ELEVEN participants comprising Politeknik Brunei (PB) teaching staff and business aspirants recently attended the LiveWIRE Bright Ideas (BI) and Business Plan Series (BPS) workshops.

The two-day workshop covered topics such as the mindset of being successful, finding business ideas, starting up a business, personal finance, Health, Safety, Security & Environment (HSSE) and a simulation exercise that teaches the participants about cash flow and profit/loss statements.

The ‘Bright Ideas’ is the 6th workshop, and 3rd for the Business Plan Series that LiveWIRE has conducted this year.

A spokesperson from PB shared, “Entrepreneurship is an essential module to all schools.

“The objective of the workshops is to provide exposure on entrepreneurship complementary to our teaching staff respective expertise in the areas of business, ICT and Science, and Engineering as to enhance their teaching quality.”

Mohd Fadhilullah Tudun bin Haji Hassan, LiveWIRE Brunei Senior Business Counsellor, in a group photo with Brunei Politeknik teaching staff. – LIVEWIRE

Graduates of the workshop will be eligible to register for the intensive ‘Become A Successful Owner Manager’ business planning and management training programme, which will run from July 17 – 20, 2017.

Mohd Fadhilullah Tudun bin Haji Hassan, LiveWIRE Brunei Senior Business Counsellor and facilitator for the workshops explained that the aim of the BI programme is to provide a comprehensive programme of business ideas generation and enterprise awareness that will enable candidates to analyse the local economy and to identify business opportunities.

The BPS workshop is aimed at providing participants with the tools and techniques on how to write a viable business plan.

Topics include Essentials of a Business Plan, Resources for More Information, Executive Summary, Business Profile, Product/Service Description, Human Resources Management, Market Research and Strategy, Understanding Organisation Strategy, Operations Strategy, Calculating Startup Costs, Financial Forecasts, Creating a Cashflow Forecast, Using IT in creating and presenting a business plan, and presentation tips.

LiveWIRE Brunei is an organisation fully sponsored and is the community development of Brunei Shell Petroleum that aims to encourage young people to view starting their own business as a desirable career option.

LiveWIRE Brunei’s Programme Director Pengiran Redzuan bin Pengiran Haji Abbas said, “Our goal is to build capacity for business through access to entrepreneurship training and business development, and in expanding or increasing youth-owned businesses in the sultanate.”

NEXT WORKSHOP

The next Bright Ideas workshop is scheduled on May 22-23 and the Business Plan Series, on June 2,9, 16 and 23, 2017.

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|     Ministry of Education     |

WHILST excellence in teaching and learning are the crux to quality education, one cannot underscore the importance of facility maintenance in schools to create a conducive learning environment.

Its emphasis ensures the safety of students, staff and visitors while also sending out a message on the gravity that a country puts on education.

At the Ministry of Education (MoE), the role of maintaining, planning and managing education premises and facilities come under the purview of the Department of Planning and Estate Management (JPPE).

JPPE’s vision, ‘Towards a dynamic and quality infrastructure’, is achieved through the department’s mission, ‘To provide quality infrastructure for the learning, teaching, working and living condition’, which drives the department to maintain a constant focus on quality estate monitoring, maintenance and management.

Building Management is one of three main sections under JPPE.

Cikgu Gudaihenah Yadai, the Deputy Principal (Academic) at Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar Secondary School

In addition to its role in managing, monitoring and overseeing the maintenance and repair of buildings under the MoE (which includes all primary, secondary and higher education institutions), the Building Management section also addresses related matters that may be raised by education stakeholders.

“While we continue to monitor and conduct maintenance schedules of education premises, we also value responses that may be brought up by our stakeholders,” said an officer at JPPE.

When concerns are brought to light by certain parties, the section will work together with the relevant school(s) to ascertain and assess the issue(s).

One example of this collaboration is in the maintenance of school lavatories at Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar Secondary School, Kuala Belait, earlier this year.

While the premises are continuously monitored by the school and JPPE, vigilance from a concerned parent whose children attend the school helped highlight a potential activity damaging a certain facility.

Upon receipt of the complaint, immediate technical assessment was conducted by officers from JPPE to investigate and ascertain the concerned facility’s condition.

Through the inspection, the section concluded that there was no indication of vandalism as the cause of the damage was identified due to wear and tear from regular usage.

Once confirmed, the necessary repair measures were identified and processed.

Whilst appreciating the concern of relevant stakeholders, the school’s Principal, Cikgu Ai Fong Ching, noted the importance of proper communication between parents and the school.

She encouraged parents with concerns regarding the school to see her or a member of the school administration.

JPPE’s swift action has allowed student daily activities at the school to run with minimal disruptions

This is to avoid any misinformation/speculations and to ascertain and acquire further informat\?ion on the matter(s) raised.

The repair work on the school’s male lavatory was carried out due to the need to fix issues of toilet overuse.

This led JPPE officials to identify the need for more washrooms for the school in order to accommodate to its growing male student population.

As a result of this, provisions have been made to access toilets at the school’s surau and issuing of maintenance works without delay.

JPPE’s swift action has allowed student daily activities at the school to run with minimal disruptions.

Cikgu Gudaihenah Yadai, the Deputy Principal (Academic) at Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar Secondary School, hopes that the school population will continue to use amenities in the school responsibly.

“Our school was built in 1985 and began full operations in 1987, so there could be facilities that are no longer new,” she said.

“We are thankful for the swift response from JPPE after a report was made to repair a broken facility in the concerned lavatory… (In our case) toilet doors were replaced.”

JPPE Management works closely with school leaders and education officers in maintaining open communication with regards to planning, maintenance and repair of premises.

While the school, JPPE and caring stakeholders like parents cooperate towards this, it is equally important for all to realise the shared responsibility in maintaining school facilities and understanding proper channel for communication to highlight any arising matters.

