SAYYIDINA Abu Bakar Secondary School (SMSAB) emerged as the champion in the 45th Malay Language Debate Competition for Secondary Schools and Colleges.
The final competition between SMSAB and St Andrew’s School took place yesterday at the multi-purpose hall of Rimba II Secondary School.
The event began with the singing of the national anthem followed by the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat.
A welcoming remark was delivered by Hajah Siti Khadijah binti Haji Damit, Co-Chairperson and also the Principal of Rimba II Secondary School.
Prizes were presented by the guest of honour, Nadia Lee Siew Hoon binti Abdullah, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education.
The prize for Best Debater went to Nurfazillah binti Abdullah Shahibol Rizal from Sayyidina Abu Bakar Secondary School.
A total of 16 schools participated in the initial stage of the competition.
The competition was aimed at enhancing thinking skills and the proper techniques of stating arguments and factual views spontaneously among the participants.
In addition, the competition also hoped to produce more generation of debaters especially among youths and produce scholars in line with the nation’s Vision 2035 to have a highly-skilled and educated society.
The debate team from Sayyidina Abu Bakar Secondary School receiving their prize from Nadia Lee Siew Hoon binti Abdullah, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education. – PHOTOS: WANI ROSLANGuest of honour presenting the prize to the debate team from St Andrew’s School, who came second
DPMM FC forward Rafael Ramazotti is raring to give his side a much-needed lift ahead of their quarter-final first leg clash against Home United FC in his return from a three-month injury at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore tonight.
The Brazilian striker has missed eight games in all competitions following an ankle ligament injury and was nearing a return to competitive action before the league clash with Tampines Rovers FC late last month.
The two-time S League top scorer has found it difficult to be side-lined for a lengthy period, his longest time out in his 12 years of professional football.
Ramazotti’s absence was hugely missed as the Gegar Gegar men who had just 10 goals in 13 league matches were deprived of his goals and aerial threat.
“It’s very frustrating and difficult for two reasons. First because I’ve never been out for such a long time in 12 years of professional football – almost three months,” the striker was quoted as saying by the S League.
DPMM FC and Home United FC players vying for the ball during their league clash in May. – SLEAGUE
“Usually I’m out for only a week or 10 days at most. Also, the injury was sustained in training and not during a game. Secondly, I couldn’t help my teammates while we’re going through a difficult time.
“All these things are in the past now. I just hope we can recover our confidence and finish the season strongly.
“We’re practically the same team that was S League champions in 2015 and League Cup runners-up in 2016, so I believe we have what it takes to bounce back,” the scoring assassin continued.
Ramazotti stressed that the Singapore Cup, the only title that eluded DPMM FC, would be of great importance to them but exercised caution not to get carried away and take “each game at a time” in the build-up to their quarter-final tie.
“Before we can think (about the Singapore Cup), we got to think about every game, step by step and day by day.
“That’s what we aim to do till the end, keep working hard and give our 100 per cent. Once we start regaining confidence, the results will follow,” concluded the Brazilian.
The Gegar Gegar men will be facing a side who were recently knocked out of the AFC Cup after losing 3-2 in aggregate to Filipino side Ceres-Negros in the Asean zone final.
However, Home United midfielder Aqhari Abdullah indicated that they are not short in confidence and that they will be taking some positives from the game despite the disappointment of falling short of an inter-zone semi-final place.
“We’re definitely sad and disappointed not to win the final, but that doesn’t mean we’re done. It means we’re going to get stronger as a team and for any team to beat us from now will be quite difficult,” the midfielder added.
FORTY-eight athletes from the Brunei Darussalam Contingent departed to Kuala Lumpur (KL) yesterday morning for the 29th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games 2017. Sixteen of them are in netball, 26 for football, three for equestrian and three are officials.
To bid the athletes farewell at the Departure Hall of the Brunei International Airport was Haji Zafri bin Haji Mohamed, Acting Director of Youth and Sports. He was accompanied by officers and staff from Youth and Sports Department, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.
The Vice President of Brunei Darussalam Netball Association (BNA), Lieutenant Colonel (R) Hajah Wan Shahllimar binti Haji Suhaili was at the airport with the team and gave them some motivational talk before departure.
“We managed to get bronze last year, let’s hope we can retain it or even get better results.” The Vice President told the Sunday Bulletin.
The Acting Vice President of the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) Haji Madli bin Mohd Yussof; Acting Secretary General Pengiran Md Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud; Technical Director Yvon Avry and other NFABD staff were present to bid the national football team farewell.
Brunei Darussalam Football National Team in a team photo prior to departureBrunei Darussalam Netball National Team at the airport. – PHOTOS: KHAIRIL HASSAN
During his speech to the players before they left, Haji Madli advised them to always be on their best behaviour while at the Malaysian capital and do their best to make the country proud.
“I told them to be full of confidence and try their best to fight for Brunei,” he said.
“Uphold the country’s good image and always stay disciplined.
“Put the training that you have been going through during practice into use when playing these matches, and it is very important they take good care of themselves and their health.”
The team has been training since January for the SEA Games and entered centralised training in March.
Kwon Oh-son’s men will face hosts Malaysia on Monday, Myanmar on Friday, Laos on August 21 and close their Group A campaign against Singapore on August 23.
