|    Ishan Ibrahim     |

PLENTY of prizes are up for grabs in a grand draw that will be organised by Boustead Sdn Bhd, scheduled to take place at a date that has yet to be fixed.

Customers who purchase the Suzuki Celero, Swift, Jimny, Ertega Dreza and Vitara from the Boustead Sdn Bhd showroom between December 1, 2016 and March 31 this year are eligible to take part.

The draw’s grand prize will be a Jetski Seadoo Spark 3 Up.

Other prizes include a Black Magic Pocket Cinema Camera, Google Pixel XL, Denon HEOS Home Cinema Soundtrack with Bluetooth, Fitnex X Momentum Indoor Spin Bike, a Sony Playstation 4 Pro, an Acer Aspire Switch 10-inch Tablet, a Laneige voucher worth $400, a $300 Toys ‘R’ Us voucher and a JBL Horizon Speaker.

The grand prize, a Jetski Seadoo Spark 3 Up. – ISHAN IBRAHIM

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|     Ina Matzin     |

A BIRD Singing Competition was held recently in Kampong Belimbing as the New Year dawned, with the residents of Kampong Belimbing and Kampong Subok taking part in the popular event.

Some 30 participants took part in the competition that was organised by the Kampong Belimbing Village Consultative Council.

The competition was divided into three sections – ‘Murai Batu Kepala Putih’, ‘Murai Batu Kelapa Hitam’ and ‘Kelajiau’.

Prizes were presented to the winners by the Village Head of Kampong Belimbing, Haji Gapor @ Haji Mohd Daud bin Karim.

This event was organised as part of the Sales Festival and Family Day of Kampong Belimbing, with many fun activities held for all, including senior citizens.

The Village Head of Kampong Belimbing, Haji Gapor @ Haji Mohd Daud bin Karim, in a group photo with the competition’s winners and participants. – PHOTOS: INA MATZIN

A senior citizen taking part in activities.

A colouring competition for the kids.

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|      Fizah HAB      |

AN EIGHTEEN-MEMBER delegation from the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) departed yesterday for a cultural exchange and humanitarian visit to Cambodia.

Led by the Deputy Dean of Student Affairs Ustazah Dayangku Hajah Norafizahbinti Pengiran Haji Bungsu, the delegation is made up of three male and 12 female undergraduates who were accompanied by three KUPU SB lecturers.

Seeing off the delegation was the Acting Ra’es of KUPU SB, Dr Haji Adanan bin Haji Basar.

Carrying the theme ‘Fostering stability in Islamic brotherhood with teaching and learning’, the trip aims to broaden the scope and knowledge as well as promoting cultural knowledge between the KUPU SB students and students in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

The six-day humanitarian trip is also filled with several activities such as handover of donations in the form of a water pump to Madrasah Al-Rahmah in Siem Reap, painting school walls project at Nurul Iman School in Kg Cheroy Metry, Cambodia, as well as study sessions with students of Madrasah Al-Rahmah.

A group photo of the 18-member delegation comprising three male and 12 female undergraduates and three lecturers from the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) prior to their cultural exchange and humanitarian visit to Cambodia. – FIZAH HAB

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|      Achong Tanjong      |

PREPARATIONS for the upcoming 19th Consumer Fair are now underway at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.

This year over 400 booths and 180 local and international exhibitors including from Asean countries will showcase their respective most popular products and services at the five-day fair from January 18-22. The event is being organised by D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd.

The Blue Zone, which was previously located at the east side of the venue, has been relocated to the parking area at the west side of the ICC to accommodate over 100 booths under a roder tent.

Shuttle buses will be provided at the Indoor Stadium area for the convenience of the consumers and exhibitors.

The theme for the 19th instalment of the consumer fair is ‘The Year is Yours’. The bi-annual In-Fair Magazine, now in its fourth edition, will feature 19 New Year resolutions for consumers to pick and choose which will be their top New Year resolution to achieve for the upcoming year.

