|     Azlan Othman     |

THE recent four-day Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) ‘Agriculture Entrepreneurs Exposure Programme for Youths through Contract Farming’ course ended yesterday with a presentation of certificates to the participants.

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin presented the certificates.

The course was to attract more youths into the farming sector and increase their involvement in contract farming to increase agricultural produce in the country to a level at which exporting to overseas markets is possible.

The programme is expected to achieve the ministry’s objectives of producing committed and progressive youth entrepreneurs, capable of achieving high productivity to contribute towards increasing Brunei’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the agricultural sector in the near future.

The course was held over two sessions: the first from January 15 – 18, 2018 with a total of 13 participants, while the second session ran from January 29 to February 1, 2018 with 17 participants.

Of this, 19 participants who visited all farms (as prescribed in the course schedule) each received their ‘Agriculture Entrepreneurs Exposure Programme for Youths through Contract Farming’ certificates.

Also present during the ceremony were Director of Agriculture and Agrifood Hajah Aidah binti Haji Mohd Hanifah, heads of departments under the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, and senior officers from the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood.

The programme is one of the ministry’s initiatives made in support of the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood’s Strategic Plan for 2016 – 2020. It aims to heighten awareness on agricultural businesses and the agriculture sector as profitable ventures, as well as open up opportunities for youth to invest in contract farming in the sector, particularly in the field of plantation industries employing high-tech systems to enhance crop yields and produce good returns.

The programme was divided into briefing sessions and agricultural farm visits. During the briefing session, an explanation on investment opportunities in the crop industry field, financial simulations for agricultural enterprises using advanced technology and application procedures for agricultural sites were presented by the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood.

Briefings by the Ministry of Finance – which discussed the procedures for registration/establishment of companies and business names – and Syarikat Gropoint Sdn Bhd, a company which has a contract farming agreement to purchase crops produced by the programme’s youth participants, were also given.

Ameenfarm Agrotech and Trading, RZ Prisma Enterprise, Econadi Agrobiz Company, DD Agrobiz, Kanglin Hydroponics Farming, Tunas Harapan Farm, and Madgrow Tech were among the agricultural farms the participants visited.

From the programme, the youth entrepreneurs were able to grasp first-hand the overall potential of the agriculture value chain, from the information and results of the discussions obtained from their farm visits, all the way to carrying out agricultural services, making use of technology, as well as the logistics and challenges faced by local entrepreneurs and how to overcome them.

In the course’s contract farming component, the youth entrepreneurs were required to set aside a certain amount of capital and focus on sustainable production and quality yields in accordance to standards set by the purchasing company, which will not only buy their produce, but also and market them.

Jefri Johari, one of the programme participants who comes from an IT education background, said that from the programme, he learnt that IT plays a key role in high-tech farming and the two go hand in hand.

“We learnt a lot through the use of drones and farming technology and we need (farms in Brunei) to adapt to this. Farm location is also very important,” he said.

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HIS Royal Highness Prince General 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 and General of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) received in audience the outgoing Commander of the RBAF, Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah and the newly appointed Commander of the RBAF, Major General Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud.

Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih held his appointment as the 9th Commander of the RBAF since February 30, 2014.

During his tenure as the RBAF Commander, he was conferred decorations from Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.

He is also the first RBAF Commander to be given honorary membership to the Special Forces Regiment, RBAF.

Major General Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Aminan was the 9th Commander of the Royal Brunei Land Force before his appointment as the 10th Commander of the RBAF.

Throughout his career, he held various key appointments, including Military Assistant to Commander of the RBAF, Directors at Defence Minister’s Office and Directorate of Strategic Planning, Ministry of Defence, and Aide-de-Camp to His Majesty.

The audience was held at the Qashr Al-Meezaan.

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|     Azrol Azmi     |

MARKING a significant occasion in Brunei’s modern history, the new Council of Cabinet Ministers were sworn in for a five-year term, in a ceremony held at the Istana Nurul Iman yesterday.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam consented to witness the swearing-in ceremony and presentation of Letter of Appointment to Brunei Darussalam’s new Cabinet Ministers.

His Majesty, who holds the position as the Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Minister of Finance and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade arrived for the ceremony accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince who holds the position as the Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office.

Also in attendance during the swearing-in ceremony was Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Led by the Grand Chamberlain Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Penggawa Laila Bentara Istiadat Diraja Dalam Istana Pengiran Haji Alauddin bin Pengiran Paduka Tuan Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, the new Cabinet Ministers including His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, took their oath before His Majesty before being presented with the Letters of Appointment.

Also present at the ceremony were Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti and Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Hayati binti Pehin Orang Kaya Shahbandar Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohd Salleh, the Attorney General.

Concluding the ceremony, a Doa Selamat was recited by the State Mufti.

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|     James Kon     |

LOCAL and foreign shuttlers can claim bragging rights of who is the best in the country at the Brunei National Badminton Tournament 2018 taking place from March 9 – 18 at the Indoor stadium.

The tournament jointly organised by Brunei National Badminton Association and Japan Para Badminton Federation in collaboration with Paralympic Council of Brunei Darussalam is spilt into three categories.

The Brunei National Category for local badminton players with ranking points comprising Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles and Women’s Doubles.

The Brunei IC Holder Category, open to all residents including foreigners, is comprised Men’s Double for those aged 40 and above as well as those aged 21 and below.

Lastly is the Open Category where oversea and local badminton players are welcome to compete in the Men’s Singles, Men’s Double and Veteran Men’s Doubles (combined age of not more than 95).

