|     Achong Tanjong     |

THE Ministry of Education through the Brunei Darussalam Schools Sports Council (MSSBD), Co-Curriculum Education Department yesterday sent 40 athletes and 16 officers to participate in the 10th ASEAN School Games Championship in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia until July 27.

The contingent, led by Acting Director of Co-Curriculum Education Mohamed Jais bin Haji Abdul Rahman as Chef de Mission, will participate in seven sport events: badminton, netball, basketball, athletics, ping pong, swimming and sepak-takraw.

Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh presented the national flag to the Chef de Mission in a ceremony at the Departure Hall of Brunei International Airport.

The athletes competing are selected students from secondary schools that participated in national championships organised by the Co-Curriculum Education Department and National Sports Association.

They underwent training under the guidance of coaches and assistant coaches as part of their preparation for the championship.

The ASEAN School Games has been organised annually since 2009, with each ASEAN member nation taking turns to host the championship.

The event aims to promote ASEAN solidarity among youth through sports, and provide opportunities for student athletes to showcase their talents while engaging in cultural exchange within the region.

MSSBD hopes the contingent will collect medals this year and give fierce competition to the other participating teams.

Meanwhile, two athletes will compete in the swimming event – Nur Haziq bin Samil and Alvin Bong Jia Lok, led by Team Manager Chong Yun Foh. Nur Haziq will participate in four events: 50m freestyle, and 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke, while Alvin will participate in the 50m freestyle and 50m breaststroke events.

|     Azlan Othman     |

THE Hengyi Refinery and Petrochemical Plant Project at Pulau Muara Besar (PMB) is 46 per cent complete and construction is set to be finalised next year, according to panel members at the 11th Hengyi Stakeholders Engagement Dialogue Session yesterday at Tarindak D’Seni in Jalan Residency.

Panellists included the plant’s HSSE Executive (Safety) Sham Khiruddin, Human Resource Director Alan Goh and Director of General Affairs Li Peng.

Officers from the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF), Royal Brunei Navy (RBN), Fire and Rescue Department, Marine Police, Ministry of Communications, Ministry of Development as well as officers from several stakeholder departments and agencies were also present.

The panellists said that Hengyi is conducting dredging works around the area to allow larger vessels to dock at Muara Port. The company also made significant efforts to ensure marine life around the island remain unaffected by the project.

A total of 11,804 people are working on the island, including over 1,100 trainees of the Centre for Capacity Building (PPK).

Hengyi, as part of its workforce localisation drive (the firm is targetting about 80 per cent local hires for Phase 1 of the project), has been sending talented Bruneians for training in China.

Eleven students from Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) penned scholarship agreements in February with the company for its joint Chemical and Process Engineering Scholarship Programme between UBD and Zhejiang University, China.

The company will also enter into a twinning programme partnership with IBTE and a Lanzhou-based vocational polytechnic specialising in petrochemicals – the tripartite agreement is scheduled to be penned in the first week of August this year.

Fire personnel including officers and firefighters were also sent to China to undergo a firefighter training course earlier in June this year, with another batch to be sent for the same months-long training further down the line.

The panellists added that a number of side projects will be open for tender for local contractors, including maintenance and Halal catering services, while several activities in the third quarter of the year are to be implemented, such as the construction of more jetties, as well as a hydrogenation unit and aromatics complex.

|     Fizah HAB     |

THE Kenali Makanan Kitani food festival is back for the third consecutive year, offering famous Bruneian cuisine, being hosted by Anjung Saujana.

The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism and Chairman of Royal Brunei Catering Sdn Bhd (RBC) Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin launched the food festival on Wednesday evening.

RBC Acting General Manager Haji Jeff Hadiman bin Dato Paduka Haji Danial delivered the opening speech at the launching ceremony.

Members of the Board of Directors of RBC, event partners and guests were among those attending the launching ceremony.

The food festival, being held from July 19 to August 11, offers dinner buffet for diners to indulge in the big spread of Bruneian cuisine, including the classic favourite Ambuyat, Ikan Liking and Sayur Umbut, to name a few.

Also taking place during the event were handover of gifts to the Children’s Cancer Foundation (YASKA) as part of RBC’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative.

|     Aziz Idris     |

BRUNEI will observe the 13th National Youth Day Celebration on August 1 at the Plenary Hall of the International Convention Centre (ICC), Berakas, highlighting youth entrepreneurs and the annual youth awards.

This was revealed by Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil during a press conference at the MCYS building yesterday.

Carrying the theme, Belia Pemacu Brunei Maju (Driven Youth Advocating Brunei), this year’s celebration focusses on recognising youth entrepreneurship and leadership who have contributed to the development of the nation towards achieving Vision 2035.

