|     Azaraimy HH     |

SHUTTLERS can now register for the Chung Hwa Middle School (CHMS) Alumni Association Badminton Tournament.

The competition will be divided into categories contested – the Kingston Cup and PTK Cup.

The Kingston Cup is for private companies, government departments and members of the public.

The PTK Cup is for associations, schools and embassy staff members.

For the Kingston Cup, the winner gets $900, runner-up $700 and second runner-up $500.

For the PTK Cup, the winner gets $800, runner-up $600 and second runner-up $400.

The tournament aims to strengthen the relationship among the alumni members and former students of CHMS as well as other associations.

The competition’s organising committee in a group photo

The post CHMS Alumni Association Badminton Tournament registration opens appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Wani Roslan and Fizah HAB     |

DESPITE the hot sun beating down, dozens of people including non-Muslims made their way to the Ramadhan bazaar in the capital to buy food and beverages offered at affordable prices.

The Sunday Bulletin yesterday spoke to some of the members of the public and local vendors at the Ramadhan bazaar at the parking lot in front of the Royal Regalia Building in Bandar Seri Begawan.

One of the visitors, Muhammad Aryan bin Abdullah, shared that the Ramadhan bazaar is one of the most visited by Muslims to buy food and beverages for breaking fast.

“This is one of the first choices among the public to buy food where there is a wide range of items to choose from, and here it is easier for us to find and buy all food and beverages at one place,” he said.

Another visitor, Nurhafizah Aji, said that the Ramadhan bazaar is one of most sought-after places during the month of fasting.

ABOVE & BELOW: Members of the public have plenty to choose from the variety of dishes offered at the Ramadhan bazaar located at the parking lot in front of the Royal Regalia Building in Bandar Seri Begawan. – PHOTOS: FIZAH HAB

Siti Noor Saffinah binti Saffahi and her siblings manning the family stall

“I often come to the Ramadhan bazaar to buy food where I can find varieties of local and even international cuisine that cannot be found at regular restaurants or shops, especially our traditional ‘kuih-muih’,” she said.

For 22-year-old Siti Khadijah binti Abdullah, it was her second time participating in the Ramadhan bazaar at the Royal Regalia Building parking lot. “I really enjoy the positive public response. This is our second time participating in the bazaar and we offer home-made ‘kuih muih’ and Malay pastries.”

Meanwhile, Siti Noor Saffinah binti Saffahi, taking care of her family stall, shared, “It is our family business and I grew up helping out at our grandmother’s stall when she participated in the Ramadhan bazaar at the stadium. Later, we decided to branch out.

“The public response so far is good. This is our second participation and customers prefer coming to our stall because of its accessibility.”

The post Tasty choices galore at Ramadhan bazaar appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Aziz Idris     |

THE traffic leading to the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium moved at a snail’s pace yesterday afternoon as Muslims and non-Muslims rushed to buy their favourite food and beverages from the Gerai Ramadhan Belia 2017.

The organiser was happy to note that more than 480 registered stalls have filled the parking area of the stadium this year with 90 per cent of them run by youth entrepreneurs.

Pengiran Haji Haris bin Pengiran Haji Duraman, Managing Director of Riza Group, the company responsible for managing the Ramadhan stalls, told the Sunday Bulletin that the number of stalls increased this year from 460 last year.

He explained that the stalls are devoted for youths so that they can learn to work in self-reliance as well as gain exposure to the “real” business world.

“This is also serving as a ‘training ground’ to teach the youths to become entrepreneurs,” he added.

Photos above & below show members of the public buying food in preparation for breaking their fast in the first day of Ramadhan. The Gerai Ramadhan Belia 2017 not only showcases a myriad choice of dishes but also boasts of high participation from youth entrepreneurs

Youth vendors of the Sotong King during the Gerai Ramadhan Belia 2017

Pengiran Haji Haris bin Pengiran Haji Duraman, Managing Director of Riza Group, during an interview

Photos above & below show some of the famous stalls at the Gerai Ramadhan Belia 2017. Affordable local cuisines and unique creations are offered at the bazaar, from traditional Malay ‘kueh’ and grilled food to western dishes and middle-eastern cuisine. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

First time youth vendor Saadatul Munerah of Sotong King said she was thrilled to participate this year, but admitted that “it is more challenging than expected”.

“We prepare deep-fried squids on the spot, which many customers have not seen before. We try to bring something new and, Alhamdulillah, there have been encouraging sales.”

Sotong King sells three main types of squids – Sotong King, Finger and Ring. They come in three flavours; BBQ, hot and spicy, and salt and pepper. Customers can also add cheese toppings.

Another youth vendor Mohd Azmi bin Ismail, expressed joy for having secured a ‘golden’ spot this year after using the drawing system. “It’s closest to the car park, which means it has the most traffic flow,” he explained.

An abundance of affordable local cuisines and unique creations are offered at the bazaar ranging from traditional Malay ‘kueh’ and grilled food to western dishes and middle-eastern cuisines.

An avid food lover, Maryam binti Metussin, got there just before sundown to find the place packed. “A lot was happening all at once. I saw food stalls to my left and right, sweets and savouries, smoke from barbeque pits, colourful take-away plastic bags, families and friends.

