BRUNEI’S sovereignty and independence will remain forever with its Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB). The Minister of Religious Affairs, Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, stated that Brunei is a country that upholds democratic principles that adhere with the teachings of the Ahli Sunnah Wal Jama’ah, as clearly stipulated in the ‘Titah Permasyhuran Kemerdekaan’.

These were pointed out by the minister in his special lecture during a friendly gathering with Brunei students at the Hotel Intercontinental Citystars, Cairo, in the Arab Republic of Egypt, on Saturday.

In this special lecture, the minister had described the significance of ‘Asy-Syura’ as the most important foundation in the theory of Islamic government, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Muslims are to manage the affairs of their lives through negotiation, discussion and meetings. The Constitution of Brunei, the minister explained, requires the establishment of the Legislative Council (LegCo) Meeting, namely the Council of Adat Istiadat, Privy Council, the Council of Ministers and the Legislative Council, as well as the Islamic Religious Council.

According to the minister, the LegCo as a whole is an ‘Isytisyari’ (consultation), which will serve advice in the form of resolutions taken to 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, which is subject to His Majesty’s consent.

The minister with the attendees at the gathering. – PHOTOS: MORA

The minister during his special lecture.

The Minister of Religious Affairs, Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, in a group photo taken during a gathering with Brunei students at the Hotel Intercontinental Citystars, Cairo, in the Arab Republic of Egypt on Saturday.

The minister explained that this is not contrary to Islamic law as ‘Asy-Syura’ demands Muslims to implement it, especially in a government where the final say is given to the head of state and head of government, as mentioned in Surah Al-‘Imran, verse 159 of the Al-Quran.

Also present at the get-together event were the Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to Egypt, Haji Abdul Kahar bin Haji Hussin; Acting Principal of the Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Ustaz Pengiran Haji Haslin bin Pengiran Haji Ali; officials of the Embassy of Brunei Darussalam in Cairo and a total of 227 students from Brunei Darussalam in the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Haji Abdul Kahar, in his speech, welcomed the minister and later also presented a talk to the students. According to the ambassador, the gathering has certainly motivated the students to strive harder for excellence.

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|    Fizah HAB    |

IN CONJUNCTION with the 43^rd 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 and Pro-Chancellor of Universiti Brunei Darusalam (UBD), Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), and Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), ‘Varsity Cycle’, a charitable cycling expedition for the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Fund for Orphans (DANA), was held yesterday at UTB.

Gracing the event was Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman. Also amongst the 200 cyclists taking part in the event were the Vice-Chancellor of UBD, Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina binti Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Aziz; Rector of UNISSA, Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal; and the Vice-Chancellor of UTB, Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman.

The expedition was flagged off by the Deputy Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the Ministry of Education, Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad. The 43km ride began at the UTB Compound, encompassing the Tungku Highway route and the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Highway towards Bandar Seri Begawan, where they had a pit stop at the capital for the Bandarku Ceria event before returning to The Core at UBD.

Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman during the cycling expedition yesterday. – FIZAH HAB

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|      Fadhil Yunus      |

AHMAD Taufiq Murni reigned supreme in the Brunei Darussalam Cue Sports Association (BCSA) National 9-Ball Ranking Challenge Grand Final 2016 after beating Lim Wei Kok in a 13-3 demolition at the ProX Pool House in Gadong last night.

The current Brunei top ranked cueist stormed into a commanding 6-0 lead with Lim’s scratching his cue ball did little to deter the former in magnificent form.

Lim, Taufiq’s SEA Games teammate in Singapore a couple of years ago, got his name on the board and completed a second rack after Taufiq failed to pocket home a 8-ball into the far corner.

However, Taufiq would only surrender one more frame to the 5th ranked player before clinching five consecutive frames to secure a comfortable victory.

“I was satisfied with my game play tonight. I still need to do some refinements on my break,” said Taufiq in an interview with the Bulletin shortly after the prize presentation.

The top national cueist accomplished six wins in eight legs to finish top place in the overall ranking after accumulating 595 points followed by Md Azim bin Haji Abu Bakar with 385 points and Pengiran Anak Haji Awadi Zool-hilmi bin Pengiran Anak Latifuddin with 345 points.

