|     Azrol Azmi     |

HER Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam yesterday received in audience Saffana Tariq, spouse of Major General (Rtd) Tariq Rashid Khan, outgoing High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Brunei Darussalam.

The audience ceremony took place at the Istana Nurul Iman.

|     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 attended the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed deputy ministers – Deputy Minister of Finance at the Ministry of Finance and Economy Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin; and Deputy Minister of Development Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin.

The ceremony took place at the Istana Nurul Iman.

Present at the ceremony was His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office.

The Letter of Appointment was read by Grand Chamberlain Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Penggawa Laila Bentara Istiadat Diraja Dalam Istana Pengiran Haji Alauddin bin Pengiran Paduka Tuan Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar.

First to recite the oath was the Deputy Minister of Finance followed by the Deputy Minister of Development.

Also present at the ceremony were Special Adviser to His Majesty and Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Diraja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa bin Pehin Datu Perdana Manteri Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Ibrahim; Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud; Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and the Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah; Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar; and Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Elinda binti Haji CA Mohammad.

Dr Haji Abdul Manaf was appointed as the Deputy Minister of Finance on September 20 while Haji Marzuke was appointed as the Deputy Minister of Development on August 10.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

DPMM FC reached their first-ever final in the Singapore Cup after a 2-2 draw in the second leg of the semi-final at the Toa Payoh Stadium in Singapore ensured their progress with a 4-2 aggregate win last night.

The Gegar Gegar men entered the break with a two-goal advantage wiped out after a relentless pursuit from Balestier Khalsa threatened a miraculous comeback, but they prevented the game from forcing extra-time after two late goals in the second half.

The Brunei-based outfit also made a return to a final for the first time since lifting their third Singapore League Cup after a 2-0 win in 2014 over Tanjong Pagar United FC.

The hosts were awarded a free-kick in a promising position as Vedran Mesec’s shot bounced right in front of DPMM FC goalkeeper Haimie Anak Nyaring, which represented their first attempt on target.

Balestier Khalsa had a big chance to go in front as Mesec latched onto a fine ball from Huzaifah Aziz but Haimie produced a wonderful save to keep out the forward.

The visitors were living on a knife-edge as Balestier forward Keegan Linderboom’s header crashed against the crossbar. The Tigers spurned another good chance after Hazzuwan Halim could not keep his header down from six yards after an appetising delivery from Ahmad Syahir.

The front three of the DPMM FC attacking line combined with Volodymyr Priyomov initiating the move with a strong run led to Adi Said sending a cross for Shah Razen Said’s whose header ended wide.

Azwan Salleh’s night was cut short after he was withdrawn by Nurikhwan Othman which might presumably be for a suspected injury.

The home side were awarded a penalty after Haimie was adjudged to have made contact with Hazzuwan Halim and in a double whammy the goalkeeper was also shown the yellow card for his troubles. Hazzuwan stepped up and coolly dispatched his penalty to hand his team a lifeline.

The Tigers got back into the tie and drew level in aggregate after Huzaifah Aziz, fresh from receiving his call-up to the national team, found the net in the 42nd minute after a neat exchange with Hazzuwan.

The visitors avoided from falling behind on the night and in the tie after Haimie saved a Fadli Kamis’ effort.

Volodymyr missed a golden chance to help his team into the lead after scuffing his shot from three yards. Azwan Ali Rahman robbed the ball off Shaqi Sulaiman before releasing his attempt but Balestier Khalsa goalkeeper Zaiful Nizam was equal to the task.

Adi Said’s free-kick was characterised with a lot of swerve and dip and Zaiful was relieved to see it clear the bar.

DPMM FC got a goal back on the night and with it the advantage that they have craved for since letting a two-goal lead slip after asking questions in the Balestier defence.

DPMM FC played a corner short as Hendra Azam was allowed the freedom to provide a cross into the box. Brian McLean met the cross with a but it grazed the bar, but Shah Razen was on hand to steer the ball home from close range.

