Headline – Borneo Bulletin Online

| Khairil Hassan |

THE DST Super League and DST Premier League is set to resume tomorrow after a break of more than a month.

The two leagues have been on a break since May 21 due to Ramadhan and Hari Raya celebrations.

The top-tier DST Super League kicks off tomorrow night with a game between Jerudong FC and Najip I-Team at the Berakas Sports Complex.

Saturday’s games will see league leaders Kota Ranger FC meet Wijaya FC at the Tutong Sports Complex while second-placed Kasuka FC face the Royal Brunei Police Force Sports Council (MS PDB) at the Berakas Sports Complex.

All three games kick off at 8.15pm.

Meanwhile on Sunday, Tabuan Muda A meet Lun Bawang at the Balapan Track & Field at 3pm while Menglait FC face defending champions the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Sports Council (MS ABDB) at the Berakas Sports Complex at 8.15pm.

A Jerudong FC (R) player dribbles past a Wijaya FC player during their DST Super League game at the Berakas Sports Complex on April 30. – NFABD

The second-tier DST Premier League will resume tomorrow when Rimba FC take on Panchor Murai FC at the Balapan Track & Field at 8.15pm.

IKLS FC face Setia Perdana at the Sungai Kebun Sports Complex at 8.15pm on Saturday night while Brunei Shell Recreation Club FT host Tabuan Muda B at the BSRC field in Seria at 4pm on Sunday.

This week’s round of action concludes on Monday when DSP United meet Tunas FC at the Sungai Kebun Sports Complex at 8.15pm.

An updated fixture list was released on June 21, with the schedule revised to give the teams more time to rest in between each game – which means the season is now longer.

The one-round DST Premier League will end on August 5 while the second round schedule for the DST Super League will be released on a later date.

More information on both leagues can be obtained by visiting www.nfabd.org.

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| Fadhil Yunus |

SHAH United ended their campaign in the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Futsal Club Championship without a victory to their name after a 10-2 mauling by Thailand’s Thai Port at the Bangkok Arena in Bangkok, Thailand yesterday.

The Brunei-based outfit lost all three games in Group ‘A’ during their debut in the regional competition including an 8-1 loss to Pyay United in the opening game and a 6-3 defeat to Permata Indah Manokwari in the penultimate game.

However, the tournament debutants can take some consolation with the fact that they have scored more goals than their group opponents against the reigning holders with two while Permata could only manage once and none for Pyay United.

Shah United’s conquerors will play Melaka United while second-placed Permata who beat Pyay United 9-4 to clinch the other qualifying berth will meet Group ‘B’ winners Sanna Khanh Hoa in the semi-finals.

Malaysian club Melaka began their final group match outside the qualifying places knowing they would go through with victory over already eliminated Vientiane United provided if a winner was confirmed in the other game.

Shah United and Thai Port team captains in a group photo during a Group ‘A’ encounter. – ASEAN FOOTBALL

A draw would have been enough for both Sanna and East Coast Heat to progress but a 6-2 win for the former confirmed their place and ensured Melaka overtook the Australian club for the last slot.

Shah United have scored six goals which was largely contributed by the Indonesian imports Anton Cahyo Nugroho and Denis Guna Bawana but shipped 24 goals in the competition.

The club’s marquee signing Anton Cahyo Nugroho became the first goal-scorer for Shah United in a regional competition and led the club’s scoring charts in the competition with three goals with compatriot Denis notching a goal prior to the final match.

Thai Port are gunning for a historic third title having won the competition twice in 2015 and 2016 while the trio of clubs from Indonesia, Vietnam and Malaysia will be looking to become the first winner from their country to win the region’s biggest futsal prize.

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| Syazwani Hj Rosli |

A TOTAL of 1,782 new students yesterday attended the opening of the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) Orientation Week for the July 2017 intake at the International Convention Centre in Berakas.

IBTE Chief Executive Officer cum guest of honour Dr Chin Wei Keh joined Acting Deputy CEO (Academic) Walter Chong, the senior IBTE management team, registrars, divisional directors, academic and operational managers, school heads, and other staff members at the opening ceremony.

The morning began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa, followed by the welcoming address from Walter Chong, who highlighted that the Orientation Week will be beneficial to the new students, particularly in providing them clear direction in their academic journey at IBTE.

“I would like to remind all of you to adopt a positive attitude and to have a strong determination to succeed. You should be proud to be part of the IBTE family now,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr Chin Wei Keh urged the new students to make full use of their time at IBTE not only to develop skill sets and competencies, but also themselves – towards becoming individuals of great worth.

According to him, IBTE does not confine students’ education to classroom teaching and the learning and absorbing of theoretical knowledge. At IBTE, students are also exposed to hands-on skills training provided at the institute’s authentic learning centre and workshops run at the campus, as well as at actual worksites during their industrial placement.

IBTE students taking the oath. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR

IBTE Student Council leading the oath

IBTE Chief Executive Officer Dr Chin Wei Keh, centre, at the opening ceremony

“We also encourage our students to participate in extracurricular activities that will help them build different skill sets such as communication skills, people skills, leadership skills and so forth, and most importantly to develop a positive character and uphold our national Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) values within themselves,” said Dr Chin in his speech.

“We believe that by developing all of you holistically in both the soft and hard skills, you will be job-ready upon graduating from IBTE,” he added.

The ceremony continued with the singing of the national anthem, followed by the reading of the student oath led by incumbent IBTE Student Council members.

A presentation aimed at familiarising the new intake with IBTE’s two network of schools was delivered. Talks were also delivered by various government agencies including the Ministry of Education (MoE), Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF), Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and Ministry of Health (MoH).

As part of their orientation, the new students will take part in programmes designed to ease their transition into the IBTE community at their respective campuses. These will include opportunities to meet with key IBTE administrators, instructors and staff members, as well as participation in talks and social activities geared towards aiding the new students to acclimatise to IBTE and life as technical students.

Muhammad Fa’adhli bin Haji Rosli, left, and his colleague

Speaking to the Bulletin, new student Muhammad Fa’adhli bin Haji Rosli, who is enrolled in the HNTec in Computer Networking at IBTE Jefri Bolkiah Campus, said he believes that education is a lifelong process, and is grateful to have been given a second chance to continue his studies after failing to attain good grades in his GCE ‘A’ Level examinations two years ago.