Presenting the prizes was Kamarul Ariffin bin Haji Arpan, President of BCSA.

The winners pose with their prizes. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

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|    Azaraimy HH    |

THE Biggest Education Malaysia Expo in Brunei (Yes2Malaysia) continued yesterday at the Sufri Bolkiah Secondary School in the Tutong District.

The expo aimed to encourage students to their further studies in Malaysia.

A total of 100 students from Sufri Bolkiah Secondary School, Mahad Islam Brunei, Muda Hashim Secondary School, Sayyidina Othman Secondary School and Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Secondary School were invited.

The event held yesterday marked the 9^th expo in the series of exhibitions being held at various schools.

The exhibition was also open to the public and school leavers looking to further their studies.

The exhibition was also previously held at Pusat Insani, Seria on February 18 and the Orchid Garden Hotel from February 19 – 20.

Students from secondary school across the Tutong District enquiring on the different courses to further their studies in Malaysia.- AZARAIMY HH

There are over 800 Bruneian students currently registered in various universities and higher learning institutions across Malaysia.

Also present at the expo to show support was the Malaysian top education executive, Dr Wan Rosmini Hassan.

A total of 30 Malaysian universities and colleges were invited to participate in the expo.

Malaysia is currently ra-nked 11^th for the most liked education destinations in the world by UNESCO, with more than 30 years of experience in the field of international education.

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|    Abdul Hakiim Yakof    |

FORTY-TWO participants of the 12^th Belia Cinta Tanah Air Programme (PBCTA) participated in a march along the streets of the capital last Sunday, which began at the Lapau of the Adat Istiadat Negara Department.

The march was intended to instil a sense of patriotism among the young participants, aged 18-30, and also to support the Bandarku Ceria initiative which is held at Bandar Seri Begawan on Sundays.

PBCTA is a programme jointly organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Among its many activities are community services, the hoisting of the National Day flag, participating in National Day thanksgiving ceremony, the parade for the National Day celebrations and the PBCTA appreciation ceremony.

A total of 25 male and 17 female participants from all four districts are currently participating in the programme.

Participants marching from Lapau to Jalan Pretty in Bandar Seri Begawan. – ABDUL HAKIIM YAKOF

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THE affairs of Muslims, faith and preaching, Islamic law as well as issues pertaining to strengthening Muslims’ understanding of the Ahli Sunnah Wal Jama’ah sect were discussed when Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman paid a courtesy call to Fadhilatus Sheikh Al-Imam Al-Akbar Ustaz Dr Ahmad At-Tayyib, Sheikh Al-Azhar, the Arab Republic of Egypt.

The ceremony was held at the office of Sheikh Al-Azhar, Dirasah Street in Cairo yesterday.

The Minister of Religious Affairs expressed appreciation for the close bilateral cooperation and long-standing friendship between the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) and the University of Al-Azhar As-Sharif.

The talks also focused on efforts to engage University of Al-Azhar As-Sharif experts in the field of ‘Taranum’ in Al-Quran and ‘Qiraat’ as lecturers at Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah. At the same time, this would optimise expertise and realising the Brunei’s aspiration to produce more Al-Quran readers of international standards.

Also discussed was the possibility of securing Arabic education experts, specifically for non-native speakers (Arabic Language for non-Arabic speakers), which will assist MoRA, particularly the Department of Islamic Studies in improving the skills and mastery of Arabic among teaching staff and students.

MoRA hopes to invite an Imam from the University of Al-Azhar As-Sharif to lead the Tarawikh prayers in congregation during the month of Ramadhan.

Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman in talks with Fadhilatus Sheikh Al-Imam Al-Akbar Ustaz Dr Ahmad At-Tayyib, Sheikh Al-Azhar, the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Meanwhile, Fadhilatus Sheikh Al-Imam Al-Akbar Ustaz Dr Ahmad At-Tayyib in his speech welcomed the minister and his entourage, saying that he expected relations and cooperation between both sides will be enhanced from time to time.

He also advised that Brunei Darussalam establishes an Arabic Language Centre to achieve excellence in Arabic education.

