|     Izah Azahari     |

FIVE Baiduri Capital customers were in for a heart-warming time when they were selected as winners in a draw held in conjunction with Baiduri Capital’s First Anniversary Promotion which concluded recently.

The prize presentation event for the draw was held at Baiduri Capital premises yesterday where the grand prize of a return ticket to London was won by Haji Awang Andinan bin Haji Md Daud, while Loh Swee Sen and Rodrigue Joseph Paul Harvey walked away with a return ticket to Hong Kong each, Low How Kun @ Lau How Kun won a return ticket to Melbourne, and Lim Chung Peng won a return ticket to Tokyo.

In attendance to present the prizes was Pierre Imhof, Director of Baiduri Capital.

Also in attendance were Ti Eng Hui and Pengiran Azaleen bin Pengiran Dato Haji Mustapha, both directors of Baiduri Capital, and Peng Eng Soon, the General Manager of Baiduri Capital.

Speaking on the progress made so far by the company, Imhof said that since the launch of Baiduri Capital slightly over a year ago, Baiduri has seen a steady increase in customers, many of whom are young professionals dipping their hands in the securities market for the first time.

Touching on the online trading platform available in Baiduri Capital, he elaborated that Baiduri is the first and only company in Brunei to offer an online trading platform, which is a hit among the tech-savvy segment, in which the platform allows customers convenient round the clock access to market information and also empowers them to trade online using their own devices without going through a dealer.

Pierre Imhof (R), Director of Baiduri Capital, in a group photo with the winners of Baiduri Capital’s First Anniversary Promotion. – IZAH AZAHARI

On the subject of Baiduri Capital’s future plans, Imhof said that they will continue introducing products to provide more choices to their customers, and to help develop customers’ investment capabilities, Baiduri will continue their efforts in customer education through organising investment seminars, workshops and roadshows with the help of experts and analysts from overseas.

During the promotion period, every BND1,000 invested in securities, including stocks and exchange traded funds (ETF), bonds or unit trusts, earn customers one chance to win a holiday.

Customers who invest from a minimum of BND10,000 in any unit trusts distributed by Baiduri Capital are rewarded with various sign up gifts ranging from shopping vouchers worth BND100, a GoPro HERO4 Black Edition, Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge LTE 32GB or an Apple iPhone 7 256GB, depending on their investment amount.

Baiduri Capital offers investment products in different asset classes, providing customers with a wide selection to meet the different risk profiles. Aside from securities trading, customers can invest in bonds, ETF, as well as unit trusts and investment linked life insurance plans. Potential investors are required to complete a client risk profiling assessment to ensure that they understand their risk appetite before taking up any investment products.

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|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

AS A curtain raiser for yesterday evening’s ‘Ceramah Perdana’ event, a dawn lecture by Ustaz Don Daniyal bin Don Biyajid, a celebrity religious speaker from Malaysia, was held after Subuh prayer at the Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah.

The dawn lecture began at 6.15am with Ustaz Don Daniyal sharing with the audience the importance of the Subuh prayer. Ustaz Don Daniyal was also scheduled to appear for the Ceramah Perdana event at the Indoor Stadium on the evening, alongside Ustaz Khairul Nazif bin Haji Damit, a local religious speaker.

The audience also joined in a congregational Doha prayer together with the celebrity religious speaker. The series of events were organised by Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB) as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations.

Present during the dawn lecture were students and teachers of institutes of religious study as well as congregants.

Ustaz Don Daniyal speaking during the dawn lecture at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah. – ABDUL HAKIIM YAKOF

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|     Achong Tanjong     |

THE Cub Scouts Section of the Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association (PPNBD) organised a special annual gathering yesterday between nationwide scout leaders, assistant scout leaders and cub scout packs.

The event took place at the PPNBD headquarters in Gadong, where Scouts Chief Commissioner Haji Badar bin Haji Ali welcomed all the leaders and assistant leaders whom he described as “committed and with a sense of responsibility handed down by their parents, who are educating them to be involved in extracurricular activities outside of school”.

Among the plans discussed during the meeting were activities and training schemes for the cub scouts in 2017, as well as registration for new teams and members.

Haji Badar also announced the 22nd National Scout Camp to take place at the National Training and Activities Centre in Gadong, on March 19-23, together with participants from Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan.

Also present at the event were Hajah Noraini binti Haji Saidi, the Headquarters Commissioner for the Cub Scouts Section; Junaidi bin Haji Hussin, the Training Commissioner; and Hajah Norrahmat binti Sidin, the Headquarters Commissioner for the Girl Scouts Section.