Consumers will get to challenge one of the New Year resolutions which is ‘Face Your Fears’ at the fair, located at Sepakat 4 in the ICC. For those who love to challenge themselves against fears, ‘Face Your Fears’ will feature a mysterious challenge. Consumers will have to face the uncertainty it brings, and it is a thrilling test to kick start the year.

The fair is also loaded with activities from exhibitors and new faces. WayBack Burger will be conducting a ‘Triple Challenge Eating Competition’ and Pelicana Chicken will organise a ‘Can You Take the Hotness?’ competition while Lof Bakery will be having a ‘Cupcake Decorations’ competition for cupcake lovers and those who love to bake.

Kingston Beverage & Creamery Sdn Bhd will be conducting its ice-cream decoration activity which was one of the most popular activities during the 18th Consumer Fair earlier in May last year.

Tree of Hope from Children’s Cancer Foundation (YASKA) will allow members of the public to donate and write heart-warming and encouraging messages for the children living with cancer and to the families who are always there for them.

Proceeds collected will be fully donated to YASKA on the last day of the event.

Better Brunei which was recently launched will also be joining the fair to offer special promotions and deals for car rentals exclusively at the fair in the Blue zone roder tent area.

The grand draw of the ‘POKKA Bonanza Lucky Draw’ will be held on January 21 at the fair. The Red Bull Human Foosball final game will be held at the end of the fair. KindyKare International will also be at the fair to provide affordable childcare services to the exhibitors and visitors.

More activities are to be featured on the Concourse stage of the fair, such as a DST Quiz and Loyalty programme, Syarikat Teeyem Majeed hamper giveaways and many more.

The 19th Consumer Fair is open to the public from 10am to 10pm on all days, except Friday, when the fair will be closed temporarily from noon to 2pm for the Friday prayers.

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|      Wani Roslan & Syazwani Hj Rosli      |

ONCE again it’s back to school for thousands of students in Brunei Darussalam who will be charting a fresh course with renewed hopes and resolutions.

After a month-long vacation, the new school year begins today in Brunei Darussalam.

Yesterday saw students and parents making last minute preparations and teachers gearing up for handling the registration process of pupils at the primary and secondary levels.

Talking to the Bulletin about her preparations for the new academic session, Norlina binti Ahmad, a primary teacher from the Jerudong branch of the Bakti Dewa School, said, “As a teacher, I have to be prepared in several aspects before the opening of new school term, including in planning and work schemes, just to ensure that all of my classes run smoothly,” she said. “I hope that my students will show a strong determination to be more focused on their studies.”

Nurhasimah binti Haji Tengah, who teaches at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Secondary School, said that she expects this year to be a challenging one, in view of some recent changes in the school’s administration.

“This year, students won’t have to move between classes for different lessons, since we will be using a home room for the first time here,” she said, adding, “We also need to be fit and healthy, since it is not easy to obtain medical certificates these days from the clinic or hospital.”

Students of Seri Mulia Sarjana International School happy to see each other after a month of school holiday. – FILE PHOTO

Muhammad Rusydi bin Abdullah, a teaching assistant and a pre-vocational relief teacher under the Special Education Unit at the Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien College, said that his preparation for the new school year includes suggesting suitable sporting and gardening activities for the students.

“This includes developing or enhancing current teaching methods,” he said. “What we usually do is guide the students on basic life skills such as washing dishes, particularly those who are diagnosed with Down syndrome, autism, and learning difficulties.”

He also told the Bulletin that they need to be mentally prepared and fit, since some of the students are hyperactive and require patient handling.

Another relief teacher in special needs education, Mohammad Ismail bin Haji Zainuddin, who is based at the Sultan Sharif Ali Secondary School, is a home room teacher who assists with the guiding of the school’s special needs students.

“I teach special needs students with Down syndrome, autism and speech disorders” he said. “It needs a lot of patience to handle such students and support them.”

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|      Syazwani Hj Rosli      |

HUNDREDS of Menglait Secondary School students returned to their classrooms yesterday to reconnect with friends and prepare themselves for the academic year ahead.

