|     Wani Roslan     |

SOME 5,000 people gathered at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital yesterday morning to participate in the cycling and running event held in conjunction with the 28th Teacher’s Day celebration.

Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman, the guest of honour, officiated the cycling segment (consisting of an 11.5km route through the capital). The 5km Fun Run, meanwhile, was officiated by Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh.

Also present were Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, vice-chancellors of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and Universiti Teknologi Brunei, rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, directors, principals, senior officials, deputy principals, staff and teachers under the Ministry of Education (MoE) and Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA), and students.

Organised by the Co-Curriculum Education Department of the MoE, the cycling and running event is part of sports activities organised to enliven the country’s Teacher’s Day celebration. The event aimed to promote a healthy lifestyle among the community and to complement the Bandarku Ceria and ‘Car Free Day’ initiatives, while at the same time foster closer ties among the staff under the MoE and MoRA.

The event also saw finalists of the MoE’s Celik Biz and Bigstart competitions setting up booths to promote and sell their products.

|     Aziz Idris     |

MUHAMMAD Auf bin Haji Ismail emerged as winner of the reality singing contest Akulah Juara at Jerudong Park Amphitheatre on Saturday.

The 30-year-old wedding planner received a BND3,000 cash prize for his One Moment in Time and Lagu Untuk Mu performances. He also won BND1,000 for Best Performance.

Syafiqah binti Rosli, 18, a recent graduate won BND2,000 with her rendition of Zapin Melayu while Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam employee Pengiran Omarali Saifuddien bin Pengiran Haji Tengah, 34, won third place and received BND1,000 for his Andainya Takdir performance.

Top winners also received trophies and prizes from sponsors.

Five other participants received consolation prizes worth BND700 each, in a singing competition organised by Radio Television Brunei (RTB) through its TV Programme Division.

The singing contest aimed at discovering amateur singers in Brunei and help them reach their full potential to become real vocalists and stage performers.

The prizes were presented by 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 in his capacity as the guest of honour.

Also present was Permanent Secretary (Media and Cabinet) at the Prime Minister’s Office Mohamed Riza bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohamed Yunos along with the Director of RTB Haji Muhammad Suffian bin Haji Bungsu.

Akulah Juara began in July with over 170 auditions from members of the public and 30 shortlisted participants were chosen to compete in the quarterfinals. Twenty participants advanced to the semi-finals and subsequently eight proceeded to the finals.

The panel of judges for Akulah Juara were Hajah Dewi Hairani, Pengiran Haji Mohd Khairul Amilin and Lily Chiam.

The event was aired live on RTB Aneka, RTB Sukmaindera and Pelangi FM.

MINISTER of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohammad Isham bin Haji Jaafar, with several senior officers from the Ministry of Health (MoH) yesterday attended the World Cancer Leader Summit 2018 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The summit was organised by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) themed ‘Cancer Treatment for All’ which aimed to focus on the need to plan and implement a national cancer control plan for the development of the basic infrastructure needed to effectively treat cancer patients which are increasing in number.

The summit was a forum that discussed the policies to address the need to invest in early detection, treatment and care of cancer patients. Also present at the summit were President-Elect of the UICC Her Royal Highness Princess Dina Mired, Assistant Director-General for Family, Women, Children and Adolescents, World Health Organization Dr Princess Nothemba Simelela, Minister of Health Malaysia Dr Haji Dzulkefly bin Ahmad and Principal Patron of the National Cancer Society of Malaysia Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz.

At the session, the minister and his entourage had participated in several briefings, interviews and discussions where national leaders shared experiences and exchanged views in the field of developing national cancer control programmes including equality of treatment and care of cancer patients, the importance of the system surveillance of cancer and the involvement of various stakeholders.

The minister and his entourage also attended the World Cancer Congress which took place immediately after the World Cancer Leader Summit 2018. The World Cancer Congress is an international conference providing a platform for exchange of knowledge and best practices and strengthening national, regional, action plans and global on prevention and control of cancer.

|     James Kon     |

BRUNEI Darussalam is very fortunate to be handed the opportunity to compete in the 3rd Summer Youth Olympic Games, Buenos Aires under the ‘Universality Places’ and having the costs of the airfare and accommodation for its three Olympic athletes being borne by the International Olympic Council.

It is a massive privilege, one which on top of the huge honour of carrying the Brunei Darussalam national flag at the Games, should not be taken for granted.