Scouts Chief Commissioner Haji Badar bin Haji Ali with other scout leaders during the meeting. – ACHONG TANJONG

During the meeting, Hajah Noraini, who is also the Cub Scout Leader at the Orang Kaya Besar Imas Subok Primary School, presented information related to activities and training for all leaders and assistant leaders in the Cub Scouts Section.

The Cub Scouts were started by Lieutenant General Robert Stephenson Smyth Baden-Powell in 1916, nine years after the foundation of the Boy Scouts.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

BRUNEI Gas Carriers Sdn Bhd (BGC) yesterday marked another milestone when one of its local crew who joined as a Deck Cadet 14 years ago was promoted to the rank of Ship Master or Captain, the second such appointment for a Bruneian for the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) carrier as it strives to achieve full localisation in all its crew by 2020.

Mohd Shahbrin bin Ibrahim, 35, received his insignia from the Managing Director of BGC Haji Shabudin bin Haji Musa during a ceremony held at BGC’s head office in Kampong Jerudong yesterday, before his family members and BGC’s management team.

Sharing his inspirational career journey with BGC to the Weekend Bulletin, Mohd Shahbrin said he has always dreamed of becoming an aviation or maritime navigator since his younger days and has always wanted to travel the world.

“After completion of my ‘A’ Levels in Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College (Maktab Duli) in 2001, I decided to enrol in the Marine Cadetship Programme introduced by Brunei Shell Tankers (BST) – BGC in 2003 after learning the interesting aspects of the career,” he said.

Mohd Shahbrin and 15 others were selected as either Deck or Engineering Cadets during the 2003 programme.

He said he chose the path towards becoming a Captain because he did not have any engineering background. “I took up the cadetship for three years at Warsash Maritime Academy in Southampton, United Kingdom and graduated in 2006 where I became a junior officer of the deck for BGC,” he shared.

During his career with BGC, Mohd Shahbrin said he climbed the ranks to Third Officer and later Second Officer in a span of five years.

Within another five years, he was promoted as a First Officer/Chief Officer, and eventually landed into the Master/Captain position this year.

But, all this did not come by easy. He shared that he had to undergo a number of certifications, courses and examinations in order to certify his role, while also mentioning the challenges that he has thankfully overcome. “The journey was a bit challenging at first because during my time the job was newly introduced to our locals. Sea life is different and demanding but a lot of technological advancements have allowed for a better lifestyle onboard the ship,” he said.

Managing Director of Brunei Gas Carrier (BGC), Haji Shabudin bin Haji Musa, affixing the captain insignia on Mohd Shahbrin bin Ibrahim. – HAKIM HAYAT

Being away from his family and his loved ones was also another challenge that he managed to overcome all these years.

“I used to sail on ships for four months at a time and get off the ship with two months off, but these days it is more manageable as I take alternate months on and off the ship,” he shared, adding that his long months being away from home is very strenuous and demanding especially for his family that he has to take care for.

Mohd Shahbrin, who tied the knot five years ago, also said that although it was a challenge to juggle between work and his family back then, everyone has learnt to adapt eventually and things are going very well for him and his family these days.

“Although time and space separation is challenging at first, you have to learn how to manage it and you will eventually cope with it… and now I am very proud to become the highest ranking at the Deck and the second one in BGC… It is very satisfying after all the hard work,” he said.

He sees vast opportunities going forward with his skills and experience gained, including the possibility of taking up other shipping roles, in management or even as a trainer or advisor for shipping and maritime industry.

With this important milestone, BGC now has two local Captains and three Chief Engineers among the ranks.

Its Cadetship Programme is one of its initiatives to realise the objective of creating opportunities for young Bruneians to pursue their aspirations to be part of the oil and gas industry.

Haji Shabudin said BGC aspires to have an LNG fleet fully manned by Bruneians by 2020 and in line with this mission, the company is continuously striving to set the benchmark for local mariners and engineers who will be the backbone of the Brunei marine industry. “We should be proud to have our ships led by locals and this is aligned with our mission and also in line with the Brunei Vision 2035,” he added.

The BGC managing director has been very active in identifying and grooming its local talents to become senior marine professionals, as the company recognises the importance of skilled talent to be the backbone of one of the country’s main economic drivers, LNG.

Haji Shabudin shared that a lot of their locals have shown the commitment to develop their career, adding that BGC has done well in promoting shipping career to be a choice among young Bruneians.

“Five or six years ago, many did not know what the company was and the jobs it offered but with a lot of outreach programmes such as job fairs, we could promote the exciting career that we offer here,” he added.

The managing director also said BGC continues to invest in educating the youth and supply high-quality marine officers from all ranks to work on board their vessels.

