|     Achong Tanjong     |

THE Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association was given the opportunity to host the Global Support Assessment Tools Facilitators Training Programme in the country by the World Scout Bureau Asia-Pacific Regional Office.

The three-day event which started yesterday and ends on May 23, is being held at the conference room at the 4th floor of the Brunei Darussalam Scouts Headquarters, Scouts Complex at Jalan Gadong.

The programme, attended by 13 nationalities from the Asia-Pacific region, was officially launched by the guest of honour, Acting Director of Co-Curriculum Education at the Ministry of Education, Roslin bin Haji Suhailee.

The guest of honour in his speech wished all participants a fruitful training, where they are able to contribute new ideas that can be shared among the scouting movement all over the world.

The Chief Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association, Haji Badar bin Haji Ali, in his welcoming address conveyed the association’s sincerest gratitude to the chairman and regional director of the Asia-Pacific Regional Office in nominating Brunei to host the prestigious programme.

Acting Director of Co-Curriculum Education, Roslin bin Haji Suhailee with an expert group of leaders in scouting and training participants. – ACHONG TANJONG

He hoped that the programme delegates will contribute ideas to the sessions that will follow in order to create a more systematic and organised scouts movement and to also mould a sense of leadership among the young generation to lead the community in the future.

The Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Committee Chairman, Paul Parkinson, in his remarks said, “I don’t think there is anyone here who does not think that the Asia-Pacific region is the best region in the world, doing good things and achieving much. However, what we understand as good, can be better and our better (can be) best.”

“With this in mind our work together in the next few days will focus on knowing, understanding and working with the GSAT – The Global Support Assessment Tool,” he said. The GSAT assesses compliance of a non-government organisaton towards best practices in good governance and scouting. In other terms, it checks if certain processes, procedures and policies are in place and if they are being implemented, he added.

“We as a region must be about good governance in all things related to our NGOs and scouting. No longer can we accept, ‘we have always done it this way’ or ‘our youth programme/training has been great for 15 years, it must be ok’. Our respective process producers and policies need to be up-to-date, relevant operationally and ethically sound and functional, if we are to grow and develop,” said Paul Parkinson.

Also attending the event yesterday were Regional Director World Scout Bureau/Asia -Pacific Support Centre, JRC Pangilinan; member of the World Scout Committee, Peter Blatch; Lead- Global Support Core Group Janaprit Fernando, staff of World Scout Bureau and Asia-Pacific Regional Office and the working committee of the Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association.

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|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

TO ASSIST the children a family whose parents have recently passed away in a car accident, the Technical and Vocational Unit of the Islamic Studies Department, Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) presented a donation at their 4th At-Tabarru’ Bil Khairat programme in conjunction with Israk Mikraj 1437H/2016M held yesterday at Kampong Kuala Lurah.

Present as the guest of honour was Ustazah Hajah Rusita binti Haji Yahya, Director of Islamic Studies, Ministry of Religious Affairs.

The student who received the assistance was Dzul Jalaliwalhikam bin Mohammad Daud, a markerfitter student in the Mechanical Training Centre. Both his parents passed away in a car accident on December 17, 2015. Dzul Jalaliwalhikam and his eight other siblings now live with his uncle.

The event began with a recitation of verses of the Al-Quran by teachers and officers from the Islamic Religious Knowledge (IRK) Section, followed by Tahlil and Doa Tahlil led by Cikgu Shaifulbahri bin Haji Ahmad.

This programme is a community service programme aimed at teaching students to assist the community, especially students in technical and vocational schools. Programmes such as these will give exposure to the students on charity work and instill concern toward those in need.

Dzul Jalaliwalhikam bin Mohammad Daud receiving the donation. – ABDUL HAKIIM YAKOF

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

JATI Transport Sdn Bhd, the authorised distributor of Mercedes-Benz last evening unveiled the latest edition of its E300 variant, the E300 Edition E Masterpiece at its showroom in Gadong.

Invited guests had the opportunity to get a first-hand look at the E300 Edition E Masterpiece, which is powered by a 6-cylinder 3,498cc petrol engine that develops 252 horse-power and 340Nm of torque.

Present to launch the special edition E 300 was Alfred So, General Manager of Jati Transport.

The vehicle featuring a Special Edition E badges on both sides of the vehicle is fitted with a Full LED Intelligent light system at its front, a low energy consuming system that automatically adapts to weather, lighting and driving conditions.

