|     James Kon     |

THE Universiti Brunei Basketball (UBD) Team will compete in the PolyU 80th Anniversary PolyU King’s Flair Group Asian Universities Invitational Basketball Tournament in Hong Kong from June 12-18.

Led by coach Lim Kok Shien, the players comprise Yee Xiao Hao, Koh Yong Hwang, Awangku Muhammad Ammar Syafiq bin Pengiran Ikram, Muhammad Masduqi bin Haji Hussin, Micky Lim Seng Wei, Teo Jyh Shiun, Clement Leong Ka Win, Teo Yeong Thung and Matthew Jerickson Vejerano.

Coach Lim kok Shien said, “From the profile that we saw, other teams are physically stronger compared to us. Hopefully we can have a good experience as basketball is not only physical but it’s about speed and strategies as well.”

UBD team member, Yee Xiao Hao commented, “We only had four training sessions together as we only confirmed our participation in the last minute and our target is to give our best and hopefully put on a good fight against the other universities.

“This is the first overseas match most of our players are participating in, but we’ll do our best.”

The UBD basketball team in a group photo. – JAMES KON

Touching on the inclusion of two Malay players, he said, “They have high potential and it’s a good platform to see how they can perform.”

The UBD team is placed in Group ‘A’ with Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kyoto University and Nanyang Technology University.

University of Macau, Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Al-Farabi Kazakh University and South China University of Technology complete the Group ‘B’ listing.

The UBD team will face Kyoto University in its first match on June 13.

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|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

THE Bangabadhu Parishad Brunei Darussalam organisation hosted an Iftar (breaking of fast) for its members at the Mangrove Paradise Resort on Friday.

Present as the guest of honour was Air Vice Marshal Mahmud Hussain, the Bangladesh High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam, who was received by Mustafa Rajali, President of Bangabandhu Parishad Brunei Darussalam, and Mahabubur Rahman, General Secretary of Bangabadhu Parishad Brunei Darussalam.

The event is held annually to strengthen relations between members of the organisation and the Bangladesh High Commission in Brunei Darussalam as well as to enliven the holy month of Ramadhan with the breaking of fast.

Guest of honour Air Vice Marshal Mahmud Hussain, the Bangladesh High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam at the Iftar hosted by the Bangabadhu Parishad Brunei Darussalam at the Mangrove Paradise Resort on Friday. – PHOTOS: ABDUL HAKIIM YAKOF

Guests enjoying the Iftar buffet

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POLITEKNIK Brunei recently donated basic food items to 36 underprivileged families as part of the institution’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) project in conjunction with the month of Ramadhan.

Volunteers from the institution’s Student Council paid visits to all four districts to distribute the donations to identified orphans and underprivileged families.

The recipients comprised of underprivileged students and staffs from Politeknik Brunei.

Contributions came from officers and staff of Politeknik Brunei and its departments, and were intended to ease the burden of less fortunate families and to assist them in preparing for the Hari Raya celebration.

Director of Politeknik Brunei, Denis Ho Mun Tai, handing over the donation to the President of Politeknik Brunei Student Council, Muhammad Adib Rifa’ie bin Adri, before the donation drive to all four districts begins

Politeknik Brunei’s CSR team during the packing process. – PHOTOS: POLITEKNIK BRUNEI

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|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

A TOTAL of 14 orphaned students of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB) Primary School yesterday received donations in a Tahlil ceremony held in conjunction with the holy month of Ramadhan at the school’s multipurpose hall.

Attending the event as guest of honour was Noorhaizamdin bin Haji Mohd Mosbi, the Chief Executive Officer of YSHHB School.

Others present at the event were the rest of the school’s primary students, including the grandchildren 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, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Hafeez bin Pengiran Anak Khairul Khalil and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Raihaanah Hanaa-Ul Bolqiah binti Pengiran Anak Khairul Khalil.

Also present were the grandchild of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah, Pengiran Anak ‘Abdul Muta’ali Haziq Hamidullah bin Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul ‘Ali Yil-Kabier; and the grandchild of Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Pengiran Nur Aabidah Syifa binti Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammed Al-Mokhtar.

The event saw a Tahlil and Doa Arwah recitation led by Ustaz Noorhashim bin Kassim, a religious teacher at YSHHB Primary School.

