HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to send congratulatory messages to His Majesty Sultan Muhammad V, Yang Di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia and Dato Laila Utama Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak, Prime Minister of Malaysia, as well as the Government and people of Malaysia on the occasion of its 60th anniversary of the Independence.

In the message, His Majesty expressed his confidence that under His Majesty Sultan Muhammad V’s leadership, the Government and people of Malaysia will further enjoy continuous stability and prosperity. Furthermore, His Majesty expressed his appreciation for the existing close friendship and long-standing cooperation between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia, and was confident that these long-standing ties of friendship and cooperation would continue to be enhanced and strengthened in the future for the mutual benefit of the peoples of both countries.

Meanwhile in a similar message to Dato Laila Utama Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib, His Majesty expressed that since the independence, the people of Malaysia have continued to enjoy stability and prosperity as a result of its leaders and Government efforts and dedication in enhancing Malaysia’s image to the world. Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia have enjoyed warm relations and close friendship and expressed that these ties will further enhance and strengthen in the future.

In ending the messages, His Majesty and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam prayed that His Majesty Sultan Muhammad V and members of the royal family would always be in good health and under the protection of Allah the Almighty and Dato Laila Utama Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib, Datin Paduka Seri Rosmah Mansor and family, as well as the Government and the people of Malaysia would always enjoy lasting peace and prosperity.

The post Sultan congratulates Malaysia on Independence Day appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

IN MARKING Hari Raya Aidiladha, hundreds of Indonesian Muslims currently residing and working in the Sultanate yesterday gathered to perform Sunnat Aidiladha prayer at the Indonesian Embassy in Jalan Kebangsaan.

Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Brunei Darussalam Nurul Qomar was also in attendance.

The prayer started as 7.30am with Nusa Laila Puteri School teacher Ustaz Sornoto leading the congregants, before a sermon was delivered by Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) lecturer Dr Mikdar Rusdi.

The event continued with attendees being treated to an Indonesian meal, thus allowing them to foster togetherness with one another.

The post Hundreds attend Aidiladha celebration at Indonesian Embassy appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

IT WAS a proud moment for Mohd Shukry bin Haji Mohd Yusof yesterday as the former leading steward was selected as the first local manager under Jollibee Brunei.

Mohd Shukry who started to work for Jollibee Brunei six months ago is the Manager for Jollibee Brunei International Airport branch after the unveiling yesterday morning.

The 40-year-old in an interview expressed, “I am happy and also excited to be selected as the first local to hold the position of Restaurant Manager in Jollibee Brunei. This is the 15th store in Brunei and I will strive my best to deliver the best service to the Brunei market. ”

He owes his success to the team in Jollibee Brunei and mentors who have guided him in his work.

He hopes that more locals will join Jollibee Brunei which is well established and a successful company worldwide.

When asked about the reasons of starting a fresh career in Jollibee, he explained, “I love food and beverages. I like to gain fresh experience in a new working environment.”

The post First local manager at Jollibee Brunei appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

THE  importance of good parenting and a reminder of the devil’s persistence in distracting and deviating mankind from the way of Allah the Almighty was highlighted in two sermons for the Sunnat Aidiladha 1438H prayer at the Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah yesterday.

The sermons were delivered by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti (see photo).

In his first sermon, the State Mufti retold the story of Prophet Ibrahim (pbuh) carrying out Allah the Almighty’s order to sacrifice his son Prophet Ismail (pbuh) and the devil’s persistence in deceiving Prophet Ibrahim (pbuh) to abandon Allah the Almighty’s order.

The story ended with Prophet Ismail (pbuh) unharmed as his place was taken by a sheep brought down from the heavens by the angel Jibreel.

In the second sermon, the State Mufti mentioned the lessons to be taken from the story of Prophet Ibrahim (pbuh) in relation to parenthood.

“Prophet Ismail (pbuh), according to Tafseer experts during the event, was seven years old, with some of the opinion that he was 13, meaning he was still a young man. But he displayed qualities of an adult.

“His aqeedah was sound, he had excellent character, had a vast understanding to the point that he had deep understanding of the religion, and knew the meaning of obedience to Allah the Almighty and parents,” said the State Mufti.

