizah HAB     |

THE Department of Co-Curriculum Education of the Ministry of Education held a handover ceremony of the donations collected from the recent Silver Run in conjunction with the 25th Teacher’s Day celebration yesterday at the Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam in Kg Bengkurong.

Presenting the handover to the Executive Trustee of Pusat Ehsan, Dato Paduka Dr Haji Omar bin Haji Khalid was the Acting Director of Co-Curriculum Education, Roslin bin Suhailee.

Also at the event was fellow Executive Trustee, Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini binti Pengiran Dipa Negara Laila Diraja Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin, who also presented a welcoming speech as well as senior officer and head of Administration Unit at the Department of Co-Curriculum Education.

The amount donated was a 10 per cent cut off from the Silver Run charity collection that took place on January 31, 2016 at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, BSB, in hopes of helping students with special needs.

Pusat Ehsan has a total of 163 special need students registered at Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam in Kg Bengkurong and 53 special needs students registered at its centre in Kuala Belait.

Presenting the handover to the Executive Trustee of Pusat Ehsan, Dato Paduka Dr Haji Omar bin Haji Khalid was the Acting Director of Co-Curriculum Education, Roslin bin Suhailee. – FIZAH HAB

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|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

THE Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB) distributed $600 of Zakat to fire victims of Kampong Pulaie during a handover ceremony yesterday at the Seroja Room, Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA).

The presentation was done by the Acting Secretary of MUIB, Haji Abdul Aziz bin Haji Akop.

The Zakat was distributed to the three people whose homes burnt down on April 1 – 69-year-old house owner Hajah Rasiah binti Haji Ja’afar and son Pengiran Anie bin Pengiran Chuchu each received $200, while Pengiran Anie’s son, Awangku Mohd Aiman Syafiq bin Pengiran Anie also received $200 along with some school stationary assistance.

The Zakat came from the Asnaf Fakir Miskin Group Zakat Fund allocation.

MUIB hopes that the assistance will ease the burden faced by the victims, while encouraging them to become more aware in maintaining the safety of their family members.

Acting Secretary of MUIB, Haji Abdul Aziz bin Haji Akop, handing over the Zakat to Hajah Rasiah binti Haji Ja’afar

Haji Abdul Aziz presenting Zakat to Pengiran Anie bin Pengiran Chuchu. – PHOTOS: ABDUL HAKIIM YAKOF

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HIS Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, yesterday received in audience the newly appointed High Commissioner of Malaysia, and the newly appointed Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand, to Brunei Darussalam.

His Royal Highness first received High Commissioner of Malaysia to Brunei Darussalam Datuk Ghulam Jelani bin Khanizaman, who previously served as permanent secretary at the Ministry of Rural Development, Sabah.

Datuk Ghulam Jelani presented his Letter of Credence 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 on March 23, 2016.

His Royal Highness shakes hands with High Commissioner of Malaysia to Brunei Darussalam Datuk Ghu-lam Jelani bin Khanizaman. – PHOTOS: INFOFOTO

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, in conversa-tion with Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Brunei Darussalam Biravij Suwanpradhes

His Royal Highness then received Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Brunei Darussalam Biravij Suwanpradhes, who formerly held the post of ambassador attached to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand.

Biravij Suwanpradhes presented his Letter of Credence to His Majesty on March 23, 2016.

The ceremony took place at Qashr Al-Meezaan.

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THE Land Department has cautioned the public against encroaching state land areas damaged by bushfires, warning that penalties will be imposed on such intruders.

Bushfires have cleared large parts of forest areas which are normally left idle. These areas, now devoid of any thick vegetation, seem to entice prospectors eyeing spots for agricultural activities. In some areas, these activities have slowly begun to sprout and are becoming a growing concern to relevant government agencies, it noted in a statement.

The department reminded the public that intrusion into these areas (state land areas) is an offence under Section 32 of the Land Code (Cap 40) of Brunei Darussalam.

Any person without lawful authority found guilty of the offence could be penalised $2,000 for the first conviction and $3,000 for second and subsequent convictions, or imprisonment of one year, or both, and the court may issue a warrant to any police officer requiring him to remove such person from the land.

Furthermore, anyone abetting the intrusion is also liable on conviction to receive the same above mentioned penalty. Therefore, the public must take heed of this reminder.

State land intruded in Lumut, Mumong Bypass. – LAND DEPARTMENT

Officials from the Land Department and relevant government agencies will continue to monitor development in the affected areas, the statement said.

The department said the ongoing dry spell affecting the coastal part of the country has led to an alarming increase in sporadic bushfires. Pockets and even large areas of bushes and forests have become fire pits which emanate smoke that contributes to the hazy weather conditions of late.

