|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

THE Information Department through its Nationhood Unit, Nationhood and Community Division held another nationalism briefing titled ‘Our Sultan, Appreciating Our National Flag and National Anthem’ for more than 200 Year 7 students of Sultan Sharif Ali Secondary School at the school’s multipurpose hall yesterday.

The school’s Principal Mohammad Danny bin Aimi and teachers also attended the briefing.

Assistant Information Officer Mohd Nurakram bin Noraini @ Bahrin delivered the briefing, in which he talked about the history 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, as well as the history behind the national flag and national anthem.

A video presentation was held to help the students understand more on the topics discussed in the briefing.

Quizzes were also conducted at the end of the briefing where students stood a chance to win prizes from the Information Department.

The nationalism briefing was carried out to instil patriotism among local youth as well as to promote the rich culture and history of Brunei Darussalam.

BRUNEI Darussalam received two awards as a finalist during the 7th annual Global Inclusion Awards ceremony.

Jointly organised by Child and Youth Finance International (CYFI), Argentina’s G20 Presidency and the Global partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) on July 3 at the Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the event saw Brunei nominated as one of the top three finalists against Bhutan and Indonesia.

The Global Inclusion Awards 2018 recognised and honoured those who achieved greatness in furthering the Economic Citizenship of children and youth at the national, regional and international levels. All finalists demonstrated robust innovation in financial, social and livelihoods education, financial inclusion and entrepreneurial support for children and youth.

Five regional winners were selected for the Global Inclusion Awards by eight juries who have years of experience as practitioners in the areas of finance, child welfare and non-profit development.

Brunei Darussalam was praised for its approach in covering many different aspects of financial inclusion such as creating a pilot programme focussed on entrepreneurs.

The CYFI Country Award 2018 acknowledged the accomplishments of the Sultanate’s Government authorities, especially the Ministry of Education (MoE), in building alliances among key national stakeholders, initiating child-and youth-friendly financial regulation and expanding the reach of quality Economic Citizenship Education through formal and non-formal channels.

Brunei was also nominated as a finalist for the Global Money Week Award.

The award acknowledged efforts and accomplishments of countries in implementing the Global Money Week 2018 held from March 12-18, 2018 at the national level.

The lead organisation for this event was the Curriculum Development Department, MoE.

The award commended Brunei for its playful approach.

A number of activities were organised, including ones that established international contact (Singapore) between students and events strengthening relations between people and government.

The overall winner of the Global Money Week Award 2018 was the Netherlands for efforts by the Money Wise Platform, Ministry of Finance, Dutch Central Bank (DNB), Dutch Bankers Association and Dutch Association of Insurers.

The Global Inclusion Awards 2018 for Asia-Pacific region was won by the Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan.

Third Secretary at the Embassy of Brunei Darussalam in Riyadh Mohamad Izzul Asyraf bin Kamis, received the two awards during the event.

|     Izah Azahari     |

THE Miftah an-Nur Islamic International School held its Child Advancement Day and end-of-year concert, which also coincided with a graduation ceremony for 26 students from Kindergarten 1 and 2 at the school’s building in Kampong Manggis.

Gracing the event as the guest of honour was Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah, accompanied by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Muhammad Ruzaini bin Pengiran Dr Haji Mohd Yakub.

Among the students graduating was Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muhammad ‘Aamir bin Pengiran Anak Haji Muhammad Ruzaini, the son of Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah.

The event began with the singing of the national anthem, followed by welcoming speeches by Co-Acting Principals Wiem Mihoub and Khadizah binti Haji Emran, who highlighted the students’ journey of learning and growth.

“Our mission is to raise students who are successful and confident, and empowering them by providing innovative and quality education so they can do well and give back to the community,” they added.

The event continued with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and a Salam song performance by the students prior to the Doa and the reading of Al-Quran. The students also had individual recitations of Surah Al-Fatihah, Surah Al-Falaq, Ayatul Kursi, Surah Al-Lahab and Surah Al-Mulk.

The ceremony was enlivened with performances such as Ya-Hanana, Allah Makes Everything and Chan Mali Chan by the students, and a video presentation of the students. Wiem Mihoub handed over certificates to the students.

The day also saw parents catching up on their children’s class performances during the Child Achievement Day.

|     Rahwani Zahari     |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday received Letters of Credence from four newly-appointed envoys to the country.