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UNIVERSITI Brunei Darussalam (UBD) recently held the ‘Alumni Networking Event’ at the UBD Business Library, organised by the Office of Alumni Relations and Advancement (OARA) and the Centre of Networking, Employment and Career Training (CoNECT).

The first university-wide meet and greet session was a platform for invited alumni and relevant UBD representatives to network with one another as a way to foster future working ties and collaborations.

Present at the session were the Assistant Vice Chancellor (Corporate and Administration) Hajah Rubiah binti Haji Yacub, principal officers from UBD, invited alumni from within UBD, representatives from the public and private sectors, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), as well as entrepreneurs.

OARA Deputy Director Lim Kok Shien and CoNECT Manager Gavin Crewe shared on UBD’s latest initiative – the Mentorship Programme which is aimed at students and alumni of UBD.

The main objectives of this programme are to contribute to the professional development of participating mentors and mentees as well as to maintain strong bonds between UBD and its alumni.

UBD alumni mingle at the networking session

While both mentor and mentee benefit from expanding their contacts through the programme, the latter has much to gain in respect to industry insight, information and advice from experienced professionals while being able to discuss their expectations and concerns in a confidential environment.

Under the programme, mentoring starts at the beginning of each semester and can last up to six months.

Selected mentees will be asked to attend compulsory information session held at the start of the semester, where they will learn more about the programme as well as get the opportunity to choose their mentors.

After that first contact with their mentor, mentees would set their objectives to achieve by the end and progress checkpoints will be set every two months to monitor that both parties fulfil their respective duties.

Established in 1985, UBD produced its first batch of graduates in 1988 from an intake of 176 students.

Since then, the university has produced 100 PhD holders, 2,922 Masters holders and 12,287 Degree holders. Currently, the university is home to 2,993 students, 21 per cent of whom are international students.

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|     Daniel Lim     |

YA-NUR Trading Company recently organised an opening ceremony for its fourth branch at Kampong Sungai Tali, Lumut.

The guest of honour, Haji Haris bin Othman, Belait District Officer, officiated the opening ceremony of the new store.

Shaikh Haji Khalid bin Shaikh Haji Ahmad, Director of Ya-Nur Trading Co Sdn Bhd was also present.

Shaikh Haji Khalid handed over of the ISO900/2017 Certificate to Raj T Bhaskaran, Head of Ya-Nur Trading Operation.

A donation was also made by Shaikh Haji Khalid to the Belait District Charity and was received by the guest of honour.

Haji Haris bin Othman, Belait District Officer and Shaikh Haji Khalid bin Shaikh Haji Ahmad, Director of Ya-Nur Trading Company, in a group photo at the event. – DANIEL LIM

Ya-Nur Trading Company was established in 2001 with its first store in Kampong Sungai Taring. The company has since expanded its business to serve the public as well as become one of the leading trading companies in Brunei employing over 150 staff members, 50 per cent of whom are locals.

Ya-Nur Trading Company is also planning to open another branch in the Temburong District after successfully acquiring property in Batu Apoi Business Complex and is scheduled to be in operation in the first quarter of 2018. The venture will be part of Ya-Nur’s pilot project for a small-medium enterprise programme in the Temburong District.

Ya-Nur Trading Company has also continuously supported 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 vision of self-sufficiency and food security by venturing into poultry farming with the help of the Brunei Agriculture Department that may begin by 2nd quarter of 2018.

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SERI Pahlawan Brunei Darussalam recently brought home a trophy from the 4th International Dragon FCAS Sabah Boat Race that ran for two days in Teluk Likas, Kota Kinabalu.

Seri Pahlawan qualified for the finals of all four events they took part in.

Seri Pahlawan emerged victorious in the 800m Dragon Trophy event (20 mixed rowers), recording 3:52.14.

Lela Cheteria finished a close second (3:52.35), followed by Brunei National (3:52.67).

Seri Pahlawan team members pose in a group photo with their prizes

Seri Pahlawan clinched second spot in the 200m Kinabalu Dragon event (12 men rowers) with a time of 00:59.03 – just behind Sayang Lawas who clocked 00:58.14.

Seri Pahlawan pocketed a total of RM10,000 in cash prizes.

The competition saw the participation of eight teams from Brunei among the 61 teams from Malaysia, Hong Kong and Singapore.

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|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

THREE new books – ‘Perahu Jumpong, Perahu Bidar’, ‘Derita Di Pangkal Jalan’ and ‘Sumbangsih II Cerita Rakyat’ – by local writer Haji Mohsin bin Abu Bakar, under the pen name of H Mohab or MB Kelana, were launched yesterday during a ceremony at the Jeruton Hotel in Kampong Jerudong.

Present as the guest of honour at the book launching was Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Awang Haji Mohammad bin Haji Daud.

The ceremony began with the recitation of the Surah Al-Fatihah, which was then followed by a recitation of selected verses from the Al-Quran, and a poetry reading.

Haji Mohsin gave a speech as chairman of the event, expressing his gratitude to the guest of honour and attendees for the grand atmosphere at the ceremony.

The guest of honour, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Awang Haji Mohammad bin Haji Daud (left) and Haji Mohsin bin Abu Bakar during the launching of the books. – ABDUL HAKIIM YAKOF

“‘Perahu Jumpong, Perahu Bidar’ was especially written for the community of Kampong Lorong Dalam, which is now divided, with everyone going their separate ways,” he said. “‘Derita Di Pangkal Jalan’ is an inspirational book meant for general reading, while ‘Sumbangsih II Cerita Rakyat’ comprises two stories set during the era of the British Residency in Brunei.”

Haji Mohsin then added his views on why Brunei writers differ from their counterparts on the international scene, whose notability is determined by the population size of their respective countries.