BGC today employs 100 per cent Bruneians for its onshore operations and currently, it owns five A-Class vessels, manned by a fully trained crew, 85 per cent of whom are Bruneians.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

AMANN Shipping Group Sdn Bhd (Amann Shipping) has intensified its operations in its bid to support the Brunei Government’s initiative to further reduce logistics costs and improve connectivity.

Amann Shipping is gearing up to offer better connectivity and a more regular sailing between Muara and other ports in the region, the company said in a statement.

Amann Shipping is the operating company of Marzuq Holdings Limited (Marzuq), a joint venture company between the Ministry of Finance’s Strategic Development Capital and Go-Wide Shipping Holding Limited from Hong Kong which was incorporated in May 2014.

The joint venture is a significant effort to speed up the country’s economic diversification programme and to create new employment opportunities to the local people.

Established in July 2014, Amann Shipping aims to assist in developing the shipping industry in Brunei Darussalam and also to act as a platform to improve the import and export sectors.

Subsequently its container liner subsidiary, Amann Shipping Container Line Sdn Bhd (ASCL) was established in December 2014.

The national shipping line is expected to reduce freight and logistics costs in the country and create a more competitive logistics industry that will promote the development of local businesses and attract more foreign direct investments.

The establishment of Amann Shipping as well as the Ease of Doing Business measures undertaken by the government are expected to benefit local businesses including foreign direct investment (FDI) companies and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to increase trade activities with Asean member countries.

In Brunei Darussalam, the potential of maritime transport and logistics sector are yet to be fully unlocked.

As a consumer nation, the Sultanate is a market for foreign goods where majority of consumer products is imported.

The national shipping line, Amann Shipping, established in May 2014.

The Padian 1 container vessel operated by Amann Shipping Group Sdn Bhd.

The country’s dependence on foreign vessels to bring in goods into and also to export its goods from the country has resulted in Brunei’s local businesses paying higher freight charges compared to other economies in the region.

The other challenge faced by local businesses is when goods are imported into the country, private shipping lines would normally have to make other port calls in the region to maximise available freight spaces before discharging their cargoes at Muara Port. This arrangement not only prolongs the sea journey but also adds extra cost to the final price of the goods which the local consumers have to bear eventually.

ASCL hopes that the local freight forwarding companies will respond positively by lowering the costs on their part, to satisfy their customers and build long-term relationship with them. This could be achieved by coming up with different logistics solutions, offering value added services and improving their internal efficiency.

The new shipping line is expected to boost industrial and commercial activities by increasing the import and export activities at Muara Port. The local service and logistics industry which include pick-up, storage, handling, delivery and transportation services also stand to gain from this initiative.

This will further contribute to the development of Muara Port as a regional hub for maritime transportation in the future.

ASCL currently employs eight locals comprising two executives and four management personnel. With expansion plans in the pipeline, the company is expected to provide more jobs to locals as it continues to grow in the coming years, taking centre stage in the regional maritime industry.

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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 has consented to send a congratulatory message to Hassan Rouhani, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as the Government and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran on the occasion of Iran’s National Day.

In the message, His Majesty expressed his great pleasure in meeting the Iranian President during the 13th Islamic Summit Conference of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation(OIC) in Istanbul last year.

His Majesty said he looked forward to further opportunities to strengthen the much-valued friendship and cooperation in the year ahead.

In ending the message, His Majesty prayed that Allah the Almighty would bless the Iranian President with good health and happiness, and the people of the Islamic Republic of Iran continued progress and prosperity.

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. – AZROL AZMI

Hassan Rouhani, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. – AFP

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|     Aziz Idris     |

BRUNEI-born actress Nina Iskandar is ecstatic to be nominated for the ‘Aktres Pilihan’ (Actress Choice) award for her role in the TV drama ‘Terlarang Sudah Rinduku’ at the upcoming Drama Festival Kuala Lumpur (DFKL) 2017 in April.

Fans of the local star can now vote through the official DFKL 2017 website – www.dfkl.com.my – and select ‘Undi’ > ‘Aktres Pilihan’ > ‘Nina Iskandar’.

Each person could vote up to 10 times in a day, once every two hours, and voting will end on March 20.

“It would be an honour to win and have this recognition for Brunei’s name,” chimed the 25-year-old in a phone interview with the Sunday Bulletin.

Prior to this, she was also nominated under ‘Best Drama Series’ for the same TV drama at Anugerah Skrin 2016 last November.

Nina, whose real name is Nur Akmalina Iskandar, is currently busy working on the 80-episode TV series ‘Papa Ricky’, which will air on Astro Ria. She will also star in a horror-thriller film ‘Hospital’ directed by Amiro Ghozali.

