|     Fadhil Yunus     |

THE Japan para-badminton team will be making a special appearance on the final day of the Brunei National Badminton Tournament 2018 “Sport for Tomorrow Cup” at the Indoor Stadium of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex tomorrow.

The team will be headlined by Mamiko Toyoda, who recently won the women’s singles of the BWF Spanish Para-Badminton International 2018 as the top seed.

Toyoda, who is an emerging Tokyo Paralympic idol, also clinched the women’s singles title at the USA Para Badminton International Tournament last year.

Toyoda also bagged two bronze medals in the women’s singles and women’s doubles in the 2017 BWF Para-Badminton World Championships in Ulsan, Korea.

She will be joined by her compatriot Akiko Sugino, the second seed at the championship in Spain, whom she defeated in the final.

Sugino also specialises in the women’s doubles and her major achievement to date included winning the women’s doubles in the BWF Para Badminton World Championship in Korea.

The team also featured the experienced Murayama Hiroshi and Ohe Mamoru led by the president of the Japan Para Badminton Federation Hirano Kazumi and head coach Kita Tsutomu.

The attendance of the Japan para badminton team is hoped to encourage involvement and serve as motivation for the Brunei para-badminton players.

With regards to the Brunei National Badminton Tournament, players’ seedings will provide an indication of their current status and how the ranking system can benefit in moving towards the right direction, according to one of the organisers.

Hiroshi Okouchi, the Commissioner of International Affairs at the Japan Para-Badminton Federation, underlined the connection between the ranking system that has already been put in place and the tournament whereby top players can be identified.

“We introduce the Brunei National Badminton Tournament 2018 and this programme is jointly organised by the Brunei National Badminton Association and the Japan Para-Badminton Federation,” said Okouchi in an interview with the Bulletin.

The establishment of a national ranking system will crucially help distinguish who currently makes up the top half of the rankings in setting the standard of badminton in the country.

“This purpose is to provide Brunei national players more motivation to play badminton. We also adopted the ranking system,” he said.

The ranking system, which is applied in the singles’ and doubles’ events for both men and women, will allow opportunities for national level players to climb as high as possible in the rankings.

“We want to show who the top players are in this tournament. This is done to encourage the players where they are now, and the next step is going as far as they can in the rankings.

“This is the system to make sure that there are more players and this is why we help the Brunei National Badminton Association and collaborate with them in a national programme.”

According to Okouchi, Jaspar Yu Woon Cai, who became the first badminton athlete to represent Brunei Darussalam at the Rio Olympics, is the country’s top ranked player while Ahmad Mahyuddin bin Haji Abas holds the title as Brunei No 2.

He also confirmed that Japanese stars Toyoda and Sugino will be paired together to play the newly crowned winners of the women’s doubles at the Brunei National Badminton Tournament in an exhibition match on Sunday.

Toyoda bested Sugino in an all-Japanese affair in the women’s singles SU5 (Standing Upper) event in Spain earlier this month.

“On the final day of the tournament, there will be an exhibition match where a Brunei para-badminton player will be paired up in a mixed doubles match with a Japanese player,” Okouchi added.

Sport for Tomorrow is an international contribution through sport initiative jointly implemented by public and private sectors, which promotes sport to more than 10 million people in over 100 nations until 2020, the year when Tokyo will host the Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE Young Entrepreneurs Association of Brunei (YEAB) recently hosted the second edition of the ‘INSIGHT: Business Networking Dinner’.

Supported by Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, the event took place on March 13 at the Radisson Hotel in the capital, and brought together more than 60 entrepreneurs from various fields and industries.

INSIGHT aims to provide entrepreneurs with the platform to gain insight on the current development of the economy and business amidst challenging times simultaneously opening up opportunities for the entrepreneurs to network with a diverse group of entrepreneurs from various stages of businesses and industries.

The dinner featured a fireside chat on ‘Finding Resilience Amidst Economic Turbulence’ with Dato Paduka Timothy Ong, founder and Chairman of Asia Inc Forum, moderated by NurLiyana Fatin binti Arifin, Vice President of the YEAB.

Among the topics discussed were future of Brunei businesses locally and the opportunities in the region for entrepreneurs.

INSIGHT was hosted inaugurally last November and is becoming one of YEAB’s key annual activities as the leading association for young entrepreneurs.

“As entrepreneurs, we believe that knowledge sharing and networking can contribute to opportunities,” said Hajah Norlela binti Haji Awang Buang, President of the YEAB.

“Therefore, through INSIGHT we seek to promote the value of extending business network whilst gaining new knowledge.”

The YEAB is a leading association for young Bruneian entrepreneurs in various stages of business.

Established in 2000, the organisation was founded with the mission to ensure access to a network of entrepreneurial experience, nurture an enterprising culture and encourage the spirit of entrepreneurship to facilitate the attainment of Brunei Vision 2035.

|     Izah Azahari     |

MELODIC songs and colourful acrobatic performances filled the Jerudong Park Amphitheatre last night with the much-anticipated live Chinese cultural performance at the ‘2018 Happy Spring Festival in Brunei Darussalam – Beautiful China – Scenic Guangxi Performance’.

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, was the guest of honour, who came along with his spouse.

