|     James Kon     |

JERUDONG International School (jis) students who participated in the week-long ‘Japan Experience’ programme – which focussed on the Japanese Language and culture – showcased what they had learnt during a closing ceremony yesterday.

Japanese Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Motohiko Kato attended as the guest of honour.

The Japan Experience is one of a broad range of options offered by the school as part of its annual Enrichment Week Programme held at the end of the school year.

Students presented a slideshow summarising what they had done throughout the week and performed a rendition of popular Japanese song Sukiyaki prior to receiving their certificates.

Japan Experience Programme Leader Andrew McCulloch said his motivation to run the programme stemmed from participation in the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme 16 years ago, which he describes as a highly-valuable and truly life-changing.

The programme was led by JIS teachers and supported by Japanese Embassy in Brunei Darussalam officials, namely Deputy Chief of Mission Hiroshi Abe, Second Secretary Hiroki Akasaka and Second Secretary Mai Ogawa.

On the second day of the programme, embassy officials arranged for the Brunei Judo Federation – led by Muhammad Ali-Rashid bin Haji Mohammad Alipah – to conduct a hands-on workshop at the school. The students found it both captivating and highly enjoyable.

Following the Judo workshop, the students were invited to the Japanese ambassador’s official residence, where they were taught the traditional method of making sushi by Yamane, the Ambassador’s personal chef, with detailed explanations provided by Ogawa.

During the closing ceremony, students gained an insight on Japan’s energy policy courtesy of the Japanese Ambassador who delivered a highly informative and engaging lecture titled Energy Policy and Eco Policy in Japan.

In his closing remarks, JIS Principal Barnaby Sandow noted that the final week of the academic year provided students with a fantastic opportunity to learn outside the classroom. He acknowledged the excellent work done by the Japanese Embassy to help the school realise this goal, noting in particular the comprehensive range of topics covered in the ambassador’s lecture, which included explanations on advances in Japan’s sophisticated waste management and recycling systems (such as using gold recycled from old mobile phones to make the gold medals for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics), Japan’s increasing use of renewable sources of energy (such as geothermal power generation), and the Hydrogenation Project in Brunei, which will produce ‘zero emission’ hydrogen fuel used to power motor vehicles in Japan.

The ceremony concluded with the Japanese Ambassador leading the students in ‘tejime,’ a Japanese custom of ceremonial rhythmic hand clapping, often performed at the end of a special event to bring the occasion to a harmonious, lively close.

Tejime signifies fulfilment, realisation, and completion, a fitting end to a week spent delving into the richness of Japanese language and culture.

Following his lecture, the ambassador, who has a deep interest in environmental issues, toured the JIS Outdoor Discovery Centre (ODC) with Sandow. There he saw a team of dedicated students working to improve the interactive learning facility, which is set in a specially designated area.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah organised a special exhibition display at the foyer of the International Convention Centre (ICC) yesterday for its Hari Raya celebration featuring 24 private sector companies and government-linked companies (GLCs) offering employment opportunities and incentives to local graduates.

Among the participating companies were PetroleumBrunei, Brunei Shell Petroleum Co Sdn Bhd, Brunei Shell Marketing Co Sdn Bhd, Brunei Methanol Company, Total, Telekom Brunei Berhad (TelBru), Baiduri Bank Group, Jerudong Park Medical Centre, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD), Jerudong Park Country Club, The Empire Hotel & Country Club; Royal Brunei Airlines (RB), Insurans Islam TAIB; Brunei International Air Cargo Centre (BIACC), QAF Group and Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, McDonald’s Brunei, Amec Foster Wheeler, CIC Environmental Services Sdn Bhd, Deloitte & Touche, Aker Solutions, Thyssenkrupp, Al-Huffaz Management and Laksamana College of Business.

TelBru Chief Executive Officer David Holliday in an interview with the Bulletin said that it has 930 employees and are looking to expand its staff strength.

He added that TelBru has carried out more engagement in graduate training with 72 management trainings held in the last 24 months.

“We are opening our website for those who want to apply to join TelBru. They need to register and apply on the website and they can fill in preference and which area they would like to work in and their current qualification,” he said.

TelBru CEO also shared that 99 per cent of its workforce comprised of local staff.

Meanwhile, McDonald’s Brunei Acting Restaurant Manager, Gadong Branch Mohammad Dini bin Haji Morsidi shared his experience working in the private sector. He believed that the locals have the potential in meeting career success in the private sectors.

