|     Danial Norjidi     |

HIRING locals is good business, makes sense and is a way to contribute back to the country.

These were among the points highlighted by a panel of business owners at a dialogue session during the Young Entrepreneur Association Brunei (YEAB)’s fourth INSIGHT business networking and dinner event at the Radisson Hotel yesterday.

The dialogue centred on the topic ‘In Support of Localisation: Can Local Talents be Empowered to Grow Our Businesses?’. It featured a panel comprising KMST Sdn Bhd Director and General Manager Edwin Solomon Khan, Esca Marine & Engineering CEO Marshiem Taufik, and epiPeople Consultants co-founder Reuben Chin.

The session was moderated by YEAB Vice President Kaewen Tan.

Responding to a question about his entrepreneurial journey during the discussion, Marshiem Taufik shared that when he started his company, he hired locals and had to train them himself.

“At the end of the day, it really feels good to know that you’re able to actually contribute in this way back to the country, creating jobs for the local labour market,” he said.

“Seeing the potential of locals, as these guys can really do it, these guys can come on time, these guys can listen to instructions and carry them out really well, these guys give me ideas and point out what’s wrong and what’s the right way,” he added.

“This is what motivates me. At the end of the day, I think it’s become more of a passion, a drive.”

Meanwhile, Edwin Solomon Khan high-lighted the importance of finding the right person for the right job. On hiring the right talents for one’s organisation, he said, “It’s a numbers game. You have to keep interviewing until you find the right person, and you’ll get someone.”

With regards to his company’s preference of hiring locals, he said, “We always look for locals. The job market is good for employers now, so it makes sense to us to hire locals.”

Sharing his views on what employees really want in their jobs, Reuben Chin cited an example from the Harvard Business Review.

“They want a career. They want a community of people that are like-minded to us. And finally, they want a cause – something that they believe in, that they can work towards,” he said.

On hiring the right people for an organisation, he pointed toward the i-Ready apprenticeship programme, adding that “there is so much talent out there”.

“I think it’s just good business to hire locals,” he said. “It’s easier, there’s no cultural clash, and being local also means they can be more resourceful.”

Supported by Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd, the event gathered over 65 entrepreneurs from various fields and industries.

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, Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii and Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam Motohiko Kato were present.

In her welcoming remarks, YEAB President Fatin binti Arifin said, “We hosted YEAB INSIGHT inaugurally in November last year after extensive discussions with some of our members about how we can best support their businesses’ growth especially during the difficult times when the future seems bleak.

“When things seem challenging, it is easy to be discouraged especially when business isn’t going the way we expect it to be. It is also fairly common to fall into the trap of thinking we are alone in facing challenges,” she continued. “Hence, we established INSIGHT as part of an initiative to support our entrepreneurs to build resilient businesses and have a platform to discuss important matters that affect businesses while also creating opportunities for quality networking among entrepreneurs.”

She added that YEAB has set its sights on developing the best entrepreneurs who have the passion to drive the development of the nation.

“We aspire to play our part in developing entrepreneurs with a global vision and mindset, and that means leveraging on our network abroad such as the ASEAN Young Entrepreneur Council to engage in productive efforts, including promoting entrepreneurs’ participation in international forums and summits. We also conduct other initiatives such as the Breakfast Mentorship Series and the OpenChats, among other business related programmes,” she said.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

HUGE crowds flocked to Muara Port to attend the open day of the Russian Pacific Fleet missile cruiser ‘Varyag’, yesterday.

‘Varyag’ is one of the premium class Russian-guided missile cruisers. The warship joined the Pacific Fleet in 1990 and reentered the service in early 2008 after an overhaul.

The event from 9.30am till 3pm allowed the public to go onboard the missile cruiser where they were briefed by personnel on the roles and functions as well as equipment available at the ship.

Buses were also provided for public convenience during the open day.

Meanwhile, a group of 12 students from the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) Sultan Saiful Rijal Campus School of Aviation also visited the ship as part of the school year-end activity.

The ship is on a friendly visit to the Sultanate after visiting ports in Japan, Korea and China. Together with large anti-submarine ship ‘Admiral Panteleev’ and tanker ‘Boris Butoma’, it will remain at the Muara Port until today.

According to the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Brunei Darussalam, the flagship of the Russian Pacific Fleet visit marked another remarkable event in Russia-Brunei military ties.