Also present were ambassadors, high commissioners and other foreign dignitaries, permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, and senior officers from the Brunei Government as well as the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

The event opened with a welcoming speech delivered by Yang Jian, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam, who expressed sincere gratitude on the cooperation between both countries, hoping that the night’s performance will leave a lasting impression on the audience.

In the country for five days, the Chinese artistes from the Guangxi Culture and Art Troupe thrilled the crowds with their acrobatics skills and dances, as well as song performances, for the Bruneian audience.

The troupe wowed the crowd further with their ability to sing a Bruneian song titled ‘Joget Baju Putih’.

The performance, open to the public, was aimed at promoting cultural exchanges and cooperation under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the cultural field between China and Brunei Darussalam.

The performance is co-sponsored by the Ministry of Culture of the People’s Republic of China, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports of Brunei Darussalam, and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Brunei Darussalam and presented by the Department of Culture of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China.

The performance is open to the public for free tonight, starting at 8pm at the same venue.

|     James Kon     |

IT HAS been an eventful 2018 for aspiring local filmmaker Abdul Zainidi.

The talented, young filmmaker has left for the Busan Asian Film School in Korea after he was awarded the scholarship by Busan film academy.

He will be there for six months, acquiring deeper knowledge on the commercial aspects of filming.

Before leaving the Sultanate recently, Abdul Zainidi completed the shooting and an interview with Channel NewsAsia for Singapore’s TV documentary titled, ‘The Asean I Know,’ which will air on May 11 this year.

The Channel NewsAsia crew was in Brunei to film at the site where Abdul Zainidi had filmed his local horror flick, ‘Vanishing Children’.

He was interviewed by Channel NewsAsia Producer Augustine.

Earlier this year, Abdul Zainidi was in Europe to attend the Amsterdam Film Festival, which focusses on science fiction. He was also in Paris to complete his ‘Vanishing Children’ film that was shot in Brunei Darussalam and Paris.

Speaking to the Weekend Bulletin, Abdul Zainidi said, “The protagonist of the film is Abdol, and the story of his brother who went missing in Brunei. Having to deal with the disappearance while in Paris, Abdol – who is a writer – finds the inspiration to write vanishing children, including the account of his own brother in Brunei.

“This is a metaphor for who I am as a writer; when I first arrived in Paris from Brunei and discovered that I was made for writing stories. Vanishing Story 4 is the prequel to the other Vanishing Children series. It will be entered into the short film corner of the Cannes Film Festival,” he said.

“I will not be able to attend (Cannes Film Festival) this year as I will be in Busan, so my editor will be attending it in May. I felt privileged and honoured that my film is representing Brunei at the film festival,” he added.

Discussing his course in Busan, he said, “It will be more on the commercial and business aspects of film making, and is sponsored by the Busan Film Academy. I will graduate in October this year.”

In response to his journey as a local filmmaker thus far, he said, “I am very lucky and blessed. I was able to meet many people through overseas workshops and film festivals. Through networking, people hear about my works and help spread the word about them. My films were then recommended into film festivals globally.”

|     Daniel Lim & Wani Roslan     |

THE Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) through its Public Relation Unit recently headed out on a Neighbourhood Watch mission at Kampong Lumapas.

RBPF members held a meeting with Kampong Lumapas ‘A’ Village Chief Haji Mohd Yassin bin Haji Hassan at his residence. Also present was Kampong Lumapas ‘B’ Village Head Haji Chuchu bin Haji Serudin.

Acting Head of RBPF Public Relation Unit, Assistant Superintendent of Police Mohd Amiruddin bin Haji Tunjang led the group and was accompanied by Sergeant 4395 Khiroul Azmi and APO 6960 Zainal Abidin.

Other than discussing Neighbourhood Watch related matters, which included ways to prevent crimes, they were updated on village matters.

RBPF hoped the visit created awareness among villagers on the importance of maintaining peace and harmony, as well as establishing closer ties between the police and residents.

In the Belait District, the Sungai Liang Police Station conducted a crime prevention patrol with the Kampong Sungai Liang Neighbourhood Watch.

Leading the police station was Sergeant 3392 Jailani bin Haji Johari, while Yahya bin Majid headed the Kampong Sungai Liang Neighbourhood Watch team.

The patrol covered neighbourhoods in Kampong Tunggulian and Kampong Sungai Lalit as well as areas near several vacant houses. No unlawful activity was found.

Meanwhile, the Berakas Police Station recently organised a meeting of the village heads and Neigbourhood Watch members appointed under the police station.

Officer-in-Charge of the Berakas Police Station, Assistant Superintendent of Police Muhd Nurfairuz Nazri bin Salleh chaired the meeting, which was attended by village heads under Mukim Berakas ‘A’, Mukim Berakas ‘B’ and Mukim Gadong ‘A’.

Statistics on criminal cases and road traffic accidents between July to December 2017 were shared with attendees, before discussions were held on planned activities for the year and latest strategies in crime prevention for the Berakas and Gadong areas.

Certificates were also presented to 12 members from the Neighbourhood Watch of RPN Kampong Lambak Kanan, STKRJ Lambak Kiri and Kampong Madang.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

THE second edition of the Brunei Water Festival will turn the school holidays into a splashing time on March 24-25 at Sports School.

