|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

MINISTER of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof yesterday received a courtesy call from an Australian Parliament delegation led by Member of Parliament of Australia Rowan Ramsey.

The courtesy call aimed to reaffirm the close and long-standing bilateral defence relationship between the two countries.

Both sides expressed pleasure at the progress on the defence cooperation achieved through exchanges of visits, policy meetings, exercises, trainings and courses for defence and military personnel.

The minister and Ramsey exchanged views on regional and global security issues, which included the growing threat of terrorism in the region. Both sides also acknowledged the need to work closer together in addressing the issues.

In the wake of increasing threats of terrorism in the region, Australia hosted the Sub-Regional Defence Ministers’ Meeting on Counter Terrorism held in Perth in February, followed by a Senior Officials’ Meeting on the sidelines of the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue June.

These meetings bolstered regional initiatives through sharing and exchanging of views and by stepping up practical defence cooperation.

Present were Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud and Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence Captain (Rtd) Dato Paduka Abdul Rahman bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar.

UNIVERSITI Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and ASEAN University Network (AUN) jointly held three back-to-back AUN events from July 24-26 at The Rizqun International Hotel, Brunei Darussalam.

The three events were the 10th ASEAN AUN Rectors’ Meeting, the 34th AUN-BOT (AUN Board of Trustees) Meeting and the 4th ASEAN+3 Rectors’ Conference.

The meetings were co-hosted by UBD Vice Chancellor Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina binti Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Aziz and AUN Executive Director Dr Choltis Dhirathiti. The three meetings were attended by AUN member university presidents, vice presidents and representatives.

The 10th AUN Rectors’ Meeting provided a platform for AUN university presidents, rectors and their representatives to discuss nine key agenda which included matters such as the Crisis Management Framework, Rebranding of AUN Intellectual Property, to matters concerning AUN Quality Assurance as well as proposal of new AUN thematic networks to accelerate collaboration between member universities.

In her welcoming remarks, UBD Vice Chancellor shared that ASEAN is rising rapidly in economic and global importance with a market of 630 million people and an economy growing by around five per cent per year. ASEAN is predicted to be the fifth largest economy in the world by 2020.

“The success of societies and economies is increasingly dependent on the creation and innovative application of knowledge. For knowledge-based societies and economies to develop and flourish, universities play a critical role. In this respect, I believe that ASEAN universities are at the most exciting phase of their development now, and that the future for ASEAN universities is bright,” she added.

The 34th AUN-BOT Meeting was also attended by the Deputy Secretary General of ASEAN for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Vongthep Arthakaivalvatee.

Among the key areas stressed during the 34th AUN-BOT meeting were internationalisation, quality assurance, student mobility and credit transfer in AUN member universities in aligning to the relevant ASEAN Declarations. In this era of Industrial Revolutio 4.0 where the economy is also impacted by technologies such as Financial Technologies or FinTech for brevity, universities are moving from a system based on facts and procedures to one that actively applied knowledge and skills to collaborative problem solving.

The meetings concluded with the 4th ASEAN+3 Rectors’ Conference, bringing together 80 participants from the AUN member universities as well as ASEAN plus three universities from China, South Korea and Japan.

The conference discussed the pertinent issue of ‘The Impacts of Information Society on Our Universities: Current Challenges and Future Strategies’ in keeping universities aligned with the 4th Industrial Revolution.

The delegates also visited UBD campus including the Entrepreneurship Village, The Treasure Cove and the UBD Botanical Research Centre. The AUN was established in November 1995.

UBD is one of the founding member universities of AUN which was set up in November 1995, and actively participates in AUN activities, projects and thematic networks.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

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 consented to grant 12 recent Muslim converts financial assistance for performing Haj.

A ceremony was held yesterday, at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) Building in Jalan Dewan Majlis, for the presentation of BND111,600 in passage funds and travel allowances to the selected individuals, who will be travelling under Haj packages offered by Darussalam Holdings Sdn Bhd.

Minister of Religious Affairs and Chairman of the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB) Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman handed over the funds to the Muslim converts granted with the Haj passage funds according to the rates allotted to government officers at BND4,500 per person.

The funds were derived from the Zakat Asnaf Muallaf collection for the recipients comprising Mohd Sallehin bin Haji Mohd Taip @ Mueim bin Minggu; Nur Hidayatullah binti Abdullah @ Rosni binti Samat; Nur Rashidah binti Abdullah @ Salawati binti Kulab; Abdul Rahman bin Abdullah @ Bunyok anak Pilang; Siti Rahimah binti Abdullah Chabu @ Ernie anak Chabu; Arman bin Abdullah @ Igat anak Henry Melia; Shazwani binti Mohammad Lesa Aariz @ Amy Magdelen; Muhammad Harith Firdaus bin Abdullah Sendipit @ Sama Sendipit; Noor’ Aimah binti Abdullah @ Jimah Jiamah; Nurhafizah binti Muhammad Lesa Aariz @ Jennifer Theresa Mok; Mohammed Nasir bin Abdullah @ Nasir bin Gubil; and Muhammad Ramli bin Muhammad Pawe @ Ramli bin Pawe.

