|     Hakim Hayat     |

BRUNEI Darussalam and the People’s Republic of China yesterday pledged to further boost bilateral trade and investment and forge closer synergy in infrastructure cooperation to benefit the economies and people of both countries, following meetings between 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 President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping.

A joint statement released by the governments of Brunei Darussalam and China at the conclusion of bilateral talks and Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing as part of the Chinese President’s State Visit yesterday highlighted both leaders’ commitment to enhance bilateral relations through cooperation and collaboration across several areas, in alignment with both countries’ respective national development strategies.

Some of the key highlights of the joint statement include Brunei’s commitment to continue to support and jointly promote cooperation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, as well as the two sides’ affirmation to work closely on the implementation of the MoU on Jointly Promoting Cooperation within the Framework of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road Initiative between the two governments and the newly signed cooperation plan.

China also relayed its further support to the sustainable development of Brunei’s economy and its diversification endeavours.

His Majesty and the Chinese President also agreed to further strengthen bilateral trade and investment cooperation, work closely to implement the MoU on strengthening infrastructure cooperation, push forward the cooperation on the Hengyi Industries Sdn Bhd refinery and petrochemical plant on Pulau Muara Besar in a safe and timely manner, further promote the ‘Brunei-Guangxi Economic Corridor’, and strengthen communication and technical cooperation in the fields of agriculture, Halal food and aquaculture.

In its efforts to build a strong and sustainable economy, Brunei also welcomes more foreign direct investment (FDI) interests from China.

Both sides encouraged more engagements among business communities of the two countries, utilising the existing platforms such as the China International Import Expo and the China-Asean Expo.

China also expressed its readiness to share its development experiences in emerging economic fields like digital economy and e-commerce with Brunei Darussalam.

Both sides also expressed satisfaction with the progress of cooperation in the energy sector, and agreed to continue supporting the enterprises of the two countries to cooperate in the areas of maritime oil and gas resources, in accordance with the principles of international law and following the principles of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit.

In the area of security and defence, both sides have agreed to further strengthen cooperation in the area and work closely to implement the MoU on Strengthening Defence Cooperation while also further agreeing to strengthen law enforcement cooperation and explore the possibility of establishing a bilateral extradition treaty and a mutual legal assistance treaty.

On the South China Sea dispute, both sides welcomed the improving cooperation between Asean member states and China in the claims and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace, stability and security, and the importance of continuing exercising self-restraint by all parties concerned and the promotion of mutual trust and confidence in the South China Sea.

Both parties underscored the importance of resolving territorial and jurisdictional disputes through peaceful dialogue and consultations by sovereign states directly concerned, in accordance with universally recognised principles of international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The joint statement added that both sides, together with other Asean member states, will work towards the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, and encouraged further progress on negotiations towards the early conclusion of an effective Code of Conduct on the basis of consensus.

Both Brunei and China also agreed to jointly uphold multilateralism and resist protectionism, uphold the rules-based multilateral trading system as embodied under the World Trade Organization, and promote an open, inclusive and balanced economic growth that benefits all.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

THE Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) welcomed the arrival of three Russian Navy Ships, namely Varyag (Slava – Class Guided Missile Class), RFS Admiral Panteleyev (Udaloy – class destroyer) and replenishment vessel RFS Boris Butoma (Boris Chilikin – class fleet oiler) on Monday.

The Russian Pacific Fleet are in the Sultanate for a goodwill visit from November 18–23.

The head of the Russian Navy delegation for the visit is Commanding Officer of the Combat Ships Group of the Pacific Fleet of the Russian Federation and Chief of Staff of the Submarine Forces of the Pacific Fleet Rear Admiral Eduard E Mikhailov.

During a courtesy call with RBN Acting Commander Captain Haji Othman bin Haji Suhaili @ Suhaily, both sides discussed areas of opportunity to further enhance bilateral relationship between the two navies.

The visit programme includes activities such as sports interaction, ship visits, a lecture on the history of the Russian Pacific Fleet and a beach cleaning campaign.