The envoys who presented their Letters of Credence were Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Brunei Darussalam Dr Sujatmiko; Ambassador of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to Brunei Darussalam Phonethavy Boutdara; Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Brunei Darussalam Yoon Hyun-bong; and Ambassador of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar to Brunei Darussalam U Htin Lynn.

Dr Sujatmiko previously served as Deputy Coordinating Minister for Women and Children Protection, Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Cultural Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia.

Phonethavy Boutdara formerly held the post of Director-General of Press Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

Yoon Hyun-bong previously served as Chair of the Fair Trade Committee, Seoul Metropolitan Government, Republic of Korea.

Meanwhile, U Htin Lynn had served as Permanent Representative of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar to the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland.

The ceremony took place at the Istana Nurul Iman.

|     James Kon     |

BRUNEI men’s basketball team have made their stable rise in the region’s basketball scene after winning the Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam Challenge Trophy at the 2018 Borneo City Basketball Invitation Tournament yesterday.

Held at the Brunei Basketball Association Basketball Court in Batu Bersurat, the team outplayed Miri 80-64 in the final to lift the trophy for the second time. Brunei first won the trophy in 2011.

Benjamin Norman Sim was the tournament’s MVP after contributing 38 points for the team including six three-pointers, while Captain Choo Yung Jian had 13 points.

“I was with Han Ming Kwang, Soon Kian Leong, Lim Chee Choun, Lim Aik Hock and Choo Yung Jian when we won the championship and we did it together again this time. It’s always fun to play together again,” Benjamin said.

On the match against Miri, he said, “They were a tough team but we have some good mix of young and senior guys. It’s good for us to win this time but we hope that we can continue to win in this tournament.”

Benjamin hailed their recent participation in the FIBA Asia Cup in Thailand, which he said helped the team’s chemistry.

“We have a little bit of chemistry playing together after coming back from the recent the SEABA Pre-Qualifier for the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup in Thailand. And we had three weeks with Coach Damian. It has really helped us.”

Asked on the potential and future of the national team, he said, “I will continue to train and keep fit. I hope BBA will continue to develop young talents. I am getting old and I am just happy to be able to play and contribute to the team.”

From the start, Brunei dominated the match with much credit to playmaker Choo Yung Jian who managed to intercept passes and steals from the opponents. Brunei took a six-point lead after the first quarter with Benjamin Sim having his hot-shooting streak of 13 points in the 10-minute quarter.

Miri couldn’t find their rhythm to score in the second quarter as their offences were limited by a strong Brunei defence. They scored eight points in the 10-minute quarter. Brunei took a commanding lead of 20 points by the end of the second quarter with the score 44-24.

After the interval, Miri team mounted a comeback thanks to Kuan Shean Lin’s impressive shooting spree who hit two three-pointers. But Brunei team held off the resurgence with team efforts in offensive prowess.

In the fourth quarter, Miri Deployed its full court press strategy and forced Brunei to turn over the ball and score. Brunei’s lead was cut to 14 points at some point in the fourth quarter. However, Miri couldn’t sustain the intensity and Brunei held on for the win.

Coach Dave Riemer of Miri commented after the game, “Our starting point guard Samuel took some medicine that has affected his game today. Nobody told me about his condition until he was substituted three minutes after tip off. He was out of his game and we rely on him as the leader of the game.

“We have been training for three weeks and we have to make the best of the time that we have. We didn’t establish a starting five until five days ago. Brunei team has talents and has many skilled players and they are well-coached. Our guys were not ready to play today against a better team.”

Brunei coach Lim Boon Teck also praised NBA G-League assistant coach Damian Cotter who spent three weeks of coaching clinic with the men’s team. Lim singled out how his contributions have affected his team’s mentality and confidence.

“I want to mention that aside from our coaches and players, Damian has played a key role in our men’s team winning the Borneo Cup today. His philosophy and gameplay which he taught us were put to good use today,” the head coach said.

Meanwhile, Miri veteran team beat Brunei veteran team 68-61 to win the Dato Dr Yee Moh Chai Chellege Trophy. In the Women Category, Kota Kinabalu thrashed Brunei 102-44 to win the Tan Che Eu Challenge Trophy.

The prizes were presented by the organising chairman of the competition On Wei Yeah.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam polo team warmed up in their preparations for the upcoming His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei’s 72nd Birthday Polo Tournament in style after an 8-7 win over the Pakistan Army polo team at the Royal Brunei Polo and Riding Club in Jerudong yesterday.