The main objective of the mission is to strengthen ties with countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

The cruiser carried out a combat training exercise as part of the tactical drills in the Sea of Japan and fired Bazalt cruise missiles against a sea shield simulating a notional enemy’s surface ship last April.

|     James Kon     |

MINISTER of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof and Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Commander Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud received separate courtesy calls from 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 on Wednesday.

The minister expressed appreciation to Rear Admiral Eduard E Mikhailov for the successful conduct of the first naval working group discussion held between the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) and Russian Navy from November 13-17.

During the call, both sides exchanged views and highlighted matters of mutual interest including naval cooperation in future bilateral naval exercises and training as well as educational visits and courses.

Such efforts hope to enhance bilateral defence relations to uphold the aspirations as stated in the military cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on April 26, 2017 between both countries.

In a separate call, the RBAF Commander welcomed Rear Admiral Eduard E Mikhailov and acknowledged the cordial bilateral military-to-military relations between the RBAF and the Russian Armed Forces.

The RBAF Commander also extended appreciation to Rear Admiral Eduard E Mikhailov and the Russian Navy for the goodwill visit to Brunei Darussalam, which aimed to enhance understanding and friendship between both navies. They discussed potential avenues of cooperation that can be explored in the future.

The Russian Pacific Fleet is currently on a goodwill visit to Brunei Darussalam until today.

Meanwhile, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi received a courtesy call from Chief of Defence Force of the Royal Thai Armed Forces General Ponpipaat Benyasri at the Ministry of Defence on Wednesday.

General Ponpipaat Benyasri was on an introductory visit to Brunei Darussalam from November 21-22.

General Ponpipaat Benyasri was accorded with a guard of honour mounted by Royal Brunei Land Force personnel upon arrival at the Bolkiah Garrison.

During the call, the minister highlighted the close, long-standing bilateral relations bolstered through regular exchange of visits, dialogues, meetings, military exercises, courses and defence exhibitions, as well as the various forms of development and interaction programmes.

Both defence establishments have cooperated extensively over the decades.

The minister also congratulated General Ponpipaat Benyasri on his appointment and expressed hopes to further progress defence relations between both sides.

General Ponpipaat Benyasri also called on Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan.

Both armed forces interact regularly through bilateral and multilateral exercises, professional exchanges and courses, which have enhanced professionalism and interoperability of both armed forces.

General Ponpipaat Benyasri was appointed Thailand’s Chief of Defence Force on October 1, 2018. Prior to his appointment, he was the Chief of Joint Staff of the Royal Thai Armed Forces.

|     Izah Azahari     |

INTRACORP Sdn Bhd, as part of its 18th anniversary celebration, donated BND10,000 to Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam during a donation presentation ceremony at Pusat Ehsan’s Multipurpose Hall yesterday.

General Manager of Intracorp Sdn Bhd Vincent Tan presented a mock cheque to Pusat Ehsan Policy and Planning Trustee Haji Ahmad bin Haji Abdul Rahman.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa followed by a welcoming speech by Haji Ahmad.

The event then saw a speech by the General Manager of Intracorp Sdn Bhd who explained the objectives of the event to help raise funds and contribute for a good cause and to raise awareness for Pusat Ehsan.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

TSL produced a superb showing in the fourth quarter to beat YTE 85-77 to remain top of Group ‘A’ in the men’s Open category of the Low San Brunei Open at the Brunei Basketball Association Court in Batu Bersurat last night.

YTE threatened to swap places in the top-of-the-table clash after leading 64-61 in the penultimate quarter, having also led in the second quarter.

TSL are now firm favourites to finish top of the group after recording eight points while YTE could still fancy their chances of securing a top two finish despite surrendering their first loss.

YTE built the foundations to change the landscape of Group ‘A’ after a combination of good defence and smooth transition of play amid signs of a fightback from the stubborn TSL in the third quarter.

With little separating the two teams heading into the third quarter, Matthew Jerickson continued to rack up the points for YTE with his first contribution in the second period.

However, TSL recovered some lost ground as Ricardo Eliseo set up a couple of points before Sunday Megllion made a similar move to put his team on the comeback trail.

But YTE were dangerous with their break and they found themselves in a three-on-one situation as they raced to a six-point lead.

YTE survived a scare after Ting Heng Lee’s pass was short which enabled TSL to regain possession, but their opportunity slipped after a ball into the frontcourt went out of play. But he soon made amends for his unpunished error after winning the ball on defence.