Also joining the minister during the courtesy call were Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to the Arab Republic of Egypt Haji Abdul Kahar bin Haji Hussin and Pengiran Haji Haslin bin Pengiran Haji Ali, the Acting Principal of Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and Education and Culture Attache at the Embassy of Brunei Darussalam in Cairo.

During his stay in Cairo, the minister also had the opportunity to make working visits to two residential buildings for Bruneian students in Egypt, namely, Darussalam and An-Nur located at Hayyu Sadis, Madinat Nasr.

At present, there are 164 Brunei students studying at the University of Al-Azhar As-Sharif, 51 studying in Ma’had Qiraat Shoubra, two students at the University of Cairo, five students in Alexandria University and a student at the University of Ain Shams.

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|    Hakim Hayat    |

A ‘WHOLE of Government Approach’ is essential to ensure the success of policies and initiatives put forward by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS), and interventions and perspectives are welcomed to enhance the ministry’s role.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof yesteday underscored this at a dialogue session with 19 Legislative Council (LegCo) members held at the MCYS Complex in Jalan Kebangsaan.

The dialogue was held in preparations for the opening of the 13^th session of the LegCo meeting on March 4.

In his opening remarks, the minister said that MCYS welcomes ideas and queries from the LegCo members, adding that this will pave the way to intervention methods that would help improve their policies and programmes.

“Whether it is culture, youth, sports and the community, the reality is that the MCYS is faced with the need to look at prioritising policies, reforming programmes and projects based on needs and implementation capabilities and also taking into account their resource footing,” he said.

Fresh perspectives are needed, and this will help push the MCYS to inculcate a performance-based working culture by making use of Key Performance Indicator (KPI) methods to improve service quality through the evaluation of main factors that will bring long-term success to the organisation.

The minister also stressed that the way forward for MCYS and LegCo members is to list priorities and tackle any issues in a sensible sequence, and sustain its implementation overtime, with the involvement of all parties, in tandem with the desire to develop the country with the community.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof delivering his opening remarks. – MCYS

“We need strategic partners that will help realise the vision of the country – as dialogue partners, planning partners and a partner in realising the mission and vision of the ministry for the good of the country,” he added.

The minister also underlined that the Brunei Vision 2035 requires high committment from members of the civil service and the community in general.

“We need to be efficient and effective.. performance and productivity are underpinned by innovation,” he said, adding that the MCYS is working towards strengthening its organisational structure and human resource management to increase capabilities through skilled and knowledgeable workforce to sustain in an ever-changing environment.

The minister expressed hopes that yesterday’s meeting would set forth MCYS’s journey in the development of human capital through ways such as youth development programmes, maintaining national identity and heritage through cultural and art programmes, maintaining the welfare of the people through various social security programmes in the form of assistance or community support, and also its endeavours in advocating a healthy lifestyle through the enhancement of sports through sports development programmes for all.

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CEMENT prices in the country are set to fall with the Energy and Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office (EIDPMO) abolishing the existing cement import quota policy effective from January 1, 2017.

This new policy is expected to open up the market for all types of cement, boosting construction activities in the country at a time when the Sultanate is striving to diversify its economy away from oil and gas.

“The EIDPMO move will provide more opportunities in the construction and other sectors, create more spin-offs for our local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and benefit the people as a whole because an open market will result in competition which in turn will reduce prices of cement and the cost of construction. This will also ensure that there will be sufficient cement supply. The cheaper price will also promote export opportunities for local producers,” the department said in a press statement yesterday.

The cement market was previously regulated under an import quota system where the quantity of imported cement was controlled and limited.

“A Committee for Registration of Cement Importers has been set up to oversee and implement the new policy. It will work to protect the interests of the consumers by establishing standards of cement quality and endeavouring to maintain adequate supplies of cement,” the EIDPMO statement added.

The committee, led by the EIDPMO, includes members from Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE), Royal Customs and Excise Department (RCED), Authority for Building Control and Construction Industry (ABCi) and Public Works Department (PWD).

Persons or companies interested to be cement importers may send their application to: Business Support Centre (BSC), 1^st Floor, Design & Technology Building, Simpang 32-37, Kg Anggerek Desa, Bandar Seri Begawan, BB3713, Brunei Darussalam. Website: www.dare.gov.bn. added.

