|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

HER Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam yesterday consented to grace a birthday celebration in Her Majesty’s honour hosted by members of the Council of Women of Brunei Darussalam (CWBD).

The event was held at the Serambi Suluh of the Brunei Arts and Handicraft Training Centre in Jalan Residency, Bandar Seri Begawan.

Accompanying Her Majesty were Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Bini Hajah Faizah binti Dato Haji Nasir; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Her Majesty and members of the royal family were greeted by President of the CWBD Datin Hajah Dayang Siti Hajar binti Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Awang Mohd Yusof and members of the organising committee.

Her Majesty signed a royal parchment before proceeding to the main hall to take a group photo.

Datin Hajah Dayang Siti Hajar wished Her Majesty good health and prayed to Allah the Almighty to always protect Her Majesty.

The celebration also saw the participation of 16 other women’s associations under CWBD including the Welfare Body of Police’s Wives and Families (PEKERTI), Brunei Darussalam Nurses Association (Penjuru) and Brunei Shell Ladies Association.

The event also saw Her Majesty cutting a birthday cake and receiving a pesambah from members of the council, PEKERTI and Brunei Shell Ladies Association.

The ceremony was enlivened with several religious performances before concluding with a Junjung Ziarah.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

OVER 2,500 have participated in activities conducted by Ar-Rafi Archery, its Chairman Pengiran Haji Radno bin Pengiran Haji Mohd Tahir said.

He made these comments at a ceremony to launch the Ar- Rafi Indoor Archery Academy building in Kampong Jangsak, Gadong yesterday.

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 was present.

Upon arrival at the Ar-Rafi Indoor Archery Academy, the minister was welcomed by Pengiran Haji Radno and staff.

The minister also viewed the photo display displaying the history and activities of the club followed by the launching of the new building.

Pengiran Haji Radno said Ar-Rafi Archery, one of the first traditional archery clubs in Brunei officially launched on September 8, 2017, is located at the Royal Brunei Recreation Club and Liang Lumut Recreational Club (LLRC) in the Belait District.

He said the club has 18 committee members, six management staff and 15 coaches.

“Several activities are conducted by Ar-Rafi Archery focusses on training, culture, games and academic among others,” Pengiran Haji Radno said.

He said Ar-Rafi Archery members have attended activities conducted locally and abroad.

The club has attracted youth keen to know more about archery.

“Nearly 300 attended the Introduction to Archery (IA), Basic Course Level 1, and Level 2 in the two districts,” Pengiran Haji Radno said. He hoped that with the support and cooperation from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism and other related ministries, the club will be able to produce more archery athletes in the future.

Deputy Permanent Secretary (Tourism) at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali, Charge d’ Affaires of the Malaysian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam Rafedah binti Haji Abdul Aziz and officers from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports were also present.

The club aims to expand from traditional archery to modern archery in Brunei and promote and enhance the sport to the international arena.

|     Daniel Lim     |

THE Fire and Rescue Department (FRD) celebrated its 58th anniversary with an Inter-station Tug-of-War Competition organised by the Fire and Rescue Department Operation Branch ‘B’, Belait District at the Mumong Sports Complex, Kuala Belait yesterday.

Acting Director of Fire and Rescue Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Maiddin bin Pengiran Haji Said was the guest of honour in overseeing the teams’ performances.

With eight teams comprising officers and personnel from the various stations across the country as well as from the Fire and Rescue Headquarters inBerakas, the competition was also held to help encourage a healthy lifestyle by participating in sporting activities.

The competition was also an opportunity to help further establish close relationship between all FRD personnel from across the country by testing their might and mettle in a series of tug-of-war matches.

The guest of honour presented prizes for the competition winners, which went to Operation Branch ‘B’ team as the overall champion, with Operation Branch ‘C’ team and Operation Branch ‘G’ team in second and third place, respectively.

|     James Kon     |

SPORTS associations should always try to help raise the quality of performance for the country’s national athletes.

In addition, these associations must be aware of the needs of the national athletes, such as exposure to competitions which is important to help improve performance and boost the spirit of national athletes, so that they can display their best in the international sporting arena.

This was reiterated by Brunei Darussalam National Olympic Council (BDNOC) President His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah in his sabda at the Post Mortem meeting for the 3rd Summer Youth Olympic Games 2018 held at the conference room of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium yesterday morning.