The country is sending 105 athletes and 67 officials to the Games which will run from August 19 to 31, participating in 14 sports; Aquatic (Synchronised Swimming), Athletic, Badminton, Cycling, Equestrian (Endurance, Jumping and Polo), Fencing, Football, Golf, Karate, Lawn Bowls, Netball, Pencak Silat, Takraw and Wushu.
The third and fourth contingent will be departing for Malaysia on August 14 and 16.
THE Asean@50 exhibition, organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, was launched at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas yesterday.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof officiated the launch.
The exhibition was organised to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean).
The exhibition is organised in cooperation with the embassies and the high commissions of Asean member states and Asean Dialogue Partners in Brunei Darussalam as well as government agencies such as the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS), the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT).
The event will feature over 20 booths displaying information on Asean and various products. The exhibition booths were prepared by embassies and high commissions of Asean member states and Asean Dialogue Partners in Brunei Darussalam.
The event will continue today from 9am to 5pm.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof (6th from L) officiating the launch of the Asean@50 exhibition at ICC. – AZLAN OTHMAN
TEN dancers from the Aquinas University of Legazpi, Philippines, thrilled crowds during a cultural dance showcase at the Asean@50 exhibition at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas yesterday.
Present at the event was Meynardo LB Montealegre, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to Brunei Darussalam as well as other foreign diplomats.
The dancers, led by choreographer, Marie Veronique Berdin, Acting Director of the Center for sports, wellness, culture and arts of Aquinas University presented six dances – Cariñosa, Jota De Manila, Pastores Camilig, Magalatik, Binasuan and Tinikling.
It took about two weeks for the dancers to prepare for the event.
Jeph Seit Espinosa, one of the dancers, in an interview with the Sunday Bulletin said, “We felt honoured to perform in Brunei for the first time. We represent the whole of the Philippines performing here at the exhibition.”
Jeph hoped to come back to Brunei to perform again and added that it was a great experience.
Visitors also had a chance to observe an Ikebana demo-nstration by Risho Saito.
Cultural performances by Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia will be held today at 9.30am followed by Indonesia at noon. Cultural Performances by Lao PDR will be at 12.30pm followed by Malaysia at 1.45pm.
The finale of the cultural performance by Indonesia and Lao PDR will be at 4.15pm.
Meynardo LB Montealegre, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to Brunei Darussalam and other foreign diplomats at the event. – PHOTOS: JAMES KONTen dancers from the Aquinas University of Legazpi, Philippines, thrilled crowds during a cultural dance showcase at the Asean@50 exhibition at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas yesterdayDancers performing the Magalatik danceDancers performing the Cariñosa
THE ground of a private construction site in Kiulap collapsed yesterday afternoon. No injuries were reported.
Six firefighters led by ABK 55 Haji Awang bin Sa’at and a fire engine were dispatched to the scene after receiving a distress call at 4.45pm. Also present at the scene were SO Hanapi from Beribi Fire Station and personnel from the Labour Department.
According to figures obtained by the Ministry of Development in April this year, the number of death cases from construction sites had dropped by 55 per cent from nine cases in 2015 to four in 2016. However, the number of accidents had increased by 21 per cent to 68 cases in 2016, compared to 56 cases in 2015.
The cause of the accident is still under investigation.
The private construction site in Kiulap. – JAMES KON
THE establishment of the Asean Economic Community (AEC) will bring tremendous benefits for businesses.
This was shared by Hajah Nor Ashikin binti Haji Johari, Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MoFAT), who was speaking during a trade dialogue titled ‘Asean Beyond 50: Benefits, Opportunities and Challenges’ at the Muzakarah Hall of the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas yesterday.
Organised by the MoFAT as part of commemorative activities to celebrate Asean’s 50th anniversary, the event featured a number of presentations as well as a panel discussion.
“As we celebrate Asean’s 50th anniversary, it is noteworthy to look back at the foundation of the bloc and reflect how far we have come,” she said, noting that it was only 20 years ago during the 30th anniversary of Asean when leaders first envisioned an Asean economic region, where there is free flow of goods, services and investment, as well as freer movement of capital, equitable economic development and reduced poverty and socio-economic disparities.
On December 31, 2015, the AEC was realised, marking an important milestone in Asean’s economic integration process.
The acting permanent secretary said, “Tariffs and customs duties for goods traded among Asean member countries have been removed or reduced. Customs processes have been simplified. Efforts have been stepped up to mutually recognise or harmonise standards and technical regulations, as well as qualifications.”
Participants at the event. – DANIAL NORJIDI
She further affirmed that all this “has led to stronger trade and investment flows, and improved mobility of personnel within the region.”
“Asean has, therefore, evolved into an economic powerhouse, fuelled with a total combined population of 622 million people,” she continued, noting that more than half of Asean’s population is under the age of 30.
“Additionally, if Asean was considered as a single economy, it would be the sixth-largest in the world and the third-largest in Asia, with an annual growth rate projected at 4.7 per cent.
“Moving forward, and in reflection of the dynamic global economic landscape, coupled with other mega trends such as transformational technologies, Asean recognises the need to be more integrated, resilient, responsive and relevant.
“As such, in 2015, a new Vision 2025 was adopted for Asean, and for the AEC, there is a stronger emphasis on micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), digital economy and e-commerce, amongst other emerging issues.
“We therefore hope that this session will provide insights on how we can capitalise on the opportunities under the AEC, especially for our companies to trade and invest beyond our borders, into the region, as well as beyond,” she added.
