|     Fadley Faisal     |

THE Car Accident Response Service (CARS), developed by Insurans Islam TAIB General Takaful Sdn Bhd under i-Care, was launched yesterday and brought the insurance company’s added-value services to another whole new level.

At a press briefing, Managing Director of Insurans Islam TAIB General Takaful Sdn Bhd Haji Osman bin Haji Mohd Jair explained that CARS will be made handy to policy-holders of TAIB General Takaful.

It is a 24/7 accident response service to assist motor Takaful participants who may be emotionally overwhelmed after an accident.

In the event of a motor vehicle accident, and upon calling i-Care Car Assist and Response at 2422222, a motorcycle will be dispatched to the scene to render help.

The CARS rider will advise the motor Takaful participants, ensure their safety at the scene, take statements and photographs, assist in the exchange of documents between the parties involved, assist in removing vehicle if needed, arrange alternative transportation if necessary, ensure the participants’ interests are protected, and even assist in calling the police and an ambulance as needed.

Insurans Islam TAIB General Takaful Sdn Bhd is the first Takaful company in Brunei to provide a ‘One Stop Centre’ in Pengkalan Gadong, which also offers an accident vehicle service inspection and handle claims, apart from housing the Accident Reporting Centre.

This added service is a step towards TAIB General Takaful becoming a competitive, innovative and creative Islamic insurance provider with the tagline ‘Beyond Takaful’.

Also in attendance at yesterday’s event were Executive Officer Hamra Yahya and Officer Ali Farihan bin Haji Jamudin from the Claims Department of TAIB General Takaful Sdn Bhd.

Haji Osman officiated the launching ceremony by sprinkling scented flowers onto the motorcycles and four-wheel drive vehicles of CARS, followed by a Doa Selamat recitation.

The post TAIB General Takaful launches Car Accident Response Service appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE Brunei Halal Showcase 2017 (BruHAS 2017) will be taking place over three days from August 23-25 at the Conference Hall, BRIDEX in Jerudong.

This was announced yesterday in a press release. The event will be co-organised by the Energy and Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office (EIDPMO) and Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA).

The event consists of four key activities: The Halalan Thayyiban Products and Services Expo (EKSPPHAT), the 2nd International Seminar on Halalan Thayyiban Products and Services (SAPPHAT II), BruHAS Dialogue on Halal Certificate and Halal Label Order (Amended) 2017 and Halal Logistics, and Halal Clinic.

The expo, EKSPPHAT, will take place for three days from August 23-25, and will see the participation of more than 50 MSMEs and Halal industry players. The exhibition will comprise local and Brunei-based international companies from the food industry, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, travel and tour agencies, household products and Halal service providers.

The SAPPHAT II seminar will be held from August 23-24, and will feature a series of talks by international keynote speakers and presenters as well as a forum entitled ‘Memperkasakan Industri Halalan Thayyiban Asas Pembentukan Baldatun Thayyibatun Wa Rabbun Ghafur’, which, according to the press release, translates to empower the Halalan Thayyiban (connotes something that is wholesome, good, healthy and with quality) industry as a basic foundation in shaping a ‘peaceful and prosperous nation that is blessed by Allah the Almighty’.

The seminar is only open to registered participants, and those interested may visit www.unissa.edu.bn/sapphat to register and to get more information on the different topics that will be presented.

Meanwhile, the BruHAS Dialogue on Halal Certificate and Halal Label Order (Amended) 2017 and Halal Logistics will take place in the morning of August 25, with the BruHAS Halal Clinic being held in the afternoon on the same day.

The Halal Food Control Division of the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MORA), UNISSA and the Halal Science and Metrology Centre of the Ministry of Health (MoH) will be present at the BruHAS Halal Clinic.

Both the BruHAS Dialogue and Halal Clinic are open to public. For more information, the public may visit www.ei.gov.bn/bruhas.

The post Brunei Halal Showcase to take place at BRIDEX appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

IN AN extraordinary showcase of one of the most coveted automobile brands in the world, Jati Transport Sdn Bhd on Friday celebrated its 30th anniversary with the official opening of the new Mercedes-Benz Autohaus (showroom) in Beribi.

The launch of the new facility was officiated by Executive Chairman of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd, Pengiran Anak Haji Ja’afar ibni Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam; Executive Director of Jati Transport, Andrew Chiam; Head of Marketing and Sales Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars South East Asia 2 and President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Dr Claus Weidner; and President and CEO of Daimler South East Asia Pte Ltd, Singapore, Wolfgang Huppenbauer.

A welcoming speech made by Pengiran Anak Haji Ja’afar accentuated a memorable 30 years in existence of Jati Transport and in particular was the momentous visit to its showroom 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 on March 17, 2005.

He also highlighted the amazing capabilities and functions of the state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Autohaus showroom and workshop, designed in compliance with the very high standard set by Daimler Germany.

He also announced Jati Transport’s number one ranking in the luxury car segment in Brunei Darussalam with 40 per cent market share that coincided with Mercedes Benz’s number one spot in market share in the global luxury car market.

He was also proud to announce that Jati Transport has 70 per cent local staff from a pool of both foreign and local employees, and some have been there since the start of operations of the premium Mercedes-Benz general distributor in the local scene 30 years ago.

This was followed by a speech from Huppenbauer, where he highlighted the significance of the premium brand in the region.

A plaque was signed by Pengiran Anak Haji Ja’afar, Chiam, Weidner, and Huppenbauer, followed by the drawing of the curtain that covered a scenery backdrop.

They then proceeded to a cake-cutting ceremony that marked the 30th anniversary of Jati Transport.

