|     Wani Roslan     |

A PRIZE presentation ceremony was held yesterday at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA), for the participants of the National Level Maulud Procession last December.

The guest of honour was Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs, who later presented prizes to the competition winners.

In his welcoming remarks, Haji Idris bin Haji Aji, the co-chairman of the event said that 128 groups took part in last December’s Maulidur Rasul procession, with a total of 12,207 registered participants.

He also said that 98 groups participated as contestants, while 13 uniformed groups took part but did not compete.

Meanwhile, 18 groups from Arabic preparatory schools and religious schools only took part in the ‘Salawat’ performance at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital.

Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs, presenting the prize to the representative from the Ministry of Development for winning in the Ministry and Government Offices category

Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs, presenting the prize to the representatives from the Mosque Takmir committee and the Mosque Youth Group of Kampong Perpindahan Serasa, Muara for winning the Villages and Mosque category

The minister presenting the prize to Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah for winning in the Secondary School and Higher Learning Institute category

The minister presenting the prize to representative from Telekom Brunei Berhad for winning in the Association and Private Sector category. PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

First place in the Secondary School and Higher Learning Institute category went to Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (ITQSHHB), together with the cash prize of $6,500.

The winner in the Ministry and Department category was the Ministry of Development (MoD), with the cash prize of $4,000.

Telekom Brunei Berhad (TelBru) won in the Association and Private Sector category, with the cash prize of $2,500; while the Mosque Takmir committee and the Mosque Youth group of Kampong Perpindahan Serasa won in the Village and Mosque Takmir category, with the cash prize of $4,000.

Certificates of appreciation were also presented to the judges and sponsors of the event.

The post Winners of Maulidur Rasul Procession Competition appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Rokiah Mahmud      |

A BIG crowd turned up at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex/Indoor Stadium yesterday for the official launching of the Cinta Rasul Carnival organised by Battle Pro Marketing & Management Services (BattleProMMS).

The carnival, which will be held until January 29 was launched by Haji Mohd Noor Jusmin bin Haji Abdul Samad, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS).

Over 40 vendors are taking part in the carnival, which promotes the products of local entrepreneurs, modest clothing, cosmetics and more.

Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Haji Mohd Noor Jusmin bin Haji Abdul Samad, launching the Cinta Rasul Carnival. – PHOTOS: ROKIAH MAHMUD

The guest of honour taking a closer look at some of the displays

Some of the participating vendors with their products.

Haji Syed Mohd Yassin bin Haji Syed Anayatullah Shah, the founder of BattleProMMS, said that the carnival will feature Islamic activities that support the efforts 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 making the country a Zikir Nation.

He added that the event therefore also serves as platform for the public to learn more about Islamic teachings.

Among the carnival’s activities include a religious talk on Maulidur Rasul by Ustaz Haji Khairul Nazif bin Haji Damit and a Qasidah performance.

The post Cinta Rasul Carnival officially launched at Indoor Stadium appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Achong Tanjong      |

THE Jerudong International School (JIS) held its Year 8 Design and Making Day in the Design and Technology (D&T) classes in the Q Block yesterday.

Alex Perry, Head Technician, said that there were about 150 Year 7 and 180 Year 8 students that took part in the event, divided into groups of four to five persons. The event which started from 8am to 12pm, featured three different elements comprising food technology, textile and creation of a vehicle model from materials provided by the teacher.

In the food technology class, teachers prepared three types of food items – vegetables, proteins and carbohydrates. Students were given time to think and share ideas on preparing their own recipes from the items provided.

Students coming up with ideas to create a moving vehicle at JIS’s Year 8 Design and Making Day.

Students in the food technology class. – PHOTOS: ACHONG TANJONG

An earphone piece designed by a student.

In the other D&T classes, students were tasked to design and make a rubber band-powered vehicle that will move in a straight direction for as far as possible. They were given 20 minutes of planning time to come up with ideas for the design using the materials provided.

They were given materials such as A4 white paper, A4 corflute, A5 grey board, straws, cotton reel, wheels, paper clips, toothpicks, pasta tubes, string, rubber bands, dowel rod and tape to create the moving vehicle.

The students were divided into groups of four or five.

The post Students test creative mettle in design classes appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Daniel Lim      |

A CLOSING ceremony was held yesterday for the Diabetes Education Programme ‘Teraja 7’ that was held in conjunction with World Diabetes Day 2016 and Suri Seri Begawan Hospital’s 44th  anniversary.

The ceremony took place at the hospital’s Health Leaning and Development Centre with Belait District Officer Haji Haris bin Othman as the guest of honour.

The programme aimed to educate the public on the causes and complications of Type-2 diabetes.

Hajah Sadiah binti Haji Mohadi, Head of the Diabetes Education Programme and Nursing Officer, said that yesterday’s event was held to present certificates to the six participants who had successfully controlled their blood sugar levels as well as the 16 participants of ‘Teraja 7’.