YTE’s Tony Bong pulled off one of the highlights of the game after beating the defence and helping his team establish a seven-point lead.

Sensing the danger from TSL, Jerickson and Ting Heng Lee were summoned to the court.

But it was Samuel Jong who came to the team’s aid with a three-pointer after weathering the TSL storm.

Having seen YTE coming out on top, especially in the last two quarters, TSL won the tie in the final quarter by accumulating 24 points compared to YTE’s haul of 13.

|     Azlan Othman     |

A WORKSHOP on Ivy League was held yesterday for Sultan’s Scholar candidates. Sultan’s Scholar is a prestigious scholarship awarded to students who excelled in various fields and are studying in prestigious universities abroad.

Every year, Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah carries out its selection process on the Sultan’s Scholar candidates based on strict requirements.

The Sultan’s Scholar recipients are expected to hold significant and respectable positions in various fields once they graduate. They are expected to have good leadership skills as well as contribute to nation building.

Candidates must be offered by the top five universities in the United Kingdom and the top 10 in the world.

Yesterday’s workshop on Ivy League was aimed to guide AS level students through these universities, the courses available and the processes of applying to University of Oxford and University of Cambridge as well as Harvard University and Yale University in the United States.

The application processes to these universities are very competitive and requires students to not only have academic capabilities but excel in various aspects, especially in leadership and extra co-curricular activities.

To date, four Sultan’s Scholars recipients have studied at the University of Oxford and three at the University of Cambridge.

The workshop was organised by Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah’s Education Section to inform students about the Sultan’s Scholar Scholarship Scheme and to provide them with auxiliary services in writing their Personal Statement, Resume (CV) and other documents required in applying to these universities.

The workshop facilitators were experienced career officers as well as representatives from the United States Embassy.

A hundred students from sixth form centres in Brunei including students from Jerudong International School (JIS) and International School Brunei (ISB) along with their career teachers participated in the workshop.

|     Achong Tanjong     |

AMBASSADOR of Japan to Brunei Darussalam Motohiko Kato awarded an Ambassador’s Commendation to U-22 Brunei Darussalam National Team Head Coach Takao Fujiwara to show appreciation for his contribution to Brunei youth football.

The ambassador held the award ceremony yesterday for Fujiwara at the ambassador’s residence with his colleagues in attendance before he leaves Brunei Darussalam in December.

The ambassador congratulated Fujiwara and expressed gratitude for his contributions to the development and strengthening of the youth team and players in Brunei Darussalam.

It is a symbolic cooperation between Japan and Brunei Darussalam in the field of sports and succeeded in deepening mutual understanding and friendship between two countries.

Fujiwara thanked the ambassador and expressed his commitment to continue his contribution to developing the youth footballers and promoting football.

Fujiwara is an official Japan Football Association (JFA) licensed coach and has been dispatched to the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam since 2015 under the International Exchange/Social Action Programmes in Asia conducted by JFA.

He assumed the position of U-14 National Team Head Coach in 2015. Since then, he served as the U-15 Head Coach, U-18 Head Coach, U-19 Head Coach and now he is the U-22 Head Coach.

Thanks to his contribution, the Bruneian youth footballers have been able to develop their skills and improve their mindsets. He will finish his term and leave for Japan next month.

At the event yesterday Fujiwara presented the ambassador with a team football jersey.

|     James Kon     |

THE Brunei Computer Emergency Response Team (BruCert) recorded 2,143 attacks on cybersecurity in Brunei last year, of which 38 per cent was caused by malicious software.

According to a survey by the World Economic Forum 2018, cyber attacks are listed as one of the key risks of doing business, while a study conducted by Accenture showed that a malware attack on a company will cost an estimated USD2.4 million, with an average time of recovery within 50 days.

It is also reported that within the period of a year, the average global cost of cybercrime will have increased by 27 per cent.

The growing concern on the threat to cyber-security was highlighted by Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Brunei Technical Services (RBTS) Colonel (Rtd) Muzri bin Haji Mokhsin, in his opening remarks at the Cyber Security Forum Brunei 2018 at The Empire Hotel & Country Club yesterday.

Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof in his capacity as the Chairman of the National Security Committee was the guest of honour.

Colonel (Rtd) Muzri also said, “In his titah of September 2017, 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 recognised cyber threats as another form of threat to our national security, and called for a holistic approach in handling the issue.