Cheque donations were also presented by Pengiran Anak Haji Ja’afar to six charitable organisations namely Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Fund for Orphans, Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam, Fund for Disabled Person, Centre for Children with Special Needs (KACA), Brunei-Muara District Orphans Fund and SMARTER Brunei.

With an investment of $5 million, the new Mercedes-Benz Autohaus showroom and workshop incorporates the latest Mercedes-Benz concept by Daimler AG, Germany, and occupies a built-up area of 28,000 square feet with a 13-vehicles display area.

The bright open tiled showroom with floor-to-ceiling glass walls includes a luxurious customer lounge with complimentary refreshments, LED television, WiFi, a new car delivery area and a Mercedes-Benz Merchandise shop.

The state-of-the-art workshop also features 15 service bays as well as a warehouse for spare parts, and is equipped with world-leading diagnostic and repair equipment.

The new facility also boasts a professional sales and after-sales team, providing the best-in-class global standards of service for every Mercedes-Benz customer.

In a brief interview, Weidner and Huppenbauer said Brunei is a significant market for the premium brand of Mercedes-Benz automobiles.

On the unpredictable climate and downturn of the global economy, Huppenbauer said the clientele of Mercedes-Benz is not dramatically affected as some other automobile brands and the “broad portfolio” of Mercedes-Benz products has suited the customers from the high and low income groups.

On the subject of hybrid and electrical vehicles, some countries in the region such as Malaysia and Thailand have already shown their support in this genre of vehicles, said Huppenbauer.

In the future, this trend will continue to progress according to the countries involved, and Mercedes-Benz is currently developing these types of vehicle and it will be “a matter of time” when this region will witness the advent of more hybrid and electrical vehicles, he added.

Weidner also said that countries like China is also looking into hybrid and electrical vehicles to manage the country’s traffic jams and pollution levels.

Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia are also amongst the countries that are keen to bring or introduce these types of vehicle into their respective countries with a keen focus to control vehicle emissions.

In a country like Brunei, Huppenbauer said the Mercedes-Benz C and A Class are popular, and the CLA and GLA Class are getting into the popularity stakes among local customers.The broad portfolio of Mercedes-Benz automobiles will give more people the chance to drive and own a Mercedes-Benz, he added.

Both of them agreed that Brunei Darussalam is a stable market for Mercedes-Benz automobiles and expressed their confidence that the market for this premium brand will continue to progress and develop well.

The post Jati Transport celebrates 30th year with new showroom appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Azlan Othman     |

BANDAR Seri Begawan (BSB) has been ranked as Southeast Asia’s third most liveable city after Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. The capital city of Brunei is placed number 100 in a global ranking of most liveable cities.

The latest Global Liveability Ranking released by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) this week puts Bandar Seri Begawan ahead of Bangkok (No 102), Manila (No 104), Jakarta (No 118), Hanoi (No 119), Ho Chi Minh City (No 122) and Phnom Penh (No 123), thanks mainly to improvements in infrastructure.

“Half of the improving cities are based in Asia where Shanghai, BSB, Phnom Penh and Colombo saw improvements in their rankings in the past year, which the survey attributed largely to infrastructural improvements and broadening cultural availability,” EIU said in its report.

BSB’s latest ranking shows an improvement over last two years. The Sultanate’s capital ranked 101 in 2016 and 2015.

Commenting on the report, an expatriate said, “If you are young and aspiring, then, most likely, BSB is not a place for you. But if you are older and looking for stability and tranquility, then it is most likely the place for you.”

According to a tourist, “BSB is an easy city to live in. Not the most exciting travel destination however. I always see BSB as a chilling place – Gadong and Times Square for socials while Serusop and Kiulap for shopping.”

The EIU Liveability index scores 140 of the world’s major cities in healthcare, education, stability, culture, environment and infrastructure.

Melbourne in Australia topped the charts for the seventh consecutive year as the most liveable urban centre among the cities surveyed, followed by the Austrian capital Vienna.

Three Canadian cities – Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary – took the third, fourth and fifth spots respectively, with a marginal score dividing the cities in the closely-fought ranking.

Cities ranked at the bottom include Kiev in Ukraine and Damascus in war-torn Syria.

The EIU cited increasing instability across the world such as the threat of terrorism in Europe when explaining the volatility in the scores of many cities. Over the past six months, 35 of the 140 cities surveyed had changes in their

rankings.

This figure rose to 44, when tracked over the past year. “The ongoing weakening of global stability scores has been made uncomfortably apparent by a number of high-profile incidents that have shown no signs of slowing in recent years,” the EIU said in the report.

“While not a new phenomenon, the frequency and spread of terrorism have increased noticeably and become even more prominent.”

The EIU’s liveability survey rates each city over 30 qualitative and quantitative factors across five broad categories: Stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure.

Cities such as Manchester in the United Kingdom and Stockholm in Sweden saw their scores decline as a result of the recent, high-profile terrorist attacks.

Other issues that threaten stability include concerns over geopolitical stability in Asia, the migration crisis in Western Europe and Brexit, the EIU added.

“New York, London, Paris and Tokyo are all prestigious hubs with a wealth of recreational activities, but all suffer from higher levels of crime, congestion and public transport problems.

“The question is how much wages, the cost of living and personal taste for a location can offset liveability factors,” the report added.

The post BSB in top league appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Khairil Hassan     |

ROARS of motorcycle engines filled the Tutong District yesterday morning.

The motorcycles, which included Harley Davidson, Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and others, were part of the Tutong Brunei Bike Festival (TBBF) Convoy Ride organised by the Motorcycle Club of Tutong District (KEKAL).

The event was held from the TBBF venue at the open area in front of the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Hospital in Pekan Tutong to the Village Consultative Council (MPK) of Kampong Ukong and back.