Passing on this advice delivered by President of the Brunei Darussalam National Olympic Council (BDNOC) His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, in a sabda was the 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 when addressing the country’s national athletes during the national flag handing over ceremony held at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

His Royal Highness in his sabda added his hope that the Brunei contingent will always be on their best behaviour in Buenos Aires to maintain the good image of Brunei Darussalam.

This year Brunei Darussalam is sending a seven-member contingent to the Games, comprising three athletes and four officials.

The athletes are Nur Haziq bin Samil, who will compete in the 100m freestyle and 400m freestyle swimming events; Ashley Chai Xin Rou, to compete in the 50m backstroke and 50m freestyle swimming events; and Nurul Amirah binti Karim, who will be running in the 1,500m track and field race.

On Brunei’s participation in the Games, His Royal Highness said that Brunei’s involvement “is a responsibility for Brunei as affiliate members of the International Olympic Committee in line with regulation 27.3 of the Olympic Charter where is the competition is open to athletes who are between 15 and 18 years old”.

Athletes must however be qualified in their respective sports before they can represent their countries. Countries whose athletes are not qualified to participate in the Games are given ‘Universality Places’ to enable their best athletes to represent their countries, as is the case with Brunei.

His Royal Highness also reminded the Brunei contingent to always maintain discipline and refrain from taking prohibited substances and comply with the anti-doping regulations enforced by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports added that His Royal Highness has advised the athletes to always be careful and maintain safety and take care of their health, to be at a state of peak competitiveness and mindset to perform at their best.

In addition, His Royal Highness called on the athletes to take the chance to increase their knowledge and exchange ideas in their respective sports fields during the Games, and make full use of the Olympic Movements programme arranged by the IOC and the host nation.

Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan in his own speech stated his belief that all three athletes will do their best and able to compete well.

“You must demonstrate high spirit to compete and show great professionalism. Grab this golden opportunity to bring success for the name of the country in the elite level,” the minister told the athletes.

“You all should also maintain our national philosophy and be proud of the unique Bruneian values. Fly the Brunei Darussalam national flag with pride and respect during your time in Buenos Aires, Argentina.”

Following his speech, the minister handed over the national flag to Chef de Mission of the Brunei Darussalam contingent Faisal bin Yunus.

|     Fizah HAB     |

THE Brunei History Centre hosted a one day ‘History Outreach Programme 2018’ yesterday at the History Gallery of the centre, in conjunction with the opening of the new history gallery, ‘1959 Brunei Constitution Gallery’.

The guest lecturers Senior Special Duties Officer of the Secretariat Office at the MIB Supreme Council Dr Muhammad Hadi bin Muhammad Melayong and Universiti Brunei Darussalam Associate Professor Dr Haji Asbol bin Haji Mail presented talks on Sejarah Perlembagaan Negeri Brunei (The History of Brunei Constitution) and Kesan-kesan Laporan Tujuh Serangkai ke atas Pembentukan Perlembagaan 1959 (Effects of Tujuh Serangkai Report on the formation of the 1959 Constitution).

Students from Meragang Sixth Form Centre and Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic Boys Secondary School (SMALHB) as well as officers from the Youth and Sports Department at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports attended the lectures.

The event was aimed at commemorating the new History Gallery and educating the public on the 1959 Brunei constitution.

Other activities held included a creative arts mini exhibition, a history quiz session, history theatre and demonstration and a mini competition of making Dastar and Sinjang by the students.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

AS EXAM fever starts to grip many students sitting for public examinations this month, Parents and Teachers Association (PIBG) groups nationwide hosted Sunnat Hajat prayers to attain the blessings for all the exam candidates.

The Primary School Assessment (PSR) will begin October 18 while the Brunei General Certificate of Education Ordinary Level (BGCE ‘O’ Level) and Brunei General Certificate of Advanced Level (BGCE ‘A’ Level) began yesterday.

At the Brunei-Muara, Tutong and Belait districts, the prayers were held at mosques, suraus and religious halls in sixth form centres, colleges, primary and secondary schools in their respective jurisdictions while in the Temburong District, the prayers were held at Utama the Mohammad Salleh Mosque in Pekan Bangar.

Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu was the guest of honour.

