SEVENTEEN individuals and a company nabbed disposing rubbish in public areas were fined.
Among the 17 were three locals, who were fined B$100 each, while the company was issued a B$500 fine.
They were nabbed during a joint operation conducted in Gadong and Sengkurong by the Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB) Municipal Department, the Licensing and Enforcement Division of the Brunei-Muara District Office, and the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation.
The offenders were found to have disposed cigarette butts, cooking oil, motor oil, food and drinks in public areas, a violation of Section 12 (1) “Disposing rubbish in public places”, Chapter 30 of the Minor Offences Act.
Two offenders caught in the act. – JAMES KON
They were given seven days to settle their fines, failing which the matter will be referred to the courts.
If found guilty of not settling their fines within the stipulated time frame, the guilty parties will each be given a further fine of B$1,000 or a month’s imprisonment for the first convicted offence. For subsequent offences, a B$3,000 fine or imprisonment of not more than three months will be imposed.
THE 2018 Asean Youth Career Mentorship Programme was held by the Asean-Korea Centre at its Asean Hall in Seoul on March 31 in cooperation with the Asean Youth Network in Korea (AYNK).
In a press release, the centre shared that the programme aimed to deliver information to around 80 Asean students interested in pursuing a career in Korea and to provide a venue for networking among Asean students and their mentors, who are young Asean professionals working in Korea.
Jang Yeunju Jessy, the Acting Secretary General of the Asean-Korea Centre delivered an opening remarks at the the event.
“Korean President Moon Jae-in announced a policy vision toward Asean, dubbed ‘New Southern Policy,’ which is not limited to trade of goods but also aims to expand exchanges of technology, culture, and people between Asean and Korea,” she said
“Recent statistics demonstrate deepening relations between the two regions, as the number of Asean students in Korea almost doubled in 2017 while E-7 visa holders from Asean who are working as professionals in Korea increased almost 20 per cent in 2016.”
Jang Yeunju Jessy, Acting Secretary General of the Asean-Korea Centre delivering her opening remarks. – ASEAN-KOREA CENTRE
“Asean students who studied in Korea are talents both Korean companies who seek to get into Asean market and Asean companies who want to come to Korean market are looking for. I hope this event will be valuable and you have a very productive discussion,” added the Acting Secretary General.
Nuporn Chantavarin, President of the Asean Youth Network in Korea (AYNK), co-organiser of the programme, noted that, “This event is the opportunity for us, Asean students in Korea, to pave our future path. I’d like to thank the Asean-Korea Centre for guiding us through.”
At the mentoring session, participants chose a topic of their interest among Business and Finance, Engineering, Government and Non-Profit, and Sciences and Research, and learned about experiences of respective Asean mentors in job hunting, application process, corporate culture, as well as their personal experience and tips.
THE number of fatal incidents involving road users especially cyclists, runners and pedestrians in recent months has been alarming. All must respect the rules of the road to stem this trend, said YB Iswandy bin Ahmad, a Legislative Council member.
He made these comments during a road safety campaign held by the National Road Safety Council (NRSC) in conjunction with KBku Ceria at the Silver Jubilee Park in Kuala Belait yesterday.
YB Iswandy, in his capacity as an NRSC ambassador, said, “These rules include ensuring all passengers fasten their safety belts and leaving ample space between cars and other road users such as cyclists and pedestrians.”
“The mindset of prioritising road safety is also key; we should not just be aware of road safety regulations but also follow them and chastise people who are not adhering to the rules – those who use the mobile phones or text while driving,” he added.
A booth was also set up at the event to disseminate information on the importance of road safety and Motor Claims Guideline (MCG) which was established on August 14, 2017.
Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof, the Minister of Communications at the event. – HAJAH SAEMAH KEPLI
Speaking on the MCG, Haji Osman bin Haji Md Jair, chief executive of Brunei Insurance and Takaful Association (BITA) and NRSC ambassador said the guidelines aim to provide Brunei motor insurers with clear procedures to take in the event of a motor accident.
“Scenarios that fall under the MCG include accidents not resulting to any injuries or fatalities or damage to government properties,” he said. “It is important to take pictures of the accident in addition to the damages to the vehicles, and exchange information between all parties.”
Haji Osman advised road users to ensure their vehicles are compliant with the guidelines set by the authorities, ensure their road tax is properly renewed, and have all relevant documentation relating to car insurance and their takaful certificate readily available and valid, as “the respective insurance companies can reject the accident claim if any required document is not valid or has expired”.
Pamphlets titled ‘Share the Road: Responsibility for All’ were also distributed by NRSC ambassadors YB Iswandy and Haji Osman to cyclists participating in the KBku Ceria cycling event. The pamphlets provide guidelines, tips on the responsibilities of motorists, cyclists and runners to help ensure the safety of all road users in Brunei.
Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof, the Minister of Communications and chairman of the NRSC; Haji Azhar bin Haji Ahmad, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications (MinCom) and a member of the NRSC; Dr Supry bin Haji Awang Ladi, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the MinCom and secretary of the NRSC; and officers and staff from the NRSC and MinCom were also present.
INCREASINGLY, the young people of Brunei are leading the way for social action, volunteerism and advocacy in the country.
Nur Hafizah binti Abdul Harith is one such person, in her ‘Straw Wars Brunei’ campaign against the use of plastic drinking straws, while using social media as a platform.
It may sound trivial, but it is a mammoth goal.
Since plastic straws are almost ingrained in the daily lives of consumers, most scientists agree that they have far-reaching consequences to the planet and to the human life-cycle.
