MAJOR General (Rtd) Tariq Rashid Khan, the High Commissioner of Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Brunei Darussalam, made a courtesy call to Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, the Rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) yesterday.

The visit was to discuss opportunities for collaboration in education. The high commissioner said that Pakistan has now more than 200 universities each with their own expertise. The high commissioner also mentioned interest in building UNISSA’s reputation to international level.

UNISSA currently has bilateral cooperation with the International Islamic University of Islamabad, Pakistan, after signing a memorandum of understanding on February 14 this year.

The Rector of UNISSA also attended a meeting to establish an Asia-Africa Islamic universities network based in Islamabad, and was appointed as the Deputy General Secretary.

During the visit, UNISSA welcomed Pakistan nationals to pursue their studies in UNISSA. Currently, a Pakistan national was awarded a bachelor’s degree in Syariah and two more are undertaking Islamic Finance and Banking degree programme.

Also present was the Deputy Rector of UNISSA and the Director of International and Public Relations Centre of UNISSA.

Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, the Rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) presents a token of appreciation to Major General (Rtd) Tariq Rashid Khan, the High Commissioner of Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Brunei Darussalam. – UNISSA

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THE Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) marked its 52nd anniversary with a Tahlil ceremony for the late parents of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam and Al-Marhumah Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Bendahara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman at the Royal Mausoleum.

The ceremony commenced with the recitation of Surah Yaasiin and Tahlil led by Major Ariffin bin Amit, Assistant Head of Religious Department Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF).

The RBN also held a Khatam Al-Quran ceremony, Doa Kesyukuran and mass Zohor prayer at Surau Al-Huda at the Muara Naval Base.

Present at both events was the Commander of the RBN, First Admiral Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Norazmi bin Pengiran Haji Muhammad. Also present were senior officers, officers, and non-commissioned personnel of the RBN.

The RBN was formed on June 14, 1965, as the Boat Section which later grew to be the First Flotilla, Royal Brunei Malay Regiment/RBAF, according to a press release. On October 1, 1991, with the reorganisation of the RBAF, the First Flotilla was named the Royal Brunei Navy.

ABOVE & BELOW: The Royal Brunei Navy marked its 52nd anniversary with a Tahlil ceremony at the Royal Mausoleum yesterday

During the religious ceremony at the Muara Naval Base . – PHOTOS: RBN

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

ROYAL Brunei Airlines (RB) held a sungkai and donation ceremony for orphans yesterday in conjunction with the holy month of Ramadhan.

The event took place at the Royal Brunei Airlines Training Centre, and saw donations presented to 50 recipients whose parents were in service with RB and have dearly departed.

Present as the guest of honour was Deputy Minister of Finance Dato Paduka Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, who presented the donations to the recipients.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by welcoming remarks from the Chairman of RB Welfare Committee Akmal Ariffin bin Dato Haji Abdul Rahman. The event then continued with the presentation of donations.

The event concluded with the recitation of Tahlil and Doa Arwah at the RB Surau for the family members and friends of RB who have departed. Attendees were also invited to a Sungkai get-together and to perform the mass Maghrib prayer.

ABOVE & BELOW: Deputy Minister of Finance Dato Paduka Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah presenting donations to orphans. – PHOTOS: DANIAL NORJIDI

Prior to the ceremony, a Tazkirah Ramadhan entitled ‘Hikmah Ramadhan’ was held at the RB Surau by Ustaz Hilman from Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali.

Every year, RB organises a donation drive for RB orphans. According to information from the airline, “The RB orphans remain the most important beneficiary of RB’s charitable initiatives, because at RB we stay true to our Bruneian values to help one another when in-need and in difficulty.”

The funds and donations were raised through donations by RB staff, contributions from RB Keys to Courtesy Committee activities and Royal Brunei Recreation Club events.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

A HARI Raya bazaar is currently being held at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

Purported to be the biggest in the country thus far, the ‘Gempak Raya’ bazaar which began yesterday and runs until June 25 was officiated by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof.

The event – themed ‘Spend and Make Charitable Cause’ – saw the handing over of two wheelchairs and cash to selected disabled and underprivileged individuals, and a breaking of fast for orphans.

Yesterday’s highlights included free haircuts and the distribution of 2,000 ice cream cones to children, both organised by Star Bugs Event Management.

Sufri bin Puasa, Managing Director of Star Bugs Event Management, said 10 per cent of the bazaar’s proceeds will be donated to the National Welfare Body Fund of Brunei Darussalam.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof touring the bazaar

The minister in a group photo. – PHOTOS: AZLAN OTHMAN

Dayangku Rina binti Pengiran Haji Ahmad, an organising committee member, said she expects business to be brisk at the bazaar.

She added that the event, which will see over 60 booths being set up, was organised to support local entrepre-neurs and encourage locals to shop domestically, thus reducing the outflow of Brunei dollars to neighbouring Malaysian towns.

Meanwhile, Zainora binti Jamaluddin, a vendor selling Islamic calligraphy paintings and wares at the bazaar, said that the sale is also a great venue for family outings during Hari Raya.

“This is especially beneficial for new house owners like those staying in the RPN Kampong Panchor Mengkubau, they might want to check out the bazaar,” Zainora said.

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PEHIN Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs, attended the 106th International Labour Conference (ILC) from June 12-14, 2017 in Geneva, Switzerland.