More than 100 bikers from different clubs in and outside of Brunei, including from Sabah, Sarawak, Cebu and Langkawi, participated in the 40-kilometre TBBF Convoy Ride to MPK Ukong.

The Acting Tutong District Officer, Haji Adnan bin Haji Adam, launched the convoy by waving a flag at the starting line to officiate the ride which was led by Samsuddin bin Haji Lani, the President of KEKAL.

An appreciation dinner and exchange of mementoes were also held in the evening at the Serambangun Multipurpose Hall, Tutong.

The three-day event will conclude today, with more retro car and motorcycle shows as well as booth activities set up at the venue.

The post Over 100 bikers take part in TBBF Convoy Ride appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Aziz Idris     |

QAF Auto Sdn Bhd, the authorised BMW importer in the Sultanate, have successfully delivered over 25 units of the new BMW 5 Series since the launch, with majority of the sales for the 530i Luxury variant.

The seventh generation of the BMW 5 Series Sedan cut a sporty, elegant and stylish figure when it hit the markets worldwide in February 2017 and launched in Brunei in April 2017.

The luxury sedan class has more enhanced dynamics, unbeatable line-up of assistance systems, unmatched degree of connectivity and a new and innovative operating system, matching those from the BMW top-line 7 Series models.

QAF Auto Sdn Bhd offers three primary trim levels for the new 5 series: 530i M Sport, 530i Luxury and the 530d Luxury, all containing a two-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine.

All the engines in the BMW 5 Series Sedan line-up belong to the newly developed, modular BMW Efficient Dynamics family of power units. BMW Twin Power Turbo technology imbues all members of the family with outstanding performance combined with exceptional efficiency.

The new two-litre four-cylinder in-line engine in the BMW 530i develops peak torque of 350Nm with maximum output of 185kW/252 hp while the four-cylinder diesel engine powering the BMW 520d generates 140kW/190hp.

Application of the BMW Efficient Lightweight design concept, with increased use of aluminium and high-strength steels, reduces the weight of the 5 Series Sedan by up to 100 kilogrammes from its predecessor.

Going from zero to 100km/h in the BMW530i takes 6.2 seconds while the BMW503d can floor it in 7.5 seconds.

With greater user-friendliness as its goal, the new BMW 5 Series is equipped with the latest generation of the iDrive system. In top specification, it displays navigation, telephone and entertainment features along with vehicle functions on a high-resolution 10.25-inch screen. The system can be operated using the iDrive Controller by voice command, gestures, or directly touching the display controls.

Maximising on-board comfort are extended storage options, greater legroom for rear seat passengers and comfort seats with massage function, not to mention innovative seat operation using touch sensors and four-zone climate control complete with ionisation and discreet air fragance.

“The seventh generation of the BMW 5 Series points the way into the future, as we have defined it with our NUMBER ONE > NEXT strategy. We see technological leadership, emotionally rich products and digitalisation as essential factors in achieving success.

“With the expansion of our model portfolio in the large vehicle classes, we are satisfying the wishes of many customers,” said Harald Krüger, Chairman of the Board of Management at BMW AG.

He added, “I’m in no doubt that the new BMW 5 Series will set new benchmarks technologically, but also have huge emotional appeal. It remains the epitome of the business sedan.”

All BMW 5 Series models comes with standard free five-year or 100,000 kilometres – whichever comes first – BMW Service Inclusive Plus Package.

The post Over 25 BMW 5 Series sedans sold in Brunei appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

RICH in splendid tourism sites, Tutong District is poised to attract more foreign and local visitors by leveraging on its signature products.

Aimed at boosting tourist influx into the picturesque district, the Tourism Development Department at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) in collaboration with the Tutong District Tourism Promotion and Coordination Body will launch its ‘Tutong Destination Packages’ on August 23.

As part of promoting the packages, the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong yesterday visited two locations in the district with high potential to be developed as attractive tourism products and hailing the district as another tourism hotspot in the Sultanate.

The minister first visited Telaga Tujuh Mandian Puteri (Seven Wells) at Kampong Tanjong Maya where entrepreneur Sha’ari bin Haji Zunaidi promotes a farm guesthouse where visitors can indulge in extracting honey from stingless bees, rearing goats and many more. Visitors can trek to the legendary wells or, if they choose to, reach there by a 4×4 ride.

Following the one hour tour at the Wells, the minister then visited Seri Melati Enterprise, a well-known fiberglass boat-building firm at Kampong Kuala Tutong. The company has recently started operating river cruise along the Tutong River which is fast becoming a major attraction for local and foreign visitors.

The company owner, Haji Abdul Rashid bin Haji Mahmood, is currently planning to expand his business into the tourism sector.

In an interview, the minister said, “Tutong District is very active in offering tourism products as I witnessed during my visit. At Telaga Tujuh Mandian Puteri (Seven Wells), there are several activities visitors can enjoy such as the natural environment, animals as well as the dinner. Kampong Tanjong Maya and Kampong Kiudang also offer various tourism products.”

He revealed that Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park is being renovated to cater to the needs of tourists, adding that breeding areas of stingless bees in the district can be yet another attraction for visitors.

On Seri Melati Enterprise, the minister said, “It is currently active in the district and is offering river cruise along the Tutong River where tourists can enjoy the sunset. This is a major attraction for visitors from China and Korea. The offering has just started, but it has already become popular among tourists from Korea.

“In addition to the river cruise, Seri Melati Enterprise offers unique dinner experience at its garden besides the river. Visitors can also use bus to go to the beach to enjoy dining at the garden. This is an attractive product for tourists,” he added.

The minister also iterated that it is vital to cooperate with airlines as well as travel agents and hotels to promote Brunei Darussalam as a tourist destination.