The simultaneous event saw the mass Sunnat Doha and Sunnat Hajat prayers, as well as the recitation of Surah Yaasiin and religious talks delivered by invited speakers.

The Ministry of Education (MoE) in a statement said it is very focussed in ensuring that Primary Education Initiatives (PEI) and Secondary Education Initiatives (SEI) are inculcated effectively by each of its units, sections and departments. The PIBG, it said serves as a part of MoE’s objective strategy in increasing stakeholders’ involvement.

MoE said the involvement of parents in the education process of their children gives a positive impact to their academic performance and achievements.

THE Ministry of Health is alerting members of the public of five types of health products tested by the Pharmacy Section, Department of Scientific Services, Ministry of Health (MoH) and found to be adulterated with undeclared, potent western medicines.

The affected health products are Herba Perancang Keluarga Kapsul and Top Gusi Special (Yellow, Oval Shaped) found to contain Mefenamic acid.

Top Gusi Special (Yellow, Round Shaped) was found to contain Chlorpheniramine while Xtreme 7 Plus Kapsul was found to contain Sibutramine. Soloco Candy was found to contain Tadalafil.

The adulterants found in these products can cause adverse effects potentially hazardous to the people using them, the ministry said in a statement.

Consumption of Mefenamic acid without supervision can cause diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, bloating, constipation, gastro-intestinal ulceration, anaemia, temporary lowering of white blood cell count, thrombocytopenia (low blood platelet count) and renal failure. It also can cause insomnia, visual disturbances, headaches, nervousness, hallucinations, depression and confusions.

Unsupervised consumption of Chlorpheniramine can cause adverse effects such as dizziness, lowering of blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, confusion, depression and convulsions.

Sibutramine is a body slimming agent no longer recommended for its use in obesity treatment because its effects can be detrimental to the heart and liver. Intake of Sibutramine can cause serious adverse effects such as high blood pressure, uncertain heartbeat and difficulty in sleeping; and in a worst-case situation, it can cause damage to the kidneys and liver.

Tadalafil is a drug used to treat male impotency and can only be prescribed by a qualified doctor or physician. Among their side effects include nausea, vomiting, flushing and dizziness. In severe cases, they can also result in abnormal increase in heart rate, sudden loss of hearing and seizures.The MoH has not issued any approval for the importation for the sale of these products. Following the findings, the products are not allowed to be imported and sold in Brunei Darussalam.

Members of the public who have purchased or used these products are advised to stop using them immediately. They should also consult a medical practitioner if they feel unwell or experience any undesirable reactions as a result of using them.

Members of the public involved in the retail of these products (including online retail such as through Facebook) are reminded that it is an offence under the Poisons Act 1956 to sell any product containing any substance controlled under the said Act, and that the penalty for such an offence upon conviction is a fine of BND8,000 or six months’ imprisonment.

Furthermore, if a person commits an act that amounts to such a degree of negligence so as to endanger or be likely to endanger human life, then he or she shall be guilty of an offence which carries a penalty of a fine of BND16,000 and 12 months’ imprisonment.

The MoH is also calling upon the public for their cooperation to report to the Compliance and Licensing Section if any of these products are still found on the market in the country.

For further information and communication, the public can contact the Compliance and Licensing Section at 2393298 extension 208; send an e-mail to pharmacy.enforcement@moh.gov.bn; go directly to 1st Floor, Compliance and Licensing Section, Department of Pharmaceutical Services’ Building, Kampong Madaras, Mukim Gadong ‘A’; or call the Darussalam line 123.

|     Wani Roslan & Daniel Lim     |

THE Community Development Department (JAPEM) held a Doa Kesyukuran ceremony at the Ash-Shaliheen Mosque, the Prime Minister’s Office building complex, yesterday.

The ceremony marked the International Day of Older Persons, celebrated annually on October 1. It aimed to show appreciation for the elderly’s efforts and contribution to the development of the country.

Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Haji Amer Hamzah bin Pehin Orang Kaya Amar Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Zakaria was the guest of honour.

The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Yaasiin followed by Tahlil and Doa Kesyukuran led by Religious Teacher of Welfare Home Complex Ustaz Nordin bin Haji Durahman. A Tazkirah on Meniti Kehidupan Alam Persinggahan Sementara was delivered by Ustaz Dr Haji Ismuhadi bin haji Abdulah from the Islamic Da’wah Centre.

