|      Danial Norjidi      |

PERBADANAN Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB) officially launched the 2017 TAIB Entrepreneurship Programme yesterday.

The launching of the entrepreneurship programme took place at the Design and Technology Building in Anggerek Desa, and saw the attendance of TAIB’s Acting Managing Director, Maswadi bin Haji Mohsin, as the guest of honour to launch the two-week boot camp.

The boot camp, which began yesterday, will take place at the iCentre until January 18, and covers business proposal and pitching workshops with the aim to enhance the participants’ business management knowledge and ensure that they will be equipped to pitch their business ideas to further aid the business expansions.

The workshops will be run by various inspirational figures who managed to expand their businesses. The Game of Entrepreneurship Workshop is led by Vincent Chew, CEO of Eduvo, and participants will also benefit from various workshops including: Financial planning by Ambrose Nathan, Managing Partner of Biz Advice; Branding by Mohd Shafique Hussain, the CEO of Startup Hub BE; a Leadership Workshop by Dr Hajah Mona Yati binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Mohd Kassim, founder of muBn Learning and Growth Company; as well as a Pitching and Presentation workshop by Stuart Lee, a representative of the Brunei Speakers Club.

In addition to the workshops, there will also be an ‘Inspiration Day’ to give more confidence to participants. Among the speakers participating in this event include: Nilam Sari, owner and Marketing Director of Baba Rafi Enterprise; Josan Astrid, Creative Director of Astrea Software Development; and Shaun Hoon, Editor and Publisher of Inspire Magazine.

TAIB’s Acting Managing Director, Maswadi bin Haji Mohsin, speaking at the official launching of 2017 TAIB Entrepreneurship Programme.

A group photo of the 2017 TAIB Entrepreneurship Programme participants along with the Acting Managing Director of TAIB. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

TAIB’s Acting Managing Director delivered a speech at the event, in which he noted, “The Government of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in its effort to improve the business climate in Brunei Darussalam through its ease of doing business initiatives has successfully implemented improvements from activities related to registering of business, opening business premises, import and export and many other improvements have been and will continuously be improved.

“Generally, we always think businesses will die if they run out of cashflow, but personally I believe this may not be necessary. However, businesses will surely collapse if there is no commitment, discipline, creativity and integrity. This is what Perbadanan TAIB would hope coming from this entrepreneurship programme,” he said.

“To be sustainable and attain growth requires good strategies, commitment and hard work,” he said. “This is what is expected from this programme and hope to instil in all participants’ mindset. Participants should also consider working with other participants to create synergy in business and be innovative and think outside the ‘norm’, develop locally but think beyond Brunei’s borders,” he added.

Concluding his speech, the acting managing director thanked the chairman, deputy chairman and board members of Perbadanan TAIB for their support of the programme, as well as all staff from TAIB directly involved in the programme, the management of DARE (Darussalam Enterprise) for their support as well as Startup Hub for managing the event.

The post Perbadanan TAIB launches 2-week business boot camp appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Azaraimy HH & Daniel Lim      |

ARABIC schools in the country are setting the bar higher for its Primary School Assessment (PSR) examination performance target this year, stated the Director of Islamic Studies, Ustazah Hajijah binti Haji Moktal.

The department this year is targeting all its students to score grades A to C, or for Arabic schools to achieve a 100 per cent passing rate.

This seems to be a feasible goal as last year’s passing grade of A to C in PSR examinations at Arabic schools was an impressive 97 per cent.

The Director of Islamic Studies said this in a sideline interview with the Bulletin during Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs’ visit to Belait Arabic School yesterday.

In the interview she highlighted the study pathways of students in Arabic schools. She said Arabic schools in the country are capable of producing high-calibre students in both religious fields and general academia.

She said students in Arabic schools, just like in other schools, have the opportunity to study at prestigious universities overseas, if they meet the high requisites.

Students who achieve excellent results in their BGCE ‘O’ Level Examination and Brunei Religious Education Certificate (SPUB) will be offered a Special ‘A’ Level Scholarship Scheme to study at the prestigious Jerudong International School (JIS) for two years and then continue their studies in the United Kingdom in the field designated by the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

According to her, most of the students under the scheme had been bonded to be academicians and some were also bonded to be doctors in the medical field.

So far, three students are now studying in the medical field in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs taking a closer look at Science Class at Belait Arabic School. – AZARAIMY HH

Other students who were not selected for the scheme will continue their ‘A’ Level studies at the Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic Boys Secondary School, which offers three streams, one of which is the Arabic stream – where students can choose either to go into Syariah, Usuluddin or Arabic Language fields and students will eventually sit for the Brunei Religious Education Higher Certificate (STPUB).

Students can also choose to go into the Science stream, where students will sit for BGCE ‘A’ Levels only and students can also choose to go both in the religious and science streams, where they will sit for both STPUB and BGCE ‘A’ Level exams.

Through this system, the Director of Islamic Studies believes that Arabic schools are able to produce students that are adept in both religion and science. She also said that the minister visits Arabic schools in the country to see each school’s early preparations.

