Headline – Borneo Bulletin Online

| Azlan Othman |

A DELEGATION from the Management & Science University (MSU) of Malaysia recently visited Brunei Darussalam to strengthen ties between both countries.

The delegation was led by MSU President, Professor Tan Sri Dato Wira Dr Mohd Shukri Ab Yajid and the Vice Chancellor of MSU, Prof Puan Sri Datuk Junainah binti Abul Hamid.

They made a courtesy call on the Minister of Education, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman at the Ministry of Education Building.

The delegation also visited Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) and discussed areas of cooperation in education including the exchange of students and academic staff, new educational technology and other areas of mutual benefit.

Deputy Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad and senior officers at the ministry were also present.

MSU President, Professor Tan Sri Dato Wira Dr Mohd Shukri Ab Yajid and Minister of Education, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman during the courtesy call. – AZLAN OTHMAN

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THE Ministry of Health (MoH) yesterday announced that two cosmetic products tested by the laboratory of Pharmacy Laboratory Services MoH have been found to be adulterated with undeclared substance.

AG Beauty by Aura Gorgeous (Night Cream), and Dolly Pinky Skincare the Secret Formula for Flawless & Radiance Skin (Night Cream) were both found to be adulterated with mercury. Information on the manufacturers was not stated.

The adulterant found in these products can cause adverse effects potentially hazardous to users.

Mercury is a potent ingredient that is prohibited in cosmetic products as stipulated in the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations 2007.

Mercury is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its hazardous effects on human health. It is readily absorbed through the skin on topical application and tends to accumulate in the body.

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Mercury exposure can cause skin rashes, memory loss and muscle weakness, while high exposures may result in damage to the brain and kidneys. It is also extremely toxic to unborn children.

The MoH has not issued any approval for the importation and/or Cosmetic Notification Acknowledgement Letter for the sale of the affected products. The products are not allowed to be imported and sold in Brunei Darussalam.

Members of the public who have purchased or used these products are advised to discontinue use immediately. They should also consult a medical practitioner should they feel unwell or experience undesirable reactions as a result of using the product.

Members of the public involved in the retail of these products (including online retail such as through Facebook, etc) are reminded that it is an offence under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations, 2007 to import and market cosmetic products in the local market without a Cosmetic Product Notification Acknowledgement Letter issued by the authority, where the penalty for contravening these regulations upon conviction is a fine not exceeding $5,000, imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or both.

The MoH seeks public cooperation in reporting to the Health Regulations Services if these products are still found in the Brunei market.

For further information, contact the Health Regulations Services at 2384182, e-mail to health.regulations@moh.gov.bn or visit the Health Regulations Services located on the 1st floor of the MoH at the Commonwealth Drive. The public can contact Darussalam hotline 123 for enquiries.

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| Syazwani Hj Rosli |

A HANDOVER ceremony for the HNTec in Automotive Engineering programme guide was held between the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) and the Training Institute of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) at the Lecture Theatre at the School of Aviation of the IBTE Sultan Saiful Rijal Campus at Jalan Utama Berakas yesterday.

Present as the guest of honour was the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah.

Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Academic) IBTE, Walter Chong Meng Siong, said that curriculum is the core of any learning institution including IBTE and it has become a dynamic process due to the changes that occur in society such as technological advances and shifting economic climates.

“To keep up with workforce demands, it is crucial for institutions such as IBTE to be abreast with the skills and education needed by the workforce to not only fill anticipated jobs, but to adequately prepare them to compete in our technologically progressive world and thus make a significant impact in producing a highly skilled labour force,” he said.

He added that both IBTE and RBAF have had long standing relations as IBTE provide instructional programmes for military personnel in various fields including mechanics and electronics.

“Just last year, IBTE and RBAF successfully produced the NTec in Armament programme which is a collaboratively designed to train RBAF personnel in basic weaponry and maintenance,” he said.

The partnership helped to cultivate a culture of teamwork between two different ministries, promoting friendship and a better understanding of each other’s priorities. He added that it also allows access to a wider pool of technical expertise, experience, skills and networks which are beneficial to both organisations to see tangible value added to their organisational goals and priorities.

Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah and Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Academic) IBTE, Walter Chong Meng Siong at the event. – BAHYIAH BAKIR

IBTE and the Training Institute of the RBAF have once again collaborated to produce a comprehensive training programme targeting the field of automotive engineering. The newly developed HNTec in Automotive Engineering programme guide aims to provide RBAF personnel with the knowledge and skills in the areas of Automotive Engineering to become competent technicians.

“We are well aware that as tomorrow’s workforce will not only need knowledge, but also experience in applying that knowledge; a collaborative effort from both educational institution and the industry is needed to communicate critical employability skills for the workforce,” he said.