Registration fee for each player is $25 and forms can be obtained at Spotech Marketing located at Ground Floor, Block D of Kiarong Complex.

As a special treat for local badminton fans, Japanese national para badminton players will be in Brunei to showcase their skills in an exhibition match on March 18.

OE Mamoru who is the Men’s Double No 3 champion in the Peru Para Badminton International and second best single player in the Japan Para Badminton Tournament 2017 will be partnering with Murayama Hiroshi, 2016 Colombia Para Badminton champion, in a match against Brunei’s very own Para Badminton athletes.

Other Japanese para athletes that will be in the country are Toyoda Mamiko who is Women’s Singles and Doubles runner-up at the BWF Badminton World Championship 2017 in South Korea, Sugino Akiko, the champion of Women’s Doubles and runner-up in the Mix Doubles at BWF Badminton World Championship last year.

The contingent is led by Japanese Para badminton coach Kita Tsutomu.

Hiroshi Okuchi, Commissioner of International Affairs under the Japan Para Badminton federation in an interview said that tournament is organised under the ‘Sport for Tomorrow’ programme where Japan aims to be involved in the promotion of sporting values including assisting developing countries train future sport leaders at the new International Sport Academy and extending anti-doping initiatives.

He added, “The Japanese government hopes that Brunei will increase the number of participation in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympic Games.”

Haji Antin bin Ahad, President of Brunei National Badminton Association said, “Through the tournament, we want to groom our national athletes.”

He also highlighted the need to send athletes overseas to gain competition experience.

The last Brunei National Badminton Tournament took place in 2010 where 456 players competed in the tournament.

The post Nat’l Badminton Tourney is back appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

THE three-day carnival organised by RPN Panchor Mengkubau Village Consultative Council (MPK RPN Panchor Mengkubau) which will continue until tomorrow.

The carnival organised in collaboration with ADPutra (B) Sdn Bhd is being held at the Recreational Park of Bukit Mengkubau Jalan Tanjung Selasih, RPN Panchor Mengkubau.

Present to officiate the carnival was Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Haji Mohammad Sunadi bin Haji Buntar.

Haji Hairul Azri bin Haji Salamat, Deputy Chairman of MPK RPN Panchor Mengkubau, explained that among the objectives of the carnival is to gather entrepreneurs particularly those residing in RPN Panchor Mengkubau who are actively involved in their online business.

“The carnival also served a medium for the participating vendors to generate more income, while at the same time to foster closer ties among the villagers through various activities carried out,” he added.

With the slogan ‘Lakastah ke Mengkubau’ the carnival also served a platform for entrepreneurs to promote their product under the One Village One Product and established business networking among them.

The event saw the guest of honour launch the carnival and the presentation of donations by Manager of Creative Design, Awangku Md Shair Amsyar bin Pengiran Shahrel Annuar to orphans and less fortunate families residing at RPN Panchor Mengkubau.

It was followed with the deputy permanent secretary, taking a closer look at the participating booths and interacting with the vendors.

Among the activities set to enliven the three-day carnival are bazaar, tug-of-war, car show, Jawi calligraphy, cooking competition, fun night ride and Mukun performance.

The post Entrepreneurs get boost from ‘Lakastah ke Mengkubau’ appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

UNIVERSITI Brunei Darussalam (UBD) is one of the fastest growing young universities in the region. Only 32 years since its establishment, UBD recently broke into the QS World rankings, attaining a 349th rank out of over 26,000 universities worldwide.

Now placed among the top 1.3 per cent of universities in the world, UBD is also one of only 13 universities from Southeast Asia to be ranked in the top 400 in the world.

Other achievements for UBD include being ranked 105th in Asia, up from 123 the previous year, and it is also placed 37th among universities in the world founded less than 50 years ago. According to the QS Top 50 Under 50, UBD is sixth in Asean and 16th in Asia of universities under the age of 50 years.

According to a press release, UBD was ranked top in Asia for student exchange, demonstrating the demand for its Degree, Master and PhD programmes not only from within the country but also from international students.

Through its flagship GenNEXT programme, UBD takes a multidisciplinary approach to teaching and learning, allowing graduates to not only master their major subjects but also explore areas of interest in other faculties.

This provides graduates with wider options upon completion of their studies. A particular area where GenNEXT shines is the annual UBD Shell Eco-marathon team, comprising individuals from across the university, utilising their diverse backgrounds and various skills to work towards producing efficient vehicles. Last year’s team broke the national record for the Prototype Battery Electric Car category. With its goal to become a ‘University of Innovation and Enterprise’, UBD also incorporates the entrepreneurial mindset in modules throughout its faculties, encouraging students to be more enterprising with their ideas regardless of whether they intend to go into entrepreneurship or not.

Spearheaded by UBD, the Entrepreneurship Village (EV) facilitates workshops, trainings and forums helping students to realise their ideas into actual business plans as well as viable products and services.

Some of the incubatees have successfully launched their own businesses, and they continue to give back to the community by helping out and mentoring other aspiring student entrepreneurs.

Through its cutting-edge technology and facilities, impactful research thrusts and internationally recognised academic staff, UBD graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to face current and future challenges in an increasingly competitive world.

And even after they have completed their studies in UBD, the university continues to offer additional modules and programmes as part of its belief in lifelong learning.