“This shows how important the Arabic schools are to the Ministry of Religious Affairs and shows the close attention given to Arabic schools by the minister and his strong support towards students’ achievements in PSR, SPUB, STPUB, GCE ‘O’ Level and others,” she added.

To achieve the 100 per cent target stated above, the director said the Department of Religious Schools has placed various initiatives such as providing conducive and comfortable learning environments, closely monitoring teachers and their trainings and others.

Meanwhile, the Principal of Belait Arabic School, Hajah Noramalina binti Haji Mohd Ali, in an interview with the press highlighted the mission and vision statements of the school, which is to produce students that are well adept in both ‘Ukhrawi’ and ‘Duniawi’.

The principal said the school started to use the campus in 2013. It has classes from Year 5 to Year 8, and when they continue to Year 9, they will be sent to Kampong Katok Arabic Secondary School for female students and Mahad Islam Brunei, Tutong for the male students.

The post Aiming for 100 per cent appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE Brunei Classic 2017 this Sunday will see cyclists from Brunei and other countries ride from Kuala Belait to Bandar Seri Begawan.

The event is being organised by the Brunei Darussalam Cycling Federation (BDCF) in collaboration with the Department of Youth and Sports and managed by Tum2Cycles Enterprise.

Details of the event were shared in a press conference yesterday, which was led by the Acting Director of Youth and Sports, Haji Zafri bin Haji Mohammad; Mat Yassin bin Haji Abdullah, the President of the BDCF; and Omar Ali bin Haji Ibrahim, the Secretary-General of the BDCF.

The Brunei Classic 2017 will start in front of RTB, Jalan Maulana in Kuala Belait and will finish in front of the TAIB building at Jalan Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien, Bandar Seri Begawan.

It was shared that two events will be contested, namely the 161km road race for individuals and teams and the 100km road race for individuals, and the races are divided into categories, while there will also be non-competitive participation.

A total of $15,000 in prize money has been divided among the different categories. The Elite category offers $1,200 for first place, $900 for second place and $600 for third place, along with medals. Fourth and fifth place each carry prizes of $200 and $150 respectively.

Details of the event were shared in a press conference yesterday, which was led by the Acting Director of Youth and Sports, Haji Zafri bin Haji Mohammad; Mat Yassin bin Haji Abdullah, the President of the BDCF; and Omar Ali bin Haji Ibrahim, the Secretary-General of the BDCF. – BAHYIAH BAKIR

For the Novice and Master categories, each carries a first prize of $900, a second prize of $650 and a third prize of $450, along with medals for each, while fourth and fifth places warrant prizes of $200 and $150 respectively.

The Veteran and Women’s categories each carry prizes of $700 for first place, $500 for second place and $300 for third place, as well as medals for the top three, while fourth and fifth places award $150 and $100 respectively.

Lastly, the Team category offers a $1,400 prize for first place, $1,000 for second place and $700 for third place, along with medals for each, while fourth place offers $400 and fifth offers $250.

It was shared that a total of 438 people have registered to take part in the event, including not only cyclists from Brunei but also from Australia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Philippines and Wales.

It was also assured by the organisers in the press conference that the event will have the full support of the Royal Brunei Police Force as well as ambulances and hospitals from Belait, Tutong and Brunei-Muara.

For non-competitive participants of the event, the organisers will be setting up pit stops of water stations every 30km. All racers are covered by insurance.

All participants of the Brunei Classic 2017 will get to be part of a lucky draw, and will also be given certificates and finisher’s medals.

The post 438 cyclists all set for Brunei Classic appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      James Kon     |

LOCAL enthusiasts of golf can enjoy a game and at the same time also contribute to the Kampong Pandai Besi ‘A’ and Kampong Lorong Dalam Fire Victims’ Charity Fund by teeing off at the Malaysian Citizens Association (PWM) Kampong Ayer Charity Golf event set to take place on January 22 at the Pantai Mentiri Golf Club.

The announcement of the charity golf organised by PWM with the support of Pantai Mentiri Golf Club was made by Ken Kho, the Vice President of Sports under PWM, during a press conference that was attended by James Lee, the President of PWM, Haji Sani bin Haji Bakir, the General Manager of Pantai Mentiri Golf Club, and Sadi bin Mohd Yassin the Vice Chairman of Pantai Mentiri Golf Club.

The event, which will be played on the stroke-play system format, also features around $33,000 worth of hole-in-one prizes comprising a brand new Proton for hole No 7.

There will also be $5,000 rewards for anyone who can hit a hole-in-one for holes No 9, 13 and 16.

Members of the organising committee holding shirt sponsored by Aewon for the PWM Kampong Ayer Charity Golf event set to take place on January 22. – JAMES KON

Limited to only 84 golfers, the charity golf’s registration fee is $80 for Pantai Mentiri Golf Club members and $100 for non-members.

According to Ken Kho, after deducting expenses, the proceeds will be handed over to the charity fund.

Meanwhile, James Lee lauded that PWM has on numerous occasions organised such events for the past 25 years, including blood donation and charity drives.