As plastics can’t biodegrade, they last indefinitely – breaking down into smaller pieces, littering our landscapes and oceans, feeding into the food chain, and potentially ending up on our dinner plates.
‘Straw Wars Brunei’ is a youth-led social media campaign committed to reducing or eliminating single-use plastic straws, by educating the public about the impact on the environment and marine life.
In countries like the United Kingdom and the United States, thousands of restaurants and cafes have united to eradicate the billions of straws discarded every year into landfill.
The idea is simple – either get rid of plastic straws completely, or provide them only when requested by a customer.
But, Nur Hafizah said in Brunei it is not simple to persuade restaurants and cafés to join the cause, because the level of awareness or understanding is not strong enough among adults to contemplate or persuade them to act.
“Believe me, we tried, and it’s far from easy,” she said.
Nur Hafizah binti Abdul Harith found her calling during a snorkelling session in YSEALI SEA CampNur Hafizah speaking during a debate at YSEALI SEA CampJust like using a cotton bag during ‘No Plastic Week’ in Brunei, reusable straw types (bamboo, metal and paper) can be an alternative to plastic straw
So the campaign wants to begin with young people – the future generation – by using social media to reach as many as possible. This also requires a little funding.
The campaign is advocating a movement where people will reject the use of plastic straws, in the hope that restaurants and cafes will one day listen to their customers and begin offering alternatives, such as paper straws.
To persuade people, especially consumers, to reject plastic straws, Nur Hafizah is posting facts, statistics and photos on the Straw Wars Brunei social media accounts.
At the same time, she hopes to educate the public of alternative reusable straw types (bamboo, metal and paper) by posting their benefits to the environment and marine life as opposed to plastic straws.
In January this year, 1.9 tonnes of trash was collected from Serasa beach, mostly made up of plastic items, including plastic straws. Globally, eight million tonnes of plastic end up in the ocean on an annual basis.
Plastic also poses a threat to marine life, with scientists estimating that at least one million seabirds, along with 100,000 marine animals and sea turtles, are harmed every year, from ingesting plastic.
Plastic straws are made of polypropylene, a by-product of petroleum. They also contain bisphenol-A (BPA), a toxin that can cause cancer.
Nur Hafizah said, “Most people do not know where plastic straws go, after being disposed. Since they are rarely recycled, they are bound to end up in our rivers and oceans. The best way for us to reduce water pollution is by reducing and eliminating single-use plastic straws, and by check outing reusable straws.
“This will not only bring us a step closer towards reducing waste, but also the protection of marine life and the environment.”
She said she was inspired to start her pitch for Straw Wars Brunei just recently, when Save Philippine Seas, an environmental NGO, introduced her to Straw Wars Philippines.
“As part of the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) SEA Camp programme in Bohol, Philippines, we had a segment called ‘Letters to Leaders, where we had to write letters, be they complimentary or constructive criticism. I chose to write to the Municipal Department of Brunei Darussalam, concerning the trash situation in the capital, both during and after the weekly ‘Bandarku Ceria’.
“My letter addressed two problems: waste disposal and plastic trash, after purchasing food and drinks from the stalls for ‘Bandarku Ceria’. This, together with many inspiring and eye-opening talks at the YSEALI SEA Camp in Bohol, made me realise the lack of awareness among Bruneians, when it comes to plastic waste disposal.
“As a social scientist, I asked myself, ‘Where does it go? What happens after you segregate your waste?’
“When a youth-led group called ‘Save Kampong Ayer’ did their river clean-ups, why do plastics occupy the most significant waste collected? Brunei is doing so well with our no-plastic bags weekend, so why not plastic straws, too?
“I was made aware, through the YSEALI SEA Camp, that marine animals and sea turtles are directly affected by plastic waste when they get entangled in, or ingest plastic straws. Together we can reduce not only the impact that plastic has on our environment, but also on our marine life.”
Nur Hafizah admits that she used to be terrified of the ocean. “But it was at the YSEALI SEA Camp that I found my true calling. The moment I knew that I wanted to pursue my advocacy about protecting our oceans,” she said.
“Straw Wars Philippines aims to reduce or eliminate single-use plastic straws at the source by engaging with business establishments such as resorts, cafes, hotels, and restaurants, and has become one of my main inspirations that pushed me to pursue this advocacy.”
Nur Hafizah can be reached at strawwarsbrunei@gmail.com to support this campaign.
THE Traffic Control and Investigation Department (JSKLL) of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) together with several enforcement agencies conducted a series of joint operations throughout the country’s four districts from March 22 to March 31, where 351 offences were recorded.
The operation, dubbed ‘Operasi Sepadu’, recorded a total of 265 compound offences issued by the RBPF, 32 offences under the Royal Customs and Excise Department Act, 26 offences under the Land Transport Department Act, seven offences under the Narcotics Control Bureau Act, and 21 offences under the Religious Enforcement Section.
‘Operasi Sepadu’ was led by Acting Head of Operation and Enforcement Division, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Hamri Aslan bin Haji Abu Hanafiah and Head of Enforcement Unit, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Pengiran Omar Ali bin Pengiran Haji Manshor.
A total of 178 officers from the RBPF, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Land Transport Department (JPD), and the Religious Enforcement Division (BPU) were involved.
