|     Azlan Othman     |

CUSTOMERS will be spoilt for choice at the ‘Kuih Raya Tester Night’ happening tonight at the ‘Gempak Raya’ bazaar currently ongoing at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

Organised by Star Bugs Event Management, the ‘Kuih Raya Tester Night’ gives people the opportunity to try the various kuih raya and cakes sold at the bazaar.

“We are inviting members of the public to come to the event with their families. There will be jars of biscuits, assorted cakes waiting to be tasted,” said a representative of Star Bugs Event Management.

The ‘Kuih Raya Tester Night’ will take place after Isyak prayer, the organisers added.

Vendors of the ‘Gempak Raya’ bazaar and Star Bugs Event Management staff showcasing various kuih raya and cakes. – AZLAN OTHMAN

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|     Azlan Othman     |

PEHIN Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Education attended a Qiamullail or ‘Religious Vigil’ at the Sungai Hanching Mosque early yesterday morning.

The vigil was held to enliven the last 10 nights of the holy month of Ramadhan and to glorify the blessed month.

The Qiamullail began with the Sunnat Iftitah prayer followed by Taubat, Tahajjud and Tasbih prayers led by Haji Noorazalenela bin Haji Ratu, the Imam of the mosque.

The event continued with Sahur provided by the Curriculum Development Department and Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) as the coordinator of the event.

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Education, during the Qiamullail at the Sungai Hanching Mosque early yesterday morning. – MOE

The vigil ended with a mass Subuh prayer and a religious talk by Pengiran Haji Hafizuddin bin Pengiran Haji Bakar, the Head Imam of the mosque.

Some 100 senior officers and staff of the Ministry of Education (MoE) as well as mosque committee members and village residents attended the religious event.

Also in attendance were Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, the Deputy Minister of Education; and Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, Rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA).

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THE Brunei National Road Safety Council (BNRSC) recently held its annual campaign on road safety awareness, at three locations in the Brunei-Muara District namely the Centrepoint Hotel, Giant, and Times Square. While in Belait District, it was held at Roxana filling station and SPM filling station

This year, Hari Raya cards and souvenirs were distributed to road users, along with advisory pamphlets.

Similar campaigns will be held in the Tutong and Temburong districts on June 24, headed by their respective district officers.

Haji Azhar bin Haji Ahmad, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications and chairperson of the council in a group photo. PHOTOS: JPD

Dr Haji Supry bin Haji Awang Ladi, the Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications; and Pengiran Mohammad Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, the Acting Director of Land Transport and the council’s deputy chairperson II in a group photo

ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show recipients receiving Hari Raya cards and souvenirs along with advisory pamphlets at Times Square in Berakas

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SIGNIFICANT reforms in trade facilitation have recently been introduced in Brunei Darussalam, as a good practice for the economy and as a way forward for attracting foreign investors.

The Brunei Government and private stakeholders, including forwarding and shipping agents, have been working together to ensure that the cross-border trade process is cost-effective and time-efficient.

The logistical process of exporting and importing goods is measured by the estimated time and cost for the processing of documents, clearance and inspections by customs and all other agencies for any given product.

The introduction of the Brunei Darussalam National Single Window (BDNSW) has promoted the flow of information and increased transparency, while improving the efficiency of day-to-day trade processes. It allows for export and import customs declarations, while permitting applications to be submitted and processed online for approval. Multiple visits to customs and relevant government agency counters have significantly reduced, or longer required, because most of the paperwork can now be verified electronically.

The following are five steps to ensure smooth and reliable trading across borders:

Step 1: Register with the Royal Customs and Excise Department (RCED)

Anyone who wishes to engage in the importing, exporting or transiting of goods in Brunei Darussalam or in the appointment of Forwarding Agents must first register online with the RCED at www.bdnsw.gov.bn, or email a completed Registration and Declarant Form to info@customs.gov.bn registration.

Completed forms may also be directly submitted to the Customer Services Counter of the Royal Customs and Excise Department at Jalan Menteri Besar. Once the application has been approved, the person will be given a user ID and password to access the system.

No fee is required for the registration process.

Registration is not mandatory for private individuals, who are advised to utilise the services of Registered Customs Agents (forwarders).

Step 2: Apply Permit for Controlled Goods

All goods may be imported or exported, except for prohibited goods. It is important to check whether the goods are controlled or restricted, which will require a specific licence or permit from other government agencies (OGA).

The application for permit import and export is currently being improved by streamlining the OGAs process and enabling online submission via BDNSW.

With the processing time reduced, the applicant is no longer required to make trips to several government agencies to validate the documents.