McDonald’s Brunei Restaurant Manager Jerudong Park Drive Thru Hartini binti Haji Hussein explained to the Bulletin that 100 per cent of its workforce is local with three per cent from i-Ready.

Several incentives and trainings were provided for McDonald’s staff for career development.

With this year’s main theme, ‘Developing Country’s Economy by Empowering Private Sectors’, the 15th Yayasan Hari Raya celebration provided a platform to private sectors in the country and 1,068 graduates comprised of Bachelor’s degree and higher national diploma have the potential to increase private sectors productivity in various fields.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

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 Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, along with other members of the royal family, graced the 15th Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration, held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas yesterday.

Accompanying Their Majesties at the event were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, Chairman of the Board of Governors of Yayasan; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam.

Upon arrival at the ICC, Their Majesties and members of royal family were greeted by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Setia Diraja Sahibul Karib Pengiran Anak Haji Idris bin Pengiran Maharaja Lela Pengiran Muda Abdul Kahar, Deputy Chairman I of the Board of Governors of Yayasan; Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti in his capacity as the Deputy Chairman II of the Board of Governors of Yayasan; Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs and Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Religious Affairs as members of the Board of Governors of Yayasan; Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Defence II in his capacity as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Yayasan and Dato Paduka Eddie bin Dato Paduka Haji Sunny, Managing Director of Yayasan.

The special ceremony commenced with recitation of Doa Selamat by the State Mufti. In his welcoming address Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi said that Yayasan’s this year’s Hari Raya celebration is focussed on participants from corporate entities including government-linked companies (GLCs) and private companies that require local graduates to grow their entities as well as degree holders from higher education institutions who are seeking employment in the private sector.

“Existence of these corporate entities and GLCs play a vital role in enhancing the country’s economic growth through creating and providing job opportunities for local graduates,” he added.

The event, which served as platform to bring together local jobseekers and private sector companies and facilitate cooperation between them with the theme ‘Developing the National Economy by Empowering the Private Sector’, also witnessed His Majesty delivering a titah.

Special stage performances by Taman Asuhan Kanak-Kanak (TASKA), primary and secondary students of the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah School further enlivened the celebration.

The event also saw a Junjung Ziarah with participants by Their Majesties and members of the royal family. Later, His Majesty toured an exhibition featuring 24 private sector companies that offer job placement for local jobseekers.

|     Azlan Othman     |

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 called on the private sector to readily accept locals, especially graduates, who are still looking for jobs, advising them not to disappoint jobseekers.

In a titah delivered during the Hari Raya celebration organised by Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas yesterday, His Majesty said if this responsibility is successfully carried out, it will give a meaningful contribution to the nation.

“I also urge graduates to avoid the attitude of being choosy, because any job is considered a rezeki, or good fortune. It is not just working in the government sector that is considered a good fortune, but working in the private sector as well. In fact, engaging in business, farming and fishing is also a good fortune. If all these are done with patience and perseverance, you will reap multiple rewards,” the monarch said.

Touching on this year’s Hari Raya gathering theme, ‘Developing the National Economy by Empowering the Private Sector’, His Majesty said the private sector can be empowered by increasing productivity through hard work or human effort.

“I am delighted to welcome representatives of the private sector as well as degree holders who are still waiting for employment as participants (of the celebration) this year. These two groups have the potential to help each other to empower themselves.

“Everywhere, the private sector has long been known as a driving force of economic growth. In our country, many resilient businesses have long been in existence, facing the challenge of building the economy. This machine of course requires fuel for it to work. Such fuel is none other than the quality of its manpower,” His Majesty said.

“I was made to understand from JobCentre Brunei data that there are 1,800 graduates with the potential to help empower the private sector. There are also more than 200 companies that require the services of graduates.

“We hope that both the private sector and the graduates will use this golden opportunity today to foster friendship. Each of them can contribute to the country’s economic development to ensure that it is enjoyed by all levels of people in this country,” the monarch said.

Highlighting the Hari Raya festival, His Majesty said, “Alhamdulillah, we are grateful to Allah the Almighty for his blessings that allow us to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri with full of gratitude and joy.

“In Brunei Darussalam, Hari Raya spirit is not only visible among families, relatives and friends, but also shared by people from all walks of life. This good tradition needs to be continued as a means of nourishing relations and respect.

“In the month of Ramadhan, the culture of helping each other flourishes in our society. Concerned groups come forward to donate or provide assistance to those in need for them to equally enjoy the atmosphere of Aidilfitri.”

“One is considered not faithful if he allows a Muslim to be deprived of food while his own home is filled with various delicacies. This is the teaching of Islam,” His Majesty said.

