|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE ARISE+IPR project was launched yesterday as its 1st Sub-Project Steering Committee Meeting was held at the Design and Technology Building in Anggerek Desa.

The project sees the European Union (EU) partnering with Asean member countries to further regional integration through enhanced management, protection and enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), explained a press release from the EU Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO).

Funded by the EU, the EUR5.5- million ARISE+IPR programme is being implemented by EUIPO, an EU agency based in Alicante, Spain.

The press release explained that through close cooperation with Asean member countries and the private sector in the next five years, the project aims to create a robust IPR system by supporting the Asean Intellectual Property (IP) offices to deliver timely, quality and accessible trademark and design services to users.

It also aims to enhance the Asean Economic Community by developing platforms and creating infrastructures; extend the Asean IP Networks and their engagement; create a regional mechanism to promote asset creation and commercialisation, focussing particularly on Geographical Indications (GI); and highlight the importance of IP for national economies and businesses.

ARISE+IPR builds on the strong cooperation developed between the EU and Asean member countries and will support Asean in reaching its goals set out in the Asean IPR Action Plan 2016-2025. The project also aims to support greater economic integration in the Asean region through the implementation of the Asean Economic Community Blueprint 2015.

The meeting saw the attendance of officials from Intellectual Property Offices from Asean as well as the EUIPO. Shahrinah binti Yusof Khan, the Director of the Brunei Intellectual Property Office (BruIPO) was among the attendees.

Dede Mia Yusanti from the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DGIP) of Indonesia and Co-chair of the ARISE+ IPR Project Steering Committee delivered opening remarks.

“Today, the Sub-PSC Meeting on IP is an excellent opportunity for us to have constructive discussions and hopefully toward the first annual plan,” she said. “We would like to reiterate Asean’s commitment towards its partnership with EUIPO as we look forward to five existing years of cooperation,” she said.

“Lastly, we would also like to extend our utmost appreciation to the EUIPO for ensuring that the proposed programmes are based on and perfectly aligned with the Asean-IPR Action Plan 2016-2025.

“With that, we look forward to this Sub-PSC Meeting and to the strengthening of our cooperation and partnership with the European Union,” she added.

Ambassador Francisco Fontan, Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Asean, is quoted in the press release as saying, “Intellectual Property Right is at the heart of economic growth in modern economies in the EU and in Asean, promoting innovation, creating jobs and reinforcing competitiveness.

“The EU is proud to support this new initiative which will bring our two regions even closer through capacity building, harmonisation of standards and, ultimately, sustainable development.”

The press release goes on to share the next steps, stating that regional activities will be organised targeting Asean as a whole and aimed at promoting regional harmonisation, convergence of practice, coordination and cooperation.

ARISE+IPR continues to pursue the ‘enhanced cooperation’ approach adopted already under the previous regional IPR project.

One of the priorities of ARISE+IPR is to support Asean IP offices in their objective to improve the services they provide to users and stakeholders.

Actions foreseen include, among others, offering to interested IP offices a set of online tools that will support the creation of an Asean trademark registration system. ARISE+IPR will also look for synergies and best practices among all Asean IP offices.

This approach will contribute to increased quality in the examination of IPRs and it shall offer users and stakeholders an increased predictability on the outcome of the examination process.

The press release added that convergence alone would not suffice, hence the project will also support the IP offices in setting up common examination guidelines.

The EU and Asean have been cooperating in the field of IP for almost three decades, starting back in 1993. ARISE+IPR, launched yesterday, builds on previous projects in the field of IP such as ECAP, ECAP II and ECAP III.

The post ARISE+IPR project takes off appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

HIGH-QUALITY wooden furniture, textiles and handicrafts made by prison inmates are currently on display at a sales expo held by the Prisons Department, in Kampong Mentiri.

Prisons Director Haji Ismail bin Haji Murat officially launched the event yesterday, in conjunction with the 64th anniversary of the Prisons Department.

The three-day expo also involves several participants of Rakan Seliaan, or aftercare programme, in an attempt to provide more public awareness on the current approach to rehabilitation through vocational education and skills training.