These blackened grounds have now become a familiar sight to those commuting along the Lumut Bypass, Seria Bypass, Mumong Bypass and Tutong -Muara Highway, the statement added.

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|     James Kon     |

THE registration of She Runs 2016, an all female charity run event organised by Fitness Zone, has come to a close after reaching the 2,000-participant limit.

Set to take place on May 15 at Fitness Zone in Serusop, the second installation of the charity run initially set its participation limit at 1,500.

The event aims to raise awareness of empowerment in women and give back to society; Children’s Cancer Foundation (YASKA) and Special Olympics Brunei Darussalam (SOBD) are set to be the beneficiaries for this year.

Last year’s event raised $55,000 for YASKA.

“The response from the women community in Brunei for the event is overwhelming,” said Wu Chun, Managing Director of Fitness Zone.

ABOVE & BELOW: Wu Chun with the Taiwanese duo

Hao Zi and Ah Xiang, the main cast of ‘Super Taste,’ with their fans. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

“I’m happy to see so many people come out to participate in an event to empower women. It sends the message that there are more who want to be part of making a difference and giving back to our community,” he added.

The deadline for payment and slot confirmation has been extended until April 18 and can be made at the Fitness Zone main branch in Kiulap.

Meanwhile, Hao Zi and Ah Xiang of ‘Super Taste’, a famous Taiwanese TV show on TVBS, are currently in the country to film an episode called ‘Magic Brunei’ and show their support for the charity event.

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

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 paid his last respects to Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran (Dr) Haji Mohd Yusuf bin Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahim, who passed away peacefully at the age of 92 yesterday at his home ‘Teratak Yura’ in Kampong Sengkarai, Tutong.

His Majesty and other state dignitaries performed the funeral rites led by the State Mufti, Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran (Dr) Haji Mohd Yusuf, a former chief minister of Brunei Darussalam, passed away at 9.37am.

He was laid to rest at the Sengkarai Muslim Cemetery, Tutong.

Born on May 2, 1923, at Kampong Kandang, Tutong, he leaves behind seven sons, four daughters, 38 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren. Three other children are deceased.

The former chief minister was an accomplished writer and poet, who wrote the lyrics to the country’s national anthem.

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 dignitaries during prayers for the late Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran (Dr) Haji Mohd Yusuf bin Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahim. – DEAN KASSIM

The late Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran (Dr) Haji Mohd Yusuf. – MOHAMMAD ASY-RAMISYANIE

With the consent of His Majesty, he was conferred the ‘Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Jaya Negara’ status on January 12, 1968. On May 16 that year, he was elevated to the rank of ‘Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Setia Negara’.

His long list of state decorations and honorary titles include: DK (Laila Utama) in 1968; SPMB in 1963; DSND in 1960; SMB in 1958; Order of the Raising Sun (from Emperor Hirohito) in 1984; CBE in 1968; POAS in 1962; PHBS in 1970; PBLI in 2008; PJK in 1959; PKL in 1959; Pingat Perjuangan in 1963; and Pingat Puspa in 1968.

A loyal Bruneian, he was the last surviving member of Brunei Constitutional Committee during the formation of the country’s first written constitution.

He continued to carry out his state duties faithfully. At the age of 92, his last stately post was as State Dignitary Representative of the Legislative Council.

In the private sector, he was the former deputy chairman of QAF Brunei Sdn Bhd that owns Brunei Press Sdn Bhd and played a leading role towards the establishment of Media Permata.

He was the last surviving member of the seven member Brunei Constitution Committee (Tujuh Serangkai) sent by Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam, the late father of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, to every Brunei Mukims during the process of constitutional reforms in Brunei.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran (Dr) Haji Mohd Yusuf was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Law by the International Academy of Vancouver, in 1961, for his contributions and active involvement in public administration. He also attended Hiroshima University, in 1945.

He survived the 1945 atomic bombings in Japan; and in 2013, he was conferred with an honorary doctorate from Hiroshima University for his role in promoting peace and goodwill between Japan and Brunei Darussalam.

Shortly after Brunei’s independence, the government of Japan conferred Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran (Dr) Haji Mohd Yusuf with the First Class Order of the Rising Sun Award in 1985, one of the highest honours bestowed by Emperor Hirohito.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran (Dr) Haji Mohd Yusuf was also a renowned figure in Brunei’s literary scene. He was an avid writer under the pen name of ‘Yura Halim’.