Also present at the gathering yesterday were Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, Chairman of the Board of Governors of Yayasan; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam.

It is the 15th Hari Raya celebration organised by Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah since 2003. The annual celebration gathers participants from different backgrounds to give them opportunity to share their love and strengthen friendship in a lively atmosphere. They include important members of various community groups who play key roles in creating a welfare nation.

This year, highlighting the theme of ‘Developing the National Economy by Empowering the Private Sector’ at the initiative of His Majesty, Yayasan focussed on local graduates of higher education institutions who possess qualifications in engineering, banking and finance, ICT, education, health, hospitality, tourism and business, and have the potential to help empower the private sector and government-linked companies (GLCs) who need local graduates to grow their business.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

DPMM FC head coach Rene Weber has called for a better display than their away performance against Balestier Khalsa earlier in the season in the Singapore Premier League at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium tonight.

“I believe at home we must beat (Balestier) more than outside. We beat them but it is not easy. In the beginning, they started well and scored against us,” said Weber in an interview after a training session at the Jerudong Mini Stadium.

The head coach is also wary of the threat the Tigers pose having met them at the Toa Payoh Stadium where they came from behind to earn a hard-fought 2-1 win.

“They have strong players in attack; they have two strikers and one midfielder. Sufianto Salleh (number 10) plays behind the striker and they have good local players.”

Weber also hailed the qualities of Hazzuwan Halim who could inflict damage to his men.

“I think number 7 (Hazzuwan) is good. He has speed and he moves too much in the field,” he said.

The former Atletico Mineiro assistant manager is hoping to piece together a winning run as he bids to make the top-four target.

Asked about his hopes of extending his unbeaten run to five games, he replied, “I want to get a few straight wins together.”

With three points further strengthening their grip on the top-four, he added that creating chances to win translates to a good performance.

DPMM FC can climb to third in the table at least for 24 hours with Home United yet to play with a win and in turn cut the gap with second-placed Tampines Rovers to four points.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI men’s team powered to a strong start after recording a 80-63 win against Labuan in the Borneo City Basketball Invitation Tournament at the Brunei Basketball Association Court in Batu Bersurat yesterday.

Brunei captain Choo Yung Jian and Yap Jenn Chyuan both produced a great return of 17 points each.

Meanwhile, the Brunei veteran team defeated Labuan 58-51 and the Brunei women team falling to a 80-27 loss to Miri.

Brunei’s veteran player Ho Hee Lee enjoyed a good outing after leading his team’s points with 17.

Today’s games include Miri facing Kota Kinabalu in the Women category, while Miri and Labuan will contest each other in both the Veteran and Men categories.

Brunei’s men and veteran teams will be fancying their chances of lifting the title when they close their campaign against Miri tomorrow.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

THE National Orphans Fund and Brunei-Muara District Orphans Fund received a donation of BND18,436 at a Hari Raya celebration and donation presentation ceremony organised by Harini Catering Service Sdn Bhd and Syarikat Teguh Mesra Sdn Bhd at the Stadium Restaurant in Berakas on Thursday night.

Out of the total, BND9,968 was donated to the National Orphans Fund while the remaining BND8,468 went to the Brunei-Muara District Orphans Fund.

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.

Receiving on behalf of the National Orphans Fund was Acting Director of JAPEM Rostinah binti Pehin Orang Kaya Sura Pahlawan Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Tahir, while receiving on behalf of the Brunei-Muara District Orphans Fund was Brunei-Muara District Officer Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim.

The minister and Lim Chai Huat of Harini Catering also presented Hari Raya green packets to the orphans and special needs individuals.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

KAMPONG Keriam Village Consultative Council, Kampong Keriam Mosque Takmir Committee, and Keriam Malay Association (PESAKA) co-organised a Hari Raya Aidilfitri gathering at the multi-purpose hall of Keriam Primary School yesterday.

Present as the guests of honour were 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 and spouse.

Penghulu of Mukim Keriam Orang Kaya Jaya Putera Dato Paduka Haji Muhammad Taha bin Abdul Rauf was also present.

Event co-chairperson Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maha Bijaya Haji Othman said the annual gathering aimed to strengthen ties among attendees.

The event was enlivened with renditions of Indahnya Pesaka and Selamat Hari Raya, several stage performances and lucky draws.

Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan presented donations to nine including Haj pilgrims from Kampong Keriam and members of PESAKA.

|     Aziz Idris     |

BANK Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) launched BIBD Tiffin Project during a Hari Raya Aidifitri celebration at the Nakhoda Abdul Rashid Primary School, Kampong Menunggol in Pulau Berambang, Mukim Kota Batu yesterday.