He also expressed his gratitude to the Pantai Mentiri Golf Club and sponsors involved in the upcoming event.

Registration forms for the PWM Kampong Ayer Charity Golf can be obtained from the Pantai Mentiri Golf Club and the deadline for submissions of complete entry forms is January 17, 2017.

The post Play golf and donate to charity appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Aziz Idris      |

IT IS the duty for Muslim parents to send their children to religious school, and an obligation for the Brunei Government to provide adequate infrastructure for the growing number of students, said the Minister of Religious Affairs, Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman yesterday, during a visit to Pengiran Anak Puteri Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah Religious School, Berakas.

The minister also reminded parents that it is obligatory for every Muslim child – aged seven years and above and until the age of 15 – residing in Brunei Darussalam to be enrolled in pre-school and primary religious education, in conforming to the Compulsory Religious Education Order of 2012, as announced by 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 titah for Teacher’s Day 2012.

The order emphasises mandatory religious education for children born on or after January 1, 2006, with one or both parents Brunei citizens or permanent residents.

The minister said that he was pleased to note an increase from 2,600 religious school students in 2016 to 2,764 this year.

“We (the Ministry of Religious Affairs) will continue to provide the infrastructure to facilitate the growing number of students every year. It is the responsibility of His Majesty’s Government to ensure that Muslim children receive basic knowledge of Islam – Fardhu Ain – which refers to obligatory acts that must be performed by each individual Muslim, including prayer, alms, fasting, and pilgrimage,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Religious Affairs will closely monitor all religious schools through the Islamic Studies Department, on matters related to secondary school-level religious studies, or Islamic Religious Knowledge (IRK).

Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Religious Affairs talking to a student during the visit. – PHOTOS: MUIZ MATDANI

The minister speaking to the media.

The Minister of Religious Affairs speaking with religious teachers about the teaching and learning methods of the students.

The minister explained that when Brunei students complete Primary 6 at religious school, IRK is the only form of religious education taught at secondary level, except for those exclusively pursuing Islamic studies at specialised schools.

“I think it’s about time that we consider filling in this gap, by establishing religious schools on a secondary level,” he said.

The minister’s delegation also visited the Pengiran Anak Puteri Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah Religious School, where they were received by Hajah Jamaliah binti Haji Mohd Yassin, the school’s Headmistress.

During the visit, the minister observed the teaching methods for students in Primary 4-6, which was followed by a closed-door meeting between the minister’s delegation and the school’s teaching staff.

The Islamic Studies Department began pre-school registration at all religious schools in four districts yesterday, recording a total of 4,117 students for Brunei-Muara District, 882 in Belait District, 614 in Tutong District and 151 in Temburong District, bringing the total to 5,764 religious school students for 2017.

The post Muslim parents must ensure their children attend religious school, says minister appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Achong Tanjong      |

THE Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will hold the Amazing Thailand Roadshow on January 9, 2017 at Radisson Hotel, Brunei Darussalam.

Richard Lim, TAT Marketing Manager for Malaysia and Brunei, said the roadshow will include an Amazing Thailand Product presentation and a trade meeting with buyers.

“The Brunei market is one of our (TAT’s) strong and very interesting ones because the Brunei market is a niche market. Most of the tourists from Brunei are repeat travellers who are already familiar with Thailand,” said Richard.

“Basically they like to go to Thailand for food and shopping. Some also go there for medical check-ups,” he added.

In 2015, the number of Bruneians who visited Thailand was about 13,800 which was a 20 per cent growth from the previous year, he said.

Richard Lim, TAT Marketing Manager for Malaysia and Brunei.

“In 2014, there were about 11,200 visitors from Brunei. TAT is looking forward for the numbers to increase this year.”

On Thailand’s strong selling points compared to other countries, Richard said, “There are many things particularly good hospitality and services.”

“Many countries try to emulate Thai culture and cuisine but the one value that they cannot copy is the ‘Thai-ness’,” he said, alluding to the friendliness and warm hospitality instilled in the Thai people at an early age.

The post TAT to hold Amazing Thailand Roadshow appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     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, made a motivational visit to Mahad Islam Brunei in the Tutong District yesterday, to view the school’s 2017 intake of students for Sanah 5 (Year 5).

A total of 70 new students – comprising 42 girls and 28 boys – have been admitted into Year 5 at Mahad Islam Brunei this year, many of whom are undergoing a transition from a general education curriculum to the Arabic stream.

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

The minister began his visit with a tour of the classrooms, which was then followed with a briefing on the school’s progress plan for 2017, presented by Pengiran Haji Asmadi bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin, the Principal of Mahad Islam Brunei.

The minister also took the opportunity to talk to some of the students’ parents and praised their commitment to provide a higher Islamic education for their children.

Minister of Religious Affairs, Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman visiting new students at Mahad Islam Brunei.

The minister touring one of the classrooms.

The minister speaking with one of the new students.