The interior of the vehicle has been refined with high-grade leather upholstery and is characterised by the centre console without selector lever, as well as a multifunction steering wheel with ‘Direct Select’ lever and shift paddles.

The launching ceremony of the latest Mercedes – Benz E 300 Edition E Masterpiece. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show customers taking a closer look at the Mercedes – Benz E300 Edition E Masterpiece

Furthermore, the COMMAND Online and Rear Entertainment system comes as a standard feature in this special edition that allows navigation, telephone, audio, video, Internet use with the display system. Information is shown in high resolution and in colour on a 17.8cm (seven inch) media display. The Rear Seat Entertainment System with DVD player provides passengers with their very own programme of entertainment.

The Edition E is also packed with safety features like the ‘Collision Prevention Assist’, which helps to significantly reduce the risk of a rear-end collision and also the ‘Attention Assist’ which is able to warn of inattentiveness and drowsiness across a wider speed range, and also inform the driver about his level of fatigue and the amount of driving time since the last break.

In addition, the vehicle also offers a number of assistance systems such as the Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist and Active Parking Assist.

The E300 Edition E Masterpiece will be available for test drive at Jati Transport’s Gadong showroom today from 10am to 5pm.

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|     James Kon     |

YTE Basketball Team yesterday afternoon dethroned defending champion, IMD Team with a scoreline of 96-92 in the closely contested final of the Inter Company NBT Basketball Tournament at the Darussalam Hall of Chung Hwa Middle School.

YTE’s Palanca and Darren Chai combined for 41 points while IMD star player Leones contributed 29 points before substituted out with cramps three minutes before the final whistle.

Coach Ray of IMD in an interview after the game said, “The quality of the referee today has affected the team momentum. We are disappointed with the lost however YTE did put up a good game to keep the score close and to win.”

He also added that high scorer Leonas suffered a cramp in the fourth quarter which has affected his game in the tournament.

Meanwhile Coach Manolito of YTE who took charge of the team just three matches before the final said, “I am really happy with the hard fought win. It’s a sweet revenge after losing to IMD in the previous match up in the quarter round.”

Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs, in a group photo with the winners of the Inter Company NBT Basketball Tournament – YTE Basketball Team. – JAMES KON

He added that “the players have done well both on defence and offence. Benjamin Sim, Palanca and Darren Chai came through in scoring.”

Coming into the final with a perfect record, IMD managed to carve an eight points lead after an intense first quarter with the score of 18-26 thanks to a last ditch three pointer from Leonas that sink in.

However YTE managed to crawl back into the match in the second quarter thanks to impressive performance towering centre Barcellano who contributed in the rebounding while his team mate Darren Chai score a clutch three pointers to close up the second quarter with just one point deficit against IMD.

After the interval, both teams traded points and IMD remained in a one point lead by the end of the third quarter 70-69.

In the deciding quarter, Darren Chai calmly scored six consecutive free throws in the final minutes after players from IMD committed various fouls on him to seal off the game for YTE.

IMD’s Leonas was awarded as the Most Valued Player (MVP) for his a high scoring effort.

Meanwhile third place went to D’s Sunlit after winning against Digimark 81-79.

Attending as the guest of honour to present the prizes was Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs.

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|     Fizah HAB     |

INDRA Rosendi rode Sunny to victory in the Advanced 90/100cm of the BEQ Horse Show 2016 Dressage and Showjumping at the Royal Stables, Jerudong Park yesterday.

Coming in the second and third places were Shulbi Azmi on Blu-Ray and Eri Gunawan on Rocky, both of BEQ.

Awangku Haji Mohd Ibrahim bin Pengiran Dato Haji Abu Bakar took first place in both Novice 70/80 cm and Open Class 80/100 cm categories with the times of 1:15:09 and 1:15:46 respectively without dropping any hurdles.

Natalie Sia emerged as the winner at the Introduction II 30/40cm Junior Class, while Dayangku Nurul Izzati Hamizah binti Pengiran Dato Haji Abdul Rahman won the Introduction II 30/40cm Senior Class.

Enya Brooks of BEQ rode Lavendato first place in the Preliminary 40/50 cm Junior with the time of 1:15:18 clearing all the hurdles in the categories.