Guest of honour Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad launched the project.

Tiffin, a particular lunch box widely used in South Asia, was presented to the guest of honour which symbolised a nutritious and balance food intake.

BIBD launched the project in collaboration with the MoE and selected strategic partners.

The project aims to promote awareness on healthy eating habits for healthy minds.

Nakhoda Abdul Rashid Primary School, Kampong Menunggol is the first school for the pilot project.

Chairman of BIBD Tiffin Project Tuan Haji Mohd Yusri bin Haji Wahsalfelah said the project strives to provide nutritious and balanced meals containing the right carbohydrates, proteins, vegetables and fruits as well as meeting the calories and nutrient meal essential for student development.

“The project aims to provide healthy meals to ensure schoolchildren are well-nourished to be more active and receptive to succeed in their studies,” said BIBD Deputy Managing Director Hajah Noraini binti Haji Sulaiman.

Seventy heads of families from the village received meals and souvenirs were presented to 47 students of Nakhoda Abdul Rashid Primary School.

Hajah Noraini presented a donation of reading materials and research books worth BND1,000 to the school’s library to Headmaster of Nakhoda Abdul Rashid Primary School Haji Mohd Suazmie bin Haji Zulkifli.

Members of the delegation also celebrated Hari Raya with the villagers as part of BIBD’s annual initiative to foster better relationships among BIBD, government personnel with communities around the country. The guest of honour also toured a mini exhibition showcasing unique types of products produced by the villagers, as part of the Kenali Negara Kitani (KNK) initiative.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

IN CONJUNCTION with the 57th anniversary of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), 114 special needs children of RBAF personnel, received donations during a Hari Raya celebration at the Punai Hall of the Royal Brunei Air Force Base yesterday.

Guest of honour Commander of the RBAF, Major General Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, and spouse, Datin Hajah Rasidah binti Haji Brahim presented the donations.

The donations were collected from the RBAF Welfare Fund, RBAF Wives Welfare Committee (BAKTI), KOWIRA, Makan Ceria Sdn Bhd and RBAF personnel.

Services commanders, deputy services commanders, military directors, commandants, RPK commanding officer, senior officers and personnel of the RBAF as well as the parents, guardians and relatives of the recipients were also present. The annual event recognised the support from the RBAF community and promoted a culture of giving and generosity among participants.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

AN ACCIDENT at the Tutong Highway late Thursday evening claimed the life of a 21-year-old local woman, the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) said.

The driver of the vehicle, a 27-year-old man, sustained only minor injuries while the woman, who was in the passenger’s seat was pronounced dead at the scene from serious injuries sustained on her head and chest.

Tutong District Police Station Commanding Officer Inspector Ahmad Faez bin Haji Mohd Hani said they received a report at around 11pm on the accident at the vicinity of the Sungai Basong Recreational Park, 65.3km on the Tutong Highway heading towards Belait District.

The driver lost control of the vehicle causing him to hit a large tree by the highway.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

BRUNEI is stepping up its efforts to combat bullying in schools by organising more intervention programmes involving parents, teachers and students to raise awareness on its negative effects and find ways to reduce the occurrence of this global problem.

The intervention programme, carried out through workshops targetting specific groups from schools including Parent-Teacher Association, is being held in stages ahead of the anticipated launch of the nationwide ‘Bully-Free Brunei Campaign’ (Brunei Bebas Buli, or 3B) in schools across the country later this year.

The Global School-Based Health Survey (GSHS), carried out by the Health Promotion Centre (HPC) of the Ministry of Health (MoH) in 2014 has indicated that among 2,599 students aged 13-17 years from schools across Brunei, 21.1 per cent of them are victims of bullying in school.

A study conducted by the Ministry of Education (MoE) recently has also confirmed the findings of the GSHS survey.

A 3B workshop for secondary schools was organised at the HPC in Commonwealth Drive yesterday that involved parents, teachers and peer guidance support (PRS) students to discuss issues pertaining to bullying and steps to prevent its occurrence.

The workshop is one of the strategies of the 3B initiative spearheaded by the Mental Health Strategic Group at the HPC with support from the Department of Schools, MoE and the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF).

According to HPC, the bullying issue among students is not unique or limited to any culture and has existed for so long. With the advent of technology, occurrence of online bullying has also become rampant.

