|     Daniel Lim     |

RESIDENTS of the longhouse at Kampong Teraja in Mukim Labi, Belait District, were treated to a thanksgiving ceremony in conjunction with the Hari Gawai celebration.

Present as the guest of honour was Angkasan anak Jawa from the Kuala Belait and Seria Public Works Department, Ministry of Development, who received a warm welcome by Burong anak Nyanggau, Chairman of the event.

Also present were Chai Yum Fatt, Managing Director of Asia Enterprise; Chiam Toon Kwang, Managing Director of Chiam Engineering Construction; and Chai Kim Sim, Chairman of Sin Nam Lee Store Labi.

In addition to the thanksgiving celebration, senior citizens, single mothers, and the less fortunate, were provided aid in the form of basic necessities from agencies including Asia Enterprise, Chiam Engineering Construction, Dr Toyad Dental Clinic, and Sin Nam Lee Store Labi. Ten recipients from the longhouse received the aid.

Organised by the Women’s Bureau in the Kampong Teraja Longhouse, the event aimed to improve relationship between longhouse residents, to exchange various views and thoughts on the progress of the unique economy found in the longhouse.

The event was also an avenue to increase unity and promote the eco-tourism of Kampong Teraja.

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|     Lyna Mohamad     |

PUSAT Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam (Pusat Ehsan) is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) looking out for the welfare of individuals with special needs in the country, ensuring they enjoy equal rights as well as an active, meaningful life.

Under the leadership of its patron, the centre continues to work towards providing physical and spiritual support to these individuals, allowing them to reach their full potential. This is no easy feat and requires commitment from all levels of society. Also a crucial element is sensitivity from the public.

Building on the vision of being a centre of excellence, Pusat Ehsan devotes itself to enriching the lives of individuals of all ages with physical and learning disabilities, throughout their lifetime. It is also committed to providing quality education along with rehabilitation services.

In ensuring these objectives are met, the centre has implemented the redevelopment project, just beside its older buildings.

The centre was established in 2000. Two years later, plans were in the pipes to expand, and thus began consultations with stakeholders, with the centre setting its sight on improving the quality and range of services and programmes for the special needs community.

To realise this, the centre needed a new purpose-built structure to support a host of specialist services, deemed more appropriate in meeting individual needs. This plan took into consideration that the facilities and services must not only meet the current needs, but can also meet future requirements of the special needs community.

The first phase of the project began with the foundation-laying in June last year, attended by Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah as the Chairwoman of Pusat Ehsan.

The first phase involves the construction of the rehabilitation block, which will feature a lobby area; gym; hydro, electro, physio and speech therapy rooms; common treatment room; multisensory room; plant room; earl years classroom; sports hall and a swimming pool.

Through the redevelopment project, Pusat Ehsan hopes to stay relevant and better meet the needs in providing effective services to special needs individuals.

The project carries a $2 million price tag, most of which were contributed by the patron and the chairwoman. The building of the new block was also made possible with cooperation and contributions from the public and private sectors through charity campaigns as well as direct donation, among others.

Speaking to the Bulletin, Board of Trustee (Policy and Planning) member Haji Ahmad bin Abdul Rahman disclosed that the second phase of the project is at its drawing (conceptual) stage, and is awaiting sponsors. It is hoped that works can commence in the last quarter of the year.

The plan includes a Surau equipped with classrooms for the learning and carrying out of religious activities, as well as a vocational complex with vocational training rooms to serve as a training ground to get into various services industry.

It also includes a café to sell food items made by the students, a tuck-shop and an al fresco eating area for students and staff of the centre – all dependant on the allocated funds.

“This will not be the last component. Phase 3 will feature the administration block, multipurpose hall, resource centre and nursery for the students’ agricultural training. We will also be holding our charity bazaar at this area. Work on Phase 3, Insya Allah, will be able to begin when Phase 2 is at 80 per cent completion,” he added.

The multipurpose hall and Surau will also be open and rented out for members of the public keen on holding events such as solemnisation, weddings and so forth.

Meanwhile, at the existing buildings, maintenance works are being carried out.

The centre also hopes to upgrade its capabilities in helping the government care for special needs individuals in the area of rehabilitation, learning and career, where

apart from classrooms, the new block is also equipped with a gymnasium, swimming pool and garden for therapy, several physical training machines and modern

equipment to provide comprehensive and effective therapy services.

He explained that apart from physical development, the project also covers strategic capacity building, for which Pusat Ehsan has completed the designing of a special curriculum for its special needs students, with the assistance of a consultant from Singapore.

Networking with other government and corporate agencies, including international organisations, are also being made to ensure the services at the centre are able to meet the current needs, and to allow for experience and resource sharing.

“As we are a charitable organisation, and with our costs increasing, we need the public and the corporate sector to continue to support us, without which it would be very difficult for us to finance the programme. Aside from making direct donations, we also welcome student sponsorship,” he said.

The cost per child being in the programme is $400, however, to encourage more sponsors, the centre welcome a sponsorship of $200 per child for one year. This sponsorship programme is ongoing to cover the centre’s cost of approximately $55,000 per month.

“Darussalam Assets has generously stepped forward to become the first sponsor for our students with an allocation of $10,000. We hope more corporate bodies or individuals will follow suit,” he added.

Although the operation cost of the centre continues to climb, it will not get in the way of the strive towards acquiring the centre of excellence status. Aside from organising charity projects, the centre has also formed a Teachers Adoption Scheme.

Through this scheme, the public or corporate bodies will sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the centre to help with paying the teachers or therapists salaries.

Haji Ahmad expressed gratitude to all who have lent support to the centre, one of which is the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah which has over the years provided annual contributions.

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|     Lyna Mohamad     |

THE 32 crew participating in the 15th Padang International Dragon Boat Race 2017 attended a briefing session prior to departure to Indonesia yesterday.

The country is represented by the Brunei Darussalam Team and Brunei Talent Identification Development Team. The teams will compete against Hong Kong, PDRM Pulau Pinang and host country Indonesia.

They will take part in the 22-crew Open, 22-crew Mix Open, 12-crew Open, 12-crew Mix Open and International Categories from August 4-6.

On hand to brief the participants was the President of Brunei Darussalam Boat Race Association, Haji Haris bin Haji Ibrahim and officials.

Leading the teams are Roshidi bin Abdul Latif as the Head of Contingent, and Fadilah bin Haji Mat Serudin as Team Manager.