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 is expected to grace the event.

The youth will participate in the get-together with His Majesty during the National Youth Day ceremony, also held at the ICC.

An exhibition highlighting successful youth entrepreneurship, themed Kejayaan Terbukti (Proven Success) will be held on the day.

“This gathering will highlight successful youth in numerous fields, including entrepreneurs who have impacted the community, embraced the country’s name or receive any recognised overseas awards,” Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila explained. She added that a Youth Entrepreneur Assembly will be held on the morning of August 2.

The public are invited to attend the session.

Among the activities highlighted by Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila include mass prayers and Doa Kesyukuran on July 26 at Perpindahan Lambak Kanan Mosque, a special Friday sermon on youth, the much-anticipated cycling event as well as a host of other activities to be announced at a later date.

National Youth Day was first held in 2006, initiated by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam as a way to appreciate and celebrate the contribution of youth, and to motivate them in their efforts towards national development.

Awards are presented to outstanding individuals and associations in recognition of their work in youth and national development.

MCYS stated that there will be four categories of awards: Youth Awards for Excellent Project; Youth Award for Young Leadership; Youth Award for Excellence; and Youth Service Award.

The National Youth Day also serves as a platform for youth to gather and exchange ideas regarding the country’s national development.

It also aims to encourage youth to be proactive and foster good relationships.

Others present were Acting Director of Youth Development and Sports Haji Rosmadee bin Haji Mohd Daud; Acting Director of Youth and Sports Haji Zafri bin Haji Mohamed; Administration Officer Grade 1 Azizul Azri bin Haji Majit; leaders and representatives from youth associations.

|     Fizah HAB     |

THIRTEEN members of Brunei’s ‘Haj Advance Party’ from the Department of Haj Management left the Sultanate yesterday for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to prepare for the Haj for Bruneian pilgrims.

The delegation comprised five Haj administration officers and eight medical officers led by Director of Haj Management (Administration) Haji Abdullah bin Haji Mohamad and Director of Haj Management (Medical) Dr Haji Mahmud Shauqi bin Dato Paduka Seri Setia Dr Haji Mahmud Saedon.

Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman and Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Jaafar bid farewell to the Haj Advance Party at the Brunei International Airport.

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health Haji Abdul Manap bin Othman, Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Roslan bin Haji Taja’ah, senior officials from the ministries and close family members were also present.

Preparations were made to ensure a smooth journey for the advance party as well as the Bruneian Haj pilgrims.

The first and second batch of Bruneian pilgrims will leave for the holy land on July 28 – 29 while the third and fourth batch will leave on July 31 and August 1.

They will be accompanied by 35 Haj administration officers and medical officers.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

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 officiated the ceremony to name the Ulu Tutong dam as Empangan Jubli Emas Ulu Tutong.

The largest water supply project in Brunei Darussalam, the dam took over seven years to complete at an approximate cost of BND85.4 million.

The naming ceremony took place yesterday during His Majesty’s meet-and-greet the people programme in Tutong District, held in conjunction with the monarch’s 72nd birthday celebration.

The challenging construction of the dam, located deep in a remote area of the district near the Malaysian border, commenced on February 1, 2010, and taking 89 months, the project was completed on June 25, 2017,

Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar in an interview with the Bulletin on the sidelines of His Majesty’s meet-and-greet event, said the project took quite a long time to complete due to the very large scope of work as well as its challenging and remote location.

The scope of work included construction of a 22-km road from Kampong Belaban to the dam location, a 42-metre high embankment dam, a high-reinforced concrete draw off tower and a spillway structure.

“There was no road to the area at the beginning, so the government needed to build an access road first. The terrain and the unpredictable weather also added to the challenges,” the minister said.

Compared to other dams in the country such as the Kagu Dam in Labi, the Benutan Dam in Tutong, and the Mengkubau Dam in Mentiri, the Empangan Jubli Emas Ulu Tutong is the largest with a reservoir volume of 76 million cubic metres, he noted, adding that the reservoir will help ensure adequate water supply to meet the demand in Brunei-Muara and Tutong districts until 2035 and beyond.

The minister also indicated that the government has identified another potential water source in the Belait District.

During the official naming ceremony, His Majesty also signed the name plaque of Empangan Jubli Emas Ulu Tutong.

The Tutong dam reservoir is designed to operate as a regulating reservoir and will release water into the Tutong River when the natural flow is insufficient to meet the required demand.

Its operation will be integrated with the existing Benutan Dam and the gated Tutong downstream barrage of water supply intakes at Kuala Abang and Layong.

|     James Kon     |

TUTONG witnessed a magnificent demonstration of love and loyalty as thousands gathered to greet His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam during His Majesty’s traditional meet-and-greet with the people programme in conjunction with the monarch’s 72nd birthday celebration.