The Russian Pacific Fleet last visited Brunei Darussalam in October last year.

A TOTAL of 32 cats battled it out for a chance to be crowned as the ‘Finest Feline’ at the finals of the SmartHeart ‘Finest Feline’ Cat Competition 2018 at the Airport Mall in Berakas on Saturday.

The event was organised by Parvati Textiles Centre with support from the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, Care and Actions for Strays (CAS), Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE), and Si Manja Pet Grooming Spa. The furry finalists were shortlisted from a base pool of 60 entrants after passing a pre-qualifying round at the Parvati Textiles Centre office in Serasa, Muara from November 9-10, where each cat went through a series of basic health screenings and consultations.

The winning cats were announced following a final judging and screening by a group of veterinarians.

In the ‘Major Awards’ category, Mowgli emerged the grand prize winner, winning BND1,000 as well as a trophy and certificate.

First runner-up went to Moana who won BND500, a trophy and certificate with Alacar the second runner-up, winning BND400, a trophy and certificate.

Third runner-up Wina won BND300, a trophy and a certificate; fourth runner-up Rangga received BND200, a trophy and a certificate and fifth runner-up Moji received BND150, a trophy and a certificate.

Sixth runner-up Applez, seventh runner-up Orient, eighth runner-up Baltazar, ninth runner-up Mike and 10th runner-up Jaeger each won BND100 as well as a trophy and a certificate.

In the ‘Minor Awards’, Rangga won the People’s Choice category, winning BND50, a trophy and certificate while Loki brought home BND50, a photo with frame and certificate for winning the Most Photogenic category. Jaeger, meanwhile, took home BND50 and a t-shirt (Finest Feline) for Most Likes on Facebook.

Hansen (Special Cage) and Mochi (Best Costume) were the winning cats in the ‘Special Prize’ category.

Fun and educational activities were also held including a photo booth, games and the launching of new cat snack SmartHeart Creamy Treats. There were also talks for cat owners on a number of cat care topics, including a ‘Cat Grooming Tips’ session by SiManja Pet Grooming Spa and ‘The Importance of Cat Vaccination’ by Dr Muhammad Faiz bin Haji Metussin from the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood.

The cat competition was held to gather cat lovers throughout the country in an event where they can learn on cat-related topics, and have fun with their pets with activities as well as having a chance to win prizes.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

AQIDAH is the most important element in family education, hence the great responsibili-ty among parents in the upbringing of their children in having moral conduct and good manners as they hold the most influential role in shaping their children’s behaviour.

These comments were made by Ustazah Norhayati binti Haji Abdul Rahman, a speaker from the Islamic Da’wah Centre, at a Tazkirah during the Women’s Special Assembly yesterday morning held in conjunction with the Maulidur Rasul celebration at the Main Hall of the Tutong District Civic Centre Complex.

The guest of honour was Datin Hajah Maimunah binti Haji CA Mohammad, spouse of the Minister of Energy, Manpower and Industry.

Ustazah Norhayati underscored that each member of a family should emphasise on three elements such as Al-Quran education, the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and Ilmu Fiqh.

“The success of the parents in shaping an Islamic family can be reflected as their children grow up. It is the responsibility of the parents to become a good role model at all times,” she said.

The event was also enlivened with a mass recitation of Dikir Marhaban and ended with the recitation of Doa Selamat.

|     Fizah HAB     |

A MAULIDUR Rasul grand assembly and procession was held at the Tutong District Civic Centre Complex yesterday, marking the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

Minister of Energy, Manpower and Industry Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein led the procession.

Over 5,000 participants from 41 various uniformed units, government ministries and departments, secondary schools and higher education institutions, associations, non-governmental organisations and private sectors, and village consultative council members and mosque Takmir committees participated in the procession.

The event began with a mass recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by a presentation of certificates to the leader of the teams participating in the procession by the guest of honour.