BEQ champions: Natalie Sia (Introduction Junior), Enya Brooks (Preliminary Junior), Dayangku Nurul Izzati Hamizah binti Pengiran Dato Haji Abdul Rahman (Introduction Senior) and Awangku Haji Mohd Ibrahim bin Pengiran Dato Haji Abu Bakar (Open Class and Advance) in a group photo

Pengiran Mohd Nasir bin Pengiran Anak Haji Ja’afar, Jumping Judge. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR

Haji Abdul Karim bin Haji Wahab, General Secretary of the Brunei Equestrian Centre, who was the guest of honour, presented the prizes.

“We host this event annually for both the club members and the public to showcase their skills,” Pengiran Mohd Nasir bin Pengiran Anak Haji Ja’afar, Jumping Judge, said.

“Compared to last year’s event, I see a lot of improvement and hopefully the members will strive to improve infuture competitions,” he added.

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THE end of the first weekend of the 21st Baiduri Masters saw a total of 447 golfers vying for a chance to don the coveted Green Jacket and Challenge Trophy.

Yesterday saw 165 golfers taking part in the competition and by the end of the afternoon session the leader board saw a lot of movement with the addition of two new contenders, Haji Omar bin Haji Asmat and Moksin bin Jinaidi.

Idris bin Osman maintains his lead over the weekend keeping him in the top spot with 71 followed closely by newcomer Haji Omar bin Haji Asmat with a gross of 72. Dropping one spot respectively were Ali bin Rashid, Chu Vui Kiat, defending champion Seruji bin Haji Setia and Zulhilmi bin Rosli, all tied with a gross of 72 as well.

In seventh place was Pengiran Haji Ahmad Zaki, dropping one spot with a gross of 73. Making his debut in the top twelve in eighth place was Moksin bin Jinaidi, also with a gross of 73.

The trio of Haji Norismadi bin Haji Tamid, Mohammed Qazzri Fakhri bin Haji Aslimon and Joselito Dionisio dropped two places, grossing 73.

Rounding off the leader board was Pengiran Yura Wira Quhafah with a gross of 74.

At the conclusion of the first weekend, it is still anyone’s championship. Only three strokes separate the top twelve.

Idris Osman – top of the leader board

Chu Vui Kiat – No 4 on the leader board

The Baiduri Masters 2016 will continue next weekend, 27 to 29 May. To make the cut, the top 12 gross players overall will get the opportunity to vie for the Green Jacket.

Besides the coveted Baiduri Masters Green Jacket and Challenge Trophy, the golfers also have the chance to score the fantastic hole-in-one prizes comprising three luxury cars and two cash prizes of B$20,000 each.

Other than the Porsche Cayenne for Hole 2, other hole-in-one prizes on offer this year are the Mini Cooper for Hole 5, the brand new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer for Hole 14 and B$20,000 cash each for Holes 12 and 16.

Additionally, there will be novelty prizes up for grabs for the nearest to the pin throughout the tournament and also longest drive as well as lucky draw prizes.

As with every year, proceeds raised during the Baiduri Masters will be donated to local charity organisations that help persons with special needs integrate into the wider society.

Those who haven’t registered for the tournament can still do so at the RBA Golf Club, First Floor, VIP Room. Slots for next weekend’s sessions are still available. Participants are encouraged to play more than once to improve their chances of winning, and they will enjoy a discount on the registration fee on their subsequent rounds.

For more details, the public can log onto the website www.baiduri.com or call 2449666 from 7am to midnight.

The post Golfers locked in neck and neck battle appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

YANG Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billahset nine age group records for nine-year-old boys over the last two days of competition in the 1st Brunei Open & Masters Short Course Swimming Championships at the 25m internationally certified swimming pool at International School Brunei (ISB) in Salambigar yesterday.

Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim added five more age group records in the second and final day of competition in the 50m backstroke, 50m freestyle, 100m breaststroke, 100m IM and 200m backstroke events.

Continuing on a quartet of records from the opening day, Yang Teramat Mulia surpassed his old time of 56.00s with a new time of 53.11s in the 50m backstroke and repeated the feat in the 100m breaststroke when he smashed his seed time of 2:13.10 with a revised time of 2:10.16.

He also completed the 50m freestyle with a time of 42.44s and set a new time of 1:54.30 in the 100m IM.

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, with Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Ra-haman, Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah binti Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah. – INFOFOTO

Yang Teramat Mulia was the youngest competitor in the 200m backstroke but achieved a new time of 4:07.72.