The event saw a briefing taking place, featuring presentations from the Department of International Trade, MoFAT; Asli KTM; Tasconi Pizza; and the Asean Business Advisory Council.
In their presentations, the speakers discussed the opportunities and benefits for Brunei Darussalam for being part of the AEC before responding to queries in question and answer sessions.
DPMM FC faced an uphill task to qualify for the semi-finals of the Singapore Cup after losing 3-1 in the first leg of the quarter-final match at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore last night.
Home United FC winger Faris Ramli returned to haunt the Gegar Gegar men with a brace as DPMM FC relinquished a 1-0 goal lead with half an hour of play remaining at their adopted ground.
The designated hosts broke their drought of not scoring a goal after 253 minutes through the returning Rafael Ramazotti but Home United defender Juma’at Jantan levelled matters following an individual brilliance from Song Ui-young.
Home United forward Marijan Suto won a free header but contrived to see the ball off target.
DPMM FC defender Vincent Salas delivered a powerful header but it flew past the upright much to the relief of the Home United goalkeeper Hassan Sunny.
Rafael Ramazotti, returning from a three-month injury, produced a speculative volley which was claimed easily by Hassan.
The Brazilian conjured another shot but it ended off the mark before going close with a header following good work from Daud Gazale.
DPMM FC’s forward Daud Gazale (right) and Home United defender Sufianto Salleh vie for the ball. – S LEAGUE
Home United midfielder Aqhari Abdullah came close to breaking the deadlock after producing an effort from the edge of the box.
Ramazotti capitalised on a defensive mix-up to gift DPMM FC the lead from the run of play but the lead lasted less than 10 minutes as Juma’at guided the ball home after Song whizzed past a trio of DPMM FC defenders.
Faris Ramli, who bagged a quadruple against the same side in May, burst into the final third before sidestepping the DPMM FC goalkeeper and slotting the ball into the empty net in the 72nd minute.
The Protectors extended their lead as Faris tapped home the loose ball after Aqhari’s free-kick hits the upright.
DPMM FC will now have to score three goals without reply to qualify for the semi-finals in the second leg at the Bishan Stadium in Singapore.
KUANTAN Rangers’ coronation as newly-crowned Brunei Futsal League (BFL) 2017 champions were slightly spoiled as Arbisyam FC played the role of party poopers during a goalless draw in the final league match at the Indoor Stadium of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex last night.
However, despite Arbisyam revelling in one of their greatest results to date against potential Malaysian national futsal league opposition, the occasion still deservedly belonged to Kuantan Rangers who over nine games had been the best side in the league.
It was a fitting end to yet another hugely successful national league season as the best local futsal side in the country denied the invited guest victory with a combination of goal-saving interventions, missed opportunities and a stroke of luck.
Regardless of the outcome in last night’s match with the title already decided, both teams have succeeded in meeting their objectives and expectations with Arbisyam FC finishing runners-up following Miri defeat to Shah United on Saturday.
“We are very grateful to be given the opportunity to compete in the Brunei Futsal League (BFL) 2017 and it is an indication that we are very serious and learn to be a very good team,” said Kuantan Rangers head coach Mohammad Faizul bin Abdul Gaffar.
“Our team is fairly new as we have only been together for eight months. Our intention to come here is to gain more experience and to form compatibility among players in the hope of seeing action in the National Futsal League in Malaysia whereby we will be taking part in the qualifying rounds which is expected this December,” the head coach further said.
Kuantan Rangers came into the final week handicapped with two matches knowing that two wins in their last three games would have sealed them the title.
The Malaysian side did just that as they enjoyed comfortable wins- 13-0 against Najip FT and 7-0 against Eagle Blues- before meeting unbeaten Arbisyam last night.
Kuantan Rangers receiving the champion’s trophy from Haji Madli bin Haji Mohd Yusof, Acting Deputy President of National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam. – KHAIRIL HASSAN
Despite the stark contrast in quality with the teams at the bottom end of the table, Mohammad Faizul highlighted that they came into every match treating each team with respect.
“I take it seriously and we will play to our best against any teams that come in our path,” said the former Malaysia international.
Despite finishing short of the top prize, Arbisyam had exceeded all expectations and succeeded in separating the invited teams monopoly with Miri pushed back to third following their defeat to Shah United.
“We have met our expectations and our initial target was to reach the top 3,” said the President of Arbisyam FC Haji Ishak bin Haji Mohamad.
The president also shared the club’s plans to expand and develop their development scheme from a young age in order to gain interest and to be able to perform for the club.
“The Arbisyam players have been instilled with fighting spirit whereby the team is representing the country. To become the best, we must be bold to face challenges and Arbisyam is prepared to train with the national futsal,” continued the president.
He added that they have focused on training in their defence and attack and not allowed Kuantan Rangers to move freely and utilise space.
Haji Ishak, who is also the team’s advisor during training in matches, said that their match against Kuantan Rangers was a most-anticipated affair as it allowed them to gauge their capabilities and evaluate the abilities of the players as well as their expertise in terms of their coaching.
The guest of honour at the closing match of the Brunei Futsal League and the prize presentation ceremony was Haji Madli bin Haji Mohd Yusof, Acting Deputy President of National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD), who presented the prizes.
LELA Cheteria Boat Race Council asserted their dominance in the national scene after winning the 30-rider event of the Youth Traditional Boat Race 2017 in conjunction with the 12th National Youth Day along the waters of Brunei River yesterday.
