BRUNEI LNG Sdn Bhd yesterday donated six wheelchairs to the Suri Seri Begawan Hospital, Kuala Belait.
The donations were presented in a handing over ceremony at the hospital by Haji Mohd Husini bin Haji Bakar, Brunei LNG Legal Manager, to Haji Abdul Khalid As’ari bin Haji Azahari, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Suri Seri Begawan Hospital.
Also present were Dr Hajah Riamiza Natalie binti Haji Momin, Medical Superintendent of Suri Seri Begawan Hospital as well as senior officers and staff of the hospital.
Funds for the wheelchairs were raised by Brunei LNG employees though various fundraising activities and donations held during the World Health Day in April.
The donation represents Brunei LNG’s corporate social responsibility to give back to the community.
Haji Mohd Husini bin Haji Bakar, Brunei LNG Legal Manager; Haji Abdul Khalid As’ari bin Haji Azahari, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Suri Seri Begawan Hospital; and other officials in a group photo. – PHOTOS: DANIEL LIMHaji Abdul Khalid As’ari during his speech
“The wheelchairs will be distributed to patients who need them the most,” explained Haji Abdul Khalid As’ari.
He added that the hospital is grateful for the donations and that Brunei LNG will continue their commitment in providing and giving back to the community.
This sentiment was reflected by Haji Mohd Husini, who noted that the funds collected from various fundraisers and aid by Brunei LNG employees will help benefit the patients and their family members.
TASTE of Ausralia in Brunei back for a second time, hosted by the Australian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam in collaboration with the Australian Trade and Investment Commission will be held on May 13 from 11am to 3pm at the Radisson Hotel in Bandar Seri Begawan.
Explaining the details of the event were Australian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Nicola Rosenblum and Senior Business Development Manager of Brunei, and East-Malaysia, Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), Josie Abdullah during a press conference at the Australian High Commission Office in Bandar Seri Begawan.
Nicola Rosenblum said that the Taste of Australia in Brunei will be an opportunity for Bruneians to see what Australian products are available in the Sultanate, and to try some exciting new ones.
“From high-quality Australian Wagyu beef, to delicious Meredith Dairy Goats Cheese, and seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables, there is a great range of premium Australian products available here in Brunei,” the Australian High Commissioner added.
This year’s event will see renowned Australian chef Todd Moses showing off his culinary skills with a number of cooking demonstrations.
Australian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Nicola Rosenblum and Senior Business Development Manager of Brunei and East-Malaysia, Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), Josie Abdullah during the press conference. – IZAH AZAHARI
Chef Moses has cooked in some of Melbourne’s top kitchens, including Circa the Prince and Supernormal, he now produces some of Melbourne’s finest fare at the award-winning French Saloon, where he displays his relaxed yet confident approach, with an emphasis on the best products available.
Chef Moses will be joined by local chef and cookbook author, Siti Kaprawi, to judge the Taste of Australia in Brunei’s Culinary Challenge.
The public can participate by bringing along a dish that uses at least one Australian and one Bruneian ingredient.
Winner of the grand prize will receive a return economy class ticket to Melbourne sponsored by Royal Brunei Airlines, as well as a voucher for French Saloon – Chef Moses’ restaurant.
The public will be able to vote for the ‘People’s Choice’ award, and the competition categories include ‘Savoury and Sweet over 15 years’ and ‘Savoury and Sweet under 15 years’, where participants can enter one dish in the sweet category, and one dish in the savoury category.
According to Joise, local importers will also display some products that they have already brought into Brunei like pasta, grilled beef and much more during the showcase for the public to taste.
A total of 40 participants joined the first Taste of Australia in Brunei and the Australian High Commissioner looks forward to more entries this year.
THE Royal Customs and Excise Department held a briefing session at the Brunei-Muara District Office yesterday on the implementation of the Vehicle Exit/Entry System (VES), to reduce traffic congestion at border control posts.
The briefing was conducted by Pengiran Haji Mohd Hasnan bin Pengiran Haji Ali Hassan, an acting officer at the Royal Customs and Excise Department.
Among the attendees were Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim, the Brunei-Muara District Officer, together with Legislative Council members YB Pengiran Haji Ali bin Pengiran Maon, the Penghulu of Mukim Berakas ‘B’; and YB Haji Tahamit bin Haji Nudin, the Penghulu of Mukim Gadong ‘A’.
With the introduction of a QR code system to scan VES passes, members of the public are urged to register their vehicles online at www.bdnsw.gov.bn, before going on any cross-border journeys. The vehicle passes can be printed, stored in digital format, and even uploaded to mobile phones and tablets.
Pengiran Haji Mohd Hasnan bin Pengiran Haji Ali Hassan, an acting officer at the Royal Customs and Excise Department speaks at the eventAttendees at the briefing. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR
The validity period of the VES pass is three months from the original date of registration.
The briefing continues today from 9am to 3pm at the Bumiputera Main Complex in Temburong District. Those attending the session are advised to bring along their vehicle blue cards for registration.
The VES implementation is currently in a pilot phase, with a transitional period of up to six months, during which manual lanes will be provided to allow the public to adapt to the new system.
For more information on the VES, visit the Royal Customs and Excise Department website at www.tradingacrossborders.gov.bn, or contact the Customer Service Counter at 2382361, or email info@customs.gov.bn.
A LICENSING agreement for an ‘Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Fungal Photocatalytic Smart Coating’ technology was signed between Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and Smart Coating Technologies (B) Sdn Bhd yesterday.
The licence signing is the first such agreement for one of UBD’s patented technologies.
Among the applications of the technology include usage in specialised coatings to protect building surfaces from bacteria and mold – a common problem in Brunei Darussalam.
The signing took place at the Integrated Sciences Building of UBD, and was attended by guest of honour Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina binti Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Aziz, the Vice-Chancellor of UBD; Professor Dr David Koh Soo Quee, Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Innovation and Enterprise) of UBD; Okochi Hiroshi, Managing Director of Smart Coating Technologies (B) Sdn Bhd; and senior officers from related industries.
The product is envisioned to be able to significantly reduce the annual maintenance costs of buildings, and has the potential to be exported to other locations with a similar climate to Brunei.