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|    James Kon    |

THOUSANDS of participants braved the sweltering heat yesterday morning to fine-tune their performances for Brunei Darussalam’s 33^rd National Day on February 23 at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital, where 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 members of the royal family are expected to grace the celebrations.

On hand to witness the rehearsal were Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports; Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, the Deputy Minister of Education; Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, the Commissioner of Police; and Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF).

A total of 136 teams – comprising Royal Brunei Police Force, RBAF, higher education institutions, colleges, schools, associations, public organisations, foreign associations and a team of excellent achievers – are taking part in this year’s National Day celebrations.

The higher education institutions, colleges, government and private secondary schools will form the largest number of teams during the traditional National Day parade.

Personnel of the Royal Brunei Police Force taking part in the rehearsal for 33rd National Day.

Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, witnessing the rehearsal. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Participants rehearsing the National Day oath.

Chung Hwa Middle School students taking part in the rehearsal.

National Service Programme (PKBN) trainees at the rehearsal.

A participant waving the national flag.

Participants flying national flags during one of the performances.

Meanwhile, more than 6,800 individuals are participating in this year’s on-field performances, which are based around the concept of ‘Accomplishing the National Vision’.

After the rehearsal, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports had words of praise and encouragement for the participants, “Congratulations and well done. Today’s rehearsal is better than the one on Saturday. The Executive Committee for the National Day celebration appreciates the hard work that you all have put into this morning.”

He added, “There are obstacles in every rehearsal, with today’s challenge being the hot weather, which you did well to overcome.”

The minister also acknowledged that there was still some room for improvement, and advised the participants to take good care of their health in the run-up to the celebrations on Thursday.

To brush up on the performances for the actual day, a full-dress rehearsal will take place today at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in Bandar Seri Begawan.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI-Muara ‘A’ coach Peter ST Chen hailed his charges for instilling the spirit of teamwork and showing dedication during their fine 83-73 victory over Temburong in the 5.11 National Day Challenge Trophy at the Brunei Basketball Association Court in Batu Bersurat, last night.

The Brunei Muara head coach explained that the players showed proof how to turn individuals into a team player.

“We have to give credit to the players. This is a team effort. Instead of playing for themselves, the players play as a team,” said Chen in an interview with the Bulletin.

“They give up their selfishness in their own game to play as a team which you can see the result.

“They give their 100% effort every time I subbed them in. They did good shots, they played smart.

“They played an offence which we trained for. They played very good defence and hustles.

“They communicate which is key. In basketball, to get five players to play together is not an easy task,” he continued.

“It is very good to see the youth today have a good mentality which is a credit to the government and the authorities here, the education system and the culture that we have in Brunei.”

A Brunei-Muara player drives past Temburong’s defence. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

Chen, who guided YTE to the Mum Bakery Under-23 Men’s Tournament title, shared how the main squad was assembled after a thorough selection process including 3-on-3 competitions.

They underwent try-outs which allowed every fair share of chance for everyone to play before the players passed a fitness test and then got involved into a 3-on-3, 4-on-4 and 5-on-5 competitions.

The youngest players in the squad represent a pair of 18-year olds with a 34-year old considered a veteran in the team.

“Most of the average age players in the squad is 25-26. We hope that from this tournament we can create a national team that can work together so we can compete in an international circuit,” added Chen.

He added that the future of basketball is bright especially with the setting up of an academy designed to provide opportunities for youngsters to train.

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YESTERDAY marked the official launching of the Muara Port Company Sdn Bhd. It was officiated by Dato Paduka Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Deputy Minister of Finance who is also the CEO of Darussalam Assets Sdn Bhd, and Zhou Xiaoxi, Chairman of Guangxi Beibu Gulf Port Group. The Muara Port Company Sdn Bhd has been appointed as the operator of Muara Container Terminal (MCT).

Also present during the ceremony was Yang Jian, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam; Zhu Rong, Director of Chinese Economic and Commercial Counsellor’s Office in Brunei Darussalam; Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Permanent Secretary (Performance) at the Ministry of Finance; Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abdul Hamid, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Investment) at the Ministry of Finance; Datin Paduka Magdalene Chong, General Counsel and Chief Operating Officer of Darussalam Assets; Ainadin Cader, Chief Investment Officer of Darussalam Assets; Zhou Yan, CEO of Muara Port Company Sdn Bhd; and management groups from both sides.