His Royal Highness also raised a number of questions to the Brunei contingent on an athlete who was not wearing the official contingent attire while in training during the recent 3rd Summer Youth Olympic Games 2018 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

His Royal Highness asked if it was necessary for athletes or officers to wear official contingent attire provided by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS); if not, there would be no need to provide such attire for the country’s contingent in the future.

His Royal Highness highlighted that “the presentation of the official contingent’s attire from the MCYS is to boost our identity as contingent or officer who is an authorised representative of Brunei Darussalam”.

His Royal Highness also commented that his intention is not to find fault or blame anyone, but to remind that the matter maybe considered insignificant but should not be overlooked, because it will be a big issue in the future if it’s not given early attention.

His Royal Highness added that it is also the responsibility of the manager, coaches and athletes themselves, because the contingent being sent overseas is based on spending and efforts from the BDNOC and MCYS through a detailed process of selection from the national athletes’ assessment and selection committee.

On the issue of a national athlete who has never participated in any cross country events despite it being a part of the 1,500m event in the 3rd Summer Youth Olympic Games, His Royal Highness asked, “Has the athletic coach been informed that whoever is competing in the 1,500m event must take part in cross country event? Why was the coach not informed of the regulation? Why is there a lack of effort to obtain regulations before joining any competition?”

In reply to His Royal Highness’ inquiries, Chef de Mission of the Brunei Darussalam contingent Faisal bin Yunus said, “We only found out the need for participation in cross country event for the 1,500m during the manager’s meeting.”

He also conveyed his apologies for the issue on the official contingent attire.

Athletic Coach Azmize bin Abdul Rahman said, “I only knew about the cross country event which should be participated by all athletes in the 1,500m during the manager’s meeting in Buenos Aires. I discussed with our athlete and officials on whether to continue with the participation. Our athlete wanted to continue on to compete and also agreed on the decision.”

Earlier on in the sabda, His Royal Highness also congratulated the participating national athletes of the 3rd Summer Youth Olympic Games who gave their best and also improved their personal records.

His Royal Highness hoped that the athletes will make use of the valuable experience to continue working harder to train to increase their performance level in the future.

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 opening remark at the meeting highlighted, “The Post Mortem meeting has demonstrated His Royal Highness’ concerns and leadership in deciding that the discussion is to be held as fast as possible after the Brunei contingent returned back to Brunei Darussalam on October 22. The Post Mortem is important to fully grasp the experience and teaching, especially the strengths and challenges faced that can become lessons for the young and talented athletes of the 3rd Summer Youth Olympic Games.” Touching on coaches for sports associations, the minister in his comment during the meeting said, “Coaches must be given Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). We are trying to help the associations. They must select good coaches and ensure they are given KPIs.”

The contingent and officials from the ministry were also present at the meeting, chaired by Permanent Secretary at the MCYS Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil.

Despite the Brunei contingent failing to obtain any medals at the 3rd Summer Youth Olympic Games 2018, two national swimmers managed to break their personal best records in their respective events.

National swimmer Nur Haziq Samil, 17, broke his personal best record in the men’s 400m freestyle at the event by finishing 4:33.47s, breaking his old personal best record of 4:33.89s. He also broke his personal best record of 58.78s in the men’s 100m freestyle by finishing with 58.38s.

Ashley Chai Xin Rou, 16, also broke her personal best record of 34.48s in the Women’s 50m backstroke by crossing the finish line with a time of 33.19s. She also broke her personal best record time of 29.63s in the women’s 50m freestyle by finishing with a time of 29.52s in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Meanwhile, Nurul Amirah binti Karim, 15, finished with a time of 6:38.18s in the 1,500m event. Her personal best record is 5:54.77s.

FORTY-SIX youth comprising 16 males and 30 females participated in the Youth Career Leadership Camp 2.0 (YCLC 2.0) at Sungai Kebun Sports Complex, Jalan Lumapas on Friday.

The camp organised by Generasi Bekarih sees the participants staying at the Sungai Kebun Sports Complex for two days and three nights with the aim of raising awareness in religion, family, community and country.

The camp participants are guided by local facilitators of Generasi Bekarih and several mentors such as Assistant Lecturer at the Faculty of Usuluddin, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) and Advisor of Majlis Ta’lim Anwar Al-Huda Ustaz Pengiran Abdul Basit bin Pengiran Haji Zaini, Muhammad Haziq Hisyam bin Mohd Zaki of Persatuan Kemajuan Insan (KESAN) and Alumni member of Generasi Bekarih Mohammed Hafiz bin Hamzah.