A police personnel inspecting a road user. – FIZAH HABHead of Enforcement Unit, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Pengiran Omar Ali bin Pengiran Haji Manshor speaking during an interview with the BulletinPolice personnel inspecting road users. – PHOTOS: FIZAH HAB
In an interview with the Bulletin, ASP Pengiran Omar Ali explained that the joint operation was carried out to raise awareness on crime, combat various criminal activities in the country and ensure road users comply with the rules and regulations.
It was also conducted to reduce road traffic offences and accidents. “The department will continue to conduct such operations and roadblocks as part of its efforts to raise awareness on and reduce road accidents and damage to property,” he said.
The JSKLL advised members of the public to always comply with the traffic laws to avoid action being taken against them.
DPMM FC fell to a 3-1 home defeat to Sabah FA in their final pre-season friendly match last night ahead of season opener in the Singapore Premier League against Home United in just five days’ time at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.
While newly-appointed head coach Rene Weber has tasted victories here twice in a pre-season friendly this year, this is a whole new challenge against formidable opponents who are this year challenging for promotion to join Malaysia’s elite clubs in the Super League.
In Weber’s sixth game in charge of the club including the training tour of Bangkok, the fans were given a preview of the team’s displays this season as they looked to control the tempo.
The Rhinos sent an early warning after foreign import Hector Ramos’s ferocious strike crashed against the bar in the sixth minute.
However, DPMM FC got into the rhythm and the first few glimpses of new striker Volodymyr Prryomov got the crowd on its feet with his silky touches.
Sabah FA’s Lee Gil-hoon then tested the home goalkeeper Haimie Anak Nyaring with a low drive but the latter exhibited calm and security under the floodlights diving well for a routine save.
Then, it was the hosts’ turn to issue a warning after Shahrazen Said cushioned the ball down for Azwan Ali who volleyed his shot wide from the edge of the box.
DPMM FC new import Volodymyr Prryomov dribbles the ball in the friendly against Sabah FA. – FADHIL YUNUS
DPMM FC’s creative winger Azwan Ali nearly put Volodymyr through but the Sabah defence got the crucial touch to deny the Ukrainian through on goal.
Shahrazen then made good work on the edge of the box before releasing Azwan Ali who having rounded the goalkeeper contrived to lift the ball wide.
The visitors took the lead which all started after Hector Ramos control with his chest took the entire pace off the ball before spreading the ball to the centre for Maxius Musa who saw Justin Samaan in a better position to drill a low effort past Haimie.
The Rhinos duly threatened with their touch and go football and exquisite movement which ripped the defence apart and after causing mayhem, Justin looked destined to double his tally but a last-ditch defending rescued the hosts from falling further behind.
Riding on their momentum, the second goal duly arrived for the rejuvenated Sabah side as Hector, who featured against then-world champions Spain in 2012, applied the decisive touch from a low cross on the right flank for 2-0.
The hosts were awarded a free-kick at the stroke of half-time but Volodymyr’s attempt floated wide.
The ‘Gegar Gegar’ men looked to get back into the game as Volodymyr’s fierce shot forced the keeper into a strong save in the opening minutes after the restart.
DPMM FC pulled a goal back after Abdul Aziz Tamit got the final touch from a corner at the far post.
However, their task was made difficult after Justin produced a superb volley which flew accurately from the edge of the box to restore a two-goal lead which they would protect until the final whistle.
DPMM FC entered their final week of pre-season as they look set to begin their competitive season in the Singapore Premier League at home against Home United on April 7.
On the other hand, Sabah FA should be encouraged with their win ahead of their double header against UiTM and Felda United in the Malaysia Premier League later this month.
RYS Entertainment organised a beach cleanup campaign at the stretch of beach along Silver Jubilee Park in Kuala Belait last Sunday in conjunction with KBku Ceria.
The effort was also supported by CIC Environmental Services Sdn Bhd, Brotherhood Seafood Paradise, and Brunei Oxygen Sdn Bhd (Brunox).
Some 114 people comprising several groups of members from numerous associations, agencies and companies joined in the cleanup effort.
RYS Entertainment General Manager Ampuan Nurul Atikah binti Ampuan Mumali briefed the participants on the campaign.
The beach cleanup campaign’s aim was to keep the beaches of Brunei clean while raising awareness on environmental issues plaguing marine animals.
Participants cleaning the beach during the campaignGroup photo of participants together with the collected rubbish. – PHOTOS: DANIEL LIM
By inspiring the public to take action in picking up rubbish and not littering in public, the campaign is also hoped to instil a mindset of keeping the environment clean.
Sunday’s cleanup is one of six beach cleanups planned by RYS Entertainment in the Belait District this year, with the first held earlier this January. The January effort saw over 70 bags (300kg) of rubbish collected.
Participants were with cleaning tools and refreshments by RYS Entertainment.
Volunteers collected more than 70 bags – roughly 569kg – of rubbish from the beach.
RYS Entertainment continuously looks for support from not only the public to participate in the beach cleanups, but also from local companies and organisations.
LOCAL tour agents are in need of more licensed tour guides with Mandarin proficiency to cope with the growing number of visitors from China.
Simon Keenan, Head of Business and Hospitality Department at Laksamana College of Business (LCB) said tour agents are currently “short-staffed” and looking for Mandarin-speaking tour guides to fill in the gap in the industry.
He shared this during his remarks at the certificate presentation ceremony to award 13 tour guides for completing the Basic and Bridging Tour Guiding course, held at Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT)’s Setia Pahlawan Hall.
A total of 127 licence tour guides have been given since the initiative was introduced back in 2016 by LCB in-partnership with the Tourism Development Department, MPRT.
