THE Ministry of Health (MoH) yesterday informed the public that six cosmetic products were found to be adulterated with undeclared substance, following tests by the laboratory of Pharmacy Laboratory Services, MoH.

The affected cosmetic products are Cantiqa Skincare – Toner which is adulterated with hydroquinone, Cantiqa Skincare – Daily Cream and the Cantiqa Skincare – Nightly Cream, both adulterated with mercury, all manufactured by Pusratu Global Academy Sdn Bhd, Malaysia; FJ Glow Beauty – FJ Glow Night Cream which is adulterated with hydroquinone, and FJ Glow Beauty – FJ Glow Treatment Cream, adulterated with mercury, both products manufactured by Jotono Corporation Sdn Bhd, Malaysia; and RZAC Cosmetic – Platinum Toner manufactured by RZAC Cosmetic, Malaysia, which is adulterated with hydroquinone and tretinoin.

The adulterants found in these products can cause adverse effects that are potentially hazardous to the people using them.

Mercury is a potent ingredient that is prohibited in cosmetic products as stipulated in the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations 2007. It is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its hazardous effects on human health. Mercury is readily absorbed through the skin on topical application and tends to accumulate in the body. Exposure to mercury 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.

Both hydroquinone and tretinoin are potent ingredients used in western prescription medicines to treat skin conditions and is prohibited in skin care cosmetic products under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations. The unsupervised use of hydroquinone may cause skin hypersensitivity, skin discolouration resulting in gradual darkening of the affected skin area and an increased risk of skin cancer.

The inappropriate use of tretinoin could lead to redness, peeling and scarring of the skin.

The MoH has not issued any approval for the importation and/or Cosmetic Notification Acknowledgement Letter for the sale of the rest of affected products. Following these findings, 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 stop using them immediately. They should also consult a medical practitioner if they feel unwell or experience any undesirable reactions as a result of using the products.

Adulterated product RZAC Cosmetic – Platinum Toner

Adulterated products Cantiqa Skincare – Daily Cream, Toner and Nightly Cream

Adulterated product FJ Glow Beauty – FJ Glow Night Cream

Adulterated product FJ Glow Beauty – FJ Glow Treatment Cream. – PHOTOS: MOH

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|     James Kon     |

THE Department of Agriculture and Agrifood is targeting a 20-per-cent increase in total output from agriculture, agrifood and livestock sectors for this year and expects to achieve a total output worth B$1,080.97 million by 2020.

The ambitious targets of the department’s Strategic Plan 2016-2020 were revealed by Hajah Khartini binti Haji Musa, Acting Deputy Director of Agriculture and Agrifood to local farmers and agro-sector entrepreneurs during a briefing session at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism yesterday.

Highlighting the current status of agriculture development, she said that as of 2016, Brunei has a land mass of 7,360.51 hectares for agriculture, comprising 2,882.25 hectares for poultry development and 4,478.51 hectares for plantation.

There are currently a total of 5,642 entrepreneurs registered under the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood who operate in livestock, plantation and agrifood sectors.

She pointed out that agriculture output for the past 10 years from 2007 to 2016 increased by 93 per cent.

In 2016, the gross agriculture production value stood at B$385.18 million, a 5.2 per cent increase compared to 2015.

Hajah Khartini binti Haji Musa, Acting Deputy Director of Agriculture and Agrifood

Some of the participants attending the briefing on the Strategic Plan 2016-2020 of the Agriculture and Agrifood Department. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

The contribution of the sector to the gross domestic product (GDP) of the country is 0.57 per cent.

Through the strategic plan of the department, she hoped that “the agro industry output can be increased exponentially with poultry and plantation sectors as the main contributors. The processing sector will continue to grow through the contribution of the poultry and plantation industry.

“To further develop the agriculture sector, especially livestock and plantation, among the efforts carried out by the department include encouraging participation of foreign direct investment and enhancing access to export markets,” Hajah Khartini said.