The camp is expected to assist local youth in identifying their direction, honing leadership qualities, enhancing communication skills, creating a curriculum vitae (CV) and cover letter and obtaining tips for interviews and ‘work-life balance’ as well as entrepreneurship.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

CERTIFICATES were presented to 23 participants for passing the theory and practical examinations of the Tourist Guide Basic Course in a ceremony yesterday at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT).

Guest of honour, Acting Director of the Tourism Development Department Salinah binti Haji Mohd Salleh presented the certificates.

Head of the Business and Hospitality Department of Laksamana College of Business (LCB) Simon Keenan in his opening remarks congratulated the participants.

The seventh Tourist Guide Basic Course was held from October 10-26.

The course was first introduced on October 24, 2016 and it is one of the prerequisites of the Tourism Development Department to obtain a tourist guide licence.

Since the course was introduced, 157 tourist guides have taken part in the programme.

The course is carried out in collaboration between the Tourism Development Department and LCB, an institution appointed to conduct the course.

A press release stated that the course is part of the Tourism Development Department’s efforts to enhance and strengthen the skills of tourist guides in the country.

It also aimed at opening up job opportunities for locals, especially youth in the country.

Tour guides who have passed the Tourist Guide Basic Course are required to submit their application to the Tourism Development Department, MPRT to obtain the licence.

It is an offence for private person/s to operate Tourist Guide services without a valid licence, and they can be fined in accordance with Section 21 of the Tourism Order, 2016, that is: (i) for the first offence, a fine not exceeding BND5,000; and (ii) for the second offence and thereafter, a fine not exceeding BND10,000.

The press release stated that it is important for each licenced Tourist Guide to play a key role in ensuring that the information that is being communicated to tourists is accurate and easy to understand.

The press release added that, given the need and high demand for tourist guides, the Tourism Development Department invites youth, especially those who are still looking for employment, to attend the courses.

The next course will be held in early 2019. For any inquiries and registration, those interested can contact LCB.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE Brunei Breast Cancer Support Group (BBCSG) held a Dikir Maulud at the residence of President of the association Hajah Aminah binti Haji Momin in Kampong Rimba on Friday.

The ceremony began with mass Isyak prayer.

President of BBCSG, in her welcoming remarks, said the ceremony was first of its kind organised by the association to enliven the celebration of Maulidur Rasul.

The ceremony also coincided with a Doa Kesyukuran for the 2018 Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Around 60 members of the Marhaban Warga Emas group participated in the event. The recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, Dikir and Doa Selamat was led by Ustazah Pengiran Hajah Halijah binti Pengiran Haji Damit.

Hajah Aminah added that a seminar on Breast Cancer Awareness 2018 will be held at the Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre on November 29.

|     Wani Roslan     |

HAJI Abdul Rahman bin Haji Abdul Manaf and Norzirwatul Fadhillah binti Haji Puteh emerged champions in the Qari and Qariah categories of the Al-Quran Reading Competition for officers and staff of the Ministry of Education (MoE) held at the Main Hall of the Curriculum Development Department in Old Airport yesterday.

The champion Qari is an Education Officer of the Co-Curriculum Development Department, while the Qariah champion is also an Education Officer, from Sayyidina Ali Secondary School.

Haji Isyrah Sadri bin Haji Osman, an Education Officer from Pengiran Anak Puteri Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Secondary School, Lumut won second place in the Qari category, while Azman bin Haji Osman, a Trained Religious Teacher from Beribi Telanai Primary School was placed third.

In the Qariah category, Education Officer Special Grade from Politeknik Brunei Pengiran Dr Hajah Norkhairiah binti Pengiran Haji Hashim clinched second place and Education Officer from Pengiran Anak Puteri Hajah Masna Secondary School Khuzaimah binti Abdul Ghafar came third.

The champions received cash prize of BND300, a trophy, certificates, and other prizes.

Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman presented the prizes.

The competition aimed to showcase talents of officers, teachers and staff under the MoE and Islamic Studies Department of the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) in Al-Quran recitation, and to raise awareness on the importance of reciting Al-Quran. The competition also served as a platform to improve Al-Quran recitation quality while upholding the titah 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 in making Brunei Darussalam a Zikir Nation.

