LOCAL enterprises should leverage on new technologies, automation and innovation and through research, education or training to increase productivity levels and contribute to the steady growth of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) in the long run, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism said during a special lecture at Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) yesterday.
At the special lecture yesterday on the country’s philosophy Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) that focussed on the topic of the contribution of entrepreneurship in the country’s GDP to achieve the country’s Vision 2035, the minister said by leveraging on new technologies and innovative ways, the output of local companies can be increased, without adding more human capital or the use of land and capital.
The minister also highlighted the government’s active efforts in encouraging entrepreneurship development among the youth by providing training and support and stressed the importance of youth playing their part in contributing to the country’s GDP growth.
He also said that despite achieving economic prosperity and being a country with one of the highest living standards in the region since attaining independence in 1984, Bruneians should not be complacent and should strive harder so that we can compete with other developed countries.
“The prosperity long enjoyed by citizens and residents of the country must be sustained and efforts must be tripled so that our economy that is still strongly dependent on the oil and gas industry can be diversified,” he said, adding that sectors such as trade, agriculture, forestry and fisheries, domestic and personal services are some of the sectors that can contribute to the economy.
Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism in a group photo. – PHOTOS: HAKIM HAYATAttendees of the special lecture
During the lecture, the minister also urged UNISSA students to be bold in venturing into small and medium enterprises and told them to not easily give up and lose hope. He also hopes to see UNISSA generate graduates who are independent and self-sufficient, as encouraged in Islam and not depending fully on the government, especially in employment opportunities.
The special lecture, hosted by the Centre for Knowledge and Language Promotion (PPIB) of UNISSA is part of the university’s scholarly activity for its MIB course for the academic year 2018.
UNISSA in a press release said that the MIB course is a compulsory module for first year students in the university.
The course is hoped to infuse in students a better understanding of the MIB concept as a way of life, especially in facing the tide of modernisation and globalisation.
IT’S a mouthwatering start to the second half of the month as Brunei Gastronomy Week was officially launched yesterday by Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong in a ceremony that took place at the Setia Pahlawan Hall of the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT).
An annual initiative by the MPRT and the Brunei Tourism Board and organised in conjunction with the 34th National Day celebrations, Brunei Gastronomy Week aims to celebrate Brunei and create awareness on Bruneian cuisine.
The event this year will see the involvement of a total of nine participating hotels and restaurants/culinary bodies as well as Royal Brunei Airlines (RB), where they will be serving their own signature dishes alongside Bruneian cuisines as the highlight of their buffet or a la carte menus.
Other organisations involved in the event include Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, the Association of Travel Agents, Brunei Association of Hotels, and CHMP Media.
The week-long culinary showcase will commence on February 23 and run until March 11 at all the participating hotels and restaurants, and will target locals as well as international visitors. Prior to the launch, the minister in his speech called on more hotels and restaurants to serve Bruneian cuisines in a more sophisticated way and to further improve on their taste and presentation, so that the dishes can be served as part of a fine dining experience or at receptions held within or outside the country.
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong tours the booths at the eventMinister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong tours the booths at the eventMinister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong and senior officials in a group photo with award recipients and judges. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR
He added that it is important to provide a unique Bruneian gastronomical experience for those in the country and to those who are visiting.
“During the recent Asean Tourism Minister’s Meeting held in Chiang Mai, a joint declaration on gastronomy tourism was adopted. Gastronomic tourism helps create a strong sense of place for branding and marketing destinations, and also assists in maintaining and preserving local heritage and identity, and protecting biodiversity,” said the minister.
Yesterday’s ceremony also saw the winners of last year’s Brunei Gastronomy Week being presented with awards.
Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali expressed hope that the winners’ achievements will encourage talented, experienced and young budding chefs to step up and contribute to creating a more innovative and vibrant food industry in Brunei Darussalam.
“We want to heighten the level of skilled personnel within the food and beverage industry and support Bruneians who are driven and passionate in the culinary industry, who want to excel further and gain international experience to achieve world class recognition,” said the minister.
Skewed prawns, a dish prepared by a chef from The Rizqun International Hotel
This year’s highlight will be foods wrapped in banana (or other culinary-purpose) leaves as banana leaves are used for cooking and wrapping foods in a wide range of cuisines in tropical and subtropical areas, and adds a nice aroma and improves the taste of food.
Popular Bruneian cuisines which are typically wrapped in banana leaves are Pais Daging, Pais Udang and Pais Ikan.
The nine bodies participating in Brunei Gastronomy Week 2018 are Radisson Hotel, Royal Brunei Airlines, Royal Brunei Catering, School of Hospitality and Tourism – IBTE Sultan Saiful Rijal Campus, The Brunei Hotel, The Empire Hotel & Country Club, The Rizqun International Hotel, V-Plaza Hotel, and Sumbiling Eco Village.
Winners of Brunei Gastronomy Week 2017 which were presented with prizes yesterday are The Rizqun International Hotel for ‘The Best Taste’, The Empire Hotel & Country Club for ‘The Best Presentation’, URBN Kitchen for ‘The Best Innovation’, The Brunei Hotel for ‘The Best Creativity’, and Royal Brunei Airlines for ‘The Best Wholesomeness’. Certificates of appreciation were also presented to the judges of last year’s event, namely Hazizah Osman from Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, Wan Zainal Abidin from CHMP Media, Haji Jali bin Haji Ibrahim and Siti Kiprawi from Astera Consultants, as well as an officer from the Tourism Development Department.
Throughout the duration of Brunei Gastronomy Week, the signature cuisines served by each event participant will be continuously judged in terms of presentation, taste, innovativeness, wholesomeness and creativity, with winners to be announced at the next Brunei Gastronomy Week in 2019.
HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to attend several major events in conjunction with the 34th Brunei Darussalam National Day, together with members of the royal family.
These events constitute the Kesyukuran ceremony, together with congregational prayers and recitation of Surah Yaasiin; the Grand Assembly for the 34th National Day; and the ‘Kayuhan Semangat Hari Kebangsaan’ cycling event.
This was highlighted by Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, in her capacity as Co-Secretary of the Executive Committee for the 34th National Day celebrations, during a press conference held yesterday at the Conference Room of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.
During the conference, Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila shared information on the main celebrations, as well as the side-events and preparations for the 34th National Day.
“The theme of ‘Accomplishing the National Vision’ (Menjayakan Wawasan Negara) will be retained, with the celebrations scheduled to begin at 7.30am on February 24, at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital,” she said.
Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. – RAHWANI ZAHARI
“The theme focusses on the accomplishments of Brunei Vision 2035, by stressing the important roles which need to be fulfilled by all residents and citizens in every sector, towards the country’s development, with collective efforts towards ensuring the success and achievements of the vision.
“Meanwhile, the National Day logo has been improved on, so that it will be suitable for this year’s celebrations,” she added.
The permanent secretary also announced that rehearsals for the on-field performances, involving 7,000 students and civil service personnel, are being actively carried out at schools and sports complexes, including the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, Berakas.
A full-dress rehearsal will be conducted on February 20 and 22, at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien.
This year, 138 teams involving 23,000 participants have registered for the march-past, which is divided into the following clusters: National Security, Bestari Community, Civil Service, Socio-Economy, Post-Secondary Education, Secondary Education, Private Education, Mosque Takmir Groups, Professional Organisations, Youth Movements, Women’s Associations, General Associations and Oustanding Teams.
In the meantime, a miniature flag distribution ceremony will take place simultaneously at all primary, secondary and religious schools, including private educational institutions, in the Brunei-Muara, Tutong and Temburong districts today.
Among the schools involved are Sayyidina ‘Othman Secondary School in Kampong Bukit Beruang (Tutong) where Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara, in his capacity as the Deputy Co-Chairman of the Executive Committee for the 34th National Day celebration will be the guest of honour.
The same ceremony will be held in the Belait District, on February 19.
A hoisting of the giant-sized national flag will take place tomorrow, at the open area of the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex in the capital, witnessed by Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, in his capacity as Chairman of the Executive Committee for the 34th National Day celebrations.
The Kesyukuran ceremony, together with mass Maghrib and Isyak prayers and recitation of Surah Yaasiin and Doa Kesyukuran will take place on February 22, beginning at 5.45pm. The main centrepieces will be the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan, the Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque in Pekan Tutong; the Mohammad Jamalul Alam Mosque in Kuala Belait; and the Utama Mohammad Salleh Mosque in Pekan Bangar.
To further enliven the celebrations, the Kayuhan Semangat Hari Kebangsaan has been scheduled for February 25, starting at 7am, at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien.
The lowering ceremony of the giant-sized national flag will be held at 2.15pm on February 25, with Dato Paduka Awang Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman, the Deputy Minister of Finance, as the guest of honour.
The side-programmes for this year’s National Day will be carried out in the form of Belia Cinta Tanah Air, on February 19-24; the Brunei Gastronomy Week from February 23 to March 11; the Asian Development Tour (ADT) Brunei Golf Championship on March 7-10; a 34 times Khatam Al-Quran on March 8; the National Day Run 2018 on March 11; and a Choral Speaking Competition on March 11.
Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila advised all agencies planning to organise celebratory side-events to submit their requests to the 34th National Day Secretariat, for further consideration.
At the end of the press conference, she called on all Muslim citizens and residents to participate in the Kesyukuran ceremony as well as in the Grand Assembly for the 34th National Day.
The press conference was attended by members of the Working Committee for the 34th National Day Celebration 2018, which included the Deputy Superintendent of Police, Hamri Aslan bin Haji Abu Hanafiah, as the Acting Head of Operations at the Traffic Control and Investigation Department of the Royal Brunei Police Force as a representative of the Co-Chairman of the Traffic and Security Committee; Razali bin Badar, Protocol Officer at the Department of Adat Istiadat Negara, as a representative of the Co-Chairman for the Invitations and Protocol Working Committee; Ali bin Metussin, the Assistant Director at the Land Transport Department, as a representative of the Co-Chairman for the Transport Working Committee; Ali Termizzi bin Haji Ramli, Information Officer at the Information Department, as a representative for the Co-Chairman of the Working Committee for Media and Publicity; and the Secretariat of the 34th National Day celebrations.
AS PART of their final project, four final year students of Academy of Brunei Studies, Universiti Brunei Darussalam organised a briefing on ‘Cybercrime and the Risks and Dangers of Social Media’ for Year 7 students of Rimba II Secondary School yesterday,
The briefing was delivered by Siti Nurjauinah binti Haji Kula, Nor’adliatul Hidayah binti Haji Mohd Zaidi and Pengiran Hajah Nor’ Azmeena binti Pengiran Haji Mohiddin of the Criminal Justice Division of the Attorney General’s Chambers.
Nur’adliatul in her briefing highlighted on several well-known social media used for cybercrime including WeChat, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, YouTube, Tumblr, WhatsApp and Telegram.
Representatives of the Criminal Justice Division of the Attorney General’s Chambers delivering a briefing on ‘Cybercrime and the Risks and Dangers of Social Media’ to Year 7 students of Rimba II Secondary School. – BAHYIAH BAKIR
She explained that those social media platforms can provide the opportunity and easy path for cyber-bullying including online fraud and extortion.
She stressed that individuals who share their personal information on social networks should be aware of the danger of sharing doing so as others or strangers can easily take advantage of what they are sharing.
The briefing aimed to provide awareness and knowledge on matters related with cybercrimes increasingly widespread among teenagers and help the teenagers to be more cautions on sharing information while communicating with others through social media.
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 recently officiated the opening of Yippy Tune Music School, Yippy Juice, Jo-Art and Tomato Kidz/Nori-Dori.
The entire ground floor of the Fitness Zone in Kiulap has been revamped to provide a one-stop centre for children.
It is the first collaboration of its kind in Brunei, with different businesses of the same nature coming together to cater to the needs of their customers.
According to Fitness Zone founder and owner Wu Chun, the entire 5,000-square foot of the ground floor adopts an open concept, connecting Energy Kitchen with all three kids business establishments to provide a one-stop centre not just for kids, but the entire family.
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 during the ribbon cutting (pic above) and the minister receiving a token of appreciation (pic below). – PHOTOS: LYNA MOHAMAD
“While the parents are upstairs exercising at the gym, the kids can have their music lessons at Yippy Tune Music School or try their hand at arts with Jo-Art. On the other hand, parents who wish to relax while waiting for their kids can enjoy a healthy meal at Energy Kitchen, or do some shopping for their kids – opting from children’s furniture, toys, stationeries, to children’s clothing from Korea,” he said.
Wu Chun, who is also the owner of Energy Kitchen, has helped in the collaboration by revamping the Energy Kitchen’s menu, bringing in the finest ingredients to cater to this new crowd of children.
The kids business owners hope the collaborate effort will cultivate a culture that better appreciates art and music, nurtures creativity and at the same time, promote a healthy lifestyle.
THE LONG-AWAITED Marvel Studios’ movie – ‘Black Panther’ – was released this week at cinemas across the nation.