The MoH, through the HPC with cooperation from the Department of Schools, recognises the importance of implementing intervention programmes to reduce and change the risky behaviour among students before it becomes unabated and this is in line with Brunei Vision 2035 which envisages creation of a harmonious and prospering community.

During the workshop, which was attended by over 40 individuals from targetted groups, the latest information on the issue of bullying was shared and the ‘implementers’ of the campaign were also given basic training on project management to enable them to broaden their reach on the 3B initiative in schools across the country.

The groups were also given the opportunity to share their ideas on the best method of presentation that will later be used during the Bully-Free Brunei Campaign in schools.

The MoH hopes that such discussions will help the campaign reach its goals – to handle the issue of bullying and its effects on those involved including victims, the bully and witnesses as well as reduce the rate of bullying in schools; to promote a bully-free culture among schools by providing guidance and increasing their knowledge on its negative impacts as well as enhancing the knowledge and awareness of the public on its ill implications.

Among the schools taking part in the workshop yesterday were Awang Semaun Secondary School, Pengiran Isteri Hajjah Mariam Secondary School. Sayyidina Abu Bakar Secondary School, Rimba 1 Secondary School, Katok Secondary School and Sayyidina Umar Al-Khattab Secondary School.

MoH said it hopes to see a collective effort from different ministries, the private sector, youth groups and other relevant parties in combating bullying, involving people from all walks of life.

“The contribution and involvement in generating ideas, efforts and energy are much needed because the impact of bullying is universal and must be given attention because its negative effects would cause depression or trauma to victims,” MoH added.

At the conclusion of the workshop, certificates of participation were handed over to the participants by Assistant Head Section 1, HPC, MoH Haji Zakaria bin Haji Kamis.

|     James Kon     |

MINISTER of Finance II Dato Seri Paduka Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah in his capacity as the Chairman of Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre (PJSC), yesterday launched the centre’s ‘We Care’ official video advertisement that highlights the meaningful difference of providing healthcare through efficient and people-centred services, during a hi-tea event attended by members of the Diplomatic Corps based in Brunei Darussalam.

In his opening remarks at the event entitled ‘We Care’, Executive Director of PJSC Dr Mazrul Adimin bin Haji Besar said, “With the vision of becoming an innovative and specialised medical centre, we hope to capture the essence of ‘We Care’ while continuously striving to improve patient care at our state-of-the-art facility.”

PJSC houses three centres of excellence, namely, The Brunei Cancer Centre (TBCC), the Brunei Neuroscience, Stroke and Rehabilitation Centre (BNSRC) and the Maxillofacial, Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Centre (MFPRSC) that focus on neurology, neurosurgery, rehabilitation, cancer treatment and head and neck surgery.

Dr Mazrul noted that in the multiple platforms that the Government of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has established with all Diplomatic Missions and Corps, healthcare is one of the pillars of bilateral cooperation which continues to prosper over the years. He also thanked the distinguished guests for joining the event which sought to establish fresh ties and future strategic partnerships in the healthcare sector.

Meanwhile in a presentation, Director of BNSRC Dr Dayangku Hajah Siti Nur’Ashikin binti Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Tengah said, “Neurological diseases contribute to a major part of global diseases. But what is more important is the days, months or years that are lost to the individual, their family and their community through disability. It is a significant milestone in Brunei’s healthcare history that we can now offer a world-class health centre to provide neurological, neurosurgery and rehabilitative care to the people of this country.”

Recalling the history of the establishment of the centre, she said, “Established in 2010 as a highly specialised stroke facility by the Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) in partnership with Krankenhaus Nordwest Hospital, BNSRC possesses a comprehensive array of infrastructure and expertise to take care of stroke patients. The centre has state-of-the-art facilities since 2016. It has now become a one-stop neurosurgery and rehabilitation centre of excellence after its integration with the Ministry of Health this year.”

The director mentioned some of the diseases that the centre treat, namely, disorder of the nervous system (brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerve and muscle), stroke, spinal cord injury, epilepsy, migraine, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, motor neurone disease, muscular, dystrophy and brain tumour. In addition, the centre has extended its services to cancer rehabilitation, amputee rehabilitation, musculoskeletal and sport rehabilitation as well as women healthcare.

Medical Oncolgy Consultant at TBCC Dr Lu Shir Kiong, highlighted, “Oncology services started in 1977 in the medical ward of Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital. Later the Oncology Unit was set up in the specialist building of the hospital in 1999. The unit was relocated to JPMC in 2009 and was known as the National Cancer Centre. It was renamed TBCC in 2012 and relocated to a new building in 2016. Currently TBCC is under the management of PJSC.