The event was enlivened by Dikir Marhaban and a recitation of Sayyidul Istighfar by students of Mahad Islam Brunei, followed by the procession around the Pekan Tutong area.

|     Khairil Hassan     |

THE Low San Basketball Tournament continued at the Brunei Basketball Association Basketball Court in Batu Bersurat, Gadong on Monday evening. The first match saw Fitness Zone beat Veteran United 78-59 for the Veteran Category.

The second match saw the Open Category match where Fitness Zone crushed Jedstar 108-65. Tonight will see two other matches from the Open and Veteran Categories. Stars on 40s will face Team Airish/TSL for the Veteran Category at 7.15pm.

The second match will be from the Open Category between Fitness Zone and Singapore Motor at 8.45pm. PHOTO: KHAIRIL HASSAN

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

TERAZZA FC sensationally dumped BSRC Veteran out of the Al Idrus FA Cup after a stunning 2-1 victory in the last 16 at the Arena Field in Seria recently.

Terazza suffered elimination in Group ‘E’ of the Al Idrus Football League Championship after a run of three games without a win while in stark contrast their cup opponents BSRC Veteran enjoyed progress with relative ease as Group ‘C’ leaders.

However, their respective league form was thrown out of the window as Terazza ensured a prolonged stay in the domestic scene where the winner of the match between Mix FT and Al Idrus SC await.

Ibrahim Noor bin Haji Ujan opened the scoring for Terazza in the sixth minute but BSRC restored parity through a goal by Hanafi bin Suhaili in the 28th minute.

But the visitors were not to be denied as Ampuan Rahim bin Ampuan Sabli scored the winner in the 69th minute.

Tensions flared just after the hour mark as both sides were reduced to 10 men with Terazza’s Zulkarnaine bin Haji Sulaiman and BSRC Veteran’s Malik Iskandar bin Abdullah Datu sent off.

Meanwhile, RB Veteran escaped defeat after winning through penalties 8-7 in a thrilling encounter against Stoneville FT.

Pengiran Haji Ali bin Pengiran Haji Zaidi had earlier given RB Veteran the lead in the 20th minute but Stoneville levelled the score through Suni Mat Jerah in the 39th minute.

In the Al Idrus Football League Championship, Azam FT moved into the win column in Group ‘C’ after recording an emphatic 4-1 win over basement dwellers IV Team at the Public Works Department Field.

The competition continues on Friday with Combine KSKA looking to rekindle their hopes of advancing into the next round with victory over Bakes Veteran in Group ‘E’.

Combine KSKA are three points adrift and a game in hand of second-placed PBDB Veteran FT, the side whom they are contesting with for the final qualifying spot.

Elsewhere at the Menglait Field, MS Tawakal will hope to revive their faltering season having moved out of contention in the league with progress in the Al Idrus FA Cup against Setia Bakti.

|     Daniel Lim     |

OVER 4,000 participants from across the Belait District gathered at the surrounding area of the Municipal Field, along Jalan Sultan, Kuala Belait and the Kuala Belait Convention Centre, Jalan Mckerron as part of the procession for Maulidur Rasul.

Themed Tarbiyah Rasulullah Membawa Rahmat Dalam Berkeluarga, the ceremony marked the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

Guest of honour Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman was present at the Municipal Field, while his wife, Datin Hajah Razina binti Haji Kassim was present at the Kuala Belait Convention Centre.

Legislative Council (LegCo) members Yang Berhormat Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin and Yang Berhormat Hanapi bin Mohd Siput, Acting Belait District Officer Ridzuan bin Haji Ahmad as well as heads, senior officers, and staff members from the participating government and private sectors were also present.

The participants included members from various uniformed units, government ministries and departments, secondary schools and higher education institutions, associations, non-governmental organisations and private sector, and village consultative council members and mosque Takmir Committees.

The ceremony started with the recitation of verses from Al-Quran led by Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) graduate Abdul Qawiyuddin bin Suhaili, followed by a special Tazkirah by UNISSA Adjunct Assistant Director Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ajak.

The ceremony also saw the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the procession participants from the guest of honour.