Brunei’s longest waterslide along with side sporting events such as water dunk, basketball, baseball and air ball await holidaymakers who want quality time.

The festival will also feature vendors of all kinds including finger-licking food and thirst-quenching beverages.

Aaron Goh, Managing Director of Heroes Event Management, said the event aims to make Brunei even more attractive to tourists, both local and foreign.

“We’re also making a positive impact on the economy so we can move closer to our Vision 2035,” he said.

In an interview during the event’s launching at McDonald’s, Gadong yesterday, Aaron Goh said the first Brunei Water Festival attracted more than a thousand people, and this time he hoped it will be two thousand.

“Bruneians had their first taste of the water festival last December.

“This time we expect the number of visitors to double,” he said.

The event, supported by the Brunei Tourism Board, was included in its calendar last year.

“Water festival is not unique to Brunei; similar events has been held in many countries,” he added.

The event organiser hoped to conduct the water festival on a quarterly basis during school holidays.

Participants are advised to bring drawstring bags, extra clothes and towels, sun blocks, and cash for drinks and food.

Changing rooms, a surau and toilets are available at the venue.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

THERE is potential for cooperation between Brunei Darussalam and Mexico in tourism, Halal food and oil industry, while each country can also act as a gateway for the other into their respective regions.

These were among the points shared by Nathan Wolf Lustbader, the Ambassador of Mexico to Singapore and non-resident Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam during an interview after a recent meeting with the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Brunei Darussalam (NCCIBD).

“I think there are a lot of potential areas to collaborate together, mainly now after both countries signed the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) last week in Santiago, Chile,” he said.

“One of them, obviously, is the tourism sector. Mexico has good expertise so we can cooperate with Brunei to develop the tourism sector here and share our expertise on that,” he said.

“Also I think the oil industry is one area where both countries can work together and find common projects of mutual benefit.” Also the agrifood sector with Halal food is something I think we can work on,” he continued, sharing that Mexico is a large producer of agrifood and that Halal certification is something they are looking at.

Sharing his impression of Brunei so far, he said, “There is a lot of potential. You have a beautiful country, beautiful landscapes and very rich culture that I think has the potential to be shared with more people from all over the world.”

On the opportunities CPTPP could bring for Brunei and Mexico, he said, “We have to start looking about the possibilities of what can be the trade,” he said, adding that the countries could each act as gateways.

The ambassador said that entrepreneurs from Mexico could perhaps look at Brunei as a gateway to the region.

“As I mentioned, maybe how we can distribute Halal food through Brunei to the region.

“The Brunei entrepreneurs through Mexico, can also enter the web of free trade agreements that we have with Latin America, with Europe and with the US,” he added.

LEADERS of Asean member countries and Australia are expected to discuss a slew of key economic and security issues during the Asean-Australia Special Summit 2018 which will be held from today until March 18, in Sydney, Australia.

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 arrived in Sydney to attend the summit.

Present at the Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport to welcome His Majesty were Mark Fraser, Official Secretary to the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia as representative of the Governor-General; James McGrath, Assistant Minister for Immigration as representative of the Prime Minister of Australia; Matt Kean, Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation as representative of the Premier of New South Wales; and Nicola Rosenblum, High Commissioner of Australia to Brunei Darussalam.

Also present to greet His Majesty were Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II and Haji Zakaria bin Haji Ahmad, High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to Australia.

From the airport, His Majesty boarded a motorcade towards a renowned hotel in Sydney where the monarch will reside throughout the duration of the summit. Earlier in the day, prior to leaving Istana Nurul Iman for Australia, 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.

Present at His Majesty the Sultan’s Flight Hangar in Rimba to bid farewell to the monarch were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; as well as other members of the royal family.

Also present were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran-Pengiran Cheteria; Speaker of the Legislative Council; Cabinet Ministers; members of the Privy Council; deputy ministers; the Commissioner of Police and the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

|    Fadhil Yunus    |

SOUTH Korea’s golfer Ran Hong took the lead in the opening round of the Brunei Ladies Open 2018 after firing a seven-under-par 64 at The Empire Hotel & Country Club yesterday.

The golfer currently holds a two-shot lead over her compatriot Ji Hyun Oh whose run of five-under-par 66 puts her alone in second place with a quartet of players tied in third place with four-under-par 67.

Hong enjoyed a bogey-free round and sank seven birdies to set the tone in the three-day tournament, which is co-sanctioned by the Korean Ladies Professional Golf Association (KLPGA) and the China Ladies Professional Golfers’ Association (CLPGA).

“I’m happy with a bogey-free round. I had a lot of chances to make a birdie and then I made a putt to get a birdie which made me happy,” said the clubhouse leader in an interview with the media.

When asked about the playing conditions at the Jack-Nicklaus designed course, the South Korean explained that the rough is pretty tough.

“If the ball is in the rough, it could be a wrong result. I’m not a big hitter but I’m an accurate hitter. I think it suits me,” said Hong.

Hong, who previously competed at the Korea Investment & Securities Championship in Binh Duong, Vietnam last week, said that a similar performance like the opening round could enhance her chances of winning the tournament.

