|     Wani Roslan     |

THE Minister of Home Affairs, YB Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, shared that the majority of prisoners are Muslims, with the focus not only on helping them to recover, not commit crime again in the future and get jobs for them, but also towards a spiritual approach.

He was responding to Legislative Council (LegCo) member, YB Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu, during the 14th LegCo session yesterday morning.

YB Haji Emran pointed out statistics of prisoners, especially in Jerudong Prison, according to the classification of the offence committed, who were involved in drug cases (22 per cent or 83 individuals), theft cases (21 per cent or 80 individuals) and house breaks-in (nine per cent or 37 individuals), while local residents involved 83 per cent (313 individuals) and those who repeatedly go to prison (more than four times) numbering at 31 per cent.

YB Haji Emran said the public must be made aware not to get involved in crimes, and asked about plans that have been implemented to reduce the number of crimes.

YB Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar said all relevant agencies are responsible to ex-prisoners, especially family members, in supporting them to live a normal life, with one such agency being the Social Issue National Council (MKIS).

He explained that the MKIS has a committee shared by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs to deal with issues related to criminal offences. Beyond that, other parties are responsible to contribute towards reducing the number of criminal cases and helping ex-prisoners.

YB Haji Emran also raised the issue concerning the progress of the ‘One Village, One Product’ (1K1P) initiative and on the achievement by Mukim and Village Consultative Councils in the country in producing their products, and how the programme can empower youths to get involved with it and making it as their career.

The Minister of Home Affairs responded by saying that there are currently 270 local products produced from the programme, yet not all products can get a boost in the local and regional market.

The minister added that their businesses need an improvement until they have achieved in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) business where it can increase the economy of the mukims and villages.

About the involvement of youths in the programme, the minister said the government encourages them to get involved with the programme, and that the entrepreneurs of the 1K1P can bring in the youths into the programme.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THERE is an increase in physical activities among adults in Brunei and this is a positive indicator in the nation’s fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Based on health research findings conducted in the country, the percentage of lack of physical activity in adults has decreased from 36 per cent to 25 per cent.

The Minister of Health YB Dato Paduka Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Jaafar said this responding to Legislative Council (LegCo) member YB Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii.

She wanted to know the challenges or obstacles faced by the country in its fight against NCDs.

The minister also noted that Brunei is at a positive level in fighting NCDs based on recommended steps set by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Despite these positive indicators, he said the Ministry of Health (MoH) continues to implement other efforts and initiatives to address NCDs.

This is in line with the Brunei Darussalam National Multisectoral Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Non-communicable Diseases (BruMAP-NCD) 2013-2018.

The minister noted that practical measures are the ‘best buy’ approach to fight NCDs.

These measures have been tested and proven to be effective and demonstrate satisfactory results in the prevention and control of NCDs.

Recreational activities such as ‘Bandarku Ceria’ and ‘Healthy Mukim’ have been able to nurture positive attitudes and awareness towards encouraging the people to be physically active.

Meanwhile, the prevalence rate of obesity and smoking (tobacco usage) in Brunei is at a stable level over the past five years without any significant increase.

This fulfils the global NCD’s target of ‘no increase in percentage for diabetes and obesity’.

Another global NCD’s target through ‘Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals’ is to achieve positive health and wellbeing for the public.

This is done by reducing premature deaths due to NCDs among people aged 30-70.

In Brunei, the primary risk of premature death from the NCDs was 17 per cent in 2009 (for citizens and permanent residents) and 14 per cent in 2016.

In addition, apart from being measured by global NCD’s targets, it is equally important for the health sector to monitor the implementation of progress indicators.

This is to ensure that our fight against non-communicable diseases is progressing positively within the specified time frame.

Currently, Brunei has successfully implemented (fully or partially) nine out of 10 progress indicators to prevent and control NCDs according to a report from ‘WHO NCD Progress Monitor Report 2017’.

This includes establishing NCD SMART targets, having the proper NCD mortality database, carrying out NCD risk factor surveys, establishing a national NCD multisectoral action plan, implementing major measures of reducing smoking and alcohol consumption, reducing unhealthy eating habits, increasing physical activities, and establishing clinical management guidelines for NCDs and medical facilities for risky groups.

According to ‘WHO NCD Progress Monitor Report 2017’, Brunei is among the regional countries that have achieved the highest achievement.

With this new information and data, the minister hoped that there is actually no decline in the effectiveness of our efforts in suppressing the NCDs.

However, there are some challenges and the MoH has taken action to counter them.

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 practises ‘Health in All Policies’ where the prevention and control of NCDs is a priority.

“In addressing the challenges of NCDs, we need to look into two corners, namely, clinical and non-clinical issues,” the minister said.

The first clinical issue involves the ministry’s effort to improve healthcare for NCD patients.

The MoH has spent $28 million out of the $46 million from the allocated budget 2016/2017 to purchase medicines for NCDs, which is estimated to be about 60 per cent of total medication expenses.

This expense is expected to increase if there are more patients with other NCDs such as high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. This means that the patients will need a variety of medicines (polypharmacy).

The second clinical issue involves the non-compliance of NCD patients in consuming medicines that have been prescribed to them.

Based on findings by the ministry, the total cost of medicines returned by patients to pharmacies across the country in 2017 was $281,799.01.

This showed that some NCD patients do not take their medications as directed.

A patient’s compliance with the medical treatment is likely to be related to the individual’s health literacy status.

Patients who are aware of their health risks will comply to proper medication as instructed by the medical officer.

On another note, to treat all NCD patients the MoH needs to increase its staff, which include local and foreign medical specialists.

The government has spent a huge amount of money to educate the people about NCDs – in hospitals, health clinics, schools, government and private offices, and villages.

In the field of non-clinical issues, the challenges include overcoming and changing the behaviours and mindsets of the people.

They must be prepared to make the tough but right choices on nutrition and healthy lifestyle.

Once their choice is made, their decision will influence those around them – their children, families, friends and communities.

|     Bahyiah Bakir     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah yesterday afternoon received in separate audience the outgoing Ambassador of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Brunei Darussalam at Balai Penghadapan, Bukit Kayangan.

His Royal Highness first received in audience Amphay Kindavong, the outgoing Ambassador of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to Brunei Darussalam. Kindavong has been the ambassador since September 13, 2014.