The visitors regained their two-goal advantage with seven minutes of normal time remaining after Volodymyr stabbed home from close range with Azwan Ali profiting from an error by the Balestier defence.

The Brunei-based outfit will meet Albirex Niigata (S) in the final after the latter beat Home United 4-2 on aggregate on Saturday.

|     Bahyiah Bakir     |

BRUNEI Mini Owners Association (MOA) members joined hands with other classic car owners to enliven activities organised by the Brunei History Centre which saw over 10 classic Mini cars and other classic cars on display at the centre’s parking lot recently.

The activities were held in conjunction with the inauguration of the new history gallery, the ‘1959 Brunei Constitution Gallery’ and the History Outreach Programme 2018. Other activities held included a history quiz session, pony ride and children’s bouncer.

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 attended the event.

MOA Vice President Haslan bin Haji Abu Bakar said the gathering was intended to forge closer ties among its members and with other classic car association members as well as the public, in addition to sharing a mutual interest for classic cars.

He added that the gathering enabled the association members and public to learn about Brunei’s history and the 1959 Brunei Constitution.

|     Azlan Othman     |

BUSINESSES from Brunei Darussalam are urged to tap into the huge trade potential of Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone Authority (Zamboecozone) in the Philippines.

Business Development Consultant at the Office of the President of Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone Authority in the Philippines Myl Johann R Amsid cited Brunei Halal as an example of a local commercial brand capable of taking advantage of this potential.

Speaking to a group of local businessmen from the Brunei Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DPPMB) in a dialogue session recently at the chamber’s office in the Beribi Light Industrial Area, he said, “Brunei Halal is a highly respected brand and has stringent Halal certification – it even has significant market presence and awareness in the Middle East. Its reputation is bolstered further due to Brunei’s top-class Halal certification and production infrastructure.

“With such vital foundational mechanisms already in place, Brunei can establish a food manufacturing zone. Big money can be made.”

He continued, “We are here on a second visit as we place a lot of importance in relations with Brunei due to it being a strategic country for Mindanao, seeing that the region takes many cultural influences from Brunei.

“With a Muslim population of some 20 million in Mindanao, we see it as important to work closely with Brunei in terms of obtaining guidance on Halal matters. We have some future plans in this sector.

“Brunei has a special place in this part of the world, and Zamboecozone is important as it is located in the third largest city in the Philippines.”

Amsid added that a number of opportunities are available in the economic zone. Examples include the fish processing, rubber, seaweed, coconut, mango and abaca industry. He said that businessmen from Brunei can lease hectares of land in Mindanao and produce food at a cheaper lease rate.

“They can set up their factories in the economic zone to feed not only the Brunei market but also consumers in the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines – East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) region. We have the land and we need brave investors. We also need to work to make BIMP-EAGA more competitive and push down the transportation cost,” he said.

“At present it is one-way traffic with regard to trade in Zamboanga. We have all these goods being transported to Palawan, Mindanao. We want also to see outbound trade to Labuan, Brunei and Sabah.”

Echoing Amsid’s wish to see more Bruneian investment in Mindanao was Charge d’ Affairs at the Philippine Embassy in Brunei Darussalam Pete Raymond V Delfin.

In a statement, the envoy said that his embassy “promotes trade relations and bilateral ties in the Halal food industry between both Brunei and the Philippines in the BIMP-EAGA region, especially in Palawan and Zamboanga and along the BIMP-EAGA trade route”.

DPPMB President Dr Haji Kamaruddin bin Dato Seri Paduka Haji Talib, meanwhile, highlighted the cultural similarities between Brunei and Zamboanga and the islands surrounding it, adding that he hopes that Brunei businessmen would have found the Zamboanga investment presentation useful.

|     Azlan Othman     |

A TOTAL of 265 participants from 14 religious schools in Brunei I zone, comprising pupils from pre-school to Primary V students, participated in a Khatam Al-Quran ceremony at the International Convention Centre (ICC), Berakas.