One of the most notable scenes in the blockbuster superhero movie is the Black Panther in a futuristic ride on the Lexus LC.
With cutting-edge technology, aggressive styling, and unrivalled performance, the LC is the perfect complement for the King of Wakanda, the ruler of the fictional world’s most technologically advanced kingdom.
According to NBT (B) Sdn Bhd, the Lexus LC will come to Brunei’s market soon.
In a statement, NBT (B) said the Black Panther’s story begins with his return home as King of Wakanda after succeeding his late father.
Using cutting-edge technology, the structural blue pigment of the LC reflects nearly 100 per cent of incoming light compared to the 50 per cent by conventional blue pigmentsPowered by a 470bhp engine, the LC delivers a breathtaking blend of power and performance
He has to prove himself worthy of the throne and overcome various challenges along the way.
Just as every superhero eventually rises to conquer the obstacles they face, the LC too had its own hurdles to overcome.
Debuting originally as a concept car, the LC was faced with scepticism that it would never go into production. However, it was not to remain as such.
Powered by a 470bhp engine, the LC delivers a breathtaking blend of power and performance.
To match the Black Panther’s reflexes, aluminium and carbon fibre are used to reduce weight and optimise dynamic handling.
On top of the protection that the Black Panther’s vibranium suit affords, it is also undeniably aggressive and sleek.
Using cutting-edge technology, the structural blue pigment of the LC reflects nearly 100 per cent of incoming light compared to the 50 per cent by conventional blue pigments.
This creates a mesmerising new shade of blue that has never been seen anywhere else.
It is only befitting that the leader of a kingdom as advanced as Wakanda takes to the streets in a ride known for its razor-sharp profile and enthralling performance.
The LC is forged with the steadfast spirit of Japanese craftsmanship that prioritises fine quality and impeccable elegance.
Combined with advanced technology, it’s a ride that is surely aggressive enough for the Black Panther.
AN AWARENESS talk on social media safety held yesterday for students from Years 1-3 showed that more than half of them have Facebook or Instagram accounts.
“It’s certainly a concern when children so young are using social media, because it makes them approachable to strangers including online predators and paedophiles,” said Awangku Saiful Badri bin Pengiran Zaini, a representative of Brunei Computer Emergency Response Team (BruCERT).
BruCERT was invited to the Sinaut Primary School to deliver the talk in two sessions – upper primary and lower primary.
The first session with those in Years 4-6 was delivered by Siti Nor Izuana binti Ayob with 57 pupils in attendance.
During the talk, one of the topics that caught the students’ attention was an incident involving YouTube personality Logan Paul.
Pengiran Mohd Farid Zulhusni bin Pengiran Aziz, the lead trainer at IT Protective Security Services Sdn Bhd (ITPSS)/BruCERT, delivering the talk at the Sinaut Primary School
The students were aware that Logan Paul had made the mistake of not thinking twice before posting a disturbing video.
The students were then taught to differentiate between what can and can’t be posted online.
They were also advised not to chat with strangers when playing online games which have chat features, such as Minecraft, Mobile Legends and Roblox.
In the second session, which was for Years 1-3, more than half of the 51 students answered ‘yes’ when asked if they have any social media accounts.
The talk for that session was presented by Pengiran Mohd Farid Zulhusni bin Pengiran Aziz, the lead trainer at IT Protective Security Services Sdn Bhd (ITPSS)/BruCERT.
“Parents are not aware that most social networks including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat require a minimum age of 13 years for opening an account,” Awangku Saiful Badri said.
“With the rise of social media, it is important for us to educate the younger generation on the dangers of social media and how to safely use Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and other social media platforms,” he added.
SAMUDRA RSC have enjoyed a revival in the Coneli Veteran League 2017/18 after a fine run yielded 14 points out of a possible 21 points in the second half of the league.
Samudra currently lie in eighth place with 21 points after looking outside the top 10 only a few weeks ago. But after bringing in new inclusions to the squad, they have enjoyed an upward trend in the table.
“The mission for Samudra RSC in the Coneli Veteran League Miri 2017/18 is to provide competition to teams from Sarawak and position Samudra among the best 10 teams. From our first involvement, Samudra RSC have proved that our current squad have pulled a surprise to other teams in the league,” said the team’s president Kassim bin Haji Ibrahim.
“Samudra have produced four victories, two draws and one loss and have attained 21 points, faring better than the league season in 2016.”
The Brunei-based outfit will be involved in friendly matches both locally and abroad.
Samudra RSC team members in a group photo. – SAMDUDRA RSC
In February and March, Samudra RSC will receive the visit of MMU FC, a team from Selangor, as well as playing against Sipitang FC and other domestic matches aimed towards enhancing the play of Samudra RSC.
The objective of the friendly matches is to prepare the team for the FA Miri League Cup to be held in March 24.
Samudra’s rise in form is made possible with the support of everyone associated.
“I am very thankful to the executive committee members of Samudra RSC who have given solid cooperation throughout the establishment of Samudra RSC,” the president said.
“So are the commitments of the players who never feel tired of supporting me in developing Samudra RSC both in the country and overseas.
“I hope that the executive committee and players will continue with the cooperation and work together to set the mission and vision of Samudra RSC.”
Kassim also outlined plans of the participation of Samudra RSC Jr, a junior team, in the Brunei-Muara District League this year.
“With their participation, this is proof that Samudra RSC will continue to succeed and progress.
“Towards the future, Samudra RSC will provide opportunities to the young generation to become members and be absorbed as players in Samudra RSC later on,” the team president said.
A CLOSING ceremony was held yesterday at the Seameo Voctech Centre for a regional training programme on the Development of Online Teaching and Learning Materials.
The two-week programme began on February 3, and yesterday’s ceremony saw the 22 participants from Seameo member countries receiving certificates to mark their completion of the programme.
The course coordinator, Dr Abess Sebihi explained in his report that the participants were first introduced to the current trends and issues in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) personal development, pedagogical and practical skills as well as the need for digital teaching and learning, and were provided with an overview of approaches on using Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in TVET delivery with regard to ICT programme development.
This was followed by lecture sessions on 21st Century skills framework, learning and innovation skills for students using pedagogical approaches. Other topics covered included instructional systems design for developing high performance training, as well as an introduction to some relevant ICT tools, such as Sway, Learn Boost, VoiceThread, Socrative, ADDIE model and others.
Dr Sebihi noted that an important part of the programme was the presentation of country reports by the participants on the best practices, issues and challenges encountered in their ICT and e-learning TVET programme, which also included the profile and educational structure of their countries in relation to ICT for TVET.
