THE Deputy Minister of Defence, First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohamad Tamit, represented Brunei Darussalam at the Asean-Russia Defence Ministers’ Informal Meeting.

The meeting, chaired by Army General Sergey Shoygu, Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation, was held at the Russian Defence Control National Centre, Ministry of Defence, in Moscow.

According to a press release, Shoygu expressed his appreciation on the support given by the Asean counterparts, and underscored the importance of the meeting in reviewing the progress of defence cooperation between both sides and identifying future activities to further enhance defence relations between the Asean member countries and Russia.

With the theme of ‘20 years of defence partnership between Asean and Russia’, the meeting was timely held ahead of the 20th Asean-Russia Commemorative Summit in Sochi next month.

First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohamad Tamit (R), the Deputy Minister of Defence with Lieutenant General Chansamone Chanyalath, Minister of National Defence, the Lao Peo-ple’s Democratic Republic, at the Asean-Russia Defence Ministers’ Informal Meeting. – MINDEF

During the meeting, Asean Defence Ministers welcomed Russia’s commitment and continued support to the ADMM-Plus framework, especially in maritime security, counter-terrorism, military medicine, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and humanitarian demining.

Both sides also exchanged views on issues of global and regional security as well as discussed ways to enhance military-to-military cooperation.

The Asean ministers later toured the National Defence Control Centre at the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation.

The deputy minister of defence of Brunei had the opportunity to meet the head of delegation of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Lieutenant General Chansamone Chanyalath, Minister of National Defence, who is also the current chair of the Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM).

The deputy minister also attended a bilateral meeting with Anatoly Antonov, Deputy Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation, to discuss bilateral defence and military cooperation.

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah yesterday graced the handover of funds amounting to $53,122, that were raised during the recent Charity Polo Day 2016.

The handover was held at Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam (Pusat Ehsan) in Bengkurong.

Upon arrival at Pusat Ehsan, Their Royal Highnesses were welcomed by the centre’s Board of Trustees, and given a briefing on the new rehabilitation centre, which is shortly due for construction.

After the briefing, Their Royal Highnesses were ushered to the Multipurpose Hall, where they presented the mock cheques to Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini binti Pengiran Dipa Negara Laila Diraja Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin, Executive Trustee of Pusat Ehsan who received the donations on behalf of the centre.

Charity Polo Day 2016 was recently organised by Cityneon Brunei to raise funds for the special needs students of Pusat Ehsan.

Currently, there are about 156 students registered at the centre’s Bengkurong branch, while another 53 special needs students are registered with the Kuala Belait branch.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah hand over the funds that were raised during the recent Charity Polo Day 2016

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah taking a closer look at the new rehabilitation centre, which is shortly due for construction shortly

ABOVE & BELOW: His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah taking photos with the public

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah in a group photo. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

Their funding largely comes from public contributions and annual fund-raising activities.

Dato Jack Ting, Managing Director of Cityneon Brunei, told the Bulletin that the company has been supporting the centre for the past 13 years, as part of its corporate and social responsibility.

“The fund-raising was aimed at helping Pusat Ehsan, as we are aware that the centre’s monthly expenses and operations cost around $50,000. This donation is meant to assist in the effective and smooth functioning of the centre’s daily operations, as well as to cover its expenses,” he explained.

The Bulletin also spoke to Awang Haji Ahmad bin Haji Abdul Rahman, a Policy and Planning Trustee at Pusat Ehsan, who explained that the centre is set to achieve another milestone with the construction of its new multi-million rehabilitation centre complex.

The project, which is under tender process and estimated to cost around three million dollars, will be built on a land plot opposite the current building that houses Pusat Ehsan.

The construction project will be carried out in stages as it is mostly dependent on the centre’s funding.

The new centre is expected to accommodate more students with special needs, as well as individuals requiring occupational therapy.

Haji Ahmad also said that the rehabilitation centre would be built during the first stage of the project.

On completion, the new complex will serve as a centre of excellence, providing a wide range of facilities for people with special needs.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

BRUNEI Darussalam should strive towards becoming a solution provider in the info-communications industry, instead of merely being an end user, said Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, the Minister of Communications.

The minister was speaking yesterday, at the second graduation ceremony for more than 300 TelBru employees, at the International Convention Centre in Berakas.

“Without any focus on research and development, intellectual property based on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) elements registered in this country is still low. We also should be aware that developments elsewhere, or abroad, are far more impressive and inspirational. This is clear in terms of technology and as a solution provider,” he said.

“We are yet to take full advantage of existing investments and infrastructure that can bring us to the extent of a developed country or producing nation. I fear this will bring a significant impact on the digital divide that is increasingly obvious in this country.

“There are many more issues that should be taken into consideration. Access to the Internet, especially in rural areas, and universal connectivity among the local populace are challenges that will distinguish the country’s progress along with those in developed countries.”

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa then mentioned the current “New Wave” in smart technologies, that defines the communications technology of the future.

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, the Minister of Communications, delivering his speech. – PHOTOS: AZLAN OTHMAN

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, the Minister of Communications, presenting a certifi-cate to Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengarah Haji Buntar while CEO of TelBru, David Kay (L), looks on

“Perhaps you have heard of the Internet of Things (IoT) concept, where for example, essential equipment such as vehicles, public transportation and home appliances are equipped with digital technology, GPS, sensors, detectors, data storage and connectivity,” he said.

