|      Lyna Mohamad & Rokiah Mahmud      |

FLAG-HOISTING ceremonies are being held across the country as the nation gears up for the 33^rd National Day celebrations.

For the RPN Kampong Panchor Mengkubau Village Consultative Council, the national flag was raised in an empty space close to the housing area, with Legislative Council (LegCo) member YB Pengiran Haji Mohamed bin Pengiran Haji Osman @Othman as guest of honour.

YB Pengiran Haji Mohamed, who is also the Village Head of Kampong Masjid Lama, Pekan Muara, Sabun and Pelumpong, pointed out in his remarks that the ceremony will help instil the patriotic spirit among residents, particularly youths who are assets to the nation.

He also expressed hopes the council would organise such events annually to enliven nationhood activities, and called on residents to share the responsibility of ensuring the safety and cleanliness of the village and its surroundings.

Following his speech, the guest of honour presented the national flag to Scout members for hoisting, before cutting the 33^rd National Day ‘pulut kuning’ (yellow rice).

LegCo member YB Pengiran Haji Mohamed bin Pengiran Haji Osman @ Othman in his capacity as Village Head of Kampong Masjid Lama, Pekan Muara, Sabun and Pelumpong, handing over the national flag to a Scout member. – PHOTOS: LYNA MOHAMMAD & ROKIAH MAHMUD

Scout members hoisting the national flag.

The guest of honour cutting the ‘pulut kuning’.

LegCo member YB Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Rahim and Mukim Sengkurong Penghulu Haji Musa bin Haji Tahir during the national flag hand over.

A similar event was held in the Brunei-Muara District Zone 5, with LegCo member YB Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Rahim as the guest of honour.

Also in attendance were LegCo members YB Pehin Datu Imam Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Hamid bin Bakal and YB Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Arshad @ Haji Sabli.

This year, Mukim Sengkurong was entrusted to carry out the ceremony in collaboration with Kampong Sengkurong ‘B’ Village Consultative Council and Sengkurong Volunteers (SUMUS) members, as it looks to nurture among residents respect, loyalty and love for the nation.

The day began with the marching in of flag-bearers led by Mukim Sengkurong Penghulu Haji Musa bin Haji Tahir, who is also the Acting Village Head for Kampong Sengkurong ‘B.’

The penghulu presented the national flag to the guest of honour, who then handed it over to a Prisons Department officer for hoisting, as students of Sayyidina Husain Secondary School belted out the national anthem.

The flag-bearers comprised Serunai and Tambur teams from the Prisons Department as well as members of MPM and MPK Zone 5, SUMUS and the Neighbourhood Watch under Mukim Sengkurong.

The ceremony concluded with the guest of honour presenting miniature flags to the 4WD and motorcycle group members who were led by SUMUS.

The post National flag raised as big day approaches appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

HIS Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman consented to attend the DPMM Football Club Night 2017 which was hosted by DPMM Football Club at Dewan Assarraa, Bandar Seri Begawan.

Their Royal Highnesses were welcomed by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Rahim bin Pengiran Indera Mahkota Pengiran Anak (Dr) Kemaluddin Al-Haj, the Vice Chairman of DPMM FC, and the club’s Executive Committee members.

Also present were Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah binti Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah.

The event was held to recognise the club’s achievements and as an expression of appreciation to the management, players and relevant parties for their continuous support of the club and all its endeavours.

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; Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah; and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah binti Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah in a group photo at the DPMM Football Club Night 2017. – INFOFOTO

His Royal Highness as founder and chairman of DPMM FC has led the club in gaining a strong footing in this great sport while ensuring the club’s successful participation in previous Malaysian and Singapore Leagues.

In 2015, the Club saw its best achievements by finishing champions in the Singapore League. The club will continue its presence in the upcoming Singapore League season beginning March this year.

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|      Izah Azahari      |

HIS Royal Highness Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and General of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman consented to attend a high-tea reception hosted by the RBAF to celebrate His Royal Highness the Crown Prince’s 43^rd birthday at the Bolkiah Garrison Officers’ Mess.

Accompanying Their Royal Highnesses were His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah.

Upon arrival, Their Royal Highnesses were welcomed by the Deputy Minister of Defence, First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit and spouse, and Commander of the RBAF, Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah and spouse.

During the reception, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince was introduced to RBAF officers and personnel including the gold medal winners in the pistol men individual and team event at the 26^th Asean Armies Rifles Meets (AARM) Shooting Competition held in the Philippines last year; RBAF officers who graduated from staff courses abroad; newly-commissioned officers from the 15^th intake of the RBAF Officer Cadet School who received awards of excellence; and scholars of the Supreme Commander of the RBAF Scholarship and the RBAF Scholarship.

His Royal Highness Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and General of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) cutting the birthday cake during a high-tea reception hosted by the RBAF to celebrate His Royal Highness the Crown Prince’s 43rd birthday at the Bolkiah Garrison Officers’ Mess. Also seen in the photo is Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman. – AZROL AZMI

His Royal Highness Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and General of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF)); Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah in a group photo.

His Royal Highness the Crown Prince was then presented with a birthday cake and a pesambah by the Commander of the RBAF.

His Royal Highness the Crown Prince also received a photo book album entitled Sejambak Ristaan 10 – a collection of photographs of his visits to the Ministry of Defence and RBAF, and then signed the Royal Parchment.