A total of 97 Year 9 students yesterday participated in a new school year orientation which began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by a welcoming remark from the school’s Principal Mohidin bin Haji Noordin.

In his remark, Mohidin emphasised on discipline among the students to change for the better in order to enhance the learning process and achieve academic excellence.

“Starting today and tomorrow onwards as well as the rest of the days, you (the students) are to constantly complete your homework, classwork and school projects on time and to work and study hard for your tests and examinations to achieve above 60 per cent,” he said.

Some of the students attending the orientation.

The principal of Menglait Secondary School, Mohidin bin Haji Noordin speaking during the orientation.

One of the teachers delivering a talk during the event.

The one-day orientation for the Year 9 students provided several talks relating to the school programmes as well as other relevant topics on counselling, student affairs and discipline.

The day continued with the students’ registration prior to activities conducted to strengthen the relationship between the teachers and the students followed by a prize presentation ceremony.

The orientation then ended with the recitation of Doa Selamat.

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|      Izah Azahari      |

TELEKOM Brunei Berhad (TelBru) presented the Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM) with a $5,000 mock cheque yesterday in a ceremony held at TelBru’s headquarters in Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex in the capital.

The donation was presented by TelBru’s CEO David Kay to MKM president Datin Paduka Hajah Intan binti Haji Mohd Kassim, witnessed by members of the non-government organisation (NGO) as well as the company’s staff and volunteers.

Since its initiation in 2014, the collaboration has provided dozens of needy families with the necessary support to inculcate and nurture appreciation for learning among identified children of schooling age with incentives that include brand new school-related necessities ranging from bags to books as well as shoes and uniforms.

Later this month, MKM and TelBru will reconvene at selected commercial areas in Brunei-Muara alongside the recipients of TelBru’s contribution, which will provide these children with the opportunity to select their own personal belongings in hopes to offer further motivation for the academic year.

The programme is part and parcel of TelBru’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) that emphasises the importance of education especially among the younger generation. As the main telecommunications provider in the country, TelBru encourages other NGOs to come forward with CSR opportunities for future collaboration.

MKM President Datin Paduka Hajah Intan binti Haji Mohd Kassim and TelBru CEO David Kay during the ceremony. – IZAH AZAHARI

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|      James Kon      |

THE uniqueness of the courses offered and the fascination of Brunei Darussalam were some of the main points that attracted a number of foreign students to join Universiti Brunei Darussalam’s (UBD) January 2017 intake.

Eve Leung from University of Hong Kong and Cerise Ho from Chinese University of Hong Kong were among the international students who are taking a one-semester course in UBD.

The exchange students during an interview have expressed their excitement of getting to learn and know Brunei better.

Cerise Ho who is taking the programme on History of Brunei, Malay and NGOs said, “Brunei is a very special country. Brunei has a unique culture and I hope to gain an in-depth understanding of the traditions and culture of the country.”

Eve Leung who is a linguistics student in Hong Kong was fascinated at the chance to study linguistics in UBD.

Eve Leung from University of Hong Kong (left) and Cerise Ho of Chinese University of Hong Kong posing for a photo. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Heesung Kim from South Korea.

“I am the first student to be nominated by my university to study in Brunei and I’m excited to study the Malay Language and the Arabic Language. Some of the linguistic courses in UBD are not available in my university in Hong Kong,” she added.

On her fascination of Brunei’s culture, she said, “The lifestyle of Brunei is vastly different than in Hong Kong where the pace of life is slower because people are enjoying their lives.”

Both Hong Kong students also agreed that Bruneian people are very friendly. In addition, Brunei is a modern country with well-built facilities and infrastructures.

Meanwhile Heesung Kim of South Korea is planning to take up a financial degree in UBD. In an interview, he said, “I got to know UBD from Bruneian exchange students who were in Korea.”

From the stories of Bruneian students, he said, “I am fascinated to know more about Brunei’s culture and its people.”

A total of 603 students were accepted into UBD for the second semester of the academic year 2017/2018.