The guest of honour was the Permanent Secretary (Municipal and District) at the Ministry of Home Affairs Salminan bin Haji Burut.

The granddaughter of Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Pengiran Nur Aabidah Syifa binti Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammed Al-Mokhtar, was among the Khatam participants.

As part of the ‘One Week One Juzuk’ (1MIJ) programme, the annual Khatam Al-Quran ceremony aimed at strengthening cooperation and unity between teachers, parents/guardians and students.

The ceremony commenced with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by the guest of honour, followed by the recitation of Surah Adh-Dhuha to Surah An-Nas by Khatam participants, the recitation of Takhtim by religious teachers of Brunei 1 zone, reading of prayer by a Khatam participant and a Dikir Marhaban performance by the male teachers.

The ceremony continued with sprinkling of scented flowers and the presentation of the Khatam certificates by the guest of honour to the participants. The ceremony ended with the reading of Doa Selamat.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

SENIOR citizens are advised to fight off the old age blues or depression common among retirees by adopting an active lifestyle.

This was the message put across during a health talk organised by the Health Promotion Centre, Ministry of Health and the Tutong Senior Citizen Activity Centre (PKWE Tutong).

Psychiatry Unit Nurse Haji Muhd Hannan bin Abdullah from the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah (PMMPMHAMB) Hospital in Tutong delivered the talk at PKWE Tutong.

Health Education Officer Siti Munawarah binti Tarif from the Health Promotion Centre told the Bulletin that the talk was part of a Senior Citizen Health Programme aimed at increasing awareness on health maintenance and healthy lifestyle.

“Sometimes, senior citizens may become home alone, thus it is important for them to know some skills in maintaining good health. The health programme is one way to improve their awareness, knowledge and skills in leading a healthy lifestyle appropriate to their age groups,” she explained.

“This time, we are engaging them to address depression partly because we are going to celebrate World Mental Health Day on October 10, thus our engagement this month is focussed on mental health.

“Today, as we are targetting senior citizens, the speaker focussed on how to avoid or control depression,” she added.

The Senior Citizen Health Programme, organised by the Health Promotion Centre, runs once a month at PKWE Tutong, with each month focussed on a different topic of common concern among senior citizens.

She urged senior citizens in the district to take part in the programme to upgrade their health maintenance skills.

“This is important because with this knowledge and skills, they will be able to enjoy a healthy old age life,” she added.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

FOUR vacancies for penghulu mukim and 12 for village heads are still being contested in the Tutong District, with the application for candidacy now open for submission until the end of this month.

Residents in Tutong District who intend to submit their nominations can obtain the form at the Tutong District Office. The nomination form must be completed (with signatures by the candidate, a proposer (nominator) and two supporters), and must be returned to the Tutong District Office not later than October 31.

This was revealed by Tutong District Officer Shamsul Bahrin bin Haji Mohd Hussain during a Penghulu Mukim and Village Head Scheme Roadshow at the Main Hall of the Tutong District Civic Centre Complex yesterday.

The roadshow aimed to further disseminate information about the vacancies for penghulu mukim and village heads, and included a Q&A session.

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, consented for the age requirement for village head candidates to be lowered from 45 to 55 years to 30 to 55 years. This aims for more youth to apply for the position.

During the roadshow in Tutong District yesterday, it was revealed that four mukim penghulu positions are to be contested, including Mukim Rambai, Mukim Keriam, Mukim Ukong and Mukim Pekan Tutong.

Twelve village head positions are to be contested including for Kampong Benutan, Kampong Penanjong, Kampong Sengkarai, Kampong Layong, Kampong Keriam, Kampong Kupang, Kampong Ukong, Kampong Danau, Kampong Rambai, Kampong Merimbun, Kampong Panchor and Kampong Penabai dan Kuala Tutong.

Other information with regard to the vacancies can be obtained from the Institution of Mukim and Village Unit at their district office.

Senior government officers, penghulus and village heads and the public were also present.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

TWO Brunei Darussalam Qaris will compete in the 40th Al-Malik Abd Aziz International Al-Quran Memorisation, Recitation and Interpretation Competition.