In an interview with the Bulletin, one of the parents, Mohd Eddie Sufyan bin Abdullah Langkat, was unable to contain his joy that his daughter, Nurul Farhana, is following the footsteps of her brother, Muhd Eddie Ikhwan, who is now a Year 7 student at Mahad Islam Brunei.

Meanwhile, Rosmalini binti Haji Abu Bakar, the mother of new student Mohd Alif Waliuddin bin Mohd Nazri, said she was confident that Mahad Islam Brunei would provide excellent education, together with solid religious training for the students.

A total of 854 new students, comprising 467 girls and 387 boys, began their Year 5 studies at Arabic schools across the country yesterday.

The Bandar Seri Begawan Arabic Preparatory School recorded the highest number of new enrolments this year with 390 Year 5 female students, while Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit Girls Arabic Religious Secondary School (SUAMPRIPAD) placed a total of 337 new male students.

The Belait Arabic School received 37 new students comprising 21 girls and 16 boys, while the Temburong Arabic Preparatory School enrolled 20 new students comprising of 14 girls and six boys.

The post Minister pays motivational visit to Mahad Islam Brunei appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Ishan Ibrahim      |

THE Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) conducted a Tahlil ceremony yesterday for the late parents of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam and Al-Marhumah Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Bendahara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman at the Royal Mausoleum.

The guest of honour was Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, Commissioner of Police.

Others who attended the event included Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Mohammad Irwan bin Haji Hambali, the Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police, as well police officers.

The religious recitations were led by APO SM 6924 Pengiran Haji Ludin bin Pengiran Haji Matahir.

The Tahlil ceremony is part of the scheduled activities in commemoration of the 96th Police Day 2017. The theme of the 96th Police Day was ‘Perpaduan dan Keharmonian Mengukuhkan Keamanan’, or ‘Unity and Harmony Enhances Security’.

The guest of honour, Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, Commissioner of Police, during the Tahlil ceremony. – ISHAN IBRAHIM

The post RBPF holds Tahlil for His Majesty’s late parents appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      James Kon      |

IN A continued effort to make sure the smooth start of new students in schools and to boost their motivation, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Education, personally went to visit two schools in the Brunei-Muara District.

Accompanying the minister was Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, the Deputy Minister of Education.

The minister visited the Rimba I Primary School, Cluster 4 where he was welcomed by Aji binti Haji Ahmad, Headmistress of Rimba I Primary School and Hajah Suriani binti Haji Noor Hashim, the Head of Cluster 4.

Currently there are some 422 students with a teaching force of 43 at the school.

During the visit, the minister and officials also witnessed activities in the classroom in the preschool block.

The tour continued on to the classes to take a closer look at the learning journey of students and the minister also took time to speak with them.

The minister then proceeded to visit Rimba II Primary School, Cluster 4 where the Headmistress Chantal Valerie Brimiah and the Head of Cluster 4 were on hand to welcome the minister’s arrival.

At the school, the minister was given a briefing on the preparation and implementation of registration as well as receiving new students during the orientation for the start of preschool that will start on January 9.

The minister also visited some of the classrooms in session.

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Education, speaking with one of the teachers in Rimba I Primary School. Accompanying the minister was Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, the Deputy Minister of Education.

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Education taking a closer look at the students’ work in Rimba II Primary School. – PHOTOS: MOE

Before concluding the visit, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi joined the School Development Plan 2017 dialogue and sharing session with the principal.

Currently, Rimba II Primary School has 551 students with 57 members of the teaching force.

The aim of the visits was to observe and see the facilities and policies that are carried out in both schools.

Joining the visits were Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh, Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education; Haji Abdul Rahim bin Derus, Director General of Education; and others.

The post Minister of Education visits 2 schools in Rimba appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Lyna Mohamad      |

THE official launch of the all new Mitsubishi ASX MY17 at the Atrium of The Mall in Gadong was last night highlighted with the presentation of mock keys by GHK Chairman Pengiran Dato Sharifuddin bin Pengiran Haji Matali to the first three ASX customers – Hassan bin Haji Ibrahim, Siti Hayon binti Haji Jumat and Haji Lukman Hakim bin Haji Ramli.

Earlier, the chairman together with GHK Motors Managing Director Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin, Worldwide Motors Director Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Awang Haji Mohammad bin Haji Daud and GHK Motors Sdn Bhd Director Jake Goh unveiled the ASX MY17 to the invited guests and members of the public.

The ASX MY17 is one of the models featured in the GHK Motors promotion, whereby until January 31, purchase of the new Mitsubishi ASX model entitles customers to a four-month free instalment.

Mitsubishi has updated the small ASX SUV for 2017, which comes equipped with better media unit functionality, improved interior comfort, and wearing the fresh, new family face shared by the bigger Outlander and Pajero Sport, whose main highlight is the Dynamic Shield.

GHK Motors Managing Director Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin, GHK Motors Chairman Pengiran Dato Sharifuddin bin Pengiran Haji Matali, Worldwide Motors Director Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Awang Haji Mohammad bin Haji Daud and GHK Motors Jake Goh with invited guests. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR

TOP, ABOVE & BELOW: GHK Motors Sdn Bhd Chairman presenting the mock keys to the first three customers who purchased the new vehicle.