In his lifetime, he received several literary awards including the SEA Write Award, Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Education Award, Honorary Doctorate from Universiti Brunei Darussalam, and the Brunei Darussalam Religious Meritorious Service Awards.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran (Dr) Haji Mohd Yusuf received his early education at the Bukit Bendera Malay School in Tutong. He trained as a teacher at the Sultan Idris Teachers College in Tanjong Malim, Perak; and furthered his studies at Hiroshima University in Japan, and at the South Devon Imperial College in Devonshire.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran (Dr) Haji Mohd Yusuf took up several careers in his lifetime: teacher trainer, assistant school headmaster, assistant information officer, Information Officer, deputy state secretary, state secretary, chief minister, High Commissioner of Brunei to Malaysia, and the Brunei Ambassador to Japan.

He was a member of the Privy Council and Council of Adat Istiadat.

His grandchildren, Pengiran Yura Sukma binti Pengiran Haji Tajuddin and Dayangku Yura Seri Kamalawati binti Pengiran Syed Issa, recalled how their grandfather liked to talk of his wartime experiences, to make them understand that nothing is more precious than peace and freedom.

They also recalled that their grandfather preferred to admonish them gently as a more effective way of discipline and correction. In addition, he liked doing things on his own, without asking help from others.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran (Dr) Haji Mohd Yusuf was a loyal Bruneian to the end, managing to attend the recent Legislative Council sessions as the State Dignitary Representative of the Legislative Council, despite his old age.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran (Dr) Haji Mohd Yusuf was an extraordinary man of many talents. The name ‘Yura’, that his children and grandchildren bear, is a legacy of the remarkable life and career that he led.

The post His Majesty pays last respects to former chief minister appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus in Singapore     |

BRUNEI Darussalam’s men national team created a milestone after registering a 3-1 victory over Vietnam at the International Hockey Federation (FIH) Hockey World League Round 1 at Sengkang Hockey Stadium in Singapore.

Brunei scored their first goal of the tournament through Mohamad Zulkar­naien Yusup.

Alisam Momin heightened Brunei’s joy with a cool finish after being set up by Andy Karim, who made good work keeping the ball in the danger area from a penalty corner.

Brunei nearly found a third when Afif Sofry’s improvised lob was saved by Vietnamese goalkeeper Lap Luong Luu Phan.

A swift move from Mohammad Firdaus provided a glorious chance for Abdoel Razali but the latter could not convert as the ball rolled harmlessly out of play.

The team pose for a photo before the match. – FADHIL YUNUS

However, the Vietnamese- who were competing for the first time in the tournament- were handed a huge reprieve after Le Quang Nguyen took full advantage of a debatable call by the umpire to direct the ball home.

The Bruneians were ensured of a victory after Mohammad Firdaus Ahmad put the game to bed with a third goal.

Brunei national coach Shaiful Azli bin Abdul Rahman was visibly pleased with the result but admitted the margin of victory would have been bigger had they’ve been more clinical with their finishing.

“Our team played better in the second half but the finishing could have been much better. However, overall they showed a good performance,” said Shaiful Azli in an interview with the Bulletin after the match.

Shaiful Azli said the team could only get better, adding that “they have the potential to go to the next level”.

The victory also served as motivation for the Brunei men’s national team in the placing match, said the coach.

The victory marked Brunei’s biggest result in hockey since the men’s national team drew against the much-fancied Uzbekistan 1-1 in the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) Cup in 2009.

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|     Achong Tanjong     |

ROAD users, particularly those residing at the Melabau Complex areas in Berakas have voiced their concerns pertaining to the lack of action being taken by authorities concerning the pothole in the area.

The road in question is the only way to enter the housing area, and has experienced serious damage over the years. According to residents, the condition of the road has worsened during the rainy season. Pedestrians frequenting the area at night have also raised their concerns.

The residents have urged relevant authorities to take quick action to remedy the condition for the safety of those living in the area.

Photo shows the condition of a section of the road at Melabau Complex. – ACHONG TANJONG

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THE 2016 dodgeball season kicked off with the two-day GreenCity WondeRing Dodgeball Tournament 2016 held at the Sungai Kebun Sports Complex last weekend.

Ten female teams and 14 male teams participated in the tournament, according to a press release.

The male team champion was Team Hydra’s Crusader, while the first runner-up went to Team Ravens and second runner-up to Team Eagles. Team Target became the female team champion while Team Arrows became the first runner-up, with the second runner-up going to Team Xco Dodgettes.

The participation of Team Hydra’s Crusader, which is made up of former national players from Malaysia, benefitted local teams by gaining experience through playing with one of the best teams in the world.