The signing ceremony between Universiti Brunei Darussalam and Smart Coating Technologies (B) Sdn Bhd. – ISHAN IBRAHIM
Signing the agreement at the event were Professor Dr David Koh; Okochi Hiroshi; Nur Fazrini binti Matjalina, Director of Smart Coating Technologies (B) Sdn Bhd; and Dayangku Dr Nurolaini binti Pengiran Haji Muhd Kifli, Deputy Director of Innovation and Enterprise at UBD.
Witnessing the signing was the Vice-Chancellor of UBD.
Professor Dr David Koh said in his opening speech that the signing marked an important milestone for UBD, and is the result of a university-industry collaboration between UBD and Pixela of Japan.
He added that the collaboration was made possible under the Brunei Research Incentive Scheme (BRISc), which started back in 2014.
Professor Dr David Koh explained that the project involved at least five researchers from UBD and six postgraduate students under their supervision. Their work led to the development of three patents, with yesterday’s signing involving one of the three patented technologies.
Okochi Hiroshi, in his address, said the firm was established in 2015 as a homegrown spin-off of a research and development (R&D) project from 2014 to 2016 carried out by UBD together with Pixela Corporation from Japan and the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB), under funding from the BRISc.
Smart Coating Technologies has featured one of its revolutionary products in the Made-in-Brunei Market Fair and the China-ASEAN Expo, drawing considerable interest from both government and private companies. The company has international sales agents based in Japan and Thailand.
Its founders and directors include Nur Fazrini, Okochi Hiroshi, Toru Kitamura, Haji Mohammad Redza bin Haji Hussin, Nursyahidah Husna binti Haji Tarip and Kaori Mitchley.
“Our company aims to provide protective coating technologies for building infrastructures to prolong their lifespans and to ensure the sustainability of building materials to reduce maintenance costs,” Hiroshi said.
“Since 2015, Smart Coating Technologies (B) Sdn Bhd has built international relationships and collaborations with companies from Japan, Thailand and Myanmar, and we are soon planning to venture into Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and other ASEAN member countries.”
He added that the licensing agreement will allow Smart Coating Technologies to manufacture, market and export high-quality, made-in-Brunei protective coating products such as the ‘Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Fungal Photocatalytic Coating’ product involved in the signing.
Speaking on the agreement with Smart Coating Technologies, UBD Vice-Chancellor said, “Today’s signing marks an important milestone for UBD as this is the first successful technology transfer from UBD’s research work into commercialisation. We are proud to license it to a UBD spin-off company, whose directors include two of our own students.”
HEALTH authorities warned of fresh bouts of dengue fever outbreaks in Kampong Ayer. The number of cases is likely to go up this year compared to previous years, they said, basing their projection on the alarming rise in dengue cases from January to April this year.
According to the Public Health Services, the first four months of 2018 saw 19 cases in Kampong Ayer compared to eight cases in the same period last year and six cases in 2016.
The worrying trend of rising dengue fever cases was highlighted by Director of Environmental Health Dr Hajah Anie Haryani binti Haji Abdul Rahman, in her opening remarks at a dialogue session with the penghulus and village heads of Kampong Ayer on ‘Vector-Borne Diseases and Control’, at the Al-’Afiah Hall, Ministry of Health (MoH) yesterday.
“We already experienced the burden of vector-borne diseases like dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, chikungunya and others. Before 2002, no dengue fever cases were detected and reported in Brunei Darussalam. Dengue fever started to rise in 2003 and most of the cases were reported from Kampong Ayer. The situation came under control soon and the following years saw only a small number of cases. In 2012, dengue cases began to increase in numbers again and this time the majority of the cases were from Kampong Ayer too,” she said.
“Looking at the pattern of dengue outbreaks in Brunei Darussalam, it is found that the increase in cases happens every three to four years,” she added.
The dialogue session, she said, aimed to provide an explanation on dengue fever and discuss ways to prevent and control it by ensuring clean surroundings.
“The MoH cannot prevent and control the dengue fever in Kampong Ayer without the full support and cooperation from all the villagers,” she added.
Director of Environmental Health Dr Hajah Anie Haryani binti Haji Abdul Rahman delivering her opening remarksParticipants during the dialogue. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON
Dr Hajah Martina Melati binti Dato Seri Paduka Haji Kifrawi also delivered a presentation on vector-borne diseases.
She highlighted that “from January to May 1 this year, 37 dengue fever cases were reported across the country. Thirty-one cases came from the Brunei-Muara District alone, of which 19 were from Kampong Ayer”.
Detailing the incidence of dengue cases in Kampong Ayer from October 2017 to April 2018, she revealed that Mukim Sungai Kebun recorded 16 cases, Mukim Burong Pinggai Ayer 14 cases, Mukim Peramu five cases, Mukim Saba three cases and Mukim Tamoi two cases.
Explaining the vector-borne diseases, she said a vector is any insect including mosquitoes that can bring or cause diseases to humans and animals. “Mosquitoes are one of the vectors that cause diseases like dengue fever, malaria, Japanese encephalitis, yellow fever, chikungunya and zika.”
Touching on the symptoms of dengue fever, she said, “They will show up from three to 14 days after mosquito bite and may last for two to seven days. The common symptoms are continuous fever; pain in the joints, bones, eyes and head; loss of appetite; vomiting; stomachache; skin rashes and bleeding,” she said.
Senior Health Officer of Environmental Health Haji Jaafar bin Haji Jais, in his presentation touched on preventive measures and control of vector disease carriers.
He urged the public to destroy breeding grounds of mosquitoes by throwing stagnant water from vases at least once a week and cleaning it to make sure that mosquito eggs are destroyed, cleaning the drainage to ensure that there is no stagnant water; making sure items like tins, bottles and plastic containers are thrown properly into the rubbish bins; covering up water storage facilities like drums, and buckets; and making sure used tyres are not exposed to rain and collect water.
The official also reminded the public to maintain cleanliness of their homes, village schools as well as workplaces and public areas.
GRAND Imam of Al-Azhar, Professor Dr Ahmed Mohammad Ahmed El-Tayeb visited Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Girls Arabic Religious Secondary School (SUAMPRIPAHS) in Kampong Katok yesterday.
Upon arrival, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar was welcomed by Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs.