The competition will be held in Madinah from October 6 – 10.

The two representatives are Muhammad Faturrahman bin Awang Embran and Awangku Muhammad Abdul Majeed Ariffin bin Pengiran Haji Mohammad Abdul Aziz. The pair, led by Head of Islamic Syiar Development at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Haji Madzneh bin Haji Mohd Noor, left the Sultanate yesterday.

Head of Public Relations Section Hassan Baha bin Haji Umar and Acting Head of Islamic Syiar Development Adinuriman bin Pengarah Haji Abdullah were present at Brunei International Airport to see the delegation off.

Muhammad Faturrahman will compete in the 30-Juzuk category while Awangku Muhammad Abdul Majeed Ariffin will compete in the 15-Juzuk category.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

A COUNTRY’S progress is usually set in motion by technological advances which also have an impact on its national policies and educational system, said Acting Ra’es of the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) Dr Haji Adanan bin Haji Basar during the opening of the ‘Siri Bicara Pendidikan Serantau’ (Regional Education Talk Series) at the Tarbiyah Hall of KUPU SB yesterday.

The one-day event brought together experts from various higher educational institutions across the region for a discussion on issues related to the development of education, learning and technology in their countries and institutions.

Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman was the guest of honour.

Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy and Religious) at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) Haji Mohd Serudin bin Haji Timbang, Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman and senior officials were also present.

Dr Haji Adanan said the talks will briefly review, discuss and suggest the steps to be taken towards the development of community-based learning and teacher training.

“Since 2016 and in view of this age of rapid technological advancement, KUPU SB has drafted and implemented new programmes based on the goals of the university establishment, their suitability with stakeholders and the recommendation 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, and Chancellor of KUPU SB,” he said.

According to the Acting Ra’es, KUPU SB has developed eight competencies which are: Knowledgeable, Practice and Cultivate, Mastering the Subjects, Mastering Pedagogy, Professionalism, Community Engagement, Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB)-Based Leadership, and Intellectual and Varied Skills.

“The implementation is focussed on academic effectiveness and character formation, in an effort to develop our students’ leadership potential,” he added.

The event continued with talks by Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris in Malaysia Professor Dato’ Dr Mohd Shatar Sabran, Deputy Rector of Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia Professor Didi Sukyadi, Officer-in-Charge, Office of the President, at the Philippine Normal University in the Philippines Dr Maria Antoinette Montealegre and Dean of the Education Faculty at Kasetsart Univeristy in Thailand Associate Professor Dr Pattamavadi Lehmongkol.

Themed ‘Pendidikan Perguruan Abad 21 dan Teknologi 4.0’ (21st Century Education and 4.0 Technology), the regional talks provide a platform for institutions of higher education to discuss current challenges and issues, in addition to sharing information on the development of teaching-learning programmes.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

THE Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Department, Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) yesterday organised recitations of Surah Yaasiin and Tahlil ceremony for Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam and Al-Marhumah Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Bendahara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman, the late parents of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, at the Royal Mausoleum at Jalan Kubah Makam Diraja.

The event was held to commemorate the 48th anniversary celebration of the renaming of Bandar Brunei to Bandar Seri Begawan this year.

It was held in remembrance of the services of a most beloved monarch and Ulul Amri who is also known as Architect of Modern Brunei. Bandar Seri Begawan has progressed in terms of development and infrastructures such as public facilities and recreational parks.

Present at the event yesterday was Minister of Communications who is also the Acting Minister of Home Affairs Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohammad Yusof.

Also in attendance were members of the Legislative Council, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Municipal and District) at the MoHA Abdul Walid bin Haji Matassan, heads of the department, members of Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Board, senior officers, officers and staff of the department under the MoHA as well as penghulu mukim and village heads within the area of Bandar Seri Begawan.

The ceremony began with the recitations of Surah Al-Fatihah and Surah Yaasiin, followed by Tahlil led by Mosque Affairs Officer Faizal bin Janif@Rosli of Duli Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Mosque in Kampong Tamoi.