Giving some advice to those pursuing Showbiz dreams, Nina says that it is always important to be focused on the job and stay humble. “At the end of the day, we are all entertainers, and our job is to entertain people and to bring them joy,” she added.

Drama Festival Kuala Lumpur 2017 nominee Nina Iskandar

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

AS part of efforts to elevate and empower the Malay Language amongst the community, particularly the younger generation, the Language and Literature Bureau (DBP) has put continuously organised the ‘Dudun Bahasa’ or Language Visit activity at a number of schools across the country.

Yesterday, some 100 students from pre-school up to Year 6 attended a briefing on the Dudun Bahasa led by Hajah Sariani binti Haji Ishak, the Head of Language Development and Growth of DBP.

She explained that the activity’s main objective was to uphold 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’s wishes and declaration of July as the Language Month.

Apart from being one of DBP’s annual activities, the Dudun Bahasa also serves as platform for youth to learn about different Malay dialects aside from the standard, she said.

Furthermore, the programme, she continued, aims to educate the students from a young age on the correct usage of the Malay language.

The students also actively took part in some games, quizzes and many other activities.

A briefing by the Head of Language Development and Growth of DBP

A section of the students in attendance. – PHOTOS: ROKIAH MAHMUD

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THE recent opening of ‘Earth Trek Borneo: The Terraformation Series’ was attended by over 30 guests from Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and the general public.

The gallery had the honour to host US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Craig Allen during the first private viewing, during which he was presented with a limited edition ceramic vessel by the artist, Dr Martie Geiger-Ho.

This followed with the ‘To Seek New Particles’ talk, where the artist gave the audience a peek into her unique perspective on ceramics and her art practice here in Brunei.

It is a rare treat to hold in a gallery space an exhibition regarding arts and craft ‘Made from Brunei.’

The exhibition hopes to emphasise on thoughts towards how local resources are applied sustainably, and extend into historic relevance and comparison.

In view of the overwhelming response during the opening, Creative Space will hold a second private viewing today.

The gallery welcomes schools and the general public to attend the exhibition which runs from February 1 – 22.

Some of the attendees at the event

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|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

VALOR Property Agency (B) Sdn Bhd, in collaboration with UK-based property developer Redrow Homes Limited, yesterday held the first of a two-day property showcase on Park Collection at Colindale Gardens in London.

Present at the exhibition were Valor Property Agency (B) Sdn Bhd Managing Director Irene Hii, Redrow Homes Limited Head of Sales James Holmear, and team members from both companies.

The Park Collection, scheduled to be completed by winter 2018 – spring 2019, will feature 119 apartments which range from studios, one to four-bedroom apartments, duplexes and contemporary Park Walk townhouses that will overlook the central four-acre park located in the centre of Colindale Gardens. The amenities of the Park Collection at the Colindale Gardens will include concierge, gym, sauna and steam room. The units also have varied layouts, all with private outside space, balconies and terraces.

Officials from Valor Property Agency (B) Sdn Bhd and Redrow Homes Limited in a group photo. – SYAZWANI HJ ROSLI

The Colindale Underground Station (Northern Line) is a five-minute walk away, and provides access to Central London within just 22 minutes.

Speaking to the Sunday Bulletin, James noted that Colindale Gardens offers affordable price point, emphasising that this will become a good investment opportunity.

“I think what’s important is that we have such a strong market locally and domestically from the locals in the United Kingdom. I can see the potential of Colindale, which has been deemed as one of London’s largest regeneration zone by the Mayor of London.

“There is also a school that we are developing for 600 pupils between the ages of five and 11. We also have 100,000 square feet of retail and commercial space and, at the same time, we are upgrading the tube station. This will be a fantastic opportunity for the people in Brunei,” he said.

According to him, a whole team of experts from solicitors to interior designers will be available throughout the two-day showcase to offer their advice and opinions and provide start-to-finish services for the convenience of clients.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE Land Transport Department (JPD) held a prize presentation ceremony yesterday at the Ministry of Communications Building for the winners of its Public Bus Pattern and Colour Design Competition.

The competition was an initiative under a project by the ministry through JPD to improve the country’s public transport system.

The event’s guest of honour who presented the winners with their prizes yesterday was Haji Azhar bin Haji Ahmad, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications.

Also in attendance were department heads and senior officers from the Land Transport Department as well as Ministry of Communications.

Dr Haji Supry bin Haji Ladi, the Director of JPD, delivered opening remarks, in which he mentioned that the contest was opened to the public from the middle of last year.