Meanwhile, Paul Yong of Dolphin Swimming Club made history as the eldest competitor to win a medal in the butterfly event.

The inspiring 75-year-old has an important message to the rest of the swimmers at the back of his success especially after going toe-to-toe with a 39-year-old, almost half his age.

“My aim is to live as far as possible to be stress-free. Stress is very damaging to health and one need to maintain a circle of friends.”

The most senior participant of the competition has hoped to set a great example for people of all ages to continue their physical activities.

“As we grow older, we need more physical activities. Apart from physical exercise our diet is also very important,” he noted.

As in any sport, swimmers will reach a certain age where they will face retirement but Yong’s achievement on the pool has set new boundaries of achieving success amidst fierce competition.

“People should look forward to the golden age and don’t be fearful,” he advised.

The post Yang Teramat Mulia sets nine age group records appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

CONTESTANT Nur Amalina binti Mohaimin emerged as The Coffee Bean Brunei (CB) 2016 Brunei Barista Champion last Saturday night, the finals of which was held at the atrium of the Times Square Shopping Complex, with Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Mun’im bin Pengiran Anak Haji Tahiruddin, the Managing Director of PAR Group of Companies, as the event’s guest of honour who also presented the winners with their prizes.

The 21-year-old winner from CB Supa Save Seria, who has been a barista for seven months, said that she still cannot believe her luck and praised Allah the Almighty for making it this far.

She shared that her signature drink ‘Tropical Indulgence’ consists of tropical passion tea, vanilla powder, lemon and her secret ingredient – basil.

When asked about being chosen to represent the country in the Asia Pacific-level barista competition this July in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Nur Amalina answered that she will not set the bar too high but hope to do her best in line with the CB’s motto to make “Simply the Best” coffee.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Mun’im bin Pengiran Anak Haji Tahiruddin, the Managing Direc-tor of PAR Group of Companies, presenting champion Nur Amalina binti Mohaimin with her prize

Photos above and below show baristas in action over the weekend

One of the contestants explaining his ingredients to the competition judges

A section of the supporters at the atrium of the Times Square Shopping Centre. – PHOTOS: DEAN KAS-SIM

The competition’s runner-up was Nina Syakiratul binti Rosezan from the CB Ministry of Finance, while Nuratikah Azzahra binti Abdul Manaf from CB Seaview Hotel received the ‘Best Signature Beverage’ award.

The panel of ‘sensory’ judges comprised Lim Yee Liang, Marketing Manager of Times Square Shopping Complex; Azhani Daniel, Head of Corporate Communications of Royal Brunei Airlines; Mohd Yusof Abdullah @ Joseph, Assistant General Manager/ Personal Assistant to General Manager of Aewon, and Rob Carpenter, Mr Cappuccino of The Coffee Bean Brunei.

The technical judge, meanwhile, was Ahmad Fahrudin, Senior Outlet Manager of CB and World Barista Champion 2008.

The post CB Barista Champion to represent Brunei in Asia Pacific-level competition appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

THE Ministry of Defence (MinDef) emerged overall champion of the 23rd National Traditional Boat Race Championship 2016 at Serasa Water Sports Complex yesterday.

The team clocked 3:10s in the 30-paddler traditional boat local open category to bag the challenge trophy, donated by Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Haji Yahya bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar.

In second was the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) with a time of 3:23s, followed by Waktu in third (3:26s). The PMO team was represented by the Royal Brunei Police Force Sports Council.

MinDef also won the 20-paddler local open category, clocking 3:25s. Waktu and PMO finishing second (3:29s) and third (3:36s) respectively.

Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, presented the prizes.

The 15-paddler invited private companies category was won by TelBru Regatta Club, clocking 3:54s.

Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, presents the challenge trophy to the Ministry of Defence boat race team. – ACHONG TANJONG

Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) came in second (4:04s) and DST third (4:06s).

In the inter-ministry 10-paddler category, PMO finished top with a time of 4:06s, followed by second-placed MinDef (4:07s) and third-placed Ministry of Communications (4:15s).

The local mixed 15-paddler open category was won by the Ministry of Education (MoE) with a time of 2:34s. In second was TOTAL (3:01s) and third TelBru Regatta Club (3:14s).