The intending pilgrims, who will be travelling under the ‘Zamrud: Z1’ premium package from Darussalam Holdings, were each given BND7,300, to make up the total cost of the package at BND11,800. Each of the intending pilgrims also received a travel allowance of BND2,000.

According to a statement from MoRA, the financial assistance represents His Majesty’s attentive-ness and concern for the welfare of recent Muslim converts in Brunei Darussalam.

|     Azlan Othman     |

IF THE sky is clear, people in Brunei will have the chance to witness two very rare astronomical phenomena – a planetary opposition and a moon eclipse – tomorrow night, said General-Secretary of the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam Hazarry bin Haji Ali Ahmad.

On July 27 at around 10pm, the red planet Mars will be directly opposite to the Sun and at the same time being at closest distance from the Earth at about 56 million kilometres. Mars will appear 10 times brighter than usual, at magnitude -2.8 on that night. We will not witness an opposition this favourable again until September 15, 2035.

According to Hazarry, stargazers should be able to see the red planet appear as a very bright reddish “star” rising on the eastern sky at around 8pm from Brunei.

“The second cosmic highlight of the night is a total lunar eclipse, known as the Blood Moon, in the early hours of Saturday. During the eclipse, the Earth will be moving directly between the Sun and the Moon. It will begin when the full moon enters the Earth’s shadow (Penumbra) at 1.14am on July 28. About an hour later, the partial phase will begin at 2.24am when the moon begins to be covered by the dark Earth’s shadow, the Umbra,” he said.

Hazarry said the moon will be completely red for one hour 43 minutes during total phase from 3.30am, making the phenomenon the longest total lunar eclipse of the 21st Century.

“Such long duration of total lunar eclipses had occurred on July 16, 2000 for a totality duration of one hour 46 minutes and another on June 15, 2011 for a totality duration of one hour 40 minutes. On average, the totality lasts approximately one hour to one hour and 30 minutes during moon eclipse. The next total lunar eclipse that will last that long will not occur until 2123,” he noted.

It will be a spectacular night as the brilliant planet Mars will be near to the reddish-orange glow of the eclipsed moon, both visible with the naked eye.

The entire eclipse can be viewed from Brunei until moon set at 6.23am, Hazarry said.

There will be a public observation of the phenomena at Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas, Bandar Seri Begawan from 7pm tomorrow until 5.30am.

Telescopes will be set up for public viewing and astronomy talks will be conducted free of charge at the venue.

Members of public are invited to bring binoculars or telescopes to enjoy viewing the lunar eclipse.

The event is co-organised by the Survey Department of the Ministry of Development, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali and the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam.

Total lunar eclipse is very rare and only 30 per cent of all lunar eclipses are total.

The next lunar eclipse visible in Brunei will take place on July 17 next year, but it will be a partial one.

On December 26 next year, people in Brunei will be experien-cing a partial solar eclipse when the moon passes in front of the Sun.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

BRUNEI Darussalam and the Republic of Indonesia are committed to boosting bilateral relationship and simultaneously enhancing cooperation in various areas, following discussions at the 4th Meeting of Indonesia-Brunei Darussalam Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) held in Jakarta recently, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia.

In a joint press statement following the conclusion of the meeting between Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof and Indonesia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno LP Marsudi, they highlighted that both countries have intensified negotiations of finalising the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the placement and protection of Indonesian workers in Brunei Darussalam which is expected to be concluded by the end of this year. In the field of economic cooperation, a business meeting was held for the first time on the sidelines of the JCBC meeting, which resulted in a MoU signed between Sriwijaya Air and Syarikat Kejuruteraan Bumiputera Belait Sdn Bhd to start flights from Bandar Seri Begawan to Balikpapan.

In the field of agriculture, cooperation in the development of new rice varieties called Sembada B9 and Sembada 188 will be implemented for food security of both countries, the statement noted.

In the health field, a joint group on health will be formed between both countries as a follow-up implementation of a MoU signed in 2015. Brunei and Indonesia also plan to increase cooperation in the pharmaceuticals sector, the statement added.

Also in the agenda of the meeting was improving cooperation in the field of tourism, not only in increasing connectivity but also investment, especially for the ‘New 10 Bali’ project in Indonesia which has been discussed between both countries.

Other matters discussed during the meeting include the commitment to boost cooperation in preventing and combating transnational organised crime such as human and drug trafficking as well as terrorism.

Indonesia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed appreciation for Brunei’s support for the Indo-Pacific Concept Paper from Indonesia which places great emphasis on ASEAN’s centrality and said that Indonesia also highly appreciates the support of Brunei when Indonesia was nominated as a member of the UN Security Council.

Retno added that the state visit 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 earlier this year has provided a strong foundation for both countries to move forward to continue cooperation in various fields.

The Indonesia-Brunei Darussalam Joint Meeting of Bilateral Cooperation is a bilateral consultation forum aimed at exploring economic and business opportunities in both countries.

A DELEGATION from the Australian Parliament concluded their visit to Brunei on Wednesday, reaffirming the strong relations between Australia and Brunei.