It was a golden opportunity for the residents of the district who thronged the field area of the Tutong District Civic Centre Complex to personally welcome and express gratitude to His Majesty.

One of the most significant celebrations in the country’s annual calendar of events, His Majesty’s annual get-together with the people is a platform for them to get up close and personal with their adored king. It is the most unique event of the birthday celebration or any stately celebration in the country.

This year, Tutong is the first district to host the grand event which will be held in other three districts in the coming days.

Upon landing at the helipad near the official residence of the Tutong District Officer, His Majesty and members of the royal family proceeded to the royal dais on the field of the Civic Centre Complex in a motorcade.

Hundreds of jubilant students could be seen lining up the roads leading to the dais, waving mini flags, as enthusiastic residents in their thousands waited to greet His Majesty and members of the royal family.

Upon arrival, His Majesty and members of the royal family were greeted by Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, in his capacity as the Chairman of the National Executive Committee for His Majesty’s 72nd Birthday Celebration.

Accompanying His Majesty were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah; and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah.

The celebration commenced with the singing of the national anthem by a choir, accompanied by the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) Brass Band, which was followed by three loud cries of Daulat Kebawah Duli Tuan Patik (Long Live His Majesty).

Then, on behalf of the people and residents of the Tutong District, the ‘Pledge of Loyalty’ was read by Tutong District Officer Haji Shamsul Bahrin bin Haji Mohd Hussain in which he conveyed the deep devotion and gratitude of people of the district towards His Majesty.

“His Majesty’s presence at the Tutong District get-together ceremony is a golden opportunity for all the people and communities in the district to express their affection towards their loving and caring monarch,” he said.

An array of colourful performances by youth in the district further enlivened the event.

Carrying the theme Raja Unggul Negara Gemilang (Noble Ruler, Prosperous Nation), the 20-minute performances were divided into three segments.

After watching the performances, His Majesty and members of the royal family went onto the field to meet the 272 performers.

His Majesty then went around the field to meet, shake-hands and chat with the people and residents of Tutong. Some took the opportunity to take photos with the monarch and members of the royal family.

After the meet-and-greet session, His Majesty proceeded to officiate at the naming ceremony of the Ulu Tutong dam where His Majesty was greeted by Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar and senior officials.

The dam was given the name Empangan Jubli Emas Ulu Tutong.

A cake-cutting ceremony at the main hall of the Civic Centre Complex concluded the grand meet-and-greet event.

|     Wani Roslan     |

THE third and fourth series of the PWM-Porsche Survivor Series Criterium will be held on August 26 and September 29 respectively.

The Malaysia Citizens Association (PWM) has teamed up with Brunei Darussalam Cycling Federation (BDCF) to hold and complete the last two of the four part race series with Porsche Centre Brunei (QAF Eurokars Sdn Bbd).

The details of the competition were revealed in a press conference yesterday. In attendance were the Event Manager and Chairperson of the competition Mewsum Wong, General Manager of QAF Eurokars Sdn Bhd Clement Chong, President of PWM James Lee, Secretary of BDCF Omar Ali Ibrahim, and Technical Officer of BDCF Haji Wahab bin DDW Haji Yusof.

The competition’s third series will be held at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, and the fourth series at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital.

Mewsum Wong said, “We are very happy to continue the last two race of the Porsche Survivor Series that we had started last year. These two particular races are important and special as we have teamed up with PWM who is joining us in co-organising this event.”

PWM will also organise a Fun 20km Night Ride on September 29 at the same venue. The ride is open to all ages.

Four categories will be contested in the third and fourth race series namely Elite and Under-23, Master, Veteran and Novice. The race series are open to cyclists above 17 years, and it was informed that amateur as well as professional cyclists (BDCF members or non-members) are welcomed to participate.

Participants must have valid UCI licence and insurance coverage for the race.

Points accumulated from previous races in Belait and Tutong districts will be carried forward.

Winners will get exclusive limited edition Porsche watches and cash prizes.

Registration can be done online at www.payglass.wufoo.com/forms/survivor-series-2017/. The closing date for registration for the third race series is on August 19 and the fourth race series on September 22. The registration fee is BND50 inclusive of a race jersey, finishing medal and rental of the time chip, or BND30 without the race jersey.

Registration form for the Fun 20km Night Ride can be obtained form www.pwm.com.bn. Applicants must submit the form to Traders Inn, Gadong with registration fee of BND30 inclusive of jersey, finishing medal and a lucky draw entrée.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

DPMM FC head coach Rene Weber has encouraged his charges to preserve a strong mentality which they demonstrated in their last league match ahead of the clash against Home United in the Singapore Premier League at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium tonight.