The establishment of Muara Port Company Sdn Bhd is the product of close collaboration between Darussalam Assets and Beibu Gulf Port since the signing of the Key Term Sheet on September 12, 2016, at the China-Asean Expo in Nanning, China.

This was done with great support and assistance from the FDI & Downstream Industries Steering Committee, FDI Action and Support Centre (FAST), Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB), Energy and Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Communications, Ports Department and other government agencies.

The signing of Shareholders’ Agreement between Dato Paduka Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Deputy Minister of Finance who is also the CEO of Darussalam Assets Sdn Bhd; Zhou Xiaoxi, Chairman of Guangxi Beibu Gulf Port Group; Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abdul Hamid, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Investment) at the Ministry of Finance; and Zhou Yan, CEO of Muara Port Company Sdn Bhd, as witnessed by Yang Jian, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam and other officials.

In the immediate future, Muara Port Company Sdn Bhd will be making significant investments to upgrade the port facilities and equipment with the objective of improving MCT’s efficiency and level of service, which is in line with the government’s Ease of Doing Business objectives.

The company will also be exploring the opening of new shipping routes, the enlargement of logistic networks and increase the transit volume of Muara Port through the expertise and network of Guangxi Beibu Gulf Port Group.

In the long run, Darussalam Assets and Guangxi Beibu Gulf will be embarking on other opportunities of collaboration. The successful realisation of these collaboration opportunities will lead to Muara Port being a regional shipping centre and a transit hub in the Southeast Asia region in the future.

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|      Wani Roslan      |

THE e-POWER, Nissan’s newest drive system, is a significant milestone in the electrification strategy under Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility.

The system adds a small gasoline engine to charge the high-output battery when necessary and eliminates the need for an external charger while offering the same high-output.

As part of the Nissan A2Z Tour 2016 in Japan, media representatives were given the opportunity to test drive the Nissan Note to experience the e-POWER and get a feel of the technology contributing to its performance.

The car’s engine is near-silent despite its strong acceleration, providing drivers with a pleasant driving experience.

The Nissan Note was easy to handle and when lifting your feet off the accelerator pedal, the car slows down on its own faster than most cars.

The Nissan Note features the e-POWER, Nissan’s newest drive system that adds a small gasoline engine to charge the high-output battery when necessary and eliminates the need for an external charger while offering the same high-output. – PHOTOS: WANI ROSLAN

The e-POWER delivers massive torque which enhances drive response resulting in smooth acceleration akin to a full electric vehicle.

As part of the Nissan A2Z Tour 2016 in Japan, media representatives were given the opportunity to test drive the Nissan Note.

One highlight of the e-POWER is its delivery of massive torque which enhances drive response resulting in smooth acceleration akin to a full electric vehicle. It relies on the engine much less frequently and its fuel efficiency is comparable to the conventional hybrids.

The technology of the e-POWER system features a full electric motor drive; the gasoline engine is not connected to the wheels but is used for charging the battery.

The e-POWER is another step taken by Nissan towards achieving the vision of zero-emission through a new and more efficient electric powertrain that use various fuels to cater to the different requirements of the world’s markets.

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|      Hakim Hayat      |

THE Brunei Darussalam – USA (BUSA) recently held its first meet-and-greet event at the MegaStrike Bowling centre at The Airport Mall. Present at the event was Craig Allen, the Ambassador of the United States of America to Brunei Darussalam as the guest of honour.

BUSA is committed in promoting business, community, cultural, educational, and social links and activities between Brunei and the United States.

The association hopes to make this possible through events like these where ideas and interests can be shared for the future of  BUSA.

Since its establishment, BUSA has accomplished multiple projects such as the Young Project Managers, Young Media Advocates as well as co-coordinated the Young South-east-Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) YOUNified Day event with groups of talented local youths made up of the US Government programme alumni – where their focus is to further develop Brunei through four main themes: Education, Business and Economic Development, Civil Engagement, and the Environment.