Guest of honour and Belait District Officer Haji Haris bin Othman presenting a certificate to one of the programme’s participants yesterday. – PHOTOS: DANIEL LIM

Head of the Diabetes Education Programme and Nursing Officer, Hajah Sadiah binti Haji Mohadi, delivers her speech at the closing ceremony.

Some 35 recipients also received certificates for completing a nurse training course on diabetes education.

“For the diabetes education programme ‘Teraja 8’ in 2017, 20 people have registered and will begin the programme on February 18,” she added.

“We hope that the public will become more aware of diabetes and visit their local hospitals for a check-up.”

The post Diabetes Education Programme participants receive certificates appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      James Kon      |

OVER 300 graduates from Politeknik Brunei (PB) gathered at the Chancellor Hall of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) yesterday, for their convocation ceremony.

The new graduates comprised 182 female students and 143 male students from the fourth intake of the 2014 academic year, who received their Advanced Diploma certificates from Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, the Deputy Minister of Education and the Chairman of PB Board of Governors.

The students have completed a two-year academic session in various programmes offered by PB School of Business, School of Information and Communications Technology, and School of Science and Engineering.

The Advanced Diploma is recognised by the Ministry of Education through the Brunei Darussalam National Accreditation Council, and is equivalent to the BTEC Higher National Diploma (HND) qualification.

Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, Deputy Minister of Education presenting the Excellent Enrichment Activity Award to Mohd Ikmal Hakim bin Haji Mohd Yunos.

Denis Ho Mun Tai, the Director of Politeknik Brunei and the Chairman of the Working Committee for the convocation ceremony, said in a speech that employment rate among graduates is one of the six key performance indicators in PB’s five-year development plan of 2015-2020.

Denis Ho gave statistics from PB’s second intake of students, of whom 73 per cent went on to further studies, while 64 per cent found employment. He also said that research into PB’s third intake is currently in progress.

Graduates happily posing for a photo after their convocation ceremony.

Photos above and below show graduates posing with their family members. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASIM

He also said, “PB is working closely with UBD’s Entrepreneurship Village, which has volunteered advice and ensured that student projects in the Entrepreneurship module and final year are relevant and realistic.”

Denis Ho disclosed that PB has been in discussions with several parties regarding the implementation of the Technology Enterprise Development programme. In addition, PB will be signing some Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with a number of companies based within and outside Brunei.

Since its establishment in 2012, PB has seen an annual increase in applications, with the total number of students recorded at 1,550 on December 2016.

The post Over 300 graduates at 3rd PB Convocation Ceremony appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

RIWAYAT VT assistant manager Zoeleffndi Zaini acknowledged his charges for not losing hope after conceding early in the 2-1 win over SM FC in the final of the Mukim Pengkalan Batu Village Consultative Council 9-a-side Championship at the Berakas Sports Complex recently.

The assistant manager, who also has a dual role as part of the coaching setup, said that the early setback of conceding a goal has not affected his team’s play and tactical approach.

However, he admitted that SM FC’s opener was resulted from a classic misunderstanding between his team’s defence and goalkeeper.

“We were a bit surprised with the early goal by SM FC, however, we are conscious with the fact that it is too early to give up and we are thankful that it does not interfere the focus of the players,” said the assistant manager in a post-match interview.

“In turn, all of our planning and the tactics that we have planned are successfully executed.”

The victorious Riwayat VT in a group picture. – MOHAMAD ASYRAMISYANIE

He said teamwork and the will to succeed highlighted the players’ great resolve while continuing to assert their dominance and dominate possession.

Looking on to the future, the assistant manager recognised that there is work to do ahead of the new national veteran league season.

“We will correct any existing weaknesses and lift our team up like the other renowned teams in the league or cup,” continued Zoeleffndi.

He commended the organisers for arranging a warm-up tournament as part of preparations for the competitive season.

The assistant manager expressed hope that his charges would be able to step up their game.

“Despite an ageing squad, our players are capable of delivering a good performance,” he said.

He also paid tribute to the Veteran Football Association (VFA) for their full support to the veteran teams which are continuously developing.

Haji Khairol Haji Md Yaakub, the chairman of the competition, said that the competition attracted a total of 20 teams adding that the response was encouraging.

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|      Hakim Hayat      |

THE diversity of higher education institutions in the United States and flexibility they offer in courses allow for greater specialisation in a variety of academic disciplines and also practical training all at once, making graduates more employable in a relatively small economy and population, US Embassy’s EducationUSA Advisor Mayra Robles said yesterday.

Although it is not a common practice for Bruneian students to explore different courses at once, she said people here are now starting to understand the benefits of being more employable through the acquisition of multi-disciplined skills.

“You will have more to offer on the table because say if you have two courses, you sort of have a fall-back and that all-round education is beneficial for a small country that has smaller population where there is a need for us to multi-task and have broader view and knowledge of information, tasks and objectives ahead,” she said during a press conference to announce the fourth edition of the upcoming US Higher Education Fair 2017.