“TBCC aims to deliver the highest standard of treatment and care. We adopt a personalised treatment approach according to the patients’ tumour characteristics and status and offer modern drugs, equipment and facilities to our patients. We work together as a multi-disciplinary team, deliver professional holistic services and promote cancer awareness.”

He revealed that an increasing number of new cases have been referred to the TBCC from year to year. According to statistics, there were 471 cases in 2017 compared to 386 cases in 2016. One of the reasons for this is the increasing public awareness on cancer. Another reason is the establishment of the Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine Department, he noted.

For inpatients, there are 26 beds with deluxe private rooms on the eighth floor equipped with modern facilities and entertainment system. On the seventh floor is the Daycare Unit where there are 32 therapeutic chairs and eight beds.

The Radiotherapy Department employs highly advanced, cutting-edge technology and houses the state-of-the-art Variant Ture Beam and Edge.

Brunei is one of the few countries to own both the machines that are capable of delivering high-precision radiotherapy treatment within a short period of time and minimum toxicity.

The final presentation on MFPRSC was delivered by its Head and Director Dato Seri Laila Jasa Dr Ravindranathan who highlighted the areas the centre cover such as face, mouth, jaw, neck, scalp, skin of the head and neck. He explained the various treatments provided at the centre which include aesthetic surgery of the face, enhancing facial appearance, ageing face/neck rejuvenation through non surgical-botox or fillers, surgical lower eyebags removal, recreating upper eyelid creases, ageing face rejuvenation, sharpening of nose, redefining the chin and so on.

|     James Kon     |

JAPANESE company Nikken Sekkei Civil Engineering Ltd (NSC) is planning to develop parts of Temburong, known as the Green Jewel of Brunei, into an eco-friendly town, which is hoped to further boost its appeal as a tourist destination.

The plans to develop Temburong was revealed by the Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam Motohiko Kato in his presentation on ‘Energy Policy and Eco Policy in Japan’, during the closing ceremony of a series of events titled the ‘Japan Experience’ at the Jerudong International School (JIS) on Thursday.

Kato said, “It is my hope that cooperation between Brunei and Japan on projects such as this will allow us to maximise the potential of new energy resources and sustainable ways of living, so both countries can move into an era of clean, renewable energy.”

He then mentioned the hydrogen supply chain demonstration project, for which Chiyoda Corporation, Mitsubishi Corporation Ltd and Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK) are building a hydrogen plant in Brunei Darussalam, as part of the world’s first global hydrogen supply chain.

“In Japan, the demand for hydrogen is noticeably increasing. Japanese companies are about to start a project in collaboration with the Government of Brunei Darussalam to produce hydrogen from natural gas. This will then be transported to Japan in the form of liquid hydrogen.

“Although this project is still in the demonstration stages only, it has huge potential and could soon become a full-scale operation,” the envoy said.
Kato also extended his appreciation to Brunei for contributing to Japan’s energy security.

“The Mitsubishi Corporation from Japan has cooperated with the Brunei Government and Shell Brunei since 1972 when they built a factory to produce liquefied natural gas and transport it to Japan,” he said, adding that “65 per cent of all the liquefied natural gas produced in Brunei is exported to Japan”.

Meanwhile, in Japan, “Toyota has already begun selling hydrogen-fuelled cars to the public. The hydroelectric vehicle is called Mirai which means ‘future’ in Japanese. This car is equipped with its own hydrogen tank and can run on electricity produced by the combination of hydrogen and oxygen. It never produces C02, but only pure water,” the ambassador said.

The Japanese Government is already considering using hydroelectric vehicles to transport athletes around the city during the Tokyo Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2020. Construction has also began on roads for the new Linear Motor Car (LMC), which is superior to the bullet train, as it has no metal rails and floats five inches above the track by using magnetic levitation technology, he added.

|     James Kon     |

KOTA Kinabalu (KK) women’s basketball team are one step closer to lift the Tan Che Eu challenge trophy after cruising to an easy win over Miri women’s team 78-44 yesterday in the 2018 Borneo City Basketball Invitation Tournament at the Brunei Basketball Association Basketball Court in Batu Bersurat.

The team finished with three players scoring double figures; Sunny Chin contributed a high of 17 points while her teammate Liaw Mei Fun had 12 points and captain Suzee Chin with 10 points.

Adeline Cheng was the only player from the Miri team who scored double figure with 11 points for the whole game.

KK took a four-point lead 7-11 in the first quarter, then managed to pull away with a big lead after forcing their opponents to turn the ball over through strong defensive plays.