This year’s ILC, held from June 5-16, discussed pertinent labour and employment issues related to the challenges of governance in light of labour migration, final revisions to the Employment (Transition from War to Peace) Recommendation (No 71), the abrogation of out-dated International Labour Organization (ILO) instruments as well as a recurrent discussion on the strategic objective of fundamental principles and rights at work under the follow-up to the ILO’s 2008 Declaration on Social Justice for a Fair Globalisation.

Also attending were Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Mahdi bin Pehin Orang Kaya Digadong Seri Diraja Dato Laila Utama Awang Haji Abdul Rahman, the Permanent Representative of Brunei Darussalam to Geneva; Commissioner of Labour as well as representatives from national employers’ and workers’ organisations.

On June 13, 2017, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar delivered his plenary statement to the conference.

He applauded the ILO’s efforts in promoting the need for systematic collection and harmonisation of labour migration statistics to counter data deficits on labour migration trends.

Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs, with ministers at the Asean Labour Ministers’ breakfast meeting. – MOHA

In his plenary statement, the minister also commended ILC for arriving at its final discussion on Recommendation No 71 as an instrument that fully recognises the important function of employment generation, enterprise creation and entrepreneurship training in recovering livelihoods and promoting peace, recovery and resilience in the aftermath of crisis and disasters.

Prior to his plenary statement, the minister attended the Asean Labour Ministers’ breakfast hosted by the Secretary of Labour and Employment of the Republic of the Philippines at the Grand Hotel Kempinski Geneva, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the forming of Asean.

On the sidelines of the 106th ILC, the minister also had the opportunity to meet with the Minister of Manpower of the Republic of Singapore Lim Swee Say.

During the conference, ministers mutually exchanged best practices on skills development in the context of manpower and employment.

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|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, Chairman of the Yayasan Committee of Governors, yesterday attended the Tahlil ceremony organised by the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah for His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s late parents, Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam and Al-Marhumah Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Bendahara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman, at the Royal Mausoleum.

Upon arrival, His Royal Highness was greeted by Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education and the Chairman of Yayasan Board of Directors; Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports and the Vice-Chairman I of Yayasan Board of Directors; and Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, Minister of Health and Vice-Chairman II of the Yayasan Board of Directors.

Other attendees included Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Religious Affairs and a member of the Yayasan Committee of Governors; members of the Yayasan Board of Directors; members of the Board of Trustees of the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Fund for Orphans; officers and staff of Yayasan; teachers of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah primary and secondary schools; as well as residents of the Kampong Bolkiah ‘A’ and Kampong Bolkiah ‘B’ housing schemes.

The recitation of Surah Yaasiin and Tahlil was led by Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Setia Raja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Haji Awang Suhaili bin Haji Mohiddin, the Syariah Appeal Court Judge.

The Tahlil was part of annual activities organised by Yayasan to enliven the holy month of Ramadhan.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik pouring ‘Ayeng Asah-Asahan’ or scented water on the tombs 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 late parents

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik during the Tahlil ceremony

The attendees during the ceremony. – PHOTOS: MUIZ MATDANI

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

DPMM FC head coach Steve Kean hoped that his charges could replicate the same intensity and performance in training during their Great Eastern-Hyundai S League match against league leaders Albirex Niigata (S) at the Jurong East Stadium in Singapore tonight.

The head coach added that the squad has hugely benefited from the cooler weather conditions at night as they adjust their regular training hours in light of Ramadhan.

“The standard and the speed of the training have been fantastic,” said Kean in an interview with the Bulletin at the Jerudong Mini Stadium on Wednesday.

“With the quality of our training, I keep on trying to remind the players that we’re a good side. We haven’t had good results but we’re a good football team.

“So we need to just go out and play the way we practise. When you see us practise, we look fantastic,” he continued.

“I think sometimes in games if we don’t get the first goal then I think maybe we beat ourselves up and forget what we’ve been doing all the week on the training ground.

“I’ll be looking for a level of performance because if we perform the way we do here in Jerudong, then not only this game and most of the other games if not all we’re going to get positive results.

“It’s just trying to reframe the way we think and translate this performance at the training ground into our S League games,” he further added.

With the arrival of Daud Gazale and Vincent Salas Reyes into the team, Kean noted that dealing with humidity is a part of settling well with the new environment but the Chilean duo has since acclimatised.

DPMM FC players during a training session. – FADHIL YUNUS

“Even though they come from warm countries themselves, it wasn’t about the temperature but the humidity is for people that come from different parts of the world that takes a little bit of time but I think they’re acclimatised now.”

It is also helped by the fact that the pair would not have much trouble with communication as both speak the same language.

Complimenting Billy Mehmet and Zeljko Savic, Kean said that they found themselves in a position where change is necessary resulting in the acquisition of four local players which had undergone trials.

He also announced of the signing of two local players.

The club’s intentions of recruiting local players into the team showed that there are good players in the country who could embark on a professional career.

“It shows as well that not only our club but also in the rest of the clubs in Brunei that there are good players that can still make a professional career even if they’re not in the club at the moment.”

The notable absentee in the Albirex game is Rafael Ramazotti who suffered an injury during training but forwards Adi Said and Shahrazen Said are in line for a starting berth.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

TWO local students recently won a start-up grant worth B$20,000 for an app they developed that provides people with real-time tracking of buses to find updated bus routes, bus stop locations and seat availability.

‘E-Route’ is the creation of Muhammad Al-Akif bin Irfan, a student in his second year at Politeknik Brunei (PB) and Muhammad Amin bin Haji Fauzul, a PB graduate.