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THE Ministry of Health (MoH) alerted the public to two types of traditional medicines and health products, and one cosmetic product found to be adulterated with undeclared, potent western medicine.

Tests were conducted by the laboratory of Pharmacy Laboratory Services, Laboratory Services, Ministry of Health.

The two health products are:

– Galian Sehat Kapsul was found to be adulterated with Acetaminophen, Chlorpheni-ramin, Phenylbutazone, Dexamethasone, Betamethasone. It is manufactured by PJ Galian Sehat, Indonesia.

– Men’s King 6,800mg Tablet is adulterated with Sildenafil, and is manufactured by Hong Kong Golden Dragon Biotechnology Co Ltd, Hong Kong.

Meanwhile, the affected cosmetic product is Lyanaz Product Queens Blink Kesan Seawal 1 Hari – Day Cream which was found to contain mercury. The manufacturer was not stated.

The adulterant found in this product can cause adverse effects that are potentially hazardous to users.

Acetaminophen or Paracetamol can be taken for self-medication but when traditional medicine fail to declare its Acetaminophen or Paracetamol content, unaware persons may take excessive Acetaminophen or Paracetamol which may lead to liver damage, kidney failure, coma and possible death.

Dizziness, lowering of blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, confusion, depression and convulsions are among the adverse effects that can occur from unsupervised consumption of Chlorpheniramine.

Unsupervised consumption of Phenylbutazone may result in peptic ulceration, gastrointestinal bleeding, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, blurred vision, oedema, jaundice and kidney failure.

Phenylbutazone is often associated with severe side-effects such as serious blood disorders.

Unsupervised long-term consumption of potent corticosteroids such as Dexamethasone and Betamethasone can cause increased blood glucose levels leading to diabetes, high blood pressure, cataracts, muscular and bone disorders, and an increased risk of infections.

Long term use of corticosteroids can also lead to Cushing’s syndrome which is characterised by a round face or ‘moon face’, and upper body obesity with thin limbs.

Consumers who have taken high doses of steroids over a prolonged period may suffer from withdrawal symptoms which include fatigue, muscle and joint pain, fever, low blood sugar, low blood pressure and dehydration.

Sildenafil is a drug used to treat male impotency and can only be prescribed by a qualified doctor or physician.

Among their side effects include nausea, vomiting, flushing and dizziness.

In severe cases, they can also result in abnormal increase in heart rate, sudden loss of hearing and seizures.

Mercury is a potent ingredient that is prohibited in cosmetic products as stipulated in the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations 2007.

Mercury is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its hazardous effects on human health.

It is readily absorbed through the skin on topical application and tends to accumulate in the body.

Exposure to mercury can cause skin rashes, memory loss and muscle weakness while high exposures may result in damage to the brain and kidneys. It is also extremely toxic to unborn children.

The MoH has not issued any approval for the importation for the sale of these products and/or Cosmetic Notification Acknowledgement Letter for the sale of the rest of affected products.

Following these findings, the products are not allowed to be imported and sold in Brunei Darussalam.

Members of the public who have purchased or used these products are advised to discontinue use immediately.

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

Members of the public involved in the retail of these products (including online retail such as through Facebook, etc) are reminded that it is an offence under the Poisons Act 1956 to sell any product containing any substance controlled under the said Act and the penalty for such an offence upon conviction, is a fine of $8,000 or six months’ imprisonment.

Furthermore, if a person commits an Act that amounts to such a degree of negligence so as to endanger or be likely to endanger human life, then such person shall be guilty of an offence which carries a penalty of a fine of $16,000 and 12 months’ imprisonment.

The public is also 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 MoH 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.

For information, contact the Health Regulations Services at 2384182, e-mail health.regulations@moh.gov.bn or go directly to Health Regulations Services, 1st Floor, Ministry of Health, Commonwealth Drive, Brunei Darussalam. The public can also contact the Darussalam line 123 for other enquiries.

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE highlight of the 12th National Youth Day celebration yesterday was the presentation of awards in four categories 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.

The presentation of the youth awards at the International Convention Centre served as a medium of recognition and appreciation to youth movements in the country.

Four categories namely ‘Excellent Youth Award’, ‘Young Youth Leader Award’, ‘Youth Voluntary Service Award’ and ‘Excellence Project for Youth Award’ were presented to four recipients who have carried out their responsibilities excellently, portraying positive impact within the community and being an icon to their peers.

Nurliyana Fatin binti Arifin was named as the Excellent Youth Award recipient as she achieved success not only locally but also abroad.

She holds several portfolios including the Marketing Manager of Ghanim International Corporation, Vice President of Young Entrepreneurs Association of Brunei (YEAB), Curator for Global Shapers-Bandar Seri Begawan Hub, and Director of Education for the Society for Community Outreach and Training (SCOT).

Through her active involvement and commitment, Nurliyana Fatin has represented the country in various initiatives under Asean, the Commonwealth and APEC as invited speaker, panel forum member and mentor for capacity building, knowledge and skills in various fields.

With the award, she told the Bulletin, it will inspire her more in contributing not only to the community but also towards youth development in the country. She believed that she could do more in assisting the youth.

As the Vice President of YEAB, Nurliyana Fatin successfully brought the association to the global level by setting up an international networking known as CAYE-Asia, comprising eight entrepreneurs association from the Commonwealth member countries.

Through the network, she successfully enabled 15 local young entrepreneurs to take part in four international entrepreneurs’ forums held in India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and the United Kingdom.

The Youth Voluntary Service Award focused on the involvement of youth and their commitment in youth voluntary services highlighting the cooperation and community service concept that pictured their spirit of volunteerism.

Haji Muhammad Iqbal Fikri bin Haji Damit, the President of ILHAM, was announced as the Youth Voluntary Service Award recipient.

Speaking to the Bulletin, Haji Muhammad Iqbal Fikri expressed his gratitude for the recognition that he never expected to receive.

With the award, it will spark his spirit further to contribute more towards the community through various youth programmes and projects.

Having been actively involved in volunteer programmes since 2009, Haji Muhammad Iqbal Fikri explained that being able to help others provides an opportunity to reflect how blessed we are as a country compared to other nations.

Between 2014 until 2017, he handled some 11 projects including youth volunteering initiatives in Kelantan (Malaysia) and Cambodia.

His passion is driven by his eagerness to help the community where it not only brought satisfaction to himself but also to others.

Mohammad Aidil Firdaus bin Haji Jukin, the President of Persatuan Kemajuan Insan (KESAN) was presented with the Young Youth Leader Award.