He believed that the partnership between both organisations will be further strengthened as there will be more programmes and joint projects.

Presenting the programme guide to the Commandant of the Training Institute of RBAF, Colonel Khairul Hamed bin Haji Lampoh was Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Academic) IBTE, Walter Chong Meng Siong.

The HNTec in Automotive Engineering programme is designed for the Land Technical Training Wing, School of Military Trade, Training Institute of the RBAF.

The two-year programme will be conducted at the School of Energy and Engineering Central, IBTE Mechanical Campus in Tungku and the Training Institute of the RBAF. Currently, there is one RBAF trainee taking HNTec Automobile Technology and six RBAF trainees taking NTec in Light Vehicle Mechanic programme.

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| James Kon |

DATO Paduka Awang Haji Mohammad Roselan bin Haji Mohammad Daud, the Acting Minister of Energy and Industry at the Prime Minister’s Office yesterday called on relevant stakeholders to triple their efforts in raising the level of financial literacy in the country after financial roadshows held in secondary schools nationwide yielded positive results.

In his speech at the National Saving Day 2017 ceremony held at the Rizqun International Hotel, the Acting Minister of Energy and Industry at the Prime Minister’s Office said, “According to the findings carried our during the roadshows, the basic financial knowledge among students is at 33 per cent before participating in the activities. It increased to 71 per cent after joining the activities.

He added, “73 per cent of the students who participated in the roadshow managed to learn about the importance of financial management and the attitude of saving for the future.”

He also revealed that this year’s Financial Fun Fair had 33 per cent more visitors than last year in 2016.

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohammad Roselan said, “The practice of saving and financial management is not something new among the Brunei community. It’s synonymous with the practice and message of our seniors which is save for later days. However, financial services have grown and become more sophisticated in line with the needs and demands of the public.”

The development, he said, “Paved the way for the existence of various financial products and services that are more innovative and complex in nature. This has added challenges for the public as the need for financial knowledge increased in line with the development and innovation within financial sector.

“The National Saving Day is the right initiative and needs to be carried out annually to increase awareness on financial issues among the community,” he added.

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohammad Roselan bin Haji Mohammad Daud, the Acting Minister of Energy and Industry at the Prime Minister’s Office and Yusof bin Haji Abdul Rahman, the Managing Director of Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam in a group photo at the Takaful Brunei Keluarga Sdn Bhd booth. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

The Acting Minister of Energy and Industry at the Prime Minister’s Office at the Great Eastern Life Assurance booth

The Acting Minister of Energy and Industry at the Prime Minister’s Office and the Managing Director of Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam in a group photo at the Baiduri Bank booth

The Acting Minister of Energy and Industry at the Prime Minister’s Office and the Managing Director of Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam in a group photo at the Standard Chartered Bank Brunei booth

Yusof bin Haji Abdul Rahman, the Managing Director of Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) said, “AMBD’s commitment in raising the level of financial literacy nationwide has been strengthened with the establishment of the Financial Sector Blueprint (2016-2025) that focusses on five main pillars to build a sustainable financial ecosystem. This includes the strategic action plan for human capacity building.”

After launching the Brunei Capital Market Association, Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohammad Roselan also presented prizes to winners of the Radio Promo Competition which was open to government and private secondary school students. The video promo competition was also held.

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohammad Roselan toured the financial Showcase at The Mall where there were exhibitions that showcased financial management products and services. The participating institutions were AMBD, Employees Trust Fund (TAP), Baiduri Bank, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, Standard Chartered Bank, AIA Co Ltd, Great Eastern Life Assurance and Takaful Brunei Keluarga Sdn Bhd.

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AS PART of the effort to ease the daily burden of the poor and destitute (Fakir Miskin), the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB) presented donations from tithe collection to the underprivileged of Temburong District yesterday.

Presenting the contributions was Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud in his capacity as the Vice-President of MUIB.

The ceremony took place at the Religious Affairs office in Temburong District.

Among the recipients was Khairul Nawar bin Esmed, 27, who received assistance in the form of a motorboat and fishing equipment purchased with the tithe collection, totalling $16,929.

Khairul Nawar currently has no stable income and relies heavily on fishing to support his family’s daily needs.

At the ceremony, the Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs also distributed basic daily essentials to some 21 underprivileged families in the district.

Later, at Selapon Dakwah Post, the deputy minister presented donations in the form of basic daily essentials – contributed by the Brunei Darussalam Red Crescent Association – to four Muallaf family.

Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud in his capacity as the Vice-President of MUIB presenting a mock key for the motorboat to Khairul Nawar bin Esmed. – MINISTRY OF RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS

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| Azlan Othman |

HIS Royal Highness Prince (Dr) Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and Pro-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) graced the Crown Prince CIPTA Award 2017 ceremony, held yesterday at Tarindak D’Seni in the capital.

His Royal Highness was greeted upon arrival by Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education; Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman, Vice-Chancellor of UTB and Chairperson of CIPTA 2017; and Dr Thomas Jenke, Managing Director of Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd.

Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah said UTB plays a key role in instilling interest in teaching and learning science, technology and mathematics. “One way is through the provision of an ecosystem that can generate invention talent and high-quality innovation through the CIPTA Award,” she said.

“The competition adds value to the country’s productivity as highlighted in the theme of this year’s competition, ‘Innovation for Sustainable Economy’. Research and development facilitates innovation and supports productivity and economic growth of a nation.

“Innovation requires various efforts including a conducive environment, experienced mentors, infrastructure and access to industry and investment.

This year, the CIPTA competition received 47 participations, 10 from Asean and 37 from Brunei Darussalam.

Inaugurated in 2005, the biennial competition is organised by UTB with Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd as partner and sponsor. The objectives of the competition are to inspire the public, especially youth, to develop creative products, processes or technologies for national development; to encourage inventions and innovations; to recognise and award creative talents; to encourage research and development; to promote manufacturing processes and technological product development; and to instill the culture of science, engineering and technology in them.

His Royal Highness Prince (Dr) Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and Pro-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) presenting the award to students from Meragang Sixth Form Centre for the project ‘Hijau Spa’

His Royal Highness Prince (Dr) Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and Pro-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Brunei presenting the award to the second prize winner of the Smart Junior category

His Royal Highness while being briefed on the Welder Arm V1.0, the winner of the New Invention and Innovation Category. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

His Royal Highness taking a closer look at the ‘Vacuum on Water’ project

His Royal Highness at the ‘Geography Teaching Aid’ project

During the event, His Royal Highness who is also the patron of the competition presented cheques, trophies and certificates to the winners and recipients of consolation prizes in Category 1 (Creating New Product, Process or Technology), Category 2 (Modifying Existing Product, Process or Technology) and Category 3 (Creating New or Modifying Existing Product, Process or Technology by Young Inventors); Smart Junior category (Year 7 to 9) and Asean category (participated by individuals or teams from Asean other than Brunei Darussalam).

The Asean category had two sub-categories, namely New Invention and Innovation Category and the Young Inventor Category.

There were no first and second place winners in category 1. Third place went to Haji Weston bin Sulaiman for his invention ‘Revolving Griller’.

In Category 2 also there was no first place winner. The second prize was won by Haji Muhammad Zuwaini bin Haji Aliyani and Syazana binti Mohammad Jaluddin with their project ‘Geography Teaching Aid’. Amanina @ Nurfatin binti Haji Bakar and Nurul Bahriah binti Haji Latip won the third place with their project ‘Great Hanger’.

In Category 3, students from Meragang Sixth Form Centre emerged champions with their project ‘Hijau Spa’ (Smart Portable Aquaponics system) while second place went to students from Sayyidina Hasan Secondary School for their project dubbed ‘Vacuum on Water’. The third place was won by students from Berakas Secondary School with their project ‘Footfall Energy Harvester’.

In the Smart Junior category, there was no first prize winner. Berakas Secondary School came in second place with their project titled ‘Quenching the Thirst-Self Watering Vase/Pots for Plants’ while the third place went to students from Sayyidina Hasan Secondary School who presented the project ‘Perpetual Spring Charger’.

In the Asean – New Invention and Innovation Category, Mohd Shiradzi Isman bin Ishak, Wan Khairul Aswandi bin Wan Mohd Ali as well as Syariffuldin bin Ismail from Miri Industrial Training Institute emerged winners for their project ‘Welder Arm’.

There were no winners in the Asean – Young Inventor Category as well as for the Crown Prince CIPTA Award 2017 Trophy.

At the event, His Royal Highness received a pesambah from the organising committee of CIPTA 2017, presented by Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah, and interacted with the winners of the award.

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| Azlan Othman |

THE biennial Crown Prince Creative, Innovative Product and Technological Advancement (CIPTA) Award continues to unearth local talents in a big way, recognising innovations that contribute to national economic development.

Haji Weston bin Sulaiman is one such genius whose ‘Revolving Griller’ to cook Brunei’s favourite dish Lemang or glutinous rice won praise from His Royal Highness Prince (Dr) Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and Pro-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), during the Crown Prince CIPTA Award 2017 ceremony held at Tarindak D’Seni in the capital yesterday.