“International writers are able make a living from their large fanbase, while Bruneian writers turn to writing as a hobby, not for their income,” he said.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE ‘EMERGE Exclusive’ art exhibition was officially launched yesterday, in collaboration between Creative Space Art Gallery and Studio and the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Brunei Darussalam.

The opening ceremony saw Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof attending as the guest of honour.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Brunei Darussalam Mehmet Suat Akgun said, “For us, it’s an important day, because the Turkish Embassy is hosting an art exhibition for the very first time.”

The ambassador went on to highlight that art allows us to see and think in different manners about life, enables us to touch others’ lives, that it is a continuously self-renewing source of energy, and that it allows us to strengthen the bond within the community.

He also expressed his thanks to the artists, the Creative Space Art Gallery and Studio, the staff of the embassy and the guest of honour.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Brunei Darussalam Mehmet Suat Akgun and Khairul Ibrahim viewing one of the works on display. – DANIAL NORJIDI

The guest of honour cut a ribbon to launch the exhibition, before going on to view the displayed artwork.

In a press release, Creative Space Art Gallery and Studio stated that it acknowledges the embassy’s keen interest and support in this joint effort to promote young and emerging local artist by providing a platform to develop and showcase their work.

EMERGE is a programme that aims to transform artists’ creative endeavours into a sustainable activity and to contribute to the development of Brunei Darussalam’s contemporary art scene.

Speaking to the Bulletin yesterday, Creative Space Art Gallery and Studio Manager Osveanne Osman shared that the exhibition is centred on the theme ‘Being Bruneian.’

She explained, the theme was chosen to challenge the artists to give a different response, away from the conventional aesthetics of portraits and landscapes.

She also shared that the exhibition features 21 works from nine local artists – Umizaty, Erne binti Zainal, Khairul Ibrahim, Zubaidah, Maziyah Yussof, Syafiq Nasir, Nomen, Khalisah and Redzuan Rosli.

There are also pieces of ceramic artwork at the exhibition, which were made from Bruneian clay by Dr Martie Geiger-Ho, who is from the United States. The exhibition is curated by Khairul Ibrahim and Shathirah DHS under the supervision of the Director of Creative Space Art Gallery and Studio, Haji Osman bin Mohammad.

Held at the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Brunei Darussalam located at Simpang 52 in Kampong Manggis Satu, the exhibition is open to the public for viewing from May 16-25 from 10am-12pm and 2.30pm-4.30pm.

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|     Syazwani Hj Rosli    |

A TOTAL of 45 graduates attended a drug awareness talk on the second day of their Civic Village programme yesterday, organised by the Information Department under the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), through its Nationhood Unit, Nationhood and Community Division.

The talk was conducted by Wasulhana binti Haji Sudin, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) officer, on the topic of ‘Bahaya Dadah dan Sindeket Dadah Antarabangsa’ (The Dangers of Drugs and International Drug Syndicates), under the auspices of the Ministry of Home Affairs and the NCB.

In the afternoon, the participants were taken on a tour of Syarikat Eco Nadi Agrobiz, a local farm that produces chillies for the domestic market.

One of the participants, Dayangku Ariana Hafawati binti Pengiran Hamzah Faizal, a graduate from Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), told the Bulletin that she joined the programme in hopes of gaining more knowledge, meeting new friends and broadening her horizons.

Dayangku Ariana hoped that the programme would help boost their sense of self-development, in preparing them for the employment market.

Wasulhana binti Haji Sudin, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) officer, delivers her talk

Dayangku Ariana Hafawati binti Pengiran Hamzah Faizal, one of the Civil Village programme participants, during an interview with the Bulletin. – PHOTOS: SYAZWANI HJ ROSLI

Throughout the five-day Civil Village programme, the participants will be staying at the Sungai Kebun Sports Complex where they are required to be actively involved in briefings, dialogue sessions, group brainstorming, team activities, sports and leisure, religious and charity events, and visits.

The main objective of the programme is to provide a platform for the graduates in preparing themselves as competitive individuals, capable of meeting any future challenges and opportunities in the real world.

All 45 participants are graduates from various institutions in the United Kingdom, Australia, Egypt and Malaysia; and also from local institutions such as UBD, Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) and the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB).

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

IN LINE with its vision in providing assistance and services to the community, the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (Yayasan) yesterday held a ceremony to hand over financial contributions totalling $45,600 to a number of mosques, suraus and religious halls in all four districts.

On hand to present the contributions was the Managing Director of Yayasan, Haji Brahim bin Haji Ismail.

The financial contribution is hoped to serve as assistance for the mosque Takmir committee to carry out religious programmes and activities especially for the upcoming month of Ramadhan.

The annual charitable contribution was also in line with one of the objectives of the establishment of Yayasan in the field of Islamic development in the country which is to strengthen religious eminence.

A total of 50 mosques, suraus and religious halls received their respective contributions including 17 in Brunei-Muara District; 19 in Tutong District; five in Belait District and nine in Temburong District.

Photos above and below show Managing Director of Yayasan, Haji Brahim bin Haji Ismail presenting the contributions to mosque representatives. – PHOTOS: ROKIAH MAHMUD

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

A FAST-CHANGING environment tied with the ever-increasing digitalisation of economies across the globe means that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) need to adapt quickly and be more agile to capture new opportunities and widen their reach.

The Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong highlighted this point in his keynote address while opening the International Banking Conference 2017 (IBC 2017) at The Empire Hotel & Country Club in Jerudong yesterday as guest of honour.

The minister, who is also Deputy Chairman of the Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD), said that SMEs today continue to face headwinds of challenges such as access to finance, changing market demands and evolving regulatory regimes, all of which require them to be more responsive to changes.