Around 250 people attended the event yesterday.

|     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 attended a get-together ceremony with citizens and residents of Brunei Darussalam who are currently in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

The ceremony was held at Fairmont Hotel Amman.

Accompanying His Majesty is His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen.

At the hotel, His Majesty was greeted by Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of Brunei Darussalam at the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan Dayang Siti Norsuriana binti Haji Mohamad Nor, President of the Brunei Students’ Union in Jordan Haji Muhammad Izzuddin bin Haji Abdul Rani and Vice President Haji Ahmad Muzhafar bin Haji Marsidi.

His Majesty then consented to sign a commemorative parchment and then proceeded to the Ruby Hall for a High Tea Reception with the students. Before the reception, a Doa Selamat was read.

After the reception, His Majesty consentedfor a group photo with senior officers of the Embassy of Brunei Darussalam in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the students.

Before leaving the ceremony, His Majesty consented to proceed to mingle and meet with citizens and residents of Brunei Darussalam comprising students and government officials in Jordan. Currently, there are 16 Bruneian students studying in leading universities in Jordan in the field of Islamic Studies, Fiqh, Syariah and Usuluddin.

His Majesty arrived in Amman, in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan yesterday afternoon.

Present at the Royal Pavilion of the Queen Alia International Airport in Amman to welcome His Majesty were His Majesty King Abdullah II ibni Al-Hussein, the King of Jordan; and His Royal Highness Prince Al Hussein ibni His Majesty King Abdullah II, the Crown Prince of Jordan.

Also present to greet His Majesty were Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, and Charge d’Affaires at the Embassy of Brunei Darussalam in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan Siti Norsuriana binti Haji Mohamad Nor.

His Majesty and His Majesty the King of Jordan then walked past a guard of honour mounted by members of the Jordan Royal Guard, before boarding a motorcade to a renowned hotel in Amman, where His Majesty will be residing throughout the duration of the State Visit.

During the State Visit, the monarch will make a courtesy visit to His Majesty the King of Jordan, in addition to attending the Annual Flag Parade in Amman.

His Majesty left yesterday morning for Amman in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, for a two-day State Visit on October 3-4. His Majesty is accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen.

Prior to leaving Istana Nurul Iman, a Doa Selamat was recited by State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned.

Present at His Majesty the Sultan’s Flight Hangar in Rimba to bid farewell to the monarch were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; and Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah.

Also present to bid farewell to His Majesty were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran-Pengiran Cheteria; the Speaker of the Legislative Council; Cabinet Ministers; members of the Privy Council; deputy ministers; and the Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force.

His Majesty last visited the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in 2009, while His Majesty the King of Jordan made a State Visit to Brunei in 2008 and attended the opening of the Brunei Darussalam International Defence Exhibition and Conference (BRIDEX) in 2009.

Diplomatic ties between Brunei Darussalam and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan were first established on February 18, 1985, resulting in wide-ranging collaboration in various fields including defence, education, religious affairs, health, trade, culture and sports.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

MEMBERS of the Islamic Da’wah Centre yesterday visited the home of a Muslim convert in Kampong Long Mayan in Ulu Tutong.

Director of Islamic Da’wah Centre Haji Abdul Rajid bin Haji Mohd Salleh led the visit to the home of Saraini binti Abdullah Kotos.

Saraini received food supplies handed over by the director.

The Head of Religious Officer in Tutong District Haji Jaya bin Haji Yahya also handed over some contributions.

|    Fadhil Yunus    |

THE Brunei Rugby Football Union (BRFU) under-14 team will participate in a rugby tournament and exchange from today until October 9 in Fukuoka, Japan.

The aim of the rugby exchange festival is to grow and develop the game in Asia and to facilitate fostering next-generation leaders of Asian countries and promote their international exchanges through the game.

This event is supported by Fukuoka Prefecture as the host city, Japan Rugby Union as the host union and Asia Rugby.

