|     Fadhil Yunus     |

THAILAND national under-21 team salvaged a 1-1 draw with Myanmar following a late strike in stoppage time in Group ‘A’ of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy for Asean Youth Football Tournament 2018 at the Track & Field of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex last night.

Myanmar looked on course to end stubborn resistance from their group rivals after a first-half blitz materialised no outcome but a late resurgence from the Thais gave them a platform for a dramatic equaliser.

Since Thailand wasted little time to use the flanks to conjure an attack in the opening minute, the momentum quickly shifted to Myanmar who asserted their dominance with a torrent of attacks.

Thailand’s goalkeeper Lakkhonphon Nophhon made a string of saves as the entire Myanmar attacking workforce laid siege punctuated by a flurry of attacks with such regularity.

With Thailand clearly struggling with Myanmar’s onslaught, they found the perfect response in injury time to ensure the top spot was still in anyone’s reach.

There was little danger but Thailand nearly played into their own hands when Lakkhonphon inadvertently turned away a routine catch needlessly for a corner after a defender had guided the ball onto his path.

Moments later, the goalkeeper was issued a first warning after Myanmar’s midfielder Hein Htet Aung unleashed a good effort after skipping brilliantly past his marker.

Thailand’s only notable highlight in the first half was in the 9th minute after reacting to a loose ball.

Lakkhonphon was arguably the busier of the two goalkeepers after keeping out two consecutive piledrivers from Myanmar sharpshooters Myat Kaung Khant and Lwin Moe Aung.

Myanmar came desperately close in breaking the deadlock after Aung Kaung Mann, the successor of the country’s lethal striker Aung Thu, rattled against the bar after meeting a finely precise cross from Kyaw Thu Tun.

With a Thai defender falling flat on the pitch, Win Naing Tun squared the ball into the middle but Soe Lwin hit his shot straight at the goalkeeper.

Myanmar’s Hein Htet found an opening but saw his shot fly narrowly wide as the bombardment continued incessantly.

Lakkhanphon had to come to his team’s aid for an umpteenth time after tipping a swerving free-kick from Myat Kaung.

With Myanmar dictating the tempo of the game, Hein Htet used his option on the right-hand side and released Soe Lwin but the latter could not adjust his body in time to make a good connection.

Thailand’s Lakkhanphon came to action again but this time with limited movement only using his legs to kick away a neat flick from Win Naing Tun.

Just as how Thailand began with their quick play, they nearly ended the first half taking a surprise lead but Kinnonkok Kitti was just a fraction late sliding onto substitute Kesi Sampan’s low cross.

Myanmar finally broke Thailand’s resistance after the excellent Hein Htet curled a well-taken effort from the edge of the box in the 66th minute.

The War Elephants spurned a golden opportunity to draw level after Kinnonkok blasted his effort from close range.

But, T Sirimongkol rescued his side a point after firing a dramatic equaliser in injury time to blow Group ‘A’ wide open.

The post Thailand seal draw against Myanmar appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

LOOKING to revive Singapore’s dominance in the regional youth football scene, Young Lions will be looking to prove themselves by reaching the final of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) for ASEAN Youth Football Tournament 2018.

The Young Lions will face Lao PDR tonight at 8pm for the first Group B encounter at Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

In a press conference yesterday, Young Lions head coach Fandi Ahmad highlighted the importance of team spirit to win any football game.

“We have to work as a team and not individuals. Football is about team. Think for the team and not for yourself. Play for the team and not yourself,” he said.

Highlighting the importance of winning the first game of the tournament, Fandi Ahamd, who is a former Singapore national footballer said, “The first match is always very crucial in any tournament. If we win the first game, you will get the confidence of doing well for the team.

“Having only three teams in the group, importantly we have to win the first game. We can’t talk about going to the final if we can’t even win the first game. First, we must get the three points then see what will happen in the next match. In fact, Cambodia and Lao will be thinking the same where the first game will be a decider in a group of three or four teams.”

On the Singapore team being placed in Group ‘B’ with Lao PDR and Cambodia, he felt that there are no easy matches in any football games for Singapore.

“Ninety minutes in a football game, anything can happen. In the last few years, our football team has been on a very low key because of the development. We are trying to restart with our new president and the new exco, which is doing very well. With this bunch of players, we hope to promote them to the national team to succeed the ageing players,” Fandi said.

“Lao PDR and Cambodia, they are not easy opponents. Many countries in the region have already overtaken us which is a fact. We are trying to revive and hopefully we can produce more players for the country.”

Asked on the preparation of the Young Lions for HBT, the former national Singapore player said, “We don’t have much preparation for the tournament as we are currently playing in the Singapore Premier League which started three weeks ago.

“We played three matches – won two matches and lost one. Our players are mostly students and national service men. One of the reasons we couldn’t submit the confirmed list of players early is because of the difficulty in getting leave for the boys. We are here, preparation is through our league matches where we have started training since January 8. The boys are very determined and they would like to win the tournament. This would be a very good exposure and experience for the team as half of the squad never played in any international matches before.”

Team manager Eric Ong echoed Fandi’s statement on not to be complacent and also hailed the importance of regional tournaments for youth development.

“There is no such thing as an easy game, the whole ASEAN football have improved and HBT is very important for the youth teams in the region to improve so that ASEAN can rise up in Asian football,” the manager said.

