|      Daniel Lim      |

CAMERON, a Schlumberger company which designs and manufactures flow and pressure control technologies for customers in the oil and gas industry worldwide, yesterday broke ground for a US$15 million new facility located near the Rasau toll station, in the Belait District.

The five-hectare facility will be a regional hub for repair and maintenance of oilfield equipment and offer advanced training in oil and gas-related activities.

It will house various workshops, ware- houses and a state-of-the-art hands-on training facility as well as offices for Cameron staff.

The facility is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2017.

The guest of honour at the launching ceremony was Haji Mohamad Azmi bin Haji Mohd Hanifah, the Permanent Secretary (Industry) at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), who was given a warm welcome by Sandy Ewen, the Vice-President of Cameron Sales and Operations, Middle East and Asia, at Schlumberger.

The ceremony began with a safety briefing, which was followed by recitations of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat.

A speech was also delivered by Haji Mohamad Azmi, where he lauded Cameron for having a high local workforce in its company.

From left: Yap Kong Fa, Technical Director of BSP; Haji Mohamad Azmi bin Haji Mohd Hanifah, Permanent Secretary (Industry) at the PMO; Sandy Ewen, Vice-President of Cameron Sales and Operations, Middle East and Asia at Schlumberger and Eric Merrill, Contract Owner of BSP. – DANIEL LIM

In his speech, Sandy Ewen described the new facility as a platform for Cameron to support the Brunei market through various services.

Cameron will continue to support the Brunei market through providing warehousing and property management, spare management, prepping equipment for the field, running and rental tool management, and a base of operations for services, he added.

The guest of honour then took part in pouring the cement into one of the building’s foundation pillars, together with Sandy Ewen; Yap Kong Fa, the Technical Director of Brunei Shell Petroleum Co Sdn Bhd (BSP); and Eric Merrill, the Contract Owner of BSP.

Haji Mohamad Azmi also signed a plaque to record the historic occasion, and was given a brief overview of the various planned services which the facility will provide upon completion.

Cameron currently has 62 locals among its 84 employees, and has set a target of achieving a local workforce of 96 per cent by 2025.

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HER Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade arrived in Ottawa, Canada on April 2 at the invitation of Global Affairs Canada.

This year marks Canada’s 150th anniversary of Confederation and the 40th anniversary of Asean-Canada Dialogue Relations.

Welcoming Her Royal Highness at the airport was James Ian Burchett, Director-General for Southeast Asia, APEC and Asean of Global Affairs Canada and Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Kamal Bashah bin Pengiran Haji Ahmadi, High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to Canada.

The second day of the visit started with bilateral meetings at Global Affairs Canada. Her Royal Highness first met Matt Decourcey, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, followed by Dr Donald Bobiash, Assistant Deputy Minister for Asia-Pacific of Global Affairs Canada.

Peter M Boehm, Deputy Minister of International Development of Global Affairs Canada, hosted a lunch for Her Royal Highness and delegation.

In all meetings, both sides reviewed the development of bilateral relations and agreed to explore potential areas for future collaboration. There were also exchanges of views on regional and international issues of common interest.

Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar with David Johnston, Governor-General of Canada and his spouse Sharon Johnston. – INFOFOTO

Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, speaking with David Johnston, Governor-General of Canada

Her Royal Highness during the bilateral meeting with Matt Decourcey, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, and Dr Donald Bobiash, Assistant Deputy Minister for Asia-Pacific, Global Affairs CanadaHer Royal Highness during the bilateral meeting with Matt Decourcey, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, and Dr Donald Bobiash, Assistant Deputy Minister for Asia-Pacific, Global Affairs Canada

Her Royal Highness being introduced to Senator Yuen Pau Woo from British Columbia

Her Royal Highness arriving at Hilton Lac-Leamy Hotel, Ottawa to attend a dinner

In the afternoon, Her Royal Highness paid a courtesy call on David Johnston, Governor-General of Canada. Also present was the spouse of the Governor-General Sharon Johnston. During the meeting, both sides acknowledged the close friendship and valuable cooperation between Brunei Darussalam and Canada and underscored the importance in further strengthening bilateral cooperation.

Her Royal Highness also had the opportunity to attend a dinner at Hilton Lac-Leamy Hotel, Ottawa which was attended by Yuen Pau Woo, Senator for British Columbia province, senior officials from Global Affairs Canada and Asean Heads of Mission in Ottawa.

Throughout the visit, Her Royal Highness was accompanied by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar.

Her Royal Highness departed for Vancouver yesterday for the final leg of her visit.

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CHUNG Hua Middle School dominated at the finals of the Interschool Ping Pong Competition Cluster IV held at the Sayyidina Ali Secondary School (SMSA) in Kuala Belait.