The Brunei Rugby Union also thanked parents for allowing their children to participate and train for the tournament. Special thanks were also reserved to International School Brunei (ISB) and Jerudong International School (JIS) for supporting the training facilities and providing coaches.

The team will be led by Ken Han as the Vice President of the BRFU and head coach Colin Dickinson of JIS and assistant coach Grant Macpherson of ISB.

The team members comprise six children from ISB and six from JIS – Jonathan Hunter, Jack McCarthy, Muhammad Zaki M Raziq, Austin Greaves, Reuben Brown, Toby Heath, Rynhard Steyn, Frederick Gillam, Jayden Moffitt, Oliver Harris, Daniel Sim and Cameron Smith.

|    Fadhil Yunus    |

DPMM FC head coach Rene Weber highlighted that his charges deserved their place in the RHB Singapore Cup final after navigating their way from a two-legged semi-final tie against Balestier Khalsa FC with a 4-2 aggregate win.

The Gegar Gegar men surrendered a two-goal cushion after an attacking-minded Balestier Khalsa threatened a miraculous comeback but they ensured their passage after two late goals which brought the tie.

The second Balestier Khalsa goal would have drawn flashbacks to their encounter against Home United at the same stage three years ago when a one-goal advantage was wiped clean, with a second eventually dashed DPMM FC hopes at the Yishun Stadium.

When the Tigers drew level on aggregate, history was in danger of repeating itself and they were fortunate that Fadli Kamis did not make a clean contact after reacting to a corner.

Weber accepted that their first-half display was a shadow of themselves and lifted his charges with the most important team talk in his first season in charge of the team.

“In the first half, the way we performed was unlike ourselves. It wasn’t how DPMM FC play. Balestier played well and they spent too much energy in the first half,” Weber told the Football Association of Singapore.

The Brunei side ventured forward with more urgency at the start of the second half before finding the two goals which prevented the game from forcing into extra time.

“We started to play better in the second half and our way of play is take the ball.

“That’s why I talked to them during the break and the players turned it around and did well,” he said.

“We deserved to go to the final. It is the first time we are in the RHB Singapore Cup final and I hope we can win against Albirex.”

The former Atletico Mineiro assistant manager is aware of the difficulty against the newly-proclaimed invincibles but having helped his team to a first final in four seasons, there is belief that the team can make history.

“We know it will be a difficult game as they are champions in the league three times. But it is just one game and I hope we can win. If we play in the same manner like we did in the second half, then we can win against anyone.

“The final is a special game and I believe in my team. The players deserved this (a place in the final). We want to make history in the final,” said Weber.

|     Hakim Hayat & Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

SIXTEEN Probationary Inspector cadet officers of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) from Squad 1/2017 and Squad 2/2017 completed their basic police training yesterday with a passing out parade.

The training for both squads was fully carried out in the country, the first time since it was last held here 15 years ago, marking another chapter for the RBPF as it gears towards the establishment of a Police Force Academy.

Minister of Defence II and guest of honour Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof attended the passing out parade held at the Parade Square of the RBPF Training Centre of the RBPF Headquarters in Jalan Gadong.

After inspecting the parade guard-of-honour mounted by the Probationary Inspector cadet officers and RBPF personnel, the minister presented the Sword of Honour awards to two of the best officer cadets from Squad 1 and 2.

Probationary Inspector Muhd Aminur Rashid bin Haji Yusly and Probationary Inspector Khairul Haq bin Haji Jumat were awarded for their outstanding performance throughout the training.

The ceremony continued at the RBPF Officers’ Mess, where Commissioner of Police Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam presented the rank insignia and certificate presentation to all Probationary Inspector cadet officers.

Twelve men and four women completed the 13-month training for Squad 1/2017 and nine-month training for Squad 2/2017.

Speaking to the Bulletin, Officer Cadet Muhammad Aminur Rashid from Squad 1/2017 expressed gratitude to the officers and trainers at the Police Training Centre (PTC) for their guidance and for training him to be able to give the best service; members of his squad for their encouragement in overcoming obstacles; as well as his family and friends for their support.