“The strategic objectives of the department are to increase output from agriculture, livestock and agrifood sectors annually to be able contribute to the GDP as well as to boost export and other economic activities, to continuously raise productivity from agriculture, livestock and agrifood sectors through utilising modern technologies and bringing foreign direct investment,” she explained.

“Other objectives include reducing dependence on government expenditure in implementing strategies and programmes to increase output through public-private partnership and other approaches; creating opportunities for local investors and entrepreneurs to be involved in agro-based industries that can contribute to creation of employment for locals; and to implement preventive measures to protect agriculture, livestock and agrifood industries from diseases that can be spread to humans,” she said.

The strategic plan will also ensure quality and safety of food produced by agriculture, livestock and agrifood industries for the prosperity of the people in the country.

Other presenters yesterday included Hirman bin Haji Abu, Head of Crop Industry Division and Haji Mohd Al-Zamilludin bin Haji Ahmad, an officer from Livestock Industry and Veterinary Services Division.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE Land Transport Department (JPD) announced yesterday that it will be issuing special Golden Jubilee vehicle registration number plates in conjunction with the celebration of 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’s ascension to the throne.

The announcement was made at a press conference at the JPD Headquarters in Beribi by Pengiran Mohammad Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, the Acting Director of Land Transport.

It was explained that 117 ‘Golden Number’ vehicle registration number plates will be made available for bidding through a closed tender process.

However, unlike with normal vehicle registration numbers, ‘Golden Number’ plates which have not been bid for by the public during the closed tender will not be offered again in an open tender.

The special vehicle registration number plates that have been made available for bidding are as follows: Jubli Emas 1 until 99; Jubli Emas 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900; and Jubli Emas 111, 222, 333, 444, 555, 666, 777, 888, 999.

Tendering will open tomorrow and close on Saturday, July 8 at 2pm.

The minimum required bid is $2,000. Meanwhile, prices for the fabrication of the vehicle registration number plates will be set by an appointed supplier.

In addition to the above, other conditions for the issuance of these special edition registration number plates, per normal regulations, will also apply.

Pengiran Mohammad Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, the Acting Director of Land Transport holding up a sample of the Golden Jubilee vehicle registration number plate. – DANIAL NORJIDI

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam’s futsal club Shah United is set to make their debut in the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Futsal Club Championship after being reportedly drawn in Group ‘A’ alongside Thai Port FC of Thailand, Permata Indah Manokwari of Indonesia and a representative from Myanmar.

The championship, which is held annually, will be held tentatively from July 2-8 in Bangkok, Thailand.

According to Arena Futsal Malaysia, Group ‘B’ pit Australia’s East Coast Heat, Vietnam’s Sana Khanh Hoa, Melaka United of Malaysia and Vientiane Capital of Laos.

The groupings of the teams have not been officially released in the Asean Football Federation (AFF) website but Indonesia-based web portal Bolalob has provided a preliminary draft.

According to the website, the top two teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals.

The website has also released a provisional fixture list with Shah United set to begin their campaign against a Myanmar league representative on July 2 before meeting Indonesian outfit Permata Indah Manokwari a day later.

Shah United look set to make their debut in the Asean Football Federation Futsal Club Championship in Bangkok, Thailand in July

The Brunei representative will conclude their group stage against defending champions Thai Port on July 4.

Shah United finished as runners-up in the 2016 national league season behind eventual champions Kota Junior.

Indonesia club side Permata Indah Manokwari ended their season in the Pro Futsal League 2017 as runners-up behind winners Vamos Mataram while Thai Port played bridesmaids to champions Chonburi Blue Wave in the 2016 Futsal Thailand League.

The Myanmar league season is currently in progress and a team to represent the nation will only be confirmed once it is completed.

Thai Port edged Vietnamese outfit Thai Son Nam 4-3 in the 2016 final and are also the inaugural winners in 2015 where they dispatched Malaysia’s Felda United 5-0.

Back in April, the Bulletin reported that Shah United would be representing Brunei in the AFF Futsal Club Championship.

Shah United currently lie in third place in this year’s futsal league with 10 points after six matches.