Deputy Permanent Secretary (Tourism) at the MPRT, Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali presented the certificates. Also present was Acting Director of Tourism Development, Kartini binti Haji Kabri.
The courses was divided into two, with the ‘Tourist Bridging Course’ for existing tour guides, held for five days, and a ‘Tourist Guide Basic’ for new and upcoming tour guides and takes 21 days to complete.
Deputy Permanent Secretary (Tourism) at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali and Acting Director of Tourism Development, Kartini binti Haji Kabri in a group photo with Simon Keenan, Head of Business and Hospitality Department at Laksamana College of Business (LCB) and tour guides. – AZIZ IDRIS
LCB hopes to make the course more accessible, including a shorter-time period, conducting night classes and a new syllabus related to the current industry needs, explained Keenan.
Registrations for the ‘Tourist Guide Basic Course’ at LCB are open for the June and October intake.
The course hopes to enhance the quality of tour guides in Brunei, in line with the developing tourism industry. It also gives them the opportunity to work in a team, improve time management skills and stay up-to-date with their knowledge on Brunei, such as its historical facts.
Under Section 21 of the Tourism Order 2016, it is now a requirement for all tourist guides in the Sultanate to be licensed.
Any person found guilty of operating tour guides without accredited licence will be fined not exceeding $5,000 for the first offence, and in the case of a second or subsequent offence, to a fine not exceeding $10,000.
BRUNEI Darussalam joined hundreds of countries across the world by symbolically illuminating the Dermaga Diraja in Bandar Seri Begawan with the colour blue last night to honour World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) which falls on April 2.
Now in its 11th consecutive year, the campaign was organised in collaboration with the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei together with the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Women’s Leadership Academy (WLA) Alumni Network and several other non-governmental organisations.
The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Empowering Women and Girls with Autism’.
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 and guest of honour, launched the Light-Up Blue campaign accompanied by Pengiran Zamri bin Pengiran Haji Bujang, the Vice President of SMARTER Brunei.
The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah by Abdurrahman Zed Munawar, an individual with autism.
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 and guest of honour, with his family and members of the Diplomatic Corps touring the exhibitionSharifah Adila Surya binti Malai Haji Abdullah, the Vice Secretary of SMARTER Brunei, delivering her opening remarks at the event. – PHOTOS: AZIZ IDRISTeachers and students of the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei donning the colour blue to bring awareness about autism
This was followed by opening remarks by Sharifah Adila Surya binti Malai Haji Abdullah, the Vice Secretary of SMARTER Brunei, in her capacity as personal representative for his father, Malai Haji Abdullah bin Malai Haji Othman, the President of SMARTER Brunei who was unable to attend the celebration last night as he is currently in New Delhi accepting the Padma Shri award, one of the highest civilian award in India for his tireless work for autism.
The President of SMARTER Brunei conveyed his message that the award is dedicated for SMARTER Brunei and to all parents, families and individuals with autism, and hopes that this year’s WAAD marks the start of “the acceptance” for all individuals with autism.
Sharifah Adila Surya outlined all the achievements and acknowledgments that SMARTER Brunei have received throughout its 17 years of operations. She added that the campaign is not just in April, but will continue throughout the whole year.
“Over the course of this year, SMARTER Brunei will conduct numerous workshops, forums and trainings specifically for parents, family members and
professionals,” she said. “We have high hopes and will continuously strive to ensure that not only awareness of autism in Brunei is high, but the acceptance of autism is just as, if not, stronger.”
The night also saw a video presentation ‘Empowering Women and Girls with Autism’ followed by a special performance by SMARTER Brunei students.
HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the Minister of Defence and the Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), consented to award the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) Command Badge to Chief of Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN), Admiral Tan Sri Ahmad Kamarulzaman bin Haji Ahmad Badaruddin, in recognition for his services in enhancing the relations between RBN and RMN.
The award was presented by First Admiral Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Norazmi bin Pengiran Haji Muhammad, the Acting Commander of the RBAF at the RBN Headquarters.
Following the award, the Chief of RMN paid a courtesy call to the Acting Commander of RBAF.
Also present during the call was the Commander Eastern Fleet RMN, Vice Admiral Dato’ Syed Zahiruddin Putra bin Syed Osman.
First Admiral Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Norazmi bin Pengiran Haji Muhammad, the Acting Commander of the RBAF pins the Command Badge on the Chief of Royal Malaysian Navy, Admiral Tan Sri Ahmad Kamarulzaman bin Haji Ahmad Badaruddin. – MINDEFThe Acting Commander of the RBAF with the Chief of Royal Malaysian Navy. – ACHONG TANJONG
During the call, the Acting Commander of the RBAF congratulated the Chief of RMN.
Both sides discussed on the cooperative activities between the navies of both countries, which include exercises and training.
During his two-day visit, the Chief of RMN also participated in the golf tournament held at the Royal Brunei Golf & Country Club, Jerudong, in conjunction with Sukan Muhibah BRUMAL 2018.
Sukan Muhibbah BRUMAL 2018 is a sports interaction initiative between RBN and RMN that took place on April 1. The aim of this interaction is to enhance the social and professional relationship between officers and personnel of the two navies.
Admiral Tan Sri Ahmad Kamarulzaman took over the post as the Chief of RMN on November 18, 2015.
SWIFT action by Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) personnel and family members prevented a tragedy from happening as they successfully persuaded a local man from jumping off the Rimba highway flyover on Sunday night.
Details of the incident were revealed by Superintendent of Police Pengiran Haji Abdul Salam bin Pengiran Haji Abdul Ghani, Acting Officer Commanding Police District (OCPD) of Brunei-Muara, yesterday in a press conference.