The 10-paddler local open champion was the PMO (4:16s). Waktu finished second (4:23s) and Wira Kesuma third (4:26s).

The fibre glass boat 20-paddler local open category was won by Waktu (3:40s). In second was Wira Kesuma (3:55s) and third Saba Lela Menchanai (4:10s).

In the traditional boat 15-paddler invited private companies category, TelBru Regatta Club emerged champion, clocking a time of 4:09s.

Second-placed DST clocked 4:41sec, while Royal Brunei Airlines finished third (4:52s).

In the fibre glass boat 20-paddler inter-ministry category, MinDef finished first (3:33s), with PMO (3:44s) and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (3:52s).

In the fibre glass boat 10-paddler local women open category, first place went to MoE with 2:42s and second-placed TelBru Regatta Club clocked 2:47s.

The fibre glass boat local open category was won by Saba Lela Menchanai (4:47s). The 20-paddler inter-ministry category was won by MinDef with 3:31s. Second was PMO with 3:35s and third was MoE (3:40s).

In the 20-paddler invited private companies category, TelBru Regatta Club clocked 3:57s to emerge champion. Second was RB (4:00s) and third was DST with 4:02s.

In the 25-paddler category, first place was won by MinDef (3:08s), while in second and third were Waktu (3:30s) and PMO (3:19s).

According to the Brunei Darussalam National Boatrace Association (PERKEBAR), who organised the race in collaboration with the Youth and Sports Department, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, the aim of the annual championship was to promote traditional boat racing at all levels and scout for new talents.

The post MinDef reigns supreme at 23rd National Traditional Boat Race Championship appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

THE sixth edition of the Inter-Company Sports Fest that aimed to foster closer ties among employees as well as employers came to a close yesterday with the prize presentation ceremony at Darussalam Hall of Chung Hwa Middle School.

The guest of honour was Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, the Minister of Home Affairs.

Also present at the ceremony were Haji Rani bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Mohd Yusof, Acting Commissioner of Labour as well as Jackson Ting, Managing Director of D’Sunlit and senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA).

A total of six sporting events were played out through the course of the 2016 Inter-Company Sports Fest that comprised of Larian Sukan Ria, Inter-Company NBT Basketball Tournament, Inter-Company Goldmyne Badminton Tournament, Inter-Company Netball Tournament, Inter-Company Futsal Tournament and Inter-Company Bowling Tournament.

The Minister of Home Affairs presenting appreciation certificate to Brunei Press. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Group photo of Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, the Minister of Home Affairs and officials with some of the winners

A total of 70 companies took part in the annual sporting event that was organised by the Department of Labour under MoHA with D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd as the event manager.

The sports were co-organised by Brunei Basketball Association, Brunei National Badminton Association, MegaStrike Bowl Sdn Bhd, National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam and Brunei Netball Association.

The minister also witnessed the final of the Inter-Company NBT Basketball Tournament, which saw Yuan Thong Enterprise (YTE) take on the defending champion IMD.

The post Inter-Company Sports Fest concludes appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

A FINANCIAL Fun Fair took place yesterday at the Jerudong Park Colonnade to promote the importance of financial management in a fun environment.

A number of games were prepared by institutions such as Employees Trust Fund (TAP), Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB), Insurans Islam TAIB, Takaful Brunei Keluarga (TBK), BIBD Securities, Baiduri Bank Berhad and Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) to introduce themes such as savings, budgeting and debt management.

Carrying the theme ‘Financially Literate Generation’, the fun fair was organised in conjunction with the National Savings Day 2016 by the Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education (MoE), TAP and related agencies.

The fun fair was officiated by Dato Paduka Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism and also a member of AMBD Board of Directors.

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism during the open-ing ceremony

Photos above & below show members of the public participating in the activities at the event. – PHOTOS: AZARAIMY HH

Among the popular games were the Life-Size Jengga that taught the players about basic concept of investment by building a portfolio, and the Community Game, a Monopoly-like board game that educated the participants about savings.

The event also featured a guest appearance by local musician, Aziz Harun, a barista show, bubble show, trick show and a performance by the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit Girls Arabic Religious School (SUAMPRIPAD), the winner of the skit competition held in March in conjunction with Global Money Week.

Local vendors such as Delifrance, It’s A Grind, Aoyama Coffee, Brew Department, Piccolo Café, The Pantry and Henna Brunei and Bait Al Hijaab also took part in the event.