Under his leadership as President of KESAN since 2016, he had led and mentored members to venture in volunteering and community works while at the same time assisted them to achieve the association’s objective, namely ‘Menjana Insan Mulia’.

It is under Mohammad Aidil Firdaus’ leadership that 60 youth and community outreach programmes were implemented.

For the Excellent Project for Youth Award, it went to www.alhuffaz.com (Platform for Al-Quran Learning) Al-Huffaz Management.

In an interview with its founder, Haji Mohammad Loqman Al-Hakim bin Haji Hamdan said the award is an acknowledgment of the organisation’s commitment in offering religious knowledge and services in the country.

He added that www.alhuffaz.com has the potential to expand and provide employment opportunities to the youth, which will then indirectly create a platform to help members of the public to be literate in Al-Quran.

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE 12th National Youth Day celebration yesterday saw the participation of volunteer groups exhibiting 33 projects or programmes expected to inspire similar endeavours by youths.

In an interview, Dayangku Rusydina Nurul Rif’ah binti Pengiran Idris, Director of Human Resources (Recruitment) for Bina Ukhwah Project, explained to the Bulletin that Bina Ukhwah Home Betterment Programme (BU HOBPRO) aims to assist underprivileged families in improving their living conditions through repair works, renovations or a new house.

In March this year, the BU HOBPRO carried out a community project in Kampong Lamunin helping senior citizen, Haji Ahmad with his house.

Due to poverty, Haji Ahmad was not able to repair the house himself; BU HOBPRO assisted by repairing and renovating his house. Currently there are 10 committees with almost 40 members involved in the project.

A group of youths known as Syababul Iman from the Sultan Sharif Ali Mosque in Sengkurong, also participated in the celebration by exhibiting their ‘Zero to Hero’ and ‘Journey of a Muslim Project’.

Speaking to the Bulletin, Khairulnazihwa’ie bin Haji Zakaria, Deputy Head of the group, explained that both of their projects carry the same objectives that are to polish leadership skills among the youths, instil religious spirit among youths, enhance the Muslim personality that in is line with the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) philosophy and achieve the country’s vision that is to be Zikir Nation.

Among the activities they organised included a three-day two-night camping at Berakas Forest Reserve.

At the celebration, a number of youths from various agencies and organisation expressed their gratitude towards the Government of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam of Brunei Darussalam for the various opportunities, programmes, ini-tiatives and activities offered to the youths.

Nazmi bin Haji Ahmad, a Mechanical Static and Piping Engineer who has been working with Brunei Shell Petroleum Co Sdn Bhd (BSP) for almost five years, expressed that youth development, especially in the field of entrepreneurship is growing. He also advised youths to never give up seeking opportunities in entrepreneurship.

Dayangku Nur Khadijah binti Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Azmansham, encouraged youths to be actively involved in various activities available.

“There are a lot of opportunities such as charitable projects, volunteering, building your own business and developing each other. Their involvement could indirectly contribute towards the country’s growth,” she explained.

The exhibition is open to the public until today.

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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 urged youths to be active, not passive.

“Don’t just know how to count your days,” His Majesty said delivering his titah at the 12th National Youth Day celebration at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas yesterday, adding, “We want youths who are lively and fill their times or days with welfare activities and not let them be empty or pass by just like that.

“Using your time wisely is crucial… youths now fill their time with too much fun. If we let our youths have too much leisure, then this is very bad for the future.

“The country may face a problem of lack of competitiveness to face various challenges,” His Majesty said.

“Producing quality youths is no doubt an investment. It requires the commitment of all parties and implemented through a strategic planning, which starts with awareness among the youths.”

“Awareness makes the youths more mature and patriotic. Awareness here means that the youths become religiously inclined, and possess familyhood with community and national characters. All these awareness are very important for our youths, without differentiating their status and rank.

“This is the pillar of perfection for youths. We need to be concerned, just in case our youths do not have any of this awareness. But if this is really happening, then the negative impact would hit the society and country,” His Majesty added.

“And we are concerned when we hear and read that elsewhere, there are school students bullying their friends and involving in other crimes… some resulting in deaths. This is really worrying. We can just imagine… if a young student could commit such a serious crime, what then will he or she becomes upon reaching adulthood.

“Hence, such incidents should add more responsibilities to leaders, parents and teachers to ensure that they will not happen in Brunei Darussalam,” His Majesty said.

“Our responsibility is not just to build buildings or the nation. The most challenging task is to build a human being. Hence, we build schools, family institutions and leaders who can spread the teachings of Islam.

“All parties should take integrated steps in building a nation, in particular building teenagers and youths. When this responsibility is perfectly implemented, there is a window of hope for us,” added His Majesty.

Earlier, His Majesty said, “Our youthful days are beautiful and sweet. Whoever had gone through a favourable youthful period, such person is fortunate because it is during this stage that an individual experiences very crucial formative years or growth.

“The growth here is in terms of ‘Syakhsiah’ or personality, ability and knowledge. A youth who has a normal and healthy growth is fortunate; more so, if such a youth is filled with the perfect content in terms of personality, education and ability. This kind of youth, without a doubt, is the youth of quality.”

His Majesty added, “A youth of quality, besides being measured by content, is also determined by his or her attitude. A youth who is inclined to seek advancement is a sign of a talented person, who is usually very active and creative. Is this not a reference to quality?

“This is the kind of youth that the nation wants,” His Majesty said.

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

The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof as the chairperson of the Executive Committee of the 12th National Youth Day celebration in his welcoming remarks said the theme for the celebration which reads ‘Belia Berdaya Usaha dan Berinovasi Menjayakan Wawasan Negara’ (Entrepreneurial and Innovative Youth Accomplishing Nation’s Vision) is chosen to spread to the youths the importance of being educated, highly skillful and successful.

All these would contribute to the nation having quality people and a dynamic economy as aspired in Vision 2035, he said.

The minister added that youths should migrate rapidly into core fields and become more sophisticated for the sake of sustainable prosperity.

His Majesty later presented four national youth awards – the ‘Excellent Youth Award’ which went to Nurliyana Fatin binti Arifin, the ‘Youth Service Award’ won by Haji Muhammad Iqbal Fakhri bin Haji Damit, the ‘Young Youth Leader Award’ presented to Mohammad Aidil Firdaus bin Haji Jukin from Insan Development Association (KESAN) and the ‘Excellent Project for Youth Award’ given to www.alhuffaz.com (platform for learning Al-Quran).