“It is not over until one gives up trying, and this won’t be me. I believe that there is a reason for everything and I know that a huge adventure awaits me. This is the start of my new academic journey and I really hope this programme will give me a solid foundation for my future,” he said.

For this year’s intake, IBTE is offering 832 National Technical Education Certificate (NTec) and 950 Higher National Technical Education Certificate (HNTec) programmes places across its seven campuses.

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| Hakim Hayat |

A GROUP of local secondary school students hopes to ignite the passion of more young Bruneians in science and technology leadership and innovation through their participation in the inaugural robotics challenge for high school students worldwide organised by First Global in Washington DC, United States next week.

The dynamic team of seven students, with ages ranging 15-18 from different secondary schools nationwide were selected by a panel of Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) lecturers in March this year and were convened a month later to prepare for the Olympics-style robotics competition from July 16-18, which will see the participation of hundreds of high school students from 160 countries.

First Global is a US-based non-profit charity organisation and its maiden annual international robotics challenge for high school students aims to build bridges between high school students with different backgrounds, languages, religions, and customs. They also aim to ignite a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) among the more than two billion youths across the world through its robotics challenge.

By bringing these future STEM leaders together in an engaging and collaborative competition that drives home the importance, excitement, and applicability of STEM education, First Global hopes to inspire students to learn the skills they will need to make the discoveries their parents and grandparents would consider miracles, impossibilities, or just plain science fiction.

First Global also strives to convince the various national governments and organisations of the world to embrace STEM education, and to support it by investing in their young adults that will soon begin to make their marks in the world.

A mentor of the group, UTB lecturer at the Electrical and Electronic Engineering Department Sharina Yunus said that they have received sponsorships from several companies to make their participation possible and hopes that more will come forward, especially in empowering the young bright minds of the country for our future development.

She hopes that by assembling and mentoring the young Bruneian robotics team to participate in the competition, it will pave way for more awareness on robotics sciences among young Bruneian students and ignite more interest among them, as she feels that its development in the country is often not well known of. “We want this to be a start to cultivate more awareness on robotics among Bruneian students, to inculcate the mindset earlier among them and from their participation, we want to keep this going by conducting sharing sessions with other schools and we want this to be an annual participation from Brunei,” she said.

Participants working on their project. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

Participants and their lecturers in a group photo

In the competition, teams from each countries are provided with kits to build a robot that they will showcase and use during the official game of the 2017 First Global Challenge, H2O FLOW!, which revolves around the theme of access to clean water.

This year’s robotics challenge will reflect how all levels of society and countries need to cooperate as a global society to solve the water crisis. Teams representing over a hundred countries will be organised into two competing alliances, each alliance composed of three national teams that rearrange into different alliances for each match. These alliances are tasked with accomplishing engineering tasks such as the storing of drinkable water, filtering of contaminated water, and procuring of new sources water.

In the game, the teams learn about real-world water scarcity and contamination issues through a real-life simulation of two villages that exist on either side of a contaminated river. The teams will compete to create and store purified water in their respective reserves. In a laboratory up stream, the villagers come together to research the contaminants and ultimately create a purification system so contaminants are removed before they reach the villages, thus providing clean water for all. In the end, each village prepares for the coming flood by searching for higher ground.

One of the leaders from the Bruneian team, Iffah Wirdani binti Azman, 16, from Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Girls Arabic Religious Secondary School said that since April, they started with prop robots for practice earlier and have ever since gained momentum on manoeuvring the robots and also building the robots with the help from their mentors. “It didn’t come without any challenge but it was pretty smooth overall and right now we are just finalising the product and hopefully we will finish it by this week,” she said.

Another team member, Syasya Jamain, 15, from Jerudong International School said the journey benefited all of them because they weren’t all too familiar with the world of robotics at first. “Through this we learnt the importance of it and how it really benefits a lot of people and how we can help contribute to society,” she said.

Both Iffah and Syasya said they have always had an interest on mechanical and robotic science since they were young but never thought that they would enter a competition like this.

They also mentioned that interest about robotics in their school is very limited and people rarely talk about it but hopes that with their participation they hope to widen the understanding and make people know the importance of this technology and how it exists and will continue to grow for the future.

First Global hopes that by empowering the young minds of tomorrow through STEM, countries would help accelerate economic growth, and obtain secure and peaceful livelihoods for their nations and said this will require the collective efforts of individuals, corporations, governments, and nonprofits willing to invest in STEM education and infrastructure.

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| Azaraimy HH |

THE public were yesterday urged to refrain from petting or feeding wild animals and avoid getting bitten, as a precaution against rabies following several cases reported in neighbouring countries.

“Parents should advice their children to avoid contact with wild animals,” Dr Ong Sok King, Medical Specialist, Public Health Services, Ministry of Health (MoH) told a press conference yesterday.

The public should seek immediate medical attention if bitten by an animal. Persons planning to travel to countries with reported cases of rabies should also seek advice from medical practitioners, she said.

The public can also contact Darussalam Line 123 for enquiries.

Dr Ong said rabies is a viral disease that can be transmitted to humans by contact with saliva from infected animals, commonly through broken skin and mucous membrane via bites or scratches.

Most rabies infection in Asia are transmitted through dog bites. However other mammals such as cats, monkeys and bats can also carry and transmit the rabies virus, she said.

The rabies virus can cause serious complications to the brain and nerves. The incubation period of rabies from being infected to onset of clinical symptoms is about one to three months on average.

Dr Ong Sok King, Medical Specialist, Public Health Services. – AZARAIMY HH

Symptoms of rabies include fever, headache, weakness, confusion, slight or partial paralysis, excitation, hallucinations, agitation, hypersalivation (increase in saliva), diffi-culty swallowing, and hydro-phobia (fear of water).

Death usually occurs within days of the onset of these symptoms in the absence of post exposure treatment.

In Brunei Darussalam, rabies in human is a notifiable disease under the Infectious Diseases Act (Chap 204). In line with the Asean Rabies Elimination Strategy (ARES) for eradication of rabies infec-tion in the region, the MoH has included surveillance of dog bites in humans. Hospital and clinics (government and private) are required to notify dog bites to the Disease Control Division (DCD), Public Health Services, MoH. Over the past 12 months, 25 cases of dog bites have been notified for risk assessment and surveillance.

No human cases of rabies have been reported in Brunei up to date.