“It will be great if I can repeat the performance just like in the first round tomorrow and the day after tomorrow.

“The most important thing is to keep the ball in the fairway and the green and then we stand a chance to win,” said Hong.

South Korea duo Jin Seon Han and Su Yeon Jang recorded an eagle but two bogeys for the former in the 14^th and 16^th hole slowed down her progress.

Brunei Darussalam is represented by two golfers namely Valerie Tan, a Brunei professional player and Dayangku Nurmashizriah Nikman, an amateur golfer.

Dayangku Nurmashizriah, who is taking part in her first professional golf tournament, felt that she was left behind than the rest of the field.

“The pro players train every day and we don’t. We don’t have enough training. I train maybe once or twice a week,” said Dayangku Nurmashizriah.

When asked what is needed to help boost the golf community in Brunei, she highlighted the need for sponsors, good equipment and playing overseas to gain experience as well as proper training.

The 23-year old, who studied at Sports School prior to joining the national team, shared that she picked up golfing skills under the guidance of a coach from the Department of Youth and Sports.

Dayangku Nurmashizriah, whose success came mainly in local amateur tournaments, said that her appearance helped her gain some knowledge through the innate qualities of the pro players.

“I learn so much by looking at their swing and how they play. I think in my flight, the players are in the top five,” she added.

Meanwhile, Valerie Tan, a Brunei professional golfer only recently returned to golf following a three-year break from the game.

Valerie turned professional nine years ago when she was 22 and is now slowly finding her feet after being troubled by injury.

“My swing is not the same and it was little bit rusty. But I think experience wise, I am still experienced but I just need to work on some technical aspects and the swing,” said Valerie.

“It feels great because it is the first ever ladies professional golf tournament in Brunei. It is a little overwhelming and nerve-wrecking but I try to stand up and overcome it,” she said.

|    Fadhil Yunus   |

FLORENCE Saw Sin Yee was crowned champion in the women’s singles of the Brunei National Badminton Tournament 2018 after defeating Siti Marinah binti Mohd Salleh in a straight-set 21-17 21-17 victory at the Indoor Stadium of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex last night.

It was a keenly-fought contest in the early stages as a see-saw battle meant it was little to choose from in the first 14 points but Florence reacted to open the gap and surged to an 11-8 lead at the interval.

Siti Marinah battled courageously to stage a revival as they were tied in points 13-13 before Florence converted four successive points in the opening set.

Siti Marinah responded with three straight points before Florence moved to set point and closed the first game after the former saved one set point.

Florence gained a slender advantage at the interval of the second set as Siti Marinah unlucky saw her shot hit the tape of the net before the shuttlecock dropped unfavourably at her side of the court.

“I tried my best for every shot and tried to make less mistakes,” said Florence in an interview with the Sunday Bulletin.

“I just made little mistakes and hit every shot, and my smashing was good as well,” she further said.

Florence mixed her game up with a variety of shot selection during the course of the game as she laid a series of crosscourt shots to unsettle her opponent.

The shuttler, who has joined the national tournaments numerous times, said that it was her biggest result in the competition.

The competition continues with the men’s singles final tonight with Ahmad bin Abdul Razak taking on Ahmad Mahyuddin bin Haji Abas.

MOTOHIKO Kato, the Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam, delivered a special lecture titled ‘Energy and Eco Policy in Japan’ at the Lecture Theatre 2, Library Complex, Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) yesterday.

Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman, the Vice-Chancellor of UTB, attended the lecture, along with UTB principal officers, lecturers and students.

In his lecture, Motohiko Kato explained how Japan has almost no domestic fossil fuel resources with its energy self-sufficiency being only at six per cent. Because of this, Japan faced great challenges with energy supply after the tragic earthquake that struck in 2011. Since then, Japan has developed its energy policy, focussing on technologies that will result in effective energy production and saving.

He also highlighted that renewable energy is one of the alternative energy resources that Japan has enthusiastically adopted, adding that Japan’s systems and technologies in renewable energy have been developing every year, and the percentage of energy generated from renewable sources has grown.

The Japanese Ambassador also said that next month, a hydrogenation plant is expected to commence construction in the country, which he hoped will contribute towards a carbon-free society in the future.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

THE Ministry of Health (MoH) yesterday tabled a budget of B$345.18 million for the financial year 2018-2019, marking a seven per cent increase from the B$323.88 million it was allocated in the previous fiscal.

In his motion on the MoH’s proposed budget allocation at the ongoing 14th Legislative Council session yesterday, Minister of Health YB Dato Paduka Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Jaafar reasoned that increased costs on staff salaries, purchase of medical supplies, building and medical equipment maintenance and new projects under the 11th National Development Plan (RKN) are the main factors contributing to the increased expenditure.

Outlining some of the new projects under the 11th RKN, he said that for the 2018-2019 financial year, B$845,000 has been allocated for the establishment of, among others, new National Tuberculosis Reference and Virology Services laboratories and the construction of an emergency service complex for the Suri Seri Begawan Hospital in the Belait District.