According to Mohd Hilmi bin Haji Wasli, the Head Teacher at the Prisons Department and organising chairman of the expo, “Response to products made by inmates has always been very encouraging. The lumber used to make the furniture is of high quality, such as hardwood. Some of the furniture pieces are also made from wood pallets.”

He also stressed the crucial role played by society in the reintegration of former inmates to begin a fresh life.

One Rakan Seliaan participant, identified as Ruby, told the Weekend Bulletin that she used her time in prison to learn new skills by attending cookery and gardening classes.

“After my release in August 2016, I was able to use the skills to bring in extra income,” she said, adding, “I am often invited to showcase my products at similar expos.”

The homemaker, who was given a six-month sentence for fraud, admitted that life in prison was hard. “But thanks to the aftercare programme, I was able to reintegrate back into society.”

The post Expo highlights handiwork of inmates appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

FOUR young Bruneians were recently part of the US-led Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) programme in both Cambodia and the Philippines.

Mohd Khairul Izzat bin Abdul Hamid, 24, and Nuratikah binti Daud, 23, both joined the YSEALI STEM Education Regional Workshop 2018 in Phnom Penh, on February 28-March 3, which brought together 50 YSEALI members from across Asean to promote STEM education among youths.

Meanwhile, Nur Hafizah binti Abdul Harith, 24, and Nurizzati Balqis binti Haji Hailen, 19, were involved in the YSEALI SEA Camp 2018 at Bohol, on March 19-26, where 30 Asean youth leaders attended a series of workshops on public speaking, project management, and stakeholder consultation.

The youths told the Weekend Bulletin yesterday that their experiences had provided them with more enthusiasm and valuable insights.

Mohd Khairul Izzat described it as an important point of his academic journey, during which he gained a better appreciation of STEM education.

Nuratikah, who is in her final year at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), said that the workshop gave her a new perspective on the development of STEM education and trends across the Asean region.

Meanwhile, Nur Hafizah described her participation in the YSEALI SEA Camp as an eye-opener, in the ongoing effort to promote more awareness on ocean conservation and the use of plastic in Brunei Darussalam.

During the week-long programme, the YSEALI SEA Camp participants also explored the biodiversity of Bohol through snorkelling activities, in addition to treks of the Chocolate Hills and Loboc River.

At the end of the programme, the youth participants pitched project ideas to promote sustainable development and protect natural resources in their respective home communities. The top project ideas will receive seed funding and mentorship to support project implementation over the subsequent five months.

The post Brunei participants gain inspiration from YSEALI camps appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

A GROUP of five men from Brunei was apprehended by the Royal Malaysia Police for allegedly assaulting two immigration officers and two members of the People’s Volunteer Corps (Rela) while trying to intrude into the Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) area in Tedungan, Limbang after closing hours on Wednesday night.

According to a statement from the Malaysian police, the suspects, aged 20 to 40 years, were in a vehicle as they entered into the CIQ area through the passage used by Immigration officers at 12.10am – well after the border gates of both countries (Brunei and Malaysia) were closed.

Nine immigration officers and six members of the Rela were preparing to go home when the car intruded into the CIQ area.

Two immigration officers and two members of the Rela stopped the car and did not allow the Brunei-registered vehicle to enter into Brunei as the border gate was already closed.

These four officials were beaten and kicked, causing them to sustain bodily injuries including on their hands and legs, a Borneo Post Online report said, quoting a senior police official from Limbang.

“It is believed that the suspects were under the influence of alcohol during the incident and had tried to use the route to return to Brunei after the border post operation ended,” the official said, adding that the injured victims had sought outpatient treatment at Limbang Hospital.

After the assault, the suspects sped off back to Limbang, the report said.

A police report was lodged at 12.34 midnight at the Bambangan Police Station. While investigation was ongoing at the CIQ, Tedungan, the five suspects tried to cross the border in their car at 12.20pm on Thursday to head back to Brunei and were arrested by the Malaysian police.

The car used by the suspects was also seized.

The suspects are currently remanded under Section 117 of the Criminal Procedure Code for further investigation.

The case is being investigated under Section 353 of the Penal Code, the Malaysian police official was quoted as saying in the report.