The guest of honour at the event was Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara, who also presented the prizes.
Also present were the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof; Permanent Secretaries at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Awang Haji Noor Jusmin bin Haji Abdul Samad and Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil.
Lela Cheteria Boat Race Council Team Manager Pengarah Haji Ibrahim bin Haji Mohamad Yussof heaped praise to the riders on winning the main event of the competition.
“We are very thankful that the Lela Cheteria Boat Race Council team have been able to achieve a lot of success in the 30-rider Open and Youth events as well as other events whereby the team was ranked top three times and second in two events,” the team manager said in an interview with the media.
“This year, it is very encouraging whereby the Lela Cheteria team can provide stern competition to other teams,” he further added.
Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara, with the Lela Cheteria Boat Race Council team, champion of the Youth Traditional Boat Race 2017Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara, in a photo with the champions Lela Cheteria Boat Race Council. – PHOTOS: KHAIRIL HASSAN
He also paid respects to other competitors who were also much feared during the race from their riders before indicating that a combination of instilling a sense of high spirits, unity and cooperation among all riders as pertinent components to their success.
Pengarah Haji Ibrahim also shared that they are currently being assisted by National Boat Race Association (PERKIBAR) as well as receiving support from the Department of Youth and Sports to represent the country overseas.
The manager also outlined future plans to maintain the team in other competitions having hailed their quality evident by their conduct in training.
The competition was participated by a total of nine teams namely the Tutong District Youth, Lela Cheteria Boat Race Council, Royal Brunei Police Force Sports Council, Ikan Paus, Gabungan Anak Tamoi Brunei (GATA), Setia Kesuma Kampong Sungai Matan, Juang United, Mukim Saba Darat and the Kampong Sungai Bunga team.
HER Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah, team official of the Brunei Darussalam netball team, expressed her pride on the progress of the team ahead of their much-anticipated campaign in the 29th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia which begins today.
The national netball team has heightened their preparations over the last few months having embarked exhibition series in trips to Singapore and Sri Lanka following a lengthy period of training in a SEA Games year.
“I am very proud with the team’s progress. I think the months of training and practice have paid off as they look more confident and comfortable playing with each other. The synergy they have developed on court will push them onto another level,” Her Royal Highness said.
With the first two games a tall order for the Royal Bees separated by a day with defending SEA Games champions Singapore first up at the Juara Stadium today and gold medal favourites Malaysia on August 15, Her Royal Highness said that they will give a good fight.
“It’s going to be a tough couple of days but I believe we can give a very good fight. It has been a long journey for everyone but I believe we have what it takes to reach the podium.”
With the top two almost a nailed on certainty, the national netball team will be hoping to emulate the feat they achieved in Singapore a couple of years ago when they won bronze.
Her Royal Highness also conveyed a message to the national team before starting their campaign against the host nation who has been tipped to avenge their final defeat in 2015.
“I wish the team the best of luck in the upcoming days ahead. No matter the outcome I am so proud to have seen them grow as a team and the journey has been incredible,” Her Royal Highness concluded.
Meanwhile, national netball head coach Thilaka Jinadasa echoed Her Royal Highness’s sentiments over how far the girls have evolved since beginning their training stint for the region’s most prestigious competition.
Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah. – MOHAMMAD ASYRAMISYANIE
“It’s a proud moment of representing the country and netball. We all have put everything behind the last 10 months to come this far and make it to the SEA Games,” the head coach said.
“I am really proud of the girls to experience how much they committed and sacrificed to represent Brunei. I hope that the girls will keep their mind-set well and focus what we plan all these years to achieve our goal,” she further added.
The head coach called the national team to adopt a strong mind set and demonstrate a fighting spirit towards the final whistle.
The national team did rapidly well during the recent exposure series in Sri Lanka where they managed to defeat two leading teams in the country.
However, Thilaka indicated the need to be cautious at the international level against much varied opposition.
“It’s important to play very tactfully during this level of competition since all teams are well prepared.”
The head coach has shuffled her line-ups against different opponents during the Sri Lanka series.
“It’s important to match the team with knowing opponents better and fix the team accordingly. It was a good opener for us to try out different line ups and be better prepared.”
The Sri Lanka trip will no doubt provide a morale boost especially competing and winning against teams which fielded current national players.
Thilaka also pointed out a crucial moment in the match which could serve them with great confidence heading into the SEA Games shall they encounter a similar situation.
“At one point during both games, we were having equal goals but Brunei players showed their determination and fought back to get the lead which is very important at this stage of our training to get us a morale boost.”
The head coach felt that the national team is able to play more tactfully and show maturity when and how to control crucial situations and overcome it successfully compared to the previous SEA Games.
Thilaka concluded by calling her charges to fight for the country and give their all on what they have worked for the last year.
DST, the leading info-telecommunications provider in Brunei, reached another milestone as its ‘Easi’ prepaid mobile service turned 18 last month.
In conjunction with the anniversary, DST organised a two-day, entrance-free mini carnival over the weekend. It was launched Saturday night at the Jerudong Park Amphitheatre in appreciation of loyal customers for their continuous support of the company.
Legislative Council (LegCo) member, YB Pehin Orang Kaya Pendikar Alam Dato Paduka Seri Haji Hasrin bin Dato Paduka Haji Sabtu, the guest of honour, launched the mini carnival.