ABOVE & BELOW: Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Hafeez bin Pengiran Anak Khairul Khalil and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Raihaanah Hanaa-Ul Bolqiah binti Pengiran Anak Khairul Khalil, the grandchildren 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

ABOVE & BELOW: Pengiran Anak ‘Abdul Muta’ali Haziq Hamidullah bin Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul ‘Ali Yil-Kabier, the grandchild of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah and Pengiran Nur Aabidah Syifa binti Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammed Al-Mokhtar, the grandchild of Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Noorhaizamdin bin Haji Mohd Mosbi, the Chief Executive Officer of YSHHB School, presenting the donations to a recipient. – PHOTOS: SYAZWANI HJ ROSLI

The ceremony’s objective was to gain blessings from Allah the Almighty and to provide assistance for the orphaned children during Ramadhan and the upcoming month of Syawal.

It was also aimed at instilling and educating the young children of the importance of general charity (Sedekah) and helping those who in need.

Also in attendance were Alimas bin Haji Mohd Ali, the Acting Headmaster of YSHHB Primary School, teachers and staff of YSHHB Primary School.

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A 10-MEMBER group of Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) organised an educational workshop entitled ‘Save Kampong Ayer’, aimed to increase primary school students’ knowledge and awareness of correct waste management practices in Kampong Ayer.

Organised at Haji Tarif Primary School in Kampong Tamoi, its Year 4 and Year 5 students were involved through a series of interactive presentations and activities on topics such as the ‘Impact of Improper Waste Management in Kampong Ayer’ and the ‘3Rs: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle’.

The project managers, Mohammad Hizaamuddin bin Haji Abdul Haris and Shaima binti Haji Misli, led the initiative after attending YSEALI’s Asean Sea and Earth Advocates (SEA) Camp in the Palawan, Philippines organised early this year.

The Bruneian team was also one of the five member countries from Asean that won a grant sponsored by the US Department of State to implement their environmental projects at their respective home countries.

Hizaamuddin said, “It was encouraging to see that the students involved in the workshop were enthusiastic about preserving the environment. Conservation education should start at a young age, but we observed that support from the older generation is also as equally important in order for any initiatives to be a success.”

At the end of the programme, four eco-prefects were appointed who will lead the school’s current and future environmental activities, ensuring that their peers utilise the provided waste segregation receptacles correctly; report on any improper waste disposal to their supervising teachers and continue raising awareness on correct waste management practice.

YSEALI members in a group photo

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

THE Kembara Ramadhan Charity Programme 2017, organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS), continued again yesterday in Tutong District. The event was held at Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam Mosque in Kampong Sengkarai, Tutong.

It began with Tedarus and Khatam Al-Quran ceremony and after a mass Zohor prayer, was followed by a presentation of charity donation to recipients comprising less fortunate people, senior citizens and special needs individuals.

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

Over 200 youths took part in the religious ceremony comprising members of the mosque takmir, youths association, mosque youths group, secondary school students, and residents of the surrounding area.

Also present were Legislative Council members, YB Haji Abdul Wahab bin Apong, who is also the Penghulu of Mukim Tanjong Maya, YB Haji Ramli bin Haji Lahit, who is also the Penghulu of Mukim Telisai and YB Iswandy bin Ahmad.

Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports presenting a donation to a recipient. – AZARAIMY HH

The delegation also included Haji Amer Hamzah bin Pehin Orang Kaya Amar Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Zakaria, Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary at the MCYS.

Fourteen families from Kampong Serambangun, Kampong Sinaut, Kampong Kiudang and Kampong Kupang received the donation.

The annual programme is an initiative to encourage the community especially the youths to carry out charitable and welfare works to enliven the holy month of Ramadhan.

The programme also hoped to encourage the participation of the nation’s youth in religious activities to strengthen solidarity of the society and the self-esteem of the youths in facing challenges.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

RELIGIOUS Ministers of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore (MABIMS) member countries should widen their scope of spreading Al-Quran knowledge to cover the understanding and significance of Al-Quran verses in various fields of knowledge and to laws governing the practice of the religion.

Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Religious Affairs, said this yesterday on the second day of the Al-Quran Memorisation and Understanding Competition at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.

“The interpretations of Al-Quran by the people, public and private institutions from the MABIMS member countries have been published by their respective countries. We welcome this and wish to see more development in this area. In other words, the dissemination of Al-Quran knowledge from MABIMS nations should continue and be increased,” the minister said.

The minister added that there is common interest to cooperate on a broader scale in matters pertaining to Al-Quran education and the spreading of information relating to it.