A group photo of the three winning teams for the male category, Team Hydra’s Crusader, Team Ravens and Team Eagles. – GREENCITY WONDERING

Every tournament organised or sanctioned by GreenCity Concept Sdn Bhd – the company that brought the sport to Brunei in 2013 – will count towards the accumulation of points used in teams’ standing in the Brunei Darussalam dodgeball season.

The top eight teams by the end of the season – by December 31 this year – will earn the right to play in the GreenCity Cup 2016. Two categories, male and female, will be organised for the championship which will be held in early 2017. The champion will walk away with the coveted trophy and cash prizes.

The season will prepare Bruneian players for the dodgeball World Cup in 2017.

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|     James Kon     |

HAO Zi and Ah Xiang, the main cast of the popular Taiwanese TV show ‘Super Taste,’ left Brunei Darussalam yesterday with fond memories of the warmth shown by the people of Brunei, the beauty of its attractions and the distinct taste of food following five days of filming in the Sultanate.

Both the Taiwanese superstars, who shot to fame after winning the Golden Bell Award for the best variety show in Taiwan in 2011, said they would like to return to Brunei to experience the greener side of the country in the pristine rainforests of Temburong District.

Hao Zi and Ah Xiang invited Brunei’s own international celebrity Wu Chun to go to Temburong with them during the next trip.

The visit of the ‘Super Taste’ crew followed an invitation from Wu Chun and was supported by Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) and Brunei Tourism.

Speaking to the Bulletin before they boarded the flight back to Taiwan, Hao Zi and Ah Xiang said, “The people of this nation have really demonstrated what makes Brunei the Abode of Peace. We are touched and impressed by the friendliness and warmth that Bruneians have shown”.

The Taiwanese crew at Kunyit 7 Lodge in the Water Village

Hao Zi with the crew in Brunei costumes at Kunyit 7 Lodge

The Taiwanese duo with fans at the Brunei International Airport. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

The TV crew was split into two teams. Ah Xiang stayed at the luxurious Empire Hotel & Country Club, while Hao Zi stayed at the Kunyit 7 Lodge in the Water Village.

To get a real feel of Brunei, visitors should stay at both the water village and at the Empire Hotel & Country Club, they said.

“Empire Hotel has beaches and many luxurious facilities to enjoy, while visitors who stay at the Water Village can get a better understanding of Brunei’s culture,” they added.

One of the memorable food items both Hao Zi and Ah Xiang could not get enough of was ‘roti prata’ or ‘murtabak’ of Noralizah and Iskandar House of Curry. The crew went to the popular outlet to enjoy the crispy murtabak twice and it was their last stop before heading to the airport at 9am in the morning.

The ‘Super Taste – Brunei Magic’ is expected to be aired on TVBS by end of May this year.

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|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

THE ‘Charity Colour Run for the Royal Bees’, organised by the Brunei Netball Association (BNA) seeks to raise funds for the association.

This was stated by Lieutenant Colonel (Rtd) Hajah Wan Shahlimar binti Haji Suhaili, BNA Vice President, during a press conference at the Stadium Restaurant yesterday.

The charity run, scheduled to take place on May 22 at the Multipurpose Hall of the Indoor Stadium in Berakas, is divided into three categories; the five-kilometre run for men or women aged 12 years above and the 2.5-kilometre fun run and walk open to all ages.

The number of participants is limited to only 1,000, having registration be based on first come first serve basis.

Brunei Netball Association members in a group photo with representatives from the sponsors of the run

National Netball Team players posing with the Charity Colour Run shirt. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

Colour zones will start 200 metres before the finishing line and that the colour will only be thrown at participants from one side of the route, having the other side become a clean zone.

The association’s vice president added that the coloured powder is 100 per cent natural, safe and of food grade quality.

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

FRENCH-BASED Bruneian filmmaker and actor, Abdul Khabir Zainidi, producer of numerous short films, hopes to showcase his movies to bring the beauty of Brunei Darussalam into the world view.

Some of his short films include ‘Bread Dream’, an entry for the Cannes Film Festival, and ‘Vanishing Children’, which was featured on the London Sci-fi festival last year and is scheduled to enter the Cannes Film Festival in May. He has also received an award from Brunei Arts Enthusiasts Association (PeSTAB).

Currently, he is in Paris to gain deeper knowledge and experience in the world of filmmaking, including in the arts of acting. He is also shooting a film with French artistes who in the film will be speaking in Bahasa Brunei (Bruneian language).

He said some of his short films are scheduled to be showcased this August during the upcoming Short Film Festival Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), including some of his latest such as ‘Bitungkal’ that tells the story of a scary monster that snatches children based on the old fable of Bukit Udal in Tutong. The said film will highlight and promote the beautiful forest and river of Tutong District.

