BRITISH Prime Minister Theresa May has appointed Paul Scully as trade envoy to Brunei Darussalam. This is part of a whole-of-government approach to boosting bilateral trade, with a focus on priority markets and sectors.

Scully will continue the work of his predecessor Mark Garnier , who was the trade envoy to Brunei Darussalam from 2016-2017.

Garnier focussed particularly on supporting Brunei’s ambition to develop its financial services sector, and has retained his interest in Brunei since being promoted in 2017 as Minister for Investment at the Department for International Trade.

Scully said, “I am delighted and honoured to have been appointed as the Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Brunei. I see huge potential to build on the longstanding economic relationship between the UK and Brunei, and I look forward to maximising new opportunities in this exciting market.”

British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Richard Lindsay said, “I warmly welcome this appointment by the prime minister. The appointment of a new trade envoy is a very clear demonstration of the UK’s commitment to broadening our economic partnership with Brunei.”

The British High Commissioner went on to note that total trade between the UK and Brunei was valued at £407m in 2015 and said that he would be working closely with Paul Scully to develop areas of bilateral economic cooperation in line with the economic development of Brunei Vision 2035.

Scully has been the Conservative Member of Parliament for Sutton and Cheam in South London since 2015. Prior to his election he had considerable experience of running small businesses.

He serves on the International Development Committee, the Petitions Committee and is a member of the British Delegation on the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. Scully is half Burmese and takes a keen interest in Southeast Asia matters.

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|     James Kon     |

HER Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah yesterday enjoyed a firsthand experience of Japanese cultural traditions at the opening of the ‘Prologue for Culture Tourism’ event hosted by Smart Shield Sdn Bhd and Smart Coating Technologies Sdn Bhd, with support from the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT).

Held at The Empire Hotel & Country Club, the opening was also attended by Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the MPRT Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali and Japanese Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Motohiko Kato.

In his welcoming remarks, Smart Shield Sdn Bhd and Smart Coating Technologies Sdn Bhd Director Okuchi Hiroshi said, “The event is organised in the spirit of ‘muhibbah’, or goodwill, to get a feel of the different cultures.”

He also extended his congratulations on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee Celebration of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s Accession to the Throne.

Following the speech, Her Royal Highness officially launched the ‘Prologue for Culture Tourism’ event, which showcases numerous exhibits on Japanese calligraphy, ceramics, pottery, in addition to several paintings and a demonstration of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

Experts from each of these fields were invited to display their skills at the opening ceremony.

One of them was Rie Takeda, with more than 30 years of experience as a master of the Japanese tea ceremony, and with 500 students worldwide. She demonstrated to Her Royal Highness, who was seated on a Japanese mat, the tea-making rituals and etiquette.

Another was Rinsetsu Yoshikawa, with more than 20 years of experience in the art of Japanese calligraphy. She displayed her talents, and guided Her Royal Highness in writing of the word ‘elegance’ in Japanese kanji.

Also showcasing their talents were pottery and ceramics artist, Professor Nishimura; and Yuko Tada, a well-known contemporary painter with over 40 years experience.

Before attending a tea reception in her honour, Her Royal Highness was given a tour of the exhibits at the ‘Prologue for Culture Tourism’ venue.

The cultural event is hoped to further strengthen the ties between Brunei and Japan, in addition to promoting an understanding of Brunei-Japanese cultures.

The exhibition is open to the public for two days until October 29, and is free of charge.

The post Royalty launches Japanese exhibition appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

HONG Kong emerged winners of the 3rd Women’s Asian Hockey Challenge after overcoming spirited Pakistan 4-0 in the final at the Hockey Stadium of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex, with the Brunei Darussalam national women’s hockey team bagging bronze.

Having played back-to-back matches against Hong Kong and Brunei, Pakistan came into the match without having enough rest compared to their opponents but stayed in the contest with the scores goalless in the first half.

Hong Kong won two penalty corners without the intended outcome while in the other end Pakistan got their break as a silky individual move from captain Ambreen Arshad drew a penalty corner.

However, Ishrat Abbas scooped her shot wide with the opportunity to get the goal they desperately craved disappearing in an instant.

Hong Kong were awarded another penalty corner in the 50th minute as Ching Nam Chan directed the ball towards goal to open the scoring after a fine assist from Tiffany Chan.

Tiffany scored her 11th goal of an excellent tournament through a field goal before captain Ka I Lo added a third with a good drive from a penalty corner.

The unbeaten Hong Kong, who completed the tournament without conceding a single goal, struck again at the end as Melissa Law Ka Mun executed a firm strike into the bottom corner.

Hong Kong coach Arif Ali admitted that they had a slow start in the first half but recovered in the second to get the win.

“We were hoping to play our best game in the last day today. We started very slow in the first two quarters. At half-time, we regrouped again and we go back to basics and get the basic things right because there were too many simple turnovers in the first two quarters,” said Arif in a post-match interview.

“We managed to correct our mistakes and in the third quarter we started to build our game and then in the end of the third quarter we started to play the way we normally play. In the last quarter, we took our chances and we just kept going and we never stopped,” he continued.

Meanwhile, Arif’s opposite number Mohammad Khan highlighted that consecutive matches leading up to the final has brought his team to exhaustion.

“On fourth quarter, our team was totally tired and despite of all their efforts they couldn’t do anything. Our team was not lesser than anyone and they played their best,” said Khan.