His Royal Highness then received in audience Abdolhamid Fekri, the outgoing Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Brunei Darussalam. Abdolhamid Fekri has held the role of Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam since January 26, 2015.

His Royal Highness expressed his personal appreciation to the ambassadors for their contribution to the long-standing relationships of their countries with Brunei Darussalam.

|     Azrol Azmi     |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, yesterday afternoon received Letters of Credence from 23 non-resident foreign envoys to the country.

They are Ibete Fernandez Hernandez, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba; Dorte Bech Vizard, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Denmark; Mohamed Reda Benkhaldoun, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco; Emir Hadzikadunic, Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Manuel Jose Balaguer Salas, Ambassador of the Argentine Republic; Nathan Wolf Lustbader, Ambassador of the United Mexican States; Dr Istvan Szerdahelyi, Ambassador of the Republic of Hungary; Raffaele Langella, Ambassador of the Italian Republic; Rui Fernando Sucena do Carmo, Ambassador of the Portuguese Republic; Andy Detaille, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium; Guido Felipe Loayza Devescovi, Ambassador of the Republic of Peru; Khalid Ghanim Mohammad AlGhaith, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates; Dr Michael Postl, Ambassador of the Republic of Austria; Grietje Vonno-Landman, Ambassador of the Kingdom of The Netherlands; Gamal Abdel Rahim Mohamed Metwally, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt; Gunn Jorid Roset, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway; Elsa Nury Bauzan Benzano, Ambassador of the Republic of Uruguay; Hamza Omer Hassan Ahmed, Ambassador of the Republic of Sudan; Fabian Enrique Valdivieso Eguigurent, Ambassador of the Republic of Ecuador; Nikoloz Apkhazava, Ambassador of the Republic of Georgia; Ramzia Diab Ghanim, Ambassador of the Republic of Gambia; Dorothy Samali Hyuha, High Commissioner of the Republic of Uganda; and Nurudeen Muhammed, High Commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

His Majesty then received in audience the non-resident am-bassadors and high commissioners who presented their Letters of Credence.

Also present at the audience ceremony was Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II.

The ceremony took place at Istana Nurul Iman.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

JAPAN Para Badminton Team head coach Kita Tsutomu has stressed the importance of starting training in badminton at a young age and the necessity of a well-thought-out plan.

Kita, who is in the country to spearhead a delegation from the Japan Para Badminton team, said junior players in Brunei Darussalam will gain valuable experience by playing with senior members of the national team.

“I saw under-15 players and if they play with the senior players, they will get a lot of experience from them,” said Kita, who was Japan’s national coach for the 2004 Olympics.

The head coach shared Japan’s practises of promoting the growth of junior players where the winner of an under-10 tournament will be monitored and then selected for training to further their development.

Typically, the background of a junior high school player begins in one of the many clubs in Japan and if they best players their age, they will steadily progress into another team which serves as a platform for the international arena.

Kita, whose itinerary in the Sultanate included a visit to the Brunei para-badminton team at the Youth Centre on Tuesday, added that the ideal preparation for a player to be ready to compete at the Olympics is to formulate a four-year plan.

In the case of Japan, Kita explained that it takes six to eight years to prepare a badminton athlete to reach the top eight players of the Tokyo Olympics.

Illustrating success stories in the transition from a promising talent to world beaters, he cited Japan’s current Olympic women doubles’ champions Misaki Matsutomo and Ayaka Takahashi as an example who came through the ranks as junior high school tournament winners.

Asked which notable players that the head coach has been influential towards their entry in a major event, Kita replied that his company Sanyo Company Limited Japan played a role in Japanese shuttler Takako Ida’s appearance in the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

The head coach could count Kaori Mori, Seiko Yamada, Chikako Nakayama and Miho Tanaka in the 2004 Athens Olympics as players that have been selected through such a system.

The list expanded to singles’ player Eriko Hirose, Kumiko Ogura and Reiko Shiota – who came to Brunei Darussalam in 2010 – who all played at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Kita also revealed the likely line-up of the men’s doubles in the Tokyo Olympics with the Japanese pairing of experienced player 31-year-old Hiroyuki Endo and a new partner who is 10 years his junior, which is a part of new changes made in the ranking system.

|     Azlan Othman     |

THE Enforcement Division of the Land Transport Department (JPD) conducted a non-scheduled continuous patrol as early as 6.45am yesterday along the Muara-Tutong, Jerudong-Tutong and Muara / Serasa Highways as part of on-going efforts to ensure the safety, wellbeing and comfort of the public, especially road users.

Several heavy vehicle operators were found to have failed to comply with the rules regarding loads and committing other offences such as not carrying vehicle qualification certificates for driving heavy vehicles, not having vehicle licence and using vehicles in poor conditions.

Fourteen fines were issued to 13 drivers and companies. The companies were Syarikat Seri Affandi with driver Sundakan Padwasal; Syarikat Watiqah Ahza with driver Harjito; Bee Seng Shipping Company with driver Muhammad Yani; B Win Forwarding Trading Company with driver Santosa; Soon Lee Heavy Machinery with driver Alek Puji; and FT Kong Co Sdn Bhd with driver Badron Zait.

Others included Syarikat Ampuan Haji Salleh with driver Nur Setyo Nughoro; Foundation Construction Engineering with driver Jasmet Singh; Pro Builder Sdn Bhd with driver Huang Neng Hui; Syarikat Haji Mangsor & Anak-Anak with driver Muhammad Anwar; Normaila Sdn Bhd with driver Sarun Patthaward; Q-Stone Sdn Bhd with driver Poniman; and Swee Sdn Bhd with driver Jamery Sukun.

During the patrol by the JPD, the driver named Harjito from Syarikat Watiqah Ahza was found to have committed a second offence, with the first offence being committed as recent as on March 13 for driving heavy vehicles carrying excessive load.

The second fine was imposed on the driver, while the company’s managers were instructed to provide information to drivers to comply with the rules to prevent the company’s permit from being suspended.

A final warning was also issued to other companies, whereby if they are found to repeat the offence, the JPD along with other enforcement authorities will take swift and decisive action against drivers under the Road Traffic Act and Regulations.

This includes suspending or revoking the driver’s licence, whereas for the company and its vehicles, the vehicle licences and company permits will be suspended temporarily.

The JPD urged company owners to be responsible and make their drivers comply with the Road Traffic Act and Regulations.