Also in attendance were Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA), Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Mohd Yusof; Deputy Permanent secretary (Administrative and Financial Affairs) at the MoRA, Roslan bin Haji Taja’ah; Deputy Permanent Secretary of MoRA (Policy and Religious) Haji Mohd Serudin bin Haji Timbang; Rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal; Acting Ra’es of Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB), Dr Haji Adanan bin Haji Basar; directors and division heads at the MoRA.
The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar addressed the school’s teachers and students. He also visited the classrooms.
Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Professor Dr Ahmed Mohammad Ahmed El-Tayeb with the Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang OthmanThe students during the visit. – PHOTOS: RAHWANI ZAHARI
The visit was aimed to further strengthen the relationship between the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the University of Al-Azhar, especially in the areas of Islamic education and recognising the similarity of Islamic religious practices that are robust and moderate.
Meanwhile, after the four-day visit to Brunei Darussalam, the Grand Imam and his entourage were sent off by the Minister of Religious Affairs at the Brunei International Airport yesterday.
Also present to bid them farewell were Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar; permanent secretary and deputy permanent secretaries at the MoRA; and the Rector of UNISSA.
THE Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE), Prime Minister’s Office, with the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, set the maximum prices (ceiling prices) for several selected food items during the festive season year of 1439 Hijrah/2018.
The maximum prices of these selected food items will come into effect from 1st of Ramadhan, 1439 Hijrah until 7th of Syawal, 1439 Hijrah.
The objective of setting the price ceiling is to control the prices of food items, especially those used as the main ingredients of food prepared during the festive season.
The initiative is also hoped to assist the public in their preparation for the coming festive season.
The selected food items are: whole chicken; eggs; butter; margarine; ghee; condensed, evaporated and cream milk; flour; chocolate hazelnut spread; condensed, cream and santan powder; chilli shrimp floss and popia skin. (Right: Some of the food items)
In a statement, JPKE advised the public to practise the concept of ‘Smart Consumer’ by comparing prices before making any purchase to get the best price.
Members of the public who have any queries can contact JPKE directly via mobile application ‘SmartConsumer’ or via telephone 2230223 (office hours); or through e-mail to consumercomplaint@jpke.gov.bn; or on Facebook www.facebook.com/AduanPenggunaJPKE; or directly at the Department of Competition and Consumer Affairs, Room 3.06, Level 3, West Wing, Department of Economic Planning and Development, Block 2A, Jalan Ong Sum Ping, BA1131, Negara Brunei Darussalam.
A 42-YEAR-OLD local man was recently detained by the Internal Security Department (ISD) for his involvement in extremism and terrorism related activities, including self-radicalisation through the Internet and making financial contributions to a terror group.
The ISD in a press statement said its investigation on the man, who was issued with a Detention Order under Section 3(1)(a) of the Internal Security Act Chapter 133, has revealed that he has undergone self-radicalisation since 2014 after learning of the Syrian conflict including the existence of the Daesh terror group that is commonly known as Islamic State (IS), while searching the Internet for more information on the conflict.
He was found to have acquired a lot of information through the IS’ propaganda materials which among others contained deliberately misinterpreted Islamic teachings and Hadiths.
Among the materials was a Hadith on ‘The Great Battle’, or known in its Arabic term as ‘al-Mahama al-Kubra’ which made him believe that the existence of Daesh is part of a fulfilment to that Hadith.
He was found to be highly obsessed with the ideology of Daesh and considered himself to have pledged allegiance to its leader and was also found to have been deceived by the concept of extremism and martyrdom disseminated by Daesh which made him harbour intentions to migrate with his family to Syria to live under the so-called ‘Islamic Caliphate’, the press statement said.
ISD’s investigation also found that he had tried to change the public’s negative perception of Daesh by sharing propaganda materials with people around him, in hopes to make them tolerant to the group’s ideology.
He was also found to have jeopardised the country’s security by uploading information about Brunei through several social media platforms that the ISD said was intended to attract militants and supporters of Daesh outside the country.
He also made a financial contribution to a Daesh-affiliated individual based in a foreign country.
ISD said the action taken against the individual is a measure to prevent him from further putting the country’s security at risk. It also indicates 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’s tough stance against any elements associated with extremism and terrorism.
“At the same time, it is also testament to the high-level of commitment and cooperation between local and foreign security services in combating any activity that could affect public order and national security,” the statement added, while reiterating its commitment in ensuring Brunei is free from any threat against the peace, harmony and security of the nation.
ISD further reminded the public to exercise caution while using the Internet and social media and be aware of contents that are extreme and radical in nature.
The public is also reminded to be cautious in offering donations and assistance to individuals or organisations not authorised by the authorities.
The public may report any suspicious activity related to extremism or terrorism and any information involving national security by contacting ISD via its hotline 133 or e-mail at isd133@kdn.gov.bn.
HAJI Ahmad Nizam bin PD Haji Abd Wahab, Principal Architect at OWMP International Architects and Planners at a press conference recently announced their collaboration with Singapore-based lighting design firm, Socialight Creative Lighting Studio.
Also present at the event was Socialight regional manager Clarence Lim.
Following four months of discussions, OWMP and Socialight agreed to go into a collaboration to coincide with and commemorate OWMP International’s 10th anniversary, further embedding its drive to branch out in providing the best services to its clients, by associating itself with other highly-qualified consultants through joint ventures.
Socialight Director Rohan Abdullah noted that Brunei is home to a number of beautiful buildings and parks, but amenities can be made more aesthetically enticing at night to draw more people out from their homes and spend time in public during the evenings.
“This is partly down to lighting, for example the Eco Corridor Park has this most beautiful ambience, but unfortunately people are not frequenting it too much at night due to the lighting,” he said.
During the press conference. – BAHYIAH BAKIR
He added that based on the company’s observations, Brunei Darussalam can be considered to be one of the more affluent countries in Southeast Asia, however good lighting design and practices in architecture have not really gained traction here.
Socialight’s methods and ideologies centre on design lighting which evokes human emotions and supports the human visual needs.
The firm has extensive experience in designing lighting for projects of various types and scale within Asia, and also has a diverse client profile.
“Most of the lighting works in Brunei at this point seems to be based on three or four high-powered lights shining on a particular building, to show that there is a building there,” said Rohan.
“Lighting is also an important communication tool which can communicate with the inhabitants of the cities,” OWMP International principal architect Haji Ahmad Nizam added.
“This is why we have gone into this collaboration with Socialight.
