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, attended a gala dinner hosted by Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea Peter O’Neill, Chairman of the 2018 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, yesterday.

The event was held at Hilton Hotel, Port Moresby, the Independent State of Papua New Guinea.

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

His Majesty was welcomed by the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea and spouse.

His Majesty joined the Prime Minister and other APEC Economic Leaders for a group photograph session and proceeded to the Kutubu Banquet Hall for the gala dinner.

The event commenced with a welcoming speech by the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea for the leaders and delegates of the 2018 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting.

The gala dinner also featured cultural performances.

|     Fizah HAB     |

DIABETES is the third leading cause of death in Brunei Darussalam after cancer and heart disease, Acting Senior Medical Officer at the Ministry of Health Dr Hajah Norol Ehsan binti Haji Abdul Hamid said.

“The rate of diabetic disease among adults in Brunei is 9.7 per cent, with the pre-diabetic rates at 2.1 per cent, according to national surveys on non-communicable diseases conducted for the period from 2015-2016,” Dr Hajah Norol Ehsan made these comments in her welcoming speech as the co-chairperson of a special health forum entitled ‘Diabetes: Family Responsibility’ held at the multipurpose hall of Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, Kiulap yesterday.

“Although this rate appears to be low, many patients however suffer from burdensome diabetic complications such as eye damage, as well as damage to small blood vessels that occur in the limbs such as the feet and other areas.”

The event continued with a panel discussion on diabetes and ways to prevent and manage the disease. Methods on practising a healthy lifestyle were also deliberated on.

The event was hosted by the Ministry of Health (MoH) through the Health Promotion Centre and RIPAS Hospital’s Diabetes Centre to mark World Diabetes Day.

It was aimed to raise awareness on the importance of practising a healthy lifestyle and the dangers of diabetes and the importance on treating and supporting family members that have diabetes.

The guest of honour was the spouse of the Permanent Secretary (Professional) at the Ministry of Health Dr Hajah Roslin binti Haji Sharbawi.

Panellists included endocrinology consultant from the Ministry of Health Dr Hajah Haslinda binti Haji Mohd Hassan, an officer from the Islamic Da’wah Centre Pengiran Norhayati binti Pengiran Haji Kasharan and an officer at the Ministry of Health Erni Asyura binti Hassan.

Others included a psychology officer at the Health Promotion Centre Nor Syahmun binti Haji Matassan, senior officers from the MoH, members of NGOs including the Council of Women of Brunei Darussalam (CWBD) and Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM) and guests.

|     Khairil Hassan     |

MAJESTIQUE Hive, led by Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah, were crowned champion of the Thredz Netball Tournament held at the Multi-Purpose Hall of International School Brunei (ISB) yesterday afternoon.

Majestique Hive won against Netfit.BN 13-6 in the first semi-final while MOE won 19-16 over Top Gun in the second semi-final.

In the final, Majestique Hive, led by Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah, triumphed over MOE with a score of 22-10.

Also playing for Majestique Hive in the final match was Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Raheemah Sanaul Bolkiah binti Pengiran Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Rahim.

In the bronze medal match, Top Gun took third place after dominating Netfit.BN 23-7.

Acting High Commissioner of Australia to Brunei Darussalam Leah Mottram, accompanied by Thredz Netball Championship organiser Kamal Flynn and Iman Shahiirah Event Management (ISEM) Event Director Sher Yusoff, watched the final match and presented prizes to the winners.

Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah received the Leadership Trophy, a special award of the tournament. Two categories, Junior Category and Advanced Category of Individual Awards, were given during the prize presentation.

In the Junior Category, Netfit.BN’s Imanina Nizam received the Best Attacker award, JIS Lightning’s Iman McCartney received the Best Defender award and JIS Lightning’s Rachel Lim received the Best Shooter award.

In the Advanced Category, MOE’s Dhia Syuhada binti Abdul Rahman received the Best Attacker award, Majestique Hive’s Siti Nursyaahidah binti Rashid received the Best Defender award and Majestique Hive’s Nurhafizah binti Haji Abdul Siddiq received the Best Shooter award.

|     Wani Roslan     |

THREE hundred civil servants from various ministries and departments participated in the Charity Run and Cycle at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital yesterday. The event was held to mark the 25th Civil Service Day celebration.

Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar, Minister of Communications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohammad Yusof and 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 charity event.

The charity event was jointly organised by the Public Service Commission and Civil Service Institute, with collaboration from the Youth and Sports Department.

It commenced with a warm-up session, followed by a tug-off war between members of the Executive Committee and members of the Working Committee of the Civil Service Day 2018. The Minister of Communications flagged off the 10km cycle, while the 4km Fun Run was officiated by Permanent Secretary (Corporate Affairs and Public Administration) at the Prime Minister’s Office Haji Roslan bin Haji Taja’ah.

Four donation boxes were placed around the venue, with its proceeds to be distributed to the national welfare fund and Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli & Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE Information Department through its Nationhood Unit, Nationhood and Community Division, held its Information Youth Partnership Programme (Program Rakan Remaja Penerangan) at Pengiran Anak Puteri Hajah Masna Secondary School, Kampong Sungai Akar yesterday.

Ninety-five Year 9 and Year 10 students participated.

The programme aimed at enhancing awareness among students on the current developments in the country and to instil a spirit of nationhood, good morals and social responsibility.

Acting Director of Information Hajah Noorashidah binti Haji Aliomar was the guest of honour. Teachers, staff members and students were also present.

The programme began with the playing of the national anthem and patriotic song ‘National Flag’ followed by a recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat.

School Principal Hajah Norwen binti Haji Brahim delivered the welcoming remarks.

A briefing entitled ‘Our Monarch, Appreciating the National Flag and National Anthem of Brunei Darussalam’ was presented by Assistant Information Officer at the Information Department Mohammad Nur Akram bin Noraini @ Bahrin followed by the screening of video clips on ‘Hoisting our National Flag’ and ‘Procedures of Hoisting the National Flag’ and a student performance.

The programme also saw a Nationhood quiz for the participants.

Meanwhile, the Information Department last Thursday welcomed 51 students of Sungai Liang Primary School from the Belait District. Leading the group was supervising teacher Hanani binti Romainor.

The visit was part of the school’s end-of-year school activity and meant to enhance the students’ knowledge on the functions of the Information Department.

The students, who arrived in the morning, were taken to the auditorium of the department’s new extension building, where they were briefed on the background of the Department by assistant information officer Eddy Iswandy bin Haji Ismail.

The students were also shown a video clip entitled Ristaan Sempena Memperingati Penubuhan Jabatan Penerangan Ke-65 Tahun and a video clip of the Information Department ‘InfoDeptBN’ app.

The students participated in a question-and-answer session and group photo, toured the department’s exhibition, and visited the Pelita Brunei Division, Information Reference Centre, and Publication and Graphic Arts Section before concluding the visit.

Ministry of Defence

A DELEGATION from the Ministry of Defence (MinDef) participated in a Dikir Maulud held in conjunction with the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) at Kampong Kasat Mosque.

Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof led the delegation.

Deputy State Mufti Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Japar bin Haji Mat Dain @ Maidin was also present.

The ceremony began with a mass Maghrib prayer followed by Dikir Syarafil Anam and mass Isyak prayers.

Permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, senior officers, officers and staff of MinDef as well as Penghulu of Mukim Lumapas Haji Bakar bin Haji Mansor and the Village Head of Kampong Kasat were also present.

Ministry of Home Affairs

|     Daniel Lim     |

THE Dikir Group from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and several departments under the ministry held a Dikir Maulud ceremony at the Kampong Sungai Liang Mosque in the Belait District on Saturday.

Permanent Secretary (Safety, Welfare and Law) at the MoHA Mohd Amir Hairil bin Haji Mahmud was the guest of honour.

Legislative Council members Yang Berhormat Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin and Yang Berhormat Hanapi bin Mohd Siput, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs Ajman bin Haji Meludin, heads of department, officers, and staff under the MoHA in the Belait District, penghulu mukim and village heads and members of the mukim and village consultative councils were also present.

The ceremony began with a mass Maghrib prayer followed by the mass recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah by the guest of honour.