ROYAL Brunei Police Force (RBPF) received a complaint on its hotline 993 of a fight using a dangerous weapon in the Gerai Muafakat area, Jalan Selayun, Sengkurong.

As the police arrived, the victim was still at the scene and the suspect had left.

Early investigation found that the victim had a minor injury in his hand and the police are investigating two suspects believed to be involved in the fight.

The case is under investigation.

The police also seized two items of evidence: one tyre opener and a one metre steel ruler from the house of suspects.

The case is being investigated under the Criminal Procedure Code of 22, Section 159 Gaduh Gempar that carries a jail sentence of up to three years and a fine, and also under section 324 for injures using a dangerous weapon that carries a jail sentence of up to seven years and even whipping.

RBPF requested the public to provide any information about the incident. RBPF will also take stern action against anyone found breaking the law and disturbing peace.

Members of the public are advised to immediately report such incidents to the Police at 993 or through nearby police stations.

|     Fizah HAB     |

THE Joint Commander Armed Forces in French Polynesia and Commander of the French Polynesian and Pacific Maritime Zones, Rear Admiral Denis Bertrand yesterday made a courtesy call to the Minister of Defence II, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof at the Bolkiah Garisson.

Rear Admiral Denis Bertrand during the official visit to the Ministry of Defence also paid a courtesy call to Major General Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral defence and military cooperation and exchanged views on regional developments of mutual interest.

They were also delighted to note that the 12th Joint Defence Working Committee (JDWC) was a success in continuing the bilateral interactions consisting of high level visits, professional exchanges, trainings and courses.

As part of the programme, Rear Admiral Denis Bertrand also visited the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) Headquarters and the Naval Training Centre, RBN, and delivered a talk on ‘Security in the Pacific’ at the 8th Command and Staff Course held in the Defence Academy Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

Rear Admiral Denis Bertrand’s visit underscores the close and friendly defence relations between Brunei Darussalam and France.

|     Izah Azahari     |

THE academic qualification enhancement of non-graduate teachers is done through the In-Service Training Scheme under the Public Service Department of the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), said the Minister of Education, YB Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman.

He was responding to a query on the management and planning of human resources in terms of aiding the capacity building and enhancement of skills and qualifications of non-graduate teachers as well as the Asean Qualification Reference Framework (AQRF) by Legislative Council (LegCo) member, YB Iswandy bin Ahmad at the 14th LegCo session yesterday.

YB Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamzah said 325 officers and staff of the ministry participated in the 2014-2018 academic session that includes all levels from diploma until Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

YB Iswandy said non-graduate teachers comprise assistant teachers and teachers who only have diploma or government school certificate qualifications. The Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) offer ‘blended learning’, and the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Institute of Education in UBD has also prepared Master of Teaching as well as Master of Education.

To qualify for the courses, a Bachelor’s degree is required as well as an allocation to finance the studies.

The minister said $775,000 was allocated to the Ministry of Education (MoE) to enhance human resource skills through programmes such as the Teachers Professional Development Programme under the Brunei Darussalam Teacher Academy (BDTA) for the year 2018-2019.

Meanwhile, YB Iswandy also spoke on AQRF which recognises education and technical qualifications among Asean member states to facilitate the free movement of labour in the Asean region which he said local workers can use as an opportunity to gain experience in other Asean member states.

Speaking on the AQRF, YB Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamzah said it was endorsed by the Asean Economic Ministers in August 2014, the Asean Education Ministers (ASED) on September 2014, and the Asean Labour Ministers through the referendum from November 2014 to May 2015.

The AQRF committee was also established and mandated to implement the AQRF among Asean member states through activity and strategic action planning.

YB Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamzah said it may give locals the opportunity to broaden their work experience in Asean member states, but may also allow workers from the region to gain work experience in Brunei, increasing the competition for work as a whole.

|     Aziz Idris     |

THE Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) has proposed a budget of B$54,170,221 for the 2018/2019 fiscal year, which focusses on boosting productivity in all sectors to contribute towards increasing Brunei’s gross domestic product (GDP) while also aiming to tap into the export market.

From the total budget, more than $5.4 million has been prioritised to improve the agricultural output and meet the national rice self-sufficiency target through the usage of high-technology.

This was announced by YB Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, during his budget deliberation at the 14th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday afternoon.

He urged locals, especially youths to take up farming and aquaculture to help boost the local agricultural output as youths can contribute towards diversifying the local economy, and help address future unemployment challenges.

“Farming and fishing can be a viable business… It can be very profitable,” he said.

He added that the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood is intensifying its efforts to upgrade the current water and irrigation system at all paddy farms in the nation.

The minister noted that “inadequate water due to unpredictable weather and drought” was among the main challenges faced by local paddy farmers.

With the new system intact and with the introduction of a high-yielding hybrid rice variety named ‘Titih’ , which can yield up to 8.5 metric tonnes per hectare in a season, it is hoped rice production will go up to 7,700 metric tonnes per year by 2020 instead of 2,000 metric tonnes in 2015.

The budget will also invest in high-tech vegetable farming techniques such as hydroponic, vertical farming and greenhouses to curb challenges such as insufficient water supply. He urged all vegetable farmers to aim for the export market.

“The MPRT strategic Plan aims to encourage and provide an opportunity for commercial importers registered with the department to procure vegetables and fruits from local farmers.

“It also sought to reduce fruit and vegetable imports into the country and the risks associated with products coming from abroad,” he added

Touching on the poultry industry, the minister was happy to note that most major poultry farms in Brunei have upgraded from using the ‘conventional’ cage system to a ‘closed-house’ system and have contributed at least 60 per cent to the national agriculture produced.

With the new systems, the ministry estimated egg production to also increase to $289 million in 2020 compared to $106 million in 2015.

The ministry continues to help monitor the farms under the Agricultural Development Area to ensure that the site is utilised in accordance with the conditions set out and following best practices in infrastructure development, nutrition, disease prevention and cleanliness of chicken coops and the workers. The ministry will continue to support poultry farming through advisory services, provision of suitable areas for farming and high technology.

On aquaculture farming, the minister said, “Fisheries, especially aquaculture, is a highly lucrative business venture and is an economic sector that can contribute significantly to our national GDP. It can also create employment opportunities for the locals.

“The Department of Fisheries has $400 million target for aquaculture industry by 2020.