During the visit, delegation leader Rowan Ramsey toge-ther with Ian Goodenough, Julian Hill and Senator Barry O’Sullivan held talks with key Bruneian ministers to discuss opportunities to expand bilateral relations.

The delegation called on Minister of Energy and Industry Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein to explore ways to enhance Australia’s trade ties with Brunei.

Worth around USD500 million per year, the two-way trade in goods and services sees Australia importing Brunei’s oil and world-renowned blue shrimp, and Brunei importing meat, dairy, fruit and vegetables from Australia.

The delegation also met with Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof to further strengthen the close defence cooperation between the two countries.

On Tuesday, the Australian Parliament members had separate discussions with Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman, and Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong.

They also met with a diverse range of Bruneians – from business people with links to Australia, to Australian alumni, and residents of Kampong Ayer.

The delegation also paid a visit to the Brunei-Australia Memorial at Muara Beach, where they laid a wreath to remember all those who lost their lives in Brunei during the Second World War. – Text & Photos by the Australian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam

|     Azaraimy HH     |

A DELEGATION from the Brunei History Association (PESEBAR) yesterday left for Indonesia to attend two separate international conferences in Lombok and Bandung.

The delegation will attend the International Seminar on Archaeology, History, Language and Culture in the Malay World (ASBAM), which starts today until July 29 in Lombok.

The ASBAM is organised by the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Hassanuddin University, Makassar and Institute of Nature and Malay Civilisation (ATMA), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Malaysia.

The 12-member delegation will attend the Education Tourism with an International Conference in Bandung from August 1-5, joining other delegations from Malaysia, the Phillippines and Indonesia.

The conference, themed ‘Politics of Education and Its Implications towards Social, Cultural, and Human Resources Development in Asian Countries,’ is organised by ASPENSI in Bandung, Indonesia and BRIMAN Institute in Brunei Darussalam.

PESEBAR Honorary Secretariat Associate Professor Dr Haji Asbol bin Haji Mail and PESEBAR Assistant Honorary Secretariat Dr Muhammad Hadi bin Muhammad Melayong are leading the Brunei delegation.

At the conference in Lombok, two working papers will be deliberated on by participants from Brunei Darussalam, while the conference in Bandung will see a working paper titled ‘Sejarah Sumber Pengukuhan Warisan Bangsa’ presented by Dr Muhammad Hadi.

In this working paper, Dr Muhammad Hadi hopes to share information and views on the importance of history as the source of strengthening spirit of self-esteem and self-identity of the Brunei people, to create societal cohesion between different faiths, cultures and heritages.

PESEBAR’s participation in the international and regional conference is important towards creating understanding through spirit of cooperation and information exchange.

Brunei participants hope to highlight the life of the Brunei people based on the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) philosophy by listing evidences through historical aspects of the country.

The evidence is based on the history of the existence and experiences and the way of life under the MIB as the nation’s heritage and will be the topic of discussion during the working paper in Lombok.

The historical heritage of Brunei must be made understood at the regional and international levels in this challenging era of globalisation.

The role and responsibility to research, study, preserve and safeguard this heritage is shouldered by PESEBAR members, government agencies and the private sector for the continuation of the Brunei civilisation.

They include the Brunei History Centre, local universities – especially the Academy of Brunei Studies; Universiti Brunei Darussalam; Language and Literature Bureau; Department of Adat Istiadat Negara; Department of Museums (National Archive); the MIB Supreme Council; and the Islamic Da’wah Centre.

KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama) – Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam have agreed to further strengthen bilateral relations, including through more frequent exchange of visits, said Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah.

He spoke to reporters after Brunei Darussalam’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof called on him yesterday.

“We are pleased with the current excellent state of bilateral relations

between Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam,” he said. Saifuddin said the Annual Leaders’ Consultation between Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and 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, was scheduled for the end of this year.

He said he and Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan discussed bilateral issues and exchanged views on regional and global issues of common interest to the two countries.

|     Azlan Othman     |

ELEVEN drivers of various transport companies were fined between BND50 and BND200 for offences including carrying excess load, failing to carry vehicle qualification certificates, using inappropriate vehicles, modifying speed limit devices and driving vehicles not in good condition and with bald tyres. They were also issued six Driver Safety Practice System (SiKAP) demerit points.

Meanwhile, a BND50 compound was imposed on a private vehicle driver for using a vehicle not in a good condition.

The fines were imposed during patrols conducted by the Land Transport Department’s (JPD) Enforcement Division on July 10, 11 and 17, 2018 at Mulaut Jerudong, Jalan Bengkurong Bunut, Jalan Serasa and Jerudong-Tutong highway, Hassanal Bolkiah Highway, Lambak Kanan and Tungku Link.

The driver of Brusin Trading Co Sdn Bhd, Saefudin Abdul Wahab, was fined BND50 for driving a vehicle not in a good condition. Goldmyne Hardware Sdn Bhd driver Much Tadi was fined BND150 for carrying an excessive load (second offence). Tianteng Forwarding driver Paul Pernando was fined BND200 for failing to carry a vehicle qualification certificate.