Members from Protem Majlis Warga Emas Brunei, Senior Citizens Activity Centre Lambak Kanan, Women’s Council, Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM), Village Consultative Council (MPK), MPK Kampong Bengkurong, Muslimah of Sengkurong Mosque as well as senior officials of MCYS and JAPEM were also present.

JAPEM will organise an ‘International Day of Older Persons’ workshop on at the Di-Gadong Hall of the MCYS on October 11.

Meanwhile, a similar ceremony was held at the Bestari Community Centre, Language and Literature Bureau at Kampong Pandan, Kuala Belait yesterday.

Penghulu of Mukim Kuala Belait Haji Pungut bin Ali was the guest of honour. The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, Surah Yaasiin, and Tahlil by Head of the Mosque Affairs Officer in the Belait District Haji Haslan bin Haji Shahbudin.

A Tazkirah titled Hargai Masa was also presented by Haji Haslan. The ceremony concluded with a Doa Kesyukuran and Doa Allah Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

PROGRESIF Cellular Sdn Bhd opened its Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Week yesterday at its Kiarong headquarters.

Themed ‘HSE for Life’, HSE Week will feature activities revolving around promoting a healthier lifestyle, building awareness of safety preparations to take in case of emergencies, and raising environmental awareness.

Examples include a blood donation drive, an environmental roadshow, a showcase on different HSE products and services offered by several vendors, as well as a Pop-Up Market held in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness month.

The guest of honour was Progresif Board member Hajah Rena Azlina binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Aziz.

In his welcoming speech, Progresif CEO Paul Taylor said the primary objective of HSE Week is to build greater awareness on HSE matters and to encourage the general public to observe these HSE procedures continuously in their everyday lives.

“We hope that the Progresif HSE Week can give inspiration to members of the public on the different ways to embrace the elements of HSE in their daily lives,” he said.

The CEO added that HSE Week is an example of how Progresif has extended its HSE messaging from internal to external stakeholders.

Last month, Progresif launched its HSE Manual Handbook and Emergency Evacuation Video, solidifying its commitment to occupational health and safety workplace standards.

“Progresif gives high priority to health, safety and environment issues, not just because it’s our legal obligation as a company to minimise accidents in the workplace. We give it that priority because we recognise that HSE cannot simply just be acknowledged as useful, but that it’s something that must be part of our culture, part of who we are, and part of everything that we do, be it at home, while we are on the move, or in the workplace,” Taylor said.

The CEO continued, “Last week’s speedboat accident on Sungai Limpaku is a tragic reminder of the importance of adhering to proper HSE procedures. When any incident occurs, the impact is far-reaching, so let us not forget that the central element of any HSE is people. Keeping that in mind causes us to focus and plan for a safer and better tomorrow.

“This is why at Progresif, we want to inculcate a culture of health, safety and care for the environment; build safety awareness through activities such as the programme we are running this week; and constantly remind ourselves that we can make a big difference and impact our lives and the lives of those around us.”

Taylor added that the kicking off of HSE Week is the second phase of Progresif’s HSE strategy. The first phase was launched earlier in August this year, where Progresif showcased a safety video detailing the emergency evacuation plan of its headquarters building and distributed an HSE manual to be used as a guideline for safe practices in the workplace.

In addition to the safety activities, Progresif will this week be commencing an internal effort to protect the environment by initiating their own recycling programme.

“We have, starting today, distributed recycling bins on every floor of our headquarters building to encourage our staff to recycle unwanted paper, plastic and cans. This is the first of a number of planned activities for our company,” Taylor said.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE Ministry of Development (MoD) yesterday held a dialogue session with members of the Legislative Council (LegCo) at the Public Works Department (JKR) headquarters in Old Airport, Berakas.

The session was chaired by Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar, who also welcomed the LegCo members led by Yang Berhormat Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman.

In her remarks, Yang Berhormat Siti Rozaimeriyanty noted that the MoD’s Strategic Plan of 2018-2023 had already been communicated in the form of a dialogue or presentation with the Brunei Institution of Surveyors, Engineers and Architects (PUJA).

“There is still much yet to be done, and it is undeniable that Brunei Darussalam faces various challenges that cannot be tackled promptly, as it involves strategic planning and initiatives from various aspects – a whole-of-nation approach,” she said. “Issues such as unemployment among youths, the ease of doing business, the growing number of foreign workers in the country, and various matters that have become a national issue.”