Before leaving the Officers’ Mess, Their Royal Highnesses consented to receive a Junjung Ziarah from members of the defence executive committee, service commanders, directors, commandants and senior officers.

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|     James Kon     |

STANDARD Chartered Bank Brunei launched its latest products, the Standard Chartered Visa Platinum and Gold debit cards, at The Empire Hotel & Country Club yesterday.

The guest of honour who officiated at the launching ceremony was Yusof bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Managing Director of Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD), along with Sebastian Arcuri, Regional Head of Retail Banking, Standard Chartered Bank (SCB).

Anirvan G Dastidar, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Brunei, in his welcoming remark reiterated the commitment of Standard Chartered Bank in serving the Brunei market.

“This is the first of many things to come from Standard Chartered Bank Brunei. We have a history in the country where we have been the first in launching many banking products. Recently, SCB launched its investment subsidiary, Standard Chartered Securities (B) Sdn Bhd, to boost wealth management composition.

“We are committed to stay here for good and in the next few months, Standard Chartered Bank will continue to launch new products. We are very serious about Brunei market and we want to improve ourselves to provide the best services to our clients,” the CEO said.

From L-R: Anirvan G Dastidar, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Brunei; Yusof bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Managing Director of Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam; and Sebastian Arcuri, Regional Head of Retail Banking of Standard Chartered Bank in a group photo

Yusof bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Managing Director of AMBD and Sebastian Arcuri, Regional Head of Retail Banking of SCB launching the Standard Chartered Visa Debit Platinum and Gold cards. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Guests enjoying a virtual reality experience of being at the Liverpool FC home ground, Anfield

Anirvan G Dastidar, CEO of SCB Brunei; Yusof bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Managing Director of AMBD; and Sebastian Arcuri, Regional Head of Retail Banking of SCB with invited guests

Among those who attended yesterday’s event

Meanwhile, Sebastian Arcuri highlighted, “Standard Chartered Bank Brunei is an integral part of the group’s Asean footprint. We are the only international bank to have a presence in all 10 Asean member countries. We are committed to contributing positively towards the economic and social development of Brunei, offering comprehensive financial solutions for our customers, giving back to the community and developing talent within the workforce. We want to grow with Brunei and remain committed to be here for good.”

The Standard Chartered Visa debit card is offered in the Gold and Platinum tiers where Platinum tier is issued exclusively for Standard Chartered’s Priority Banking customers.

The newly-launched debit cards feature Visa’s payWave cash transaction technology enabling fast and convenient payment methods over the counters.

The debit cards are also EMV chip-compliant for added protection against fraudulent transactions.

Standard Chartered’s Visa Debit Platinum customers can enjoy further protection with complimentary travel accident insurance of up to B$500,000 when they use their debit card to purchase travel packages or air tickets.

Ooi Huey Tyng, Visa’s Country Manager for Singapore and Brunei, said, “In Brunei, we have seen month-on-month double digit growth for Visa payWave transaction as of January 2017. We will continue to work closely with our bank issuers and partners to create relevant products and services that benefit our card holders in Brunei and push the country towards becoming a cashless society.”

Unique to Standard Chartered Visa debit cards, cardholders can enjoy exciting offers and privileges at over 3,000 outlets across the bank’s markets in Asean and South Asia, including Brunei.

The holders of Standard Chartered’s new Visa cards can enjoy savings with the Standard Chartered Cashback programme where Platinum debit card can enjoy 0.8 per cent cashback on all transactions for a whole year starting from February 1, 2017 to February 28, 2018. Gold debit card is entitled to 0.2 per cent cashback during the same period.

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|     Izah Azahari     |

THE Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports yesterday invited members of the media to a press conference yesterday at the Citra Budaya Hall of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Building for the upcoming National Day Cycling Spirit 2017 (Kayuhan Semangat Hari Kebangsaan 2017) in conjunction to the 33rd National Day celebration of Brunei Darussalam, which will be held on February 26, 2017 in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Present at the event was Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, in his capacity as the Chairman of the National Day Cycling Spirit 2017.

Also present at the press conference were Haji Zafri bin Haji Mohamed, Acting Director of Youth and Sports; Haji Zul Azmi bin Haji Abdul Manan, a Medic representative; DSP Mohd Fathdillah bin Haji Hamid, a representative from the Department of Traffic Control and Investigation (JSKLL) of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF); and Omarali bin Haji Ibrahim, a representative of the Brunei Darussalam Cycling Federation.

During the press conference, Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy explained that the event is co-organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Health as well as the involvement of various other ministries and the Brunei Darussalam Cycling Federation.

The event, said the permanent secretary, is held as an added value to the weekly Bandarku Ceria and is aimed at fostering a culture of sports and strengthening the solidarity through society’s involvement as a whole that will lead to a healthier nation.

Present at the event was Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, in his capacity as the Chairman of the National Day Cycling Spirit 2017. – IZAH AZAHARI

Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy also informed that 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 also consented to participate in the National Day Cycling Spirit 2017 which will begin and end at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, and will be held at 7am around the Bandar Seri Begawan area running 16 kilometres and will pass a number of main roads comprising Jalan Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, Jalan Haji Basir, Jalan Kumbang Pasang, Jalan Perdana Menteri, the roundabout at Jalan Utama Berakas/Muara, Jalan Tasek, and Jalan Kianggeh.