“This is the reality at the moment. If we do not get involved with IoT, we will be left behind. Intriguingly, this scenario is expected to materialise by 2025, with an estimated 100 billion connections in the world.

“Through this connection, about 55 per cent is through business applications such as retail, traffic management, which leads to the concept of connected nations, smart society and smart manufacturing.

“The remaining 45 per cent is for user applications such as smart home, connected cars, intelligent shopping, safety, wearables, health surveillance and much more.”

The minister also said that industry experts have predicted the adoption of 5G wireless networks and Big Data among global IoT users.

“Such technology will change everything. Telecommunications networks will become more extensive and complex, some new providers will emerge with a business model that is more innovative and challenging.

“The question is, are we ready for this change?” asked Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa, citing policy, management, and investments for the construction of this new infrastructure.

He added that the Ministry of Communications (MinCom) and the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) will continue to assess the effectiveness of the existing regulatory policies, which are relevant to a state-of-the-art ICT ecosystem.

To move things forward, the minister proposed an increase in the implementation of Fibre-To-The-Home (FTTH) and High Speed Broadband, with a target of 40,000 homes and businesses this year.

“We must expand the nationwide WiFi TelBru from the current 50 locations, which will enable all customers to enjoy access to the Internet anytime and anywhere, through the concept of wireless service.

“I also believe that improved infrastructure will enable the people in this country to achieve high-speed Internet from the present 10Mbps, to be on par with other countries in the region.

“The major challenge is that we must also be concerned about affordability, or the introduction of lower prices to users who are categorised as ‘light users’, which will also enable more of them to get Internet access at affordable rates. Recently, authorities in the United States have provided subsidies to high-speed Internet access for those subsisting on a low income.

“Local content development is also important, if we want to see broadband penetration in the country to increase in the foreseeable future.”

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa also spoke of the MinCom’s intention to reduce the digital divide, which could only be achieved through close cooperation between the government and the private sectors.

Among the initiatives that are being considered are funding for the Universal Service Provision, and the increase of accessibility, to pave way for the development of ICT as a crucial sector to the country’s development.

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|     Siti Hajar     |

PLANS for Brunei’s fibre connection as part of Telekom Brunei Berhad (TelBru)’s Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) initiative are expected to reach Tutong and Muara next year.

It was shared yesterday that the telco is reaching its designated milestones with the biggest one to come between the third quarter of this year and the first quarter of 2017 to bring their connections up from 37,000 to 45,000 with the remaining 8,000 representing those in some of these particular areas.

In an interview with the team overlooking the technological aspects of Brunei’s connectivity revolution, comprising Pengiran Mohd Sazali bin Pengiran Haji Razali, Head of Core Network of TelBru; Edwin Lim, General Manager of TelBru Access Network; and James Pugh, Chief Technology Officer of TelBru, at TelBru’s headquarters in the capital, they explained that the telco’s growth plans will cover all corners of the country, including the Temburong District, long considered disjointed from the rest of the country.

“We will be looking into Temburong sometime next year,” they explained, adding that the company is “very excited” to connect all residents in the country with the services that are on offer through better network and infrastructure.

“We are definitely not leaving Temburong behind,” they assured, adding that upgrades in the district are necessary by way of migrating them from copper to fibre, justifying the move that unless these measures are implemented, the telco could potentially lose customers residing in the district that is the Green Jewel of Brunei.”

Edwin Lim, General Manager of TelBru Access Network; James Pugh, Chief Technology Officer of TelBru; and Pengiran Mohd Sazali bin Pengiran Haji Razali, Head of Core Network of TelBru in a group photo. – SITI HAJAR

“We need to provide Brunei with the best service, even if it means the duration of investment return is long,” that can be compensated by the added value services that come naturally with faster connectivity.

“As a unified TelBru this is hand-in-hand with our goal to create a Smart Nation,” with the bridge to link Temburong to the rest of the country also playing a vital part in the company’s planning.

“Investors will start coming into Temburong once the bridge is completed and when that happens we will already be there to offer and provide our services,” the officials explained.

Not wanting to confine their capabilities to just the residents of Brunei, it was also pointed out that there is a possibility to connect Temburong’s tourist locations noting that connectivity, namely the Internet, is a major attraction worldwide.

Since its rollout five years ago much has changed in the country’s communications landscape with the wider public noticing speeds that were once unimaginable.

When the company first embarked on this megaproject to provide Brunei with world-class service, it was shared that TelBru had to experience a number of setbacks, challenges that have strengthened its resolve to honour its commitments.

With its no-holds-bar campaign since changing management the company now has a presence in providing feedback and input in Brunei’s development plans with a representative embedded in Brunei’s Authority for Building Control and Construction Industry (ABCi) to assist in verifying approval and permits for FTTH installations, including those in government housing areas.

Other government housing areas are also expected to receive the same service with surveys taking place to estimate the work that needs to be done.

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

THE local mobile app community and ICT-based platform developers may be persuaded to turn to the Google Cloud Platform for its “hard-to-beat core advantages and features in network, storage, computing and distributed software tiers”.

Local ICT industry players and app developers, participants of ‘Google Cloud Platform (GCP) Next 2016 Extended (GCP NEXT)’, agreed that the GCP is cost-effective aside from having hard-to-beat underlying advantages.