Yang Berhormat Siti Rozaimeriyanty was also of the view that the ministry “needs to step back and analyse its Strategic Plan, in order to find the missing gaps and improve on what has been lacking”.

Prior to the dialogue session, Permanent Secretary at the MoD Dr Nor Imtihan binti Haji Abdul Razak gave a briefing on the functions of the MoD and all the departments under it.

The dialogue session served as a platform for the mutual sharing of views on issues faced by the MoD, such as infrastructure and maintenance management, along with the repairing and upgrading of the Brunei government’s physical assets.

Also discussed were the topics of waste management, land use, development planning, industrial construction and other services handled by the MoD.

|     Azlan Othman     |

IN HIS address at the UN General Assembly, Minister of Foreign Affairs II of Brunei Darussalam Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, noting the increasing geopolitical and geo-economic uncertainty, said that for a small country like his, such unpredictability can be daunting.

He added, it is crucial that the international community commit to an effective multi-lateralism that addresses global challenges, adding that sustainable development depends on the consistency and stability underpinned by adherence to international obligations and the rule of law according to United Nations’ (UN) website.

Reaffirming his country’s commitment to the 2030 Agenda, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan called on all countries to adopt legislations that are suitable to their own national circumstances.

Many developing countries face the challenge of uneven growth prospects amidst many risks including the volatility of energy prices. Brunei Darussalam is no exception to this, he said, noting that the country is concentrating on diversifying its economy. Underlying these efforts is a commitment to free trade and rules-based multilateral trading system. The country’s participation in various platforms such as the World Trade Organization (WTO) and ASEAN exemplifies this.

However, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan cautioned, efforts in increasing economic growth should be aligned with shared res-ponsibilities in ensuring a safe and healthy environment.

As climate change poses a serious threat, the Paris Agreement remains the inter-national community’s greatest hope in addressing it.

Turning to peacekeeping, he expressed appreciation for the Secretary-General’s efforts in strengthening peacekeeping operations through the Action for Peacekeeping initiative. This will enhance the global support for missions, he said, applauding the selfless work and sacrifice of peacekeepers.

Regarding “the unresolved question of Palestine,” he expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people and condemned all actions that blatantly violate their rights and dignity.

Voicing alarm about the developments in Jerusalem, and the continued violence in Occupied Palestinian Territory, he called on all member states to work together to realise the vision of a two-state solution.

|     Azrol Azmi     |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday received in audience Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation Nikolai Patrushev. The audience ceremony took place at the Istana Nurul Iman.

Accompanying Nikolai Patrushev were State Secretary and Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation Igor Zubov and Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Brunei Darussalam Vladlen Semivolos.

Also present were Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof; Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohammad Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam; Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud; and Permanent Secretary (Security and Enforcement) at the Prime Minister’s Office and Director of the Internal Security Department Lieutenant Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Muhamad Sazali bin Pengiran Haji Yakob.

Nikolai Patrushev heads the delegation’s first visit to Brunei Darussalam. The purpose of the visit is to establish bilateral cooperation especially in the security sector.

The visit also included a bilateral meeting between the National Security Committee and the Security Council of the Russian Federation, which discussed current issues and bilateral cooperation in security matters.

Bilateral relations between the two countries have long been established, involving interactions between security agencies of Brunei Darussalam and the Russian Federation, among which was Brunei Darussalam’s participation in the International Meeting of High-Ranking Officials Respon-sible for Security Matters held annually in the Russian Federation.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

OVER 70 riders participated in the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR) Brunei Darussalam 2018 during the weekend.

According to event organiser Abdul Azim bin Abdul Ghani from Recycles Motorcycle Co Brunei Darussalam and the Brunei DGR committee members, this year’s edition saw the largest number of participants since its inception in 2014.

The event was held to promote awareness on men’s health issues.

The event kicked off at the Progresif Headquarters in Kampong Kiarong and proceeded towards the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex in Berakas and later towards Kampong Subok, Bandar Seri Begawan, Berakas, Gadong and ended at Kampong Kiarong.

The DGR was founded by Mark Hawwa in 2012. It is a worldwide annual event held on September 30. The event encourages riders to dress stylishly as they take to the streets in over 650 cities across 95 countries in support of men’s health. With around a million men losing their lives annually from suicide and prostate cancer, the annual event calls on the community to stop men from dying at a young age.