“Marvelous idea,” commended His Royal Highness, seeing the highly innovative ‘Revolving Griller’ developed by Haji Weston, the only winner in the Creating New Product, Process or Technology category of the contest who walked away with a $2,000 cash prize, a trophy and a certificate.

The novel way to cook local favourite Lemang, a popular Hari Raya celebration dish, captured the heart of judges and attendees of the award ceremony alike.

Talking to the Bulletin yesterday on behalf of Haji Weston was his uncle Ali bin Osman who shared that the idea of making the griller came about when he observed street vendors manually revolving the Lemang.

His Royal Highness being briefed by Haji Weston bin Sulaiman about the Revolving Griller. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

“He (Haji Weston) wanted to prepare a tastier Lemang. The problem with traditional cooking is the likelihood of uneven heat transmitted to the item unless fully attended.

“In the revolving griller, the heat applied to the cooked item is evenly distributed as the food is kept on the move mounted on revolving sprockets.

“Other items can also be cooked with this griller including chicken, satay and egg. Solar panel is used to recharge the battery while electric car battery can also be used for the griller,” added Ali who accompanied Haji Weston to the stage to receive the award.

“It is up to him to decide whether to commerciliase the invention or just use it for his household use. Currently, the equipment is just a low-tech, conventional innovation. The griller is also mobile and ideal for family outings,” Ali said.

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| Azrol Azmi |

His Majesty first received in audience Roland Christian Grafe, the outgoing Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Brunei Darussalam. The outgoing ambassador presented his Letter of Credence to His Majesty on September 29, 2012.

Accompanying Roland Christian Grafe at the audience ceremony was Thomas Heilmaier, Deputy Head of Mission at the Federal Republic of Germany Embassy in Brunei Darussalam.

His Majesty then received in audience David Campbell, the outgoing British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam. The outgoing high commissioner presented his Letter of Credence to His Majesty on October 2, 2013.

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 receiving in separate audiences Roland Christian Grafe, the outgoing Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Brunei Darussalam (ABOVE) and Noriko Iki, the outgoing Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

Subsequently, His Majesty received in audience Noriko Iki, the outgoing Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam. The outgoing ambassador presented her Letter of Credence to His Majesty on September 13, 2014.

Accompanying Noriko Iki at the audience ceremony was Rie Arai, First Secretary at the Japanese Embassy in Brunei Darussalam.

The audience ceremonies took place at the Istana Nurul Iman.

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| Fadhil Yunus |

DPMM FC head coach Steve Kean is looking to rebuild his team in the mid-transfer window following the 9-3 mauling by Home United FC in the Great Eastern-Hyundai S League at the Bishan Stadium in Singapore on Thursday.

The head coach reiterated huge concerns in defence though he was somehow content with their attacking threat.

“We are fine in midfield, we are fine upfront, we can create, but at the back at the moment, we are looking very open, very frail … we are struggling to smell danger, which is the basics of defending,” said Kean in a post-match interview.

“Sometimes you have to rebuild a team, the last three years we have always been in the top three, in the cup finals.”

“We find ourselves in a difficult spot at the moment, but sometimes we have to rebuild,” he added.

The former Blackburn Rovers manager hinted that they could make further additions in defence having to deploy midfielders into playing in defence.

DPMM FC’s defensive players look on as Home United scored one of their nine goals during the hammering on Thursday

“It’s unfair to criticise our midfielders who had to draw back as defenders but we need to get in local defenders for help at the back of this transfer.”

Kean admitted that his side did not deserve to get anything from the game after a horror in defence.

“After a game like that, we didn’t deserve any points. If you defend in that manner, you don’t win football matches,” asserted the head coach.

Kean did share his feelings for his charges more than a year since they suffered their previous largest defeat under the tutelage of Steve Kean in a 5-0 loss against the same opponents.

“I’m gutted for the players. We’ve worked hard for the past two weeks. We didn’t think it was that easy scoring against us,” he said.

DPMM FC’s defeat is considered a joint-highest scoring game in the league’s 22-year history alongside three other matches.

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BANK Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) recently attended the annual ‘11th Regional Shariah Scholars Dialogue’ organised by the International Syariah Research Academy for Islamic Finance (ISRA) at the Putrajaya Marriot Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

BIBD was part of Brunei’s representatives who attended the two-day event, covering topics such as challenges of Islamic Finance and the Islamic capital market banking system, the bank said in a press statement.

Also present were BIBD Syariah Advisory Body members Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Mohd Yusof, Dr Abdul Nasir bin Haji Abdul Rani, Dr Haji Noralizam bin Haji Aliakbar and BIBD’s Syariah officers among international Islamic finance experts from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore.