“This is what makes the Gerai Ramadan hard to avoid every fasting month. Apart from all the delicious food and beverages, it is also a place where friends and family meet. It’s more than just food here,” she chimed.

The post It’s more than just food at Gerai Ramadhan appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

A 50 TIMES Khatam Al-Quran ceremony to mark the Golden Jubilee 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 was held yesterday at the Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Mosque in Kampong Sungai Akar.

Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong; Penghulu of Mukim Berakas ‘B’ and Legislative Council member YB Pengiran Haji Ali bin Pengiran Maon as guest of honour; mosque members and village residents participated in the event.

A welcoming address was given by the chairman of the ceremony, Haji Abdul Hakim bin Haji Mohd Yasin, followed by a briefing and recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and verses from the Al-Quran.

Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong at the Khatam Al-Quran ceremony

Male participants during the ceremony. – PHOTOS: ISHAN IBRAHIM

The post Religious event to mark Sultan’s Golden Jubilee appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

BRUNEI is experiencing an increasing trend of steroid abuse among image-obsessed young men, which has become one of the main causes of heart attack among them.

According to statistics from 2014 to 2017, 23 heart attack cases among youths have been reported by hospitals in the country and steroid abuse was found to be the reason in all the cases.

Anabolic steroid use can be linked to elevated blood pressure and cholesterol levels – both risk factors for heart disease. Its use causes decreased levels of HDL or ‘good’ cholesterol and increased levels of LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol.

The growing concern over heart attacks due to steroid abuse was highlighted by Mohd Khairulamin bin Sungkai, Nursing Lecturer of Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences (PAPRSB IHS) of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), while delivering a talk on ‘Heart Attack: Know the Fact and Early Warning Before it Strikes You – a Perspective from a Heart Attack Survivor’, recently.

In 2015, coronary diseases were the second major cause of death after cancer. A total of 193 deaths occurred due to heart diseases, while heart attack was the second main cause of death among heart ailments with 82 deaths (66 male and 16 female).

Dr Hajah Rafidah binti Haji Gharif, Dean of PAPRSB IHS of UBD delivering her opening remark

Mohd Khairulamin bin Sungkai, the Nursing Lecturer of Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences (PAPRSB IHS) of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) in his public lecture on ‘Heart Attack: Know the Fact and Early Warning before it strike you. A perspective from a Heart Attack Survivor’. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

From 2014 to 2016, the number of heart patients admitted to the hospital stood at 4,879.

There were 300 open heart surgeries while the number of angioplasties was 1,729 (1,662 male and 367 female).

Most patients will have signs of warning before a heart attack, said Mohd Khairulamin who himself suffered a heart attack at the age of 40, in 2014.

According to him, the early symptoms of heart attack are unexplained weakness or fatigue, feeling cold or having cold sweat, chest discomfort, pain and shortness of breath during activity, unusual feeling of sleepiness, feeling passed out while trying to stand up or over exerted, and becoming pale.

While the late warning signs of heart attack that needed immediate medical attention include chest discomfort or chest pain increasing in frequency and duration, numbness or pain in neck, hand and jaw, shortness of breath, unbearable chest pain like being squeezed, sharp pain, feeling compressed, nausea and vomiting, profuse sweating even without activity, distended neck vein and unable to bend the neck, and indigestion, especially for elderly, that can be mistaken for stomach upset, he explained.

“Heart attack can occur regardless of age and even if you are at your ideal weight. It can occur suddenly but the warning signs occur long before it happens and does not always occur with severe chest pain.

“Sometime it occurs without warning. Heart attack is preventable or can be delayed and any delay in seeking treatment may cause loss of life,” he said.

Mohd Khairulamin advises regular medical check-ups from the age of 35 and strict diet control to prevent heart diseases.

“If diagnosed with high cholesterol, then proper medication, diet and activity is a must. Most importantly, if the warning signs are showing up, don’t wait, get help quickly.”

Also attending the talk were Dr Hajah Rafidah binti Haji Gharif, Dean of PAPRSB IHS, UBD and students from various educational institutions.

The post Steroid abuse a ticking health time bomb appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli & Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

ALL roads leading to Ramadhan bazaars across the country saw traffic moving at a snail’s pace as Muslims and non-Muslims, braving the hot sun, flocked to grab their gastronomical delights at affordable rates.

Ramadhan bazaars set up at Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, Gadong night market and near Royal Regalia Building in Bandar Seri Begawan yesterday witnessed people gather in big numbers to relish a wide variety of delicious food and beverages and also to meet with friends and family, keeping up with the spirit of the holy month of Ramadhan.

The fasting month is a big-time opportunity for local vendors to set up their businesses and increase income. Ramadhan bazaars offer them a windfall during the month of fasting and feasting.

There is stiff competition among the vendors who sell varieties of food and beverages, local and international, that cannot be found at regular shops.

Among the multitude of food stalls that have come up across the country, the competition is not just for grabbing buyers’ attention and make money, but to serve the most delicious dishes.