Five schools – SMSA, Pengiran Anak Puteri Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Secondary School (SMPAPHRSB), Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar Secondary School (SMPJNPHAB), Chung Hua Middle School, and Anthony Abell College (AAC) – each sent students to compete in eight different categories: Male Single B and C, Male Double B and C, Female Single B and C, and Female Double B and C.

Chang Juin Wei and Nicole Ho from Chung Hua Middle School emerged winners in the Male and Female Category B, respectively, while Mohd Arif Najib bin Fazril Zaharin from SMPAPHRSB and Mek Shuet Yi from SMSA claimed top spots in the Male and Female Category C, respectively.

Meanwhile, Chung Hua Middle School took a clean sweep of the Group Category B with Fabian Low and Felix Low in the male category and Samantha Lee and Chin Hui Shan in the female category.

Chairpersons of the event Pengiran Hajah Zeiniun binti Pengiran Mudin, the Principal of SMSA and, Haji Eady Sadri bin Pehin Datu Dermasakti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Razak, the Head of Curriculum in Belait in a group photo with participants

Karen Foo and Chang Ming Hui from Chung Hua Middle School also took first place in the Female Group Category C, while Nigel Chin Onn Yun and Foo Jiong Yang from SMSA placed first in the Male Group Category C.

The chairpersons of the event were Pengiran Hajah Zeiniun binti Pengiran Mudin, the Principal of SMSA and, Haji Eady Sadri bin Pehin Datu Dermasakti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Razak, the Head of Curriculum in Belait.

The main objective of the tournament was to promote a healthy living and sportsmanship.

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|      Fadhil Yunus      |

BRUNEI Darussalam national netball coach Thilaka Jinadasa stressed the importance on improving the success rate of centre passes despite seeing her charges romped to a 78-21 victory over the Sri Lanka School team in the second game of the friendly series at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex last night.

The national team is still way short of their target of 80 per cent success rate in centre pass having only managed 62 per cent though Jinadasa will not be heavily concerned with the shooting which have improved.

“We target the centre passes of around 80 per cent but we ended on 62 per cent,” Jinadasa revealed in an interview with the Bulletin.

Having made a limit number of passes under a certain timeframe, the head coach has planned not to exceed four passes which however did not go according to plan as the side manufactured six.

The national coach highlighted that her players need to be strict with their strategy and called for decision-making while keeping options covering straight, parallel and back options open.

“We were not strict with our strategy because we’ve planned the centre passes the maximum three to four passes but the second quarter for centre pass we did six passes”, she continued.

“It’s like we’re hesitant to go on with their strategy which means they challenged us on these centre passes compared to yesterday”.

The national team’s shooting rate has improved considerably compared to previous years.

Players in action during the friendly series

Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah in a group photo with the National Netball team and Sri Lanka School team. – PHOTOS: KHAIRIL HASSAN

“When they’re under pressure, they always hesitate and they have 60-70 per cent but I don’t mind with the shooting percentage because they’re all around 75 per cent”.

The Royal Bees met their turnovers target of 70 per cent with 72 per cent in their last outing against the Sri Lankan juniors.

“My worry is about the centre passes. We need to really work on with our own centre passes and shoot straight away without the need for turnovers,” the netball coach stressed.

The netball coach said that they could not afford the same dilemma in their centre passes if they were to meet Asian level opposition.

“To manage the score, we need to score our centre passes. That is the strategy that I want to be strict.

“We may be doing different training after rest day so I want to see a different ball game at least to improve from 62 per cent on the next game’s centre passes”.

However, Jinadasa believed they can improve on their centre pass rate before the end of the six-game series which will conclude on Monday.

The national team have a new defensive look following the absence of two players but Jinadasa will be looking at the positives of her current players.

Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah was also present during the friendly series.

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|      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, who is also the Chairman of DPMM FC, yesterday joined the DPMM FC squad as well as members of club management and the backroom staff for an official team photo at the Jerudong Mini Stadium.

His Royal Highness also interacted with the current players shortly after the conclusion of the photo session.

Also present during the team photo session was 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, the Vice Chairman of DPMM FC.

An ever-present in the club affairs are Team Manager Ali Haji Momin and Club Manager Pengiran Haji Muhammad Waslimin bin Pengiran Setia Jaya Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin.

The head coach of DPMM FC, Steve Kean, is in his fourth season with the club while Rosmin Kamis is the team captain.

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, greeted by DPMM FC players at the Mini Stadium in Jerudong yesterday

His Royal Highness being greeted by the DPMM FC players. – PHOTOS: KHAIRIL HASSAN

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, in a group photo with the DPMM FC squad as well as members of club management and the backroom staff

This year, the team’s major acquisition is Billy Mehmet who arrived from S League rivals Tampines Rovers FC.

Brazilian striker Rafael Ramazotti have been retained as one of the foreign imports while Zeljko Savic completes the quota as an immediate replacement for the injured Francisco Marque who sustained the injury in the opening match against Home United FC.