The app was submitted by the two under the group name of ‘Team One’ as part of the first National ICT Hackathon, which concluded at a ceremony at the Design & Technology Building in Anggerek Desa on May 14.

The participants of the hackathon competed over two stages. In the ‘Idea-thon’ stage, each team was required to propose ideas, suggestions and concepts on how to address the issues related to their selected theme out of nine given themes: Brunei communication hub; crowd funding on community and charity; intelligent emergency response; talent search centre; interactive/dynamic open data platform; property guide; public transportation; local tourism; and Brunei fitness.

Next was the ‘App-athon’ stage, where each team was required to develop a mobile or web application based on their ideas from ‘Idea-thon’.

Team One’s submission went to be named the winner of the Student Category in the competition, and saw them being awarded a start-up grant worth B$20,000 to develop the final product, as well as access to facilities provided at the iCentre, six months’ access to available classes offered by the Industry Business Academy, a one-month mentorship at Microsoft Brunei, a trophy and a certificate.

After his team was named winners of the student category, Muhammad Al-Akif delivered a presentation on E-Route, sharing with the audience the problems they were looking to tackle with their app.

Muhammad Al-Akif bin Irfan and Muhammad Amin bin Haji Fauzul, creators of ‘E-Route’. – DANIAL NORJIDI

These included insufficient bus information, pollution, increasing number of private transport, increasing number of road accidents, congestion, and total number of people using public transport in Brunei Darussalam.

“What we realised is that there are less people using public transport, so what we are trying to do is increase the number of people using public transport in Brunei Darussalam,” Muhammad Al-Akif said.

“That’s why we developed this application, which provides real-time tracking of buses, updated routes, bus stop locations, availability of buses and also online payment.

“What encouraged us to make this application was our wanting to make the public transport system efficient in Brunei Darussalam.

“So what we did was we made use of the current public transport system, which is the coloured buses,” he said, sharing that the app can help enhance the efficiency of the current bus system in the country.

“Therefore we hope that it would be able to increase the number of people using public transport, improve customer service, reduce congestion, provide efficiency and reduce dependency on oil.”

He shared that E-Route will show the different locations of bus stops available in the country.

Another notable feature is that it allows users to find nearby bus stops.

In a video demonstration, the team explained how the app works. When using the app, choosing one of the bus stops on a map will show the address and further information.

By clicking the location icon, users are provided with a route to direct them to that specific bus stop.

By clicking the bus icon, it will show them the types of buses that will intersect to that bus stop.

Also, clicking one of the buses will provide information on number of passengers, bus location and route.

In addition, clicking the bus location will show the current location of the bus.

Muhammad Al-Akif also shared that he and Muhammad Amin came up with the idea and implemented it themselves, added that they spent two weeks developing it, during which they barely slept.

“We were glad and satisfied that we were able to finish everything,” he said, noting however, that there was still work to be done.

“We still need to sort out the features and the layouts. But overall I think we’re doing well.”

Muhammad Amin explained that they both played important roles in the app’s development, saying, “Akif and I, we used to be a group of four people, but then two of our members dropped out because they wanted to focus on their studies, so there were only two of us left.

“We needed to divide the work equally, so we just decided that Akif would be handling the business side of our operations as well as the design of the software and systems, and I would be working on the programming, because there was so much research to do.”

Queried on how it felt to win, Muhammad Al-Akif said, “It feels great. I wasn’t sure if we would win or not, because during the ‘App-athon’ stage, I predicted we would just make it in the top five, due to the strength of the other competitors.”

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|     Izah Azahari     |

A ‘CARING Cup Sungkai and Donation’ event for the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei, organised by The Coffee Bean Brunei, was held at its outlet at Times Square Shopping Centre yesterday.

The charity sungkai gathering was organised for 10 students from SMARTER along with their parents and teachers as part of The Coffee Bean Brunei Caring Cup programme and a mark of care towards the community.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Mun’im bin Pengiran Anak Haji Tahiruddin, the Managing Director of PAR Group of Companies, was present as the guest of honour to present a $2,000 donation to the President of SMARTER Brunei, Malai Haji Abdullah bin Malai Haji Othman.

In addition to the cash donation, goodie bags with art supplies donated by WW Mart were also presented to SMARTER Brunei.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Mun’im bin Pengiran Anak Haji Tahiruddin, the Managing Director of PAR Group of Companies, handing over a mock cheque to the President of SMARTER Brunei, Malai Haji Abdullah bin Malai Haji Othman. – PHOTOS: IZAH AZAHARI

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Mun’im presenting donations to a SMARTER student

The Coffee Bean Brunei’s Mr Ice Blended entertaining SMARTER students

Meanwhile, Amy Cheong, Public Relations and Events Executive of The Coffee Bean Brunei, shared that one of its core principles is their commitment to social responsibility, both in the US and abroad. This commitment has seen them developing a broad range of programmes geared towards giving back to its workers and their communities.

“From preserving the environment to improving education, all our Caring Cup initiatives reflect our company’s core values,” Cheong added. “We are in the ‘people business’. We serve people with good premium products made by the people, for the people. We are thankful for the great support from the government.”

What The Coffee Bean Brunei has accomplished, they give back through their community service and charitable programme called Caring Cup Brunei Darussalam.

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OFFICES of the Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE), Prime Minister’s Office through the Consumer Affairs Division (CAD) paid a surprise visit to several business premises in the Belait District yesterday.