Each received a trophy, a Brunei woven brocade or ‘Kain Tenunan’, a certificate of appreciation and $3,000. His Majesty also mingled with youths and viewed an exhibition.

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|     Daniel Lim     |

FOLLOWING a visit to various agricultural and fishery sites in the Brunei-Muara and Tutong districts earlier this week, several Legislative Council (LegCo) members recently continued their journey to the Belait District visiting agricultural and hatchery sites.

Organised by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT), the working visit exposed the LegCo members to the development of local agriculture and fishery industries as leading steps taken towards diversifying Brunei’s economy.

Twelve LegCo members attended the working visit programme, which included Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, Permanent Secretary at the MPRT along with senior officers from the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, Department of Fisheries, and Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism.

The group’s first stop was at Usaha Tani Deli Duman in Kampong Rampayoh. The five-hectare-large area is home to a large number of giant freshwater prawn called Udang Galah (Macrobrachium rosenbergii).

The company has various ponds within the area to raise the prawns and at the same time, with help from the Department of Fisheries, it is able to make successful strides in breeding their own baby (post-larvae) prawns.

Following the visit to Syarikat Usaha Tani Deli Duman, the group’s next stop was to Golden Chick Livestock Farm at the Agriculture Development Area in Sungai Petai.

Since the beginning of the year, the company has recorded more than 22,901,950 fresh eggs at the farm.

The company is having talks with Republic of Singapore to exporting there.

Fresh vegetables grown using hydroponic systems were the next point of interest as the group visited Kanglin Hydroponics Farming in the Agriculture Development Area in Sungai Liang.

The farm area operated by Kanglin Hydroponics Farming is 2.8 -hectare wide and since 2015 has produced over 82.32 metric tonnes of hydroponically grown vegetables.

Since the start of the year, the company has seen yields close to 28 metric tonnes.

The group’s final visit for the day was to Brugoat Farming and Trading Pte Ltd at Kampong Gana in Sungai Liang which breeds Boer goats and Dorper sheep, a local source of goat and sheep meat in the Sultanate.

In the 2.1-hectare of land, they have accommodated more than 885 Boer goats and 1,453 Dorper sheep this year, with a variety of goat houses built specifically to cater to the rearing of sheep there.

The working visit programme was also an opportunity to promote investments in foreign business opportunities and help the growth of Brunei’s economy.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

PERMANENT Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh yesterday received Dr Krissanapong Kirtikara, Chairman of the Princess Maha Chakri Award Foundation (PMCAF), Thailand, at the Ministry of Education (MoE) in Berakas.

Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah welcomed the 10-member delegation from the PMCAF Committee, who is on a one-day visit to Brunei Darussalam.

Dr Krissanapong shared updates on the First Princess Maha Chakri Award Forum held in Bangkok from April 25-29, and the Second Princess Maha Chakri Award Presentation Ceremony to run from October 11-12 in Bangkok.

Deputy Permanent Secretary (Core Education) Nadia Lee Siew Hoon binti Abdullah was also in attendance.

The delegation was updated on significant educational developments in Brunei Darussalam by the Acting Director-General of Education, Director of Curriculum Development, Acting Director of Examinations, Director of the Institute of Brunei Technical Education and heads of units at the Ministry of Education.

The visit concluded with the exchange of souvenirs between the permanent secretary and the chairman.

The Princess Maha Chakri Award (PMCA)is an international award for dedicated teachers whose outstanding achievements have brought tremendous contributions to education and human development.

Once every two years, one teacher from each Southeast Asian country is selected by the PMCAF Committee to receive the prestigious award from Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.

The First Awarding Ceremony took place in October 2015. Hajah Ratnawati binti Haji Mohammad, a Special Education Needs Assistance (SENA) teacher from Sekolah Rendah Keriam received the Princess Maha Chakri Award 2015 for Brunei Darussalam.

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THE Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT), particularly through the Brunei Darussalam Heart of Borneo (HoB) Centre, is playing host to the 2nd meeting of the Heart of Borneo Technical Committee on Joint Projects and Activities.

The meeting runs from August 1-3 at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism. Permanent Secretary at the MPRT Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin attended as the guest of honour.

The Acting Chief Executive Officer of Brunei Darussalam HoB Centre is chairing the meeting, which involves the participation of delegations from member states of Heart of Borneo Indonesia and Malaysia.

The technical committee was formed following the trilateral 9th HoB meeting in Sandakan, Sabah in 2015. Its main task is to evaluate, advice and aid the HoB trilateral meetings in taking into consideration any joint programme/project/activity under the HoB initiative proposed by HoB member states and other parties with vested interest.

The objective of the HoB initiative, programme/project/activity jointly run by member states is towards sustainable and orderly conservation and management of forest biodiversity and natural resources found on Borneo island.

Although joint programme/project/activity run under the HoB are typically geared more towards the principles of conservation, it also works towards supporting social economic growth of member states.

The HoB initiative is about conserving forestry resources and biological diversity across borders between Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia and Malaysia.

The initiative declaration was signed by the three nations on February 12, 2007. Through the declaration, all three nations voluntarily agreed to work together in ensuring the management of forestry resources and conservation of protected forest network and produce. Land use in areas identified as being under the management of the HoB initiative will continually be managed effectively.

Through the initiative, it is hoped that societal wellbeing on the island of Borneo – which depends on forestry resources and biodiversity for livelihood – can be enhanced, while at the same time lessening forest clearing activities, degradation of forest and others connected to extinction of biodiversity and affecting ecosystem.

The initiative also supports efforts towards reducing climate change effect and other related environmental issues.

The HoB initiative covers 22 million hectares, involving areas still seeing growth of natural tropical rainforest that is rich with biological diversity, across highlands in all three member states of the HoB – Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia and Malaysia – up till foothills and lowlands of surrounding areas.

To support the implementation of the initiative, Brunei Darussalam has identified 58 per cent of the Sultanate’s 346,000 hectares as managed areas under the HoB initiative.

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|     James Kon     |

SOME 150 participants comprising Brunei government officers, stu-dents and delegates from Australia, Britain, China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Japan are set to converge in Brunei Darussalam as the country will host the 14th Southeast Asia Survey Congress (SEASC) 2017 from August 15-17 at The Rizqun International Hotel.

Organised by the Survey Department under the Ministry of Development in collaboration with Brunei Institute of Geomatics (BIG) and the Asean Federation of Land Surveying and Geomatics (AFLAG), this is the second time that Brunei Darussalam will be hosting the congress. Brunei first hosted the congress in 2005.