Fandi Ahmad also hopes that his team can do better than the previous edition of HBT in 2014.

“The Young Lions has better experienced players especially that we have been playing in the Singapore Premier League for the last two seasons. We are better prepared now than before. We are determined and this is demonstrated in the league. Last season, the Young Lions only won a game and had six points for the whole season last year, while this year, we played three matches and already have six points, so this shows some improvement.

“We have good commitment from the players. We are not only coming here to play well but also win the final. It’s a very significant (achievement) if we win; we are trying to get to the Asian games via this tournament. Hopefully, we will get selected to go to the Asian Games in Jakarta.”

Asked about the opening match between Brunei Darussalam and Timor Leste, Fandi Ahmad commented, “It was a tough game. I think that Timor Leste were more determined to go forward while Brunei were contested in the midfield and was lacking the firepower up front. Brunei kept the ball well but couldn’t break through to the front. Timor Leste have strong and very physical as well as fast players. I think Brunei will improve in the next game.”

The post Singapore Young Lions ready to pounce appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam national under-21 head coach Mario Riviera Campesino felt that his charges were overcome by nerves during their 1-0 defeat to Timor Leste in the opening Group ‘A’ match of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) for the ASEAN Youth Football Tournament 2018 at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium on Monday.

With the hosts trying to find their feet, their game, however, was littered by a series of misplaced passes in the earlier exchanges as they looked to make an initiative of initiating an attack.

“I think in the first half our players were very nervous and we made some mistakes. We were better than them in the second half but Timor Leste is a very good team. It is very difficult for us to have opportunities,” said Mario during the post-match press conference.

The Spanish coach also indicated that nervousness may have hindered their ability to cause problems in the final third of the opposition’s goal.

“In the last third, you need to be very precise and subtle with the ball and if you are nervous, it is more difficult,” he said.

Brunei team manager Zahrin bin Haji Zunaidi said over-excitement may have affected their play adding that they fell short of expectations in their finishing.

“The thing we need to ensure is that the players should not be overexcited. If you are overexcited, then you start to forget what you should be doing,” said Zahrin.

“We tried our best especially in the second half but I agree that our finishing was not what we expected. I think the coach and the rest of the team will look into it for the next game.”

Meanwhile, Timor Leste head coach Eduardo Pereira admitted that Brunei had good opportunities and praised their footwork, however, there were certain areas which needed to be addressed.

The head coach revealed that he approached the game with counter-attacking football.

He added that his charges, who avenged a 1-0 defeat in 2012, instilled high spirits although Brunei were backed with a strong home support.

Pereira will be hoping that his side will fully recover before a crucial tie against Myanmar tomorrow, where a win is likely to take them through to the knockout stages.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE importance of educational benchmarking was highlighted yesterday by Centre Director of Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organisation (SEAMEO) Regional Centre for Vocational and Technical Education and Training (Voctech) Dr Haji Mohd Zamri bin Haji Sabli.

The Centre Director delivered a speech at the opening ceremony for a regional training programme on ‘Benchmarking Education Institutional Practices and Performances through a Comparative Study’ at the SEAMEO Voctech Regional Centre.

Dr Haji Mohd Zamri touched on what educational benchmarking is as well as why it is important.

“Benchmarking is about learning good practices from what others are practising and comparing our education performances and strategies at the institutional or even at national levels,” he said, adding that this “may inspire us to do better.

“It is necessary that we should also be aware of the context where the practices take place. Copying of what others are doing may lead to failures if performed without proper understanding of the context. We need to know similarities and difference, and be able to adopt and adapt it by making necessary adjustments,” he said.

The centre director also noted that under SEAMEO’s Seven Priority Areas, it is stipulated that SEAMEO promotes technical and vocational education and training (TVET) among learners, teachers and parents with more visible investment and relevant curricula that focusses on creativity and innovation with a clear pathway to lifelong learning, higher education and regional harmonisation.

He affirmed that, as one of the 24 SEAMEO Centres, SEAMEO Voctech is taking important roles in promoting TVET through various programmes and activities, including offering training programmes for TVET personnel in the region.

The post Benchmarking inspires us to do better: SEAMEO Centre Director appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

A REGIONAL training programme entitled ‘Benchmarking Education Institutional Practices and Performances through a Comparative Study’ began with an opening ceremony recently at the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organisation (SEAMEO) Regional Centre for Vocational and Technical Education and Training (Voctech).

The two-week programme sees the involvement of 19 participants from 10 SEAMEO member countries, and is designed to meet the common needs of SEAMEO member countries to upgrade the competencies of their education practitioners.

The opening ceremony saw welcoming remarks delivered by Centre Director of SEAMEO Voctech Dr Haji Mohd Zamri bin Haji Sabli. He said that it was an honour and a privilege for SEAMEO Voctech to host the programme. “I have no doubt in my mind, that this regional training programme will be a worthwhile experience.

“We have an opportunity before us to learn from experts in this field and I hope, you will all walk away from this regional training programme enriched with a better understanding of contemporary issues in technical and vocational education and training or commonly referred as TVET.”

He congratulated the participants for being selected, and said he was sure that through the programme, they would all be able to be equipped with a higher of proficiency in preparing the process of benchmarking education institutional practices and performances. “Through this training programme, I am confident that all of you will be able to make valuable contributions into teaching and learning at your institutions in your country,” he said.

