|      Azlan Othman      |

THE Minister of Education, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman shared the achievements of students under the Ministry of Education in 2016.

In his speech at a dialogue session with members of the Legislative Council yesterday in Gadong, the minister said that at the primary level, a total of 4,665 government school candidates sat for Primary School Assessment (PSR) last year and the percentage of students achieving grades ‘A’ to ‘C’ for all subjects was 64.57 per cent, an increase of 1.69 per cent from the previous year.

However, it is undeniable that the target to achieve a percentage of grades ‘A’ to ‘C’ in the last two years was not reached. The Ministry of Education did not give up and continued to work through Primary Education Initiatives (PEI) to improve the achievement of our students at the PSR level, the minister said.

On the secondary level, from 7,023 candidates who sat for the examinations, a total of 3,036 candidates (or 43.23 per cent) achieved at least four credits at the ‘O’ Levels/IGCSE. A total of 1,071 candidates (15.25 per cent) obtained eight to 11 credits at the ‘O’ Levels/IGCSE, while a total of 2,497 candidates (35.55 per cent) gained five to 11 credits at the ‘O’ Levels/IGCSE. Students who obtained at least five ‘O’ Levels among the government schools reached 37.01 per cent.

On the post-secondary level, for Sixth form students, a total of 1,796 students under the Ministry of Education sat for the Brunei-Cambridge GCE ‘A’ Levels. Overall, a total of 1,574 students (87.64%) of students gained at least 2 ‘A’ Levels, an increase of 3.26% compared with the previous year.

At the level of technical and vocational education institutions, in the last three years (2014 to 2016), showed that Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) continues to be the focus of students to attend programmes related to technical and vocational education. 2,385 students enrolled in 2014, 2,525 in 2015 and 2,124 in 2016. Meanwhile, 7,149 students graduated from IBTE from 2014 to 2016.

The Minister of Education, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, delivering his speech. – AZLAN OTHMAN

Some achievements in higher learning institutions can also be seen. Last year alone, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) has produced 3,719 graduates, Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) produced 1,402 graduates, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) produced 329 graduates and Politeknik Brunei (PB) produced 1,273 graduates last year.

In order to produce graduates that are more marketable, Institut Teknologi Brunei (ITB), which is now named Universiti Teknologi Brunei, received cooperation from Zhejiang University to award degrees to its first cohort of the Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical and Process Engineering. They have also been working with Hengyi Industries.

Meanwhile, UNISSA, in the effort to strengthen the implementation of the Syariah Penal Code Order 2013, has last year produced the first graduates of the Dual Degree programme of Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Syariah Law (LL B and BSL) where the study duration takes five years and has been producing graduates of the Syariah Criminal Justice Certificate System.

The minister expressed delight with the increase of the signing of Memorandums of Understanding between Politeknik Brunei with private parties such as Telekom Brunei Berhad (TelBru) and DST industry to produce highly marketable post-graduates.

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|      James Kon      |

BAIDURI Bank Group yesterday hosted a Chinese New Year (CNY)gathering at The Empire Hotel & Country Club to usher in the Year of the Rooster with its customers and business associates from the Brunei-Muara District and Tutong District.

Baiduri Bank CEO Pierre Imhof and senior bank officials were on hand to welcome the arrival of Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin, foreign dignitaries, prominent figures from the local business community and other guests. To open the celebration, Chung Hwa Middle School students performed a high intensity drum performance.

In his opening remarks, Pierre Imhof offered a glimpse of the bank’s performance last year, and outlined a number of its landmark achievements.

The highlight of the day was the presentation of Baiduri Bank Group donations to underprivileged students from four schools.

Baiduri Bank CEO Pierre Imhof with Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin, bank officials and invited guests. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Representatives of the donations with Pierre Imhof, Baiduri Bank CEO in a group photo.

Spectacular drumming performance to open the ceremony.

The recipients of the donations were Chung Hwa Middle School (BSB), Chung Hwa Kiudang, St Andrew’s School and St George’s School. Pierre Imhof handed over the donations to representatives of each school.

Besides the sumptuous feast, guests also enjoyed an array of performances including a festive folk dance and Xin Jiang traditional dance.

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|      Abdul Hakiim Yakof      |

THE Executive Committee for the 33rd National Day celebration 2017 hosted a press conference at the Citra Budaya Hall at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Building yesterday to provide information on the upcoming National Day celebrations.

The press conference was chaired by Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, in her capacity as the Joint Secretary of the Executive Committee.

Representatives of government agencies present to brief the press were Mohd Faiz bin Sahat, Protocol Officer at the Adat Istiadat Negara Department; Mohd Syafien bin Yadol Abdullah, Secretary to the Motorised Vehicle Licensing Board, Land Transport Department; Senior Superintendent of Police, Radin Jofri bin Radin Mas Basiuni, Acting Director of Traffic Control and Investigation Department of the Royal Brunei Police Force, and Ali Termizi bin Haji Ramli, Information Officer from the Information Department.