If the goods to be imported are controlled by Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AiTi) for communications equipment, or by the Food Safety and Quality Control Section of the Ministry of Health for food products, or by the Pharmacy Department of the Ministry of Health for rinsed-off products such as soap and shampoo, the import permit will be auto-approved if the set criteria are fulfilled.

More information on the various types of goods and responsible agencies can be found at www.tradingacrossborders.gov.bn.

Step 3: Online Customs Declaration

All manner of ordinary goods can be declared straight to customs via BDNSW, along with an approval for import or export. Submission of Customs Declaration for controlled goods can be done upon approval of permit by OGAs, and the approval process takes place within a day. While the application of customs declaration is free of charge, forwarding agents may charge service fees to assist in declaring the goods.

It is advisable to check the charges in advance with the forwarding agents.

Step 4: Payment of Duty for Dutiable Goods

All goods imported into Brunei Darussalam are subjected to the Customs Import Duties Order and Excise Duties Order.

With effect from April 1, 2017, the Ministry of Finance has announced an amendment on Customs Import and Excise duties. Duty rates may be applied to the CIF (cost, insurance and freight) value, which includes other charges, costs and expenses incidental to the sale and delivery of the goods into Brunei Darussalam, whether displayed or otherwise on the invoice for both Import or Excise duties. Payment for billed duties can be made online or through bank counters; at the Customs Payment Counter at the headquarters; or at any entry points for other duties and payment.

Step 5: Inspection and Clearance

All restricted and controlled goods imported into Brunei Darussalam will be subject to customs inspection prior to clearance. In certain circumstances, normal goods will also be subjected to inspection. Documents required for verification by customs officers at the entry point include the Approved Customs Import Declaration and the Invoice/Bill of Lading/Air Waybill and Licence/Permit from a responsible agency for any controlled goods (for manual permit).

Customs Declaration is not required for importation or exportation conducted through the post office and for any personal goods or household effects, hand-carry or check-in luggage.

Recently, RCED, with the collaboration of Ministry of Communications and Ministry of Health, has implemented a Port Clearance module as an enhancement to the BDNSW . The enhancement is intended to streamline the ports clearance process by enabling electronic Ports Clearance application in a single form, for both outward and inward vessel movements at any sea checkpoints within Brunei Darussalam.

Upon the arrival of containers at Muara Port, importers or agents can apply for their Full Container Loads (FCL) containers to be taken out using their own trailers, after paying for Wharfage and Container Handling charges to the Muara Port Company.

Under the coordination of the Port Authority, the Inland Container Depot (ICD) at Muara has been designated as the un-stuffing area for containers since April 17, 2017. These initiatives are to reduce the cost and time of documentary and the order compliance of imports and exports in Brunei Darussalam.

Muara Port is open 24 hours daily, and the clearance of cargoes can be done anytime.

There are nine legal entry and exit points for air, sea and land throughout the country: the Brunei International Airport; the Muara Port, the Serasa Ferry Terminal; the Putat Control Post; the Kuala Belait Wharf; the Sungai Tujoh Control Post in the Belait District, the Kuala Lurah Control Post in the Brunei-Muara District; and the Labu and Ujong Jalan control posts in the Temburong District.

Cross-border trading is an integral part of an increasingly competitive global business environment. With more local companies beginning to explore opportunities abroad and participating in international business, improving efficiency through customs and removing unnecessary procedures at all entry points will facilitate trading across borders and generate more economic benefits for the country.

In the World Bank’s Doing Business Report 2017, Brunei Darussalam is ranked 142 out of 190 economies under the indicator, Trading Across Borders. It is hoped that the current reforms will significantly improve the country’s position in the report, and make Brunei Darussalam a business-friendly destination for foreign investments. – Ministry of Finance

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|    Fadhil Yunus    |

BRUNEI Darussalam badminton player Jaspar Yu will be continuing his pursuit towards meeting the international level set by world class competitors in the Yonex Open Chinese Taipei 2017 from June 27 to July 2.

The national shuttler is in the main draw and will be meeting home-based opponent Chun-Wei Chen in the first round.

He admitted that preparations are quite tough but he vowed to do his best throughout the month.

“In the morning, I go to the gym as usual and in the afternoon I have one and a half hour of court time. It is not enough but I have to make full use of the hours that I have,” said Jaspar.

“I haven’t set any targets but the good news is I’m in the main draw. I’ll just take one game at a time and see how well I can progress.”

Jaspar Yu has vowed to continue his pursuit to meet the international level in the Yonex Chinese Taipei Open. – FADHIL YUNUS

Jaspar has been actively competing in the international scene having played mostly in the region since representing his country in the Rio Olympics last year.