Tenik V Piles (B) Sdn Bhd driver Abbus Ali was fined BND50 for using an inappropriate vehicle while Butra Heidelberg Cement driver Gerry Dina Orfano was slapped with a fine of BND200 for failure to a carry vehicle qualification certificate and BND50 for carrying excess load.

Syarikat Kertiles driver Kintani anak Jawan and Swee Sdn Bhd driver Loreto Musong Galarido were each fined BND50 for overloading.

Private vehicle owner Dilwar Shah was fined BND50 for driving a vehicle not in a good condition.

Kukoh Bahagia Enterprise driver Zafar Alam So Haji Mohd was slapped with a fine of BND50 for carrying excess load and BND50 for a faded car identification and BND50 for driving a vehicle not in a good condition.

Syarikat Awg Hj Muntil dan Anak-anak driver Saiful Anawar received a BND50 fine for carrying excess load and another BND50 fine for driving a vehicle not in a good condition.

Manria Sdn Bhd driver Agus Bintaro was slapped with a BND150 fine for overloading (second offence) and BND50 for driving a vehicle not in a good condition and with bald tyres.

Gold United Sdn Bhd driver Hendri Pulung Cahyono received a BND50 fine for driving a vehicle not in a good condition and with bald tyres. He was also fined BND50 fine each for the failure to install mud guard and modifying the vehicle’s speed warning device.

The JPD said it will continue to conduct patrols and roadblocks to ensure the safety, well-being and comfort of the public, especially road users.

The department welcomed the public’s cooperation in improving road safety and urged them to lodge complaints related to road traffic offences by contacting JPD Enforcement Division hotline and JPD Enforcement through WhatsApp at +6737292017 or Darussalam hotline +6738333123.

|     James Kon     |

THE Ministry of Development (MoD) is currently hosting the Design Students Academy’s (DESA) Pantaran exhibition featuring the creative architectural works of 46 final year students from Politeknik Brunei.

The DESA Pantaran exhibition was officially launched yesterday by Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar.

Director of Politeknik Brunei Denis Ho Mun Tai said, “This is the first year that Politeknik Brunei will be producing graduates from the Diploma course in Architecture, and this cohort is the first intake who has completed the three-year course.

“As many as 12 students from the sixth and seventh intakes of the same course took part in the exhibition to display their projects. The students have exhibited their creativity through their ideas, analyses and researches as well as through the exploration of 2D and 3D.”

The aim of the final year project, he said, “is to assess the ability of each student to handle the architecture and design project comprehensively and realistically, while also testing the skills and capability of student to analyse and solve the problems of the designs.”

The topic of the final year exhibition covered residential, commercial and recreational areas in the Temburong District namely Bangar, Batang Duri and Labu Estate.

Denis Ho said, “The project involves new space design in areas available in the Temburong District with the aim of building the students’ portfolios to professional standards that fulfil the needs of the industry; opening employment opportunities for students within the related fields of the course; marketing and providing exposure to secondary school students on architectural and interior design courses; and developing the creativity and teamwork among students and lecturers through the project.”

The ceremony also witnessed the presentation of certificates of excellence to 10 selected students for their creativity and potential.

Since July 2015, Politeknik Brunei has been offering a three-year diploma programme to students with at least five credits in relevant subjects for their GCE ‘O’ Level, in addition to students with the technical and vocational requirements.

Twenty-one programmes are on offer from Politeknik Brunei, including the Level 5 Diploma in the School of Business, the School of Information and Communication Technology, the School of Science and Engineering, and the School of Health Sciences.

Also present at the launching ceremony were Permanent Secretary (Technical and Professional) at the MoD Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin and Acting Permanent Secretary (Administration and Finance) at the MoD Dr Nor Imtihan binti Haji Abdul Razak.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

BRUNEI is stepping up its efforts to combat terrorism financing and money laundering by establishing regional and international cooperation.

Underscoring its commitment to eradicate money laundering and terrorism financing, the Sultanate signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Lao People’s Democratic Republic on Wednesday on the sidelines of the annual meeting of the Asia Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG) in Kathmandu, Nepal.

The Financial Intelligence Unit, Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (FIU, AMBD) and the Anti-Money Laundering Intelligence Office, National Coordination Committee for Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Financing of Terrorism of Laos (AMLIO) inked the MoU.

“Under the MoU, both agencies agree to cooperate in the exchange of financial intelligence that may assist in the investigation and prosecution of persons suspected of money laundering and terrorism financing. This marks the strong commitment of both agencies in the global fight against money laundering and terrorism financing,” AMBD said in a press statement yesterday.

The MoU with AMLIO is the seventh such agreement FIU, AMBD has signed. Current MoUs include those signed with the financial intelligence units of Malaysia, Indonesia, South Korea, Bangladesh, Cambodia and Singapore. The signing of MoUs is an important step towards complying with international standards on anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism, in particular the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Recommendation 29, the statement noted.

FIU, AMBD and AMLIO are the central agencies in Brunei Darussalam and Lao People’s Democratic Republic respectively for receiving, requesting, analysing and disseminating disclosures of suspicious transaction reports and other information related to money laundering and terrorism financing.