“We have a lot of landmark buildings such as the PMO office, and we welcome their expertise in bringing out the beauty of such buildings. During the day the architecture looks good, but from the lighting aspect, if it was equipped with sophisticated lighting and design, the building will draw so much more attention,” Haji Ahmad Nizam said.
“We are embarking on this new journey and we would like to implement this in all our projects, to educate and make people understand about good lighting and how it can benefit the country, end users and owners of buildings, among others.”
He added that one of the first projects which Socialight will be working on Brunei is the AMBD project, a landmark collaboration paving the way for more of the company’s involvement in future developments.
AN APPRECIATIVE crowd at the Brunei International Airport welcomed the three female youths who represented Brunei at the Puteri Muslimah Asia 2018 held in Jakarta on their return to the Sultanate on Tuesday night.
Family members, friends and fans thronged the arrival hall offering bouquets and holding up banners to welcome firstly Nur Sakinah binti Md Zainul Amir, popularly known as Inah, 17, who upheld Brunei’s name in the beauty pageant after being voted among the Top 5 contestants of Puteri Muslimah 2018 broadcast live on Indosiar TV station on May 7.
Currently a student, Inah told the Bulletin she was ecstatic when her name was announced as the fourth winner for the first Puteri Muslimah Asia 2018, besting other contestants.
She said it was her first ever big competition and being picked for the final five is already a great accomplishment not only for her but also all Muslimah from Brunei. She described her success as “so sweet and meaningful in my life”.
Asked what is next for the 17-year-old, Inah replied, “I will still focus on my studies (especially exams) and I hope my achievement can help raise the dignity of local Muslimah.”
Through questioning sessions, one by one the participants were eliminated from the total 18, leaving only the best 10. Juries from six representative countries then chose the final five participants based on criteria such as faith, talent, beauty and ability to think globally.
The three contestants in a group photo with family members, friends and fans at the Brunei International Airport. – OCTOVE COMPANY BRUNEI
Another contestant, Amal Azimatul Filzah binti Haji Mohammad Daud, known as Mals Daud, 19, was one of the Top 10 finalists. She won the judges’ hearts and thousand more of her followers on social media to earn herself the title of ‘Puteri Muslimah Friendship Asia 2018’.
She was joined by two other title winners, the Puteri Muslimah Favourite Asia 2018 won by Turkey’s Avida Lale and Asian Talent-Based Muslim Women 2018 won by Turkey’s Beyza Demir.
Mals told the Bulletin that her title win came as a surprise as she considered other contestants to be equally good and talented. The title win was based on nomination from her chaperons and judges as well as online votes by her fans evaluated during the week-stay in Jakarta, Indonesia based on her friendliness, respect, taking orders, approachibility and uniting all contestants from different countries into a ‘single unit’.
Now with close to 16,000 followers on her Instagram account, Mals Daud thanked her family and fans as well as coordinators from Brunei and Indonesia for their guidance and support throughout the competition.
Norhirzia binti A Daud or Ziaa Ady, the eldest Brunei contestant at 25, did not manage to get through the primary rounds, but she gained exposure and confidence while at the same time promoted Brunei’s talents to the Muslim world.
Puteri Muslimah Asia 2018 saw Malaysian TV presenter Naseha Uyaina Arshad crowned Champion which was broadcast live at the Indosiar TV station in Jakarta, Indonesia on May 7. Uyaina, 27, beat 17 other participants to bring home a cash prize of RM30,000, plus a tiara and a trophy.
Indonesia’s Hanifah Razan finished second, while Turkey’s Avida Lale came third.
Puteri Muslimah Asia 2018 saw 18 female youths representing six countries in Asia – Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, Singapore, Timor Leste, Turkey and Indonesia. Each country sent its three best Muslimah selected on four criteria, namely faith, talent, beauty, and ability to think globally.
Yenny Wahid (Indonesia), Erra Fazira (Malaysia), Marina Yussof (Singapore), Siti Rahmawati (Turkey), DJ Daffy (Brunei Darussalam), and Shechah Salem Sagran (Timor Leste) were the judges.
OUTGOING Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM) President Datin Paduka Hajah Intan binti Haji Mohd Kassim in her report highlighted the impressive work record of MKM dating to 2012 when she first took over the leadership, where many activities and programmes have been held which benefitted the community in Brunei as well as those overseas.
Among these activities are providing breakfast to needy schoolchildren through its Fidyah and charity programme for 13 schools, seven in the Brunei-Muara District and six in the Temburong District on a daily basis, as well as delivering basic necessities to over a dozen families monthly.
MKM also has continuously conducted a weekly Legal and Advisory Clinic with the collaboration of three law firms – Yusof Halim and Partners, Ibrahim Al Haj and Al Wadi – for over six years, whereby the organisation offered advice and assisted in 256 welfare matters, given legal advice in 99 matters and taken 36 cases to court.
All the advice and cases brought to court are done on a ‘pro-bono’ or free basis. MKM also runs a free monthly law lecture series called ‘Conversations About Law’ to help create and disseminate knowledge of laws.
She made these comments at MKM’s Annual General Meeting recently which saw the new president and office-bearers being elected.
The Ramadhan month has been a beehive of activities for MKM. Over the years, it has provided food to break fast to more than 400 needy clients for 10 days every Ramadhan and will also have breaking of fast with around 200 other needy clients in a restaurant. During the month, MKM holds a ‘Used Clothing Drive’ where clothing is distributed to the needy. In the last week of Syawal, MKM distributes ‘Hari Raya’ goodies to another batch of needy recipients under the ‘Sejambak Kasih’ programme.
Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM) President Mohd Yusof Halim (centre) with the newly-elected office-bearers. – HAKIM HAYAT
At the end of every year, MKM is busy with a ‘Back to School’ programme by getting school uniforms, accessories and stationeries delivered to needy schoolchildren.
MKM also holds weekly Al-Quran recitation courses for needy children and conducts Khatam Al-Quran every Ramadhan. In addition, it also gets involved in ‘emergency’ situations where families suddenly find themselves homeless or in dire need of assistance for food. Empowerment courses are also conducted on a regular basis to teach the needy to be self-sufficient and upgrade their skills.
MKM members also attend various conferences and meetings locally, regionally and internationally. They attend them only if funded or meeting the expenses themselves as MKM does not dip into the donations for administrative expenses. MKM does not receive financial assistance to run their charity programme.