According to the police, an emergency call about the suicide attempt was received at 10.17pm. Acting on the report, the criminal investigation officer of Berakas Police Station rushed to the scene to investigate the incident and found Mohd Yusman bin Yunos, 32, on the side barrier of the Rimba flyover.
The police with the help of some family members who were at the scene managed to persuade the man from jumping from the flyover. He was then taken to the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital where he was found normal after doctors’ examination.
Superintendent of Police Pengiran Haji Abdul Salam bin Pengiran Haji Abdul Ghani, Acting Officer Commanding Police District (OCPD) of Brunei-Muara with police officials at the press conference. – JAMES KON
A statement from the man was taken in which he said he went up to the concrete barrier of the flyover with the aim of killing himself because of personal problems. Police is currently trying to pinpoint the causes of his problems.
Attempting suicide is an offence in the country under Section 309, Chapter 22 of the Penal Code which carries a punishment of one year imprisonment, a fine, or both.
Superintendent of Police Pengiran Haji Abdul Salam urged members of the public to identify and help anyone, especially family members who show suicidal behavior, and take them to a hospital or a health clinic.
THE Minister of Communications Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof has urged the Land Transport Department (JPD) and driving schools in the country to review and revise the training syllabus for motorcyclists, in view of the recent spike in road accidents involving motorcycles.
“I think this should be a priority, in addition to the ongoing awareness campaign,” he said.
The minister made this call at the ‘Safe Drive, Safe Lives’ Road Safety Awareness Campaign 2018, organised by Megamas Training Company Sdn Bhd yesterday to mark its 28 years of Lost Time Injury (LTI) free safety performance achievement.
The event took place at the Civil Service Institute (IPA) in Rimba. The minister also stressed on the importance of ‘defensive driving’ to help reduce the risk of road accidents.
“In this regard, I welcome JPD and other stakeholders to work on methods to impart defensive driving training to motorists in general and motorcyclists in particular.
“As we already know, road safety is one of the issues that is seriously addressed by the Ministry of Communications. Statistics prepared by the Centre for Transport Research showed that in 2017, the number of accident cases increased by five per cent to 3,552, compared to 3,375 cases in 2016. There has been a consistent increase in accidents since 2015.”
Guest of honour, Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof, the Minister of Communications speaks during the Road Safety Awareness CampaignOpening remarks by Executive Advisor of Megamas Mohammad Roger AinsworthGuests speaker, Peter Hodgson, a road safety consultant and trainerGuest of honour, Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof, the Minister of Communications in a group photo. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI
“However, what we need to take seriously is the 71 per cent increase in the number of fatalities due to road accidents in 2017 which saw 29 deaths, compared to 17 deaths in 2016.
“Further studies have also shown that half of those who have lost their lives in 2017 were youth aged 19-38. Of the 29 casualties, seven were high-risk road users such as cyclists, joggers and pedestrians,” the minister said.
“Since 2015, accidents involving injuries are also increasing. In 2017, the number of injuries increased by about 20 per cent – from 473 injuries in 2016 to 529 injuries.
“It is hoped that these statistics will be able to illustrate and convince the public about the importance of road safety issues. As such, the Ministry of Communications has initiated more holistic measures that focus more on strategic collaboration with the private sector, volunteer and non-governmental organisations. Today’s event is an example of such cooperation,” the minister noted.
“The Brunei National Road Safety Council (BNRSC) will take steps through a new approach that focuses more on deterrent strategies. Several action groups have been formed under the BNRSC to implement policies and strategies based on an action-oriented approach. These action groups will play a key role by effectively using the media in promoting awareness on road traffic rules.
“No less important is the need to nurture a responsible culture that promotes understanding about the proper use of roads. I hope that various stakeholders – the private sector, non-governmental and volunteer organisations will come forward and work together with the BNRSC to jointly raise awareness on road safety,” the minister said.
Meanwhile in his opening remarks, Mohammad Roger Ainsworth, Executive Advisor of Megamas, said, “Education and other awareness initiatives by various government and private sector agencies play an important role in preventing road accidents.”
He added that Megamas is organising a free intensive road safety awareness programme for the public starting today. All seats have been filled by civil workers from various ministries and members of the public within a short period of time.
“This overwhelming response shows how importantly the public is viewing road safety – to ensure that their loved ones arrive home safely at the end of the day,” he said.
He added that Megamas has been conducting defensive driving training courses for employees of government and private sectors, particularly those in the oil and gas industry, as well as the general public for more than 15 years.
At the event, guest speaker Peter Hodgson, a road safety consultant and trainer from the United Kingdom gave a short briefing on road safety.
The event concluded with a question-and-answer session and a group photo session with the guest of honour and committee members of the event.
EMPLOYMENT is fundamental to the well-being of individuals including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
A local start-up company called UnikLearn has come up with a pilot project to introduce a vocational training and internship programme designed for autistic youths to help them overcome the challenges in finding employment.
During a press conference at DARe (Darussalam Enterprise) Auditorium in Anggerek Desa yesterday, Rasyidah Samah, Project Leader from UnikLearn said the programme is designed by professional therapists for autistic youths or youths with developmental delays to help them to overcome challenges such as learning and interpreting social cues, teamwork and multi-tasking skills.
“Autistic individuals are unique,” she said adding, “UnikLearn hopes to shed a positive light on autism towards inclusion in our caring society.”