Also in attendance were Haji Marsad bin Haji Ismail, the Deputy CEO of DST, management and staff, as well as members of the public.
“We started with a humble beginning of only a few hundred subscribers in the early years, and now we’ve gained over 300,000 subscribers for prepaid alone,” the Deputy CEO highlighted in his speech during the launch.
“The evolution of the mobile industry, demands of the public and technical availability have really influenced the journey of our prepaid services and. as we move forward, there’s so much more that we want to do for our customers.
YB Pehin Orang Kaya Pendikar Alam Dato Paduka Seri Haji Hasrin officiating the launch of DST’s Easi 18th anniversary celebrationThe guest of honour officiates the launch of tonton video streaming serviceA group photo with the guest of honour, LegCo member YB Pehin Orang Kaya Pendikar Alam Dato Paduka Seri Haji Hasrin bin Dato Paduka Haji Sabtu, on Saturday night at the Jerudong Park Amphitheatre. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIRThe guest of honour, Deputy CEO of DST, Haji Marsad bin Haji Ismail, and other attendees during the eventYB Pehin Orang Kaya Pendikar Alam Dato Paduka Seri Haji Hasrin touring the Easi exhibition gallery
“In the meantime, we celebrate what we have achieved and aspire to improve further as we accommodate diversity and lifestyle in our product development plans.”
Following the carnival’s launch, the guest of honour also launched a new video streaming service called ‘tonton’, one of the many value-added services like iflix that DST is providing its customers.
One of the event’s highlights was the appearance of tonton’s brand ambassadors and hosts, Acap Tokan and Chiwan Chilok, mascot Ejen Ali, faces of tonton Ayda Jebat, Redza Rosli and the Queen of tonton, Dato’ Seri Vida.
At the carnival, members of the public got a chance to view the Easi exhibition gallery to learn more about the evolution and milestones of this prepaid mobile and broadband service as well as some classic memorabilia of its recharge cards and starter packs.
There were also some exciting fun and games as well as an assortment of food, beverages and lifestyle products made available by various DST partners, including Swensens, Aranda Café, SugarBun, The Coffee Bean Brunei and MyTown Restaurant.
FAMILY members and relatives filled the Departure Hall of the Brunei International Airport to bid goodbye to pilgrims of the third Brunei Darussalam Haj flight that left for Madinah at 8.08pm yesterday.
They were scheduled to arrive at 12.48am Madinah time.
Onboard the flight were 253 pilgrims under Darussalam Holdings Sdn Bhd, 115 males and 133 female pilgrims, including five officers from the Haj Affairs Medical Office and Darussalam Holdings.
Present to bid the pilgrims farewell were Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs; Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports in his capacity as the Chairman of Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB) Board of Directors; Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, Minister of Health; Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, Deputy Minister of Education; Dato Seri Paduka Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs; Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Mohd Yusof, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA); and Haji Harun bin Haji Junid and Roslan bin Haji Taja’ah, Deputy Permanent Secretaries at the MoRA.
Also present to bid farewell to the female pilgrims were the wives of the Minister of Religious Affairs and Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs.
A Doa Selamat recitation was led by Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Haji Emran bin Haji Kunchang, while the Azan (call to prayer) was carried out by Mudim Haji Metassim bin Haji Metussin.
Bidding the pilgrims farewell yesterday were Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs; Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports in his capacity as the Chairman of Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors; and Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, Minister of Health. – MORAA Doa Selamat recitation led by Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Haji Emran bin Haji Kunchang at the Brunei International Airport. – MORABoarding the Royal Brunei Airlines flight BI4207 were 253 pilgrims under Darussalam Holdings Sdn Bhd . – MORANorhayati binti Abdullah, 47, and her husband Zakaria bin Haji Matusin, 57, in a group photo with their family members. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM
Norhayati binti Abdullah, 47, and her husband Zakaria bin Haji Matusin, 57, expressed their gratitude to Allah the Almighty for granting them a chance to perform Haj for the first time.
“As a Muallaf, this is something that is very valuable to me,” said Norhayati, who embraced Islam in 1985.
“We have been waiting for the opportunity to perform this pilgrimage for so long. It was difficult for us in the past, as our children were still young. Now that they are all grown up and the opportunity presents itself, we are finally able to carry out this religious duty.”
Mahani bin Haji Marani, 53, with wife Saidah binti Rauf, 54, and other family members
Mahani bin Haji Marani, 53, and his wife Saidah binti Rauf, 54, who are also performing Haj for the first time, said that preparations of the pilgrims in terms of worship and the pillars of Haj, obligatory and Sunnah acts have been handled very well by Darussalam Holdings.
They are very confident with the agency with its strong reputation as an experienced and long established company that handles Haj and Umrah packages.
Muhd Abdul Rashid bin Maidin, 25, joined by his parents and two siblings for Haj, with family members and relatives
Muhd ??Abdul Rashid bin Maidin, 25, joined by his parents and two siblings for Haj, said that apart from performing the pilgrimage, he is looking forward to visiting historic places in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as part of the Haj package.
BRUNEI is an important member of Asean, as well as an active promoter and contributor to regional peace, development and prosperity.
This was said by Yang Xiuping, the Secretary-General of the Asean-China Centre (ACC) in a speech during the Trade Dialogue on ‘Asean Beyond 50: Benefits, Opportunities and Challenges’ at the International Convention Centre in Berakas over the weekend.
She said, “Brunei has unique advantages in economic cooperation with the regional countries and beyond.