The post 5 Bruneians held for assaulting Limbang border officials appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

BANK Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) has been recognised once again as the Best Retail Bank in Brunei by highly prestigious The Asian Banker, the region’s leading financial services research, benchmarking and intelligence consultancy.

The honour was conferred upon BIBD for a record sixth consecutive year as part of The Asian Bankers’ ‘Excellence in Retail Financial Services’ award.

This win for BIBD comes off the back of it being conferred two awards recently for ‘Best Mobile Banking Application’ and ‘Best Digital Bank in Brunei’ respectively.

“The award is reflective of BIBD’s consistent commitment to creating a unique customer experience through the provision of industry leading infrastructure, products, and services,” the bank said in a press statement.

Commenting on winning the award, Dato Seri Paduka Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Minister of Finance II and Chairman of BIBD, Board of Directors said, “Alhamdulillah, everyone at BIBD is humbled at this accomplishment.

“We are thankful and appreciative to the people of Brunei Darussalam for their support. This achievement will only spur us on to repay their trust in BIBD by providing them with superlative banking experiences that help them to achieve their aspirations and ambitions.”

Meanwhile, BIBD Managing Director and CEO Mubashar Khokhar said, “Despite challenging market conditions, BIBD’s retail business has continued its forward thrust that has led to us being able to claim the ‘Best Retail Bank in Brunei’ award for a sixth consecutive year.

“We thank our customers and regulators whose support has propelled us forward and has contributed to the progress and development of Brunei Darussalam’s financial services sector.”

The Asian Banker stated that BIBD was commended on its strong presence and largest customer base in the country.

At the same time, BIBD’s various innovative solutions were highlighted as at the forefront of its digital transformation. BIBD’s processes and infrastructure optimisation to increase its banking efficiency and productivity were also cited as other criteria for the award.

The awards ceremony took place at The Asian Banker Digital Finance Convention, at Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia recently.

Present to receive the recognition on behalf of BIBD was Hajah Nurul Akmar binti Haji Mohd Jaafar, Head of Retail Banking Group.

About 200 senior executives from award-winning retail financial services institutions from 25 countries across the Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa attended The Asian Banker Digital Finance Convention which recognises financial institutions’ efforts in bringing superior products and services to their customers.

The awards programme, administered by The Asian Banker and refereed by prominent global bankers, consultants, and academics, is the most prestigious of its kind. The Asian Banker is the region’s most authoritative provider of strategic business intelligence to the financial services community. The company is headquartered in Singapore, with offices in Manila, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Beijing, and Dubai, as well as having representatives in London, New York, and San Francisco. It has a business model that revolves around three core business lines – publications, research services and forums.

The post BIBD wins ‘Best Retail Bank in Brunei’ award appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

EIGHTEEN firefighters succeeded in dousing a fire that broke out at a house in Kampong Pancha Delima yesterday.

According to a statement from the Fire and Rescue Department, an emergency call on the fire was received at 8.05am. Four fire engines from the Berakas Fire Station and a female operation unit were dispatched to the scene.

Led by SO Jasni, the firefighters controlled the fire within 10 minutes.

The house is owned by a local woman and is home to four residents. No casualties were reported from the fire. The amount of damages is still under investigation.

The Fire and Rescue Department reminded the public to not overload electrical sockets in their homes and ensure that electrical wirings are in good condition and have their inspections done by accredited companies.

Every home should be equipped with fire safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, fire blankets and smoke detectors.

The public should contact the Fire and Rescue Department’s operations centre at 995 for any emergencies and provide accurate information for a swift response.

The post Swift firefighters save house in Kg Pancha Delima appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

A BLOOD donation campaign at Pra Letop 2018 yesterday received enthusiastic response from the public, as part of the activities offered at Pra Letop at the Indoor Stadium, Berakas.

More than 30 visitors donated blood from 10am to 2pm yesterday, and most of them were youths. As a gesture of appreciation, every blood donor received a coupon and stands a chance to win attractive prizes.

‘1 Guntingan, 1 Senyuman’ or ‘1 Haircut, 1 Smile’ also made a comeback, where for every haircut a visitor gets, one orphan child will get a free haircut before the new school term starts. The haircuts were done by youths of Jambang’s Barber Shop and was well-received by the public.