GCP NEXT is the largest gathering of the GCP community to explore the latest developments in cloud technology.

The event was organised by the Google Developer Group (GDG) in Brunei Darussalam in collaboration with the Authority for Info-communication sTechnology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) at the Seri Kerna Hall, AITI in Anggerek Desa.

In an interview, Agus Muslim Jaenuddin, CEO of award-winning local start-up company Newgate Plus, said the company’s soon-to-be launched blood donation app – an extensive platform that connects people to daily donation needs, activities and personal blood-related records to assist in ensuring the blood availability meets demand – is currently hosted by a reliable US-based company. After seeing the advantages of the GCP during the event, he said GCP can provide promising benefits to Newgate Plus.

Haji Azaman bin Haji Suleiman, Chairman of GDG Brunei delivering his speech. – PHOTOS: AZARAIMY HH

Pengiran Haji Mohd Zain bin Pengiran Haji Abdul Razak, Chief Executive of AITI officiating the event

Some of the participants during the event

One of the GCP programmes is designed to help startups build and scale on GCP.

“This is an amazing time for app developers and ICT-based platform developers and an exciting time to join the cloud system.

“With Google experiences and size, GCP offers great features for those looking for a cloud-based system or service,” said Haji Azaman bin Haji Suleiman, Chairman of GDG Brunei.

He said for startups, GCP is a great platform where they can quickly start with designing their services in the platform.

“Entrepreneurs can go in quickly without hassle, without a need for in-depth technical know-how, and for developers, GCP is actually a great opportunity to create applications for their businesses as it is a storehouse of technology resources,” he added.

The event was officiated by Pengiran Haji Mohd Zain bin Pengiran Haji Abdul Razak, Chief Executive of AITI.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

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, paid his last respects yesterday to the late Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Jaya Indera Pengiran Haji Mokhtar Puteh bin Pengiran Haji Rajid, who had passed away peacefully on the evening of April 30, at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital. He was 85 years old.

Accompanying His Majesty to the residence of the late Cheteria in Kampong Telanai was His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office.

His Majesty and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince joined other mourners, including other members of the royal family, Cabinet Ministers and state dignitaries, to pay their last respects and perform the funeral prayer, which was led by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti.

The body of the late Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Jaya Indera Pengiran Haji Mokhtar Puteh was then laid to rest at the Kampong Telanai Muslim Cemetery.

Born on September 19, 1930, in Kampong Kianggeh, the late Cheteria is fondly remembered by many for his significant contributions to the country, especially during his tenure as the Grand Chamberlain to the royal household, from the 1960s to the 1990s.

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 His Roy-al Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, yesterday paid their last respects to Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Jaya Indera Pengiran Haji Mokhtar Puteh bin Pengiran Haji Rajid. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

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 His Roy-al Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, paying their last respects to Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Jaya Indera Pengiran Haji Mokhtar Puteh bin Pengiran Haji Rajid

He received his early education at the Sekolah Melayu Kajang in Brunei Town, from 1939 to 1942, and furthered his education at the Roman Catholic Mission School.

During the Japanese occupation of Brunei in 1941, he pursued his studies at a designated naval academy in Sarawak.

The late Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Jaya Indera Pengiran Haji Mokhtar Puteh, who was also well-known for his active involvement in sport activities and charity work throughout his life embarked on his career as a Broadcast and Information Officer for the Brunei-Muara District.

The loyal statesman was later appointed as the Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara in the Royal household in May 1968, and later took on the same role at the Grand Chamberlain Office, Istana Darul Hana, in 1995.

He was also a member of the Royal Privy Council, and was the Vice-President of the Brunei Darussalam National Olympic Council in 1956.

During his lifetime, His Majesty gave command for Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Jaya Indera Pengiran Haji Mokhtar Puteh to be promoted as an additional Cheteria under the ‘Cheteria 16’, which honoured him with the title of Pengiran Penggawa Laila Bentara Istiadat Diraja Dalam Istana, in May 1968. His cheteria rank was later upgraded to a full ‘Cheteria 16’ in May 1996, which conferred him the title of Pengiran Jaya Indera.

Some of the long list of state decorations, orders and medals include the The Most Esteemed Family Order Laila Utama DK, The Most Esteemed Family Order Seri Utama DK, The Most Blessed Order of Setia Negara Brunei Second Class DSNB, The Most Honourable Order of Seri Paduka Mahkota Brunei Second Class DPMB, The Most Gallant Order of Pahlawan Negara Brunei Third Class PNB, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Medal PHBS, Pingat Bakti Laila Ikhlas PBLI, Meritorious Service Medal PJK, Long Service Medal PKL, Honorary Officer of The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire CVO, Honorary Member of The Royal Victorian Order MVO and the Pingat Selangor Silver Jubilee Commemoration Medal. He was also the recipient of the Meritorious Youth Leader Award by the Youth Council of Brunei, in 2006.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Jaya Indera Pengiran Haji Mokhtar Puteh is survived by 16 children, 64 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren.

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|     Achong Tanjong     |

THE Department of Co-Curriculum Education at the Ministry of Education through the Uniformed and Community Service Unit in collaboration with Welfare and Social Body of the Department of Co-Curriculum Education (BIJAK) yesterday organised a community charity project called ‘Fastabiqul Khairat’.