New but familiar faces that have featured prominently in the domestic scene have also been added into this year’s squad with the inclusions of Muhammad Hanif Hamir, Afiq bin Roslan and Awangku Mohd Muizzuddin bin Pengiran Ismail.

DPMM FC, S League winners in 2015, have a busy month ahead with an away clash against Balestier Khalsa on Friday before meeting Warriors FC at home on April 15. The Gegar Gegar men, who recently recorded their first win this season, then travel to the Bedok Stadium against Geylang International FC with a mouth-watering clash against Tampines Rovers FC looming on April 28.

The Brunei-based outfit are looking to claw their way back into title contention following an unfortunate start against the current top two sides in the league.

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|     Aziz Idris     |

AKK Design, the official publisher of Brunei DPMM FC Match-Day Magazine, yesterday signed Memoranda of Agreement (MoAs) with seven partners and supporters for the 2017 Singapore League season.

With the MoAs signed, the magazine aims to support the Brunei Wasps by continuing to publish in-depth reports and latest news for fans and supporters during every home match held at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

Present to witness the signing was the guest of honour Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports. Also present was Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Khairul Khalil bin Pengiran Syed Haji Jaafari.

Signing on behalf of AKK Design was its Chief Executive Officer Sazali bin Mohd Ariff and it was witnessed by his Marketing Executive, Abdul Aziz bin Ibrahim.

The first signing of the night saw Premium Partner Baiduri Bank, represented by Awangku Nor Muhammad Nizam bin Pengiran Haji Tengah, Head of Treasury.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Khairul Khalil bin Pengiran Syed Haji Jaafari, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports; Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan bin Haji Mohamad Daud, the Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; Lim Hong Huai, High Commissioner of the Republic of Singapore to Brunei Darussalam, in a group photo with partners and supporters for Brunei DPMM FC Match-Day Magazine 2017 Singapore League season. – DEAN KASSIM

This was followed by the signing for the Gold Advertiser by Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, represented by its General Manager Reggie See.

Cityneon Displays and Construction Sdn Bhd signed on the dotted line as Event Official Partner and was represented by Dato Jack Ting, its Managing Director.

Royal Brunei Airlines as the Airline Partner was represented by Karam Chand, its Chief Executive Officer.

Signing on behalf of Silver Partners Nazmi Textile Mall was its manager Mohamed Nazim Rizhwan bin Nazeer Ahmad, and Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd, its Chief Financial Officer Roger Playhay.

The last signing of the night was for Media Partners, and for this, Radio Television Brunei (RTB) was represented by the Director, Haji Muhammad Suffian bin Haji Bungsu.

Prior to the signing, Sazali in his opening remarks took the opportunity to thank all partners for their unwavering support for the Match-Day Magazine to be able to continuously improve to what it is today.

Brunei DPMM FC’s best performance was in 2015 when the Wasps lifted the S League championship title.

It is hoped that the magazine, together with partners and support from die-hard DPMM FC fans, can play a pivotal role for the team and repeat the landmark achievement this season.

Also present at the ceremony were Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan bin Haji Mohamad Daud, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; Lim Hong Huai, High Commissioner of the Republic of Singapore to Brunei Darussalam; top officials from both government and private agencies and the top management from Brunei DPMM FC.

The ceremony was held at the 8th Floor, Presidential Lounge, The Rizqun International Hotel.

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|     James Kon     |

THE Rotary Club of Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB) will organise End Polio Ride 2017, a cycling event, at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium on May 7.

The event will see the participation of around 400 cyclists from Rotary Club Labuan FT, Rotary Club of Belait and Rotary Club of Miri Oil Town.

The details of the event were revealed during a press conference chaired by Jimmy Chung Sze Kiat, organising chairman of the event with co-chair Jackson Chin as well as other organising members

According to Jimmy Chung Sze Kiat, the event is one of the Rotary Club’s six areas of focus to help with disease prevention and treatment. The event aims to promote awareness on polio.

Polio or poliomyelitis is a paralysing and potentially fatal disease that threatens children in some parts of the world. The organisation launched its PolioPlus programme, the first initiative to tackle global polio eradication through the mass vaccination of children. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), only three countries currently remain endemic namely Nigeria, Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Members of the organising committee of End Polio Ride 2017 in a group photo at the press conference. – JAMES KON

The event will be divided into two categories, the Fun Ride (10km) and Challenge Ride (40km). Both events are non-competitive. The closing date of registration is April 26.

Cyclists can acquire registration forms at NBT’s Lexus Showroom in Gadong as well as Kuala Belait, Guang Hock Lee at Batu Bersurat, Triple Stars at Kiulap, Bit Computer at Kiulap and The Mall, VV Kimas at Delima and Garmin at Kiulap.