Other than these activities, Pra Letop 2018 also held a Spelling Bee with Enrich Tutorial and Azan Competition with Al-Huffaz Management, both held yesterday.

The prize presentation for winners will be held tonight. Today is also the last day for visitors to stand a chance in winning an Asean Dream Trip from AkuManang.com campaign.

The post Over 30 visitors donate blood at Pra Letop 2018 appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Daniel Lim     |

YAYASAN Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah organised a motivational programme and briefing on Friday at the Multi-purpose hall of the Anthony Abell College (AAC), Seria.

Students of ‘Education Intervention Programme’ (PIP), in the Belait District together with their parents and guardians attended the briefing.

PIP in the second school term will cater to 83 students from Years 5, 6, 10, and 11 of the Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar Secondary School and Anthony Abell College.

Haji Musthapa bin Haji Matahir, Assistant Managing Director of Yayasan was the guest of honour. The briefing began with the reading of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat followed by a briefing on PIP which was given by Haji Alimas bin Haji Mohd Ali, Coordinating Officer for Yayasan Volunteers.

The event proceeded with a short motivational talk by Dr Awangku Haji Jamaludin bin Pengiran Haji Zainal, Politeknik Brunei lecturer.

The PIP tuition class project will be held across the country, every Sunday, from April 8 to September 30.

The target groups of the tuition class project are the less fortunate families and children with weak academic achievement.

The post 83 students benefit from PIP in Belait appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

IT IS important to conduct coaching clinics to a ensure a ready pool of certified coaches to teach youths the fundamentals of basketball, said Tan Chee Wan, certified level 3 Basketball coach from Malaysia.

He said this during a discussion last Wednesday attended by local basketball players and Brunei Basketball Association executive committee members at the association’s meeting room in Batu Bersurat.

The meeting was conducted to discuss opportunities to improve the sport of basketball in Brunei.

Tan Chee Wan was in Brunei for the Let’s Hoops Elite Camp.

The post Certified coaches a must to improve local basketball talent appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

FIFTY volunteers carried out a cleaning campaign at the beach and parking lot of the Berakas Forest Reserve yesterday.

The group was made up of members of the organising committee for the New Resolutions Fest (NRF), activity partners, representatives of non-government organisations as well as volunteers who signed up online.

The event was organised by Kaleidoscope Studio and Pro Event Management, which will also hold an event titled Beach Bliss today.

The cleaning campaign began with a briefing by Green Brunei and was aimed at instilling awareness on environmental conservation and to bring together diverse communities to take part in a meaningful activity that would ultimately foster a sense of community among the participants.

The cleaning campaign and today’s NRF Beach Bliss 2018 events are a series of Mini NRF Hype events that will lead up to the bigger NRF Festival.

The cleaning campaign was also held to prepare the area for the NRF Beach Bliss 2018 event. The series of NRF events hope to encourage people to lead a healthier and fitter lifestyle.

During the events, families and friends can enjoy a day out at the beach, engaging in fun activities, while witnessing the ongoing sports competitions hosted by the organisers.

In conjunction with World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, a donation drive will be held for the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei and the ‘Blue Life Campaign.’

The Beach Bliss 2018 goers are encouraged to wear blue in support of autism and environmental conservation.

The post Clean-up held ahead of ‘NRF Beach Bliss’ appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

INDERA SC manager Rosdin Abdul Aziz has recognised the fact that history will be made one way or the other in the DST FA Cup final as either his charges or the galvanised MS PDB side will be lifting their first-ever title at the Berakas Sports Complex tonight.

MS PDB’s stunning win over MS ABDB in the last four meant that it is the first time that the latter have surrendered the DST FA Cup never mind contesting a final.

“This is a historic moment for both teams to make history and to be crowned FA Cup champions for the first time,” said Rosdin in an interview with the media.

Indera SC boasted experience at this stage after losing out to MS ABDB on both occasions in 2012 and 2015 and Rosdin highlighted the latter’s shock exit in the semi-finals.

“It is true that Indera has always met MS ABDB in the semi-final and final and this is indeed a surprise that MS PDB successfully defeated MS ABDB in the semi-final,” he said.