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|     James Kon     |

LIM Fung emerged as the hero for Little Wonder Enterprise after shooting three consecutive three pointers and also a clutch free-throw to send his team into the final of the GRÂND Veteran Open yesterday night by defeating Fitness Zone 65-63 in the semi final.

Both team struggled in the offence throughout the match, however Fitness Zone dominated the match and was leading 49-41 heading into the fourth quarter.

Led by Lim Fung and Ang Han Then, a resurgent Little Wonder Enterprise erased the deficit and managed to hold off Fitness Zone for the win.

After the win, Lim Fung in an interview said, “We were lucky to get away with the win today and remained undefeated for the whole tournament.

“In the crucial moment, we followed the set play given and executed perfectly to overcome the deficit and win.”

Tony Tan of Little Wonder Enterprise (white) attempts to score as Fitness Zone players defend. – JAMES KON

He hopes to carry the momentum to the final on Wednesday night at the Batu Bersurat Basketball Court.

Point guard of the Fitness Zone team said, “They played a good game today however they lack players who can make plays.”

Fitness Zone’s R Arabia enjoyed a high scoring night with 19 points, while Ho Poh San contributed four three pointers.

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|     James Kon     |

PURSUING the dream to represent Brunei Darussalam in the Tokyo Olympic 2020, national canoe athlete Mohd Fahmi Akmal bin Ladi, and his coach, Major (Rtd) Md Talip bin Haji Mohd Tahir from the Brunei Darussalam National Canoe Association yesterday morning left for Japan to join the Canoe Sprint Training from June 5-12.

This is the first time the national canoe association is joining the training at the invitation from the Japan Canoe Federation following the visit of Shoken Narita, President of Japan Canoe Federation to Brunei Darussalam in March this year.

In an interview with the Bulletin, Coach Major (Rtd) Md Talip said, “By participating in the training we hope our athlete Mohd Fahmi Akmal will improve his canoeing technique such as the stroke and rate frequency, angle of paddling as well as the stability of the upper body rotation during canoeing.

“Executing the perfect paddling performance needs years of training because if the athlete cannot master the right skills, it can affect the overall performance and cause the canoe to capsize.”

Since the training is held in Ramadhan, the coach highlighted that “this will help improve the athlete’s mental and physical aspects. Mohd Fahmi Akmal must make good use of this opportunity to improve himself.”

Mohd Fahmi Akmal bin Ladi, and Coach Major (Rtd) Md Talip bin Haji Mohd Tahir in a group photo with Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, Advisor of the Brunei National Canoeing Association. – JAMES KON

Touching on the training schedule, the coach revealed that there will also be a competition among the participants to see the improvements.

Conveying his heartfelt gratitude, Coach Major (Rtd) Md Talip thanked the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Ministry of Education, members of Brunei Darussalam National Canoe Association and Shoken Narita for the support.

Upon completing the training camp, Mohd Fahmi Akmal is expected to compete in the Asia Canoeing Championship in Shanghai, China in October this year and the Asian Games to be held next year in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Present to send off the athlete was Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar in his capacity as the Advisor of the Brunei National Canoeing Association.

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|     Faridah Haji Ibrahim     |

A TOTAL of 115 orphans and people with disabilities received donations in a ceremony organised by Bruneians who studied in Singapore at the Balai Sarmayuda, Language and Literature Bureau in Bandar Seri Begawan yesterday.

The guest of honour, Dato Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Zaimi bin Haji Talip, the Syariah High Court Judge presented donations to the recipients.

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan bin Haji Mohamad Daud, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Haji Abdul Hakim bin Haji Mohd Yassin, chairman of the ceremony, who is one of the Bruneians who studied in Singapore, were also present.

The event began with a recitation of Al-Fatihah led by Haji Mohd Lazim bin Haji Matali, followed by welcoming remarks from the chairman of the ceremony and a mass Tahlil recitation.

The ceremony aimed to unite former Singapore students and strengthen ties as well as reduce the burden of the orphans and disabled individuals.

Guest of honour Dato Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Zaimi bin Haji Talip, the Syariah High Court Judge and Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan bin Haji Mohamad Daud, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office at the event. – FARIDAH HAJI IBRAHIM

The recipients comprised family members of the Bruneian students.