Meanwhile Pengiran Haji Amiruddin bin Pengiran Haji Damit, Acting Director of MABIMS Al-Quran Studies and Dissemination Centre, and chairperson of the competition, said that the biennial competition (this year’s competition is the fifth time it has been organised) is held in parallel with the Al-Quran reading competition for MABIMS children.

Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Religious Affairs, speaking at the event. – PHOTOS: AZLAN OTHMAN

Attendees of the event

The holding of the MABIMS Al-Quran Memorisation and Understanding competitions are meant to help MABIMS achieve its vision and mission of widening the scope of Al-Quran teachings and to foster integration in the Al-Quran field, in addition to uniting the Ummah through the holy book – the source of success in both the mortal world and during the days of the hereafter.

This year, eight Al-Quran readers from MABIMS member countries participated in the competition. Readers competed in two categories: memorising of 10 Juzuks from the Al-Quran and the understanding of chapter eight of the Al-Quran; and the memorising of 30 Juzuks of Al-Quran and the understanding of its chapter 22.

Competition results will be announced tonight during the national level Nuzul Al-Quran celebrations at the ICC.

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|     Daniel Lim     |

A DONATION handover ceremony was held recently by the Belait District Orphans Fund at Pusat Insani, Seria.

Present as guest of honour and to hand over the donations was Haji Haris bin Othman, Belait District Officer.

Also present at the event were members of the Legislative Council, YB Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin, Penghulu of Mukim Liang and YB Hanapi bin Mohd Siput, Acting Penghulu of Mukim Labi; mukim penghulus and village heads from the district as well as representatives from donor companies.

Seven hundred and sixty-one registered orphans in the district received donations from the National Orphans Fund and Belait District Orphans Fund, totalling $22,830 and $76,100 respectively.

In addition, various agencies also donated to the orphans in the district including Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) ($38,050); Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP) ($76,100 was handed out by Hajah Farida binti Dato Seri Paduka Haji Talib, Commercial Director of BSP); Suasana Mentari Engineering Sdn Bhd ($7,610 was presented by Yusof bin Haji Othman and Kalvin Kong, Director and Executive Director of the company respectively); and Asia Enterprise ($1,000).

The guest of honour, Haji Haris bin Othman, Belait District Officer presenting a donation to a recipient. – PHOTOS: DANIEL LIM

Attendees of the event

Prior to the presentation of donations, a short speech was delivered by Haji Asminan bin Haji Chuchu, Head Religious Officer of the Belait District.

The event also saw the reading of Tahlil and prayers by Nurhidayatullah bin Haji Zulkiflee, Bilal of STKRJ Kampong Lorong 3 Selatan Mosque, Seria.

Private organisations also extended their support for the orphans in the form of donations totalling $6,650 to the Belait District Orphans Fund including Tiong Hua Chambers of Commerce ($1,000); Hainan Association ($500); Foo Chow Association Kuala Belait ($500); Kwong Wai Siew Association ($500); Tai Poo Association Brunei ($500); Usia Panjang Kekal Association ($300); CYF Welding and Building Construction ($600); Hong Fan Tse ($500); Ng Ah Heng ($500); KK Chan Enterprise ($500); Yong Brother Air-Conditioning and Electrical Company ($300); and Zhong Zhin Hakka Union Association ($250).

The event aimed to lessen the burden of orphans during the month of Ramadhan and help them prepare for Hari Raya celebrations.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

UNDERLINING that Brunei’s efforts in intellectual capital development are making major headways, a group of young talents has brought laurels to the country once again with an exemplary demonstration of excellence in research.

Bruneian students from Tutong Sixth Form Centre won first place in the 6th Singapore Technologies Endowment Programme (STEP) – National University of Singapore (NUS) Sunburst Brain Camp in Singapore, with their research paper on Williams Syndrome.

The four lower sixth students – Dayangku Nur Haziqah Syuhadah binti Pengiran Izudin Abas; Izzul Afiq Amirun bin Muayah; Mohamad Naqib Nasrullah bin Mohammad Yussof, and Norzafirah binti Ishak – took part in the week-long camp that concluded yesterday at the NUS, under the supervision of their teacher Raihan binti Haji Nokman.

The paper, which described the developmental disorder that affects many parts of the body caused by a genetic problem, was presented before 150 students from Asean, China, Japan, South Korea and India and judged based on originality and creativity.

This is Brunei’s sixth participation in the STEP-NUS Sunburst Brain Camp since 2012 and last year, a delegation from Sengkurong Sixth Form Centre won third place for their research paper on Parkinson’s disease.