He then mentioned the hadeeth collected by Imam al-Bukhari, where the Prophet said that every child is born in a state of Fitrah, and it is the parents who shape the child into a Jew, Christian or Magian.

The State Mufti said, “This is the advantage Allah the Almighty has given to parents, in the form of power, mandate, and responsibility in shaping the child to be one who is pious, religious or otherwise.”

He then revealed that the second lesson from the story of Prophet Ibrahim (pbuh) was that the devil influenced Prophet Ibrahim (pbuh)and his family to disobey Allah the Almighty’s commands.

“When the devil sees a person praying, he becomes upset and will try to find a way to turn him away from prayer,” mentioned the State Mufti.

Touching upon the issue of alcohol, the State Mufti conti-nued, “In Brunei, Alhamdulillah, the issue of alcohol should not arise anymore.

“We have already banned it. There are no premises allowed to sell or serve alcohol.

“But through the devil’s accomplices, alcohol is still being smuggled into the country; there are still people arrested for alcohol, and there are still deviant ideals allowing the circulation and consumption of alcohol at certain locations in Brunei on the grounds of facilitating and accommodating tourists and foreign workers – whose numbers are increasing in Brunei.”

The post Resist deviating from path Allah the Almighty laid out for us: State Mufti appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Aziz Idris     |

A TOTAL of 1,447 underprivileged individuals in Tutong District received Korban (sacrificial) meat contributed by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and members of the royal family to mark the occasion of Hari Raya Aidiladha yesterday.

The recipients comprised 515 heads of families and 932 dependent family members registered under the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB).

On hand to present the sacrificial meat was the guest of honour, Minister of Education, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman
The Korban meat was distributed to residents classified as Asnaf Fakir Miskin (poor, destitute and needy).

Families are compiled by MUIB which remains committed to continue addressing the welfare of the underprivileged in the country in line with His Majesty’s vision of achieving zero poverty.

It was a joyous occasion as smiles were plastered on every recipient carrying the yellow container bearing the Istana Nurul Iman name.

Mohd Norasikin bin Amba, a resident of Kampong Bukit Udal, conveyed his appreciation and gratitude to His Majesty and the royal family upon receiving the sacrificial meat.

“Alhamdulillah… I’m grateful to receive this gift and thankful to His Majesty
for the generosity in giving Korban meat,” he said.

He added that the Korban meat will help feed his seven member family.

The ceremony commenced with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Takbir Raya by Imam Haji Abdul Aziz bin Badul, Deputy Mosque Affairs Officer, Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Wakeel Mosque in Kiudang.

The post Tutong District residents receive Korban meat appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Daniel Lim     |

WITH the Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration in full swing across the country, the Belait District yesterday saw the distribution of the Korban meat contributed 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 at the Belait Conference Hall along Jalan McKerron.

This year saw 554 heads of families at the event, many of which are families who are less fortunate and registered with the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB). The ceremony saw the head of families receiving the meat that was sacrificed in the ceremony earlier.

Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism was present as the guestof honour to hand the sacrificial meat to the heads of families at the event.

Also present at the event were Haji Azmi bin Haji Abdul Rahim, Acting Belait District Officer; Haji Harun bin Haji Junid, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA), as well as senior officers from the MoRA, Deputy Permanent Secretary of MUIB, head of department from the Belait District, as well as the penghulu mukim and village heads in the Belait District.

The event started with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by Takbir Hari Raya.

The handing of the boxes containing the sacrificial meat from His Majesty and the royal family, were then handed over to heads of families by the guest of honour.

The families who could not make it to the event were not forgotten as the box was received on behalf of the families by the penghulu and village head present at the event.

The recipients at the event expressed their gratitude towards His Majesty for providing aid during such a festive time of the year.

Furthermore, the aid received will help benefit the families who are less fortunate to celebrate during the festive time of Hari Raya Aidiladha.

The ceremony concluded with the recitation of Doa Selamat as well as small feast served for the attendees at the venue. The Korban is an annual four-day event that ends before sundown on the 13th of Zulhijjah.