Taking a closer look at the Mitsubishi ASX MY17.

Equipped with a 2.0L MiVEC Engine (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control), the engine line-up stays the same with a 2.0-litre petrol four cylinder powering the two-wheel drives, which means there is a continuous control of optimum intake and exhaust valve timing responding to all driving conditions to ensure a comfortable and satisfying ride at all times.

The cabin of the ASX has also been revised with better bolstering in the second row with the LS receiving a new seat fabric trim and stitching.

The post Mitsubishi ASX MY17 makes debut appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Ishan Ibrahim      |

THE 7th Red Bull pre-draw ‘Guess and Win’ Contest produced 28 winners yesterday, whose names were drawn by members of the media at the Kingston Beverage and Creamery Sdn Bhd offices in Beribi.

A prize presentation for the lucky winners will be held on January 13, at the Jaya Hypermart Centrepoint Sdn Bhd in Gadong.

There will be eight weekly draws and one grand final draw for this contest, which lasts two-and a-half months.

In each weekly draw, 28 prizes will be given away, comprising three $50 supermarket shopping vouchers, three Secret Recipe vouchers worth $30 each, 12 movie tickets for two worth $16 per set, and 12 cans of Red Bull Less Sugar drinks.

One of the media personnel during the weekly lucky draw. – AZROL AZMI

The Red Bull ‘Guess and Win’ contest will run until January 15, and up for grabs in the Grand Final Draw at the Consumer Fair on January 22 is a grand prize of two air tickets worth $2,000 each, a first-prize air of three tickets worth $1,600 each, a second-prize of three air tickets worth $1,000 each and a third prize of 18 shopping vouchers worth $200 each.

To participate, simply purchase any can of Red Bull Energy Drink, attach one pull ring to the entry form and drop the completed form into the drop boxes located at major supermarkets and mini marts in the country.

The post 28 winners picked for 7th Red Bull ‘Guess and Win’ contest appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Fizah HAB      |

INTERNATIONAL School Brunei (ISB) students were yesterday inspired during a talk hosted by alumni and former IB student, Christopher Kang Kyeong Hun, who is currently a tax professional at a Big Four Company in New York City, USA.

Held at the new ISB campus in Sungai Hanching, the talk saw Christopher sharing his experiences and outlining the key attributes necessary to succeeding at university and in the workplace.

He articulated the significance of having a strong educational background and emphasised the importance of having strong interpersonal skills, communicating effectively, taking initiative and risks, caring for others and maintaining an open mind. These traits are integral to the IB learner profile, which is promoted throughout the school from the early years right up to Year 13.

“My university studies and work life in a global firm involve meeting and interacting with different people from diverse backgrounds across countries and cultures. I was fortunate to have grown up in a school that emphasised respect for others and fostered family values to balance academics with crucial social skills,” he said.

Christopher encouraged students to pursue their dreams and aspirations through hard work and dedication in their studies.

Christopher delivers his inspirational talk.

ISB alumni and former IB student Christopher Kang Kyeong Hun with the Year 10, 11 and 12 students. – PHOTOS: FIZAH HAB

Christopher completed the IB Diploma Programme in 2009, and went on to pursue academic studies in New York. In six years, he completed two Bachelor and one Masters degrees.

“Both ISB and the IB programme enabled me to grow as a young adult, who was about to enter the challenging world of decisions and face challenges. I was always encouraged to be confident and vocal about my thoughts and ideas in a very nurturing school environment. I am truly grateful to my parents and teachers as they provided me with the support and advice needed to thrive at university and beyond,” he added.

ISB alumni regularly give back to the school community by giving talks to secondary students to share their advice and offer guidance.

“We will be inviting ISB alumni to come in to give talks and share their professional experiences on Careers Day scheduled for April 2017,” said Claire McGhee, Higher Education and Careers Advisor.

The post Be diligent in pursuing your dreams, ISB students reminded appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

BRUNEIANS who are looking to take up a home loan, can now enjoy a BND10,000 home loan subsidy from Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) if they apply from today until March 31, 2017.

According to a press release issued by SCB, clients will enjoy the same BND10,000 subsidy on a minimum 10-year tenor for a home loan of at least BND150,000, where they will be entitled to a BND10,000 subsidy (calculated on their approved loan amount).

The subsidy shall be used for payment of fees including, but not limited to, legal documentation (not including sales and purchase agreement), fire insurance and valuation reports.

Any unutilised subsidy amount up to the capped limit will be credited to the client’s account.

Wong Li Li, Acting Head of Retail Products and Segment, said, “The fees for applying for a home loan takes up a significant portion of the cost a client has to undertake when applying for a home loan.

“At Standard Chartered Bank, we understand this and would like to make it easier for clients to take a step closer to achieving a home ownership.”

Additionally, clients who apply for a credit card with their home loan can enjoy an annual fee waiver for the tenor of the home loan.

From now until April 30, 2017, all new Standard Chartered credit card applicants will enjoy great rewards with a one-year annual fee waiver and a welcome gift of luggage, travel themed items.