The Brunei team led by His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah emerged winners of the High Commissioner of Islamic Republic of Pakistan Polo Cup 2018 after coming on top in the first edition of the match.

The visiting side wasted no time in making their presence known after a blistering start from Major Haseeb Mikhas fired them to an early lead.

Brunei, however, got into the mood straight away and levelled matters with the next goal of the game.

Pakistan’s Major Haseeb was in inspired form after driving forward for his second goal of the game from close range to guide his team into a 3-2 lead at the end of the first chukka.

The Brunei side, who won bronze in the 29th SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur last year, held their composure despite the resurgent Pakistan side as a run-up by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Bahar was followed with a successful conversion through a lofted ball.

Brunei led for the first time with less than a minute of the second chukka remaining but Brigadier General Zulfiqar Ali had other ideas and pulled his side level with the last notable action of the period.

Continuing the quick start from the first chukka, Pakistan retook the lead after Zulfiqar drove the ball into goal but Brunei swiftly hit back to make it 5-5.

Nevertheless, Brunei finished strongly in the fourth chukka in their final preparations before they aim for glory in the His Majesty The Sultan of Brunei’s 72nd Birthday Polo Tournament.

The four-day tournament, which will run from July 10-13, will also feature Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines and Pakistan.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

FIVE members of the Darussalam Motorcycle Association (PEMODA), who are participating in the Lady Bikers Tourism Johor Ride 2018, met the Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Iskandar over breakfast at the palace recently.

Sultan Ibrahim, who flagged off the convoy comprising 108 riders from Malaysia and Brunei at Istana Pasir Pelangi, Johor Bahru, was surprised to see the participants from Brunei, said Serinorhaty binti Haji Lamat who leads the Brunei lady bikers.

The inaugural motorbike ride event, organised by the state government through Tourism Johor, involves a tour of 14 tourism locations in Johor to diversify the state tourist attractions, draw more tourists and expand product promotional campaigns.

According to state Women and Tourism chairman, Liow Cai Tung, the event also served to expand hospitality services and develop tourism packages for motoring activities such as convoy rides.

Tourist attractions include Marina Puteri Harbour, Stadium Tan Sri Haji Hassan Yunos Larkin, Kompleks Yayasan Warisan Johor, Dataran Bandaraya Johor Bahru and Laman Mahkota.

The group will also visit Zeromile, Muzium Tokoh, Muzium Nelayan Tanjung Balau, Pantai Tanjung Balau, Muar River Cruise and Desa Keroma Eco Resort, Muar.

Serinorhaty said it has been quite an experience especially the 1,000km-ride that started in Putrajaya on Friday, heading to Johor Bahru and Kota Tinggi before stopping in Muar.

|     James Kon     |

AS THE Lead Coordinator for the ASEAN Public Toilet Standard, Brunei Darussalam through the Tourism Development Department under the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) organised the ASEAN Public Toilet Auditor Training for a second time at the Horticulture Business Centre in Rimba, Gadong yesterday.

Ten participants including representatives from ASEAN member states Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam as well as various local government agencies attended the one-day training which aimed to prepare ASEAN member countries for the upcoming ASEAN Public Toilet Award 2019 which will be held in January next year during the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2019 at Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.

The auditor training, which covered theory and practical sessions, was conducted to introduce the methodology and key requirements for the assessment of public toilets based on the ASEAN Public Toilet Standard. For the practical session, participants conducted public toilet audits at a shopping complex and restaurant located in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Deputy Permanent Secretary (Tourism) at the MPRT Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali presented certificates of completion of the ASEAN Public Toilet Standard Auditor Training to the participants at a ceremony held at the Multipurpose Hall of the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex.

In its efforts to tackle issues of public toilet cleanliness, the MPRT in cooperation with several government agencies continues to create awareness and monitor previously-graded public toilet owners/managers and work with them to ensure they maintain the standard level of cleanliness at their facilities.

The first ASEAN Spa Services Award, ASEAN Homestay and ASEAN Community Based Tourism (CBT) Award will also be presented during the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2019 in Ha Long Bay.

The ASEAN Public Toilet Standard was developed with the objective to ensure the quality, comfort, safety and proper waste management of public toilets in general at tourist destinations within the ASEAN region.

|     James Kon     |

LADY luck was with Luby B Lavastida Chong yesterday morning when she picked the right envelope to drive home a brand new Toyota Wigo as the grand prize winner for the Anthony Tours Grand Lucky Draw at a ceremony held at the Millennium Restaurant.