“In August this year, His Majesty urged academic institutions to conduct research on areas of cybersecurity and include cybersecurity as part of their curricula, which emphasises his concern over this matter.

“Last week, in his ASEAN–China Summit speech, His Majesty recognised the regional commitment made by regional lawmakers focussed on the joint efforts to strengthen regional cyber resilience that provide greater confidence across the region. This commitment was made during the recent Prosecutors-General Conference in Brunei.”

Colonel (Rtd) Muzri cited the various challenges brought about by the rapid growth of technology.

“With societies and businesses increasingly becoming digitalised, cyber-security has shown to be important and deserving of collective attention,” he said.

|     Wani Roslan     |

HER Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam yesterday graced the Women’s Special Assembly held at the International Convention Centre, in conjunction with Maulidur Rasul celebration for 1440 Hijrah.

Accompanying Her Majesty were Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam.

Upon arrival, Her Majesty was greeted by the spouse of the Minister of Religious Affairs Datin Hajah Nahriah binti Haji Hasbi @ Asbi; the spouse of the Minister of Education Datin Hajah Razina binti Haji Kassim; the Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh; and the spouse of the Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Datin Hajah Jama’iah binti Haji Abdul Manap, in their capacity as the event co-advisors, co-chairpersons and committee members.

The ceremony began with the reading of selected verses from Al-Quran by Dayangku Amal Zahirah binti Pengiran Haji Jofri, the Qariah champion of the 2017 Southeast Asian Youth Al-Quran Reading Competition.

This was followed by welcoming remarks by Hajah Hadiyati binti Haji Abdul Ladi, the Acting Head of the Syar’ie Prosecution Division and the co-chairperson of the working committee for the ceremony, who said that this year’s theme Tarbiyah Rasulullah Membawa Rahmat Dalam Berkeluarga was based upon the best guidance and educational methods of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

The ceremony also featured a combined performance from the students and teachers of Politeknik Brunei, Menglait Secondary School, Pantai Berakas Primary School and Al-Falaah School, during which they gave an interpretation of Verses 30-32 from Surah An-Nur through dialogue and drama.

This was followed by the main highlight of the ceremony, a special religious talk on the theme of this year’s Maulidur Rasul celebration by Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Syariah and Law at Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) Dr Hajah Hanan binti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz.

A Dikir Marhaban was performed by female officers and staff from the Ministry of Education and members of the Council of Women of Brunei Darussalam (CWBD), before the ceremony concluded with a recitation of the Doa Selamat by Datin Hajah Maznah binti Haji Muhammad.

Her Majesty and other members of the royal family then toured an exhibition which showcased the Art and Calligraphy Centre of the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, PAZ Tarbiyyah Islamic Enrichment Centre, Al-Minhaaj Centre and Nadi Quranic Learning Centre.

The Women’s Special Assembly this year was organised by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the CWBD in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.

|     Azrol Azmi     |

HER Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam received in audience Chirapun Benyasri, the spouse of the Chief of Defence Force of the Royal Thai Armed Forces General Ponpipaat Benyasri at the Istana Nurul Iman yesterday.

Also present was Datin Hajah Rasidah binti Haji Brahim, the spouse of the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

|     Azrol Azmi     |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces yesterday received an audience from Chief of Defence Force of Royal Thai Armed Forces General Ponpipaat Benyasri at the Istana Nurul Iman.

The audience ceremony was held in conjunction with General Ponpipaat Benyasri’s introductory visit to Brunei Darussalam.

Also present at the ceremony were Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, and Chargé d’Affaires at the Royal Thai Embassy in Brunei Darussalam Rooge Thammongkol.

Brunei Darussalam and the Kingdom of Thailand have enjoyed excellent and longstanding relations, with defence and military aspects as a hallmark of the countries’ bilateral ties. Brunei Darussalam recently hosted Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of the Kingdom of Thailand, who was in the country on a two-day study visit from October 31 to November 1 with a group of fourth-year cadets from Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy of Thailand.

Both countries share extensive defence arrangements, where they interact regularly through numerous avenues, including exchange of visits, policy-level meetings, as well as military exchanges, exercises and courses between the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and the Royal Thai Armed Forces.

|     Izah Azahari     |

BRUNEI Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP), through the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre (OGDC), launched its inaugural Pesta Sains 2018 at the Jerudong Park Playground yesterday.