His biggest tournament to date this year is the Badminton Asian Championships last April.

“Every tournament there is bound to be a valuable experience. Every tournament has a very different feeling and courts are different.

“The environment is different so I’m going to soak all the experience that I gain abroad and hopefully can apply towards future tournaments.

“Basically my aim of participating in international tournaments is to be able to catch up on international level.

“The level in Brunei is not so high yet so I need to constantly break the barrier between Brunei level to international level,” he added.

“At this moment I’m trying to break that level and I’m challenging myself.”

The first Brunei Olympian in badminton will be studying his opponents’ performance with the aid of video analysis and preparing his tactics as part of his preparation for the Taipei meet.

Jaspar will be provided opportunities to do sparring with players from other countries once he reaches Taipei.

“Throughout the period of four to five days, I will always have different sparring partners. It is a time for me to test myself as well.”

Meanwhile, Jaspar and Mattew Lingie Anak Miggat will be attending the Asia Olympic Project (AOP) Training Camp in Kuala Lumpur.

Asia Olympic Project is Badminton Asia’s player development initiative. The AOP consists of the training opportunities and competition scholarship for players from developing countries organised by Badminton Asia in accordance to the Badminton Asia Strategic Plan 2013-2016.

“The objective is to support member associations across Asia to help and support the players in joining the International Series and also to further train the players,” said Zuno Kartono, Brunei Darussalam National Badminton Association assistant secretary.

The players who will be taking part in the AOP are mainly from developing badminton nations such as Brunei, Nepal, Kazakhstan, Jordan, Uzbekistan and Sri Lanka.

They will attend a centralised training in a better facility whereby there are opportunities to showcase their skills.

Jaspar, who already had experience last year, indicated that the training is full time.

The national shuttler said that the AOP personally benefited him, especially gearing up to regional tournaments.

“In Brunei I rarely get a full time training schedule. So when I go out and get full time training, firstly it is good for my fitness and it is good for me to keep up with international level.”

The AOP training camp is usually in conjunction with a tournament and the upcoming one will be in conjunction with the Celcom Axiata Malaysia International Series 2017.

Zuno is currently tasked with the responsibility of sending a representative to AOP but he is not the only one central in the selection with another coach from the junior development providing knowledge on the up and coming players in Brunei.

The assistant secretary, who is close with Badminton Asia, could also gain feedback from the coaches and will then relay it to the coaches in Brunei to help the player develop even further.

As the Grand Prix Gold ranked event clashes with the Taipei tournament, Jaspar will only be joining Mattew in the second week of the Asia Olympics Project training camp.

Jaspar will also be turning his attentions to another competition in Kuala Lumpur after the training camp which is an International Series event.

The national shuttler reached a career rank high of 211 this week and will be working hard towards reaching the top 200.

“It is great that I’m progressing but I hope to do better again this year. Hopefully I can hit the top 200 mark,” he said.

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|     Wani Roslan     |

A KHATAM Al-Quran ceremony was held yesterday at the residence of Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs in Kampong Sungai Hanching.

Present at the event were Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education; Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Religious Affairs; Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Mohd Yusof, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA); Haji Harun bin Haji Junid and Roslan bin Haji Taja’ah, Deputy Permanent Secretaries at the MoRA.

The ceremony began with a recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, led by the Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, followed by the Takhtim and Doa Khatam, led by Haji Abdul Malik bin Haji Jumat, the Mosque Affairs Officer of RPN Kampong Lambak Kanan.

This continued with recitations of the Tahlil and Doa Arwah, followed by the Doa ‘Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam’, led by Zulkifli bin Haji Murat, the Superintendent of the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque.

The event proceeded with a Dikir Marhaban and concluded with a breaking of the fast and mass Maghrib prayer.

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Education; Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs; Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs; and other senior officials at the religious event

Participants during the event. – PHOTOS: WANI ROSLAN

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THE Ministry of Health (MoH) alerted members of the public to two types of health products which have been tested by the laboratory of Pharmacy Laboratory Services, Ministry of Health and found to be adulterated with undeclared, potent western medicine.

The health products are ‘Baschi Quick Slimming Capsule’, manufactured by Taiwan Nuomeixiu Cosmetic & Beauty Co Ltd, which contains Sibutramine; and Gorgeousleem Advanced Capsulte, which contains Sibutramine, Acetaminophen and Spironolactone.

The adulterant found in this product can cause adverse effects that are potentially hazardous to the people using them.