The APG is an inter-governmental anti-money laundering body and part of a global network of similar bodies such as the FATF. Over 500 participants from over 50 countries and regions gathered in Kathmandu to discuss measures to tackle money laundering and terrorist financing and they called for making available advance technology to regulatory and supervisory authorities to track the illicit flow of money which could potentially be used by terrorists.

The annual meeting that kicked off on July 21 will continue until today. Participants will also hold discussions on governance, mutual evaluation reports and policy matters, according to APG.

Money laundering is the process that criminals use to “clean” the money they make from crimes, such as fraud, illegal drug deals, and tax evasion. People, who finance terrorism, use similar methods to channel funds to money launderers for violent causes and to disguise those who provide and receive the money.

Hence, the International Monetary Fund, in recent years, has been assuming a greater role in anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

CURTAINS for Pan Bright Travel’s first Travel Fair were raised yesterday at the Times Square Shopping Centre atrium, as the booth drew holiday planners eager to grab deals for their travels.

The event also marked the start of the ‘Travel & Win a Car or Birkin’, back for the fifth edition.

“We are giving our customers the chance to drive home a Hyundai Accent or walk away with a Hermes Birkin bag, with 35 other prizes up for grabs for any purchases made from July 27, 2018 to March 31, 2019,” said Sales and Business Development Manager Nur Khadijah binti Abdullah.

She further noted that the travel fair also celebrates their 35-year journey in the travel and tourism industry, held in partnership with the shopping complex’s Home and Lifestyle Exhibition.

“This travel fair is a milestone as we mark our 35th anniversary with customers who have entrusted us with their holidays,” said Khadijah.

Also participating at the travel fair booth are Baiduri Bank Berhad and Standard Chartered Bank, who are offering amazing deals for customers using their respective credit and debit cards.

They are also offering deals for local tour operators, hotels, and Ming Garden Hotel Kota Kinabalu and National Insurance for travel insurances.

The travel fair is held from 10am to 10pm until tomorrow, with daily prizes such as air tickets, cruises, and travel vouchers to be won.

The grand prize is sponsored by Pan Bright Travel Service, while other prizes include return air tickets to Melbourne, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Ho Chi Minh sponsored by Royal Brunei Airlines (RB), return air tickets to Tokyo, Seoul, Osaka and Beijing sponsored by Singapore Airlines, and Royal Skies Miles valued from 10,000 to 25,000 sponsored by Baiduri Bank.

Customers can contact Pan Bright Travel at their Bandar Seri Begawan, Kuala Belait or Seria offices, or their social media for inquiries regarding the promotions.

|     Rokiah Mahmud in New Delhi     |

A GROUP of 20 journalists from 10 ASEAN member countries landed in Guwahati in the Indian state of Assam on July 16 on a three-day visit to Assam under the ASEAN-India Media Exchange programme.

During the visit, the group visited the Guwahati Indian Institute of Technology, Numaligargh Refinery Limited and paid a courtesy call on the Chief Minister of Assam Sarbananda Sonowal.

The visiting journalists comprised representatives from the 10 ASEAN member countries including Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Laos PDR, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, Myanmar and the Philippines.

The ASEAN–India Media Exchange programme is an annual programme through the ASEAN Secretariat to provide exposure to the ASEAN media on contemporary developments in India. The programme is coordinated by the External Affairs Ministry of the Government of India.

During the visit, the journalists made a courtesy call on Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal at his office conference room at Janata Bhawan.

At the meeting, the Assam Chief Minister called upon the visiting journalists from ASEAN member countries to work with a common vision and goal to boost regional economy and connectivity to renew the age-old relations between Assam and the ASEAN member nations.

The chief minister also urged the journalists to push forward the Assam government’s initiatives in their respective nations for improved connectivity, especially air connectivity between Guwahati and the capital cities of the ASEAN member countries, and setting up consulates of ASEAN member nations in Guwahati.

As next door neighbours, ASEAN and Guwahati have a common history that started with Chaolung Sukafa’s arrival in Assam from Yunnan. Assam’s government wanted to establish a stronger relationship and bring it to a new dimension through regular exchange of dialogue for better connectivity and trade and commerce, he added.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

THE management of Annajat Complex with their co-organiser Wonderworks officiated the opening ceremony of the Muslim Lifestyle Fair of 2018 at the Annajat Complex in Beribi yesterday.

The event is the first ever Islamic-themed event organised by the Annajat Complex management and is scheduled to be held at the venue annually.

The Muslim Lifestyle Fair of 2018 was declared open by the guest of honour, Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM)President Datin Paduka Hajah Intan binti Haji Mohd Kassim, along with Annajat Complex Assistant Managing Director Datin Hajah Norayati binti Pehin Orang Kaya Shahbandar Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Mohd Nawawi during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Annajat Complex General Manager Kamil Cassim in his speech said the one-week fair is an initiative by Annajat Complex management to boost local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) participation and sparking interest in striving to create originality, diversification and continued improvements of Islamic products and services to match with international standards.

He also advised local entrepreneurs to not be afraid to take risks and jump higher to achieve success.

He added that the government has always been supportive of innovative products and services, and hoped that vendors will continue to strive for new ideas with enthusiasm for future expo events.