KK ended the second quarter leading 31-16 to go into the interval.

Outclassed, KK team continued to dominate the game in the third and fourth quarters to hold off Miri.

In the Veteran category, Miri emerged winners against Labuan with 93-84.

KK will face Brunei women’s team at 1pm today, while the Brunei veteran team will tip off against Labuan at 2.30pm. Brunei men’s team will be tested against Miri at 4pm.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

DPMM FC dropped their first points at home this season after seeing a two-goal lead slip during the 2-2 draw with Balestier Khalsa in the Singapore Premier League at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium last night.

Attending the match were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik.

Also present were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah’s children, Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim; Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah; and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda Muhammad Aiman.

The Gegar Gegar men remain on course in realising their top-four target as fifth-placed Balestier Khalsa are observed as their direct rivals but they missed the chance to climb to third in the table.

The Brunei-based outfit, however, stretched their unbeaten run to five games though they have yet to keep a clean sheet at home this season.

DPMM FC defender Suhaimi Sulau opened his account for the club after firing a wonderful effort from outside the box.

Captain Shahrazen Said added a second for the hosts through a penalty in the 22nd minute for his first goal of the season.

Balestier defender Fadli Kamis reduced the deficit after scoring a free header just minutes after Zaiful Nizam kept out an Adi Said’s header.

The Tigers wiped out a two-goal lead after Huzaifah Aziz curled a delightful free-kick in the 67th minute.

Suhaimi stole possession off a Balestier Khalsa player and drove forward before unleashing a clean strike for his first goal of the season in the fourth minute.

The home side were awarded a penalty after Balestier defender Nurullah Hussein brought down Volodymyr Pryiomov and the former was brandished a yellow card for his troubles.

With the Ukrainian a regular designated penalty taker, Shahrazen was given the chance to open his account for the season which he did after blasting home into the top corner.

DPMM FC goalkeeper Haimie anak Nyaring passed his first real test of the match after keeping out a fine attempt from Balestier teenager Vrebac Sanjin.

The attacking front duo combined as Volodymyr collected a back-heel from Adi Said but his shot was deflected off for a corner by the Balestier defence.

Mojtaba Mollasaraei then tried to get into an act with a ferocious strike which Balestier goalkeeper Zaiful Nizam got a strong hold of with an assured pair of hands.

Adi Said nearly pulled out a brilliant solo goal after skipping past a couple of Balestier players and was unlucky not to score as Zaiful ensured that his side stayed two goals down.

The hosts resumed their attacking threat in the early stages of the second half as Zaiful was forced to tip over a header from Adi after meeting a corner.

Balestier Khalsa midfielder Hazzuwan Halim beat the offside trap and took a shot but Haimie forced the ball out for a corner.

However from the ensuing corner, the Tigers reduced arrears as Fadli Kamis pounced with a free header from close range for his second goal of the season.

On the other end, Adi received an inviting cross before hitting a nice volley which Zaiful did well to keep the ball out. The forward then released Volodymyr from an acute angle and the Ukrainian’s effort required a strong save from the Balestier shot-stopper.

The hosts broke clear in a fast move but unfortunately Volodymyr’s tame shot landed safely into the arms of Zaiful.

As the opportunity to restore a two-goal cushion disappeared, the visitors found themselves on level terms as Huzaifah Aziz curled a brilliant free-kick in the 67th minute.

DPMM FC substitute Abdul Azizi Rahman nearly made an immediate impact after a fierce drive inside the box flew past the top corner.

The visitors were reduced to 10 men after Huzaifah picked up a second yellow card but DPMM FC could not find a winner.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE pedestrian bridge linking Dermaga Diraja and Jalan Residency was officially opened in a ceremony yesterday.

The ceremony was officiated by the Permanent Secretary (Technical and Professional) at the Ministry of Development Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin as the guest of honour.

Shortly after opening the pedestrian bridge, the guest of honour and invited guests took a leisure walk across the bridge.

Among the attendees at the opening ceremony were Director General of Public Works Department (JKR) Haji Amer Hishamuddin bin Pehin Orang Kaya Amar Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Zakaria; the Brunei-Muara District Officer; the Chairman of the Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Board; Legislative Council member and the Penghulu of Mukim Kota Batu Yang Berhormat Naim bin Haji Kamis; and senior government officials.

According to a press release by JKR, the construction of the pedestrian bridge is part of the Jalan Residency expansion project. It commenced operations on May 14.