The four students from Tutong Sixth Form Centre in a group photo with their supervising teacher and the Acting Director of Schools, Zaman bin Haji Gapar at the Brunei International Airport. – HAKIM HAYAT

Speaking to the Sunday Bulletin upon their arrival at the Brunei International Airport yesterday, Izzul Afiq Amirun from the winning team said that they followed Harvard University’s method and infused it with their own way of presentation, while making use of pictures and heavy referencing.

Izzul explained that Williams Syndrome is a rare and random genetic condition that can happen to anyone from birth and is characterised by the deficiency of genes that causes medical problems, including cardiovascular disease and developmental delays.

Izzul said their participation in the camp has made them very proud. “It gives me more confidence and inspires me to push my subjects more towards the neurological side of science,” he said, while also acknowledging the great team effort that transpired throughout the preparation into the presentation stage. “We spent a lot of time together in the afternoon after school to prepare our research paper and presentation,” he shared.

The camp, jointly organised by STEP and NUS is an educational science programme that aims to inspire and educate secondary and tertiary students on brain research and understanding of brain functions and diseases; and to foster interaction and friendship between students from Asean member countries, China, India, Japan and South Korea.

Apart from producing and presenting the research paper, the delegates also attended several lectures and workshops on neuroscience and visited the Conservatory and Centre of Life Sciences and Science Centre in Singapore.

Present at the airport to welcome the winning team yesterday along with their family members were the Acting Director of Schools, Zaman bin Haji Gapar as well as other officials from the Ministry of Education.

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|     Ishan Ibrahim & Fizah HAB     |

THE Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM), through its ‘Food Drive’ campaign, donated food to 150 underprivileged families from the districts of Brunei-Muara, Tutong and Belait, and Kampong Menunggol yesterday.

The food was donated by members and staff from the Ministry of Development for the upcoming month of Syawal.

Hamidah Haji Lakem, Secretary General of MKM along with MKM members were present at the food distribution event at the MKM office in Melabau, Kampong Serusop.

Meanwhile, MKM President, Datin Paduka Hajah Intan binti Haji Mohd Kassim, led the council to Kampong Menunggol in Pulau Berambang to distribute food hampers and money to six underprivileged families.

MKM announced that it plans to hold similar charity activities in the future and hoped to see more people lending a helping hand.

The organisation also invited youths to join them as members or as voluntary individuals. The association can be reached on hotline 7146680.

A representative from the MKM presenting a food hamper and money to a recipient. – FIZAH HAB

Hamidah binti Haji Lakeem, Secretary General of MKM with other MKM members. – ISHAN IBRAHIM

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THE Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) through its Syariah Affairs Department held a charity activity called 4th Halawah Ramadhan Charity Project in conjunction with the holy month of Ramadhan recently.

Acting Director of Syariah Affairs, Hajah Zakiah binti Haji Taib, led the activity. Officers and staff of the Syariah Affairs Department donated money and daily basic necessities to six underprivileged families from Mukim Lumapas and Pengkalan Batu.

The activity aimed to promote the spirit of helping fellow Muslims and to get blessings through charity work, particularly during the month of Ramadhan.

Acting Assistant Director of Syariah Affairs, Haji Saharuddin bin Haji Patra, senior officers, officers;,and staff from the Syariah Affairs Department were also present.

ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show Acting Director of Syariah Affairs Hajah Zakiah binti Haji Taib during the charity activity. – PHOTOS: MORA

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|     Wani Roslan     |

ROYAL Insignia yesterday handed over a cash donation along with a goodie bag of vouchers and dates to 30 special needs children from Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam (Pusat Ehsan) during a ceremony held at the new building of Pusat Ehsan.

Pusat Ehsan Trustee (Policy and Planning) Haji Ahmad bin Haji Abdul Rahman attended as the guest of honour.

In her welcoming remarks, Norhaliza binti Maidin from the Royal Insignia’ Brunei Retail Boutique expressed gratitude to 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 for giving the brand the opportunity to enjoy Brunei’s hospitality.

She said the annual Royal Insignia charity Iftar was a way for the brand to give back to Brunei’s society, adding that it is within Royal Insignia’s culture to give back as a means of thanking customers for the constant support and friendly business relations.

Royal Insignia Manager Rachel Hoe said, “We at Royal Insignia are honoured and grateful for the support of the Bruneian society. This education of children remains a cause very close to our hearts.”

Royal Insignia Manager Rachel Hoe presenting a gift bag to a recipient

Royal Insignia personnel with the local designers. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR

The charity Iftar gathered about 130 children, their guardians and staff of Pusat Ehsan.