The initiative is one of the first responders to the 2018 New Year’s titah of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. The monarch consented for the amendment of the Act and Regulations for Pension and Allowance for People with Different Abilities (OKU).
A group photo of the main supporters and administrator of UnikLearn. – PHOTOS: AZIZ IDRISRasyidah Samah, Project Leader from UnikLearn
“Hence, we hope that this initiative could help amplify their capabilities by providing them with training that could potentially help sustain themselves,” she added.
The programme is open for registration to individuals age 16 and above, diagnosed with ASD or with developmental delays.
Once registered, an assessment will be performed and will then enter the training phase under one-to-one supervision of trained therapists and supervisors to ensure each trainee reach their expected milestone.
Depending on the client’s cognitive ability and willingness to learn, the programme is expected to run over six months before the trainees are placed to their work placement.
“After the training phase, we will place them in work placement under the Unikkone pop ups which eventually leads to employment. By that time, we hope to expand our work placement to other training grounds,” she said.
Unikkone is a premium brand ice cream that is produced specially for UnikLearn. The trainees will be involved in the front line by serving flavoured ice cream which will be sold at pop-ups based at Progresif Cellular headquarters and soon phase out to trucks and cafes. Proceeds from Unikkone will go to UnikLearn programme’s scholarship fund for students with a low income background.
Among the stakeholders involved with the pilot project are ANNUR, the main supporting partner, Progresif, the marketing partner and Startup Brunei, the administrator. Kingston Beverage and Creamery will also be one of the supporters.
“This is one of the first initiatives to be done in the nation and we hope to get the public’s support. This pilot project hopes to empower special needs individuals by equipping them with set skills for them to lead meaningful lives. We also hope to promote inclusion and acceptance in society. Hence, getting these students involved in the process.
“As this is a pilot project, we hope to make this programme sustainable by maintaining the quality and development of the training so that it will be at par – or maybe even better – with other social enterprises within the region,” said Rasyidah.
Registration can be made at SPARK life skills centre in Jangsak (Lot 6780, Simpang 822, Kampong Jangsak) during office hours. Information is available on website www.uniklearn.com or on ‘uniklearn’ social media platforms. Registration closes on April 23 at 4.30pm.
DELEGATES from Asean member states, the Asean Secretariat, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) of Japan, the Asean Regional Integration Support by the EU (ARISE) as Asean Dialogue Partner and transport associations, namely the Asean Federation of Forwarders Association (AFFA) and the Asean Trucking Federation (ATF) are attending the three-day 35th Asean Transport Facilitation Working Group (TFWG) Meeting hosted by Brunei Darussalam through the Land Transport Department, Ministry of Communications.
The meeting is held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas from April 3-5.
In his welcoming remarks at the opening of the meeting yesterday, the Chairman of the 35th Asean TFWG Meeting and Acting Director of the Land Transport Department Pengiran Mohammad Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, said, “Asean TFWG has reached another important milestone last year with the signing of the Asean Framework Agreement on Cross-Border Transport of Passengers by Road Vehicles (CBTP) by the 22nd Asean Transport Ministers Meeting held in Singapore.
“To continue this progress, it is now important for us to take serious action to ratify the agreement and also to work on its implementation guidelines for the smooth operation of cross-border road transport of passengers in Asean. This will be one of the main agenda that will be deliberated in this meeting.
“Another agenda which needs our continuous commitment is the implementation of the other Asean transport facilitation framework agreements and its implementing protocols, namely the Asean Framework Agreement on Facilitation of Goods in Transit (AFAFGIT), the Asean Framework Agreement on the Facilitation of Inter-State Transport (AFAFIST) and the Asean Framework Agreement on Multimodal Transport (AFAMT).
Pengiran Mohammad Amirrizal speaks at the event. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIRChairman of the 35th Asean TFWG Meeting and Acting Director of the Land Transport Department Pengiran Mohammad Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud in a group photo with head delegates of the 35th Asean TFWG
“We look forward to positive updates from the Asean member states on the progress of ratification and implementation of these agreements,” he said.
“We also look forward to hear about the progress and updates on the implementation of the pilot testing of the Asean Customs Transit System (ACTS). I would like the meeting to support the ACTS roll-out implementation in the North-South Corridor (Singapore-Malaysia-Thailand) and East-West Corridor (Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Vietnam and Thailand). I also request the transport officials to closely cooperate with their Customs officials to enhance preparations for the timely implementation of the ACTS pilot roll-out in North-South and East West Corridors,” he said.
On behalf of TFWG, he expressed appreciation on the continuous support by the Dialogues Partners such as Japan and the Asean Regional Integration Support by the EU (ARISE) as well as the involvement and contributions from transport associations, namely AFFA and ATF.
“We look forward to hear the progress of the ongoing programmes and new proposals and I strongly encourage the TFWG to continue to support and cooperate with our partners, leveraging on their expertise and knowledge for our mutual benefits.
“Brunei Darussalam is honoured to host and chair this important meeting as well as the next three following Asean TFWG meetings in 2018 and 2019. Brunei looks forward to your support and cooperation throughout its tenure as Chair towards making the meeting a success. I would also like to express gratitude to the previous Chairman Vietnam under whose able leadership, the Asean TFWG has continued to make significant progress,” Pengiran Mohammad Amirrizal said.
The meeting is chaired by Brunei Darussalam and Cambodia as the Vice-chair.
THE highly anticipated Baiduri Masters Charity Golf Tournament, organised by Baiduri Bank Group, is set to span over two weekends, on April 27-29 and May 4-6.