The post SCB offering $10,000 home loan subsidy appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

MANY Telekom Brunei Berhad (TelBru)’s customers have taken to social media to express their concerns over the revised broadband plans with particular emphasis over throttling speeds as well as data consumption that may or may not correlate with the minimum 10Mbps, a press release issued by TelBru stated yesterday.

The revised throttling speed, implemented as part of the company’s Fair Usage Policy as is in line with international practices, takes into consideration the need for Internet that, unlike other telecommunication companies in Brunei, is virtually unlimited.

Despite a subscriber’s depletion of data, TelBru’s policy is to ensure that connection remains available albeit at a percentage of the subscribed speed.

However, it needs to be noted that throttling speeds, though revised to a lower percentage, takes into account those subscribed to lower bandwidths who will receive higher throttling speeds compared to the previous broadband plan.

Under the new broadband plan those subscribed to the minimum of 10Mbps will be throttled at 500kbps compared to 200kbps under the previous 1Mbps plan. Similarly, those subscribed to 3.5Mbps and upgraded to 15Mbps will be throttled at 750kbps compared to 700kbps.

This is aimed at benefitting those in the lower income bracket with the hopes to create a more inclusive ICT environment.

Throttling graph. – TELBRU

Additionally, TelBru would also like to take this opportunity to clarify that though the throttling table as published during the announcement indicates that throttling speeds exists for 30Mbps subscribers, TelBru stresses that such throttling policies are applicable to business plan subscribers only while residential customers subscribed to 30Mbps will have unlimited quota and will not be throttled.

Meanwhile, customers are also encouraged to test their broadband speed directly from their modem using a LAN cable to obtain a more accurate measure of speed, which may not reflect as accurately when tests are conducted over WiFi.

The Fair Usage Policy, introduced in 2014, is aimed at ensuring that all customers receive better quality of service and a more consistent Internet experience by reducing the excessive amount of bandwidth consumed by a minority of heavy users.

The policy is also intended to promote thoughtful Internet usage among customers.

Towards ensuring that subscribers continue to experience faster speeds before the new billing cycle, TelBru has introduced top-up options that are comparatively cheaper compared to other local telecommunication service providers for as low as $8 for 10GB of data, valid for 14 days at 80 cents per GB, whilst the highest denomination being 120GB of data, valid for 30 days at 50 cents per GB.

Meanwhile, misconception over faster speeds equating to faster depletion of data have also been raised by the general public.

It is emphasised that depletion of data is based on a subscriber’s usage behaviour, and the size of the downloaded material.

For example, streaming material in High Definition (HD) consumes more data compared to Standard Definition (SD) content.

Subscribers are encouraged to take proactive measures in mitigating these circumstances to conserve data such as opting out of HD settings made available on popular streaming sites such as YouTube, and turning off auto-download especially for social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp.

The revised plan was in response to the needs of the general public that have called for faster speed, lower rates and more quota whilst at the same time addressing bandwidth needs to encourage economic growth.

As for those still on copper, it is assured that TelBru will continue with its rollout measures with plans still in the pipelines for heavily populated areas across the country.

The company continues to cooperate with regulators and other stakeholders in securing the necessary permits for the installation of infrastructure and will expedite the process once permits are granted. TelBru will also provide regular updates as and when new fibre connections are being made.

The company takes into consideration the feedback expressed since the announcement was made, and wishes to extend its appreciation to members of the public for their understanding and continued support.

For more information, visit TelBru’s social media platforms where the full pricing plan for residential customers have been made available for public reference or contact the company’s Customer Care line at 111.

The post Data consumption dependent upon usage behaviour: TelBru appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      James Kon      |

FRANCE is interested in further strengthening bilateral ties with Brunei Darussalam in the field of tourism, technology and oil and gas.

This was revealed by a delegation of four French senators that concluded its first visit to the Sultanate Thursday.

Led by Senator Gerard Miquel, President of the France-South East Asia Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group, the delegation also included Senator Jean Claude Lenoir, Deputy President for Brunei’s branch; Senator Barnard Saugey, Deputy President for Thailand’s branch; and Senator Rimon Sutour, Deputy President for the Philippines’ branch.

During the visit, the French senators paid courtesy calls to Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education, where they had fruitful discussions.

In a press conference-cum-reception held at the French ambassador’s official residence on Thursday night, the visiting senators agreed that Brunei Darussalam has a lot to offer and they will definitely act as messengers of Brunei in France to further promote cooperation in various fields.

Senator Gerard Miquel said, “This is the first time we visited Brunei Darussalam and we are hoping to further build on cooperation and bilateral ties between France and Brunei as well as with Asean member countries.”

Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, and Loan Forgeron, Ambassador of France to Brunei Darussalam, with the visiting French senators. – JAMES KON

In the field of cooperation, Senator Gerard Miquel, who is also the Secretary of the Country Planning and Sustainable Development Committee, said that “it is very important to share technologies to learn from each (other). We also hope to further build on the tourism sector whereby people from Asean and France can learn each other’s tradition and heritage to bolster mutual understanding”.

