|     Hakim Hayat     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, Chairman of the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (Yayasan) Committee of Governors, yesterday took a closer look at the progress of the Education Intervention Programme (PIP) initiated by Yayasan that has helped address the needs of academically challenged students nationwide in core subjects.

Two of the programme’s tuition class centres in the Brunei-Muara District – Institute for Leadership, Innovation and Advancement (ILIA), Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and also the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB) School was the focus of His Royal Highness’ working visit yesterday where he had the chance to listen to a briefing on the development of the programme and speak to tutors and students involved to have more insight about the PIP.

During a closed-door meeting, His Royal Highness was briefed by Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Chairman of the Yayasan Board of Directors, and was also given an update of the YSHHB School by Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, a member of the Yayasan Board of Directors.

The closed-door briefing also saw Haji Brahim bin Haji Ismail, Managing Director of Yayasan, informing His Royal Highness on the progress of the PIP, which was launched in 2006 and focuses on core subjects such as English, Malay, Combined Science and Mathematics.

His Royal Highness later visited several PIP classrooms that were in session in the ILIA centre, and spoke to tutors and students.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik at the Education Intervention Programme (PIP) held at the Institute for Leadership, Innovation and Advancement (ILIA), Universiti Brunei Darussalam. – MUIZ MATDANI

His Royal Highness taking a closer at the Education Intervention Programme at the Institute for Leadership, Innovation and Advancement (ILIA), Universiti Brunei Darussalam

His Royal Highness at one of the Education Intervention Programme’s tuition class centres in the Brunei-Muara District, Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah School

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik in a group photo with participants of the Education Intervention Programme. PHOTOS: MUIZ MATDANI

He had a first-hand experience of the interactive methods of teaching and activities devised through the programme.

His Royal Highness later visited other classrooms in session at another PIP centre, located at the YSHHB School in Jalan Kebangsaan and later met with tutors and volunteers of the programme. Voluntary basis tutors of the programme are those within the education field with teaching backgrounds.

The PIP is part of Yayasan’s many philanthropic activities that offers education intervention for academically low-performing children from disadvantaged families who has been identified from all over the country, targeting students from Year 5 to Year 11 sitting for public exams such as the Primary School Assessment (PSR) and O Levels Examination.

Over 600 students have registered for the programme for the current academic year.

The programme, over the years, has taken in thousands of students, seeing passing rates among low-performing students improve.

Through the PIP, Yayasan hopes to aid students in their ability to while addressing the root of their learning problems.

The programme initially targeted PSR students from Kampong Ayer schools, before including O Level students in 2009.

It widened its scope two years later to other schools in the Brunei-Muara District, extending to Tutong in 2013.

In 2014, Yayasan also included religious school students into the programme.

Yayasan last year introduced the programme to the Belait District by outsourcing the classes to a number private tuition centres registered under the Ministry of Education due to the small number of students and later launched the district’s first PIP centre at the Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar Secondary School.

This year saw the expansion of the programme in the Temburong District where two schools are now acting as PIP centres.

Beginning this year, the ILIA building in UBD was identified as a new centre for the PIP, offering students a more conducive and interactive environment through the use of ICT tools which is readily available in lecture rooms at the ILIA.

PIP is also made possible with cooperation from the Ministry of Education and UBD, as well as the Islamic Studies Department, Ministry of Religious Affairs.

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|     Danial Norjidi    |

THE Centre for Islamic Banking, Finance and Management (CIBFM) in collaboration with the Financial Planning Association of Brunei Darussalam (FPAB) and supported by Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD), held a Financial Planning Day yesterday.

Held in conjunction with National Savings Day 2016, the event took place at The Empire Hotel & Country Club and featured presentations by invited speakers from Singapore.

Carrying the theme of ‘Ethics and Trust’, the two-day event aimed to promote continuous learning for professionals in Brunei Darussalam, especially financial planners, CIBFM explained in a press statement.

The event saw Acting Managing Director of AMBD, Hajah Nurliati binti Haji Md Idris, as the guest of honour.

In her welcoming remarks, she congratulated CIBFM for hosting the event, and for co-organising it with FPAB, while also congratulating FPAB on their launch on National Savings Day 2016 on May 28.

Hajah Nurliati binti Haji Md Idris, the Acting Managing Director of AMBD, in a group photo with the invited speakers, Joseph Kwok and William Cai, and other officials

Joseph Kwok, President of the Financial Planning Association of Singapore (FPAS) delivering his presentation

The attendees during the event. PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

“The official launch of FPAB reflects the commitment of the financial planning community to uphold the credibility and reputation of the association’s members in their quest to support the education and improvement of the level of financial literacy and awareness of the public in the country,” she said.

“I am therefore delighted to see the participation of officers and representatives from the various financial institutions at today’s event with its theme, ‘Ethics and Trust’.

“The theme, I believe, highlights the importance of and the need for finance professionals, especially financial planners, to put in place and uphold the highest integrity and instil trust,” she added.

When addressing the participants, she said, “I hope today’s topics will help enhance and add value to your repertoire of expertise and in pursuing continuous professional education and lifelong learning.”

The first invited speaker yesterday was the President of the Financial Planning Association of Singapore (FPAS), Joseph Kwok. In his presentation he touched on the topic of ‘Putting Clients First’.

Kwok highlighted the importance of having professional standards and a code of ethics for financial planners, while also sharing some case studies and speaking on the Singapore financial advisory industry.

The second presentation was delivered by the Vice-President of Personal Financial Services at GYC Financial Advisory Pte Ltd, William Cai, who presented on the subject of ‘Building Trust and Capability’.

In his talk, Cai spoke on the importance of building trust and credibility, highlighting what he called the four building blocks of self-trust, which are integrity, intent, capabilities and results.