The MoH works closely with the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism on information sharing of disease surveillance in human and animal point network in early warning and surveillance of diseases.

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| James Kon |

MEMBERS of the public can now get their hands on the limited edition $50 polymer note that commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore, which was launched by 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 and Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong yesterday.

The special note, carrying the ‘Flourishing Growth’ theme, is issued by both Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) and Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).

In marking the occasion, AMBD is making available five types of numismatic sets.

The Identical Numbered Notes set contains one $50 Brunei commemorative note and one $50 Singapore commemorative note sharing the same serial number with the CIA prefix. It is priced at $300, with only 5,000 sets available.

The 3-in-1 Uncut Sheet set contains three $50 Brunei commemorative notes. Priced at $400, only 2,000 sets are available.

The 8-in-1 Uncut Sheet set contains eight $50 Brunei commemorative notes. Only 1,000 sets are available, each priced at $1,000.

Meanwhile, the 40-in-1 uncut sheet is priced at $4,500 a piece, and contains 40 $50 Brunei Commemorative notes. Only 200 sets are for sale.

Sales of the numismatic sets commenced yesterday, while the coffee table book will only be available on July 7 – on a first come, first served basis at the AMBD Currency Gallery Gift Shop, BCMB Building of Ministry of Finance Complex, Commonwealth Drive at Jalan Kebangsaan.

Aside from the limited edition numismatic sets, AMBD and MAS will be issuing commemorative notes which the public can exchange for both the Brunei $50 and Singapore $50 notes. Each set will be accompanied by a complimentary folder to commemorate the special occasion and is available from branches of Baiduri Bank, Bank of China (Hong Kong), Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD), Maybank, RHB bank, Standard Chartered Bank, UOB and Perbadanan TAIB from July 7. Only 250,000 sets are available.

The commemorative notes housed in exclusive leatherette boxes, and the Coffee Table Book

The 40-in-1 uncut sheet set

Currency Management Unit Acting Executive Director Pengiran Maslina binti Pengiran Haji Mahmud, Currency Management Unit Managers Haji Saihin bin Haji Muhammad and Md Shafei bin Haji Osma as well as AMBD Corporate Communications Acting Head Dayangku Sri Joedianna binti Pengiran Haji Mohammed at the press conference. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR

The announcement of the limited edition $50 polymer notes to commemorating the golden jubilee was made by Currency Management Unit Acting Executive Director Pengiran Maslina binti Pengiran Haji Mahmud, as well as Haji Saihin bin Haji Muhammad and Md Shafei bin Haji Osma, both managers at the Currency Management Unit.

Also in attendance was AMBD Corporate Communications Acting Head Dayangku Sri Joedianna binti Pengiran Haji Mohammed.

Touching on the unique features of the note, she said, “The Brunei Darussalam and Singapore 50 commemorative notes feature the same design elements and layout. It is predominantly gold in colour to signify the golden jubilee.”

The 50th anniversary logo of the currency interchangeability agreement is a key feature on the front of the note. It shows a unifying flower motif comprising a prominent flower found in Brunei Darussalam – the Simpur, and Singapore’s national flower- the Vanda Miss Joaquim.

The radiating flower petals symbolise the flourishing growth friendship between the two nations.

The unique element in the note is the see through, colour shifting window security feature that depicts Brunei Darussalam’s Istana Nurul Iman and Singapore’s Istana.

A portrait of His Majesty is shown on the Brunei note while the Singapore note features a portrait of first Singapore president, Yusof bin Ishak.

The back design of the note portrays the close collaboration between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore in areas of defence, education and tourism. The bilateral defence cooperation is depicted by military personnel from the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and the Singapore Armed Forces in their ceremonial uniforms.

Collaboration in education is represented by students from both countries engaging in cross cultural learning and exchange of ideas. The Ulu Temburong National Park, the ‘Green Jewel of Brunei,’ and Singapore’s Botanic Gardens, UNESCO World Heritage sites, are also featured.

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HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam yesterday evening attended a State Banquet hosted by President of the Republic of Singapore Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam and his spouse, in honour of Their Majesties’ State Visit to the City State.

The event was held at the Istana in Singapore.

Upon arrival at the Istana, His Majesty and Her Majesty were welcomed by the President of Singapore and wife.

Accompanying Their Majesties to the State Banquet were His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

His Majesty and Her Majesty, together with the President of Singapore and his wife, proceeded to the Reception Hall where Their Majesties were introduced to special guests and envoys of Asean member countries to the Republic of Singapore. Their Majesties were also introduced to the 13 recipients of the ‘Sultan’s Scholar’ who are currently on a training programme in Singapore.

Their Majesties then joined for a group photo session before proceeding to the Banquet Hall for the State Banquet.

The State Banquet began with a welcoming address by the president, where he expressed his gratitude and pleasure in welcoming His Majesty and Her Majesty to Singapore.

During the banquet, His Majesty delivered a titah expressing pleasure for the warm welcome and gracious hospitality accorded to Their Majesties during their stay in the country.

His Majesty delivering the titah

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, and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, with President of the Republic of Singapore Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam and his spouse, in a group photo with the recipients of the Sultan’s Scholar. - PHOTOS: INFOFOTO

His Majesty mingling with the Sultan’s Scholar recipients

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik in conversation

His Majesty then highlighted that the 50th anniversary of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore is a testimony of the enduring ties between the two countries, dating back to the friendship between Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam and the late Lee Kuan Yew.

The monarch further stated that such bonds of friendship have developed into robust forms of cooperation in many areas such as defence, healthcare and education.

His Majesty was also pleased to note that both countries have placed continued emphasis in nurturing their special relationship.

The monarch said that the state-to-state relations must also bring mutual benefits to the peoples, highlighting the importance of people-to-people exchanges to enable the future generation to build and enrich the special relationship between the two nations.

On future cooperation, His Majesty reiterated the importance of enhancing closer cooperation in other areas, especially in agro-based industry.

The monarch said that Singapore has embarked on becoming a ‘Smart City’ and wished the country every success in its drive to survive and prosper through innovation as the country moves forward in the 21st Century.

In concluding the titah, His Majesty extended Brunei Darussalam’s full support for Singapore’s chairmanship of Asean in 2018.

As Asean celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, His Majesty said Brunei looks forward to working closely with Singapore towards a future that will continue to benefit people in both countries.