Fastabiqul Khairat, which means striving to do good, is a public charity event that started yesterday and will continue until May 30, 2016 from 9am to 4pm (office hours only).

The main objective is to provide aid and assistance to orphans and needy children of the department and surrounding villages in conjunction with welcoming the beginning of the upcoming holy month of Ramadhan and Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2016.

The public is welcome to donate clothes, cakes, drinks, basic food necessities and send them to the Department of Co-Curriculum Education, Jalan 10, Kampong Perpindahan Lambak Kanan in Berakas.

Director of Co-Curriculum Education, Pengiran Suhaimi bin Pengiran Haji Bakar checking his blood pres-sure before donating blood

A group photo of Uniformed and Community Service Unit with staff of the Department of Co-Curriculum Education at the event. – PHOTOS: ACHONG TANJONG

A blood donation campaign was also held yesterday to enliven the event. Present to donate blood were Director of Co-Curriculum Education, Pengiran Suhaimi bin Pengiran Haji Bakar, and the Acting Assistant Director of Co-Curriculum Education, Roslin bin Suhailee, as well as senior officers and staff members of the Ministry of Education.

The social charity project involves members and supervising teachers from six schools’ uniform teams nationwide.

The school uniform teams were invited to make the project successful on a voluntary basis for charity.

The aims of the project are to realise the department’s intention towards the establishment of Uniformed and Community Service Unit, invite staff of the Ministry of Education and members of the civil society to jointly create a charity platform to lend assistance to orphaned children of the department, the less fortunate residents of Kampong Perpindahan Lambak Kanan in Berakas ‘B’ and patients who require blood supply as well as to collect donations in the forms of clothes and food that can be provided to the target individuals.

The event also aims to help the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital Blood Bank Unit stock up on blood supplies and train members of the uniform body to be active in conducting charity works in order to foster closer relationships among members of the community, donors and the recipients.

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

A DELEGATION of 10 youths yesterday departed for Kuala Lumpur to participate in the Youth Exchange Programme between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia, which runs from May 2 to 7.

Led by Shahrinah binti Haji Abdul Rahman, Assistant Head of Youth and Sports Officer at the Youth and Sports Department, the delegation includes students from Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Universiti Technologi Brunei (UTB), Meragang Sixth Form Centre and Kemuda Institute, as well as the head of the Youth Centre Club in Temburong, former students from the Youth Development Centre and alumni of the National Service Programme (PKBN).

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin bade the delegation farewell at the Brunei International Airport.

During the programme, the delegation will make a courtesy visit to the Brunei Darussalam High Commissioner in Malaysia and the Malaysian Head of Director of Youth and Sports.

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin with the delegation at the Brunei International Airport prior to departure. – ROKIAH MAHMUD

They will also pay visits to the National Youth Skills Training Institute (IKBN), International Youth Centre, Malaysian Global Innovation and Creativity Centre (MAGIC), Biji Biji Initiative, hold a dialogue with the Malaysian Youth Council and live with foster families during the home stay programme.

The Youth Exchange Programme is one of the programmes under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Brunei and Malaysia in the field of cooperation of youth and sports that was signed in July 2011.

The post Youth delegation leaves for Malaysia appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

THE Indonesian Embassy in Brunei Darussalam has handed over a donation to the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei at the SMARTER Autism Edge Centre in Jalan Seri Setia Satu, Kg Perpindahan Mata-Mata Gadong.

The delegation from the embassy was led by Nurul Qomar, the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Brunei Darussalam. Also present was Pribadi Sutiono, Deputy Chief of Mission at the embassy.

Malai Haji Abdullah bin Malai Haji Othman, President of SMARTER Brunei brought them on a tour of the facilities at the centre.

In an interview, Ambassador Nurul Qomar said that the world is now aware that individuals living with autism can still be developed, and with more attention and care they will be able to grow. She added that the donation was to show the embassy’s concern for the students at SMARTER Brunei.

Nurul Qomar, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Brunei Darussalam (Left) handing over the donation to Malai Haji Abdullah bin Malai Haji Othman, President of SMARTER Brunei (2nd from Right). – ABDUL HAKIIM YAKOF

The donation handover was also held to commemorate Indonesia’s National Education Day which is held on May 2.

The donation was compiled from a charity sale that was held during the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MOFAT) Family Day in Commemorating Asean Community, last March 2016 which was participated by Asean embassies.

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|     Fizah HAB     |

THE Russian Pacific Fleet arrived in Brunei on Sunday to participate in the Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) Exercise on Maritime Security and Counter Terrorism running from May 2-12.

During the exercise, the Russian Navy will be engaging with other participating navies from Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Myanmar, China, Japan, Australia, Republic of Korea and the United States in various on-sea drills.

“The Russian Navy will be participating for the first time in the maritime exercises conducted by the ADMM countries in line with the Brunei-Russia diplomatic relations.” said Colonel Aleksei V Ignashov, Military Attache of the Russian Federation to Brunei. “We hope that the participation will develop military technical cooperation as well as economic, cultural and political exchanges between Brunei and Russia.”

“Russia pays high attention to maritime security. Therefore, the main aim in this exercise will be working on the common threats at sea including counter-terrorism,” said Captain Navy Alexander Potapov, Chief of Group of the Russian fleet.