The guest of honour, Eko Himawan, Head of Chancery at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Brunei Darussalam handing over a certificate to a participant. – DANIAL NORJIDI
This was followed by modules that provided the participants with skills, tools, knowledge and experience to develop online teaching and learning materials, and how to use Moodle, a software to host content and interact with their students.
These modules included learning a technique in using ICT tools and software to teach and support learning; an introduction to web conferencing and MOOCS; facilitating online teaching and learning content via screen recording; the use of Learning Management System (LMS) services to manage teaching, learning resources and activities; as well as action planning and a group project.
“It is envisaged that this training programme has upgraded the participants’ skills in developing learning contents and hosting it on Moodle, and that they will make full use of newly acquired skills in their teaching,” he said.
He also highlighted the participants’ involvement in a regional forum on ‘The Future Ready Skills: Advancing a Future for Everyone’.
The forum at the Seameo Voctech Centre with the collaboration of Microsoft Brunei, provided participants with information on the use of technology as a tool for learning and developing a highly skilled workforce; on Minecraft as a tool to incorporate project-based learning; and on relevant TVET initiatives in Southeast Asia.
He added that the programme also included an educational visit to the Politeknik Brunei campus, and social cultural visits.
The programme was designed to meet the common needs of Seameo member countries for upgrading the competencies of their education practitioners, explained Dr Haji Mohd Zamri bin Haji Sabli, the Director of Seameo Voctech Regional Centre in his welcoming remarks.
He congratulated the participants for completing the programme, and said that he was sure that they were equipped with better skills in preparing online teaching and learning materials.
“I am confident that all of you will make valuable contributions in teaching and learning at your institutions in your respective countries,” he said. “I hope this regional training programme has been able to provide you all with the necessary tools and applications associated with the development of online teaching and learning.”
The guest of honour, Eko Himawan, Head of Chancery at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Brunei Darussalam, handed over certificates to the participants.
He remarked, “I am sure that the sessions in the past two weeks have been successful in introducing you to emerging tools and applications associated with the development of online teaching and learning, writing assignments and project-based tasks, simulation activities and individual actual plans.
“I am confident that this training programme has provided you with new, as well as much improved knowledge and skills to develop online teaching and learning materials, and that you have found them useful and relevant to your current work.”
THE Doa Selamat and Kesyukuran for the Istiadat Bersiram was held yesterday for Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman, in honour of the recent birth of Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Faathimah Az-Zahraa’ Raihaanul Bolkiah binti Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah.
The event began with the Pehin-Pehin Khatib, Begawan-Begawan Pehin Khatib and Mudim-Mudim entering the surau and taking their seats at the centre of the ceremony.
After receiving 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 for the ceremony to officially begin, four Awang-Awang entered carrying the Dian Empat, followed by three Awang-Awang carrying the Surat Dikir, Bantal Geguling and Pebarahan, and placing them in the designated places.
The ceremony then began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Haji Emran bin Haji Kunchang, who also headed the Dikir Assalamualaika followed with the Dikir Syarafil Anam, which was continued with the recitation of Rawi and Dikir Marhaban.
Nineteen shots of the cannon were fired, to mark the conclusion of the Dikir ceremony.
Photo shows Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara receiving scented oil during the ceremonyCabinet Ministers during the ceremonyCabinet Ministers at the eventPehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti reciting the Doa Selamat. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI
In the meantime, Pehin Penyurat, Pehin Bendahari and Awang-Awang entered the ceremony, bringing the Ancit, filled with scented oil and sprinkling it accordingly on everyone present.
Following the Doa Dikir, a Doa Selamat was recited by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti.
Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Faathimah Az-Zahraa’ Raihaanul Bolkiah was born on 12th of Rabiulawal 1439H corresponding to December 1, 2017, and is the fourth child of 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, and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah.
Yesterday’s royal ceremony was carried out in front of Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara.
Among those present at the ceremony were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran-Pengiran Cheteria, Cabinet Ministers, Privy Council members, deputy ministers, Pengiran-Pengiran Peranakan, Pehin-Pehin Manteri and Manteri-Manteri Hulubalang, Legislative Council members, permanent secretaries and senior government officers. The female guests, meanwhile, were seated at the Balai Singgahsana Indera Kencana of the Istana Nurul Iman.
The Istiadat Bersiram is a ceremony that is held on special occasions such as weddings and coronations. It is also held to mark the end of confinement for a female member of the royalty.
YAYASAN Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB) Primary School was selected to take part in the ‘farm to school’ programme organised by Agrome IQ International Sdn Bhd.
The programme was launched yesterday by Noorhaizamdin bin Haji Mohd Mosbi, the CEO of YSHHB School as the guest of honour.
One of the participants is the grandson 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, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Hafeez bin Pengiran Anak Khairul Khalil.
In total, 30 students of Year 4, 30 of Year 5, and 10 science teachers are taking part in the programme.
Noorhaizamdin said that ‘farm to school’ is an educational platform designed specifically for schools and educational institutions.
Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Hafeez bin Pengiran Anak Khairul Khalil waters the plant sprouts as Noorhaizamdin bin Haji Mohd Mosbi, the CEO of YSHHB School looks on. – BAHYIAH BAKIR
It provides opportunities for students to learn the fundamentals of urban farming in Brunei.
“I am happy that this programme will provide our students with the opportunities to experience out-of-classroom learning, where they actually get their hands dirty under the sun, growing their own nutritional food and this will instil in them the value of knowledge, self-reliance and sense of responsibility and may encourage them to become an agripreneur,” he said.
Noorhaizamdin urged the students to take full advantage of the opportunity to learn new things outside of their classroom setting and actively participate in all activities.
The programme is in line with Brunei Vision 2035 to contribute to Brunei’s gross domestic product (GDP) with the emphasis on increasing productivity using high technology focussing on export.
In addition, ‘farm to school’ will help raise awareness and promote a healthy lifestyle through education and farming. This initiative received full support from Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd which funded the project of the school and two other schools.
WITH the major role that information and communication technology play in today’s world, online learning has also become an important tool in the education sector.
This was highlighted yesterday during the closing ceremony of a regional training programme on the Development of Online Teaching and Learning Materials at the SEAMEO Voctech Regional Centre.
In a speech at the ceremony, Dr Haji Mohd Zamri bin Haji Sabli, the Director of SEAMEO Voctech Regional Centre said, “As mentioned in my welcoming message of this training programme, in today’s world where information and communication technology is playing a major role in people’s daily lives, how a student learns is dependent on how the student reacts to the sophisticated system offered by these technologies.