Siti Nurhalifah binti Haji Ismail, a recipient, said that she felt very happy and thankful to Allah the Almighty to have received the donation.

“With this contribution, I can buy items to prepare for Hari Raya and other daily and school essentials,” she said.

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|     Achong Tanjong     |

WATER taxi operators continue to enjoy brisk business, particularly from foreigners wanting to visit Kampong Ayer and explore the way of life of the people staying there.

Mohd Zamani, 36, who operates his own water taxi, said: “Brunei’s water village is a must-visit destination for tourists visiting the country. Their visit would not be complete without visiting the famous Kampong Ayer.

“We normally charge tourists $20 for a boat tour around Kampong Ayer, and we’ll also take them to view Istana Nurul Iman and ‘Jong Batu’ during the boat ride.”

Kampong Ayer is considered the largest stilt settlement in the world and is a preserved national heritage site, he said.

“We also bring tourists to the Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery, where they can interact with the local residents,” Mohd Zamani added.

Yesterday, a group of tourists from the Philippines and Malaysia visited Kampong Ayer for the very first time, making use of local water taxi tour operator Roda Impian.

Tourists setting off on a tour of Kampong Ayer. – PHOTOS: ACHONG TANJONG

English tourists ready to tour the water village

Water taxi operators waiting for passengers at the Yayasan jetty

“Despite this being the holy month of Ramadhan, business is good and we will try our best to provide the best service to our customers,” a Roda Impian employee said.

The water taxi operator told the Bulletin that they have received many bookings from overseas tourists – particularly Koreans – who wish to check out the water village.

Water taxis, known locally as ‘perahu tambang’, is a wooden speedboat used to ferry people around the Brunei River. It is the main mode of transportation and link for people in Bandar Seri Begawan to get to Kampong Ayer.

Tourists and passengers can access the boats at the water taxi jetty at Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah or from the banks of the Brunei River in downtown Bandar Seri Begawan – the water taxis can be hailed from different docking points along the riverbank.

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|     Wani Roslan     |

A PRIZE presentation was held yesterday for the winners of the WeCare Instagram Photo Contest, at The Airport Mall in Berakas.

Dayangku Zaimah Aqilah binti Pengiran Samsul Bahri took first place in the photo contest, with the cash prize of $100.

Second place went to Hajah Nur Nadiah binti Haji Ismail, who won a cash prize of $70, while Md Amin Baharudin bin Zakaria took third place and a cash prize of $30.

The prizes were presented by Haji Ahmad Faizal bin Haji Ahmad, the President of WeCare, a local non-government organisation (NGO).

Held from May 23 to June 2, the contest drew positive responses from members of the public, who were required to post photos and captions based on the theme ‘Charity’.

In an interview with the Bulletin, Dr Dayangku Hajah Maizatul Aiman binti Pengiran Haji Ismail said that the photo contest was aimed at providing more exposure for WeCare’s ‘Misi Kasih’ project, as well as others in the pipeline.

She also disclosed that money placed into the ‘Misi Kasih’ donation box at the Da Adwa’s Ramadhan Festival will be used for hospital patients, registered under the medical welfare section.

Dayangku Zaimah Aqilah binti Pengiran Samsul Bahri, first place winner of the WeCare Instagram Photo Contest, receiving her prize from Haji Ahmad Faizal bin Haji Ahmad, the President of WeCare, a local non-government organisation

ABOVE & BELOW: Hajah Nur Nadiah binti Haji Ismail, second place winner, and Md Amin Baharudin bin Zakaria, third place winner, receiving their prizes. – PHOTOS: WANI ROSLAN

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

FOUR students from the Tutong Sixth Form Centre (PTET) left for Singapore yesterday, to participate in the 6th STEP-NUS Sunburst Brain Camp from June 4-10.