Members of the public buying food to break their fast during the first day of Ramadhan. – DEAN KASSIM

Crowds at Stadium Ramadhan bazaar. – DEAN KASSIM

Haji Abdul Kadir bin Haji Metali, Manager of Cendol Haji Metali

Nur Raghadah binti Agus, owner of ‘The Grill Journal’ stall. – PHOTOS: SYAZWANI HJ ROSLI

The Sunday Bulletin yesterday visited the first day of the Ramadhan bazaar at the Gadong night market and spoke to some of the local entrepreneurs offering scrumptious Iftar foods and drinks for their fasting customers.

Stall owner Nur Raghadah binti Agus who started her business in February this year, said that her stall offers her family’s popular ‘marinated and grilled-to-perfection’ skewers from chicken, beef and lamb. She also sells other items such as garlic-baked potatoes and Satay.

She said this is the first time that her stall, ‘The Grill Journal’, was participating in the Ramadhan bazaar, adding that she is overwhelmed to see more customers than the normal days.

“During a normal day, we manage to sell around 300 to 500 skewers, but this time, I think that we may have to bring extras to meet the demand. Today, customers started flocking to the stall as early as 2.30pm and it is just amazing to see the crowd,” she said.

During Ramadhan, she said, her business will only be available until before Iftar so that they can go home and prepare for their sales for the next day, and they will be able to join the congregants at the mosque to perform Sunnat Tarawikh prayers.

In an interview, Haji Abdul Kadir, Manager of Cendol Haji Metali and son of Haji Metali who was a pioneer in the cendol business since 1958, said that apart from selling the classic cendol they have also come up with fusion products such as Cendol Puspa and Cendol Durian. Other products they sell are the local favourite Pais Daging, Mee Goreng and Curry Puff.

“On a normal day, we set up at 3pm and finish at 8pm to 9pm, and today we started at noon and saw a steady increase in visitors to the Gadong night market. The crowd flow was most noticeable after the Asar prayer,” he said.

“We had expected that our sales would increase with the arrival of the month of Ramadhan, therefore we had been preparing well in advance. Alhamdulillah it is only the first day of Ramadhan and it looks like we will be selling out by 6pm,” he said.

The bazaar has also showcased some of the best and delicious traditional delicacies.

This include the Kueh Malaya that looks like a peanut pancake stuffed with a generous amount of crushed peanuts, sugar and condensed milk; Nasi Ayam, popularly known as chicken rice which is less spicy but sweet; Nasi Lemak, a dish in which the rice is cooked with coconut milk and some spices to produce a soothing aroma and often partnered with fried chicken; or even Satay – chicken or beef in barbeque stick, usually eaten with peanut sauce or even corn in cups – corn kernels that are steamed and lightly buttered and salted.

For people visiting the Ramadhan bazaar, the food and buzz are the highlights.

“We come here to buy almost everything that we crave for. During fasting, we tend to go for many different foods. We would try burgers, many traditional delicacies, kebabs and others,” said Nasri bin Haji Marzuki who was at the market with his family.

“The month of Ramadhan often provides an amazing atmosphere. My family is so happy and excited. It not only brings one close to Allah the Almighty, but it also strengthens relationship among the family; it’s something that one would want to celebrate and enjoy,” he continued.

The post Ramadhan bazaars offer windfall to small businesses appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE Customer Friendly Service Programme, an initiative by the Management Services Department (MSD) under the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), was recently launched with the aim of improving customer satisfaction levels.

The programme was launched during a ceremony on May 20 at the PMO Building. Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan bin Haji Mohamad Daud as Acting Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office said in a speech at the event that frontline civil servants will be expected to provide better customer service to members of the public.

In his remarks, Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan explained, “In the era of globalisation and a changing environment, the main challenge, especially for government agencies is to continue to improve customer satisfaction and to be more responsive to the needs of the public.”

Recalling 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 titah in conjunction with the 22nd Civil Service Day in 2015, he further highlighted, “His Majesty stated that the civil servants need to understand the public’s needs, especially those of entrepreneurs and investors. They always expect the best: fast, quality treatment and the demonstration of leadership; if we fail to deliver this, this signifies failure on the government’s part.

“The government has always tried to introduce and implement programmes as well as activities that are geared towards providing excellent and the best services. This is evident in Brunei Darussalam’s improvement in the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) rankings in recent years,” Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan stated. “This drive to improve Brunei’s EODB was led personally 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 Chairman of the Steering Committee of the movement.”

He went on to say that, through a whole-of-government approach, “various initiatives have been implemented including the introduction of processes as well as new regulations aimed at improving customer service and facilitating the set up of businesses in Brunei Darussalam”.

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan added that the country must not be complacent, and still needs to keep looking for areas where customer service can be improved. Working towards this, the Government of His Majesty has also drafted a Civil Service Framework (RKPA), which was first introduced in 2016.

The RKPA, he pointed out, “supports the realisation of Brunei Vision 2035 through one of its strategies, an institution development strategy which plays a role towards providing Excellence Service Delivery as an outcome on the national level.

“The PMO as the joint lead places focus on service delivery in the public service, and this is measured through the Government Effectiveness Index.”