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|      James Kon      |

GRADUATES need to stay apace with the changing times and be adaptable, in order to stand out as invaluable assets to the country, said Rubiah binti Haji Yacub, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) yesterday, during a special address to a new intake of students on the commencement of Fresher’s Week at the university.

A total of 603 students have been admitted to the second semester for 2017-2018, who will be undergoing Masters, PhD, undergraduate degree programmes, diplomas and the UniBridge programme.

In her special address, Rubiah touched on certain skills which are in great demand in the current job market – including excellent communication, critical thinking and creativity – and said that UBD’s GenNext programme could assist students to acquire those skills.

She told the new intake of students, “There are also elements of leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship and environmental awareness in the GenNEXT programme. It also involves a balanced combination of breadth and depth modules, giving students more flexibility in choosing the content of their respective programmes, and making it more relevant towards their chosen careers.”

Another great feature of the GenNEXT curriculum, she said, “is the Discovery Year, where you get to experience real-world learning. You will spend a year outside the university doing either the Study Abroad programme, internship in private companies, initiating an innovation project or being involved in community outreach projects. Each choice will bring in different experiences and knowledge, but invaluable nonetheless.”

Also present was Saidai bin Haji Hitam, the Dean of Students and the Chairman of Fresher’s Week for the January 2017 intake.

Rubiah binti Haji Yacub, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Brunei Darussalam delivering her special address during the event.

Females students during the event.

Students looking at their schedule for the Fresher’s Week.

Students participating in the students’ oath taking. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

During the annual event, new students are briefed on matters related to academic life at UBD and are introduced to the programme leaders of their respective faculties. They are also briefed on course registrations for their first semester, programmes for Discovery Year and the extra-curricular activities being offered at UBD.

On top of additional briefings by the Centre of Networking, Employment and Career Training (CoNECT) and the Entrepreneurship Village, as well as sharing sessions with UBD graduates, the new students are also given tours of the UBD campus and library.

The new intake will also participate in a fun run and a motivational religious talk by a guest speaker from Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali, for both Muslim and non-Muslim students alike.

Fresher’s Week will end on January 7, with mass Zohor prayer, a recitation of the Surah Yaasiin and a Doa Selamat held at the university’s mosque, to mark the start of the new semester.

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|      Daniel Lim      |

THE Ministry of Education (MoE) organised simultaneous visits to selected schools in all four districts yesterday, in conjunction with the new school term of 2017.

One of the visits was made by Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Education, to the Pengiran Pekerma Setia Diraja Sahibul Bandar Primary School in Jalan Mata-Mata, Cluster 1, which has 495 students and 39 teachers.

Accompanying the minister was Zaman bin Haji Gapar, the Director of Schools; Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Nawi, the Director of Curriculum Development; Nadia Lee Siew Hoon binti Abdullah, the Director of Schools Inspectorate; and Sharinah binti Haji Awang Suhaimi, the Head of Public Relations at the MoE.

The minister’s delegation was welcomed by Suhaila binti Salleh, the school’s Headmistress; and Hamidah binti Haji Daud, the Head of Cluster 1.

The minister began his visit by observing the morning assembly, which commenced with the singing of the national anthem, followed by a recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and a Doa.

The headmistress then addressed the gathering, after which a short speech was given by Jafire bin Haji Mohammad, the Deputy Chairman of the Parents and Teachers Association (PIBG).

After the assembly, the minister and his delegation were taken on a tour of the school premises, to observe classes in session.

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Educations, speaking with one of the students during his visit.

Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, the Deputy Minister of Education, taking a closer look at the textbook of students. – PHOTOS: MOE

On the same day, Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, the Deputy Minister of Education, paid a visit to the Sultan Hassan Bangar Primary School in Temburong, which has 757 students and 86 teachers.

He was accompanied by Haji Abdul Rahim bin Derus, the Director General of Education; Haji Omarali bin Haji Muhammad Jaafar, the Director of Planning and Estate Management; and Haji Mohd Sharifudin Haji bin Mohd Salleh, the Acting Senior Special Duties Officer (Corporate) at the Department of Schools.