“In recent years, encouraged by the Belt and Road initiatives, more and more Chinese investors are cooperating with their Brunei counterparts in the areas of infrastructure, agriculture, energy, logistics and other areas which have achieved fruitful results.”
“The ACC would like to cooperate with friends from Brunei and other Asean member countries and its dialogue partners to further promote Asean-China practical cooperation and enhance the understanding and friendship between Asean and China,” she added.
The Asean-China Centre is an inter-governmental organisation co-founded by the 10 Asean member states and China. Since its inception in 2011, the ACC has been committed to promoting practical cooperation in the areas of trade, investment, education, culture, tourism and media.
By the end of 2016, the ACC had carried out more than 100 flagship projects and organised or participated in more than 500 activities, contributing to the development of Asean-China relations and regional cooperation.
Secretary-General of the Asean-China Centre Yang Xiuping delivering her speech. – DANIAL NORJIDI
Yang noted that at the Asean Foreign Ministers’ Meeting/Post Ministerial Conferences held last week in Manila, the revised Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Asean-China Centre was jointly signed by the foreign ministers of Asean and China.
“It will further enhance the role of ACC in promoting practical cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, education, culture as well as information and media between Asean and China.”
She also shared that the ACC is working on 19 flagship projects for 2017.
“On trade and investment, ACC vigorously promotes the upgraded Asean-China FTA and relevant Asean trade and investment policies, and enhances cooperation on production capacity, agriculture and poverty reduction.
“ACC continues to support Asean and Chinese enterprises, especially the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to enhance business opportunities on both sides.”
“For instance, ACC helped China’s local provinces build commercial centres with the theme of Asean and organised investment missions to Asean member countries. ACC also actively promotes e-commerce cooperation in keeping with the trend of the times.”
“Besides, ACC hosted the international symposium on the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Asean, which is the first commemorative event held in an Asean’s dialogue partner country.”
She said that the ACC hosted or supported seven activities during the 10th Asean-China Education Cooperation Week in areas like personnel cultivation as well as Technical and Vocational Training.
The ACC also held the Asean-China Quality and Sustainable Tourism Development Conference and Asean Photo Exhibition, and is working with Beijing TV on tourism documentary series of 10 Asean member countries.
In addition, the ACC organised the visits of mainstream media of Asean and China and hosted the Beijing Asean Cultural Tour and Asean Gourmet Festival.
“All these have helped cement the public support for the development of Asean-China relations,” she added.
RESIDENTS living near the shoreline at the coastal village of Kampong Danau have become fretful as high tides and waves experienced during the monsoon season are beginning to erode their land areas, most evident in the wearing away of vegetation such as the Ru trees growing along the shore.
According to Acting Village Head of Kampong Danau, Haji Abdullah bin Haji Mohd Tahir, coastal barriers were constructed in the past to prevent coastal erosion at Tanjung Danau and Danau Primary School.
Resident Haji Yunos bin Haji Yakob, whose house was affected by the coastal erosion, experienced his entire storehouse and part of his farm lost to the sea, and the erosion slowly creeping up to his house doorway.
Late last year, some companies and government agencies came together to provide assistance. A coastal barrier has since been constructed to prevent the house from being eaten away by the waves and high tides.
The coastal shoreline at Kampong Danau showing signs of coastal erosion. – AZARAIMY HH
The sea is also slowly but gradually gnawing away at the lands of other residents living near the shoreline of Kampong Danau.
Haji Abdullah urged residents to take extra precautions, especially during the monsoon season to reduce the risk of endangering their lives.
THE Ministry of Education (MoE) yesterday officially launched the ‘My School, My Home’ (‘Sekolahku Rumahku’) nationwide government school cleaning campaign in a ceremony at the Science and ICT Building (SIT) of Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College (Maktab Duli) in Gadong.
Present at the event was the Minister of Education Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman. Also in attendance was the Deputy Minister of Education Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar.
The launching ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali’s (UNISSA) Public Relations and International Centre Director Haji Sammali bin Haji Adam.
Following this was the presentation of donations in the form of Standard Operation Procedure (SOP) books and grass cutting machines by the minister.
Six grass cutting machines were distributed to heads of cluster from the Department of Schools, while the SOP books were distributed to representatives from each of the departments under the MoE as well as representatives from higher learning institutions in the country and heads of cluster.
The event continued with the planting of flowering trees in the surrounding area of the SIT building by the minister and deputy minister, before proceeding with a cleanup at three different venues at the college. They were accompanied by Hajah Monaliza binti Haji Abdul Halim, Principal of Maktab Duli, as head of location coordinator for the event.
The Minister of Education Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman and Deputy Minister of Education Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, with Maktab Duli College officersThe Minister of Education watering flower plants during the event. – PHOTOS: ACHONG TANJONGThe minister at Maktab Duli’s Teratak Wasilah Budi hutIBTE students at the campaign yesterday
Other activities included restoration works on the ‘Teratak Wasilah Budi’ area and the landscaping of the college’s Malaya Study Department (Jabatan Pengajian Melayu). The cleanup also witnessed the launching of ‘MD Recycle Drive’, a programme held annually to increase awareness among the students on the importance of reusing and recycling used items.
The cleanup effort continued at the Special Education Unit (SEU) building, and involved heads of department; senior officers, officers and staff of the ministry; and students of the college.