He noted, “The current regional training programme which all of you are going to undertake is third Regional Training Programme of SEAMEO Voctech in the Fiscal Year of 2017/2018 under Research and Innovation theme.”

The centre director explained that, in this regional training programme, participants will discuss various strategies to improve education performances, especially through benchmarking.

He shared that, from this training, it is hoped that the participants will be able to: explain what education benchmarking is and why; use the examples of benchmarking reports for initiating their own projects; elaborate and demonstrate the steps in conducting education benchmarking; conduct mini education benchmarking activities and report writing; and write an action plan on education benchmarking.

“I believe that for the next two weeks, you all are going to be tied up with the training programme. However I am also sure you all will have the opportunity to visit some of interesting places in the abode of peace.

“I wish all to have a fruitful and memorable training here at Regional Centre of SEAMEO Voctech and be able to use the knowledge gained during this training programme at your institutions in your countries,” he added.

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TOTAL E&P Borneo BV recently celebrated ‘World Day for Safety’ at its Total’s Onshore Processing Plant in Lumut.

With the theme ‘Let’s celebrate safety together’, the World Day for Safety is celebrated at all Total affiliates worldwide.

The event gives Total the opportunity to continue creating awareness on the importance of safety as well as to recognise the contribution, efforts and safety actions of its employees, ensuring a safe working attitude at all times.

Present at the event were Deputy Minister of Energy and Industry Dato Paduka Awang Haji Matsatejo bin Sokiaw, Total employees and contractors as well as business partners and regulator.

General Manager of Total E&P Borneo BV Vincent Dutel and his management team welcomed the deputy minister.

The event started with a safety briefing by Total Site Manager Mark Anderson. In his opening remarks, Vincent Dutel highlighted the importance of always having a safe attitude at all times whether at work or at home.

He shared that Total recently celebrated its 19 years with zero lost-time and injury. This would not have been possible without the teamwork and effort of all employees and contractors. He reminded that everyone should not be complacent and take things for granted, and should always be very vigilant and think before they act.

Among the tools that the company has in place to ensure these safe practices are Total 12 Golden Rules for the workplace. The golden rules reminded the employees what they must or must not do for a certain task. Examples of the golden rules are working at height, permit to work and lifting operations.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of the Annual Health Safety and Environmental (HSE) award to the winners of the Best HSE initiatives. After the award presentation, invited guests visited the exhibition booths on the different golden rules related to the working condition at the Onshore Processing Plant.

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Matsatejo also toured the Onshore Processing Plant.

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|     Achong Tanjong     |

THE Ministry of Defence (MinDef) launched the 4th Ad-Hoc Working Group Meeting on the ASEAN Direct Communications Infrastructure (ADI) at the Defence Academy Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), Tanah Jambu yesterday.

The meeting, which concludes today, was held following the successful launch of Phase 1 of the ADI during the closing of the 4th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Clark, Pampanga, Republic of the Philippines, on October 24, 2017.

Delegates from ASEAN member states and the ASEAN Secretariat discussed progress made from the establishment of the ADI and steps for the next phase since its launch. The ADI initiative is divided into three phases.

Director of Defence Policy at the MinDef and ASEAN Defence Senior Officials Meeting (ADSOM) Working Group Leader for Brunei Darussalam, Haji Adi Ihram bin Dato Paduka Haji Mahmud and Lieutenant-Colonel Zainolhizad bin Haji Mohd Zain of the Joint Force Headquarters (JFHQ) RBAF co-chaired the meeting.

Brunei Darussalam championed the ADI initiative since adopting its Concept Paper under the framework of the ADMM in 2014.

The 4th Ad-Hoc Working Group Meeting on ADI builds on the previous results of Ad-Hoc Working Group Meetings on the Direct Communications Link in the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Process held in 2014, 2015 and 2016.

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

THE idea of studying in Moscow, or the Russian Federation in general, would not be the first choice that comes to mind among local students. Not only it is an unfamiliar study destination, but it also sounds relatively foreign to Brunei students when compared to familiar places such as Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, primarily because of the language and gaps.

But consider these facts. Education in Russia is most renowned for its accomplishments within the fields of science and research at the post-secondary level.

The country’s extensive influence on this particular discipline is so great that an estimated one quarter of the total scientific literature in the world is written in Russian.

Aside from being surprisingly unaffected, despite its constant usage across such a vast country, the Russian vernacular is also one of the six official languages of the United Nations.

Khairul Bahzi bin Jomari is one of the two selected Brunei students who recently arrived in Moscow to pursue their studies in Russia.

Currently, he is studying in a preparatory school provided by the Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI), as he undergoes the Intensive Russian Language Programme and looks forward to doing his first bachelor’s degree with MAI.

With the 2018 World Cup around the corner, Khairul told the Bulletin that he is thrilled to be in Russia.

He also expressed his determination to stay focussed in his studies and inspire more Bruneians to study in Russia.

The Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI) is one of the several major engineering higher education establishments in Moscow. Since its inception, the MAI has been spearheading advances in aerospace technology, both within Russia and across the world.

With MAI’s background as a leading aviation school, Khairul said he would like to learn more on how Yuri Gagarin became the first man to journey into outer space in 1961.