The head coach wants his side to show the fighting spirit especially against the top teams adding that playing against them helps elevate their performance into a higher level.

“I’m happy with how we play and how we fight especially in the second half (against Tampines). We need to have a mentality where we fight,” said Weber in an interview.

“We are improving in terms of teamwork and we can play better because we have the quality and the technical capacity. We can prepare the team to be strong because technical capacity is important in football. We can work more on the physical capacity with a good programme.

“I am happy with the way we play and I also hope that we do something in the cup (Singapore Cup),” he added.

Hendra Azam will be available for selection after missing the Tampines Rovers FC game through suspension following an accumulation of yellow cards.

DPMM FC can climb to third place with victory on goal difference against the Protectors.

|     James Kon     |

MEMBERS of the public and guests were treated to a dazzling Taiji Wushu performance last night at the Times Square Shopping Centre.

Led by national coach Li Hui, 17 local Wushu athletes performed martial arts feats divided into 22 segments.

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 Datin Nurhayana Janis binti Abdullah Lim attended the event.

Also present were members of the Diplomatic Corps in Brunei Darussalam.

The Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam Yang Jian in her opening remarks said, “Chinese Wushu, or martial arts, has numerous categories. Quanshu, a martial arts that you play with your empty hands, has many schools.

“Contemporary Chinese Quanshu can be divided roughly into five categories, namely Neijiaquan (which uses internal strength); Changquan (long-range, which is popular in Northern China); Nanquan (which originated in southern China); Duanquan (which is characterised by swift movements and intensified strength); and Xiangxingquan (which imitates the movements of animals).

“Taijiquan belongs to the category of Neijiaquan, which focusses on inner strength. Taijiquan itself has many schools too, with at least five famous styles and a history of several hundred years.”

The Chinese Ambassador then gave a brief description of Taijiquan, which combines ancient breathing techniques with the dialectical philosophy of Yin-Yang and traditional Chinese medical science.

“Taijiquan has become a powerful martial arts which has both inner and outer strength, characterising both toughness and suppleness. It reflects the philosophical thinking of the ancient Chinese people that focusses on the close and symbiotic relationship between man and universe, man and nature, and between man and man,” she said.

“What differentiates Taijiquan from other martial arts is that it has long been taken up by ordinary people. It is now an effective sport for many people to relax their bodies, stimulate blood circulation, keep fit and live longer.”

The Chinese Ambassador also took the opportunity to wish Brunei’s Wushu athletes success for the upcoming Asian Games in August, while paying tribute to their coaches, teachers and friends for their efforts in promoting Taiji and Wushu.

Among the Wushu performers were medalists who represented Brunei in international competitions.

|     James Kon     |

A MASSIVE blaze on Thursday evening destroyed a car workshop and a bungalow house at Kampong Masin that stored vehicles’ spare part and used cars.

According to a statement issued by the Fire and Rescue Department yesterday, the fire was reported at 6.05pm and firefighters from Pengkalan Batu Fire Station, supported by Jerudong Fire Station as well as Berakas Fire Station, rushed to the scene.

Led by Acting Assistant Superintendent Pengiran Ali Abdul Rahman bin Pengiran Halus, 18 firefighters were involved in the operation to combat the fire. They managed to put the fire under control within eight minutes by using six jet hoses utilising water from a nearby fire hydrant.

The cost of the damages is still under investigation.

In light of the incident, the Fire and Rescue Department reminded the public to not overload electrical systems; to switch off all electrical appliances when not in use; and to ensure any electrical wiring is in good condition and done by accredited companies.

The department added that every building should be equipped with fire extinguishers, fire blankets and smoke detectors.

Members of the public can contact the Fire and Rescue hotline at 995 in case of an emergency and to provide accurate information on the incident.

|     Daniel Lim     |

THE Oil and Gas Discovery Centre (OGDC) announced that its participation in the International Science Drama Competition (ISDC) this year has been successful as the team representing Brunei, ‘Science Fillet’, won two distinguished prizes.

ISDC is an annual competition that aims to promote science through drama, which enables participants to showcase their scientific knowledge with their own unique dramatic flair.

The competition was divided into two categories – Primary School and Open, with this year’s competition held on July 14 and was hosted by Petrosains, Malaysia at KDU University College, Shah Alam.

The team representing Brunei – ‘Science Fillet’ – were the winners from OGDC science show competition 2017 comprising Yadiy Wa’ie Mukminin Rizalman, Manav Hardinata Jamaddhiha Napitupulu, Danial Matin and Angginta Elainy Fausta Napitupulu; all of whom are students from St James’ school, Kuala Belait. They were accompanied by their teacher as well as representatives from OGDC.