“Recently, we received chartered flights from Seoul in South Korea through Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) and we are also lucky to have flights from Kunming and Nanning in China.”

The minister also hoped that more chartered flights from other countries can increase tourist arrivals to Brunei.

Meanwhile, Leslie Chiang, Managing Director of Borneo Guide who also joined the tour, commented, “Tutong definitely has the potential to be an attractive destination for tourists to Brunei. Tasek Merimbun has been chosen as an Asean Heritage Park which is equivalent to National Park status in other countries. Not only that, its natural beauty is among the best in Asean. The district also has many village consultative councils actively offering unique tourism products.”

Also present at the working visit were Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali, the Deputy Permanent Secretary (Tourism) at the MPRT; Haji Mohamad Zamree bin Haji Junaidi, Tourism Development Director; Zulzalani bin Osman, Tourism Development Department Special Duties Officer and other officials.

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|     Lyna Mohamad     |

MAYBANK Brunei hosted its annual Global CR Day 2017 yesterday at the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Silver Jubilee Park in the capital.

The event saw collaborative efforts from the Municipal Department, Centre for Student Development and Innovation (CSDI), Politeknik Brunei (PB) and Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Services (SMARTER) Brunei.

It was a momentous occasion where over 20,000 Maybankers from around the world and the Maybank family in 15 countries taking part to inspiring communities globally.

“Our Global CR Day has always been close to our hearts,” said the Manager Product and Marketing Strategy of Maybank Brunei, Woo Chang Huei. “We are here not only for business, but also to give back to the community.

“Maybank decided to have one day where the whole Maybank group, including from other countries, would come together and do one big CSR event on the same day.”

He also highlighted that this year they had decided the date to be August 19 and also had the Maybank Limbang staff joining them yesterday.

The initiatives fall into the bank’s five CSR Pillar – Community Empowerment, Education, Healthy Living, Environmental Diversity, and Arts and Culture – and this year, the main focus is on the pillar of Environmental Diversity.

“We are trying not just to promote Environmental Diversity to the community, but also healthy living and community empowerment,” he added.

The event was initiated with recitations of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa, followed with a speech by the Maybank Country Head and General Manager, Lim Yu Kwang.

While expressing appreciation to partners at the event, he noted that the bank’s journey with them through the ‘Cahaya Kasih’ initiative has also been a rewarding learning experience.

He thanked the partners for giving them the opportunity to collaborate and together achieve their objective.

This year, with the theme of the Global CR Day celebration being ‘Enabling Communities with Solutions’, it reinforces the commitment to create and empower solutions for communities to improve their lives and also for the future.

“For us at Maybank, creating a sustainable, strong and profitable business and building a better world through our ‘Cahaya Kasih’ challenge initiatives go hand-in-hand,” he said.

“When our people work hard to achieve success, we are able to give back to community in many ways.”

Following the speech, the event then saw the reopening of the repaired bridge along the mangrove walk and planting of tree led by the guest of honour and Chairman of BSB Municipal Board, Haji Ali bin Matyassin, along with PB Director, Denis Ho Mun Tai and the President of SMARTER, Malai Haji Abdullah bin Malai Haji Othman.

There was also a mass cleaning campaign with over 200 participants comprising PB students, Maybank’s staff members and volunteers from SMARTER Brunei with the support of the BSB Municipal Board.

Maybank has also set up a SMARTER Brunei garage sale booth and members of the public are welcome to visit today and support initiatives to raise funds.

The post Maybank’s Global CR Day at Silver Jubilee Park appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam national netball team endured a 70-28 defeat to Malaysia in the semi-finals of the netball event in the 29th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games at the Juara Stadium Bukit Kiara in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

The result confirmed the national netball team a shared bronze with Thailand, who fought bravely in a 55-43 defeat to Singapore in the other semi-final.

Brunei will be awarded their second SEA Games bronze since the previous edition following the conclusion of what promised to be a mouth-watering final between Singapore and Malaysia today.

The Malaysian defence played a huge role in setting up the attacks for the first-choice pairing of An Najwa Azizan and Norashikin Kamalzaman as the quality of the SEA Games hosts was told.

The Royal Bees, intent to recapture the form that led them matching Singapore in the third quarter in the first round, were left trailing by a significant margin as the gold medal favourites registered five consecutive points.

Malaysia’s wing defence Nur Syafazliyana Mohd Ali pushed the ball away as Dayangku Khalisha binti Pengiran Abdul Rahman looked to feed a tightly guarded Nur Ady Elzza Ezrenna binti Sofian.

From the ensuing throw, an overhead pass gave Malaysia’s goal keeper Noramirah Dayana Noor Azhar the opportunity to take control of the ball with her height.

The hosts won the ball back through wing attack Nur Fariha Abdul Razak after Siti Nurul Nazihah binti Awang Haji Hassan’s slipped the ball from her grasps to provide the basis for attack.

But it was the Bruneian defence’s turn this time to show their aerial ability and no-nonsense defending with Nur Syuhaidah Fahriyana binti Haji Sukri winning the ball to give her side possession.

However, their hold of the ball was short-lived after Siti Nurul Nazihah’s throw was blocked by her opposite number Malaysia centre Pow Mei Foong who brought the ball forward to the attacking line.

Brunei finally ended Malaysia’s streak after they were allowed a free pass inside the shooting circle as Nur Ady Elzza converted from a nicely weighed pass from Siti Nurul Nazihah.

The world number 21 enjoyed a procession as with five minutes of the first quarter yet to be played they looked on track of passing past the 20-point mark after leading 17-2.

Brunei encountered an early setback as their far superior opponents outstripped their performance from the first round when they gave the Royal Bees a glimpse of hope with an 18-9 lead.