Datin Paduka Hajah Intan said, “We are wholly dependent on donations. We are proud to have gained much trust from the work we have undertaken over many years. The fact that we have continuously done this for so many years has instilled much confidence in our organisation. It is because of this trust that we are able to continuously do what we have done.”
Aside from charitable programmes, MKM also has conducted events to raise funds, such as selling the ‘Rasa and Warna, Brunei Darussalam’ cookbook which showcases the many food of Brunei presented by MKM members, members of the public as well as members of the foreign diplomatic missions in Brunei. The cookbook won the ‘Gourmand World Cookbook Awards 2012’ for being the best fund-raising book in Asia.
Some MKM members and generous members of the public have volunteered to meet its monthly operating expenses.
MKM has also expanded its charity work overseas, such as being the first organisation to respond and assist fire accident victims in Limbang and assisting orphanages in Miri and Surabaya. Over the last three years, MKM has run a Waqaf programme for local residents in building tubewells for the poor in Bangladesh, where each tubewell provides water to over 100 needy people there. MKM has built more than 400 tubewells for the Bangladeshis.
When the Rohingya refugee crisis started around last August, MKM diverted its tubewell building programme to the refugee camps in Bangladesh. To date, the organisation has built more than 450 tubewells for the refugees, including one solar-powered deep tubewell with submerged pump which provides water to between 3,000 and 4,000 refugees.
MKM also sent two humanitarian missions to the Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh last November and again in March this year, where they distributed more than 13,500 foodpacks to the refugees. Each foodpack was able to feed a family of four for one week. They also cooked and distributed 12,000 lunches for refugee children there.
One of MKM’s crowning achievements is the setting up of a school in the refugee camp, the ‘MKM-Gifting Humanity School and Orphanage’, done in collaboration with an international charity. The school currently has around 590 students, with 120 of them being orphans. Eighty-three of the students are in the Tahfiz programme. The male Tahfiz students and the male orphans are housed in the school.
Datin Paduka Hajah Intan, who did not seek re-election, was replaced by Mohd Yusof Halim but will continue being in the new executive committee in an ‘ex-officio’ capacity.
New MKM President Mohd Yusof Halim in his inaugural speech said, “This new committee has big shoes to fill. We will do our best to continue and expand the good work done by the previous executive committee.
“Being in MKM Executive Committee means that you will spend your time and money in a cause that you believe in. The reward that we seek is in the hereafter.”
Hajah Johana binti Haji Mohd Jaya was elected Deputy President 1, Haji Hasbollah Deputy President 2 and Nur Judy binti Abdullah Deputy President 3.
Pengiran Kamal Ghadafi is the Honorary Secretary and he will be assisted by Siti Mariana binti Haji Makhbar, Hajah Khadijah binti Haji Kassim and Muhammad Khairul Anwar bin Haji Abdul Gafor.
Dr Hajah Kamariah binti Haji Abu Salim is the new MKM Treasurer and she will be assisted by Ivy Lim and Haji Mohd Azri bin Pengarah Haji Brahim.
Fifteen ordinary members of the MKM Executive Committee were also elected.
RENOWNED Bruneian international barrister and arbitrator, Professor Dr Colin Ong gave a high profile talk in Hong Kong recently, discussing how legal instruments can help accelerate existing trade mechanisms in the region.
Dr Ong gave an overview of the ASEAN Economic Community and its legal instruments including the 2010 Protocol to the ASEAN Charter on Dispute Settlement Mechanism; the Framework Agreement on Comprehensive Economic Cooperation (RCEP) between ASEAN and the People’s Republic of China; The ASEAN-China Investment Agreement 2009; and the Agreement on Dispute Settlement Mechanism of the Framework Agreement signed between the ASEAN and China in 2004.
He also discussed proposals on how to advance the dispute settlement mechanisms to improve business to business dealings between China and ASEAN and also to accelerate the advancement of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (FTA) as part of China’s One Belt, One Road Initiative in an effective fair and neutral manner.
Dr Ong touched upon the Framework Agreement on Deepening Guangdong-HK-Macao Cooperative Region in the Development of Hong Kong’s Bay Area as well as important cultural differences that exist in international arbitration between parties from different legal traditions.
He emphasised the importance of a neutral venue with appropriate rules of arbitration that could attract more foreign direct investment (FDI) and build more commerce within the region.
Vice President of the Arbitration Association Brunei Darussalam (AABD), Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Negara Pengiran Anak Haji Puteh ibni Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, in a group photo with international barrister and arbitrator Professor Dr Colin Ong; Hong Kong’s Minister of Justice, Teresa Cheng; and Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Edward Yau. – AABD
At the conclusion of Dr Ong’s talk, there was a 25-minute panel discussion from the leaders of arbitration centres of ASEAN member countries with Dr Ong and interactive discussions with the attendees.
The Vice President of the Arbitration Association Brunei Darussalam (AABD), Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Negara Pengiran Anak Haji Puteh ibni Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, also joined the panel session together with the other heads of ASEAN arbitration bodies.
The talk, held at the Justice Place Conference Hall in Hong Kong, was organised by the Government of Hong Kong’s Department of Justice. Dr Ong, who is also the President of the AABD was introduced by Hong Kong’s Secretary for Justice, Teresa Cheng.
Dr Ong’s talk was attended by senior Hong Kong Government officials including Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Edward Yau; consul-generals of the ASEAN member countries, consul general from other countries, heads of arbitration bodies, arbitrators, academics; lawyers from ASEAN member countries, and lawyers from the Hong Kong Bar and the Law Society of Hong Kong.
Dr Ong is a member of the Brunei Darussalam, England and Singapore Bars and last year became the first lawyer from an ASEAN member country to have been elevated to the title of Queen’s Counsel (QC) of England and Wales.
THE Information Department yesterday organised a visit to the Department of Fisheries in Serasa under its ‘Informed Society’ programme, an initiative of the department to foster a better informed society and to ensure that the community understands the polices and efforts of the government in developing the country.
Yesterday’s visit was held for the Kampong Penanjong Village Consultative Council.
Head of Information Department Tutong District Branch and Chairman of the initiative Hasanul Hidayat bin Haji Abu Bakar said the programme is a platform to deliver information on government policies to communities through briefings, dialogues and field trips.