He shared that before he signed up to train, he had graduated from Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) in the field of Syariah. There, he was involved in various sports activities, making it easy for him to cope with the physical part of the training.

“KUPU SB produces graduates who are ready to teach students, and I have found similarities between being a teacher and being a uniformed personnel in the RBPF; which is to teach society to be respectable law abiding citizens. This encouraged me to be part of the RBPF,” he said.

“The training we went through will prepare us for the actual field, which I anticipate will be more challenging. I am looking forward to gaining more experience in handling crime cases and formal national events as well as other police work.”

Meanwhile, Officer Cadet Khairul Haq from Squad 2/2017 said he is thankful for the grace of Allah the Almighty for being a recipient of the award.

“This award motivates me to carry out my responsibility and obligation when I start work. This is a gift for my parents for their endless support throughout the training,” he said.

The Politeknik Brunei graduate, with an Advanced Diploma in Business Management, saw the opening for the Inspector Officer Cadet Probationary Squad as an opportunity. To prepare himself physically, he went through a High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), and sought the advice of relatives (who were former RBPF members) for his mental training.

RBPF in a statement said the successful completion of the training demonstrates the efforts and capabilities of the RBPF through its Training Centre in training and generating leaders of the young generation, starting from the rank of Cadet and later to a Probationary Inspector.

The basic training included aspects of policing, laws and also Syariah and is also geared towards shaping new personnel with a police character, building strong mental and physical strength, and in creating a police officer with confidence, skills, discipline and competence in upholding the truth, in line with the rule of law.

|     Aziz Idris     |

THE Ministry of Health (MoH) officially reinstated the Hospital Board of Visitors for the 2018-2020 session with the appointment of 26 new board members during a ceremony at the Al-‘Afiah Hall, MoH yesterday.

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health Haji Abdul Manap bin Othman presented the letters of appointment to the new members of the Hospital Board of Visitors.

The newly appointed board members include senior government officials, representatives from the private sector, penghulu and village heads, a representative from a non-governmental organisation, leaders from the business communities and private individuals.

Legislative Council member and Penghulu of Mukim Liang Yang Berhormat Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin, was also one of the appointed Hospital Board of Visitors.

The Hospital Board of Visitors will be in effect from September 1, 2018 until August 31, 2020.

Out of the 26 members, nine will be responsible for Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital, seven at Suri Seri Begawan Hospital, six at Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Hospital and four at Pengiran Isteri Hajjah Mariam Hospital. The new appointments will ensure that hospitals nationwide provide quality healthcare for all by operating effectively in a systematic manner.

The board will also review and make recommendations on ways to improve health services in their capacity as intermediary between hospitals and members of the public.

Director of Hospital Services Dr Hajah Lailawati binti Haji Jumat briefed the new members on their roles and responsibilities as well as services offered at hospitals nationwide.

|     Daniel Lim     |

A FAMILY whose second floor of the house was gutted by a fire received aid from the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB). The family, living at their temporary residence at RPN Kampong Pandan, Kuala Belait, received the aid yesterday.

Representing the family at the event was Anik Supiyati, 40, who was accompanied by her husband and three children.

Among the aid the family received included Zakat funds totalling around BND1,000 and school bags for the three children.

The guest of honour was Head of Religious Officer at the Belait District Haji Nur Asminan bin Haji Chuchu. He was accompanied by Village Head of Kampong Pandan ‘C’ Haji Affendy bin Haji Awang Damit, as well as officers and staff members from the MUIB and Religious Affairs Office in the Belait District.

The family had been living at Anik’s late mother Allahyarhamah Hajah Limah binti Abdullah’s house. She passed away on April 2.

The fire occurred on August 17 at Kampong Sungai Bakong, Kuala Belait.

The fire was extinguished by the Brunei Fire and Rescue Department within 20 minutes.

