|     Azlan Othman     |

ASPIRING local filmmakers will soon have an opportunity to polish their skills and in turn produce materials worthy for exhibitions at international film festivals.

With the Brunei Film Blitz (BFB), local filmmakers can dig deeper in their understanding of the trade and hopefully produce better quality films, said Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hajah Nurul Amal Munjiatul Athirah binti Pengiran Sura Negara Pengiran Anak Haji Bey Muntassir and Georgina Wong of Mahakarya Institute of Arts Asia on Thursday.

The BFB will be held from December 9 to 29 at the Mahakarya Institute of Arts Asia, 3rd floor, Plaza Athirah, Mile 1, Jalan Tutong.

The three-week event, as part of the Brunei December Festival, is filled with workshops and screenings that will enhance cinematic experiences to help filmmakers discover themselves.

Programmes include movie screenings from the United States, Australia, South Korea, Japan, France, the Philippines, India, Pakistan and Indonesia from December 9 to 23 as well as workshops by Mark Shepherd from December 10 to 15. Shepherd is a content writing professor at the University of Southern California who had taught the likes of Shonda Rhimes of Grey’s Anatomy.

From December 17 to 20, power-up workshops will be held featuring ‘Directors’ DNA’, ‘Directing Performers from Screen’, ‘Talking Pictures’, ‘Understanding Short Films’, and ‘Filming on a Budget’.

Meanwhile from December 24 to 27, participants of the Brunei Film Blitz will be allotted 96 hours to shoot a three- to six-minute short film.

There will be a ‘secret ingredient’ on December 24 that marks the start of the 96 hours, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hajah Nurul Amal Munjiatul Athirah said.

And on December 28, an ‘Australia Film Education Day’ (Open Day for Mahakarya Institute of Arts Asia) will be held while on December 29, the ‘Gala Awards’ will see juries decide on the winning films, which will be screened.

While the BFB is in its second installment, the Brunei December Festival is in its second year of a comeback.

This year’s month-long festival features 60 events in five different categories: Food Festival, Islamic Festival, Culture and Creative Arts, Sports and Adventure, and Recreation and Shopping to cater for both domestic and international visitors.

|     Wani Roslan     |

THE Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) in collaboration with Meraih Berkah group held a Maulidur Rasul celebration at the ministry’s Di-Gadong Hall yesterday.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin was the guest of honour.

Also present were Permanent Secretary at the MCYS Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil; Senior Special Duties Officers Haji Amer Hamzah bin Pehin Orang Kaya Amar Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Zakaria, Haji Zakaria bin Haji Serudin and Hajah Nor Ashikin binti Haji Johari; Community Development Department (JAPEM) Acting Director Abdul Rahman bin Haji Apong; and heads of departments and senior officials at the ministry.

The ceremony’s main highlight was a special talk by Assistant Prisons Counsellor from the Prisons Department Ustaz Fariszal bin Ali titled Jejaki Hijrah Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘Alaihi Wassallam.

The guest of honour also presented donations to new converts, people with different abilities (OKU) of Pusat Bahagia, orphans and less fortunate individuals.

The ceremony was further enlivened with an exhibition focussing on the efforts and activities by youth members of Meraih Berkah group along with products from Pusat Bahagia, JAPEM and Kampong Sungai Bunga.

The exhibition will be held for three days starting today until November 27 from 8am to noon and 2pm to 4pm at the Di-Gadong Hall of the MCYS.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

A FLAG handover ceremony for the Brunei Darussalam team taking part in the 9th Borneo Interclub Championship and the 8th Borneo Cup Championships was held at the Petanque Court of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex yesterday.

A total of 21 players from the Brunei Darussalam team will vie for top honours at the Kodam XII Field Tanjungpura in West Kalimantan from November 30 to December 1.

The guest of honour at the event was former director of Youth and Sports Haji Mohammad bin Panglima Asgar Dato Paduka Haji Abdullah.

Among the highlights of the event was the presentation of apparel to the players by the guest of honour to Haji Abdul Karim bin Haji Ahmad of the Brunei Darussalam Petanque Federation.

The guest of honour also presented the national flag to Hamidun bin Haji Abdul Hamid as representative of the Brunei team.

Brunei will compete in the doubles open category in the 9th Borneo Interclub and in the singles, doubles and mixed doubles in the Borneo Cup Championship.

More than 20 teams are expected to participate in the Borneo Interclub Championship including participants from Sabah, Sarawak and host Kalimantan.

Sabah have expressed their interest of making a statement in the tournament by sending 14 teams with Brunei sending nine, and seven to represent West Kalimantan.

|     Khairil Hassan     |

A COHORT of 22 participants, comprising 14 Bruneians and eight foreign participants, are now internationally accredited swimming teachers following the completion of two AUSTSWIM courses organised by the Brunei Amateur Swimming Association (BASA) with support from the Australian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam from November 17-24.

The Acting High Commissioner of Australia to Brunei Darussalam Leah Mottram presented the certificates during the closing ceremony at the Physical Education Room of the International School Brunei yesterday.