Along with other faculties, the Centre for Lifelong Learning (C3L) enables graduates as well as other members of the public to pursue further knowledge in various areas of interest. With its Blended Learning programmes, students are able to study at the pace, place and along the path of their own choosing. – TEXT & PHOTOS: UBD

Siti Marlina binti Haji Abdul Manan Research Officer Bachelor of Arts (Public Policy & Administration)

“My time in UBD were some of the best years of my life and they have played a major role in my personal development. I came in with the expectation of only experiencing academic growth but upon graduating, UBD has given me more than that. It was where most of the meaningful connections which I still have today were forged through mind broadening lectures, lively tutorials, volunteer work, and extra-curricular activities. It has also helped me to truly understand the kind of positive difference I can contribute to with the knowledge gained, to be of benefit to others around me, which I have always aspired to do. Alhamdulillah, I am grateful to be given the opportunity to grow as an individual in an institution that means a lot to me and give back as much as I can to the generation after me, with the hopes that they leave here with experiences which transform them into better individuals. The journey on this path is a tough one but Insya Allah, it will not be a lonely and uninteresting one! Along the way, you will learn and get the support you need from your friends, other students, lecturers, staff and alumni. That is because UBD is more than just an academic institution. It is a community that grows together and lifts as well as inspires one another.”

Adimas bin Haji M Salleh Acting Country Manager (Petroleum Brunei), Myanmar Master of Science (Geosciences)

“The UBD Library is the very best in Brunei! Studying in UBD is an opportunity for you to meet other people from other countries and backgrounds. Only a few years there would shape you, especially through the connectivity of people. It is something that shouldn’t be missed. You will find that your fraternity will last longer than the programme you take. The network of UBD alumni is also huge. I have come across many UBD graduates all over Asia in my line of work.”

Mohammad Aizuddin bin Haji Metusin CEO, Amherst Envirotech Operations Manager (Parking Division), Radiant Engineering Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) Master of Science (Energy Studies)

“Studying in UBD was an experience that I will always cherish. With a total of five years spent in UBD, I have gained a lot from lecturers, colleagues and staff members of the different departments/faculty I have been in. I keep on coming back to the faculty on my off days just to spend some time catching up with my former lecturers, just to keep in touch with the people who made me what I am today. Don’t be demotivated by failure, use it as a stepping stone to discover your strength.”

The post UBD: Towards a university of innovation and enterprise appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

AUSTRALIA is committed to work together with its sub-regional partners represented by six Southeast Asian countries including Brunei Darussalam in the fight against terrorism, its Defence Minister, Senator Marise Payne said at a Sub-Regional Defence Ministers’ Meeting on Counter-Terrorism in Perth, Australia yesterday.

Brunei was represented by Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Defence II.

Also in attendance at the meeting were General (Rtd) Ryamizard Ryacudu, Minister of Defence of Republic of Indonesia; Delfin Negrillo Lorenzana, Secretary of Defence of Republic of the Philippines; Dato’ Sri Mohd Johari bin Baharum, Deputy Minister of Defence of Malaysia; Dr Mohamad Maliki bin Osman, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Singapore; and General Chaichan Changmongkol, Deputy Minister of Defence of the Kingdom of Thailand.

Senator Marise Payne said they recognised the fact that terrorism poses a rising challenge to the region, while calling for augmented efforts to step up cooperation to fight the common threat of terrorism.

The top defence officials representing each nation shared and exchanged views to find out ways to step up cooperation to combat terrorism.

The ministers and representatives also visited Campbell Barracks for Special Operations Command (SOCOMD) Counter-Terrorism Demonstration, according to a press statement from the Ministry of Defence (MinDef) yesterday.

The post Australia committed to working with SEA countries in fight against terrorism appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

HECAS 2018 (1st Round) online application to Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), Politeknik Brunei (PB) and for the Brunei Government Overseas Scholarship under the Ministry of Education for the academic year 2018/2019 will commence on February 8 at 8am.

The programme levels offered are Level 5 Diploma, Higher National Diploma and first Degree programmes. The closing date for the online application is February 28 at 4.30pm.

Applicants applying for overseas scholarship must also apply to at least one programme offered by the local higher education institutions. Applicants are advised to submit all relevant hardcopy including printed HECAS form to institution applied not later than three working days after the HECAS closing date.

The HECAS online application is opened for holders of valid Brunei Darussalam issued identity cards (yellow/purple/green).

Only yellow identity cardholders who have at least a Credit ‘C6’ in Bahasa Melayu in Brunei Cambridge GCE ‘O’ Level examination can apply for local or overseas scholarship.

HECAS does not process applications of government servants applying for in-service training or foreign applicants who do not have valid Brunei Darussalam issued identity card.

Upper Sixth students taking their June ‘A’ Level examination are allowed to use their predicted ‘A’ Level results to apply to local universities or for overseas scholarship. They will receive a conditional offer upon meeting the entry requirement set by institution concerned.

Unsuccessful applicants who meet the entry requirement set by the local higher education institutions or Scholarship Section can send a letter of appeal for consideration to qualified programme. However, applicants are given three working days to send their letters of appeal.

For information, visit the Ministry of Education’s portal at http://moe.gov.bn or the HECAS portal at http://www.hecas.edu.bn.

Applicants can refer to ‘guidelines’ posted in the HECAS portal on the registration procedures.

For inquiry, applicants can contact the HECAS Administration by e-mail at admission@hecas.edu.bn or by telephone at 2381224/2380620 during office hour.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

BY THE consent 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, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), the Commander of Royal Brunei Land Force (RBLF) has been promoted to the rank of Brigadier General.