Sibutramine is a slimming agent and is no longer recommended for medical use in obesity due to its harmful effects on the heart and liver. Its consumption can also cause serious adverse reactions such as high blood pressure, heart palpitation, insomnia and in worst cases, kidney and liver damage.

Acetaminophen or Paracetamol can be taken for self-medication but when traditional medicine does not declare its Acetaminophen or Paracetamol content, unaware person may take excessive Acetaminophen or Paracetamol which may lead to liver damage, kidney failure, coma and eventually death.

Baschi Quick Slimming Capsule

Gorgeousleem Advanced Capsule. – PHOTOS: MOH

Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic which is indicated for the treatment of hypertension, congestive heart failure and oedema.

The unsupervised use of spironolactone can cause hepatotoxicity, malaise, confusion, drowsiness, dizziness, increase blood potassium levels leading to the irregular heartbeat and Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a rare and serious disorder which is characterised by painful red or purplish rashes that spreads and blisters).

The MoH has not issued any approval for the importation for the sale of these affected products. Following these findings, the products are not allowed to be imported and sold in Brunei Darussalam.

Members of the public who have purchased or used these products are advised to stop using them immediately.

They should also consult a medical practitioner if they feel unwell or experience any undesirable reactions as a result of using the products.

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

The ministry called upon the public for their cooperation to report to the Health Regulations Services if any of these products are still found on the market in this country.

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BAG Networks recently organised several charitable activities with its various associates to benefit those less fortunate in the community, in conjunction with the holy month of Ramadhan.

The series of activities first kicked off with the annual distribution of more than 600 bottles of Air Zamzam to the patients receiving treatment at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital, Bandar Seri Begawan and Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah (PMMPMHAMB) Hospital, Tutong.

On hand to receive the donations were Haji Mohammad Khairul Anuar bin Pehin Orang Kaya Pendikar Alam Dato Paduka Seri Haji Hasrin, Chief Operations Officer of RIPAS Hospital and Noralina binti Haji Abdul Kahar, Senior Health Assistant of PMMPMHAMB Hospital, respectively.

To continue the giving spirit of Ramadhan, BAG Networks also recently held a donation drive known as ‘Projek Amal BAG Prihatin’.

ABOVE & BELOW: BAG Network teams conducting charitable activities. – PHOTOS: BAG NETWORK

The project was supported by the Brunei Islamic Religious Council, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Jalinan Kasih Belia Programme (Youth Centre, Department of Youth and Sports, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports).

Donations were used to purchase food and household items distributed to 20 families in the Brunei-Muara District.

According to Project Leader Hajah Siti Zaimah binti Haji Tuah, “This donation drive is a good reminder to all of us to assist underprivileged families in preparing for the upcoming Hari Raya celebrations.”

Apart from the above activities, BAG Networks personnel also continued to uphold the spirit of Ramadhan by participating in cleaning the cemeteries at Rangas and Batu Tiga Muslim Cemeteries.

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|     Wani Roslan     |

TEAM PGS1617 from the Geospatial Mapping Division took first prize for their project on ‘Peta Banjir Yang Kurang Komprehensif’ (Less Comprehensive Flood Maps) yesterday, during the Survey Department Quality Control Circle (KKC) Convention Ceremony, at the Ministry of Development’s Training Centre.

The team received $500 from Haji Ali Bakar bin Haji Kasim, the Acting Surveyor General, who was the guest of honour.

The second prize of $350 went to Team 3GS (Three Geospatial) with their project on ‘Kesukaran Dalam Pengendalian Peralatan Komputer’ (The Difficulties of Managing Computer Equipment).

Team MU@KAD took third place and $250, with their project on ‘RSO Maps Which Fail To Meet Customer Expectations’.

In his welcoming remarks, Haji Ali Bakar said that the Survey Department is conforming to the Quality Management System ISO 9001: 2008, with its values of Customer Focus, Accuracy and Efficiency.

Haji Ali Bakar bin Haji Kasim, the Acting Surveyor General, presenting the prize to the winner, Team PGS1617

Haji Bakar Ali in a group photo with the winner. – PHOTOS: WANI ROSLAN

He explained that Customer Focus means maintaining customer relationships effectively, while striving to provide services beyond customer expectations.

“Frontline officers and staff should primarily focus on customers and ensure that their wishes or requests are met as soon as possible, without burdening them through unnecessary requests,” he said.

On Accuracy, Haji Ali Bakar said that meeting Geomatic information should be in accordance with departmental standards, as described in its recently updated Work Instructions.

In terms of Efficiency, “Officers and staff should strive to deliver the work on time and do their work efficiently, effectively and with sincerity,” he said.