Luby B, in an interview, said, “I felt blessed to take home a brand new car. At first, when I opened the envelope, I only saw an empty piece of paper. Then, I flipped over the paper and read I won a car, I was so surprised.”

Last year, she bought an air ticket to Melbourne, Australia, at Anthony Tours, thus entitling her to the draw. She highlighted the good customer service as the main factor for purchasing air tickets at Anthony Tours. Managing Director of Anthony Tours Anthony Lim was present to hand over the grand prize to Luby B.

Head of Sales from Royal Brunei Airlines Ai Ling Ng; Head of Sales Wong Siaw Ling; General Manager of Sabre TN Brunei Irene Soon; and staff of Anthony Tours were also present.

Meanwhile, Low Kok Wai won himself a return air ticket to London as the second prize. Third prize of a return air ticket to Beijing went to Mohammad Saidi bin Muttar.

Another 18 winners went home with various prizes. The promotion for the draw started from June 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018.

Anthony Lim hoped that there will be more prizes for the next promotion and he also congratulated all the winners.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

THE weekly pre-dawn talk at the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque resumed yesterday, with the topic of ‘Facing Life’s Challenges with Patience and Cheerfulness’ by Assistant Registrar at the Syariah Subordinate Courts in the Belait District, Abdul Hadi bin Ali.

Abdul Hadi called for a change of mindset in viewing one’s daily struggles as a test from Allah the Almighty, rather than a burden.

“The life of this world is transient, and the tests given to us by Allah the Almighty are the measure for our final destination,” he said.

“The Almighty does not burden anyone beyond his scope. It is not wrong to seek the comforts of this life, but it is important for us to seek strength in spirit.”

Among those in attendance were Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud; and Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy and Religious) at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA)Haji Mohd Serudin bin Haji Timbang.

Initiated by the MoRA through its Mosque Affairs Department, the Islamic Da’wah Centre and the Islamic Syiar Development Division, the talk is part of the Masjidku Makmur, Negaraku Berkat programme to encourage the presence of more congregants for mass Subuh prayer at the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday graced a match between the Brunei Darussalam polo team and Pakistan Army polo team at the Royal Brunei Polo and Riding Club in Jerudong yesterday.

Also present at the event was His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah.

Upon arrival, His Majesty was greeted by High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Brunei Darussalam, Major General (Rtd) Tariq Rashid Khan.

The Brunei Darussalam polo team led by His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah, won the High Commissioner of Islamic Republic of Pakistan Polo Cup 2018 after edging the Pakistan team 8-7 in a thrilling contest.

After the end of the match, His Majesty consented to present medals to both teams as well as the championship trophy to Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah.

Brunei will be taking part in the His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei’s 72nd Birthday Polo Tournament which will take place from July 10 – 13.

|     Izah Azahari     |

THE Ministry of Education (MoE) yesterday hosted the Excellent Student Awards Ceremony 2017 at the Chancellor Hall of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), with the joint collaboration of the Department of Schools, Department of Examination, Private Education Section and the Special Education Unit of the MoE, as well as the University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE).

Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Jefriah, along with other members of the royal family, attended the event to witness one of her children, Nurul Amal Asfarina Hassanah Saffiyah Athirah, receiving an award for the Cambridge Outstanding Achievers Awards 2017.

On hand to present the awards was Minister of Education Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman.

Also in attendance was Deputy Minister of Education Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and a Doa Selamat led by Mohd Iqbal Hibatullah @ Hilal bin Mohd Rushidi, a Year 11 student from Sayyidina Hasan Secondary School.

This was followed by the recitation of selected verses from Al-Quran by Muhammad Amirul Husaini bin Moksin, also a Year 11 student from the Sayyidina Hasan Secondary School, who was champion of the Tilawah Al-Quran Competition at the Secondary School and College National Level.

The ceremony continued with a welcoming speech delivered by Acting Director General of Education at the MoE Hajah Anis Faudzulani binti Haji Dzulkiflee, in her capacity as the event chairperson.

In her speech, the Acting Director General of Education said that the annual awards ceremony is a form of recognition from the MoE, for the students’ academic achievements on a national and international level.