The brand also recently launched an initiative to support the local design scene. Aptly named ‘Brunei – Gifts to the World,’ the collection of luxury lifestyle gift was designed in collaboration with two Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) graduates and is inspired by the rich culture and heritage of Brunei.

In continuing its effort to support the local scene, Royal Insignia collaborated with UBD student Nur Annisa Hikmatul binti Idris on a painting of the Istana Nurul Iman and Kampong Ayer, which was printed onto the green packets distributed to the children of Pusat Ehsan during the charity Iftar.

Other designers involved in the collaboration will have their works exhibited at Pusat Ehsan and the Royal Insignia boutique.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

TOWARDS enlivening and celebrating the atmosphere of the month of Ramadhan, the Youth Al-Quran Reading Scheme or Skim Tilawah Al-Quran Remaja (STAR) yesterday held Khatam Al-Quran ceremonies in all four districts.

The event for the Brunei-Muara District took place at Beribi Religious School, and saw Deputy Permanent Secretary (Administrative and Financial Affairs) at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Roslan bin Haji Taja’ah as the guest of honour.

The event in the Tutong District took place at Pengiran Anak Puteri Norain Religious School and saw the attendance of Head Religious Officer (Tutong District) Haji Hassan bin Amat.

In the Belait District, YB Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin, a Legislative Council member and Penghulu of Mukim Liang attended as the guest of honour at Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Religious School in Seria.

Meanwhile, the Temburong Arabic Preparatory School was the venue for the event in Temburong, and saw the attendance of Haji Kamarulzaman bin Kamis, Acting Head Religious Officer of Temburong as the guest of honour.

Deputy Permanent Secretary (Administrative and Financial Affairs) at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Roslan bin Haji Taja’ah presenting a donation. – DANIAL NORJIDI

According to a press release from the Department of Islamic Studies, Ministry of Religious Affairs, the aim of yesterday’s events was to guide students to fulfil their obligation to always read the Al-Quran in the holy month of Ramadhan so that their reading can become better and clear. It was also held to recite 30 Juzuks of the Al-Quran for the month of Ramadhan.

The proceedings at Beribi Religious School began with the mass recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by the guest of honour, before the event continued with a recitation of Surah Adh-Dhuhas until Surah An-Nas by students of STAR.

The reading of Takhtim by Year 1 STAR students followed the recitation of Doa Khatam by a student representative.

A Dikir Asyrakal followed, after which a presentation of donations to orphan students of STAR by the guest of honour took place, before concluding with a Doa Selamat.

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|     James Kon     |

A 4×4 vehicle allegedly driven by a local lost control and plunged into a stall in front of a house along Jalan Pandaruan in Limbang, Sarawak, killing one person and seriously injuring another.

The incident, which happened last Saturday, is currently under investigation by the Royal Malaysia Police.

A distress call was received around 5.13pm and eight personnel from the Limbang Fire Station alongside emergency response services rushed to the scene.

It was reported that the casualties were sisters selling traditional Malay cakes at the roadside stall in front of their home.

The victims were rushed to hospital by the public. One succumbed to her injuries at the hospital. The other had a broken hip and sustained injuries to her legs.

The vehicle that lost control

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|     Izah Azahari     |

THE Sultan Sharif Ali Mosque Takmir Committee members yesterday held a donation handover ceremony for 120 orphans from Kampong Sengkurong ‘A’, Kampong Sengkurong ‘B’ and Kampong Tanjung Nangka at the Sultan Sharif Ali Mosque in Kampong Sengkurong.

The guest of honour, YB Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Rahim, member of the Legislative Council, presented donations to the recipients.

Haji Musa bin Haji Tahir, Penghulu of Mukim Sengkurong; Haji Abdullah Hanif bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Dinda Haji Saman, Village Head of Kampong Sengkurong ‘A’; and Haji Lamat bin Nawang, Village Head of Kampong Tanjung Nangka were also present.

The event is an annual activity conducted by the Sultan Sharif Ali Mosque Takmir Committee where this year saw donations to 73 orphans from Kampong Sengkurong ‘A’, 24 orphans from Kampong Sengkurong ‘B’, and 23 orphans from Kampong Tanjung Nangka.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by a welcoming speech by Imam Haji Hamdini bin Haji Garif, Chairman of the Sultan Sharif Ali Mosque Takmir Committee, which was proceeded with the donation handover by the guest of honour.