Over 120,000 men and women dressed in their finest attire rode their vintage and classic motorcycles during the worldwide event to raise funds and promote awareness on prostate cancer and mental health programmes on behalf of official charity partner, the Movember Foundation.

Having already raised over USD13 million for charity since 2013, the DGR is on a quest to raise a further USD6 million throughout the 2018 fundraising campaign which kicked off on August 1.

Brunei Darussalam raised USD844 (over five million raised worldwide for 2018) for the international cancer fund.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

LOCAL motor racing enthusiasts from Primatech Motorsport Workshop emerged victorious in the Limbang Drag Race Challenge 2018 in Limbang, Sarawak held over the weekend.

The local team armed with four cars maintained and tuned by Primatech Motorsport crew proved unchallenged when they clinched the top and fourth spot in the King of Drag Class category, while also bagging second place in the Pro Drag 2WD Class category and third place in the Pro Drag 4WD category.

The King of Drag Class category was dominated by Bruneian teams who clinched the top four spots.

The three-day annual extreme sports event held at the Old Airport Road in Limbang began on September 28 and pulled in hundreds of racing enthusiasts from all over Borneo, contending in different categories including in eight classes of racing categories for motorcycles and 10 classes of racing categories for cars.

Organised by the Motoring Recreational Sports Club Bukit Mas, Limbang and sanctioned by the local Government, the event serves to give racing enthusiasts a safe platform for the sports, while also promoting safety on the roads.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

DPMM FC Head Coach Rene Weber insisted that the two-legged semi-final tie in the Singapore Cup is not a foregone conclusion despite carrying a two-goal advantage against Balestier Khalsa as the two sides clash at the Toa Payoh Stadium in Singapore tonight.

The Brazilian warned of complacency against the Tigers as they attempt to negotiate the return leg for a place in a first-ever Singapore Cup final against either newly-proclaimed invincibles Albirex Niigata (S) or Home United.

“We cannot be relaxed. A play-off game is always different from a league game. We must play hard. A two-goal advantage does not mean the tie is finished. Balestier do have a good team,” Weber told the Football Association of Singapore website.

“We must concentrate because they had chances to score in the first leg. It will not be easy and we have to play to win, not just thinking to get a draw.”

The Gegar Gegar men will face them for a third time in a space of just 10 days and the head coach has developed an insight on their playing style in which he hoped his side could manage.

“We know how they play having played four games against them. They always send long balls to their tall striker. They can also press us hard at the start of the match, so we must be ready to avoid making any mistakes,” he said.

DPMM FC, who still hold third place aspirations in the Singapore Premier League after moving out of contention in the chase for the runners-up spot, will be get a boost by the return of Shah Razen Said and Azwan Ali Rahman having missed the previous league game.

The local star scored a stunner in the 2-0 win and will be a key figure to help realise the team’s ambition for a first Singapore Cup final.

Balestier Khalsa’s forward Keegan Linderboom is a serious doubt after limping off in last weekend’s league clash.

Meanwhile, Balestier Khalsa head coach Marko Kraljevic has called his charges to fire in all cylinders as they look to overturn a two-goal swing in their bid of returning to the Singapore Cup final for the first time since 2014.

“We need to improve in the attacking third to be able to progress to the final. We need to score at least two goals and to do that, we need to be more deadly in the opponents’ box,” he said.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

AS PART of the annual activities of Awang Semaun Secondary School (SMAS) before the start of the GCE ‘O’ Level examinations, the school recently held an Izin Ilmu for its Year 11 students who will sit for the examinations to seek blessings from Allah the Almighty.

The ceremony began with the mass recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat by Ustaz Noordin bin Haji Abdul Rahman.

This was followed by a welcoming speech by the school’s Principal Siti Marienah binti Haji Umar who said that apart from seeking blessings from Allah the Almighty, the ceremony also served to seek for a smooth sailing process for the students in answering questions during the examinations. She also hoped the students would do their best and never give up.

During the ceremony, three former SMAS students who were successful in their studies were invited by the school to share their experience with the Year 11 students and their parents.

One of the speakers was former SMAS student (2002-2006) and now Special Duties Officer at the Information Department, Prime Minister’s Office Abdul Karim bin Hamdan. He said he likes to challenge himself to do better in his studies and advised the students to seek their parents’ blessings as well as focus on the subjects that they can score well and yet not leave other subjects behind.