They have joined a global network of 33,500 swimming teachers accredited by AUSTSWIM. The courses were conducted by Australian AUSTSWIM Presenter Lyn McDermott.

“Learning to swim is a vital part of Australian life,” said Leah Mottram.

“I am pleased that the high commission has been able to support this partnership between AUSTSWIM and BASA and look forward to seeing more Bruneians safely and confidently participating in one of Australia’s favourite pastimes.”

McDermott, who has worked in the industry for over 30 years, including at the Australian Institute of Sport, said, “I have really enjoyed my time in Brunei and am pleased that they have had the opportunity to join AUSTSWIM’s global vision, the safer enjoyment of aquatic environments. I am honoured to be part of their journey and wish them the very best for their futures. AUSTSWIM is Australia’s national organisation for the teaching of swimming and water safety. Their accreditation is now Australia’s industry standard for swimming and water safety teachers.”

AUSTSWIM Chief Executive Officer Carl Partridge said that AUSTSWIM felt privileged to be involved.

“AUSTSWIM has a fine reputation for improving the safety and well-being of others in and around water, and helping them also achieve success in aquatic sports.” he said. “I congratulate BASA and in doing so the Australian High Commission for their generous and far-sighted support.”

Honorary Secretary of BASA Ang Beng Siong has commenced his training to become an AUSTSWIM Presenter and will be able to continue providing AUSTSWIM-accredited training to swimming and water safety coaches in Brunei once he has completed the accreditation process.

“I am delighted to take up this opportunity to be an AUSTSWIM Presenter. This will be invaluable in further developing the sport of swimming as BASA works towards opening Brunei’s first Swim Academy in early 2019,” he said.

|     Wani Roslan & Lyna Mohamad     |

A TOTAL of 191 pupils from Kindergarten 2 and another 202 from Kindergarten 3 of Taman Asuhan Kanak-Kanak Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (TASKA YSHHB) were feted at an Academic Certificate Presentation and Concert Ceremony at TASKA Hall, yesterday.

Attending the morning session were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hamidah Jamalul Bulqiah, the daughter of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul ‘Ali Yil-Kabier bin Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz and Pengiran Anak ‘Abdul Muta’ali Haziq Hamidullah, grandson of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah.

Joining the concert’s morning performance was Pengiran Anak ‘Alisha Husnara Jaida Bulqiah, granddaughter of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah.

Meanwhile, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Badee’ bin Pengiran Kerma Raja Pengiran Haji Kamarulzaman and spouse attended the afternoon session to witness the graduation of their son, Pengiran Muhd Abdul Haadee Mubasheer, grandson of Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Nasibah.

In her welcoming remarks, Acting Principal of TASKA YSHHB Datin Hajah Zainab bin Haji Abdul Wahab underlined the importance of holistic education in which the nursery applies by adopting a play-based learning approach.

“In 2018, TASKA students were exposed to various interesting activities relating to career, family day, culture and nature,” she said, adding that the nursery works to prepare the students for their formal education as best as they can.

“We cover aspects of their holistic development, including their physical, emotional, social, intellectual and spiritual needs,” she added. “The young students learn different things at various stages of their development such as walking, talking, and refining their motor skills, among others.”

Datin Hajah Zainab noted that in steps to upgrade the students’ holistic development beyond academia, the nursery has initiated several new projects last year, in addition to ongoing ones.

“One of the new projects is the Menderma Amalan Mulia TASKA project, which exposes the children to the practice of donating to orphans during the month of Ramadhan, particularly those in nursery schools,” she said.

The acting principal pointed out that the ceremony was also aimed at showcasing the talents of the students as a form of training to instil a spirit of cooperation among their friends in performing their duties in a team. It was also aimed at encouraging the students to be brave in performing before an audience.

The ceremony was divided into two segments: a morning session and an afternoon session.

The morning session saw the Kindergarten 2 pupils receiving their academic certificates from Assistant Managing Director I of YSHHB Haji Mustapha bin Haji Matahir.

In the afternoon, pupils from Kindergarten 3 were presented academic certificates by Managing Director of YSHHB Dato Paduka Eddie bin Dato Paduka Haji Sunny.

Selected students from each of the classes received Best Achievement Awards and Best Progress Awards in recognition of their efforts.

The afternoon session began with a mini concert by Kindergarten 3 pupils themed Nabi Muhammad Idolaku, with the singing of a song called We Are Ready To Go followed by stage performances.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB) Secondary School yesterday celebrated their students in an Academic & Co-Curricular Awards 2018 presentation ceremony at the school’s multipurpose hall.

Guest of honour Dato Paduka Haji Shofry bin Haji Abdul Ghafor, in his capacity as the Chairman of the Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG) of YSHHB Secondary School presented the awards.

Among the recipients of excellence awards were Pengiran Nur Aabidah Syifa binti Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammed Al-Mokhtar and Aasiyah Rabiatu Masna binti Yusrin, the granddaughters of Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammed Al-Mokhtar bin Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz and Dewi Norlelawati binti Haji Abdul Hamid; and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hajah Ameenah Bushral Bulqiah binti Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz were also present at the event.