The participating students are Dayangku Nur Haziqah Syuhadah binti Pengiran Izudin Abas, Izzul Afiq Amirun bin Muayah, Mohamad Naqib Nasrullah bin Mohammad Yussof, and Norzarifah binti Ishak, who are being chaperoned by a teacher, Raihan binti Haji Nokman.

The camp is a joint collaboration between the Singapore Technologies Endowment Programme (STEP) and the National University of Singapore (NUS), where youths from South Asia and the Asean region are given the opportunity to participate in interactive sessions with scientists on the topic of brain-related diseases.

Brunei Darussalam has been involved with the programme since its establishment in 2012, and this year the participating students will present a research paper on Williams Syndrome.

The delegation in a group photo prior to departure. – ROKIAH MAHMUD

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

ALL Bruneians currently in the United Kingdom are safe following a terror attack in Central London late Saturday night, that has left at least seven people dead and 48 injured.

There have been no reports of Bruneians including students, government officers and their families directly affected or injured in the attack, the Brunei Darussalam High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK) of Great Kingdom and Northern Ireland Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin said yesterday while assuring that the high commission will continue to monitor the safety of all Bruneians in the UK.

Bruneians who need any assistance or information may contact the high commission’s hotline at 00447481270501 or office line at 00442075810521.

The high commissioner also advised Bruneians to be on alert, cautious and avoid the affected areas and said Bruneians who wish to go to the UK to spend their holidays should inform them by sending their contact details to info@bruneihicom@org.uk.

Brunei Hall in Norfolk Square, London also advised all Bruneian students to be aware of the incident and to report themselves to their society leaders immediately if they are currently in the UK.

Police forensic officers work near Borough Market in London on June 4, 2017, as police continue their investigations following the June 3 terror attack. Seven people were killed in a terror attack on Saturday by three attackers on London Bridge and in the bustling Borough Market nightlife district, the chief of London’s police force said on Sunday. – AFP

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HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, has consented to send a message of condolence to Theresa May, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, following the latest attacks in London.

In the message, His Majesty was saddened yet again to learn of the latest attacks specially so soon after the incident in Manchester. Brunei Darussalam stand firmly with the Government and people of the United Kingdom and join others in condemning this senseless and heinous acts of terror.

In ending the message, His Majesty extended his deepest condolences and great sympathy to the families and victims of this tragedy at this difficult time.

Police officers work near The Shard and London Bridge in London on June 4, 2017, as police continue their investigations following the June 3 terror attack. – AFP

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|    Fadhil Yunus    |

BRUNEI Darussalam have been drawn in Group ‘B’ in the 2017 Asean Football Federation (AFF) Under-18 Youth Championship in Myanmar from September 4-17.

The young Wasps have been drawn alongside host nation Myanmar, Vietnam, New Zealand, Indonesia and Philippines.

New Zealand have been invited in the tournament while reigning holders Australia are the only member association absent.

The Socceroos’ notable absence means that a new champion will be crowned on September 17 with regional powerhouses Thailand again installed as favourites.

Group ‘A’ see Thailand chasing for a historic fifth title, grouped with Malaysia, Timor Leste, Laos, Cambodia and Singapore.

The young Wasps will begin their campaign against Philippines on September 5 before meeting Indonesia on September 7.

Brunei take on New Zealand on September 9 before facing Vietnam two days later and will conclude their group stage with an encounter against Myanmar on September 13.

The young Wasps will be hoping to avenge their narrow 2-1 defeat against the Azkals in the 2015 edition in Vientiane.

Brunei did not participate in the last edition when it was then known as an under-19 age level and last featured in 2015 when they finished bottom of Group ‘A’ without a single point.

Meanwhile, another national youth team have been drawn in Group ‘B’ in the 2017 AFF Under-15 Youth Championship which will be held in Thailand from July 9-22.

The national youth team have been drawn alongside Vietnam, Cambodia, Timor Leste, Malaysia and Philippines.

Brunei will play their games at the Chonburi Campus Stadium and Princess Sirindhorn Stadium in Chonburi.

The young Wasps lost all their games in the previous edition failing to notch a single goal though they showed a valiant effort of losing to Thailand with the bare minimum.