As a means towards improving the Government Effectiveness Index, Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan said, “The RKPA has helped the government in the reformation of the civil service. It serves as a transformational action plan, giving focus on leadership, excellence in governance, and providing services to facilitate the economic growth of the country. RKPA is supported by three themes, namely leadership excellence, organisational productivity, and pro-business and pro-public environment.”

The PMO, he revealed, “Has set the target of 90 per cent level in customer satisfaction for the financial year 2019/2020 through its key performance indicators (KPIs) under the theme Pro-Business and Public Environment.

“The anticipated outcome is an increase in customer satisfaction levels which will be measured through the Customer Feedback Survey conducted by the Management Services Department.”

In addition, following the launch of the Customer Friendly Service Programme, the Acting Director of the MSD, Aminuddin bin Haji Buntar delivered a presentation entitled ‘Delivery of Government Services’.

In his presentation he spoke on the government’s target to achieve a 90 per cent customer satisfaction level under its key performance indicators.

According to findings, the customer satisfaction level for 2015-2016 stands at 65 percent. Therefore, to reach the 90 per cent goal, the projection target for customer satisfaction level must be increased to 70 per cent by 2016-2017 and 75 per cent by 2017-2018, it was shared.

Aminuddin pointed out that 12 government agencies with public dealings had not furnished the MSD with information on customer satisfaction levels (for 2015).

Meanwhile, data collected has shown improvement in the handling of complaints.

The performance indicator in solving complaints under MSD for the periods 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 showed a drop in the number of complaints with 66 recorded in 2015/2016, compared to 40 this financial year.

The number of complaints resolved has increased, with 26 resolved in 2016/2017 as compared to 22 in 2015/2016. The speed in resolving complaints too has increased by 30 per cent as compared with both financial years.

With the existing indicators showing that customer satisfaction stands at 65 per cent for the financial year 2015-2016, he said, “The indicator suggests that the Civil Service still needs to increase efforts to achieve higher customer satisfaction.

“This will require the concerted effort of all government agencies, with the involvement of leaders, management of the department, supervisors and frontliners and any individual rendering services. Without such effort, the target will be difficult to achieve,” he said.

DST Communications Sdn Bhd Customer Service Assistant General Manager Datin Hajah Umikalthum binti Haji Mat Daud also delivered a presentation entitled ‘Case Study – Project 3C’ to share DST’s experience with relation to supervision in customer service counter.

The post Customer Friendly Service Programme appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Achong Tanjong & Lyna Mohamad     |

DR MALAI Yunus bin Malai Yussof’s latest comic book, ‘Ok Tu Noh!’, was officially launched at The Mall, Gadong yesterday by Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohammad Yusof.

Other local artists were also present at the event.

Dr Malai Yunus, in an interview said, “The book was published to encourage the younger generation to actively be involved in the creative field because it has not been explored by the locals.

“As a person who has been active in the field for so long, I really want to see the younger generation thrive in the creative industry.”

He added that the comic book will be available at all bookstores nationwide.

Dr Malai Yunus bin Malai Yussof (R) at the event. – ACHONG TANJONG

A member of the Asean Cartoon Association, Dr Malai Yunus is a PhD holder in Business Culture and Head of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities at a local private college.

He has been active in the creative industry since the 1990’s following the publication of his first book ‘Dooi Malaiku’ in 1990.

Two years later, he launched his second publication ‘Malaiku Sayang’ followed with ‘Bah Malaiku’ in 1995 and ‘Gaplah’ in 2009.

Dr Malai Yunus, also known as ‘Noh’, was born in Kg Sumbiling Lama and is the youngest among five siblings.

The post ‘Ok Tu Noh!’ launches at The Mall appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

THE Festivity Park in the Temburong District now boasts a children’s playground courtesy of China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC).

Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam Yang Jian, Temburong District Officer Muhammad Amir Hairil bin Haji Mahmud and CSCEC representative Huang Ke Qi attended the opening ceremony alongside senior government officers, village heads and CSCEC officers.

The ceremony continued with the CSCEC representative handing over an assortment of toys to the Temburong District Officer, which is to be distributed to schools throughout the district.

Temburong District Officer Muhammad Amir Hairil bin Haji Mahmud receiving the toys from CSCEC representative Huang Ke Qi

Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam Yang Jian, Temburong District Officer Muhammad Amir Hairil, Huang Ke Qi and other attendees at the event

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|    Izah Azahari     |

IN KEEPING up with the spirit of giving in the holy month of Ramadhan, The Rizqun International Hotel through the cooperation with the Special Education Unit (SEU), Ministry of Education (MoE), invited 110 special needs children along with their parents and guardians for a Sungkai event at The Rizqun Coffee House, yesterday.

Present at the event were the Board of Directors of Abdul Razak Holdings comprising Haji Suhaimei bin Haji Besar, Administrative Director; Haji Mohammad bin Mohd Yussuf, Director; Matussin bin Haji Mahmud, Director; and Siti Rashidah binti Hassan, Director of Operations of Abdul Razak Holdings Group of Hotels.

Cikgu Haji Ali Yusri bin Haji Abdul Ghafoor, Acting Head of the SEU, MoE was also present.