Also in attendance was Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

BRUNEI’S Participating Youth (BPY) look forward to promote the country among fellow participating youth (PY), said the country’s National Leader (NL) Muhammad Iqbal Fakhri bin Haji Damit, who along with other youth spent eight days sailing onboard the Nippon Maru.

Muhammad Iqbal Fakhri made this comment during a press conference chaired by the administrator of the 45th Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Programme (SSEAYP), Yamatani Hideyuki yesterday.

The Nippon Maru with participants in the SSEAYP 45th edition carrying 318 youth from 10 ASEAN member countries and Japan arrived at the Muara Port yesterday as their first port of call.

Brunei Darussalam is represented by 28 BPY with Mohd Nabil Fikri bin Mudim Haji Suhaili as Youth Leader (YL) and Siti Mar Atussholiha binti Mohd Hisa as the Assistant Youth Leader (AYL).

Yamatani said the SSEAYP is based on a joint statement issued in January 1974 between Japan, the Republic of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Republic of Philippines, the Republic of Singapore and the Kingdom of Thailand.

“Brunei Darussalam joined the programme in 1985 along with the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in 1996. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic and the Union of Myanmar joined in 1988. The Kingdom of Cambodia joined in 2000,” he said.

“Apart from promoting friendship and mutual understanding among youth of Japan and ASEAN member countries, the programme also aims to promote youths capability of exercising their leadership skills in various fields and contribute to the society in various areas,” Yamatani added.

The programme also aims to broaden the youths’ perspective and strengthen the spirit of international cooperation and practical skills for international collaboration. These aims can be achieved through participants living together on the ship, introducing their culture to one another and participating in discussions and various exchange activities both on board and in the countries they visit.

The PY will engage in several activities such as visits to selected institutions, home-stay programme and welcome dinner.

Under the 2018 SSEAYP programme, PY members embark on a 52-day journey with the inauguration ceremony held in Tokyo, Japan on October 24, homestay and several other activities in 11 different prefectures all over Japan.

While in Japan, representatives from each participating country had an audience with Their Imperial Highnesses Prince and Princess Akishino and also paid a courtesy call on Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

After Brunei, the youth members will sail to the Philippines (Manila), Thailand (Bangkok) and Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh) before heading back to Japan (Tokyo).

|     Azlan Othman     |

AN ATTEMPT to enter the Guinness World Record by preparing Kelupis Jalin (glutinous rice wraps) exceeding 200 metres in length will be one of the highlights at the launch of the Brunei December Festival at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital on December 2.

Over 35 workers will be involved where over 7,000 pieces of Kelupis will be made using 330 bags of glutinous rice, 300 packs of coconut milk, seven kilogrammes of fine salt and 310 Nyirik leaves to wrap the Kelupis, renowned enthusiast in the food industry, Haji Duraim bin Haji Mohammad said.

“It will take three to four hours to steam 3,000 – 4,000 pieces of Kelupis. We will use this project to introduce Brunei Darussalam to the outside world and promote the local favourite traditional delicacy among Bruneians,” he told a media briefing yesterday.

The Kelupis will be first wrapped and steamed at the Agriculture and Agrifood Department premises in Kampong Kilanas before being transported to the Taman in the capital during the official launching of Brunei Food Festival during the Bandarku Ceria on December 2, said Haji Duraim who is also the owner of Ayu Atiqah Event Management.

“The completed Kelupis will be distributed among orphans and others. Officials from Guinness World Record will not be present but the footage and evidence will be sent to them. The outcome of the attempt will be revealed in three months. If we succeed, the certificate will then be issued,” he added.

A 100kg Kelupis was made at the first ever Brunei Traditional Food Festival in 2014 to mark the country’s 30th National Day at Kampong Parit Recreational Park in Mukim Pengkalan Batu.

Meanwhile, a 200kg Kelupis was prepared jointly by Haji Duraim’s company and Kampong Limau Manis Village Consultative Council members to welcome a delegation from Malaysia and Indonesia’s TV broadcasting stations.

Another project was also carried out to make 50kg of yellow glutinous rice or Pulut Kuning to mark the Golden Jubilee Celebration of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s Accession to the Throne on October 5 last year.

Haji Duraim also plans to make the biggest kite in the country.

HIS Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office yesterday received in audience the outgoing High Commissioner of the Republic of India to Brunei Darussalam Nagma Mohamed Mallick at the Qashr Al-Meezaan.