JPD Director Dr Haji Supry delivers his opening remarks

The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications, Haji Azhar bin Haji Ahmad, and Director of the Land Transport Department, Dr Haji Supry bin Haji Ladi, with the competition’s top three winners

The winning design that won first prize. – PHOTOS: DANIAL NORJIDI

He further noted that a total of 112 entries were received, out of which 10 were shortlisted in accordance with the selection criteria. A public online voting process then took place from July 2016, with a total of 9,240 votes received.

He added that the bus pattern and colour design that won first place earned the highest number of votes – more than half of the online votes.

The first prize of $1,500 was won by Mohammad Aliff bin Haji Madial, while second prize of $1,000 went to Awangku Mohammad Radzuan bin Pengiran Hashim and the $500 third prize was presented to Awang Khairul Asri bin Tarip.

Mohammad Aliff told the Sunday Bulletin that his winning design was inspired by JPD’s logo, particularly in terms of colours.

“JPD is moving towards technology, so my design is meant to look like a computer chip,” he explained, adding that his design has four yellow streaks of varied sizes to represent Brunei’s four districts.

He further shared that his design was also inspired by those often found on ‘Jong Sarat’ clothes.

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|     Fizah HAB     |

LOCAL filmmaker Abdul Zainidi represented Brunei at the first Asean International Film Festival in Tokyo, Japan, with his recently debuted film ‘Anggur in Pockland.’

Speaking to the media, Abdul Zainidi said the Japanese Embassy in Brunei Darussalam invited him to join the Asean International Film Festival.

‘Anggur in Pockland’ is an artistic film featuring Brunei locations including Tasek Merimbun, Bukit Udal Forest, Kampong Ukong, Kampong Katimahar and Kampong Jerudong.

Local filmmaker Abdul Zainidi with a Japanese filmmaker at the Asean International Film Festival. – FIZAH HAB

After the screening, some of the Japanese viewers seemed eager to explore the beautiful culture of Brunei Darussalam, he said.

“I was very touched when Bruneians who were in Japan took the time to view ‘Anggur in Pockland,’ and expressed a sense of pride when watching it,” Abdul Zainidi said.

He hopes to continue developing the film industry and to participate at future international film festivals.

Abdul Zainidi will participate at the upcoming Nimman Film Festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand, with his film ‘More Vanishing Children.’

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|     Aziz Idris     |

THE culture and traditions of the Brunei Malay are currently being featured at the Melayu Day@Yala, thanks to Pengiran Shariful Bahri bin PSI Pengiran Haji Ismail and family, who are currently residing in Phuket, Thailand.

The three-day festival runs from February 10-12 at the White Elephant Park in Yala Municipality, Thailand, and is jointly-hosted by the Consuls General of Malaysia and Indonesia in Songkhla, Yala Province Cultural Office and Yala Municipality.

Pengiran Shariful Bahri and family are instrumental in helping shine the spotlight on Brunei’s unique wedding ceremony (Malam Berbedak) and introducing famous local delicacies, which includ ‘ambuyat,’ to festival goers.

The guest of honour, together with the Brunei Darussalam Ambassador to Thailand and other special guests were invited to sample the local delicacies.

Mayor Pongsah Yingchon-charoen said the festival, previously called ‘Melayu Day of Yala,’ began in 2014 to highlight the Malay culture of Yala. Now in its fourth year, the festival features a seminar on Malay culture, kite-flying competition, elephant parade, Thai-Malay speech contest, Nasyid performances, cultural processions, cooking demonstration and food testing.

Also at the festival are over 200 booth operators selling food, clothes, cultural items and an assortment of accessories.

Photos above and below show a general overview at the event. Brunei’s unique wedding ceremony (Malam Berbedak) and famous local delicacies, which include ‘ambuyat,’ were but some of the things introduced to Melayu Day@Yala festival goers

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|     James Kon     |

THE Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) will not tolerate or shield any officer found to be involved in criminal activities such as corruption.

In previous cases, police personnel who had been found guilty had actions taken against them, and punished according to the laws and regulations of Brunei Darussalam.

Commissioner of Police Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam issued this warning during his opening remarks at an Anti-Corruption talk held at the Police Headquarters in Kampong Tungku yesterday.

Permanent Secretary (Law and Welfare) at the Prime Minister’s Office cum Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Director Dato Paduka Haji Muhammad Juanda bin Haji A Rashid delivered the talk to 180 participants, among them senior police personnel.

The commissioner also cited 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’s titah in March 2015, whereby His Majesty lamented the involvement of senior police official(s) in corruption.

Corruption, he said, “is like a disease and must be addressed. If nothing is done, it will spread. It can diminish the capability and morale of the force in its function to combat criminals.”