A spokesperson for SEU said they are grateful to the management of The Rizqun International Hotel for holding the event for the special needs children where they invited a bigger number this year from a number of primary and secondary schools from the Brunei-Muara and Tutong districts.

Apart from enjoying the sungkai spread available at the restaurant, the specially invited guests and patrons were entertained with a live Tausyeh performance.

Board of Directors present at the event along with Cikgu Haji Ali Yusri bin Haji Abdul Ghafoor, Acting Head of the Special Education Unit, Ministry of Education

Siti Rashidah binti Hassan, Director of Operations of Abdul Razak Holdings Group of Hotels presenting a donation to a recipient. – PHOTOS: IZAH AZAHARI

Children with special needs along with their parents and guardians at the Sungkai event

Siti Rashidah also presented donations to the special needs children.

Throughout the whole month of Ramadhan, The Rizqun Coffee House will be preparing a Ramadhan Kareem Buffet including a wide spread of dishes and delicacies as well as month-long Tausyeh performances from 29 local Tausyeh groups under the Brunei Tausyeh Association prior to the daily Sungkai.

Patrons can also win weekly draws when dining at The Rizqun Coffee House and receive accomodation vouchers at The Rizqun International Hotel which will lead to a Grand Draw during the second week of the Hari Raya Aidilfitri festivities.

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|     James Kon     |

WILLIAM Lin, the new representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Brunei Darussalam, touched down in the Sultanate yesterday afternoon.

The 62-year-old will be taking over duties from outgoing representative Jason CH Wan, whose tenure ended in the middle of this month.

Upon arrival at the Brunei International Airport, Lin was welcomed by Richard Chuang Hsi Shan, President of the Taiwan Business Association in Brunei Darussalam, association members and Taiwan Graduates Association members.

Speaking to the Bulletin, Lin said, “I hope to boost economic as well as trade ties between Taiwan and Brunei Darussalam. I would also like to look at expanding people-to-people exchange between your country and Taiwan.

“I am excited to be here and I would like to thank members from both associations for the warm welcome,” he added.

Lin had been the Taiwan Deputy Representative to Australia for almost four years.

Richard Chuang Hsi Shan, President of the Taiwan Business Association in Brunei Darussalam, welcomes William Lin at the Brunei International Airport

William Lin, the new representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Brunei Darussalam, with members of the Taiwan Business Association in Brunei Darussalam and Taiwan Graduates Association in Brunei Darussalam. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

The post New Taipei Economic and Cultural Office representative ready for duty appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

CHINA’S Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region (NHAR), known for its beautiful natural landscape and numerous historical sites, is looking to woo Bruneian tourists following fruitful exchanges with local travel agents at the Beautiful China and Magic of Ningxia Symposium at The Rizqun International Hotel last Friday evening.

The event was attended by YB Haji Abdul Hamid @ Haji Sabli bin Haji Arshad, President of the Association of Travel Agents Brunei Darussalam and Legislative Council member, and Salinah binti Salleh, Head of Marketing Promotion of the Brunei Tourism Development Department.

Zhang Zongxin, Deputy Director of the Liupan Mountain Tourism Management Committee, said in his speech, “China and Brunei have enjoyed glorious relationships in terms of people-to-people exchange and the deepening of friendships.”

He noted that even though the Ningxia market is still not well known to Brunei, he believed that there is potential for the popularity of and exposure to the region to grow if both Brunei and China work together to expand cooperation.

Zhang added, “Ningxia hosted the China World Muslim Tourism Fair in 2013 and 2014, which representatives from Brunei also took part. It is an opportunity for us to really learn about Brunei’s culture and explore cooperation.”

Zhang Zongxin, Deputy Director of the Liupan Mountain Tourism Management Committee during his speech at the symposium

Attendees at the symposium in a group photo. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Other attendees at the symposium were representatives of major travel agents in Brunei Darussalam.

According to a list published by the New York Times, the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region is one of the 46 must-visit places in the world, placing in at number 20.

There is a famous saying among China’s tourism community that “one needs to visit the desert after returning from Ningxia”. This refers to the sand lake (one of the top 10 most attractive lakes in China for leisure) and Shapotou Tourist Zone, both of which are A-class resorts in China.

Lying in China’s northwest, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region is home to the largest concentration of Hui people – a predominantly Muslim ethnic group.

The four seasons of Ningxia will present to visitors magnificent and a breathtaking scenery, while historical sites like Shuidonggou, located along the east bank of the Huang He River (or Yellow River) was once inhabited by human beings some 30,000 years ago.

The Helan Mountain rock art and paintings are remnants left by nomadic tribes thousands of years ago, while the Western Xia Mausoleums are the largest imperial mausoleums in China.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

THE Economist’s 2017 worldwide cost of living survey has ranked Bandar Seri Begawan among the cheapest cities in Southeast Asia to live in, with Brunei’s capital placed 92nd out of 133 cities globally (ranked 95th in 2016 survey; higher placing indicates higher cost of living). Other relatively inexpensive cities in the region were Manila (92nd, tied with Bandar Seri Begawan), Jakarta (82nd), Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City (both 78th).