“MPRT will also strive to make the Sultanate the largest global producer of rostris blue shrimp.”

|     Achong Tanjong     |

BRUNEI was ranked among top 10 in the Islamic finance performance, according to the ICD-Thomson Reuters Islamic Finance Development Report 2017.

This was highlighted by Professor Dato Dr Mohd Azmi Omar, President/CEO of International Centre for Education in Islamic Finance (INCEIF) Malaysia in his keynote address at the Brunei Islamic Banking and Finance Forum (BIBFF) 2018 themed ‘25 Years of Islamic Banking and Finance in Brunei’.

The event was hosted by the Islamic Finance and Halal Marketing (IFHM) research cluster under the Universiti Brunei Darussalam School of Business and Economics (UBDSBE) yesterday at the Senate Room, Chancellor Hall, UBD.

Professor Dato Dr Mohd Azmi who was also the keynote speaker said the Islamic Finance Asset went from US$1.7 trillion in 2012 to US$2.2 trillion in 2016.

This growth is projected to further expand to US$3.7 trillion in 2022.

From the available data in 2016, these assets can be further broken down into several asset classes, where the majority is from the Islamic Banking industry at 73 per cent, followed by Sukuk at 16 per cent, other Islamic Financial Institutions six per cent, Islamic funds four per cent and Takaful two per cent.

In the field of knowledge in 2016, it is observed that about 2,581 research papers were published in of Islamic finance while there are 683 Islamic Finance education providers.

The Brunei Financial Sector blueprint has targetted the sector’s contribution to GDP from 5.1 per cent (2016) to eight per cent (2035).

In comparison, Singapore’s targets were 12.8 per cent (2016) and 13.3 per cent (2017).

The country may want to further explore its challenges and build up on its strength to be the International digital hub for Islamic finance and Halal economy. This is expected to develop among others the Islamic banking industry, Islamic Capital market, Takaful, Islamic wealth management, Islamic crowdfunding and human capital development.

He also stressed the importance of human capital in ensuring Islamic finance in a Halal economy.

From an academic viewpoint, he emphasised the need for curriculum programmes to focus not only on current skills needed but to also cater future needs requirement, given the rapid changes brought about by the fourth industrial revolution in the global Halal space.

Meanwhile, Professor Ahmed Masood Khalid, Dean of UBDSBE in his welcoming address said the forum aimed to provide a platform to researchers, regulators, academics and practitioners to discuss the challenges Islamic finance industry is facing today.

It was also to deliberate potential measures and policies in strengthening the industry in the future.

“As students of finance, we know the three important ingredients of a successful financial sector which are the markets, the products and the participants,” he said.

“However, to provide stability and growth to the financial industry there is a need for financial regulations and corporate governance. In the case of Islamic banking and finance, these policies and procedures are even more important to ensure the products and processes are Syariah-compliant,” Professor Ahmed Masood said.

He added that Syariah-compliant banking products hold a 40 per cent market share.

One study projects that by 2020, the market share of Islamic banking and finance in the Sultanate will grow to at least 50 per cent of the total financial sector.

Besides Islamic banking, growth is also noticed in Islamic products including Takaful (Islamic insurance) where the market share is estimated around 40 per cent. Retail Islamic banking products and services currently available in the Brunei market include the Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) Home Financing Product and BIBD Financing Product using the Tawarruq concept. On the regulatory framework, Brunei introduced some legislation such as the Syariah Financial Supervisory Board Order 2006, the Islamic Banking Order 2008 and the 2008 Takaful Order.

The one-day forum featured 12 speakers from government agencies and private organisations which included Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam, Bank Usahawan Brunei, BIBD, SBI Islamic Fund (Brunei) Limited and Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei, as well as academia from Universiti Brunei Darussalam and Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) who provided insights on the developments of Islamic banking and finance in Brunei.

The forum facilitated by the Islamic Finance and Halal Marketing under the UBDSBE was aimed at promoting research, development and publication activities in the field of Islamic finance. The opening ceremony yesterday was officiated by the Assistant Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) of UBD, Associate Professor Dr Mohammad Ayub Sadiq @ Lin Naing.

|     Azrol Azmi     |

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), received in audience Rear Admiral Denis Bertrand, Joint Commander Armed Forces in French Polynesia and Commander of the French Polynesian and Pacific Maritime Zones, at the Istana Nurul Iman yesterday.

Present at the ceremony were Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Defence II; Major General Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, Commander of the RBAF; and Christian Ramage, Ambassador of the Republic of France to Brunei Darussalam.

Defence and military relations between the two countries were significantly enhanced when the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Defence Matters and on Defence Equipment was signed on February 25, 1999.

Recently, the 12th Joint Defence Working Committee (JDWC) meeting was held between the senior officials of both countries where matters on advancing bilateral defence cooperation were deliberated. The friendship between the two countries was further highlighted with the goodwill visit by French frigate Vendemiaire to Brunei Darussalam from March 7-9. The visit by Rear Admiral Denis Bertrand aimed to further strengthen the defence and military cooperation between the two countries.

|     James Kon     |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam yesterday graced a memorable Chinese New Year celebration organised by the local Chinese community at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.

Accompanying Their Majesties at the Tiong Hua Chinese New Year 2018 get-together ceremony, were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam; 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; and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Setia Diraja Sahibul Karib Pengiran Anak Haji Idris bin Pengiran Maharaja Lela Pengiran Muda Abdul Kahar.

Also attending the celebration were Cabinet Ministers, members of the Legislative Council, prominent figures in the government, foreign dignitaries and members of the Chinese community.

Upon arrival at the ICC, Their Majesties and members of the royal family were welcomed by Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin, honorary advisor to the organising committee for the Chinese New Year celebrations 2018; YB Ong Tiong Oh, a member of the Legislative Council; and Malcom Lim, President of Chinese Chamber of Commerce Bandar Seri Begawan who is also the Chairman of the Chinese New Year organising committee.

Prior to the get-together ceremony, Their Majesties and members of the royal family joined for a group photo session with the organising committee before heading to the Plenary Hall. This was followed by singing of the national anthem and presentation of a pesambah to His Majesty. Nine electrifying performances presented by students of Chung Hwa Middle School, BSB, thrilled Their Majesties and members of the royal family as well as the audience.