Details of the 14th SEASC 2017 were revealed in a press conference yesterday by Haji Ali Bakar bin Haji Kasim, the Surveyor General, who is also the Congress Chairman.

Also present were Pengiran Haji Matusin bin Pengiran Haji Matasan, the President of BIG and Congress Director; Arefin bin Haji Jaya, the Acting Deputy, who is also the Deputy Congress Chairman; Haji Mahadi bin Haji Md Tahir, the Secretary General of BIG; and Pengiran Hajah Hasnaliati binti Pengiran Setia Jaya Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin, the Acting Assistant Surveyor General.

The Surveyor General high-lighted, “The objectives of the congress are to update the knowledge and understanding of professionals and experts in the field of geomatics with the latest technology and to foster understanding as well as encourage collaboration and research among experts in the field of geomatics.”

The theme for this year’s congress is ‘Bridging the Gap’, he explained.

“Asean’s common aspiration and vision of an even more closely-knit regional community with the expressed aim to forge ever closer cooperation in Land Surveying and Geomatics. Geographically speaking, though we may be a lose cluster of Southeast Asian countries, we do have quite a diverse of range of socio-cultural-economic-political leanings in addition to different stages of technical uptake,” he said.

The 14th SEASC 2017 also aims to be a platform for sharing ideas and best practices that will help further adopt and advance common standards as well as address various conformance issues to benefit all member countries.

The Congress Chairman also disclosed that there will be over 70 papers for deliberation during the congress and the themes include Land Administration, Valuation and Real Estate management, Climate change and disaster risk reduction management, Land and Mapping, Falaq Syarie and others.

The plenary session will see the President of BIG delivering his speech on ‘Bridging the Gap through MRA’ while See Seng Guan from Surbana Jurong Consultant Pte Ltd, Singapore, will touch on Strata Housing in Singapore.

The topic of UAV Ariel survey for large scale Map Updating will be delivered by Dr Zainal A Majeed from the Department of Surveying and Mapping Malaysia, while Peter Barrat of Cloudbase Solutions from Australia will talk about Contemporary Web Cadaster.

Falak Syarie and the Land Development sessions will be held on August 16.

Pengiran Haji Matusin also revealed that the 64th AFLAG Council Meeting will also be held prior to the congress. In promoting Brunei Darussalam as a popular tourists’ destination, delegates can tee off at The Empire Hotel & Country Club for the SEASC Golf Tournament while other delegates can also join a morning walk at Tasek Lama.

Haji Ali Bakar noted that this is a special year for Brunei Darussalam with the Golden Jubilee Celebration of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s Accession to the Throne and hoped that the delegates will return to Brunei for the celebration.

Registration for the congress is open. More information can be found at www.seasc2017.org.

The post Brunei to host 14th SEASC 2017 appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

DEPUTY Minister of Defence First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohammad Tamit yesterday received a courtesy call from Vice Admiral Ray Griggs, the Vice Chief of Defence Force, Australia Defence Force.

First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz reaffirmed the mutually close and warm friendship between the two defence establishments, which has flourished across a range of extensive interactions such as exchange visits, exercises, trainings, professional exchanges, and courses.

They also took the opportunity to exchange views on regional and international security issues, covering areas of mutual interests.

Vice Admiral Griggs visited Brunei Darussalam during the annual Chiefs of Defence Conference (CHOD) held in November 2014.

Vice Admiral Ray Griggs also paid a courtesy call on Royal Brunei Armed Forces Commander Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah.

Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih welcomed Vice Admiral Ray Griggs to Brunei Darussalam and commended the close bilateral relations between the two countries.

Both sides reaffirmed to continue to strengthen the defence relations through regular exchange of visits, exercises, trainings and courses.

The RBAF Commander also expressed appreciation for Australia’s efforts to organise various meetings and exercises that have contributed significantly in underpinning the rapport and professionalism between the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and Australian Defence Force.

Vice Admiral Ray Griggs is on a two-day official visit to Brunei Darussalam, which is one part of his extensive tour around the Southeast Asian region.

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|     Lyna Mohamad     |

A TOTAL of $93,761 was collected from the SMS Brunei Prihatin for the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Fund for Orphans (DANA), a collaboration project between DST Communications Sdn Bhd and Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd since November 24, 2016 to January 31, 2017.

From the total amount, DST subscribers contributed $81,819 while Progresif subscribers contributed the balance $11,942.

This was disclosed by Dato Paduka Eddie bin Dato Paduka Haji Sunny, Managing Director of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (Yayasan), in his welcoming speech at the DANA Incentive Award for Excellent Student 2017 (APIC-DANA 2017) yesterday at the Multipurpose Hall of the Yayasan Complex in the capital.

The ceremony also saw the presentation of the SMS Brunei Prihatin Contributions for DANA 2016-2017.

Apart from contributions by subscribers, DST also presented its own contribution of $20,000 while Progresif Cellular presented $1,525.15 collected from the public through the DANA funds set up at the company’s counters.

On behalf of DANA, Dato Paduka Eddie expressed his appreciation and hopes that such noble efforts will continue to help orphans in the country.

Officiating at the ceremony and receiving the SMS Brunei Prihatin contributions on behalf of DANA was Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education in his capacity as the Chairman of the Yayasan Board of Directors.

The ceremony began with the mass recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Hamdy bin Emran, Assistant Officer Islamic Calligraphy and Arts Learning Centre, followed by the presentation of the SMS Brunei Prihatin Contributions for DANA 2016-2017.

Presenting on behalf of DST was Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Hussain, the CEO of DST, while Progresif was represented by Edzwan Zukri bin Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Adanan, a board member of Progresif.

Meanwhile, 10 orphans who excelled in public examinations last year were feted at the APIC-DANA 2017.

Five students are recipients of the PSR category while the other five are recipients of the SSSRU (Primary Six Religious Schools Certificate) category.

Recipients of the PSR category comprising Mohd Shayzul Khairuddeen Shah bin Abdullah @ Mohd Ryan, Muhd Wafiy Radhiy bin Aminuddin, Najihah binti Haji Najdi, Muhd Faiz bin Haji Mat Yassin and Norzaem Mierza Darwisy bin Jaini, each received a certificate of appreciation, a computer and printer, and a two-year learning facilities package in the form of $400.