Despite managing a 6-0 rout against their cup final opponents last August in the league, Rosdin will no doubt be wary of the threat that the police personnel pose.

“This (win over MS ABDB) shows that MS PDB cannot be taken lightly what more with their line-up of young players.”

But, Rosdin is eying the top prize that has eluded his side since establishing themselves as a major force in the country’s top flight DST Super League.

“Nevertheless, Indera SC wants to win the FA Cup for the first time which we have not been able to after two attempts. Hopefully, this year is our year,” said Rosdin adding his hopes of a third time the charm for his charges.

The two-time DST Super League winners have been training actively and also tactically to enhance their preparations for the Sunday final.

He also provided advice to his charges who will be hoping to become a new champion in the FA Cup since AH United in the 2005/06 season.

“To all ISC players… Continue your fight till the end and bring home the FA Cup for the first time for our loyal supporters who have been waiting on lifting the FA Cup,” he said.

The post Local teams to make FA Cup final history appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

THE Setia Ali Mosque Takmir Committee yesterday organised a ceremony to award certificates of appreciation to two companies and two individuals for their contributions to the mosque.

Syarikat Perkhidmatan Marin Al-Hadid Sdn Bhd donated two 5hp air-conditioners and a 3hp split air conditioner, while Syarikat Sofy Curtains & Sofe Repair Company’s donation came in the form of curtains.

Meanwhile, Haji Zulkifli bin Haji Mohd Yusof donated a shelf and Mimbar stick, and Baharuddin bin Basar donated a 1,200-watt vacuum cleaner.

Mukim Serasa Penghulu Major (Rtd) Haji Johari bin Haji Abdul Razak and Setia Ali Mosque Takmir Committee Deputy Chairman Haji Mohammad bin Haji Mohd Yassin handed over the certificates to the recipients, in the presence of Mosque Affairs Officer of Setia Ali Mosque Nasehin bin Yahya, Setia Ali Mosque Takmir Committee Chairman Rosli bin Haji Ladis, the Imam of the mosque and committee members.

The post Certificates awarded to four donors appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Wani Roslan     |

EIGHT station officers of the Fire and Rescue Department (FRD) were promoted to ranks of Assistant Superintendent during a rank insignia presentation ceremony yesterday at the Officers’ Mess of the FRD Headquarters at the Old Airport in Berakas.

Station Officers Haji Hassan bin Haji Jamudin, Moksin bin Haji Zakaria, Muhammad Saifuddin bin Abdullah, Pengiran Noor Faridahwati binti Pengiran Seri Maharaja Pengiran Anak Omar Alli, Muhammad Ali bin Hassan, Sureine binti Haji Hassan, Norhalimahtul Halimah binti Abdullah Chin and Mushidee bin Junaidi received their rank insignias of Assistant Superintendent from Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Maiddin bin Pengiran Haji Said, the Acting Director of the FRD.

A Doa Selamat was read by FRD Religious Teacher Ustaz Othman bin Asat to bless the occasion.

Also in attendance were Lim Hock Guan, Deputy Director of the FRD; assistant directors, senior officials, officers, personnel and staff of the FRD.

The post Eight FRD officers promoted appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Wani Roslan     |

TWO hundred flood victims from the Temburong District whose homes were affected by heavy downpour and flooding in December last year received government financial assistance yesterday.

The assistance was handed over by Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports at the National Service Programme (PKBN) Training Camp in Batu Apoi in the Temburong District.

Twenty-three villages from Mukim Bangar, Mukim Amo, Mukim Bokok and Mukim Batu Apoi in the Temburong District were affected, and the Community Development Department (JAPEM) also provided assistance in terms of food (packed meals) and food ration to the victims.

It is hoped the government financial aid can lessen the burden of the flood victims.

Also in attendance were YB Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu, a Legislative Council member and Penghulu of Mukim Bokok; Haji Amer Hamzah bin Pehin Orang Kaya Amar Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Zakaria, Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS); Roslinah binti Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Sura Pahlawan Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Tahir, Acting Director of JAPEM; Mohammad Khairul Shahrul bin Haji Duahim, Acting Temburong District Officer; senior officials at the MCYS and JAPEM, mukim penghulus, and village heads.