He also expressed his gratitude to the leaders of the Asean member countries including Brunei Darussalam for the signing of the Paris climate change agreement, which he said will go a long way in preserving the natural environment and forest of the planet for the next generation.

“It is vital for all countries in the world to work together in the fight against climate change,” he added.

Meanwhile, Senator Jean Claude Lenoir was delighted to note that Alliance Française de Brunei is promoting the French language and culture among the people in the country.

Continuous exchanges between the people of France and Brunei can further boost cooperation in the field of renewable energy, especially solar, oil and gas as well as tourism.

Senator Jean Claude Lenoir highlighted that once back in France, the visiting senators will help spread information about Brunei among the French people to raise interest in investing or visiting Brunei.

Joining the French senators at the reception event with Loan Forgeron, Ambassador of France to Brunei Darussalam, were Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism; Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Tourism) at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, and officials from the ministry.

The post France keen on boosting ties with Brunei appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Danial Norjidi      |

BRUNEI Darussalam has agreed to adjust the country’s crude oil production for the next six months, the Energy and Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office (EIDPMO) said in a statement yesterday.

According to the EIDPMO, Brunei, together with 10 other non-OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) countries, took part in the OPEC/non-OPEC Declaration of Cooperation made in Vienna, Austria on December 10, 2016.

“Brunei Darussalam has agreed to make a voluntary adjustment to the country’s crude oil production starting from January 1, 2017 for six months, extendable for another six months, depending on prevailing market conditions and prospects,” stated the press release.

The statement went on to say that OPEC member countries have committed for a production adjustment of 1.2 million barrels per day under the Vienna Agreement, while participating non-OPEC countries have committed for a combined production adjustment of 0.558 million barrels per day under the OPEC/non-OPEC Declaration of Cooperation.

“This concerted effort is aimed to stabilise and foster a more sustainable oil market,” the EIDPMO said in the statement, adding that Brunei Darussalam is committed to ensure that its 2017 production target is in line and proportionate with the targets of the other non-OPEC producing countries under this joint declaration.

The post Brunei agrees to make voluntary adjustment to crude oil production appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Azaraimy HH      |

RESIDENTS, especially the business community in Kampong Telisai and its surrounding areas, heaved a sigh of relief as the construction of an entry junction from the Telisai-Lumut Highway was completed earlier this week.

As highlighted by the Weekend Bulletin last year, businesses in the area were badly affected due to the lack of convenient entry points into the area. The business community in Kampong Telisai depended a lot on the nearby areas, but has seen their customers dwindle and revenues decline after the building of the new highway.

The construction of the highway has shortened the travel time between Tutong and Belait districts tremendously, but it also cost the businesses in the area a lot of their customers.

The most affected were the market traders including fruit and vegetable vendors at Telisai market, where most have already moved elsewhere due to customer shortage. Other business that bore the brunt included convenient stores, supermarkets, eateries, petrol stations and a clinic.

However, the construction of new entry points has brought back cheers to the business community and now they are witnessing their businesses slowly returning to normal.

During a short tour of the area yesterday, the Weekend Bulletin had a chance to talk to some of the businessmen.

Residents and the business community in Kampong Telisai are hopeful that customers and revenue will return with the completion of an entry junction from the Telisai-Lumut Highway earlier this week. Photo shows Telisai market vendors waiting for customers.

The newly constructed entry junction from the Telisai-Lumut Highway which allows easier access to Kampong Telisai. – PHOTOS: AZARAIMY HH

Expressing relief, Haji Ali bin Mohammad Syarif, Manager of the Haji KK Koya and Sons Restaurant, said that the construction of the new entry junction to Kampong Telisai has made it more convenient for customers from nearby areas – such as the Bukit Beruang National Housing Scheme area – to reach the commercial centres of Telisai. The businesses also depended on commuters from Tutong, Brunei-Muara and Belait districts and for them, entry to Telisai is now easy, he added.

The Weekend Bulletin yesterday saw the restaurants in the area packed with customers.

Meanwhile, one of the few traders left at the Telisai market, Sahaidi bin Sahibul, 56, shared that customers have become rare nowadays, but he too is hopeful that business will return with the construction of the new entry point.

During the visit, the Weekend Bulletin found that he was the only fruit vendor still standing around. In fact he was the only trader around.

“There are others, but they rarely make an appearance, some will come late in the afternoon or at night, because there are absolutely no customers during the time. Many had shifted elsewhere, like to Jerudong market and to roadside areas of Telisai-Lumut Highway,” Sahaidi said.

Deeper into the conversation, he said before the construction of the highway, he used to sell in larger volume fruits such as corns and watermelons, but nowadays things have become hard. His corns that used to be sold out earlier now remain at the stall at the end of day.

The construction of the entry points, he hoped, will prompt the departed traders to return.

The post Road to prosperity for Telisai traders appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      James Kon     |

RECREATIONAL sport activities organised by the Brunei-Muara District Office with members of the private sector saw big crowds join in the fun activities at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the heart of the capital yesterday.

