|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE 3rd International Seminar on Halalan Thayyiban Products and Services (SAPPHAT III) 2018 rolled into its second and final day yesterday, mirroring the opening day’s packed schedule, with a fourth session of paper presentations as well as a forum being held.

Held at the International Convention Centre, the two-day seminar was co-organised by the Faculty of Syariah and Law, Halalan Thayyiban Research Centre, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) and the Global Halal Industry Development Division of the Ministry of Energy, Manpower and Industry.

Yesterday’s session featured four presentations, one of which was entitled Perception of Halal Among Consumers in Brunei Darussalam presented by Pengiran Dr Hajah Siti Norainna binti Pengiran Haji Besar and Noralipah binti Mohammed, a lecturer at the Academy of Brunei Studies, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD).

Pengiran Dr Hajah Siti Norainna’s presentation focussed on a study UBD conducted to gauge the perception and understanding among Bruneian consumers on the concept of Halal food. Findings from the study indicated that the survey participants are reasonably well-versed when it comes to determining whether a particular food item is Halal, with most knowing what to look for in terms of the items’ packaging and Halal indicator information.

One of these is the Halal logo, widely accepted to be the number one indicator of a food item’s “Halal-ness”. During her presentation, the speaker shared that food labelled with unknown Halal logos adversely affect consumers’ confidence in them.

She added that Halal packaging is not the only factor that is important when filtering for Halal food: The religious status of the food item’s producer and its country of origin play a major part as well. Consumer confidence in food products is also influenced by long-standing trust in food product manufacturers – brands which are long trusted for their Halal status and quality draw the highest customer loyalty.

The presentation concluded that all the aforementioned factors show that Bruneian Malay Muslims still take very seriously the issue of Halal food, due to their adherence to the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) national philosophy.

Another presentation featuring at the event was that of Associate Professor Dr Nurdeng Deuraseh and Raihana binti Mohd Raffi from the Halalan Thayyiban Research Centre, titled Preservation and Protection of Environment and Health as New Essential Value of Maqasid Syariah.

The third speaker, Dr Nurol Huda binti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Seri Utama (Dr) Haji Ismail, a lecturer at the Faculty of Syariah and Law at UNISSA, delivered a presentation entitled Kehalalan Rezeki: Analisis Sumber Pemilikan Harta, which highlighted the ownership of Halal assets.

The session’s final speaker was Haji Suhaili bin Haji Momin, a Syar’ie lawyer from Tetuan Peguam Syarie Al Wady, who delivered a presentation on advocate and solicitor services from Syariah law firms.

This was followed by a forum titled Shaping the Halalan Thayyiban Industry in Realising the Country’s Vision, featuring panellists Dr Rushdi Siddiqui, mentor at Islamic Economy Startups, Questventures (Singapore) and Moulana Mohamed Saeed Navlakhi, theological director of the South Africa National Halal Authority, Johannesburg.

Moderating the forum was Haji Sabri bin Haji Mohammad Taha, Head of the Global Halal Industry Development Division at the Ministry of Energy, Manpower and Industry.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

YANG Berhormat Iswandy bin Ahmad has called on the country’s youth to get actively involved in beneficial community activities and programmes.

The activities, he said, include those organised by larger organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), mukim and village consultative councils, or schools.

The Legislative Council member added that youth involvement in such programmes can be a source of inspiration or motivation for them in their daily lives, and at the same time can help detach them from unhealthy activities or social evils.

Yang Berhormat Iswandy was speaking to the Bulletin during the opening ceremony of the Brunei Young Leaders Convention 2018 (BYLC), which runs for three days from August 7 – 9.

Some 200 youth comprising employees and individuals from the government and private sector, NGOs, associations, schools, as well as graduates and non-graduates, are participating in the convention.

During the three-day event, the participants will be able to build networks, get involved in up-and-coming projects, as well as take part in discussions and experience-sharing sessions with selected mentors from various fields and backgrounds.

“These youth could become the support system for their peers, especially those who are not involved with any association, those who are school dropouts or delinquents, as well as youth who are facing hardships and life challenges,” Yang Berhormat Iswandy said.

“They could be their mentors and reach out to them, for example by organising discussion sessions for them to share their problems. Youth that are already holding jobs, could become sort of a support system for their peers by assisting them in polishing their job hunting skills, helping them in writing good resumes, doing follow-ups on their job applications, and so on.

“As we know, the challenges faced by our youth today are different from 20 or 30 years ago. The relentless advancement of technology today have brought with it many new challenges. Therefore, we need to prepare our youth to be determined in their goals and open opportunities for them to develop further.”

Building on Yang Berhormat Iswandy’s sentiments on the ways in which society can help prevent youth from immersing themselves in unhealthy activities, founder and CEO of Al-Huffaz Management Haji Mohammad Loqman Al-Hakim bin Haji Hamdan said, “One of the ways to help them is by collaborating with the Community Development Department (JAPEM) or the Special Education Unit to identify problem youth groups and devising appropriate initiatives to help them.”

|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE Youth Business Talk (YBT) 2018 at Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) concluded with a closing ceremony yesterday.