Robles said international students to the US have the opportunity to spend an additional year or up to 24 months of optional practical training on top of their four-year bachelor’s degree, allowing them to get valuable and relevant work experience.

Meanwhile, Bruneian students thinking of pursuing their higher education overseas are urged to visit the upcoming education fair on February 8 at the Songket Hall of The Rizqun International Hotel to find out more on the diverse and flexible courses, scholarship and funding options they can avail from different higher education institutions in the US.

Catherine Muller (L) and Mayra Robles (R) holding up an EducationUSA logo during a press conference to announce the 4th US Higher Education Fair 2017 to be held from February 8. – HAKIM HAYAT

The following day, the fair will move to Sayyidina Ali Secondary School in the Belait District to meet prospective students there.

Catherine Muller, Public Affairs Officer at the US Embassy, shared that with over 5,000 colleges and universities that grant degrees in the US today, the fair offers prospective students and their parents more information about the opportunities, adding that 14 universities and colleges will be participating in the fair from across the US offering different types of degrees and study fields. “We welcome all students, parents, teachers and school counsellors who are interested and direct representatives from these institutions will be there to provide more information.”

Muller said they are excited this year to offer a wider range of large and small universities that focuses on one technical area such as aviation, and also those who offer more such as the liberal arts and also traditional degrees that one would expect from a major university.

She said the fair will also allow the representatives to learn more about Brunei and the needs, general trends and study interest of its students and said they also welcome anyone who to attend the one-day fair including scholarship granting bodies and those who have contact with students.

Robles further shared that the theme for this year’s fair is inclusion and access to every student and increasing diversity on campuses.

“Because in the US every university is able to accommodate student with special needs and disability… we are very proud of that and this year, we have a very diverse range of universities in the fair offering courses in arts, business fashion and design and we have our top universities included in the list and we are also welcoming universities from Hawaii and Nebraska for the first time here in Brunei this year,” she shared.

She also revealed more of the more popular courses among Bruneian students in the US including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) streams but said they have also seen greater interest towards arts courses, especially in audio and video and visual creative arts, and shared that some students would even combine a STEM course, which they can double with an arts course that they want to pursue as a profession, or something they are passionate about. “This flexibility allows you to pursue areas of not just one focus but two and even more and up to four courses,” she further said.

Participating institutions in the fair will include the Aviation Institute of Maintenance, Central Washington University, Miami University, Wabash College, University of Massachusetts, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Savannah College of Art and Design, Western Michigan University, University of Northern Iowa, Temple University, American University, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Creighton University and LIM College (Fashion and Business School).

More information on the Education Fair and EducationUSA can be accessed through www.brunei.usembassy.gov/studyusa.html or the US Embassy’s social media channels.

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|      Fadley Faisal      |

The Criminal Justice Division of the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) conducted a three-day workshop on Criminal Asset Recovery at the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Headquarters in Jalan Tungku, Gadong.

Fifteen officers sat in on the workshop that discussed provisions of the Criminal Asset Recovery Order 2012 and the power of investigations that can be exercised under the law.

Conducted by Hajah Suriana binti Haji Radin and Christopher Ng Ming Yew, both Deputy Senior Counsels and Deputy Public Prosecutors, the workshop focused on how NCB officers should use the additional powers conferred on them under the Criminal Asset Recovery Order 2012 in conjunction with their powers under the Misuse of Drugs Act, Chapter 27 in order to better investigate narcotics cases with financial elements involved.

Topics such as international cooperation, securing and tracing assets, asset management and drafting affidavits for forfeiture applications were also covered. Participants also engaged in discussion on various case studies in order to apply what they had learnt over the duration of the workshop.

The workshop concluded with the presentation of certificates to the participants.

Workshop participants with coordinators from the Criminal Justice Division of the AGC.

DPP Hajah Suriana binti Haji Radin presenting on Criminal Asset Recovery. – PHOTOS: AGC

This was the third workshop conducted by the Criminal Justice Division of the AGC. Similar ones were held for the Commercial Crimes Investigation Division of the Royal Brunei Police Force and the Anti-Corruption Bureau in 2014 and 2015 respectively.

The holding of such workshops demonstrates the AGC’s initiative to further educate and raise awareness on the laws of Brunei Darussalam, among law enforcement agencies that bear the task of implementing them.

The workshop was also aimed at increasing cooperation between the AGC and NCB, and to encourage greater focus on financial investigations with the aim of depriving criminals of their profits and proceeds.

The workshop also built upon the NCB’s two successful criminal asset recovery applications which were granted by the High Court in 2016, as well as the establishment of the NCB Financial Investigation Unit aimed at investigating the financial dimension of cases involving drugs.

The post Shedding light on criminal asset recovery appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      James Kon      |

THE Minister of Education yesterday underscored the importance of nurturing the spirit of entrepreneurship among students in the country.