He also advised heads of divisions and performance assessors to give accurate and balanced scores to KKC members, based on specific characteristics in their performance evaluation.

This year, seven teams participated in the convention organised by the Survey Department.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) in cooperation with the Fire and Rescue Department held a simulated table-top exercise yesterday as the first part of the National Disaster Exercise 2017.

The exercise took place at the multi-purpose hall of the Fire and Rescue Services in Berakas.

During the opening ceremony, Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Maiddin bin Pengiran Haji Said, the Director of the NDMC in his speech said the annual simulated table-top exercise was “one of the ongoing peace-time activities carried out to enhance the capability of the NDMC and related agencies in carrying out disaster operations”.

The director said previous exercises were only held at the district level, with the cooperation of District Offices. This year’s exercise involved “large-scales disaster scenarios which require the involvement of agencies and resource havoc at both district and national levels”.

He explained that the exercise aimed to update the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) in disaster management, taking into account lessons learnt from the Asean Regional Disaster Emergency Response Simulation Exercise 2016 (ARDEX-16) held in Brunei Darussalam from November 29 to December 1 last year.

Participants during the simulated table-top exercise, first part of this year’s National Disaster Exercise

Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Maiddin bin Pengiran Haji Said, the Director of the NDMC delivering his speech. – PHOTOS: DANIAL NORJIDI

In addition, the exercise also aimed to: test the level of disaster management mechanisms at a district level (Level 1) and at a national level (Level 2); identify operational gaps for SOPs used by all agencies, particularly action agencies for revision and update purposes; as well as to test the NDMC-based Disaster Command Centre (DCC) system with the District Emergency Operation Centres (DEOCs) in every district.

The exercise was also intended to expand the Incident Command System (ICS) to ensure coordination, flow of commands and control, and effective cooperation among government and non-government agencies in managing disasters, he shared.

“Hopefully, through this exercise, integrated efforts and cooperation among various agencies will be strengthened and enhanced, besides providing an opportunity to identify the capabilities of existing disaster operation assets. At the same time, all those involved will know the country’s capacity and capability in implementing a whole-of-nation approach to address natural and man-made disasters.”

The exercise saw the involvement of multiple agencies, including the NDMC, the Fire and Rescue Department, the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), the Royal Brunei Police Force, the National Security Coordination Centre, the Emergency, Medical and Ambulance Service (EMAS), District Offices, the Public Works Department, the Information Department, the Community Development Department, the Department of Electrical Services, the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation, Brunei Shell Petroleum, the Kuala Belait and Seria Municipal Department, the Tutong Municipal Board, the National Service Programme (PKBN), and the Brunei Darussalam Red Crescent Society.

It was also shared in a press release from the NDMC that the next National Disaster Exercise 2017 will be held in a Field Training Exercise (FTX) format to test the implementation of integrated operations at district and national levels by all relevant agencies, especially the action agencies, and will see the deployment of resources and logistical assets at the scene.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to bestow 53 officers and staff at the Ministry of Health (MoH) with the Long Service Medal (PKL) in honour of His Majesty’s 70th birthday.

The presentation ceremony was held yesterday at the ministry’s Al-‘Afiah Hall, where the recipients were presented with their medals by the Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi.

Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy) at the MoH Dr Hazri bin Haji Kifle, said that the award should further encourage their staff to contribute towards customer satisfaction, in line with the country’s aspirations for Vision 2035.

The conferment of the award is in recognition of the recipients’ dedication and commitment shown during their 20 years of public service.

Also in attendance was Dr Hajah Maslina binti Haji Mohsin, the Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health.

Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi presenting the Long Service Medal to a recipient during yesterday’s presentation ceremony

Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi presenting the Long Service Medal to a recipient

ABOVE & BELOW: The PKL award is conferred in recognition of the recipients’ dedication and commitment shown during their 20 years of public service. – PHOTOS: SIM Y H

Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy) at the MoH Dr Hazri bin Haji Kifle during a speech

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A BRUNEI Government scholarship recipient who studies in the United Kingdom made the Sultanate proud when his team won the UK leg of this year’s Ecotrophelia Award – a pan-European competition for ecologically inspired new product development.

Muhammad ‘Atiq bin Juani @ Najrien, a final year Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science student at the University of Reading and his three colleagues won the gold prize and £2,000 for their product Yasai Sushi, vegetarian sushi-style rolls made with locally sourced vegetables and crunchy cauliflower rice.