YBT is an entrepreneurship programme jointly organised by the Entrepreneurship Unit of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) with UTB. It is the first hosted at UTB.

UTB Acting Vice Chancellor Dr Hajah Noor Maya binti Haji Md Salleh was the guest of honour at the closing event.

In his speech, Head of Youth Entrepreneurship Programme at the Youth Centre Pengiran Kamal Ghadafi bin Pengiran Haji Suhaimi thanked all those involved in the YBT programme.

The ceremony also saw the presentation of certificates and tokens of appreciation to the speakers and participants of the programme.

The two-day programme focussed on positive mindset, identity, leadership, marketing and branding, which included 100 participants from UTB, including students from the UTB School of Business, School of Computing and Informatics, Faculty of Engineering, School of Applied Sciences and Mathematics and School of Design.

Yesterday, the participants were involved in breakout sessions where they were divided into groups to discuss topics on marketing, branding and communication skills.

Each of the group sessions were conducted by youth who have succeeded in business.

Prior to the closing ceremony in the afternoon, a plenary session was held featuring a panel comprising DH-AW Sdn Bhd Director Dato Paduka Haji Hamdillah bin Haji Abdul Wahab, Progresif Cellular Chief Marketing Officer Devin Edwards, Geotrax Chief Executive Officer Md Reduan bin Yusof and Md Ammirul Hakeem bin Rahimeey, a final year UTB student studying Computer Network and Security, who also has a business called MixBros.

The plenary session, moderated by Pengiran Kamal Ghadafi, discussed, ‘Challenges Facing Youth in Entrepreneurship and Life: Setting Your Ambitions After University.’

|     Azlan Othman     |

BRUNEI Darussalam is working towards positioning itself as a Halal industry hub in the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) and ASEAN regions, said Deputy Permanent Secretary (Management, Cooperatives and Industry) at the Ministry of Energy, Manpower and Industry Hajah Tutiaty binti Haji Abdul Wahab.

The Sultanate is currently focussing on the advancement of its Halal food and beverages, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, she noted in her welcoming remarks at the Halal Business Investment seminar, held as part of the ongoing Brunei Halal Showcase (BruHAS) 2018 at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas yesterday.

“The global Halal market is lucrative. Key to this is a fast-growing world Muslim population which is projected to reach 2.2 billion in 2030, creating a market valued at USD2.3 trillion.

“The realisation of Halal growth objective requires not only an understanding of Halal certification and other related processes, but also knowledge about viable export markets and suitable market access strategies. The premise is not just to link Brunei Darussalam with the Asia Pacific market and beyond, but also to do it in a sustainable manner,” she added.

Hajah Tutiaty noted that as the frontline agency to promote the Halal industry, the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEBD) has a clear focus on its initiatives to develop export-oriented industries through comprehensive research, analysis and formulation of strategic plans.

“BEDB also facilitates foreign investment, working closely with investors and assisting them by providing necessary information on developmental requirements as well as laws and regulations of the country.

“With respect to the local Halal ecosystem, the Halal Food Control Division of the Ministry of Religious Affairs has all relevant information pertaining to the Halal certification process – a key factor in understanding and leveraging on the Halal and Syariah-compliant credentials of Brunei Darussalam,” she noted.

“When such elements are harmonised, the end result can be observed in the likes of Ghanim International Corporation Sdn Bhd,” she added, inviting part-icipants to listen to the Ghanim success story in developing, marketing and promoting their ‘bruneihalalfood’ products in international markets.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of BEDB Loo Yau Soon in his presentation highlighted that investors from abroad are attracted to invest in the Sultanate, thanks to its clean and green environment, low tax regime, political stability and dedicated investment areas available for foreign direct investment (FDI).

“A Taiwan company has invested in Brunei to produce and export sashimi blue shrimp due to the availability of clean water in the country which is a wonderful place for foreign companies to invest. Singapore has set up vertical fish farming in the Sultanate while companies from China have invested in sea water fish farming,” he added.

Loo Yau Soon also highlighted the big potential of Islamic tourism in the Sultanate.

|     Hakim Hayat & Noorhamizan Haji Mohd Mosbi     |

CROCODILES are perceived as hostile and deadly creatures ready to snap anything on its path with their powerful jaws.

But, for the residents of the Temburong District who are quite familiar with the sight of crocodiles, especially in the banks of the Temburong River, one wild crocodile recently became a hit, appearing on the river bank in Pekan Bangar every evening, waiting to be fed by visitors.

Though the story might seem unbelievable for some in this country where the reptile is largely feared, the seemingly friendly and tame crocodile has won the hearts of many domestic visitors and even international tourists visiting Temburong who would come to the river bank to feed it with different types of food, particularly fresh meat.

Residents said that at almost the same time every evening, the friendly reptile, whose size is said to be in the medium range, will appear at the river bank, while visitors, especially tourists making their way back to the capital on speedboats, will try to catch a glimpse of it and feed it from the river pier.