In the briefing, Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila explained the theme of the 33rd National Day celebration ‘Menjayakan Wawasan Negara’ and the meaning of the 33rd National Day logo.

She then listed the series of events, beginning with the raising of the giant national flag at the open space of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex in Bandar Seri Begawan on February 16, as well as the distribution of small table flags and the Glory Flag Waving programme, which will be held this afternoon simultaneously in all four districts by primary, lower secondary school students and Islamic learning institutions. The main event will be in the Temburong District. Meanwhile, the giant national flag lowering ceremony will be held on February 25 (Saturday) at 2.15pm.

As part of the National Day celebrations, recitation of Surah Yaasiin, Doa Selamat ceremony and mass Maghrib and Isyak prayers which will be held on February 22 at 5.45pm in all mosques, suraus, and prayer halls nationwide with the main event being at the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, in her capacity as the Joint Secretary of the Executive Committee, chairing the press conference yesterday.

Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila presenting the prize to the winner of the 33rd National Day 2017 Logo Competition, Haji Khairul Anuar bin Haji Ibrahim. – PHOTOS: ABDUL HAKIIM YAKOF

The permanent secretary said that the highlight of the celebration will be the general assembly for the 33rd National Day celebration which will be held at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, Bandar Seri Begawan on February 23, and will be graced by of 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 members of the royal family.

She said that among the other events to enliven the festivities are the 33 times Khatam Al-Quran in conjunction with the National Day in all four districts as well as the National Day cycling event which will take place on Februay 26 at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital.

She urged all Muslims to take part in the thanksgiving doa ceremony and congregational prayers as well as attend the celebrations at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien to enliven the celebrations.

At the end of the press conference, the permanent secretary presented the prize to the winner of the 33rd National Day 2017 Logo Competition, Haji Khairul Anuar bin Haji Ibrahim.

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|      Azrol Azmi      |

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, yesterday afternoon presented Letters of Credence to Brunei Darussalam’s newly-appointed ambassadors and received Letters of Credence from the newly-appointed envoys to Brunei Darussalam.

His Majesty first presented Letters of Credence to Haji Sulaini bin Haji Said, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to the Sultanate of Oman, and Kamilah binti Haji Mohd Hanifah, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to Japan.

His Majesty then received Letters of Credence from Air Vice Marshal Mahmud Hussain, High Commissioner of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to Brunei Darussalam; Do Anh Tuan, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Brunei Darussalam; Mehmet Suat Akgun, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Brunei Darussalam; and Marcal Avelino Ximenes, Ambassador of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to Brunei Darussalam.

Following the ceremony, His Majesty then received in audience Brunei Darussalam’s newly-appointed ambassadors.

Haji Sulaini bin Haji Said, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to the Sultanate of Oman previously served as the Consul General of Brunei Darussalam to Jeddah.

Meanwhile, Kamilah binti Haji Mohd Hanifah, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to Japan, formerly held the post of Senior Special Duties Officer at the Department of Economic Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

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, with the newly-appointed envoys Haji Sulaini bin Haji Said, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to the Sultanate of Oman, and Kamilah binti Haji Mohd Hanifah, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to Japan.

His Majesty with Brunei Darussalam’s newly-appointed envoys Haji Sulaini bin Haji Said, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to the Sultanate of Oman; and Kamilah binti Haji Mohd Hanifah, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to Japan.

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, receiving Letters of Credence from Air Vice Marshal Mahmud Hussain (ABOVE), High Commissioner of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to Brunei Darussalam; and Do Anh Tuan (BELOW), Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Brunei Darussalam. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

His Majesty receiving Letters of Credence from Mehmet Suat Akgun (ABOVE) , Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Brunei Darussalam; and Marcal Avelino Ximenes (BELOW), Ambassador of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to Brunei Darussalam.

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DR HAJI Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, the Rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), recently attended the 7th general conference of the Federation of the Universities of the Islamic World (FUIW) held at the headquarters of the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ISESCO) in Rabat, Maghribi.

The organisation consists of 317 universities around the world and among the objectives of the FUIW is to raise the level of scientific research in all fields, exchange views, and meet the needs of developing Islamic civilisation.

FUIW also works to upgrade and expand higher education to meet the needs of the Muslim community and benefit from new developments in science and technology in harmony with Islam.

The two-day conference was also attended by Dr Jamila El Moussalli, Acting Minister of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Executive Training of the Kingdom of Morocco; Professor Dr Suliman Aba Al-Khail, Rector of the Islamic University of Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud in Riyadh – Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as Chairman of the FUIW Executive Council; and Dr Abdul Aziz bin Othman Altwaijri, ISESCO Director General and Secretary General of FUIW as well as 171 representatives of universities around the world.

Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, the Rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali, during the general conference. – UNISSA

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|     Daniel Lim, Wani Roslan & Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

CEREMONIES were held at various locations across the nation yesterday to witness the flag hoisting and distribution of national flags in the run up to the 33rd National Day celebrations.

In the Belait District, the flag was hoisted at the Menara Cendera Kenangan. Present as guests of honour were Belait District Officer Haji Haris bin Othman, together with Mukim Liang Penghulu YB Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin and Kampong Labi I Village Head YB Hanapi bin Mohd Siput representing the Legislative Council (LegCo) members of the district.

The national flag was delivered to the location by 2nd Special Duties Officer Mohammad Abdul Hadi bin Haji Mohammad Syarifuddin, who led a convoy made up of members from the Belait District Explorer Association, Persatuan Kereta Tahan Lasak Brunei (PKTLB), TTK group, XPDC Motors group and Scooter Owners group.

The convoy commenced its journey at the Sungai Liang Fire Station to the event location, taking a specific route in order to inform home and shop owners to hoist the national flag in preparation for the big day.

The flag-bearers were met by the police, military and fire cadets present at Menara Cendera Kenangan.

Belait District Officer Haji Haris bin Othman receiving the flag from the flag-bearer. – PHOTOS: DANIEL LIM, WANI ROSLAN & SYAZWANI HJ ROSLI

After the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat, the flag was presented to the district officer, who then handed it over to the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) for the hoisting.

Flags were later presented to mukim penghulus in the district, while miniature flags were presented to Belia Cinta Tanahair members who will be involved in the national parade at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifiddien.

Meanwhile, a similar event was held at the Brunei-Muara District Office.

Acting Brunei-Muara District Officer Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim during the national flag distribution.

The ceremony commenced with the handing over of the national flag by Acting Brunei-Muara District Officer cum guest of honour Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim to RBPF personnel.

The flag-hoisting was accompanied by the singing of the national anthem, ‘Allah Peliharakan Sultan,’ by a choir from Berakas Secondary School, accompanied by the Cadet Police Band of the Co-Curriculum Education Department.

The event continued with the distribution of national flags to 16 mukim penghulus from the Brunei-Muara District.

A total of 33 Belia Cinta Tanahair members took on the role as flag bearers at the event.

Attendees included LegCo members, penghulus, village heads and Brunei-Muara District Office officials.

PB Director Denis Ho Mun Tai handing over the national flag.

Hoisting of the national flag at the PB Campus.

At Politeknik Brunei (PB), the flag-hoisting ceremony was held at the PB Campus at Jalan Ong Sum Ping.

PB Director cum guest of honour Denis Ho Mun Tai handed over the national flag to PB Army Cadet supervising teacher Nurul Rashidah binti Abdullah.

The event began with the raising of the national flag by 20 PB army cadets, accompanied by the singing of the national anthem.

Attending the ceremony were PB Acting Assistant Director Alias bin Haji Abu Bakar, heads of department and school, senior officials, officers, lecturers, PB students and representatives of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF).

Among the National Day activities planned are a recitation of Surah Yaasiin and Doa Selamat to be held at the PB Campus Surau on February 22.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

A LARGE  national flag was raised in the capital yesterday to mark the beginning of activities for the 33rd National Day celebrations.

The flag was raised in an official ceremony organised by the Executive Committee for the 33rd National Day celebrations at the open area of the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex.

Attending as the guest of honour was Minister of Education Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman.

The proceedings began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa ‘Allah Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam’ by Mudim Haji Matassim bin Haji Metussin, Imam of the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque.

The event then saw Royal Brunei Navy personnel march in for the presentation and reception of the large national flag to the guest of honour.

The hoisting of the national flag.

Minister of Education Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman with other attendees at the event. – SIM YH

Spirit of patriotism fills the air.

The flag raising was accompanied by the national anthem, ‘Allah Peliharakan Sultan’ by a choir group from Sayyidina Abu Bakar Secondary School, comprised of 33 male students and 33 female students, along with the Royal Brunei Police Force band.

The ceremony continued with the performance of two patriotic songs with the waving of miniature flags.

The proceedings came to a conclusion with the presentation of flags and 33rd National Day celebration posters to district officers.

Among the attendees were Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports as the Chairman of the Executive Committee for the 33rd National Day celebrations; permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, district officers, representatives of government departments and the private sector, mukim penghulus and village heads.

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|     Aziz Idris     |

IN CONJUCTION with the upcoming Brunei Gastronomy Week slated for February 22-26, top players from the hospitality industry will present a smorgasbord of great Bruneian culinary hallmarks prepared in the most glorified fashion.

The event, which will also coincide with the upcoming 33rd National Day celebrations, was officially launched by Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) on Wednesday, during which he handed over certificates to participating hoteliers and restaurants. Also present during the launching were ambassadors, high commissioners and other members of the diplomatic corps.

A total of 16 hoteliers and restaurants will be participating during the week-long event, offering patrons specially designed and delicious menus at their respective establishments.