“Thus, it is not surprising that online learning is accepted as an important tool in the education sector, and as educators, teachers and trainers, we have a vital role to play.
“Online learning provides a more flexible system of information dissemination which is not confined to only regular day time activities but can also take place in a variety of locations such as homes, schools, libraries and open fields.
Dr Haji Mohd Zamri bin Haji Sabli, the Director of Seameo Voctech Regional Centre delivering his speech. – DANIAL NORJIDI
“With online learning, educators, teachers and trainers will be able to reach learners in different setups using the available diverse ICT resources. This will reduce the limitation of time, space and place that have become a great hindrance and challenge to education delivery.”
He noted that the development of online teaching and learning often involves the construction of knowledge, creativity and innovation.
The significance of technology and online learning was further alluded to during a speech by Eko Himawan, Head of Chancery at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Brunei Darussalam, the guest of honour at yesterday’s closing ceremony.
He highlighted that this situation necessitates that the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in the region adopt and make online learning technology available in classrooms to support the needs of TVET practices.
“We are all aware that the development of e-learning in recent years has immensely affected education policies and pedagogies that lead to an increasing integration between curricular content, learning strategies and technology practices,” he said. “The use of the Internet has produced a huge transformation on students learning and offered them a virtual, neutral space to enact a positive change through negotiation of meanings, identities and practices.
“The development of online teaching and learning often involves the co-construction of knowledge, creativity, innovation and shift on what is ‘valued’ and what can be achieved through collective participation, rather than individual effort.”
He said that this creates opportunities for collaborative problem solving, self-directed learning and cooperation towards building up expertise and skills across different networks dedicated to the development of the Southeast Asian region.
“What we must remember, in the pursuit of using technologically advanced resources and means in making our teaching and learning more interesting, meaningful, interactive and student-centred, it is still important for us to develop our students’ soft skills,” he added.
AS A symbol of solidarity, perseverance and loyalty towards the sovereign and country, the national flag unifies people from all walks of life, as they prepare to celebrate the 34th National Day and achieve the aims of the national Vision 2035, said the Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara, yesterday.
In his sabda at a ceremony held in Sayyidina Othman Secondary School in Tutong District, for the distribution of thousands of miniature flags to schools nationwide for the upcoming 34th National Day, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar said that the national flag is the bearer and symbol of the national identity that is rich with Bruneian values and the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) philosophy, through the representation of its colours, emblem and slogan.
“Therefore, citizens and residents who embody excellent qualities or Bruneian attributes are urged to respect and protect the sovereignty of the national flag,” he said in his sabda.
The Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara also called on grassroots leaders, including mukim penghulus, village heads, youth leaders, community leaders and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to constantly remind their respective communities about the shared responsibility and trust in upholding the national flag.
“To establish Brunei Darussalam as a developed nation, it is our joint responsibility to continually encourage people from all walks of life to uplift their own enthusiasm and determination in achieving the Brunei Vision 2035,” he said.
Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara presenting a miniature flag to a student in Tutong District. – NORMAZLINA M.DDr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism visiting a classroom at Sultan Hassan Primary School, Bangar. – NOORHAMIZAN HAJI MOHD MOSBIDato Paduka Haji Mohammed Nor bin Haji Jeludin, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and senior government officials at Learning Tree School in Kampong Pulaie during the event. – RAHWANI ZAHARI
He also urged students to continue working hard towards becoming respected leaders, while reminding them to stay on course in their areas of interest, as the future leaders and human resources needed to advance the country’s development.
A total of 5,000 miniature flags were distributed to students in simultaneous ceremonies held at schools across the Brunei-Muara, Belait, Tutong and Temburong districts yesterday, in conjunc-tion with the 34th National Day on February 23.
Miniature national flags were distributed to classrooms, in addition to flag-hoisting campaigns held at primary, secondary, Arabic, religious and private schools in all four districts.
In the Brunei-Muara District, the distribution took place at the Learning Tree School in Kampong Pulaie, with Dato Paduka Haji Mohammed Nor bin Haji Jeludin, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, as the guest of honour.
In Belait District, the ceremony took place at the Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Religious School, in the presence of Captain (Rtd) Dato Paduka Abdul Rahman bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence.
In the Temburong District, the event was held at the Sultan Hassan Primary School, Bangar in the presence of Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism.
The events were jointly organised by the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Information Department and the four District Offices to enliven the 34th National Day celebrations.
INJURY-ravaged MS PDB sealed a place in the quarter-finals of the DST FA Cup after overcoming Kota Ranger FC 4-2 at the Berakas Sports Complex last night.
Kota Ranger, whose league title was extinguished in flames during their league outing against Tabuan Muda ‘A’ on February 3, began the second half all guns blazing with Md Hafis bin Haji Mahari slicing his shot narrowly wide.
As they were not able to make their opportunities and bulk of possession count, the police personnel made use of theirs as Md Forish Aryan bin Abd Rahman opened the scoring.
MS PDB nearly doubled their lead with Md Azri bin Zahari first getting a touch which Kota Ranger Azman Ilham Noor parried away to the path of Md Faizizzul bin Hussin whose shot was somehow kept out by the former DPMM FC shot-stopper.
With the police personnel posing questions, they extended their lead after Md Forish Aryan broke free and snatched his second of the game five minutes later.
MS PDB’s Md Faizizzul bin Hussin curls a free-kick to score a goal against Kota Ranger. – FADHIL YUNUS
Kota Ranger were handed a lifeline after Awangku Ammar Syafie bin Pengiran Hassanuddin latched onto a cross before coolly firing home from close range in the 70th minute.
But any hopes of mounting a comeback was instantly dashed in the 81st minute though it still took composure and balance to seal the game.
Abang Azim bin Abdul Rashid raced clear from the edge of the box and sidestepped past Kota Ranger captain Afi bin Aminuddin before slamming the ball home to make it 3-1.
The demolition was complete after Md Faizizzul bin Hussin curled a stunning free-kick at the end of normal time.
Abu Suffian bin Haji Adanan scored a consolation for Kota Ranger deep in injury time.
MS PDB came into the match short of their first-team players still not fit for selection including Jasriman Johari who could only make a place in the bench.
“We had a lack of players in the starting 11 down to injuries and most of them haven’t fully recovered yet,” said MS PDB deputy coach Muhammad Danial Haris.
He said that the performance carried a bonus because they were playing without any pressure.
“Tonight is a bonus because we did not have any hopes of progressing deeper into the tournament. They played without pressure and play normally.