Pakistan’s Mayira Sabir was voted the best player of the tournament while Tiffany Chan was named the top goal-scorer of the tournament. Brunei’s Fatimah scooped the best goalkeeper award.

Mayira said that she was caught by surprise and was not expecting that the judges nominated her name for the win and felt grateful of collecting the award.

Meanwhile, Tiffany credited the efforts of the whole team for contributing towards helping her to win the top goal-scorer award.

“This is not only my personal effort but also the effort of the whole team for building up every play and giving me the opportunity to score for the team. I’m really proud of that and we finish as champions and also getting the top goal scorer award,” said Tiffany.

The winner of the top goal scorer recipient also highlighted both the team and her individual targets setting her sights on the top prize.

“I think for our team before we came we set up an objective of winning the gold medal so we have achieved that. For myself, before I came I set myself a goal of being above other teams and doing my best in every single game no matter which opponent we are playing.

“I think the way we start off maybe a bit slow but then we progressed every single game. We trust each other and turns out we get the result as well.”

Tiffany has proven to be the main source of attack for her side with her goal-scoring capabilities in the campaign.

“I think there’s always room for improvement. Of course I’m happy scoring most of the goals for the team and also achieving what I want.”

Tiffany revealed that she had also set a target of 10 goals before the start of the tournament.

“When you’re the main player of the team, you have more responsibility and this is the motivation for me to improve,” she said.

Brunei’s goalkeeper Fatimah was not expecting of being awarded the best goalkeeper award especially when she nearly missed out on playing in the tournament due to other commitments.

“I was originally not expected to be involved in the tournament because of other commitments but I was given support by the coaches, friends and teammates,” said Fatimah who had represented the country since 2009.

Present to award the medals and the trophy to the winners was Haji Muhd Zamri bin Dato Paduka Haji Hamdani, Vice President of the Brunei Darussalam National Olympic Council.

The post Hong Kong emerge Asian Challenge winners, Brunei bag bronze appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

DPMM FC team manager Ali Momin suggested that the complexion of the game might have been fairly different had they eradicated the number of errors during the 4-1 defeat to Geylang International FC in the Great Eastern-Hyundai S League at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore on Friday night.

The defeat left them with a must-win encounter against Tampines Rovers FC in their next home league match to stay in contention of snatching seventh place from Balestier Khalsa FC.

The Eagles fully exploited an error-strewn performance from the ‘Gegar Gegar’ men as defenders Yura Indera Putera and Hazwan Hamzah as well as goalkeeper Mu’izzuddin Ismail were all found culpable in Geylang’s goals.

“We told the boys to keep possession and not to make silly mistakes at the back, but it didn’t work out for us. We made three mistakes which led to three goals. If we minimise that, it will be a different story,” said Ali Momin in a post-match interview.

Ali agreed that the side gradually improved in the second half and indicated that the comeback would have been very much in the cards had they found the second goal.

DPMM FC winger Azwan Ali Rahman pulled one back prompting the possibility of a similar repeat to the game against Balestier Khalsa where they clawed their way back from 2-0 down to a creditable draw.

“We did play better in the second half but was only able to score one. If the second goal had come, I’m sure we can fight back,” Ali said.

The head coach called for improvement next season after a disastrous year which saw them tallying their worst points total in their S League history.

“The problem with us is consistency. They did well in the last game against Warriors FC (3-2) but not in this game. We need our players to play with their hearts and hopefully we can improve next season,” the team manager said.

Meanwhile, Geylang International FC head coach Noor Ali said that had DPMM FC found the second goal the match could have gone either way.

Brazilian striker Rafael Ramazotti saw his header came off the crossbar in the 52nd minute before Azwan Ali gave his team renewed hope.

The head coach was formulating a game plan in view of DPMM FC’s playing style which worked to their advantage.

“My game plan was to press them high up early because they would usually pump the long ball to Ramazotti. The intensity was very high in the first 45 minutes,” he said.

“But in the second half, we put pressure on ourselves to keep the ball in our own half and that’s what DPMM FC wanted. We’re lucky, they hit the post and could have scored a second. That could have been a different ball game.”

Geylang forward Shawal Anuar killed off the tie with his side’s fourth goal which Noor considered a pivotal moment during the win.

“The fourth goal was very important for us and it’s good to see Shawal playing this way. He took his chances well and is playing with confidence.”

The Eagles, who currently sit in fourth place, are aiming for their best finish in the league since the 2003 season when they secured the runners-up spot behind Home United FC.

“The team have momentum now and hopefully we end the season well,” the former Singapore international said.

The post Manager urges charges to cut down mistakes appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

THE Sultanate will stage the Asian Development Tour (ADT) event – The Brunei Championship from March 7-10, 2018 at The Empire Hotel & Country Club.

The inaugural ADT event which offers a US$60,000 prize will mark the country’s first professional golf tournament in eight years with the spotlight of the world golfing scene falling on Brunei once again. The event is supported by Tourism Brunei under the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism; and Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.

Associated with the Asian Tour, Brunei Championship will be featured in the golfing media channel where 30-minute highlights of the programme will be aired in 78 countries.

A total of 132 professional golfers from 20 nationalities comprising the region’s rising stars as well as the international cast on the ADT is set to battle out on the championship golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus at The Empire Hotel & Country Club.