The outgoing ambassador presented her Letter of Credence 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 on January 23, 2016. – PHOTO: INFOFOTO

|     Daniel Lim     |

THE Kuala Belait (KB) Branch of the Department of Co-Curriculum Education, Ministry of Education conducted a two-day Inter-school Sports Competition for primary schools, at the Track and Field located at the Anthony Abell College (AAC), Seria.

The event saw 15 primary schools from the Belait District sending some of the best students to compete against one another in several sporting categories.

Among the schools that participated included Muhammad Alam Primary School, Kuala Belait Primary School, Ahmad Tajuddin Primary School, Pengiran Setia Jaya Pengiran Abdul Momin Primary School, Sungai Teraban Primary School, Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran Mohd Yusof Primary School, Panaga Primary School, Sungai Tali Primary School, Lumut Primary School, Sungai Liang Primary School, OKPB Bukit Sawat Primary School, Merangking Ulu Belait Primary School, DMS Dian Sukang Primary School and Chung Hua Middle School KB.

Among the sport categories included 800m sprint, 400m sprint, 200m sprint, 100m sprint, four times 400m relay race, four times 100m relay race, Triple Jump, Long Jump, Shot Put and Discus Throw.

Several students with special needs also competed in several sports including 100m and 50m sprint as well as Modified Shot Put of 450g.

“The reason why we invited and encouraged students with special needs to take part in this year’s competition is to provide opportunities for them to compete, as well as to raise awareness among the public that students with special needs are capable in competing in sporting activities,” said Headmaster of Muhammad Alam Primary School Johari bin Haji Abas.

The guest of honour on the final day of the competition was Headmistress and Education Officer at the AAC Mas Diana binti Abdul Samad. The final day of the competition started with the students marching onto the track and field followed by the singing of the national anthem and the recital of the sportsmanship oath by the students, led by Mohd Muizzaddin bin Jikilani Haime, a student from Muhammad Alam Primary School.

Following the oath, the guest of honour meet the students and teachers from each of the school and wished them good luck.

At the end of the competition, Chung Hua Middle School secured first place with seven gold, and four silver medals. In second place was Panaga Primary School with five gold, one silver, and two bronze medals. Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran Mohd Yusof Primary School took third place with three gold, four silver, and two bronze medals.

The guest of honour presented trophies to the representatives of the three top schools.

The students placed in the top three positions of each sporting categories received medals, and certificates of participation were handed to the teachers from participating schools.

|     Wani Roslan     |

A KHATAM Al-Quran ceremony was held in conjunction with the Golden Jubilee of Pertiwi Association at the Mulia Hotel in Kampong Anggerek Desa yesterday.

Datin Paduka Hajah Jahrah binti Haji Mohammad, spouse of the Minister of Home Affairs, was the guest of honour.

A total of 110 members of the Pertiwi Association participated.

“Fifty years is a long period for a non-government organisation to survive and actively be engaged with several challenges. With the enthusiasm of its former leaders and current leaders as well as the support and unity of its members,” said President of Pertiwi Association and chairperson of the ceremony Datin Hajah Siti Hajar binti Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof.

She said achievements included the establishment of Taman Asuhan Pertiwi and Pertiwi Cooperative Company.

The ceremony began with a mass recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Ustazah Dayangku Zainab binti Pengiran Haji Tuah followed by the reading of verses of Al-Quran and continued with the reading of Takhtim and Dikir Marhaban. The event concluded with the recitation of Doa Selamat.

|     Fizah HAB     |

A TOTAL of 291 participants of the 45th Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Programme (SSEAYP) met their foster parents at the Homestay Matching ceremony at the Indoor Stadium, Berakas yesterday.

The two-day homestay programme will see 145 foster families giving these youth a taste of the Brunei culture before they depart tomorrow. The host families will also get to the famous Nippon Maru on Tuesday.

Through the immersion programme, SSEAYP members will get to broaden their international outlook, foster friendships and gain a better understanding about their ASEAN neighbours.

Brunei Darussalam joined the programme in 1985, and has since seen over 900 Brunei families playing host to the youth across the years.

Under the 2018 SSEAYP programme, participating youth embarked on the 52-day journey in Tokyo, Japan on October 24. Homestay and other activities were held across 11 prefectures all over Japan.