ISRA, a research body under the Bank Negara Malaysia for the continuous development of the Islamic finance, organised this year’s event with the theme ‘Post-Islamic Standards Bank Negara Malaysia: Between Ideal and Reality’. BIBD’s Wan Hefnie bin Haji Hamidon also had the opportunity to present BIBD’s and Brunei’s developments in the arena of Islamic finance, specifically on its usage and challenges of Musyarakah Mutanaqisah concept for the home financing product.

BIBD Head of Syariah, Hajah Hanifah binti Haji Jenan commented, “Alhamdulillah, we are honoured that BIBD was invited to take part in this prestigious event, and to be able to engage with international Syariah Scholars, regulators, academicians and industry experts. At the same time, we are thankful that BIBD was part of the enriching discussions that allowed us to understand the current issues, challenges and how to improve the overall Islamic finance arena. BIBD will always support regional growth and continue to be a catalyst and integral part of the growing Islamic financial needs in Brunei Darussalam.”

BIBD officials in a group photo at the dialogue event in Kuala Lumpur

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| James Kon |

SESAME World Technology (SWT) emerged as the first runner-up during the recent Pitch@Palace China 1.0 competition, through its pioneering integration of directional sound in acoustic environment-management systems.

The competition was held in Beijing on May 22, with more than 10,000 participants in the finals.

According to reports, SWT developed ultrasonic technology equipped with two directional features for users to create their own distinctive sounds without disturbing others, and as an effective communication tool for the hearing-impaired.

Established by the Duke of York, with the aim of supporting entrepreneurs by connecting them with potential supporters that include CEOs, mentors and key business partners, Pitch@Palace also offers them the opportunity to get their ideas before a global audience of influencers who can launch it to the next level.

CEO of Sesame World Technology, Yang Jian Feng . – SWT

In less than three years, Pitch@Palace has helped over 400 businesses to growth and success.

SWT will be representing China to attend the final networking event at St James’s Palace, in December.

Founded in 2014, SWT currently has offices in China, Singapore and Brunei. In addition, Sesame World Technology (B) Sdn Bhd has formed a collaboration with the Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), to train local students in the research and development of ultrasonic technology-related products.

Sesame World Technology CEO, Yang Jian Feng, said, “By winning this international award, we hope to reinforce the learning confidence of Bruneian students and produce a series of high-technology products made in Brunei.”

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| Syazwani Hj Rosli |

THE Deputy Minister of Finance, Dato Paduka Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, presided yesterday over the launching of ‘Kontena Park’ at the Anggerek Desa Technology Park (ADTP), in his capacity as the Deputy Chairman of DARe (Darussalam Enterprise).

With the aim of being an affordable venue for new start-ups, the Kontena Park features five container-style facilities that are currently housing up to seven businesses, complete with an alfresco seating area for diners.

In his welcoming remarks, Javed Ahmad, the Chief Executive Officer of DARe, expressed his appreciation to the Board members of DARe for providing the facilities as a start-up area for new local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“In addition to providing them with the space, we at DARe want to be involved and see how we can help them grow their businesses, whether by participating in our capacity-building programmes or introducing them to the micro-financing scheme,” he said.

He added, “Over the next few months we will monitor the progress of our local vendors at the Kontena Park, to see what other initiatives need to be developed to help them grow. This will help us understand the landscape of what our local MSMEs need.”

Dato Paduka Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Deputy Minister of Finance and Deputy Chairman of DARe with Javed Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of DARe during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR

The Deputy Minister of Finance sampling Hybrid BN’s freshly brewed coffee

Under the names of Hybrid BN, Chef Kebab, Bigboi’s Grill, Kyna BN, Butik Delima, Suraya House of Hijab and Ana Memento, the seven vendors comprise four entrepreneurs peddling foodstuff such as coffee, ice-cream, burgers and grilled meat; and three retailers selling their own brand of apparels.

Norhafizah binti Haji Rashid, the appointed Kontena Park operator and founder of Big BWN Cookout, told the Weekend Bulletin, “The facility, being the first of its kind in the country, is expected to become a popular place for locals, where customers can enjoy a variety of local products in one place.

“Over the next few months, we will be looking at organising networking and promotional activities focused on creating more opportunities for local MSMEs.”

The launching event concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, which was followed by a food-sampling session and a short tour of the facilities.

Among the event attendees were members of the DARe Board, along with its heads of departments.

The Kontena Park is located at Simpang 32-37, in Kampong Anggerek Desa, next to the multi-storey car park behind the iCentre.

The operational hours during the month of Ramadhan, will be from 10am to 6pm for retail vendors and 9pm to 1am for food vendors.

After Ramadhan, the Kontena Park will operate from 7am to 10pm, with a break from noon to 2pm on Fridays.