Craig Allen, the Ambassador of the United States of America to Brunei Darussalam, receiving a certificate of appreciation from Siti Salwa binti Haji Saim, President of BUSA. – HAKIM HAYAT

BUSA is holding a logo designing competition which is open to its members only.

The closing date for the competition is on March 25.

The next BUSA election will be in October/November 2017. The President of BUSA, Siti Salwa binti Haji Saim hopes that the new committee would help to bring BUSA to the next level.

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BAIDURI Bank concluded a debit card promotion with a prize presentation at the Banking Hall of its Kiarong branch yesterday for customers.

Customers who signed up for a new Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card or paid for their purchases in selected Asian destinations using the card were entered into Baiduri’s ‘Travel and Get Rewarded with UnionPay’ promotion for the chance to win travel packages to selected destinations in Asia.

Eight lucky customers went home with travel packages and other travel accessories yesterday after being selected as winners, according to a press release issued by Baiduri Bank.

Nurul Nazurah binti Alias won a four-day, three-night family vacation to Disneyland Hong Kong, while Haji Metusin bin Haji Abdul Rahman walked home with a relaxing three-day, two-night getaway to Bali for two, and Siti Nurul Amalina binti Haji Mohamad will be enjoying an exciting four-day, two-night trip to shopping city Kuala Lumpur, with a stopover in the cultural city of Malacca.

Five consolation prize winners namely, Sheena Winifred Hendry, Hajah Rokiah binti Haji Abdul Ghani, Siti Noorazean binti Haji Jamil, Chan Ban Chang and Chia Suk Ling received a Samsonite Aerial Spinner Luggage each.

Winnie Ang, Manager of Consumer Financing at the Baiduri Bank, was on hand to present the prizes to the winners. Elaborating on the promotion, she said the card provide users with “cashless convenience and PIN-based security”.

Winners of Baiduri’s ‘Travel and Get Rewarded with UnionPay’ promotion pose for a photo with Winnie Ang, Manager of Consumer Financing in Baiduri Bank, at the bank’s Kiarong branch. – BAIDURI BANK

The Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card requires a PIN to be keyed in by the cardholder for any transactions to be approved, giving cardholders a “high level of protection from fraud or misuse of the card” and is currently the only PIN-based card available in Brunei.

Customers also enjoyed a five per cent cashback on all transactions made on their Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card in selected countries, applicable for cumulative spending of up to $3,000 during the promotion period, the press release said.

The Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card is accepted at over 2,000 local merchants and more than 26 million UnionPay merchants in over 150 countries. The card also allows cash withdrawals at all Baiduri ATMs and over 1.9 million ATMs worldwide.

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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 morning received in separate audiences newly appointed envoys to Brunei Darussalam.

His Royal Highness first received Air Vice Marshal Mahmud Hussain, High Commissioner of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to Brunei Darussalam. Air Vice Marshal Mahmud Hussain previously served as the Chairman of Bangladesh Civil Aviation Authority.

His Royal Highness then received Do Anh Tuan, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Brunei Darussalam. Do Anh Tuan formerly held the post of Deputy Director General of the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Shortly after, His Royal Highness received Mehmet Suat Akgun, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Brunei Darussalam.

Mehmet Suat Akgun had served as Deputy Director General for South Asia at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey.

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 with Air Vice Marshal Mahmud Hussain, High Commissioner of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to Brunei Darussalam.

His Royal Highness during an audience with Do Anh Tuan, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Brunei Darussalam.

His Royal Highness with the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Brunei Darussalam, Mehmet Suat Akgun. – PHOTOS: INFOFOTO

His Royal Highness with the Ambassador of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to Brunei Darussalam, Marcal Avelino Ximenes.

Subsequently, His Royal Highness received Marcal Avelino Ximenes, Ambassador of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to Brunei Darussalam.

Marcal Avelino Ximenes previously held the post of Senior Lecturer at the National University of Timor Lorosa’e.

The newly appointed envoys to Brunei Darussalam presented their Letters of Credence to 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 on February 15.

The ceremony took place at Qashr Al-Meezaan.

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|     Rokiah Mahmud & Fizah HAB     |

THE spirit of patriotism was in the air yesterday, as thousands of participants converged on the grounds of the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital, for a final full-dress rehearsal of the programmes and displays marking Brunei Darussalam’s 33rd National Day.