He said the agenda and places of visits of the programme are based on choices made by the village councils, adding that the Information Department has chosen a number of village councils in the Tutong District.
At the Department of Fisheries in Serasa, the visiting village council team was briefed by Fisheries Officer at the Department of Fisheries Noor Dafinah binti Haji Jelani, on matters related to the fisheries industry which was followed by a dialogue session.
Kampong Penanjong Village Consultative Council in a group photo with senior officials from the Department of Fisheries and Information Department. – PHOTOS: AZARAIMY HHPrawn farm at Helif Aquaculture Sdn BhdHarvested Rostris prawn
The programme also included a visit to Helif Aquaculture Sdn Bhd at the Prawn Breeding Area in Mentiri Zone II where the visitors had a closer look at production of high quality Rostris blue shrimp.
Praising the initiative, Kam-pong Penanjong Village Head Haji Jumat bin Haji Kadir said the ‘Informed Society’ programme, in particular the visit yesterday, provided the participants with valuable insight into the nation’s effort in developing its fishing industry as well as fishing operations, in particular prawn farming.
“As we understood, prawn farming is not a small scale business operation. In fact, it needs large capital outlay and land area,” he said.
“After listening to the briefing and closely watching the prawn farming operation, I realised that there is a massive opportunity for prawn farming in the country, with a big potential for exports and creation of employment. I believe Kampong Penanjong holds potential to be developed as a prawn farming area.
“In the past, Kampong Penanjong had made an effort to develop prawn farming through forign direct investment. There is an area in Penanjong that had been studied and found suitable. The area spanning around 150 hectares was initially earmarked for paddy cultivation but later found to be unsuitable for the purpose. One foreign company found that the area was suitable for prawn farming but the project did not go through,” he said.
“The village consultative council hopes the idea of building an aquaculture farm in the village can be a reality one day.
A CULTURE of competition is more valued over collaboration at Kolej International Graduate Studies (KIGS), said CEO of KIGS Dr Haji Azahairani bin Haji Mohd Jamil.
He made this statement at the soft launching of the KIGS Bulletin at the college’s atrium yesterday.
“Competition is favoured because knowledge is perceived as power that leads to promotions, recognitions, higher achievements, and a better chance of contract renewal,” said Dr Haji Azahairani.
He said the impact of high turnover rate of staff at institutions like KIGS is the lack of ‘Institutional Knowledge’ which pertains to mastery possessed by individuals in an institution which is essential for an institution to function. He added that institutions suffer from a high turnover rate due to teachers leaving and joining at an increased rate.
“It seems the institution is regarded as a place of transition while waiting for ‘real jobs’ offering better security and pay. The sense of belonging seems to be a problem facing our institution,” he said.
“Individuals who leave bring the acquired skills with them resulting to ineffective ‘Knowledge Management’,” he added. “It pertains to knowledge creation, retention, sharing and utilisation and there are reasons why it cannot be managed effectively.”
The CEO said that it must be addressed in the future to ensure Knowledge Management is conducted effectively. He said the culture is also prevalent as staff at the college regard colleagues as competitors rather than collaborators.
YB Iswandy officiating the ceremony. – PHOTOS: LYNA MOHAMADDr Haji Azahairani addressing the eventLegislative Council member YB Iswandy bin Ahmad and Kolej International Graduate Studies (KIGS) CEO Dr Haji Azahairani bin Haji Mohd Jamil in a group photo
“If we share knowledge with others we feel they become stronger in turn we become replaceable. We also feel that we shouldn’t share knowledge or teaching notes with other teachers because we work hard to prepare while others just use them without doing anything,” he said. “Individual Knowledge is valued more over than Institutional Knowledge.
“This is a very traditional way of thinking and it will not bring improve organisational performance. We should think positively and that sharing knowledge with others will make teachers more flexible,” he said. “The college introduced a ‘buddy system’ which allows the sharing of knowledge resulting to both the institution and individual becoming more flexible in educating students.
“Unwillingness to experiment and lack of management support in facilitating knowledge sharing activities are other reasons for ineffective Knowledge Management,” he added. “Many prefer to follow regular procedures to get a job well done which is more likely to be appreciated than making mistakes in the process of experimenting to encourage innovations. They tend to adopt the existing methods or systems developed by others that have been proven successful as they do not want to risk failing in their experiment.
“It’s common to find that they do not have specific formal regulations and policies to promote a knowledge sharing culture and that Knowledge Management is not seen as a critical indicator in teachers’ performance evaluation. There is a necessity for top management support to encourage more to share knowledge particularly if such behaviour is considered improving their reputation,” said the CEO. “What we have done so far at the college level in terms of knowledge sharing is the publication of the KIGS Bulletin. It is a small step in the systematic approach to the implementation of Knowledge Management.
“We still have a long way to go and we feel that publications like the KIGS Bulletin might enhance our visibility and foster a sense of belonging among KIGS teachers and students,” said the CEO.
Guest of honour Legislative Council member YB Iswandy bin Ahmad officiated the soft launching of the KIGS Bulletin.
The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa read by MIB Lecturer, Haji Nasrul Fakhri bin Haji Yahya.
The guest of honour toured the KIGS gallery, radio studio and broadcasting production.
KIGS Bulletin is an integral part of the KIGS Knowledge Management initiative where knowledge contributed by the students and lecturers is intended to be shared to an audience through institutional publication.
ENVIRONMENT officials from Brunei Darussalam and the Republic of Singapore met yesterday to discuss the progress in areas of cooperation in solid waste management, air quality management, water resources management, and environmental youth exchange since the 12th Meeting of the Brunei-Singapore Joint Committee on the Environment (BSJCE) at The Rizqun International Hotel.
The meeting was co-chaired by Dr Nor Imtihan binti Haji Abdul Razak, Acting Permanent Secretary (Administration and Finance) at the Ministry of Development (MoD), and Albert Chua, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Republic of Singapore.
Recounting the work done during the meeting, Dr Nor Imtihan said, “The 12th Meeting of the Brunei-Singapore Working Group (BSWG) held at the Badi’ah Hotel on April 24, 2018 produced a fruitful discussion and witnessed substantial progress in the activities and programmes carried out under the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Bilateral Partnership in Environmental Affairs between Brunei and Singapore, through continuous exchanges on environmental programmes ranging from waste management, air quality, water resources management and environmental education.”