The team competed in the Open category by performing a drama titled ‘The Great Paralympian’ which is in line with this year’s ISDC theme, that is Sports Science.

‘Science Fillet’ was awarded second place in the Open category, and received USD300. Singapore’s ‘Nanyang Theatre Club’ was crowned the first place winner and ‘The Warriors’ of Malaysia in third place.

The outstanding performer in the Open category was awarded to Science Fillet’s cast, Yadiy Wa’ie Mukminin Rizalman.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

THE Brunei Technology Expo 2018 (TechXpo 2018) will showcase Service Robots brought all the way from Belgium.

This was announced by Chairman of InfoCom Federation Brunei (IFB) Sheikh Haji Abas bin Sheikh Mohamad at a press conference held at D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd premises in Beribi on Thursday. He said the Belgian robotics company Zora Robotics NV (ZoraBots) designs and develops an interactive and caring platform solution which runs on the world’s most popular humanoid robots.

Organised by IFB, a non-profit organisation that serves as the voice of Brunei Darussalam’s ICT industry together with D’Sunlit as the appointed event manager, TechXpo 2018 is scheduled to be held from August 16 at the Plenary Hall of the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.

There was also a signing agreement for partners of the TechXpo 2018.

The guest of honour who witnessed the agreement signing ceremony was Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications Haji Azhar bin Haji Ahmad.

Signing on behalf of IFB was its Chairman Sheikh Haji Abas and was witnessed by IFB Secretary Vincent Chok Kah Thiam while signing on behalf of D’Sunlit, was its Executive Director Dato Paduka Haji Danial bin Haji Hanafiah and witnessed by D’Sunlit Sales Manager Mike Chia.

Event partners were represented by official representatives from each organisation accompanied by witness representatives from the official event and activity partners of the TechXpo 2018.

The event themed ‘Innovative Technology For All’ is set to attract large crowd of all ages, especially those who are experts or enthusiastic about technology.

The event will also offer opportunities to conduct business networking and seek out new prospects within the technology  sector both on the local and international levels.

International exhibitors from Belgium, China, Singapore and Malaysia will be participating and showcasing their latest technological developments with Belgium showcasing its ZoraBots that makes friendly and intelligent companions.

Visitors will get to meet and interact with humanoid robot Oliver, a smart and agile robot that can recognise people down to the smallest facial details and Zora, a personal caregiver for the young and elderly, making it the first robot in the world that take cares of those in need.

Aside from these friendly robots, TechXpo Cyber Games Tournament 2018 is back to be even bigger and better with a record prize pool of BND15,000 cash prizes to be won across the seven games namely PC games ‘CS:GO’, ‘League of Legends’ ‘DOTA 2’, ‘Console Games – Tekken 7’, ‘FIFA 18’ and mobile games – ‘Mobile Legends’ and ‘Rules of Survival’.

The TechXpo Cyber Games Tournament 2018 is jointly organised by D’Sunlit and Sigma Cyberspace as the cyber games event manager and Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd as the title sponsor for the event open to gamers from Sabah, Sarawak, and Brunei, except for CS:GO, which is open to residents of Brunei only.

BAG Networks Sdn Bhd will also be launching a pre-event promotional game ‘Trail to TechXpo 2018’ in conjunction with the TechXpo 2018 event set to take place in August and scheduled to be officially launched on August 3.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

PUSAT Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam yesterday received a one-armed-wheelchair, from the Faculty of Integrated Technologies at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD FIT).

The presentation ceremony was witnessed by Assistant Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) of UBD Dr Mohammad Ayub Sadiq @ Lin Naing and Dean of the FIT Professor Liyanage Chandratilak De Silva.

The wheelchair is outfitted with a steering system on the armchair storage, which enables the recipient, Mohd Zairol Azmir bin Mohd Rozaimey, to steer it with only one functioning hand.

The project was undertaken by an undergraduate of Bachelor of Engineering in Manufacturing Systems, Hirdy bin Othman for two semesters, under the guidance of Assistant Professor at UBD FIT Dr Emeroylariffion Abas and Senior Physiotherapist from Pusat Ehsan Noel Mendiola.

A welcoming speech was made by board member of Pusat Ehsan Haji Ahmad bin Haji Abdul Rahman, thanking UBD FIT for the gift.

Mohd Zairol Azmir also expressed his gratitude to UBD FIT for undertaking the meaningful project that will assist in his mobility.

Both UBD and Pusat Ehsan expressed optimism for future collaborations and meaningful projects for the benefit of people with disabilities.

Also present at the event were UBD FIT faculty members, Pusat Ehsan management and staff.

|     James Kon     |

SOME 300 people enjoyed an afternoon filled with stunts and performances at the Circus Mania, currently taking place at the Indoor Stadium, Berakas until tomorrow.