After taking in a big dismantling in the first quarter, Brunei started proceedings in the second quarter on a positive note as Nur Ady did the honours for their first point of the second quarter.

Brunei had another possession from their own centre pass but Pow Mei Foong had a touch to break the rhythm before team-mate Nur Fariha stole a march to provide her side another opportunity of expanding their insurmountable lead.

It was a surprising miss for Karishma S Loganathan enabling Brunei to take hold off the ball but on the other end of the court Nur Hafizah binti Haji Abdul Sidek missed the chance to put Brunei into a 2-0 lead in the second quarter.

A quick exchange of possession gave Malaysia the chance to get the points on the board in the second quarter after Brunei had got hold off the ball which Karishma made certain of.

Brunei centre Siti Nurul Nazihah dropped the ball as Malaysia again tossed the ball forward and despite getting a pair of hands on some of the passes it found its target Norashikin who sank her shot.

The Royal Bees were awarded a penalty and after a quick play in the box Nur Hafizah who had gained ground missed her shot as the opportunity went begging.

Malaysia swept down their court and Karishma finished off the move to increase their lead and after the umpire’s whistle was given in the favor of Brunei they were again intercepted midcourt.

Despite comfortable scenes, the frequency of scoring was slowing as Malaysia slightly changed their lineup at a tight end but before long Norashikin made another smart finish.

The scoring duties were not entirely placed on the shoulders of Norashikin but were also distributed to her attacking partner Karishma who produced successive stunners from quite a remarkable distance.

Brunei started to find some rhythm as they conjured three straight points and closing in the 10-goal mark but Karishma who has been in free- scoring mood took down one for Malaysia.

Malaysia were penalised for a step as Brunei got the ball back but good defending from the former succeeded in Zuraidah’s succumbing in the pressure.

Malaysia’s attacking duo or the defensive pairing were not the only ones giving Brunei a cause of concern as wing attack Nur Fariha was in inspiring form with a turnover just as when Brunei were forming a shape for another potential point.

Malaysia were so swift in making the transition as head coach Tracey Robinson found how useful Nur Fariha in inspiring play by making the switch by assigning her in a centre role.

With the height of the Malaysian defence a major disadvantage, it was always going to be a huge risk to spring the ball across the court but Brunei earned possession after Malaysia could only steer the ball out of play.

Despite the obvious difficulties, Nur Hafizah left Malaysia’s goal defence Noramirah stranded with an absolute cracker to lift her Brunei team who are 26 points down in the second quarter.

Brunei enjoyed one of their rare bright spells in the game as their centre played a pass for Nur Ady Elzza whose shot bounced off the rim which was helped in by Nur Hafizah with a successful long-range attempt.

Brunei’s conversion rate may have cost them the opportunity to surpass the 30-goal barrier highlighted by Nur Hafizah’s miss in the fringes of the second quarter as Siti Nor Farhana Mustafa collected the rebound.

Brunei had certainly done well in this stage compared to the first period as they kept Malaysia’s goal-shooter Norashikin quiet with partner-in-crime Karishma raking in the points and her subsequent miss could provide some hope for their future opponents’.

Malaysia produced a sequence of passes with Norashikin completing the second quarter with her side’s 39th goal of the game.

The reigning Asian Netball Championships holders looked to be in cruise control following a massive 25-point haul in the first quarter but changes in the line-up led to increased effort in the defence for Brunei to slow down the charge.

Malaysia’s goal shooter An Najwa effort needed three bounces on the rim before rippling into the net as they continued to build their big lead putting Brunei’s hopes of minimizing the score in vain.

Brunei were intercepted again and Karishma seized on the advantage and despite missing her initial shot made no mistake with the loose ball as Malaysia’s point tally grew to 64, the same score they produced in the first round with more than four minutes to spare.

As the ball floated in towards An Najwa, Nur Syuhaidah managed to catch it but the regional powerhouses grabbed hold of the ball to convert a routine point.

Brunei substitute Siti Marhayati Ahmad’s attempt was short of the net leaving Malaysia the opportunity to pour the ball forward in search of yet another point which they duly converted.

Nur Hafizah missed a shot to make it within one goal of the 30-point mark enabling Siti Nor Farhana to launch one final attack for her relentless side a chance in the final ten seconds to establish a 70-point mark easily bettering their performance from the first round.

The post Brunei lose to Malaysia in SEA Games semis appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

A MALAYSIAN army officer was among the 202 recipients who received the State Honorary Medals yesterday at the Istana Nurul Iman.

Major Zulhilmi bin Masdar from the Malaysian Armed Forces is the first Malaysian army officer to be honoured with the Most Blessed Order of Setia Negara Brunei 4th Class (PSB) Medal.

He is attached to the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) as an attachment instructor at the Training Institute of the RBAF for the past three years.

On behalf of the Malaysian Government and the Malaysian Armed Forces, he expressed his gratitude and Junjung Kasih to 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 for conferring the medal upon him.

The officer who is serving in Brunei for the past eight years also expressed appreciation to his fellow colleagues at the RBAF for their endless support, friendship and brotherhood they have extended to him.

“It means so much to me, having the opportunity to be attached here with the RBAF. I have never faced any bad experience here as everybody knows each other very well and we respect each other very well, and we share joy and sadness together,” he said.

He also noted that serving here has been a smooth sailing for him as “the working environment and challenges are almost the same as in Malaysia, which shares almost the same culture of Brunei”.

Businessman Chan Kon Fong also expressed his deepest gratitude and Junjung Kasih to His Majesty for giving him the recognition and awarding him with the PSB Medal.