373 Colonel Khairul Hamed bin Haji Lampuh was promoted to Brigadier General during an insignia presentation ceremony led by RBAF Commander Major General Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud at the Officers’ Mess in Bolkiah Garrison yesterday. The new RBLF Commander took over the duty on January 31 from the new RBAF Commander who was promoted to the rank of Major General and installed as the 10th Commander of the RBAF.

Also present at the ceremony were Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, as well as the former RBAF Commander Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah.

The ceremony was blessed with a Doa Selamat by the Head of RBAF Religious Department (JAMAAT), Commander Haji Ainolnizam bin Haji Ibrahim.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

THE Ministry of Health (MoH) dismissed as rumour a ‘statement’ circulated on social media yesterday which claimed that infectious viruses are spreading in Ward 18 of Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital.

The information disseminated through WhatsApp, claiming that “a deadly virus attack in Ward 18 was hidden by the hospital authorities from patients”, is incorrect, the ministry said in a statement yesterday.

However, the MoH said that a type of bacteria called vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) was detected in Ward 18.

“VRE is not a virus but is a type of enterococci bacteria that is immune to antibiotic treatment. The bacteria can be found in the intestines and female genitalia or the surrounding environment and it will not cause any health problems.

“However, when the enterococci bacteria are immune to an antibiotic such as vancomycin, they can cause serious infections, especially in those with weak immunity and have prolonged chronic health problems or those have undergone surgery,” the ministry said.

“Vancomycin is a type of antibiotics commonly used to treat serious bacterial infections and it works by stopping bacterial growth in the body. VRE bacteria, like other bacteria, can be transmitted through skin contact or contact with contaminated goods and surfaces,” the MoH statement noted, adding that “VRE infection is not an extraordinary infection and it also occurs in hospitals in other countries”.

The ministry also said that in Brunei Darussalam, VRE cases are at a low level due to continuous infection control measures such as the implementation of hand hygiene practices for all parties, isolating patients in isolation wards to prevent transmission of infection and improving the environment of the patient in accordance with international infection control and prevention guidelines.

“So far, the MoH has identified five patients infected with VRE bacteria, and all of them are in a stable condition,” the statement said.

“As a proactive measure to control VRE infection from spreading in the ward, the MoH is implementing infection control measures such as isolating patients with infection; enhancing hand sanitisation practices for patients, guards, visitors and hospital residents; controlling hospital visitors; as well as improving the environment of the patients as well as wards.”

The Ministry of Health advised the public not to be easily deceived by and believe in information that is spread through the Internet or through other media such as WhatsApp, Twitter and Facebook without asserting its validity.

Furthermore, the public is also reminded to be more responsible and not to disseminate any unfounded information.

The act of disseminating false information, which is designed by those who simply intend to mislead, is an offence and can be reported under the law of the Public Order Act, Chapter 148 Section 34. Whoever distributes false reports or baseless statements, whether using oral, written or any other means, and causes public interruption can be sentenced to imprisonment for up to three years and a fine of B$3,000.

The Ministry of Health said it will continue to monitor the situation and advised the public, especially visitors, to comply with the visiting schedule at wards and improve the practice of hand hygiene and the environment.

The ministry also advised people who are unwell to not visit patients at the hospital to reduce the risk of infection and cooperate in addressing the situation.

For information and feedback, the public may visit the Ministry of Health’s website at www.moh.gov.bn or call Darussalam line 123.

The post MoH dismisses ‘virus attack’ in hospital as rumour appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

CANCER is the leading cause of death in Brunei Darussalam for the past few years.

Over 600 new cases of cancer are diagnosed each year in the country, according to The Brunei Cancer Centre (TBCC).

Over 100 breast cancer and more than 100 colorectal cancer cases are diagnosed yearly, and the numbers are increasing.

At the TBCC, the number of patients being treated annually has increased. More than 10,000 patients visit the outpatient unit in a year, and the daycare unit has over 5,200 patients undergoing chemotherapy annually, that is about 25 patients per day.

The inpatient ward saw about 1,800 patients admitted in year 2017, TBCC said in a statement.

“In Brunei Darussalam, cancer has been the number one killer over the past eight years. Globally too, the incidence and deaths from cancer is increasing. About 14 million cases are diagnosed worldwide annually, out of which eight million die each year. Globally, the incidence will increase to 19.3 million by 2025, draining financial resources in most countries,” TBCC said in the statement which was issued in conjunction with World Cancer Day.

World Cancer Day is celebrated every year on February 4, to raise awareness, educate public and also emphasise the need for prevention, early detection and early treatment. It is also to galvanise government authorities to upgrade services. The concept of a World Cancer Day was established during the World Summit Against Cancer held in Paris on February 4, 2000 and was coordinated by UICC (Union for International Cancer Control).

The theme for year 2016-2018 is ‘We Can, I Can’. The aim is to get everyone – as a collective or as individuals – in the fight against cancer, not just the cancer patients and their families. Cancer knows no boundaries, so a cooperative approach to research, advocacy, prevention and treatment must be established, TBCC said.

According to the centre, cancer burden is increasing because of an expanding and ageing population; increase in modifiable risk factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, western diet and reduced physical activity; and cancers related to preventable and treatable diseases such as Hepatitis B and C infections and human papillomavirus (HPV) infections.