The show, organised by Bluewaters Events, is endorsed by the Ministry of Home Affairs and supported by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and Brunei Tourism. It is also endorsed by the Philippines Embassy in Brunei Darussalam and acknowledged by the Malacanang Office of the President of the Philippines.

The event is fully non-profit, and proceeds will go to the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Fund for Orphans (DANA), Children’s Cancer Foundation and the awareness of Brugada Syndrome (BrS).

The Circus Mania is a two-hour family entertainment and offers a line-up of performers from the Philippines, Malaysia and Taiwan, led by celebrated croc whisperer ‘Croc Boy’ Diony, with acts such as tight-rope walking, high-flying trapeze acrobatics, fire dances, magical illusions and animal hypnosis.

The final shows for tomorrow will be at 9.30am, 2.30pm and 7.30pm.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

FAMED cake decorator, artist and restaurateur from Brunei Darussalam Faridah Yussof recently took a Manila bridal event by storm.

Her all edible bridal gown cake display, featured at the ‘Weddings at The Peninsula 2018’ event at the main lobby of The Peninsula Manila, “astounded both local and foreign hotel guests”.

For the occasion, Faridah created her biggest and tallest wedding gown cake to date, which was referred to during the event as “the World’s Biggest Wedding Gown Cake”.

The seven-foot tall bridal gown cake, weighing over half a tonne, comprised a 1.5 feet tall torso made of coco pops, chocolate ganache, fondants and was decorated and embellished by over 2,000 units of flower petals, beads and pearls – all made of sugar.

The cake’s 5.5 feet skirt was made of 252 layers of butter cake, 300 kilogrammes of chocolate ganache, 60 kilogrammes of fondant and 19,500 square inches of sugar lace on six panels of tulle.

All these formed the seven-foot tall and over 600-kilogramme of all edible wedding gown cake.

This latest creation, dubbed ‘The Bride’, was the fourth of Faridah’s bridal gown cake series. Her last three creations were all showcased in Brunei.

A press statement noted that ‘The Bride’ was prominently displayed throughout the event at the centre of the main lobby of the hotel, adding that it became the main attraction that day, created frenzy among the visitors and trended on social media.

‘The Bride’ was also the highlight and took centre stage during the grand bridal fashion show that night which featured top Filipino designers Jojie Lloren, Mark Bumgarner, Michael Leyva, Joey Samson and Mark Tumang.

The annual event showcased some of Manila’s best and carefully handpicked wedding suppliers. This year, only 36 exhibitors were chosen to showcase their products and services.

Faridah’s company ‘Cakes by Faridah’ was invited to join so she could showcase her cake couture and edible art by creating what could be the biggest wedding gown cake ever seen in the Philippines, and possibly in the world.

Aside from this iconic creation, ‘Cakes by Faridah’ was also among the curated exhibitors during the event and the booth showcased her carousel cake creation, the statement added.

According to information on the ‘Cakes by Faridah’ website, in addition to cake decorating and being a restaurateur, Faridah, a mother of eight, is also a Wilton Method Instructor and an Accredited Tutor for Paul Bradford Sugarcraft School.

|     Rokiah Mahmud in New Delhi     |

A MEMORANDUM of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Brunei Darussalam and the Republic of India which envisages Cooperation in the Operation of Telemetry Tracking and Telecommand Station for Satellite and Launch Vehicles as well as Cooperation in the Field of Space Research, Science and Applications.

The MoU was signed on behalf of 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 by Minister of Communications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof, while Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj signed on behalf of the Government of the Republic of India.

The signing took place at the Oberoi Hotel in the Indian capital New Delhi on the sidelines of the 10th Delhi Dialogue held from July 19-20.

Also present during the signing ceremony were High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to the Republic of India Dato Paduka Haji Sidek bin Ali and officials from the Ministry of Communications of Brunei Darussalam, High Commission of Brunei Darussalam in New Delhi and India’s Ministry of External Affairs.

At the 10th Delhi Dialogue, the Brunei Darussalam delegation was headed by Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib.

The annual dialogue aims to create a platform to discuss political, security, economic and socio-cultural engagement between India and ASEAN member states.

With the theme ‘Strengthening India-ASEAN Maritime Cooperation’, the 10th Delhi Dialogue revolved around the discussion on forging connectivity between ASEAN and India. This included discussion on enhancing India-ASEAN partnership in maritime cooperation and how this can be developed further. In addition, the dialogue also discussed ways to enhance e-commerce and digital connectivity to build a cohesive and future-ready ASEAN-India digital economy as well as shared experiences to synergise efforts in building smart cities.

Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib delivered a special address during the ministerial session titled ‘Enhanced Cooperation to Strengthen ASEAN-India Connectivity’. In line with the dialogue’s theme, the minister highlighted the perspectives and current affairs in maritime and air transport sectors, the two key sectors towards enhancing ASEAN connectivity within the region.

The Minister of Communications emphasised the current initiatives and progress under the ASEAN Transport Ministers’ Forum to establish and sustain an efficient and well-integrated transport system. This includes the ASEAN-India Air Services Consultations which is hoped to improve connectivity between ASEAN and Indian cities and the aspiration towards creating an ASEAN Single Shipping Market, he noted.

The ministerial session also featured addresses by Cabinet-ranked ministers and heads of delegations from ASEAN member countries as well as talks by ministers from ASEAN member countries and India as well as Chief Ministers of North Eastern states of India.

The dialogue keynote address was delivered by Sushma Swaraj in which she said that India has been working with ASEAN towards evolving a regional security architecture focussed on ASEAN’s centrality.

She added that this year’s dialogue is particularly special as it celebrates its 10th edition and follows the commemorative summit that marked the 25th anniversary of ASEAN-India partnership in January 2018 in New Delhi.

The summit, she explained, recognised India and ASEAN as maritime partners and neighbours and they must work together to ensure the security and sustainability of oceans and waterways.

The High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam and officials from the Ministry of Communications of Brunei Darussalam and the High Commission of Brunei Darussalam in New Delhi also attended the dialogue which also saw the presence of 20 journalists from the 10 ASEAN member countries under the ASEAN-India Media Exchange Programme.

During his stay in India, Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib will conduct working visits to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Headquarters and several major IT companies in Bengaluru before returning to Brunei Darussalam.

Since its inauguration in 2009, the Delhi Dialogue has emerged as an important forum where political leaders, policymakers, researchers, academicians, business leaders and media persons converged for brainstorming on a range of issues pertaining to ASEAN-India relations.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

A TOTAL of 556 Taman Asuhan Kanak-Kanak Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (TASKA YSHHB) students yesterday attended the ‘Preserving Brunei Culture’ event, held in conjunction with the school’s second term theme.

The event was held in collaboration with the Culture and Arts Section, various government departments, as well as the Youth Development Centre under the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS).

The event aimed to demonstrate the uniqueness of the Brunei Malay community from the aspects of heritage and customs, dance, songs and traditional games of local ethnic groups, portrayed through performances, exhibition, demonstration and workshops.

TASKA YSHHB Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) Chairman Dato Paduka Haji Shofry bin Haji Abdul Ghafor was the guest of honour

Also joining in the event were Pengiran Anak ‘Alisha Husnara Jaida Bulqiah binti Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul ‘Ali Yil-Kabier, the granddaughter of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; and Pengiran Muhammad Abdul Hadee Mubasheer bin Pengiran Anak Abdul Badee’, the grandson of Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Nasibah.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Cikgu Nazmi bin Puasa and followed with the singing of the national anthem and the school song.

In her remarks, TASKA YSHHB Acting Principal Datin Hajah Zainab binti Haji Abdul Wahab underlined the play-based learning approach towards enhancing the students’ educational development.

The event continued with a traditional dance performance Anding Dida by TASKA 3 students and a slide presentation on sopan santun (politeness) by Culture and Arts Acting Director Haji Mohd Abdoh bin Haji Damit.

The guest of honour visited booths set up by government departments including the Language and Literature Bureau, and Brunei History Centre.

Students had the opportunity to try their hands at traditional games and activities such as Simban, Congkak, Tinting and Gasing, among others.

The event was held to provide exposure on Brunei arts and raise awareness on preserving the local heritage.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

A TOTAL of 16,104 separate blood donations were registered in Brunei Darussalam in 2017, with 2,973 newly registered blood donors contributing to the pool.

These statistics were revealed yesterday by Deputy Permanent Secretary (Professional) at the Ministry of Health (MoH) Dr Haji Zulaidi bin Haji Abdul Latif, during the launching ceremony of Blood Donation Campaign 2018 at the ministry’s Al ‘Afiah Hall.

The campaign, held in conjunction with 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 72nd birthday celebrations and World Blood Donor Day, was organised by PTD Technology Sdn Bhd and facilitated by the Blood Donation Centre, at the MoH.

“This is a good sign of blood donation awareness in the country. It is hoped that these individuals will continue with their goodwill and become regular blood donors,” the permanent secretary said.

He added that the record figures meant that Brunei has achieved the goals recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) – an annual receipt of blood donations from one to three per cent of the total population to meet emergency situations.

“For Brunei Darussalam’s case, in 2017 this figure was 2.6 per cent, which is consistent with tallies since 2014,” noted Dr Haji Zulaidi.