Ten local golfers are also invited to battle against some of the best golfers in Asia in the Brunei Championship.

The details were released at a press conference yesterday chaired by Haji Mohd Junaidi, Chairman of the organising committee, Cho Mint That, the Chief Operating Officer of ADT and Stan Everitt, the Director of Golf in The Empire Hotel & Country Club.

Attending the press conference were Haji Noor Jusmin bin Haji Abdul Samad, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports; Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Tourism) at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism and other officials.

Cho Mint That welcomed Brunei to the list of pit stop for the Asian Development Tour event.

According to him, some of the big names who have played in the ADT and have progressed to the Asian Tour are Thailand’s trio Pavit Tangkamolprasert, Poom Saksansin and Phachara Khongwatmai, Malaysia’s Gavin Green and Nicholas Fung with reigning ADT order of merit champion Johannes Veerman of the US.

“Pavit, Poom, Fung, Chan and Green are former multiple time winners on the region’s secondary circuit and have broken through on the region’s premier tour in recent years,” Cho said.

He said, “We are extremely proud that the Asian Development Tour has helped in the development of the career of these players.”

The Asian Development Tour, he explained “also received world golf ranking points which is pivotal for the selection to the Olympic.

“Siddikur Rahman and Gavin Green went on to the Olympics based on the world golf ranking acquired from the ADT.

“We would also like to give the opportunity to Brunei’s golfers to compete against the best in the region and hopefully develop their skills in the golfing stage. We hope to see Bruneians win the Asian Development Tour in the near future.”

Speaking on Brunei hosting the ADT, he said, “Brunei is no stranger to professional golf tournament and personally I have a great affiliation for Brunei because my first ever professional golf tournament was staged – the 2007 Brunei Open.”

He said, “We have held successful tournaments in Sarawak, Miri, and Labuan. It’s a natural progression to be held in Brunei to put the country on the golfing map.”

Cho Mint That thanked SPS innovative Enterprise for the prize of the tournament.

Meanwhile, Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali praised the initiative to bring the Asian Development Tour to Brunei.

He said, “This event is definitely an opportunity to boost Brunei’s tourism especially in golfing as the event will be featured in several countries. We are positioning Brunei to show the world of our capability in successfully organising a major event and hopefully, we can host more major golfing events in future.”

The deputy permanent secretary also believed that Sport tourism especially golfing, is growing in the country, attracting golfers from overseas.

The post Brunei to host Asian Development Tour in March appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

BRUNEI Shell Marketing Co Sdn Bhd (BSM) has launched the #BeliHelix promotion yesterday.

The event was officiated by Managing Director of BSM, Pengiran Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha.

The promotion is in line with BSM’s appreciation towards Shell Helix Passenger Car Motor oil (PCMO) users and is held for a period of three months from November 1, 2017 to January 31, 2018.

There will be five monthly draw prizes which will be announced in December and January respectively and the grand draw has been set for February 2018.

The grand prize for this promotion will be a unit of BMW 1 Series, first runner-up will win Dubai tour packages for two persons and second runner up will get B$2,500 cash card.

The date and venue for the grand draw will be announced by BSM in due course. End user will be entitled to one entry form for each purchase of 4L of Shell Helix Motor Oil which comprises of Shell Helix Ultra, Shell Helix HX7 and Shell Helix HX5.

Drop boxes are available for completed entry forms at participating BSM Authorised distributors, dealers and retail stations which can be located from www.bsm.com.bn.

According to independent worldwide consulting and research firm, Kline & Company’s Global Lubricants Industry: Market Analysis and Assessment 2016 report, Shell has been named the world’s lubricants number one global supplier for the 10th consecutive year in 2015.

Shell Helix Ultra with PurePlus Technology is a next-generation, fully synthetic premium motor oil made from natural gas making it stronger and less volatile at the molecular level than those made from traditional crude.

Key benefits include performance through engine stress, superior protection against wear, protecting the engine in extreme temperatures and it is designed for ultimate power and performance.

Engine manufacturer partners include BMW Motorsport, Hyundai Motorsport, Maserati and Scuderia Ferrari that use and trust Shell Helix Ultra.

The Shell Helix portfolio is suitable for both Diesel and Gasoline engines.

The post Prizes up for grab in BSM Helix promotion appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

A STUDY is being conducted to explore ways to make Temburong a low-carbon district – a “smart city” that is self-sufficient in terms of its energy resources and other natural resources, and that emits net zero carbon.

The project was highlighted during a workshop on Energy Mix Analysis on the Temburong Smart City Project yesterday at The Empire Hotel & Country Club, organised by the Brunei National Energy Research Institute (BNERI), the Energy and Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office (EIDPMO), and the Economic Research Institute for Asean and East Asia (ERIA).

Professor Hidetoshi Nishimura, the President of ERIA in his opening remarks at the opening session of the workshop said, “This project is one of the important pillars of the ERIN (Energy Research Institute Network) projects named Eco-town model.”

“ERIA in collaboration with ERIN started this project two years ago,” he said. “Energy demand in Asean has grown about 2.5 times since 1990 and is expected to triple by 2035. Therefore, the aim of this study is to apply the concept of a low-carbon city or eco town for Asean to curb increasing energy demand and to mitigate emissions of greenhouse gases.”