After the presentations, participants were given the opportunity to raise questions before the event concluded with a networking lunch.

The post Ethics and trust main theme of Financial Planning Day 2016 appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

THE Attorney General’s Cham-bers’ (AGC) Cybercrime Focus Group, comprising prosecutors under the Criminal Justice Division who have undergone training locally and abroad, aims to ensure that Brunei Darussalam is protected from threats emanating from cybersecurity related matters and forge closer relations with other agencies in the country.

This was revealed by Deputy Public Prosecutor (DPP) Karen Tan in her opening remarks at the Cybercrime Focus Group’s first introductory briefing conducted for officers of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) at the auditorium in the Police Headquarters in Jalan Tungku.

DPP Karen Tan elaborated that the Cybercrime Focus Group, which was established on August 3, 2015, functions not only to work in consultation with the relevant agencies in ensuring Brunei Darussalam has the appropriate laws in place to tackle the various forms of cybercrime but also to be the focal point for all legal enquiries from law enforcement agencies concerning investigations into cybercrime related matters.

This is in line with the AGC’s ‘Open Door’ policy for investigators with regard to advice on specialised crimes.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Karen Tan, Deputy Public Prosecutor Sharon Yeo and Superintendent Pang Teck Ann, Head of the Commissioner of Police Secretariat Office during the event

Some of the attendees during the event

Sixty-one officers from the RBPF tasked with investigations and intelligence functions as well as Deputy Public Prosecutors from the Attorney General’s Chambers attended the seminar. Also present were Superintendent Pang Teck Ann, Head of the Comissioner of Police Secretariat Office. The briefing was followed by the keynote presentation by Deputy Public Prosecutor Sharon Yeo, who spoke about the handling of digital evidence in cybercrime cases.

In her presentation, DPP Shar-on Yeo shared the best practices in evidence collection she learnt from the Cybercrime Training Programme conducted by the Singapore Police Force, United States of America Department of Justice and INTERPOL under the Singapore-United States Third Country Training Programme.

She also emphasised the importance of using formal and informal channels of communication to obtain evidence through international cooperation.

The briefing marked the initiation of the AGC Cybercrime Focus Group’s efforts in enhancing stronger domestic cooperation with other partner stakeholders in addressing cybercrime related issues in Brunei Darussalam.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

A GROUP of 14 business delegates from the Yunnan Province in China is currently in the country to explore business and investment opportunities, particularly in Halal food sector, agriculture and tourism.

The delegation was briefed by the Brunei Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DPPMB) led by its Secretary-General, Haji Awang Ghazali bin Pehin Jawatan Dalam Seri Maharaja Dato Seri Utama (Dr) Haji Awang Mohd Jamil Al-Sufri, who said so many foreign direct investment (FDI) opportunities are now open to overseas investors provided they qualify and meet the criteria.

“The relevant agencies in Brunei Darussalam will first make assessments on the capability of the investors and later make recommendations to the relevant ministries. The chamber is more than happy to make recommendations for the investors and tell them how easier it is to carry out FDIs here in the Sultanate,” he said.

Haji Awang Ghazali added that the Energy and Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office has urged the DPPMB to be the focal centre for business relating to Brunei Darussalam and China and also invited local businesses for business matching sessions.

Meanwhile Zhao Jincai, the Vice-President of Yunnan Provincial General Chamber of Commerce said that prior to his visit in Brunei, they visited Singapore and Malaysia to look at business opportunities.

Zhao Jincai, Vice-President of Yunnan Provincial General Chamber of Commerce, exchanging souvenirs with Secretary-General of the Brunei Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Haji Awang Ghazali bin Pehin Jawatan Dalam Seri Maharaja Dato Seri Utama (Dr) Haji Awang Mohd Jamil Al-Sufri. – AZLAN OTHMAN

The Chinese delegation inquired which industries in the Sultanate provide good opportunities for investors or which industry they could be involved in and how they could connect to other chambers of commerce and industries here.

In his response, Haji Zainal bin Haji Harun from ‘Back to Nature’ Tour Services Sdn Bhd and a member of the DPPMB highlighted the pristine forests in the Sultanate as a unique selling point.

“Seventy per cent of the land area here is still covered with forest and preserved as a natural environment. Hence there is a big potential for eco-tourism. In fact, about 60-70 per cent of tourists coming to Brunei Darussalam is from China,” he said.

Meanwhile, Haji Abdul Rahman, Business Management Member of the chamber said agriculture is another potential area that Yunnan businessmen could tap into, where they can repackage their products using the stringent Brunei Halal logo and export to overseas markets.

“We also need to find new technologies, good processing methods and trained staff to produce effective products,” he said.

Pengiran Haji Haris bin Pengiran Haji Duraman, the SME member of the chamber from the Riza Group, highlighted opportunities in poultry farming industry where China can become a joint partner.

A Chinese businessman has shown keen interest in getting chicken feet supplied from Brunei, he added.

The post Business delegation from China looking to invest in Brunei appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

IF WE stop smoking today, by next week, our blood pressure will improve. Within several months of quitting, we will experience significant improvements in lung function.

This time next year, our risk of heart disease and heart attack is halved. Refusing to start smoking, or stopping smoking is one important step we can take to protect the health and wellbeing of ourselves, our families and children and those around us.

With this in mind, Brunei Darussalam joins the global community, under the leadership of the World Health Organization (WHO) to mark May 31 as World No Tobacco Day.

Today, even if we are merely considering stopping smoking, the Ministry of Health wants to encourage you to abstain from smoking for at least 24 hours. Hopefully, this will be the start of a positive journey to lifelong abstinence from the harmful effects of tobacco.