SSSRU recipients comprising Nur Syarah Basirah binti Yahya, Siti Nur Afifah Khairiyah binti Muhd Nor Arif, Nurakilah Syadzwani binti Abdullah Mohd Ronney, Ummi Fasihah binti Haji Talipuddin and Adi Nurhanani binti Mohd Ali, each received a certificate, a computer and printer, and a $500 cash savings credited directly to their DANA account in TAIB.

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|     Aziz Idris     |

ISLAMIC finance is a dynamic area of the international financial service sector, as seen in the United Kingdom (UK) with the recent introduction of various Syariah compliant products, issuance of Sukuk and the setting up of several standalone Islamic banks.

This was shared by Arshadur Rahman, an Islamic finance specialist from the Bank of England (United Kingdom), during the afternoon session of the Brunei Darussalam Islamic Investment Summit 2017 (BIIS 2017) yesterday.

The speaker was discussing his topic based on the UK’s experience with Islamic finance from a regulatory perspective.

Arshadur highlighted that the UK Government has been actively encouraging Islamic finance activities such as the harmonisation for tax treatment, promoting UK as a centre for Islamic finance, and the issuance of sovereign Sukuk in 2014, as well as coordination initiatives through a Cross-Whitehall Islamic finance working group.

From a regulatory perspective, Arshadur explained UK’s approach where it was outlined in their regulator paper issued in 2007.

“In the context of legal and regulatory framework, Islamic Finance is not regulated directly in the UK, but is covered indirectly through disclosure rules which apply to all firms,” he said.

He added that there are several general considerations in relation to Islamic finance which should be taken into account such as the distinct differentiation of Islamic financial products from conventional products.

“Islamic finance should be distinguished from charitable activity as it is primarily a commercial enterprise,” he added.

With over 10 years of experience, Arshadur also touched on the Bank of England’s Syariah compliant facilities project.

It is working to implement a Syariah compliant central bank liquidity facility to provide the UK Islamic banks with greater flexibility in meeting the liquidity requirements.

Also present during the session was Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs in his capacity as Deputy Chairman of AMBD Board of Directors.

Among the speakers during the afternoon session was Datuk Dr Mohd Daus bin Bakar, the Founder and Group Chairman of Amanie Advisors, Malaysia, who provided his view of the Syariah and the contemporary challenges faced in finance and the implications for Brunei.

BIIS 2017 will continue today with several international and local experts exchanging knowledge and experience as well as addressing the current issues on the globalisation of Islamic finance.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) Islamic Finance Showcase was launched at the Indera Samudra Grand Hall, The Empire Hotel & Country Club yesterday by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office in his capacity as Chairman of Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD).

His Royal Highness also officiated the launch of the Brunei Darussalam Islamic Finance website and smartphone application, which serves as a one-stop centre for the latest Islamic finance news and information in Brunei Darussalam.

The AMBD Islamic Finance Showcase aims to showcase the country’s milestones in Islamic finance to create an awareness of Islamic finance activities in Brunei Darussalam. The showcase also highlights Brunei Darussalam’s aspiration to become an international hub for Islamic finance, which is underscored in the Brunei Darussalam Financial Sector Blueprint (2016-2025) – a document that sets out strategies that will elevate the reputation and quality of the financial sector in Brunei Darussalam.

Participating in the showcase are local Islamic financial institutions including Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB) and Takaful Brunei Keluarga (TBK), as well as higher learning institutions and non-profit organisations including Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) and Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB). Ghanim International Corporation is also participating in the showcase.

The event is held alongside the Brunei Darussalam Islamic Investment Summit (BIIS) 2017 organised by the Centre for Islamic Banking, Finance and Management and runs on August 2-3, from 9am to 5pm. Members of the public are welcome to view the AMBD Islamic Finance Showcase.

For more information on Brunei Darussalam Islamic Finance, members of the public can visit the website at www.bdif.com.bn or download the app for the App Store or Google Play Store.

Additionally, the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) Annual Report 2016 was officially launched yesterday by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah.

The inaugural report serves to promote awareness and understanding of the FIU’s functions and obligations within Brunei Darussalam’s anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) regime.

To commemorate the FIU’s 10th anniversary, the report also includes highlights of FIU’s progress and achievements since its establishment in 2007.

The report is available to members of the public through the AMBD website or the AMBD app, which can be downloaded free of charge on both the App Store for iPhone users and the Google Play Store for Android users.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office attended and officiated the Brunei Darussalam Islamic Investment Summit (BIIS) 2017 yesterday.

The two-day summit is hosted by the Centre for Islamic Banking, Finance and Management (CIBFM) with the support of Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD).

Themed ‘Globalisation of Islamic Finance: The Road Ahead’, the objective of the summit is to provide a useful platform for leaders, scholars and experts to share their knowledge and experience as well as to exchange views on current issues in Islamic finance with special focus on globalisation of Islamic finance.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, the Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara also attended the ceremony.

His Royal Highness was greeted upon arrival to the opening ceremony by Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, the Minister of Home Affairs, in his capacity as the Deputy Chairman of AMBD Board of Directors; Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim, the Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance II; and other Board members of AMBD as well as members of the BIIS 2017 organising committee.

The ceremony began with the singing of the national anthem, followed by a recitation of Al-Quran verses by Awangku Muhd Adibul Amin bin Pengiran Haji Marjuki.

At the ceremony, His Royal Highness delivered an opening sabda, after which His Royal Highness received a pesambah from Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar.

Prior to His Royal Highness’ sabda, welcoming remarks were delivered by the Minister of Home Affairs.

In his speech, the minister said, “Since the last summit in 2013, technological advances, legislative and regulatory requirements have improved and expanded the financial infrastructure and ecosystem of Brunei Darussalam.

“Earlier this year, AMBD released the Financial Sector Blueprint providing the strategic direction for Brunei Darussalam’s financial sector for the next 10 years to transform the country into a hub for Islamic finance. This aspiration is founded upon rising financial inclusiveness and literacy as well as the development of sophisticated and resilient human capital.”

The minister said that the summit provides an important platform for the sharing of experience, knowledge and views on the current challenges in Islamic finance with special focus on its globalisation and future direction.

“We are privileged to have with us an esteemed group of distinguished scholars and experts to lead and facilitate discussion in this growing global industry.

“Globalisation of Islamic finance has accelerated in the last few decades, facilitated by the rapid pace of standardisation, availability of information and advancement of communication technology.

“We have also witnessed the proliferation of Islamic financial institutions, greater participation in international Islamic financial markets, and increased cross border flows. Therefore, the theme of this year’s summit ‘Globalisation of Islamic Finance: The Road Ahead’ is indeed timely, given the myriad of opportunities and challenges.”