The performances included Chinese New Year songs, traditional dances, Malay poetry, wushu and others. Before the ceremony concluded, invited guests and the performers took the opportunity to greet Their Majesties and members of the royal family.

In an interview after the ceremony, Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin said, “The Chinese community felt honoured and privileged to be able to celebrate Chinese New Year with Their Majesties and the royal family for 12 consecutive years since 2006. This has demonstrated the loving monarch’s care for the people including the Chinese community.”

Under the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB), the national philosophy of Brunei Darussalam, the many ethnicity and people in this country can live harmoniously and prosper together, he added.

Meanwhile, Malcom Lim highlighted, “We are honoured that Their Majesties and members of the royal family attended the get-together. We also appreciate the attendance of various Cabinet Ministers, government officials as well as representatives of the private sector who turned up to celebrate the Chinese New Year this year. The Chinese New Year get-together ceremony is a very good avenue for the Chinese community to interact with the government sector.”

He emphasised the need for cooperation among all ethnicities in Brunei for the continued prosperity and harmony of the country.

Malcom Lim thanked Their Majesties for attending the celebration as well as the organising committee members for their hard work in making the event a success.

THE Ministry of Health (MoH) alerted members of the public to four health products and one cosmetic product tested by the laboratory of Pharmacy Laboratory Services, Laboratory Services, MoH and found to be adulterated with undeclared, potent western medicine.

The affected health products are:

i) Jamu Sari Daun Selasih Kapsul (manufactured by PJ Muncul Jaya, Indonesia), adulterated with Acetaminophen, Diclofenac, Phenylbutazone and Dexamethasone;

ii) Sari Buah Mujarab Kapsul (manufactured by PJ Dewa Group, Indonesia), and adulterated with Acetaminophen and Dexamethasone;

iii) Pure Slim 7D 5-in-1 Advanced Formula 350mg Capsule (manufacturer unknown), adulterated with Phenolphthalein; and

iv) Pure Slim 7D Extract With Garcinia Cambogia Metabolisme Booster 350mg Capsule (manufacturer unknown), adulterated with Phenolphthalein.

Meanwhile, the affected cosmetic product is the Temulawak New Day & Night Cream Beauty Whitening Cream – Night. It was found to contain mercury.

The adulterant found in this product can cause adverse effects that are potentially hazardous to users.

Acetaminophen or Paracetamol can be taken for self-medication but when traditional medicine does not declare its Acetaminophen or Paracetamol content, an unaware user may take in excess, which could lead to liver damage, kidney failure, coma and eventually death.

Diclofenac is a pain-relief medicine that, if taken without supervision, may result in peptic ulceration, gastrointestinal bleeding, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, blurred vision, oedema, jaundice and kidney failure.

Unsupervised consumption of Phenylbutazone may result in peptic ulceration, gastrointestinal bleeding, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, blurred vision, oedema, jaundice and kidney failure. Phenylbutazone is often associated with severe side-effects such as serious blood disorders.

Unsupervised long-term consumption of potent corticosteroids such as Dexamethasone can cause increase blood glucose levels leading to diabetes, high blood pressure, cataracts, muscular and bone disorders, and an increased risk of infections.

Long-term use of corticosteroids can also lead to Cushing’s syndrome, which is characterised by a round or ‘moon face’, and upper body obesity with thin limbs.

Consumers who have taken high doses of steroids over a prolonged period may suffer from withdrawal symptoms that include fatigue, muscle and joint pain, fever, low blood sugar, low blood pressure and dehydration.

Prolonged consumption or overdose of Phenolphthalein can result in diarrhoea with excessive loss of water and electrolytes, and there is also the possibility of developing an atonic non-functioning colon. Cardiac and respiratory distress, renal damage and hypersensitivity reactions have also been reported with the use of this drug. Mercury is a potent ingredient that is prohibited in cosmetic products as stipulated in the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations 2007.

Mercury is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its hazardous effects on human health. It is readily absorbed through the skin on topical application and tends to accumulate in the body. Exposure to mercury can cause skin rashes, memory loss and muscle weakness while high exposures may result in damage to the brain and kidneys. It is also extremely toxic to unborn children.

The MoH has not issued any approval for the importation for the sale of these products and/or Cosmetic Notification Acknowledgement Letter for the sale of the rest of affected products. Following these findings, the products are not allowed to be imported and sold in Brunei Darussalam.

Members of the public who have purchased or used these products are advised to discontinue use immediately. They should also consult a medical practitioner should they feel unwell or experience undesirable reactions as a result of using them.

The MoH urged the public to report to the Pharmacy Enforcement Section if any of these products are still found in the market in the country.

For further information and communication, contact the Pharmacy Enforcement Section at 2393298/2393301/2393230 (ext 208), e-mail pharmacy.enforcement@moh.gov.bnor visit the Pharmacy Enforcement Section, Department of Pharmaceutical Services Building at Simpang 433, Rimba Highway, Kampong Madaras, Mukim Gadong ‘A’, Brunei Darussalam; or call Darussalam line 123.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

MORE students are enrolling in agriculture-related studies in the country including in higher learning or tertiary education institutions.

Minister of Education YB Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman, in his reply to members during the LegCo session on Wednesday regarding the ministry’s efforts in supporting the development of the agriculture industry in the country, said that to support agricultural studies, students at secondary schools from Year 9 are given opportunities.

The minister shared that this year alone 369 students – from Years 9-11 – have taken agriculture subjects.

At the technical education level, the Ministry of Education (MoE) through the School of Agro-Technology and Applied Sciences of the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) Agro-Technology Campus has run several programmes in agricultural fields at its Agro-Technology Campus since it was established in 2005.

This includes programmes such as the Skill Certificate 2 and Skill Certificate 3 in Crop Production.

Ever since government initiatives to revamp technical education in the country, the school has offered new programmes such as National Technical Education Certificate (NTec) in Crop and Livestock Production, as well as Higher National Technical Certificate (HNTec) in Agro-Technology.

The minister added that in 2017, 175 students were enrolled in related programmes at the School of Agro-Technology and Applied Sciences.

At the tertiary education level, Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) offers the Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Food Sciences and Technology graduate programme which prepares graduates by equipping them with science and technology skills that they can apply for leading and managing food product development projects from the idea generation stage to product launch.

YB Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamzah said that the programme has seen an increased number of student enrolment since it was first introduced last year.