The post 554 families receive Korban meat in Kuala Belait appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Daniel Lim     |

THE Belait District Office recently launched its ‘Keep Belait Clean & Green’ awareness campaign at the parking lot across Putera Sutera Biru (PSB), Jalan Sungai.

The event was launched in conjunction with KBKu Ceria and aimed at getting everyone involved in maintaining the cleanliness of our surrounding.

‘Maintaining a clean, green environment benefits the health of local communities’ was one of the messages the awareness programme carried, which aligns closely with the objective of KBKu Ceria, which is ‘living and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.’

The campaign also aimed to relay the message that caring for our environment is a duty that lies not only on the shoulders of the government, but on each and every individual.
Belait District Officer Haji Harris bin Othman and Brunei Shell Petroleum Co Sdn Bhd Deputy Managing Director Haji Kamaludin bin Haji Bungsu jointly launched the campaign.

The event started with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah.

In his speech, Haji Harris expressed gratitude to all present for being a part of the launch and KBKu Ceria, and hoped that attendees would take the pledge to “maintain our environment in Belait District.”

After the ribbon-cutting, the guests of honour were invited to write their pledge on the campaign banner.

T-shirts from the Belait District Office were presented to every individual who pledged their role in ensuring Belait District’s cleanliness.

The post ‘Keep Belait Clean & Green’ launched appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE Brunei-Muara District Office yesterday handed over to Muslims sacrificial meat contributed by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and members of the royal family, in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidiladha 1438H/2017.

The ceremony commenced with a recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Takbir led by Penghulu of Mukim Sengkurong Haji Musa bin Haji Tahir.

Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance II Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim presented the meat portions to recipients.

This year, 7,672 recipients from the Brunei-Muara District will receive the sacrificial meat through penghulu mukims and village heads at their respective mukims and villages.

In his speech, Brunei-Muara District Officer Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim expressed gratitude to the penghulu and village heads for assisting in the distribution.

The event was held at the Theatre Hall of the Brunei-Muara District Office at the Old Airport in Berakas.

The post Brunei-Muara District Office distributes Korban meat appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

HAVING established a solid foothold in Brunei Darussalam for more than 30 years, Jollibee – the much-loved Philippines fast food franchise – celebrated another milestone following the reopening of their outlet at Brunei International Airport (BIA) yesterday morning – the franchise’s largest restaurant in the country.

Unveiling the new store – Jollibee’s 15th outlet in Brunei – in a ribbon-cutting ceremony was guest of honour Meynardo LB Montealegre, the Philippines Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam.

Also joining in the ribbon cutting were Dennis Flores, Jollibee Food Corporation’s Vice President for International Operations for Europe, Middle East, Asia and Australia; Awang Abdul Razak bin Mohammad Hassan, the grandson of Jollibee Brunei’s franchisee; and Muhammad Emmy Shamdy Khairul bin Haji Kadir, Acting Deputy Director of Civil Aviation.

In attendance to witness the event were Rodel Alcantare, Jollibee Vice President and Market Head for Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia and Europe; Christina Ward, Jollibee Operations Head; Roilan Alvarez, Jollibee Group Manager; and Haji Md Shukry bin Haji Md Yusof, Restaurant Manager for Jollibee Brunei International Airport branch; as well as Liyana Yus, Brand Ambassador of Jollibee Brunei.

“Today is a joyous occasion as we finally open our outlet at Brunei International Airport, our biggest and most beautiful store in Brunei,” said Dennis Flores in his opening remarks.

He recalled, “In 2014, we closed our Jollibee store at the Brunei International Airport during the airport’s terminal renovation. The public now has the opportunity to return and enjoy dining in more comfortable settings.”

He also conveyed his gratitude on behalf of Jollibee Food Corporation to the Civil Aviation Department; Pehin Orang Kaya Ratna Setia Dato Setia Haji Awang Abdul Hapidz bin Pehin Orang Kaya Laksamana Haji Awang Abdul Razak; as well as Jollibee Brunei for their support in the opening of the new outlet.

Meanwhile, Christina Ward, in her address, highlighted that “recently, Jollibee Brunei celebrated its 30th year of existence in Brunei. A combination of quality food, service, cleanliness, as well as the hard work of Jollibee Brunei team has made the franchise a very well-loved brand in Brunei.”