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

Senior officers from government and non-government sectors, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), BSP as well as school principals, teachers and students were also present.

The festival, supported by the Ministry of Education; Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism and Jerudong Park Playground, combines Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in several scopes. The festival aims to present STEM in a fun and entertaining manner while showcasing the interactive approach to teaching and learning in line with OGDC’s mission to advance STEM in Brunei Darussalam especially among the younger generation.

Head of OGDC Nur Karnina binti Karim said STEM literates are needed to keep up with evolving innovations and technologies.

The event was enlivened with a science show by the National Science Museum (NSM) Thailand, one of the international participants along with the Science Centre Singapore.

The guest of honour launched the ceremony and toured the booths.

DST, UTB, Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE), UBD and DARe (Darussalam Enterprise) also participated.

OGDC’s booths offer several activities, competitions, mini contests, workshops, science shows and promotional offers. Activities include ‘Galaxy Goo’, ‘Kitchen Science’, and the Robota Robotix Competition.

The Siuknya Sains Modular exhibitions comprise three science topics on Light and Sound, Materials and Forces presented in 30 different hands-on exhibitions.

Pesta Sains 2018 Project Manager and Senior Science Communicator of OGDC Albert Chang said the festival is an event where everyone can have fun and learn new and exciting things with experiential shows and activities from local institutions such as Creativate, Tarbiyyah Global as well as from the two regional science centres.

|     Aziz Idris     |

THE Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in Brunei Darussalam hosted a reception to mark the 48th National Day of the Sultanate of Oman on Thursday night.

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

The reception began with the national anthems of both countries performed by students from Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic Boys Arabic Secondary School followed by the recitation of verses from Al-Quran.

Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Brunei Darussalam Sheikh Ahmed bin Hashel bin Rashed bin Hashel Al-Maskari, in his welcoming remark, praised the steady growth of both Sultanates since the establishment of diplomatic ties 34 years ago.

He expressed gratitude to His Majesty for the continuous efforts to further strengthen the long-standing brotherly relations between Brunei and Oman.

The ambassador highlighted various high level meetings between both nations especially with the launching of the Commemorative Gallery Exhibition by Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs earlier at the Royal Regalia Museum.

The embassy has also been actively coordinating with local authorities to promote Arabic Language in Brunei where 16 students from Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) and Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) went to Oman to study the language.

Sheikh Ahmed was delighted to announce that the Sultanate of Oman has been invited by the Brunei Government to participate as a ‘Country of Honour’ for next year’s Brunei International Book Fair held in-conjunction with the declaration of Bandar Seri Begawan as the Islamic Culture Capital of Asia.

The guest of honour and the Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman together with ambassadors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries took part in the customary cake-cutting ceremony. A screening of a documentary film jointly produced by Radio Television Brunei (RTB) in cooperation with Oman Public Authority for Radio and TV was shown to guests.

A Nasyid performance by local group Firqah Ad-Durani enlivened the event.

|     James Kon     |

MINISTER of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong presided over the launching of the newly refurbished Ya-Nur Restaurant at Bangunan Haji Tahir 2 in the Gadong commercial area yesterday.

Managing Director of Ya-Nur Restaurant Pengiran ‘Izzul Raihan bin Pengiran Abu Samah was also present.

With 20 years specialising in Malay and Indian cuisines, Ya-Nur Restaurant has updated its menu to include Western and Asian food.

Marketing Staff of Ya-Nur Restaurant Pengiran Nurussalihah binti Pengiran Haji Julkipli said, “The new premises can now accommodate 70-80 diners, and we have also increased the variety of food items. We serve Asian, Western, and Indian cuisines, with over 100 choices of food and beverages in our menu, to cater to all ages. With the tagline ‘Chase the Flavours’, Ya-Nur Restaurant is looking to increase the variety of flavours and maintaining the quality of its food.”

Despite the lack of parking space in the Gadong commercial area, she is confident that diners will continue to frequent the restaurant because of its unique taste and food quality.

Of the new modern interior, she said, “The modern setting is hoped to create a fresh ambiance that suits everyone. Diners can enjoy meals in a comfortable environment, while those who work around this area can come for meetings.”

Asked about opening another branch in the future, she replied, “We will open a new branch at the Jerudong Park Food Court soon. We want to see the responses at the main branch and concentrate on maintaining the quality of our services.”