This year, the theme for World No Tobacco Day 2016 is ‘Get Ready for Plain Packaging’.

World Health Organization calls on countries to get ready for plain packaging of tobacco products as part of demand reduction measures.

Thankfully, in Brunei Darussalam, under the leadership 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 Tobacco Order 2005 already includes restrictions on advertisements related to smoking, the promotion, distribution, packaging and labelling of tobacco products as well as smoking in certain areas.

Despite this, people continue to import and distribute tobacco products illegally on the black market.

These pose a serious harm to our society and the whole community needs to take action to ensure that as a society, the health and wellbeing of ourselves and our children remains a top priority.

We know that smoking kills. Tobacco ruins our hearts and lungs. Cigarettes destroy our bodies.

In Brunei Darussalam, the top causes of mortality are cancer and heart disease and smoking is the common risk factor of both. Exposure to second-hand smoke is especially harmful for children and can cause serious respiratory illnesses.

National surveys show that 97 per cent of adults know that smoking causes serious illnesses. Despite this 18 per cent of the adult population continue to smoke.

Today, we call for a movement to translate this knowledge to a genuine change in behaviour. Quitting smoking is difficult for many people, mainly because of nicotine addiction and not knowing how to quit.

The Ministry of Health wants to support smokers quit. If you are currently a smoker, quitting is the single best decision you can make for yourself. Our smoking cessation services provides education, advice, counselling and with these, the chance of success that a smoker who tries to quit will increase. If you or someone you know is thinking about quitting smoking, speak to your doctor today or call Darussalam hotline 123 for more information.

Each individual must take responsibility for their own health and wellbeing.

We need your support and the active involvement of everyone in the community – individuals, families and other stakeholders to work together to increase awareness on positive health effects of stopping smoking and importantly to support those individuals who are trying to stop smoking.

A healthy population is critical to the development of Brunei Darussalam and it is all our business to ensure this.

The issues surrounding stopping smoking are particularly well-aligned with the Ministry of Health strategic priorities which are to drive the ‘Health is everyone’s business agenda’, enhance the quality of service delivery through alignment and consolidation, and prevent and control non-communicable diseases. Each and every person has their own roles and responsibilities in the war against tobacco, and working together, we can and we will win this in Brunei Darussalam.

The post Kicking smoking habit can save lives appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fizah HAB     |

POLITEKNIK Brunei concluded its 2nd International Symposium on Innovative Teaching and Learning yesterday at the Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences (PAPRSB IHS), Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD).

A total of 189 participants, comprising those from Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), Students Affairs Division of the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB), Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) and representatives from primary and secondary schools, attended the two-day symposium that included lecturers from Politeknik Brunei and PAPRSB IHS, UBD.

Present as guest of honour was Denis Ho Mun Tai, Acting Director of Politeknik Brunei. Also present were Alias bin Haji Abu Bakar, Acting Assistant Director of Politeknik Brunei; heads of departments and schools as well as officers and lecturers of Politeknik Brunei.

In her closing remarks, Dr Malai Zeiti binti Sheikh Abdul Hamid, Head of the Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning (CiTL), reflected the importance of students expanding their knowledge in the usage of innovative tools and technology as well as preparing for the constantly changing technology.

One of the speakers, Dr David Asirvatham, Director/CTO of the Centre for Information Technology, University of Malaya receiving a certificate and souvenir from the guest of honour, Denis Ho Mun Tai, Acting Director of Politeknik Brunei

The guest of honour presenting a certificate of participation and token of appreciation to media partner, Brunei Press, represented by its General Manager, Reggie See. PHOTOS: FIZAH HAB

Dr Malai Zeiti binti Sheikh Abdul Hamid, Head of the Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning presents her closing remarks

“Becoming IT savvy is important as it can be utilised as a coping mechanism for educators to be equipped,” she said. “We need to be prepared for the changes that are taking place in today’s fast paced digital world.”

The event then continued with the presentation of certificates and souvenirs to the guest keynote speaker, Professor Grainne Conole, Professor of Education and Innovation and consultant from the United Kingdom, as well as to sponsors, external participants and Politeknik Brunei participants attending the seminar.

The post 2nd Politeknik Brunei International Symposium comes to a close appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Nuri Sufri     |

YAYASAN Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (Yayasan) yesterday donated $42,900 to 46 mosques, suraus and religious halls in all four districts across the country in a ceremony held at the Multipurpose Hall of Yayasan Complex in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Yayasan made the donation with the aim to improve the understanding of Islam among born Muslims and converts as well as prepare them for the upcoming Ramadhan. Present as guest of honour was Haji Brahim bin Haji Ismail, Managing Director of Yayasan, who also presented the donations. Also in attendance were other board members and officers of Yayasan as well as representatives from the four districts.

Yayasan, the charitable organisation 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 and members of the royal family provides annual financial assistance to religious entities to organise community events and activities during the holy month for born Muslims.

The selected mosques, suraus and religious halls include those from the remote parts of the country that have a large number of converts such as Kampong Lamunin Mosque in the Tutong District, religious hall of Kampong Melilas in Kuala Belait and Kampong Selangan Mosque in Temburong, among others.

Speaking to the Bulletin, Hajah Rohaidah Anizah binti Haji Mohd Kamsani, a representative from New Muslim Converts Association of Tutong District (PESATU) in Jalan Lubok Pulau, plan to use the donation to organise activities such as Tedarus and Tarawikh as well as Al-Quran reading and Tahlil Doa Arwah.

Haji Brahim bin Haji Ismail, Managing Director of Yayasan presenting the donation to a recipient. – NURI SUFRI

“We also plan to provide hampers to senior citizens registered under PESATU,” she said.