The cause of the fire is believed to be a gas leakage. The family had been residing at a house at Kampong Sungai Bakong for more than 16 years before they moved to her mother’s house, Anik Supiyati said.

She said the funds that they received will help to get them back on their feet.

The aid will help lessen the burden of the family.

|     Lyna Mohamad      |

THE Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB) Municipal Department, Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) hosted a Tahlil, Surah Yaasiin and Doa Kesyukuran in a religious ceremony held at the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque in the capital yesterday to mark the 48th anniversary of the renaming of Bandar Brunei to Bandar Seri Begawan.

The guest of honour was Minister of Communications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof, in his capacity as the Acting Minister of Home Affairs.

Senior officials, heads of departments, members of BSB Municipal Department, officers and staff of the MoHA and the departments under it as well as mukim penghulus and village heads in the vicinity of the capital were also present.

The ceremony started with a mass recitation of Surah Yaasiin and Tahlil led by Mudim Haji Metassim bin Haji Metussin, followed by the reading of Doa Kesyukuran by Mosque Officer at the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque Ustaz Zulkifli bin Haji Murat.

Bandar Brunei was renamed to Bandar Seri Begawan on October 4, 1970 in commemoration of the contribution of Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam in the development and modernisation of Brunei Darussalam.

The capital city area has been expanded from the 1,287 hectare to 10,036.24 hectares with the consent 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 and was officially announced by the MoHA on July 19, 2007.

Throughout the development of the capital city, various forms of rapid development have been achieved in several aspects including infrastructure, communications, religion, education, economy, welfare, business, security and social.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

AS PART of the Royal Brunei Police Force’s (RBPF) strategic plan to strengthen the capabilities of its personnel and units towards maintaining public harmony and national security, the establishment of the country’s first Police Force Academy is currently in the pipeline, the Minister of Defence II revealed yesterday.

Making this statement in his speech as the guest of honour at the passing out parade for 16 Probationary Inspector Cadet Officers at the Main Parade Square of the RBPF Training Centre at the Police Headquarters in Jalan Gadong yesterday, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof added that RBPF’s proven success in training the cadet officers domestically will eventually help realise the force’s strategic plan.

“Through existing strong cooperation and by adopting a whole-of-government approach, the RBPF will be taking valuable examples from the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), who have successfully established the Defence Academy,” the minister said, adding that the RBAF will be able to share their experiences and best practices in the planning, handling and management of the Defence Academy.

The minister conveyed his confidence that the plan will be realised in the near future, ahead of RBPF’s 100th anniversary in three years’ time. He added that the Police Force Academy, once realised, will be a very valuable complement in RBPF’s longstanding efforts to enhance its officers’ capacities.

He made note as well of the latest developments in the force’s training programme, including enhancements in the curriculum through the addition of subjects on the Penal Code, character building, public speaking, as well as scenario-based training exercises.

“All this will challenge and test the police officer when faced with a situation, how well they assess it and make rational judgements and decisions quickly and accurately,” the minister said.

The minister pointed to the uncertainty in the security landscape and ever-changing national crime trends, stressing that due to these conditions, it is RBPF’s utmost priority to continuously enhance the level of discipline and professionalism among its ranks.

Loyalty among officers is also vital, the minister added, traits which he said will realise RBPF’s vision of being a respected and revered organisation.

Remarking on the successful completion of training for the 16 Probationary Inspector cadet officers yesterday, the minister said their achievement marks a new chapter for RBPF in producing a young generation of leaders imbued with the Bruneian character, after 15 years of not doing so.

“I hope this will strengthen the line of leaders within RBPF and raise its profile as an institution that guarantees public safety,” he added.

The minister also expressed his confidence that the Probationary Inspector cadet officers will be able to utilise what they’ve learnt from their training to the best of their abilities.

“Armed with the experience and knowledge gained from the training, on top of established core values such as piety, obedience, good ethics, integrity and responsibility, they will Insya Allah be ready to respond with full confidence to the challenges they will encounter in their careers as police officers,” he said.