“Brunei is a peaceful country, thanks to the wise leadership of the monarch, the people here live in peace and tranquility. It is also good to see the deep concern and care His Majesty has for his people, providing them with land and houses, free education and health to ensure that his subjects are well taken care of. He is truly the king of the nation.”

Chan, who owns a Chinese pharmacy shop in Kiulap, also wished His Majesty and other members of the royal family good health and long life.

Pengiran Hajah Fatimah binti Pengiran Haji Md Noor, who has been with the Information Department for the past 30 years, said she feels honoured to be part of the medal recipients yesterday and to receive the medal personally from His Majesty.

“I would like to express my deepest Junjung Kasih to His Majesty for awarding me with the state medal and I pledge to work harder and give my very best service as a senior editor. I hope this will also motivate my colleagues to work harder.

“What is important is the persistence, honesty and commitment towards one’s respective responsibilities at work. Display of determination and commitment is most important in meeting the requirements of respective departments, achieving the goals and fulfilling responsibilities diligently,” she added.

Medal recipient Hajah Nurol Akmar binti Haji Mohd Jaafar of Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD), said, “This is the initial inauguration for me in the private sector, particularly in the banking sector. This recognition is not just for me or BIBD, but the entire banking industry which is committed to support His Majesty and his Vision 2035.”

Hajah Nurol Akmar, who has been with BIBD for the past 22 years and is now the Head of Retail Banking Group of the bank, added that this recognition truly humbles her and will encourage her to be more dedicated in her work.

Acting Director of Drainage and Sewerage at the Public Works Department Justina Liew Vun Ching was the only medal recipient from the Ministry of Development yesterday.

“I am very privileged to receive the Most Honorable Order of Seri Paduka Mahkota Brunei 3rd Class (SMB). As a humble subject of His Majesty, I express my gratitude and joy on this auspicious day for receiving the medal. I feel blessed and honoured as one of today’s recipients.

“As a public servant, we must stay focussed and positive. Take up the challenges and make the best out of them through commitment and perseverance. And at the same time, stay humble and rooted. We as public servants must provide the best service to the people and be loyal to our leader and our allegiance must be towards His Majesty and his Government,” she added.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam national sepak takraw team bagged a third bronze medal in the 29th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games after finishing fourth in the round robin of the men’s team regu at the Titiwangsa Indoor Stadium yesterday.

The national sepak takraw team completed their round robin group in a 3-0 straight set defeat to Indonesia who won silver after Thailand edged Malaysia by the same score-line.

Thailand clinched the gold medal after preserving their unbeaten record and have only conceded a single set en route to their gold triumph.

The consolation for the Brunei team is a shared bronze with host nation Malaysia who was convincingly beaten in straight sets to Thailand in the other match to end their hopes of collecting silver as a minimum.

Thailand’s gold medal success meant that they have won the team’s event in every edition since 1993 in Singapore.

Malaysia’s hopes of finishing with at least silver were seriously dented after a shock 2-1 loss to Indonesia on home soil which prompted their captain to issue a public apology for their performance.

Malaysia’s national sepak takraw team captain Syahir Rosdi told the New Straits Times, “We would like to apologise to all our supporters who expected us to do better. This is all we could manage.

“Whatever it is people say, as captain I take responsibility. We took Indonesia lightly as we had beaten them easily before this,” he further added.

The men’s team regu is played in a best-of-three set format and the nation is entitled to select their strongest suit in any of the games to outmatch their competitors.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah, Team Manager of the Mixed Polo team, joined the Brunei Darussalam national contingent in the ‘Parade of Nations’ during the opening ceremony of the 29th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia last night.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen; Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Abdul Qawi; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Bahar; and members of the national polo team were also present.

The Brunei Darussalam national contingent, led by the flag bearer Mohd Adi Salihin bin Roslan, was first out during the flag-waving assembly.

Also present at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium were Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Muhammad V and Malaysia’s Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

Carrying the theme ‘Rising Together’, Malaysia welcomed all participating nations in a hugely entertaining spectacle awash with an assortment of colours and dazzling lights.

The crowd was entertained with cultural performances depicting Malaysia with traditional attire on show as well as a performance from Dayang Nurfaizah with the theme song ‘Bangkit Bersama’.

The President of the SEA Games Federation Council, Tunku Tan Sri Imran Tuanku Ja’afar, in his opening remarks welcomed the participating nations to the 29th SEA Games.

He also wished everyone involved including workers and volunteers every success and wished the spectators a pleasant and enjoyable experience.

During one of the segments, Malaysian heroes from the past were also commemorated in a special tribute amid huge cheers from the crowd.

As the huge crowd anxiously waited, Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Muhammad V declared the SEA Games open in a historic moment for the nation.

The highlight of the event was the lighting of the torch in which honour was given to two-time SEA Games champion Nur Dhabitah Sabri who was lifted to light a giant torch which was shortly followed with dazzling fireworks amid the beautiful Kuala Lumpur skyline.

The colourful opening ceremony concluded with the playing of the Malaysia’s national anthem.

The 29th SEA Games brings together 4,900 athletes from 11 countries with Brunei being represented by 105 athletes and 67 officials.

In this year’s edition, the sports of ice skating, ice hockey, indoor hockey and cricket will be introduced for the first time.

A total of 404 gold medals in 38 sports will be up for grabs and the host nation has set a 111-gold target.

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|     James Kon     |

BRUNEI Darussalam National Olympic Council (BNOC) President His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah attended the Southeast Asian Games Federation (SEAGF) Council, Executive and Standing Committee Meeting at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from August 17-18.

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah is also the SEAGF Life Honorary President.

The meeting was chaired by SEAGF President His Royal Highness Tunku Tan Sri Imran, who is also the President of the Olympic Council of Malaysia.