“We also had a lack of stamina but we can improve in the future,” the deputy coach further added.
“In terms of performance, we had a slow start in the first half but once the goal arrived, it helped built confidence in the players.
“Credit also goes to Kota Ranger for providing good competition to our team,” he said.
Muhammad Danial also shared that most of the players in MS PDB first team made up of reserves.
With MS PDB set to play Kota Ranger again in the league, Muhammad Danial said that there is 48 hours until their next match and they will be monitoring the situation on the players.
The deputy coach also agreed that the big win over Kota Ranger will provide a morale boost ahead of the sequel tomorrow, whose side could jump to sixth in the DST Super League with a win.
MS PDB have been rewarded with a last-eight tie against Tabuan Muda ‘A’ in the DST FA Cup.
AUTORITI Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD), in cooperation with the Belait District Office, recently held an AMBD Financial Literacy Roadshow at the District Officer’s residence in Kuala Belait where AMBD presented a number of talks to the mukim penghulus and village heads as well members of the Mukim and Village Consultative Council in the Belait District.
The objective of this roadshow was to increase awareness on the roles and functions of AMBD as the central bank of Brunei Darussalam, as well as to increase financial literacy in the country.
The series of talks opened with an introduction to AMBD followed by a talk titled ‘Know Your Currency’. This talk shared the ways in which members of the public can identify counterfeit notes, as well as sharing with them the laws under the Currency Order, 2006.
AMBD also elaborated on the Currency Interchangeability Agreement (CIA) between Brunei Darussalam and the Republic of Singapore. Under the CIA, in each country the currency issued by the other country must be accepted, at par and without charge, by the monetary authorities and banks. However, the currencies can be accepted by shops as “customary tender” for any payments in the other country. This was followed by a talk titled ‘The Value of Your Reputation and Assets’ which explained the roles and responsibility of the Credit Bureau of the AMBD and the Collateral Registry System of the AMBD.
The Credit Bureau provides a Credit Report, a report which contains the customer’s entire credit history and is used by banks and financial institutions to assess loan applications. Meanwhile, the Collateral Registry System is a unified registry that compiles, amongst others, Bills of Sales, Company Charges and registration of hire purchase for motor vehicle.
Attendees at the talk. – AMBD
The roadshow continued with a talk on the Total Debt Service Ratio (TDSR). During this talk, AMBD explained about the TDSR, a policy issued by AMBD which sets a maximum limit for monthly loan repayments at 60 per cent out of the borrower’s monthly income, for those earning a monthly salary between BND1,750 and BND9,999.
The roadshow concluded with a talk called ‘Be Financially Smart!’ which aimed to equip the attendees with the ability to manage and plan their finances, which included achieving financial goals, protecting wealth through insurance/Takaful, and the importance of having an emergency fund. It further emphasised on how to manage debt wisely; spending prudently; and to be aware of the characteristics of financial scams. The presentation ended with some financial ‘rules of thumb’ such as to actively save at least 10 per cent of monthly income and have an emergency fund worth three to six times of the monthly expenses.
AMBD’s most recent commemorative products, which are the products in commemoration with the Golden Jubilee Celebration of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s Accession to the Throne and the 50th Anniversary of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore, were also displayed and sold during the event.
The briefing was the first of a series of roadshows held by AMBD to all four districts in the country. Similar roadshows will also be held in the Brunei-Muara District, Tutong District and Temburong District.
THE Ministry of Defence (MinDef) and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) held a Doa Kesyukuran ceremony at Bolkiah Garrison and other camps yesterday to mark the 44th birthday of 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 RBAF.
Present as the guest of honour at the event held at the Surau Ad-Difa’ at Bolkiah Garrison was Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Defence II.
Also present were Major General Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, Commander of the RBAF; Captain (Rtd) Dato Paduka Abdul Rahman bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, Permanent Secretary at the MinDef; as well as Service Commanders; Deputy Permanent Secretary (Technology and Development) at the MinDef; directors; commandants; senior officers; officers and personnel from the MinDef and RBAF.
Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Defence II and guest of honour, and Major General Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, at the event. – PHOTOS: ISHAN IBRAHIMAttendees at the event
The ceremony began with the recitation of selected verses from Surah Al-Ma’idah by Lance Corporal Pengiran Habib Hazwan bin Pengiran Salleh.
This was followed by mass Maghrib prayer, Sunnat Hajat prayer, recitation of Surah Yaasiin and Doa Khusus as well as mass Isyak prayer led by Imam Shuibbin Haji Abdullah, the Imam of Surau Ad-Difa’.
INSTITUTES OF HIGHER EDUCATION
| Wani Roslan |
UNIVERSITI Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) and Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) held a Doa Kesyukuran ceremony yesterday in conjunction with the 44th birthday of His Royal Highness Prince (Dr) 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 Pro-Chancellor of UBD, UNISSA and UTB.
The ceremony took place at the UBD Mosque at Jalan Tungku Link.
Present at the ceremony as the guest of honour was Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman, Minister of Education.
Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman, Minister of Education; Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad, Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education; and Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, Rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali, at the event. – WANI ROSLAN
Also present were Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad, Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education; Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina binti Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Aziz, Vice-Chancellor of UBD; Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, Rector of UNISSA; Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman, Vice-Chancellor of UTB; senior officials, lecturers, staff and students of the universities.
The ceremony began with mass Maghrib and Sunnat Hajat prayers led by Imam Haji Jufri bin Haj Hidup, a Mosque Affairs Officer, followed by mass recitation of Surah Yaasiin, Surah Al-Waqi’ah and Doa Kesyukuran. The ceremony concluded with mass Isyak prayer.
ROYAL BRUNEI POLICE FORCE
| Azlan Othman |
A DOA Kesyukuran was held yesterday at the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) Headquarters’ Surau in Gadong in conjunction with the 44th birthday of 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 and Deputy Inspector General of the RBPF.
Present at the event was Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, the Commissioner of the RBPF.
Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, the Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF); Dato Paduka Haji Mohammad Irwan bin Haji Hambali, the Deputy Commissioner of the RBPF; and RBPF personnel at the event. – AZLAN OTHMAN
Also in attendance were Dato Paduka Haji Mohammad Irwan bin Haji Hambali, the Deputy Commissioner of the RBPF; directors, deputy directors, commanding officers, officers and personnel of the RBPF.
The event started with a mass Maghrib prayer followed by Sunnat Hajat prayer and then Doa Kesyukuran recitation.
The event is held annually since His Royal Highness was appointed the Deputy Inspector General of the RBPF on May 5, 2005.