She added, “Jollibee Brunei mostly serves the local market, with almost all our customers being Bruneian. We would like to thank Bruneians for accepting us and we will continue to serve the Brunei community with our great tasting food and friendly service.”

The Jollibee Food Corporation Group’s worldwide store network has reached 3,570 stores. As the market leader in the Philippines, Jollibee has embarked on an international expansion plan in line with its mission to serve great tasting food and to bring the joy of eating to everyone.

The post Happy days return for holidaymakers as Jollibee reopens outlet at BIA appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

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, Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam and other members of the royal family attended the Hari Raya Aidiladha ceremony for 1438 Hijrah/2017 at the Istana Nurul Iman yesterday.

Present at the ceremony were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Bini Hajah Faizah binti Dato Haji Nasir; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Norhayati binti Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahman; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Noor Ehsani binti Al-Marhum Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin Akazul Khairi Waddien.

Prior to the start of the event, a mass recital of Hari Raya Takbir was performed by representatives from government departments, religious school teachers, undergraduates from tertiary education institutions and members of various associations.

This was followed by recitation of Al-Quran verses by Ahmad Zulwaqar bin Suhaili, the Champion of the National Youth Musabaqah Al-Quran 2017. The meaning of the Al-Quran verses was explained by Muhammad Azim bin Haji Ali, an assistant lecturer at Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.

At the ceremony, Their Majesties consented to hand out Korban meat to 100 selected recipients, comprising 50 males and 50 females.

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

This year, a total of 155 cows, five buffaloes and 14 goats were sacrificed by His Majesty, Her Majesty and other members of the royal family and the Korban meat was distributed to 12,461 poor and needy people selected from across the country. They included heads of family and their dependants considered to be rightful recipients (asnaf) and comprised 8,526 from Brunei-Muara District, 1,865 from Belait District, 1,829 from Tutong District, and 241 from Temburong District.

Among those who were invited to enliven the Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration at Istana Nurul Iman were new Muslim converts, mosque youths, mosque Muslimah, undergraduates from tertiary education institutions and religious school students.

In an interview, Muhd Hassan bin Abdullah, one of the recipients of Korban meat, expressed his gratefulness to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for the invitation to attend the Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration at Istana Nurul Iman and to receive the Korban meat. He came to attend the ceremony along with his two children and wife.

Mimah binti Mohd Yassin from Kuala Lurah also conveyed her thankfulness for being invited and given the Korban meat. She said it was an honour to celebrate Hari Raya Aidiladha with His Majesty and the royal family at Istana Nurul Iman. She was accompanied by her daughter.

Another recipient of the Korban meat Norbee Hazirah binti Md Herry from Kilanas also expressed her delight over the invitation to Istana Nurul Iman.

The post Their Majesties attend Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration at Istana appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

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 yesterday attended the Korban ceremony held at the courtyard of the Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah in Kampong Kiarong after the Sunnat Aidiladha prayer for 1438 Hijrah/2017.

Upon arrival at the mosque, His Majesty was received by Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs, in his capacity as the joint adviser to the working committee for the Korban ceremony.

His Majesty was accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen; and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel.

At the ceremony, sacrificial rite was performed on seven goats, witnessed by His Majesty and members of the royal family.

Meanwhile slaughtering of the remaining sacrificial livestock of His Majesty and members of the royal family was completed at Mulaut Abattoir Sdn Bhd.

Prior to the ceremony, His Majesty and members of the royal family performed Sunnat Aidiladha prayer along with the mosque congregation at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah.

Sunnat Aidiladha prayer was also held simultaneously at all mosques, prayer halls and suraus nationwide.

The call for the Sunnat Aidiladha prayer was made by Mudim Haji Suhaili bin Haji Kalong.
Chief Syar’ie Judge Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Haji Awang Salim bin Haji Besar led the prayer.

The sermon was delivered by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti.

The post Sultan attends Korban ceremony at Jame’ ‘Asr appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

THE Veteran Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (VFA) will be eying for a place in the final in the 5th Global Veteran Football Tournament in Medan, Indonesia which is currently ongoing until September 7.