Although the Temburong River is known to be home to many crocodiles, residents said that only this particular crocodile appears on the river bank almost every day while the rest are rarely seen, especially the bigger ones. According to a Temburong resident, with the influx of visitors coming to lay eyes on the crocodile, the area has become another point of attraction for the district often dubbed as the Green Jewel of Brunei for its untouched wild forests.

However, those who would like to catch sight of the crocodile are warned to do so only at the pier of the river bank and avoid going close to it.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

THE Seri Begawan Archery Club (SBAC) recently held a display of bow equipment and archery skills to mark the launching of a new hall at the Youth Centre in the capital.

The guest of honour was Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin.

Various types of bow equipment such as the Compound Bow, the Recurve, the Barebow and the Traditional Bow were exhibited.

The minister was briefed on the history and objectives of the SBAC by its founder Haji Razali bin Hashim.

As an advocate for the sport of archery in Brunei Darurssalam, especially in the category of Modern Archery, Haji Razali said those keen on becoming involved should abide by the club’s safety guidelines and rules.

Over the last two years, the SBAC has been invited to compete in Istanbul, while also winning various competitions in Singapore, West Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak.

The club’s main objective is to produce local youths who can compete at national and international levels.

Those interested may contact the Seri Begawan Archery Registration Section at 7145368, or via the Seri Begawan Archery page on Facebook.

|     Fizah HAB     |

YOUTH play an important role in implementing Brunei Vision 2035 and in 15 years from now, they would be the ones leading the country, said 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.

Delivering a speech during the closing ceremony of the first Brunei Young Leaders Convention (BYLC) 2018 at The Centrepoint Hotel in Gadong yesterday, he urged the nation’s youth to ask themselves what they can do for this country and what roles they can play in help developing Brunei into a better country, in line with the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) philosophy.

“Ask not what the country can do for you, but what you can do for your country,” he said.

Highlighting BYLC, the minister said, “The first such convention held in Brunei Darussalam, an initiative organised by Al-Huffaz Management and Generasi Bekarih led by a member of the Legislative Council Yang Berhormat Iswandy bin Ahmad, aims to provide a platform for young leaders to understand and support Brunei Vision 2035.”

The conference was held for three days from August 7-9 and saw the attendance of 200 youth from various fields and backgrounds.

The event highlighted ‘Believe, Empower, Lead, Inspire and Act’ or simply BELIA as its motto which underscored the need for mindset change among youth for them to understand these five aspects so that they will able to understand and constructively support Brunei Vision 2035.

The convention gathered experienced youth leaders aged 18 to 40 who have contributed to the development of the country through various fields such as entrepreneurship, education and sustainable development and offered them as opportunity to present accurate and updated information on Brunei Vision 2035.

During the event, participants had the chance to build networks and be involved in brainstorming sessions on future projects with forum members acting as their mentors.

Legislative Council members Yang Berhormat Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii and Yang Berhormat Khairunnisa binti Haji Ash’ari and Managing Director of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Dato Paduka Eddie bin Dato Paduka Haji Sunny were also present.

Three forums were hosted – Dynamic and Sustainable Economy, Project Implementation and Project Funding.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

DPMM FC Head Coach Rene Weber has highlighted that the match against Geylang International will not be a breeze despite their apparent shortcomings as they meet for the third time in the Singapore Premier League at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas tonight.

The Gegar-Gegar men have already beaten the Eagles twice this season with emphatic wins – 4-1 at home and 6-2 at the Bedok Stadium- and were part of a record for the most goals in the season achieved during their last meeting.

However, Weber has called on his players to play at their usual style finetuned by accurate finishing as opposed to playing at a reserved tone.

“I hope the team can keep doing what they have been doing. We faced a strong opponent in Albirex Niigata (S) and we didn’t win. Now, we have two games against Geylang International FC and Hougang United FC,” said Weber in a match preview recently.

Geylang International FC will have huge interest as far as their league position is concerned with victory taking them four points off the pace of fifth-placed Warriors.

A defeat will open the door for basement dwellers Hougang United FC to claw their way from the foot of the table.

“Geylang came here and it was a difficult game. There is no easy game in the league. They may come to try to get an improved position in the league.

“It is about playing our way and if we can play like the way we know we can, we will win the game. But if we relax and think that it is going to be an easy game, then we will lose,” Weber added. “The team must concentrate and if we play like we did against Albirex, provided that we score of course, we can beat any team.”

The coach also thinks his side carved the most chances without meeting the target, adding that they at least have three opportunities.

“If you have opportunities and you don’t score, you can lose the game. I hope we can win the game tonight,” said the Brazilian.

After suffering back-to-back losses at home, DPMM FC face a must-win encounter to keep their hopes of a runners-up finish alive.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

TRADE and sectoral officials from the 21 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member economies are convening in Port Moresby in a bid to ease friction over trade in favour of policies that support shared inclusive growth objectives, according to a press release issued by the APEC Secretariat recently.

The press release states that consultations taking place there, over the course of two weeks, aim to foster alignment on barriers to trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific at a policy-making level and strengthen action towards opening digital opportunities for people in all areas of the region.