Commissioner of Police Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam with Permanent Secretary (Law and Welfare) at the Prime Minister’s Office cum Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Director Dato Paduka Haji Muhammad Juanda bin Haji A Rashid and senior police personnel. – JAMES KON

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|     Azlan Othman     |

DIABETES and high blood pressure are no longer diseases that affect old people. Nowadays in Brunei, young people aged 20-30 years and even children fall victims to these diseases, said Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, the Minister of Health yesterday while addressing members of the Legislative Council (LegCo) during a dialogue session at the Women and Children Centre of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital.

“A survey conducted by the Ministry of Health (MoH) has found that many children are taking fizzy drinks sold outside their school compound although school authorities have provided healthy food. We need cooperation from parents and family members to end this problem,” the minister added.

“This is a cause for concern for the nation as the young people are the asset of the nation and their future cannot be jeopardised.”

The minister added, “Brunei is still facing challenges from non-communicable diseases like cancer, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and stroke. These five diseases are the main cause of death in the country. Obesity rate in Brunei is the highest in the Asean region.

Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, the Minister of Health, delivering his speech. – AZROL AZMI

Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, the Minister of Health, in a group photo with members of the Legislative Council at the Women and Children Centre of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital. – AZROL AZMI

“As the situation is so alarming, the ministry is striving to give the best service in meeting customers’ high expectation in tandem with the social and economic development in the country.”

Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi also touched on the three core strategies of the ministry towards realising its vision ‘Together towards a Healthy Nation’, which are: inculcating the idea that health is everyone’s business; preventing and controlling non-communicable diseases; and delivering excellence through consolidation and realignment of healthcare services to give value-added services to the public, reducing wastage.

The minister also highlighted the importance of instiling a culture of health for the wellbeing of the individual, family, society, and nation. Firm cooperation from all levels of the society is crucial in enhancing public awareness on the importance of taking care of one’s health, he said, stressing that health is everyone’s business.

“Changing the culture may take time, and we should do it step by step. For instance, from today, we could start cultivating healthy behaviours such as stopping smoking and eating wisely and moderately by ensuring that at least half-a-plate of fruits and vegetables, a quarter of carbohydrates like rice and another quarter of proteins like fish, meat or egg in the diet.

“We should also carry out sports activities five times a week and at least 30 minutes a day, which will have a positive high impact on our future health,” Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi added.

The dialogue session was followed by a briefing on the challenges and development of the healthcare system as well as the latest efforts undertaken by the MoH.

The briefing was led by Haji Zakaria bin Haji Serudin, the Permanent Secretary at the MoH; Dr Hazri bin Haji Kifle, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy) at the MoH; and Dr Hajah Maslina binti Haji Mohsin, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Professional) at the MoH.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

THE Higher Education Expo 2017 opened yesterday, offering students opportunities to find out more about higher education options they can pursue at prestigious local and international institutions.

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, launched the event organised by the Ministry of Education (MoE) in a ceremony held at the expo’s venue Bridex Hall in Jerudong yesterday.

The two-day event is the second higher education exhibition organised by the MoE.

Welcoming His Royal Highness was the Minister of Education, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman.

After officially launching the expo, His Royal Highness toured the exhibition which features top higher education institutions from the Sultanate.

The expo which ends at 9pm today offers students aspiring to pursue further studies, locally or internationally, to gain a better understanding and more information on the participating institutions and their available programmes.

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, touring the Higher Education Expo 2017. – 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, in a group photo with staff and officers from Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB)

His Royal Highness in a group photo with one of the exhibitors at the Higher Education Expo 2017

His Royal Highness interacting with a Politeknik Brunei student

His Royal Highness receiving a pesambah

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, at the Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) exhibit

His Royal Highness speaking with Craig Boyd Allen, the Ambassador of the United States of America to Brunei Darussalam at the Higher Education Expo 2017

The expo is also showcasing various initiatives connected to higher education in the country.

The Higher Education Expo also hopes to make it easier for students interested in various institutions to get advice about opportunities and admission processes.

The expo is part of the MoE’s initiative to improve students’ enrollment in post-secondary education and increase the number of graduates, thus helping in the overall development of national economy.

Government higher education institutions participating in the expo include Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB), Politeknik Brunei and Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE).

Private local institutions participating in the expo are Laksamana College of Business, Kolej IGS, Micronet International College, Cosmopolitan College of Commerce and Technology, Kemuda Institute and Brunei Darussalam Institute of Certified Public Accountants (BICPA).

International universities and colleges from the United Kingdom, United States of America, Australia and Malaysia such as Glasgow Caledonian University, RMIT University, Michigan State University, INTI College, University of Nottingham, Osaka University, Kagawa University, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation, Kolej Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Selangor and SEGI University are also taking part in the event.