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

MS PDB were denied second spot by a goal in the dying minutes of the game during the 3-3 draw with Indera SC in the DST Super League at the Berakas Sports Complex last night.

The police personnel looked set to record their third successive win in the league but a 95th minute strike from Mohamed Aminuddin Zakwan bin Mohamed Tahir rescued a point for his side.

The two-time league champions endured a three-game winless run having accumulated just two points out of a maximum nine points as their hopes of wrestling the crown took a hit.

MS PDB, who started the game with the same number of points as Indera SC, also had a chance to move into second place with victory.

MS PDB forward Abdul Azim bin Abdul Rashid underlined his threat as the focal point of attack with his excellent dribbling and his movement caused concerns in the Indera backline.

Muhd Azri bin Zahari found the breakthrough after a neat finish into the bottom corner in the 32nd minute but Indera SC made an instant response through Hamizan Aziz bin Sulaiman whose effort somehow crept in the near post three minutes later.

Indera’s towering defender Amirul Hakeem bin Haji Kasim got to the end of a decent cross but his header was comfortably dealt with by MS PDB goalkeeper Salman Anak Sinchun.

Salman nearly gifted a goal after losing the ball which slipped into the path of Hamizan. The goal-scorer instinctively delivered a cross into the box and a MS PDB defender half-heartedly cleared the ball into Iner Sintany Putra whose goal-bound effort was blocked for a corner.

The police personnel regained the lead through Abdul Azim in the 49th minute but Indera came back again through a 72nd minute penalty by Mohammad Asri bin Haji Aspar.

MS PDB were heading for all three points after Md Fazizzul bin Hussin struck in the 75th minute but S League winner Mohamed Aminuddin Zakwan scored deep into stoppage time to earn his side the share of the spoils.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

MS ABDB stormed to the top of the DST Super League for the first time since being crowned champions last season after thrashing Najip Bakes FC 5-0 at the Balapan Track and Field of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex last night.

Brunei Darussalam international Razimie Ramlli grabbed four goals with Muhd Juma’at Rusydi Ramlee also joined in the act with his effort in the 49th minute.

The reigning holders will stay top for at least 24 hours with Kasuka FC aiming to reclaim the top spot with a win against Wijaya FC tonight.

MS ABDB lead the 10-team table with 12 points after four games, two points ahead of Lun Bawang who play tomorrow against Kota Ranger FC.

The army personnel headed into the tie as overwhelming favourites especially with Najip barren run of four games without a win and they went in front inside 10 minutes through Razimie.

Razimie completed his hat-trick after finding the net in the 27th and 39th minute before wrapping up the win with a fourth goal just after the hour mark.

The forward took a touch before rifling home an unstoppable finish despite the last ditch efforts of the Najip defender.

Najip Bakes fared much better in the second half and could have nicked a consolation if it weren’t for the alertness of MS ABDB goalkeeper Mohammad Tarmizi bin Haji Mat Johari.

Abang Hazran bin Abang Hadzman got off the pitch to receive treatment and moments after he returned to the pitch the ball fell to him and his shot drifted wide.

Najip Bakes came close of finding the consolation as Abang Hazim bin Abang Hadzman fired a decent effort but was well saved by Mohammad Tarmizi.

MS ABDB Muhammad Abdul Mateen bin Said and Mohammad Fadhli bin Haji Awang Salleh enjoyed a neat exchange of passes but unfortunately the return pass ball did not reach the former.

Mohamad Abdul Firdaus bin Zoelefndi also saw his shot deflected off for a corner while an effort from outside the box rolled agonisingly wide off the near post.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

THE Ministry of Education held a religious ceremony in conjunction with Maulidur Rasul at the Main Hall, Ministry of Education (MoE) recently.

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

Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh, Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the MoE Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad, Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the MoE Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati binti Haji Tajuddin, Acting Director General of Education Hajah Anis Faudzulani binti Haji Dzulkiflee, heads of departments, senior officers and MoE staff were also present.

The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat by Mosque Affairs Officer Imam Md Amin bin Haji Salim.

The ceremony continued with a special talk titled Qudwah Hasanah Teladan Kepimpinan by speaker from the Brunei Islamic Religious Council Ustaz Haji Samsul Muawan bin Haji Shodiq.