The event which is part of the traditional boat race and in support of ‘Bandarku Ceria’ car free Sunday started off with an aerobic exercise.

The prizes of the games and activities as well as lucky draws were sponsored by the local business community including Okky Jewellery, Hua Ho Department Store, Ideal Group of Companies, Jaya Hypermart, Utama Grand Superstore, Malar Setia, Syarikat Aliaa, Kingston Beverage & Creamery Sdn Bhd and others.

Among the activities organised were carrying ping pong ball with a spoon, run in a sarong, filling the bottle with water by using a spoon, fishing the bottle and musical chairs.

Photo shows Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, the Minister of Home Affairs, taking a bike ride during the Bandarku Ceria.

A group photo of the organising committee and sponsor. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Members of the public during the exercise session.

The post Fun and games at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Hakim Hayat      |

THE Ministry of Education (MoE)’s programme to help underprivileged primary school students, ‘Riayah Wa Mahabbah PSR’, aims to assist the students and ensure that none of them is left-out in realising academic goals.

The programme is not only focused on academic aspects but also takes into account skills, discipline and personality development to be able to generate committed, responsible and independent students, said Haji Md Sharifuddin bin Haji Md Salleh, the Acting Senior Special Duties Officer (Corporate) at the MoE, in his speech during the registration for the Riayah Wa Mahabbah PSR 2017 held at the Hostel of Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College (MDPMAMB), Gadong yesterday.

He further explained that the programme is one of MoE’s strategic efforts to reduce poor class attendance and in cultivating a good social factor, towards the realisation of the Brunei Vision 2035.

“MoE hopes that parents and guardians, as well as participating students will give strong cooperation especially towards hostel officers who will be taking care of them throughout the programme,” he added, while also calling on heads of schools and teachers from the students’ originating schools to give their cooperation, commitment and assistance to teachers where the students will be in placement at Pusar Ulak Primary School.

Haji Md Sharifuddin bin Haji Md Salleh, the Acting Senior Special Duties Officer (Corporate) at the Ministry of Education, delivering his speech.

Haji Md Sharifuddin bin Haji Md Salleh, the Acting Senior Special Duties Officer (Corporate) at the Ministry of Education, in a group photo. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

The programme was incepted in 2014 by MoE and the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and has seen tangible and excellent outcomes when in 2016, one student of the programme achieved five straight ‘A’ grades and a few others achieving four ‘A’ grades in the Primary School Assessment (PSR).

This year, a total of 24 primary schools, comprising of 21 from Brunei-Muara District and three from Belait District are taking part in the programme, consisting of 29 male and 18 female students.

They are being placed in the MDPMAMB Hostel and will undergo their studies at Pusar Ulak Primary School, Cluster 1.

Five hostel officers have been given the responsibility to take care, monitor and maintain the safety and comfort as well as the welfare of the students throughout their placement.

Students are also provided with facilities such as a dorms, basic necessities and transportation.

The programme also includes other extracurricular activities such as field trips, religious, recreational and counselling activities and also evening classes.

The post MoE makes sure no one is left out appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Aziz Idris      |

THE future of fashion in Brunei is looking bright with designers bringing in modest clothing from the world’s catwalks and finding commercial success by meeting the needs of the local market.

Two talented Malaysian designers – Syomir Izwa Gupta and Xema Su – recently showcased their latest garlands of fashion articles at The Runway luxury boutique in Kiulap.

With sui generis motifs derived from the long history of the legendary Yoko Ono, Syomir premiered the Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week (KLFW) 2016 collection pieces in Brunei for the first time.

Xema Su, meanwhile, gave the Bruneian public a look into her take on playing with fabrics and laces.

The event then continued with a made-to-measure (MTM) session for the guests, who were interested to custom-make items ranging from bridal-wear to red carpet dresses.

Guests were further delighted with a high tea in the afternoon to mark the boutique’s first-quarter milestone.

Ever since opening its doors to the public, The Runway has a mission and vision to be the platform for local fashion enthusiasts and regional creators, while providing wardrobe staples at affordable rates.

The Runway luxury boutique’s CEO, Nora Noor, together with her team and invited guests. – THE RUNWAY

This is to assist young professionals, students and working mothers in their search of quality items, especially with upcoming celebrations like the Chinese New Year.

In addition, The Runway will be having a line-up of designers for more MTMs in the next few months, including PU3, Melinda Looi and Fuzanna, among others.

According to The Runway’s CEO Nora Noor, her main motive was to provide convenience to the Bruneian consumers, who often maximise their budget with flight tickets and accommodation costs just to get an appointment with selected designers.

“Why spend a lot, when you can save more… In order to lessen the hassle, I have decided to establish this as a stand for our clienteles to save their money, time and energy,” she said.

Nora continued that this too will create opportunities for both the designers and customers to reach goals based on their needs on a personal level.

For further information, e-mail to therunwayofficial@gmail.com or visit @therunway_official on social media for more updates.

The post Bruneian consumers can save more with The Runway’s help appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.