Anti-submarine vessel Admiral Vinogradov, oceanic rescue ship Fotiy Krylov and tanker Irkut. – PHOTOS: FIZAH HAB

Members of the public were given a chance to explore the Admiral Vinogradov, one of the three ships in the Russian Pacific Fleet participating in the ADMM-Plus maritime exercise

“Crewed by some 400 personnel, the Russian ships will be working on interoperability and its cooperation with the other fleets.”

Anti-submarine vessel, Admiral Vinogradov, one of the three ships in the Russian Pacific Fleet participating in the maritime exercise, was open to public yesterday. Visitors were given a chance to board the ship and have a closer look at the vessel.

Oceanic rescue ship Fotiy Krylov and tanker Irkut are two other Russian ships participating in the exercise.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

THE Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) is set to launch the National Savings Day 2016 on May 4 at the Lambak Kanan Primary School.

According to Nur Syukrina binti Dato Mohd Roselan and Nurhuaida Fakhriah binti Damit, AMBD representatives who are also co-chairs cum the secretariats of the event, this year’s National Savings Day will focus on primary school children.

The event aims to achieve zero poverty and fulfil the nation’s Vision 2035 especially in enhancing the quality of life of Bruneians.

This is also in line with the objective of National Savings Day: to encourage the habit of saving, engage in prudent financial management to improve financial literacy in the country and to promote financial products and services available in the country.

Roadshows are set to be held at primary schools in the four districts involving the AMBD, the Employees Trust Fund (TAP), the Ministry of Education and other financial institutions licensed by the central bank and other relevant agencies.

Nurhuaida Fakhriah binti Damit (right) and Nur Syukrina binti Dato Mohd Roselan (left), the co-chairs and secretariat of the National Savings Day committee, during the media briefing. – AZLAN OTHMAN

Throughout these roadshows, students will learn financial management through activities and interactive games.

According to a press release by AMBD, it will also hold a Financial Fun Fair at Jerudong Park Playground on May 22, featuring interactive fun-filled programmes and activities for family.

The Centre for Islamic Banking, Finance and Management (CIBFM) will also hold a Financial Planners’ Day on May 26, specifically for financial planners where foreign experts are invited to give a briefing. It will be followed by a Financial Planners’ Showcase on May 28.

According to AMBD’s financial literacy survey, only 51 per cent of Bruneians nurture the habit of saving.

“Our knowledge on financial literacy is good, but the willingness among individuals is lacking and we need to improve on that,” the AMBD officials said.

The post AMBD to mark National Savings Day tomorrow appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Nuri Sufri     |

THE potential for Brunei defence acquisition is seen as “Korea has invested in developing our (Korea) defence system and is now exporting its assets to many countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines”, said Cho Won-myung, the South Korean Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam.

This was revealed during the opening of the ship tour yesterday onboard the Choi Young, a Chungmugong Yi Sun-sin-class destroyer of the South Korean Navy at the Muara Port.

The ship will be participating in the Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) Maritime Security and Counter Terrorism (MS & CT) Exercise.

The exercise is co-hosted by Brunei and Singapore, which is scheduled to take place from May 2-12, sees a total of 18 participating countries comprising Asean member states and its dialogue partners. It will be held at a fictitious sea dubbed the South Equatorial Region Sea Lane of Communication (SLOC).

Captain An Sangmin (5th left) and Cho Won-myung, the South Korean Ambassador to Brunei Darus-salam (centre) in a group photo onboard the Choi Young with the embassy staff members and Korean Navy personnel. – JAMES KON

Speaking to the Bulletin, the ambassador shared his views on the Korean Navy participating in the exercise where he explained, “Following the visit by the ROK Ship, Yi Sun-Shi last year, another destroyer Choi Young came this year to participate in the ADMM-Plus co-hosted by Brunei.”

He expressed his firm belief that the visit by the ROK ship and navy will prove to be meaningful based on the possibility of expanding “bilateral relationships between both countries into military and defence cooperation”, and it can “contribute to regional security and stability through ROK-Brunei bilateral cooperation, especially in counterterrorism.”

Touching on the Brunei-Korea ties, the ambassador said, “Korea is hoping to further expand and deepen exchanges and cooperation with our old friend, Brunei. I think that His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s visit to Korea in 2014 served as an opportunity to upgrade our countries’ relationship.”

“Brunei is located in a strategically important region between the Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean. The Korean government is expecting to expand both high-level and working-level exchanges and cooperation such as joint-exercise or education and training,” he added.

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|     Lyna Mohamed     |

THE nine babies born throughout the country on National Family Day 2016 last Sunday received their ‘Anakku, Harapanku’ Gifts yesterday at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital in the Brunei capital, Suri Seri Begawan Hospital in Belait District and Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Hospital in Tutong District.

RIPAS Hospital recorded six newborn babies – three boys and three girls – who received their gifts from the spouse to Minister of Home Affairs, Datin Paduka Hajah Jahrah binti Haji Mohammad.

The hospital also recorded the first baby born on National Family Day 2016. The baby girl who was delivered at 4.19am is the first bundle of joy for Abdul Rawi bin Haji Metarsad and Siti Amalina binti Haji Alias.

Last year, a total of 15 babies – seven boys and eight girls – were born throughout the country on May 3, 2016.