A MEETING was recently held between the Acting Village Head of Kampong Pudak, Mukim Kota Batu, Shahri bin Haji Durahim and the Commanding Officer of the Kampong Ayer Police Station, Inspector Hamdan bin Mantul to enable both sides to share on the village’s developments and also information on crime trends and statistics in the area.
The RBPF said such interactions will strengthen the effectiveness of the Neighbourhood Watch and also foster closer ties between the police and village residents.
A surveillance watch jointly organised by the Berakas Police Station and the Kampong Sungai Tilong Neighbourhood Watch was also held recently, focussing on the village’s vicinity including shopping complexes and schools along Jalan Muara to prevent any unlawful activities. The surveillance was led by the Commanding Officer of the Berakas Police Station, ASP Muhammad Wafiy bin Zakaria with five personnel.
Royal Brunei Police Force personnel during a meeting with grassroots leaders and residents. – RBPF
The Village Head of Kampong Sungai Tilong, Pengiran Haji Zainal bin Pengiran Haji Bustaman also took part in the surveillance watch with four members of the Kampong Sungai Tilong Neighbourhood Watch.
Meanwhile, in the Temburong District, the Bangar Police Station also carried out a similar activity with the Kampong Puni Neighbourhood Watch. Before the surveillance activity, a short briefing on common crime cases in the area was given by the Bangar Police Station.
The Penghulu of Mukim Bangar, Haji Abdul Rahman bin Merusin took part in the surveillance activity with personnel from the Bangar Police Station. No unlawful activities were recorded.
UNIVERSITI Brunei Darussalam (UBD) yesterday held a flag hoisting ceremony in conjunction with the upcoming 34th National Day celebration.
The event, held opposite of the UBD Chancellor Hall, was attended by Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina binti Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Aziz, UBD Vice-Chancellor who was also the guest of honour; principal officers, staff and students.
The ceremony began with a march-past by flag-bearing UBD Army Cadet Platoon members and the recitation of doa, followed by the handover of the national flag by the guest of honour to the UBD Army Cadet Platoon members for the flag hoisting.
The ceremony was accompanied by the national anthem and patriotic song ‘Brunei Bumi Bertuah’, led by the UBD Student Representative Council.
The ceremony is an annual event organised by the UBD Student Affairs Section to promote the spirit of patriotism and love for the country.
Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina binti Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Aziz, UBD Vice-Chancellor handing over the national flag to a UBD Army Cadet Platoon member. – UBD
UNIVERSITI ISLAM SULTAN SHARIF ALI
UNIVERSITI Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), through the Student Affairs Section held a flag hoisting ceremony yesterday, in conjunction with the 34th National Day.
The guest of honour was Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, Rector of UNISSA.
The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by the distribution of the national flag by the Rector of UNISSA to the university’s Army Cadet Team Leader, 91197 Sergeant Cadet Mohammad Hafiz bin Haji Hamzulani.
The ceremony continued with a flag hoisting ceremony accompanied with the singing of the national anthem. Also present were Dr Haji Mohammed Hussain bin Pehin Penyurat Haji Ahmad, Deputy Rector of UNISSA; UNISSA officials and students.
The event ended with the reciting of Doa Selamat by 91256 Soldadu Cadet Abdul Muin bin Haji Abdul Hamid.
Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, Rector of UNISSA handing over the national flag to 91197 Sergeant Cadet Mohammad Hafiz bin Haji Hamzulani. – UNISSA
UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI BRUNEI
UNIVERSITI Teknologi Brunei (UTB) campus held a flag hoisting ceremony yesterday in conjunction with the start of the 34th National Day celebrations.
The guest of honour was Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman, the Vice-Chancellor of UTB.
Also in attendance were the university’s officials and students.
The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat led by Ustaz Md Fazalley bin Haji Hidup followed by the handing over of the national flag by the guest of honour to the representative of the UTB Army Cadet,92102 SJN KT Mohammad Zulkafli bin Mohd Sufri.
The flag was then hoisted by members of the UTB Army Cadet, accompanied by the singing of the national anthem.
Attendees also sang the patriotic song ‘Brunei Bumi Bertuah’.
Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman, the Vice-Chancellor of UTB in a group photo during the ceremony. – UTB
| Rokiah Mahmud, Daniel Lim, Pg Fairol RMF & Abdul Hakiim Yakof |
THE joyous and much-anticipated nation-wide celebration of the 34th Brunei Darussalam National Day has officially begun with the hoisting of a giant national flag in the capital yesterday.
The event at the open area of the Yayas-an Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex was officiated by the guest of honour Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports.
It started with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Peliharakan Sultan and Brunei Darussalam, led by Mudim Haji Amran bin Haji Mohd Salleh, Mosque Affairs Officer at the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The giant national flag – measuring 3.7 metres by 7.3 metres – was received by the guest of honour and later handed over to the Royal Brunei Navy.
The flag was then hoisted by personnel from the Royal Brunei Navy to the tune of the national anthem played by the Royal Brunei Police Force band.
This was followed by the singing of the national anthem ‘Allah Peliharakan Sultan’ by a choir formed by students of Berakas Secondary School comprising 34 males and 34 females.
Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, handing over the giant national flag to a Royal Brunei Navy personnelMajor General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, along with senior goverment officials during the giant-sized flag hoisting ceremony. – PHOTOS: RAHWANI ZAHARIMinister of Culture, Youth and Sports handing over the national flag to Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim, Brunei-Muara District OfficerThe hoisting of giant-sized national flag by the Royal Brunei Navy
It was thereafter accompanied by the singing of two patriotic songs along with the waving of mini flags.
The minister then handed over normal-sized national flags and national day posters to the Brunei-Muara District Officer, Acting Tutong District Officer, Acting Belait District Officer and Acting Temburong District Officer.
In Brunei-Muara District, the event was held at the car park area of the Brunei-Muara District Office.
The guest of honour was Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim, Brunei-Muara District Officer.
The event began with a march-past comprising the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Band Cadets and members of the Belia Cinta Tanah Air programme.
After the handing over of the giant-sized flag to the guest of honour, the flag was hoisted by personnel from the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) accompanied with the singing of the national anthem.
The guest of honour then distributed the national flags to 16 penghulus in the Brunei-Muara District accompanied by the village heads.
The event was enlivened with a choir performance from the Suara Anak Seni, Mukim Gadong ‘A’ choir group.
Also present were members of the Legislative Council, officers and staff of the Brunei-Muara District Office.
Meanwhile, in Belait District, the flag hoisting ceremony was held at Menara Cendera Kenangan, in Kuala Belait.