He said that the MoH through the Blood Donation Centre, will continue to cooperate with the public and private sector to conduct blood donation drives.

“The involvement of the private sector is very much welcome and this is appropriate with our approach that health is everyone’s business. Efforts will continue to be made to ensure that the country’s blood stocks are sufficient. The donated blood will be tested to international standards to ensure their safety before being administered to patients,” Dr Haji Zulaidi said.

“We encourage the public to donate blood as there are documented health benefits in doing so. The would-be donors will also undergo a free medical examination prior to giving blood.”

Blood drives, held regularly throughout the country to ensure healthy supplies of blood and blood products within the nation’s hospitals, largely receive warm response and support from the public.

According to PTD Technology’s Managing Director and event organising chairman Haziq bin Rasiman, the blood donation drive is part of the company’s annual health, safety and environment activities, and held as part of the company’s commitment to meet the blood needs of the Blood Donation Centre.

Other bodies providing support for the event included the Department of Electrical Services, Baker Hughes, Aewon–Sherwood Protective Apparel (B) Sdn Bhd, and Syarikat Alam Makmur Sdn Bhd.

Among those present were directors, executive officers and officers from the MoH and Ministry of Energy and Industry, and invited guests from the private sector and blood donors.

|     Azlan Othman     |

SEVERAL members of the steering committee of the upcoming Knowledge Convention 2018 yesterday made working visits to a number of Agricultural Development Areas (KKP) in the Brunei-Muara District.

The visits were aimed at taking a closer look at the development of various agricultural activities in the district as part of the preparations for the Knowledge Convention 2018, held in conjunction with the 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.

This year, the convention will focus on the economy with particular focus on agriculture and a number of chosen projects.

The Knowledge Convention 2018 delegation comprised State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, as Advisor to the Knowledge Convention 2018; Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, as Co-Chairperson of the Knowledge Convention 2018 steering committee; Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, as Co-Chairperson of the Knowledge Convention 2018 steering committee and Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, Co-Secretary of the Knowledge Convention 2018 steering committee.

The delegation first visited Sinar Tenaga Sdn Bhd farm, which cultivates vegetable and fruit crops on a five-hectare site at the Tungku Agricultural Development Area as part of a pilot project.

The company started developing the farm and implementing high-tech agriculture technologies such as a greenhouse and fertigation system in early 2017, producing high-quality vegetables and fruits such as white bitter gourd, tomatoes, golden fruit and rock melon. The company produced 4.15 metric tonnes of crops worth BND14,900 in 2017.

The group’s next stop was RZ Prisma Enterprise and Ameenfarm Agrotech and Trading at the Kilanas Agricultural Research Centre. RZ Prisma Enterprise farm cultivates vegetables using greenhouse, hydroponics and vertical farming technologies, while Ameenfarm Agrotech and Trading farm produces vegetables using a fertigation system. The four-hectare farm began operations in 2016, producing 3.07 metric tonnes of vegetable crops worth BND6,569 in 2017.

The delegation also visited Riza Fudhlana Farming Company (under the Riza Group of Companies) located at the Tanah Tuah Agricultural Development Area in Kampong Bebatik Kilanas to learn more about developments in poultry farming in the Brunei-Muara District.

The farm began operating in early 2014, employing a closed-house technology system with internal cooling. The farm runs seven houses with the capacity of producing 22,000 to 23,000 chickens and three houses with the capacity of producing 3,500 chickens capable of generating 1,155 tonnes of broiled chicken in one house rotation.

The farm produced 23,283 metric tonnes of poultry in 2017 with a total market value of BND106.53 million.

The next visit was to Haji Salleh bin Haji Ludin & Anak-Anak farm at the Batumpu Agricultural Development Area. The company has four lots of farms in the area covering seven hectares, and has been cultivating vegetable crops using conventional systems. The farm yielded about 495.9 metric tonnes of vegetables in 2017.

Visits to the Tunas Harapan Company farm and Hua Ho Agricultural Farm – which make use of an integrated farming system in producing their crops – followed.

The delegation’s last stop was the Wasan Agricultural Development Area, where they explored the Wasan paddy planting project operated by KOSEKA (Koperasi Setia Kawan) and Kampong Pengkalan Batu Village Consultative Council.

According to farmers under the project and Department of Agriculture and Agrifood officials, beginning October this year, farmers in the area will begin planting two new hybrid paddy varieties: Titih – capable of producing eight metric tonnes of rice per hectare per season and Sembada188 – which can yield up to six metric tonnes of rice per hectare per season.

The yields of the new rice strains are considerably higher compared to the currently used Laila, which is only able to produce an average of three metric tonnes per hectare per season.