‘VFA have placed hopes to reach the semi-final and consequently the final of the championship,’ said Vice President of VFA, Sharbini Mohidin in his capacity as team manager.

Organised by the Global Veteran Football Association, a total of eight teams will be taking part with Brunei Darussalam pooled in Group ‘A’ alongside host nation Indonesia, India and Myanmar.

This is VFA’s fourth participation in the tournament having previously taken part in Chennai, India and Thailand in previous years.

The post Brunei Veteran Football Association eye final in international tourney appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Khairil Hassan     |

FASS B and Fast & Furious emerged as champions for the male and female categories, respectively, of the Inter-Clubs Sportsmeet Dodgeball Tournament held in conjunction with the Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Convocation Festival 2017 at the Multipurpose Hall of the UBD Sports Complex yesterday.

The tournament was organised by UBD Dodgeball Club in collaboration with UBD’s Faculty of Science’s students body.

Eight teams participated in the male category comprising IHS Minions, FASS B, Dr Destruction and FOS 2 in Group ‘A’; and SBE Dodgers, FASS A, FOSSB and FOS 1 in Group ‘B’.

Meanwhile, the female category saw the participation of five teams – FOSSB, SKRRT SKRRT, Not In The Face, Kraken and Fast & Furious.

SBE Dodgers calimed second place in the male category while FASS A took third place.

In the female category, FOSSB were runners up while SKRRT SKRRT claimed third.

Mohammad Ali Sabri bin Haji Abang, Extra Curricular & Development Officer of the Student Affairs Section of UBD presented the prizes to the winners of the tournament.

The post FASS B, Fast & Furious champions of UBD dodgeball tourney appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

TABUAN ‘A’ preserved their unblemished record in the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) National Under-16 Youth League 2017 after edging a highly-spirited Bang Dalam FC 1-0 in the final league match at the Balapan Track and Field of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex yesterday.

Mohd Shafiq Hidayat had a mission to pip Noorsherzaman Haji Hassan Ahmad to the top scorer award as his solitary strike proved the difference to separate both sides.

Bang Dalam were looking to be the first and only side to take points off the league champions.

Projek Ikan Pusu’s scoring assassin Noorsherzaman Haji Hassan Ahmad confirmed his status as this season’s top scorer after bagging a brace in the 4-1 win against Tabuan ‘B’ who missed out on a top five spot.

Having needed to win to stand any hopes of climbing to fifth spot from seventh, Tabuan ‘C’ leapfrogged two places above Hawa FT and Tabuan ‘B’ after beating Hawa FT 1-0.

Rimba Star FC completed Besa FC’s misery in the league after thrashing the basement dwellers 5-1 in a lopsided affair.

Meanwhile, Parma Junior FC edged BTC Red Star 1-0 in the other match.

The post Tabuan ‘A’ finish season as invincibles appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Daniel Lim     |

THE Seria Fire Station along Jalan Raja Isteri hosted a Korban ceremony, an annual event held in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidiladha.

Overseeing the ceremony was Shahbandi bin Haji Abdul Halim, Assistant Operation Director, Fire and Rescue Department, as the guest of honour.

Also present was Shahreeni bin Haji Yusof, Commanding Officer of the Fire and Rescue Department, Branch ‘B’.

Muhd Ali bin Hassan, Station Commander of the Seria Fire Station and chairman of the ceremony, said, “We have two cows that were sacrificed at the ceremony, and the meat from the cows were distributed to the orphans of the Fire and Rescue Department and in Mukim Seria, as well as less fortunate individuals.”

The ceremony also coincided with the Fire Station’s 43rd year of operation since its start in 1973.

In preparation for the ceremony, two groups of seven people from the station were assigned to prepare the cows for the Korban.

Group one consisted of Ahmad Abdul Aqimullah bin Abdul Samad, Saleha binti Mokti, Roziah binti Haji Ali, Musa bin Abdul Samad, Hajah Sitiawa binti Untong, Nur Zahirah binti Osman and Nur Aliyah Insyirah binti Shahril Alimin.