Captain Dr Muhammad Nur Azwan bin Arrif, another speaker and former SMAS student (2005-2009) who is now a Dental Officer at the Royal Brunei Navy, Ministry of Defence, said that during his time he requested extra classes from his teachers.

Coming from an average family, he said what motivated him to do better in his studies was how he could help his parents while he desired to get a job with a good salary.

He advised the students to revise continuously step by step, plan their studies prior to the examinations and prioritise which subjects come first in the examinations.

The ceremony continued with the ‘recall’ session by the school’s Deputy Principal of Administration Haji Fadhillah bin Haji Ismail.

A teacher representing the school’s Year 11 teachers, Siti Salmiah binti Haji Suili, delivered a speech recalling memories with students during Year 9 until now. This was followed by a speech from a Year 11 representative Amirah Bazilah binti Haji Addy Helmi Eskandar Shah.

The ceremony ended with the recitation of Doa Peperiksaan and Ziarah session with parents and teachers.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

THE Volunteer Unit of the Community Development Department (JAPEM) encourages more male participants to become JAPEM volunteers.

Speaking at the orientation for new JAPEM volunteers at Berakas Forest Reserve in Berakas recently, Head of the JAPEM Volunteer Unit Rogayah binti Haji Abdullah said the number of female volunteers top the list of their male counterparts.

She encouraged more male participants to become JAPEM volunteers.

She added that there are 47 new volunteers, with 36 being females and only 11 males.

Those interested in becoming JAPEM volunteers can contact 2382911/ 2381903 ext 1241 or fill the volunteers form at japem.gov.bn.

The JAPEM Volunteer Unit will organise a Financial Literacy event at Imtiaz Hall of Pusat Bahagia this Sunday from 8am to noon and 2pm to 4.30pm.

Thirty registered JAPEM volunteers will attend the event.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE Bukit Udal Religious School in Tutong District held a Khatam Al-Quran ceremony for its Primary 6 students with the objective to nurture and encourage students to recite Al-Quran until they successfully complete the recitation of 30 Juzuks of Al-Quran before completing their religious school education.

Present as the guest of honour was Asmah binti Haji Baha, the spouse of Legislative Council member and Penghulu of Mukim Tanjong Maya Yang Berhormat Haji Abdul Wahab bin Apong.

Ten students comprising three male and seven female students were feted during the ceremony.

They also received certificates from the guest of honour.

The ceremony commenced with the mass recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by Surah-Surah Lazim by the Khatam participants.

This was followed by the recitation of Takhtim and Doa Khatam, Dikir Marhaban and sprinkling of scented flowers.

|     Izah Azahari     |

STUDENTS of International School Brunei’s (ISB) Year 7 classes, which included Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, had their first secondary school field trip – a Humanities faculty excursion to Tasek Lama and the Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum.

The all-day outing was a cross-curricular one, with the Geography component taking place at Tasek Lama and the History component at the Maritime Museum in Kota Batu.

At 8am, a total of 85 Year 7 students, 13 accompanying staff and parent volunteers boarded three busses and set off for Tasek Lama for a two-part Geography field study excursion, the first of which was a 30-minute hike through the jungle, and the second, a brief introduction into river studies.

During the walk, students were instructed to take note of human and physical geography in the physical environment, taking particular note of the flora and fauna, and how human behaviour impacts this.

After making a range of notes and sketches, the classes then split into groups and conducted a river study in which they were required to investigate the physical features of the river, including the depth and width in different areas, as well as the speed of the current. This was the Year 7 group’s first experience with many of the tools geographers use in the industry, and was of particular value for students who will later choose Geography as an elective in Years 10 and 12.

After the river study was completed, the group got back onto the busses and after a short break for lunch, headed to the Maritime Museum in Kota Batu to learn about the Maritime history of Brunei Darussalam.

The museum, which features the famous Brunei shipwreck, was the perfect location to gain a deeper understanding of the role, trade played in Brunei’s early history.

For many students, this was their first visit to the museum, and as such were both impressed and enlightened at the importance of Brunei as a trading port along the Asian Maritime Silk Route.

During museum visit, students were given 30 minutes to complete a quiz about the features of Brunei’s trading activity, including who the country’s trading partners were, and what goods Brunei traded at the time.