With free participation, the ministry is inviting the public to join in to enliven the cycling event, but are also advised to come early for a smoother cycling event.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports will continually carry out efforts in sports projects for the society, where the ministry will look into the response of the public to further foster a healthy lifestyle through cycling culture activity along with bringing the cycling culture to life in the country in efforts to further enliven the capital on the weekends as well.

Additionally, the chairman also mentioned that the committee members will begin arriving at 6am and participants are asked to arrive around 6.15am as His Majesty is scheduled to arrive by 7.30am.

For participants partaking in the 33km, the flag off time will be at 7.10am.

To further brighten the event, a performance from the Brunei Classics and Fixie bikes.

Meanwhile, DSP Mohd Fathdillah informed of the road closures around the Bandar Seri Begawan area during the event which will behin at 6am starting from the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, the Jalan Haji Basir Traffic Light area and along the Taman Jubli Traffic Light road; the Jalan Kumbang Pasang Traffic Light area near Sekolah Tinggi Perempuan Raja Isteri until the road entrance of St Georges School; the Jalan Ong Sum Ping Traffic Light junction; the Jalan Menteri Besar towards the roundabout; Jalan Airport Lama towards the Jalan Menteri Besar; Jalan Pertahanan Traffic Light area; Jalan Residency/Jalan Mc Arthur Traffic Light area; and the Jalan Stadium and Jalan Persidangan junction.

DSP Mohd Fathdillah also mentioned the car park areas that should be emptied which comprise of Jalan Tasek, Jalan Kianggeh, Jalan Mc Arthur, along Jalan Sultan Omar Ali Saiffuddien, along Jalan Stoney, along Jalan Haji Basir, along Jalan Kumbang Pasang, along Jalan Stadium, along Jalan Pasir Berakas, and along Jalan Delima, as the roads will be used during the event where the police will move any cars that are found to still be parked in those areas the night before the event.

Participants and the public are advised to park at the Taman Jubilee, Stadium Hassanal Bolkiah, Jalan Residency, Jalan Menteri Besar and the Kianggeh roads.

Alternative roads that can be used during the event to go through Bandar Seri Begawan are the Hassanal Bolkiah Highway, Jalan Tutong towards Jalan Lama Muara, Jalan Kumbang Pasang towards Jalan Menteri Besar / Jalan Sungai Akar, and Jalan Gadong.

For the participation of the event, it is stated that the participants are required to wear helmets and proper attire.

Meanwhile, Awang Omarali mentioned that children are allowed to participate in the event, but parents and guardians are advised to keep a close eye on them.

The post Abuzz over National Day Cycling Spirit 2017 appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Azlan Othman     |

MINISTER of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong yesterday pointed out that his ministry’s plans and initiatives are in line with the Brunei Vision 2035 towards upgrading the standard of living of the people.

Speaking at a dialogue with Legislative Council (LegCo) members at the Brunei-Muara District Office yesterday, he explained that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) have been mandated to lead the institutional development strategy. The three key performance indicators implemented by MoHA are to migrate from low to high income level, customers’ satisfaction level in the private sector, and community unity.

“In this context, several high-impact strategies and initiatives have been planned based on the ‘Whole of Nation’ approach, whereby the strategy is shouldered not only by the ministry, but also stakeholders in the government and private sectors,” he said.

The evaluation process of the strategic plan also involves a legal framework covering the execution of work scope and responsibilities for the ministry, which currently covers over 60 Acts and Orders.

Taking into account the current changes, these Acts and Orders are continuously being reviewed and amended, with additional legal provisions in line with current trends. Additionally, several new regulations have been identified and are still in the making.

Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong delivering his speech. – AZLAN OTHMAN

In implementing the ministry’s scope of work, various core challenges must be tackled, which include ensuring the procedure of public service delivery is relevant with current trends and are customer-friendly, efficient and meet the service in accordance with the Client’s Charter.

For instance, in establishing a business-friendly climate in Brunei, the ministry has made changes and continues to work with government agencies (ever since 2015) to ensure the business climate is conducive and encouraging.

Following early initiatives in facilitating the process to start a business, this step is supported by reformation of the foreign workers’ licence issuance process by the Labour Department. The new process involves combining foreign workers quota and supporting work permit. With this, both applications can be worked on promptly, efficiently and properly.

The minister also pointed out that the MoHA responsibilities are partly shouldered by the Village Head Institution as grassroot leaders.

“We appreciate the role of village heads in upholding peace and stability, and in enhancing socio-economic activities through the ‘One Village, One Product’ programme. We believe there are areas that need to be enhanced, especially in penetrating the local and regional markets, opening up more job opportunities and elevating the economic status,” he said.

It is hoped that cooperation with several agencies and higher institutions will assist in developing this sector.

The minister said, with 4,268 village consultative council members, we should be able to implement programmes and initiatives in many areas to upgrade the economy and to establish an integrated society. In this context, we hope for active youth involvement and for the younger generation to drive activities and programmes in mukims and villages to ensure they are more relevant, competitive and connected.

The programme yesterday included a briefing by Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof on the main role, vision, mission and organisational structure towards ensuring the success of the Brunei Vision 2035.

The dialogue was also a platform to share insights, desires and aspirations in the interest of the country and its people.

This meeting reflects the understanding, consultation and cooperation between the government and the citizens of this country, and between MoHA, district offices and LegCo members.