Local vendors and foreign entrepreneurs participated in the the Muslim Lifestyle Fair of 2018, both offering a variety of products and services from Islamic apparel to Halal beauty care.

In addition to the showcase spectacle, the expo also offers a Halal/Haram information to promote awareness to the public on how a healthy Islamic lifestyle should be.

Malaysian celebrities such as Hisyam Hamid, Rozita Che Wan, Zain Saidin and As’ad Motawh are also participating in the fair.

|     Izah Azahari     |

FREME Travel Services is currently hosting its two-day 15th Travel Fair at the Royal Brunei Recreation Club (RBRC).

The fair, which ends today, is open from 9am to 7pm.

Freme Travel Managing Director Michael Lee said this year’s destination packages include China, Korea, South Africa, Jordan, Uzbekistan, Russia, New Zealand, Egypt, Tiki New Zealand and West America. Most of the bookings in December are for Turkey and Korea.

Lee added that holiday-goers can now travel to Kunming, China via Lucky Air.

The travel fair will also give customers the chance to win draws to bag air tickets and travel packages such as a four days and three nights stay in Korea for two, a London return economy ticket, a Singapore return economy ticket, and a three nights Port Klang RCCL Cruise for two as well as a chance to win the BND10,000 cash voucher grand draw prize.

Freme Travel is offering a ‘Book Now, Pay Later’ scheme for its customers who can also pay via instalment.

Free Gifts are also available for the first 150 customers during both days of the fair.

Travellers who purchase during the 15th Travel Fair can enjoy offers with their Baiduri Card where they are eligible for two lucky draw entries for every BND1,000 spent on a single receipt or get 100 Royal Skies Miles for the first 100 Baiduri cardholders with a minimum spend of BND500 in a single receipt.

Baiduri cardholders will also get a zero processing fee for six and 12 months instalment plans.

Meanwhile, Standard Chartered Credit cardholders can win up to 35,000 Royal Skies Miles, and get a rebate of BND100 for the first 100 customers with a minimum spending of over BND1,000. Customers can also sign up and win FIFA World cup merchandise.

|     Fadley Faisal     |

ATTORNEY General and Public Prosecutor Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Hayati binti Pehin Orang Kaya Shahbandar Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohd Salleh led a delegation to attend the Meeting of Attorneys General from July 24 -25 in Singapore.

The Meeting of the Attorneys General was hosted by Attorney General of Singapore Lucien Wong and attended by Attorneys General from the ASEAN region, who gathered to strengthen ties and cooperation among the Attorneys General and Prosecutors General as well as sharing best practices and strengthen professional ties through a series of networking sessions.

During the Attorneys General working lunch, guest of honour Minister for Law and Home Affairs of Singapore K Shanmugam encouraged counterparts to engage in legal harmonisation to create a better business environment and enhance regional connectivity.

At the conclusion of the Meeting of Attorneys General, Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Hayati also paid a courtesy call to the Attorney General of Singapore to discuss areas of further cooperation, training opportunities and issues of common concern.

Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Hayati also attended the opening ceremony of the 13th ASEAN Law Association General Assembly and Conference at Fairmont Singapore on July 26.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE third APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) 2018 Meeting recently took place in Kuala Lumpur, bringing together senior business leaders from around the Asia-Pacific.

Two members of ABAC Brunei were among those to attend the meeting when it was held on July 23-26, namely Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii and Head of Baiduri Bank Retail Banking and Branch Network Pengiran Azaleen bin Pengiran Dato Haji Mustapha.

Yang Berhormat Nik Hafimi said, “As ABAC we must keep to the intent of the free trade of the Asia-Pacific. ABAC Brunei is supportive of the messages being delivered to Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders and in our own context, being a small economy, Brunei Darussalam through the pathways of Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RECP) are further encouraging Bruneian businesses to go beyond our borders.”

She noted the central focus for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) within the message of the ABAC report this year “in its wholeness of not just eco-system, access to finance and human capacity building but more importantly linkages into the value chain and supply system”.

“The efforts of big business helping SMEs are still crucial to improving the livelihoods of our APEC communities,” she said.

“There was also much discussion on the Digital economy and the impact this is having and will be shaping the way we in APEC go about business in the region,” she continued.

“In Brunei the digital economy is very much a catalyst of where we can focus one aspect of economic diversification,” she said, noting, as examples, agriculture and technology, “not just for the benefit of serving our long term food security but also allowing better knowledge and innovation development which can then be licensed as IP and replicated globally”.

Adding to this, Pengiran Azaleen said, “ABAC recognises the central role that FinTech plays in the digital economy, and accordingly stresses the importance of coordination on policy, regulatory and institutional settings in that area.

“The vast infrastructure needs in the APEC region should be an urgent focus for investment and regulatory reform,” he affirmed. “This reflects the direction of financial institutions in Brunei for wider financial inclusions in the market place and the regulatory framework needs to cater for a level playing field of all involved.”

ABAC was created by APEC Leaders in 1995 to be the primary voice of business in APEC, and each economy has three members. ABAC meets four times a year in preparation for the presentation of their recommendations to the leaders.