The MAI has also been the birthplace of many aircraft and jets, including the Sukhoi Superjet 100, created by Mikhail Pogosyan.

It was in the workshops of MAI in Almaty that Mikhail Kalashnikov, the legendary rifle designer, worked on his AK-47 assault rifle.

In the meantime, Khairul eagerly looks forward to his first experience of a space shuttle launch, which will be anytime soon, as he awaits a letter of invitation from the MAI.

The post Russia – a new frontier for Brunei students appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

A “420” CELEBRATION held at the male hostel of a higher education institution was busted by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) recently, leading to the arrest of nine young men, of which eight are students of two higher education institutions in the country.

The men, aged between 22-24, were arrested by NCB following the discovery of packets and paper folds containing dried leaves, believed to be cannabis, with a total weight of 63 grammes and apparatus used for drug consumption.

The institutions were not named in the statement released by NCB but it said the raid was conducted at 1.15am when the detainees were having a mini party to celebrate “420”, a celebration related to cannabis consumption every April 20.

All the items were seized and the detainees are currently being investigated under Section 6(a) of Misuse of Drugs Acts (MDA), Chapter 27 for the possession of controlled drugs which carries a penalty of imprisonment of up to 10 years, or a fine of BND20,000, or both; Section 6(b) of MDA, Chapter 27 for the consumption of controlled drugs which carries a penalty of imprisonment of up to 10 years, or a fine of BND20,000, or both; and Section 7 of MDA, Chapter 27 for the possession of utensils used for drug consumption which carries a penalty of imprisonment of up to three years, or a fine of BND10,000, or both.

During questioning, all the detainees admitted to have received awareness and information on drug abuse including its negative impacts and legality.

NCB in the statement yesterday reminded the young generation, including students, both in local institutions and overseas, not to be influenced by others’ views on cannabis consumption and other drugs, let alone participating in celebrations that are against the beliefs, religion and law in the country. It further advised that students need to be focussed on their studies and make wise decisions for their future so as not to disappoint the hopes of their family and country.

The NCB also reminded parents and guardians to always monitor their children’s activities and get to know their friends, even though they are studying at a higher institution, because there is no guarantee that they are safe from negative social influences including drug abuse.

The bureau also reminded that drug offences are regarded as very serious and any involvement in any form of drug activities may carry capital punishment under the MDA Chapter 27.

It also expressed gratitude to all those who have cooperated and supported the NCB in eradicating drug activities in the country and urged the public to come forward with any information relating to drug abuse activities by calling 2448877 (office hours), hotline 8777444 (after working hours) or e-mail at ncb@narcotics.gov.bn.

The post NCB busts ‘420’ drugs party, nine youths held appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Aziz Idris     |

TO MARK the 92nd birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the British High Commission in Brunei Darussalam held the annual Queen’s Birthday Party (QBP) celebration, at the theatre of The Empire Hotel & Country Club last night.

This high-profile event was attended by the Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud along with prominent guests from the public and private sector, the British community, members from the Diplomatic Corps as well as youth leaders and non-governmental organisation representatives.

British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Richard Lindsay welcomed guests on the occasion of Her Majesty The Queen’s 92nd birthday.

He highlighted the close links between the United Kingdom and Brunei Darussalam, and explained the creative arts theme of the evening.

“The range of this evening’s performances will demonstrate the diversity of British music and dance – from West End musicals, chart music, classical, and ending with the pipes and drums.

“What is most exciting is that the performances tonight are by Brunei’s own talented local artistes. Another great way to celebrate the close and enduring people to people links between our countries,” he said.

Lindsay acknowledged the generous sponsors for this year’s QBP; Standard Chartered Bank, JLR Indera Motors and Supa Save.

Guests enjoyed British themed food and viewed a photography exhibition of key bilateral events over the last year.

A range of British music and dance from West End theatre, chart hits and classical music was performed throughout the evening.

Local artiste Maria Grace Koh opened this year’s QBP with an ‘a cappella’ rendition of the national anthems of Brunei and Britain.

This was followed by a performance by Relentless Entertainment with their energetic rendition of song and dance from Matilda and Mary Poppins, both famous musicals from London’s West End, and both adaptations from books written by famous British authors.

The second performance was a medley of British chart music – covering The Beatles, Amy Winehouse and Ed Sheeran, created and performed by The Ellewan, a new local folk duo who have just released their first single on iPlayer.

Jerudong International School’s senior orchestra, Camerata then performed Edward Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance March No 1.

One of the most recognisable pieces of British classical music, it is included every year in the special concert to mark ‘The Last Night of The Proms’ in London’s Royal Albert Hall. The Proms are a series of concerts which make up the world’s largest and longest-running music festival, featuring artistes and orchestras from across the world.

The guests were also treated to a rousing finale at the entrance to the theatre provided by the combined Pipes and Drums of the 2nd Battalion, Royal Gurkha Rifles (British Forces Brunei) and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

The post Spectacular performances for Queen’s Birthday appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Daniel Lim     |

A COUPLE whose home was destroyed in a fire on April 23 received financial assistance from the Belait District Charity Fund recently.