The annual LegCo session convenes on March 4.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

YANG Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah yesterday set a new personal best in the men’s 100m backstroke after clocking a time of 1:56.51 during the 2nd Brunei Open and Masters Swimming Championships at the International School Brunei Swimming Pool.

Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim of ISB Hammerheads trimmed his old mark of 1:57.05 in the same discipline.

Yang Teramat Mulia also competed in the men’s 100m freestyle where he recorded a time of 1:31.68 and posted a time of 52.80s in the 50m butterfly.

Brunei national junior swimmer Nur Haziq Samil was among the biggest winners in the event after collecting first place finishes in the 400m freestyle and 200m Individual Medley (IM).

The Brunei Speed Swimming Club swimmer could not meet his personal best races but were comfortable winners with a time of 2:23.43 in the IM and 4:27.64 in the freestyle.

Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah yesterday set a new personal best in the men’s 100m backstroke after clocking a time of 1:56.51. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

Noah Kruger of ISB Hammerheads won one of the biggest events contested after registering a time of 36.80s in the 50m breaststroke comfortably smashing his old mark of 40.77s.

Emerging talent Fatin Farahnir Mohd Faizal of Kelab Rekreasi Petrolium collected a treble of victories with her exploits in the women’s 50m breaststroke the highlight of all smashing her old time of 43.35s with a revised time of 42.01s.

The 15-year old also cruised to victory in the 400m freestyle with a time of 5:20.86 surpassing her old time of 5:25.30 before getting the better of Shreya Pradhan in the 200m butterfly with a time of 3:11.31, an improvement to her previous score of 3:17.25.

The two-day swimming competition, organised by the Brunei Amateur Swimming Association (BASA), concludes today.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

ALL lodging premises in the country are required to register with the Tourism Development Department in line with provisions stipulated in the Tourism Order 2016 that came into force in October last year.

Some 83 representatives of lodging premises identified by the Tourism Development Department comprising hotels, budget hotels, motels, resorts, home stay, rest houses, guest houses, lodging houses, short term rent apartments and other premises offering lodging services to tourists, attended a briefing hosted at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) Building yesterday.

Salinah binti Haji Mohd Salleh, Acting Director of Tourism Development Department, in her opening remarks said the briefing was in line with Section 5 (Part V) of the Tourism Order 2016 that requires all lodging premises to be registered with the department and that the briefing will help inform the importance of the registration.

Malati binti Haji Abdul Ghani, Senior Officer (Regulatory and Standards), Tourism Development Department, chairs the briefing at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Building yesterday. – PHOTOS: HAKIM HAYAT

Salinah binti Haji Mohd Salleh, Acting Director of Tourism Development Department (3rd right) at the briefing

The briefing yesterday, chaired by Malati binti Haji Abdul Ghani, Senior Officer (Regulatory and Standards), Tourism Development Department, also shed light on the workflow of registration, classification of tourism premises and the type of statistical information required from premises.

Under the new order, the premises are required to furnish statistical information to the department and failure to do so will result in a fine.

The department urged lodging premises that have not yet registered to submit their applications to the Business Facilitation Centre in the Ground Floor of the MPRT Building in Jalan Menteri Besar. Applications can be made every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, from 8.30am to 11.30am.

The Tourism Order 2016 covers four main areas – the Brunei Tourism Board, Licensing of Travel Agents, Registration of Tourist Accommodation Premises and Licensing of Tourist Guides.

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

A GROUP comprising some 15 youths from Belia Cinta Tanah Air programme (PBCTA) participants along with officers and staff from the Youth and Sports Department organised a community work project held in Tutong District recently.

The community work took place at the Tutong District Volunteers Group (SUKA) headquarters in Sungai Basong.

The group was given a briefing on SUKA’s Contribute and Assist programme delivered by the Head of SUKA Secretariat, Muhammad Amir bin Haji Umarali in his capacity as Chief Programme Manager.

Among the contents of his briefing included the objectives of the programme, which aimed to created and provide platforms for the community to contribute and seek much-needed help as well as to support and nurture a culture of austerity and recycling in the community and to educate people to be appreciative and attentive of the distress of others.

During the activity, the group was invited to fold, wrap and pack donated articles of clothing before delivering it to recipients under the Contribute and Assist programme.

Youths from Belia Cinta Tanah Air programme participating in the community work. – ROKIAH MAHMUD

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|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

YAYASAN Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (Yayasan), in its capacity as the Secretariat of the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Fund for Orphans (DANA), held a thanksgiving ceremony in conjunction with the 43rd birthday of 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.

Present at the ceremony was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, the Chairman of the Yayasan Committee of Governors.

The ceremony began with the congregational Maghrib prayer led by Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Setia Raja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Haji Awang Suhaili bin Haji Mohiddin, Judge at the Syariah Appeal Court.

This was followed by the recitation of Surah Yaasiin, Tahlil, and Doa Selamat.

The ceremony concluded with the congregational Isyak prayer.

Also present were Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education as the Chairman of the Yayasan Board of Directors and the Chairman of the DANA Board of Trustees; Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports as the Deputy Chairman I of the Yayasan Board of Directors; Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, Minister of Health as the Deputy Chairman II of the Yayasan Board of Directors; Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance II as the Deputy Chairman II of the DANA Board of Trustees; members of the Yayasan Board of Directors, members of the DANA Board of Trustees, permanent contributors of DANA, officers and staff of Yayasan and teachers of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah School.