One of the participating restaurants, Charcoal BBQ & Grill Restaurant, created the aromatic Grilled Hoisin Lamb Cutlets with double sweet potatoes puree served with plum and mint sauce and mild chilli paste. According to Chef Liska Tumbelaka, Executive Chef at the restaurant, all ingredients used are commonly found in local dishes, but cooked over the fire with a western technique. She revealed that grilled lamb dishes have always been a popular dish among her customers.

Chef Nandar Sunandar from the The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, who has nearly 10 years of experience in western kitchen, has created the Linguine Pasta with chicken breast and served with pumpkin and lady fingers. The dish is a fusion of Asian ingredients infused with timeless Italian cooking.

Experienced Chef Lai Kim Hin from MyTown Restaurant with a background of Asian cuisines revealed his latest Special Kolo Mee during the launching. He has substituted the Kolo Mee sauce with thick curry sauce and served with smashed (penyet) tiger prawns topped with crispy chicken skins.

Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism in a group photo with the chefs. – PHOTOS: DEAM KASSIM

Chef Liska Tumbelaka, Executive Chef of Charcoal BBQ & Grill Restaurant with her dish.

Chef Lai Kim Hin (LEFT), from MyTown Restaurant and Devesh Dabral (RIGHT), Executive Chef of Radisson Hotel with their special dishes

On February 23, national carrier Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) will be serving local cuisines in regional flights exclusively prepared by Royal Brunei Catering (RBC). Travel agents have also joined the bandwagon to help promote the promotion to tourists and passengers visiting Brunei. Passengers on that day can have the taste of Brunei’s popular Nasi Katok as the main entree served with Acar and Bubur Si Bujang (short haul flights) and Wajid Temburong (long haul flights) for dessert.

Chefs from RBC also prepared an exquisite buffet menu at the Seasons Restaurant at The Centrepoint Gadong available for hi-tea and dinner including Rojak Brunei, Soto Rindu, Umai and Belutak Fried Rice, just to name a few.

A new comer to the hospitality industry is URBN Kitchen with their own interpretation of the popular Nasi Katok dubbed as the ‘Deconstructed Nasi Katok’. The steam rice is rolled and wrapped with cucumber, similar to the Japanese sushi and served in a bed of crispy boneless chicken thigh with a generous amount of sambal (spicy gravy). ‘Bubuk’, one of the main ingredients to make ‘sambal’, are fried and sprinkled on top of the dish, instead of typically cooking it together with the sambal.

The Brunei Hotel, located in the heart of the capital will entice guests with their ala carte version of the Bamboo Chicken and Nasi Katok, two of the well-known dishes in Brunei.

Both Tarindak d’Seni and Tarindak d’Polo will roll out their best buffet menu for lunch, dinner and hi-tea comprising of local delicacies and sweet treats only available during the Brunei Gastronomy Week.

Meanwhile, other participating hoteliers such as the D’Anggrek Service Apartment, The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Orchid Garden Hotel, Radisson Hotel, The Rizqun International Hotel as well as hotels in Kuala Belait, V-Plaza Hotel and Keoja Hotel will also provide an extensive buffet menu highlighting on authentic Bruneian cuisines. Among them include Acar Buah-Buahan, Sup Kembayau, Sup Tahai, Ambuyat, Soto Brunei, Daging Masak Kunyit and not forgetting Brunei’s sweet-treats such as Wajid, Cendol and Selurut. All dishes are presented in more innovative ways to enhance its aesthetic appeal without jeopardising the great taste.

Organisers hope to create more awareness on local cuisines and also promote the restaurants and cafes to better improve the quality of the local dishes.

Among the objectives is to celebrate and create awareness on Bruneian cuisine as well as to encourage more hotels and restaurants to serve Bruneian cuisine in a more sophisticated way.

This will in turn help to elevate the presentation of Bruneian dishes to that of fine dining and it’s a way to provide a unique Bruneian gastronomical experience to visitors within and outside Brunei.

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|     Izah Azahari & Daniel Lim     |

TABLE flag distributions were held yesterday for schools across the country, with the main event taking place at the Belalong Community Hall in the Temburong District.

Present as the guest of honour at the main event was Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Penggawa Laila Bentara Istiadat Diraja Dalam Istana Pengiran Haji Alauddin bin Pengiran Paduka Tuan Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, the Grand Chamberlain.

On hand to welcome the arrival of the Grand Chamberlain was Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, and Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, Permanent Secretaries at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, in their capacity as Co-chairpersons of the working committees for the hoisting and lowering of the giant flag, the distribution of table flags and the flag waving programme.