The proceedings will feed a key policy meeting of APEC senior officials on August 19-20, helping to determine the scope for potential breakthroughs when Ministers and Leaders meet in Port Moresby over the ensuring weeks.

The press release includes comments from 2018 Chair of APEC senior officials Ambassador Ivan Pomaleu who said, “Obviously, economies have to deal with their specific interests and we can understand that. At the same time, it matters most to be able to get decision-makers to recognise that the growth and resilience of the region depends on certain compromises taking place.

“It’s still important for us to recognize there are diverging points of view but to also look at what APEC can do to bring views together and to address issues that can drive growth and trade and investment in the region,” Ambassador Pomaleu added. “APEC as a body continues to hold itself out as the champion of bringing those discussions into focus.”

Issues in the spotlight will include tariff and non-tariff barriers, and ways to build resiliency within vulnerable sectors—including during a Mining Ministers’ meeting on August 23. Attention will also centre on enhancing the technical underpinnings of next generation trade agreements and growth such as services regulation, digital infrastructure and data privacy regimes.

It was shared that parallel emphasis will be on facilitating the availability and application of new technologies in priority areas needed to boost job creation and living standards for more people around the Asia-Pacific. They range from food production and healthcare to greater small business participation in trade and disaster resilience.

The press release also includes comments from APEC Secretariat Executive Director Dr Alan Bollard. “We’ve had more announcements about tariffs and the possibility of non-tariff barriers. Whether or not you say we’re in trade frictions or even a trade war, it’s certainly a more difficult position than APEC’s found itself in for quite a long time.

“We’ll certainly be talking about trade frictions – How to avoid them getting worse, how to turn back the clock and try and move away from the quite risky positions that we look like we’re heading towards,” Dr Bollard said.

“And how to ensure that there’s still a lot of scope for big growth in trade around the regional economic environment because it’s helped so many people in the past and a lot of economies want to get a lot more from that in the future too.”

|     Wani Roslan     |

STEVEN anak Sugit from Kuala Belait won a BND2,000 shopping voucher during the ‘Toyota Double Your Luck Promo’ draw at the NBT Sdn Bhd Toyota Showroom in Gadong yesterday.

“I purchased my Toyota Vios through NBT Sales Consultant Stanley Sindai (Bunut showroom) because I know him well. I am very happy with its ASEAN NCAP 5-Star rating. I feel safe on the road with the new Vios that he recommended,” he explained when asked why he did not make his purchase in Kuala Belait.

“It was also worth waking up early. I was actually the first customer to arrive this morning. I am still pinching myself – whether it is really true that I’ve won BND2,000 worth of shopping vouchers. My mother will be very pleased. Thank you very much NBT for organising this lucky draw for all of us,” he added.

The second prize of BND1,800 shopping voucher was won by Kon Nyuk Moi while the third prize of BND1,500 shopping voucher was won by Siti Nadirah binti Haji Abdul Panjang.

The fourth prize of BND1,200 shopping voucher went to Siti Sarah binti Syed Ibrahim and the fifth prize of BND1,000 shopping voucher was won by Kamariah binti Tahir.

The prizes were presented by NBT Sales Manager (Gadong) Roland Ti.

Also present at the draw were NBT Senior General Sales Manager Leong Cheng Soon and NBT Manager (Marketing) Muhammad Clovien bin Abdullah Timpoh.

Leong Cheng Soon said, “On behalf of NBT, I would like to firstly congratulate all the lucky winners this morning. Thanks to the continuously strong support of the Brunei community. This is NBT’s 51st successful year of business in the country.

“Accordingly, I would also like to take this opportunity to say that all our company’s milestones, so far, would not be possible without all your trust and continuously strong support of Toyota and Lexus.”

Meanwhile, Roland Ti said, “On behalf of NBT, I would like to congratulate all the winners for their choice of Toyota Vios and Yaris. Like all Toyotas, these two models, especially the Vios, are tried, tested and trusted – and therefore much-loved by Toyota customers in the Asia-Pacific region.”

“Please drop by our Toyota showrooms to test drive the new Vios and to take advantage of our ‘Vios-2-Vios Trade-In Campaign’ (August 11-12). Win with Toyota, Win with NBT! In fact, every Toyota owner is actually a winner!” he added.

The draw was organised for customers who purchased and registered a Toyota Vios or a Toyota Yaris from July 1-31. The promotion was a reward for customers for their continuous support of NBT and Toyota.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

TECHNOLOGY enthusiasts in Brunei Darussalam will soon be in for a treat, as the Brunei Technology Expo (TechXpo) 2018 will be showcased at the International Convention Centre (ICC), Berakas from August 18-21.

This year’s TechXpo, themed ‘Innovative Technology for All’, was endorsed into existence at an official agreement signing ceremony that incorporated an exhibitor briefing at the D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd premises.

The event was attended by official event partners and vendors.

The official event partners included Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, Telekom Brunei Berhad (TelBru) and Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD).

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications Haji Azhar bin Haji Ahmad witnessed the ceremony.