Professor Nishimura said that in phase one, the eco town project study focusses on the introduction of current and future energy efficiency technologies on buildings and road transport as well as smart grid technologies.

“In phase two, this project focuses on one particular place, the Pekan Bangar area, Brunei and assesses appropriate capacity of power sources to provide electricity to Temburong area, which consists of Solar/PV and Diesel power generators, by computer simulation,” Professor Nishimura said.

Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Awang Haji Mohammad Yasmin bin Haji Umar, Minister of Energy and Industry at the Prime Minister’s Office also gave a speech at the opening session yesterday.

“We are very honoured and thankful for the assistance and collaboration opportunity in conducting the ‘Temburong Smart City’ project,” said the minister.

He explained that the project is a study that seeks to explore ways to make Temburong District a “smart city” that is self-sufficient in terms of its energy resources and other natural resources including water, and most importantly one that emits net zero carbon.

“Temburong is a very special district in Brunei, known for its pristine forests,” he said. “It is important for us to retain this identity and even enhance Temburong’s ‘green’ image.”

He highlighted that turning Temburong into a smart city will be part of the national goal to reduce the country’s carbon emission under the Paris Agreement that came into force a year ago.

“Brunei Darussalam is firmly committed, as a responsible member of the international community, to play its part in addressing global climate change,” said the minister, who underlined that this commitment reaffirms the importance placed 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 climate change and the need for collective action and responsibility.

The minister shared that the district is currently powered by diesel with a generation capacity of about 12 megawatts to provide for its 10,500 population.

“The demand’s average growth rate of three per cent per year is expected to double as we anticipate more economic activities in the coming years, especially when the Temburong Bridge opens by 2019. Therefore, we need to manage this demand outlook in a more strategic and sustainable manner.

“We are looking at introducing Solar PV to the Temburong District, which will be in various configurations,” he explained. “The study on this is currently being undertaken, with the main aim of getting rid of diesel consumption in the district.”

“Initial studies indicate 25 per cent reduction in diesel consumption, but this is not what we want for Temburong – this is not good enough. We need to work towards reaching a sustainable net-zero-carbon energy mix.”

The minister noted that the ‘Temburong Smart City’ by ERIA has made its key reference based on the government’s Temburong District Plan. “This will ensure that the recommendations arising from this study will complement the existing plans we have for the district,” he said.

“Developing a ‘smart’ and ‘net zero carbon’ city for Temburong will require close coordination and synergy among various agencies and stakeholders. Let us work together to realise this,” he added.

Yesterday’s event saw the attendance of Motohiko Kato, the Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam. Also present were officials from the government and private sectors, as well as higher education institutions.

The post Study seeks to make Temburong ‘smart city’ appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

SEVERAL establishments stepped forward again yesterday to make donations to Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam (Pusat Ehsan) in support of efforts to look after the country’s special needs community.

The donations were presented at the opening ceremony of the Pusat Ehsan Charity Bazaar with Kuwait Embassy yesterday. Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah received the donations on behalf of Pusat Ehsan.

First to present a $5,000 mock cheque was the Embassy of the State of Kuwait, represented by Kuwaiti Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Dr Fahad Mashary Al-Thafiri, who earlier noted that the donations are contributions from Kuwaiti small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

This followed with the presentation of mock cheques of $6,625 from Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD), $3,000 each from Mar’azmala Petrol Station & Trading and Build Mix Trading, $2,500 from Honey Carsmart, and $1,000 each from IBA Petrol Station Sdn Bhd and Borneo Air Conditioning & Engineering.

The donations hope to assist the centre with its daily operations in educating, training and providing care and rehabilitation services for special needs people at the centre.

The post Donations flow for Pusat Ehsan appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

HER Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah yesterday officiated the opening of the Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam (Pusat Ehsan) Charity Bazaar.

Her Royal Highness was welcomed by Kuwait Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Dr Fahad Mashary Al-Thafiri, Pusat Ehsan Senior Trustee Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Alimin bin Haji Abdul Wahab, Pusat Ehsan Executive Trustee Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini binti Pengiran Dipa Negara Laila Diraja Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin and Pusat Ehsan Board of Trustee (Policy and Planning) Haji Ahmad bin Haji Abdul Rahman.

The opening proceeded with a Doa Selamat and welcoming remarks by the Kuwaiti Ambassador who noted that the event marks a wonderful opportunity for Pusat Ehsan to collaborate with the diplomatic corps to bring them together for a common cause of charity.

Such events, added the ambassador, is a part of their public diplomacy efforts, which is an integral part of being members of the diplomatic community.

The opening also coincided with two major events of both countries – marking the Golden Jubilee Celebration of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s Accession to the Throne, and the third anniversary of naming His Highness the Emir of the State of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah as a ‘Humanitarian Leader’ and Kuwait as ‘Centre of Humanitarian Works’ by the United Nations.

The envoy said during the almost four years of posting in the country, he has seen many similarities and common features between the two countries, including among others the constant engagement on humanitarian work and related activities aiming to reduce the impact of natural disasters and wars as well as helping the needy while both countries have a record in providing humanitarian assistance.

“This event also comes in line with His Majesty’s call to promote social solidarity through social activities aimed at helping the needy and supporting charity societies that provide care to orphans and people with special needs.”