AMBD in collaboration with TAP will organise a Financial Planner’s showcase at the Ministry of Finance on May 28.

The post Lessons in finance at fun fair appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

Local artist Huifong Ng put the country on the map after she became the first Bruneian to receive the International Prize Colosseo award in Rome recently.

This is her second accolade in recognition of her artworks. Last year, she collected an award from the International Biennale of Umbria, also from Italy.

The Kuala Belait lass made headlines last year when she donated the proceeds from her painting of the late Lee Kuan Yew to a charitable organisation in Singapore. The painting was sold for a cool B$60,000.

“Receiving this latest award is an encouragement for me because it shows that there is appreciation towards my work.

“The many hours I spent toiling in my studio have come to fruition.

Huifong Ng with her International Prize Colosseo award. – JAMES KON

“I used to only dream of this, and now I’m pursuing my dream in turning art as a passion into a profession.

“I never thought that I would receive awards for my work. The awards are rewards to my artistic merit.

“Recognition from the art world and the congratulatory messages from my family and friends and social media followers give me a tremendous feeling, so great I can only express it in one word – blessed.

“I feel so blessed that everything has turned out great. Everyone has given me trust and support.”

Ng, who is currently based in Singapore, said she was gearing up for a solo exhibition in Italy, but would “probably take two years”.

“Not all things come easy. There are times of darkness and fear of not knowing what to do next.

“But through persistence and hope, we will find light shining from within us to lead the way through the dark.

“This award will serve as a reminder for me to continue to work hard and paint from my heart.”

The post ‘Blessed’ Ng vows to continue painting from heart appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

A CAR accident yesterday at Jalan Sungai Kubut, Kuala Lurah, Limbang involving a Brunei registered car driven by a Moroccan killed two Malaysians who were in another vehicle.

The impact of the collision killed two friends who were in a Malaysian car. The deceased are Senin Gember, 40, who was the driver, and passenger Ankin Luat, 42, from Mukah, Sarawak. They were believed to be on their way to home for Gawai Dayak celebration.

The driver of Brunei-registered vehicle suffered a broken left leg and an injury to his chest. He received treatment at Limbang Hospital.

It is believed that the friends were on their way to Limbang and the Moroccan was coming from Limbang on the way back to Brunei when the accident happened.

Photo shows one of the cars that was involved in the accident. – ACHONG TANJONG

Limbang Fire Station Chief Kurong Beki said early investigation found that the Malaysian car-driver overtook another vehicle at a corner section before the crash with the Brunei-registered car. Firemen had to extricate the bodies from the mangled wreckage. The Moroccan was pulled out by a member of the public.

A total of eight fire personnel in two vehicles rushed to the scene after receiving a call at about 8am.

He said the Malaysians were killed on the spot, while the Moroccan received treatment from a paramedic.

Limbang ASP Khairol Ridzuan said there are several dangerous areas in terms of sharp bends and unstable road surfaces along the road from Tedungan to Limbang town.

Road users are advised not to speed, especially those unfamiliar about road condition in Limbang area. He said the case was still under investigation.

The post Homecoming turns tragic appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

THE Brunei National Veteran Basketball Team claimed a hard fought victory over Hong Kong with a score of 58-55 to claim third place in the annual Macau International Chinese Basketball Invitation Tournament, which took place from May 14 to 15.

The Brunei National Veteran Basketball Team encountered multiple setbacks on their run to third place with main players, Poh San and Siong Heng not performing because of minor injuries.

The team also lost their first two games against the Philippines and Zhejiang of China with a score of 40-34 and 56-44, respectively.

However, the National Veteran Team managed to rebound in their match against Hong Kong to clinch third spot.

The Brunei National Veteran Basketball Team during the annual Macau International Chinese Basketball Invitation Tournament

“It was a really tough tournament for us because the team was not fully fit. However, thanks to teamwork and fighting spirit, we were able to win against Hong Kong and take third place,” said Khoo Eng Cheong, captain of the Brunei National Veteran Basketball Team.

Wu Chun, Managing Director of Fitness Zone who sponsored the Brunei National Veteran Basketball Team’s jerseys said, “Sponsoring the team has always been a joy for me. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a lifelong process and it is something most people tend to neglect and regret in the later stage of life.”