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HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, yesterday attended the launching of the joint exhibition on ‘Brunei-Singapore Relation’ as well as luncheons hosted by Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore, and wife, respectively.

Accompanying Their Majesties were His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Joint Exhibition

Upon arrival at the Singapore Philatelic Museum for the launching of the exhibition, Their Majesties were greeted by Dr Mohamad Maliki bin Osman, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Grace Fu Hai Yien, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth; and Professor Cheah Jin Seng, Chairman of the Singapore Philatelic Museum.

Also present to greet Their Majesties was Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports.

Their Majesties as well as the Prime Minister of Singapore and wife then proceeded to see a traditional dance performance by a delegation from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports of Brunei Darussalam.

This was followed by the opening remarks by Professor Cheah Jin Seng.

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 and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, in a group photo with Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore, and wife, during the launching of the joint exhibition on ‘Brunei-Singapore Relation’. Also seen are His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah

His Majesty and the Prime Minister of Singapore during the launching of the exhibition

ABOVE & BELOW: Their Majesties touring the exhibition

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, during the launching of the exhibition

ABOVE & BELOW: Some of the displays exhibited at the museum. – PHOTOS: INFOFOTO

Then, His Majesty and the Prime Minister of Singapore jointly launched the exhibition, which was followed by a group photo session.

Their Majesties viewed some of the displays exhibited at the museum where Haji Mohammad Abdoh bin Haji Awang Damit, Brunei’s Acting Director of Arts and Culture and Tresnawati Prihadi, General Manager of Singapore Philatelic Museum briefed Their Majesties.

Before leaving the museum, Their Majesties as well as the Prime Minister of Singapore and wife joined a group photo session.

This joint exhibition celebrates the friendly relations between the two countries as well as the golden jubilee of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement between them.

A similar exhibition will be held in Brunei Darussalam in November this year.

It is hoped that the people in both countries will better appreciate each other’s culture, history as well as the political and socio-economic relations.

His Majesty during the luncheon hosted by the Prime Minister of Singapore at the Lewin Terrace

Her Majesty during the luncheon hosted by Madam Ho Ching, wife of the Prime Minister of Singapore at the Grand Hyatt Singapore

ABOVE & BELOW: Also seen are His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah, and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna

Luncheon

Before the event, Their Majesties attended separate luncheons.

His Majesty attended a luncheon hosted by the Prime Minister of Singapore at the Lewin Terrace while Her Majesty attended a luncheon hosted by Ho Ching, wife of the Prime Minister of Singapore at the Grand Hyatt Singapore.

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HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister of Singapore jointly launched the new $50 commemorative notes issued by the two countries in a ceremony held yesterday at the Istana, Singapore, to mark the 50th anniversary of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore.

The Currency Interchangeability Agreement took effect on June 12, 1967 between the two countries to facilitate improved economic and trade relations between the parties, and is a key economic cooperation between them.

It was signed by the then Chairman of the Brunei Currency Board (now known as Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam or AMBD) and the Chairman of the Board of Commissioners Currency, Singapore (which merged with the Monetary Authority of Singapore also known as MAS in 2002).

Under the agreement, AMBD and MAS will accept the currency issued by the other, and exchange it at par and without charge, into their own currency. Banks in both countries will accept for deposit from the general public and businesses, currency issued by the other country at par.

Through the years, the agreement has brought about economic benefits and strengthened the financial links between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore.

The new commemorative notes

The joint launch of the new $50 commemorative notes reaffirms to the public, retailers and financial institutions in both countries that Brunei Darussalam and Singapore currency notes are still interchangeable at par, AMBD and MAS said in a joint statement.

The commemorative notes will be made available to the general public both in Brunei Darussalam and Singapore from July 5, 2017, while

the circulation notes will be available tomorrow at 2pm across all banks and their branches in both countries, it added.

For more information on the 50th anniversary of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore, visit AMBD’s website at www.ambd.gov.bn or download the AMBD App through the Appstore or Google Playstore.

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AMID changes in the global landscape, the Currency Interchangeability Agreement between Brunei Darussalam and the Republic of Singapore continues to provide certainty, generate economic benefits and strengthen financial links between the two nations by facilitating trade and investments.

This was stated in a titah delivered by 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, who is currently on a four-day State Visit to the City State, during the launching of the new commemorative notes in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement between Brunei and Singapore at the State Room yesterday.

The 50th anniversary of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement marks another significant milestone for both countries, the monarch said, adding that “the agreement’s success, which has contributed to macroeconomic stability, is also a tribute to the enduring relations of Brunei Darussalam and Singapore”.

His Majesty expressed pleasure that the monetary authorities of both countries are exploring deeper collaboration and expressed confidence that the Currency Interchangeability Agreement will provide further stability and growth between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore.

At the ceremony, His Majesty was accompanied by Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, delivering a titah during the launching of the new commemorative notes in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement between Brunei and Singapore at the State Room

The new commemorative notes

The launching ceremony began with a video presentation and an opening address by Lee Hsien Loong.

Following the titah, the Prime Minister of Singapore and His Majesty jointly launched the new commemorative notes.

The ceremony concluded with the exchange of gifts between His Majesty and Lee Hsien Loong.

His Majesty and the President of Singapore, Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam on the dais receiving the royal salute

His Majesty, accompanied by the President of Singapore, inspecting the royal guard of honour mounted by the Military Police of the Singapore Armed Forces

Welcoming ceremony

Earlier in the day, His Majesty and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, attended the official welcoming ceremony in honour of the State Visit of Their Majesties, at the Istana in Singapore.

Upon arrival at the Istana, Their Majesties were greeted by Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam, President of the Republic of Singapore and his wife, Mary Chee Bee Kiang.

Then, His Majesty and the President of Singapore together proceeded to the dais where His Majesty received the royal salute. This was followed by the hoisting of flags and national anthems of both countries. Afterwards, His Majesty was accompanied by the President of Singapore to inspect the royal guard of honour mounted by the Military Police of the Singapore Armed Forces.

His Majesty then signed the guest book before proceeding to a different venue where Their Majesties were introduced to the state dignitaries of the Republic of Singapore. This was followed by the introduction of Brunei Darussalam’s delegation to the President of Singapore and wife.

Their Majesties as well as the President of Singapore and wife then proceeded for a group photo session.