Cyclists can also register online at www.rotarydistrict3310.com/eprbrunei.

Jeff Yong, co-advisor of the organising committee and Vice-President of Rotary Club of Bandar Seri Begawan, lauded the Government of Brunei Darussalam for being supportive of the WHO’s initiative to end polio.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

THE Brunei Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DPPMB) was the host yesterday to a group of students from Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), who are currently conducting research for their course in Traditional Industry.

“Brunei’s economy is experiencing a downturn, following a drop in global oil prices, which are hovering around $50 per barrel globally at present,” said Haji Muslim bin Haji Tengah, the Deputy President of DPPMB, when asked to explain about the development of local small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

“The economic slowdown makes the role of SMEs even more significant in our efforts to diversify the economy away from oil and gas,” he said, adding, “We have been in the comfort zone and will need to empower our SMEs.”

The Treasurer of DPPMB, Fauziah binti Dato Seri Paduka Haji Talib, then gave the students a brief overview on the history of DPPMB, which was established over 50 years ago and has since undergone several changes.

Deputy President of DPPMB, Haji Muslim bin Haji Tengah briefs UBD students. – AZLAN OTHMAN

“DPPMB strives in promoting local micro, small and medium-sized entrepreneurs, uniting them and promoting trade and investment… As a business chamber, DPPMB needs to keep up with current local and international business needs,” she said.

“We now have a new image, which was introduced in November last year. Since then, we have met with diplomatic missions and businesses to give exposure to the new DPPMB. We have also reached out to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MoFAT) and the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT).

“We have also revised our constitution, to be more modern and sensitive to current needs,” she added.

Meanwhile, local businessman Haji Osman told the students that it was their responsibility, as the country’s main asset, to achieve the aims of Brunei Vision 2035 in producing a highly educated and skilled workforce.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

AN EARLY blaze yesterday completely razed the mosque at RPN Kampong Mentiri.

No one was hurt in the fire which broke out at 2am.

The mosque building was made of wood and had a concrete floor and spandex roof.

The Fire and Rescue Department received a distress call at around 2.11am. Immediately, 32 personnel from the department and the Women’s Operation Unit along with six fire engines from Mentiri, Muara, Lambak and Central fire stations were dispatched to the scene. The operation was led by SSFR Yudieswandy bin Bakar.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs said the mosque is closed temporarily and urged worshippers residing in the area to use nearby mosques as the fire has rendered the affected mosque unsafe. Meanwhile, works to restore the mosque is currently underway, the ministry added.

A major fire razed RPN Kampong Mentiri Mosque early yesterday

The aftermath of the fire. – PHOTOS: AZLAN OTHMAN

The cause of the fire and extent of losses are yet to be ascertained.

Among those present at the scene yesterday morning were Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, and Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud.

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|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

FOR Ramadhan this year, 157.5 metric tonnes of Safawi dates will be distributed to citizens and residents of Islamic faith in the country.

Each Muslim citizen and resident will receive a 300-gramme box of the dates, irrespective of age and status of citizenship.

The ‘Kurma Kurnia Peribadi’ (personal gift of dates) from 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, will be distributed after an allotment launching ceremony.

Last year, 154 metric tonnes of Safawi dates were distributed during the holy month.

The dates, supplied by Al Madinah Dates Company, Saudi Arabia, will be shipped by sea in a chilled container to preserve their freshness, and are scheduled to arrive at Muara Port in the last week of April 2017.

Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (Yayasan) yesterday organised a meeting at the Yayasan Complex in the capital to discuss the distribution of the dates in time for the upcoming Ramadhan festival.

The agenda of the meeting, which was chaired by Haji Brahim bin Haji Ismail, Managing Director of Yayasan, covered discussions on the management system as well as the allotment of the Kurma Kurnia Peribadi.

Haji Brahim bin Haji Ismail (L), Managing Director of Yayasan, chairing the meeting. – ISHAN IBRAHIM

The appointment of a secretariat and members of the coordinating committee for the allotment of the dates – to be managed and supported by Yayasan with cooperation from the relevant government departments – was also carried out during the meeting.

Yesterday’s meeting was attended by district and government officers from participating government departments such as the Royal Customs and Excise Department, Ports Department, Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Royal Brunei Police Force, Radio Television Brunei, Information Department as well as officers from Yayasan.

The dates will be handed out to the village heads from across the nation, who will then distribute them to the residents of their respective village.

These dates will also be presented to the commanding officers of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) and directors of units at the Ministry of Defence during the launching ceremony. Upon conclusion of the ceremony, the dates will also be handed to other RBAF officers and staff.

Similarly, the dates will also be presented to the commanding officers, formation directors, and officers and staff of the Royal Brunei Police Force.

The distribution of the personal gift of dates from His Majesty is one of Yayasan’s annual projects.