Witnessing the event was Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports and the Chairman of the Executive Committee for the 33rd National Day celebrations.

Following the rehearsal, the minister shared some words of encouragement praising the participants for their vibrant performances, and urging them to do their very best on the actual day itself, in the presence of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, and other members of the royal family.

The minister also referred to this year’s theme of ‘Accomplishing the National Vision’, saying that the Sultanate needs more competent and proactive youths who can actively contribute to the country’s progress.

Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports and the Chairman of the Executive Committee for the 33rd National Day celebrations, sharing words of encouragement to the participants.

A group of students participating in the 33rd National day final full-dress rehearsal. – PHOTOS: ROKIAH MAHMUD & FIZAH HAB

More than 20,000 participants from 133 teams are expected to take part in the celebrations for Brunei Darussalam’s 33rd National Day tomorrow.

Also on hand to witness yesterday’s final full-dress rehearsal were Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, the Deputy Minister of Education; Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, the Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs; Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF); and Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, the Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF).

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|     Azlan Othman     |

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 Deputy Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF), and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman yesterday attended a high-tea reception hosted by the RBPF to mark His Royal Highness’s 43rd birthday.

Accompanying Their Royal Highnesses at the gathering were Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, in her capacity as the Commandant of the Women’s Police, and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar.

Their Royal Highnesses were greeted upon arrival at the banquet hall of RBPF Headquarters in Gadong by Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamdan bin Haji Abu Bakar, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and spouse; Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, the Commissioner of Police, and spouse; Mohamed Riza bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohamed Yunos, Permanent Secretary (Media and Cabinet) at the Prime Minister’s Office, and spouse as well as other senior RBPF officers.

Their Royal Highnesses later mingled with senior police officers and their spouses. His Royal Highness also signed the Royal Parchment and took part in a group photograph before proceeding to the banquet hall for a cake-cutting ceremony where the cake was depicted with a four-star rank symbolising His Royal Highness as the Deputy Inspector General of Police.

His Royal Highness later received a pesambah portraying a four-star ‘Kayu Malam’ stick from the Commissioner of Police.

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 Deputy Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF), and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman yesterday attended a high-tea reception hosted by the RBPF to mark His Royal Highness’s 43rd birthday. Also seen in the photo are Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, in her capaci-ty as the Commandant of the Women Police, and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar.

His Royal Highness signing the Royal Parchment. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and Deputy Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force, receiving a pesambah from Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, the Commissioner of Police. Also seen in the photo is Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman.

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah; Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, in her capacity as the Commandant of the Women Police; and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar during the high-tea.

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 Deputy Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF); Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, in her capacity as the Commandant of the Women Police; and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar in a group photo.

Photos above & below show Their Royal Highnesses being greeted by RBPF officers.

RBPF officers and their spouses at the high-tea reception.

Before leaving, Their Royal Highnesses also received greetings from the RBPF officers and their spouses.

Yesterday’s traditional event is held annually since His Royal Highness became the Deputy Inspector General of Police on May 5, 2005.

All personnel of the RBPF and their families wished His Royal Highness a happy 43rd birthday and prayed to Allah the Almighty for His Royal Highness and other members of the royal family to be blessed with good health.

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|    Fadhil Yunus    |

BELAIT ‘A’ brought Brunei Muara A’s progress to a screeching halt after edging them 79-78 in a tightly-contested affair in the 5.11 National Day Challenge Trophy at the Brunei Basketball Association Court in Batu Bersurat, last night.

Brunei Muara ‘A’ has only conjured a victory the night before when they snapped Temburong’s two-game winning streak but Belait ‘A’ stunning victory left the door wide open in the search for tournament triumph.

It is back to the drawing board for Peter S.T. Chen’s charges who next face a must-win game against Tutong.

On the other hand, Belait ‘A’ bounced back from their crashing defeat in a district derby against Belait ‘B’, who were interestingly beaten by Temburong.

Meanwhile, Temburong erased memories of their defeat in their last game by strolling to a comfortable 82-59 win to make it three wins out of four.

Temburong player looks for a pass while guarded by Seria players. – PHOTOS: KHAIRIL HASSAN

A Seria player (11) leaps to make a basket against Temburong.