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman in his speech at the 3rd Politeknik Brunei Convocation, read out by Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, Deputy Minister of Education, also lauded Politeknik Brunei’s efforts to produce entrepreneurial talents that are needed to realise an industrial revolution in the Sultanate.

The event took place at the Chancellor Hall of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD).

Highlighting the Entre-preneurship Module which Politeknik Brunei is offering to Level 5 diploma students from the first year of their study, the minister said that the module provides guidance and encouragement to students to be more prepared in venturing into entrepreneurship after completing studies.

The module also acts as a connecting platform between Politeknik Brunei and institutions that promote entrepreneurship outside the campus such as the DARE (Darussalam Enterprise), Brunei Economic Development Board and the banking sector as well as others, he noted.

Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, Deputy Minister of Education presenting the certificate of graduation to a female recipient. – DEAN KASSIM

“Students are now more confident in starting a business with the in-depth understanding about the world of entrepreneurship in the country as well as opportunities outside the country,” the minister said, hoping that the module can also be extended to Politeknik Brunei’s alumni so that they will also have the same opportunities to improve themselves with more confidence.

The minister said that through this effort “we can uphold the aspiration 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 for the country to produce more entrepreneurs among the locals which was stated by His Majesty in the titah delivered during the opening ceremony of the Legislative Council Meeting in 2014”.

On efforts to ensure that the effectiveness of curriculum and content of the programme taught are in line with current trend and the needs of the industry, Politeknik Brunei is receiving advice from several quarters, especially for its science and engineering programme, the minister noted.

Politeknik Brunei’s “advisory committee programme is a good step and I would like to iterate efforts for including diverse members in the committee to provide guidance and advice for Politeknik Brunei to produce graduates who are needed in the fourth era of industrial revolution. This is not limited to business, information and communication technology and health science sector and aimed to ensure future graduates of Politeknik Brunei are equipped with strong knowledge and skills in line with the needs of a volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous world,” he added.

The minister in his speech also urged the graduates to be open-minded, farsighted, committed and hardworking after finishing their studies.

The post Brunei needs better-skilled, open-minded tech graduates appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Danial Norjidi      |

CUBE Junction (CJ), a local e-commerce platform, was officially launched yesterday, providing Bruneian micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with a new way to take their businesses both online and abroad.

The launch took place at the Design and Technology Building in Anggerek Desa, and was facilitated by the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Brunei Darussalam (NCCIBD).

The guest of honour was Nurul Qomar, the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Brunei Darussalam; with Dr Haji Kamaruddin bin Dato Seri Paduka Haji Talib, the Chairman of NCCIBD, also being present.

Mentored under the Cottage and Youth Initiative Programme at the iCentre, CJ is a Bruneian company with a hybrid online social network and marketplace.

CJ works very closely with locally registered regional freight forwarders, Concord Transworld Forwarding, for Brunei inland & hinterland distribution; and is teaming up with AFL Logistic Hong Kong, an international e-commerce and logistics company, to boost cross-border trade for Brunei Darussalam’s e-commerce industry, serving the Asean Economic Community, the Asean+3 market and beyond.

The guest of honour, Nurul Qomar, the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Brunei Darussalam; and other attendees in a group photo. – DANIAL NORJIDI

In addition, strategic alliance agreements with AFL Logistic, Hong Kong, for logistic services and Cargolink Indonesia, will allow CJ to establish its presence in other countries such as China, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

Through the strategic alliance agreements, CJ will be expanding its international freight forwarder alliances beyond the Asean region and China.

CJ also works to promote nano and micro businesses and SMEs to the market, and help them sell their products online, both locally and for export.

Through CJ, buyers and sellers can interact with each other in real-time, and conduct their transactions on CJ’s online market place – all in one platform.

It also aims to be a premier e-commerce platform for the people in the regions of BIMP-EAGA, Asean and Asean+3.

Meanwhile, CJ is exploring opportunities for a platform to promote Halal products ranging from food to cosmetics to apparel and footwear.

A keynote address was delivered at yesterday’s launching ceremony by Captain (Rtd) Zailan bin Pehin Dato Mohd Don, the Advisor for NCCIBD and the Principal of the Cottage and Youth Initiative Programme.

“With Brunei going towards a sustainable economy in non-oil and gas sectors by 2035, addressing the current challenges or issues, NCCIBD’s primary plan will focus on promoting businesses through an online retail platform, Asean-style; dealing with premium products, Halal products, value-added products, small volume trading and providing services for nano and micro businesses and SMEs,” he said.

“NCCIBD foresees that the CJ platform will solve some of the previous issues that arose such as high cost of startup and expenses for MSMEs, in terms of rental, production necessity (expensive packaging, machinery and equipment) and volume production capacity, manning, limited access to market, unemployment and job creation.