Brunei will play Timor Leste on July 10, Vietnam on July 12, Malaysia on July 14 and Cambodia on July 16 before completing their group stage matches against Philippines on July 18.

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|    Khairil Hassan    |

HER Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah, Team Official of the Brunei Darussalam Netball Team was present to watch the training of the national squad at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium Sports Complex in Berakas yesterday.

In an interview with the Bulletin, Her Royal Highness expressed proud of the achievement and development shown by the Royal Bees.

“The Singapore series was very successful. The main objective of the exposure matches was to see how the team would perform against stronger opponents. Overall we did very well and I’m very proud of the girls.

“We saw them get together on the court and managed to apply what they learnt, with the strategies and skills they practiced. They were committed, disciplined, worked hard and did very well.

“After the Singapore Exposure Series, I think the team needs to stay dedicated in the training regime that Coach Thilaka has provided for them and to stay focused and stay motivated, not only to improve themselves as individual athletes but also with their game play as a team,” she said.

Her Royal Highness also advised the team to keep training and be healthy. She also wished a happy Ramadhan to all athletes and muslims in Brunei.

Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah, Team Official of Brunei Darussalam Netball Team

The team during a training session. – PHOTOS: KHAIRIL HASSAN

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|     James Kon     |

THE Deputy Minister of Defence, First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit, on Sunday attended the United States-Asean meeting at the 2017 Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.

The Shangri-La Dialogue is Asia’s premier defence summit, which will see defence ministers and delegates from over 50 countries exchanging views and discussing collective coordination and cooperation efforts to address regional security challenges.

Sunday’s meeting was hosted by James Mattis, the United States Secretary of Defence, and Ricardo A David Jr, the Undersecretary of Defence, Republic of the Philippines.

Attended by the defence ministers, deputy defence ministers and senior defence officials of Asean member countries, the meeting provided the opportunity for the Asean defence officials to collectively meet Secretary of Defence Mattis for the first time in the region since his appointment as the 26th US Secretary of Defence on January 20, 2017.

The Deputy Minister of Defence, First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit, shakes hands with the United States Secretary of Defence, James Mattis. – PHOTOS: MINDEF

The Deputy Minister and US Secretary of Defence in a group photo with the Asean Ministers of Defence, deputies and senior officials during the US-Asean Meeting at the Shangri-La Dialogue 2017 in Singapore

The meeting was a testimony to the US government’s continued efforts to further build upon the longstanding relationships and solid frameworks of cooperation between the United States and Asean countries.

This year also marks the 40th anniversary of Asean-US relations.

Since becoming a dialogue partner in 1977, the United States has actively pursued various cooperative initiatives – both bilateral and multilateral – with Asean countries through capacity-building programmes, provision of assistance as well as information-sharing activities.

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|     James Kon     |

PROGRESIF Cellular Sdn Bhd (Progresif)has appointed Paul Taylor as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the local telecommunication service provider to new heights.

Progresif made the announcement yesterday, adding that Taylor views customer experience improvements as his key priority.

“I can see that considerable progress has been made at the company and I would like to thank the management and staff for their hard work and the board for their unstinting support,” Taylor said.

“Overall, the year 2016/17 was very good for the company in terms of growth. I will continue to build on the good work that has been done to ensure that our service continues to expand and improve,” he added.

Taylor looks forward to further tapping into the pool of innovation, which will spell better value for customers and facilitate both the development of the economy and growth in new jobs.

Paul Taylor. – PHOTO: PROGRESIF CELLULAR

On that note, the new CEO thanks the customers for their support and trust, as well as believing in the Progresif brand story.

“Progresif has earmarked significant funds this year to further enhance its service capability countrywide. We will therefore continue to deliver innovative products and services as well as provide an enhanced level of customer service so that customers can enjoy a complete progressive experience,” he said.

A statement from Progresif Cellular read: An industry veteran with over 25 years of experience in the telecommunications sector, Paul Tylor has held senior positions in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, the Caribbean and Asia during his career.