In the Brunei-Muara District, the distribution ceremony was held at the Pengiran Anak Puteri Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah Religious School, with Dato Paduka Haji Mohamad Juanda bin Haji A Rashid, the Permanent Secretary (Law and Welfare) at the Prime Minister’s Office, as the guest of honour.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Penggawa Laila Bentara Istiadat Diraja Dalam Istana Pengiran Haji Alauddin bin Pengiran Paduka Tuan Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, the Grand Chamberlain, presenting a table flag to one of the students. – DANIEL LIM

In the Belait District, the ceremony was held at St Margaret’s School and attended by Haji Muhamad Lutfi bin Abdullah, the Permanent Secretary (Administration and Finance) at the Ministry of Development, as the guest of honour.

In the Tutong District, the distribution took place at the Keriam Primary School, with Haji Zakaria bin Haji Serudin, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, as the guest of honour.

This year, a total of 10,000 table flags were distributed in all four districts, as part of the celebrations marking Brunei’s 33rd National Day.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

THE United States (US) Navy’s independence-class Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) USS Coronado (LCS-4) is currently in Brunei waters as part of a goodwill visit to enhance ties with its counterpart here.

Members of the media yesterday toured the 210-tonne capacity combat ship, currently docked at the Muara Commercial Port.

The ship is here for the first time, and is in the region as part of its scheduled rotational deployment to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

The Coronado, whose home port is in San Diego, California, USA, is berthed at Singapore’s Changi Naval Base as part of a 16-month deployment schedule since October last year.

The Coronado (LCS-4) is an innovative surface combatant designed to operate in littoral seas and shallow water to counter mines, submarines and fast surface craft threats in coastal regions.

Leading the media on the tour, USS Coronado Commanding Officer Scott Larson explained that having the independence-variant deployed to this region will further expand operations with regional navies, which is an important part to US’ engagement in the Asia-Pacific region.

They are ideal for this region – seeing that they are easily integrated into exercises and operations in shallow and congested sea lanes – and allow for enhanced US presence, subsequently deepening ties with allies and partners.

USS Coronado Commanding Officer Scott Larson with members of the media. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

Photos show USS Coronado Commanding Officer Scott Larson enlightening the media on the USS Coronado and its capabilities.

The independence-variant boasts a large flight deck, allowing for expanded aviation operations including dual helicopter-UAV operations, and has more fuel capacity providing increased operational capabilities.

The ship is outfitted with the Surface Warfare mission package, comprising two rigid hull inflatable boats, two 30mm machine guns, two Northrop-Grumman MQ-8B Fire Scout unmanned aerial vehicles, and, for the first time deployed onboard an LCS to Southeast Asia, a Lockheed-Martin MH-60S Seahawk helicopter.

The Fire Scouts and Seahawks are part of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Two Three (HSC-23), which forms part of the Coronado’s combined crew of 100 sailors.

Prior to the deployment to Singapore, Coronado and her crew took part in the multinational Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise off Hawaii, and was also part of various search and rescue missions around the region’s waters.

Commander Scott said that before leaving the country early next week, they will be conducting coordination exercises with assets from the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN).

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|     Daniel Lim     |

A SIZABLE donation was presented to a number of schools in the Belait District by the Baiduri Bank Group yesterday during a ceremony held at Pusat Insani, Seria in conjunction with the Lunar New Year celebrations.

Present as guest of honour was Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank, who, along with senior management of the bank, greeted customers and business associates who attended the gathering.

The schools that received donations included St Margaret’s School, St Angela School, Chung Ching Middle School, St John’s School and Chung Hua Middle School Kuala Belait. Pierre Imhof presented the donations to the representatives of each school. The donation aimed to provide financial assistance for underprivileged students of the mentioned schools.

In a speech by the CEO of Baiduri Bank, he expressed his gratitude to the attendees for the continuous support for the bank.

Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank, presenting a donation to one of the representatives of the recipient schools. – DANIEL LIM

He further mentioned that the continuous support has allowed Baiduri Bank to grow and expand to help the community despite the current state of the economy and that the group has more plans in the pipeline for both for the country and the bank.

“We will continue to invest in developing our people, to provide them with the necessary knowledge and skills to serve you,” he added.

A similar event was also recently held at The Empire Hotel & Country Club for schools in the Brunei-Muara District.

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|     James Kon     |

CHUNG Hwa Middle School, BSB, yesterday morning showcased its Information Communication Technology (ICT) prowess with flawless streaming of a video conference system from the Chinese New Year (CNY) celebration at the International Convention Centre (ICC) to the school.

Students in the school got to see some events of the CNY celebration and had the privilege of seeing 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 and the royal family live through the video conference system. His Majesty also consented to a brief video conference with the students who were watching from the school.

Prior to the video conferencing, His Majesty also signed an autograph on a LCD Touch scan table.

IT Manager of Chung Hwa Middle School, BSB, William Wang Yong Sheng said, “We felt privileged and honoured to be here today at the ceremony and our students through live video conferencing were able to greet His Majesty and the royal family. The students were in the lecture hall of the school while Their Majesties are here in ICC.”