This year’s event marks the 23rd edition of the annual golf tournament.
The hole-in-one prizes for this year – which include a BMW 740Li for Hole 14; a Mini Cooper S Countryman for Hole 5; and a $20,000 cash prize for Holes 2, 12 and 16 – were confirmed yesterday, following an event partners’ signing ceremony at the QAF Centre in Beribi.
Signing on behalf of Baiduri Bank Group was Pierre Imhof, the Chief Executive Officer of Baiduri Bank, while Asmadi bin Haji Alimustapha, the General Manager of the RBA Golf Club signed for RBA Golf Club.
Ng Joon An, an accountant at the RBA Golf Club; and Andrew Young, the Deputy General Manager at the Operations Management Division and Diversification and Strategic Development of Baiduri Bank, and President of the Organising Committee of Baiduri Masters 2018, signed as witnesses.
Baiduri Bank Group also signed Memorandum of Understandings with QAF Brunei Sdn Bhd and Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, to appoint Borneo Bulletin and Media Permata as the event’s exclusive print media partners.
Pierre Imhof, Chief Executive Officer of Baiduri Bank; Albert Lau, Chief Executive Officer of QAF Brunei Sdn Bhd; Reggie See, General Manager of Brunei Press Sdn Bhd; and Asmadi bin Haji Alimustapha, General Manager of the RBA Golf Club along with senior officials in a group photoThe Baiduri Masters 2018 trophy. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR
Signing on behalf of QAF Brunei was Albert Lau, the Chief Executive Officer of QAF Brunei while Reggie See, the General Manager of Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, signed on behalf of Brunei Press Sdn Bhd.
Sivakumar Krishnan, the General Manager of QAF Auto Sdn Bhd; and Hazizah Osman, the Deputy General Manager of Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, signed as witnesses.
Prior to the signing ceremony, Pierre Imhof said, “Since the tournament’s inception in 1995, the Baiduri Masters has always been centred towards supporting our community and making a difference. The tournament has been raising funds for local charities and organisations that support people with special needs, and it promotes activities that help people with special needs integrate into society. Last year, we were able to donate $65,000 for charity.”
The champion of the Baiduri Masters 2017 was Qawim bin Haji Aslimon, a first-time Baiduri Masters champion. Rounding out the top five were Johari bin Ahmad, Seruji bin Haji Setia, Pengiran Adam bin Pengiran Atan and Ahmad bin Yani.
Registration for the tournament starts today, with the fee set at $120 for adults and $60 for juniors. The registration fee is inclusive of the green fee, buggy hire, goodie bag, buffet breakfast and lunch. Players are invited to the prize presentation dinner at the end of the tournament.
THE number of new Tuberculosis (TB) cases in 2016 dropped to 238, with the incidence rate of 56.3 per 100,000 in population, compared to the incidence rate of 91.9 per 100,000 in population, for the year 2000.
The figures also include 25 per cent of TB cases among foreign workers residing in the country.
This was highlighted yesterday by Dr Hajah Norhayati bin Haji Md Kassim, the Acting Director of Environmental Health Services at the Ministry of Health (MoH), in a commemorative event to mark World Tuberculosis Day.
The guest of honour was Dato Paduka Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Jaafar, the Minister of Health.
Dr Hajah Norhayati added, “There were no deaths caused by TB in 2016. The decline in the TB incident rate shows a positive effect, following efforts made by the Government of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, which include preventive measures, detection and control.”
Along with other agencies and stakeholders, the MoH will step up on efforts to contain the disease through the strengthening of the national TB programme, which was set up in 2000, with the aim of eliminating TB within the Sultanate.
Dato Paduka Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Jaafar, Minister of Health at the event. – AZLAN OTHMAN
“Among the efforts which are actively being implemented are health screening, early detection of TB through a test and DOTS (Directly-Observed Therapy) which is accepted as an effective way to contain TB,” said Dr Hajah Norhayati.
“The World Health Organization (WHO) has estimated around nine million new active TB cases this year; and that 1.3 million global deaths are caused by TB, including 0.4 million deaths from TB-HIV.
“However, the overall rate of TB deaths has declined up to three per cent annually, while new cases have also dropped up to two per cent annually, in which 22 million patients have recovered after undergoing DOTS, as well as the implementation of STOP TB strategy, as suggested by the WHO.”
The speech was followed by the handover of multimedia training packages to school representatives, with complete information on the preventive measures and control of TB.
A premier forum was also held, discussing the issue of social stigma and discrimination from TB. On the panel was Hajah Wadi Hana binti Haji Sudin; Dr Muhammad Fathi bin Dato Paduka Haji Alikhan, from the Ministry of Health; Haryani binti Haji Mohammad, the Principal of the Sayyidina Hasan Secondary School; and Hajah Halina binti Haji Minudin, the mother of a student infected by TB.
The MoH will also hold continuous activities throughout the year, including roadshows and awareness programmes on TB, at both government and private schools.
THE second JBoxing Brunei will be held at lndera Kayangan Ballroom, The Empire Hotel & Country Club from April 27-29.
The fashion event will offer exciting collections that have never been launched elsewhere and feature surprising deals for Bruneians.
“JBoxing Brunei marks its way to return to Brunei to fulfil the overwhelming requests from Bruneians, continuing the success made last year which saw a total of 15,000 visitors,” said Jacqueline of Bajoo Boutique during a press conference held last night at the Horizons Seafood Restaurant, Bandar Seri Begawan.