“Higher learning institutions in the country have also been actively conducting research in agriculture.

“To support the agricultural industry, 11 research grants and 61 agriculture-related research projects have been implemented by academicians at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) since 2011,” the minister added.

“Furthermore, there are nine students studying overseas in agriculture-related fields under the Government Scholarship Programme of the Ministry of Education, from Master’s degree to PhD programmes.”

|     Izah Azahari     |

THE 14th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday saw YB Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Religious Affairs, answering queries and receiving suggestions from LegCo members, YB Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari and YB Pengiran Haji Mohamed bin Pengiran Haji Osman @ Othman.

The LegCo members raised queries on issues pertaining to Halal food certification, a nationwide mass Subuh prayers, the Religious Education Primary Schools Certificate Examination (SSSRU), and the RPN Kampong Meragang Mosque.

Speaking on Halal food certification, YB Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin, welcomed the suggestion from YB Haji Mohimin on increasing the number of enforcement officers.

Responding to the suggestion from YB Haji Mohimin on nationwide mass Subuh prayers similar to those during the Bandarku Ceria every Sunday, the minister said there is a mass Subuh prayer conducted at the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque as well as a pre-dawn lecture. The minister added that the suggestion can be examined further on its suitability.

The minister commended the suggestion of SSSRU having private candidates similar to ‘O’ Level or ‘A’ Level examinations as it has a high economic value in the local job market.”The Ministry of Religious Affairs together with the Department of Islamic Studies will examine its suitability in holding open exams for private candidates,” said the minister.

Responding to the request of speeding up the process building the RPN Kampong Meragang Mosque by YB Pengiran Haji Mohamed, the minister explained that looking at the B$14,000 budget from the allocated B$25 million, it can be seen that this year’s plans for the mosque is in its initial stages of planning in terms of technical aspects.

YB Pengiran Haji Mohamed also spoke on the Halal food certification for restaurants that were operating for quite some time but have yet to apply or display the certificate in their restaurants, asking whether any action will be taken against these establishments.

YB Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin said that under the law that had been amended last year it has now become mandatory for restaurants to have the certification. The minister added that action will be taken against restaurants not abiding by the regulations.

|     James Kon     |

TO EASE traffic congestion at the Mentiri Roundabout, the Ministry of Development (MoD) is constructing a new stretch connecting Tanah Jambu main road (at the Muara road intersection) and Mentiri main road, said the Minister of Development, YB Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar.

The project is part of the National Development Plan for road network systems and is being implemented in phases based on the provided provisions.

He was responding to a query on traffic congestion at the Mentiri main road during peak hours by Legislative Council (LegCo) member YB Pengiran Haji Mohamed bin Pengiran Haji Osman @ Othman at the 14th LegCo session yesterday.

YB Pengiran Haji Mohamed also suggested that traffic lights be installed at the Mentiri Roundabout.

The minister said that Phase 1 of the road project involved the construction of a flyover bridge at the Mentiri main road intersection, which was completed in 2014.

Phase 2 involved the construction of the two-kilometre road; this phase is included in the 11th National Development Plan and runs through an area next to the RPN Kampong Mengkubau. Tender for Phase 2 has been completed and construction will start in the middle of this year, he added.

Speaking on the installation of traffic lights at the Mentiri Roundabout, the minister said, “A study was conducted on the need and suitability of installing traffic lights. The number of vehicles during peak hours was found to be very high with the roundabout unable to accommodate the volume.

“To install traffic lights, a bigger roundabout is required. The Mentiri Roundabout is not big enough and if it is to be enlarged, private houses and lands will be affected,” he added. “This will incur high expenditures; the installation of traffic lights cannot be done at the moment. But with the completion of the Tanah Jambu-Mentiri road project, it is hoped that traffic congestion at the Mentiri Roundabout will be lessened,” he added.

|     Azlan Othman     |

THE Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) has been allocated a budget of B$256.93 million for the Financial Year 2018/2019. In the previous fiscal, the allocated budget was B$259.97 million.

Deliberating on the proposed budget for the ministry at the 14th Legislative Council session yesterday, Minister of Religious Affairs YB Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman said the budget comprises B$206,192,330 for employees’ salary disbursement; B$30,033,250 for recurring expenditure. An allocation of B$20,709,000 has been provided for development expenditure (B$23,977,000 in 2017-2018), taking the total budget to B$256,934,580 (in 2017-2018).

The allocation is to implement the programmes under the five main services of the Ministry of Religious Affairs:

For management and administration covering Haj management, asset management, maintenance of information technology systems and management of religious affairs at the district level, an allocation of B$19,928,830 has been made.

For the propagation of Dakwah and Islamic Syiar which include the celebrations to mark major Islamic calendar events, mosque Takmir and Dakwah propagation, B$24,875,325 is allocated.

An amount of B$6,109,990 is allocated for Islamic laws which includes the Brunei Islamic Religious Council, prosecution and enforcement.

For social security which covers Halal food and goods, family counselling services and collection and distribution of tithe, B$5,922,450 is allocated.

An allocation totalling B$179,388,985, which is more than half of the total budget, has been made for Islamic education.

In the estimated development expenditure this year for Dakwah and Islamic teachings, B$400,000 is for construction of a new mosque in RPN Kampong Meragang.

An amount of B$20,309,000 is for Islamic education of which B$17 million is for completing the new building of Arabic religious school in RPN Kampong Rimba and B$1.8 million is for completing the construction of Jalan Bedil Religious School.

An allocation of B$119,000 is for upgrading the multipurpose hall, dormitory kitchen and teachers’ room of Hassanal Bolkiah Boys Arabic Secondary School.

Meanwhile, the plan to construct a covered multipurpose hall for Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit Girls Arabic Religious Secondary School, B$190,000 has been allocated. Meanwhile, B$1.2 million has been earmarked to meet miscellaneous expenses.

There are several projects under the main function of the Dakwah and Islamic teachings that are incorporated in the 11th National Development Plan (RKN) estimate. They include construction of six new mosques at a cost of B$30 million, one of which is building a new mosque at RPN Kampong Meragang at a cost of B$5 million and an initial allocation of B$400,000 has been earmarked for this purpose in this year’s budget.

The minister also said five more new mosques are planned under the 11th RKN with a plan cost of B$5 million each. They include new mosques at RPN Kampong Panchor Mengkubau, RPN Kampong Lugu, RPN Kampong Rimba, STKRJ Kampong Telisai area and RPN Kampong Lumut.