At the press conference after the meeting, the Philippines confirmed that it will remain as host of the 2019 SEA Games.

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|     Lyna Mohamad     |

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 consented to confer State Honorary Medals on 202 recipients in a ceremony yesterday.

The ceremony, held in conjunction with His Majesty’s 71st birthday celebrations, took place at the Istana Nurul Iman.

Accompanying His Majesty at the ceremony was 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 and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik.

The event began with the presentation of the Most Honorable Order of Seri Paduka Mahkota Brunei 3rd Class (SMB) to 35 recipients, followed by the presentation of the Most Eminent Order of Islam Brunei 4th Class (SUB) to 14 recipients and the Most Blessed Order of Setia Negara Brunei 4th Class (PSB) to 144 recipients.

Meanwhile, nine recipients comprising officers from the Ministry of Religious Affairs received the Most Eminent Order of Islam Brunei (PUB) 5th Class.

Among the criteria for the medal award are praiseworthy attitude, good behaviour and undivided loyalty towards His Majesty, the nation and its religion.

The recipients of these medals should possess a clean record in all services with His Majesty’s Government and have good performance appraisal for the last three years.

To bless the ceremony, a Doa Selamat was read by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti.

Also in attendance were Pengiran-Pengiran Cheteria, Cabinet Ministers, Legislative Council members, deputy ministers, Pengiran-Pengiran Peranakan and senior government officers.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam national synchronised swimmers Jacqueline Lim Guan Fan and Nur Hafizah binti Ahmad produced a valiant effort during their ninth place finish in the Duet Free Routine finals in the 29th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games at the National Aquatic Centre in KL Sports City, Bukit Jalil yesterday.

The national synchronised pair, who took the rare honour of introducing Brunei’s synchro talents in the SEA Games, posted a score of 56.7000.

“We performed much better today. We’re not as experienced as the other teams, and this is Brunei’s first time competing in synchronised swimming at the SEA Games so I feel like we can improve a lot from here,” said Nur Hafizah.

The national synchronised swimmer will hope that their efforts in Southeast Asia’s most prestigious competition will help showcase the nation’s abilities in the sport.

“Hopefully our performance here has shown that Brunei can participate in the sport and will make it more popular back home,” added the national synchronised swimmer.

Brunei Amateur Swimming Association (BASA) synchro coordinator Awangku Abdul Farid bin Pengiran Idrus expressed his pride on the duo’s performance despite the strength of the field of competitors.

“I’m so proud of the two girls, they did very well in today’s (Sunday) event! When I see them performing, they did it with confidence,” the synchro coordinator said.

He added that the national synchronised pair have also bettered their score from the previous competition.

Malaysia won gold while Singapore took silver and Indonesia got bronze.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam National Netball head coach Thilaka Jinadasa has underlined the need for long-term preparations and expanding the number of international exposure series highlighting that miracles do not happen overnight.

The National Netball team was awarded shared bronze with Thailand in the 29th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games yesterday.

Having been influential in guiding the national team to two successive bronze medals including their first in Singapore, Jinadasa highlighted that achieving success requires a long period of hard work and the team need to play a lot of matches overseas to achieve international honours.

Jinadasa and her charges had to settle for bronze as Malaysia exacted sweet redemption after avenging their 2015 defeat to Singapore with an convincing victory in the gold medal match.

The reigning Asian Netball Championships holders added their second SEA Games title to their growing cabinet having won the first one also in home soil when they last hosted in 2001.

Jinadasa indicated that teams like Malaysia took the route of long-term training and international tournaments to hone their craft against the world’s best.

“If you check the other leading teams they are all from previous international tournaments and continue playing for 4-5 years in international tournaments,” said Jinadasa after the medal ceremony at the Juara Stadium Bukit Kiara yesterday.

Jinadasa emphasised that players must be consistently performing in the national level to realise any ambitions of enhancing their current development.

“It’s important players continue playing in national level. I also have six newcomers in the team for this SEA Games,” continued the national head coach.

She said that Brunei face a big challenge especially for new players coming into tournaments without adequate playing time in international stages.

“It requires long-term training and lot of international exposure to win a tournament. I think this challenge is what the foreign coaches here in Brunei are currently facing,” continued the Sri Lankan who guided his country to the 2009 Asian Netball Championships title.

The National Netball coach also hailed the support especially from Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah who was part of the team’s management.

She also acknowledged the huge support rendered by the President of Brunei Netball Association (BNA) Datin Paduka Hajah Intan binti Haji Kasim and the Vice President of BNA Lieutenant Colonel (Rtd) Hajah Wan Shahlimar binti Haji Suhaili.

“Her Royal Highness’s support was a morale booster for the whole netball community. Our president and vice president always look after the players,’” said Jinadasa.

She said that the SEA Games had not been an easy journey with all the sacrifices and commitment that they have made.

“We had lots of ups and downs but fortunately we managed to overcome most to come up to the podium.

“We had a lot of support compared to the last time,” she further added.

Asked about the weaknesses of the side, Jinadasa said that the players took time to adjust to situations and with the level of this competition it has to be done fast adding that communication needed to be managed efficiently.

Jinadasa said that the next major competition will be the Asian Netball Championships which is likely to be held in Singapore in early September next year.

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|     Azaraimy HH      |

THREE hundred runners sweated it out at the Beachathon Series 2017 at Pantai Seri Kenangan Beach in Tutong yesterday.

Organised by Beach Bunch, the ‘beachathon’ aimed to promote clean beaches and public venues for healthy living and the benefit of the public.

Beach Bunch President Rizan bin Latiff noted that yesterday’s event was categorised into three runs: a 1km run (for children), 3km run (open), and a 5km run (on beach).