“This platform will create self-employment for the nano and micro businesses, and create business for SMEs to create jobs for employment.

“A startup online to offline (O2O) centre – the CJ Brunei O2O Centre – will be set up by the end of this month at the iCentre, to market our local SMEs products offline. This centre will also cater to SMEs in Asean+3 to showcase their products for the local market during transhipment period. To allow our local products to enter the international offline market, CJ’s expansion plan will be creating O2O centres in Asean+3 countries.”

Captain (Rtd) Zailan also explained that a special feature of the Brunei O2O Centre will be a weekly focus group on product evaluation, in addition to packaging and labelling, conducted by the Cottage and Youth Initiative Programme at the iCentre.

“Basically, by utilising CJ, MSMEs and cottage businesses will only require minimum costs on operation and can operate their businesses from home,” he said.

“CJ also provides a door-to-door delivery service system anywhere in the world, which directly solves the primary issue of transportation and logistics for small Bruneian businesses.

“With all the programmes and mechanisms in place, we will integrate the marketing of these products and Brunei premium local products through the CJ platform to promote our local brands to go global with the provision of the NCCIBD.”

Presentations were delivered during the launching by representatives of CJ, AFL Logistic and Cargolink Indonesia.

The CEO of CJ, Ramlee bin Zainuddin, in his presentation explained that the platform’s objectives include to diversify the local economy to non-oil and gas; promote local SMEs to expand locally and internationally through digital marketing at their O2O outlet; promoting local SMEs through a fulfilment centre; promoting local self-employment and employment; and setting up Brunei Darussalam to be a dominant Halal hub in the international market.

Quoting Bill Gates, he said, “If your business is not on the internet, then your business will be out of business.”

The CEO went on to share CJ’s expansion plans: For 2017, it plans to establish O2O centres in Brunei Darussalam in quarter 1, Indonesia in quarter 2, Malaysia in quarter 3 and China in quarter 4. CJ also plans to open the CJ-AFL FTZ Fulfilment Centre in and the CJ-AFL Halal Hub in Brunei Darussalam in quarter 2 and quarter 3 of 2017, respectively. For 2018, it plans to set up O2O centres in Thailand in quarter 1, Philippines in quarter 2, Japan in quarter 3 and South Korea in quarter 4.

More information on the e-commerce platform can be found at www.cubejunction.com.

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|      Azlan Othman      |

CELEBRATIONS marking the Golden Jubilee 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, should be moderate in nature and emphasise aspects of Brunei’s royal traditions.

This was emphasised in a sabda yesterday by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, during the first Meeting of the Executive Committee for the Golden Jubilee celebrations of His Majesty.

“It should reflect the significant achievements of the country, citizens and residents during the reign of His Majesty,” said His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, who is also the Patron of the Advisory Committee for the Golden Jubilee celebrations.

His Royal Highness the Crown Prince also called on all appointed committee members to work together in sharing ideas and experiences, to ensure efficient planning and implementation of all events for the celebrations.

“I believe that with high commitment and cooperation from all parties, the Golden Jubilee celebrations will be a platform for strengthening harmony through close ties between the monarch and the people; for embracing the spirit of patriotism, love and unwavering loyalty to both the sovereign and country; and for unity in upholding peace and prosperity through developing the country,” said His Royal Highness the Crown Prince.

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, delivering his sabda at the 1st meeting of the Executive Committee for the Golden Jubilee celebrations 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. Also seen in the photo is His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, a member of the Advisory Committee for the Golden Jubilee Celebrations. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah in a group photo with the members of the Executive Committee for the Golden Jubilee Celebrations 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

His Royal Highness the Crown Prince quoted from His Majesty’s recent New Year titah, in which the monarch said that the Golden Jubilee was an opportunity for everyone to learn about moderation as well as history, by prioritising only the important aspects.

His Royal Highness the Crown Prince also expressed the hope that the Golden Jubilee celebrations would not only describe the glorious history of his father’s reign, but also strengthen the monarchial institution through the preservation of Bruneian identity, culture and traditions.

“I take particular note of the get-together with the populace, which should be given special attention by having it placed at appropriate venues; and properly organised, with appealing programmes that portray the close rapport between the monarch and the people,” said His Royal Highness the Crown Prince.

“We have witnessed achievements over the last 50 years, during the reign of my father, which have brought many positive changes and development, including the care and support for the welfare of all citizens and residents in various sectors and areas.

“My father’s wise leadership has succeeded in making the country capable of generating positive economic development by attracting foreign investors. In addition, Brunei has produced many of its own experts and specialists who are enhancing our capability and competitiveness on an international scale.

“Religion still forms the basis for all plans and developments for future directions, in line with the country’s aspiration as a Zikir Nation. These should be in our thoughts when outlining events for the celebrations, and serve as a framework in assessing the impact or outcome of the programmes.”