There are many myths surrounding cancer that need to be dispelled like: “Cancer is a disease of the wealthy, elderly and mainly in developed countries.” Cancer can affect the rich or poor, young or old. The common cancers like breast, colorectal and cervical cancers are now affecting the younger people and increasing in developing countries.

‘Cancer is a death sentence’

The truth is that many cancers can be cured if detected early by screening.

“Cancer occurs due to fate, or black magic, or curses.” Many cancers can be prevented by stopping smoking and early screening with PAP smears, mammograms and colonoscopy can lead to curative treatment.

“Cancer can spread to another person if there is close contact.” Cancer is not infectious.

“Avoid sugar if you have cancer.” There is at present no correlation between cancer growth and increased sugar intake.

What is cancer?

Cancer is a disease that occurs when normal cells in the body lead to uncontrolled growth causing a lump called tumour, or in some cases like leukaemia spread in the blood.

Lumps can be benign or malignant. Benign lumps are not cancerous, grow slowly and do not spread. Malignant tumours are cancers and spread locally or to distant sites (metastasis). There are about 200 different cancers.

The causes of cancer include:

1) Carcinogens – Substances that damage the genetic information in the cell, and change their behaviour.

2) Age – The older the person is, the more likely he is exposed to more carcinogens and for changes to take place.

3) Genetics – Some are born with some genetic abnormalities, which increase their risk to cancer.

4) Immune system – People with weakened immune systems have higher risk of cancer.

Certain lifestyle and envi-ronment factors – like smoking, alcohol, ionising radiation, obesity, diet with excess red and processed meat and infections like Hepatitis B and HPV, increase the risk of cancer.

What can be done?

One third of cancers can be prevented by quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake and maintaining healthy lifestyles.

Another third of cancers can be detected early and get cured. This includes breast self examination, mammograms, colonoscopy to detect early polyps, PAP smears.

Vaccinations against Hepatitis B and HPV

Not disregarding early signs – like breast lumps, neck lumps, unusual weight loss, chronic cough, altered bowel habits and bleeding from various sites.

Cancer is not a “taboo” subject. Speaking to your family and friends will ensure that early signs will not be missed.

Recent worrying trends have been:

– Younger people are getting cancer especially breast and colorectal cancer.

– Many patients are seeking treatment late and come with advanced disease in Stage 3 and 4, and hence chances of cure diminish.

– Many are attracted to alternative treatments and promised cures. They come late with advanced disease.

– There is a phobia of “cancer diagnosis” and many family members are not aware of the illness of their loved ones, until too late.

– A lot of misconception of cancer treatments – like chemotherapy and radiotherapy, mainly by word of mouth, from friends and websites.

“In reality, there are many cancer survivors, treated many years ago with surgery or chemotherapy and radiotherapy, leading normal lives. The good news is that with modern treatments, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targetted drugs, better anti-vomiting drugs and better radiotherapy facilities, more cancer patients are surviving longer and many are cured. There are quite a few stage 4 patients, leading relatively normal lives for four to five years or more with treatment,” TBCC said.

The Brunei Cancer Centre was incorporated in 2010 and is now part of PJSC (Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre).

It offers in a modern setting, most of the needed services to handle cancer patients, with experienced staff and with the latest equipment and drugs. The services include outpatient services – cancer case referrals and follow up; Day Care Unit – chemotherapy given as a day care; and inpatient ward services.

Treatment modalities available at TBCC are:

Chemotherapy, immuno-therapy, targetted drugs; Radiotherapy, brachytherapy, stereotactic radiotherapy; Nu-clear medicine for imaging and treatment; Palliative care services; Specialty nursing; Dietitian services; and Multidisciplinary meetings to optimise treatment.

Almost 90 per cent of cancer patients have their chemotherapy given as a day care basis – without need to be admitted to the ward – by trained oncological nurses.

“Most of the newer chemotherapy drugs – targetted drugs for certain cancers – are now available for TBCC patients, under the health services provided by the Government of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam,” TBCC said.

“The key take home messages are prevention, early detection and early treatment. Another important factor is to get early professional help from doctors,” TBCC added. – The Brunei Cancer Centre

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CRUDE oil is one of the better and most actively traded commodities in the world. It is a very active market and is very well known to investors around the world. There is usually no shortage of news to cause the price of oil to move from day to day.

This presents many good trading opportunities, whether you focus on day trading futures or are a longer-term trader or investor.

The price of crude oil affects the price of many other assets including stocks, bonds, currencies and other commodities. This is because crude oil remains a major source of energy for the world. The trade of oil and gas in Brunei Darussalam is a significant contributor towards the country’s revenue. This is why Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP) has a dedicated commercial team to focus on the sales and marketing of BSP’s crude oil while also ensuring the company gets the maximum value for their crude oil and best in class customer service.

BSP customers are mostly end user refineries and integrated trading-refining companies. Around 95 per cent of BSP’s total crude production helps fulfil the energy demands of most of the countries across the Asia-Pacific region. BSP has close relationships with many of their customers, some of which go back for more than 40 years, to ensure the market is well acquainted with BSP and their products.

“In today’s volatile market, crude trading is based mainly on customer relationships, and we take a lot of pride in ours; the success of which is apparent from the fact that some of our customers are with us for more than a few decades now,” said Hajah Farida binti Dato Seri Paduka Haji Talib, Commercial Director of BSP.

“To be customers’ first choice, we need to provide excellent services such as timely delivery of oil and consistent quality, which we fully understand and aspire to deliver day in and day out,” she said.