He said one solution to overcoming these barriers is the digital economy; a result of an increasingly digitised world which has brought about new business models which SMEs can leverage and capitalise on. “On market access and global value chains, the digital economy substantially lowers costs and barriers to markets and customers. This can help SMEs increase their sales and exports,” the minister added.

On access to finance, he said the digital economy enables new financing models such as crowdfunding and peer-to-peer lending, giving SMEs a plethora of financing options. The digital age also offers new solutions to constraints – such as limited availability of managerial and specialised skills – through online courses and platforms, the minister said while noting his strong belief that digitalisation is a major driver of future competitiveness and innovation for SME development.

Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong delivering his keynote address. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

Professor Dr Sumil Agarwal, one of the invited international experts, delivering a special talk

Attendees at the International Banking Conference 2017 (IBC 2017) at The Empire Hotel & Country Club in Jerudong

He also said that SMEs today can leverage on non-traditional forms of financing for their growth, such as Islamic finance. “The foundation of Islamic finance is structured on strong ethnical values relying on both economic and social factors. It emphasises the importance of financial inclusion in the form of servicing society’s unbankable customer segment, which includes SMEs,” he stated.

He noted that over the years, the Islamic financial system has evolved into a comprehensive financial system of its own, encompassing areas ranging from traditional banking and capital markets to the Takaful segment which SMEs can tap into, adding that with its emphasis on asset-backed financing and risk-sharing features, Islamic finance is well-suited for the financing of SMEs and startups.

The minister noted further that fostering growth in Brunei Darussalam’s SME sector remains high on the government’s policy agenda, and several measures have been taken to promote its growth, including the establishment of DARe (Darussalam Enterprise) to nurture and support local enterprises across all stages of development, and also the establishment of a Syariah-compliant SME Bank which will not only improve access to finance for local SMEs, but also promote Islamic Muamalah which will help in developing the finance industry in the country.

Recognising the importance of unleashing the potential of SMEs, the minister said AMBD will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure a conducive environment for their development.

“At the same time, it is paramount for SMEs to initiate their own measures to complement those undertaken by the government. SMEs must possess the agility to adapt to changing conditions, as well as perseverance and entrepreneurial skills to enable them to ride though the near-term challenges. This will allow them to grow and enhance their contribution to our economy, thereby supporting the country’s efforts to grow and diversify the economy,” he advised.

The IBC 2017, organised by the Centre for Islamic Banking, Finance and Management (CIBFM) in association with the Brunei Association of Banks and AMBD, will be attended by more than 100 participants including financial regulators, industry players and locals SMEs.

The conference, with the theme “Future Development of SMEs – Unlocking the Potential”, is meant to be a platform for local SMEs and financial institutions to share their experiences and provide new perspectives – especially from the standpoint of SME development in the Asean region, and also to promote Brunei as a prominent knowledge hub.

A number of local and international experts from Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and USA were invited to speak at the conference.

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

TOTAL E&P Deep Offshore Borneo BV (TEPDOB) handed over several units of The Brunei Shipwreck education pack to Jerudong International School (JIS) recently.

The Brunei Shipwreck education pack is a corporate social responsibility project and commitment from Total E&P Deep Offshore Borneo BV and it’s CA1 partners (Petronas Carigali Brunei Limited and Murphy Oil Corporation) and supported by Brunei National Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd. It is also in line with one of Total CSR pillars, ‘Promote the marine environment, cultural heritage and activities’.

Total stated that it is proud and remain committed in giving back to the community through this initiative. The event marked the continuous effort from Total in promoting ‘The Brunei Shipwreck’. The education pack together with the iPad Application was launched last year by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports. Following the launch of the pack, the action this year is to distribute the books to different education institutions for them to further promote and create awareness among students, especially the younger generation.

This effort is also to promote the artefacts that was discovered which are on display at the Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum. Total encouraged the public to visit the Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum adjacent to the Malay Technology Museum in Kota Batu. Moving together with the current digital era, for the convenience of the public, and to make the information available worldwide, Total has also invested in the development of an ipad application titled ‘The Brunei Shipwreck’ which can be downloaded on the Apple Appstore for free.

The handover of The Brunei Shipwreck education pack was presented by Rasimoon bin Haji Adinin, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR representing Total. While receiving on behalf of JIS was David Griffiths, Head of Humanities Faculty and Tomas Duckling, Assistant Pastoral Director.

Rasimoon bin Haji Adinin, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR representing Total and David Griffiths, Head of Humanities Faculty and Tomas Duckling, Assistant Pastoral Director representing JIS with a copy of The Brunei Shipwreck education pack. – PHOTOS: AZARAIMY HH

An overview of The Brunei Shipwreck education pack

The Brunei Shipwreck education pack consists of: a teacher’s resource manual, a student handbook, a DVD documentary on the discovery of the Brunei Shipwreck, a pendrive with an e-copy of the handbook and teacher’s resource manual.

The first book was first published in 2000 and this second edition was printed in 2015. The new education pack was officially launched on March 29 by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports. The target for 2017 is to launch the awareness campaign in lower secondary schools.

David Griffiths said the education pack will be valuable materials for the students. According to him, who is involved in redesigning the Year 8 curriculum at the school, in the new curriculum, students will also be introduced to a unit that is based on Brunei Darussalam, and the shipwreck education pack will become of an important value, where in Year 9, as a continuation of the maritime theme, the students will explore subjects touching on the Australian’s wreck.

Tomas Duckling, who is also involved in the redesigning of the curriculum, believed that it is increasingly important for both international and local students to have greater and deeper understanding of the local history.

He said The Brunei Shipwreck education pack is a fantastic way to bring the students to know about the deep rooted maritime history of the country.

David Griffiths added that the education pack from Total, that include a tablet app and booklets, will be a great starting point to look at the history and geography of Brunei Darussalam for the Year 8 students, specifically in term of case studies.