The ceremony concluded with the recitation of Dikir Marhaban followed by the Doa Dikir and Doa Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam before Isyak prayer.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE Brunei Neuroscience Stroke and Rehabilitation Centre (BNSRC), Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre (PJSC) hosted a Stroke Awareness Roadshow at Times Square Shopping Centre, Berakas yesterday.

The event was held in conjunction with World Stroke Day, celebrated annually on October 29.

BNSRC aims to raise awareness on the fourth top killer disease and a leading cause of disability in Brunei Darussalam, a press release stated.

BNSRC hopes this event will help the public to learn about stroke prevention, immediate stroke detection with ‘BE FAST’ (Balance, Eye, Face, Arm, Speech & Time) and the action in the event of a stroke.

Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar was in attendance to support stroke awareness as an important public health issue in keeping with the Ministry of Health’s commitment to reducing non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

The proceedings began with welcoming remarks by Director at the BNSRC Dr Dayangku Hajah Siti Nur’Ashikin binti Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Tengah.

She noted that this is the first time that such an event has been held in Brunei Darussalam.

“We have a varied and interactive exhibition here at Times Square today,” she said, expressing her hope that guests and members of the public would stop by all of the booths.

She shared that the exhibition and campaign souvenirs highlight the ‘BE FAST’ acronym to identify a possible stroke through recognising impairment of Balance, Eye, Face, Arm, Speech and through Timely response by coming to hospital immediately or by calling 991.

The event was officially launched with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by the Minister of Health and the Director at the BNSRC.

Featured at the Stroke Awareness Roadshow were various interactive booths from nurses and allied health professionals from the BNSRC, the Health Promotion Centre, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Gleneagles JPMC, and Takaful Brunei Keluarga Sdn Bhd (TBK) which included health and educational activities, various fun and engaging activities surrounding the early detection and prevention theme.

People attending the event received exclusive giveaways by participating in the games and activities from each booth.

There were also scheduled programmes throughout the day, including a public forum hosted by Rehabilitation Medicine Consultant from the BNSRC Dr Abang Fahmy bin Haji Hepnie with current stroke patients to share their inspirational journeys to recovery.

In addition, a talk on performing religious duties after a stroke was given by representatives from the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Children also had the opportunity to take part in a colouring session organised by the Health Promotion Centre.

The event was supported by the Ministry of Health, Takaful Brunei Keluarga Sdn Bhd, Royal Brunei Catering Sdn Bhd, Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, Medipharm Sdn Bhd, Aesthetics Medident Enterprise, Mewah Berjaya Contractor, Asterix United (B) Sdn Bhd, Syarikat Pakatan Indah, and Cathay Scientific Instrument Co Sdn Bhd.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

PRESIDENT of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping arrived in the country last evening for his three-day state visit, heralding a new chapter in bilateral relations between Brunei Darussalam and China.

Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof as the Minister-in-Attendance; Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud and; Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof were present at Brunei International Airport to welcome the Chinese President.

Before leaving Brunei International Airport in his motorcade, President Xi walked past the static guard mounted by members of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF).

The president’s state visit to the sultanate, on the invitation 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, begins this morning with an official welcoming ceremony at Istana Nurul Iman.

His Majesty last visited China in September last year as part of an official state visit, while Xi’s visit to Brunei will be the first by a Chinese President in 13 years.

In a brief statement to the media upon his arrival, President Xi said that he is looking forward to the talks with His Majesty, adding that he hopes that the visit “will enable both countries to renew their traditional friendship and draw up a new blueprint for relations in a new era, and take both countries’ good neighbourliness and friendship to the next level”, so that Brunei and China “could deliver more benefits to the people of both countries”.

According to a programme released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), Xi will be accorded an official welcoming ceremony at Istana Nurul Iman this morning. He will then attend a bilateral meeting and witness the signing of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between both countries. President Xi will also be hosted to a state banquet this evening.

Brunei and China are celebrating the fifth anniversary of their strategic cooperative relationship this year, with both countries looking to take this friendship to the next level.

President Xi in a statement released over the weekend to local media highlighted some of his expectations during his state visit here, stressing the need for both nations to enhance political mutual trust, deepen practical cooperation, increase people-to-people and cultural exchanges, and strengthen coordination and cooperation in regional and international affairs.

Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam and Commander of the RBAF Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud were at the Brunei International Airport to receive the Chinese President.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

HER Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam yesterday graced the Bersanding ceremony of Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muhammad Abdul Haffiz bin Pengiran Sura Negara Pengiran Anak Haji Muhammad Bey Muntassir and Dayangku Nur Izzati binti Pengiran Haji Abdul Wahab.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muhammad Abdul Haffiz is the son of Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Jefriah and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Sura Negara Pengiran Anak Haji Muhammad Bey Muntassir bin Pengiran Indera Mahkota Pengiran Anak (Dr) Kemaluddin Al-Haj.

Upon arrival at Baitul Athirah in Kampong Beribi, Her Majesty was greeted by Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Jefriah.

Also in attendance were 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; Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Norhayati binti Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahman; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah.

Also attending the ceremony were Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Nor’ain; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Rakiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Nasibah; and other members of the royal family.

The Besanding ceremony was conducted in accordance with Royal Malay traditions at Baitul Athirah Hall, with the bridal couple looking visibly radiant in matching traditional attire.

The ceremony began with the arrival of the bride to take her seat on the wedding dais, followed by the entrance of four Awang-Awang to light the ceremonial Dian Empat.

Later, two Awang-Awang entered the hall to place the royal regalia Kasur and Namat before the wedding dais.

The beating of the Hadrah announced the arrival of Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muhammad Abdul Haffiz, accompanied by his brother Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muhammad Abdul Razaaq bin Pengiran Sura Negara Pengiran Anak Haji Muhammad Bey Muntassir.

Leading the way was a retinue of Awang-Awang carrying the Dian Tunggal, and several others bearing various items from the royal regalia.

A Selawat was recited by Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Salim bin Haji Besar, who also read a Doa Selamat to bless the newly-wed couple.

Towards the conclusion of the ceremony, Her Majesty received a Junjung Ziarah from the newly-wed couple.

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah, followed by Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Jefriah also received the Junjung Ziarah.

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 left Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea yesterday after attending the 2018 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen accompanied His Majesty.

State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned recited a Doa Selamat prior to departure.

Papua New Guine’s Chief of State Protocol at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Morea Veratau was present at Jacksons International Airport to bid farewell to His Majesty.

Non-Resident High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to Papua New Guinea Haji Zakaria bin Haji Ahmad, was also present to bid farewell to His Majesty.

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 Retreat Session of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting at APEC Haus in Port Moresby, joining other leaders in discussing issues on cooperation and exchanging views on regional and international issues of common concern, as well as APEC’s external relations and its future direction.

In his titah during the session, which carried the theme ‘Connecting for Inclusive Growth Through Digital Future’, His Majesty hailed notable albeit irregular improvements in global trade despite today’s geopolitical and economic uncertainties, calling on the APEC economies to work together to increase trade and investment to maintain such continued economic and uphold the forum’s founding principle of multilateralism.

“This principle was the platform on which APEC was built when I and other APEC leaders met in 1993, when we agreed to uphold the spirit of openness and partnership based on the open multilateral trading system,” His Majesty said.

“To this day, I believe support for the World Trade Organization (WTO) that ensures free, open, transparent and inclusive trade rules remains vital. There is a need for the organisation to be strengthened to meet not just current but also future challenges.

“We need to address new and complex issues brought about by developments in technology especially as economies look towards the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific.”

His Majesty said that APEC should continue to provide its leadership in terms of demonstrating that economic integration benefits the people and businesses.

He noted that APEC had over the years also been successful in implementing some of the new frameworks of the WTO, adding that APEC’s principles of non-binding commitments and voluntarism had created the environment for its members to advance those new initiatives.

“Cooperation between APEC’s member economies in structural reform, including on the Ease of Doing Business, had also helped APEC close its development gaps,” the monarch said.

“I thereby encourage the APEC economies to continue working based on these principles and intensify their efforts towards achieving the Bogor Goals. APEC needs to ensure that its focus remains relevant in order to address any challenges that could arise in the future. This is pertinent so that the economies can take strategic steps to unlock their full potential in the digital era.”

The Bogor Goals are a set of goals to realise free and open trade in the Asia-Pacific agreed upon by APEC member economies in 1994 in Bogor, Indonesia.