“Having an event in Brunei always excites me. I love seeing my Bruneian customers getting the opportunity to experience shopping with Jovian Ready-To-Wear, as I know they would come all the way from Brunei to Kuala Lumpur just to shop with us. So this time, we bring all our collections just for Bruneians,” Dato’ Jovian Mandagie, Chief Executive Officer of Jovian Apparel and Creative Director of Jovian Ready-To-Wear, said.
Local fashion designer Jacqueline, owner of Bajoo Boutique with Dato’ Jovian Mandagie, Malaysia’s top fashion designer and the CEO who is also the Creative Director of Jovian Ready-To-Wear during the press conference. – BAHYIAH BAKIR
“We can’t wait for this year’s return of JBoxing and we’re excited to work with all our partners. Last year’s support was overwhelming and this year would definitely be better and bigger,” he added.
The event is organised by Bruneian atelier and multi-label store Bajoo Boutique in collaboration with Baiduri Bank, the exclusive banking partner of the event.
Inspired by London’s Boxing Day, JBoxing is Jovian’s annual event. JBoxing Brunei will be offering a range of outfits for ladies, men and kids that will complete everyone’s Lebaran wardrobe including EDO by Jovian, Jovian Mandagie X Ivan Gunawan, Balik Kampung by Jovian, Jovian Men and Jovian Hijab.
The event is also supported by telco partner Progresif Cellular; event management partner Maszalina Events; and catering partner Royal Brunei Catering.
Early birds will receive mystery gifts along with secret deals to be redeemed during the event.
THE Brunei Darussalam Mosque Construction Fund has mobilised a total of B$7,503,965.27 until December 2017 through various mechanisms.
Yesterday, a total of B$113,933 was handed over to Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the chairman of the fund, during a ceremony held at the Ministry of Religious Affairs building.
The amount was collected via short message service (SMS) facility which provided a platform for members of the public to donate to the fund for a period of 45 days – from December 6, 2017 until January 19, 2018.
Ramlah binti Rabaha, Assistant General Manager of Human Resources, DST Communications as representative of DST’s Chief Executive Officer handed over B$100,352, while Nurul Haniah binti Haji Jaafar, Chief Administration Officer representing Chief Executive Officer of Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd (PCSB) handed over B$13,581.
Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman receiving the donation from a PCSB representative. – ROKIAH MAHMUD
At the ceremony, Ramlah also handed over a donation amounting B$10,000 collected via salary deduction from officers and staff of DST Communications. At the event, the minister also launched the website link for the Brunei Darussalam Mosque Construction Fund at www.kheu.gov.bn.
The Kampong Tanjung Bunut Mosque in the Brunei-Muara District is the first project being built with the fund. The B$3.56-million project has been implemented since June 20, 2017 and is expected to be completed by June 2018.
The second project to be carried out using the fund will be the Kampong Bukit Panggal Mosque in Tutong District which is expected to cost B$3 million.
MALAI Haji Abdullah bin Malai Haji Othman, President of the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei, received the prestigious Padma Shri award from Indian President Ram Nath Kovind at a ceremony held in New Delhi, the capital of India.
The Indian President presented five Padma Bhushan and 38 Padma Shri awards at the civil investiture ceremony held at the Durbar Hall of the Rashtrapati Bhavan last Monday.
India’s Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan were among several dignitaries present at the function.
People from different walks of life including foreigners were awarded the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award in India.
Malai Haji Abdullah received Padma Shri and as one of the Asean recipients of the award in 2018 for his contributions in social work.
Padma Shri is the 4th highest civilian award in the Republic of India after the Bharat Ratna, the Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan.
Padma Shri awardees are named annually on the eve of the Republic Day, which falls on January 26.
This year, 85 awardees were announced including 10 from the Asean region, to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of the India-Asean partnership.
India President Ram Nath Kovind conferring the award to Malai Haji Abdullah bin Malai Haji Othman, President of SMARTER Brunei. – AZLAN OTHMAN
“Alhamdulillah, it’s a Rizq from Allah the Almighty. I am thankful and my advocacy for SMARTER continues.
“I dedicate this award to individuals with autism (IWA) everywhere, especially at SMARTER,” Malai Haji Abdullah said in his social media page.
Netizens congratulated him for the outstanding achievement.
“It is well deserved recognition for your dedication and commitment,” said one of them.
Malai Haji Abdullah told the Bulletin in January, “I feel humbled and honoured to be listed for the award by the Government of India, in recognition of my work for the autism-affected.
“This recognition is definitely a motivation for me to carry on my work in bringing SMARTER to higher standards, to be among the best in the world, with a ‘family first’ approach and ensure the support of the magic PILL, which stands for ‘Parent Involvement Life Long’.”
Highlighting his plans for 2018, Malai Haji Abdullah said SMARTER will welcome more international attachment students, provide employment and competency-based skill training and move towards financial stability and sustainability.
Other Asean recipients of Padma Shri awards include Philippines’ Jose Ma Joey Concepcion for his contribution in trade and industry; Malaysia’s Datuk Ramli Ibrahim (art-dance), Bounlap Keokangna of Laos (architecture), Cambodia’s Hun Many (public affairs), Japan’s Prof Tomio Mizokami (literature and education), Myanmar’s Thant Myint-U (public affairs) and Indonesia’s Nyoman Nuarta (art-sculpture).
Tajikistan’s Prof Habibullo Rajabov (literature and education), Nepal’s Sanduk Ruit (medicine-oncology) and Vietnam’s Nguyen Tien Thien (for spiritualism) were also among those awarded Padma Shri.