The ambassador said Pusat Ehsan has an outstanding presence in charitable and humanitarian activities and, in the context of the embassy’s interest in this kind of activities and the vital role of the organisation, extended invitation to Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah and Pusat Ehsan officials to visit Kuwait to share expertise and discuss with its Kuwaiti counterparts the prospect of joint cooperation in charity and humanitarian work.

He expressed hope that through the charity event, they can actually make a difference by providing assistance to Pusat Ehsan not just in terms of material assistance but also creating awareness on its cause and to make it possible for the public to give a little of themselves and be part of this good cause.

Following the welcoming remarks, Her Royal Highness along with the Kuwait Ambassador officially launched the charity bazaar after which Her Royal Highness consented to receive donations from various establishments on behalf of Pusat Ehsan.

Her Royal Highness toured the exhibitions at the main building as well as the participating booth.

Apart from raising funds for the centre, which is needed to finance the services and programmes to educate, train, assist care and rehabilitation services for people with special needs, the event also serves to support the Kuwait Embassy’s initiative in fundraising for Pusat Ehsan special needs students.

The charity bazaar also serves to instil awareness and involvement of other diplomatic missions in helping people with special needs.

Several other diplomatic community are also participating in support of the charity bazaar namely the Singapore High Commission, British High Commission, and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China.

Other vendors are Li Gong Restaurant, BISTARI, Politeknik Brunei, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jerudong International School, Laksamana College of Business, Lions Club, YMRM, Carsmart, Parfum Garden, Kaban Kayu, RejabSyawal, Iqbal’s Bistro, GaleriHijau, KFC, and Funblocks.

The charity bazaar is also in partnership with Cityneon Displays & Construction Sdn Bhd, with Borneo Bulletin and Media Permata as its media supporters.

The post Royalty launches Pusat Ehsan Charity Bazaar appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Aziz Idris     |

HER Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman attended the annual Toyota Classics and presented donations to three charity organisations amounting $60,000 at the Arts Centre, Jerudong International School (JIS) yesterday night.

Accompanying the royal guest of honour was her son, Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah.

Prior to the start of the performances, a mock cheque of $20,000 each was presented to Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam (Pusat Ehsan), Annur Harapan Centre, and the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei.

NBT (Brunei) Sdn Bhd and Toyota Motor Asia Pacific (TMAP) have brought in the London-based Royal Philharmonic (RPCO) for an evening of favourite classical compositions from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, much to the delight of the audience.

The orchestra was under the capable baton of multiple award-winning conductor Anthony Weeden, joined by solo violinist David Juritz, who is recognised for his interpretation of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons.

The RPCO is known for working with some of music’s biggest names, from opera singers Andrea Bocelli, Jose Carreras and the late Luciano Pavarotti; to pop artistes like Sting, Barry Manilow, Tina Turner and Stevie Wonder.

Taking advantage of the acoustically sophisticated auditorium, audience were also entertained with local renditions of Brunei Darussalam national anthem and popular local tunes such as Dong Dong Oma and Samalindang.

In his welcoming speech, Ninan Chacko, Executive Advisor of NBT (Brunei) Sdn Bhd spoke of the company’s “very challenging uphill battle” when it was first incorporated 50 years ago – about 60 days after His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s Accession to the Throne on October 5, 1967.

“50 years on, today, Toyota have become such a well-established, tried, tested and turned global brand, and NBT being number one in Brunei for the last 36 consecutive year,” he noted.

He added that one in every four or five cars on Brunei roads being either Toyota or Lexus.

Ninan Chacko expressed his gratitude to Her Royal Highness for the support and generosity to the charity organisations.

He acknowledged the presence of Hoa Tien, Executive Vice-President of Toyota Motor Asia Pacific, who successfully organised the Toyota Classics and other charity events.

Among those present during the musical showpiece were Cabinet Ministers and foreign dignitaries.

Also present was CEO of Inchcape Asia (NBT’s Holding Company), George Ashford.

Now on its 23rd instalment, the fundraiser event has raised some $1,800,000 from ticket sales for deserving charities in Brunei Darussalam since 1990.

The post Toyota Classics benefits 3 charity organisations appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik unveiled the new Nissan X-Trail 2018 yesterday.

A new flagship SUV, the Nissan X-Trail 2018 is a five/seven-seater that comes with a host of exterior upgrades, which include the wider version of the front ‘V-Motion Grille’ and a boomerang-shaped front LED Daytime Running Lights with Adaptive Front Lighting System to help with nighttime visibility.

As part of the new exterior upgrades, the car sits on 18-inch alloy wheel design and features four colours: orange, tinted red, blue and dark brown.

At the rear of the car, Nissan has fitted a handy new feature that allows hands-free functionality on the electric tailgate, which is activated by swiping one foot under the rear bumper.

On the interior, a new D-shaped steering wheel with four-way controllers welcomes the driver; all redesigned to decrease amount of time a driver’s eyes are off the road. The engine remains powerful as before – a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a horsepower of 142hp.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik also received a pesambah from Tan Teck Hock, Senior Operations Manager of Boustead Sdn Bhd, yesterday.

The first 15 early-bird buyers of the all-new Nissan X-Trail 2018 4WD will be complimented with free second-year insurance renewal.

Nissan Brunei is also showcasing several innovative models from its line-ups such as the Nissan Elgrand, Juke Turbo and Pulsar Turbo.