The post Flood victims receive financial assistance appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

TEAM Polybrusem of Politeknik Brunei has made the country proud by finishing the recent Shell Eco-marathon Asia 2018 held in Singapore in flying colours and winning the hearts of new age technology enthusiasts.

The Brunei team’s fuel-efficient car placed 10th of 26 participating battery electric prototype vehicles at the event.

The competition, which took place at the City State’s Changi Exhibition Centre, saw the participation of 120 student teams from 18 countries.

Shell Eco-marathon is a competition for students who are passionate about developing innovative mobility solutions. It challenges engineering, design, science and technology students to design, build and drive the world’s most energy-efficient vehicle.

The Politeknik Brunei team managed to set a new benchmark and also break its own record from 84km/kWh last year to 117km/kWh this year. The double achievements made Polybrusem the top Brunei team in the competition in terms of efficiency and ranking.

To celebrate this landmark achievement, Politeknik Brunei held an appreciation and certificate presentation ceremony for the Polybrusem team members and event sponsors.

Denis Ho Mun Tai, Director of Politeknik Brunei presented the certificates. Ho applauded the students for their remarkable achievement and expressed his gratitude to the sponsors.

Appreciation certificates were presented to Brunei Shell Petroleum, Brunei Shell Marketing, Brunei Gas Carriers, Brunei LNG, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, Aegion FYFE, IET, Royal Brunei Airlines, Aewon, MOC Sdn Bhd, Keluarga Tasmera, Filterworks and Micronet International College.

Members of team Polybrusem who received recognition certificates were: Pengiran Haji Mohd Alauddin bin Pengiran Haji Momin, programme leader for the Diploma in Mechanical Engineering programme; Norliza binti Zaini, team electrical supervisor; Mohammad Hifdzur Azmi bin Haji Mohd Sain, team manager; Nurul Ramizah binti Ramlee, assistant team manager; Nur Athirah Umairah binti Abdul Mateen Elok, team safety officer and first driver; Muhammad Najiullah Al-Aqiel bin Dr Mohammad Adi Zaky, the team’s car designer; Muhammad Rashid bin Harun, head of electrical; Muhammad Nurfazillah bin Zaidin, electrical assistant; and mechanical technicians Mohammad Wazini bin Roslan and Nablibullah bin Haji Muhamad Zain.

“We totally redesigned the vehicle from last year’s competition and this took us a year. Since the location of the event is quite windy, we tried to design a car which could reduce the drag resistance force and is lighter,” said Mohammad Hifdzur Azmi in an interview.

On the challenges that the team faced, he recalled, “We faced some problems with the electrical circuits during the race, and as a team we worked together to solve them. After showing very low efficiency in the first round, we did troubleshooting of our car by re-examining all of its components thoroughly. As we progressed through the stages of the race, we managed to increase the car’s efficiency and achieve a distance of 117km/kWh.”

On the team’s success, he said, “The hard work of the team and support from sponsors and guidance from the Politeknik Brunei Board of Directors, teachers and everyone else – all contributed to our success. The overall determination and hunger to achieve a landmark result for Politeknik Brunei also helped motivate the team.

“We didn’t expect that we can achieve a top 10 ranking because there were many challenges. But we strived on and competed with other universities to obtain such an achievement,” he added.

Mohammad Hifdzur Azmi and his other team members will soon be graduating from Politeknik Brunei and will not be representing the institution in next year’s Shell Eco-marathon Asia.

“I am happy to have been able to achieve this landmark result for Politeknik Brunei before leaving the school,” he said.

The post Politeknik Brunei team wins hearts in Singapore appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

LAWN bowlers and athletes alike must always be competitive and pride themselves on being able to represent the country at the 21st Commonwealth Games 2018 in Gold Coast, Australia, to be held April 4-16.

This was said by Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports during the sending off event for the Brunei Darussalam contingent yesterday.

“Our lawn bowlers have gone through series of training and they must believe in themselves to be able to compete with other nation. They must keep their fighting spirits and be competitive in professional ways so that they will be proud of themselves at the Commonwealth Games 2018,” he said.

The contingent comprises 12 representatives – eight athletes and four officers including Chef de Mission, secretariat, team manager and coach.