The visit was led by Pengiran Hajah Siti Nirmala binti Pengiran Haji Mohammad, Acting Permanent Secretary (Economy and Finance) at the Prime Minister’s Office. Also present was Haji Asrul Adrain bin Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Ahmad, Acting Deputy Director General of JPKE, and 10 officials from the Consumer Affairs Division.

The inspection was to ensure that business stay in compliance with the Price Control Act, Chapter 142 and Price Control (Display of Prices) Order, which requires goods on displayed to be clearly price tagged.

The price of selected goods categorised in the Setting of Maximum Prices on Selected Food During Festive Season in conjunction with the months of Ramadhan and Syawal 1438 Hijrah/2017, are not to be sold exceeding the set maximum prices.

Details of selected food items and maximum prices can be accessed through ‘SmartConsumer’ mobile application and JPKE’s website at www.depd.gov.bn/cad.

Pengiran Hajah Siti Nirmala binti Pengiran Haji Mohammad, Acting Permanent Secretary (Economy and Finance) at the Prime Minister’s Office, during the inspection. – JPKE

Five business premises were found to commit offences under the Price Control Act, Chapter 142 and its regulations. Other offences also include displaying prices exceeding the maximum prices set on Selected Food During Festive Season.

Businesses which do not comply with the Price Control Act, Chapter 142 and its regulations can be issued a compound not exceeding $1,000; a fine of $5,000 and imprisonment for two years for the first offence by the court; or a fine of $20,000 and imprisonment of five years for a repeated offence by the court.

Meanwhile, action can also be taken on businesses which sell exceeding the maximum prices set, for the selected food items during the months of Ramadhan and Syawal 1438 Hijrah/2017.

JPKE advised the public to practise the concept of “Smart Consumer” by comparing prices of different stores before making any purchase to get the best value for money.

For information, the public can contact JPKE directly through the PenggunaBijak/SmartConsumer mobile application, or contact 2230229 during office hours, or by sending an e-mail to aduanpengguna@jpke.gov.bn or consumercomplaint@jpke.gov.bn along with supporting documents and information such as receipt of purchase and the company against whom complaint is lodged. The public can also reach JPKE through their Facebook or visit the Consumer Affairs Division office at Room 3.06, Level 3, West Wing of the JPKE at Jalan Ong Sum Ping.

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|     Achong Tanjong     |

THE Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) held a Study Day yesterday at the RBAF Defence Academy.

During the session, the Joint Force Headquarters made a presentation on the topic ‘Improving RBAF Joint Operational Capability – The Role and Contribution of the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre (JDWC)’. It covered the role of the JDWC, its future plans and discussed how the JDWC can support the development of the Joint Operational Capability.

Present as the guest of honour was First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit, the Deputy Minister of Defence.

Also present were Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, the Commander of the RBAF; Captain (Rtd) Abdul Rahman bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence; service commanders, deputy permanent secretaries, directors, commandants, senior officers and personnel of the Ministry of Defence and RBAF.

Touching upon the topic of discussion, the Deputy Minister of Defence emphasised the importance of understanding the Joint Doctrine as an essential part of professional development across all levels of the RBAF.

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

The Deputy Minister of Defence presenting a trophy to first place winner of the Essay Writing Competition, Captain Dr Mohammad Hamiz bin Haji Jamil

He also reminded that the RBAF must also look towards aspects that go beyond the RBAF internally and develop its capability in Joint Interagency and multi-national cooperation, taking into account the need for a smarter approach in managing as well as optimising resources during a time of austerity measures.

The Study Day also saw the presentation of prizes to the winners of the Essay Writing Competition for RBAF Officers and Ministry of Defence Civilian Officers for the year 2016/2017. First place went to Captain Dr Mohammad Hamiz bin Haji Jamil, followed by Captain Siti Husnulkatimah binti Haji Md Yassin in second place and Lieutenant Dayangku Nurhayatul Filzah binti Pengiran Damit in third.

The Study Day is a regular event within the Ministry of Defence and RBAF, designed as a platform to promote stimulating discussions and enhance the knowledge of officers on current issues.

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|     Fizah HAB     |

THREE thousand youths participated in the 6th National Youth Tedarus Al-Quran Assembly at the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque in the capital yesterday.

Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah attended the female youth section of the assembly.

Her Royal Highness was greeted upon arrival by Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil.

The National Youth Tedarus Al-Quran Assembly was organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (under its Youth and Sports Department) in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Religious Affairs.

The ceremony began with a recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Dayangku Amal Zahirah binti Pengiran Haji Jofri, Qariah champion of the National Al-Quran Reading Competition for Youth 1438H, followed by a Khatam Al-Quran session led by Dayangku Nur Fatin Wahidah binti Pengiran Haji Salihin from Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (ITQSHHB).

A Takhtim and Dikir Marhaban recitation was made by the Takhtim and Dikir group from ITQSHHB. The Doa Allah Peliharakan Sultan dan Brunei Darussalam was read by Dayangku Amal Zahirah.

Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah with the spouses of Cabinet Ministers and permanent secretaries at the ceremony. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR

A section of the attendees at the Tedarus ceremony

Youths taking part in the mass Tedarus Al-Quran ceremony

The assembly saw the involvement of youths from higher educational institutions, secondary schools, and uniformed associations, as well as those representing themselves. Of the total figure, 1,300 were female participants.