A Nissan Pulsar will be available for test-drive until 5pm today at the Brunei Motor Show 2017.

The post Prince Malik unveils Nissan X-Trail appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik launched the Brunei Motor Show 2017 yesterday, a motoring extravaganza showcasing new car models, current vehicles, customised cars, bikes, supercars and car-related accessories.

Upon arrival at the Bridex Hall 2 in Jerudong, His Royal Highness was welcomed by the Minister of Communications, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, and the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Hafriz Fayadh bin Haji Musa.

His Royal Highness then presented tokens of appreciation to supporters, partners and sponsors of the Brunei Motor Show 2017.

The Brunei Motor Show 2017 continues today at Bridex Hall 2, Jerudong from 9am to 9pm. A shuttle bus service plying between the Jerudong Park Amphitheatre to Bridex Hall 2 will be available.

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|     Daniel Lim     |

IN CONJUNCTION with the monthly Kuala Belaitku Ceria event along Jalan Sungai in the Belait District, the Brunei Jet Sports Association (BJSA) recently hosted Round 2 of the Enduro Jet Ski Challenge 2017.

The 15 lap race saw more than 16 riders from Brunei and Miri taking part in the challenge. Categories of the Enduro Jet Ski Challenge 2017 included 130 Category (Normal Aspirated), 200 Category (Normal Aspirated), and 300 Open Category.

First place winner for the 130 category (Normal Aspirated) was Mohd Abdillah Yaman from Miri; while the first place winner for the 200 category (Normal Aspirated) and 300 Open category was Dzul Iskandar Abdullah from Brunei, and Elegarnon Clayton Mundaw from Miri, Sarawak. Top four riders from each category also received prizes.

Kifli bin Haji Azahari, Assistant Municipal Secretary of the Kuala Belait and Seria Municipal Department presented the prizes.

Hazirah Sulaiman, Secretary of BJSA said the objective of the event was to promote the sports of Jet Ski in Brunei. Additionally she also mentioned, “the event was also an opportunity to raise awareness on safety on the waters when partaking in
such sports”.

Speaking on the challenge, she explained, “Previously held in March, the Round 1 of the Enduro Jet Ski Challenge 2017 was held in Serasa Beach, Brunei-Muara District, and saw riders from Brunei, Miri as well as Kuala Lumpur partaking in the round one of the challenge,” she said.

She also said the competition will continue into Round 3 in November at Serasa Beach, and points will be allocated to riders who had partaken in the earlier rounds.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam national futsal team suffered their third consecutive defeat at the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Futsal Championship following an 18-0 defeat to Vietnam at the Phu Tho Indoor Stadium in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam last night.

The Wasps remained in fourth place in Group ‘A’ without a point to their name but are ahead of the Philippines due to a better goal difference.

They only require a draw against the Azkals but given that the pair had been on receiving ends of constant humiliations both sides will be keen to end the campaign in the win column.

Vietnam’s Vu Quoc Hung sliced a pass to Co Tri Kiet who released the ball to the onrushing Ngo Ngoc Son with the midfielder poking the ball past Brunei goalkeeper Nabil Maidin.

The Vietnamese added a second and though there was an element of luck over Vu Quoc Hung’s goal which had taken a deflection off a Brunei Darussalam player it was coming.

Vietnam’s defender Khong Dinh Hung’s effort nearly crept its way into goal after initially slamming the post and bouncing off Nabil but the goalkeeper managed to retrieve the ball.

Vietnam’s midfielder Tran Thai Huy pulled a snapshot from the left flank but Nabil gathered the ball.

Brunei midfielder Naqib Timbang would have nightmares of the Thai Son Nam midfielder sidestepping him with his quick feet before finding enough space to drive a fine shot in between the goalkeeper’s legs.

The threat was not visible at first when the Kota Junior man gave space to force Tran into a decision but the Vietnamese cleverly lured his marker into covering him with his individual play miles ahead than the thinking of the Bruneian defence.

Brunei had a rare sight on goal through a counterattack after the Golden Star were caught out straight from the corner with Yamin bin Haji Muhammad covering nearly the whole length of the pitch but unfortunately he was put off by Tran with his shot straight at goalkeeper Ngo Dinh Thuan. The miss proved to be costly as straight in the other end Vietnam extended their lead as Dinh Van Toan bypassed the defence to blast home into the top corner.

Vietnam’s Vu Xuan Du easily beat a Bruneian defender before testing substitute goalkeeper Husin Aji who pulled off a routine save before his team-mate cleared the ball out of play.

Brunei nearly scored an own goal after Co’s pass was diverted into goal by a Bruneian defender but Husin kicked the ball out to safety.

The Golden Star made it 5-0 which initiated from patient play from Vu Xuan who found Co all alone and in position to pull the trigger.

Co sent a fierce drive into the area which bounced off Brunei’s Arif Eisa and Phung Trong Luan was the grateful recipient who needed no invitation to slam a powerful shot home.

With the tournament hosts expecting to score a diversity of goals against a side yet to register their first goal this campaign, they crafted a goal through a well-worked move from Phung Trong who laid a fine ball into the far post for Ngo Ngoc to fire home his second of the game.

Tran, who proved to be so hard to defend, repeated a similar move which led to his first goal as Husin felt the full force of his strike though the ball went temporarily clear out of Brunei’s goal.