A portion of eight pieces in a packet contributes two of the daily recommended five portions of fruit and/or vegetables. It is low calorie, low fat and high in vitamin C, offering a guilt-free healthy option. It is suitable for vegans, but can still be enjoyed by the average carnivore, Brunei Students Unit of the High Commission of Brunei Darussalam in the United Kingdom said in a press statement.

The contest was held from June 6-7 at Campden BRI, Gloucester, United Kingdom.

Muhammad ‘Atiq also said his team wishes to push their innovative product into Brunei and UK markets.

Muhammad ‘Atiq bin Juani @ Najrien with his colleagues

The Lagom Veg team from Nottingham Trent University secured the silver prize and £1,000 with their vegetable spaghetti snack. Lagom Veg is made from ‘mis-shaped’ vegetables, which are spiralised, dried and flavoured with chilli and lemongrass before being compacted into nests. Boiling water was to be added to produce a delicious healthy snack.

The bronze prize and £500 was awarded to the London Metropolitan team for their vegan windfall fruit jelly, which is made from ‘wonky fruit’.

Ecotrophelia UK 2017 is an EU-wide Dragons’ Den style competition that promotes innovation and creativity among students interested in a career in the food industry.

From idea generation through to the final packaged product, the teams get a hands-on experience of what it takes to bring an eco-friendly food or drink to market.

The awards were introduced by the competition’s Chief Judge and Head of Product Quality, Safety and Supplier Performance at Sainsbury’s, Alec Kyriakides, and presented by Patrick Carter of M&S at Campden BRI’s annual open day. All the winning teams will also receive a one-year membership with Institute of Food Science & Technology and a number of Elsevier food science publications.

Judges from top names in the food and drink industry including Marks and Spencer, Coca-Cola, Unilever, PepsiCo, Mondelez, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Warburtons and Food Manufacture listened to the teams pitches and tasted the products before carefully considering each entry for its industrial feasibility, taste, eco-innovation, originality, creativity and innovation, and market credibility.

Bertrand Emond, Head of Membership and Training at Campden BRI said, “Ecotrophelia has gone from strength to strength. Over 250 students from 12 different universities have entered since we brought the competition to the UK five years ago.

“We are delighted that Ecotrophelia has captured the imagination of the industry and we are very grateful for the continued support that the competition receives from the industry sponsors.

“Ecotrophelia showcases some of the brightest and best emerging food scientists and technologists in the UK. Innovation and creativity is essential for the continued success of the food industry so we hope that all the students will consider a career in the food industry when they finish their studies,” Emond said.

The University of Reading team will go on to compete against 19 other national teams from across Europe for the chance to win up to €6,000 at the Ecotrophelia European final, which will be held at Food Matters Live in London in November.

The UK heat of this Europe-wide competition was organised by UK food and drink research organisation, Campden BRI, in conjunction with the IFST, the independent qualifying body for food professionals in Europe.

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|    Aziz Idris    |

BRUNEI’S largest mobile phone showroom opened its door to the public yesterday during the soft opening of Mobile World Enterprise located in Kampong Pengkalan Gadong.

Visitors can wander through the 20,000-square-foot showroom and experience the latest technology.

Zubaidah Zainoh, the Managing Director of Mobile World, said customers can browse a full range of latest products from over 30 reputable brands including smartphones, tablets, accessories with laptops and cameras coming soon.

“Consumers will have one place to not only explore and learn about the full portfolio of mobile products, but also the support of an expert to help with selecting a product and servicing,” she noted.

Zubaidah said the company will also provide job opportunities for locals with up to 30 positions still available.

Zubaidah Zainoh (R) Managing Director of Mobile World and a customer. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

One of the inquiry and payment counters

She also invited local IT-related developers, distributors or resellers to join in the bandwagon and showcase their products at the showroom.

In-conjunction with the soft opening, Mobile World is giving-away free goody bags for all visitors as well as rewarding them with lucky draw prizes comprising top mobile brands until tomorrow. No purchase is necessary.

Mobile World invited all Muslims to break fast at the showroom for free from Thursday to the last day of Ramadhan from 6pm to 8pm.

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|     Daniel Lim     |

AS THE holy month of Ramadhan draws to a close, various companies throughout the country are stepping up efforts to give back to the local community.

One such company is Rennah Services Sdn Bhd; the Kuala Belait-based industrial machinery and equipment firm which recently made a series of donations to communities living in Ulu Belait.

The company’s managing directors, Masenah binti Haji Mohamad and Alan Wong, and other staff members of the company visited the households of selected residents in Kampong Merangking and Labi, and personally handed over the donations to the residents.

More than 20 residents – including orphans – received the donations, which comprised daily essentials.