His Royal Highness the Crown Prince then reminded, “There are not many months left for us to plan and implement the Golden Jubilee celebrations. It is indeed a very short period of time, in view of other major events in the interim, such as National Day and His Majesty’s birthday celebrations.

“I want all committees of the Golden Jubilee celebrations to forward all their respective programmes to the Secretariat of the Golden Jubilee Celebrations, in two weeks from this meeting,” said His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, concluding the sabda.

Earlier, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince was greeted on arrival by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, a member of the Advisory Committee for the Golden Jubilee celebrations.

Also present to greet His Royal Highness the Crown Prince were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, the Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara and a Co-Chairperson of the Executive Committee for the Golden Jubilee celebrations; Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, the Minister of Home Affairs; Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim, the Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance II; Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti; and Pehin Orang Kaya Shahbandar Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Mohd Nawawi bin Pehin Orang Kaya Shahbandar Haji Awang Mohd Taha, the Private and Confidential Secretary to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

His Royal Highness the Crown Prince then proceeded to join a group photo session with members of the Executive Committee for the Golden Jubilee celebrations.

The meeting commenced with a Doa Selamat which was read by YB Pehin Datu Imam Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Hamid bin Bakal, a member of the Executive Committee for the Golden Jubilee celebrations.

The meeting continued with opening remarks delivered by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz.

His Majesty acceded to the throne at the age of 21 on October 5, 1967, as the 29th Sultan of Brunei. The Silver Jubilee celebrations of His Majesty’s accession were held on October 5, 1992.

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|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

THE Pandit Jai Kishan Maharaj troupe from India last night showcased the most graceful dance forms, including the ‘Kathak’ dance, at the Arts Centre of Jerudong International School (JIS).

The event’s guest of honour was Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports.

The founder of the Pandit Jai Kishan Maharaj troupe is a well-known classical dance maestro from North India and a descendant of other renowned dance maestros who had elevated the art form over the last 200 years in Lucknow and Delhi.

Last night’s performance was organised by the High Commission of India in Brunei Darussalam in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS).

The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, watching last night’s show at Jerudong International School. – PHOTOS: SALAWATI HAJI YAHYA

‘Kathak’ dance by the Pandit Jai Kishan Maharaj troupe

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|     Wani Roslan     |

THE new Proton Saga and Persona models equipped with even better improvements were officially launched yesterday at the Atrium of the Times Square Shopping Centre in Berakas.

The guest of honour who launched the two new Proton models was Deputy High Commissioner of Malaysia to Brunei Darussalam Rafedah binti Abdul Aziz. Also present was PAD Motors Sdn Bhd Director Hambali bin Pehin Orang Kaya Shahbandar Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohd Salleh.

The new Saga is the third generation model with better refinement and fuel-efficiency, and is built on the outgoing model’s platform that is enhanced with vast improvement. It is powered exclusively by 1.3-litre VVT engine which first debuted in the Proton Iriz.

The 1,332cc engine is rated at 94hp and 120Nm which is identical to the current model, but it has improved in fuel consumption thanks to the implementation of variable valve timing technology.

Meanwhile, the new Persona arrives with a 1.6-litre DOHC four cylinder VVT engine that produces 107hp at 5,750rpm, 150Nm at 4,000rpm and featuring a five-star Asean NCAP safety rating.

The Deputy High Commissioner of Malaysia and PAD Motors Sdn Bhd Director Hambali bin Pehin Orang Kaya Shahbandar Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohd Salleh launching the new Proton models

PAD Motors Sdn Bhd Director delivering his welcoming remarks. – PHOTOS: WANI ROSLAN

Deputy High Commissioner of Malaysia to Brunei Darussalam Rafedah binti Abdul Aziz gives a thumbs up to the new Proton Saga

Based on the Iriz platform, the new Persona shares a similar wheelbase length, width and height as the hatchback, yet, the sedan body style sees an increase in the vehicle’s length that allows a more spacious boot compared with Iriz and can be expanded further by folding down the 60:40 split rear seats (except on the standard model).

The launch also saw the guest of honour invited to take a closer look at the two new Proton models.

Also in attendance were Proton delegates, Director of Land Transport, Directors and General Manager of PAD Motors Sdn Bhd, Director and Managing Director of United Motors Sdn Bhd and other guests.

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|    Fizah HAB    |

A MEMBER of the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) personnel, Ordinary Rate Andy bin Jalan, 24, has embraced Islam as his new faith.

OD Andy recited the ‘Dua Kalimah Syahadah’ (Declaration of Faith) in a conversion ceremony that was held yesterday at Surau Al-Huda at the RBN Base in Muara.

The ceremony began with a recitation of verses from the Al-Quran, followed by recitation of the Syahadah by OD Andy.

It was conducted by Ustaz Kamal Leang bin Abdullah, an officer from the Islamic and Conversion Guidance Unit, Islamic Da’wah Centre.

The highlights of the event were the Dikir Marhaban and a souvenir presentation to the new convert.