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 and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, in a group photo with Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam, President of the Republic of Singapore and his wife, Mary Chee Bee Kiang, during the welcoming ceremony. Also seen are His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar

His Majesty during the official meeting with the President of Singapore. Also seen is His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik

Official meeting

After the welcoming ceremony, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Dr Tony Tan proceeded to the West Drawing Room for an official meeting.

During the meeting, His Majesty and the President of Singapore exchanged views on bilateral issues as well as regional and international matters of mutual interest.

Following the meeting, the launching of the new commemorative notes was held at the State Room.

Her Majesty attending a tea ceremony hosted by Mary Chee Bee Kiang at the Istana. – PHOTOS: INFOFOTO

Tea ceremony

On a separate occasion, Her Majesty, yesterday attended a tea ceremony hosted by Mary Chee Bee Kiang, wife of the President of Singapore, at the Istana.

After the tea ceremony, Her Majesty visited the Istana Heritage Gallery.

Upon arrival at the gallery, Her Majesty and Mary Chee Bee Kiang were greeted by Tracey Tee, Senior Manager of the gallery.

During the visit, Her Majesty had the opportunity to view the exhibition that explains the history of establishment of the Istana. The gallery also showcases gifts from foreign leaders to the President of Singapore.

Before leaving the gallery, Her Majesty signed a parchment.

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| James Kon |

THE Brunei Darussalam Basketball Association (BBA) is sending a contingent of 45 players and officials to participate in the 19th Borneo City Invitational Basketball Tournament in Miri, Sarawak from July 7-9.

Brunei will be participating in all three categories of the competition which are Men, Women and Veteran. Other teams are from Kota Kinabalu, Miri and Labuan.

In the Men’s category, the Brunei team consist of a mix of senior and young players. The team members are Lim Aik Hock, Benjamin Lim, Choo Yung Jian, Ahmad Termizi, Soon Kian Leong, Khoo Chin Kai, Darren Yap, Samuel Jong, Ching Wei Ming, Lim Jia Hom, Cheong Yan Shing and Yeo Chun Kiat.

The women’s team is represented by Lim Siau Mei, Yu Tze Tee, Farhana Haji Md Kipli, Masgitah Nurulalam Abdullah, Vanessa Pang, Wong Kung Hui, Dayangku Normawarashikin Pengiran Ali, Alexa Khoo, Effie Lim, Jong Yee Ling, Wardah Me’raj and Nursuzianty Izlim.

Meanwhile, Lim Fung, Ang Han Then, Tony Tan, Ho Poh San, Lim Boon Teck, Daniel Chung, Ho Hee Lee, Koh Chern Ping, Phung Say Shin, Chen Yiek Seng, Yan Wan Fung and Pong Seh Woei make up the Brunei Veteran team.

Deputy Chairman of BBA, Ang Han Then will be leading the contingent.

The teams pose with the sponsored jerseys. – JAMES KON

To help boost the teams, three companies have stepped forward to sponsor team jerseys. Team jerseys for the Men’s, Women’s and Veteran’s were sponsored by Little Wonder, Agogo Salon / MB Star and Easyway respectively. Jaron On of Easyway presented the sponsored jerseys.

In an interview, Coach Fong Yen Leong of the Men’s team said they will give all their might to compete in the tournament.

Last year, Brunei Men’s team stood last in the same tournament, and he hopes to improve the team’s position this year.

Despite only a month-long training preparation, he said, “The team has a good mix of young talents and senior players. This tournament provides a good opportunity for the young players to gain experience while senior players can also show their leadership skills to guide the young players.”

The young coach also acknowledged that the host, Miri and Kota Kinabalu would be the teams to beat this year.

Meanwhile, uniforms for the whole contingent are co-sponsored by Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, 5.11, Atlas Ice, Manzo Enterprise, TK Restaurant, GHY Construction, George LHT Enterprise, Little Wonder, Easyway and Bukit Ladang.

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| Fadhil Yunus |

BRUNEI Darussalam have been drawn in Group ‘B’ of the Asean Zone in the 2018 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Futsal Championship qualifiers this November following a qualification draw held at the AFC House in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia yesterday.

The qualification process for the Asean teams has already been known prior to the announcement which is set to compete in an AFF tournament between November 23 and October 3.

The draw and group allocation for Asean teams have already been announced with the top two teams from each group clinching a place in the tournament proper which is set in February next year.

The four zones that will be involved in the qualifying process are nations in the Asia Pacific, the South and Central Zone the West Zone and lastly the East Zone or teams domiciled in the Middle East.

A total of 29 teams in Asia have been registered to participate in the championship including Brunei Darussalam with only 16 making it to the finals.

The hosts for next year’s regional showpiece have not been decided but four countries namely Thailand, Lebanon, Iran and Chinese Taipei have expressed interest to stage the tournament.

The Wasps will be huge underdogs having been handed a tough test with the likes of designated hosts Vietnam, Thailand and Indonesia in the same group.

Vietnam have proven that they belong in the world stage after famously qualifying for the FIFA Futsal World Cup after shocking heavily fancied Japan in the quarterfinals of the continental competition last year.

The Golden Stars, who never qualified for the World Cup, produced one of the game’s greatest upsets when they emerged victorious in penalties after a 4-4 draw in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Vietnam continued their impressive form after advancing to the knock-out stage in the first attempt only bowing out of the competition after losing to eventual finalists Russia in Medellin, Colombia.

The AFF member association’s strong showing catapulted them from 70th place to the world top 40 teams in the official futsal world rankings.

Thailand will be the highest ranked nation in the group who is 15th while Indonesia are ranked 51st. According to the futsal world rankings, Brunei are currently ranked in 109th place ahead of the likes of Gibraltar, Malta and San Marino.

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IN ITS continuous efforts to better serve customers, Baiduri Bank relocated its Serusop branch to a brand new location this week. Centrally located within the Serusop commercial area, the new branch is in a prominent spot in Kg Delima at the newly constructed Pelangi Complex, about 500 metres down the road from the old premises.

Offering full banking services to individuals and businesses as well as complimentary personal financial planning consultation, there is also a Prestige Centre to cater for Baiduri Bank’s high net worth segment.

According to a press release, the upgraded premise is also equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi as well as new ATMs to cater to the growing number of customers transacting electronically. Its modern décor reflects the dynamism and innovative spirit of Baiduri Bank.