Acting Belait District Officer Haji Md Zamree bin Haji Junaidi presented the contributions to Mohd Adenan bin Abdullah and Hajah Kalsum binti Haji Suhaili, who are currently taking up shelter with their daughter at the housing area of Lorong 3 in Seria.

The elderly couple also received financial aid from members of the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB) and the Community Development Department (JAPEM).

On the night of April 23, a fire broke out at their house in Kampong Sungai Lalit, Lumut and razed it down in a few minutes.

Two vehicles parked nearby were also destroyed with an estimated cost of BND34,000.

An investigation revealed the fire was caused by a leak in a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) pipe connected to the household’s kitchen stove.

The post Fire victims receive financial aid appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Daniel Lim     |

THE Panaga Health Centre (PHC), previously known as Panaga Hospital, held its 50th anniversary celebration at its premises yesterday to mark five decades of providing world class healthcare to the Belait community.

Opened officially in 1968 by 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 Panaga Health Centre aimed specifically to provide medical services to Brunei Shell Petroleum Co Sdn Bhd (BSP) employees.

Officiating the event as guest of honour was BSP Managing Director Dr Ceri M Powell, who was welcomed by BSP Chief Medical Officer Dr Ahmad Fakhri Junaidi.

Acting Belait District Officer Haji Md Zamree bin Haji Junaidi, Suri Seri Begawan Hospital Chief Executive Officer Haji Abdul Khalid As’ahi bin Haji Azahari and other guests also attended the event.

Also present were the centre’s current and former staff, individuals from the Brunei Shell Joint Venture (BSJV) community and others from the Belait District, including officials from the Ministry of Health (MoH), Belait District Office, British Garrison and BSJV employees who were born in the year the hospital was opened.

Dr Powell in her opening remarks during the ceremony said, “As a hospital that was known to be the most modern hospital in the country at the time it opened its doors, PHC has provided top quality healthcare, including emergency care, to BSP employees as well as the community of Kuala Belait and Seria.

“At the same time, BSP staff who came to Brunei far from their home countries have also benefitted from this same top-level and personalised medical care.”

She added that PHC has played a major role in training Brunei medical professionals, from pharmacists and nurses to doctors and dentists.

The centre has moved from strength to strength, and was accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health in 2013 and 2017. Its vision is to deliver quality health services through a CARE approach – Centre of Excellence, Accredited for Quality, constantly Responsive to business and patient needs catered by an Expert healthcare team.

“This event represents a truly remarkable milestone, and I would like to once again congratulate PHC for celebrating its 50th anniversary this year,” added Dr Powell.

Following her speech, the guest of honour with others participated in a cake cutting ceremony marking the centre’s 50th anniversary, and later toured the exhibition set up at the event showcasing the changes the centre went through over the course of its 50-year history as well as photographs and information on former staff.

Dr Powell signed a plaque commemorating the centre’s 50th anniversary.

Besides holding various health promotion awareness campaigns and activities, the PHC also supports the MoH’s efforts in the Belait District by assisting the Emergency Medical Ambulance Services (EMAS) whenever required.

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A DELEGATION led by the Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam, Motohiko Kato made a goodwill visit to Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) recently.

The two-member Japanese delegation included the Ambassador’s Second Secretary Hiroki Akasaka. Both were welcomed by UNISSA Rector Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal.

Dr Haji Norarfan was joined by UNISSA Deputy Rector Dr Haji Mohammed Hussain bin Pehin Penyurat Haji Ahmad and UNISSA Director of International and Public Relations Centre Haji Sammali bin Haji Adam in receiving the Japanese delegation.

The ambassador’s visit aimed to explore opportunities in educational cooperations and sharing of the Japanese culture.

The Japanese Embassy in Brunei Darussalam has been involved in many cultural and educational activities with Brunei Darussalam.

UNISSA, as an internationally recognised Islamic university, has supported and laid out opportunities through exploration in programmes such as the Halalan Tayyiban Research Centre and the Faculty of Islamic Economics and Finance with strategic cooperations of Japanese universities.

UNISSA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Osaka in October 16, 2017 in conjunction with UNISSA’s 7th Hafl Al-Takharruj.

The visit also included discussions on prospective programmes offered by UNISSA that Japanese students can take. With such exchange, UNISSA students will also be able to learn about the Japanese culture which is rich in technology and environmental care.

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|     Fizah HAB     |

DESPITE the poor weather, over 200 Australians, New Zealanders and Bruneians yesterday attended the pre-dawn service at the Brunei-Australia Memorial in Muara Beach, in remembrance of the servicemen and women of Australia and New Zealand, on Anzac Day.

Muara Beach is the site where the Allied Forces, led by Australia’s 9th Division, landed in Brunei on June 10, 1945, as part of the campaign to liberate Borneo.

Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Commander Major General Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud attended the event on behalf 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’s Government. He laid a wreath at the memorial on behalf of the RBAF.

The dawn service included a prayer of remembrance and poetry recitals by government and military officials from Australia and New Zealand.

Visiting Australian naval frigate, HMAS Toowoomba, provided the Catafalque Party (ceremonial guard), and the RBAF Gurkha Reserve Unit provided pipers and buglers.

Matthew Mann and Ellie Shaw from Jerudong International School participated as flag orderlies.

Following the service, VIP guests and senior Brunei military officials were hosted aboard HMAS Toowoomba for a traditional Anzac Day commemorative breakfast.