Photos above show His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, the Chairman of the Yayasan Committee of Governors, during the event. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

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|     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 Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF), yesterday morning officially launched the new RBPF Headquarters located at the Jalan Tungku Link area.

On hand to witness the auspicious occasion were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and Deputy Inspector General of the RBPF; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Honorary Commissioner of Police; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Commandant of the Women Police; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Nor’ain, Deputy Commandant of the Women Police.

Upon arrival, they were greeted by Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, the Commissioner of Police and senior police officials.

Following the launch, His Majesty signed a plaque in conjunction with the unveiling of the new building and also consented to a pesambah from the personnel and staff of the RBPF.

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 Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF); His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and Deputy Inspector General of the RBPF; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Honorary Commissioner of Police; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and the Commandant of the Women Police; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Nor’ain, the Deputy Commandant of the Women Police, in a group photo during the launching of the new RBPF Headquarters

His Majesty, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah and His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah performing prayers

His Majesty and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah touring the new building

His Majesty and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah taking a closer look at some of the items on display. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

His Majesty and other members of the royal family also took a closer look at the environment-friendly building that was completed in August 2014.

His Majesty first visited the second floor of the new headquarters which houses the office of the Director of General Administration and Finance Department, the Training Division as well as the Personnel and Career Planning Division.

His Majesty then moved on to the fourth floor where the office of the Commissioner of Police and Deputy Commissioner of Police are located.

Also attending the ceremony were Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamdan bin Haji Abu Bakar, the Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Juanda bin Haji Abdul Rashid, Permanent Secretary (Law and Welfare) at the Prime Minister’s Office; Mohamed Riza bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohamed Yunos, Permanent Secretary (Media and Cabinet) at the Prime Minister’s Office, and other officials.

The design concept of the RBPF Headquarters new building reflects the identity of the Police Force, displaying its order and strength through the square geometry.

The design also incorporate environ-mental-friendly elements like the use of solar shading, a core design that maximises usable floor space and narrow floor plates to allow more day lighting and ventilation.

The post His Majesty launches new RBPF Headquarters appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

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 Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) yesterday attended the 96th Police Day Parade at the Parade Square, RBPF Headquarters.

The parade was held in conjunction with the 96th anniversary of RBPF’s establishment.

Also attending the parade were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Deputy Inspector General of the RBPF; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Honorary Commissioner of Police; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Commandant of the Women Police; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Nor’ain, Deputy Commandant of the Women Police.

The 96th Police Day carried the theme ‘Solidarity and Harmony Strengthen Peace’.

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 Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF)

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Deputy Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force

His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Honorary Commissioner of Police. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Commandant of the Women Police

Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Nor’ain, Deputy Commandant of the Women Police

The 96th Police Day carried the theme ‘Solidarity and Harmony Strengthen Peace’

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamdan bin Haji Abu Bakar, the Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office

Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, the Commissioner of Police

Photos above and below show an overview of the 96th Police Day Parade at the Parade Square, Royal Brunei Police Force Headquarters

Upon arrival, His Majesty was greeted by Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, the Commissioner of Police. Also present was Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamdan bin Haji Abu Bakar, the Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office.

During the event, His Majesty received the royal salute and inspected the parade contingents of the RBPF. The contingents comprised 932 personnel from various departments and formations within the RBPF and were led by Police Superintendent Mazalan bin Haji Yaakub. After the inspection, the monarch delivered a titah in which His Majesty emphasised the importance for the RBPF to uplift its efforts in the enforcement of the law.

After the parade, a mass pledge of loyalty was taken by all police personnel present at the event, led by Senior Superintendent of Police Chiply bin Haji Mohammad. This was followed by the three times chanting of ‘Daulat’.

The bless the ceremony, a Doa Selamat was read by Assistant Police Commissioner Mohammad Amiruddin bin Haji Tunjang.

After the parade, His Majesty proceeded to the new building of the Police Headquarters to attend its launching ceremony.

The post His Majesty graces 96th Police Day Parade appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

THE Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) needs to uplift law enforcement efforts as it faces constant challenges brought about by globalisation and a borderless world.

This was stated in a titah delivered by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, and Inspector General of the RBPF during the 96th Police Day Parade held at the Parade Square of the RBPF Headquarters yesterday.

His Majesty also emphasised the need for high integrity among the police force and urged them to increase their capacity and level of expertise in combating crimes, keeping up with the excellent police forces in the world.

In the titah, His Majesty expressed gratitude to Allah the Almighty for the success of the RBPF in celebrating the 96th anniversary of its establishment, and said that at 96, the RBPF has matured enough to face any challenges.

“Certainly, the RBPF is constantly facing challenges, especially brought by the waves of globalisation and a world without borders. This is why, it is necessary for the RBPF to uplift its efforts in the enforcement of law,” the monarch said.

The role of the RBPF is vast and the force stands for the stability, peace and security of the country.

His Majesty delivering his titah during the celebration. – PHOTOS: 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, and Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) while inspecting the guard of honour that was mounted by the RBPF during the celebration yesterday

Therefore, the RBPF must enhance its organisation, besides actively undergoing changes that are deemed necessary, His Majesty urged.

“These changes must be also towards enriching the minds and strengthening the ethical foundation of police personnel as law enforcers,” the monarch said, adding that “we shall not forget to strengthen our services with discipline, integrity, sincerity and quality, in order to effectively fighting the challenges that are regularly being faced”.