The ceremony aimed at enlivening and upholding the spirit of Ramadhan, and to increase youth participation and involvement in the various religious activities, in particular the reading of the Al-Quran.

It was also meant to fill youths’ leisure time with beneficial activities, and is a reflection of the youths’ drive towards realising His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s vision to make Brunei a Zikir Nation.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

OVER 3,000 youths from government agencies, youth associations as well as students and former youth programme members participated in the 6th mass Tedarus ceremony for youths nationwide at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah (for males) and Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque (for females) yesterday.

Present for the ceremony at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, while Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah attended the ceremony at the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque.

His Royal Highness arrival at the Jame’ ‘Asr was greeted by Minister of Education Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman; Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman; Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof; and Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi as the Acting Minister of Home Affairs.

The religious ceremony was organised jointly by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Religious Affairs and Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.

His Royal Highness being greeted upon arrival at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah. – PHOTOS: INFOFOTO

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik at the ceremony

Participants during the ceremony at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah

The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Zulwaqar bin Haji Suhaili, the winner of the National Level Youth Al-Quran Reading Competition 2017, followed by the recitation of Al-Quran Verses led by Muhammad Asnawi bin Haji Abu Bakar, a student from Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.

The reading of Takhtim led by a Dikir group from Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), Doa Khatam and mass Zohor prayer were also held.

The Tedarus ceremony aimed at promoting awareness among youths concerning reading and embracing Al-Quran as a guide for life and strengthening understanding and cooperation among the agencies involved in the development of youths.

The religious ceremony was also held to enliven the holy month of Ramadhan with beneficial activities, especially reciting Al-Quran, and encourage the involvement of youths in religious activities.

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|     James Kon     |

UNDERSCORING its commitment to deliver better returns to shareholders, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) yesterday announced a record high dividend of 14.7 cents per ordinary share for the year ended December 31, 2016, more than double the amount it distributed in the previous year.

BIBD, the largest financial institution in Brunei Darussalam in terms of assets, financing and deposits, paid out a dividend of 7.3 cents in the previous fiscal.

The achievement was highlighted in BIBD’s 2016 annual report which was presented to its shareholders in the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at Universiti Brunei Darussalam’s Chancellor Hall yesterday.

The record high dividend came on the back of double digit growth of the bank’s net profit after Zakat and taxation as well as its total assets for the financial year 2016. The bank’s net profit grew 21 per cent to B$122 million while the total assets surged 28 per cent to B$9 billion.

Commenting on the bank’s record results, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah, Chairman of BIBD Board of Directors who is also Minister of Development, said, “Alhamdulillah, BIBD’s strong fundamentals have enabled the bank to continue delivering value for our shareholders amid global economic headwinds.”

Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Mohd Yusof, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Chairman of BIBD Syariah Advisory Body; Mubashar Khokhar, Managing Director of BIBD; and members of the board at the meeting. – JAMES KON

He added that “the bank’s sustained performance also reflects the nation’s ongoing economic diversification efforts on non-energy industries such as financial services, aligning us closer towards Brunei Vision 2035”.

Mubashar Khokhar, Managing Director of BIBD; Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Mohd Yusof, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Chairman of BIBD Syariah Advisory Body; BIBD board members; and members of the Syariah Advisory Body were also present.

The post BIBD declares record dividend appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

THE Fire and Rescue Department in cooperation with the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) yesterday launched a fire extinguisher distribution programme in the iconic Kampong Ayer which will see installation of hundreds of fire extinguishers at strategic places in the area.

The programme, which also includes distribution of fire prevention tips posters, is part of a continuous effort to raise awareness on blaze incidents and their prevention in Kampong Ayer, which is prone to fire disasters.

During the launching event held at the Begawan Pehin Udana Khatib Haji Awang Umar Religious School in Kampong Setia Brunei I, Director of Fire and Rescue Lt Col (Rtd) Yahya bin Haji Abdul Rahman shared that statistics in the last three years has shown an increase in the number of fire incidents in Kampong Ayer, with 14 incidents recorded in 2016 compared to only two incidents each in 2015 and 2014 respectively.

The director said investigations suggest that the common cause of fires in the area include cooking left unattended, electrical overload, poor wiring and children playing with fire, to name a few.

In its bid to combat the occurrence of fire incidents and enhance readiness of residents in the area, the director said that the department is continuously improving its response system by adding on to the existing equipment they have at their fire stations in Kampong Ayer and increasing the frequency of their response drills, while also instilling a preparedness culture among residents.

He said these initiatives will help the community and residents of Kampong Ayer to be more alert and act swiftly in the event of fires and increase their understanding on safety aspects, common causes of fire, actions that have to be taken during a fire and the correct way of using fire extinguishers.

Haji Idris bin Haji Md Ali, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, installing a fire extinguisher at a house in Kg Setia ‘B’. – HAKIM HAYAT

He shared that some of the public awareness programmes that have been carried out include survey of homes in the area through visits by officials from the department with the support of the Department of Electrical Services, roadshows and safety and fire prevention briefings to village residents.

On the installation of the fire extinguishers at strategic and high-risk areas, the director said that this will allow immediate response in case of a fire, adding that the department is also working on a ‘fire extinguisher point’ indicator in a digital map to be used in open Internet sources such as Google Map to enable residents to locate their nearest fire extinguishers in case of a fire.