In addition, some education projects have been included in the RKN expenses even though they were not allocated funds in the 2018-2019 budget. They are: Batu Marang Religious School building at a cost of B$2 million, construction of new Islamic Religious Activity Centre/ Religious School in Kampong Senukoh with a cost of B$2 million, construction of a new block for the Tanah Jambu religious school at a cost of B$2.5 million, and Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) with a plan cost of B$25 million.

For the construction of new buildings for Kampong Kiulap religious school and Kampong Bolkiah religious school, B$3.8 million and B$3 million respectively have been allocated.

Achievements in 2017

The minister also shared developments throughout the year 2017. He said KUPU SB has implemented over 100 intellectual and physical skills enhancement activities such as seminars, workshops and religious education and management dissemination compared to 73 activities in 2016. It also carries out community, religious and administrative activities to address the need to strengthen religious services, including religious education.

According to KUPU SB’s demographic statistics, in 2017, some 142 of its graduates upgraded their studies to higher levels, and 31 to local universities namely Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) and Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD). Currently, 34 of its students pursue their studies overseas.

YB Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin also said that a total of 130 out of 167 Arabic schools and religious schools (or 77.84 per cent) have achieved Level 3 (Good) based on the Brunei School Standard.

There is also an increase in the number of skilled huffaz Al-Quran in the field of Qira’at through the Diploma Programme of ‘Aliyah Qira’at at Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bokiah – from 25 to 49.

Meanwhile, the number of pilgrims last year has increased to 1,000 compared to 400, 600 and 800 in the previous three years, the minister said, adding that the waiting period for those who register each year has been reduced to two-three years.

Three new mosques have been completed and opened for prayers last year, namely, Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam Mosque in Kampong Sengkarai (April 7, 2017), Pehin Khatib Abdullah Mosque in Kampong Kulapis (May 19, 2017) and Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque in Kampong Mentiri (reconstruction – June 23, 2017).

Halal growth

The minister also said that the policy amendment of Halal Certificate and Halal Label, 2017 requires compulsory application for Halal Certificate and/or Halal Permit for food-related business owners in Brunei Darussalam effective May 26, 2017.

However, pursuant to Section 49b of the Halal Certificate and Halal Label (Amendment) 2017, exemption is granted to two types of business categories, namely non-Muslim businesses that provide or distribute food for non-Muslims only (restricted restaurants) and businesses that cannot meet the requirements and guarantees for Halal certification such as for business types under the three sub-categories only, namely food vendors (usually home-based), fixed stalls as well as short-term stalls.

Before any exceptions are made, food/beverage operators are required to apply for Halal Certificate or Halal Permit beforehand from the Halal Food Control Division which is to ensure the use of Halal ingredients.

So far, the number of Halal Certificates/Halal Labels provided are as follows: 1,572 Halal Certificates for public restaurants; 6,607 Halal Permits for domestic products; 344 Halal Permits for foreign products; 213 Halal Certificates for domestic factories; 22 Halal Certificates for overseas refineries.

The minister said that the Halal Permit cost has been revised and reviewed as follows:

For Micro Industry – businesses that employ one to four employees – the Halal Permit cost is B$5 per product.

For Small Industry – businesses that employ five-19 employees, the Halal Permit cost is B$50 for every 20 products.

For Medium Industry – businesses that employ 20-99 employees, the Halal Permit cost is B$300 for every 20 products.

For Macro Industry – businesses that employ over 100 employees the permit cost is B$700 for every 20 products.

For Multinationals, the Halal Permit cost is B$1,000 for every 20 products.

Zakat Fitrah

The Minister of Religious Affairs also said that the number of Zakat Fitrah (tithe) payers has continued to increase in the past three years.

In 2015, a total of 330,976 people contributed B$931,638.97 as tithe. Meanwhile in 2016, total of 332,660 people paid a total tithe of B$937,478.56. And in year 2017, Zakat Fitrah was B$940,123.80 from 350,069 people.

Collection of Zakat on property also increased over the past three years – 2015, 2016 and 2017. In 2015, B$16,830,149.77 from 5,014 people was recorded while in 2016, a total of B$17,413,561.32 from 4,625 people was recorded. Meanwhile in 2017, B$17,485,505.54 was collected from 5,047 people.

Until the end of December 2017, a total of 2,794 poor and destitute family heads having a total of 5,505 dependents were listed as monthly beneficiaries for a two-year period. A total B$20,030,196.11 was deposited into their respective bank accounts.

They receive it in the middle of every month. The distribution does not include Al-Gharimin (debtors) and Muallaf (Muslim converts).

“I appreciate Zakat payers, especially property Zakat payers including Islamic financial institutions TAIB and BIBD that manage Zakat of their customers efficiently,” the minister said.

In efforts to provide Zakat recipients with skills training, the Youth Development Centre of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports has launched the PROPAZ programme (Asnaf Zakat Enrichment Programme) to help them get out of the cycle of poverty or from the poor/destitute category.

The ministry will continue with the PROPAZ programme and work on other programmes.

Currently two teenage boys from two recipient families are undergoing training under the jurisdiction of JAKIM in Kuala Lumpur.

The purpose of the programme is to guide and encourage the youth to contribute to the advancement and enhancement of religious beliefs and practices.

Mosque Construction Fund

The minister also said that the Mosque Construction Fund which was launched more than two years ago has been well received.

As of December 2017, the total collection stood at B$7,503,965.27.

To utilise the accumulated funds, the Brunei Islamic Religious Council has approved the plan for the construction of two mosques with the consent from 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.

The mosques are: The B$3.6-million Kampong Tanjung Bunut Mosque which is expected to be completed by June 2018 while the Bukit Panggal Mosque has opened for tender and will be constructed soon.

The minister said his ministry is currently looking into a proposal to build several mosques within a five-year period with a fund mobilisation drive spanning five years (60-month) which is projected to raise B$18 million from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2023.

The proposal will be brought to the Brunei Islamic Religious Council meeting. People, especially those who contribute to the Mosque Construction Fund, including the 55,173 public servants and members of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and the Royal Brunei Police Force making monthly donations through salary deductions, will be made aware of the details of the plan from time to time, the minister said.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

THREE hundred and seventy four trainees of the National Service Programme (PKBN)’s 7th intake stood proud at their passing out parade yesterday, marking the conclusion of their three-month-long training that tested their physical and mental capabilities, in the youth development programme that aims to instil resilience and dynamism in youth by infusing strong national spirit and values.