After Brunei, the youth will sail to the Philippines, before continuing to Thailand and Vietnam, and then back to Japan (Tokyo).

|     James Kon     |

A VIDEOGRAPHER from the private sector won the judges’ hearts with his photos based on the three themes – Bandarku Ceria, Local Delicacies and Creativity – at the Canon Photo Marathon.

Haji Muhammad Safwan bin Haji Awang Sulaiman, 29, will head to Japan for the Canon Photo Marathon Asia Champion 2018 after he was crowned as the grand prize winner at the Serambi Batil Ballroom of Brunei Arts and Handicraft Training Centre yesterday.

Deputy Managing Director of Interhouse Company Vincent Goh presented the grand prize to Haji Muhammad Safwan.

Haji Muhammad Safwan said, “I didn’t know I would win, it’s really a surprise. I am still shaking from the excitement. In 2015, I won first place in the Lifestyle theme. And this time, I managed to win the grand prize.”

On his pictures, he said, “Each of the three photographs, I follow the theme. Like for Bandarku Ceria, I took a picture of children having fun and smiling while cycling and the second photo with the theme Local Delicacies, I chose Soto.”

He started off his passion on photography in 2013 by doing part-time wedding photo shoots.

For the Bandarku Ceria theme, the winner was Hamdilah Kamaludin. Second place winner was A M Saifulizam Zambar while third place winner was Muhammad Abdul Malek Ridwan bin Haji A Hamid.

Azman bin Yakob won first place in the theme Local Delicacies. Second place went to Masadezam bin Masle and Nicolas B Tju took the third place.

For the Creativity theme, Qawi Zulkipli won first place followed by Michael Ruiz and Julain Iysee in second and third places.

The first place winners in the three themes went home with a brand new Canon EOS 77D EFS that comes with 18-55mm kit lens. Second place winners went home with new EOS M100 camera with EFM 15-45mm kit lens and third place winner each received a Pixma TS8170 printer. All participants received a finisher medal.

Besides Vincent Goh, the judges for Canon Photo Marathon were Senior Photographer at Istana Nurul Iman Haji Haranadi bin Haji Buntar, President of Photography Association of Brunei Darussalam Hamidun bin Haji Md Noor, freelance photographer Ong Heng Seng and local artist Dr Malai Yunus bin Malai Yusof as guest judge.

Vincent Goh said, “After hosting the 7th year of Canon Photo Marathon, this year was a great success as we have more than 400 registered participants. Brunei photographers have expected this yearly event with enthusiasm. We also have a record number of participants attending all three themes. We also see a growth in family participation this year. This year we used Bandarku Ceria as one of the themes.”

|     Danial Norjidi     |

TWO participants who recently received certificates for completing the Basic Tourist Guide Course shared that they gained much by taking part in the course, describing it as worthwhile and useful.

The two participants were among 23 who completed the seventh iteration of the course and received certificates during a presentation ceremony on Saturday.

Nur ‘Afiqah Nasuha binti Abdul Ghani told the Bulletin, “It was a 10-day course and through the course itself we actually learnt about Brunei, safety, etiquette and also about the flora and fauna in Brunei.

“It was an in-depth kind of thing to actually introduce us to how we should behave as tourist guides. It was very useful for me.”

On whether she feels more equipped as a tourist guide now, she said, “Definitely,” noting that as part of the course the participants were taken for a two-day, one-night trip in Temburong. “There was no cell phone reception. We were completely back to nature. As a tourist guide I feel that experience really helped me because it made me realise I needed to be able to help tourists without the help of a phone.”

She highlighted, “For people curious about the course, there’s nothing to lose by taking the course, because you gain knowledge and you gain a lot of self-confidence as well.”

Pengiran Haji Md Yusri bin Pengiran Haji Md Yusof, who has more than 20 years’ experience as a tourist guide said the course is very useful, because it teaches good basic skills of communication.

“That’s very important – intercultural communication skills. To be a tour guide, you really need to have acquired and learnt these communication skills. It’s very important – guiding techniques, the dos and the don’ts, and factual, concise and complete information is vital for all tour guides.

“This course provides all the needs that a tour guide should have,” he said, noting that it is good not just for new tour guides, but also those who are experienced, as tourism education changes every year and skills are always upgraded.

“I would suggest that those who are interested to attend this 10-day course,” he added.

The Basic Tourist Guide Course was introduced on October 24, 2016 and it is one of the prerequisites of the Tourism Development Department to obtain a tourist guide licence.