A Tahlil and Doa Arwah recitation was also conducted followed by a mass Maghrib prayer and Sungkai with the orphans and those present.

YB Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Rahim, member of the Legislative Council, presenting a donation to a recipient. – PHOTOS: IZAH AZAHARI

Participants at the ceremony

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|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

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, attended the National Level Nuzul Al-Quran ceremony 1438H at the Plenary Hall of the International Convention Centre (ICC), Berakas last night.

His Majesty was greeted on arrival by Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs and Chairman of the Executive Committee for the Major Events in Islamic Calendar for 1438 Hijrah and other members of the committee.

Also in attendance were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti.

This was followed by the welcoming remarks by the Minister of Religious Affairs, where he highlighted that the audience will see recitations from seven of the best Al-Quran participants, comprising five best National Level Al-Quran Memorisation and Understanding Competition participants, and two top participants from the Religious Ministers of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore (MABIMS) Al-Quran Memorisation and Understanding Competition.

“Alhamdulillah, this year 229 have taken part in the National Level Al-Quran Memorisation and Understanding Competition; while in the previous year only 209 participated. This is an increase of 20 participants, while the MABIMS Al-Quran Memorisation and Understanding Competition saw an increase of eight participants this year,” noted the minister.

The winners of this year’s National Level Al-Quran Memorisation and Understanding Competition finals and the MABIMS Al-Quran Memorisation and Understanding Competition were announced by Haji Abdul Rajid bin Haji Mohd Salleh, the Director of Mosque Affairs, also the Chairman of the Judging Committee.

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; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik being greeted upon arrival. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam at the event

ABOVE & BELOW: 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 presenting the award to the winner of Category A, Nur Kamaliah binti Haji Jahri (L), and the winner of Category B, Awangku Muhammad Fakhrur Razey bin Pengiran Damit

His Majesty presenting the award to the winner of Category C, Hajah Norhidayatul Mukminah binti Haji Puteh

His Majesty presenting the award to the winner of Category D, Abd Aziz bin Noor Nasran (ABOVE), and the winner of Category E, Muhammad Hasbul Wafi bin Haji Ahmad (BELOW)

His Majesty presenting the award to the winner of Category memorizing of Juzuk 10 of Al-Quran, Ainaa Zahirah binti Haji Abdul Manap (ABOVE), and the winner of Category memorizing of Juzuk 30 of Al-Quran, Muhammad Hazri bin Haji Mohammad Hamzani (BELOW)

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik during the event

The competition’s Category A (age 11 and below) involved the following chapters from Juzuk 30 of the Al-Quran: Surah Al-Buruj; Surah Ath-Thariq; Surah Al-A’laa; Surah Al-Ghaasyiah; Surah Al-Balad; Surah Asy-Syams; Surah Al-Lail; and a compilation of Surah-Surah Lazim starting from Surah Adh-Dhuhaa until Surah An-Naas, together with the understanding and interpretation of Surah Al- Ghaasyiah, Surah Al-Fajr, Surah Adh-Dhuhaa and Surah Al-Qadr.

For this category, first place was taken by Nur Kamaliah binti Haji Jahari, earning her a cash prize of $1,500, a trophy and certificate. Finishing in second place was Ezyan Adibah binti Mohd Hanafi; who received $1,000, a trophy and a certificate. Aisyah Syamila binti Dr Haji Gamal Abdul Nasir who was placed third received $750, a trophy and a certificate.

Category B (age 17 and below) involved the memorisation of the Al-Quran verses of Surah Luqman, Surah As-Sajdah, Surah Yaasiin, Surah Al-Insan, Surah Ar-Rahman Surah Al-Waqi’ah, and Surah Al-Mulk, along with the understanding and interpretation of Surah Al-Jumuah, Surah Al-Munafiqun, and Surah Ath-Thalaq.

Category B was won by Awangku Muhammad Fakhrur Razey bin Pengiran Damit, receiving $2,000, a trophy and certificate. Second place was taken by Nur Syafiqah binti Mohammad Saidi. She received $1,500, a trophy and a certificate. Third place went to Fatin Amal Sakinah binti Dr Zulkifli; who received $1,200, a trophy and a certificate.

Participants in Category C were required to memorise three Juzuks of the Al-Quran: from Juzuk 1 until Juzuk 3, along with the understanding of Juzuk 3. This category was open to all age groups.