Vietnam duly scored a seventh which required little effort with Tran turning provider as Le Quoc Nam picked his spot into the bottom corner.

Tran had the chance to make it eighth but Nabil made himself looked big to narrow the angle for the midfield enforcer.

Vu Quoc started the move with a simple pass before Ngo Ngoc took advantage of unconvincing defending from Abdul Azim Boll Hassan and sprinted his way into the box before setting up Vu Xuan to slide home into the empty net.

Vu Quoc was the architect again for Vietnam’s ninth goal of the game after finding Ngo Ngoc who finished with aplomb.

Tran had an uncharacteristic misplaced pass and gestured an apology to his teammates with Brunei receiving the ball on the opposition’s territory but they were made to play backwards.

The midfielder then struck a rasping drive which Nabil parried the ball away but before long a fast response through a kick-in enabled him a simple task of steering the ball home.

Vietnam’s defender Danh Phat swivelled before firing a low shot home before Tran completed his hat-trick after being teed off by Le Quoc.

Again Naqib would have nightmares after he was easily passed through by Le Quoc who simply brought the ball forward without much resistance.

Brunei had no intentions to bring the ball forward as they were pushed back into their own half.

Azizan bin Roslan’s diagonal ball to Faiz Hasnan had promise to their build-up but it turned into something discouraging when they chose to play backwards.

Their lack of attacking purpose played into the hands of Vietnam as Azizan bin Roslan was forced into making the wrong pass as Danh gleefully accepted the ball and rifling the ball home past a hapless Nabil.

The Golden Star enjoyed a well worked move after Ngo Ngoc produced a tidy finish after receiving a fine pass.

Tran grabbed his fourth goal in the game after collecting a loose ball after being set up by Dinh Van moments after Maziri Maidin had lost the ball.

Phung Trong was toying with the Bruneian defence and goalkeeper before lobbing the ball home with what appeared to be the classiest finish of the game and showed gamesmanship too with muted celebrations.

The Wasps managed to prevent the Vietnamese from scoring for the last six minutes of the game until the final 23 seconds of play when Phung Trong powered home a thunderous shot before Danh Phat completed the scoring with a hat-trick.

Vietnam and Myanmar confirmed their berth in the last four as Indonesia bowed out of the tournament following a 3-2 defeat to the White Angels in an earlier kick-off.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

AHMAD Yani bin Haji Mohd Noor was crowned overall champion of the 2nd WBC Charity Golf Tournament 2017, organised by the Women’s Business Council (WBC)-Brunei Darussalam in conjunction with the Golden Jubilee Celebration of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s Accession to the Throne, after carding a total of 71 at the Pantai Mentiri Golf Club.

The golfer outlasted a tough field which featured reigning Baiduri Masters champion Qawim Aslimon to collect the coveted Winner Challenge Trophy.

Ahmad Yani became only the second golfer to win the prestigious title following Pengiran Ahmad Zaki bin Pengiran Haji Jambol’s success in 2014.

“I’m happy with the win. There are a lot of challenges but I find that the main challenge comes from the junior players who are very tough to beat,” said Ahmad Yani in an interview with the Bulletin.

“We are wary of the threat that the junior players bring and they bring us a great challenge.”

The newly-crowned winner, who has already tasted success in another local tournament this year at the same venue, also recalled the key moments which contributed to his success.

“During the earlier rounds, in the front nine, there was a tie, one-over and two-over.

Once we hit the back nine, I was fortunate to gain form and was making sure of maintaining consistency,” said Ahmad Yani.

Played using a system 36 stroke play format, the golfer won the competition without the need of a playoff having won a straight game. Ahmad Yani shared that his favourite hole was number 12 partially due to his impressive score while others slipped in the title race.

“Two of my competitors are two on and I have three on. But my long putt birdie sank while the other two missed their birdies,” he said.

Ahmad Yani could not conceal his excitement as he ramped up his efforts of taking the title.

When asked what his future plans are, the golfer who is a familiar name in the local golfing scene, added that he will be active in joining more local tournaments.

“The WBC competition is full of prestige which the players looked forward to,” he said.

“I played on Friday and that night I had a ‘No Record’. I tried again on Saturday in the afternoon and scored a 72 and I played again in the last day and totalled a 71,” he said.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof presented the prizes.

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|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

RHB Bank Berhad Brunei yesterday conducted a community activity with students of the Down Syndrome Association (ABLE) at its premises in Kampong Sungai Hanching.
Joining the ‘RHB Touches Hearts Community Weekend’ was RHB Country Head Brunei Operations, Haji Ishak bin Othman.

The ABLE students enjoyed a day of fun with various exciting and interacting activities including Zumba, face painting, colouring, DIY flashcards and classroom decorations, musical chair and dance freeze games.

RHB staff members assisted the children throughout the games with the help of ABLE staff as well as parents and guardians.

Haji Ishak said the event was part of their initiatives in giving back to the community. The programme was conducted not only in Brunei, but also by RHB Banking Group staff across the Asean region, as part of their brand promise ‘Nurture Future Generations’.

“With our theme ‘RHB Touches Heart’, our main objective is to put smiles on the children’s faces, interact with them and try to communicate with them so that these efforts will also touch their hearts,” he said.

RHB Bank Berhad Brunei is the first organisation to work with ABLE after they moved their premises to Kampong Sungai Hanching last August, he said.