Singapore is once again ranked as the most expensive city to live in not just in Asean but in the world (1st), while Bangkok finished as the second most expensive city in the region (51st). No data was available for Laos and Myanmar.

According to an expatriate from Thailand who has been residing in Brunei for three years, the price of food here is considered cheap. One example is the crabs sold in the wet market.

“I go to the Gadong fish market every Sunday and found that the price of mud crabs is affordable compared to those sold in Bangkok, and the traffic jams here are nothing compared to back home.

“At times the traffic here can be slow, but even during jams it is still moving and takes less than 30 to 45 minutes to clear up,” he said.

This opinion is also echoed by an expatriate from Hong Kong who has been working in the maritime industry for about a year.

“The rent for a three bedroom condominium near the capital here is far cheaper than in Hong Kong and there is less hustle and bustle than back home,” he said.

Another expatriate from Australia who is working in the food and beverage industry said he enjoys the serenity here and likes the local delicacies such as the ever-popular $1 ‘Nasi Katok’ .

File photo shows Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan. A survey has ranked Bandar Seri Begawan among the most affordable cities in Southeast Asia to live in. – AZROL AZMI

He also expressed delight in the proximity of both countries. “A flight back home is just roughly seven hours away with Royal Brunei Airlines,” he said.

The Economist’s cost-of-living survey, through its Economist Intelligence Unit sister company, also stated that Singapore retains its title as the world’s most costly city for a fourth consecutive year.

The survey, which compares the prices of 160 goods and services in 133 cities around the world – primarily used by human resources managers to calculate compensation packages for overseas postings – found that Singapore was 20 per cent more expensive than New York, and five per cent pricier than Hong Kong, which lies in second place.

Additionally, sustained recovery in the strength of the Japanese yen has led to rising costs in Osaka and Tokyo.

Asia now hosts five out of the six most expensive cities in the world.

This contrasts with a gradual drop down the rankings for European cities, which made up eight of the 10 most expensive places a decade ago, but now account for just four.

In Britain, meanwhile, the depreciation of the sterling after the Brexit referendum has helped push London and Manchester sharply down the rankings; London is at its lowest position in 20 years.

American cities have fallen down the rankings, too, although they still remain comparatively expensive compared with five years ago, when New York was ranked 46th worldwide. San Francisco and Lexington (of the state of Kentucky) were the only American cities out of the 16 surveyed to climb the rankings.

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STANDARD Chartered Bank (SCB) organised a ‘Bring Your Kid to Work’ day recently, to encourage parents to bring their children to the office to learn about how a bank operates and what their parents do at work.

Some 17 children, aged between two to seven years, took part in the voluntary programme and gathered at the bank’s headquarters in Bandar Seri Begawan, said a press release.

Laila Li Abdullah, Head of Human Resources at Standard Chartered Bank Brunei, said, “At Standard Chartered Bank, we fully encourage any voluntary work that is educational, and promotes a healthy work-life balance.

“What better way for children to learn more about a bank, than to experience an afternoon ‘working’ in a bank with their parents?”

The purpose of the event was to expose the children to a positive work environment and for them to begin to develop skills that could last a lifetime.

Parents, volunteers and children spent the afternoon together at Standard Chartered Bank’s main office.

The children were taken on a tour around the main office, then treated to goody bags and some fun activities, such as colouring, financial word search and other games, to share the exciting work happening at the bank and to spark interest in the children.

The programme was run by staff volunteers.

The educational programme was run by staff volunteers

A group photo taken during the ‘Bring Your Kid to Work’ day at Standard Chartered Bank in Bandar Seri Begawan. – PHOTOS: SCB

Some 17 children, aged between two to seven years, took part

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

DIGITAL globalisation is revolutionising the way we communicate, the way we purchase online and the way we receive education, and one way for businesses to adapt is to embrace cross border e-commerce.

Tony Tao, the Vice President of DHgate discussed the potential opportunities of e-commerce while delivering a presentation at the 1st MSME Innovation Conference, themed ‘Enabling access to the Digital Economy’, which took place earlier this month at the Brunei International Defence Exhibition (BRIDEX) International Conference Centre in Jerudong.

DHgate is a business-to-business e-commerce website that facilitates the sale of manufactured products from small and medium enterprises to buyers. Founded in 2004, DHgate has approximately 10 million global buyers from 230 countries and regions, with 1.4 million sellers offering 40 million products. The platform allows buyers to directly purchase and connect with global manufacturers from leading brands.

Tao began his presentation by sharing some global statistics. “There are already over 900 million people talking through the Internet, through social networks. There have been more than 300 million people purchasing overseas products on digital platforms. And there have been more than 13 million people receiving online education,” he said. “All these things which were hard to imagine in the past have become very common nowadays.

“Thanks to digitalisation, globalisation is speeding up. Digital globalisation is revolutionising the way that we communicate, the way we purchase online and the way we receive education.”

Tony Tao, Vice President of DHgate speaking during the 1st MSME Innovation Conference. – AZROL AZMI

He touched on how e-commerce has changed the ecosystem. “On the one hand, you can see that a lot of manufacturers, traditional trading companies and retail stores are shrinking or closing down. On the other hand, there are tens of millions of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) already starting to run their business by e-commerce and within 10 to 15 years, half of the factory workers’ jobs will be replaced by machines.