She congratulated the working group for their efforts and progress made on the agenda items to be considered at the 12th BSJCE, and highlighted that Brunei Darussalam and Singapore will remain steadfast and committed in working together to address environmental issues and challenges faced by both countries.
The permanent secretary at the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Republic of Singapore said, “After arriving in Brunei, I saw the flags of Singapore and Brunei Darussalam lining the roads in preparation of the state visit by Singapore’s President on Friday. Looking at the two flags flying high in the sky, I felt the warm friendship that we have.
Officials from Brunei Darussalam and the Republic of Singapore in a group photo. – MINISTRY OF DEVELOPMENT
“This is also the symbol of the core relationship between both countries. We are longstanding friends and good partners because of the leadership from both countries… we have always been very close with each other.”
Besides discussions on work carried out since the 12th BSWG, new areas of collaboration meeting were also deliberated during yesterday’s meeting. This report was presented by BSWG Brunei Darussalam Co-Chair, Martinah binti Haji Tamit, who is also the Acting Director of the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation.
Other items discussed included the Draft Joint Press Statement for the 12th Brunei-Singapore Annual Exchange of Visits.
The report on the 12th BSJCE will be presented during the 12th Brunei-Singapore Annual Exchange of Visits (12th BSAEV) today.
The MoD and the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources of Singapore on behalf of the Government of Singapore, signed their first MoU on environmental cooperation on August 27, 2005.
To deepen cooperation and foster continuous progress in the already strong relationship between Brunei and Singapore in the environment and water arena, the ministers of both countries renewed the MoU on Bilateral Partnership in Environmental Affairs.
Also in attendance at the meeting were Permanent Secretary (Technical and Professional) at the MoD, Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin; Director General of the Public Works Department, Haji Amer Hishamuddin bin Pehin Orang Kaya Amar Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Zakaria; and other senior environment and public works officials.
STATE Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned received a goodwill visit from Singapore’s Minister in-charge of Islamic Affairs Masagos Zulkifli bin Masagos Mohamad, who is also Minister for the Environment and Water Resources of Singapore, yesterday.
The visit took place at the Darulifta, State Mufti’s Office in Bandar Seri Begawan.
Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Singapore’s State Department Albert Chua; Singapore High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Lim Hong Huai; Director of International Policy, Ministry of Environment and Water Resources Hazri Hassan; and Senior Assistant Director (Energy and Climate Policy Division), Ministry of Environment and Water Resources Angeline Chui, were also present.
State Mufti presents a token of appreciation to Masagos ZulkifliState Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned and Singapore’s Minister in-charge of Islamic Affairs Masagos Zulkifli bin Masagos Mohamad, who is also Minister for the Environment and Water Resources of Singapore, during the goodwill visit yesterday. – PHOTOS: OSMAN ABU BAKAR
MINISTER of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, as the Chairman of the National Security Committee (JKN), yesterday morning received a courtesy call from Major General Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Toto Siswanto, Expert Staff For Social Culture at the Secretariat General of National Resilience Council (Wantannas) of the Republic of Indonesia.
The courtesy call took place at the Tower Block, Ministry of Defence Bolkiah Garrison.
Major General TNI Toto Siswanto led a delegation from the Secretariat General of Wantannas for a working visit to Brunei Darussalam.
Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Datin Dayang Hajah Elinda binti Haji CA Mohamed as Deputy Chairman of JKN, as well as other members of JKN were also present.
Minister of Defence II and Major General Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Toto Siswanto during the courtesy callMinister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, as the Chairman of the National Security Committee (JKN), and Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Datin Dayang Hajah Elinda binti Haji CA Mohamed as Deputy Chairman of JKN, in a group photo with Major General Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Toto Siswanto, Expert Staff For Social Culture at the Secretariat General of National Resilience Council (Wantannas) of the Republic of Indonesia and other members of the delegation from the Secretariat General of Wantannas. – PHOTOS: PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE
The Secretariat General of Wantannas represents a state institution that reports and is answerable directly to the President of the Republic of Indonesia.
The secretariat is responsible for the development of national resilience and the attainment of the Indonesia’s security objectives.
The visit marked the first visit of the Secretariat General of Wantannas to Brunei Darussalam with the purpose of establishing bilateral cooperation especially in the energy and security sector with a focus on energy security.
THE average consumption expenditure for a household in Brunei Darussalam increased by BND28 (0.2 per cent) to BND2,923 per month in 2015-16 compared to BND2,895 per month in 2010-11. In terms of per capita expenditure, the national average was about BND472 per month compared to BND457 per month in 2010-11.
The figures were revealed in a report of the Household Expenditure Survey (HES) 2015-16, released by the Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE) under the Prime Minister’s Office on Monday. The pattern of expenditure shows that expenditure on housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels was the highest at BND988 per month, or 33.8 per cent of the total monthly expenses.
This was followed by expenditure on transport at BND379 per month (13 per cent) and food at BND364 per month (12.5 per cent), according to the Report of Summary Findings of the Household Expenditure Survey 2015-16.
Household expenditure on education recorded the highest increase of 18.3 per cent per year in a period of five years from BND79 per month in 2010-11 to BND183 per month in 2015-16.
Meanwhile, spending on furnishing, household equipment and routine household maintenance recorded the highest decrease of 9.4 per cent per year from BND223 per month in 2010-11 to BND136 per month in 2015-16.
The median monthly house-hold expenditure in 2015-16 was BND2,205 compared to BND2,241 in 2010-11.
This indicates that half of the households in Brunei Darussalam spent less than BND2,205 per month and the other half spent more than BND2,205.
Household Income
In 2015-16, the median household income was BND5,611 per month, indicating that half of all households in Brunei Darussalam earned an income of less than BND5,611 per month while the other half received more than BND5,611 per month. This represented an increase of 4.2 per cent per year from BND4,576 in 2010-11.
Meanwhile, the average mon-thly household income in Brunei Darussalam in 2015-16 increased by 4.3 per cent per year to BND7,009 from BND5,670 in 2010-11.
The per capita monthly income also increased to BND1,131 from BND895 in 2010-11.
By income sources, paid employment contributed the largest portion of the average monthly household income at 70.7 per cent (BND4,953) in 2015-16.