PESATU is a non-governmental organisation that represents converts from the Tutong District. It was established 34 years ago with over 200 registered members. According to Hajah Rohaidah Anizah, the organisation provides eight Islamic teaching classes for new converts, but because of the lack of religious teachers from the Department of Islamic Studies, it has been reduced to seven.

In an interview, Mohammad Shahrin bin Mohammad Halim, Acting Imam representing religious hall of Kampong Melilas said, “We plan to purchase raw foods weekly as it is difficult to get them in our area. We want to make sure that food provided is enough because the number of converts that attend our events varies from day to day.”

“We are grateful for this donation because it has helped us a lot over the recent years. It is not only used to buy food, but also to buy gas and water,” he said. “We are hoping that by next year, the long houses will be completed so that we can attract more people.”

“We are grateful to His Majesty for this annual donation as it helps both Muslim and new converts to breaking fast during the holy month and to join Tedarus,” said Imam Haji Mohd Azley bin Haji Mohd Aliuddin from Kampong Bukit Mosque in Tutong. “This will assist in enhancing the knowledge and increase activities for converts of Islam. The community will also have a say on financial planning with the donation given to us.”

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and General of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) last evening attended a Doa Kesyukuran ceremony to mark the RBAF’s 55th anniversary that falls today.

The religious ceremony took place at the Ministry of Defence (MinDef) Surau in Bolkiah Garrison. Similar ceremonies were also held simultaneously at all suraus in RBAF camps and bases last evening to mark the occasion.

His Royal Highness was welcomed on arrival by the Deputy Minister of Defence, First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit and Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah.

Commencing the ceremony was the recitation of verses from the Al-Quran, followed by the mass Maghrib prayer led by the Assistant Head of Religious Department RBAF (JA’MAAT), Captain Ariffin bin Amit, before the recitation of the Wirid and Doa.

The recitation of Surah Yaasiin and Tahlil was later led by the Senior Religious Officer at the Ministry of Defence, Ustaz Ruslan bin Haji Sulaiman, who later read the Doa Kesyukuran.

His Royal Highness Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and General of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) arriving at the Doa Kesyukuran ceremony last night to mark the RBAF’s 55th anniversary. PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

His Royal Highness Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and General of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces; First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit, the Deputy Minister of Defence; and Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces during the ceremony

The ceremony proceeded with the mass Isyak prayer which was once again led by Captain Ariffin.

His Royal Highness later proceeded to the Officers’ Mess in Bolkiah Garrison for an evening Banquet where he viewed a photo clip presentation, took a group photo and signed the Royal Parchment prior to leaving.

Also present last evening were members of the Defence Executive Committee, services commanders and commandants, directors, senior officers of MinDef and RBAF.

Also present were former Deputy Ministers of Defence and Commanders of RBAF.

RBAF’s 55th anniversary celebrations, themed theme is ‘RBAF Generation with a Vision’ will culminate in a mass parade today at the recently completed Defence Academy RBAF in Kampong Tanah Jambu.

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|     Azrol Azmi     |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, yesterday afternoon consented to receive in audience Jose Rene D Almendras, Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines, who is currently in Brunei Darussalam on an official visit.

During the audience ceremony, His Majesty and the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines discussed bilateral relations between Brunei Darussalam and the Republic of the Philippines, as well as exchanged views of regional and international matters.

Accompanying the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines at the audience was Meynardo L Montealegre, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to Brunei Darussalam.

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 during the audience with Jose Rene D Almendras, Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines. Also present was Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Lim Jock Seng, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II. – AZROL AZMI

Also present during the audience ceremony was Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Lim Jock Seng, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II.

The ceremony took place at Istana Nurul Iman.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

THE Sultanate’s military might will be on display during the Royal Brunei Armed Forces’ (RBAF) 55th anniversary celebration which will be held today and tomorrow.

The celebration, which is open to the public, promises a line-up of not-to-be-missed arena shows as well as static displays of the RBAF’s latest capabilities and an exhibition that focuses on career opportunities within the military.

Members of the public can also expect fun fair bazaars, interactive demonstrations including live shooting as well as many other activities lined up by major units of the armed forces.

Highlights on significant strides made in Brunei Darussalam’s defence capabilities as well as the progress made by the RBAF over the years will be at the fore of the celebration this year, which is themed ‘RBAF Generation with a Vision’.

Set for the first time at the recently completed Defence Academy RBAF in Kampung Tanah Jambu, the celebration will give members of the public the opportunity to learn more about the new facility as well as military training and the organisation in general.

The event will also showcase the RBAF’s involvement in peace keeping operations since the last few years, offering the public the chance to learn more of the force’s experiences overseas.

The main highlight of the event, the grand parade, is scheduled to kick off at 8.30am today, involving 1,155 personnel from major units of the RBAF – the Royal Brunei Land Forces, Royal Brunei Air Force and Royal Brunei Navy as well as the Training Institute, Special Force Regiment and Women’s Company. Some of the highlights of the grand parade include a fly-past by assets from the air force.

The public are welcome to take part in the many activities and events lined up for them and their families during the open day today and tomorrow including an action-packed arena show demonstrating capabilities of assets and personnel from major units of the RBAF, including the Special Force Regiment.

In addition, fun and interactive activities including bazaar sale, fun-fair, horse-rides, airboat rides and a .22 long rifle shooting experience will also spruce up the celebration.

As limited parking space will be available at the Defence Academy RBAF, visitors are advised to park their vehicles at two shuttle bus pick-up points – Lambak Kanan Industrial Area and the Salambigar Industrial Area.

Shuttle buses located at the pick-up points will operate regularly throughout the day.

The RBAF day will be open from 9am to 5pm today and tomorrow from 9am to 3pm.