The company understands the importance of their crude oil and the role it plays in business continuity and satisfying the energy requirement of the customers’ market. Once a delivery window is confirmed, people from all departments collaborate within BSP to ensure the required customer service. Seria Crude Oil Terminal (SCOT), the lifeline for Brunei Crude Exports, works 24 hours seven days a week to ensure timely delivery of Brunei crudes. Along with operational efficiency, BSP also ensures that all assets are well maintained for consistent quality of service to their customer.

Brunei has been a net oil exporter for many years and BSP markets two grades – Champion and Seria Light Export Blend. Champion is sweet (low Sulphur) heavy crude whereas Seria Light Export Blend (SLEB) is light sweet crude.

SLEB is the company’s flagship crude blend that is well known in the regional crude trading market due to its quality. Generally, BSP crudes are rich in gasoline and middle distillates contents, and therefore are preferred across the region by refineries.

Asia continues to lead the world as it houses most of the higher gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate economies. This means energy demand in the Asia-Pacific region will be increasing. Moreover, the majority of the new refineries and refinery expansion projects in the next five years are also in Asia, particularly in India and China, which will drive up the demand of crude oil in this region.

There is also focus on low emission levels and more countries, as well as regulators, are becoming stringent on Sulphur level fuels, especially with International Maritime Organisation (IMO) cap on Sulphur level at 0.5 per cent. This is expected to be implemented in 2020 and will increase the demand of low Sulphur crude oil.

This outlook is very positive for Brunei Darussalam. Increasing energy demand in the Asia-Pacific region, combined with expansion in refining capacities alongside the new regulations on Sulphur levels, are good signs for the demand of low Sulphur crude from Brunei Darussalam. BSP being strategically located and possessing good quality sweet crude are all geared up to fulfil this increasing regional demand.

Ashraf Esa, a Senior Scheduler who has been with the BSP Oil Trading Team since 2011, shares his experience.

His current roles and responsibilities varies, from planning and scheduling cargo loadings for BSP and third party sales and liaising with SCOT and BSP Marine Operations on the crude oil loadings while taking into account oil production and SCOT availability.

He also analyses production and current stocks, and shipping schedules in order to make on-the-spot decisions on changing cargo size and/or loading sequences. Furthermore, he negotiates the cargo loading data range and cargo availability with customers, ensuring a smooth loading schedule through constant interface with customers, production, marine and operation staff.

“My progression in the crude oil trading department is well defined, structured and straight forward. At first, I was the trading market analyst before moving on to the oil operations role. I am looking forward to another progression which will take me to the oil trader role. This progression is typical in any oil trading outfit and I am quite happy that BSP adopts the standard progression as well,” Ashraf said.

He shared his experience with the rise and fall of crude oil prices over the past 10 years of which crude oil rose in 2008 with record prices of about USD140 billion barrels per day (/bbl) to USD30/bbl in 2016.

This had impacted BSP’s and the country’s overall revenue during that period of time, however, BSP currently sees the rise of crude oil prices to USD70/bbl and has carried out many initiatives to ensure they remain competitive.

“I am very proud to work for BSP’s oil trading department, knowing that BSP is contributing to more than 60 per cent of Brunei Darussalam’s GDP. My advice for anyone who is considering a future at BSP, show that you are willing to work hard, have innovative ideas and work well with others. Teamwork and collaboration are very important at BSP,” said Ashraf. – Text by Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd

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|     Daniel Lim     |

REPRESENTATIVES from a number of associations in the country recently visited the Old Folks Home in Seria, as a buildup to the upcoming Chinese New Year (CNY) celebrations, to spread joy to the elderly residing there and to get them into a festive mood.

Kwong Wai Siew Association members visited the elderly residents of the Old Folks Home and handed them basic necessities and red envelopes (ang pow).

Representatives of the Old Folks Home were also handed a framed group photo of them with the association’s members, during the association’s visit in 2017, as a gift to usher the new year. Present during the visit were Koo Kong Loi, the association’s chairman; as well as Wong Ming Ching and Philip Kheng Kim Fatt, advisors of the association.

Members of Brunei-Muara Tai Chi Association also visited the Old Folks Home. Donations including red envelopes, food and drinks as well as funds to aid the daily running of the home were contributed. Present during the visit were Wong Chia Sheng, Chairman of the Brunei-Muara Tai Chi Association; Wong Ming Ching, honorary adviser; and as other members of the association.

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|     James Kon     |

SITI Hazizah binti Haji Ismail and Lim Hoon Kheng picked as the winners of Indera Motors’ Holiday Specials on Ice promotion yesterday afternoon each won a package trip to the Jaguar Ice Academy in Sweden.

The draw was made by Indera Motors Sdn Bhd General Manager Alfred Yong Foh Sen at Starbucks, Tanjung Bunut.

The other winners were Tan Thiam Yuan, who won a Jaguar weekender bag, while Liew Yu Ern took home a new Land Rover weekender bag.

Expressing her delight at winning the Sweden trip, Siti Hazizah said, “I am really excited that I am going to Sweden. It will be my first time to the country.”

She said she bought a Jaguar XE R-Sport last week because she fell in love with its powerful performance and sporting style after a test drive.

To enter into the draw and stand a chance to win the four grand prizes, participants had to purchase any Jaguar or Land Rover model between November 1, 2017 and January 2018.

Speaking about the Ice Academy Sweden, Alfred Yong said, “The academy is at Arjeplog, the very edge of the Swedish Arctic Circle. It is a surreal and beguiling sub-zero wilderness environment where you will get to experience the thrill of ice driving on one of the many frozen lakes in Sweden behind the wheels of the latest Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles.”