Other local agencies participating in the expo are DARe (Darussalam Enterprise), Brunei Shell Petroleum Co Sdn Bhd, E-Village under the National Entrepreneurship Agenda initiative of the MoE.

The MoE is represented by the Scholarship Section, Higher Education Division, the Education Loan Facility Scheme (SBPP), Higher Education Centralised Admission System (HECAS) and the Brunei Darussalam National Accreditation Council.

The expo is open from 9am to 9pm on its final day today.

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|    Fizah HAB    |

SOME 134 cyclists participated in yesterday’s King of HSB MTB Fun Race 2017, where they raced through the Berakas Forest Reserve’s cycling track.

Alistair Lovell was crowned winner for the fastest lap time with the time of 14:35.87 minutes on the 4.7km lap during the three-lap fun race.

The fun race was divided into two separate races where Fun Race 1 had two laps split into five categories, which were the Individual Men Classic (age 46-49), Individual Legend (50 above), Individual Heavyweight (over 90kg), Novice, Fatbike, and Exclusive categories. Fun Race 2 with three laps and was over 14km was split into the categories of Individual Men Open, Individual Men Veteran and Individual Men Master.

With the time of 39:36.88 minutes, Alexander Senones won the Men Classic category, quickly followed by Jefri bin Lamat and Muhammad Eddy bin Abdullah with a total time of 41:59.79 and 45:23.57 respectively.

Alistair Lovell crowned as the winner of the King of HSB MTB Fun Race 2017.

Participants of the King of HSB MTB Fun Race 2017 in action. – PHOTOS: FIZAH HAB

In the Men Legend category, Zikara bin Haji Bakar won first place with a total time of 45:59.40, while Nain bin Haji Tuah and Rosli bin Said came in second and third place with the time of 46:42.57 and 51:45.61. In the Heavyweight 90kg category Haji Sofian bin Haji Thani came in first with the time of 46:42.55, while Juraini bin Jaludin and Mohd Norizam bin Haji Mohd Zain came in second and third place with the time of 52:47.60 and 55:14.14 respectively.

In the Individual Men Open category, Alistair Lovell comes in first place with the time of 46:33.02, while Md Raffiuddin bin Zikara and Md Zaim bin Baha came in second and third place with the time score of 50:40.94 and 52:58.06 respectively in the second Fun Run category with the 14km lap run.

Attending the event was the Acting Director of the Forestry Department Noralinda binti Penghulu Haji Ibrahim and Secretary General of Brunei Darussalam Cycling Federation Omarali bin Haji Ibrahim.

The event aimed to promote healthy cycling in Brunei Darussalam as well as promoting Brunei as a healthy hot spot for both local and foreign cyclists.

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|    Rokiah Mahmud    |

YAYASAN Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (Yayasan) yesterday held a briefing for parents and guardians of 345 students in the Brunei-Muara District who were chosen to participate in the 2017 Education Intervention Programme (PIP).

The implementation of the Tuition Class Project under the PIP programme serves as the foundation’s initiative in shaping a more educated community that is competitive and highly motivated in hopes of increasing their standard of living so that they would not be dependent on welfare assistance and to integrate related agencies in together helping those who are in need.

The briefing yesterday was held at the multipurpose hall of the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah School (YSHHB).

Attending the briefing was Haji Mustapha bin Haji Matahir and Hajah Donnaliza binti Abdullah Puasa, Assistant Managing Directors of Yayasan.

The briefing began with a talk delivered by Cikgu Alimas bin Haji Mohd Ali, Acting Headmaster of YSHHB, which was followed by a motivational talk presented by Cikgu Haji Ali Yusri bin Abdul Ghafor, Head of Special Education Unit, Ministry of Education.

Under the PIP 2017 programme, the focus on subjects will be Bahasa Melayu, Mathematics, English and Science for Years 5 and 6, while for Year 10 and those who will be sitting their GCE ‘O’ Level (Year 11), the focus will be on Bahasa Melayu, Mathematics ‘D’, English and Combined Science.

Haji Mustapha bin Haji Matahir (2nd L) and Hajah Donnaliza binti Abdullah Puasa (R), Assistant Managing Directors of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah during the briefing yesterday.

A section of the students and parents at the briefing. – PHOTOS: ROKIAH MAHMUD

PIP was first introduced in 2006 when its initial aim was to help and educate children of less fortunate families so that they will be able to pursue their studies up to the highest level as possible. At its early implementation, only Year 6 students that resided in Kg Bolkiah who went to a number of primary schools in Kampong Ayer sat for the Primary School Assessment (PSR).