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|     James Kon     |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), consented to award the Ministry of Defence Scholarship to six recipients.

Four students were awarded the Supreme Commander of the RBAF Scholarship and two students received the RBAF Scholarship.

Since its inception in 2005, 106 individuals have been awarded the Ministry of Defence Scholarship, of whom 49 returned to contribute their services and continue their high achievements, said Muhammad Shahrul Nizzam bin Umar, Director of the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Institute of Defence and Strategic Studies (SHHBIDSS), in his speech during the signing and awards presentation ceremony for the scholarship.

Twenty individuals became military officers in the RBAF while the other 29 are currently working as civilian officers in various units under the Ministry of Defence, he added.

“All the said officers not only have a challenging career but (they) also give contribution to the country’s defence through the fields of medical, engineering, research, science, technology and administration.”

The Deputy Minister of Defence, First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit; Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah in a group photo with the recipients of the prestigious scholarship. – JAMES KON

He also highlighted that this year four out of the six scholarship recipients have decided to embark on a military career after completing their studies.

The Director of SHHBIDSS said, “The assessment process this year was more selective based on reviews on the needs of the Ministry of Defence (MinDef) and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

“This meant that the recruitment base has become more competitive in line with the basic interests of the organisation that is to get

hold of citizens who are competitive and hard working with a dynamic and practical mindset.”

The recipients of the Supreme Commander of the RBAF Scholarship are Sarohakim bin Haji Mohamed Salim @Sarohakim Goeting from Sayyidina Ali Secondary School, Kuala Belait; Lim Chai Tze from Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College; Hong Zi Ling from Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College and Filzah Nadiah binti Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Hamid from Jerudong International School.

The Royal Brunei Armed Forces Scholarship was awarded to Noorhazimah Azma binti Abdul Aziz from Jerudong International School and Awangku Mohd Amirrul Syafiq bin Pengiran Kasmirhan from Jerudong International School.

Signing on behalf of the Ministry of Defence was Datin Paduka Hajah Suriyah binti Haji Umar, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, while Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, signed on behalf of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

Also present to witness the event was the Deputy Minister of Defence, First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit and other officials.

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A TOTAL of 44 individuals comprising students from the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) Mechanical Campus, aspiring young entrepreneurs and members of the public recently completed and graduated from the LiveWIRE Leadership Camp programme held from May 27 to May 29 at the Trandie Marina Resort in the Temburong District, a press release stated.

The three-day exploration camp was aimed at inculcating leadership values within individuals and delved into an individual’s positive and negative traits through a self-assessment process.

Based on the concept of ‘transforming’ a person rather than ‘changing’ them, the leadership training programme hopes to create a ‘Community of Practice’ approach, Pengiran Redzuan bin Pengiran Haji Abbas, LiveWIRE Brunei Programme Director and Lead Facilitator for the Leadership Camp programme said.

He also said that the programme was also aimed to eliminate the Bruneian mindset of ‘Malas Ku Ingau’ or the ‘I Couldn’t Care Less’ attitude.

“At this camp, we don’t try to change people since people (by nature) don’t want to change. So instead we attempt to transform them,” Pengiran Redzuan added.

Group photo of leadership camp participants comprising students from IBTE Mechanical Campus, aspiring young entrepreneurs, LiveWIRE programme graduates, supervisors from the LiveWIRE Brunei Business Network (LWBN) and LiveWIRE team at Trandie Marina Resort, Temburong. – LIVEWIRE BRUNEI

During the camp, the participants were exposed to the natural elements and explored the characteristics that make a leader through theoretical and practical sessions spaced out during the ‘55 hours away from home’, as LiveWIRE refers to it.

In the theoretical sessions, Pengiran Redzuan and Mohd Fadhilullah Tudun bin Haji Hassan, LiveWIRE Business Counsellor shared with the participants renowned psychological concepts such as ‘Johari’s Window’ by Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham and Abraham Maslow’s ‘Hierarchy of Needs’.

The participants were also asked to look back into situations in their respective pasts, where they could apply such concepts into practice in the future.

Meanwhile, the practical session included a day-long jungle trekking and obstacle course where participants were observed by supervisors on how well they could lead and motivate others as well as how they performed as team players.

“A good leader needs to be a good follower as well,” Pengiran Redzuan said. During the trekking, experienced guides were also on hand to teach the participants on the various aspects of survival in Brunei’s rainforest. At the end of these sessions, the participants were assessed on their performance by the supervisors and how these qualities varied to the ideas the participants had during the self-assessment session.

After discussing with their individual groups, the participants will then declare the positive traits that they will aim to work towards achieving.

One of the participants, Justin Ling Jia Haur, recommends the Leadership Camp programme for those not only who are into personal development, but also for everyone coming from any industry; whether students, teachers, business owners, engineers and so on.

“The team building activities were really fun and challenged how we all actually are in a team and as leaders. All in all, it was a very good experience out with nature,” he said.

Hajah Hadinah Subariah binti Haji Tengah, Student Council Advisor and Enterprise Planning Instructor of IBTE Mechanical Campus, said that the Livewire Leadership Camp not only was aimed at changing the direction of good path in life, but at the same time helps simulate activities with relation to time management, managing team and oneself.

“Working in a counseling capacity, we see programmes such as these essential in part and parcel of the student’s activities to help them build confidence, self-endurance, to work and think better as a team and how to overcome conflict or issues not only in school and with their teammates but to prepare them for their future undertakings in entrepreneurial context and networking,” Hajah Hadinah, who also played a supervisory role in the camp said.

Pengiran Redzuan said that he chose Temburong for the Leadership Camp because he wanted to bring participants into a ‘different environment’ while appreciating the natural beauty of Temburong.