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|    Azaraimy HH    |

SM Muda Hashim had a double celebration after winning two titles at the Cluster 5 Inter-Secondary Schools and Colleges Football Championship at Tutong District Sports Complex recently.

Mohd Syamim Hakime bin Kamal Shah put the icing on the cake after being named Best Player as the school reigned supreme in Categories B and C.

They beat Brunei Islamic College in the Category B final and Tutong Sixth Form Centre in the final of Category C.

The championship was divided into Category B for students aged 15 and under, and Category C for students aged 16, 17 and 18.

SM Tanjung Maya claimed third spot in Category B, defeating SM Sayyidina Othman Tutong in the play-off. In the Category C classification match, SM Sayyidina Othman Tutong clinched a podium finish after edging SM Tanjung Maya Tutong.

Awang Roslin bin Suhailee, Acting Assistant Director, Department of Co-Curriculum Education, presented the major prizes.

The winners in a group photo. – AZARAIMY HH

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|    Fadhil Yunus    |

DPMM FC head coach Steve Kean will be cautious with the danger posed by Balestier Khalsa in set plays when the pair clash in the Great Eastern-Hyundai S League at Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore tonight.

The head coach stressed the importance of avoiding needless fouls and conceding corners.

Kean has acknowledged the strengths of the Tigers despite languishing in a lowly 8^th place.

Balestier Khalsa head coach Marko Kraljevic’s philosophy is alien to the Scotsman having featured against them on numerous occasions during the years.

“Marko’s teams are always organised. They’re quite direct so I don’t expect them to be building the ball too much from the back and try to start the play,” said Kean in an interview with the Bulletin after a training session at the Jerudong Mini Stadium on Wednesday.

“They get the ball forward and they’re good at it. They’re good at picking up the second balls and they’re very dangerous on set plays.

“We need to stay on our feet and not make silly fouls around the box or give simple corners away because they’re really dangerous.”

When questioned if it will take a different mentality of coping with the pressure in registering their first away win of the season, Kean has indicated that he is not overly concerned.

“It’s like any game. As soon as you get a victory then the confidence comes back into the side. It’s amazing what a victory does”.

Steve Kean conducting training yesterday. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

“We didn’t play bad at all against Home United and Albirex but we didn’t get points and obviously that brings then a little bit nervousness inside the team.

“But I think getting the victory the other evening against Hougang you can see now all the confidence flooding back to the team so it’s just about recovering and now trying to get back-to-back wins and let’s try go on an unbeaten run and try get that run to last as long as possible.”

The Scotsman is not deeply concerned by the lack of chances especially with the abundance of quality in attack.

He said his main focus lies in having his team record a clean sheet.

“The biggest thing that we need to have in the very front of our mind of the whole team is let’s get another clean sheet because I’m always confident that we’ll get chances.

“You’ve got Billy Mehmet, Ramazotti, and Azwan Ali and now we’ve got midfield players who can strike the ball really well with Param (Azwan Salleh) and Azam.

“We can score from crosses because we’re so tall. The biggest focus and the biggest approach to the game is can we make sure that we start with a clean sheet obviously and if we do I think we’ll win,” the former Blackburn Rovers manager added.

The head coach also labelled his attacking players “as good as anyone in the league” after commending the physical presence of both Billy Mehmet and Rafael Ramazotti.

Kean also confirmed that there are no new injury concerns ahead of the league clash.

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|      Achong Tanjong      |

COMMANDER of Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah received a courtesy call from General Zubair Mahmood Hayat, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) of the Pakistan Armed Forces yesterday.

Upon arrival at the Ministry of Defence at the Bolkiah Garrison, General Zubair Mahmood Hayat was accorded a guard of honour by personnel from the Royal Brunei Land Force (RBLF). He then proceeded to pay an introductory call to the Commander of the RBAF.

General Zubair Mahmood Hayat was accompanied by Brigadier Muhammad Aqeel, Principal Staff Officer (POS) to CJCSC and Commodore Jawad Ahmed, the Pakistan Defence Advisor accredited to Brunei Darussalam. All services commanders, Joint Force Commander, the Chief of Staff RBAF and the Director of Intelligence were also present during the call to the Commander of the RBAF.

The discussions focused on creating new opportunities as well as capitalising on existing opportunities and areas of military cooperation between RBAF and the Pakistan Armed Forces. Both sides also further affirmed commitments towards maintaining warm relationship and utilising various platforms and avenues of cooperation.

General Zubair Mahmood Hayat is in the country with his spouse on an introductory visit from April 6-8.

Commander of the RBAF, Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah with General Zubair Mahmood Hayat, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee of the Pakistan Armed Forces . – ACHONG TANJONG

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|      Rokiah Mahmud      |

HER Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman consented to launch the latest collection of The Royal dUCk, a special collaboration between Her Royal Highness with the popular scarves brand, the dUCk Group from Malaysia in a ceremony at the Indera Kayangan Ballroom of The Empire Hotel & Country Club yesterday.