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

NBT (Brunei) Sdn Bhd yesterday held a donation ceremony for 34 single mothers from RPN Kg Panchor Mengkubau, as part of its ‘Kembara Ihsan NBT’ initiative.

Senior Customer Relations Manager Sharifah Marianah binti Haji Malai Othman, Sales Manager (Gadong) Haji Shahrum bin Haji Jaafar, Sales Manager (Bunut) Abdul Ghani bin Haji Mohammad and Service Manager Donald Imperial handed over the donations during a ceremony held at NBT’s Lexus showroom in Gadong.

On hand to witness the ceremony was Deputy Managing Director of NBT (Brunei) Haji Ahmad Omar bin Pehin Haji Hussin.

The initiative is part of the company’s corporate social responsibility programme, which aims to provide assistance to single mothers in the Brunei-Muara District.

Fatimah binti Haji Jamil, Head of the Community and Public Relations Bureau at the RPN Kg Panchor Mengkubau Village Consultative Council, told the Bulletin that this is their first collaboration with NBT (Brunei) to help ease the burden faced by recipients in preparing for Hari Raya.

“Some of these women are barely earning enough to cover their families’ basic needs, let alone purchase school supplies for their children,” she said, adding that, “This initiative carried out by NBT is most appreciated and welcome indeed.”

Senior Customer Relations Manager Sharifah Marianah binti Haji Malai Othman presenting a donation to a recipient. – PHOTOS: ROKIAH MAHMUD

A section of RPN Panchor Mengkubau Village Consultative Council committee and single mothers at the ceremony

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|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

A HEALTHY environment facilitates the advancing of economies, enables the social wellbeing of the community, and provides a system which promotes sustainable economic growth and better resource utilisation.

This was highlighted by Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, in his speech during the World Environment Day (WED) celebrations held yesterday at The Collective Makerspace in Batu Bersurat.

The WED celebration was organised by the High Commission of Canada in Brunei Darussalam in collaboration with BruWILD and The Collective Makerspace.

According to Dr Haji Abdul Manaf, the Government of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam prioritises the protection and conservation of the country’s natural resources in a bid to increase its contribution to the national economy. He said that the initiatives complement the principles of sustainable development and are in line with the development strategies of Brunei Vision 2035.

“Our national environment initiatives also support the strategies under the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. Specifically, our environment programmes support the majority of the sustainable goals, such as food production, good health and wellbeing, clean water and sanitation, decent work and economic growth, industry innovation, sustainable cities, responsible consumption and production, climate action, life on land and below water, and partnerships,” he continued.

He further stated that the government often seeks better management approaches in preserving the country’s pristine environment because Brunei Darussalam is also not spared from global environmental problems such as climate change and biodiversity loss.

“The active participation of Brunei Darussalam in international and regional initiatives like the United Nations Framework on Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Heart of Borneo (HoB) initiative, and other relevant commitments signify the Government of His Majesty’s sincerity in protecting the natural environment within the principles of sustainable development,” the permanent secretary pinpointed.

Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, and Marina Laker, High Commissioner of Canada to Brunei Darussalam, tour the exhibition

Dr Haji Abdul Manaf and Marina Laker along with guests and students at the event

Mounted butterfly collection on display. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR

Exhibitions at the World Environment Day event

Also speaking at the event was Marina Laker, the High Commissioner of Canada to Brunei Darussalam, who shared that Brunei and Canada have signed the Paris Agreement climate accord as part of a global effort to cut carbon emissions and combat climate change.

“The Paris Agreement was not only a political commitment by leaders; it was also a signal to the market – a $23 trillion clean growth opportunity. Not only are countries around the world acting on climate change, so are businesses,” she said.

According to Laker, businesses in Canada and around the world have implemented clean innovation initiatives, encompassing areas from renewable energy and zero-emissions vehicles, to energy-saving technologies.

“We should never take nature’s gifts for granted, because today our ecosystems are threatened – by pollution, climate change and over-exploitation,” she continued. “We all have a part to play – be it in the form of recycling plastic, metal, glass and paper so that less garbage goes into landfills, or putting pressure on manufacturers and retailers to produce more sustainable and greener products. You do have the ability to make positive changes so that society adopts environmentally-conscious habits.”