The ceremony continued with a mass recitation of Dikir Marhaban, followed by the reading of Doa Selamat and the recitation of Selawat three times led by Mosque Affairs Officer at the Pekan Seria Mosque Imam Aminorddin bin Haji Mohd Yussof.

The ceremony concluded with the procession, led by the guest of honour, across Kuala Belait town area for a distance of 3.4km.

|     James Kon     |

FIVE personnel from the Fire and Rescue Department (FRD) recently left for Singapore to attend the International Elite Rescuers Exchange Workshop; the Singapore Global Firefighters and Paramedics Challenges (SGFPC) 2018; and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) Day Parade and Race for Responders, from November 19-25.

The FRD delegation comprises Mohammad Firdaus bin Yussof, Ishak bin Haji Ahmad, Mohammmad Kamarul Affizaruddin Shah bin Boniman, Mohammad Zambree bin Damit and Abdul Hafidz bin Mohd Azanisham.

Among those present at the Brunei International Airport to see the delegates off were Acting Director of Fire and Rescue Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Maiddin bin Pengiran Haji Said and Deputy Director of Fire and Rescue Lim Hock Guan.

With the theme ‘Together, a Nation of Lifesavers: Transforming into the Future’, the challenges are divided into three categories: Global Challenges, which consists an eight-stage challenge to test strength, agility, skills and mental endurance; Rip-It-Off (TEAM), where the contestants will be judged according to their on-site assessment, command and control, vehicle stabilisation, extrication techniques and medical intervention proficiency; and Global Exchange Braveheart (Mixed Team), where members from all participating organisations will be required to complete various tasks in the fastest time, while ensuring the safety of their team members and the casualty.

|     Azlan Othman     |

PRESIDENT of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping and his delegation left Brunei Darussalam yesterday morning, for the Philippines, after concluding a three-day State Visit to the country.

Present at the Brunei International Airport to bid farewell to the President were Minister of Defence II and 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 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.

Also present to send the President off were Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam and Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud.

Prior to boarding his plane, President Xi proceeded to walk past a static guard mounted by members of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

The State Visit of President Xi marks the close bilateral relationship between Brunei and the People’s Republic of China, with the ties expected to blossom and strengthen even further in the years to come.

|     Azlan Othman     |

THE grand assembly and procession for Maulidur Rasul 1440 Hijrah witnessed the participation of 126 teams and 13,008 participants, including uniformed personnel.

The Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital was the main focus of yesterday’s celebrations, themed Tarbiyah Rasulullah Membawa Rahmat Dalam Berkeluarga (Lessons from the Messenger of Allah the Almighty), with similar assemblies held in the other districts.

The annual event was graced by the presence 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.

Also present 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 ‘Abdul Wakeel; and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah.

Upon arrival, His Majesty and other members of the royal family were greeted by Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman in his capacity as the Chairperson of the Executive Committee for Major Islamic Events of 1440 Hijrah, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, Chief Syar’ie Judge Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Haji Awang Salim bin Haji Besar and Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar.

Also present to greet the monarch were Syariah Court of Appeal Judge Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Setia Raja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Haji Awang Suhaili bin Haji Mohiddin, Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud and Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Yussof, as members of the Executive Committee for Major Islamic Events of 1440 Hijrah.

The proceedings began with a recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah by State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned followed with a speech by the Minister of Religious Affairs.

In his speech, the minister said, “Every year, on the 12th of Rabiulawal, the nation celebrates the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) to show our love and respect, for many good reasons.

“Among those reasons are to spread the principles of Islam and to promote more understanding of the teachings delivered by the Prophet. These teachings encapsulate Islamic law, faith and virtues that influence our way of life in this country and subsequently in shaping the government and the nation.”

He added, “In general, the assembly creates a spirit of unity among people from all levels of society and all levels of government leadership.

“Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) set a noble example in building a family life and accordingly, we chose the theme, Tarbiyah Rasulullah Membawa Rahmat dalam Berkeluarga.

“The theme is appropriate, since the role of the Prophet was important, as an outstanding and exceptional educator who received instructions from Allah the Almighty through the revelations.

“Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is a glorious example in all aspects of life, and the Muslim Ummah should follow the Prophet’s (pbuh) Tarbiyah (method of education), in order for us to become a great community in attaining the successes of this world and in the hereafter.”

Prior to the start of the procession, His Majesty received greetings from the team leaders, which was then followed with a recitation of the Dikir Marhaban by officers from the Ministry of Education and 21 cannon blasts.

The officers also recited the Sayyidul Istighfar, after which a Doa Selamat was recited by the State Mufti.

A Selawat (prayer of peace for the Prophet) was then recited by Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Imam Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Hamid bin Bakal.

This year, the participants covered a new route of 2.3 kilometres along Jalan Elizabeth 2, Jalan Stoney, Jalan Pehin Dato Isa, Jalan Tasek, Jalan Kianggeh, Jalan McArthur and Jalan Sultan.

Throughout the procession route, complimentary food and drink were available for the participants, thanks to the contributions of several associations, schools and private individuals.

The contingents also took part in a competition divided into four categories: educational institutions; government ministries and departments; associations, non-governmental organisations and private sectors; and village consultative councils and mosque Takmir Committee.

|     Izah Azahari     |

A TOTAL of BND28,866 in donations from various companies and personal donors was handed over to Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam yesterday, during the ‘Asiastar Coach Launching and Donation Campaign’ in support of Pusat Ehsan.

The event, held at S Naaz Sdn Bhd in Jalan Jerudong, was co-organised by Build Mix Trading and S Naaz Sdn Bhd.

Guest of honour Brunei-Muara District Officer Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim launched the coaches. Pusat Ehsan Executive Trustee Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini binti Pengiran Dipa Negara Laila Diraja Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin received the donation.

Build Mix Trading Managing Director Dennis Lim, Yangzhou Yaxing Motor Coach Co Vice President Shen Dehua and S Naaz Sdn Bhd Managing Director Zafar were also present.

The event started with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah.

Shen Dehua said Asiastar, manufacturer of China’s dream coach, witnessed China’s history of automobile industry for over half a century.

It has created many firsts since its birth, and in 2013, Asiastar became a subsidiary of Weichai Heavy Industry Group, he said.

He added that Asiastar products have passed international certifications such as the ISO 9001 Quality, National 3C, Australian ADR, US DOT and European ECE, and obtained the qualifications of the United Nations Procurement Supplier.

“Besides China, Asiastar has expanded sales to nearly 30 countries and regions,” the Vice President added.

The event continued with the handing over of the mock key by the vice president to Managing Director of S Naaz Sdn Bhd, the recitation of Doa Kesyukuran and launching of the coaches by the guest of honour and the Executive Trustee of Pusat Ehsan.

The event concluded with a mock cheque presentation to Pusat Ehsan and a photo session with all donors.

Asiastar buses/coaches are sold to countries in Asia, Middle East, Africa, North and South America.

In 2017, Asiastar exported 1,019 buses/coaches overseas and together with Shandong Heavy Industry Group, made a total turnover of over USD28 billion.

Working together with a local well-established trading company – Build Mix Trading, Asiastar penetrated into Brunei Darussalam’s market in October 2018.

Asiastar has also appointed Build Mix Trading as the Brunei Darussalam sole marketing agent. By the year end, 18 buses will arrive in the Sultanate.

Asiastar also plans to set up a Service Centre in Brunei.

|     Daniel Lim     |

MUHD Syahiran bin Samra and Md Izzat bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Murad from Waroeng BMA won the hearts of judges with their Thai dish Tom Yam Fried Rice with Som Tam Green Papaya Salad, Thai Mango Sticky Rice and Cha Yen Tea at the ‘JBC Master Chef’ competition held as part of the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) Jefri Bolkiah Campus (JBC) Co-Curriculum Activity (CCA) Week yesterday.

Kok Yin Yeong and Muhammad Izzul Izwan bin Zainal Ariffin from Ice Café with their Kimchi Fried Rice, Chocolate Lava Cake and Strawberry Lemon Freeze won the second place.