The deputy minister’s delegation was received by Abdul Wafia Sia bin Abdullah Sia, the school’s Headmaster.

The other visits were made by Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh, the Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the MoE to the Keriam Primary School in Tutong, Cluster 5; and by Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad, the Acting Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) to the Pengiran Setia Jaya Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin Primary School in Belait, Cluster 6.

These visits are intended to monitor student progress in the new school year of 2017, in addition to strengthening ties between the MoE and all schools across the country.

According to recent statistics compiled by the MoE, a total of 35,380 students have been registered in government primary schools this year and a total 34,432 registered at government secondary schools.

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|      Aziz Idris      |

A FIRE broke out at the old building block of the Brunei International Airport yesterday, forcing passengers and airport staff to be briefly evacuated, stated the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA).

Officials said that the incident occurred at 11am sending plumes of heavy smoke throughout the nearby terminal. Firefighters managed to tackle the flames by 12.15pm and the airport resumed normal operations by 12.50pm without any reports of flight delays.

The alarms started sounding inside the Departure Hall and airport staff reported that they – including the travellers – had to leave the terminal to the assembly point located at the P2 parking lot.

Meanwhile, the Fire and Rescue Department reported that the fire broke out at level one of the building, near the old observation tower.

A team of 17 firefighters in three fire engines from the Berakas Fire Station and Women Operation Unit together with assistance from the Airport Fire Station rushed to the scene after receiving the distress call.

Firefighters at the scene yesterday. – FIRE AND RESCUE DEPARTMENT

This photo shared on social media shows plumes of smoke seen at the scene of the fire which broke out at the old building block, near the old observation tower.

The officer-in-charge during the midday ordeal was SSFR Noor Aflan bin Kachi, Commanding Officer from Operation ‘C’.

No casualties or injuries were reported. The cause and total damage of the fire are still under investigation.

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|      Danial Norjidi      |

PEHIN Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs, while visiting the Bandar Seri Begawan Arabic Preparatory School (SPA BSB) yesterday highlighted the importance of school leadership to empower the Arabic Language across the country by creating an atmosphere of Arabic Language in Arabic schools.

As was explained in a press release from the Ministry of Religious Affairs, this is to develop and balance Arabic Language skills with English Language skills among the students of Arabic schools.

The minister visited the school yesterday to review and follow the preparation, evaluation, strategy and goals of the school to maintain and improve its track record of achieving excellence in Primary School Assessment (PSR).

Also participating in the visit were Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Mohd Yusof, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, and Ustazah Hajijah binti Haji Moktal, the Acting Director of Islamic Studies.

The minister and his delegation were welcomed by the school’s Principal, Sarimah binti Haji Ahmad, along with teachers and staff of the school.

The visit began with the viewing of Year 6 students’ studies and continued with a survey of the teacher rooms, a Medical Unit Syifa Room, meeting room and hall.

Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs, during his visit to the Bandar Seri Begawan Arabic Preparatory School (SPA BSB) yesterday.

Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs, interacting with the students of the Bandar Seri Begawan Arabic Preparatory School. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

The Minister of Religious Affairs speaking to the media.

During the visit, the minister was given a briefing on the school’s development plan for 2017, which was presented by the principal. It was shared that, among the school’s efforts include diversifying intervention programmes for PSR subjects and strengthening proficiency of Arabic Language and expression.

SPA BSB is located at Kilometre 2, Jalan Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha and was first established in 1984 to cater for the influx of female students to Arabic schools. SPA BSB is equipped with 30 classrooms, two ICT rooms, an administration room, a meeting room, a cafeteria and guardhouse.

The school offers core religious subjects, namely Al-Quran, Arabic Language and At-Tarbiyyah Ad-Diniyyah; general core subjects such as Bahasa Melayu, English, Mathematics, Science and MIB; as well as compulsory subjects of social studies, khat, religious practice (Amali Agama), ICT and physical education.

SPA BSB only places female students in Years 5 and 6.