It continued with the recitation of Dikir Asyraqal by a Dikir group from the MoE.

|     Achong Tanjong & Izah Azahari     |

OFFICERS and staff of the Information Department with its alumni members organised a special Maulidur Rasul celebration for the first time at the Auditorium Hall of the Extension Building of the Information Department in Berakas yesterday.

Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, who was also a former director of the department, was present along with over 50 others including Haji Mahrub bin Haji Murni, Dr Haji Muhammad Hadi bin Muhammad Melayong and Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Badaruddin bin Pengiran Ghani.

Acting Director of the Information Department Mawardi bin Haji Mohammad was also present.

The highlight was a special talk by Assistant Officer of Career Guidance Section Continuing Education and Training, Institute of Brunei’s Technical Education (IBTE), Ministry of Education Ustaz Abdul Mu’iid bin Hariel.

Besides commemorating the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), the event was held to strengthen relationship between officers and staff of the department with their former colleagues.

Former Information officer Haji Dayang bin Haji Kassim, in his welcoming speech, said it was the first time that officers and staff of the Information Department together with retired members collaborated on such an event.

“The unanimity that we see today shows we can work together,” he said.

Haji Dayang said the retired officers will always cooperate to disseminate the right information to the public.

The event coincided with the recitation of Tahlil, Doa Arwah and Dikir Marhaban led by Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Mat Yassin and a Doa Selamat by Pengiran Arsul bin Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin.

|     James Kon     |

A HADRAH group at the Brunei International Airport yesterday greeted 148 Chinese tourists who arrived via BI668, the inaugural Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) direct flight from Haikou in Hainan, China.

The tourists are in Brunei for four days, visiting places of interest including Kampong Ayer, the Royal Regalia Museum and the Gadong night market.

Present at the airport were Acting Director of the Tourism Development Department Salinah binti Haji Mohd Salleh and Inbound and Meeting Incentive Conference Exhibition (MICE) Division Manager at Freme Travel Services Sugumaran Nair.

RB is offering flights to Haikou twice a week, on Mondays and Thursdays to boost tourism and investment opportunities between both cities.

Beside Haikou, RB already flies to Nanning and Hangzhou. The next destination will be Changsha, which will take off on January 15, 2019.

Salinah said, “With increasing new routes opening, it is an opportunity for local travel agents to look for new markets to attract more tourists to visit Brunei Darussalam.

“We hope to increase the number of tourist arrivals each year. Many tourists who visited Brunei prefer to stay here longer.

“Recently, a delegation from the Macau International Chamber of Commerce had a short stay in Brunei before flying off to their next destination, because they didn’t know what Brunei had to offer.

“After spending time here, they said that they should have stayed longer.”

Nair, meanwhile, commented, “The new RB direct flight to Haikou has opened a new market for Brunei, which is good news for the tourism industry.”

Tourist, Teng Yaoquan, told the Weekend Bulletin, “I learnt about Brunei from news reports, as part of the Belt and Road initiative.

“We find Brunei very interesting with its famous water village and we look forward to visit it.”

|     Aziz Idris     |

SERI Mulia Sarjana International School (SMSIS) came in for praise yesterday at the school 20th Graduation and Awarding ceremony at The Rizqun International Hotel.

Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Russian Federation in Brunei Darussalam, Timur Munchaev, as the personal representative to the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Brunei Darussalam, Vladlen Semivolos, the guest of honour lauded SMSIS for providing holistic and quality international education to its students with a ” wealth of knowledge”.

“SMSIS is known for providing quality education foundation to prepare students for their future,” he added.

Meanwhile, SMSIS Principal Chong Wee Meng in her remarks reinforced SMSIS vision to be among the leading international school in the country with a multi-cultural society that is committed to encourage excellence, instilling global citizenship and promoting social awareness.

Over 350 students were honoured at the ceremony.

Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Jefriah was present to witness her daughter, Nurul Amal Zahrana Ranniyah Athirah of class KG1C receiving the Bronze award.

Also present was the founder and CEO of Sarjan Education Group, Dr Mary Lim.

This year, 171 graduates comprising preschool and primary students were presented with certificates. In addition, 181 other students also received awards for their exemplary achievements.

Outstanding students who participated in national and international competitions were also presented with special awards during the ceremony.

The ceremony was enlivened by various performances from preschool to primary level students.

Several videos were also screened as a tribute to parents as well as highlighting the school’s legacy throughout the 20 years of its establishment.

The 20th anniversary celebration carries the theme ‘Growing Stronger, Reaching Higher’.