Integrity and ethics are always needed as they are closely related to policing work and are pre-requisites for police service, His Majesty noted.

“It is important as a guarantee that the services delivered to stakeholders or the society are excellent…It is time for police ethics to be integrated into the administration of the force.

“With this in place, I believe that the weak, insincere, less trustworthy and other negative elements that can harm the organisation of the police force can be deterred,” the monarch added.

His Majesty urged that the police force must have clear work ethic to ensure that they work hard and carry out their works intelligently and sincerely, not hoping to profit from the duties they perform.

“A person who has a healthy work ethic will carry out his duties without differentiating people based their social status or race, and will show respect to others.

“If ethics in police service is strong, the police force will become stronger, and they will enjoy a strong trust from the society which will help them establish a strong bond with the public. This will naturally become a catalyst towards solidarity and harmony in the society.”

To help policing in the country, His Majesty said public commitment is certainly needed.

“But, this does not mean that police personnel only know how to wait or to be too reliant on public cooperation, because if this happens, then this will certainly make the police force weak, and we do not want a weak police force.

“If the police force is weak, doors to crime will become harder to close, and if those doors are not closed, crimes will easily increase and the country may not be able to prevent as its security mechanism is weak.”

Therefore, His Majesty urged the police force to master the techniques, especially of crime prevention and investigation. It is not just enough to record the crime cases, but it is important to closing them as well, the monarch added.

“Naturally, crime is a complex phenomenon. It must be eliminated, and there is no compromise in it.

“Crime is a threat not only to an individual, but also to the country as a whole, thus the RBPF must increase its capacity and capability to the same level of excellent police forces in the world,” His Majesty urged.

In closing the titah, the monarch reminded the RBPF not to remain at the existing level but to continuously seek ways to change and improve to a much better level.

The post Uplift law enforcement to face new-world challenges appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam’s refereeing capabilities reached a new milestone after Amdillah Zainuddin was appointed as the fourth official tasked to be on duty in an AFC Champions League Group ‘G’ match between Kawasaki Frontale of Japan and Suwon Samsung Bluewings of the Republic of Korea at the Todoroki Athletics Stadium in Kawasaki, Japan on February 22.

The country’s official was selected by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), the highest possible honour that could be bestowed to a member association representative following an extensive demonstration of high competence in the refereeing course.

Amdillah was visibly pleased and proud after being selected to be an official for a match which will see two of the Asian’s elites locking horns in a cup competition.

The national referee oversaw three matches in the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Under-16 Youth Championship and served as the fourth official in the S League ties involving DPMM FC.

He also famously brandished a red card to Philippines Under-16s Lean Panes Perez for a second bookable offence in a 3-3 thriller in the AFF Under-16 match against Vietnam.

Amdillah Zainuddin – appointed as fourth official for the AFC Champions League group match between Kawasaki Frontale and Suwon Samsung Bluewings. – NFABD

J1 League side Kawasaki qualified for the Champions League group stage after finishing second in the table thus automatically reaching the semi-finals for a shot at the Japanese championship title.

Kawasaki narrowly lost to Kashima Antlers 1-0 who proceeded to stun Urawa Red Diamonds in the final.

K League Classic side Suwon Samsung Bluewings earned a berth in Asia’s equivalent of the UEFA Champions League after winning the Korean FA Cup last year.

The Blue Wing prevented league champions FC Seoul from accomplishing the league and cup double after beating them 10-9 in penalties.

The post Brunei official selected for AFC Champions League tie appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

S LEAGUE Chief Executive Officer Lim Chin hailed the great support of the DPMM FC supporters during the DPMM FC S League Football Fanfare 2017 at the Jerudong Mini Stadium yesterday.

The departing S League CEO explained that the home support is central to the Brunei-based outfit’s success in their Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium cauldron while insisting that the club have instilled fear to the rest of the league’s title-chasing pack.

“Till today, many of the other clubs always feared playing here in the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium,” said Lim in his speech yesterday.

“This is your famous home ground where you have always done well and I believe the great fans’ support of DPMM FC here in Bandar Seri Begawan is the key to your success.”

Lim also emphasised that the Gegar Gegar men has consistently finish in the top three with last year not an exception.

“Once again, they finished in the top three of the S League and lost in the final of the League Cup,” he said.

“This football club certainly created a lot of excitement and increase the competition in the S League.”

He also thanked 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, who is also the Chairman of DPMM FC.

Outgoing S League Chief Executive Officer Lim Chin. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

“I would like to take the opportunity to thank His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah for his support for the continued participation of Brunei DPMM FC in the S League.

“I am confident that through the S League, the special and the close relationship between Brunei and Singapore will be forged even stronger as football brings our people together,” he said.

Lim, who was appointed as the CEO of S League in January 2012, will be leaving his post at the end of the month to pursue other opportunities, as reported by Channel News Asia earlier this year.

“I also like to take the opportunity to confirm everyone that I will be stepping down from the S League end of March.

“I would like to sincerely thank everyone here in DPMM FC for your great support for the past five years and in particular, I would like to thank Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Rahim bin Pengiran Indera Mahkota Pengiran Anak (Dr) Kemaludin Al-Haj, Vice Chairman of DPMM FC, for your great support, your generous hospitality and above all, your wonderful friendship.

“In conclusion, I would like to wish all the officials, staff and players, as well as all the fans from DPMM FC best wishes in the new 2017 season.”