“Jaguar and Land Rover brands are all about unrivalled performance and first-class capabilities, hence, we would like the two winners from the grand draw to experience them first-hand,” Alfred Yong added.

A notable highlight of the grand draw event was the Range Rover Velar making its first ever appearance to the Brunei public. The Velar is one of the Land Rover models made available for test drive.

The new Range Rover Velar was launched in October last year and received encouraging response in Brunei and neighbouring countries. The new Velar’s high demand around the world ever since its launch has caused stock shortage, including in Brunei.

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE Reintegration Section of the Prisons Department in collaboration with its strategic partner, the Youth and Volunteers Club, held a briefing and dialogue with stakeholders and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) recently.

Prisons Department Director Haji Ismail bin Haji Murat participated in the briefing at the Youth Centre in the capital.

The meet is a community engagement held to obtain feedback on previously held and ongoing reintegration programmes for former inmates, and at the same time, encourages greater involvement among the community and stakeholders in implementing such programmes.

It is hoped the initiative will help improve the programme and win greater support from strategic partners and NGOs. Among the programmes planned for April is the Reintegration Run.

Representatives from several NGOs including the Community Development Department (JAPEM), Islamic Da’wah Centre as well as the Youth and Volunteers Club attended the dialogue.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

KUALA Belait got off to a winning start in the women’s category of the BBA Inter-District Cup 2018 after edging Tutong 71-70 in close match at the Brunei Basketball Association Court in Batu Bersurat last night.

The closeness of the match was highlighted as early as the second quarter with KB narrowly trailing Tutong by a single point.

Both sides, eager to get off to a winning start, exchanged a series of conversions in a see-saw battle.

In the second quarter, both sides were equally competitive trying to gain as much as points on the board.

However, it was Kuala Belait that emerged victorious and will be looking to continue their good start against Brunei-Muara in their second match.

Tutong will be looking to bounce back against Brunei-Muara in a must-win game in their next match.

The other match also saw Brunei-Muara ‘B’ facing Kuala Belait in the veteran event.

The tournament continues tonight in the veteran and men’s categories with Brunei-Muara ‘A’ playing Tutong in the veteran category.

Meanwhile, Kuala Belait will play Brunei-Muara ‘B’ and Tutong will be meeting Seria.

Temburong edged Brunei-Muara ‘B’ with the score of 73-69 in a match held on Friday evening.

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|     Izah Azahari     |

FINDLAY (B) Sdn Bhd held its seventh International Study Fair yesterday at the Songket Ballroom of The Rizqun International Hotel, Gadong, seeing representatives from 12 institutions of higher learning from the United Kingdom, the United States and Australia gathering under one roof to discuss study options with prospective students for entry in September 2018, 2019 and 2020.

Participating institutions from the UK include De Montfort University, Northumbria University, University of Portsmouth, Queen’s University Belfast, University of Surrey, Robert Gordon University and University of Wolverhampton.

Representatives from pathway colleges such as Navitas and INTO, both of which provide Foundation and Year One level entry to many prestigious UK universities, were also present.

Representing Australia at the fair were Deakin University and James Cook University, while INTO USA was present to talk to students about their pathway programmes and direct entry into a number of US varsities such as Colorado State University, Drew University, George Mason University, Marshall University, Oregon State University, St Louis University, Suffolk University, Washington State University, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and University of South Florida.

Findlay itself represented universities and colleges that were unable to send representatives to the fair, and letting students unsure of what educational or career directions to take, have a go at its Morrisby Career Profiling psychometric assessment.

Leading professionals from the private sector were on hand to provide advice to students with their career decisions. These professionals were from industries ranging from financial services, information technology, law, childcare and social care, hospitality, food and beverage, and telecommunications.

Officers from the Ministry of Education’s Brunei Darussalam National Accreditation Counci were present to answer queries about qualification accreditations, while Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam was on hand to talk to students and parents.

Sunita Martin, the Director of Findlay, said that they will continue to make efforts to support young Bruneians in achieving their academic and career goals.

“This starts from when they begin to think about higher education options until they get their first job. In other words, we support them in becoming more employable,” said the director.

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MUHAMMAD Asyraf bin Zulkipli emerged as the best presenter of the fourth Youth Science Symposium, an annual fixture of the Science Department of the Tutong Sixth Form Centre (PTET).

He convinced the adjudicators and wowed the audience by explaining how the invention of satellite communication has been one of the most significant world-changing ideas to quality of life. Not only did he twist his words cleverly to convince the audience, he even simulated body gestures to further illustrate his justification.

Meanwhile, Nurul Afiyah Huang binti Mohammed Faiz Nabil, the first runner-up presenter,

spoke about Induced Pluripotent Stem (IPS) cells that were discovered first by two Japanese scientists.

She touched on the claims that the method is one that could solve several ethical issues that arise from using embryonic stem cells or adult stem cells. She believed the use of IPS cells is a good alternative of treatment without affecting others.

Zulfah Zuhairah binti Haji Abdul Rani, the second runner-up presenter, spoke about global use of fertilisers which help farmers and fruit growers to increase crop yield and provide partial solution to ending world hunger.

She explained the importance of nitrogen content in plants, touching on advantages and disadvantages of using organic and inorganic fertilisers. Its growing cost of course was attributed to rising energy costs for the Haber process, and that has inevitably led to increase in food prices worldwide also.