This year a total of 477 students began school for the 2017 session and a total of 390 new Year 5 students will start school at SPA BSB on January 5.

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|     James Kon     |

THE new executive committee of the Brunei Basketball Association (BBA) on Wednesday has taken over the affairs of the association following the handing over of documents from the previous committee.

Kwang Ming Heng, the new chairman of the governing body for basketball in Brunei received the records and documents from previous chairman, Lim Ting Guan, in a simple ceremony.

In November, a total of 32 names were voted for the new office bearer of BBA for the 2017-2019 session.

During the election in December, Kwang Ming Heng won the vote as the new Chairman of BBA and Ang Han Then was elected as the Deputy Chairman. The positions of the six vice-presidents of BBA were filled by Lim Ting Guan, Lim Ting Chai, Goh Kok Ann, Ang Peng Chin, Tan Chu Eu and Soo Seng Lee.

Lim Ting Guan and Lim Ting Chai have both expressed their desire to withdraw from the posts.

Lim Ting Guan handing over records and documents of the BBA to the new chairman, Kwang Ming Heng. – JAMES KON

Recently, BBA under the previous committee has agreed to upgrade the basketball court at Batu Bersurat as per FIBA’s specifications. The project is estimated to cost around $91,350, while the new gym and equipment will cost around $23,952. The basketball rack and rim will come with the cost of $3,000.

The renovation project, which is scheduled to begin in January, will be delayed until March waiting for the FIBA-approved flooring to arrive in the country. The renovation is expected to take 10 weeks.

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|     Fizah HAB     |

SOME 200 cycling enthusiasts gathered last night to participate in the first-ever “Night Ride” cycling event held in the capital.

Organised by the Brunei Folding Bike Club, the night cycling aimed to promote healthy lifestyle through cycling as well as night cycling safety.

Speaking to the Bulletin, Mewsum Wong – founder and event organiser – expressed her delight over the huge turnout of the event.

“The 22-kilometre ride begins at the grand staircase of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, up to Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien through Jalan Kebangsaan, before cycling back to stadium.

“Founded just two weeks ago, we are now numbering up to 600 members from all over Brunei. We also hope to host monthly night rides, bike races as well as other activities in the near future.”

Participants in a group photo. – FIZAH HAB

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|      James Kon      |

THE first national badminton player to compete in the Olympics, Jaspar Yu Woon Chai, and Olympics coach Zuno Kartuno bin Haji Ali yesterday morning gave inspiring talks to the Year 8 students of Lambak Kiri Secondary School.

Organised by the school’s CCA committee on ‘Education and Sports’, the talks were aimed at inspiring students to work hard and never give up on achieving their dream.

According to a release from the school, Jaspar shared his journey, stories and experience of participating in the Rio Olympics last year in Brazil.

He also touched on the highlight videos of his two matches during the Olympics and spoke on the importance of education in pursuing his dream.

National badminton player Jaspar Yu Woon Chai receiving a token of appreciation from the school. – PHOTOS: LAMBAK KIRI SECONDARY SCHOOL

Jaspar Yu Woon Chai giving his inspirational talk to the Year 8 students of Lambak Kiri Secondary School.

Olympics coach Zuno Kartuno bin Haji Ali and Jaspar Yu Woon Chai in a group photo with the students.

Meanwhile, Jaspar’s coach Zuno Kartuno encouraged the students to take part in more sporting activities, particularly badminton.

The highlights of yesterday’s event included a mini badminton match with the students and school’s staff members.

The session closed with a presentation of souvenirs to the guests and speakers as tokens of appreciation for their meaningful contribution.

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|      Syazwani Hj Rosli      |

THE Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Institute of Education (SHBIE) of the Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) yesterday organised its inaugural talk and workshop entitled ‘SHBIE Publication and Research Club (SPARC) Conversation on Research in Education’.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Deputy Dean (Research) of SHBIE, Dr Hajah Sallimah binti Haji Mohd Salleh emphasised that there has been an increase in research conducted in UBD and SHBIE, especially by having Research Exercises embedded in all of its programmes.