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| James Kon |

MINORITY investors in Brunei Darussalam are now able to have a better peace of mind with the introduction of the Protecting Minority Investors Reform on Thursday.

The new regulations spearheaded by Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD), with amendments made to the Companies Act and tighter execution of corporate governance, will better protect minority investors against the misuse of corporate assets by directors for their personal gain through improved shareholder rights.

“This latest initiative will also help boost Brunei Darussalam’s World Bank Ease of Doing Business (EODB) rankings,” Yusof bin Haji Abdul Rahman, the Managing Director of AMBD highlighted during a press conference on Thursday at the Ministry of Finance building.

He also revealed that “AMBD has been appointed as the champion for Protecting Minority Investors Indicators (PMI) under the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business rankings, with the objective of strengthening protection for minority investors in the country”.

With this in mind, Yusof added, “AMBD has established a taskforce with members comprising representatives from AMBD, the Registry of Companies and Business Names (ROCBN) under the MoF, Darussalam Assets Sdn Bhd, and the Brunei Darussalam’s Law Society. This taskforce has reviewed the Companies Act and is focused on enhancing protection to minority investors, especially in the area of Conflict of Interests and Rights of shareholders in corporate governance.”

The taskforce, he stated further, “has made an assessment and comparison of Brunei Darussalam’s performance under the PMI indicators with those of Singapore and New Zealand, considering that both countries are ranked number one for the PMI index.”

Yusof bin Haji Abdul Rahman (C), the Managing Director of Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam during a press conference. – JAMES KON

As part of a familiarisation programme on the amendment to the Act, Yusof said “AMBD with the cooperation of ROCBN, has held a workshop with important stakeholders, including the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC), a number of law firms, and other companies.”

The new initiative is important for Brunei Darussalam in its quest to modernise its law infrastructure and improve its position in the World Bank’s EODB rankings.

The PMI is one of the indicators under the World Bank’s EODB rankings. It measures the strength of minority shareholder protections against corporate assets misuse by directors, as well as shareholder rights, governance safeguards and corporate transparency requirements that reduce the risk of abuse.

The essence of the new reforms is that the basic rights of shareholders are to be specifically enshrined in the Brunei Companies Act as inalienable rights which cannot be overridden by a company’s rules and regulations.

Examples of these are: the right of all share-holders to attend and vote at general meetings; the provision of a longer period of notice for meetings to shareholders; relaxing of shareholder thresholds; and the inclusion of certain additional matters specially reserved for shareholder approval, rather board approval alone.

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| Achong Tanjong |

BY THE consent 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, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), 18 officers were presented with their insignias in a promotion ceremony at the Officers’ Mess, Bolkiah Garrison yesterday.

Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, Commander of the RBAF, presented the officers with their insignias.

The officers promoted to Acting Lieutenant Colonel/Acting Commander are: 407 Acting Lieutenant Colonel Siti Isah binti Haji Abu Talip, 487 Acting Lieutenant Colonel (U) Mohammad Irwan bin Yahya, 509 Acting Lieutenant Colonel Pengiran Noor Rumaizi bin Pengiran Othman, 531 Acting Lieutenant Colonel (U) Radhuan bin Abdul Hamid, 556 Acting Lieutenant Colonel (U) Suhaimi bin Jamali, 562 Acting Lieutenant Colonel (U) Peter bin Ulat/Yulat, 568 Acting Lieutenant Colonel Fakaruddin Zuraidie bin Haji Ramli, 579 Acting Lieutenant Colonel Abdul Mutalip bin Bujang, 597 Acting Commander Haji Ainolnizam bin Haji Ibrahim, RBN, 601 Acting Lieutenant Colonel Haji Fadzli bin Haji Abdullah, 602 Acting Lieutenant Colonel Salehudin bin Dato Paduka Haji Puasa, 605 Acting Lieutenant Colonel (U) Pengiran Hasrul Ariffin bin Pengiran Haji Rosley, 606 Acting Lieutenant Colonel (U) Don Giovanni bin Abdul Rahman, 616 Acting Commander Surainawati binti Haji Abdul Samat, RBN, 620 Acting Lieutenant Colonel (Doctor) Haji Azlan bin Haji Suhailee, 635 Acting Commander Shahairil bin Haji Mohd Shahlan / Sambilan, RBN, 714 Acting Lieutenant Colonel (Doctor) Haslina binti Junaidi, 715 Acting Lieutenant Colonel (Doctor) Norinda binti Haji Tengah.

412 Lieutenant Colonel (U) Haji Alirupendi bin Haji Perudin – Director of Personnel said that the promotion of RBAF officers is a process integral to career development of officers.