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 waving to the students during the Live Video Conference during the celebration at ICC yesterday. Also seen in photo is Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam. – AZROL AZMI

Also on display was an interactive wall where sensors can detect movement and change the display on the screen. With the advancement of technologies, William Wang Yong Sheng revealed that the school is hoping to use latest innovation in ICT to teach students.

He also conveyed his Chinese New Year wishes of prosperous health and wealth to His Majesty and the royal family.

The post Students honoured to greet beloved monarch through video conferencing appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

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 yesterday morning joined the Chinese community in celebrating the Chinese Year of the Rooster at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.

Accompanying Their Majesties to attend the event 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; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar; and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Setia Diraja Sahibul Karib Pengiran Anak Haji Idris bin Pengiran Maharaja Lela Pengiran Muda Abdul Kahar.

Upon arrival, Their Majesties and members of the royal family were welcomed by YB Ong Tiong Oh, a member of the Legislative Council (LegCo) and Chairman of the organising committee for the Chinese New Year celebrations 2017; Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin, honorary advisor of the committee as well as members of the committee.

The event saw the royal family joining a group photo session.

This was followed by singing of the national anthem and a pledge of allegiance taken by members of the Chinese community, led by Muhammad Firdaus bin Abdul Rahman @ Dr Tan Kah Hock.

The event also saw presentation of a pesambah to His Majesty.

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, Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, and other members of the royal family upon arriving at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas for the Chinese New Year Celebration 2017. Welcoming the royal guests were YB Ong Tiong Oh, a member of the Legislative Council (LegCo) and Chairman of the organising committee for the Chinese New Year celebrations 2017 and Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin, honorary advisor to the committee.

Their Majesties being greeted by the cultural performers during the Chinese New Year celebration 2017 at ICC 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 and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam and other members of the royal family in a group photo at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.

Their Majesties and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office being greeted.

His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade at the event.

Recital of oath by members of the Chinese community to start off the celebration. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

The celebration was enlivened by an hour-long performance themed ‘Innovative Youth as the Prime Mover of National Vision’ which was carried out by students of Chung Hwa Middle School, Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB).

The performance that delighted Their Majesties and the royal family included Chinese traditional dances, poetry recitals, Bermukun – a traditional form of entertainment which is still preserved, a Wushu showcase in Kungfu Panda costumes, among others.

“It’s an extraordinary Chinese New Year celebration which was graced by the presence of Their Majesties and the members of the royal family. It’s a fantastic celebration and everything went smoothly without a glitch,” said YB Ong Tiong Oh.

He also conveyed his gratitude to the students, principal and teachers of Chung Hwa Middle School, BSB, as well as members of the organising committee in helping to make the celebration a big success.

Before concluding the ceremony, Their Majesties and the royal family viewed an exhibition of video conferencing system set up by students of Chung Hwa Middle School, BSB.

Also attended the celebration were Cabinet Ministers, prominent figures in the government and Chinese community and foreign dignitaries.

The post Their Majesties, royal family grace CNY gala appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|    Khairil Hassan    |

THE Board of Directors and Principal of Jerudong International School (JIS) held a handover ceremony of the new sports complex designed by local company Ecobumi.

The guest of honour was Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh, Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education.

Barnaby Sandow, Principal of JIS, in his speech said, “The new sports complex provides JIS students with further opportunities to be the best that they can be. We look forward to welcoming the Bruneian community to our community sports events in the future, too.”

The key features of the new sports complex are two large indoor multi-purpose courts, an indoor eight-lane track, a 25-metre swimming pool, a fitness suite and two classrooms.

The indoor multi-purpose courts will host sports such as basketball, netball, volleyball, futsal and other court games.

JIS Director of Sports, Chris McGeorge, said, “Students have missed at least 50 hours of PE time in the past academic year due to poor weather conditions such as lightning. Now with our new indoor facilities, we are able to run PE classes smoothly.”

Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh, Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education, during the ceremony.

The 25-metre swimming pool.

(ABOVE & BELOW) Parts of the indoor multipurpose courts

The post New JIS sports complex offers ‘further opportunities’ appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Azlan Othman      |

THE Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through the Ministry of Haj and Umrah held an annual Haj management meeting for Brunei Darussalam on Thursday at the Ministry of Haj and Umrah in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Leading the Brunei delegation was Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Religious Affairs, while the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was led by Dr Mohammed Salih bin Tahir Bentin, Minister of Haj and Umrah of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Also present were Dato Seri Setia Haji Yusoff bin Haji Ismail, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to to the Kingdom Saudi Arabia; Pengiran Haji Irman bin Pengiran Haji Othman, Acting Consul-General of Brunei Darussalam in Jeddah; Awang Haji Abdullah bin Haji Mohamad, Acting Managing Director for Haj and Haji Abdul Nasir bin Haji Bolhassan, a representative of Royal Brunei Airlines (RB).

The Minister of Haj and Umrah of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in his speech praised and expressed appreciation to the pilgrims of Brunei Darussalam.