Other projects in the pipeline under the 11th RKN for the next few financial years include the enhancement of the Brunei Darussalam Healthcare Information and Management System (Bru-HIMS), the construction of a new block for the Jubli Perak Health Centre in Sengkurong and the construction of a new health centre in Kampong Pandan, the minister said.

YB Dato Paduka Dr Haji Mohd Isham said MoH’s proposed budget for the 2018-2019 financial year is in line with its long-term plan as outlined in the Brunei Healthcare System and Infrastructure Masterplan 2035.

In his motion, he outlined five main priorities of the ministry’s 2018-2019 budget which include the enhancement the effectiveness of health management and policy to improve service quality, increasing productivity of healthcare services through innovation and improving the professionalism of its staff to deliver the best service.

He also highlighted the ministry’s priority in protecting public health by using methods and best-practices such as the strengthening of the implementation of ‘Health in Policies’ to prevent and control communicable and non-communicable diseases as well as to enhance the surveillance and vigilance on the threats of diseases.

Basic healthcare is also given priority towards offering a holistic service to the community in the aspect of screening, treatment, recovery as well as prevention of diseases, and this also includes healthcare of mothers and children.

Another focus, the minister said, is on secondary and tertiary healthcare and it aims at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of services in hospitals and medical centres to deliver quality service that follows international standards, with the utilisation of medical and information technology in conducive and customer-friendly infrastructures.

Also in its priority, the minister said, is basic assistance service that is specialised to strengthen pharmaceutical services, national scientific and clinical laboratory services as well as to ensure that medical equipment and infrastructures are always in good condition, functional and safe to use.

The minister said that his ministry is aware of the importance of increasing promotional and health education efforts through appropriate means, including through mass media and social media.

He also shared that the MoH is still facing challenges in managing chronic non-communicable diseases, which is the main cause of death in the country. Inducing factors include obesity, smoking, distribution of unhealthy medicines and cosmetics and lack of physical activity.

“These challenges are worrying because they affect not only adults but also children,” the minister added.

In managing the epidemic, the MoH has been following a whole-of-government and nation approach whereby a multi-sectoral task force on health was established with the function to give all children a good start in life; improving the food environment; supporting an active lifestyle and reducing the use tobacco products.

“Through the task-force, a number of policies and initiatives are being implemented,” he said, noting several initiatives including early health education at schools and the appointment of health ambassadors at grassroots levels.

In ensuring the safety and welfare of the people, MoH’s mandate in enforcing rules and regulations, including the Tobacco Act 2005, Public Health (Food) Act Chapter 182, Poisons Act Chapter 114 and the Medicines Act 2007 continues to be actively enforced, on top of other regulations that support the implementation of clinical work for the safety of patients as well as laws that monitor the professionalism of medical professionals, the minister shared.

He noted that there has been a positive year-on-year growth of health professionals in the country, but said further improvements must be made because in comparison with developed countries, Brunei still has shortage of health professionals, citing the ratio of one doctor for 150 to 300 people in developed countries compared to one doctor for 637 people in Brunei.

“The shortage is also seen in the ratio of other health professionals such as dentists, nurses and pharmacists,” he added, while stressing that the MoH has taken proactive steps in managing the situation.

|     Azlan Othman     |

EFFORTS are in place to ensure Youth Development Centre (PPB) students are marketable and employable.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports YB Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin said the ministry has implemented numerous programmes, some of which are with strategic partners.

Among these include the signing of 38 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with private companies to provide training skills to the students.

“Career roadshow programmes are also being carried out with the help of the private sector to provide the PPB students with job opportunities. There is also a plan to allow youths to operate Ramadhan stalls at the Youth Centre in the capital to earn extra income,” the minister said.

Short courses on photography, photo editing, beads making, handicraft making, and others are also being offered to the students, the minister said in responding to Legislative Council (LegCo) member YB Pehin Orang Kaya Pendikar Alam Dato Paduka Seri Haji Hasrin bin Dato Paduka Haji Sabtu’s query.

“No (prerequisite) qualifications are needed. They only have to know how to read, write and perform calculations. What is crucial is for them to be marketable and show willingness to enrol in those courses,” the minister said.

On making these students marketable and have them further their studies, a question raised by LegCo member YB Khairunnisa bin Haji Ash’ari, the minister said that the PPB must obtain proper accreditations. Currently the centre has the City and Guilds accreditation, which was given in 2015.

“The government is spending over $10,000 annually to get such accreditations. The question is whether (the courses) have been accredited with other ministries. The matter is in the process of approval by the Brunei Darussalam National Accreditation Council (BDNAC) and I was informed that it is in the final phase. It would enable them to be more marketable and help their further studies,” the minister noted.

He also revealed that there were 15 youths initially in the PPB’s padi planting project, however, only eight remain now. They will have their first harvest this year, since the project began in 2015.

“The students have encountered many problems (in the project), but I hope they will persevere and continue. It is not easy but I encourage the youths to get out of their comfort zones and engage in farming,” the minister concluded.

|     Azlan Othman & James Kon     |

THE government is assisting individuals with special needs (OKUs) to improve their welfare and living standards, as well as helping them find work and set up their own enterprises or businesses.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports YB Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin said this yesterday in responding to queries raised by Legislative Council (LegCo) members.