Signing on behalf of the event organiser, InfoComm Federation Brunei (IFB), was Chairman Sheikh Haji Abas bin Sheikh Mohamad, and witnessed by Secretary Vincent Chok Kah Thiam.

Brunei Press Sdn Bhd was represented Senior Manager of Finance and Operations Suzie Houng and witnessed by Sales and Marketing Officer Michelle Tolentino Hizola.

Head of Marketing Dona Eldeyana binti Haji Johan represented TelBru, with Acting Head of Corporate Siti Hajar binti Haji Mahathir as witness.

An exhibitor briefing, including the issue of exhibitor passes, was done by the marketing and event representative from D’Sunlit.

Robots will also be making their appearance in the exhibition, and TechXpo Cyber Games Tournament 2018 is back with a record prize pool of BND15,000 worth of cash prizes to be won across seven games: PC Games – CS:GO, League of Legends, and DOTA 2; Console Games – Tekken 7 and FIFA 18 and Mobile Games – Mobile Legends and Rules of Survival.

The TechXpo Cyber Games Tournament 2018 is organised by D’Sunlit with Sigma Cyberspace as Cyber Games Event Manager.

All games are open to gamers from Sabah, Sarawak, and Brunei, except for CS:GO, which will be open to Bruneian residents only.

BAG Networks Sdn Bhd also launched a pre-event promotional game ‘Trail to TechXpo 2018’ in conjunction with the TechXpo.

The game was officially launched on Thursday.

The TechXpo is a premier trade and consumer exposition and provides a platform to showcase products and services related to technology as well as the trends, developments, and ideas associated with technology.

The event offers exhibitors, visitors, and conference delegates an important venue to do business, network with industry counterparts, and seek out new opportunities within the technology sector.

The main objectives of the Brunei TechXpo are to create an official technology trade and consumer exposition to help boost Brunei Darussalam’s technology sector; to provide a perfect platform for players in the technology industry to introduce and promote their products and services to the local community, and provide a venue where people may be introduced to the latest technologies and inventions.

The TechXpo is targetting over 200 booths for more than a hundred local and international exhibitors.

|     James Kon     |

CONCEPTS Technologies was recently named as one of the recipients of the 2018 Microsoft Country Partner of the Year Award, in recognition of its outstanding services and excellent subsidiary engagement in Brunei.

This is the first time that Concepts Technologies has picked up the prestigious award, since its 2015 appointment as the official distributor for Microsoft in Brunei Darussalam.

Yesterday, a presentation ceremony was held, during which General Manager of Concepts Group Vincent Pao received the award from Microsoft Brunei Darussalam Country Manager Afif Mohamed Ali.

“The past year has proven to be a challenging one in terms of business, due to many factors, especially across the small medium enterprises (SMEs) market,” said Vincent Pao.

“However, with the consistent support from Microsoft, true confidence from our partners and the trust that our customers have in us, we have managed to pull through and deliver.”

He said, “This is a milestone, and we’re truly honoured to be recognised as the 2018 Microsoft Country Partner of the Year for Brunei Darussalam – it is also a confirmation of the hard work that everyone at this company has put in, to ensure we give our best.”

Meanwhile, Afif Mohamed Ali commented, “As our Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella, once said, ‘Microsoft has always been a partner-led company, and this ecosystem drives local economies and creates massive growth’. By winning the country partner of the year award, Concepts Technologies showcases the extraordinary commitment towards driving digital transformation in Brunei. As we aim to empower every person and organisation on the planet to achieve more, our partners support us live on this mission.

“I also would like to commend the extraordinary efforts of Concepts Technologies, and I look forward to working with Concepts in empowering every person and organisation in Brunei towards digital transformation.”

Gavriella Schuster, the Corporate Vice-President of One Commercial Partner at Microsoft Corp, said, “We are honoured to recognise Concepts Technologies of Brunei Darussalam as a Microsoft Country Partner of the Year.

“Concepts Technologies has distinguished itself as a top partner, exemplifying the remarkable expertise and innovation that we see in our Microsoft partner community, to deliver transformative solutions.”

Last June, Microsoft Corp announced the winners and finalists of the Microsoft 2018 Partner of the Year Awards, for the excellent innovation and implementation of customer solutions based on Microsoft technology.

|     Fizah HAB     |

FOREIGN Halal companies are looking to invest in Brunei Darussalam as they participate in the ongoing Brunei Halal Showcase (BruHAS) 2018 at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.

One such company joining the five-day showcase is the Department of Trade and Industry of Philippines, which is showcasing its Halal-certified products.

Assistant Division Chief Head, Halal Section of the Export Marketing Bureau, Philippines, Albin M Ganchero shared with the Weekend Bulletin that participating in the BruHAS (for the first time) has opened new opportunities for cooperation and partnership with the Brunei Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and allows for the showcasing of its Halal-certified products.

“The Halal Philippines expo showcases products from 1,200 companies, including food, beverages, cosmetics and articles. We are looking into developing Halal-tourism in the Philippines, under the Department of Tourism. In September, we will host a forum on Muslim-friendly tourism in the Philippines.