Other upcoming LiveWIRE programmes include a ‘Bright Ideas’ enterprise awareness and business ideas generation workshop on June 1 and June 2 and LiveWIRE Business Plan Series on June 10, 17 and 24.

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|     Fizah HAB & Wani Roslan     |

A TOTAL of 371 Year 6 students from the Arabic Preparatory School participated in a Khatam Al-Quran ceremony recently to mark the completion of the recitation of 30 Juzuks of the Al-Quran at the Chancellor Hall, Universiti Brunei Darussalam.

Present as the guest of honour was Haji Rusli bin Haji Md Salleh, Acting Assistant Director (Corporate Services) Department of Islamic Studies, Ministry of Religious Affairs.

The ceremony commenced with the mass recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by the guest of honour followed with the reading of verses from the Al-Quran by the Year 6 students.

It was then continued with the recitation of Takhtim by a group of Year 5 students.

The ceremony later saw the recitation of Doa Khatam Al-Quran by Najla Sabreena binti Haji Abdul Rajid and a Dikir Marhaban by Year 5 students.

Guest of honour Haji Rusli bin Haji Md Salleh, Acting Assistant Director (Corporate Services) Department of Islamic Studies, Ministry of Religious Affairs at the event

A section of the Year 6 students participating in the Khatam Al-Quran event. PHOTOS: FIZAH HAB & WANI ROSLAN

The guest of honour later presented certificates to the participants.

Since 2006, a total of 1,856 students from the school have managed to complete reading the 30 Juzuks of the Al-Quran.

Among the objectives of the event was to uphold His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s vision in making Brunei Darussalam as a Zikir Nation.

It was also aimed at encouraging students to always practice reading the Al-Quran precisely and fluently so as to seek blessings from Allah the Almighty.

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|     James Kon     |

RECIPIENTS of the Ministry of Defence Scholarship on Monday have expressed their gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), and vow to work hard to make a contribution to the country especially in the field of defence and military.

Four students have been granted consent to be awarded with the Supreme Commander of the RBAF Scholarship while two students were awarded with the RBAF Scholarship.

The recipients of the Supreme Commander of the RBAF Scholarship are Sarohakim bin Haji Mohamed Salim @ Sarohakim Goeting from Sayyidina Ali Secondary School, Kuala Belait; Lim Chai Tze from Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College; Hong Zi Ling from Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College; and Filzah Nadiah binti Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Hamid from Jerudong International School.

While the recipients of the RBAF Scholarship are Noorhazimah Azma binti Abdul Aziz from Jerudong International School and Awangku Mohd Amirrul Syafiq bin Pengiran Kasmirhan from Jerudong International School.

Filzah Nadiah, who will be heading to Cardiff University to study medicine for four years including two years of training said, “I felt privileged that I managed to make the cut in one of the best scholarships in Brunei because there were so many applicants.”

Awangku Mohd Amirrul Syafiq bin Pengiran Kasmirhan with his sister and guardian

Filzah Nadiah binti Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Hamid with her proud parents. PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Hong Zi Ling with her family members

“I get to pursue my dream of being a doctor and also be a part of the military which is a lifestyle that I really wanted to be in,” she added.

After finishing her studies, the 18-year-old hopes to contribute to the military and society.

Hong Zi Ling, who will study finance in a top university in either Hong Kong or the United Kingdom said, “I felt very honoured to be awarded as one of the scholars because the selection process is not easy.”

“I will be dealing with finance and legal matters which will be very interesting in helping to contribute to the Ministry of Defence,” she said.

She revealed that she became interested in obtaining the scholarship following the Ministry of Defence’s roadshow to Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College.

Awangku Mohd Amirrul Syafiq bin Pengiran Kasmirhan who is heading to Calon US Military School-Westpoint to study mechanical engineering said, “I am very excited to go to Westpoint, one of the prestigious military schools in the US to broaden my knowledge in academics, military and fitness.”

After completing the course in four years, he hopes to return to the country to be a cadet officer to serve the RBAF.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

LOCAL stall vendors are looking forward to begin trading at the new Tamu Kianggeh complex, which comes equipped with a host of amenities, including dining areas and separate areas for the sale of dry and wet products.

Hajah Seri, who sells handicrafts, dried anchovies and other retail items, thanked His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, for his concern in providing them with a more comfortable place to ply their trade.

“After the drawing of lots held over the weekend, at the Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Department, I was very fortunate to get a stall right at the centre. I thanked Allah the Almighty, and even treated my family for dinner last Sunday. It wasn’t only the vendors from Kianggeh who showed up to cast their lots, but also those from the Gadong and Jerudong markets, wishing to set up stalls at the new site,” she said.

Hajah Seri, who makes $100-$200 a day, excluding payment for the supplier of her products, also told the Bulletin that she received a letter for the relocation which goes into effect today.

Meanwhile, Gunardi bin Metussin, a food and drinks vendor from Kampong Bakut Berumput in Kampong Ayer, said that having to transport gas cylinders and cooking utensils was troublesome, especially if the trading premises did not provide ample space for storage He also mentioned several instances of theft, involving items stored at the old Tamu Kianggeh.

The new Tamu Kianggeh building

“With the new complex, we wouldn’t have to move to Gadong, which was one of the alternatives proposed to us earlier. It would be hard for Kampong Ayer residents to go to Gadong market, as they’d have to board a bus just to get fish, dried products or other daily necessities,” he said.

“Business is good, with Indonesian workers as our regular customers. We pay a licence fee of $175, inclusive of water and electricity, while we earn around $300 a day,” he added. “At least Bandar Seri Begawan will see more activity now, instead of being empty and deserted after 8pm.”