The outgoing CEO, who has annually attended the community-based initiative, expressed his hopes that DPMM FC will be challenging for top honours again this season.

“I am confident that Brunei DPMM FC will continue in this endeavour to chase for top honours again this season and will provide great excitement, quality and competitiveness to the S League,” he concluded.

The post Fans key to DPMM FC’s success, says S League chief appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

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 yesterday graced the second and final day of the 2nd Brunei Open and Masters Swimming Championships at the International School Brunei (ISB) Swimming Pool.

Also present were Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah; Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah binti Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah; and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda Muhammad Aiman ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah.

Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim broke two personal best records in the men’s 50m freestyle and the men’s 100m IM events registering 39.16s and 1:47.68 respectively.

The ISB Hammerheads swimmer bested his previous time of 40.30s in the freestyle and shaved his old mark of 1:54.30 in the IM event.

After a minor blip earlier in the day after being knocked off top place by Jerudong Swimming Club swimmer Toby Harris in the 50m backstroke, Brunei national junior swimmer Nur Haziq Samil responded in perfect fashion winning the 100m butterfly, 100m IM, 50m freestyle.

The Brunei Speed Swimming Club representative also added wins in the 200m freestyle and the 400m IM to his name in an otherwise show of relentless dominance.

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; Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah binti Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah; and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda Muhammad Aiman ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah. – INFOFOTO

Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah in action. – PHOTOS: KHAIRIL HASSAN

ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah in action during the final day of the 2nd Brunei Open and Masters Swimming Championship.

The championships’ rising talent Fatin Farahnair Mohd Faizal got behind her disappointment in finishing second place in the women’s 100m butterfly event by storming into top place in the 100m IM with a winning time of 1:20.41.

The Kelab Rekreasi Petrolium swimmer has already smashed her old time of 1:20.00 with a revised time of 1:17.73 in the butterfly event.

However, the title for the female biggest winner of the day belonged to Panaga Stingrays’ Hannah Smith following triumphs in the 200m freestyle, 50m backstroke and the 100m butterfly.

Noah Kruger, the 50m breaststroke winner, spiralled into sixth place in the 50m freestyle but recorded a new personal best with a time of 30.07s erasing his old mark of 32.72s.

The ISB Hammerheads swimmer also slipped to 11th place in the 50m backstroke but did manage to break his personal best of 42.30s with a new time of 40.08s.

The post Crown Prince attends swimming meet appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|    Hakim Hayat    |

A TUTONG Sixth Form Centre (PTET) delegation, comprising a teacher and four students representing Stygian & Co, left for Tokyo, Japan on Saturday to compete in the 2017 Junior Achievement (JA) Asia Pacific Company of the Year competition that runs from February 19 to 23.

Stygian & Co was the winner of Junior Achievement (JA) Brunei’s first JA Student Company of the Year competition, held last September. The competition was sponsored by Baiduri Bank Berhad and supported by the Ministry of Education (MoE) and iCentre.

The JA Company of the Year competition is JA Worldwide’s annual celebration of the achievements of JA Company Programme students.

JA Asia Pacific, the Regional Operating Center of JA Worldwide, is the organiser of the competition in the Asia Pacific region.

At this event, JA student companies from 13 countries appear before a panel of judges, who will determine company performance against the awards criteria as compared with other JA student companies.

According to JA Brunei in a press release, the competition is not simply a business competition for students.

“The goal is to balance the business achievements of each student company as a whole with the personal development of each individual member,” the press release stated.

All JA student companies are invited to participate in the following awards – JA Asia Pacific Company of the Year; FedEx Access Award and Young Entrepreneurs’ Choice Award.

The PTET delegation and other officials at the Brunei International Airport prior to departure. – HAKIM HAYAT

Judges will be looking for evidence of innovation and the application of new ideas in all aspects of running the student company. They will also look for an understanding that continuous improvement through innovation is essential to the success of a business.

Seeing the delegates off at the Brunei International Airport were  Hajah Lena binti Mohd Hassan, Acting Assistant Director, Head of Programme and Academics at MoE; education officers from the Academics Unit, Department of Schools;  as well as Baiduri Bank Berhad representatives.

 JA Brunei is a non-profit organisation registered under the Societies Act (Chapter 203) of Brunei Darussalam and a member of JA Worldwide, one of the largest global non-governmental organisations dedicated to addressing fundamental social and economic challenges of young people by educating and empowering them to transform their future and to own their economic success.

The post PTET team in Tokyo for competition appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|    Abdul Hakiim Yakof    |

A SOFT opening was held on Friday for Kidz Discovery World (KDW), a centre that serves as a catalyst for children’s speech language and communication, as well as intellectual development for children with special needs.

The guest of honour was Cikgu Haji Ali Yusri bin Haji Abdul Ghafor, the Head of the Special Education Unit at the Ministry of Education,

Dr Wati binti Haji Bujang, a speech therapist, who is also the managing director and founder of KDW, said in her welcoming speech, “At KDW, we provide services from allied health professionals. Presently these are provided by qualified speech and language therapists, educational psychologists and educators.

“In addition, we also provide consulting services to schools, particularly private schools. This is an approach that we hope to be able to do more. We hope to establish more cooperative partnership with schools…and to provide a professional input on the school’s current special needs programme to further enhance the quality of inclusive education in our country.”

She said that the centre also provides training for parents by trained and qualified professionals. The centre will also be organising its first training session in May 2017.