Group two comprised Hajah Fatiham binti Haji Omar, Farah Nadzirah binti Alirahim, Farah Nadhirah binti Alirahim, Muhammad Sufri bin Mohd Jamil, Amal Nurul Fardina binti Razali, Amal Nurul Fawedda binti Razali and Amal Nurul Fazzedda binti Razali.

The ceremony saw the reading of Takbir Hari Raya by Imam Haji Nuin bin Hassan, followed by the presentation of the Korban meat by the guest of honour.

The representative for the orphans of Bomba was Musa bin Haji Yusop, Assistant Officer at the Fire Station, while the orphans in the Mukim Seria and less fortunate individuals was represented by Haji Saidin bin Haji Ibrahim, the Village Head of STKRJ Lorong Tiga Selatan, Seria.

The ceremony concluded with a feast prepared by the Seria Fire Station for the attendees to enjoy.

The post Korban ceremony held at Seria Fire Station appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

THE handing over of Korban meat – contributed by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, and members of the royal family – to Muslims in the Temburong District was held at the Pekan Bangar Community Hall Complex.

The ceremony started with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by Takbir Hari Raya.

Minister of Communications cum guest of honour Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat distributed the sacrificial meat to recipients. This year, 93 underprivileged individuals will each receive a portion of sacrificial meat.

Temburong District Officer Mohd Amir Hairil bin Haji Mahmud, Temburong District Religious Officer Haji Jamil bin Haji Abdul Ghani, Legislative Council member YB Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu, mukim penghulus, village heads and committee members were also in attendance.

The post Sacrificial meat distributed in Temburong appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

A DRIVER and passenger were killed in an accident which left the car engulfed in flames on Jalan Babu Raja, early yesterday morning.

The Fire and Rescue Department responded to a distress call at 4.09am, by dispatching two fire engines from the Bandar Seri Begawan Fire Station to the scene, along with five firefighters led by SO Murni bin Haji Misir.

The firefighters arrived to find the vehicle burning at the bottom of a deep storm drain, with the driver and passenger still trapped inside.

Using two hose reels, the firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze within 16 minutes.

The driver’s body was pulled with ropes from the charred wreckage and lifted to higher ground in 17 minutes. Meanwhile, the dead passenger was removed from the vehicle within five minutes using Piston Ram equipment.

The total cost of damage is estimated at around BND3,000.

The identities of both men have yet to be confirmed.

The investigation has been handed over to the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF).

The post Two die in horrific crash after car plunges into drain appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

HUNDREDS of cyclists joined 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 members of the royal family yesterday morning for the Royal Birthday Cycling Recreation 2017 (RBK 2017) in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Several senior citizens from the Chinese community also took part in the 11.5-kilometre cycling route around the heart of the capital, and among them were 72-year-old Soon Seng Lee and his friend, Song Kin Fha, 71.

Soon, who is from Tutong, said, “We drove down here early, in the heavy downpour, to join today’s special cycling event with His Majesty.

“It’s not every day that we can cycle together with His Majesty and the royal family, so this is a really special occasion.”

Both men are members of the Tutong Voluntary Cycling Expedition (BEST).

When asked how they manage to keep fit in old age, Soon said, “We often do some brisk walking during our free time, to stay healthy.”

Meanwhile, Rizal bin Mohd Salleh, was one of the 71 cyclists along the 71-km route led by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul ‘Ali Yil-Kabier bin Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz.

Rizal, who took a selfie with His Majesty at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien yesterday, said, “This was a chance to be part of His Majesty’s birthday celebrations, and it’s always a pleasure to see His Majesty in person.”

The 44-year-old cycling enthusiast even had two of his bicycles autographed by His Majesty at previous recreational events, which he keeps safely at home.

Concluding the interview, Rizal said, “I wish all the best and good health to His Majesty.”

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

THE capital was transformed into a sea of colours yesterday morning as people from all walks of life, especially hundreds of cycling enthusiasts took to the streets of Bandar Seri Begawan for the Royal Birthday Cycling Recreation 2017 held in conjunction with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s 71st birthday celebrations.

The cycling event was made more special with the participation of His Majesty, who led the pack of cyclists in a 11.5km route that commenced in the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, passing through scenic sections along the main roads of Bandar Seri Begawan before returning to the Taman.