In 2009 as the programme has proved its success, PIP has expanded their scope in assisting not only in PSR examinations but also those who sit for their SPE Year 8 and later on in 2010 they reached out to students sitting for the GCE ‘O’ Level.

In fulfilling their aim of assisting students to excel in their studies, Yayasan then expanded their scope in offering the PIP programme not only in the Brunei-Muara District but also in Tutong, Belait and Temburong Districts, so that it could have greater coverage by outsourcing to a number of registered private tuition classes under the Ministry of Education.

For this year’s programme, there will be eight PIP Tuition centres in the nation – YSHHB, Sengkurong Sixth Form Centre, Institute of Leadership, Innovation and Advancement (ILIA), Sufri Bolkiah Secondary School, Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Secondary School, Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar Secondary School, Rataie Primary School and Sultan Hassan Primary School.

Since it was first implemented in 2006 until 2016, Yayasan has successfully provided a total of 3,788 students including 94 students for ‘Amali’ Education and Al-Quran Studies.

The PIP programme is scheduled to begin on March 5, 2017.

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LESS than three months after 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, visited Peru for the APEC Economic leaders meeting, Brunei’s relationship with the people of Peru became a little more developed as International School Brunei (ISB) recently welcomed a visiting group of 15 Peruvian students for a two-week cultural and educational exchange trip.

A mixture of 15 9^th and 10^th Graders from San Ignacio De Recalde school in Lima, Peru arrived at the ISB campus in Sungai Hanching last Wednesday to a warm welcome from Brunei’s oldest international school.

The objective of San Ignacio De Recalde’s visit was to “expose the students to a unique learning experience beyond books, where culture, customs, tradition and even food come to life, and leave each one with an unforgettable experience,” said Celina Anthony, one of the teachers accompanying the students.

Anthony, who previously lived in Brunei for a year before moving to Peru, highlighted the Sultanate as a good destination to meet the trip’s objectives as it is uniquely placed as a safe and stable country with rich cultural diversity, age-old and revered religious and national traditions, great cuisine and a number of natural attractions.

During their two-week stay, the Peruvian students are being hosted in ISB’s new 108-bed residence where they have access to the school’s facilities around the clock as well as ISB students with whom new friendships are being forged.

The Peruvian students given a tour of the school’s facilities. – ISB

Some of the attractions that the group will visit while in Brunei will be to experience life in a water settlement at Kampong Ayer, an oil field tour in Seria, a three-night expedition in Temburong and Brunei’s National Day celebrations among others.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for ISB students to widen their knowledge and understanding of cultures beyond Brunei Darussalam’s borders, and Peru, at over 18,000km is about as far beyond our borders as it’s possible to get. While we have a diverse student population from over 40 different countries, the opportunity to meet new friends and experience a new language is great for both our students and those from San Ignacio De Recalde School,” said Robert Commons, ISB’s Head of Secondary. “While here in Brunei, our Peruvian guests will be spending four of their days joining lessons with our current Years 9 and 10 students, giving them the chance to experience a completely different curriculum from their own. In return, they’ll be performing some Peruvian dances for our students and staff to enjoy. Hopefully, this is the start of a long-term relationship between the two schools.”

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|      Lyna Mohamad      |

THE ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of the first vertical land-based aquaculture farm took place yesterday at the project site in Kampong Tungku, Gadong.

In attendance to officiate the ground-breaking ceremony were the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, and Singapore’s Minister of State in the Ministry of Trade and Industry and Ministry of National Development, Dr Koh Poh Koon.

Dr Koh in his remarks noted that the collaboration was another example of the close bilateral cooperation between Singapore and Brunei.

The joint-venture will transform the 12-hectare site into a high-tech vertical fish farm, which will produce grouper fish using aquadeck and multi-storey raceway systems complete with offices, staff dormitory, and an ornamental fish-packing facility.

This joint-venture is the first overseas venture for Apollo Aquaculture, a Singaporean company that has transformed itself from an ornamental fish trader in its early years into a high-tech indoor aquaculture operation today.

The Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, and Singapore’s Minister of State in the Ministry of Trade and Industry and Ministry of National Development, Dr Koh Poh Koon in a group photo during the ground-breaking ceremony.

The Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism at yesterday’s ceremony. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

“One can see the potential for synergy, collaboration and sharing of know-how in this partnership. In this regard, we encourage Singapore companies, especially those who are here today, to look overseas to places like Brunei for production and export back to Singapore and other markets. Let us work together to take the agricultural partnership between Singapore and Brunei to a new level,” said the minister.

Yesterday’s ground-breaking ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by speeches from both ministers and the signing of the contract agreement between the Fisheries Department and KR Apollo.

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