The Bruneian delegates during the annual Haj management meeting. – MINISTRY OF RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS

At the meeting, the Minister of Haj and Umrah explained the efforts being undertaken by the Ministry of Haj and Umrah and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in improving accommodation, transport, and aviation to name few for the 1438 Hijrah Haj season.

The Minister of Religious Affairs, in his speech expressed his appreciation and heartiest congratulations to the Government of Saudi Arabia and the Ministry of Haj and Umrah on the excellent management and good services provided to pilgrims during the Haj season of 1437 Hijrah.

The post Brunei delegation attends Haj management meeting appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Abdul Hakiim Yakof      |

THE Japanese Language and Cultural Week of 2017 was officially launched last night at the Times Square Shopping Centre in Berakas.

Officiating at the launching ceremony were Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, and his spouse.

The Japanese Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, Noriko Iki, said in her welcoming remarks that the three-day event would be featuring performances from a traditional Japanese drum ensemble, contemporary Japanese painting, cooking demonstrations, Kendo performances, quiz shows and kite-making workshops.

“Regarding tourism and culture, we have a delegation from Miyazaki prefecture…that is attending this event to introduce some of the fruit that they produce, and will be providing free samplings of fresh fruit from Miyazaki prefecture,” she said.

Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports during the launching ceremony. – ABDUL HAKIIM YAKOF

The General Manager of Times Square, Amal Majidah said, “Times Square is proud to announce that this year marks the fifth time that we are co-hosting such an event with the Embassy of Japan.

“Not only are we able to showcase Japanese culture here, we have also strengthened our ties with our Japanese counterparts in the country, giving both sides a better understanding of each other.”

The post Japanese Language and Cultural Week 2017 launched appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Daniel Lim      |

GASTRONOMY Week has arrived in Belait District.

Over 15 restaurants from around Brunei are taking part in the Gastronomy Week, in a bid to showcase their abilities, whilst at the same time, improve and promote the Bruneian cuisine to the community and the world.

Two of the restaurants involved in Gastronomy Week that can be found in the Belait District are V-Plaza Hotel and Keoja Hotel.

A ceremony to mark the lauching of Gastronomy Week in Belait yesterday at Keoja Hotel was graced by Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong. Also present was Belait District Officer Haji Haris bin Othman as well as Legislative Council (LegCo) members from Belait, YB Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin, Penghulu of Mukim Liang, and YB Hanapi bin Md Siput, the Village Head of Kampong Labi I.

The Head Chef of V-Plaza Hotel, Suhaimi Abdul Kadir, told the Bulletin, “This event allows us to showcase our creativity in presenting Bruneian cuisine.”

The Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, in a group photo with heads chefs, staff members and other participants. – HAJAH SAEMAH KEPLI

The Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism assisting one of the chefs to prepare Bamboo Chicken. – PHOTOS: DANIEL LIM

Head chefs presenting some of their featured food.

The chef has 23 years of experience in the culinary world and having stayed in Brunei for five years, he sees a huge potential to promote Bruneian cuisine for the world to enjoy.

The food presented at the event will also be part of a featured menu from February 22 to 26 at restaurants in the Keoja Hotel and V-Plaza Hotel as an activity of Brunei’s National Day celebration.

At yesterday’s event, certificates of participation were also presented to the restaurants involved and received by their head chefs. The guest of honour and attendees then sampled some of the food. The minister expressed his hope that such events would not only help promote local cuisine and raise it to a higher standard, but also encourage the youth to take an interest in the culinary field.

The post Gastronomy Week kicks off in Belait District appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Azlan Othman      |

THE Sultanate’s stable political environment, peaceful climate and a well-educated, multi-lingual population are the main driving factors in luring foreign investors, highlighted Lorne Lei, the General Manager of Amann Shipping Sdn Bhd, in a recent interview with the Weekend Bulletin.

“Brunei has the potential to become the regional hub within the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines, East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) region,” he said.

“In order to achieve that, we need to develop our trans-shipment. Amann Shipping can open the sub-feeder lines within this region, from Brunei to the Philippines, or to East Malaysia or to Indonesia. It will increase the cargo volume transit at Muara Port.

“Muara Port needs to be further developed into a regional hub. We would love to see better rates in shipping prices, such as storage fees and other tariffs. Forwarders also need to reduce handling charges, so that total exports and imports can be reduced. In this market, we need to support each other in order to survive this business.”

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 purpose of establishing Amann, which is based at the Brunei Malay Teachers Association (PGGMB) building in the capital, is to lower the logistics costs, both on exports and imports,” Lei explained.

“The logistics costs must be lowered to facilitate foreign direct investments (FDIs) to the country, and as part of the country’s economic diversification efforts.

The General Manager of Amann Shipping Sdn Bhd, Lorne Lei. – AZLAN OTHMAN

“It is also for the future of our national food security, as goods in Brunei are mostly imported. We must have our shipping lines for our own food importation,” he added.