Ordinary Rate Andy bin Jalan, RBN reciting the ‘Syahadah’ during a conversion ceremony
yesterday with Ustaz Kamal Leang bin Abdullah, an officer from the Islamic and Conversion Guidance Unit

OD Andy is the first Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) personnel to embrace Islam this year and chose Muhammad Nazhirul Asrofi bin Abdullah Jalan as his Muslim name.

Since 2006, 106 RBAF personnel have converted to Islam.

Among those present yesterday were First Admiral Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Norazmi bin Pengiran Haji Muhammad, Commander of the RBN as the guest of honour; Director of Personnel at the Ministry of Defence (MinDef); Deputy Commander of the RBN; senior officers of RBAF, officers from the Brunei-Muara Islamic Da’wah Centre and family members.

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|    Hakim Hayat    |

THE Department of Fisheries of the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) recently conducted a training course on Processing Technology and Quality Control of surimi-based products.

The four-day course held at the Fish Processing Building, Department of Fisheries saw the participation of members of different village consultative councils (MPKs) and also companies involved in seafood processing activities. Experts for the training were outsourced from Myscape Management Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of MARDI Malaysia, according to a press release from the department.

The training provided basic knowledge and skills of processing technology and quality control to the seafood processing companies, in the production of surimi-based products. It covered the basic aspects of quality control over raw materials, hygiene, packaging, product labelling, the layout of the factory according to the standards of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and how to create a business plan which includes economic analysis.

Participants of the Processing Technology and Quality Control of surimi-based products training in a group photo with the Director of Fisheries. – HAKIM HAYAT

Conducted by the Department of Fisheries under the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Centre (SEAFDEC) project, ‘Enhancing RTC- Coastal Community Resilience for Sustainable Livelihood and Coastal Resources Management’, the project was funded by the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) for Muslim member countries namely Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam.

The project aims to improve the socio-economic situation of the coastal fishing communities and making use of the coastal resources sustainably as their livelihoods.

The Department of Fisheries prior to this course has implemented a number of training programmes funded by this project such as ‘Maintenance of Yamaha Outboard Motor’ and ‘Maintenance/Restoration of Fishing Net’ which were attended by local fishermen community. Other training programmes funded by the project are being scheduled for the near future.

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|      Abdul Hakiim Yakof      |

THE Special Forces water polo team emerged as champions after defeating Royal Brunei Land Force 2–1 at the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Water Polo Championship finals at Rimba Air Base Sports Complex.

Meanwhile, the Special Forces Swimming team clinched the Swimming Championship finals, held earlier this week, with a total of six gold, two silver and two bronze medals.

The Royal Brunei Land Force came in second and the Ministry of Defence third.

The finals also showcased a 50m freestyle individual swimming event that was won by Sjn Haji Zulamin from the Special Forces.

CPO Haji Mohd Irwan (Royal Brunei Navy) and Lkpl Mohd Yunus bin Haji Hamid (Ministry of Defence) finished second and third respectively.

Prizes were presented by Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, Commander of the RBAF

The finale featured a 4x50m combined match of ranks for officers and senior non-commissioned officers.

Royal Brunei Land Force emerged champion followed by Royal Brunei Air Force in second and Special Forces third.

Prizes were presented by Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, Commander of the RBAF.

The RBAF Swimming and Water Polo Championship 2017 began January 23 and saw participation from six teams, namely the Ministry of Defence, the Royal Brunei Land Force (RBLF), Royal Brunei Navy (RBN), Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAirF), Training Institute RBAF (TI RBAF) and Special Forces Regiment (SFR).

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|      Fadhil Yunus      |

DPMM FC began their Bangkok tour with a 2-2 draw against Thai League side Navy Football Club at the Navy Stadium yesterday.

The club latest recruit Billy Mehmet made his debut for the Brunei-based side following his move from S League rivals Tampines Rovers FC.

Three foreign players who are currently still in trial with the club also featured in the starting line-up namely Ivan Futsar of Croatia, Zesh Rehman of the United Kingdom and Francois Christian Herve of France.

The other foreign player, Bidari Garcia De Cortazar Megias of Spain, picked up an injury during training but could play a part in their next friendly match against Rayong FC today.

DPMM FC in a group picture prior to kick-off against Navy FC in a friendly

The Brunei side established the lead before Brazilian striker Rafael Ramazotti- whose services has been retained for the upcoming season- put his name in the scoresheet.

However after withdrawing all local players including Wardun for the second half, the Thai side found the net twice to salvage a 2-2 draw.

The head coach selected locals Hendra Azam, Najib Tarif, Azwan Salleh, Maududi Hilmi Kasmi and Azwan Ali as well as first-choice goalkeeper Wardun Yussof in the starting line-up.

The club still have quota for foreign imports following the exits of Paulo Sergio and Brian McLean.

The post DPMM FC begin Bangkok tour with stalemate appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

AN ELUSIVE new species of bird has recently been spotted in Brunei near the Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre and the Ulu Ulu Resort in Ulu Temburong.