Awangku Muhd Nur Hakim bin Saifuddin and Muhd Nur Khairil Amin bin Haji Japarudin from Bukan Chef Wan Tapi Chef Tu who with their Kampong Fried Rice and Shredded Fried Chicken, Triffle Universe, and Sweet and Cool Calamondin Mint came in third place.

Fourth place went to Danial Iman bin Md Jofri and Muhd Syahmi Sufi bin Mohd Salleh from Masakan Sees and fifth place to Ahmad Danish bin Haji Ahmad Nizam and Muhammad Shahrin bin Yassippudin from BBSC Biasa Biasa Saja.

The competition, organised by the campus Co-Curriculum Unit, aimed to help students showcase their cooking skills.

Five groups, with two students in each group, competed in the competition.

They were Waroeng BMA, Ice Café, Bukan Chef Wan Tapi Chef Tu, BBSC Biasa Biasa Saja, and Masakan Sees.

The participants were given the theme of the competition a week ahead. The task was to make the main course of fried rice, a dessert and a cold drink in one hour.

IBTE JBC Operation Manager Hajah Hanita binti Haji Hussain along with the campus staff members, instructors and students were present at the competition.

The completed dishes were judged by a panel of food critics comprising three instructors from the campus.

The top three winners received a bag of food ingredients and certificates of participation. The rest received certificates of participation.

The ‘Best Decorated Dish’ and ‘Best Chef’ – went to the Ice Café and Md Izzat.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

BRUNEI Darussalam, through the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS), in collaboration with the Brunei Darussalam national sports associations will again host the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, and Northern Territory – East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMPNT-EAGA) Friendship Games from December 7 – 9.

This will be the 10th edition of the biennial sporting event, held in rotation between the four BIMP-EAGA member countries.

Permanent Secretary at the MCYS Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil said this at a press conference at the MCYS building yesterday.

Acting Director of Youth and Sports Haji Zafri bin Haji Mohamed, who is also Chairman of the working committee for the games and Acting Deputy Director of Youth and Sports Mariam binti Ulat, the Head of the Working Committee Secretariat for the Games, were also present.

“We invite members of the public to come to the event and provide moral support to our local athletes participating in the games,” Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila said, adding that the Brunei contingent is undergoing centralised training as part of preparations for the event.

Brunei Darussalam last hosted the games – its sixth iteration – in November 2008.

“The games aim to strengthen friendship among members of BIMPNT-EAGA and athletes towards the achievement of solidarity, understanding and cooperation between the participating countries,” Haji Zafri said. He added that this year’s event will involve 13 contingents from the four BIMP-EAGA member countries – Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Philippines, and the Northern Territory of Australia.

This will be the first time a team from the Northern Territory is fully competing in the games, after they were accepted by the BIMP-EAGA Sports Council as members last year, Haji Zafri said.

“Brunei Darussalam will be represented by two teams – Brunei Darussalam ‘A’ and Brunei Darussalam ‘B’ – while the other teams will be South Sulawesi, Central Sulawesi, West Sulawesi, North Kalimantan, East Kalimantan, Sabah, Sarawak, Federal Territory of Labuan, Mindanao, Palawan and Northern Territory,” he added.

Eight events will be contested in during the games: aquatics, lawn bowls, karatedo, athletics, pencak silat, sepak takraw, taekwondo and wushu.

Some 993 participants, officers and coaches from the 13 contingents will be involved in this year’s games, with 272 medals up for grabs – 87 gold, 87 and 98 bronze, Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila said.

Brunei’s contingent will consist over 140 athletes and team members.

A number of sideline activities will be held for the event, including a flag-hoisting ceremony on December 6 at Pedestrian Mall, Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex; the opening ceremony on December 7 at the Indoor Stadium of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex; a reception dinner on December 8 at Tarindak D’Seni in the capital; and a closing ceremony on December 9 at the Indoor Stadium.

A VIP Golf Championship will also be held on December 7 at the Pantai Mentiri Golf Club, as well as a VIP Badminton Tournament on December 8 at the multi-purpose hall of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah School.