Meanwhile at the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE), the cleanup was participated by Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh, Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the MoE; and Nadia Lee Siew Hoon binti Abdullah, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the MoE.
The selling of food and drinks by students of IBTE Business Campus further enlivened the activities at the location.
At UNISSA, the cleaning campaign was led by Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, Rector of UNISSA, and participated by over 100 individuals comprising lecturers, officers, staff, and students of UNISSA.
The MoE’s initiative to organise the school cleaning campaign aimed to maintain and ensure the cleanliness of school areas and its assets at all times.
DPMM FC head coach Steve Kean has lavished praise to Home United FC first-choice goalkeeper Hassan Sunny for keeping his side at bay following their 3-1 defeat in the quarter-final first leg of the Singapore Cup at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore on Sunday.
It is the second time that the Singapore international has received plaudits from the former Premier League manager after equally impressing in his side’s 3-1 win at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in the league earlier this season.
“We know that we can create chances and you know, you are playing against probably – in my opinion – the best goalkeeper in the country, in this competition and in this league. And he has made three saves that has totally changed the complexion of the game,” Kean told the S League.
Kean indicated that Hassan’s goalkeeping abilities marked a significant moment in shifting the momentum in favour of the Protectors.
“The biggest turning point in the game was the double save (by Hassan Sunny). It looked like the second save was in because his feet were on the line and his back was arched and his has hooked (the ball) it out and then they go on to score the goal.”
It will be a tough ask in the return leg to overturn the deficit as Home United have not been in a shortage of goals having scored a staggering total of 15 goals in just three meetings between the pair, with seven of those coming from midfielder Faris Ramli.
In contrast, the goals have dried up for the Gegar Gegar men despite the returning Rafael Ramazotti breaking that drought without scoring a goal after 253 minutes.
DPMM FC head coach Steve Kean has labelled Home United FC goalkeeper Hassan Sunny as Singapore’s best, following an impressive display in his team’s 3-1 win. – ORTUS MEDIA
“We know that we played well in the first part. We scored. Ramazotti’s header is and in the first half there was a chance where it was saved when it was going into the corner,” added the former Blackburn Rovers manager.
The Great Eastern-Hyundai S League strugglers have it all to do in the second leg with Home United a firm favourite of progressing but head coach Aidil Sharin refused to rest on their laurels just yet.
“We need to think that the game is still 0-0 and win in the second leg,” said Sharin.
The head coach also echoed Kean’s sentiments of his goalkeeper as the catalyst in the decisive moment of the game.
“(On the turning point of the game), it was definitely Hassan’s save. Straightaway you could see the boys reacting to the clearance and getting the goal. That changed the game,” he said.
BRUNEI Darussalam’s Under-22 national team made Malaysia’s Under-22 work hard for their win during a 2-1 defeat in Group ‘A’ in the 29th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games at the Shah Alam Stadium in Kuala Lumpur last night.
Johor Darul Ta’zim player Safawi Rasid opened the scoring with a smashing first-time volley inside three minutes before the visitors stunned the home crowd after Zulkhairy Hady Razali took advantage of Malaysia’s lapse of concentration with a neat finish after 12 minutes.
Malaysia’s defender Adam Nor Azlin ended Brunei’s stubborn resistance after nodding home from a corner to restore their lead in the 60th minute.
Matthew Thomas Davies whipped in a pinpoint cross to Safawi who struck the ball first time with a sweet volley allowing goalkeeper Haimie Anak Nyaring no chance.
However, almost from nowhere, Mohammad Akif Roslan played a long ball which caught the Malaysian back-line napping as Zulkhairy sensed an opportunity running with the ball and aided with a slight tumble from goalkeeper Mohd Ifwat Akmal bin Chek Kassim, the Bruneian forward coolly slotted home the equalising goal.
Davis proved to be a valuable outlet for Malaysia after spraying six crosses in only 18 minutes with Safawi failing to find the target with his header on the sixth cross.
Malaysia sent a long ball for Syazwan Andik Ishak who was caught in two minds as he ballooned his shot.
Rasid’s free-kick grazed against the crossbar but the ball bounced back into play and as two Malaysian forwards combined to apply pressure Haimie showed good reflexes to turn the ball away for a corner.
Brunei players react as Malaysia players celebrate. – ESPN FC
However, in the halfway mark, Nor Azlin outjumped the Bruneian defence to regain the lead much to the relief of head coach Datuk Ong Kim Swee.
The unmarked Syazwan received a good ball and controlled it well to set up a shot but completely got it wrong as the Bruneian defence cleared the danger away.
Brunei defender Suhaimi Anak Sulau tested Ifwat with a decent free-kick from long-range as his side searched to level matters for a second time.
Malaysia put on fresh legs, giving ample time for the introduction of Kumaahran Sathasivam, though the forward was unable to keep his header down.
Meanwhile in the other group match, Myanmar got off to a perfect start after overcoming Singapore 2-0 through a brace from Aung Thu.
Malaysia Under-22’s head coach Ong Kim Swee revealed in a post-match conference that Brunei made life difficult for them adding that it is good that they managed to grab a second goal for the win.
Brunei, whose closest chance of attaining a medal in football when they lost out to Malaysia in the bronze medal playoff, will play Myanmar next on August 18 at the UiTM Stadium.
BRUNEI Darussalam national netball team narrowed the gap with reigning holders Singapore in a gutsy performance during a 62-37 loss in the preliminary round of the 29th Southeast Asian (SEA Games) at Juara Stadium Bukit Kiara in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.