“The Department of Trade and Industry of Philippines and the Ministry of Energy, Manpower and Industry of Brunei have already signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU),” he said, to a question on future cooperation with Brunei in the Halal industry.

“In fact, we had our first joint committee meeting yesterday. We came up with a detailed plan for the two countries to cooperate with each other, including in areas of bilateral trading. This includes recent talks with Ghanim International Corporation in supplying raw materials and ingredients to produce the Halal-certified products.”

Themed ‘Developing the Halalan Thayyiban Industry Towards Achieving the 2035 National Vision’, BruHAS 2018 demonstrates the wider sphere of the Halal industry economy, including both local and foreign companies from the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and personal care, modest fashion and services sectors.

Participating vendors will showcase their products and services at the ICC daily from 9am to 9pm until August 12. They also have the opportunity to join the business networking and matching session, which will be held today.

The BruHAS Clinic will also be held today from 10am to 4.30pm at Bilik Sepakat 3.

These events are open to the public.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

DARUSSALAM Assets Sdn Bhd handed over a cheque donation to Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam yesterday as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative.

According to a press release, for a second year running, Darussalam Assets will be maintaining full financial support for two special needs students throughout their programmes in Pusat Ehsan for a year.

Pusat Ehsan introduced its ‘Special Needs Student Adoption Scheme’ in 2017, where sponsors are able to fully cover the expenses of special needs students’ expenses for a period of one year. The press release states that Darussalam Assets’ engagement with the scheme reflects its CSR initiative to focus on building and strengthening ties with communities. The cheque presentation took place at Darussalam Assets.

Present during the handover of the donation were Deputy Permanent Secretary (Investment) at the Ministry of Finance, and Acting CEO of Darussalam Assets Sdn Bhd Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abdul Hamid, Administration Manager of Darussalam Assets Haji Mohamad Noor Amali bin Haji Mirhassan, Senior Finance and Accounting Manager of Darussalam Assets Sdn Bhd Laila Hussainmiya, Executive Trustee of Pusat Ehsan Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini binti Pengiran Dipa Negara Laila Diraja Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin, Policy and Planning Trustee of Pusat Ehsan Haji Ahmad bin Haji Abdul Rahman as well as Darussalam Assets’ and Pusat Ehsan’s staff members.

“Corporate social res-ponsibility is not only an integral component in our organisation, but it is also highly valuable in fostering Darussalam Assets’ corporate culture,” said Darussalam Assets’ Acting Chief Executive Officer. “We engaged with Pusat Ehsan last year, through their ‘Special Needs Student Adoption Scheme’, which has resulted in meaningful progress in the students’ lives and it was only vital to continue this sponsorship this year.”

“Darussalam Assets app-reciates this remarkable opportunity to be playing a contributory role to Pusat Ehsan’s activities,” he added.

Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of Pusat Ehsan, Haji Ahmad said, “With Darussalam Assets’ participation last year, we were able to offer financial assistance to two of our special needs students with the expenses.

“This year, we are pleased to receive their support to continue this sponsorship for another year. The sponsorship covers not only the daily financial expenses, but it also invests into the long-term physical and educational development of these students. I am thankful for Darussalam Assets’ continued support, and hope that many other organisations will follow suit.”

Darussalam Assets Sdn Bhd is a holding company of government-linked companies (GLCs). Its mandate is to own and actively manage GLCs under its purview by commercial principles to increase their performance and value, and to ensure that they are managed in accordance with good corporate governance and international best practices. Since its incorporation, it has assumed direct ownership and/or management control of GLCs engaged in aviation, tele-communications, agribusiness, catering, logistics, and leisure and tourism industries.

Pusat Ehsan is a non-governmental, non-profit charity organisation committed to provide quality education, vocational training and rehabilitation programme for children and adults with special needs.

|     James Kon     |

MOTORSPORT enthusiast Vance Lee Khin Pek will be flying the Brunei flag as the country’s lone participant in the Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR) 2018, from August 12-18, in Thailand and Cambodia.

Driving under the Amsoil Brunei Darussalam Rally Team, Lee will be partnered with Li Pak Sau from China.

In a test of driving and maneuvering skills, Lee will need to drive through mountainous areas, the jungle, paddy fields and river-crossings without doing any major damage to the environment.

Covering more than 2,000km, the race will begin in Pattaya, Thailand, and conclude in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

A national flag handover ceremony was held yesterday morning at the Brunei International Airport, which was attended by the Japanese Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Motohiko Kato; the Cambodian Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Ouk Chandara; Rooge Thammongkol, the Charge d’Affaires of the Royal Thai Embassy in Brunei Darussalam; and the Acting Director of Youth and Sports, Haji Zafri bin Haji Mohamed.

The national flag of Brunei Darussalam was presented to Lee by President of the Brunei Four Wheel Drive Association Haji Ibrahim bin Haji Damit.

In an interview, Vance said, “I feel proud and honoured to represent Brunei Darussalam for the first time, in this year’s AXCR. The event is organised by Sun Chlorello of Japan, and my car will be installed in Thailand with the required safety specifications.”