In the interview, David also highlighted some of the great places that could enhance student learning experience, which for Year 8 included the Maritime Museum, which in their view is one of their favourite museums. In Year 9, students at JIS will also visit The Tang Shipwreck in Singapore.

Commenting on the shipwreck education pack, Tomas Duckling also highligthed that it is a fantastic opportunity for the students to learn the shipwreck exploration that is being associated with Total and that it is particularly important for them to understand the links not only in the community but the history of the exploration of the course.

Commenting further on the handing over of the education pack to JIS and the educational cooperation with Total, David Griffiths said he has been with JIS since 1999.

“So … I can remember the first resource pack that is produced by Total. I can also remember the visit to the storage sheath site close to the banks of Brunei River in Kota Batu, where students had the opportunity to witness marine archaeologists storing, cataloguing, and cleaning etc all the materials that are now on display at the Maritime Museum.”

“So for me, we have come full circle, we have …sort of long relationship with Total,” he explained.

“We actually still got some of the original resources and video cassettes. But what we see with the new education pack is that the resources brought in is completely up-to-date and in a digital age.

We also love the work being done in the new education pack by the local company in connection with Total, which fits very well in our digital learning environment, where all our students have iPad, so it is absolutely great and we will download the app at no time.”

According to Rasimoon the app was developed by MeSixty, a local App developing company which was previously an icubatee at icentre. “The idea of engaging and supporting a local company was also part of Total CSR initiative as well.”

David Griffiths said JIS appreciated the way Total spent a lot of time and energy and showed real commitment to developing resources for educational institutions.

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TO SUPPORT and encourage the growth of Islamic finance in the country, Takaful Brunei Keluarga Sdn Bhd (TBK), a subsidiary of Syarikat Takaful Brunei Darussalam Sdn Bhd, has made a commitment to help the public understand about the importance of Islamic Financial Planning through its Certified Islamic Financial Planners.

TBK aims to realise the goals of Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) to ensure financial literacy among Bruneians, through consultation services and the use of social media to educate the public about planning, managing and protecting their finances.

According to a press release, Islamic Financial Planning is defined as a process of meeting life goals through the management of finances in accordance with Syariah compliance. Through TBK’s Islamic Financial Planners, customers are given a structured guideline that can enable them to achieve and protect both their financial and life goals, including purchasing a dream home, performing the Haj or Umrah, comfortable retirement or setting up a protection and savings plan for their children’s education.

The principles and ethics of Islamic finance are based on the five foundational goals (Maqasid) of Syariah, in which the preservation of wealth is to be achieved by five components: Wealth Generation, Protection, Accumulation, Distribution and Purification.

Wealth Generation reflects on the Islamic obligations to earn an honest income, including through means of trade and other economic activities.

TBK is also offering Islamic Financial Planning to non-Muslims, who find its values and ethics more appealing than traditional banking. – Takaful Brunei

Wealth Protection aims to protect the accumulated wealth against financial risks and unpredictable circumstances such as death, inability to work, chronic illness and old age.

Wealth Accumulation is a system of management that seeks to achieve reasonable capital growth with the primary objective of preserving accumulated wealth through savings, Sukuk and other Syariah-compliant means.

Wealth Distribution seeks to establish proper planning so that the customer’s accumulated wealth can be managed and distributed through gifts (hibah), donations (tabarru’/sodaqoh), trusts and charitable endowments (waqaf) and death wills (wasiyyah).

Wealth Purification is achieved when certain obligations have been met in regard to accumulated wealth and assets, so that the poor and underprivileged can benefit from it as well, by means of charitable purposes.

Meanwhile, with Islamic finance already one of the fastest growing sectors in the global financial industry, TBK is also offering Islamic Financial Planning to non-Muslims, who find its values and ethics more appealing than traditional banking.

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|     James Kon     |

FOUR of Brunei’s Grade A public toilets were awarded with certificates of recognition yesterday, as the best in terms of cleanliness, safety, amenities and facilities, as well design and environmental systems.

The awards went to the toilets at the Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum, the Brunei International Airport, the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex and the Kaizen Sushi Restaurant at the Waterfront.

Overall, there were 11 public toilets which met the strict criteria for the Grade A certification.

Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali, the Deputy Permanent Secretary (Tourism) at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, was on hand to present the awards and affix the toilets with their Grade A certification.

The Audit and Inspection of Public Toilets is an initiative under the Brunei Tourism Board (BTB), with the support and cooperation of the Tourism Development Department at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism; the Ministry of Home Affairs; the Ministry of Development; and the Ministry of Health.

Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Tourism) at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism presenting the Grade A certification for public toilets to a representative of Kaizen Sushi Restaurant at the Waterfront. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

The deputy permanent secretary presenting the Grade A certification for public toilets to a representative of the Brunei International Airport

Inspections were conducted in all four districts from February to April this year, involving 65 public toilets in 28 restaurants, 11 shopping centres, 21 places of interest and all control posts.

The inspections focused on four main categories – Design and Environment Management Systems, Amenities and Facilities, and Cleanliness and Safety – in line with the criteria as outlined in the Asean Public Toilet Standards.

Following the nationwide survey, 11 public toilets received Grade A and 14 Grade B, while the rest were either Grade C or D.

The other seven public toilets in the Grade A category are located at the Radisson Hotel’s Tasek Brasserie Restaurant; the Horizon’s Seafood Restaurant; the Malay Technology Museum; the Tarindak D’Seni; the Cultural and Tourism Gallery at the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre (OGDC) in the Belait District; and the Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park in the Tutong District.

Haji Mohammad Zamree bin Haji Junaidi, the Director of the Tourism Development Department, told the Bulletin that his department will continuously monitor public toilets falling under the Grade C and D categories, in an effort to improve on the existing facilities and standards of cleanliness.