“As Research ED grows year on year, so does the influence of the teaching profession in shaping the educational landscape. The relationship between research and classroom practice continues to evolve – for the better,” she said.

“Educational research is important because it is conducted in order to provide trustworthy information regarding educational problems and their solutions. There are many things that need to be considered when looking at what educational research, maintaining quality, and the role of peer review in validating new knowledge in educational research. There are many different approaches to educational research which are shaped by many different research paradigms,” she said.

Deputy Dean (Research) of SHBIE, Dr Hajah Sallimah binti Haji Mohd Salleh speaking during the event. – PHOTOS: SYAHMI HASSAN

Photos ABOVE and BELOW show the event taking place.

Through the talks and workshops, she hoped that the participants will gain more knowledge and information and also be able to establish new networks to develop more research.

Organised by the SHBIE Publication and Research Club, the event will run until today aimed towards gathering postgraduate students doing educational research as well as academics who are interested in sharing not only research but also experiences of going through the journey of postgraduate research studies.

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|      Aziz Idris      |

IN CONJUNCTION with the annual Fresher’s Week, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) students conducted a cleaning campaign and ‘Fun Run’ yesterday at the Chancellor Hall.

The afternoon event began with a warm-up session participated by the students, committee members as well as UBD staff.

This was followed by a brief ‘Fun Run’ within the UBD compound before the start of the cleaning camping in the vicinity of the Chancellor Hall.

Organisers hoped that such event would raise awareness among the UBD community on the importance of a safe and healthy learning and working environment.

The event also provided an opportunity to socialise among staff, new students from all faculties, to network and collaborate, to promote harmony and friendship in the UBD community.

UBD welcomed 603 students, including international students, for the second semester of the academic year 2016/2017 during the annual Fresher’s Week which began on January 3 at the Chancellor Hall.

Universiti Brunei Darussalam students, committee members as well as UBD staff posing for a group photo. – AZIZ IDRIS

Fresher’s Week is where new students are briefed on important matters related to life in university and what UBD has to offer.

New students will also be set to know more about UBD and modules offered as they will be introduced to the programme leaders of their respective faculties as well as their faculty members.

The students will also be briefed on course registrations for the new students’ first semester, Discovery Year programme as well as the extra-curricular activities that are offered in UBD.

A motivational religious talk, dubbed Bicara Ulum Ad-din, will also be delivered by an invited speaker from Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), which will not only be beneficial to Muslim students but to non-Muslims as well.

Fresher’s Week will end on January 7 with mass Zohor prayer, recitation of Surah Yaasiin and Doa Selamat at the university’s mosque to mark the start of the new semester.

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|      Aziz Idris      |

THE Chevening Alumni Brunei is once again inviting young future leaders to engage in the Brunei Chevening Youth Forum (BCYF) 2017 Talk Series II on January 14, 2017 at 8.30am at The Core, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD).

The talk will feature two distinguished regional Chevening Alumni: Bernard Chauly, Director and Film-maker of Gol and Gincu from Malaysia and Maretta Nirmanda, Fashion Designer of Lazuli Saraé from Indonesia who will both share their thoughts and insights on ‘Sparking Creativity and Innovation’ through their experiences and journey in the creative industry.

Bernard Chauly’s film ‘Istanbul Aku Datang’(2012) has swept numerous award including Best Asean Film (comedy) award in 2013. Maretta Nirmada whose philosophy is ‘local value, modern spirit’ has been instrumental in merging the beauty of Indonesian batik with denim by working together with local Indonesian artisans which made Lazuli Saraé a widely celebrated fashion house in Indonesia.

According to organisers, the talk series aims to bring together up to 100 dynamic youth to the platform to discuss issues and ideas surrounding “Creativity and Innovation”. Through BCYF, the Chevening Alumni Brunei aims to continue promoting networking opportunities for youth, interactions between Chevening alumni with youth and thought leadership amongst youth.

The BCYF, hosted since 2015, has brought together over 500 young future leaders at the national level to engage in the forum and talk series.