The branch relocation and upgrade works is part of Baiduri Bank’s long term branch network configuration project which seeks to revitalise each branch to suit the market demographic segment.

The new Serusop branch operates at normal banking hours of 9am to 4pm on Mondays to Thursdays, 9am to noon and 2pm to 4pm on Fridays, and 9am to 11.30am on Saturdays.

Baiduri Bank’s Serusop branch. – BAIDURI BANK

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| Izah Azahari |

THE Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic Boys Secondary School emerged as champions of the ‘Tuturan Pelajar’ Competition 2017 after an absorbing finals yesterday at RTB’s headquarters in Bandar Seri Begawan.

The competition was organised by the Narcotics Control Bureau in cooperation with the Akli Unit of the Co-Curriculum Education Department under the Ministry of Education (MoE) and Radio Television Brunei (RTB) for sixth form students and Institute of Brunei Technical Education.

Present as guest of honour to hand over the prizes was Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, the Deputy Minister of Education.

The champions brought home with them $350, a champions’ trophy, individual trophies and certificates of participation after notching an overall score of 80.45 per cent. The runners up spot went to Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College – the team finished with a score of 73.64 per cent and won $300 cash, an accompanying trophy, individual trophies and certificates of participation.

Meanwhile, the title for ‘Best Panel’ went to Ahmad Ghadafi bin Abdul Nasir, while his teammate, Muhd Ruzaini bin Haji Rosli, received the title of ‘Best Chairman’.

The competition’s third-place went to Sayyidina Abu Bakar Secondary School; the team won $250, an accompanying trophy, individual trophies and certificates of participation.

The finals began with a recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat, followed by a welcoming speech from the event chairman, Haji Azis bin Haji Nayan, Acting Director of the Co-Curiculum Education Department under the MoE.

Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic Boys Secondary School students during the finals of the ‘Tuturan Pelajar’ Competition 2017

The team from Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College during the finals. – PHOTOS: IZAH AZAHARI

Guest of honour Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, the Deputy Minister of Education, watching the competition

Ahmad Ghadafi bin Abdul Nasir receiving the ‘Best Panel’ trophy from the guest of honour

Muhd Ruzaini bin Haji Rosli receiving the ‘Best Chairman’ trophy

The team from Sayyidina Abu Bakar Secondary School receiving their prizes

In his speech, the chairman explained that this year’s theme “Love Yourself” is centred on drug abuse, and 23 related topics have been prepared by the organisers for the schools to choose from; the aim is to get the participating school teams to peel through the issue from religious, economic, health and societal perspectives.

“The forum is an activity that acts as a facilitator to discuss and elaborate information, current issues, as well as major issues that are of concern to the community, on top of acting as a meeting of intellectuals to exchange thoughts and discuss current issues through two-way discussions between a chairperson and panel members witnessed by an audience to obtain answers towards problems,” the acting director said.

The guest of honour highlighted that one of the National Vision 2035’s objectives is to produce citizens who are knowledgeable, skilled and successful; to realise this, government and private agencies have their own roles and responsibilities to play, including the Ministry of Education. The ministry’s National Education System for the 21st Century (SPN21) programme – which lists increasing the number of students with mastery of the Malay language among its primary aims – is one example of initiatives contributing to the realisation of the national vision.

The Deputy Minister of Education also said that one of the aspects of language proficiency that needs to be mastered by students is speaking skills along with listening, reading and writing skills, emphasising that listening and speaking skills are the most important basic aspects.

“Students who have mastered these aspects usually have the potential to dominate the other skills greatly, which will enable them to process and obtain information precisely, resulting in a more effective way of conveying their thoughts and emotions,” the deputy minister added.

A total of 10 schools participated in the first round of the competition held in May. The participating schools included Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College, Rimba II Secondary School, Sengkurong Sixth Form Centre, Pengiran Isteri Hajjah Mariam Secondary School, Sultan Sharif Ali Secondary School, Tutong Sixth Form Centre and Sports School.

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| Hakim Hayat |

HUNDREDS queued up to get their hands on the commemorative $50 notes launched Wednesday by Brunei Darussalam and Singapore to mark the 50th anniversary of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement between both countries.

The limited edition $50 polymer notes, jointly issued by Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) and Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), has since Wednesday been made available at the AMBD Currency Gallery and Gift Shop at the Ministry of Finance Building in Commonwealth Drive.

Testament to its popularity, avid collectors and the public at large were seen making a beeline at the AMBD Currency Gallery since AMBD started selling the numismatic sets, with many expressing their delight with the issuance of the notes.

“As a money collector, I was ecstatic when I first heard the news about the limited edition notes. I made my way here early this morning to get my hands on it. This is very special because it does not just signify Brunei and Singapore’s Currency Interchangeability Agreement, but also the close friendship that both countries share,” said Lim Chang after he made purchased yesterday.

To make purchase, visitors must first obtain a queue number and fill in a form, before making payment at the counter.

According to AMBD, the most popular is the identical numbered notes set sold at $300 each. It contains one $50 commemorative note issued by AMBD and one $50 commemorative note issued by MAS, sharing the same serial number with the CIA prefix.

An AMBD personnel attends to a woman looking to purchase the commemorative notes. – HAKIM HAYAT

With the theme ‘Flourishing Growth,’ the $50 commemorative notes feature the same design elements and layout, and is predominantly gold in colour to signify the golden jubilee.

The 50th anniversary logo of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement is a key feature on the front of the note. It shows a unifying flower motif comprising a prominent flower found in Brunei Darussalam and Singapore’s national flower, the Simpur and the Vanda Miss Joaquim respectively, in full bloom. This and the radiating flower petals symbolises the flourishing growth friendship between the two nations.

A portrait 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 is shown on the Brunei Darussalam note, while the Singapore note features a portrait of first Singapore president Yusof bin Ishak.

Meanwhile, AMBD and MAS will also be issuing commemorative notes for circulation, which the public can exchange for both the $50 notes issued by AMBD and $50 notes issued by MAS. Each set will be accompanied by a complimentary folder to commemorate the occasion, and is available from branches of Baiduri Bank, Bank of China (Hong Kong), Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, Maybank, RHB Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, UOB, and Perbadanan TAIB effective today.