“It is important to keep public toilets in good condition, since visitors gain their first impressions of a country through its toilets,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Audit and Inspection of Public Toilets programme will continue to be implemented, in a bid to raise more awareness on cleanliness of public toilets, while also ensuring that the maintenance and management of public toilets across Brunei are in accordance with the recommended standards.

Additionally, the grading system provides Brunei with the groundwork and eligibility to enter the Asean Award Public Toilet Standard Awards, which will take place at the Asean Tourism Forum 2019.

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DATO Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) was conferred the Distinguished Service Order by Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam, President of the Republic of Singapore yesterday at the Istana State Room.

According to a press release, during the same day of the conferment ceremony, Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy made courtesy calls on Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong; Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and the Second Minister in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development, Desmond Lee; and Commissioner of Police (CP) Dato Paduka Seri Hoong Wee Teck.

Instituted in 1968, the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) is awarded to any person who has performed any act or series of acts constituting to distinguished conduct within and, in special circumstances, outside Singapore.

Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy was awarded the DSO in recognition of his role in strengthening the strong bilateral ties between the RBPF and Singapore Police Force (SPF).

Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) being conferred the Distinguished Service Order by Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam, President of the Republic of Singapore. – RBPF

Quoted from the citation during the conferment ceremony, “Under the leadership of Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy, the relationship between the RBPF and the SPF has grown ever closer, characterised by deepening cooperation in the areas of transnational crime, capacity building, training exchanges and professional development.

“This close cooperation reflects Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy’s strong commitment to advancing bilateral ties between both Brunei and Singapore. He played an instrumental role in strengthening the longstanding friendship between the RBPF and the SPF. This deepened collaboration has helped to strengthen the operational capabilities of the two police forces, and enhance the safety and security of both countries.”

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|     Izah Azahari     |

AS THE main telecommuni-cations provider in the country, Telekom Brunei Berhad (TelBru) is moving towards facilitating alternative sources of technological assurances with the introduction of long-range, low-powered, low-bandwidth, low-cost sensors.

This was unveiled yesterday during TelBru’s ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) Open Day at The Empire Hotel & Country Club. The initiative is being held with the support and cooperation of LoRa Alliance through one of its founding members, Sagemcom, that has already made its mark in Europe, the United States, New Zealand, and Japan through the research and implementation of Long Range (LoRa) technology.

TelBru’s IoT Open Day featured a presentation by the Chief Marketing Officer of TelBru Lim Ming Soon along with a live IoT showcase and demo; and a speech by the Director of IoT Business Development and Strategic Partnerships of Sagemcom Dr Thierry Lestable.

The event also ran alongside the signing of an official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between TelBru and Sagemcom, which encompasses the provisions and deployment for a Low Power Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN), and Siconia products and solutions, while providing the relevant training and support to better implement LoRa technology in Brunei Darussalam.

Signing on behalf of TelBru was its Chief Executive Officer David Kay, while Sagemcom was represented by Dr Lestable.

Director of IoT Business Development and Strategic Partnerships of Sagemcom Dr Thierry Lestable (2nd L), Chief Executive Officer of TelBru David Kay (3rd L), Chief Marketing Officer of TelBru Lim Ming Soon (L), and Reeda Malik in a group photo. – BAHYIAH BAKIR

TelBru has already deployed five LoRa base stations in the Brunei-Muara District, with a coverage radius that encompasses the entirety of the district and even out to sea. Currently, plans are in the works to eventually provide coverage for the rest of the country.

The introduction of these facilities opens up an alternative stream of potential business opportunities for the tech-savvy segment of Brunei’s population, including the development of mobile applications to address challenges that require attention – all of which translates into efficiency and improvements on business-as-usual practices, or innovation, that can be exported.

Among the applications for geographically challenging locations include bettering agricultural farming techniques for small-and-medium time farmers through the monitoring of yields by quantifying environmental impacts through data collection; as well as search-and-rescue purposes for jungle trekkers, where traditional network coverage is non-existent.

Powered by batteries that can last at least a decade without the need for wireless internet connectivity, the sensors that ride on LoRa technology address challenges presented by wireless networks that have limited reach to rural areas such as the outskirts of Tutong, Temburong, and Kuala Belait, where the installation of such wireless infrastructure is not financially commensurate to business operations.

Following High Speed Broadband (HSBB) rollouts on top of the backbone of TelBru’s fibre optic network, the deployment of LoRa technology complements TelBru’s efforts in the introduction of its IoT, and the subsequent facilitation of Brunei’s Smart Nation Initiative.

These investments aim to tap into what is described as a lucrative global industry, where ICT observers estimate the IoT’s economic impact at 11 per cent of the world economy by 2025.

More information can be obtained by contacting TelBru at its headquarters, or through any of the company’s social media platforms.

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|    James Kon    |

SPECIAL Olympics Brunei Darussalam (SOBD) athletes are looking to grab medals at the 9th Special Olympic Singapore National Games on May 19-22.

Esremy bin Luas and Muhd Haziman Azrul bin Nurudin will be competing in the athletic events under the guidance of coach Salim bin Haji Puteh.

Josepeswandy Bukoh anak Tan and Mohd Nor Salihin bin Dahlan will contest in the badminton event under coach Haji Hamdan bin Ajak.

President of SOBD, Lieutenant Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Rambli bin Pengiran Haji Bunut, handed over the national flag to head of contingent, Adanan bin Musim, during a ceremony at Brunei International Airport before their departure to Singapore yesterday.

President of SOBD, Lieutenant Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Rambli bin Pengiran Haji Bunut, in a group photo with the athletes and officials. – JAMES KON

“Based on our good track record of competing in overseas competitions, we are capable of obtaining medals in this tournament,” said the SOBD president.

“The athletes are entirely new. This is to provide an opportunity for emerging talent to compete overseas.