Making reference to certain sectors and global value chains already being affected by technology disruptions, small businesses struggling to compete, and fewer employment opportunities in traditional fields of work, His Majesty urged the forum to continue with reforms to assist those left behind, such as implementing initiatives that are inclusive and sustainable.

Speaking on APEC’s future direction, His Majesty said, “It is important to ensure that the Post-2020 Vision is bold yet pragmatic like the Bogor Goals in 1994. We need to also prepare the youth with the right skills for new jobs by improving education and training policies. The APEC economies also need to provide adequate infrastructure for businesses to flourish in cross-border e-commerce.”

In this regard, His Majesty stated that Brunei Darussalam welcomes the APEC Action Agenda on the Digital Economy in order to carry out the Roadmap that the leaders endorsed in 2017.

Ending his titah, His Majesty called on APEC to “continue to work on the basis of its key principles as it looks beyond the Bogor Goals”, adding that “its economies had achieved so much along the way and could accomplish even more if they built on their strength through APEC’s pillar of economic and technical cooperation”.

Upon arrival at APEC Haus earlier in the day, His Majesty was greeted by Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea and Chairman of the 2018 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting Peter O’Neill.

His Majesty then joined the prime minister and the other APEC leaders for a group photograph before proceeding to the Retreat Session.

|     Daniel Lim     |

THE third Futsal Tournament for teachers in the Belait District was held at the Mumong Sports Complex.

The tournament, organised by the Belait District Branch of the Department of Co-Curriculum Education, was held from November 16-18.

The event was held in conjunction with the 28th Teacher’s Day celebration.

Thirteen teams, comprising teachers, competed in the tournament – Group A: JPKK Suka-Suka, Classico 2018, JPI G4S, and SMSA ‘B’; Group B: SMPW, SM PAPHRSB, SM PJNHAB, and IBTE JBC; and Group C: SUME, AAC 2.0, SBC18, JPI VII, and SMSA ‘A’.

Head of Co-Curriculum Education in the Belait District Haji Eady Sardi bin Pehin Datu Derma Sakti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Razak was the guest of honour.

JPKK Suka-Suka won first place followed by SM PJNPHAB and SMSA ‘A’.

Pengiran Sharul Izwan bin Pengiran Haji Rosli of SM PJNPHAB won the Best Player award while Mohd Sophian bin Johari of JPKK Suka-Suka won the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award.

JPKK Suka-Suka also received the tournament’s challenger’s trophy.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

LUN Bawang moved to the top of the DST Super League after a 3-1 win over basement dwellers Setia Perdana at the Balapan Track and Field of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex recently.

The Temburong outfit are also the only unbeaten team in the league following Kasuka FC’s 1-0 loss to reigning holders MS ABDB.

Lun Bawang have recorded 10 points from the opening four games with three victories and a draw, one point ahead of Kasuka FC and MS ABDB.

Md Syafiq bin Abdullah Elan, Hanif bin Duraman and Zulfadhli bin Haji Asli all scored in the first half for the new league leaders, while Aziz Hanafi bin Haji Bakri scored a late consolation for the newly promoted side.

Meanwhile, Muhd Razimie Ramlli’s strike a minute before the break propelled MS ABDB to a 1-0 win over Kasuka FC, who dropped to second place.

MS PDB notched their second consecutive victory in the league after a 4-1 win over struggling Najip, who are yet to pick up a point this season.

MS PDB took an early lead through Md Fakrol Tamimi bin Sahari in the fourth minute but Abang Hazim bin Abang Hadzman replied for the visitors with a 26th minute penalty to level the score.

Md Zulkhairie bin Haji Md Saleh helped MS PDB regain the lead in the 55th minute before Abdul Azim bin Abdul Rashid added a two-goal lead with his strike in the 79th minute.

Muhd Iqbal Syafiee bin Jafire added gloss to the team’s win with the fourth goal in stoppage time.

|     Aziz Idris     |

THE Ministry of Education (MoE) and the departments under it held the closing ceremony of the 12 consecutive nights of Dikir Syarafil Anam in conjunction with the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) at the Sufri Bolkiah Mosque, Kampong Perpindahan Berakas last night

Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman was the guest of honour.

Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad, senior officials from the ministry and residents were also present.

The Dikir ceremony is observed for 12 consecutive nights in suraus, mosques and religious halls before the procession held today throughout the country.

The annual religious event aimed to foster ties between officials and staff under MoE as well as the village community.

|     Wani Roslan     |

THE Language and Literature Bureau (DBP) organised a prize presentation on composition writing for Majalah Mekar and Juara Pelajar at Balai Sarmayuda of DBP yesterday.

Guest of honour, Acting Director of DBP Suip bin Haji Abdul Wahab presented prizes to the winners.

“With the participation of parents and teachers in observing, supporting and teaching them, it enables students to participate in the composition writing competition,” said the guest of honour.

He congratulated winners of the competition and advised other entries not to give up and continue to improve their writing skills.

This year, the DBP received 204 participants – 93 compositions from 80 participants for Category A of Majalah Mekar; 78 compositions from 69 participants for Category B of Juara Pelajar; and 58 compositions from 55 participants for Category C of Juara Pelajar.

Eight winners from each category were selected to receive prizes comprising cash, plaques, certificates and magazines (Majalah Mekar and Juara Pelajar).

|     Azlan Othman     |

UNIVERSITI Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) through the Leadership and Lifelong Learning Centre has offered the Al-Quran Tadabbur Programme for the October 2018 session.

The programme for the October session was held once a week on Sunday from 8.30am to 10am at the campus of UNISSA. Two modules were opened to the public and 79 participants comprising private individuals, new converts, students, officers and staff participated in the Al-Quran Tadabbur Programme for the October 2018 session.

The programme aimed to provide an understanding and appreciation to Al-Quran through reference from renowned Tafsir books. This is in line with the concept of Zikir Nation and to be Al-Quran literate as intended 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.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

A CEREMONY to mark the conclusion of the 12 consecutive nights of Dikir Maulud was held across all surau of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) camps.

The Ministry of Defence (MinDef) held the Dikir Maulud closing ceremony at the Surau Ad-Difa’ in the Bolkiah Garrison last evening.

Commander of the RBAF Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud was the guest of honour.

The ceremony began with the recitation of verses from Al-Qur’an followed by the Maghrib prayer, and a religious talk on Tarbiyah Rasulullah Membawa Rahmat Dalam Berkeluarga by Ustaz Dr Andas Haji Ismuhadi bin Haji Abdullah, officer from the Islamic Da’wah Centre, Ministry of Religious Affairs.

The event continued with the Isyak prayer and ended with Dikir Marhaban led by Shuib bin Haji Abdullah, Imam from MinDef.

The Dikir Maulud is an annual event held by the MinDef and RBAF to commemorate the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

Permanent secretary, deputy permanent secretaries, military and civilian directors, officers and staff of the MinDef and RBAF were also present.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

SIX Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) officers who recently graduated with outstanding results in the Defence Academy’s RBAF Command and Staff Course (CSC) have received the OBOE Endeavour Award from the Australian Government.

As part of the award, the first-time recipients from Brunei will be invited to Australia to meet with key Australian Defence Force leaders, visit an Australian military base, participate in educational and cultural activities, and engage in dialogues and discussions.

Guests of honour RBAF Commander Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud and Acting High Commissioner of Australia to Brunei Darussalam Leah Mottram presented the award to the six officers during a ceremony held at the RBAF Defence Academy in Kampong Tanah Jambu.

The recipients are 643 Lieutenant Colonel Norsuriati binti Haji Sharbini, 618 Commander Norharirayati binti Yakub, 660 Major Pengiran Haji Saiful Amirul Bakri bin Pengiran Haji Ramlee, 700 Major (U) Mohd Khairul bin Pehin Datu Indera Setia Dato Paduka Seri Haji Sulaiman, 724 Major Mohd Ghazali bin Haji Hussin and 730 Major (U) Mohd Anwar Shah bin Napiah.

In his speech, the RBAF Commander noted that the OBOE Endeavour Award was one of the initiatives proposed during the Brunei-Australian Joint Defence Working Committee in March this year. It will be awarded annually to RBAF officers.

He expressed confidence this will further strengthen military cooperation between Brunei and Australia, adding, “I am sure it will raise competitiveness among the student officers, thereby raising the standards of the CSC.”