Australian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Nicola Rosenblum said, “Anzac Day is not a commemoration of the victories or defeats of Australia or New Zealand at war. Rather, we honour the ordinary men and women who have made personal sacrifices, many giving their lives, for the freedom we enjoy today.”

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

MEMBERS of the public are welcome to participate in the activities and programmes to be held in conjunction with the upcoming seventh National Family Day celebrations, according to Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS), Haji Amer Hamzah bin Pehin Orang Kaya Amar Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Zakaria.

Haji Amer Hamzah spoke during a press conference yesterday at the Citra Budaya Hall of the MCYS building in his capacity as Co-Secretary of the Executive Committee of the seventh National Family Day 2018 celebrations.

The acting permanent secretary explained that the celebrations commence on May 3 with a Doa Kesyukuran, mass Maghrib and Isyak prayers, as well as Surah Yaasiin, Tahlil and special Doa recitations, which will be carried out simultaneously in all four districts.

The focal locations for the prayers will be the Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque in Kampong Mentiri (Brunei-Muara District), Pengiran Anak Mohamed Alam Mosque in Kampong Sengkarai (Tutong District), Mohammad Jamalul Alam Mosque (Belait District), and the Utama Mohammad Salleh Mosque (Temburong District).

The main activity of the celebrations will be held on May 6 starting with the weekly ‘Masjidku Makmur, Negara Berkat’ programme, which will focus on mass Subuh prayer and a Tazkirah Subuh.

The day’s activities will be further enlivened with a mass cycling event called ‘Perhimpunan Keluarga: Riadah Berbasikal Keluarga Harmoni’ and recreational activities at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital.

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 are expected to join the mass cycling event.

Members of the public wishing to join the cycling and recreational activities, which begins at 7am, are advised to arrive early to ensure the smooth running of the ceremony.

On May 7, babies born on May 6 will be celebrated. This celebration will be carried out simultaneously at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital in Bandar Seri Begawan; Suri Seri Begawan Hospital in Belait District; Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Hospital in the Tutong District; and Pengiran Isteri Hajjah Mariam Hospital in Temburong District.

The post Host of activities for National Family Day appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Izah Azahari     |

BRUNEI Darussalam is hosting this year’s Language Council of Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia (MABBIM) Language Seminar 2018 which was officially launched at the Parkview Hotel, Jerudong, in conjunction with the 57th MABBIM Executive Conference.

The guest of honour was Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat, followed by speeches by heads of representatives from three MABBIM member countries – Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and observing country Singapore – Hajah Sariani binti Haji Ishak, Acting Director of the Language and Literature Bureau of Brunei who is also the chairwoman of the event; Haji Md Johari bin Hasan, head of representatives of MABBIM Malaysia; Professor Dr Dadang Sunendar, head of mission of MABBIM Indonesia; and Farizan bin Md Amin, head observer of Singapore.

The event was enlivened by a Gulingtangan performance prior to the guest of honour’s speech and launching of the seminar and a book published by MABBIM.

The seminar aimed to serve as a platform for knowledge sharing and regional exchange of ideas between the three MABBIM member states; disseminate Malay and Indonesian languages among members and the general public; enrich the treasures of knowledge through Malay and Indonesian languages in various disciplines; publish lectures as basic references for the community and language researchers and make a comparative study among the three member countries of MABBIM in finding space to give suggestions towards solving problems.

Nine working papers will be presented where four of them are from Brunei, three from Malaysia, one from Indonesia and one a collaboration of the three member countries.

The four working papers from Brunei include the main working paper presented by the guest of honour entitled ‘Industri Pelancongan Sebagai Wahana Pengantarabangsaan Bahasa Melayu’ (Tourism Industry as a Vehicle for the Internationalisation of the Malay Language); ‘Pengantarabangsaan Bahasa Melayu melalui Ecopelancongan’ (Internationalisation of the Malay Language through Eco-Tourism) by Dr Hajah Aini binti Haji Karim; ‘Pengantarabangsaan Bahasa Melayu melalui Ecopelancongan: Perspektif Brunei Darussalam’ (Internationalisation of the Malay Language through Eco-Tourism: A Brunei Darussalam Perspective) by Dato Paduka Dr Haji Abdul Latif bin Haji Ibrahim; and ‘Rekyasa Bahasa Melayu dalam Sektor Pelancongan di Negara Brunei Darussalam: Satu Tinjauan Awal’ (Malay Language in the Tourism Sector in Brunei Darussalam: An Initial Review) by Annisa binti Haji Moksin.

About 200 participants are taking part in the two-day seminar.

The official launching of the seminar saw a number of speeches by the heads of representatives from the three member countries and observing country Singapore.

Hajah Sariani highlighted the Sultanate’s 33-year involvement in MABBIM since 1985 which saw a number of successes such as publication of research books, dictionaries and glossaries among others as well as various linguistic projects such as MABBIM scholarly workshops and lectures by invited professionals.

According to her, the seminar’s theme which was also the main working paper was chosen during the 56th MABBIM Executive Meeting in Jakarta, Indonesia, last year and is highly significant to the tourism industry. It carries an effective message in promoting the use of the Malay Language among tourists as countries in the region have a strategic geo-political foundation that will help spread the language. “If this foundation is promoted with a steady planning of language politics, it will be possible for Malay to become a language that can be internationalised like the other languages that are spreading now,” added the MABBIM Brunei representative.