For students and teachers, it was an educational experience that filled them with a deeper understanding of the unique relationships at play in the natural environment, Brunei’s rich history, and out door learning.

|     Azlan Othman     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, Chairman of the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Committee of Governors yesterday raised the issue of dwindling rental revenue at BND3.7 million per annum for Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex, due to vacant shops and offices, combined with the exit of the Hua Ho Departmental Store earlier this year.

His Royal Highness raised the issue in a sabda delivered during the Second Meeting of the Yayasan Committee of Governors meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office.

His Royal Highness also highlighted the high rental dues owed by the tenants of Yayasan Complex, which have yet to be settled.

“These two issues are affecting the cash flow,” said His Royal Highness.

Noting that some efforts were recently made in a bid to lure more visitors, His Royal Highness then inquired whether there were any further plans to attract more visitors and in resolving the issues at Yayasan Complex.

Kampong Bolkiah in nearby Kampong Ayer also received a mention by His Royal Highness. “I was made to understand that several members from the Yayasan Board visited that village in early September. I personally gave the opinion that Kampong Bolkiah should be given due attention, since it also reflects the concerns of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah towards the village and the fate of its inhabitants.

“These efforts should not be limited to restoration; they should also be expanded to include economic activity, so that the residents of Kampong Bolkiah can be more independent instead of relying on assistance.”

Recently, Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah underwent a review by the Audit Department of the Prime Minister’s Office, to ensure that the Yayasan management is on track.

“In the draft report, there are several matters that should be looked into, including the events of 2004 to 2016, where there were eight cases involving five Yayasan employees who siphoned off cash amounting to BND115,528. What is regrettable is that these offences were not reported to the Royal Brunei Police Force or the executive authorities at Yayasan. Therefore, the Yayasan management should look seriously at these findings and take some remedial action to ensure that this matter will not happen again in the future,” said His Royal Highness.

With that, His Royal Highness called for the Audit Department to present and discuss remedial proposals on a regular basis during Board meetings.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Defence II and Chairman of the Board of Directors at Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, delivered a speech on the alarming drop in rental revenue for Yayasan Complex.

“Actions have been, and will continue to be undertaken by the authorities of Wadah Amal Sdn Bhd (a subsidiary company of Yayasan),” he said.

On the issue of rental dues, “The collection of current dues owed after March 18, 2017 would continue to be implemented by Wadah Amal Sdn Bhd. March 18, 2017 was the date whereby the leasing agreement between Yayasan and its tenants was transferred to Wadah Amal Sdn Bhd. As for the old dues owed by the current or former tenants before March 18, 2017, the Board of Directors in its next meeting will transfer, or give authority, to Wadah Amal Sdn Bhd to collect those dues through a Deed of Agreement.”

He then gave an account of the visit to Kampong Bolkiah by members of the Yayasan Board of Directors on September 7. “The findings have been presented to 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. Following the visit, the Yayasan management contacted the Public Works Department (JKR) of the Ministry of Development to obtain technical assistance for immediate restoration work.

“On September 18, officers from the Public Works Department visited the village. Currently, the Public Works Department is making an estimation and implementation plan for restoration work. Issues found during the visit were taken into consideration, and will become an agenda at the next Board of Directors meeting.”

On the audit review for Yayasan, “This is the first time it has ever taken place, and a draft of the auditing report has been issued. Both the draft and the management’s response will be discussed at the next meeting. Several matters and facts were found to be most disturbing and unacceptable; and actions will be promptly taken against the perpetrators.”

Also present at yesterday’s meeting were the Deputy Chairman I of the Yayasan Committee of Governors Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Setia Diraja Sahibul Karib Pengiran Anak Haji Idris bin Pengiran Maharaja Lela Pengiran Muda Abdul Kahar and the Deputy Chairman II Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, together with the members of the Committee of Governors, including Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong and Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman.

Also in attendance were Deputy Chairman of the Yayasan Board of Directors Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah; a Yayasan Board of Directors member Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar, who is also the Chairman of Wadah Amal Sdn Bhd; a Yayasan Board of Directors member Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Elinda binti Haji CA Mohammad, who is also the Deputy Chairperson of Wadah Amal Sdn Bhd; and the Managing Director of Yayasan Dato Paduka Eddie bin Dato Paduka Haji Sunny.