According to a press release issued by ABAC, the senior business leaders who attended the meeting in Kuala Lumpur expressed deep concern about the risks to continued prosperity from the current turbulent trade and economic environment.

Chair of ABAC David Toua said, “The storm clouds of trade war and protectionism are gathering. After a period in the doldrums, we had finally been seeing more buoyant growth around the world. But the destructive forces of protectionism and unilateralism are a real threat to that trend.”

Toua noted that the IMF was forecasting global GDP to expand by 3.9 per cent in 2018, but that it has also identified a rise in trade tensions as a significant downside risk.

“We have given a strong message to APEC Economic Leaders in our annual report about our support for the global rules-based trading system and the value we place on pressing ahead towards a Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific. These are fundamental to ensuring that our region will be seamless, dynamic, resilient and sustainable – and a place where everyone can enjoy the opportunities and benefits of regional economic integration.

“Trade barriers hurt jobs especially those in SMEs participating in Global Value Chains (GVCs), and it hurts our communities and environment. Open and connected markets are not just better for business – they have advanced communities globally. We need to focus on reaching win-win outcomes.”

He added that a further core message to the Leaders was around the importance of fully leveraging the digital age. “That means a future-ready workforce, infrastructure, and the right policy settings to ensure data flows, privacy and security, while not leaving some economies behind.”

Toua said that the Council had also finalised letters to APEC Ministers for Finance, Energy and SMEs.

On energy, he said that ABAC was committed to helping to realise the UN Sustainable Development Goal of access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all. “That demands a focus on improving energy infrastructure, shifting towards low-carbon and renewable energy, and tackling climate change.

“On finance, we recognise the central role that FinTech plays in the digital economy, and accordingly we have stressed the importance of coordination on policy, regulatory and institutional settings in that area,” he continued. “As well, the vast infrastructure needs in the APEC region should be an urgent focus for investment and regulatory reform.”

He added that empowering MSMEs and women remained a major priority. “It is critical that MSMEs, including women-led MSMEs, are able to realise their full potential – whether operating domestically or internationally. That requires access to finance and the digital economy, reducing structural impediments and trade barriers such as non-tariff barriers (NTBs).”

“There also needs to be an emphasis on the development of future-ready skills, more broadly throughout economies such as STEM education, and the right mindset in business and society that encourages and enables equal economic participation, including diversity in leadership roles. Without addressing these needs, we will struggle to deliver truly inclusive and sustainable growth,” he concluded.

|     Wani Roslan     |

THE 161st intake of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) with 171 male recruits marched into the parade grounds of the Training Institute of the RBAF to mark the end of their 31-week Basic Military Training.

The passing out parade was held yesterday morning at the Penanjong Garrison.

The guest of honour, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications Haji Azhar bin Haji Ahmad inspected the parade, delivered a speech and presented awards to the instructors and recruits who performed and achieved excellent results during the course of the training.

The Best Platoon Sergeant was awarded to 17305 Sergeant Noorsalehan bin Ali Safari while the Best Male Instructor was awarded to 19097 Corporal Basyir bin Haji Bidin.

52500 Recruit Mohd Nasiruddin bin Ali Hassan won the Best Overall Recruit, 52493 Recruit Zahi Zaidan bin Haji Sabli won the Best Light Weapon Operator, 52344 Recruit Mohd Abdul Hakim bin Karim received the Best in Physical Training award and 52483 Recruit Mohd Daniel bin Abdullah Muhsin won the Best Military Skills.

The guest of honour said through the collaboration between the RBAF and Ministry of Defence, the ‘Whole of Nation’ approach will continue to create an environment with conducive platform, security and harmony where the initiatives of both agencies can be implemented effectively and organised.

“With well-trained, efficient and professional personnel – with other agencies under the Ministry of Communications such as Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department, Land Transport Department, Department of Civil Aviation and Maritime and Ports Authority, this will further ensure the RBAF can fulfil its responsibilities in preserving the prosperity of the nation,” he said.

He added that the effort will make it convenient to face current challenges in ensuring the nation to be protected from undesirable elements that can weaken and destroy the nation’s peace and prosperity.

The permanent secretary also congratulated the recruits as well as the parents and families.

Also in attendance were Commander of the RBAF Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, service commanders and acting service commanders, joint force commander, senior officers, officers and other ranks of the RBAF as well as family members and relatives of the recruits.

|     James Kon     |

HIGHER education institutions and parents alike must ask how they can best prepare present and future generations to succeed in this transforming world.

This was highlighted by Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD )Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina binti Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Aziz in her opening remarks at the Brunei Dialogue 2018, organised by UBD at the Royal Berkshire Hall of the Royal Brunei Polo and Riding Club yesterday.

“There is no doubt that education is at the heart of efforts to make success. Therefore, it is important that we produce an education system that can develop the human potential rather than pitting it against machines.

“An education system that was designed for an industrial economy is now being automated and requires transformation from a system based on facts and procedures to one that actively applies knowledge for collaborative problem solving,” the vice-chancellor said.

Touching on the Fourth Industrial Revolution, she said, “We are on the verge of the Fourth Industrial Revolution or the digital revolution.