He also looks forward to more initiatives materialising in the near future, such as the proposal of having the Australian Defence Force’s Operational Planning Instructors observer the Operational Planning Phase of the next CSC.

“This will definitely be beneficial not only to our CSC students, but also to the Australian Defence Force through the sharing of knowledge and experiences,” he added.

Meanwhile, Defence Adviser of Australia accredited to Brunei Darussalam Colonel David Hay in his remarks noted that the award proposes to further the bilateral defence relations by introducing the Brunei award recipients to the Australian Defence Force and to key aspects of their national power and identity.

“Australia very much values our defence relationship with Brunei, and we view this programme as a wonderful opportunity to continue to foster and grow our people-to-people links, links that we know will play an important role in our journey together,”

The name ‘OBOE Endeavour Award’ was chosen to commemorate the Australian Forces contribution to the successful liberation of Borneo from Japanese occupation during Operation OBOE in World War II, which marked the beginning of Brunei Darussalam and Australia’s defence relationship.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam gave a warm welcome to Chinese President Xi Jinping at Istana Nurul Iman yesterday, where both leaders held bilateral talks aimed at further enhancing collaboration between the two nations.

President Xi is currently in Brunei on an official three-day State Visit, his first to the Sultanate.

Following an official welcoming and audience ceremony for the Chinese President, His Majesty in a titah during bilateral talks with President Xi said the visit gives both countries the opportunity to renew friendships and relations that can be traced as far back as the 15th Century, in trade, culture and people.

“The President’s visit is also a significant one in expanding and strengthening the historical ties underpinned by strong friendship, trust and goodwill towards one another,” His Majesty said.

President Xi in a speech later praised His Majesty for his leadership in making Brunei Darussalam a modern city, with a beautiful environment and high standard of living. Highlighting the friendship shared since first meeting His Majesty in Xiamen and when His Majesty was his first state guest in 2013, President Xi stated that their shared friendship will continue for generations to come.

During the bilateral meeting held at Baitul Mesyuarah of the royal palace, His Majesty and President Xi discussed bilateral relations between Brunei and China and exchanged views on regional and international matters of mutual concern, such as trade and investment, agriculture, fisheries and connectivity.

Also present during the meeting was His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office.

Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were later signed between Brunei and China on the occasion of the Chinese President’s visit.

Both leaders witnessed a signing ceremony of MoUs on the Bilateral Cooperation Plan on Jointly Promoting Cooperation within the Framework of the Silk Road Economic Belt; the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road Initiative between Brunei and China; and Establishing a Joint Steering Committee and Protocol to Extend the MoU between the Government of His Majesty, represented by the Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Board, Ministry of Home Affairs, and Nanjing Municipal People’s Government, Jiangsu Province, of the People’s Republic of China.

Signing the MoU for Bilateral Cooperation Plan on Jointly Promoting Cooperation within the Framework of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road Initiative between Brunei and China on behalf of the Government of His Majesty was Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah while signing on behalf of the Chinese Government was Minister of National Development and Reform Commission He Lifeng.

The MoU between the Government of Brunei Darussalam and the Government of the People’s Republic of China on Establishing a Joint Steering Committee was signed by Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof while signing on behalf of the People’s Republic of China was State Counsellor and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi.

The Protocol to Extend the MoU between the Government of His Majesty represented by Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Board, Ministry of Home Affairs, and Nanjing Municipal People’s Government, Jiangsu Province, the People’s Republic of China was signed by Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong.

Signing the Protocol on behalf of the People’s Republic of China was member of the Standing Committee of CPC Jiangsu Provincial Committee and Party Secretary of CPC Nanjing Municipal Committee Zhang Jinghua.

Earlier, His Majesty personally welcomed the arrival of President Xi at the grounds of Istana Nurul Iman. Hundreds of schoolchildren lined the streets leading to the palace, waving the national flags of both Brunei and China to greet the visiting Chinese head of state.

Upon arrival at the Istana, both President Xi and His Majesty stepped onto a special dais to receive the salute of honour and the national anthems of both countries, as well as a 21-gun salute. Both leaders then inspected the guard of honour mounted by members of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF).