The run was flagged off at Pantai Seri Kenangan Beach and ended at Tanjung Batu in Tutong.

“This is our second event, the first one was in Kuala Belait last July, and we will have our third beachathon in mid-November in the Brunei-Muara District,” Rizan said, adding that “The medals awarded will be unique for the Belait, Tutong and Brunei-Muara districts.”

“The run was all about gathering people at the beach to have fun and stay healthy. This is one or our objectives, to promote clean beaches in Brunei and a place for people to enjoy and stay healthy,” he added.

Beach Bunch is a local non-governmental organisation (NGO) run by young, beach-loving locals advocating pollution- and waste-free beaches in the country through awareness education, conservation and beach cleanups, health and fitness activities, as well as life-saving training exercises.

The group had organised river and island cleanups.

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|     James Kon     |

ROTARIAN Lam Soong Meng was elected the President of the Bandar Seri Begawan Rotary Club, during the 53rd installation ceremony held yesterday at the Orchid Garden Hotel, which was witnessed by District Governor 3310 Datuk Lee Chuen Wan.

Lam will be assisted by Rotarian Jimmy Chung Sze Kiat, the Honorary Secretary, together with Rotarian Ricky Ng Kim Hock, the Vice-President and the Rotary Foundation Chair.

Rotarian Henry Ting is the Immediate Past President, while the President-elect is Rotarian Chris Yong.

The Honorary Treasurer posi-tion went to Rotarian Leonida Lim, while the Club Administration Chair is Rotarian Wong Chin Toon. The post of Membership Chair went to Rotarian Muthukrishnan Balasundaram, and the Public Relations Chair is Rotarian Angela Sim.

The Service Projects Chair is Rotarian Clement Yong Chin Siong, and the Vocational Service Chair is Rotarian Pek Hai Hin. The Community Service Chair is Rotarian Han Kiem Kwang, and the International Service Chair is Rotarian Jerry Neo Eng Boon.

The newly elected president in his speech, said, “Each and every one of us has a soft spot hidden in our hearts. As we grow along with society, we all desire to find ways to help the underprivileged or less fortunate, but we have limitations with our own individual strength. The same applies to me.”

Recalling his own experience in joining the Rotary Club, Lam said, “Eleven years ago, a friend invited me for dinner at a hotel. I was excited to accept, only to find out that he actually wanted to introduce me to the Rotary…I was inducted by the late Past District Governor, Ben Cheng, and the rest is history. My thanks to that friend, District Governor Nominee Jeff Yong.”

Regarding upcoming projects, he said, “Many projects with local and overseas communities are already being lined up for this year. Some new projects have been added; however nothing can materialise without the generous support of the public.”

Datuk Lee, meanwhile, applauded the work of the Bandar Seri Begawan Rotary Club, in assisting the people of the rural areas in Sarawak, Malaysia. He also expressed the hope that its membership would continue their efforts to serve and help the underprivileged.

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|     James Kon     |

NINE hundred people from all walks of life participated in the Charity Weather Run yesterday, raising $12,988 for Acquired Learning Resources and Specialised Equipment for special needs students under the Special Education Unit (SEU) of the Ministry of Education (MoE).

Held at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, the charity run was organised by the Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department (BDMD), Ministry of Communications (MinCom) with collaboration from the SEU.

The event was held as part of BDMD’s and the MinCom’s contribution towards their corporate responsibilities to the local community.

Minister of Communications cum guest of honour Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, who flagged off the run, also participated in the 3km run.

Permanent Secretary at the MinCom Haji Azhar bin Haji Ahmad and Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary at the MinCom Dr Haji Supry bin Haji Ladi were also in attendance.

The charity run was split into three categories: a 12km competitive run for male and female runners, a 5km fun run, and a 3km fun run.

According to meteorological observer Fahrina binti Mohd Sarif, the Charity Weather Run aims to educate the public on the significance of weather and climate change, which can affect the daily lives of each individual.

An upgraded version of BDMD’s Brunei WX mobile application (now available with a Malay language version) – an app which provides weather forecasts and information – was also introduced to the public. The improved app can be downloaded for free from the Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store.

The winner of the 12km male category went to prolific local runner Sefli Ahar, with Khairul Anwar trailing in second place, and Soon Hua in third.

Fatin binti Ismail emerged victor in the 12km female category, followed by Julia and Claire, both from the United Kingdom, in second and third places.

The highlight of the event was the handing over of a mock cheque of the charity run’s proceeds by the guest of honour to SEU Acting Head Haji Ali Yusri bin Haji Abdul Ghafor.

Other activities included face painting and live doodle sessions by local artists, a weather simulation booth, children’s ‘weather science’ exhibit, as well as a calligraphy session organised by the SEU.

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|     Fizah HAB     |

RADIO Brunei, through its Pilihan FM network, held a radio roadshow at Bandarku Ceria in Bandar Seri Begawan yesterday.

Themed ‘Radio Brunei with Asean friends’, the event was organised in conjunction with the celebration of Golden Jubilee of the Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (Asean).

Attending the event was the Director of Radio Television Brunei, Haji Suffian bin Haji Bungsu, as well as ambassadors and high commissioners of Asean Diplomatic Corps and representatives from foreign embassies in Brunei Darussalam. The event kicked off with a Body Fit aerobics session led by Studio 96, followed by a treasure hunt which saw participants searching through a 2km trail for answers to clues. A live cooking session presented by famous Bruneian food blogger Thanis Lim was also held at the venue.

Haji Suffian presented prizes to participants of the treasure hunt by.

Also present at the event were Acting Head of Radio Programmes, Haji Hasnan bin Haji Suhaili; radio producers and presenters from Radio Brunei’s five radio networks; as well as members of the public.

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