Self-employment income, inclu-ding income of family workers, accounted for 5.8 per cent (BND409) of the average monthly household income.
Meanwhile, property and transfer income contributed 12.5 per cent (BND878) and 11 per cent (BND770) respectively.
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, through JPKE, had conducted the HES 2015-16 starting from April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016.
HES 2015-16 is the sixth such survey conducted in Brunei Darussalam.
The main objectives of the survey were to collect up-to-date and comprehensive information on the pattern of household expenditure and the level of household income; to revise the lists and weighting of goods and services of the Consumer Price Index (CPI); and to provide additional information for national accounts and social statistics purposes.
In a statement, JPKE expressed its appreciation to the participant households in HES 2015-16 for their cooperation throughout the survey period.
GUAM were crowned champions in the Asia Rugby Championship Division III East after registering their second successive win thanks to a comfortable 52-12 win over China at the Balapan Track and Field of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex yesterday.
Chris Sgro was the star performer for his team after scoring four tries with John Martinez and Vao Vaiau also contributing with a try each while Gerard Aguon made six conversions.
China scored their tries through Xuzeng Wang and Ratu Totivi Dakainiviti Ralulu to give them hope with 31-12 down but Guam pulled away once more.
Guam head coach Tony Penn was visibly pleased with his side’s performance. “I am really happy with the way the guys went today and obviously very ecstatic that we managed to get a good victory against a tough Chinese side,” he said.
The team has not featured in a lot of matches at international level but Penn has eyed matches closer to home with Philippines and Japanese universities possible options to help his players gain some exposure and game time.
“Currently, we only travel to one tournament per year which is the Asian division in this instance,” he said.
The victory still leaves Guam, ranked 70th in the world, in uncertainty on their hopes for Division II qualification, which features higher ranked teams, but Penn is keen to return to that level.
Guam were crowned champions in the Asia Rugby Championship Division III East after registering their second successive win thanks to a comfortable 52-12 win over China at the Balapan Track and Field of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex yesterday. – FADHIL YUNUS
“We love to get back to Division II. The last time we were in Division II we narrowly lost to Thailand in our first game and then we beat Uzbekistan. We learnt a lot from that higher level but I thought it was good for the guys.
“We certainly held our own and unfortunately they relegated two teams out of the four to get back to Division III.
“We hope we get promoted and test ourselves against some of the higher ranked nations but I’m happy with the way the guys performed this week.”
The head coach said that the team has only been together since last Tuesday and has previously stated that they have no domestic competition.
“The ability and passion that they showed is outstanding and I really hope that they are rewarded for the performances they put on this week,” he added.
Dr Haji Kamaruddin bin Dato Seri Paduka Haji Talib, Acting President of Brunei Rugby Football Union, presented the prizes.
EIGHTEEN participants are on a six-day Badminton World Federation (BWF) Level 1 Coaching Education course held in cooperation between the Brunei National Badminton Association (BNBA) and the Department of Co-curriculum Education and the Department of Youth and Sports at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex.
Md Andy Ardiansyah, Badminton Asia Development Officer and BWF Level 1 Tutor and Mohd Zuno Kartono bin Haji Ali, Assistant Secretary General of BNBA and BWF Level 1 Tutor are conducting the course, which ends on May 12.
The participants comprises representatives from government departments, the Royal Brunei Police Force and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces as well as five from neighbouring countries including two from Miri, two from Labuan and one from Beaufort.
The main purpose of the course and to become a certified coach at a basic level is to gain an understanding on how to teach basic or foundation in badminton which will significantly aid students to be good players at senior level equipped with good skills and footwork.
“This is one of the development programmes in badminton in Asia and one of the countries that we are focussing on is Brunei Darussalam whereby we need to provide development programmes such as what we are doing now which is the Coaching Education course,” said Mohd Andy Ardiansyah in an interview with the Bulletin.
The first two days of the course covers theory with a small part of practical aspect and the next three days involve practical sessions whereby each coach will be tasked to provide a lesson or microteaching to other coaches who act as players in a visualisation scenario.
Microteaching refers to providing an opportunity for coaches to devise a training programme whereby other coaches take the role of players.
Participants with BWF Level 1 tutors Mohd Zuno Kartono and Mohd Andy Ardiansyah in a group photo. – BNBA
Each group has eight members whereby one coach will be given a situation with seven players and they are given a duration of 30 minutes before rotating to a new coach.
“This is the biggest part of assessment in this course and Zuno and I as tutors will observe and assess how deep the understanding and knowledge on the procedure of feeding skills, communication with players and providing different types of training.”
The participants will be given a final feedback on the final day of the course whereby both he and Zuno will conduct individual interviews.
“We will give feedback such as what their weakness or strengths may be. If we want to find perhaps what we haven’t observed in a certain area, we will ask questions to see if they can answer or they can understand.”
The course contains three essential components namely the role and responsibility as a coach, what to coach and how to coach.
The second component on what to coach refers to anything what a coach needs to provide training to the students who are still at the basic level, highlighting five main areas such as technique, physical, tactic, lifestyle and psychology.
The third component on how to coach refers to the approach to train and deliver for instance if the coach knows the technique to be trained. This could vary to multi-feeding or feeding shuttlecocks while the coach can also choose stroke training or simple rally.
Since the BWF Level 1 Coaching Education was first launched as a pilot project in 2011 in Malaysia, the course has been developed in Asian countries which necessitate the development of badminton.
Currently, there is also Level 2 but Ardiansyah said that it requires a higher level and it is only conducted in Malaysia at present whereby this is done by invitation.
He said that the criteria to attend Level 2 requires participants to pass Level 1 and must have a background as a coach who gains experience with a minimum of more than two years.
Plans of formulating a Level 3 as a pilot project are in the pipeline this year which will be at an even higher level.
This year marks the third time that Ardiansyah has conducted the BWF Level 1 course in Brunei following his visits in 2014 and 2015.
Ardiansyah said that individuals will be given either a pass, ‘professional pass’ or fail at the end of the course and successful participants who complete the course with a pass mark will provide coaching both locally and internationally.
When an individual passes the course, it means the person is already certified whereas a professional pass refers that an individual passes the course but still need to meet certain conditions to be certified as a BWF Level 1 coach. Meanwhile, if an individual fails, the person would have to repeat the course.