The Royal Bees made a promising start despite getting off on the back-foot after minimising the goal margin by 26 points compared to the previous edition where they were soundly beaten 72-21.
Brunei trailed 8-1 in the opening minutes as Singapore threatened to blow away in a potential repeat of their 19-6 first quarter lead two years ago.
However, not to be outdone, Thilaka Jinadasa’s charges rallied and inspired by Ayin’s shooting accuracy, they trimmed the lead to within four points.
Aware that Brunei are catching up, Singapore only got going in the final three minutes with the perfect finishing by Chairmane Soh ensuring they ended the first quarter in more relaxed mood with a 15-7 lead.
Only 20 points separated between both sides at the conclusion of the third quarter as an improvement from the national team clearly showed.
Brunei’s goal shooter Nur Hafizah binti Haji Abdul Sidek was unfortunate not to get into the score-sheet after receiving from a fine long throw at the final few seconds of the third quarter, after being adjudged of travelling.
With five players that won the SEA Games in home soil in the squad, Singapore played more defensively but not compromising with some precise shooting.
His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, President of Brunei Darussalam National Olympic Council, Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul ‘Aleem in a group picture with the national netball team. – BNA
The Royal Bees performed much better in the third quarter at this stage having been down 36-14 compared to two years ago when they trailed by 39-8.
National netball coach Thilaka Jinadasa underlined the urgency to get into the game quickly after seeing her side having to claw their way from a 8-1 deficit in the first quarter.
“We still need to come to our game rhythm soon after the game starts and keep our focus. It takes time for the Brunei players to get into the game sometimes and it’s too late and hard to overcome the score,” said Thilaka.
“It’s good that the Brunei players stick with our game strategies and work on our plan. Shooting combined well with confidence,” the head coach further added.
The Royal Bees matched Singapore 12-12 in the third quarter and encouragingly bagged four goals in the final two minutes or so.
“It was a good intensive (third) quarter since our defence line combined and played well,” said the head coach.
“Today’s game was a good morale booster for the girls to keep up their mind set.”
Brunei will play gold medal favourites Malaysia, who demolished Thailand 73-30, in their next match today.
PREVIOUS recipients of the Sultan’s Scholar scholarship are looking to officially establish a Sultan’s Scholar Alumni group as a means to give back to the local community by involving its members in Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah’s volunteering projects as well as other related activities. The group will also regularly participate in education intervention programmes as well as conduct after-action reviews and propose improvements to its short-term plan.
This was revealed by Awangku Haji Muhammad Zaki bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Zaini, President of the Sultan’s Scholar Alumni group interim committee during his presentation on the alumni group’s actionable plan at the reflection ceremony for the Sultan’s Scholar development programme (which took place this year) yesterday morning.
Minister of Education Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, who is also the Chairman of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah’s Board of Directors, was present at the ceremony to listen to feedbacks and recommendations on the programme.
For its midterm plan, besides participating in Yayasan volunteering projects, the minister outlined that “the alumni would also propose new projects such as motivational and financial literacy talks in schools,” adding that for the Sultan’s Scholar internal project, “there would be icebreaking activities for new scholars, a buddy programme for students, as well as other group activities to foster closer ties.”
For the longer term, he said, “We are thinking of collaborating with organisations such as Persatuan Kemajuan Insan (KESAN) – a non-governmental organisation that fosters character development of youths in Brunei – and the Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM), as well as continue arranging visits to the various ministries for our members. This is meant as a learning experience for them and to expose them to work best practices and have them participating in working sessions or forums.”
A representative from the Yayasan Sultan’s Scholars speaking at the eventPehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education and Chairman of the Yayasan Board of Directors; Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports and Vice Chairman I of Yayasan Board of Directors; senior officials and Yayasan Sultan’s Scholar students in a group photo. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR
Also in attendance at the reflection ceremony were Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, who is also the Vice Chairman 1 of Yayasan Board of Directors; Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan bin Haji Mohamad Daud, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, who is a member of the Sultan’s Scholar Steering Committee; Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, a member of the Yayasan Board of Directors; and Dato Paduka Eddie bin Dato Paduka Haji Sunny, the Managing Director of Yayasan.
This year, the Sultan’s Scholar Development Programme comprises two programmes – the Singapore’s Leg and Brunei’s Leg.
The Singapore’s Leg programme was carried out in collaboration with the Singapore High Commission in Brunei Darussalam and the Singapore Civil Service College to provide programme participants exposure to Singapore’s civil services. In total, 12 recipients of the Sultan’s Scholar scholarship participated in the four-day programme, which began last month on July 4.
The Brunei’s Leg programme meanwhile is further made up of two components, the first of which is leadership training and team building. These activity segments were facilitated by Trandie Marina Resorts Sdn Bhd in Temburong for three days from July 10-13.
The second component was an in-country familiarisation programme organised for government agencies and the country’s private sector. The visit to the government agencies – led by Hajah Donnaliza binti Abdullah Puasa, Assistant Managing Director of Yayasan – involved delegations from Brunei Islamic Religious Council, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Finance, PENGGERAK Unit of the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Department of Town and Country Planning under the Ministry of Development.
It is hoped that through the development programme, recipients of the Sultan’s Scholar scholarship will gain a better understanding on the development and progress of the country, and be ready to serve 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 and raise their efforts to contribute to the country’s development.