The filmmaker said he will be featuring the said Bruneian short films at film festivals all around the world and hopes that his films will be well received by audiences.

Abdul Zainidi. – PHOTOS: ABDUL ZAINIDI

Abdul Zainidi in Paris with French artistes

Abdul Zainidi with Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports during Brunei Arts Enthusiasts Association (PeSTAB) Award for ‘Vanishing Children’ film

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

EIGHT interns yesterday graduated from the Brunei Solutions Development Centre (BSDC) Capability and Mentoring Programme (CAMP), certifying them as Microsoft Certified Solutions Developers (MCSD), which is a highly prestigious and industry recognised certification.

Six of them have also established their own IT companies and have had the opportunity to participate and secure projects with various agencies including the Ministry of Development and the Department of Economic Planning and Development.

Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Awang Haji Mohammad Yasmin bin Haji Umar, Minister of Energy and Industry at the Prime Minister’s Office yesterday attended the graduation ceremony as the guest of honour at the Design and Technology Building in Kampong Anggerek Desa.

Incepted in 2013, BSDC is a brainchild of the Brunei Darussalam Government and Microsoft, nurturing a new generation of local Information and Communications Technology (ICT) entrepreneurs and businesses. A total of 11 interns have graduated the CAMP programme since the beginning of the initiative.

The ceremony marked the beginning of new BSDC alumni of young and inspirational techpreneurs. Since 2013, BSDC has been training a future workforce to grow an IT ecosystem in Brunei and help graduates create their own business by building the confidence, capability, and capacity necessary for the economic drivers that will secure Brunei’s future. Its formula of success lies in combining academic training with practical working experience gained through the expertise of Microsoft consultants and involvement in real life projects.

Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Awang Haji Mohammad Yasmin bin Haji Umar, Minister of Energy and Industry at the Prime Minister’s Office, Muhammad Norshafiee bin Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, Deputy Permanent Secretary (IT, E-Government and Industry) at the Prime Min-ister’s Office, and Fredrik Nylander, Senior Director, APAC, Microsoft in a group photo.- BAHIYAH BA-KIR

CAMPers during a presentation session. – HAKIM HAYAT

Muhammad Norshafiee bin Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, Deputy Permanent Secretary (IT, E-Government and Industry) at the Prime Minister’s Office, in his speech said these interns are a role model for other graduates who are interested in becoming entrepreneurs, in line with the government’s focus on economic diversification and promoting entrepreneurship, and it also demonstrates that the BSDC is a proven working model for ICT industry development in Brunei Darussalam.

He also shared that moving forward plans are in place for closer collaboration and synergy with the newly formed DARe (or Darussalam Enterprise) in order to support the CAMP programme and produce successful and sustainable entrepreneurs.

The CAMP offers an accelerated training programme for interns to become Microsoft Certified Solutions Developers within a year instead of the standard two years, allowing them to move into entrepreneurial roles with greater speed. Throughout their time in the programme, the interns have strong support and easy access to resources such as mentorship, funding and customers.

Prior to the establishment of the BSDC there were no Bruneian Microsoft Certified Solutions Developers. All of these certifications were obtained through the BSDC CAMP programme.

Mohammad Izdihar bin Sulaiman from Ideas Technologies said the programme has given him a gateway to vast opportunities for learning valuable skill sets and practical hands-on project experience. “CAMP has made it much easier for entrepreneurs like myself to set up our own businesses, grow it, and in turn create employment for Bruneians. Not only is promoting the entrepreneurial spirit key to innovation, new businesses and small companies like ours are a fundamental and necessary pillar of our economic engine,” he said.

“We are delighted that our partnership with the Government of Brunei Darussalam is providing a successful platform for enterprising youth to set up their own companies and take the ICT industry to the next level in Brunei and across Asia. Microsoft is helping the young entrepreneurs of today turn dreams into reality. We hope these success stories will be a source of inspiration for subsequent BSDC graduates,” said Fredrik Nylander, Senior Director, APAC, Microsoft.

The BSDC was set up in 2013 as a software development facility to propel growth in the ICT industry, and enhance the capability of Brunei’s ICT industry in producing application development solutions.

The centre offers opportunities for local partners to work with Microsoft through hands-on and practical work immersion and procedures. Besides being managed by Microsoft, the centre works hand-in-hand with the e-Government National Centre (eGNC), iCentre to implement Brunei Government’s e-Government program and in developing the ICT industry as a key economic driver in line with the Vision 2035.

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