The passing out parade for the 7th intake of the PKBN was held at the PKBN Training Camp in Kampong Batu Apoi, Temburong District yesterday, in the presence 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.

On arrival at the PKBN Training Camp, His Majesty was greeted by 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 and other senior government officials.

At the Parade Square, His Majesty received a royal salute and inspected the parade of the PKBN’s 7th intake, comprising 258 male trainees and 116 female trainees.

The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of six awards to well-deserving trainees who demonstrated excellent skills, discipline and commitment throughout the training that began in December last year.

His Majesty consented to present the first award to the recipient of the Overall Best Male Trainee, 11666 Awangku Muhammad Al-Hafiz bin Pengiran Omar Ali of Platoon 3.

The monarch also consented to present the award for the Best Overall Female Trainee to 11732 Nurul Jannah binti Zainal from Platoon 3.

The Best Male in Parade Award went to 11632 Muhammad Iqhmal bin Haji Abdul Latip from Platoon 2 while the Best Female in Parade Award went to 11821 Siti Nur Hazirah binti Zahari from Platoon 3.

Meanwhile, His Majesty also awarded 11573 Mohammad Ihsanuddin bin Haji Abdul Hakim from Platoon 6 the Best Male in Physical Training Award and 11794 Edna Jessica Michelle binti Mosley from Platoon 6 the Best Female in Physical Training Award.

Following the award presentation, His Majesty received another royal salute, followed by the march past of the Parade Square of the 7th PKBN intake, the largest intake of PKBN since its inception in 2011.

His Majesty later received greetings from members of the Governance Committee of the PKBN Alumni (PAPKBN) and also consented to plant a sapling and sign a parchment to mark the monarch’s visit to the PKBN Training Camp yesterday.

The monarch was also presented with a pesambah by Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Zulkifli bin Pengiran Haji Ismail, Director of the PKBN.

Before leaving, His Majesty received greetings from the trainees of the 7th PKBN intake and their parents and guardians and later joined a group photo with all the trainees.

Since its inception in 2011, PKBN has produced some 2,149 PKBN alumni, including the 374 who concluded their training yesterday.

According to PKBN, the three-month training programme was conducted by 140 supervisors, coaches, medical officers and handlers from the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF), Fire and Rescue Department (BFRD), Internal Security Department (ISD), Brunei Darussalam Outward Bound, Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPUSB) and professional volunteers, with the support of PKBN alumni.

Since its pilot project in December 2011, PKBN has continued to make great strides towards the aspiration for the nation to produce youths who will actualise Brunei Vision 2035. The PKBN is a youth development programme that aims to produce youth who are responsible, disciplined, dynamic, united and courageous, contributing to the country’s socio-economic development and strengthening national defence.

Implemented under the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, the goal of PKBN is to enhance the spirit of patriotism, commitment and resilience among youth in addition to strengthening the Constitution of the state and the national philosophy of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB). In an interview, the Overall Best Male Trainee award winner, 11666 Awangku Muhammad Al-Hafiz, an ‘O’ Level leaver from Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien College who was also an Army Cadet, shared that his utmost focus in all of the activities during the programme and his attention to instructions given by the trainers garnered him the award. He said that the PKBN is not just about marching or training.

“Here, we are one big family and every one of the trainees are like our brothers and sisters and the trainers are like our parents,” he said, while also sharing his plans of continuing his studies at the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) in Aircraft Engineering to pursue his career as an army officer.

Meanwhile, the Best Overall Female Trainee, 11732 Nurul Jannah, said that to win the award, trainees have to always come forward and must have courage in all aspects of the training. Nurul Jannah, also an ‘O’ Level leaver from Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Secondary School, added that the strong bond shared between all of them throughout the training has made it difficult for them to part with. Once part of the Brunei delegation that took park in the Brunei-Singapore Leadership Adventure Camp, Nurul Jannah said she plans to continue her studies at Politeknik Brunei and wants to pursue her career as an army officer.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

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 underscored the importance of continuously developing the nation’s youth by instilling strong values to help build their resilience and enabling them to be advocates of change.

The monarch stated this yesterday in a titah delivered on the occasion of the passing out parade of the 7th intake of the National Service Programme (PKBN) at the PKBN Training Camp in Kampong Batu Apoi, Temburong where some 374 PKBN trainees successfully concluded their three-month-long training.

This is the largest intake of the PKBN since its inception in 2011.

In the titah, His Majesty emphasised that PKBN trainees are trained to be equipped with strong physical and spiritual values, to enable them to be capable of facing challenges that lie ahead of them.

The monarch added that such values form the important foundation for the development of excellent human capital. “A country’s progress is often linked to the development of its human capital, because it is the core of any effort to bring about change.”

His Majesty noted that, “PKBN is one of the initiatives that can contribute towards the goal of generating human capital with excellence for the country, and the programme can help produce the nation’s finest youth who possess a strong identity and the spirit of patriotism.”

The monarch said such strong spirit must be continuously inculcated, so that we can create a modern Brunei by 2035, calling the youth “pillars of the nation”.

In the titah, His Majesty also expressed great pride over the establishment of the PKBN Alumni, which the monarch said is another milestone for the programme. The ruler noted that the establishment of the alumni association is capable of not only uniting all PKBN alumni under one organisation, but will also allow for a centralised platform for them to render their contributions through voluntary work as well as religious and community services.

The monarch also expressed great delight over the launching of the new PKBN Training Centre last year, which His Majesty said is fully equipped with state-of-the art facilities such as multi-training and multi-planning structures and an obstacle course.

His Majesty reminded that all these facilities must be optimally and fully utilised at all times, and not only during the PKBN training programmes. The monarch also underscored the importance of optimal planning and implementation of training programmes for the PKBN. Concluding the titah, His Majesty congratulated all 374 trainees for their hard work in completing the training and thanked their parents and guardians for their support.

“Their success today is the result of not only their hard work, but also the unyielding support from various parties, especially the prayers of their parents and guardians as well as their intention for their children to be imparted with valuable knowledge, skills and experience to become a generation of youth that is truly ready to provide services to the nation,” the monarch said.