“They must be at all times be reminded that they are flying the country’s pride (flag) and must ensure that they are ‘Calak Brunei’. While at the same time, they must keep their fighting spirits as one of the contingents out of 52 nations in the Commonwealth Games,” the minister said.

The contingent is led by Major (Rtd) Md Talip bin Md Tahir as Chef de Mission, who revealed that Brunei is targeting to reach the quarter finals in the lawn bowling event. He added that it will be a bonus should the team advance beyond the quarters.

The post National athletes reminded to stay competitive appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

EXPERIENCED local golfer Johari Haji Ahmad has finally etched his name in the records books after capturing the overall gross title in the 16th Pusat Ehsan Charity Golf Tournament 2018 at the Royal Brunei Airlines Golf Club (RBAGC) yesterday.

Johari, who came close in the 2016 edition after entering the playoffs with then-winner Qawim Aslimon who he succeeded at the popular Berakas course, carded a score of 73 to fend off challenge from household names with the likes of Baiduri Masters multiple winners Seruji Haji Setia and Khairul Kamis.

Johari, who finally erased the label as a ‘nearly man’ here two years ago, expressed his satisfaction during the three-day tournament for his performance and the playing conditions.

“I am quite satisfied in this year’s competition after losing the playoffs to Qawim in 2016,” said Johari in an interview with the Bulletin.

The local golfer also lost the playoffs at the Baiduri Masters to eventual winner Qawim last year, who recently featured at the Richard Mille Brunei Championships last month.

“The playing conditions and the course are both good. At the RBA Golf Club, you have to be patient. It is a gentleman’s game, so you have to be patient and play safe,” he stressed.

Johari, who has pitted his wits against stars in the local scene on numerous occasions, also expressed his contentment with his score especially after lifting his first title of the year.

The newly-crowned Pusat Ehsan champion will no doubt be vying for another golfing triumph to stake his claim as the current 2018 decorated title-winner at this weekend’s 29th Pantai Mentiri Golf Open, another major event in Brunei’s golfing calendar.

And the new recipient of the coveted Patron Challenge Trophy will be installed as one of the contenders after his exploits which saw him win by two shots with Seruji in second place with a 73 to show for and Khairul Kamis further back with a 75.

The golfer has also confirmed his participation at the Pantai Mentiri meet, another tournament that has Qawim’s name on the trophy following his triumph last year.

When asked if he would be competing this week, Johari said, “Insya Allah, I will be playing at the Pantai Mentiri Golf Championship. I will definitely take part in the tournament.”

Meanwhile, the tournament has raked in a total of $43,700 which was received from sponsors while GHK Motors has also contributed $5,000 as corporate sponsors.

Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Awang Haji Mohammad bin Haji Daud presented the prizes.

The post Johari wins Pusat Ehsan Charity Golf Tournament appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

INDERA SC made history by winning the DST FA Cup for the first time after strikes from Md Zulkhairy Razali and Md Asri Haji Aspar in either side of half time inspired them to a 2-0 win over MS PDB in the final at the Berakas Sports Complex last night.

The club, who added their FA Cup triumph to their two DST Super League titles, become only the second side to win the DST FA Cup and the fifth team in FA Cup history.

The stage was set for both teams trying to create history with neither side having won the competition before but the police personnel received a big blow after a 37th minute strike from Zulkhairy helped soothe nerves for Indera.

Matters could have been worse at the stroke of half-time after Md Asri dinked the ball over the goalkeeper in no man’s land but the ball ended wide and MS ABDB went into the break still with a fighting chance.

Indera SC nearly doubled the lead as Md Zulkhairy teed up Md Asri but the former scuffed his effort and the MS PDB defence rushed back to clear the ball to safety.

However, the setup for the second goal was executed to perfection after beating the offside trap as Md Asri took a touch away from the goalkeeper before slotting the ball into the empty net.

MS PDB attempted to claw their way their back into the tie but a shot from a tight angle was dealt with by the Indera’s goalkeeper.

Indera SC head coach Md Darus Tanjung also won his first major silverware in his first season in charge of the team.