Also taking part in the event were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and other members of the royal family.

Other notable individuals joining in the event were senior government officials, including cabinet ministers.

Eager participants were seen arriving at the Taman as early as 5.30am, despite the cycle’s flag-off set at around 7.45am.

His Majesty got the event officially underway with a push of the buzzer, at which point 71 balloons were released by 71 youths simultaneously with the singing of a birthday song.

The 11.5km route, led by His Majesty and members of the royal family, was participated by hundreds of cycling enthusiasts riding bicycles of varying make, colours and styles.

The 11.5km route covered several main roads in the capital, taking His Majesty and the other cyclists past landmarks through Jalan Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, Jalan Kianggeh, Jalan Sekolah, Jalan Kumbang Pasang, Jalan Perdana Menteri, Jalan Haji Basir and Jalan Sultan.

His Majesty was the centre of the attention throughout the event, with members of the public cheering the monarch along the various route sections of the cycling event.

After circling Bandar Seri Begawan and making it back to the Taman, His Majesty also witnessed the return of 71 cyclists in another category – a longer 71km route – which had been flagged off earlier in the morning by Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports.

The 71 cyclists comprised national cycling athletes, and representatives from the government and private sectors, as well as from local associations across all four districts.

Before departing the venue, His Majesty received a pesambah and toured the various activities organised in the weekly Bandarku Ceria, held every Sunday.

During this tour, His Majesty and members of the royal family also took a closer look at the different food and beverage vendors lining the streets of the capital.

The event was made livelier with the presence of the Brunei 29th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games contingents.

Initiated collaboratively by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS), Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Development, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Communications, Ministry of Health, and the Brunei Darussalam Cycling Federation, the event aimed to promote a healthy lifestyle through recreational activities and acknowledge the importance of sports activities in meeting the nation building goals, as well as to foster solidarity and stability within the community.

The MCYS in a press release stated that the event’s success is testament to the effectiveness of a whole-country approach which involves people from all walks of life, including those from the government and non-government sectors, adding that this is proof that the approach can be used to promote other national development programmes.

Those who participated in yesterday’s cycle can download their certificates of participation from the MCYS website www.kkbs.gov.bn.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

THE Brunei Darussalam National Under-18 Team will be treating the upcoming Asean Football Federation (AFF) Under-18 Youth Championship as a platform to provide players much-needed exposure ahead of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Under-19 qualifiers.

The under-18s have been drawn alongside Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia and hosts Myanmar in Group ‘B’ with all the games set to be played at the Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon, Myanmar.

Group ‘A’ comprise of Thailand, Malaysia, Timor Leste, Laos, Cambodia and Singapore.
Head Coach Takao Fujiwara, who has only recently been tasked to lead the team, is hoping that the players will be given decent exposure as they get a taste of international football.

“I have only recently taken over the team and while we have managed to get some good players, the team still lack experience,” Fujiwara was quoted as saying by AFF.

“It is important that we get the right exposure from this meet where we also hope that we can help develop the next generation of players,” the Japanese further added.

The young Wasps are fully prepared to play Philippines in their group opener today after a good period in training.

“Though our group is very strong, we have a chance at winning this game against the Philippines,” said team manager Zulkifli Haji Duraman.

“We have been training well and are ready for this game,” he added.

Brunei last met the young Azkals in the group stage where they were beaten 2-1 in the 2015 edition in Vientiane, Laos.

There will be familiar names in the coaching setup for the other teams with Indonesia’s 2014 Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) head coach Indra Sjafri hoping to fire the country to glory while former Kelantan FA and Johor Darul Ta’zim head coach Bojan Hodak has been installed as head coach for the Malaysia under-19 team.

The competition will also serve as a first real test for newly appointed Thailand under-20 head coach Marc Palacios.

Cambodia’s under-17 head coach Kazunori Inoue boasted coaching experience after guiding the under-16s to a semi-final appearance in the AFF Under-16 Youth Championship last year.

Malaysia and Thailand both enjoyed excellent starts to their championship campaign after respectively humbling Laos 4-1 and Timor Leste 3-0 in Group ‘A’.

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