First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit, the Deputy Minister of Defence, at the event. – PHOTOS: ACHONG TANJONG

Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, Commander of the RBAF, presenting an insignia to one of the recipients

This is in line with the needs of the positions or posts established in the RBAF where the holders must possess certain and stringent criteria such as good work performance, clean discipline record, having attended relevant courses and training and possessing sound leadership qualities. Each of the officers must also be in good level of physical fitness and medical conditions.

Present at the ceremony were First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit, the Deputy Minister of Defence, Captain (Rtd) Abdul Rahman bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Technology) and Deputy Permanent Secretary (Finance and Administration).

Service commanders, directors, comm-andants, senior officers and officers of the Ministry of Defence and RBAF as well as family members of the promoted officers were also present.

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| Azlan Othman |

BRUNEI Darussalam has the third cleanest air in the world with lower concentration of “fine particular matter (PM) in urban areas” in its air, according to the Global Health Observatory 2017 report released by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Solomon Island has the cleanest air and had a rating of 5, ahead of New Zealand (5.2), Brunei Darussalam (5.4) and Australia (5.8).

Despite having the cleanest air, according to the report, Solomon Island still falls behind on other development indicators, particularly in areas such as life expectancy, improved access to proper sanitation and rates of cancer.

Air pollution is a big problem; it’s responsible for an estimated 3.3 million deaths every year.

A tiny pollutant called PM2.5, or particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns across, is considered the most harmful pollutant.

It is found in soot, smoke, and dust. When it lodges in the lungs, it can cause long-term health problems like asthma and chronic lung disease.

Brunei, rated by many international agencies as one of the most livable places in the world, has done a good job of keeping emissions low and maintaining forests, even with rapid industrialisation.

Last year, a report released by Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) also gave a clean certificate to the air quality of the Sultanate.

Brunei has a pollution level which is well below the WHO’s ceiling for acceptable outdoor air quality compared to other countries in the region where urban pollution levels are very high, partly due to the high level of car ownership in the region’s major cities, EIU said in its report on Asean cities titled ‘Stirring the Melting Pot’.

Another finding by the WHO last year also stated that Brunei Darussalam has some of the cleanest and safest air on the planet and is among the countries with the lowest number of deaths from air pollution – with zero deaths per 100,000 people.

This report analysed data from more than 100 nations, comparing exposure to ambient air pollution and related death and illness.

It showed Brunei Darussalam among the top 10 nations with the best results for concentrations of PM2.5 – a key measure of air pollution – along with rates of deaths, disease and illness that could be attributed to pollution.

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| James Kon |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) has consented for the promotion of His Royal Highness 920 Acting Captain Prince ‘Abdul Mateen to Substantive Captain (Udara) in the Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAirF).

The promotion took effect on May 9, 2017.

Last year, His Majesty consented to promote and put on the rank insignia of an Acting Captain on His Royal Highness in a ceremony held at the Bolkiah Garrison Officers’ Mess on August 31, 2016.

The promotion was effective as of May 9, 2016.

His Royal Highness 920 Captain (U) Prince ‘Abdul Mateen. – MINDEF

His Royal Highness is an outstanding military officer with a career path that began as an officer cadet undergoing basic training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) which started on May 9, 2010.

He graduated from RMAS as a Second Lieutenant on April 15, 2011. His Royal Highness further progressed up the rank when he was promoted to Substantive Lieutenant on July 9, 2012.

His Royal Highness is pursuing a career as a military pilot and successfully completed a seven-month Elementary Flying Training at Royal Air Force (RAF) Cranwell, United Kingdom on April 28, 2017.

His Royal Highness Captain (U) Prince ‘Abdul Mateen will join the Single Engine Rotary Wing (SERW) Flying Training at RAF Shawbury in the United Kingdom in September 2017 prior to qualifying as a helicopter pilot.

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| Hakim Hayat |

MUSLIMS in Brunei Darussalam will observe the first day of the holy month of fasting today as the Hilal (crescent) of the new moon of Ramadhan was sighted yesterday evening.

With the consent 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, the Syariah High Court Judge made the announcement on the state broadcaster Radio Television Brunei (RTB).

The sighting of the new moon for the 1st of Ramadhan 1438 Hijrah was carried out by Syariah Court judges and officials from the Survey Department of the Ministry of Development, the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA), Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department and the State Mufti’s Office.

Present at one of the vantage points, the DST Tower in Jalan Tungku Link, to join officials in the moon sighting yesterday was the Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah.

Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah during the sighting of the moon at DST Tower

Officials during the sighting of the moon at the DST Tower. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

Five vantage points were set in various locations across the country for the moon sighting event – the DST Tower in Jalan Tungku Link, Bukit Agok in Jerudong, Tanjong Batu in Muara, Bukit Ambok in the Tutong District and Bukit Lumut in the Belait District.