“This is the first time that we have finally tasted success in the DST FA Cup this year,” said Indera SC head coach Mohamad Darus bin Tanjong.

“I am very thankful to the management and I would like to say well done to all of them. The players showed a high level of commitment tonight and I hope that this will continue in the future especially in the new season.

“To preserve a 2-0 lead with the win ensures the FA Cup in our hands,” he said.

Asked whether the team was at their vintage best during the final, Darus pointed out the differences between cup and league football.

“The team showed 100 per cent commitment and their level of fitness is also 100 per cent. If we compare the League and FA, certainly there are differences. The strategy used in both is different because sometimes it invites pressure.

“We forget about it and we have to focus on football for 90 minutes,” he added.

The head coach was also asked if boasting the experience of reaching the final twice meant an advantage to his side and he accepted.

“The experience of reaching the final twice became our benchmark to instil the spirits to the players, and by keeping their experience in both finals, that is where we can find the strong spirit of 18 players listed all of whom demonstrates an excellent performance,” he said.

Guest of honour Dato Paduka Haji Mohammad Irwan bin Haji Hambali, Acting Commissioner of Police presented the prizes.

The post Indera create history by winning DST FA Cup appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fizah HAB     |

KALEIDOSCOPE Studio and Pro-Event Management organised the New Resolution Fest (NRF): Beach Bliss Community Day in conjunction with the 11th World Autism Awareness Day 2018 with the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei at Berakas Beach yesterday.

Visitors enjoyed a day out on the beach with tasty delicacies from food vendors and fun activities such as paddle-boarding, painting a community mural, and dodgeball and rugby competitions.

“We hope that NRF can be a platform to empower individuals to be healthier, and for those in the creative and sporting industries and community development to reach out to new audiences and gain recognition,” said Nur Khalisah binti Ahmad, the Director and Founder of Kaleidoscope Studio.

“The event hosted a slew of physical activities including Muay Thai sessions by ADB Mixed Martial Arts Academy, archery sessions as well as Stand Up Paddle classes. We also hosted a series of creative activities and workshops to name a few, including various Photowalk workshops and basic Mini Sign Language workshop hosted by the National Association for the Hearing Impaired (OKP).”

She added, “Our vision is to encourage youths to take an initiative and find new passions and hobbies and be involved with local community groups which can lead to a positive social and economic impact in Brunei. Our core ideal is to be a catalyst for people to have healthy bodies and minds as well as live in a better environment.

“In conjunction with the 11th World Autism Awareness Day 2018, we also collaborate with SMARTER Brunei where we invite students together with their families to enjoy various activities for free, as well as show that children with autism can still operate in a social setting.”

The post Food, fun activities at beach appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fizah HAB     |

TWO Bruneians recently completed a five-day trek across the Patagonia trail between Chile and Argentina, as part of a move to commemorate the 34th National Day of Brunei Darussalam.

Avid trekkers Pengiran Nor Ikhsan binti Pengiran Jaya Indera Pengiran Haji Mokhtar Puteh and Pengiran Khashiem bin Pengiran Hassan were part of a 14-member group that included nationals from the United States, China, Hong Kong and Germany.

The group began their expedition on March 12, braving strong winter winds from the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and travelling across locations that included the W Classis Trail in Chile, Base de las Torres, Los Cuernos, Valle del Frances, Refugio Paire Grande and Refugio Grey. The group crossed the Patagonia trail in Argentina to visit the Perito Moreno glacier and enjoyed the view of Mount Fitz Roy from the scenic Mirador de Condor.

“The Patagonia trek isn’t for the weak-hearted. Trekkers need to have a strong physical and mental aptitude to attempt the feat, especially in the winter where winds can climb up to 110 km/h and there are no viable shelters in the open area,” Pengiran Nor Ikhsan binti Pengiran Jaya Indera Pengiran Haji Mokhtar Puteh said.

“To prepare ourselves, we embarked on numerous physical activities and trekked Mount Kinabalu to accustom ourselves with the climb,” he added.

Meanwhile, Pengiran Khashiem shared that they hope to conduct other similar treks down the road, including expeditions to the Inca Trail in Peru and the Mount Blanc in France.

The post Ain’t no mountain high enough appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.