A father receiving a gift from Datin Paduka Hajah Jahrah binti Haji Mohammad

Group photo of the families in RIPAS Hospital. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

THE Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) Exercise on Maritime Security and Counter Terrorism will help enhance cooperation and break down communication barriers among participants, allowing a better understanding of the way different navies operate at sea and boosting the level of response particularly during a crisis.

This was stated by Commander Harry L Marsh, Commanding Officer of the US Navy destroyer USS Stethem that arrived in Brunei with its over 300-strong crew on Sunday.

The commander stressed the value of effective communication and better understanding between maritime nations involved in the exercise, either to counter a hostile response or provide humanitarian assistance.

Although this is not the first such exercise being conducted, as other multi-national and bilateral exercises also take place regularly, the commander said the exercise will help improve communications and learn from the other maritime nations about manoeuvrings and operations at sea.

The 10-day exercise, launching today in Brunei, will culminate in Singapore next week and will see professional in-port interactions and complex operations at sea.

The USS Stethem docked in Brunei waters. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

Commander Harry L Marsh, Commanding Officer of the US Navy destroyer USS Stethem, in a group photo with the local media

The exercise will see the participation of some 3,000 personnel from around 18 navy vessels, 17 helicopters, two maritime patrol aircrafts and special operation teams from the 10 Asean member countries along with participating navies from its dialogue partners India, China, Japan, Russia, Australia, Republic of Korea, New Zealand and the US.

Commander Marsh said their vast experiences with regular drills bring a good level of expertise, allowing them to pass on information to their partners.

“We learnt it and you take that knowledge and you may pass it on to the next ship,” he said. “So that’s what I hope to gain here. That is what we have learnt from 20 years of experiences and we apply that as we go forward.”

The commander added that the exercises are not only meant for preparing but also preventing possible scenarios such as piracy.

He said the first phase of the exercise yesterday involved a peer dialogue session with other participating members, to discuss counter-piracy operations and understand each others’ operations at sea.

“This is so that when we are out at sea, we don’t misinterpret what their intentions are because we know how they are going to operate,” he added as he recognised the varied safety levels or comfort zones one ship has over another when they come closer.

He shared that the USS Stethem is participating both in the in-port phase as well as the ‘underway’, or practical phase, of the exercise, additionally bringing with them the US Army Chemical Biological and Radiological Team and the Special Operations Team, including the P8 Poseidon aircraft. He also explained that during the in-port phase, table talks help formulate plans for the underway phase during which there will be a search and rescue, formation maneuvering, communication drills in Singapore.

Homeported in Yokosuka, Japan, the USS Stethem was built in May 1993 and commissioned on October 1995. It is a member of the Destroyer Squadron 15 and operated throughout the Pacific Ocean, as well as on deployments to the Persian Gulf.

Stathem was named after Steelworker 2nd Class (SW2) Robert Stethem, who was a navy sailor killed by terrorists in Lebanon in the 1980s.

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|     James Kon     |

BRUNEI is likely to face considerable challenges in the next two decades in its efforts to sustain growth and development as the global economy is predicted to be sluggish due to declining oil prices.

Therefore, the country, its civil service in particular, should be prepared to face these challenges and see them as a catalyst to encourage more meaningful undertakings to ensure continued prosperity and stability.

This was stated by Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan bin Haji Mohamad Daud, Acting Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, in his keynote address at the Forum on Strategic Foresight and Horizon Scanning for Policy Making organised by the Centre for Strategic and Policy Studies (CSPS) yesterday.

“In addition to the current difficulties stemming from oil woes, there are other emerging trends and issues that policymakers need to address,” the acting minister, who was also the guest of honour at the event, said.

Highlighting the importance of taking foresightful approaches in policy making, the acting minister noted, “They (civil service) also need to look beyond the normal ‘business as usual’ approach, plan ahead and see things from a multi-dimensional perspective instead of a linear one.”

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan bin Haji Mohamad Daud, Acting Minister at the Prime Min-ister’s Office, delivering his speech. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan bin Haji Mohamad Daud, Acting Minister at the Prime Min-ister’s Office, listening to a presentation delivered by Dr Jose Ramos, Action Foresight, Australia, yesterday

The forum, held at the CSPS building in Jalan Pasar Baru, was attended by more than 100 participants including permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, directors and senior officers from the government and relevant private sectors as well as CSPS board of directors.

The event aimed at introducing new insights on strategies for foresight analysis and horizon scanning and their relevance in policy making in the country.

“Foresight studies and the use of horizon scanning have gained significant recognition from policymakers, executive leadership teams and strategic planning departments throughout the world,” the acting minister said, adding that strategic foresight and horizon scanning can act as a radar system for policy making, allowing early detection of opportunities and threats.

“This awareness of change opens up opportunities for intelligent interventions that the policy makers otherwise would not have known about or have got time to act on. Equipping themselves with early warning allows policymakers to strategically leverage change for success rather than being victims of change.”

Applauding CSPS’s intention to be an internationally-recognised ‘Foresight Think Tank’, the acting minister said CSPS will support organisational innovation and the design of ‘anticipatory governance’ strategies that fit its mandate, and serve the needs 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.

In the forum, the guest of honour and invited guests heard two presentations made by overseas speakers, Dr Jose Ramos from Australia and Cheryl Chung from Singapore.

Dr Jose Ramos of Action Foresight, Australia, in his presentation on ‘Foresight for Public Policy in Brunei’ touched on the key benefits and opportunities of using foresight approach in the domain of public policy and challenges.