Group photo taken during the 2016 Brunei Chevening Youth Forum that took place in December. – BCYF

The objective of the project is to bring together young future leaders and Chevening Alumni Brunei and the Region to the BCYF platform to discuss insights, challenges and opportunities to the development of Brunei and the region.

By leveraging on alumni expertise, experience and influence, Chevening Alumni Brunei aspires to promote youth participation in areas such as economic development, knowledge economy, poverty alleviation, culture and youth development.

A major focus to this year’s BCYF is on innovation and how this shapes youth development in areas such as education, civic engagement and leadership.

The talk is free of charge.

The talk series, funded by the Chevening Secretariat under the Chevening Alumni Project Fund, is open to all youth including students from both secondary and tertiary institutions, graduates, young professionals as well as NGOs. The Brunei Chevening Youth Forum is supported by the British High Commission in Brunei Darussalam.

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|      James Kon      |

LOCAL songstress Maria Grace Koh has vowed to continue with her singing career, despite her recent marriage to Kevin Lau, the eldest son of Lau Chai Seng of Aewon Brunei.

Maria, who was a multi-medallist at the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in 2013 and 2014, told the Bulletin yesterday, “I will most definitely be carrying on with my singing career – I really believe it’s all about time management.

“I won’t stop writing and performing; this is my passion and it always will be. Work-life balance is important and something we should all work towards mastering, as family time is most important.

“Time management is crucial,” she added. “It’s something that I’ve had to master since young with school, swimming training, music and dance as well as daily activities.

“Of course, once we start having a family, priorities will shift, but that doesn’t mean letting go of my dreams.

“Dreams do change – I’ll have to say mine have shifted to put me on the right path to where my goals now stand – and there is nothing wrong with that. The most important thing is persevering towards the goal that is in front of you.”

Maria Grace Koh. – JANE CHING PHOTOGRAPHY

Maria, who was the official hostess for the 19th Annual World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in 2015, described how she met and eventually got married to Mr Right, “We were friends for more than 10 years, but only got close in the past few years. I guess you could call me a hopeless romantic.

“We are planning to start a family soon. Career-wise, I love nurturing talent.

“I am currently giving singing and piano lessons, besides performing and recording.”

In addition, Maria also works part-time at the Learning Support Department of the Jerudong International School (JIS), where she enjoys the company of her students.

On her singing career, she said, “I have actually just released the first single from my debut EP called, ‘Yesterday’, which is available on iTunes.

“It’s about moving on instead of living in the past, with a great catchy and electronic beat to it – very current with what’s on the radio nowadays.

“I worked on my EP with producers Marc ‘M Doc’ Williams and C-Ray from Indasoul Entertainment in Los Angeles, and it should be out in the next couple of months. I can’t wait to share my new songs with everyone!”

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|      Daniel Lim & Azaraimy HH      |

THE Minister of Religious Affairs, Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, visited Belait Arabic School yesterday morning.

The minister was welcomed by the School’s Principal, Hajah Noramalina binti Haji Mohd Ali along with staff and teachers of the school.

The minister was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Mohd Yusof; Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Haji Zulkifli bin Panglima Asgar Dato Paduka Haji Abdullah and Acting Director of Islamic Studies, Ustazah Hajijah binti Haji Moktal.

The school currently has 199 students enrolled in the school curriculum this year, 96 of which are male and 103 are female.

The visit began with the observation of classes in session, which included creative learning in solving Math problems, quizzes from Science class and sentence structures in Arabic.

Soon after, the principal delivered a briefing titled ‘School Progress Plan for 2017’.

Minister of Religious Affairs, Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman observing a group of students during their studies. – DANIEL LIM

According to Acting Director of Islamic Studies, the purpose of this visit was to “observe the progress of lessons being conducted in the school, and to provide any support the school requires for students to excel in their studies”.

Belait Arabic School’s applied initiative has allowed the school to acquire better coaching, sharing of information and involvement from parents, intensive classes, co-operative learning and spiritual resilience programmes.

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