The three Year 13 students presented to a panel of three external adjudicators on the topic of their choices revolving around the main theme of the symposium this year – world-changing ideas. Following each presentation, the adjudicators questioned the presenters on their knowledge of current issues related to the topics and how much their research has covered the field of that particular topic.

Cikgu Nurdiyanah Goh binti Abdullah, the Head of the Science Department at PTET and chairperson of the organising committee, in her opening remarks said, “This symposium provides a platform for students to do research and introduce them to the demands of higher education. This kind of competition also helps students develop their public speaking skills to communicate science effectively.”

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|     Lyna Mohamad     |

DYNAMIC warming-up is a training session from slow to medium intensity which enables to increase blood flow to the muscle and tissues. It also increases the body temperature enabling the muscles to work better as well as enable to lengthen muscle activities, increase and strengthen muscle movement while working out.

This was revealed during a training seminar on the importance of dynamic and plyometric warming as applied by sports coaches worldwide, at a programme conducted by the Co-Curriculum Education Department through its Sports Training and Development Unit.

It also prepares the cardio system to pump blood bringing oxygen to body muscles and tissues and prepare the veins and nerve system to allow muscles to work efficiently thus enabling athletes to be more focussed and ready to face competition.

Plyometric on the other hand, also known as jump training, is helpful for athletes participating in netball, basketball, badminton, sepak takraw and other activities needing explosive movement.

It is also a training session that has a specific expertise in strengthening hamstring and quad muscles to avoid the popping sound from the knee ligament or ankle.

Attended by 84 sports teachers and coaches from primary and secondary schools as well as colleges and private education in the Brunei-Muara District, the seminar was facilitated by Head Coach, Strength and Conditioning, Optima Centre at the Ministry of Defence, IM Ranasinghe.

The programme also serves to assist teachers and coaches in planning training to avoid injuries to athletes and provides a guideline that needs to be applied when performing dynamic and plyometric warming session and introduce useful sport specific skill to increase athletes’ fitness.

The programme concluded with a certificate presentation at the school’s lecture theatre. Acting Assistant Director of Co-Curriculum Education at the Department of Co-Curriculum Education, Ministry of Education, Pengiran Hajah Norhani binti Pengiran Haji Ismail presented the certificates as the guest of honour.

It is hoped that through the programme, teachers and coaches will apply the knowledge gained at the seminar when carrying out their physical education and training at schools.

The seminar is also hoped to enable teachers and coaches to diversify their training to generate students’ sports interest as dynamic and plyometric warming session do not require a big space such as field.

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|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

AMONG the earliest scholars who spoke on plants in Al-Quran and Hadith is Al-Imam Ibn Qayyim Al-Jauziyyah. In his book ‘Thibbun Nabawi’, he has listed the plants in Al-Quran, detailing their goodness and uses mentioned in related Hadiths.

This was stated by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti, while making the keynote presentation at the international symposium titled ‘Ethnobotany in the Quran and Hadith – An Exploration’. It was jointly organised by Universiti Brunei Darussalam’s (UBD) Faculty of Science (FOS), Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER), and Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Centre for Islamic Studies (SOASCIS) at UBD’s Chancellor Hall yesterday.

Scholars discussed dates such as balah, busr, ruthab, ajwah and tamar. Types of grapes include zabib (raisins or dried grapes), bashal (shallots), cans, raihan (basil), olives, rumman (pomegranates), zanjabil (ginger) and others, he said.

The State Mufti explained that the scholars continue to expand their studies with more diversity, encompassing all the plants in Al-Quran, including trees, plants and vegetables as well as plants in paradise and hell.

“They have managed to list so many plants and strived to scientifically name each plant, yet this does not signal an end to the studies,” he noted.

According to him, plants are infinite in number and Al-Quran mentions only some specific plant names and calls others generally through words such as ‘syajara’ or ‘asy-syajara’ or ‘asy syajarata’ (tree) and ‘nabata’ or ‘anbatat’ or ‘anbatna’ (grow). These words represent all kinds of plants.

“Today, a good tendency has developed, and now the community has begun to take interest in herbs, to the point that farms and herb gardens are appearing everywhere.

“With all their shapes and forms as well as uses such as food, decoration and the like, consumption alone without knowing the benefits each plant has to offer is not enough, as we easily underestimate the type vegetable, herb or fruit, and end up missing out on their potential and benefits,” he noted.

He brought up one example, the Cosmos Caudatus, or locally known as Ulam Raja which is believed to come from Latin America, but can be easily grown in all Southeast Asian countries. A favourite among the local elderly, it is the key to health as stated in a study published in a neurology journal, which also found that those who regularly consume half-a-bowl of Ulam Raja daily has the same strong memory as those who are much younger, compared to those who do not or rarely consume it, the State Mufti said.

He elaborated that “a person who does not know the nutritional value of vegetables, herbs or fruits may consume them out of preference or habit. If the food is coincidentally nutritious, then he is fortunate, or vice versa. Some foods may have goodness but cannot be eaten excessively as it might become harmful.

“This is the importance of research. If there is no research, we will only consume without knowing about the nutrients,” he said.

“It has been learnt that UBD has identified 290 species of herbs, but in fact, this is just a measure of collecting data, something common, as anyone can collect data. But the big challenge here is to study each of these herbs.”

The State Mufti encouraged the study and research of the 290 species of herbs to make people familiar with their nutritional value, and recommended using them to promote health and cure diseases.

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