BIMPNT-EAGA Friendship Games posters were handed out by Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila to attending sports representatives during the press conference.

|    Fadhil Yunus    |

TEAM Airish/TSL reignited their hopes of progressing to the last four of the Veteran category of the Low San Brunei Open 2018 after a comprehensive 136-95 win over Stars on 40s at the Brunei Basketball Association Court in Batu Bersurat last night.

Team Airish/TSL’s second win sets up a make-or-break showdown with undefeated TK Teahouse who they play next in Group ‘B’.

Rico Rusiana scored a game-high of 36 points for the victors while Allan Caringal contributed with 21 points.

The win took Team Airish/TSL to second spot and a point behind GHK.

With their next opponents TK Teahouse still having to face GHK next in their final group game, only a victory suffice for Team Airish/TSL to realise their hopes of reaching the semi-finals.

Team Airish/TSL head coach Loloy Subaan hoped for a similar approach which his side managed during their narrow defeat to leaders GHK, against whom they lost 84-86.

“Hopefully, we will play like the way we did during the GHK game. We are planning to play good defence and get the shots whatever it takes,” said Loloy in an interview with the Bulletin.

“I told my team that there are those who win and there are those who lose. Anything can happen in the game.

“We will do our best and play as a team. That is our game plan against TK. They are not an easy team,” he further added.

Asked on how they could exploit their next opponents, the team will focus on pick-and-roll, catch and shoot and take every opportunity to engineer a fast break.

Loloy’s charges have been actively performing in competitive tournaments in the last two years especially the Filipino Cup.

“Hopefully we will win. As a coach, I always think positive,” he said.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

KAMPONG Mata-Mata Gadong Primary School, Cluster 1 officially launched the ‘Metode Follow the Line’ Al-Quran writing system for the school in conjunction with Maulidur Rasul yesterday, the first time the method is being used in Brunei.

Life-long Vice President of the Girl Guides Association of Brunei Darussalam (PPPBD) Datin Paduka Hajah Zahrah binti Haji Idris, the guest of honour, launched the system.

In her welcoming speech, the school’s Acting Headmistress Norlipah binti Haji Kalong said it is important for teachers as educators to teach Al-Quran to the children.

“As future leaders of the country, it is also important for the students to instill good values within themselves so that when they grow older, they will not miss the right path and will always please Allah the Almighty,” she said.

She added that the event was meant to encourage a love of reading Al-Quran among schoolchildren and Bruneians.

She said, “When they go through the actual practice of writing the Quranic verses and reading them, they can develop a love for Al-Quran reading. We hold the event not just to witness the children practise writing Al-Quran verses, but what matters is the message being delivered and its meaning to us.

“Understanding the contents of Al-Quran will also give us inspiration and encouragement to make us closer to Allah the Almighty and master the whole knowledge in the field. This is because Al-Quran teaches us a lot and urges people to elevate their knowledge on life.”

Students took part in writing verses from Naskah Juzuk Amma of Al-Quran using the Metode Follow the Line writing system.

The event also saw Waqaf Al-Quran presented to a former headmistress of the school and representatives from the PPPBD, Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association, Islamic Studies Department and Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (ITQSHHB).

The Chairperson of the Kampong Mata-Mata Religious Hall Muslimah Group, Chairman of Meraih Berkah group and Head of Muslimah group of Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit Mosque, Mukim Kilanas also received the Waqaf. Murattal Al-Quran performances by the school’s Year 4 pupils, performances by ITQSHHB and a Nasyid song performance by the school’s Year 2 pupils further enlivened the event.

The event concluded with a Dikir Marhaban performance.

RAJA Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Secondary School (SMRIPAS) held a talk in conjunction with the Maulidur Rasul celebration at the school’s hall yesterday.

The event was co-ordinated by the school’s Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE) leaders Mohammad Azrin bin Haji Jafarudin and Hajah Noormala binti Haji Wahab.