The founder of the dUCk scarves Vivy Yusof, who is also the co-founder of FashionValet, one of Asia’s leading multi-label online sites carrying Asian designer labels and a lifestyle brand of headscarves and stationary was happy when Her Royal Highness agreed to collaborate with The Royal dUCk collection.

Vivy, in an interview with the Bulletin after the launch said, “The more I worked with Her Royal Highness, the more respect I had for her.

“She was fully involved and passionate putting her heart in the collaboration,” she added. “I cannot think of anyone better to represent what I feel a woman should be and it truly was an honour to collaborate with Her Royal Highness.”

At the ceremony, Her Royal Highness launched The Royal dUCk collection comprising scarves and scarf bags.

The scarves will be available in four shades of red, pink, ash blue and peach, while the scarf bag will be available in red, pink, blue and green.

The collection was designed to celebrate the attributes of a woman, represented by five distinct elements – a wheel, the grids from a sports racquets, diamonds, flowers and bees.

Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman and Vivy Yusof, co-founder of FashionValet and founder of dUCk at the launch of The Royal dUCk collection. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah presenting a prize to one of the winners

Vivy Yusof delivering a speech at the launch

Vivy Yusof during an interview with the local press

The Royal dUCk products on display

The Wheel – a universal representation of independence – but one that is also important to Her Royal Highness who loves cycling, drives herself around town and personally sends her children to school, while the Grids of a sports racquets – representing fitness and an active lifestyle which also rings true with Her Royal Highness who is a firm believer that a woman should be fit and healthy.

The Diamonds – serves a symbol of class and elegance – and one that should define every woman. A woman must speak kindly of others, with sincerity and respect, and women should empower one another and sparkle together just like diamonds. The element of flowers represents the soft and feminine side of every woman.

Vivy explained that they used Hydrangeas in The Royal dUCk collection as they are Her Royal Highness’ favourite blooms. Just like flowers, a woman exudes elegance, as well as the grace to remain strong and firm. Her Royal Highness represents this element too well, always beautiful and graceful in appearance, yet determined and strong when performing her royal duties.

The Bees signify love, nurture and growth as well as teamwork – important qualities that we all need to have. Her Royal Highness believes that all women should empower one another.

The collection has not only marked a major milestone for dUCk but also holds much meaning for women.

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|      James Kon      |

IT WAS announced yesterday that housing and land applicants from 2009 to 2015 would need to submit updated information for the Ministry of Development’s new data profiling scheme, ‘Kemaskini Data Pemohon Skim Perumahan Negara’ (KSPN) 2017.

The announcement was made during a press conference by Dr Nor Imtihan binti Haji Abdul Razak, the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Development.

Also present at the press conference were Haji Mohammad Zain bin Haji Mohammad, the Acting Director of Housing Development; Dayang Rosniza binti Dato Paduka Haji Hamdani, the Acting Chief Quantity Surveyor; and Haji Mat Ramlee bin Haji Ibrahim, an Engineer under the Housing Development Department.

At present, there are around 26,000 applicants for the National Housing Scheme and the Land Title Scheme for Citizens.

Dr Nor Imtihan said that the ‘KSPN 2017’ scheme would be implemented from April 10 to June 10, to provide them with more comprehensive updates and accurate data profiling for the applicants.

The new statistics, she said, “will help us in carrying out analysis and more robust research, to improve the level of planning and existing policies in adapting to the current and future economic, as well as social, situations.

Dr Nor Imtihan binti Haji Abdul Razak, the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Development. – BAHYIAH BAKIR

“What is important, in attaining balance for fulfilling the criteria of affordability and sustainability in the infra-housing development, is achieving the goals of Brunei Vision 2035 for quality standards of living.”

She also said that failing to submit the required details within the stated period would greatly affect the housing application process.

Meanwhile, seven locations have been designated for the manual distribution and receipt of ‘KSPN 2017’ forms: the Muwafaqah Hall on the first floor of the Housing Development Department at Jalan Airport Lama; the first floor lobby of the Ministry of Development; the lobby of the Public Works Department headquarters; the Water Services Department headquarters at Jalan Tasek Lama; the Belait branch of the Housing Development Department; the Tutong branch of the Housing Development Department; and the Temburong branch of Housing Development Department.

All the counters will be open daily from 8am to 4.30pm, except on Friday and Sunday, as well as public holidays.

Members of the public can also download the forms from the official website at www.housing.gov.bn, and email the completed questionnaire to kspn@hdd.gov.bn.

Applicants’ lists for housing and land from 2009 to 2015 can be found online, as well as at the seven locations mentioned above.

Further inquiries can be directed to the 1st Floor of Housing Development Department, should any names be missing from those lists.