Speaking about the plight of OKUs and the need to enhance their welfare and standards of living, the minister said the country wants to see equality in terms of job opportunities and quality of life for these individuals, assuring the council that his ministry will do all it can to ensure support for them.

He noted that at Pusat Bahagia in Kampong Pulaie alone, there are 400 OKUs, a number which “is quite high”.

“We will assist them to find work and set up their own enterprises or businesses. Statistics, however, show that job opportunities for OKUs are not encouraging, with only 56 of such individuals being employed throughout the country,” the minister said.

The minister was responding to LegCo member YB Haji Abdul Wahab bin Apong’s query as to whether people with special needs involved in poultry breeding or mechanic work are given any other form of assistance (for example, to enable them to repair their chicken coops), aside from the monthly $250 allowance they receive.

“We need to change the mindset not only in the context of employers, but also the families of these OKUs. Entrepreneurship should be encouraged among all levels of the community including OKUs,” added the minister.

“Entrepreneurship programmes are also extended to all, including those with special needs,” the minister said.

With regard to the issue raised by YB Haji Abdul Wahab on whether there are plans to reduce dependence on the Community Development Department (JAPEM) for individuals receiving monthly assistance, the minister said his ministry is assisting able-bodied recipients of these allowances to be more independent through enrichment programmes.

These enrichment programmes are designed by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) National Committee to tackle social issues, among these, to enable allowance recipients to be more financially independent.

On the issue of neglected youth and assistance rendered to them as raised by LegCo member YB Khairunnisa bin Haji Ash’ari, the minister said these young people come from families that need government assistance.

“We will see how we can stimulate them to build their capacities such as teaching them IT skills. We also have programmes such as the ‘Innovative and Visionary Youth’ to assist neglected youth and those receiving assistance. This programme consists of three phases: migration of mind and self; basic training of the 21st Century; and job placement,” the minister said.

The minister noted the programme has helped 16 people obtain employment, 20 get enrolled in community enrichment programmes at the Youth Development Centre (PPB), 14 start home-based businesses, and 15 undergo the Visionary Youth Innovation programme.

With regard to volunteerism, a topic raised by YB Khairunnisa, the minister said he hopes the spirit of volunteerism can be increased among the community, but this is an area where there must be continuous monitoring and efforts in order to make full use of the 6,000 volunteers in the country.

“We are very fortunate that the spirit of volunteerism is high; this was seen during the recent floods, where 100 volunteers helped JAPEM pack 7,000 food rations for distribution to the needy,” the minister said.

On the proposal suggested by LegCo member YB Haji Umarali bin Esung to promote more volunteerism and to make participation in volunteer work a prerequisite for entry into the job market or tertiary education, and for government agencies to establish their own volunteer groups, the minister said such initiatives at the grassroots level are encouraged.

“We encourage the setting up of volunteer bodies at the national level to drive volunteer activities collectively. This is our future direction. Voluntary programmes cover nine clusters. On December 10 last year, we saw during the Youth Centre’s ‘Day of Action’ campaign, 24 agencies getting involved in 38 projects partaken by 1,014 volunteers. A volunteerism body will be set up at the Youth Centre to allow its members to hold dialogues on volunteer-related work or activities,” said YB Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan.

In response to LegCo member YB Haji Mohaimin bin Haji Johari @Jahari’s query on sports events in Brunei, the minister said sports activities organised in the country such as the recently concluded Asia Development Tour (ADT) held at The Empire Hotel & Country Club and the Lady’s Championship have created positive spin-off effects in tourism and related economic activities.

“We can’t rely solely on the government to hold such tournaments. A whole-of-nation approach is required to carry out such activities,” he highlighted.

“Various facilities are being used to generate revenues for the MCYS as well. Among these include the renting out of facilities at Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas,” the minister added.

|     James Kon     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Deputy Sultan in his capacity as the Chairman of Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam’s (AMBD) Board of Directors yesterday attended the foundation laying ceremony of the AMBD Building.

Located on a 16-acre land at Jalan Menteri Besar, Kampong Melabau, Mukim Kianggeh, the 22,000-square-metre building complex will be built with Syariah-compliant Sukuk fund.

The AMBD Building project will include the construction of the main building, the currency gallery and a multi-purpose hall. Currently, the AMBD headquarters is situated at the Ministry of Finance Building, Commonwealth Drive.

Upon arrival at the foundation laying project site, His Royal Highness was greeted by Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs as Deputy Chairman of AMBD’s Board of Directors and Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office. Also in attendance were Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman, Minister of Education; Dato Paduka Awang Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Acting Minister of Finance II; other members of AMBD’s Board of Directors as well as AMBD’s officers and staff.

His Royal Highness then proceeded to officiate at the foundation laying ceremony of the AMBD Building which was followed by signing of the commemorative plaque to mark the occasion.

The Deputy Sultan also viewed an exhibition illustrating the milestones for the construction of the building project and later joined a group photo session with members of AMBD’s Board of Directors.

In his speech at the ceremony, the Minister of Home Affairs lauded the construction of the building complex using Sukuk funds. “This is a significant initiative to develop the financial market in our country, especially Islamic finance market. It is hoped that the issuance of the Sukuk will act as a catalyst for more innovative Sukuk issuances for domestic projects in the future.”