The guest of honour at yesterday’s event Haji Idris bin Haji Md Ali, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), handed over the posters to some 18 village heads from five Mukims in Kampong Ayer – Burong Pingai Ayer, Peramu, Tamoi, Saba, and Sungai Kebun and Kampong Pudak.

In the initial phase, 40 dry powder type fire extinguishers will be distributed and installed at strategic places in Kampong Ayer, while 278 more will be installed in subsequent phases.

The deputy permanent secretary installed fire extinguishers at two houses in Kampong Setia ‘B’ to launch the project and later witnessed a demonstration of the use of fire extinguishers by village residents.

Also present at the event was Legislative Council member YB Naim bin Haji Kamis who is also the Penghulu of Mukim Kota Batu.

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|    Fadhil Yunus    |

DPMM FC suffered yet another defeat in the Great Eastern-Hyundai S League after they were humbled 4-0 by Albirex Niigata (S) at the Jurong East Stadium in Singapore last night.

The club’s sixth defeat in seven matches left them with the danger of not finishing at the top half of the table.

The visitors conjured the first opportunity of the game as new signing Daud Gazale fired his shot straight at Albirex Niigata (S) custodian Yosuke Nozawa.

DPMM FC defender Vincent Salas Reyes made a clearance which fell straight to Kento Nagasaki but the latter curled his effort just wide in the sixth minute.

However, the stalemate did not last long as on-form striker Tsubasa Sano beats the offside trap before calmly slotting past Awangku Mu’izzudin bin Pengiran Ismail, who was the preferred goalkeeper in the starting line-up.

Azwan Ali and Adi Said exchanged passes with the latter blasting the ball over as the visitors looked for an immediate response.

Tomoki Menda and Ryota Nakai combined well for the White Swans but the latter shot straight at Mu’izzudin.

Gazale forced the Japanese shot-stopper into making a save with the new acquisition looking to get his first goal for the club.

Salas provided a brilliant pass to Adi but the forward contrived to fire straight at Nozawa.

DPMM FC forward Adi Said (centre) attempting a shot as Albirex Niigata (S) defenders look on. – S LEAGUE

The hosts doubled their lead after Nakai poked his shot from close range following a cross from the right in the 34^th minute.

Adi stole possession off Yasutaka Yanagi before drilling a low shot that trickled wide.

The White Swans had a half chance to make it 3-0 after winning a free-kick late in the first half but Nagasaki’s effort sailed wide.

The third goal did arrive for the hosts in the 50^th minute as defender Rui Kumada headed home Nagasaki’s free-kick at the far post.

Adi met Najib Tarif’s cross from the left but his header failed to trouble Nozawa.

Gazale wriggled his way before hitting a low shot which was blocked for a corner before Adi headed just wide from the ensuing corner.

Albirex substitute Shoichiro Sakamoto nearly made an instant impact moments after coming in but his effort was excellently tipped away by Mu’izzudin.

There was still time for a fourth as Naofumi Tanaka lashed home a powerful shot four minutes from time after DPMM FC failed to clear their lines.

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ON JUNE 12, 1967, the Board of Commissioners of Currency Malaya and British Borneo handed over its powers to issue currency to Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia and Singapore.

These three territories began issuing their own currencies – Brunei dollar (BND), Singapore dollar (SGD), and Malaysian ringgit (MYR) through the Brunei Currency Board (BCB), the Board of Commissioners of Currency, Singapore (BCCS), and Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), respectively.

Prior to this, only Malaya and British Borneo dollars were circulated.

The currency issuance in 1967 consisted of a paper note series in five denominations (BND1, BND5, BND10, BND50 and BND100) and a coin series of five denominations (1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 20¢ and 50¢).

Both featured the portrait of Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam, the 28th Sultan of Brunei Darussalam.

The reverse of the 1967 notes depicted the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque while the reverse of the coin series featured various local designs including those said to represent flower or group of blossoms (1¢), tree-shaped to represent a bird (5¢), claw-shaped to represent an animal (10¢), vertical oblong pattern said to represent a tree (20¢) and the crest of Brunei Darussalam (50¢).

The Currency Interchangeability Agreement was also signed between Brunei Darussalam, Singapore and Malaysia on June 12, 1967; where all currencies were interchangeable at par with one another.

Brunei Darussalam and Singapore continue to maintain this agreement.

Under this agreement, the monetary authorities and licensed banks of each country are obliged to accept and exchange each other’s currencies at par and without charge.

This agreement allows the individual currencies (BND and SGD) to be accepted as customary tender when circulating in the country in which they are not legal tender.

The 1967 coin series. – PHOTOS: AMBD

The 1972 notes series

Limited edition BND25 paper notes to commemorate the Silver 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 accession to the throne

Following the accession 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 as the 29th Sultan of Brunei Darussalam, His Majesty’s portrait was featured in the second coin series in 1970 and note series in 1972 .

The note series included two new denominations in BND500 and BND1,000 with new reverse designs.

All other denominations had the same reverse designs as the previous currency series.

The BCB issued the first set of proof coins consisting 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 20¢, 50¢ and BND1.

Proof coins are special coins made specifically for collectors and are not intended for circulation.

From time to time, BCB issued commemorative coins in various compositions including gold, silver and cupronickel in conjunction with special events.

The third series of notes was introduced in 1989 in eight denominations with a new portrait of His Majesty on the obverse and a local scenery on the reverse with Kampong Ayer as the main theme.

This included the highest denomination of Brunei currency, BND10,000.