For more information, members of the public can contact 2382145 ext 7013/7014, or email kspn@hdd.gov.bn.

The post ‘KSPN 2017’ to assist citizens in acquiring dream houses appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

THE Brunei Internal Security Department in cooperation with other intelligence and enforcement agencies detained and deported four foreign nationals for their involvement in extremism and terrorism-linked activities.

The action is part of the continuous effort of the Government 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 to ensure that the Sultanate is free from any threat against the peace, harmony and security of the nation, the department said in a press statement yesterday.

Following an operation conducted in February 2017, four Indonesian nationals were detained under section 55 of the Internal Security Act, and subsequently, all four were deported and blacklisted from re-entering Brunei due to their predisposition towards the ideology of militant group – Islamic State (IS).

The four suspects are: Teuku Muhammad Zein Teuku Sofyan, 31; Murtadho Bakri, 46; Andri Rahayu Sukiman, 33; and Firdaus Muhammad Ali, 37.

Brunei Internal Security Department’s investigations revealed that two of the suspects were in possession of propaganda materials related to IS and all four suspects admitted to downloading as well as sharing IS online videos and other materials available on the Internet.

Information received from intelligence sources has also revealed that Teuku Muhammad Zein was known to have been in direct contact with a suspected IS member based overseas. Findings of the investigations were also shared with Brunei Internal Security Department’s counterpart in Indonesia prior to the deportations of the four suspects.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Teuku Muhammad Zein Teuku Sofyan (31), Murtadho Bakri (46), Andri Rahayu Sukiman (33), and Firdaus Muhammad Ali (37)

According to the statement, this recent development indicates the emergence of extremism and terrorism related elements in the country and highlights the need for the government and the public to exercise a high degree of caution considering that no country is immune to the perils of transnational security threats including Brunei Darussalam.

“His Majesty’s Government would like to remind the public that any act of terrorism is detrimental to the security of Brunei Darussalam and is a serious offence under the Anti-Terrorism Order. The Brunei Internal Security Department together with other intelligence and enforcement agencies will not hesitate to take strong and pre-emptive action against any individual or group found to be supporting, promoting or disseminating any militant ideology or propaganda which also includes act of providing and collecting funds for any individuals or groups that have links or suspected to have links with terrorism,” the statement said.

The department urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities by individuals or groups that are linked to terrorism by contacting Brunei Internal Security Department’s hotline 133 or sending e-mail to isd133@kdn.gov.bn.

The post 4 deported for terror links appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Azrol Azmi      |

HER Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam received in separate audiences, the wife of General Zubair Mahmood Hayat, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Pakistan Armed Forces and spouses of foreign envoys.

Her Majesty first received in audience Begum Maliha Bhatti, the wife of the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Pakistan Armed Forces.

Accompanying Begum Maliha Bhatti were Saffana Tariq, the wife of the High Commissioner of The Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Brunei Darussalam; and Awatif Jawa, the wife of the Pakistan Defence Advisor accredited to Brunei Darussalam.

Also present at the ceremony was Pengiran Datin Nuur ‘Izzah Nabilah binti Pengiran Haji Ahmad Mahdi Al-Sufri, the wife of the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam with Abeda Islam, wife of Air Vice Marshal Mahmud Hussain, the High Commissioner of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to Brunei Darussalam

Her Majesty and Begum Maliha Bhatti, wife of General Zubair Mahmood Hayat, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Pakistan Armed Forces in a group photo

Her Majesty with Thi Minh Hang, wife of Do Anh Tuan, the Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Brunei Darussalam. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

Her Majesty then received in audience Abeda Islam, wife of Air Vice Marshal Mahmud Hussain, the High Commissioner of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to Brunei Darussalam.

Her Majesty lastly received Nguyen Thi Minh Hang, wife of Do Anh Tuan, the Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Brunei Darussalam.

The audience ceremonies took place at the Istana Nurul Iman yesterday.

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|      Azrol Azmi      |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the Minister of Defence and the Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) yesterday received in audience General Zubair Mahmood Hayat, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Pakistan Armed Forces, who is in the country for a three-day introductory visit from April 6-8, 2017.

Accompanying General Zubair Mahmood Hayat were Major General (Rtd) Tariq Rashid Khan, High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Brunei Darussalam; Brigadier Muhammad Aqeel, Principal Staff Officer (PSO) to Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee; and Commodore Jawad Ahmed, Pakistan Defence Advisor accredited to Brunei Darussalam.

Also present at the ceremony were First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit, Deputy Minister of Defence; Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, the Commander of the RBAF; and Captain (Rtd) Haji Mohammad Amirul Shahnoel bin Haji Mohammad Noeh, Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence.

The audience ceremony took place at the Istana Nurul Iman.