“So you can see how this world is changing, and only those that adapt to the new world can survive.”

Tao then discussed cross border e-commerce. “I think many of you have some barriers in your mind preventing you from making the first step. How can I ship the goods to a customer in Indonesia? How can I receive money from buyers abroad with different currencies? I know many of you are doing marketing on Instagram with existing followers. And most importantly, how can a buyer trust you if all he or she knows about you is who you are, and what will happen if you didn’t deliver the goods to him/her?

“And that’s why I think digital platforms play a role to help our SMEs to make their first step and start up their e-commerce.”

He then proceeded to discuss how digital platforms are helping SMEs. He highlighted that a digital platform has many solutions, helping SMEs to receive money and have logistic solutions.

“And most importantly, there will be a standard process and policies making sure that buyers are protected. Buyers will have very good knowledge of the platform rules and they are safe to shop online.

“They know if they meet any problems whenever a product was not delivered or there are any problems with the quality, it can be reported and the product can be returned.

“So that’s how a platform is building its trust system and building its services to help our SMEs to start their online business.”

Sharing some examples from China, he began by discussing a traditional manufacturer who, in 2008, saw his business destroyed completely by the financial crisis, with clients cancelling orders and suppliers chasing unpaid bills.

“The only way to end its misery seemed to be closing the company,” shared Tao. “But he didn’t give up. He tried every means, through traditional channels to sell his product but nothing worked, until he put all his money on digital platform. Years later, he recorded that this was the most important and right decision in his career. At the end of the day, he has expanded his business to more than 100 countries and increased his profit margin by six times, with only a small team.”

Another example he shared was that of a woman who graduated college five years ago, and wanted to start her own business and practise what she learnt from college into the real business world, but the young girl had no money, no experience and no social connections.

“She found it very hard to start her own business. Then, she found another way. She built an account on a digital platform and started her on business. After five years of operation, she has built her own brand called Sarah Bridal, and sells to more than 50 countries, with more than 100 designers and 10 manufacturers working for her.”

“So these stories happen every day in China, and I believe it can be your entrepreneurship stories as well,” he said.

On what the future looks like, he said, “With cross border e-commerce, Malaysian farmers can sell to international buyers their fruits, without anything going to waste, and Bruneian designers can sell hand-made products globally. A mum can stay at home, take care of her baby and do part-time jobs, and kids can receive education without going out of their hometown.

“I believe that you can take away from today and learn that this is an inevitable trend that has penetrated into every corner of the world. Today is the spring of innovation or the winter of stagnation – the choice is in your own hands,” he added.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

AIRASIA has refuted recent social media posts claiming to offer the public free AirAsia tickets.

One of these posts links to www.airasia.com-2017-givea.us and claims to redeem vouchers for tickets after participants have completed a survey. Another post, circulating on Facebook, purports to be offering 268 free AirAsia tickets in conjunction with AirAsia’s 28th anniversary.

“We would like to confirm that both of the social media posts are scams, using the AirAsia brand without authorisation to lure the public into participating in their schemes,” the low-cost airline said in a press statement.

“We strongly advise the public to disregard such scams and not to click on any links or provide any personal details. AirAsia shall not be held liable for any claims resulting from participation in these false schemes. All official announcements are made via AirAsia’s official channels and credible mass media,” it added.

AirAsia stated it will not hesitate to take legal action against individuals or groups that organise illegal schemes using the AirAsia brand.

Members of the public who wish to report any suspected scams using the AirAsia brand or clear any doubts may get in touch with AirAsia via its official communication channels.

The fake AirAsia post

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|     Aziz Idris     |

THE Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM) is once again reaching out a helping hand with the distribution of Iftar cooked meal to families on its list.

Meals were handed out to 69 families yesterday, marking the start of a 10-day campaign to distribute food to 400 people until June 7.

This is the largest head count since the campaign began two years ago. The campaign looks to lessen the burden of needy families as well as those unable to cook due to age or physical conditions.

According to MKM, the number of clients increases every year – based on the Legal Clinic. However, generous donors have stepped forward to donate specifically for the Iftar cooked meal campaign this year.

MKM Secretary General Hamidah binti Haji Lakem explained that the menu will change over the 10 days, and also expressed gratitude to the donors.

Photos above & below show recipients receiving the Iftar cooked meal from members of the Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM). – PHOTOS: AZIZ IDRIS

“We at MKM are trying our best to bring joy and happiness to these families, so at the very least they will know they are being noticed and cared for,” she said.

Registered families can collect the cooked meals at the MKM Office at Block C, Unit 23, Melabau Complex in Kampong Serusop.

MKM members are also going the extra mile by delivering the packed meals to the homes of some who are unable to make it to the MKM Office.

MKM is run by volunteers and the council has over 100 families listed, ranging from needy families, abandoned elderly/elderly couples requiring assistance with their daily living, women who are victims of spousal abuse, people with disabilities abandoned by family, and mentally challenged individuals, among others.