Hajah Bidah, an elderly citizen from Kampong Tarabau near Kampong Ayer, said that she makes $30 a day, selling local delicacies at the market. “My husband is also a pensioner, so trading at the market enables us to gain some income. I will need the help from my grandchildren to carry the goods, once we move to the new complex,” she said.

Pengiran Ahmad bin Pengiran Md Yussof calls for two stalls to sell dry and wet products. PHOTOS: AZLAN OTHMAN

Another vendor, Pengiran Ahmad bin Pengiran Md Yussof, is calling on relevant parties to assign him two separate stalls for the sale of fish as set products and dried produce. Currently, he is only allowed one stall at the new site. “I was made to understand that we could not combine the sale of both items at the new site,” he said.” My daughter is also keen to set up business at the new site, and has asked me to get her a registration form.”

Senior citizen, Haji Metassan bin Haji Metassim, once sold meat at the Gadong market, but stopped, owing to stiff competition from nearby department stores and supermarkets. He told the Bulletin that the new Tamu Kianggeh complex would bring back the good old days of Bandar Seri Begawan as a tourist and business hub.

Construction began last April, and the new area is divided into 10 sections, for the sale of handicrafts, fresh produce, frozen items and freshly-prepared food. There is also a carpark, which can accommodate up to 400 vehicles.

Several months ago, His Majesty paid a surprise visit to Tamu Kianggeh, and spent time mingling with both the vendors and their customers.

*See also ‘Tamu Sungai Kianggeh Complex opens today’ by James Kon

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|     James Kon     |

One hundred cyclists recently participated in a ‘Night Safety Ride’ at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium to raise greater awareness on safety for cyclists.

On hand to sound off the event was Senior Superintendent Haji Mohammad Hassan bin Pehin Penyurat Haji Ahmad, the Acting Director of the Traffic Control and Investigation Department (JSKLL), cum Acting Director of Finance and Administration of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF).

Chief Inspector Md Ismail bin Abdullah led the participants during the two-and-a-half-hour ride from the national stadium to Jerudong Park and the Waterfront, which was organised by the RBPF Sports Council.

Speaking to the Bulletin, Chief Inspector Md Ismail said, “The aim is to promote cycling safety, especially at night. With cycling gaining popularity among the locals, we have come to realise that some cyclists are not equipped with proper safety gear, such as reflective vests and reflectors at the front and rear of their bicycles.”

Senior Superintendent Haji Mohammad Hassan bin Pehin Penyurat Haji Ahmad, Acting Director of the Traffic Control and Investigation Department (JSKLL), sounding off the ‘Night Safety Ride’

Cyclists heading off in the Night Safety Ride. PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Chief Inspector Md Ismail, who is also the deputy manager of the RBPF cycling team, had a message for motorists, “We hope they practice more vigilance and awareness for other people using the same road for riding and running.”

He expressed hope the Night Safety Ride would go on to become an annual event in an ongoing effort to promote cyclists safety.

At the same event, a police officer from the Traffic Control and Investigation Department delivered a safety briefing to all the participating cyclists.

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|     Fizah HAB     |

THE Children Development Centre (CDC) at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital will officially open its doors to the public today.

Now officially known as the Developmental Paediatric Services, the centre is an initiative by the Ministry of Health (MoH) to continuously improve and provide better services and care to its patients.

Some of the services provided at the centre also include the community paediatric clinic, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, dietetic, medical social work, clinical psychology, podiatry and prosthetist as well as orthotist and optometrist.

The integration is part of consolidating the CDC services at RIPAS Hospital for better and clearer high impact outcomes, including reducing waiting time, improving clinical effectiveness and efficiency by optimising resources including manpower as well as providing better value for patients and their guardians.

Different services provided by the former Children Development Centre are now integrated into services available and located at different parts of the hospital. The developmental paediatric clinic will be integrated with the outpatient paediatric clinic in the Women and Children’s Centre (WCC) together with dietetic services.

Close interactions between patients and doctors are part of the services offered at the Developmental Paediatric Services. – FIZAH HAB

The new services that will be located at the Specialist Block include audiology services, speech and language therapy services and the paediatric dental services whilst other services such as physiotherapy services and the occupational therapy services will be available at the ground floor, Block 8. Clinical psychology services will be located at the 3rd floor, Block 11 RIPAS Hospital and on the third floor of the Women and Children’s Centre.

New and patient-friendly facilities are also offered at the centre, especially at the Women and Children’s Centre including easy access to emergency services, ample waiting areas, basement parking spaces, free shuttle bus to and from Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah as well as 24 hours security.

With the transition to the RIPAS Hospital, the Ministry of Health aimed at providing or facilitating provision of ongoing treatment, support therapies, services and reassessment, to ensure optimal health and development for each child and to plan for the transition to adult services as well as to encourage active participation of parents in the management of children with developmental delays and disabilities.

The ministry also aims at playing a more active role in promoting community awareness and creating a sanitised environment for the patients.

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HER Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, yesterday began the third day of her official visit to China with a meeting and lunch with Liu Zhemin, Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs of China at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China.

Both sides reviewed the development of bilateral relations and exchanged views on regional and international issues.

In the afternoon, she made a courtesy call on Li Yuanchao, Vice-President of the People’s Republic of China. Both sides highlighted the significance of the 25th anniversary of Brunei-China Diplomatic Relations.

In the evening, Yang Jiechi, State Councilor of the People’s Republic of China hosted a dinner at the Diaoyutai State Guest House where they exchanged views on the state of bilateral relations between both countries.

Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna and Li Yuanchao, Vice-President of the People’s Republic of China. PHOTOS: MOFAT

Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade with Yang Jiechi, State Councilor of the People’s Republic of China

Her Royal Highness was accompanied by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara.