The guest of honour, Cikgu Haji Ali Yusri bin Haji Abdul Ghafor, the Head of the Special Education Unit at the Ministry of Education tours the facilities at the centre. – ABDUL HAKIIM YAKOF

“KDW is also offering its early development programme for any child (typical and special needs). Our early development programme is developed with the aim of equipping our children with the skills required for school, which is a school readiness programme.

“We enhance their normal develop-ment through play programmes that are designed to stimulate their minds,” she said.

The event then continued with a ribbon-cutting by the guest of honour, to officiate the soft opening.

The centre caters to children with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, learning disorder, speech and language delay/disorder, global developmental delay, Down’s syndrome, cerebral palsy, physical impairment and speech disorders.

The post Centre for special needs children, speech disorders opens appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|    Wani Roslan    |

A CELEBRATION was yesterday held to mark Brunei World Hijab Day (WHD) 2017 at the Brunei Islamic Fashion (BIFASH) Concept Store at The Mall in Gadong, led by Mia Suria, the official Brunei ambassador for WHD and founder of BIFASH.

Sponsored by Aidijuma Scarf, the event saw 100 exclusive ‘Bawal Printed – WHD’ shawls distributed to attendees.

Brunei is one of the five countries sponsored by the scarf brand, with the event tagline ‘Aidijuma x World Hijab Day’.

The day also saw a special appearance by Brunei-born award-winning songstress Putri Norizah (@putrinorizah), a ‘Spread the Love’ sharing session, Hijab-styling tutorials and a competition, as well as a hi-tea session.

Mia Suria said, “We are introducing the Hijab to those who don’t know or don’t have the courage (to don the hijab). When a Muslimah covers her hair and body, she is sending a silent message that she respects her body, and like a pearl in the ocean, she covers it with her beautiful shell (Hijab).

Mia Suria, the Brunei ambassador for WHD and founder of BIFASH, led the WHD celebration at The Mall in Gadong. – WANI ROSLAN

“No one has the right to judge a Muslimah for her choice to wear a Hijab,” she added.

Celebrated every February 1, WHD asks people of all faiths to show solidarity with Muslim women worldwide, with the mission to create a peaceful world, where global citizens respect each other.

WHD has been gaining plenty of support around the world.

The post Brunei marks World Hijab Day appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|    Lyna Mohamad    |

TAKAFUL Brunei Am Sdn Bhd (TBA) held a group cycling session at the Bandarku Ceria event yesterday to mark the launching of their product extension, the Personal Accident for Active Life Takaful and All Risk Takaful for Bicycle.

The launching kicked off from the Dar Takaful building in the capital and ended in front of the Prime Minister’s Office and was led by the Acting Managing Director of Takaful Brunei Darussalam Sdn Bhd, Haji Shahrildin bin Pehin Orang Kaya Lela Utama Dato Paduka Haji Jaya.

TBA is the first Takaful (Islamic Insurance) provider to offer the Personal Accident Takaful for Active Life and All Risk Takaful for Bicycle in the country where the Takaful Protection plans are made to cater to individuals with active lifestyles such as those who routinely play recreational sports, cycle, join fitness classes/programmes or the gymnasium.

When doing health and fitness programmes or activities be it outdoors or indoors, individuals will always run the risk of injuries and these products were designed by extending the Takaful benefits and subject matter insured with new additional coverage.

With the goal of the Personal Accident for Active Life Takaful to ensure these individuals are protected through compensation benefits that assist in speedy recovery, the types of injuries due to accidents during these activities include sutured lacerations, avulsions, bone fractures, bone dislocation and also include physiotherapy expenses.

Wheelchair and prosthesis expenses are also included if the injuries sustained require its usage, corrective dental and/or cosmetic surgery expenses up to B$5,000.

Individuals are able to choose from a range of three plans that cover death and total permanent disability due to accident with 24-hour worldwide coverage provided with treatments within Brunei Darussalam.

Participants of the group cycling session posing for a photo with their bicycles. – PHOTOS: LYNA MOHAMAD

Participants of the group cycling session posing for a photo.

Brunei Darussalam was ranked number one in obesity among Southeast Asian countries in 2016 and concurrently, diabetes is among the top diseases suffered by the citizens of the country.

The Government of Brunei Darussalam has put significant efforts in educating, promoting and encouraging its citizens to live a healthier lifestyle, not just physically but spiritually as well with the vision of a Zikir Nation.

Combining those elements altogether, TBA is pursuing to play its role in establishing better health and fitness awareness with the introduction of these two product extensions. With the special Takaful protection plans, individuals can be worry free about the financial cost of rehabilitation from sustaining injuries during their everyday recreational activities.

Meanwhile, cycling is seen as an activity that is becoming a significant trend and more people are investing in premium cycling equipment. The All Risk Takaful for Bicycle protection plan covers bicycles that cost B$1,000 and above in the event of theft on premises and damages caused from road accidents.

It aims to reduce the cost of replacements in the event of an unforeseen accident or theft; individuals will be able to recover faster and pursue a longer active lifestyle with their loved ones.

The Personal Accident for Active Life is also available for companies who provide group fitness classes, programmes and facilities to be included into their clients memberships as an additional benefit, allowing companies to provide value-added to their clients and hopefully encourage Brunei Darussalam residents to choose a healthier lifestyle as well as acts as an opportunity for the local fitness industry to grow.

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