In 1992, to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of His Majesty’s accession to the throne, BCB issued limited edition BND25 paper notes as legal tender in addition to the existing denominations.

BCB, in 1993, issued a new set of coins bearing some notable differences from the 1977 series.

While the 1977 series featured the side profile of His Majesty, the 1993 series carried an entirely new portrait depicting His Majesty facing forward.

Additionally, His Majesty’s title on the coins was changed to ‘Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah’ on the 1993 series from ‘Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah’.

The public is welcome to visit the Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam Currency Gallery at the Brunei Currency and Monetary Board Building, Ministry of Finance Complex, Commonwealth Drive, which exhibits a range of currencies from the early era as well as uncut notes and commemorative coins.

The gallery is open from 8.30am to noon and 2pm to 4.30pm except on Friday from 8.30am to 11.00am and 3pm to 4pm, and during the month of Ramadhan, 8.30am to 2pm except on Friday from 8.30am to 10.30am. – AMBD

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BRUNEI Darussalam is blessed with large oil and gas reserves and indeed the oil and gas industry is the backbone of the nation’s economy, contributing significantly to the national GDP.

Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP), a joint venture between the Government of Brunei (50 per cent) and a subsidiary of Royal Dutch Shell plc (50 per cent), is the largest oil and gas company in Brunei.

BSP explores, develops and produces crude oil and natural gas from two offshore assets and one onshore asset and on average, produces 300,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (crude oil and natural gas combined).

But behind the numbers and the big machines, lies the heart of this industry and BSP – the people. BSP is a 24-hour, 365-day operation and requires skilled, competent and dedicated people to operate and produce oil and gas safely.

One group of important people, who are rarely seen, are those who work offshore.

Fathers and mothers, husbands and wives, sons and daughters, leave their family for an average of two weeks each month, some for months at a time, to man the offshore platforms and make sure Brunei’s national assets are taken care of.

On a personal note, this means that special times with family will inevitably be missed – birthdays, Ramadhan and even Hari Raya.

What does this mean for the people offshore and why do they do it?

The men and women who work offshore, 365 days a year, do so because it is their responsibility, it is what they are paid to do and because they take pride in doing their job well to contribute to the nation. And their work needs to be done to ensure that Brunei’s oil and gas are safely and reliably produced.

It takes a special kind of person to be able to work in this industry and we salute BSP’s staff offshore for their dedication. Because, no matter the time of year, especially during festivities, those on duty have to be out there operating the platforms, to continue fuelling Brunei’s future.

And they do the work that is before them, knowing that they are part of a bigger engine, a bigger picture.

Critical activity being carried out on Ampa 9. – PHOTOS: BSP

Photos on top, above & below show staff enjoying their Sungkai

Staff having their Sungkai prior to Sunnat Tarawikh prayers

And so, with this is mind, we wanted to know more about what life offshore is like on BSP’s three key offshore facilities (Champion 7, Fairley 4 and Ampa 9) during Ramadhan for both BSP staff and contractor staff.

For caterers preparing meals for Sahur, their day starts as early as 2am to cater to the residents at their mess rooms or individual resting rooms.

Daily toolbox talks are held either the night before or after Subuh prayer depending on the urgency and the type of work to be carried out.

Rain or shine, they carry out the work that needs to be done because it is their responsibility. The days are long and hard but they continue despite the thirst and hunger because of their dedication to deliver their work safely, for their families and for the country.

Morning shift hours are from 6am to 6pm but flexibility is available during Ramadhan, allowing individuals to take common breaks to rest when tired.

For those working night shifts (6pm to 6am), all residents still break their fast in the mess room with off shift crews. The exception is for those in the control room, as they are required to man their stations 24/7.

Food is provided separately for those in the control room.

Sunnat Tarawikh prayers are also conducted daily at 8pm in their respective Suraus followed by Sunnat Witir prayer and Tedarus. These prayers are usually led by the junior guidance counsellors, affectionately called the “Young Imams”, who joined BSP in 2013 to lead any religious activities within BSP and to provide counselling services to individuals or groups.

BSP’s recruitment of these guidance counsellors from Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) and Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), is a sound initiative and ensures that the staff’s time offshore is value added.

The guidance counsellors conduct Al-Quran reading classes and sessions to help improve the way of praying.

With Brunei being a Zikir Nation, it is important that as we undertake our work, we are also grateful towards Allah the Almighty and seek His continuous blessings and guidance.

After prayers, some residents choose to either rest after, continue their work or even exercise at the gym. It almost sounds normal, except that they are on a metal platform in the middle of the sea!

Currently, on the Ampa 9 platform, there has been an increase of critical activity due to the inspections and construction work ongoing to ensure asset integrity and process safety.

“This work is complex and requires extreme focus and commitment. And thankfully to date, all work undertaken has been done safely with goal zero achieved; meaning no harm to people, the environment or assets. I am really impressed with the way all the different teams have pulled together and I am really proud of all our staff working offshore,” remarked Yap Sin Fah, the West Asset Manager, BSP.

“During the holy month of Ramadhan, specific attention is also being paid to the welfare of everyone offshore and onshore and I truly respect those who work in the field while observing the fast and those who are on duty running our operations during festivities and public holidays while others are having time off celebrating with friends and family. I wholeheartedly thank and salute these colleagues.”

Paul van den Hemel, East Asset Manager, added that, “BSP is committed to keeping everyone safe and ensuring everyone will go home safely every day.”