First place for this category was won by Hajah Norhidayatul Mukminah binti Haji Puteh. She received $2,800, a trophy and a certificate. The second place winner was Pengiran Hairuldin bin Pengiran Haji Mohd Tali @ Pengiran Muhd Khairuddin. He received $2,000, a trophy and certificate. Third place went to Norhanisah binti Haji Abdul Rani; who received $1,500, a trophy and a certificate.

Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Major Islamic Events Celebrations 1438 Hijrah

Members of the Diplomatic Corps attending the event last night

Photos above & below show participants of the competition

Category D participants were required to memorise 15 Juzuks of the Al-Quran from Juzuk 1 until Juzuk 15 as well as the understanding of Juzuk 11. This category was open to all ages.

First place was won by Abdul Aziz bin Noor Nasran, who received $3,500, a trophy and certificate. Second place went to Nurkamaliah binti Haji Muhammad Ridzuan. She received $2,500, a trophy and certificate. The third place winner was Asiah binti Haji Ibrahim, receiving $2,000, a trophy and certificate.

Category E participants were required to memorise 30 Juzuks of the Al-Quran from Juzuk 1 to Juzuk 30 along with the understanding of Juzuk 22. The category was open to all ages.

The first place winner was Muhammad Hasbul Wafi bin Haji Ahmad, receiving $5,000, a trophy and certificate. The second place winner was Muhammad Hidayatullah Sunazul Fikar bin Suip, receiving $3,500, a trophy and certificate. The third place winner Muhammad Khairulmuhtadee bin Hamzah received $2,500, a trophy and certificate. The consolation prize winners received $800, a trophy and certificate.

The event continued with the two categories of MABIMS Al-Quran Memorisation and Understanding Competition 1438 Hijrah.

In the category for memorising of Juzuk 30 of Al-Quran along with the understanding of Juzuk 22 for those aged 30 and below, first place went to Muhammad Hazri bin Haji Mohammad Hamzani from Brunei Darussalam who received $7,000, a trophy and certificate. In second place was Nur Amalina binti Azharuddin from Malaysia receiving $5,000, a trophy and a certificate; while third place went to Khobirul Amru from the Republic of Indonesia, who received $4,000, a trophy and certificate.

For the category for memorising of Juzuk 10 of Al-Quran along with the understanding of Juzuk 8 for those aged 20 and below, the first place winner Ainaa Zahirah binti Haji Abdul Manap from Brunei Darussalam received $4,000, a trophy and certificate. Second place winner Iffah binti Abdul Rahim from Malaysia received $3,000, a trophy and certificate. The third place winner Muhammad Nurdarwis bin Anuar from the Republic of Indonesia received $2,000, a trophy and certificate.

This year’s National Level Nuzul Al-Quran ceremony 1438H is themed ‘Al-Quran Temanku Menceriakan Hidupku’.

The post His Majesty graces Nuzul Al-Quran ceremony at ICC appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Aziz Idris     |

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 emphasised that Al-Quran literacy should be part of the Bruneian culture, while also seeking divine grace (Tabarruk) from it as a source of healing and a mercy for the faithful.

The monarch said this in a titah delivered at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas which was broadcast to the nation on television and radio last night, to mark this year’s National Nuzul Al-Quran celebrations.

His Majesty noted that Al-Quran learning had long been established in Brunei before the introduction of a formal learning system in religious schools, as well as in lower to higher-level educational institutions.

The monarch also said that Al-Quran recitations have become a daily practice among officers and staff of government ministries and departments, before conducting their respective duties.

However, His Majesty was quick to point out that people are less likely to read the Al-Quran these days, compared to other non-religious texts.

“Since Al-Quran scripture is written and recited in Arabic, learning it requires great patience and perseverance. That is the reason why people prefer to read other books instead of passages from the Al-Quran,” said the monarch.

In view of this, His Majesty’s Government is continuously seeking to promote Al-Quran literacy from lower to higher levels, while organising a number of motivational programmes for the reading and memorising of the Al-Quran.

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 delivering the titah. – AZROL AZMI

“We do not wish to see the Al-Quran and religion neglected, while other areas do well in comparison,” said the monarch.

His Majesty continued to highlight the importance of Al-Quran teachings. “This should not happen in Brunei. Religious education and the Al-Quran should not be taken lightly. It should always be there at the forefront, in line with its status as the Religion and Word of Allah the Almighty.”

The monarch, therefore, called on all relevant authorities, administrators and policymakers to adopt an open outlook on the matter, as well as an exemplary Islamic character.