The contributions were meant to lessen the financial burden of the recipients for the upcoming Hari Raya celebrations so that they are able to enjoy the festivities.

The company’s managing directors, Masenah binti Haji Mohamad, and Alan Wong along with a recipient

A group photo of one of the recipients along with the officers and staff members from Rennah Services Sdn Bhd. – PHOTOS: DANIEL LIM

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BANK Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) recently sent off its first BIBD Advocating Life-long Learning for an Aspiring Future (ALAF) scholar to continue her studies at the prestigious University of Al-Azhar, Egypt.

Norhafikah binti Haji Bakri will be pursuing her undergraduate studies in the field of Syariah Islamiah for four years.

Haji Minorhadi bin Haji Mirhassan, BIBD Head of Government Relations and Special Projects, commented, “We are extremely proud of Norhafikah for her achievements and wish her the best in her future studies. Alhamdulillah, BIBD has been granted the opportunity to be part of her journey to achieve her life-long ambitions, and we look forward to the successes of more students from the current and upcoming batches of the ALAF programme, Insya Allah.”

Norhafikah, a student under the BIBD ALAF programme scholarship, is the programme’s first student to continue her studies beyond the secondary level and also the first to be doing it overseas.

The BIBD ALAF programme currently supports the development of more than 140 students. The programme is supported by collaboration from both the public and private spheres, which include BIBD’s own charity expeditions for ALAF, contributions from corporate agencies, as well as the public.

The programme provides students provisions for school and tuition fees, educational material and welfare, as well as mentoring and counselling necessities.

Norhafikah binti Haji Bakri, the first BIBD ALAF scholar to continue her studies beyond the secondary level and first to be doing it overseas, at the Brunei International Airport. – BIBD

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|     Azlan Othman     |

YOUTH members from Kampong Bunut Perpindahan’s IKERAB association handed over donations to orphans residing in the village.

The fifth of its kind, this was an initiative by the association to assist the underprivileged and encourage its members to increase pious acts during the holy month of Ramadhan.

The event was also held to assist the orphans preparing to celebrate Hari Raya and lessen the burden of their guardians’ daily expenses.

Present as the guest of honour was Pehin Dato Indera Sugara Brigadier General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Haji Mohammad Yusof bin Abu Bakar.

Also in attendance were the Penghulu of Mukim Kilanas, Haji Abdullah bin Haji Halus; Acting Village Head of Kampong Bunut Perpindahan, Haji Durahim bin Duraman; Village Head of Kampong Tasek Meradun, Pengiran Haji Othman bin Pengiran Haji Sulaiman, as well as village residents.

The chairperson of the event, Pengiran Haji Wahab bin Pengiran Haji Ibrahim said 60 orphans received the donation totalling $12,432.

The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, Tahlil and later the handing over of donations. It ended with the breaking of fast with the orphans and mass Maghrib prayer.

Photos above & below show orphans receiving cash donation presented by the Penghulu of Mukim Kilanas, Haji Abdullah bin Haji Halus. – PHOTOS: AZLAN OTHMAN

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WINNERS from two competitions under ‘CoNECT with Progresif’, a recent corporate profiling event by Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD)’s Centre of Networking, Employment and Career Training (CoNECT) were presented prizes at Progresif’s headquarters in Gadong.

The two winners of the Hot Seat Competition are Mohammad Nuruddin Anuar, a recent gradu-ate of Professional Communications and the Media, and Nurul Syafiqah binti Abdullah, a final year student from UBD School of Business and Economics. They will start their six-month internship at Progresif in September where they will be rotated in different departments and exposed to a wide range of experiences.

The winning entry of the Business Competition was a short video on Progresif’s three core values submitted by Abdul Haziq Jazli bin Abdul Nasir, Chia Jia Yau, Haji Yusrizam bin Haji Abdul Tahir, and Munawwar Efinddi. Each member of the winning team received a one-year subscription to the Progresif Uni Plan.

Presenting the prizes to the winners were Progresif’s Chief Marketing Officer, Devin Edwards, and Chief Administration Officer, Nurul Hannah binti Jaafar. Also present at the ceremony was the Manager of UBD’s CoNECT, Gavin Crewe.

Held at UBD’s Business and Main Library from April 10-12, the three-day ‘CoNECT with Progresif’ consisted of career talks and workshops facilitated by the progresif team. This collaboration allowed students and alumni alike to interact with the Progresif team and learn about career development, experience mock interviews, receive helpful tips from the Human Resource team as well as get insights into the industry with talks from the Marketing team.

In line with UBD’s continuous effort to equip its students and graduates with the skills relevant to Brunei and internationally, UBD CoNECT conducts career-related activities to help them compete in the job market.