The bird is a spectacled flowerpecker with a distinctive white ring around its black eyes.

Although they have been spotted and photographed a few times by ornithologists in other parts of Borneo, notably in Danum Valley in Sabah, it has never been collected for scientific study.

The bird is most probably endemic to Borneo and a canopy specialist thus rarely seen and having evaded detection.

The Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER) at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) proposes to capture and collect for scientific study several of this new species and give it a scientific name.

A spectacled flowerpecker feeding on berries high up in the canopy of Brunei’s rainforest in Ulu Temburong/ – HANYROL AHMAD SAH

The lead scientist of the proposed study will be PhD candidate Hanyrol Ahmad Sah from UBD. She will be assisted by Mahdi Hussainmiya, who has also spotted the bird in Belait District, and supervised by Professor Ulmar Grafe.

If successfully collected, the spectacled flowerpecker would be the first entirely new endemic bird to be formally described for Borneo in over 100 years.

Its description from Ulu Temburong would entice numerous ornithologist from around the world to visit Brunei to catch a glimpse of this rare Bornean endemic bird thereby promoting Brunei as a high-value tourism destination.

For further information on this project please contact newflowerpecker@gmail.com.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam paid their last respects to the late Pengiran Hajah Siti Hawa binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Bendahara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman who passed away at the age of 84 yesterday morning, state broadcaster Radio Television Brunei (RTB) reported.

Accompanying His Majesty during the Jenazah prayer held at Baitul Athirah in Kampong Beribi yesterday afternoon were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel as well as other members of the royal family.

The Jenazah prayer was led by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti.

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, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel, paying their last respects to the late Pengiran Hajah Siti Hawa binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Bendahara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman, yesterday

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; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel paying their last respects. – PHOTOS: INFOFOTO

Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman as well as other members of the royal family paying their last respects to the late Pengiran Hajah Siti Hawa binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Bendahara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman

The late Pengiran Hajah Siti Hawa passed away at about 7.30am at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital.

During her lifetime, she was bestowed with several state decorations and honorary medals including The Most Honourable Order of Seri Paduka Mahkota Brunei – Third Class (SMB) and the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Medal (PHBS).

Her body was laid to rest at the Royal Mausoleum in Jalan Kubah Makam Diraja yesterday afternoon.

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|    James Kon    |

KOREAN passengers arriving at the Brunei International Airport last Thursday were given a warm welcome by a ‘hadrah’ troupe, along with some gifts from Brunei Tourism and Royal Brunei Airlines (RB).

Korea is now linked to Brunei through weekly flights on Thursdays and Sundays, which are the result of a joint collaboration between RB and Shining Tours.

This is the first chartered flight from Korea to Brunei, carrying a full load of 120 passengers.

James Park, the President of Sinar Tour Co Ltd, who was at the airport arrival hall to greet the passengers, said, “Eight years ago, a company attempted to conduct a chartered flight to Brunei, which only lasted a month.

“Our company, however, is here to stay in the long-term. We have two weekly chartered flights from Incheon to Brunei, and vice versa, which began on December 29.”

Group photo of some of the Korean visitors with officials from Brunei Tourism and Royal Brunei Airlines (RB). – JAMES KON

He attributes the success of those flights to mutual cooperation with Brunei Tourism, RB and The Empire Hotel & Country Club.

Meanwhile, among the Korean passengers are 40 avid golfers who will be taking part in a few rounds on the course during their stay at The Empire Hotel & Country Club, including some night golf.

Salinah binti Salleh, the Head of Promotion and Marketing at the Tourism Development Department, said: “We are really excited about the first full chartered flight from Korea, and we are hoping that there will be more to come.

“We are working closely with the agents who are bringing in Korean visitors to Brunei, through the promotion of various packages.”

She also disclosed that luxury travel packages are popular in the Korean market.

The increase of chartered flights into Brunei is hoped to contribute to achieving Brunei Tourism’s target of a 10 per cent increase in visitors by air, from last year.

At the same time, Brunei Tourism has announced its objective to double the number of tourist arrivals by air from 218,000 in 2015 to 450,000 by 2020.

Based on statistics provided by the  Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT), the top five countries with tourists to Brunei Darussalam are Malaysia, China, Indonesia, the Philippines and Singapore.

On January 21, the first chartered flight from Xi’an arrived in Brunei, with 144 tourists keen on experiencing Bruneian hospitality.

The Xi’an-Brunei flights operate on Saturdays on a seasonal basis, and were established through the partnership between RB and the Beijing Longway International Travel Service.

“Chartered flights are just one way we can support Brunei Tourism’s objective,” said Brett McDougall, the Executive General Manager in Sales and Marketing at RB.

“Often, charters can lead to a new air route being added to the airlines network, and we are delighted to welcome these new visitors to Brunei.”

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