“Language shows the way a person thinks and their national identity. A good language can give out a good message. Though the member countries have varying ecosystems, Malay Language needs to be developed as a tool for protecting their ethnic, social and cultural heritage.”

The post Nine working papers to be presented at Language Seminar appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Izah Azahari     |

THE tourism sector has the potential to expand the internationalisation of the Malay Language through promoting the rich Malay culture that includes food, traditional dances, martial arts, architecture and costumes.

This was stated by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin yesterday at the official opening ceremony of the Language Council of Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia (MABBIM) Language Seminar 2018 at Parkview Hotel, Jerudong.

In his working paper titled ‘Industri Pelancongan Sebagai Wahana Pengantarabangsaan Bahasa Melayu’ (Tourism Industry as a Vehicle for the Internationalisation of the Malay Language), the minister noted that language is seen as the pillar of identity of a nation. “Malay Language is the heart of the Malay identity and it cannot be separated from the Malay race,” he added.

Touching on the internationalisation of Malay Language, he said that the member countries of MABBIM should not feel satisfied only by placing their hopes through scholarly programmes as there is another important element that can have a two-pronged impact on the progress of a nation – which is the element of creativity in the efforts to developing a country’s economy.

“This will then assist in the internationalisation of Malay Language and member countries need to target a variety of efforts and programmes that are innovative and creative as these types of programmes may be able to attract the attention of the communities abroad.”

Meanwhile, the minister also explained on the promotion of Malay Language through tourism in the context of Brunei Darussalam, noting that the country is seeing an increase in the number of tourists each year and this opportunity must be grabbed to promote and empower the dignity and internationalisation of Malay Language.

“Malay Language internationalisation profile of a country depends on and is closely related to the profile of tourism activities offered by it such as the business, socio-cultural and socio-economic activities of its communities.

“Observing, participating and playing a role in these activities are among the best steps to learn any language including Malay. This will help tourists to continuously remember the culture and language in a country,” said the minister.

“Focussing on tourist destinations as potential areas that offer cultural and artistic value will give an opportunity for the local communities to be equally responsible and committed in ensuring that the exploitation of tourism products is synergised in promoting Malay Language up to the international level. A strong set of minds should be planted in Malay Language speakers as it can influence a large number of speakers and empower their vocabulary in speaking the language in a bigger geographical area, thereby generating a strong tourism industry with the internationalisation of Malay,” the minister said.

The minister added that Brunei ensures that Malay Language is upheld and prioritised with the support of the country’s identity – the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB).

Other examples of internationalisation are the large-scale initiatives conducted by the Language and Literature Bureau of Brunei to install Malay signage at government buildings and business bodies.

“Although steps for promoting Malay Language are continuously being undertaken, we still need to look forward. Brunei will continuously examine, strengthen and improve the policies, legislation and programmes to empower Malay so that our native language will continue to be adopted and practised not only by Malays in the archipelago but also those abroad,” he added.

The minister also congratulated Malaysia for the establishment of the ‘Majlis Jawatankuasa Kabinet Kebangsaan Bahasa’.

The post ‘Internationalise Malay Language via tourism’ appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Wani Roslan     |

THE ‘Seminar on Understanding of Faith and Current Thinking 2018’ (SEKAPES 2018) was officially launched at the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) yesterday, in a ceremony officiated by the Minister of Religious Affairs. Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman.

In a speech delivered at the launching of the seminar, the minister said that the Ahli Sunnah Wal Jama’ah Centre of Research and Understanding at KUPU SB is qualified to conduct further research studies on Islam in Brunei.

“Any methodology used in research studies – whether descriptive, analytical or synthesised – should be consistent with the purpose of developing, empowering and maintaining the understanding and position of Islam based on Ahli Sunnah Wal Jama’ah, both in this country and in the Southeast Asian region,” he said.

The minister also suggested that the current scope of the Ahli Sunnah Wal Jama’ah Centre of Research and Understanding should be focussed on aspects of the Bruneian identity as adherents of Ahli Sunnah Wal Jama’ah, according to the Mazhab Shafi’e.

“The importance of expanding the scope of research is to see that Brunei remains a country steeped in Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) – an independent, sovereign and self-governing country, based on the Islamic teachings of Ahli Sunnah Wal Jama’ah,” he said.

Under the theme ‘The Creed of Ahli Sunnah Wal Jama’ah as a Basis for National Wellbeing’, the seminar aims to strengthen further understanding on Aqidah (faith) among Muslims; address current beliefs and perspectives that are opposed to the principles of Ahli Sunnah Wal Jama’ah; and identify issues and challenges in education, while promoting the learning of Aqidah through scientific work.

The two-day discussions opened with a presentation of the first main working paper on ‘The Archipelago’s Methodology Approach in Managing Liberalism and Religious Extremism within the Framework of Ahli Sunnah Wal Jama’ah,’ by Major (K) Associate Professor Dr Mohd Mizan bin Mohd Aslam, Rector of the Kolej Universiti Islam Perlis.

SEKAPES 2018 will also highlight main papers from selected scholars such as Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Japar bin Haji Mat Dain @ Maidin, Deputy State Mufti and Professor Emeritus Dato Dr Sayyed Muhammad Aqiel bin Ali Al-Mahdaly, the Academic Advisor at the Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA).