It is committed to collaborating with companies and corporations, assisting and promoting their brand on campus with sharing sessions and workshops, while exposing UBD students to potential recruitment opportunities.

The ‘CoNECT with Progresif’ teams in a group photo with the winners

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A 50-YEAR-OLD man was burnt to death after being trapped in the bedroom on the ground floor of his two-storey house at Kampong Pengkalan Mau, Jalan Kuala Abang, Mukim Kiudang which caught fire yesterday.

Mohd Saiful bin Haji Mohd Salleh’s body was found by firefighters.

After receiving a call at 11.58am, the Fire and Rescue Department dispatched a fire engine with four personnel from the Lamunin Fire Station, led by DSO Hisyhamuddin.

Another fire engine from the Tutong Fire Station with two personnel was also sent to assist in fire fighting operations.

Upon arriving at the scene, firefighters who saw the two-storey house engulfed in fire, managed to control it within three minutes.

Two residents of the house, Hajah Surani binti Haji Mohd Salleh and Molinah binti Haji Mohd Salleh were unharmed.

According to the Fire and Rescue Department, initial investigations revealed unattended cooking had led to the fire. The estimated loss amount is approximately $20,000.

A firefighter putting out the flame

The post One dead as house catches fire appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

SEVEN premises were found to have committed offences under the Price Control Act, Chapter 142 during a surprise visit conducted by Consumer Affairs Division (BHEP) under the Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE), Prime Minister’s Office to some business premises in the Tutong District yesterday.

The offences were mainly not displaying price tags and displaying prices exceeding the maximum prices set on Selected Food During Festive Season such as butter, margarine, creamer, evaporated milk and flour.

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 surprise visit aimed to ensure that Price Controlled items under the Price Control Act, Chapter 142, especially cooking oil and powdered formulated milk, are not sold above the maximum prices. Meanwhile, rice is not sold above the subsidised price. The inspection is intended 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.

Also 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 sold exceeding the set maximum prices.

The initiative also aimed to assist the citizens with their preparation for the upcoming festive season. 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 surprise visit. – JPKE

The visit also aimed to monitor stores participating in Jualan Aneka Brunei (JAB) to ensure compliance with the sales regulations set by JPKE, which include to display price in a clear manner on goods sold; display of original price, discounted price and/or discount percentage; and display clearly the Participation Notice throughout JAB; and monitor the prices of selected goods listed under the amendment of the customs import tax and excise duties of the Royal Customs and Excise Department, Ministry of Finance such as sweetened beverages and monosodium glutamate (MSG).

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

Meanwhile, action can be taken on businesses which sell goods 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 practice the concept of ‘Smart Consumer’, that is to compare prices of different stores before making any purchase to get the best value for money.

In an effort to inculcate the ‘smart consumer’ concept, JPKE has launched a mobile application called PenggunaBijak/SmartConsumer that provides a platform to compare prices of daily necessities and price controlled goods; access to consumer related laws and a channel to lodge consumer complaints.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

OFFICIALS of the Ministry of Health (MoH) visited the houses of less fortunate patients yesterday to present them donations.

The donations, which included contributions as well as basic necessity items and medical equipment, were given to patients and families identified and registered at the Medical Welfare Section.

Three delegations from the ministry – one each in Brunei-Muara, Tutong and Belait districts – visited 12 patients and their families this year.

The delegation in Brunei-Muara District was led by Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, the Minister of Health. Meanwhile, the delegation in Tutong District was led by Dr Hajah Maslina binti Haji Mohsin, Acting Permanent Secretary at the MoH, while the group in Belait District was led by Dr Hazri bin Haji Kifle, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy) at the MoH.

According to a press release from the MoH, the annual visits are organised to present donations collected from the section’s Patient Assistance Charity Fund obtained through contributions from members of the MoH, associations, the private sector and individuals.

The Medical Welfare Section is among the sections that play an important role in helping less fortunate patients in terms of their socio-economic situation.

“The concern and contributions given are hoped to help lessen the burden of those in need as well as to provide encouragement to others in assisting these people,” the press release said.

Members of the Brunei Medical Association, Allied Health Association, Brunei Darussalam Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists and Brunei Darussalam Nurses Association also participated in the visits.

Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, the Minister of Health presenting a donation to one of the recipients

The Tutong delegation visiting a family in the district. – PHOTOS: SYAHMI HASSAN AND MINISTRY OF HEALTH

During the presentation of the donation at the house of a patient in Belait District

The Tutong District delegation pose for a group photo at the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Hospital in Tutong District

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