His Majesty also urged religious authorities to practise more discretion when dealing source material or observations on religion, since they could be inappropriate or incompatible with basic teachings. “We should be consistent to act and think in a professional manner,” he said.

The importance of emphasising Nuzul Al-Quran as a historic event was mentioned earlier in the titah, when His Majesty reminded Muslims in the country not to overlook the significance of the occasion, as well as other major events in the Islamic calendar.

The monarch concluded the titah by congratulating all participants who excelled in the Al-Quran memorising and understanding competitions on a national level and among member countries of Religious Ministers of Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and Singapore (MABIMS).

The post Make Al-Quran part of Brunei culture: Sultan appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|    James Kon    |

NINE young table tennis athletes yesterday left the country to compete in the 23^rd Southeast Asian Junior and Cadet Table Tennis Championship 2017 taking place at the Toa Payoh stadium of Singapore from today to June 17.

The contingent from Brunei Darussalam is looking to outperform their last result in the same championship that took place in 2015 where two athletes managed to enter the quarter-finals.

According to head coach Pengiran Md Sofian bin Pengiran Haji Ibrahim, “we will do our best to achieve an improved result from our participation of the same championship in 2015 where we were able to reach quarter-finals.”

On the athlete’s preparation, he said, “they have trained three months for this competition and they are looking forward to compete.”

However, he also cautioned that athletes from Vietnam, Thailand and host Singapore are favourites in the competition. Other participating nations are Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar.

Group picture of the Brunei contingent with Haji Daud bin Haji Hitam and Anthony Liew. – JAMES KON

The athletes representing Brunei Darussalam are Abd Wafi Suhardi, Jason Koh, Awangku Abd Rasheer bin Pengiran Md Noor, Awangku Md Sufi Fakrullah Abdullah bin Pengiran Md Sufian, Md Khairuddin bin Omar, Fiona Hii, Hong Hui Qin and Leong Yi. Head coach Pengiran Md Sofian is assisted by Wee Tzu Min, the assistant coach.

In boosting the morale, Haji Daud bin Haji Hitam, the president of Brunei Darussalam Table Tennis Association handed over the Brunei National Flag to the Brunei contingent. Present to witness the ceremony at the Brunei International Airport was Anthony Liew, the Secretary General of Brunei Darussalam Table Tennis Association.

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|     Daniel Lim     |

THE Brunei Pertiwi Association launched its 32nd charity booth sale at the District Office, Seria yesterday.

The guest of honour, Suraya binti Haji Mohd Salleh, wife of the Belait District Officer, officiated the event.

Haji Haris bin Othman, Belait District Officer; penghulu and village heads in Seria were also present.

The annual event aimed to bring people together to enliven the holy month of Ramadhan as well as gain funds through sales to donate to charitable causes.

Over 48 booths registered for the booth sale, 36 located within the District Office, Seria building and the rest 12 outside the building. Items sold at the event included kuih raya, clothes and more.

The guest of honour, Suraya binti Haji Mohd Salleh, wife of the Belait District Officer, in a group photo at the event. – PHOTOS: DANIEL LIM

Fatimah binti Tanji, Chairperson of the Brunei Pertiwi Charity Booth Sale, speaking at the event

The guest of honour tours the booths at the event

Fatimah binti Tanji, Chairperson of the Brunei Pertiwi Charity Booth Sale, expressed her gratitude to attendees making the annual event possible. She said the charity booth sale will last until the last day of Ramadhan before the start of the Aidilfitri celebration.

She expressed hope for similar events to be organised in the future.

The guest of honour also presented donations to single mothers at the event.

The charity booth sale will be held every day from 10am to 10pm until the sighting of the new moon that signify the end of the holy month of Ramadhan.

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|     Lyna Mohamad     |

THE number of abandoned vehicles on the roadside continues to increase, despite the recent move to remove them by the municipal departments and district offices across the country.

One of the recurring problem spots is the Gadong commercial area, where many have voiced out their concerns regarding several abandoned cars, which they say are diminishing the quality of the local environment, besides being an eyesore on roads and in public places.

The increase in deserted vehicles has also been attributed to a number of workshop owners, who are ignoring warning letters issued by the Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Department to clean up their business premises and the surrounding areas.

Meanwhile, members of the public have been urged to take on a more proactive role, by reporting any abandoned vehicles in sight to the Land Transport Department.

Penghulus and village heads have also been asked to cooperate, by monitoring their respective neighbourhoods and urging irresponsible motorists to remove or relocate their vehicles.

Photo shows an abandoned car. – HARDY AJ

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