“We want to groom potentials for the future,” he said, adding that he hoped the athletes would repay the SOBD’s faith in them.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

INDONESIA yesterday assured its Asean neighbours that there will be no transboundary haze problems plaguing the region’s skyline this year.

Indonesian Environment and Forestry Ministry advisor Arief Yuwono said the prediction was based on last year’s record following stringent measures successfully implemented to curb forest fire and control smoke haze pollution in the republic.

“In 2017, we already made observation and comparison to 2016.

“With a weaker El Niño, we anticipate that we can repeat that (2016), which saw almost zero recurrence of haze,” he said when met after attending the 19th Technical Working Group & Sub-Regional Ministerial Steering Committee on Transboundary Haze Pollution, held in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

The two-day high level meeting was chaired by Natural Resources and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.

Minister of Development, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah (far left) in a group photo with other Asean ministers

Brunei Darussalam was represented by the Minister of Development, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Bahrin Bin Abdullah and the Permanent Secretary (Administration and Finance) at the Ministry of Development as well as officials from the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe).

Following a bad bout of haze pollution in 2015, Indonesia last year begun to take serious steps to address the annual environmental problem, which yielded positive outcome with Singapore only reported one day of haze while Malaysia, three days.

Arief said the Indonesian government had since early this year begun to put in place measures to prevent and mitigate smoke haze pollutions, including having a better organised firefighter teams and had activated integrated patrols in areas that are prone to forest fire.

He said the Indonesian government also got the private companies to involve proactively in curbing forest fire and haze.

“Forest fire is a national priority and it is supervised by our president (Joko Widodo).

“In early 2017, the president already gave us instructions related to forest fire from the policymaker to the ground level.

“Besides that, we also have strong commitment to law enforcement, with some companies are now being investigated (for causing haze pollutions),” he said.

Earlier, in the news conference after chairing the meeting, Wan Junaidi also said the Indonesian minister had given his assurance on the issue in the meeting.

He said Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and Thailand also reaffirmed their readiness to provide assistance if requested and to work with Indonesia for emergency response when necessary.

The five Asean member countries also reaffirmed their commitment to work towards a Haze Free Asean by 2020, he added.

The 19th Meeting of the Sub-Regional Ministerial Steering Committee on Transboundary Haze Pollution (19th MSC) was attended by ministers/representatives responsible for the environment, for land, forest fires, and haze, from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, and the Secretary-General of Asean.

The 19th Meeting of the Technical Working Group on Transboundary Haze Pollution (19th TWG) preceded the meeting.

In a Joint Statement issued yesterday, the ministers noted the Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre’s (ASMC’s) outlook that dry weather conditions are expected for the region between June and October 2017.

In addition, with a chance of El Niño conditions emerging in the upcoming dry season, below normal to normal rainfall is expected for the region, and hotspot activities in 2017 are likely to be more active compared to that in 2016.

MSC countries pledged to remain vigilant and continuously monitor and step up their haze preventive efforts to minimise any possible occurrence of transboundary smoke haze from land and forest fires in anticipation of the drier weather in the coming months.

The MSC countries reaffirmed their readiness to provide assistance, if requested, and work for emergency response when necessary, and called for enhanced cooperation and coordination to ensure the timely and effective deployment of international resources for firefighting assistance, mitigate land and forest fires, and to control smoke haze pollution.

The ministers recalled the commitment and guidance of the Asean Leaders at the 30th Asean Summit held on April 29 in Manila towards regional cooperation on transboundary haze pollution control, including their concern over the rapidly changing climate and its adverse impacts, causing severe social and economic disruptions and damage throughout the region.

The ministers reiterated their commitment to fully and effectively implement the Asean Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (AATHP) and the Roadmap on Asean Cooperation towards Transboundary Haze Pollution Control with Means of Implementation to achieve a Haze-Free Asean by 2020, including the comprehensive Plan of Action (PoA) on Transboundary Haze Pollution.

The ministers provided guidance for TWG to initiate corresponding projects and activities to strengthen and synergise their cooperation that support the implementation of the roadmap.

The ministers recognised that it would be timely to conduct a mid-term review of the implementation of the roadmap in 2018 to take stock of the progress and sustain momentum in ensuring demonstrable improvements so as to achieve the vision of a haze-free Asean by 2020.

The post No chance of haze this year, says Indonesia appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Wani Roslan     |

THIRTY-SEVEN students from Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB) Primary School were feted at the 2016 PSR Outstanding Award Ceremony for obtaining 5 A’s in 2016’s Primary School Assessment (PSR) at the school’s multipurpose hall yesterday.

Present at the ceremony was Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Raihaanah Hanaa-Ul Bolqiah binti Pengiran Anak Khairul Khalil, the granddaughter 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, who participated in a nasyid performance with Pengiran Anak Adriana Haziqah Jaida Bulqiah binti Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul ‘Ali Yil-Kabier, the granddaughter of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah.

Also present were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hajah Taiyibah Qalbul Bolqiah, the daughter of His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; her son Pengiran Wajeeh Al-Bolkiah bin Pengiran Haji Mohammad Hakimmuddin; and her husband Pengiran Haji Mohammad Hakimmuddin bin Pengiran Haji Hashim.

The awards were presented by guest of honour Dato Paduka Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar, Acting Minister of Development in his capacity as member of the Administrative Board of YSHHB School.