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| Abdul Hakiim Yakof |

A GROUP of 13 students from Jerudong International School (JIS) received certificates presented by Dr Toshio Kaneko, Charge d’Affaires, Embassy of Japan in Brunei Darussalam, at a ceremony held at the school to acknowledge their participation in a week-long programme on Japanese language and culture.

The Japan Experience was one of a broad range of options the school offers as part of an annual Enrichment Week Programme.

The JIS teachers who led the programme were supported by Japanese Embassy officials, namely First Secretary Junko Kurihara, First Secretary Rie Arai and First Secretary Akiko Nagatsuka.

Last Tuesday morning, the embassy officials conducted a workshop on Japanese calligraphy at the school, which the students found both captivating and highly enjoyable.

In the afternoon of that day, the students were invited to the embassy where they observed a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony conducted by Nagatsuka with interesting and detailed explanations provided by Arai.

The closing ceremony included some of the students presenting research projects that they had worked on throughout the week, and, then they all sang a rendition of a popular Japanese song, ‘Sukiyaki’, prior to receiving their certificates.

Two of the students, in a brief speech to Dr Kaneko and the Principal of JIS, Barnaby Sandow, spoke about the various activities they had participated in.

One of the JIS students receiving her certificate from Dr Toshio Kaneko, Charge d’Affaires, Embassy of Japan in Brunei Darussalam

JIS students holding up their certificates in a group photo. – PHOTOS: JIS

The speech also included some Japanese phrases that they had learned.

The ‘Japan Experience’ Programme Leader, Andy McCulloch noted that his motivation for running the programme stemmed from his participation in the Japanese Government run Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme some 15 years ago.

In his closing remarks, the principal noted that the final week of the academic year provides students with an opportunity to learn outside the classroom.

The Japan Experience was one example of the myriad of opportunities students have at JIS to explore their own wider community, an activity that epitomised the schools key and academic aims, such as integration, participation and active engagement.

The ceremony concluded with Dr Kaneko leading the students in ‘Tejime’, a Japanese custom of rhythmic hand clapping, often performed at the end of a special event to bring the occasion to a peaceful, lively close.

‘Tejime’ signifies fulfilment, realisation, and completion; it provides the students with a final glimpse into the richness of Japanese culture.

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| Lance Thoo in New Delhi |

IT IS of paramount importance Asean and India continue striving jointly to ensure their respective waters remain secure and safe so that trade and commerce between them remain unimpeded.

This was stated by Dato Paduka Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, during a panel discussion on ‘Water of Asia: Cultural, Social and Political Ties’ held on the sidelines of the 9th Delhi Dialogue at the Taj Palace Hotel in New Delhi, India, recently.

“One part of achieving this is through aligning our practice and conduct with the principles of international law. At the same time, we should continue to place greater emphasis on joint efforts to address transnational maritime security challenges,” the deputy minister said.

“By ensuring continued peace and stability across our region, we provide the situation for both Asean and India to prosper and develop. This is of critical importance to guarantee that we continue to develop in this 21st Century,” he added.

“Fast forward to the present and now we have seen how the Asean-India partnership has developed over the past 25 years of cooperation and over the last five years as strategic partners.

“In our work together we still attach great importance to water, the waterways, the oceans that link them for the mutual benefit of our people.

“It is estimated that over $5 trillion worth of goods are transported in the seas of our region, including more than half of the planet’s annual merchant cargo.

“With this in mind, it is clear that the waterways between India and Asean remain greatly important to our people and even the world at large.”

On this note, the deputy minister expressed his satisfaction that efforts are being made to enhance connectivity, be it land, sea or air.

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, speaking during a panel discussion on ‘Water of Asia: Cultural, Social and Political Ties’ held on the sidelines of the 9th Delhi Dialogue at the Taj Palace Hotel in New Delhi, India

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, in a group photo with other members of the panel. – PHOTOS: LANCE THOO

Waterways

Touching on the importance of waterways, he said, “As we look back across the history, we see water and waterways in Asia and across the world play a vital role in the rise of many civilisations.”

He noted that among such examples include the ancient Egypt having the Nile and the Indian civilisation the Ganges.

“All these civilisations recognised the importance of water with some even viewing it as sacred. In our region, waterways were a major source of livelihood because they provided food and irrigation for agriculture activities.

“More importantly, it also provided a means to conduct trade. Rivers served as the highways in historical times, where transportation of goods with boats and barges was able to move larger loads than what could be on land.”

The deputy minister also noted that maritime travel across the seas brought about unprecedented people-to-people contacts and sharing of cultures, language, knowledge and traditions.

“Because of this, there are many examples of celebrated historical links, particularly in India and Southeast Asia,” he said, citing examples of the presence of Hinduism in various temples, the imprint of Indian culture, the historical empires in the region as well as the strong trade routes that were pioneered by the ancient spice merchants from India.

Touching on the relationship between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) and India, the deputy minister said it is built upon ancient cultural ties and civilisational linkages.

This relationship spans not just the last 25 years, where the two regions have had partnership cooperation, but interestingly several millennia even before history was ever written.

“This relationship doesn’t just cover religion and culture, but also political aspects,” he said, adding that “where there is money there is always business and there will always be people to go to that place”.

According to him, this is the reason why the culture of the two regions (India and Asean) has been so closely linked because they have done a lot of trade in history.

India’s role

Highlighting India’s recent emergence as a powerful economy, the deputy minister said, “India is on the crux of a great advancement. It is enjoying rapid economic progress driven by a large population of young and educated individuals and supported by encouraging economic reforms.

“It is predicted to rise above or up to the ranks of the world’s largest economies and become an emerging global leader in the next few years.

“Asean as a close friend and partner stands ready to work with India to help it realise its exciting future, which will be good for the entire region.

“One way we can do this is by expanding the benefits that can be achieved under our current Asean-India Free Trade Agreement in order to build towards the trade target of around $200 billion by 2022.

“Another opportunity is where India can take a more prominent role to ensure a swift conclusion on the negotiation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). This is the next stage of our economic integration process. When concluded, I believe the RCEP will be worth almost 30 per cent of the global GDP and bring benefit to almost half the world population, but more importantly to those in Asean and India.”

According to the deputy minister, Asean looks forward to working with India in achieving these objectives. “We see India also taking great leadership in other regional and global initiatives such as addressing the global climate change, responding to disaster management and supporting a global multilateral aiding system.

“We have seen the rise of tiger. We have seen the rise of the Asian dragons. I believe this is the time for the rise of the Indian naga,” he said.