Farhaanah Sarabaya, a field operator on Fairley 4 shared that this is her first time working offshore during Ramadhan and will be her first Hari Raya away from her family. Asked how she feels about it, she said, “It’s awesome! It’s quiet but breaking fast with friends and colleagues makes it less lonely. Working offshore, one needs to be ready to take challenges and enjoy the opportunity given to experience life offshore.”

Pengiran Jafarodin bin Pengiran Rahman who works on Champion 7 has been working offshore during Ramadhan for 23 years and has missed 20 years of Raya away from his family.

“It is indeed sad but this is our responsibility to the country and company to deliver. For those thinking about working offshore – it is a commitment. It is different from working onshore. We don’t have days off for public holidays as we are committed to carry out our responsibilities every day for the sake of our beloved country, Brunei Darussalam.”

Ja’afaruddin bin Haji Abdul Latif, Production Lead at Fairley 4, has been working offshore during Ramadhan for the past 21 years.

“It does get sad and lonely being away from family and children. However, I remain patient, tough and am always ready for a challenge because this is for them and this is my responsibility.”

Nurhazidah binti Zakaria who also works on Champion 7 has been working offshore for three years and has experienced both Ramadhan and Hari Raya away from family.

“I feel sad being away from family. I miss them especially during the night of 1st of Syawal. I would like to take the opportunity to wish everyone Ramadhan Kareem and Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Maaf Zahir dan Batin to my family and colleagues. Do drive safe.”

Haji Mohd Isramady bin Haji Mohd Ismail who works as a C&A Champion 7 Supervisor has 19 years of work experience offshore.

“Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Maaf Zahir dan Batin. Drive safe and pray for our safety here offshore,” said Haji Mohd Isramady.

When asked about his favourite part of Ramadhan offshore, he shared, “Performing the Sunnat Tarawikh prayers, because I don’t need to drive to the mosque; I just go upstairs to the Surau.”

Ramadhan offshore is something truly special; despite being away from family, their favourite part of Ramadhan offshore is being able to Sungkai and Sahur with friends and colleagues, who are all part of one big family. Together, they live and work for the sake of their family and in some very real way, for the sake of all our families.

May the people working offshore during Ramadhan be safe from harm and may their good deeds be accepted by Allah the Almighty.

As Hari Raya Aidilfitri is just around the corner, people both onshore and offshore will have started thinking about the festivities. Have you ever wondered what life during Hari Raya is like offshore?

A follow-up article will be published on how staff members celebrate Hari Raya away from family while working on the offshore platforms.

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|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

THE final for the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Musabaqah Tilawah Al-Quran, held in conjunction with RBAF’s 56th anniversary, was held yesterday at the Pahlawan Hall of the Berakas Garrison.

The guest of honour was Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, Commander of the RBAF.

The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by the commencement of the competition.

The event proceeded with the announcement of the winners and a prize presentation by the guest of honour.

For the Qari category, the champion was Cpl Nazirul bin Haji Asmat from the Ministry of Defence followed by Capt Abdul Mujib bin Japar from the RBAF Defence Academy in second and LCpl (U) Asriwendy bin Haji Majid from the Royal Brunei Air Force in third.

ABOVE & BELOW: Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces presenting trophies to winners of the competition. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

In the Qariah category, in first place was Lt Norazimah binti Haji Othman from the Ministry of Defence followed by AB Nurul Hazimah binti Hamzah of Royal Brunei Navy in second and Cpl Hajah Rubiah binti Haji Dagang from the Royal Brunei Land Force in third.

The event concluded with the recitation of Doa Selamat.

Also present were the services commanders, Joint Force Commander, directors, senior officers, officers and personnel of the RBAF.

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|     Daniel Lim     |

LEGISLATIVE Council (LegCo) members and foreign envoys presented donations to orphans, senior citizens and underprivileged members of the society during a recent charity event organised by V-Plaza Hotel and Radio Television Brunei (RTB).

The guests of honour at the event were LegCo members YB Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin and YB Hanapi bin Mohd Siput.

Also present were Air Vice Marshal Mahmud Hussain, the Bangladesh High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam; Nurul Qomar, the Indonesian Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam; Haji Haris bin Othman, the Belait District Officer; and Pengiran Haji Ismail bin Pengiran Haji Muhammad Kifli, the Supervisory Engineer for the Transmission and Satellite Section at RTB.

The event began with mass Asar prayer followed by a recitation of verses from the Al-Quran by Ustaz Haji Abdul Afiq bin Zainuddin and 15 students from the Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Religious School.

A donation ceremony was held afterwards. The guests of honour and the other guests presented donations to 50 orphans, 20 senior citizens and 50 underprivileged members of society.

Guests working together to prepare the ‘Bubur Lambuk’. – PHOTOS: DANIEL LIM

An orphan receives his gift from one of the guests during the donation ceremony

Attendees scoop up dishes into their plate as the time to break the fast approaches

The ceremony concluded with a breaking of the fast, with dishes and refreshments from V-Plaza’s Mystical Arabian Ramadhan Iftar Buffet.

The donation recipients were also served ‘Bubur Lambuk’ prepared with help from the guests of honour.

The charity event was supported by Supa Save, Sehat Sdn Bhd, Joffren Omar Co Sdn Bhd, Haji Adinin and Sons Sdn Bhd, Marimin Sdn Bhd, bruneihalalfoods, Syarikat Aliaa Sdn Bhd, Panaga 2000 Football Club, and Shah United Football Club.

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