Also in attendance were Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Mohd Yusof, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA); Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, Rector of UNISSA; Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman, Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB); Dr Haji Adanan bin Haji Basar, Acting Ra’es of KUPU SB; Roslan bin Haji Taja’ah, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Administrative and Financial Affairs) at the MoRA; and Haji Mohd Serudin bin Haji Timbang, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy and Religious) at the MoRA.

The post Aqidah seminar opens at KUPU SB appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

IN BRUNEI Darussalam, women are seen as precious assets of the family institution who must be well-protected and catered for, said Pengiran Dr Norhazlin binti Pengiran Haji Muhammad, Director of the Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Centre for Islamic Studies (SOASCIS).

Highlighting the history of Brunei’s women in Islamic education during her opening remarks yesterday at the two-day international seminar titled ‘Socio-Educational Empowerment of Muslim Women in the New Century’, she said, “Before the arrival of the British in Brunei Darussalam, people used to practise a strict rule where women were not allowed to go out of their houses without being accompanied by family members.

“They were constrained in terms of receiving education which was conducted on a very limited basis in their own houses.

“Thankfully, changes to this trend have happened as can be seen in the present era where women have equal rights as men in receiving education at formal education institutions,” she said.

Themed ‘Towards Gender Equity through Islam’s Holistic Education’, the seminar is currently being held at the Senate Room of Universiti Brunei Darussalam’s (UBD) Chancellor Hall.

Organised by UBD through SOASCIS in collaboration with the Women Graduates Association of Brunei Darussalam, Universitas Islam Negeri Sunan Gunung Djati of Indonesia and Fatoni University of Thailand, the seminar seeks to address the various educational and gender equity issues faced by Muslim women from an Islamic perspective.

Officiating at the seminar as guest of honour was Legislative Council member YB Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman. Also in attendance were Acting Vice-Chancellor of UBD Associate Professor Dr Mohammad Ayub Sadiq @ Lin Naing, and officers and staff of the university.

According to Pengiran Dr Norhazlin, “Brunei established seven formal religious schools in 1956 and this resulted in parents becoming more confident and agreeable with sending their daughters to schools. In May 1970, 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 appointed an education commission to highlight to the community the importance of the development of education as a key indicator in assessing the socio-economic progress of the country.”

On this note, she said, “All Bruneian children should be given equal opportunity in education and a common national curriculum should be adopted by all schools in Brunei. This has resulted in an increase in the number of female students attending formal school with the intake rising from 335 in 1962 to 2,272 in 1970. This number nearly doubled in 1971 to 4,202.”

As a result, Pengiran Dr Norhazlin added, “Nowadays the percentage of women that are working and holding degree qualifications is increasing, but then they are facing challenges too. Muslim women, especially in the region, are deeply committed to the realisation of their goal of gender equity in all fields.”

Separately in her presentation in the afternoon session on ‘Milestones in Women’s Education in Brunei Darussalam: Prospects and Challenges’, she said, “A growing number of educated women are entering the workforce and there is also an increasing number of females in high ranking positions like Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Hayati binti Pehin Orang Kaya Shahbandar Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohd Salleh, the Attorney General; Datin Dayang Hajah Elinda binti Haji CA Mohamed, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Director of Anti-Corruption Bureau; and others.

In conclusion, she said gender equality in Islam needs to be ensured, upholding the importance of holistic education for all.

The afternoon seminar also saw presentations by Pengiran Hajah Zabaidah binti Pengiran Haji Kamaludin, President of the Women Graduates Association of Brunei Darussalam on ‘Formal and Informal Female Education in Brunei Darussalam: The Role of Women Graduates Association of Brunei Darussalam’ and Dr Hajah Hairuni binti Haji Mohamed Ali Maricar on ‘The Role of Women in National Development in Brunei Darussalam’.

The seminar hopes to study ways and means of how the socio-educational empowerment of Muslim women in this century can be further enhanced.

The seminar is one of the initiatives made to collect relevant data under the research project on ‘Socio-educational Empowerment of Muslim Women in Southeast Asia in the New Century’.

This year, the seminar features 14 speakers from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore, and is attended by around 200 participants.

The seminar additionally aims to provide input for policymakers and policy implementers in the areas of gender equity and holistic education to help them formulate more effective policies in the realisation of gender equity, particularly for women.

The post Women precious assets of family, must be protected appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Azlan Othman     |

HER Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam on Tuesday night graced the Berbedak ceremony for Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammed Saifullah, son of Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Setia Diraja Sahibul Karib Pengiran Anak Haji Idris bin Pengiran Maharaja Lela Pengiran Muda Abdul Kahar.

Also in attendance were Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador- at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Rakiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Nasibah and other members of the royal family.

Her Majesty began the ceremonial powdering ritual or ‘menculiki bedak’, on Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammed Saifullah to mark the start of the Berbedak ceremony, followed by other members of the royal family.

To bless the ceremony, a Doa Selamat was read by Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Salim bin Haji Besar, Chief Syar’ie Judge.

Her Majesty later received Junjung Ziarah from Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammed Saifullah. Also present were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran-Pengiran Cheteria, Cabinet Ministers, and other senior officers.

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