“The MoE is committed in its efforts to provide quality education for the development of outstanding students and manpower with the energy, quality and highly-skilled values in achieving the goals of Brunei Vision 2035,” she added.

The event continued with a brief speech by Ng Kim Huat, the Country Director, Southeast Asia and Pacific Cambridge International Examinations Regional Director representative, which was followed by the awards presentation ceremony.

A total of 265 students received 298 awards for excellence, with 25 in the top ranking for the Primary School Assessment (PSR) among government and private schools.

Six students received awards for the Pearson BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate, while 25 achieved excellence in their GCE ‘O’ Level (Ordinary Level)/IGCSE, and 91 were awarded for the GCE ‘A’ Level (Advanced Level) and International Baccalaureate (IB). A total of 88 students also received the Cambridge Outstanding Achievers Award (COAA) in the GCE ‘A’ Level, GCE ‘AS’ Level, and GCE ‘O’ Level, with several them among the Top 10 both locally and internationally.

Also among the award categories were the Special Awards, presented to five students; and the Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) Awards, awarded to four of the top students for their excellent results in PSR, GCE ‘O’ Level, GCE ‘A’ Level and IB.

Coming from various government and private primary schools, secondary schools, colleges and sixth form centres, the students each received a trophy, certificate of appreciation, cash prize and a prize sponsored by BIBD.

Recipients of the COAA received a trophy, certificate of appreciation and a special prize from the Department of Examination and the CIE Board.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

GHANIM International Corporation Sdn Bhd, the company tasked with developing, marketing and promoting Brunei Halal products across the world, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with PDS.

This was stated by Ghanim International Corporation CEO Dr Nur Rahman in an interview with the Bulletin during its Hari Raya celebration at Perdana Hall of Wafa Hotel, Annajat Complex, in Beribi yesterday.

Present at the event was Minister of Health Dato Paduka Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Jaafar.

“This is going to be the next big thing that we are expecting for both Ghanim International Corporation bruneihalalfoods, PDS and for Brunei as well. Our overall objective is to create import substitution and increase export from Brunei,” said Dr Nur Rahman.

“We have started exporting products from Brunei which include small and medium enterprise (SME) products. We are the first to export from Brunei so our opportunity is huge. We have countries like China, all the Middle Eastern countries like United Arab Emirates (UAE) and such, who have shown interest in our products,” he added. “We are also working closely with the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ministry of Health and others to diversify our industry, help our local SMEs, create job opportunities for locals.

“We want to make an iconic and trustworthy brand not only in Brunei, but also in the Asian market and around the world,” he added.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

JAPAN Media Communication Centre (JAMCO), a non-profit television promotion organisation from Japan yesterday handed over 21 Japanese TV programmes on the promotion of disaster prevention, environmental awareness and documentaries to state broadcaster Radio Television Brunei (RTB).

In a ceremony held at the RTB Complex in the capital to signify the occasion yesterday, Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam, Motohiko Kato handed over the TV programmes to the Director of RTB, Haji Muhammad Suffian bin Haji Bungsu.

In addition, the Embassy of Japan in Brunei Darussalam has offered different videos featuring a comprehensive view of Japanese culture, nature, science and technology and tourism among others, produced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

Some of the sponsored TV programmes include Kids Survival School which aims to encourage children to acquire knowledge about disaster survival in an enjoyable way; Listen to the Earth which inspires students to consider how to protect themselves when faced with natural disasters such as earthquakes, thunderstorms and typhoons by getting a better understanding of mechanisms that generate natural disasters; What Can We Do? Our Planet’s Future which promotes the discussion of environmental problems with a focus of global warming; Passionate Challenger: Biologist Unlocks the Secret Life of Marine Animals, a documentary featuring research on marine creatures.

Some documentaries portraying survivors of the Great East Japan Earthquake who strive through periods of reconstruction are also part of the sponsorship including Great East Japan Disaster: Akiko’s First 30 Days; Bouncing Back with Family Ties; and Daring Attempt of Oystermen to Overcome Earthquake Adversity.

The Embassy of Japan in Brunei Darussalam and JAMCO hopes that by RTB broadcasting these Japanese TV programmes, it will contribute to disaster prevention and help inform the public on the importance of reducing environmental problems, while also encouraging international cooperation. It also hopes to bring wider interest in Japan among the Bruneian public.