“The world is experiencing extraordinary change on a rapid speed. Coupled with globalisation, the digital revolution 4.0 brings with it exciting possibilities and new solutions to global challenges.”

At the same time, she said, “The digital revolution threatens to create technological unemployment while the society adapts to the new normal. Combined with climate change and rapid global population growth, this century is the most challenging that mankind has ever faced.

She highlighted that “In the past, writing and reading were important skills, but today what is more important is the adaptation of skills.

“The most valuable skill would be learning how to learn, unlearn and relearn. We need to de-construct the curriculum and design a learning experience that encourages learners to collaboratively solve real world challenges.

“We will succeed by working alongside machines rather than competing with them by programming them rather than being programmed by them.”

Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina said UBD is aspiring to be a university of lifelong learning.

“Last year, UBD established the Centre for Lifelong Learning where we provide students opportunities for personal development and to enrich their professional skills.

“We offer a blended approach to learning and students can study at their own pace and place through multiple pathways without disrupting their career.

“This is our commitment to human capacity building which is aligned with Brunei’s long-term development plan Vision 2035.”

|     Izah Azahari     |

UNIVERSITI Brunei Darussalam (UBD) hosted the Brunei Dialogue 2018 at the Royal Berkshire Hall of the Royal Brunei Polo and Riding Club in Jerudong yesterday.

Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud was the guest of honour at the event, themed ‘Universities as Drivers of Lifelong Learning and Enterprise’.

The opening ceremony began with welcoming remarks by UBD Vice-Chancellor Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina binti Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Aziz, in which she shared that UBD launched the first Brunei Dialogue in 2013 with the aim to bring in key institutional leaders from top universities to hold high-level global dialogues around key issues in higher education and research.

The Brunei Dialogue 2018 brought together over 80 university presidents, rectors, vice-presidents and participants from Asia.

The dialogue comprised a keynote speech and three panel discussions.

Sixteen distinguished speakers from top universities in Asia utilised the platform to meet and exchange ideas on current and vital topics including lifelong learning, innovation and enterprise, the digital landscape as well as the development and cultivation of the Quadruple Helix Collaboration between universities, industries, the public sector and the community.

Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Mokti in his opening speech applauded UBD for providing a great platform for university presidents and senior university administrators to share thoughts on how universities map the future and impact the society through innovating education and research as well as significant knowledge transfer.

Following the launching of the Brunei Dialogue 2018 by the minister, the first keynote speech on ‘The Role of Universities in Promoting Lifelong Learning’ was delivered by President of the National University of Singapore (NUS) Professor Tan Eng Chye.

Professor Tan shared the NUS experience and commitment to lifelong learning for NUS undergraduates as well as alumni. He stressed that lifelong learning is a fundamental mindset change, and industry-relevant education is crucial for the future job market.

This was followed by a roundtable session on ‘The Role of Universities in the Digital Age’, where discussions were centred on the impact, accessibility, adaptability and usability of digital revolution 4.0.

Panellists also highlighted challenges such as infrastructure and mindset towards the assimilation of technologies in teaching and learning.

A second roundtable session on ‘The Role of Universities in Quadruple Helix Collaboration’ discussed the Quadruple-Helix relationship between university, industry, government and community and the increasingly critical role this relationship plays in the production, transfer and application of knowledge in the future, including how these collaborations are developed and fostered.

‘Challenges and Trends Impacting Universities Beyond 2020’ was the topic of the closing panel discussion in the dialogue.

The panel members discussed vigorously the challenges, issues and trends impacting universities in 2020 and beyond.

Matters ranging from funding, philanthropy, teaching and learning, research and innovation to issues on infrastructure and employment were covered.

The discussion involved six panellists – Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Malaya Professor Datuk Ir (Dr) Abdul Rahim Hashim; President of the NUS Professor Tan Eng Chye; Vice-Chancellor of UBD Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina; Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Brunei Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman; Pro-Rector of Yangon University of Economics Professor Dr Tun Aung; and Executive Director of ASEAN University Network Secretariat Dr Choltis Dhirathiti.

According to the UBD Vice-Chancellor, like other universities, UBD also faces challenges such as the ever-changing technological knowledge and changing job markets.

She said that in Brunei, oil prices affect the funding to universities. Her view was supported by Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah who stated that UTB, being a partially autonomous university, depends heavily on funding from the oil and gas industry.

The Brunei Dialogue 2018 delegates will visit the Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre (KBFSC) in the Temburong District today.

The Brunei Dialogue has provided a platform for university presidents to exchange ideas and brainstorm on issues pertinent to future universities.

UBD has also hosted similar events such as the President’s Lecture and the Future Forum. The next Brunei Dialogue is scheduled to be held in 2020.

UBD is the premier university of Brunei and has continued steadily on its upward path, rising three places to 34 in the QS Top 50 Under 50 World Rankings and is currently 323 in the QS World University Rankings.

UBD continues to focus on high quality academic research which is aligned with the National Vision 2035 that not only has high academic value but also has economic and social impact and applied relevance.

This includes strategic areas such as alternative energy research, biodiversity and the environment including herbal and medicinal plant research, Islamic banking and finance, Islamic governance, data analytics, and cybersecurity.