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, the Minister of Defence and the Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces with General Zubair Mahmood Hayat, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Pakistan Armed Forces during the audience ceremony at the Istana Nurul Iman

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, the Minister of Defence and the Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces receiveing a pesambah from General Zubair Mahmood Hayat, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Pakistan Armed Forces. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

DPMM FC suffered their third defeat in four matches following a 2-1 defeat to Balestier Khalsa in the Great Eastern-Hyundai S League at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore last night.

The Gegar Gegar men enjoyed a fine start after Rafael Ramazotti coolly tucked in a penalty in the 21st minute following a professional foul.

However, the Tigers issued a stern warning in the last five minutes of the first half after Myanmar international Kyaw Zayar Win curled a delightful ball into the box which Tajeli Selamat directing his header wide with veteran goalkeeper Alizanda Sitom out of his line.

DPMM FC’s defensive midfielder Azwan Salleh was sent off for a second bookable offence after throwing the ball needlessly in the direction of a Balestier Khalsa’s player.

Balestier Khalsa scored twice in a space of four minutes in the second half to leave the Brunei-based outfit still in search of a first away win this season.

The home side set the tone with Hazzuwan Halim delivering a promising ball into the box which Billy Mehmet shepherding the ball away to safety.

With the cross seemingly far from Rafael Ramazotti’s reach, Hanafi Salleh lost his composure and tugged the Brazilian’s shirt which resulted in a penalty.

The defender was fortunate to escape with a yellow card after replays suggested that he was the last man denying the Brazilian a scoring opportunity.

Ramazotti coolly sent goalkeeper Zaiful Nizam the wrong way to give his side the lead.

DPMM FC’s Ramazotti scores a penalty to give the visitors the lead

The Brazilian conjured an opportunity after leaping to meet Azwan Ali’s cross but unfortunately his weak header was easy for Nizam to collect.

Tajeli Selamat set up Shah Hirul from outside the box but the latter sliced his effort harmlessly wide.

Aung Kyaw Naing also threatened after forcing Alizanda to tip the ball away for a corner with a decent strike in the 38th minute.

The hosts pegged back after Hazzuwan capitalised on an erroneous back header from Zeljko Savic before lobbing the ball over Alizanda.

Raihan Rahman got his side ahead after scoring a stunning free-kick into the top corner as the Balestier Khalsa bench led by the charismatic head coach Marko Kraljevic erupted in joy.

Naing had a good chance to extend his side’s lead but the experienced Alizanda spotted the danger and quickly moved out of his line to deny the Myanmar speedster.

The visitors were down to 10 men in the 86th minute but the dismissal did not stop them from chasing for a late equaliser.

Ramazotti and Mehmet enjoyed a neat exchange in the box but the latter marked by three Balestier players saw his shot deflected off a defender.

From the ensuing corner, Ramazotti directed his header towards goal but was cleared off the line with replays suggesting that it hit the top of the player’s shoulder.

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|    Azlan Othman    |

PRIVATE functions and events booked in advance at the Community Hall at Kampong Mentiri national housing scheme (RPN) will not be affected following Wednesday’s fire, government agencies said.

Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs told the media yesterday that with regard to the dates booked in advance for private occasions, especially weddings, will not be interrupted.

“The Government 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 has taken note of the importance of such events and any bookings that were made and allowed, will not be affected,” he said.

The fire at RPN Kampong Mentiri devastated large parts of the RPN Kampong Mentiri Mosque making it not safe to be used and is temporarily closed.

“The public can utilise nearby religious halls such as the prayer hall at Fire and Rescue Station in RPN Kampong Mentiri as well as Kampong Sungai Besar and Kampong Sungai Buloh mosques.”

Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof (3rd from L), the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, addressing the media yesterday. – PHOTOS: AZLAN OTHMAN

The RPN Kampong Mentiri Mosque that was razed early Wednesday morning

Permission to use the School Hall of Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Secondary School in Kampong Mentiri as an alternative venue for events like weddings has been given by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA)through the Brunei-Muara District Office and the Department of Schools under the Ministry of Education, said Abdul Mutalib.

He said His Majesty’s Government, through the Brunei-Muara District Office, MoHA and the Mosque Affairs Department, Ministry of Religious Affairs has taken the initiative to use the Community Hall in Mukim Mentiri for worshippers at RPN Kampong Mentiri and its surrounding area to perform the obligatory prayers.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Religious Affairs is doing its best to repair the mosque so that the activities could be conducted as normal, said Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Mohd Yusof, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

“The damage is extensive and restoration requires deep assessment. We are not able to ascertain when the repair works will be completed,” said Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz.

The Community Hall will also be used for Al-Quran recitation and Muqaddam classes, Sunnat Tarawikh and Hari Raya prayers. The Community Hall can accommodate about 800 people. Several camps were also established outside the Community Hall to accommodate additionally up to 1,400 worshippers.

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