“With the long historical ties of India with Asean member states, we very much look forward to working with India for the continued development and contribute to the rise of Asia and achieve what is the so-called ‘Asian Century’.”

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HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam yesterday afternoon left the Republic of Singapore after concluding a State Visit from July 3 to 6, 2017.

Accompanying Their Majesties were His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; as well as other members of the royal family.

Prior to leaving the hotel, a Doa Selamat was recited by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti.

Present at Changi Airport to bid farewell to Their Majesties were Teo Chee Hean, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore and wife; Dato Paduka Seri Ng Chee Meng, Minister for Education and Second Minister for Transport of the Republic of Singapore as Minister-in-Attendance and wife Datin Michelle Lim Bee Leng as Lady-in-Attendance; Lim Hong Huai, High Commissioner of the Republic of Singapore to Brunei Darussalam and wife.

Also present to bid farewell to Their Majesties were Haji Awang Saifulbahri bin Haji Mansor, High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to the Republic of Singapore and wife. Before leaving, His Majesty received a pesambah in the form of a photo album of Their Majesties during the four-day State Visit to Singapore.

Their Majesties at Changi Airport with Teo Chee Hean, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore and wife. Also seen are His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; and Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik at the Changi Airport, bidding farewell to Teo Chee Hean, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore and wife. Also seen is Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah

ABOVE & BELOW: Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and other members of the royal family bidding farewell at the Changi Airport. – PHOTOS: INFOFOTO

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HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), yesterday morning made a visit to the Commando Training Institute, Pasir Ris Camp, Singapore.

Upon arrival at the camp, His Majesty was received by Dr Ng Eng Hen, Minister of Defence of Singapore.

Accompanying His Majesty was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik.

The monarch then proceeded to the dais for a royal salute and afterwards inspected the royal guard of honour mounted by the First Commando Battalion of the Singapore Armed Forces.

His Majesty then signed the guestbook before proceeding to Block 65.

At Block 65, His Majesty was briefed on the Commando Headquarters, the Special Operations Task Force (SOTF) and on the military demonstrations that will be showcased during the visit.

His Majesty then witnessed military freefalls showcased by ‘The Red Lions’ and military demonstrations by the Counter Terrorism Forces of the Singapore Armed Forces.

After the demonstration, His Majesty proceeded to view parachute training facilities and a static display where Apache Attack Helicopter and Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boat (RHIB) were showcased.

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, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, taking a closer look at the Singapore Armed Forces’ Apache Attack Helicopter during a visit to the Commando Training Institute, Pasir Ris Camp in Singapore

His Majesty signing the guestbook at the Commando Training Institute, Pasir Ris Camp in Singapore. Also seen in the photo is His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik. – PHOTOS: INFOFOTO

His Majesty witnessing a military demonstration by the Counter Terrorism Forces of the Singapore Armed Forces

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, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, receiving the Singapore Armed Forces’ Honorary Advanced Military Freefall Wing from Major General Melvyn Ong, Chief of Army, Singapore Armed Forces

His Majesty with Teo Chee Hean, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore at the luncheon

Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade at the luncheon

The monarch was then introduced to the five officers of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces who are currently undertaking their courses and attachment at the Military Camp Republic of Singapore. This was followed by a group photo session. At the end of the visit, His Majesty received a pesambah from Dr Ng Eng Hen.

To commemorate the visit, His Majesty received Singapore Armed Forces’ Honorary Advanced Military Freefall Wing presented by Major General Melvyn Ong, Chief of Army, Singapore Armed Forces who in return received a memento from His Majesty.

After the visit to Pasir Ris Camp, His Majesty attended a luncheon hosted by Teo Chee Hean, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore at Grand Hyatt Hotel.

Accompanying His Majesty was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik.

Meanwhile, at a different venue of the hotel, Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam attended a luncheon hosted by the wife of the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore.

Accompanying Her Majesty at the luncheon was Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

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| Fadhil Yunus |

NATIONAL Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) has advised participants to use their knowledge that they gained from the FIFA Domestic Youth Referee Course in sanctioned tournaments mainly in the ongoing Under-16 league.

“It is my hope and the Football Referees Association that the participants who have completed the course can use the knowledge that they have gained in the under-16 league which is likely to resume in September,” said Awang Zulkifli bin Duraman, NFABD’s Executive Referee Committee, during a closing ceremony at the NFABD House yesterday.

He added that whatever they have been provided during the course should be practiced to good use so that they will be confident, less hesitant and commit less error than in previous officiated matches.

Awang Zulkifli said that FIFA has already introduced the video replay technology which was used during the recently-concluded Confederations Cup in Russia whereby duties are not limited to match officials but also to those monitoring the technology.

He said the referee could refer to the footage which has been recorded to make a decision.

He continued that FIFA is making efforts to minimise the number of errors constantly made by referees which is still occurring in the world stage such as the World Cup.

“Football become increasingly complicated and requires a lot of investment for instance professional players who are highly valued. Therefore, referees must understand regulations and must implement regulations to protect the existing players,” he continued.

Participants of the course in a group photo with NFABD officials. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

“FIFA has been making efforts where each year changes are made. The hope for instructors’ mainly local instructors is for them to use what they’ve learnt (during the course) every Friday and Sunday.”

He stressed the need to enhance refereeing for referees in Brunei Darussalam, adding that it will not be a surprise if they can achieve and target to become FIFA accredited referees.

He also reiterated the importance to have ambition and efforts combined with discipline.

Meanwhile, Haji Mohd Alimin bin Haji Matyassin, a course participant speaking on behalf of the rest of his colleagues, said that they hope to use the new information and understanding in the under-16 league and leagues organised and sanctioned by NFABD.

“The course gives us confidence and we hope that the Brunei Darussalam Football Referees Association will continue organising courses such as this in future,” Haji Mohd Alimin said.

He said that the purpose of the course was to shed light the latest regulations which have been absorbed by FIFA for the local referees to use.

“During the course, we are very fortunate to participate in the course where we learned a lot of the regulations which have been enforced by FIFA in the aspect of theory and also practically.

“During the course, participants were also provided opportunities to work together and exchange views concerning the issues found in the law.”

Participants were also taught in practical terms such as how to start a game, players’ offences, the way to find position and reading the game as well as the law on offside.

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