Cheryl Chung of Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore, in her presentation titled ‘Foresight Studies and Horizon Scanning for Policy Making in Singapore’ shared the ‘futures enterprise’ in Singapore government and how it has impacted public policy making in the city state.

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|     Aziz Idris     |

ISLAMIC Mind Muhammadiyah, an educational app developed by Bruneian tech company Mindplus Education, was recently launched in Indonesia.

Mindplus Education and Muhammadiyah, one of Indonesia’s largest Islamic organisations, jointly launched the Islamic educational platform at the University of Muhammadiyah Cirebon (UMC) Watubelah last month.

The project was initiated after both companies signed the memorandum of understanding last year agreeing to use Muhammadiyah’s Islamic educational platform with the application to be developed by Mindplus Education.

The application is now available on Google Play for the Indonesian market and will soon be accessible around the world.

Key features of the application pertain to the fundamental matters of religious education, which was checked by the Muhammadiyah ‘Tarjih’ and ‘Tarjid’ departments.

During the Islamic Mind launch. – PHOTOS: MINDPLUS EDUCATION

Mindplus Education Pte Ltd CEO and Co-founder Pengiran Khairi bin Pengiran Haji Metussin, centre, with his Indonesian counterparts at the launch of ‘Islamic Mind Muhammadiyah’ application

Present at the ceremony were Ahmad Dahlan, Cirebon PDM Chairman; H Zulkarnain, West Java PWM Muhammadiyah Chairman; HM Goodwill Zubir, Chairman of Muhammadiyah and Pengiran Khairi bin Pengiran Haji Metussin, CEO and Co-founder of Mindplus Education Pte Ltd.

“The presence of an Islamic application like this is very appropriate and important as a means to exchange information and Islamic values,” said Dahlan. “This is also an effort to reduce the negative impact of globalisation.”

Meanwhile, the CEO and co-founder of Mindplus Education said that the Islamic Mind is a project with a vision to make Islamic content that can be accessed by all Muslims in the world.

“This is one great milestone and progress for our company, in cooperation with Muhammadiyah. The application will benefit Indonesia’s Muslim population,” said Pengiran Khairi. “Access to the application is free; it’s on Google Play and will be in other platforms in the future.”

“The educational development of world Islamic learning requires cooperation from various parties, foundations, organisations and people to make this vision become a reality,” he added.

Muhammadiyah is known globally for charity efforts, including education, throughout Indonesia.

The organisation runs 234 colleges and more than 137,000 schools in Indonesia. In the health field, Muhammadiyah operates 448 hospitals or clinics.

MindPlus Education branched into Indonesia about nine months ago to look for more opportunities in the Islamic learning field in the country which has the largest Muslim population in the world.

The company had won several awards including the Ignite Open Category 2012, Brunei ICT Awards 2012, Brunei ICT Awards 2013 and the Asean ICT Awards 2013.

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THE Oil and Gas Discovery Centre (OGDC) is presenting a new themed exhibition called ‘Mathamazing.’

Starting May 7, OGDC will play host to a range of intriguing and interactive experiences as part of the Mathamazing travelling exhibition, created by Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre in Canberra. The display of this exhibition is supported by the Ministry of Education (MoE).

The objective of the exhibition is to support the numeracy programme of the Ministry of Education, OGDC said in a statement.

The centre is inviting the public to experience the exciting event.

Suitable for ages 12 and up, Mathamazing is a collection of 22 bright and colourful hands-on exhibits and five Mega Maths Puzzles. – OGDC

OGDC said, “Learning is made fun and interactive at Mathamazing, which you can enjoy with your family and friends. Visitors can use simple switches to learn about binary numbers, use angles and trigonometry to measure distances or explore statistics by entering their hair colour, age or even pet preference.

“The exhibition can act as a tool for teaching mathematics, especially for students at both secondary and primary levels. Visitors can also multiply numbers with a monkey, experience a giant step maze and build a self-supporting arch.”

“Suitable for ages 12 and up, Mathamazing is a collection of 22 bright and colourful hands-on exhibits and five Mega Maths Puzzles that will engage the mind and body in the world of mathematics. The mix of science, maths and hands on fun in the exhibition has something for every visitor,” said Nur Karnina binti Karim, head of exhibition.

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|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

PARENTS should attempt to bridge positive communication with their children particularly teenagers, said Haji Ali Yusri bin Haji Abdul Ghafor, Head of the Counselling and Career Guidance Unit at the Ministry of Education (MoE).

Delivering his motivational forum on strengthening family institutions at the International Convention Centre yesterday morning and later at Pusat Insani Seria in the afternoon session, Haji Ali Yusri shared youths’ perspectives towards achieving ‘Keluarga Ku, Harapan Ku’ (My Family, My Hope) as well as numerous tips on building effective communication in developing a healthy and harmonious relationship between parents and their children.

According to him, one of the main challenges faced by many parents is their lack of understanding on the need of their children that builds the barrier in communicating with them.

From his evaluation, he found out that 85 per cent of the children desire for parental love so that they will become more comfortable in approaching their parents and be honest about their feelings. He also emphasised that parents should also become their children’s consultant or supporter and be able to provide comfort and open their arms for their children whenever they needed a shoulder to cry on.