“Asean is the business centre of the world, and a very important place. We are the feeder lines within Southeast Asia, which offers a good opportunity, as Amann Shipping has smaller vessels and is able to access smaller ports within the region.

“We are thinking of making shipping lines from China to Muara Port to transport food, cargo and household items, and then transporting them to Indonesia, the Philippines and so on.”

Lei also noted that Amann Shipping has three operation entities: Amann Shipping Container Lines, which has a head office in Brunei; Amann Shipping in Hong Kong, which is doing dry bulk; and Amann Shipping Management, which focuses on technical support.

“Amann Shipping is not only focusing on containers, but also on dry bulk,” he said.

“We are the only one that owns five vessels – three for dry bulk and two container vessels, namely Padian 1 and Padian 2. We will develop our fleet in the future, as the shipping market is a bit crowded these days.”

When asked about future challenges or setbacks, Lei answered, “The cargo volume at Muara Port is not as large as in other countries – to operate from China to Brunei, for instance.

“What’s more, in order to berth a vessel at an anchorage, you have to pay for daily costs, such as spare parts, bunkers, maintenance, payments for the crew, which are fixed costs.

“Another challenge is competition from the Sabah and Sarawak ports, judging by their bigger population and consumption compared to Brunei.

“They have more cargo volumes. We need to work with port operators like Guangxi Beibu Gulf International Port Group Co Ltd, for instance, which has three ports in Guangxi, Kuantan and Muara.

“We can link with Guangxi and Kuantan. Guangxi Beibu has local resources with big forwarders, exporters and manufacturers, which can encourage them to export their products to Brunei.

When asked to comment on the current global shipping industry as a whole, Lei said that the shipping market is still in the recovery status.

“It’s like steel in the sea that needs to rebalance.

“The problem is still demand and supply, with the supply at present being more than the demand. Luckily, oil prices are low, but operational costs such as crew are now higher.”

The post Brunei liner company seeks to lower logistics costs to lure FDIs appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Azaraimy HH      |

THE Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (Yayasan) through its Committee of Social Care Project for the Elderly and Needy Families (PAWEK) yesterday presented a charity donation comprised of basic life and food necessities to Siti Ramat binti Matdon at her residence at Kampong Penabai.

Handing over the contribution was the guest of honour, Managing Director of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Haji Brahim bin Haji Ismail.

Siti Ramat is a 77-year-old widow that relies only on the $250 old-age allowance she received every month from the Community Development Department (JAPEM), Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. She is currently cared by her unemployed son (51 years old) and his wife.

To lessen the burden of Siti Ramat, PAWEK also handed over several equipment, including a wheelchair and mattress. The total donation yesterday was $5,000.

Managing Director of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Haji Brahim bin Haji Ismail handing over the donation to the son of Siti Ramat.

Siti Ramat binti Matdon, 77, relies only on the $250 old-age allowance received every month from JAPEM. – PHOTOS: AZARAIMY HH

Yayasan will also be carrying out renovations on some parts of Siti Ramat’s house in the near future, due to the house’s dilapidated condition.

Also present were other senior level officers from Yayasan as well as staffs.

The post Yayasan helps out woman in need appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

A 67-year-old local senior citizen is receiving treatment at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital Intensive Care Unit after suffering multiple burns when her Kampong Salambigar home was destroyed in an early morning blaze yesterday.

Another woman sustained light injuries, and received outpatient treatment.

Eleven people lost their home in the fire, which is believed to have been triggered by a florescent lamp that had constantly been left on.

In light of this, the Fire and Rescue Department is urging the public to have in place fire safety precautions that include having a plan of action in the event of fire emergencies, to monitor the use of electrical appliances, as well as having a fire extinguisher, fire blanket or fire detector available at home.

According to the Fire and Rescue Department, a distress call was received at 1.21am, following which three fire engines from the Lambak Kanan Fire Station and Berakas Fire Station were deployed to the scene.

Twelve firefighters led by DSO Haji Md Noor were able to douse the fire within 25 minutes, with damages to the two-storey house estimated to be at $200,000.

Haji Gharif bin Datu Seri Laila Haji Samat, the Advisor to KOTIBA’s Board of Directors, handing over the donation. – KOTIBA

Looking to ease their suffering, Koperasi Stesyen Minyak Persatuan TIBA (KOTIBA) and the TIBA Association of Kampong Salambigar yesterday presented donations to the victims after learning of their plight.

Haji Gharif bin Datu Seri Laila Haji Samat, the Advisor to KOTIBA’s Board of Directors, presented the donations to the grandson of one of the victims. Also present were Haji Rosdi Amin bin Dato Paduka Haji Yaakub, Chairman of KOTIBA Board of Directors, and other board members.

KOTIBA and TIBA Association are among the active institutions in Kampong Salambigar, Kampong Tanah Jambu and Kampong Sungai Hanching that looks out for the welfare of residents in the area.

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