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|    Fadhil Yunus    |

DPMM FC will have a full squad to choose from in the upcoming S League season after every single player successfully passed the mandatory 2.4km fitness test which was conducted at the Jerudong Mini Stadium yesterday afternoon.

The selected 25-man squad needed to undertake a fitness test under nine minutes and 30 seconds which is compulsory as a precondition of playing in the S League as representatives from Singapore were present to brief groups of players.

Fortunately, DPMM FC head coach Steve Kean will have no such worries with fitness concerns and he believes their recent Bangkok trip was testament of their readiness of competitive football.

“It showed the fitness levels that we’re pushing and it shows that with pre-season the fact that we went away to Thailand, the fact we’ve had now by the end of this week, seven whole weeks and we still got one week to go. Eight weeks of pre-season, we got a very high fitness level so we’re delighted with today,” said Kean in an interview with the Bulletin after the fitness test yesterday.

The head coach explained the good work that they had done in training including small sided games while avoiding injury, though there was only a minor concern with new recruit Francois Marque.

“We’ve got one player that has got a stiff back but we’ve not had any muscle injuries. So that shows that their muscles and fitness levels are at a peak performance.”

The former Basle defender missed training on Tuesday and was allowed a couple of days rest as he looked to recover from a back problem.

DPMM FC players during the fitness test at the Mini Stadium in Jerudong yesterday. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

But he had no problem cruising to the finish during the fitness test and even helped inspire Hendra Azam to cross the line.

“We let him relax for a couple of days and had intensive treatment over the last few days at the National Stadium with our physio,” Kean said.

Kean further stressed that the mandatory fitness test is not a competition and was glad to see that all players had passed the test.

“The objective of today is to help to be a team and if you can do it the quickest ever but somebody’s struggling, it shows the mark of the team spirit. Some of them were staying in the back trying to push along their team-mates.

“I don’t even care who’s first as long as everybody gets through it and we showed great togetherness staying with somebody who was struggling and pulled them along. That shows the good team ethic that we’ve got.”

The former Blackburn Rovers manager further added that the players got fitter every year with the players who did not meet the times last year succeeded in the first time of asking this year.

The head coach also admitted that he is not a big fan of the mandatory fitness test which is not made compulsory in other national leagues.

“If being honest, I’m not a lover of the six-lap, the 2.4km test. If you can do the test, I don’t think that has a correlation with football any longer.

“I think the S League is the only league that actually does a test. I don’t know if there’s any other league in the world that does a test.

“And if you don’t pass the test, you don’t play in the league but that’s the rules and we’ve got to respect the rules.

“We’ve got through it so that’s good,” Kean said whose side will be facing Home United FC at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium on March 3.

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|      James Kon      |

SOME 500 cyclists took their bicycles for a leisure ride in the National Day Night Ride that flagged off at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium on Tuesday night.

The event was held in conjunction with the celebration of the 33rd National Day of Brunei Darussalam and aimed to raise awareness on cycling at night.

Organised by Mewsum Wong of Brunei Folding Bike Club, with the support of Haji Abdul Wahab bin Datu Derma Wijaya Haji Yusof, Technical Director of Brunei Darussalam Cycling Federation and sanctioned by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), cyclists from all walks of life took part in the ride.

Led by the Royal Brunei Police Force, the convoy started off from the national stadium, cycling to Mabohai and on to the heart of the capital before going back to the stadium.

According to Wong, the aim of the night ride was to highlight the correct usage of lighting at night: “Red lights at the rear, white in front, helmet and a bright jersey.”

Local cyclists participating in the National Day Night Ride in a group photo at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium on Tuesday night.

Some of the local cyclists.

Mewsum Wong of Brunei Folding Bike Club in a picture with a cyclist. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Cyclists riding toward Bandar Seri Begawan from Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

Beside the fact that cycling is an incredibly healthy activity that improves cardiovascular system and reduces stress, she added, “the event is also to show car drivers that cycling is a big sport and that they should show respect to the cyclists and be aware of them (on road)”.

She also shared that she has received a five-month permit to promote cycling.

The next night ride event will be the Muhammad Ali Memorial Night Ride next month on March 28.

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