The visit is at the invitation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China as part of the celebrations for the

25th anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Brunei Darussalam and the People’s Republic of China.

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|     Nuri Sufri & Fizah HAB     |

THE Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), an institution vital to the country’s peace and stability, celebrated its 55th anniversary on the grounds of the new Defence Academy at Tanah Jambu, yesterday. The two-day event was also celebrated with support from the public, in the form of military demonstrations, activities and exhibitions at the Parade Square.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, was present to grace the occasion. Also present was His Royal Highnesses Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and General of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF); and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik.

On hand to receive His Majesty, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Malik was First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit, the Deputy Minister of Defence; Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, the Commander of the RBAF; and Cabinet Ministers.

This year’s theme, ‘A Visionary RBAF Generation’, signifies His Majesty’s visionary leadership, together with the commitment of the men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving the country.

With a total of 1,055 military personnel bearing the royal crest and the RBAF crest while marching in the Mass Parade, His Majesty received a royal salute from the Royal Brunei Land Forces (RBLF), Royal Brunei Navy (RBN), Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAirF), RBAF Training Institute, Special Force Regiment (RPK) and RBAF Women Military Company, led by Lieutenant Colonel Haji Mohammad Shahnonnizam bin Sulaiman.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces during the cake-cutting ceremony. PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR

His Majesty, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik tours the exhibition

His Majesty signing a Royal Parchment

His Majesty, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik tour the exhibition

ABOVE & BELOW: His Majesty poses for a photo with a family

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces; His Royal Highness Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and General of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces; and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik in a group photo with officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces

Following the grand parade and spectacular arena displays, government officials and members of the public took a moment of silence to listen to His Majesty’s titah and a subsequent recitation of prayers to bless the event read by Major Ariffin bin Amit @ Hamid, the Assistant Head of the RBAF Religious Department (Jama’at). Afterwards, His Majesty made a tour of the static exhibition at the Officer Cadet School, as well as an exhibition on the equipment and military capabilities of the RBLF, RBN and RBAirF.

As a side-attraction, there were several interactive activities, including a survival village, airboat rides, a 0.22 long rifle shooting range and a simulated army experience for civilians.

There was also a career fair, showcasing employment opportunities within the RBAF.

During their tour of the funfair activities and bazaar, His Majesty and Their Royal Highnesses mingled and chatted with members of the public.

The displays at the exhibition were provided by the RBAF Recruitment, Directorate of Personnel, the RBAF Inspectorate Unit, Counselling Unit RBAF, the Performance Optimisation Centre, the Jama’at, the Royal Brunei Malay Regiment, the RBAF Cadet, the Training Institute RBAF Medical Services Reception (MRS), Land Engineering, Dental Services, RBAF Fire and Rescue Services, Signal Squadron, Logistic Depot, Military Vehicles and the RBAF Military Police Unit.

After touring the exhibition areas, His Majesty was presented with a ‘pesambah’ in the form of a Royal Seal stamp, after signing a Royal Parchment to commemorate the visit.

Gifts were presented to His Majesty at the Defence Academy Auditorium, in the form of a copper global sphere with a compass attached at the bottom, labelled ‘Brass Armillary Nautical Sphere Globes, World Sundial Compass’, and a Charles Owen Polo Helmet memento from the United Kingdom.

His Majesty then proceeded to the RBAF Command and Staff College for a luncheon, where His Majesty consented to a cake-cutting ceremony with the words, ‘RBAF 55th anniversary’ written on the confection, and then received a pistol as a gift from RBAF officers.

A recitation of prayers was led by Major Ariffin, followed by a luncheon with Defence Executive Committee members, service commanders, former deputy ministers, former RBAF commanders, civilian and military directors, and commandants.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

THE country’s youth remains one of the most valuable assets of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), the Commander of the RBAF said.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of RBAF’s 55th anniversary Grand Parade at the Defence Academy RBAF in Kampong Tanah Jambu yesterday, Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah said 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 has always prioritised the sustainable development of its youth, who are bound to be future leaders of the nation.

When asked about the theme of this year’s celebration, ‘RBAF Generation with a Vision’, he said it signifies the visionary leadership and the commitment of the men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving the country towards the Brunei Vision 2035.

The commander said that the new recruits in the RBAF are those individuals between the ages of 18 and 28 years, and most of its personnel are categorised in the youth group. “We can’t deny the fact that they (the youth) have made significant contributions to our development.”

He added, “55 years ago we had about 60 army personnel enlisted in our forces, but today the number has expanded by over 150 times its original size, which I think is one of the main indications of its progress.”

Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah speaks to the media. – HAKIM HAYAT

He appreciated the government for its continuous efforts in developing the youth through various programmes hat support the youth’s drive to become tomorrow’s leaders, such as the National Service Programme (PKBN).

“Most of the new recruits have already been equipped with basic military skills through PKBN, which indirectly helped us in their training. All we needed to do is enhance and polish what they already possess,” he said, adding that through this programme, a lot of exemplary recruits were identified not only with academic excellence, but also with physical and spiritual skills.

When asked to comment on the increasing interest of women to join the RBAF, the Commander said, “Our generation of women today are seen to be more brave and driven to take-up challenges. They yearn for and are ready to accept challenges and they have shown their capabilities and excellence.”

He said that there is no difference between male and female personnel in the military, because both have shown their valuable skills in combat gear.

“In the RBAF, we have given equal opportunities to all and their contributions are based on their capabilities,” he said, expressing his hope to see women to continue serving the nation through the RBAF.

He also stressed that equal opportunities will be given to enhance the chain of command.

“If they are good enough to do the job, we will not disagree with it, because we want to ensure equality irrespective of gender,” he added.

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