President Xi was later introduced to members of the royal family; state dignitaries; Cabinet Ministers; members of the Legislative Council; deputy ministers; the Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force; the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces; and the Charge d’Affaires at the Embassy of Brunei Darussalam in Beijing, People’s Republic of China.

His Majesty was introduced to members of President Xi’s delegation, including Director of the General Office of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CCCPC)Ding Xuexiang, Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs Yang Jiechi, State Counsellor and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi, Minister of National Development and Reform Commission He Lifeng, Minister of Commerce Zhong Shan, and Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam Yang Jian.

An audience ceremony was later held at Cheradi Laila Kenchana of Istana Nurul Iman.

Present at the ceremony 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 Mateen; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; as well as other members of the royal family.

Also in attendance 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 of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Defence II as the Minister-in-Attendance Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, and Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Elinda binti Haji CA Mohammad.

Following the bilateral talks, His Majesty and President Xi proceeded to Baitur Rahmah to attend the state luncheon in honour of the Chinese President’s State Visit.

Since establishing diplomatic ties in 1991, Brunei and China have seen deepening political mutual trust and enhanced cooperation in different areas.

The past few years in particular have witnessed rapid economic cooperation and trade between the two countries, with bilateral trade amounting to USD1 billion, making China one of Brunei’s largest trade partners.

Two flagship multi-billion dollar projects notably are currently being developed in a joint collaboration between the two nations: the Hengyi petrochemical plant project and the Guangxi-Brunei Economic Corridor, initiatives that are expected to bring about substantial economic growth and the creation of jobs for Brunei.

|     Azlan Othman     |

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 described Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) as a source of enlightenment and progress for mankind, while delivering his titah last evening on Radio Television Brunei (RTB) to mark the Maulidur Rasul for 1440 Hijrah.

His Majesty said, “It is appropriate that the Prophet should be remembered, as the world was in constant darkness until the Prophet’s mission.

“Today, we are still living with the legacy of the Prophet’s mission: the light of Islam and the light of faith.

“The brightness that they provided was not an ordinary one; apart from the cleansing of human nature, they also gave illumination to souls still enveloped in darkness.”

“This darkness was brought about by the Age of Ignorance (Jahiliyyah), which caused so much misery and suffering. But after the coming of Islam through the propagation of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), these evils were immediately replaced with a better and more principled way of life.

“Such is the power of Islam to bring about a favourable outcome. And today, we along with the rest of the global community are still being guided by that outcome. Before the advent of Islam, slavery was commonplace, but it became unacceptable after the arrival of Islam. Similarly, before Islam, indiscriminate killings were common practice, but later they were prohibited.

“Allah the Almighty spoke the truth that Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was sent as a blessing to the universe. Let us be thankful with this blessing, which is also a way of showing our appreciation for the great services of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

“Our appreciation should not be limited to words, but must be backed up with deeds. This means to carry out what was liked by the Prophet, and to refrain from what he disliked.

“If we are able to accomplish these, then it signifies our love for the Prophet and the fulfilment of our obligations towards him.

“This is our primary intention of observing Maulidur Rasul – so that our love for the Prophet may continue to flourish, and that we may never forget his teachings.

“It is the main objective of Tarbiyah, or the Prophet’s systematic method of training, to make those teachings part of our daily lives. We should not repudiate this method of education, because it means to reject what is good for us and to invite disaster.

“We are all encouraged to invite blessings in our homes, among our communities and across the nation.

“Blessings lead to happiness, for without them, happiness would be impossible. This is why we should embrace the Prophet’s Tarbiyah, or method of education, as a prerequisite for acquiring these blessings.

“It pleases me that we have a strong tradition of celebrating major events in the Islamic calendar, including Maulidur Rasul.

“It is my view that these traditions invite blessings, and therefore should be maintained. If necessary, should be improved upon.

“We are doing this to motivate a sense of piety among us. A sense of piety is neither irresolute nor weak, but should be firm and strong. That is why we are encouraged to commemorate major events in the Islamic calendar – to instil more religious awareness, which is crucial for preserving the continuity of the Ummah.

“Finally, I wish all of you a blessed Maulidur Rasul, and that we may all receive divine intervention,” said His Majesty, concluding the titah.