The minister shared that, over the next two days, speakers, panelists and participants will have the opportunity to deliberate on emerging issues including the promotion of social and responsible values, innovations in Sukuk and the digitalisation of Islamic finance.

“These issues are indeed pertinent and important in our efforts to further develop Islamic finance in Brunei Darussalam,” he added, expressing his hope that participants will take home invaluable knowledge gained from the interaction and networking during the summit.

The event saw a keynote presentation delivered by Sheikh Esam M Ishaq, a member of the High Council of Islamic Affairs, Government of Bahrain, which was entitled, ‘Sukuk – Traditional and Innovative Strategies’.

In his talk he highlighted that as Islamic finance assets and the number of Sukuk issuances increases, it is important to ensure that the substance from this growth does not deviate from theories and principles. He also emphasised the need for proper standardisation and harmonisation of sukuk as per the general principles of Syariah structures.

A number of other local and international speakers have also been invited to speak at the conference, including Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Metussin bin Haji Baki; Datuk Dr Mohd Daud bin Bakar, founder and Group Chairman of Amanie Advisors; Professor Dr Obiyathulla Ismath Bacha, Professor of Finance and the Head of the Graduate Studies Department, International Centre for Education in Islamic Finance (INCEIF); and Dr Mohd Hairul Azrin bin Haji Besar, member of the National Syariah Financial Supervisory Board, to name a few.

To bless the ceremony yesterday, a Doa Selamat was read by YB Pehin Datu Imam Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Hamid bin Bakal.

His Royal Highness visited exhibition booths of a number of financial institutions and programme partners show-casing, among other things, Islamic financial products and services.

His Royal Highness also took a group photo with the AMBD Board of Directors and members of BIIS 2017. Before leaving the ceremony, His Royal Highness received a Junjung Ziarah by the AMBD Board of Directors and members of BIIS 2017.

Yesterday’s opening ceremony was also attended by Cabinet Ministers, members of councils, hi-gh commissioners, ambassadors and permanent secretaries.

The two-day summit is being attended by around 200 participants from government ministries and agencies, the financial industry as well as the private sector.

The post Local financial infrastructure sees rapid growth appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

BRUNEI Darussalam’s key competitive edge towards becoming an international Islamic Finance hub lies in its strong Islamic philosophy, which is embedded in its way of life and naturally contributes to the purity of the country’s Islamic finance.

This was stated in a sabda yesterday by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Chairman of Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD), during the opening ceremony of the Brunei Darussalam Islamic Investment Summit 2017 (BIIS 2017).

“The global and regional economic environment has changed dramatically over the last 10 years, bringing with it new risks and challenges. Against this backdrop, the Islamic finance industry has seen extraordinary growth and has continued to evolve,” His Royal Highness said.

“According to the World Bank, the Islamic finance industry has expanded rapidly this past decade, growing at 10-12 per cent annually.”

His Royal Highness noted that at the end of 2016, Syariah-compliant financial assets are estimated at US$2.3 trillion, covering bank and non-bank financial institutions, capital markets, money markets, insurance companies and Takaful operators.

In many Muslim-majority countries, Islamic banking assets have grown faster than conventional banking assets, His Royal Highness said, adding that there has also been a surge of interest in Islamic finance from countries such as the United Kingdom, Luxembourg, and South Africa.

“With Muslims accounting for more than 20 per cent of the world’s population, and the increasing awareness on Islamic Finance, the Islamic finance industry looks poised to continue its remarkable growth. The Global Islamic Finance Report 2017 forecasted that Islamic Finance assets will grow to between US$3 trillion to US$4.3 trillion by 2020. In this regard, this Summit’s theme ‘Globalisation of Islamic Finance: The Road Ahead’ is therefore timely and appropriate.

“The value proposition of Islamic finance lies in its emphasis on risk-sharing and its ability to link finance to the real economy,” His Royal Highness continued.

“More significantly, it prohibits contracts involving speculation or the like, as mandated in the Al-Quran, Verse 90 of Surah Al-Ma’idah.”

His Royal Highness said that the strength of Islamic finance to face any adversities was demonstrated during the Global Financial Crisis in 2008 when highly complex and risky financial structures crippled the world’s financial system.

At the time, Islamic financial institutions had avoided from investigating in speculative instruments and came out relatively unharmed.

“In recognition of these strengths, the appeal of Islamic finance has extended beyond faith and origins. Global financial centres in London, Luxembourg and Hong Kong have started ambitious initiatives to tap into the potential of Islamic finance.”

Domestically, in over 20 years of inception, Brunei Darussalam’s Islamic Financial eco-system has continued to develop and now comprises Islamic banks, Takaful operators, Islamic investment dealers, Sukuk and other ancillary services, His Royal Highness said.

Currently, Islamic Banking and Takaful assets have grown to account for 53 per cent of the total market share.

His Royal Highness also highlighted that true globalisation of Islamic finance requires collaboration among regulatory and supervisory authorities; and harmonisation of international standards.

“On that note, I am pleased that as a regulator, AMBD has continually strived to adopt international best practices and plays an active role in its development. AMBD is now an active member in a number of standard-setting bodies such as the Islamic Financial Services Board and International Islamic Financial Market.

“Recognising the importance of public trust and fiduciary duty within the financial sector, AMBD has issued the Guidelines on Corporate Governance for Banks which shall take effect on January 1, 2018. Similar requirements shall also be applied to insurance companies and takaful operators in the near future.

“Complementing this corporate governance initiative, I am pleased to note that AMBD will also be introducing a Syariah Governance Framework for Islamic financial institutions,” His Royal Highness said.

“Alongside this, AMBD will be enhancing the Syariah audit framework to ensure that all approved Islamic financial products and services continue to adhere to Syariah standards. I am confident that all these initiatives will provide confidence to stakeholders.”

His Royal Highness affirmed that a strong and dynamic workforce is crucial for the industry to retain its competitiveness.

His Royal Highness said that, in this regard, AMBD with the support of Centre for Islamic Banking, Finance and Management will be introducing Continuous Professional Development (CPD) requirements for all financial practitioners, which will enhance the skill set of those working in the financial industry.

“I am most encouraged that all these developments are in line with the aspirations 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 to realise the country’s vision in becoming a world renowned Islamic financial hub.”

As a national agenda, His Royal Highness urged AMBD and relevant government and non-government agencies to continue their close collaboration in realising His Majesty’s vision.