“The AMBD Building’s design is based on a concept that reflects the image and identity of a central bank with international standards and as an entity which can have a progressive role in the development of an inclusive financial sector.”

The design, the minister said, also portrays the strength of Islamic identity, upholds the national heritage and highlights the sovereignty of Brunei Darussalam as a Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) country. All the design elements are hoped to create an iconic and dynamic building which will become another major landmark in the country soon, he added.

“The building can accommodate around 300 staff and has several facilities, namely a surau, a theatre hall, meeting rooms, a public complaint centre and a research centre. The design is flexible in line with the AMBD’s future needs in addressing the global challenges that are becoming increasingly complex and dynamic,” the minister explained.

In February 2016, nine architect firms were invited to compete in designing the AMBD Building, where the assessment for the competition was made based on criteria, such as design, creativity, concept sustainability, aesthetics and functionality.

OWMP International, the appointed leading architect, together with several other local consultants, designed a modern classical concept of the AMBD Building, with unique features symbolising the significant role of AMBD in ensuring the stability of the country’s financial system.

The groundwork for the building site commenced in November 2017 and the construction of the main building is expected to be completed by early 2020. Yesterday’s ceremony was also attended by permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries as well as senior government officials and prominent figures in the local financial sector.

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 attended the closing of the Counter-Terrorism Conference and the welcome reception and official opening of the Asean-Australia Special Summit.

Both events were held at International Convention Centre in Sydney.

His Majesty first attended the closing of the Counter-Terrorism Conference. The ceremony began with a closing address delivered by Malcolm Turnbull, the Prime Minister of Australia.

His Majesty was subsequently invited to join the Prime Minister of Australia as well as other Heads of State and Government of Asean to witness the signing of the memorandum of understanding on Counter-Terrorism between Asean and Australia.

Signing on behalf of Asean was Dato Paduka Lim Jock Hoi, Secretary-General of Asean and for Australia was Julie Bishop MP, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Australia.

Immediately after the conference, His Majesty proceeded to the Grand Ballroom Foyer together with the Prime Minister of Australia and other Heads of State and Government of Asean for the leaders’ welcome reception and official opening ceremony of the Asean-Australia Special Summit.

Upon arrival, the leaders received the ‘Welcome to Country’ ceremony performed by an indigenous Australian.

The ceremony commenced with welcoming remarks by the Prime Minister of Australia. It was followed by traditional cultural performances to officially welcome Asean leaders to Australia.

The ceremony was also attended by foreign ministers as well as chief executive officers from Asean and Australia.

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 attended the Asean-Australia Special Summit 2018 which was held at the International Convention Centre in Sydney.

Upon arrival at the Convention Centre, His Majesty joined Malcolm Turnbull, the Prime Minister of Australia and the other Asean leaders for a group photograph.

After the photo session, His Majesty, along with other Asean leaders, was invited to attend the ‘New Colombo Plan’ Afternoon Tea which was co-hosted by Malcolm Turnbull and Julie Bishop MP, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Australia.

The reception began with a speech by the Prime Minister of Australia, followed by a speech by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Australia. The monarch was subsequently invited by Nicola Rosenblum, High Commissioner of Australia to Brunei Darussalam to meet with four selected students.

The event was also attended by participants of the New Colombo Plan and Australian Heads of Mission to the Asean member states.

The New Colombo Plan is an initiative of the Australian government towards increasing the exchange of Australian university students in the Indo-Pacific region.

The plan was launched in 2014 with the aim of promoting the growth of knowledge on the Indo-Pacific region in Australia, by giving Australian students the opportunity to study and undergo internship work in the region.

His Majesty also attended a leader’ dinner yesterday evening hosted by the Australian Prime Minister. The event was held at Quay Restaurant, Circular Quay, Sydney.

Upon arrival at the restaurant, His Majesty was welcomed by the Prime Minister of Australia.

His Majesty then proceeded to the Green Room together with the Australian Prime Minister and other Asean heads of state and government.

The dinner commenced with a speech by the Prime Minister of Australia to welcome all Asean leaders and delegates attending the Asean-Australia Special Summit 2018. At the dinner, the leaders discussed the future direction of Asean-Australia relationship.

A YOUNG and educated generation is the priceless ‘natural resources’ of the country, said 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.

“Educated and skilled citizens will be able to drive the economy and prosperity of the nation,” the monarch noted in a titah delivered yesterday during a get-together ceremony with citizens and residents of Brunei Darussalam who are currently in Australia, while also reminding the importance of knowledge, especially in the government’s efforts towards realising the Brunei Vision 2035.

His Majesty expressed hope for the young generation to be bolder in facing challenges. “They need to come forward and give ideas and make efforts towards national development,” the monarch said.

His Majesty urged all students to use the opportunity provided by the government, not only for higher education but also to strengthen their values and self identity. “The students also have to show their commitment and loyalty by serving their country upon the completion of their studies. That is the spirit of patriotism,” the ruler added.

His Majesty went on to emphasise to the students that they are the true Bruneians who have principles, culture and own identity. “Students have to strongly adhere to this culture and identity and not let them go or exchanged as they are our assets and values,” the monarch said.