RHB Bank Berhad Brunei also contributed reading and learning material to the centre such as the sensory board, toys as well as cash donation. According to Haji Ishak, the contributions were hoped to provide better learning curve for the children of the centre.

The ceremony ended with a prize presentation ceremony to the winning students of each activity.

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

THE Faculty of Syariah at the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) hosted a National Education Seminar on Syariah Fiqh Al-Ibadat (Islamic Jurisprudence in Worship) last weekend, in collaboration with the Department of Islamic Studies under the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

The guest of honour was Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Japar bin Haji Mat Dain @ Maidin, the Deputy State Mufti.

A total of 450 officers, staff members and undergraduates of KUPU SB attended the seminar, which was based around the academic and spiritual aspects of Ibadat (worship) in Islam, while identifying issues related to Fiqh Ibadat in both theory and practice. Prior to the official opening ceremony, the event commenced with the recitation of verses from Al-Quran and the interpretations, followed by a welcoming speech by Datin Dr Hajah Noor Hira binti Haji Noor Kaseh, the Dean of the Faculty of Syariah at KUPU SB, as the co-chairperson of the event.

The morning session also featured the presentation of a working paper by the Deputy State Mufti, titled, ‘Falsafah Negara Zikir: Hubungannya Dengan Pembinaan Kualiti Sahsiah Muslim’ (The Values of a Zikir Nation in its Relation to the Fostering of Muslim Qualities). The closing ceremony in the afternoon was officiated by Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Mohd Yusof, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

The deliberation of a particular resolution was held towards the end of the seminar, which concluded with the presentation of certificates and souvenirs to the speakers and moderators.

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

PROSPECTIVE homeowners flocked to the Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) Home Showcase Festival yesterday, which featured not only home financing facilities, but also facilities catered towards other related segments and clients such as construction businesses, interior designers, and custom home furniture makers, among others.

The festival was part of BIBD’s one-stop platform to provide the public with exciting possibilities for their current and future homes, and meant to highlight the benefits of owning a home early. At the same time it also serves as an avenue to support local budding entrepreneurs by providing them the opportunity to showcase their products and services.

The event also included a panel discussion where a few home ownership experts talked about home ownership and financing, notably highlighting the benefits of early home ownership and the misconceptions involved in the complex application process.

The festival was officially launched by Deputy Minister of Development, Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar. Also in attendance were senior government officials from the Ministry of Development along with senior management and personnel from BIBD.

BIBD’s Head of Retail Banking, Hajah Nurul Akmar binti Haji Md Jaafar, highlighted during the launching ceremony that the event further strengthens BIBD’s commitment toward ensuring that its customers better understand the choices available to them when looking for home financing options as well as the benefits of early home ownership.

“We should take pride in being a homeowner as this also means that we know how to manage our own finances,” Hajah Nurul Akmar stated. “Today’s event seeks to also provide the community with opportunities to better improve the quality of their lives, not just in terms of house quality and design, but also financially. At the same time, we are also supporting local industries by raising their profiles with our customers. Insya-Allah, the Bruneian community will holistically benefit from this event.”

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|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

THE Information Department under the Prime Minister’s Office held its second Civic Village programme for post-graduates yesterday, at the department’s auditorium.

The first session began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat, which was followed by the singing of the national anthem and the patriotic song, ‘Bendera Negara’.

In his welcoming address, Mawardi bin Haji Mohammad, the Acting Director of Information, briefed the participants on the aims of the six-day programme as an effective platform in the dissemination of information and government policies.

“It is also hoped that the programme can prepare the participants for the challenges ahead and to secure employment opportunities, not only in the government sector but also in the private sector,” he said.

Mawardi also added that the programme is aimed at producing a generation of youths that are marketable and dynamic, with the ability to work independently as a successful entrepreneur towards boosting the nation’s economy.

Around 26 participants from various higher institutions, both local and foreign, are involved the programme which is scheduled to last for six days and five nights at the Sungai Kebun Sports Complex.

The programme is part of the ‘Direct Communications’ government project, which is particularly designed for the dissemination of information.

The programme articipants will take part in village discussion activities, dialogue sessions, sports and leisure, and religious activities, in addition to visiting several small and medium enterprises (SMEs), for some valuable insights on entrepreneurship.

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|     James Kon     |

MORE than 2,000 people gathered at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital yesterday morning to participate in the ‘Thank You Teacher’ cycling and run event as a tribute to the nation’s teachers.

The event, held in conjunction with the 27th Teacher’s Day celebrations, was organised by the Co-Curriculum Education Department of the Ministry of Education.

On hand to officiate the cycling portion of the event was Acting Minister of Education Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, the guest of honour, while the run segment was officiated by Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, the Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs.

Also present was the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Education.

The cycle event covered a route totalling 12km through the capital, while participants for the run only needed to complete a distance of 4km.

Besides enlivening the 27th Teacher’s Day celebrations, yesterday’s ‘Thank You Teacher’ event was also held to support Bandarku Ceria and ‘Car-free Sunday’, as well as the latest step to encourage the people of Brunei Darussalam to live a healthy lifestyle through exercise and for them to foster closer ties with senior officials and staff of the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Religious Affairs.

A total of B$9,292.40 was raised from the event, which was later handed over to the Down Syndrome Association (ABLE).

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