The Basic Tourist Guide Course is carried out in collaboration between the Tourism Development Department and Laksamana College of Business, an institution appointed to conduct the course.

The course is part of the Tourism Development Department’s efforts to enhance and strengthen the skills of tourist guides in the country. It is also aimed at opening up job opportunities for locals, especially youth in the country.

|     Dr Muhammad Hadi bin Muhammad Melayong, Senior Special Duties Officer, Secretariat Office MIB Supreme Council     |

THE Secretariat Office of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) Supreme Council was invited by the Academy of Contemporary Islamic Studies (ACIS), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Kelantan, Malaysia to present a paper at the International Conference on Islam and Global Issues (iCIGI) 2018.

The author, together with other Bruneian participants attended the conference from March 25-26.

The conference was open to academicians, researchers, graduates, postgraduates and others from within and outside the country. UiTM Kelantan Branch campus is located in Machang, about 49 kilometres from Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia.

The event, themed ‘Entrusting Islam and Providing Insights into Global Issues in the Era of the 4th Industrial Revolution’, aimed to provide a platform for discussions and interaction among participants on issues impacting Islam globally.

Over 500 and 150 accompanying paperwork were discussed. The conference aimed to promote the culture of research related to Islam and global issues; compile the latest materials and academic writings on Islam and global issues; provide a platform for discussions and interaction among the thinkers, experts, researchers and academicians; and publish the conference papers in national and international journals.

Topics discussed included Dakwah and history – Social and Humanity – Politics and Governance – Aqidah, Syariah and Akhlak – Waqaf and Zakat – Haj and Umrah – Astronomy and Astrophysics- Science, Technology and Medical/Health – Food and Agriculture – Education and Special Education, and Training – Economics, Finance/Banking, Business, Entrepreneurship and Accounting – Tourism, Entertainment and Music – Environment and Climate Change – Art, Design and Architecture or others related to global and contemporary issues.

Representatives from Brunei Darussalam presented two paperworks on the institution of monarchy by the author. Haji Dzulkiflee bin Haji Abdul Latif discussed the educational system in Brunei Darussalam from a historical perspective from the traditional background education system with a focus on Islamic education before and after the introduction of the British Resident in 1906.

Haji Dzulkiflee highlighted the importance of the country’s education system based on Brunei culture heavily influenced by Islamic values without denying the importance of modern knowledge whether in terms of skills, their expertise, their intelligence and expertise in worldly knowledge.

These are all values that should be owned by the human capital of the nation of Brunei through a process of formal and informal education for preparation towards achieving the Brunei Vision 2035.

The author’s paperwork focussed on the institution of the monarchy practised in Brunei Darussalam with the role of Islam as the pillar that preserves the existence of monarchy in Brunei. The paper highlighted how the monarchy institution that has existed for over 1,400 years in Brunei Darussalam proved to withstand in challenging the impact from the outside world in providing the prosperity and well-being of society and nation of Brunei Darussalam.

This can be proved based on the continuity of the existence of Brunei Darussalam adopting the monarchy institution without any question from the people.

Alhamdulillah, the presentation of the paperwork regarding the institution of monarchy in Brunei Darussalam only received three questions from the participants that related to Islam, the practice of monarchy and the challenges of globalisation that were complementary to the centre by the author. The questions were related to law enforcement of Syariah Code in Brunei, the problem of new media in society especially the young generation and how to handle them and the role of the monarchy in creating harmony and unity in the community life with different cultures and social background.

The matter was explained in detail by the author based on the laws in the Brunei Constitution 1959, the Royal Customs, historical existence of Brunei Darussalam as well as the position of Islam as the official religion of the country.

All factors secured the adoption of the monarchy system that has become a basis of consolidation and unity of life of community among the people and its inhabitants comprising different races, religions and different cultures as well as history.

Having harmony and unity in the community is a result of the adoption of the monarchy that became obedient to the Ulil Amri– King that leverages the Royal Customs and the teachings of the Islamic religion in which ‘rakyat tidak boleh derhaka dan raja hendaklah berlaku adil (tidak boleh zalim)’.

The Brunei Constitution 1959, amendment 2004 and 2008 stated that the Malay Islamic Monarchy philosophy that has become a way of life and policy of the nation where the King is the head of State and head of the religion of Islam.