JAMCO was established in 1991 for the purpose of promoting international mutual understanding and contributing to the development of global broadcasting. It was originally created with funds from Japan’s national public broadcaster NHK and commercial TV companies. Since its inauguration, more than 12,000 programmes have been provided to 96 countries.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

AS PART of efforts to continue reaching out to residents of villages in the country, the Information Department carried out its ‘Personal Contact’ programme yesterday at the residence of the Village Head of Kampong Labi II.

According to a press release, this is one of the ongoing activities of the Information Department, through its Belait District branch, in an effort to further forge collaboration in community affairs.

The delegation from the Information Department was welcomed by the Village Head of Kampong Labi II as well as Village Consultative Council (MPK) members. The delegation was led by Acting Director of Information Mawardi bin Haji Mohammad accompanied by several officers and staff from the department’s Belait District branch.

The Personal Contact programme, under the department’s work strategy of face-to-face communication, aimed at enhancing ties between the government and the people.

The press release explained that this programme is a platform for conveying government policies and intentions and to foster unity in society, towards love of religion, king and country. It is also conducted as a way to learn about issues and opinions, suggestions that require attention and action by the relevant stakeholders in the government.

Additionally, it was mentioned that the development and advancement of mukim and village, especially places and products to be introduced to the public, within the country and overseas, can be promoted through the Kenali Negara Kitani (KNK) column published in Pelita Brunei.

Among what was shared from the MPK and village residents were issues pertaining to cleanliness, facilities, infrastructures, economic issues and public welfare. Also shared for the villages was how to deal with the spread of false news or information.

Through the programme, the department introduced and familiarised regarding the Information Department’s mobile application ‘InfoDeptBN’ and also explained the procedure to download the application through the Google Play Store for Android and the App Store for iOS users.

The programme is the foundation of the department to provide official information on government policies and meaning of the government so that all members of the community understand, support and appreciate them in an effective way, not only through briefings and dialogue sessions but also through visits, based on suitability.

The press release goes on to note that the programme reaching out to the public in a face-to-face manner is still relevant in this sophisticated era because it is more personal and allows for more effective interaction and can also provide goodwill. Thus, good relations between civil service and the community will bring prosperity and harmony for the community and country. It was highlighted that this is very important in maintaining unity in community life.

It was also stated that programmes such as this will be able to foster a spirit of togetherness and responsibility towards the country and inculcate a close relationship between the government and the people.

The press release added that the Information Department can be found on social media on Facebook at Jabatan Penerangan Jabatan Perdana Menteri; on Twitter via @infodept_bn; and on Instagram via @infodept.bn.

ON JULY 9, (at 8am local time), Typhoon Maria was located at 21.8 °N 133.6 °E, in the western part of Pacific Ocean, moving northwest-wards at about 30km/h with maximum wind speed of about 195km/h near its centre (photo below).

Typhoon Maria is expected to continue moving northwest-wards towards Taiwan, that is further away from our region.

The typhoon system is not expected to directly influence weather conditions in Brunei Darussalam. Nonetheless, a low pressure system is identified around South China Sea. Therefore Brunei will experience slightly windy conditions with occasional heavy showers, and gusting winds of 40-50km/h. The wave height of Brunei waters may also increase to a moderate state of up to 1.5 metres.

The Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department (BDMD) advises the general public, motorists, and mariners to take precautionary actions to ensure safety, especially during the unsettled weather conditions.

The department will continue to monitor the development and track of Typhoon Maria closely, and will issue appropriate weather advisory or warnings if necessary.

For the latest weather updates, visit www.met.gov.bn or follow Facebook (bruneiweather), Instagram (@bruneiweather) and Brunei WX mobile application.

The Duty Meteorological Forecaster at the Weather Forecast Office can be reached through Weather Line 114.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

THE Tutong District Volunteers (SUKA) yesterday handed over clothe donations to victims of a recent house fire.

Azmi bin Haji Md Zain led the SUKA delegation during the donation presentation ceremony.

The donation was taken from the Sumbang & Bantu (Donate & Help) campaign, which is SUKA’s flagship campaign that provides a public platform to donate clothing to the less fortunate and needy groups in the country.

The donation was handed over to Muhammad Farhan bin Sadikr and family at Jalan Paya Bunga Mera, Kampong Mulaut.

The Sumbang & Bantu campaign is a continuous initiative allowing the public to donate clothing to the SUKA Office at Kampong Sungai Basong in Tutong, which will then donate them to the less fortunate or house fire victims.