“Mothers are the best person for children to unload their anxiety or stress on because they are the best motivator, the best counsellor and the best teacher for their children,” he continued.

The panel speakers at the forum. – AZROL AZMI

Haji Ali Yusri also highlighted the powerful prayer of a parent, particularly mothers, and reminded mothers to always choose their words carefully and often bless their children with love and a caring spirit. Building trust, he added, is also one of the keys to effective communication for parents to consistently listen to their teenagers and be more patient and accepting towards understanding the needs of their children.

He also shared that most of the teenagers wanted their parents to avoid parental embarrassment towards them that makes them feel humiliated or uncomfortable in public.

“Be the best parent for your children and be the parents of Keluarga Ku, Harapan Ku,” he said.

Also speaking at the forum yesterday was Ustaz Dr Haji Noralizam bin Haji Aliakbar, Dean of the Student Affairs at the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan, who elaborated on the significant role of children in realising a visionary family and strengthening family institution through the Islamic perspective.

He stressed that a pious family is an example of a visionary family that always seeks to please Allah the Almighty and gain His blessings and drives the family towards performing good deeds.

He highlighted the need to teach the children about ‘Ihsan’ (excellence in faith), as stated in the Al-Quran, so as to shape them in becoming pious children so that the parents will benefit their virtuous deeds in life or even after their death.

He also stated that the role of the children towards becoming a visionary is to study hard in their academics to secure a stable and happy future.

“A harmonious and ‘Mawaddah’ family is a visionary family,” he ended.

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

THE Neighbourhood Watch programme has been implemented in 18 villages in the Tutong District with a total membership of 334, said the Tutong Police District Commanding Officer, Superintendent of Police Haji Chipli bin Haji Mohamad.

He said this while chairing the first meeting this year between the police and penghulus and village heads, at the Tutong District Office.

Also present was the Acting Tutong District Officer, Haji Adnan bin Haji Adam.

The meeting began with a briefing delivered by Superintendent Haji Chipli on the progress of Neighbourhood Watch in the district which was followed by reports on the fourth quarter of 2015 and first quarter of 2016.

During the meeting between the police and penghulus. – PHOTOS: TUTONG POLICE

Acting Tutong District Officer, Haji Adnan bin Haji Adam at the meeting

He said that the eradication of crime cannot be left to the police alone because everyone has a role to ensure security, peace and welfare of the society.

The meeting included a briefing on statistics on crimes and traffic violations for the fourth quarter of 2015 and first quarter of 2016. It was delivered by Assistant Tutong Police District Commanding Officer cum Tutong District Crime Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Ramzi Hayatina bin Dato Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Ibrahim.

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|     James Kon     |

THE Deputy Minister of Defence, First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit yesterday received a farewell call at the Ministry of Defence from Captain (Navy) Lee Yong Ho, non-resident Defence Attaché of the Republic of Korea (ROK) to Brunei Darussalam, based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

During the courtesy call, both sides expressed satisfaction on the cordial bilateral defence relations shared by the two countries which continue to grow substantially over the years, enhanced by the exchange of defence visits as well as military officials and various interactions under the Asean Defence Minister’s Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) framework.

His farewell visit coincides with the visit of a Republic of Korea Ship (ROKS), Choi Young, which is currently in Brunei Darussalam for the Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus Maritime Security and Counter Terrorism (ADMM-Plus MS & CT) Exercise.

Captain (Navy) Lee Yong Ho expressed gratitude to the ministry of defence and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) for the good working relationship he had enjoyed during his tenure as accredited ROK’s Defence Attaché to Brunei Darussalam.

The Deputy Minister of Defence expressed gratitude to Captain (Navy) Lee Yong Ho for his contribution and wished him well in all future endeavours.

The Deputy Minister of Defence, First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit and Captain (Navy) Lee Yong Ho, non-resident Defence Attaché of the Republic of Korea (ROK) to Bru-nei Darussalam during the courtesy call

The Deputy Minister of Defence, First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz exchanging souvenirs with Vice Admiral Widodo, Secretary General, Ministry of Defence, Republic of Indonesia. – PHOTOS: MINDEF

The Deputy Minister of Defence also received a courtesy call yesterday from Vice-Admiral Widodo, Secretary-General at Republic of Indonesia’s Ministry of Defence at Bolkiah Garrison, Bandar Seri Begawan.

Vice-Admiral Widodo is in Brunei Darussalam from May 2-4 to witness the ADMM-Plus Maritime Security and Counter Terrorism (MS & CT) Exercise.

Indonesia’s contributions for the MS & CT Exercise include one ship (KRI Sultan Iskandar Muda) and liaison officers at Exercise Planning Control Team (EPCT).

Also present during the call was Datin Paduka Hajah Suriyah binti Haji Umar, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence and Abu Sufian bin Haji Ali, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Defence Policy and Development) at the MinDef.

During the call, the Deputy Minister of Defence welcomed Vice-Admiral Widodo’s first visit to the ministry and also congratulated his appointment as the Secretary-General of Indonesia’s ministry of defence since February 11, 2016.

Both sides also discussed regional issues and their commitment to strengthening the existing bilateral defence relation at all levels, through exercises, courses, exchange of visits, joint training and dialogue between defence institutions of the two countries.

The call ended with an exchange of mementos between the deputy minister and Vice-Admiral Widodo.

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