Present to oversee it was Abdol Hazis bin Haji Ahad, the Acting Belait District Officer.
He was accompanied by members of the Legislative Council – YB Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin, Penghulu of Mukim Liang who is also the Acting Penghulu of Mukim Bukit Sawat and YB Hanapi bin Mohd Siput, the Village Head of Kampong Labi 1 who is also the Acting Penghulu of Mukim Labi.
The district’s heads of departments, mukim penghulus and village heads, principals and headmasters of schools, heads of companies, members of Mukim and Village Consultative Council (MPMK) and representatives of various associations were in attendance.
The national flag was transported to the venue in a convoy led by Mohammad Abdul Hadi bin Haji Mohammad Syarifuddin, the Second Special Duties Officer, who was also the flag bearer.
Other convoy members were the Belait District Explorer Association, Persatuan Kereta Tahan Lasak Brunei (PKTLB), TTK, XPDC Motors and Scooter Owners.
They were greeted by the police, army and fire cadets from various schools in the district.
Recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat was led by Akop bin Haji Lamat, Mosque Affairs Officer of Muhammad Jamalul Alam Mosque.
The flag was passed to Abdol Hazis who then passed it to the Belait Police District for the hoisting.
As the flag ascended, the national anthem and a patriotic song ‘Bendera Negara’ were sung by the Wardah 2.0 choir group from Mukim Seria.
The Acting Belait District Officer then handed over flags to the mukim penghulus and a representative of the Belia Cinta Tanah Air programme.
In Temburong District, the flag hoisting was held at the open area near the wharf in Pekan Bangar. The guest of honour was Mohd Amir Hairil bin Haji Mahmud, the Temburong District Officer.
Accompanying him were Superintendent Haji Azree bin Haji Abdul Manaf, the Commandant Police for Temburong Police District who is also the co-chairman of the ceremony; YB Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu, a member of the Legislative Council and Penghulu of Mukim Bokok; and Mohammad Khairul Shahrul bin Haji Duahim, the Acting Assistant Temburong District Officer.
The district’s heads of departments, representatives of uniformed organisations and non-governmental organisations, as well as members of the MPMK, villagers and private companies were also in attendance.
The event commenced with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by the marching in of a team of national flag bearer led by Mohammad Khairul Shahrul. He then handed over the flag to the Temburong District Officer.
The songs ‘Allah Peliharakan Sultan’, ‘Bendera Negara’ and ‘Brunei Bumi Bertuah’ were presented by a choir group from the Sultan Hassan Secondary School.
Mohd Amir Hairil then gave flags to the mukim penghulus and participants of the Belia Cinta Tanah Air programme.
The flag raising event for Tutong District was held at the open area of the Community Hall Complex in Pekan Tutong.
It began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat by Hazman bin Haji Hussin, the Chief Imam of Kampong Bukit Udal Mosque.
The guest of honour was Haji Adnan bin Haji Adam, the Acting Tutong District Officer while the flag bearer was Abdul Kahar bin Haji Yahya, the Acting Special Duties Officer of the Tutong District Office.
The national flag was handed over to Haji Adnan who then gave it to the RBPF for the hoisting.
The RBAF Army Cadets from Mahad Islam Brunei, Muda Hashim Secondary School, and Sayyidina Othman Secondary School as well as the Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association, Brunei Darussalam Red Crescent Society, Tutong District Volunteer Association (SUKA) and members of the Belia Cinta Tanah Air programme took part in the event.
It was further enlivened by the song ‘Berkibarlah Bendera’ performed by the Wira Bangsa choir group. Haji Adnan then gave flags to the mukim penghulus in Tutong District and participants of the Belia Cinta Tanah Air programme.
Those bestowed with titles are urged to hoist their personal flags while members of the public need to hoist the normal flag from February 16-25.
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, yesterday attended a Chinese New Year (CNY) open house at the residence of Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin.
Upon arrival at the residence of Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin in Kampong Sungai Besar, Jalan Kota Batu, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince was greeted by the host and his spouse as well as other members of his family.
His Royal Highness the Crown Prince also consented to take a group photo with Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin and his family.
His Royal Highness the Crown Prince was accompanied by his children Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim, Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda Muhammad Aiman.
Later in the afternoon, Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin and his family members received the visit by His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, wife Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah and daughter Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muthee’ah Raayatul Bolqiah.
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; Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim; Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah; and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda Muhammad Aiman, in a group photo with Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin and his family membersHis 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, in a group photo with Jackson Ting, the Managing Director of D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd, and his family membersHis 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; Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim; Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah; and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda Muhammad Aiman, performing the Yee Sang with Jackson Ting, the Managing Director of D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd and his family membersHis Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muthee’ah Raayatul Bolqiah, in a group photo with Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin and his family membersHis Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah in a group photo with Jackson Ting, spouse and familyHis Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah and Dr Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Abdul Fattaah with Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King ChinHis Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah and Dr Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Abdul Fattaah in a group photo with Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin, spouse and family. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR
Also gracing the CNY open house was His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, who was accompanied by his son Dr Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Abdul Fattaah.
Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin is among one of the most prominent business figures who annually host an open house on the first day of Chinese New Year. Well-wishers comprised of Cabinet Ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, fellow business associates, bankers and Legislative Council members.
Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin also welcomed members from various welfare associations and villagers around the area. The open house served as an opportunity to strengthen relationships and friendship among the Chinese community in Brunei as well as extending festive greetings to families.
This year’s celebration falls on the Year of the Dog, which is predicted to become very important to all signs this year, bringing more groundedness and stability.
The highlight of the celebration in the country will take place at the Chinese Temple in the capital this morning.
Meanwhile, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince visited another CNY open house, hosted by Jackson Ting, Managing Director of D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd.
Upon arrival at Ting’s residence in Kampong Sungai Besar, Jalan Kota Batu, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince was greeted by the host and his spouse as well as other members of his family.
Accompanying His Royal Highness the Crown Prince were Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim, Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda Muhammad Aiman.
At Ting’s residence, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince consented to cut his birthday cake, which falls today and performed the Yee Sang with the host and his family members.
His Royal Highness the Crown Prince also consented to take a group photo with Jackson Ting and his family.
Later in the afternoon, the Ting family received a visit by His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik who was accompanied by his wife Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah and daughter Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muthee’ah Raayatul Bolqiah.
His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik also joined in the performing of the Yee Sang with members of the Ting family.
Jackson Ting has over the years hosted CNY open house at his residence with visits from the royalty, Cabinet Ministers, senior government officials, foreign diplomats and business associates.
Residents around the area as well as members of the public and associations would also throng the Ting family’s residence on the occasion.