This is good practice and retention of the monarchy, which are the consolidation and also the integrity of the existence of Malay Islamic Monarchy in Brunei Darussalam. Although the institution of monarchy became a source of prosperity and well-being factors of living but in fact Islam is the basis on which a core to the integrity of the monarchy for certainty of survival of an MIB nation. This is clearly proven by reference to the Brunei national history which has practised the monarchy system since the 14th Century. The nation of Brunei is confident that Brunei’s sovereignty only can be maintained and strengthened through the practice and appreciation of the values of the national philosophy of Malay Islamic Monarchy reaffirmed by 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 in his titah in Australia on March 17, 2018.

As Bruneians we should continuously practise the values of MIB as a national philosophy of Brunei Darussalam as the basis of guaranteed prosperity, well-being, peace and unity of life the strong community that adheres to Islamic values which are pure. Although there are different ethnics, races, religions and cultures but all are united as one based on their loyalty to the King which creates harmony and stability in the society. Blessings from the practice of life based on the values of MIB make up the identity of Bruneians. Malay Islamic Monarchy is a heritage of the nation of Brunei practised since antiquity that the source of the glory and grandeur of the Malay Empire in Nusantara.

Brunei Darussalam continues to adopt the three elements of traditions that became the policy and way of life of people and the nation.

In the presentation the author summarised that Brunei Darussalam is an independent and sovereign country, which remains forever based on the concept MIB, speaking in Brunei Malay with Malay cultures by practising the teachings of Islam according to Mazhab Shafi’e, Ahli Sunnah Wal Jama’ah, and allegiance to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam as head of a country ruled by faith, Islam and Ehsan.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

JATI Transport Sdn Bhd organised an appreciation day yesterday to thank Mercedes Benz Brunei customers for placing their trust in the products and services of the company.

The guests were treated to a spread of international cuisine and fun activities such as face painting, hand henna, photo booth, games and others.

Service Manager of Jati Transport Stephen Reid also made a presentation on tyres to raise the awareness of wheel safety.

He also demonstrated the function of a tyre-fit.

The Service Department of Jati Transport also introduced the Mercedes Benz Star Select.

Star Select is a maintenance programme for Mercedes Benz models for five years and older, with up to 35 per cent off on services and repairs.

The offer is only valid until June 30, 2019.

The guests were also given the opportunity to test drive a full range of Mercedes Benz models.

|     Khairil Hassan     |

MAJESTIQUE Hive advanced to the semi-finals of the Thredz Netball Championship 2018 held at the International School Brunei yesterday.

Led by Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah, Majestique Hive topped Group A after recording an unbeaten start. Top Gun came second in the group after only losing to Majestique Hive.

MOE secured the top spot of Group B after winning all matches, while Netfit BN clinched second, having lost once against the table toppers.

Majestique Hive will face Netfit BN in Semifinal 1, while MOE will go against Top Gun in Semifinal 2 on November 18.

Twelve teams participated in the tournament namely – Majestique Hive, Center Stars, Phoenix Miri, BKP Yayasan, Battlenet and Top Gun in Group A; while Group B comprises Sakura, MOE, Tigersharks, SPSS Sdn Bhd, JIS Lightning and Netfit BN.

The tournament is organised by Thredz Performance Wear in collaboration with Iman Syahiirah Event Management.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

THE #hearwithus project played out its core aims and concepts at the Faculty of Integrated Technologies (FIT), Universiti Brunei Darussalam yesterday.

The #hearwithus project – a programme by online students of a project management module in collaboration with the National Association of the Hearing-Impaired (OKP) – can be accessed on Instagram.

Aziz bin Assan was the interpreter at the event.

The event included a forum that featured key issues of the hearing impaired in Brunei Darussalam. The issues included different perspectives – from members of the OKP, other organisations and individuals involved with the hearing impaired – on how to motivate them and the integration of hearing impaired persons in society.

Activities included a video film production by Hoco Agency highlighting the issues faced by the hearing impaired, basic sign language classes, an interaction booth and other sessions which involved sign language.

There was also a small café manned by OKP members.

Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Iswandy bin Ahmad was the guest of honour, while OKP President Muhd Nur’Azwan bin Haji Aziz, OKP member Norsyehida binti Mersidi, a family member of OKP Rabiatul binti Osman, and Special Education Unit Officer Widiafalena Surhan were the panellists at the event.

The attendees and participants of the project session were members of the #hearwithus project and the OKP.

According to the organisers, the event served as a platform to raise public awareness on the issues faced by the hearing impaired.