His Majesty stressed that “MIB (Malay Islamic Monarchy) is our system and identity. If we were to disregard it, it is as if we are rejecting our own system and smearing our own identity”. However, the monarch expressed confidence in Bruneian students “as they are already matured and are aware of the history of their people and country”.

His Majesty was also convinced that Bruneian students are very patriotic and highly disciplined, unlike students in other places who have become thorns in the society and are involved in unethical activities. The monarch therefore urged for the clean record of Bruneian students to be upheld.

The get-together ceremony was held at Hilton Hotel in Sydney, Australia.

At the hotel, His Majesty was greeted by Haji Zakaria bin Haji Ahmad, High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to Australia and wife, Hajah Norzanah binti Haji Mohd Hashim as well as Muhammad Romulus bin Muhammad Roland and Abdul Haziq Hazmi bin Haji Abdul Nasir, President and Vice-President of the Brunei Students’ Union in Sydney.

His Majesty was then ushered to Function Room 2 for a light refreshment with the Brunei Students’ Union representatives. The monarch later signed a commemorative parchment before joining a photo session with senior officers of the High Commission of Brunei Darussalam in Australia and the President and Vice-President of the Brunei Students’ Union in Sydney.

His Majesty then proceeded to the Grand Ballroom for the get-together ceremony which began with singing of the national anthem of Brunei Darussalam by the Brunei Student’s Union. It was followed by the recitation of verses from Al-Quran by Awangku Muhammad Abdul Hakeem bin Pengiran Roseli while the translation of the verses was read by Muhamad Faris bin Ali, both of whom are students from the University of South Wales.

A Doa Selamat was then recited by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti.

The ceremony continued with a welcoming address by Muhammad Romulus, who, on behalf of all the students, also delivered a pledge of unwavering loyalty and allegiance to His Majesty.

At the ceremony, His Majesty received a pesambah presented by the President of the Brunei Students’ Union in Sydney.

Before leaving the ceremony, the monarch proceeded to mingle with more than 300 citizens and residents of Brunei Darussalam consisting of students, government officials as well as those on vacation in Australia.

The ceremony also featured a Tausyeh performance by Bruneian students in Australia.

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 attended a meeting with Malcolm Turnbull, Prime Minister of Australia.

The meeting was held at the Bilateral Room, International Convention Centre Sydney, Australia.

Upon arrival at the convention centre, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam was welcomed by the Prime Minister of Australia.

During the meeting, His Majesty and the Prime Minister of Australia exchanged views on regional and international matters of mutual concerns as well as bilateral cooperations between Brunei Darussalam and Australia.

Accompanying the Prime Minister of Australia was Nicola Rosenblum, High Commissioner of Australia to Brunei Darussalam.

Also present during the meeting were Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Diraja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa bin Pehin Datu Perdana Manteri Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Ibrahim, Special Adviser to His Majesty and Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; Dato Seri Paduka Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Minister of Finance II; Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II; and Haji Zakaria bin Haji Ahmad, High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to Australia.

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, in a titah reflected on the growth of Asean-Australian relationship over the years since Australia became Asean’s first dialogue partner.

His Majesty said this yesterday morning attending the Leaders’ Plenary Session of the Asean-Australia Special Summit held at the International Convention Centre Sydney.

Upon arriving at the centre, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam was greeted by Malcolm Turnbull, Prime Minister of Australia.

His Majesty later proceeded to the Grand Ballroom for the Leaders’ Plenary Session of the Asean-Australia Special Summit, together with Prime Minister of Australia and other heads of state and government of Asean.

The Leaders’ Plenary Session commenced with a welcoming speech by Malcolm Turnbull for all the Asean leaders attending the Asean-Australia Special Summit.

This was followed by opening remarks from Lee Hsien Loong, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore, as Chairman of Asean.

His Majesty said that the summit is an opportunity to enhance the strategic relationship between the people of Asean and Australia.

His Majesty highlighted that continued cooperation through exchange programmes such as the Colombo Plan and the scholarships are vital in bridging the people and nurturing mutual understanding, especially among the youth.

On trade, His Majesty praised the Asean-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA)which has strengthened the Asean-Australia economic partnership. This agreement has benefitted trade flows, and served as a platform for other FTA frameworks as well as Asean economic integration.

His Majesty underscored the importance of the digital economy as a growing and useful platform to connect and expand business networks regionally and beyond.

He also welcomed closer cooperation towards supporting the development of enterprises.

On security, His Majesty highlighted the importance of ensuring a safe and stable environment, and that maintaining regional peace should be a priority in future collaborations.

His Majesty welcomed the collaborative efforts in combatting terrorism and transnational crimes, through exchanging information and intelligence sharing between law enforcement agencies.

In ending the titah, His Majesty commended the many initiatives Australia had undertaken to commemorate the Special Summit, which marks a new beginning in its relationship with Asean.

During the Plenary Session, the leaders also discussed issues of cooperation and exchanged views on regional and international matters, as well as the future course of Asean-Australia relations.

The leaders were also briefed with the reports and resolutions of the Business Summit and the Counter-Terrorism Conference held earlier.