As Muslims begin to observe the fourth pillar of Islam today, the nightly Tarawikh prayers and Witir as well as the Tedarus Al-Quran, commenced last evening following the Isyak prayer at mosques and suraus across the country.

Working hours at government ministries and departments are from 8am to 2pm during Ramadhan. For government daily wage workers, the working hours will be one hour less than the usual timing.

Local eateries are expected to not serve dine-in customers in daylight hours throughout the month of Ramadhan, under a law that was enforced in May 2014 under the Syariah Penal Code Order 2013. Smoking in public places during daylight is also an offence under the law and offenders can be prosecuted for disrespecting the holy month of Ramadhan.

The post Ramadhan begins today appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

| Izah Azahari |

THE Rizqun International Hotel has again embraced the spirit of giving back to the community, continuing its tradition of donating packets of Laila rice on the first day of Ramadhan.

Abdul Razak Holdings Administrative Director Haji Awang Suhaimei bin Haji Besar, Abdul Razak Holdings Director Haji Awang Mohamad bin Md Yussuf, Abdul Razak Holdings Director Matussin bin Haji Mahmud and Abdul Razak Holdings Group of Hotels Operations Director Siti Rashidah binti Hassan were at the hotel lobby and entrance to hand out bags of rice to the public.

The Laila rice contribution has, since 2006, become a tradition to the hotel in welcoming the month of Ramadhan, marking this year as its 11th year.

Through the event, The Rizqun International Hotel aims to enhance its involvement in charitable activities, particularly those tied to religious events, in hopes that such activities will encourage unity with the wider community in Brunei Darussalam.

Abdul Razak Holdings Director Haji Awang Mohamad bin Md Yussuf (pic above) and Abdul Razak Holdings Administrative Director Haji Awang Suhaimei bin Haji Besar (pic below) handing out Laila rice to the public. – PHOTOS: IZAH AZAHARI

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| Hakim Hayat |

BRUNEI rock band ‘Claws’ recently clinched second place in the Hard Rock Rising (Asia Regional) finals in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, becoming the first local band to reach the finals in the world’s largest battle of the bands.

Claws competed against 14 other bands that were selected out of 6,000 bands from across Asia in April 2015. Two other local bands, ‘Alexandria’ and ‘Perfect Scums’ also battled it out in the competition. Claws representative Sai Mohsin said, “It was a wonderful experience to play at Hard Rock Cafe twice this year. The other bands did their best to secure a slot in the finals.

“We didn’t really expect to reach the finals as this is our first time and it’s an event organised by Hard Rock Café,” he added.

Claws looks forward to participating again next year, he said.

Hoping to put Brunei on the map in terms of the global music scene, he called for more Brunei bands to compete at competitions in the future.

The panel of judges included University Malaysia Sabah Lecturer Sharip Zainal, Kupi Kupi FM Radio Announcer Queennera Francis and Sabah Cultural Board (Cultural Event Division) Assistant Manager II Malik Rahim

Hard Rock Rising is a one-of-a-kind global competition for aspiring artistes of all genres to showcase their talent and connect with new fans at more than 125 Hard Rock Cafe properties around the world.

Malik Rahim presenting a Hard Rock Cafe certificate and token of appreciation to Claws. – HAKIM HAYAT

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| Achong Tanjong |

THE Language and Literature Bureau (DBP), Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports organised a roadshow on ‘Naindung’ and ‘Makar’ magazines for Cluster 4 students of Orang Kaya Besar Imas Primary School, Subok at the school’s mini hall recently.

The ceremony began with the reciting of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Ustaz Haji Saifullizan bin Haji Abdullah, followed by a briefing on the magazines delivered by Sharyanty binti Haji Mohd Sharif, a Language Officer who is also the Assistant Head of Children and Youth Magazines Unit, Language and Literature Bureau.

She said the roadshow aimed to introduce students to ‘Naindung’ which is fully in the Jawi script to give constant encouragement to students to help them read Jawi more smoothly.

Present at the event were senior teachers, teachers and students as well as officers from the Language and Literature Bureau.

Several activities were also held at the event including a quiz, colouring activity for Pre-school and Year 1 pupils, drawing and colouring for Year 2 and Year 3 pupils, essay and poem writing for Year 4 and Year 6 pupils and a picture taking session for the TEMAN column in both magazines.

The winners of the activities received prizes presented by Sharyanty and Norhayati binti Haji Yusof, a Language Officer who is also the Assistant Head of Youth Magazines Unit.

Participants at the event. – ACHONG TANJONG

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