“This is also part of our corporate social responsibility (CSR) project to boost basketball culture in the sultanate and Fitness Zone is always welcome to collaborate with any sports in the country,” he added.

The post National Veteran Team clinch third spot in invitational appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

NADIRA Pang Mohd Rais Pang secured a bronze medal in the Women’s Cadet Individual Sabre as a Brunei Darussalam amassed a second podium finish in the Southeast Asia Pacific Fencing Championships in Pasig City, Philippines yesterday.

Nadira’s bronze-winning achievement marked the country’s best showing in the competitionand bettered their sole bronze last year with the junior and team category yet to be contested.

In the opening day, Brunei national fencer Anaqi Danish Asahrin won silver in the sabre event.

Nadira started strong seeded 3rd going into the second round after registering four wins out of six victories.

The fencing starlet emerged victorious in the second round after defeating Andria Marie 15-10 from the Philippines before fighting hard to resist the advances of Philippines second seed Carla Arreza in a narrow 15-13 win.

Nadira Pang Mohd Rais Pang (R) wins bronze in the women’s individual cadet sabre event. – BDFF

The quarterfinal win assured the Brunei competitor bronze after she gave one final push in a 15-10 loss to Drew Celso also from the Philippines in the last four.

Vietnam’s Nguyen Thi Quynh emerged winner of the event after beating Drew Celso 15-13.

Meanwhile, Nadira’s sister Naila Nasibah Pang did not qualify for the second round after being eliminated in the group stages.

President of Brunei Darussalam Fencing Federation (BDFF) Haji Kassim bin Bakar said of Nadira’s bronze medal: “I am happy with the result. I hope that this will continue until the end of the competition.”

Secretary General of BDFF Nashriq Moksin echoed his sentiments adding that their next focus will be on the junior category which commences on Thursday.

“With Brunei already bagging one silver and one bronze, this is already an improvement from the last outing of this competition,” Nashriq said.

He heaped praise on both sisters before continuing that they will come back better and stronger in upcoming competitions.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

SPORTS School emerged winners of the Zone 1 Secondary Schools, Colleges and Higher Learning Institutions Football Championship after defeating Jamalul Alam Secondary School (SMJA) 2-1 in the final at the Balapan Track and Field of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex recently.

In the under-15 category, the best player was awarded to George Alvin anak Degat of the Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien College (SOASC) while Adiff Nazirul Muhayyat also from SOASC claimed the Top Scorer award.

Wafi Arci of Sports School won the Under-18 best player award while Faturrahman Embran of Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah collected the Top Scorer gong.

Meanwhile in the Zone 1 Secondary Schools and Colleges Badminton Championship, shuttler Syazwan Aswandy Asnawi claimed the singles title in the Under-15 category while Raiman Raihan took down the Under-18 title.

The pair of Masrur Fuad Asmat and Nazirul Hazwan Fazrie was crowned men’s doubles winners.

Zone 1 Secondary Schools, Colleges and Higher Learning Institutions Football Championship winners, Sports School in a group photo. – FADHIL YUNUS

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|     Faza Suraj     |

OVER 400 students from 16 primary schools participated in a joint beach clean-up organised by the Panaga International School at four locations simultaneously on Saturday.

Three-hundred-and-fifty bags of rubbish were collected after the clean-up focusing primarily on the Belait District coastline.

“We have a beautiful environ-ment and we need to look after it,” said Tim Robinson, Principal of Panaga International School.

He added that through his observations since coming to Brunei from the United Kingdom three years ago, he noticed that people in Brunei are slowly adopting the ‘green’ mind-set.

“Clearly, people understand that you should not drop your litter and most of the litter which is on the beach comes from the sea,” added the principal.

Photos above show students from 16 primary schools during the beach clean-up

“I think that as a community, people have started realising that beaches are places to visit to enjoy with people we love including family and friends.”

The locations covered are known to be mostly visited by the public which include the Silver Jubilee Park in Kuala Belait, the beach behind the E1 area of Panaga, behind the Rampayoh building of Panaga International School and the Billionth Barrel Monument vicinity in Seria.

The event was supported by Jasra Harrisons which collected all the accumulated rubbish from all the four locations at the end of the event which was organised from 7.45am to 9.45am.

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|     Lyna Mohamad     |

FIFTY-ONE Politeknik Brunei (PB) students who enrolled in the last Advanced Diploma in Interior Design programme is currently showcasing their creativity final project work through design, analysis, research, exploring ideas in 2D and 3D as well as contractual drawings at the lobby of the Public Works Department headquarters at the Old Airport, Berakas.