According to the family, the fire occurred at 4.58pm on July 4.

THE Ministry of Development through the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe) yesterday announced the addition of Wednesday in the ‘No Plastic Bag Every Day’ initiative starting from July 11 corresponding to 27th of Syawal 1439 Hijrah, making it five days in a week without the use of plastic carrier bags in participating stores and shops.

The extension is part of the government’s effort in realising no plastic bags usage every day by January 1, 2019.

The initiative which carries the slogan, ‘It takes a nation to end plastic pollution’ emphasises the importance of an integrated effort towards combating plastic pollution in the country.

As mentioned by the Minister of Development Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar, during the launch of Thursday’s addition in the ‘No Plastic Bag Every Day’ campaign on April 19, “Success in realising the desire to make Brunei Darussalam free from plastic pollution is entirely dependent on the actions of all parties, especially the supermarkets and business establishments, retail shop owners and people who use plastic bags. If there is no consciousness among us all about the pollution from plastic bags, the government’s plans will not be a complete success”.

After the addition of Wednesday, the remaining days will be added in phases with Tuesday tentatively in October and Monday in December and the exact dates will be communicated by JASTRe closer to the time.

The initiative initially involves stores and businesses that are currently listed under the ‘No Plastic Bag Weekend’ initiative but will be extended to other consumers of plastic bags such as retails shops (kedai-kedai runcit), restaurants and markets/stalls (gerai-gerai).

|     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 yesterday made an unscheduled round of four Arabic schools in the Brunei-Muara District.

The monarch first visited Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic Boys Secondary School (SMALHB) in Jalan Tutong, before proceeding to Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit Girls Arabic Religious Secondary School (SUAMPRIPAD) and Bandar Seri Begawan Arabic Preparatory School.

During His Majesty’s visit to SMALHB, the monarch listened to the fluency of the students conversing in Arabic, and then queried several new teachers about whether they had already received confirmation on their current employment status or otherwise.

Later, His Majesty concluded the tour with a lengthy dialogue session at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Girls Arabic Religious Secondary School (SUAMPRIPAHS)in Kampong Katok.

During the session, several Arabic school staff expressed their grievances on the inadequate workforce, particularly during the teachers’ maternity leave, as well as at the prospective Arabic school for boys in Kampong Rimba.

A teacher said around 30 of them were given a workload of 30-32 teaching periods per week, which made it difficult for them to take maternity leave or arrange for a substitute.

Another teacher also highlighted the shortage of staff for certain subjects, which will be further heightened with the expected increase in the number of students in the academic years to come.

Also highlighted was the issue of expatriate teachers, whose contracts were not renewed, thereby leading to a shortage in academic staff.

His Majesty also made a similar unplanned visit to SUAMPRIPAHS in Kampong Katok last month to learn more about the grievances faced by the school teachers there.

Also present at the dialogue session were the Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud and the Permanent Secretary (Law and Welfare) at the Prime Minister’s Office Haji Mohammed Rosli bin Haji Ibrahim.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam polo team underlined their intent of winning His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei’s 72nd Birthday Polo Tournament after cruising to an emphatic 10-4.5 win over Pakistan at the Royal Brunei Polo and Riding Club in Jerudong yesterday.

The hosts were extremely unlucky to brush against the post in the early proceedings but Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah opened the floodgates with the first goal of the game.

Brunei were awarded a 30-yard penalty and not long after Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Bahar doubled their tally while Pakistan were given half a point.

The speedy Gaston Urturi was an instrumental figure with his all-around game and his team’s third goal characterised his attacking prowess as he seamlessly rolled the ball into goal.

Pakistan’s Daffadar Raheem pulled one back for his team at the start of the second chukka but His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen swiftly responded to restore a three-goal cushion.

With three of the members starting during the recent win against the Pakistan Army polo team, Brunei raced to a 7-1.5 lead through another goal from Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah and a double from Gaston.

Raheem scored another goal before Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Bahar extended his side’s commanding lead at the final moments of the third chukka.

Gaston hoisted the ball onto a good angle as Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah finished off the move while Raheem completed his hat-trick and slotted one final goal late towards the fourth chukka.

Meanwhile, Singapore edged Malaysia 6- 5.5 in the opening match of the tournament.

The competition continues with Brunei taking on Malaysia while Philippines will take on the field for the first time against Singapore.