“Our key competitive edge towards becoming an International Islamic Finance hub lies in our strong Islamic Philosophy which is embedded in our way of life. It naturally contributes to the purity of Brunei Darussalam’s Islamic Finance.

“Furthermore, the country’s continued political and macroeconomic stability and favourable ties with our international partners are conducive for foreign direct investments (FDIs) to locate their new operations in Brunei Darussalam.”

The post Strong Islamic philosophy key to be finance hub appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

WITH only two weeks left for the Kuala Lumpur Southeast Asia (SEA) Games 2017, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, called for representing athletes to make use of the remaining time to increase their confidence, maintain their level of fitness and health, and focus on the upcoming competition.

This was stated by the minister during his visit to the training of the country’s SEA Games athletes.

The minister met the Lawn Bowling, Pencak Silat, Athletics, Football, Fencing and Netball teams.

Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi lauded the coaches and staff on preparing the athletes especially for the Netball and Football teams, which will head to Malaysia on August 12.

“I can see that the teams are prepared and are confident to give their all to compete with other countries. I have confidence that the athletes will be successful in their competitions,” he added.

Also present were Haji Noor Jusmin bin Haji Abdul Samad, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports; and Pengiran Anak Sofian bin Pengiran Anak Haji Ibrahim, Chef de Mission of Brunei Contingent to the Kuala Lumpur SEA Games 2017.

Brunei Darussalam will be taking part in 14 sports comprising Aquatics, Athletics, Badminton, Cycling, Equestrian, Fencing, Football, Golf, Karate, Lawn Bowls, Netball, Pencak Silat, Sepak Takraw and Wushu.

The 172 strong members contingent will comprise 105 athletes with 67 officers.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

THE United Nation’s (UN) initiative of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) provides the Islamic Finance an opportunity to redefine its role pertaining to people empowerment (eg. social finance and MSME), socio-economic development (eg. profit sharing and poverty), and the environment (creating new Islamic financial instruments such as green Sukuk – green financing and carbon emissions) through sustainable and responsible investments.

This was highlighted by Professor Dr Abdul Ghafar bin Ismail from the Faculty of Economics and Islamic Finance at the Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) in his presentation entitled ‘Sustainable Development Goals and Islamic Finance’ at the second and final day of the Brunei Darussalam Islamic Investment Summit (BIIS) 2017 yesterday at The Empire Hotel & Country Club.

The SDG, officially known as ‘Transforming Our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development’, is a set of 17 ‘Global Goals’ with 169 targets between them.

It is spearheaded by the UN through a deliberative process involving its 193 member states as well as global civil society.

Professor Dr Abdul Ghafar added, “SDG creates opportunities like creating a value-based proposition to widen the definition of Islamic Finance by deepening the system, institutions and instruments as stated in the Constitution of Brunei Darussalam and to expand the Muslim funds (also stated in the Constitution of Brunei Darussalam).”

The Global Agenda enhances these possibilities for the Islamic Finance as SDG’s goals and values are not only parallel with Islamic Finance practices but also relevant and applicable.

He also pointed out that SDG brings challenges to the Islamic Finance practices such as in addressing the compliant and principle issues.

There is also a need to address the Maqasid Syariah issue and public policy issues.

Meanwhile, Dato’ Mohamad Nasir bin Abdul Latif, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Investment Division) of the Employees Provident Fund, Malaysia touched on ‘Simpanan Syariah: EPF Malaysia’s Experience’.

Among others, he highlighted that all EPF members regardless of religion, race and nationality may choose the ‘Simpanan Syariah’ which is managed and invested based on ‘Akad Wakalah’.

He said the EPF Board has been appointed and entrusted to act on behalf of its members to oversee the management and investment of their EPF savings, to ensure that they are in accordance with the Syariah principles.

Dato’ Mohamad Nasir also highlighted that the challenges facing the EPF scheme is to grow the Syariah assets and to diversify its stock investments but pointed out that it is not difficult to get Syariah-compliant stocks.

“In developed markets, we are able to get them but the stocks are quite limited in Asia,” he said.

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|     Lyna Mohamad     |

THE Ministry of Education (MoE) yesterday hosted the 10th Joint Working Group (JWG) Meeting between the education ministries of Brunei Darussalam and Singapore, at the Radisson Hotel in the capital.

The meeting was jointly chaired by Permanent Secretary at the MoE Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh and Permanent Secretary at the MoE of Singapore Chan Lai Fung.

In her opening remarks, Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah expressed delight with the good relations enjoyed by both countries, and hoped for greater collaborations between both ministries in the future.

The Memorandum of Understanding in education and cooperation between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore was signed on February 14, 2006 in Singapore, covering collaborations from school to university levels, she pointed out.

These include the school twinning programme attachments for teachers; teachers and school leaders programme; national institute of education exchanges; and collaboration between universities in areas of mutual interest.

Currently, the areas of collaborations under the JWG are School Twining Programme; Singapore Malay Teachers Immersion Programme; Brunei English Teachers Attachment Programme; Brunei Singapore Student Leaders Adventure Camp; Technical and Vocational students and staff exchange programme; and the NUS programme.

In her speech, Chan described the relations between both sides as being “special,” adding that she always looks forward to the exchange of views at JWG meetings.

During a visit to two schools earlier in the day, Chan and her delegation were impressed with the changes in place, the result of frequent exchanges.

The visits were to Katok Secondary School and Pusar Ulak Primary School, where they were welcomed by the respective principals, Penroose Saleha binti Haji Mohd Salleh and Colm Mc Dermott.

The Singapore delegation includes the Divisional Director of Planning and senior officers from MoE Singapore.

The annual meeting between the two ministries serves as a platform to discuss educational collaborative programmes and activities, enabling both sides to stay abreast with the recent educational developments.

At the meeting, the Brunei delegates discussed the developments, which included the implementation of the Literacy and Numeracy National Standards (LNNS) to improve the level of English literacy and numeracy among students, preparing them for higher levels of education.

A presentation on the Literacy and Numeracy Programme (LNCP) was also delivered.

The Singapore delegation shared their recent education developments and their ongoing initiatives to support holistic education, as well as their preparation for PISA.

Existing collaborations were reviewed and progress of programmes and activities under the JWG initiatives were also reported at the meeting.

These included the school twinning programmes between primary and secondary schools of both countries; Brunei-Singapore School Leadership Programme; Malay Language Immersion Programme for Singapore Teachers; Singapore Youth Festival; and the launch of the Abode of Peace and the Lion City exhibition in Singapore.

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