Attendees included SMRIPAS Principal Hajah Amal Nuriyah binti Haji Ahmad Kumpoh, Year 7 and Year 8 students and teachers.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah by Julaihi bin Masri followed by a welcoming speech by Mohammad Azrin.

Invited speaker from the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) Ustaz Hilman bin Haji Salim shared a special Islamic lecture reminiscing the life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

He spoke about how we could express our love for Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) by reciting Selawat, practising his Sunnah and recalling his Seerah.

Before ending his lecture, attendees recited Selawat for Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

The event continued with Hajah Nur Safiah Amanina binti Haji Su’ut from the school’s Islamic Religious Knowledge Department conducting a quiz followed by presentation of prizes for the quiz winners and the school’s principal presenting a token of appreciation to Ustaz Hilman.

The event concluded with the recitation of Surah Al-‘Asr by Muhammad Luqman Hakeem bin Abdul Shaib from the school’s Mathematics Department.

Brunei held the Maulidur Rasul celebration since the 1st of Rabiulawal, 1440 Hijrah corresponding to November 9, 2018 at all mosques, suraus and religious halls for 12 consecutive nights.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

RASHIDAH Sa’adatul Bolkiah Mosque in Kampong Sungai Akar held a Dikir ceremony that concluded the 12 consecutive nights of religious events to mark Maulidur Rasul, the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) recently.

It was attended by Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, in his capacity as the patron of Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Mosque 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, as well as committee members of the mosque and village residents.

The event began with the mass Maghrib prayer and the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Imam Haji Syamsul Nizam bin Haji Badar. This was followed by Isyak prayer and Dikir Asyrakal. The Doa Dikir was read by Imam Haji Saadullah bin Haji Salleh. The Doa Allah Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam concluded the religious ceremony.

|     Aziz Idris     |

THE Paediatric Service at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital celebrated Universal Children’s Day 2018 at the Paediatric Clinic, Women and Children’s Centre yesterday.

The guest of honour was Acting Executive Officer (Special Grade) at RIPAS Hospital Saidah binti Haji Wahid.

Universal Children’s Day was establis-hed in 1954 by United Nations (UN) and is celebrated on November 20 each year to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improving children’s welfare.

The celebration was held to bring joy among children admitted at the paediatric ward.

The event included fun-filled activities such as colouring, magic show, face-painting, hampers presentation and a special appearance by superhero characters.

It is hoped that the celebrations will raise public awareness on children’s rights and empower them to become healthy and productive adults in the future.

|     James Kon     |

PRESIDENT of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping’s official State Visit to Brunei Darussalam from November 18-20 has cast an unprecedented spotlight on the Sultanate.

More than 80 members of media from major Chinese news agencies such as Xinhua News Agency, China Daily, People’s Daily and China Central Television were in the country to cover President Xi’s visit as well as to promote Brunei Darussalam to their Chinese audience.

Wu Chun, arguably one of the most renowned Bruneian figures in China due to his success in the entertainment industry, has also done his part to help promote Brunei to the East Asian country.

“The visit of President Xi has helped promote Brunei to the Chinese people, especially with the major Chinese news agencies here to provide coverage of the visit,” the actor said in an interview yesterday. “Through the comprehensive coverage in Brunei, I hope that we can further raise Brunei Darussalam’s profile as a tourism destination for the huge China market.”

Wu Chun added that besides tourism, he hopes that President Xi’s visit will bring about “an increase in foreign direct investment (FDI) to Brunei and enhance the two countries’ bilateral relationship”.

“Whenever I attend events in China, I always get questions about Brunei Darussalam. I’ll always introduce the culture of Brunei to my fans and colleagues,” he said.

“I have noticed as well that there are more tourists visiting Brunei. I usually fly back from China to Brunei around three to four times each month, and I am so happy to see that there are now barely any vacant seats on my flights. I even have to book early now in order to get a seat.”

Recounting his decision to build his entertainment career further in China, Wu Chun said, “It has always been my dream to pursue a career in China. When an opportunity arose, I knew I had to go. I feel that the Chinese entertainment industry is growing tremendously and is still growing now.”