He added, “Besides the competition, I hope to learn and make more friends during the event. I would like the other participants at the Asia Cross Country Rally 2018 to know that Brunei can also compete. ‘Brunei Boleh!’”

Rally drivers from the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Korea, Japan and Cambodia are also expected to compete in the AXCR 2018.

Vance recently won the Jamboree category of the Rainforest Challenge (RFC), held at Pahang in April this year. He also won the Trophy category in the same competition, held in Kelantan in July.

Vance has already attended several 4WD events, out of love for the sport. He currently owns 15 vehicles, especially designed for 4WD rallies.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

BRUNEI made history on July 13 when the first successful mechanical thrombectomy (clot removal) for stroke was performed in the country.

The complicated medical procedure was carried out on Hii Hin Chung, 33, in a collaborative effort between the Brunei Neuroscience Stroke and Rehabilitation Centre (BNSRC) and the Radiology Department of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital, Ministry of Health.

With this, the life-saving medical option would be available for stroke patients in the country.

Hii Hin Chung was present at a press conference to announce the success of the surgery yesterday at the Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre (PJSC), and could be seen recovering quite well. Present during the press conference to share the outcome of the operation and explain about stroke problems were Executive Director of PJSC Dr Mazrul Adimin bin Haji Awang Besar; Director of BNSRC and Consultant Neurologist Dr Dayangku Siti Nur’Ashikin binti Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Tengah; and Consultant Radiologist at RIPAS Hospital Dr Sankarakumar Sambandamurthy.

According to PJSC, Hii, a car parts salesman, was found with left-side weakness at 2.30pm on July 13 by work colleagues.

He was brought to the RIPAS Hospital by ambulance and was subsequently transferred to BNSRC where scans confirmed a stroke on the right side of his brain.

Clot-busting treatment (thrombolysis) was given initially with good effect, however, there was concern as his brain scan showed a blockage to blood flow.

The patient was escorted to RIPAS Hospital by Neurology Medical Officer at BNSRC Dr Chan Guan Choon who reported that Hii’s speech was slurred and his left arm and leg were both weak.

At the RIPAS Hospital, Hii underwent angiography carried out by Dr Sankarakumar, assisted by Consultant Radiologist and Head of the Department of Radiology Dr Lim Kian Chai. They identified a long clot which they were able to extract using a special suction device.

Hii was then transferred back to BNSRC where he was monitored initially at the Neuro-Intensive Care Unit before being moved to the Neurology Ward for further treatment and rehabilitation. Hii made a good recovery and on discharge he was able to manipulate objects with his left hand well and was able to walk independently. He continues to have outpatient rehabilitation and will be followed up in the Neurology Clinic.

Dr Dayangku Siti Nur’Ashikin added, “This is a great example of successful stroke treatment through early action, skilled workforce and good cooperation between healthcare institutions in Brunei Darussalam …We are extremely grateful to 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 for supporting such endeavours that directly benefit patients needing treatment for stroke.”

BNSRC and the Ministry of Health continue to work closely together in efforts to combat stroke and later this year plan to launch a campaign targetted at stroke prevention as well as treating stroke early, she added.

In the press conference, the Director of BNSRC shared, “Stroke occurs as a result of lack of blood flow to an area of the brain either due to a blockage from a clot (ischemic stroke) or through bleeding into the brain (haemorrhagic stroke).

The main risk factors for stroke are high blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol, diabetes mellitus, smoking and family history.

“Stroke (or cerebrovascular diseases) has been recorded as the fourth leading cause of death in Brunei Darussalam (after cancer, heart disease and diabetes mellitus) from 2012-2016, according to national health statistics published by the Ministry of Health. In 2016, stroke accounted for 7.5 per cent of all deaths in the country.

“However, perhaps of even greater significance is the impact caused by disability as a result of the stroke. This could include weakness of limbs, loss or impairment of speech. The resultant disability is evident in the burden of care as well as loss of employment/income, either through having the stroke or being the stroke-carer.

“The impact of stroke, not just on the individual but also the community, should be taken very seriously …While we always advocate for stroke prevention, once a stroke has happened, I urge patients to attend hospital emergency department as soon as possible because the faster we are able to treat a stroke, the more likely our treatment will be effective … Treatment decisions do depend on stroke type but thrombectomy offers an exciting, new option for stroke treatment that can significantly reduce not just death but also disability,” she said.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

BANK Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) yesterday strengthened its commitment to provide better support and convenience to Brunei’s economy and its corporate institutions with the launch of its Asian Desk.

The BIBD Asian Desk also serves as a one-stop centre to serve foreign direct investment (FDI) companies and its employees, the bank said in a press statement. “For the benefit and convenience of BIBD’s corporate customers, especially FDI companies, the BIBD Asian Desk is managed by relationship managers fluent in multiple languages, along with the ability to transact in additional currencies.

While serving the business needs of its customers, the Asian Desk also facilitates to the personal financial and banking needs of their employees with a whole range of convenient products and solutions. This additional support is provided by interconnectivity onto BIBD’s award-winning services across its retail and subsidiary businesses across the bank while leveraging on Brunei’s largest network of banking branches and ATMs, and state-of-the-art Contact Centre,” the statement added.