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|     James Kon     |

THE Taiwan Business Association in Brunei Darussalam and Taiwan Graduates Association of Brunei Darussalam recently organised a welcoming dinner at The Empire Hotel & Country Club, in honour of William Lin, the new representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Brunei Darussalam.

In his remarks, Lin highlighted the respective roles of both associations in promoting business and further studies in Taiwan.

Lin revealed that he became interested to know more about the communities in Southeast Asia, after befriending a Malaysian boy during his high school years.

The President of the Taiwan Business Association in Brunei Darussalam, Richard Chuang Hsi Shan, welcomed Lin and his spouse to Brunei and said that he looked forward “to further boosting business ties between both countries”.

Meanwhile, Mike Mak, representing the Taiwan Graduates Association, hoped that Lin would enjoy his stay in Brunei Darussalam, along with its pristine forests and clean air.

William Lin, the new representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Brunei Darussalam, speaking at the event

The President of the Taiwan Business Association in Brunei Darussalam, Richard Chuang Hsi Shan and William Lin in a group photo at the event. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

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|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

THE Council of Women of Brunei Darussalam (CWBD) held a Khatam Al-Quran and Tedarus ceremony for the 13 associations affiliated with it yesterday, at the residence of Vice-President II of CWBD Datin Hajah Masni binti Haji Mohammad Ali, in Kampong Jerudong.

The annual religious event was held as part of the CWBD’s initiative to gain spiritual blessings during the month of Ramadhan, in addition to enhancing cooperation between members of the participating associations.

Also present was Vice-President I of CWBD, Pengiran Datin Paduka Hajah Mariam binti Pengiran Haji Matarsat.

The ceremony commenced with a welcoming remark from Datin Hajah Masni, which followed by a recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah.

The event continued with a recitation of the verses from Juzuk 2. Later, it was enlivened with recitations of the Tahlil and Doa Tahlil, led by Hajah Saadiah binti Haji Ibrahim from the Women’s Institute of Brunei Darussalam (WI).

Photos above & below show participants from the various associations affiliated to the Council of Women of Brunei Darussalam (CWBD) during the Khatam Al-Quran and Tedarus ceremony. – PHOTOS: SYAZWANI HJ ROSLI

The Doa Allah Peliharakan Sultan was then read by Pengiran Hajah Rakiah binti Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar from the Brunei Malay Teachers Association (PGGMB), while the Doa Selamat and Doa Penutup were read by Hajah Taibah binti Kudi from the Women’s Welfare Association (PKP).

The ceremony ended with a recitation of Surah Al-‘Asr.

Datin Hajah Masni told the Bulletin that such events gave the members of the 13 associations the opportunity to improve their Al-Quran reading, while enhancing participation in community welfare.

Among the participating associations at yesterday’s ceremony were BAKTI, Welfare Body of the Spouses of the Senior Government Officials and Women Officials, the Girl Guides Association of Brunei Darussalam, the PGGMB Women’s Section, Pertiwi, WI, and PKP.

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

AS FASTING days in the holy month of Ramadhan pass on, most restaurants, cafes and food cubes in the country are facing a problem of plenty.

The eateries that offer a wide variety of Sungkai (breaking of fast) dishes, from budget meals to buffet spreads, are finding it increasingly difficult to handle the leftover food at their outlets on a daily basis.

Despite the many awareness campaigns that have been carried out to remind people not to waste food and restaurant owners to show moderation in food preparation, large scale food wastage can be seen at most eating joints in the country.

It is fasting days and tummies are naturally hungry, still a lot of food is being wasted across the country.

The Bulletin approached a number of food vendors to ask for their opinion on what and how are they going to do about the leftover food after their operating hours.

Nur Hakeemi, who has been in the food business for almost four years now, said that during every Ramadhan, her stall prepares a variety of meals.

“For Sungkai, usually we will cook at least 10 types of meals ranging from beef, chicken and vegetable dishes, in addition to others to meet our customers’ likings. Often, when there are leftovers, especially during Sungkai hours, we will give extra quantities of food to our customers.

“If there is still surplus food, we will pack them up and send (Sedekah) it to a mosque so that it will not go waste,” she added.

Eateries that offer a wide variety of Sungkai dishes, from budget meals to buffet spreads, are finding it increasingly difficult to handle the leftover food at their outlets on a daily basis

Various methods to avoid food wastage have been suggested by food operators, such as giving surplus food to mosques or religious events. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

Another food vendor, Lisa A, on the other hand, advised food vendors and operators to sell their food according to their customers’ demands.

She said that vendors need to plan ahead so that they would be able to estimate how much food is needed to be prepared and they should cook the dishes during their business hours.

“If they aren’t sure of the volume of customers on any particular business day, they need to test the market first and plan the quantity of food accordingly,” she said.

She also advised food operators and businesses against selling food that have been kept out overnight.

“This is to avoid selling bad quality food to customers and to prevent food poisoning. Food quality needs to be maintained to attract more customers,” Lisa A added.

According to Billah Hassan, operator of a food outlet, “Leftover foods should be given to mosques, not only for Sungkai but also during Tedarus (mass recitation of Al-Quran) which is usually practised in the month of Ramadhan. This food can be distributed to the mosque congregant.”

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