The exhibition themed ‘Awaken’ will feature the students’ project on designs that covers leisure, exhibition, services, commerce and education was officially opened yesterday by the guest of honour, the Brunei Association of Surveyors, Engineers and Architects (PUJA) President Haji Mohammad Nazri bin Mohammad Yusof. Also present was the Acting Director of PB, Denis Ho Mun Tai.

Yesterday’s opening ceremony also saw the presentation of certificates and awards to the Most Improved Student to Fatin Nursyamimi binti Ahmad, Best Design and Presentation to Rashidah binti Haji Yusof and Excellent Student to Dayangku Siti Nurul Nur Ashikin binti Pengiran Junaidi.

The exhibition serves to develop creativity, innovation and teamwork between lecturers and students through various projects and to elevate the students’ portfolio to the professional level to ful?l the requirements of industries and higher education institutions.

Group photo of Politeknik Brunei students with the guest of honour, the Brunei Association of Surveyors, Engineers and Architects (PUJA) President Haji Mohammad Nazri bin Mohammad Yusof and the Acting Director of PB, Denis Ho Mun Tai. – LYNA MOHAMAD

It is to enhance awareness amongst the general public and employers towards the understanding and recognition of relevant programmes offered by PB.

The exhibition also aims to raise awareness of ‘thinking green’ by employing recycled materials and sustainable resources through a series of interior design students exhibition and to market the students’ projects, which hopes to provide them with job opportunities as professionals upon graduation, as industry-related agencies will also be invited to attend the exhibition.

The exhibition is open to the public from 9am to 4pm on May 24 to May 25 and final exhibition day on May 26 from 9am to 3pm.

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE Department of Schools yesterday handed over donations to three students in a ceremony held at the Tungku Primary School.

The recipients were siblings Ahmad Nur Idham bin Ahmad Juzlan and Ahmad Nur Danish bin Ahmad Juzlan, who lost their home on February 10 due to fire; and Siti Nuraliah Izzati from Rimba II Primary School, whose father passed away on March 14. Her father used to work as an education officer at the Ministry of Education at the Raja Isteri Girls High School (STPRI), Cluster 1.

The donations were presented to the students to provide assistance in buying school essentials as well as daily necessities.

On hand to present the donation was Haji Aziz bin Haji Nayan, Senior Special Duties Officer at the Department of Schools.

Haji Aziz bin Haji Nayan, Senior Special Duties Officer at the Department of Schools in a group photo with the recipients. – ROKIAH MAHMUD

The donation money was collected from officers and staff of the department as well as schools under Cluster 1.

In his speech, Haji Aziz advised the students despite their mishaps, they must not neglect their education.

Ahmad Nur Idham who is in Year 4 and Ahmad Nur Danish in Year 2 received $1,125 each, while Siti Nuraliah who is in Year 6 received $477. Siti Norhayati binti Haji Anapi, Siti Nuraliah’s mother, was also presented with a donation amounting to $477.

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE Rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, attended the 2nd Islamic Studies Coordinating Committee (ISCC) Meeting, held at Graceland Resort & SPA Hotel in Phuket, Thailand from May 20-22.

With the participation at the event, UNISSA aimed to further expand its relations and strategic cooperation with among leading universities in Southeast Asia and internationally.

The 2nd ISCC Meeting was organised and sponsored by the Prince of Songkla University (PSU), Thailand that aimed to discuss projects being implemented as a result from the resolutions proposed during the first ISCC Meeting.

The proposed projects include education for producing a new generation which is inculcated with good moral principles, holistic knowledge and a healthy body.

Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, Rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), during the 2nd Islamic Studies Coordinating Committee (ISCC) Meeting. – ROKIAH MAHMUD

Also, the project includes the establishment of mutual understanding and cooperation in student and faculty exchange, interfaith and intercultural dialogue and communication, textbook and academic writing translation and application of true Islam.

The meeting also discussed preparations for the fourth International Conference of Islamic Studies scheduled to be held in April 2017.

It also aims to increase the participation of academia and representatives of each country to design and make a positive contribution in the coming International Conference of Islamic Studies.

A total of 19 leaders representing 16 countries attended the second ISCC Meeting.

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