The new pedestrian bridge is eight metres wide and 80 metres long spanning across the Sungai Kianggeh. The construction is aimed at connecting the Dermaga Diraja to Jalan Residency and completing a network of footpaths measuring three kilometres long, beginning from Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas to the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Bridge.

The press release noted that the establishment of the pedestrian bridge will be able to further expand space for public recreation along the banks of the Sungai Brunei, while enjoying the atmosphere of Bandar Seri Begawan and Kampong Ayer and become an attraction as a place of interest among visitors and tourists alike.

In addition, the completion of the aforementioned network of footpaths is expected to be able to generate growth in terms of socio-economic activities and enhance the beauty of Bandar Seri Begawan.

In this regard, the JKR sought the cooperation of all parties to safeguard the cleanliness of the pedestrian bridge and its surroundings.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

TO COMMEMORATE its 25th year of establishment, Darussalam Holdings Sdn Bhd (DHSB) yesterday evening held a 25-time Khatam Al-Quran ceremony and Doa Kesyukuran at the Ash-Shaliheen Mosque in Jalan Kumbang Pasang.

The guest of honour was Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, in his capacity as the Chairman of Board of Directors for Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB).

Also in attendance were Deputy Minister of Finance cum Deputy Chairman of Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors Dato Paduka Awang Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Chief Syar’ie Judge cum Chairman of the Perbadanan TAIB Syariah Advisory Committee Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Salim bin Haji Besar, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism cum Chairman of DHSB Board of Directors Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy and Religious) at the Ministry of Religious Affairs and member of the DHSB Board of Directors Haji Mohd Serudin bin Haji Timbang and management and staff of DHSB.

The event commenced with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by the guest of honour followed by a mass recitation of verses of Al-Quran and reading of Takhtim and Doa Khatam by Ustaz Haji Adi Aismat bin Lamat.

The event concluded with Doa Tahlil led by Haji Ahmad Fadhli bin Haji Damit.

A Waqaf in the form of prayer mats was handed over by the Minister of Defence II to the Imam of Ash-Shaliheen Mosque Anuar bin Haji Salim. This was followed by Maghrib and Sunnat Hajat prayers for the upcoming Haj led by the Imam of Ash-Shaliheen Mosque.

DHSB Managing Director Haji Mahmud bin Haji Mohamed said, “This year DHSB has organised numerous events to commemorate our 25th year anniversary, one of which was the Travel Fair organised in April this year, followed by monthly lucky draws for customers who purchase their tickets through DHSB,” he said.

The lucky draw will be held every month, where five winners will be selected. The final grand prize will be drawn in April 2019 to end the promotion period.

|     Daniel Lim     |

SERIKANDI Group of Companies hosted a Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house at the grand ballroom of the Brunei Shell Recreation Club (BSRC), Seria on July 6.

The event aimed at fostering a closer relationship between its staff members, invited agencies and other companies.

Staff members from various government agencies; Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP); Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd; stakeholders; suppliers; contract holders; contract owners; and associated agencies and companies were present.

The guest of honour was Acting Belait District Officer Haji Mohd Zamree bin Haji Junaidi. Serikandi Group of Companies Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shaikh Haji Khalid bin Shaikh Haji Ahmad was present to welcome the guests.

The event also saw Shaikh Haji Khalid handing over donations to the Belait District Charity Fund, received by Haji Mohd Zamree during the event.

A cake-cutting ceremony was also held in conjunction with the company’s 44th anniversary.

The event concluded with a presentation of a token of appreciation from Serikandi Group of Companies CEO to the guest of honour.

|     Daniel Lim     |

IN PREPARATION for the upcoming 72nd birthday celebration 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, a series of practice sessions are currently being conducted in the Belait District.

Present to oversee the first of many practice sessions at the Municipal Field in Kuala Belait was Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong in his capacity as Chairman of the National Executive Committee for His Majesty’s 72nd birthday celebration.

Also present were Legislative Council members, permanent secretary, deputy permanent secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), Acting Belait District Officer, senior officers from the MoHA and the Belait District Office, and committee members in charge of planning and organising His Majesty’s 72nd birthday celebration.

Participants at the session comprised students from schools across the Belait District, youth from the National Service Programme (PKBN), representatives of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and staff from government agencies and associations in the Belait District.

The rehearsal was conducted to help them familiarise with the events which will be showcased during His Majesty’s visit to the district.

His Majesty will visit the Belait District as part of an annual get-together with the residents on July 21, while a similar event is also scheduled on July 19 for the Tutong District, July 24 for the Temburong District and July 29 for the Brunei-Muara District.