In his speech, Dato Paduka Awang Haji Suhaimi said that the awards will encourage the school to achieve more in the field of education, in line with Vision 2035.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Raihaanah Hanaa-Ul Bolqiah binti Pengiran Anak Khairul Khalil, the granddaughter of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam; and Pengiran Anak Adriana Haziqah Jaida Bulqiah binti Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul ‘Ali Yil-Kabier, the granddaughter of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah during the Nasyid performance

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hajah Taiyibah Qalbul Bolqiah, the daughter of His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; her son Pengiran Wajeeh Al-Bolkiah bin Pengiran Haji Mohammad Hakimmuddin; and her husband Pengiran Haji Mohammad Hakimmuddin bin Pengiran Haji Hashim at the event. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR

Pengiran Wajeeh Al-Bolkiah and other recipients in a group photo with guest of honour Dato Paduka Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar, Acting Minister of Development in his capacity as a member of the Administrative Board of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB) School and other YSHHB officials

“Recipients of the awards should act as role models to other students,” he added.

The guest of honour highlighted that educational institutions are constantly facing challenges from higher expectations from stakeholders and competition as well as from the evolving models of teaching and learning.

He believed that the quality of teaching can be raised higher if the school were to apply information technology in everyday teaching and learning.

“Improving the skills and knowledge of teachers need to be taken into account. They should be given the opportunity to learn and attend courses that enables them to acquire knowledge and skills in line with current developments,” he added.

Meanwhile, Cikgu Alimas bin Haji Mohd Ali, Acting Headmaster of YSHHB Primary School, in his welcoming remark said that the awards were given to show appreciation for the students’ excellent performance.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

STUDENTS and youth in the country should more actively participate in the upcoming 71st birthday celebration 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.

This was stated by the Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong while chairing the 3rd Meeting of the National Committee for His Majesty’s 71st birthday celebration at the Prime Minister’s Office yesterday.

“We will give more opportunities for students and youths to present their creativity. Through this, we hope to develop the young generation’s self confidence and creative talents,” he said.

The minister highlighted the sabda made by 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 as the Patron of the National Committee for the birthday celebration on February 25, 2017.

“His Royal Highness said the most important priority is generating unity and solidarity in strengthening the relations between the ruler and the people… With unity and consensus from all parties, events for the royal birthday celebrations will become a platform to create a harmonious living through close relations between the ruler and the people and instil the spirit of patriotism, national identity, loyalty to the monarch, love to the nation and unity in upholding peace and harmony,” the minister noted.

Minister of Home Affairs, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong during the 3rd Meeting of the National Committee for 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 71st birthday celebration

The Minister of Home Affairs, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar (L) as the Adviser of the National Committee for the monarch’s birthday celebration; and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Penggawa Laila Bentara Istiadat Diraja Dalam Istana Pengiran Haji Alauddin bin Pengiran Paduka Tuan Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar (R), the Grand Chamberlain, at the meeting yesterday. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

He said the committee will review the various plans discussed during its meetings and give constructive views and comments to ensure that the programmes offered are of high quality and have a positive impact on those who watch them.

The 3rd Meeting heard suggestions for key events and discussed preparations for the royal get-together with citizens and residents to be held in the four districts.

The meeting also deliberated reports and proposals on events to be carried out during the duration of the royal celebrations.

Present at yesterday’s meeting were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar as the Adviser of the National Committee for the monarch’s birthday celebration; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Penggawa Laila Bentara Istiadat Diraja Dalam Istana Pengiran Haji Alauddin bin Pengiran Paduka Tuan Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, the Grand Chamberlain; and members of the National Committee for the royal birthday celebration.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

LEADERS need to demonstrate their trustworthiness in carrying out their duties and responsibilities and should not become a hindrance to any improvement efforts in an organisation or the country.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik made this remark in a sabda yesterday while launching the nationwide distribution of the 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, at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) Building in Jalan Perdana Menteri.

His Royal Highness, who is also Chairman of the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB) Committee of Governors, said that while Muslims are expected to intensify their religious activities in the coming month of Ramadhan, trustworthiness needs to be upheld as it can bring one a better and blissful life. “Trustworthiness is a noble and commendable trait and feature of a true Muslim.”

He said that trustworthiness is often associated with leaders, because of their huge responsibilities in leading an organisation or a country to glory, and warned that without this trait, negative phenomena such as corruption, abuse of power, disrespecting working hours and shunning away from responsibilities will be rampant and that can impede efforts of improvement. “Therefore, let us strengthen our will to continue instilling the trait of trustworthiness in us. May what we do be given Allah the Almighty’s blessings,” he added.

Citing the distribution of the personal gift of dates from His Majesty, His Royal Highness said that grassroots leaders such as mukim penghulus and village heads who are directly involved in its distribution must possess sharp leadership qualities in ensuring that the process is implemented with full responsibility and trust.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik delivering his sabda. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik presenting the Safawy brand of dates to a recipient

His Royal Highness lamented that it has come to his attention that many are still not receiving their share of dates. Although YSHHB has prepared acknowledgement forms that have to be signed both by the distributing and receiving sides, disappointingly, there are still instances of mukim penghulus and village heads not distributing the dates according to what they have been tasked with, he added.

This flaw, the His Royal Highness said, points to the fact that there are some grassroots leaders who are untrustworthy and they do not meet the criteria of a leader as a trustworthy and honest person.

His Royal Highness urged the YSHHB management and the district officers to monitor the distribution closely to ensure that the process is flawless this year and no Muslim in the country is left out in receiving their share of dates.

This year, some 157.5 metric tonnes of the Safawy brand of dates supplied by Al Madinah Dates Company, Saudi Arabia will be distributed to all Muslim citizens and residents in Brunei. Every Muslim in the country will receive a box of dates weighing 300 grammes.

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

At the ceremony yesterday, His Royal Highness inaugurated the nationwide distribution of dates to all Muslim citizens by presenting them to Penghulus, village heads from all four districts as well as army commanders, commandants of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and Directors of Formation of the Royal Brunei Police Force.

The distribution of dates during Ramadhan is globally unique as it can only be found in the Sultanate where it reflects the ruler’s personal care for the country’s citizens and residents during the fasting month.

Since 1995, YSHHB has been managing the distribution process.

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