The event continued with BruWILD delivering an educational talk on wildlife conservation, and animal rehabilitation and rescue in Brunei. The event also saw primary and secondary school students taking part in fun quizzes about animals in different ecosystems and various arts and crafts activities.

Yesterday’s WED celebration event was meant to educate the public – particularly the youth – about the benefits of a clean and healthy environment to animals and humans. All wildlife exhibited yesterday were well cared for and released back to their natural habitats upon the event’s conclusion.

Canada has been named as the host country for the World Environment Day 2017 celebrations. The High Commission of Canada in Brunei Darussalam is one of a collection of Canadian bodies throughout the world hosting World Environment Day 2017 events, to celebrate our collective love of and reliance on nature and to reaffirm Canada’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainability.

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|     James Kon     |

A TOTAL of 37 orphans – who are the children of staff members at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, and all departments under it – received donations yesterday, in a ceremony held at the ministry’s Digadong Hall.

The donations were presented by Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports.

Prior to the presentation ceremony, the minister had joined several of the ministry’s officials in mass Zohor prayer, followed by recitation of the Surah Yaasiin and Tahlil.

Also present during the event was Haji Noor Jusmin bin Haji Abdul Samad, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

BORNEO is in danger of losing its major ecosystems and the valuable eco-services they provide which are critical to the long-term survival of local communities and the economies, according to a report.

WWF Malaysia and WWF Indonesia, in an executive summary of their upcoming publication titled ‘The Environmental Status of Borneo 2016’, stated that the danger is faced at both national and regional levels of Brunei Darussalam, the Indonesian provinces in Kalimantan and the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak.

The summary provides an overview of the status and emerging environmental issues in Borneo and is widely shared to raise awareness and gain collective support in the ongoing efforts to save Borneo’s forests.

Based on the report, the original 74 million hectares of overall forest cover had declined to 55 per cent in 2015 and within the forested areas, fragmentation is widespread with deforestation on the rise.

Under a business-as-usual (BAU) scenario, by 2020, Borneo could lose 75 per cent of its forest.

According to projections in the report, if the 2005-2015 deforestation rates continue, under a BAU scenario, a further six million hectares of forest may be deforested over the next five-year period from 2015 and 2020.

Despite some challenges presented, the report provides good news on some ecosystem fronts. The area known as the Heart of Borneo (HoB), a conservation initiative by Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia and Indonesia, has indeed fared far better than the lowlands and coastal areas.

Highlighting the wisdom, forethought and relative success of the three Borneo member countries’ 2007 historic declaration to conserve HoB, considerable work has been carried out under the HoB banner by the three member countries and its local and international supporters, not the least being WWF.

“This World Environment Day is a good opportunity to draw attention to the state of the environment that we are passing onto the generations to come. We need to act now and act fast to save Borneo’s forests,” said Dato’ Dr Dionysius Sharma, Executive Director/CEO of WWF Malaysia.

“Together, we can help make one of the world’s last remaining expanses of forest in Borneo a better place to live in, both for us human as well as the biodiversity that thrives in this unique tropical rainforest island,” he added.

“The HoB initiative has been ongoing for 10 years now and has gained increasing support from all of our major stakeholders,” said Benja V Mambai, Acting CEO of WWF Indonesia.

“It is important to have a clear and comprehensive overview of the current and previous environmental status of Borneo including HoB, to see where major changes of the ecological conditions are occurring.

This would help monitor and help us in better planning of our future endeavours in the island.

As this report presents as such, we hope that the result of this regular environmental analysis would guide the authorities and our stakeholders to take effective steps to address the declining state of the environment,” he added.

WWF’s Environmental Status of Borneo 2016 is due to be released by end of the month.

It is the third edition of the report which details the environmental health of critical ecosystems and biological plant and animal indicators.

The purpose of this status report is to use these indicators in assessing the changing landscape and decline of forest cover by making reference to historical extent, and then in three, five-year intervals, from 2005 to 2015.

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