Head of Corporate Banking Division Koh Swam Sing said, “As we are witnessing the increasing number of international insti-tutions cementing their presence in Brunei, the establishment of our Asian Desk aligns us closer with the Brunei Government’s strategies to encourage more FDIs into the country, especially in economic clusters beyond the oil and gas industry.”

At the same time, the Asian Desk provides a platform for local Bruneian institutions, especially SMEs, to engage these international institutions for potential business opportunities and ventures, thus developing greater competitive strength.

“BIBD strongly believes that its Asian Desk creates a win-win solution that would not only facilitate the inflow and long-term commitment of FDIs but also the growth of Bruneian institutions, ultimately contributing towards a dynamic and sustainable Bruneian economy.”

The statement added, “This is in line with BIBD’s mission to become the first choice institution by understanding and designing better-fit solutions to our customers.”

BIBD’s standing as Brunei’s largest bank in terms of asset and deposit base, its best retail bank, strongest bank, best digital bank with the best mobile banking application, while maintaining its A-rating, the highest rating for a Bruneian bank from S&P Global, provides credence that BIBD can truly support the aspirations and goals of the customers it serves.

Present to officiate the event was BIBD Managing Director Mubashar Khokhar as well as BIBD senior management and officials.

|     James Kon     |

AWANGKU Hafidzon bin Pengiran Omar did Brunei proud when he emerged the best Bornean player after scoring 5.5 points out of nine games at the Borneo International Chess Championship 2018 held recently at Likas Square Apartment Hotel in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

The tournament’s top three winners were International Master Irene Kharisma Sukandar, International Master Nouri Hamed and International Master Pascua Haridas.

The seven Brunei players who participated in the first edition of the competition were Pengiran Haji Kamarunsalehin bin Pengiran Kamis, Awangku Hafidzon, Muhd Aliuddin bin Haji Azahari, Izzuddin bin Zain, Mohd Shawal Nor Alifkhan bin Sharikhan, Awangku Abdel Faizuddin bin Pengiran Sallehuddin and Muhd Siraj Munir bin Ahmad. Fédération Internationale des Échecs or World Chess Federation (FIDE) Master Muhd Aliuddin also won a prize for finishing in the top 20 position in the tournament.

Awangku Hafidzon in an interview said, ” I would like to express my gratitude especially to the Brunei Chess Federation for supporting my participation in the Borneo International Chess Championship 2018.

“I am glad that I managed to repay the support given to me by bringing back home a medal as the Best Bornean in the tournament.”

Four countries, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines, participated in the competition.

A total of 64 players took part in the tournament including seven International Masters, one FIDE Master and three Women Masters.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

THE Bandar Seri Begawan Indian Association (BSBIA) held a cultural gathering last night at Wafa Hotel and Apartment as part of celebrations marking the 72nd Independence Day of India.

Indian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Nagma Mohamed Mallick was the guest of honour.

The national anthem of Brunei Darussalam and India were played prior to the event.

The event began with welcoming speeches from 2017 Indian Independence Day Celebrations Committee Chairman NM Mubarak and a felicitation by BSBIA President Ravichandran.

This was followed by the guest of honour delivering a speech in which she talked in length on the contributions of Mahatma Ghandi, calling him the great son of the soil (India).

The evening was attended by over 400 members of the Indian community of Bandar Seri Begawan and their families.

Among the highlights during the event was the presentation of awards to high achieving students within the Indian community.

Cultural, classical and folk dances and songs further enlivened the event.

PROGRESIF Cellular Sdn Bhd continued to take the lead in supporting local creative industry by sending the winning team from its fashion workshop to Kuala Lumpur to spend a day working with top Malaysian designer, Jovian Mandagie.

Siti Nazmah binti Haji Abdul Samad, Dayangku Hajah Norazyatul Merna binti Pengiran Tajuddin, Nasrul Hadi and Benjamin Sanai will get the opportunity to showcase their talents to fashion industry experts and gain valuable knowledge to further their creative career, as they work alongside Jovian’s team at the KL Fashion Week.

Progresif Chief Marketing Officer Devin Edwards said, “Our investment and support for the creative community aims to inspire creative talent in Brunei.

“Initiatives like these are designed to spark creativity and drive to turn their talents into viable careers or businesses. Our collaboration with Jovian is also an example of how our strategic CSR investments seek to benefit the community in the long term,” he said.

Team member, Siti Nazmah, said, “This is a dream come true for all of us. Working with Jovian during the fashion workshop in April was already a huge achievement but it’s another thing altogether to spend a day with him to observe how the fashion industry works. We’re grateful to Progresif for setting us up with this golden opportunity.”

During the event, the team will get a strong sense of what it’s like to work at one of the most significant fashion events in the region.

Progresif invited everyone to follow the initiative on Instagram @progresif_cellular and get a chance to win BND50 when they follow and comment #thatsprogresif on the KL Fashion Week updates.