At the awards presentation, Pengiran Nur Aabidah Syifa received four academic awards while Aasiyah Rabiatu Masna received two academic awards.

At the ceremony, 54 students received their certificates and trophies in seven award categories.

|     Aziz Idris     |

THE Knowledge Convention 2018 will highlight the full-scale implementation efforts to enhance agricultural and fisheries productivity growth in the Sultanate under the leadership 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.

This year, the convention will focus on economy and take up agriculture as a key agenda in line with the theme ‘Agricultural Sector: Survivability of the People and Country’.

Members of the public specifically the youth are invited to attend the upcoming Knowledge Convention 2018 at the International Convention Centre (ICC) from November 27–29, and take the opportunity to listen as well as understand the content of the seminars as the knowledge gained will become useful for future planning in obtaining a valuable insight on the lucrative agricultural industry.

During a joint press conference at Sejati Room, ICC yesterday, organisers outlined the main events held throughout the three-day convention beginning with the official opening ceremony to be held on November 27 by His Majesty and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam.

The State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned is expected to deliver a special lecture during the opening ceremony.

The Premier Forum is the main programme of the Knowledge Convention 2018 that will take place on November 28 involving an active discussion by the panel of speakers comprising local and international experts.

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 is scheduled to attend the Premier Forum.

A special lecture entitled ‘Women as Drivers of the National Aspiration in Agricultural Sector’ will be delivered on the final day of the convention by Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman.

Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman is expected to attend the final day.

Several seminars are expected to be held in parallel session throughout the three-day convention highlighting topics related to this year’s theme.

A total of 24 panellists will present their working papers during the seminar comprising senior government officers, local institution educators, non-government organisations (NGOs) and local entrepreneurs who are experts in their fields.

Meanwhile, the Knowledge Convention Exhibition 2018 will be held for seven days starting November 27 – December 3 focussing on five areas – introduction to agriculture; agricultural education; agribusiness eco-system; entrepreneurship and product; and agro technology.

Present at the press conference were the organisers represented by Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) Pengiran Haji Kamalrudzaman bin Pengiran Haji Mohd Ishak, Permanent Secretary (Law and Welfare) at the Prime Minister’s Office Haji Mohammed Rosli bin Haji Ibrahim, Permanent Secretary (Energy) at the Ministry of Energy, Manpower and Industry Haji Azhar bin Haji Yahya, Permanent Secretary (Performance and Corporate) at the Ministry of Finance and Economy Pengiran Hajah Zety Sufina binti Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Sani, Director of Agriculture and Agrifood Hajah Aidah binti Haji Mohd Hanifah and Acting Director of Fisheries Mariani binti Haji Sabtu.

The Knowledge Convention 2018 is among the events held in conjunction with His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s 72nd birthday celebration.

The convention was inaugurated in 2004 and since then has given added value to the celebration as well as being a catalyst in understanding diverse fields.

|     Aziz Idris     |

BAIT Al-Hijaab, a Bruneian-based fashion brand organised ‘The Pop Up Shop’ yesterday at Jerudong International School’s Arts Centre.

Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah, Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Nasibah along with other members of the royal family graced the exhibition.

Among the aims of the exhibition was to promote the local clothing industry and create a unique shopping experience ahead of the end-of-year holidays.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

INSURANS Islam TAIB Holdings Sdn Bhd (IITHSB) and Darussalam Holdings Sdn Bhd (DHSB) marked a new chapter in their history yesterday as they celebrated their 25th year as subsidiaries under Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (Perbadanan TAIB) with a ceremony at the International Convention Centre (ICC), Berakas.

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 and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik graced the event.

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 Advisor to Perbadanan TAIB; Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, in his capacity as Chairman of Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors; and Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy Dato Seri Paduka Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman in his capacity as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Insurans Islam TAIB Holdings Sdn Bhd greeted Their Royal Highnesses on arrival.

Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi highlighted the achievements and progress of both subsidiaries in a speech.

“It is evident that the people of Brunei strongly support the two companies offering products and services that comply with the Syariah principles and fulfill the needs of Brunei Haj pilgrims, thus replacing the Muassasah system for the Haj and Umrah packages. The country is grateful to His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s vision in prioritising the needs of his people,” he said.

The minister also touched on the development and progress made by both companies and how they fended off stiff competition in their respective markets.

He noted that both companies were formed in 1993 under the flagship of Perbadanan TAIB, where Insurans Islam TAIB Holdings – the first Islamic insurance (Takaful) company to operate in Brunei – now offers both general and family Takaful products, while Darussalam Holdings, entrusted primarily to facilitate the wellbeing of Brunei Haj pilgrims, has now developed into a one-stop agency offering not only Haj and Umrah packages, but also inbound and outbound tour products and airline ticketing services.

His Royal Highness the Crown Prince presented certificates to two employees in recognition of their long service with the companies: Assistant Managing Director of Darussalam Holdings Pengiran Hajah Noraini binti Pengiran Haji Sablon and Senior Manager at the Insurans Islam TAIB Family Takaful Hajah Nornaimah binti Haji Zainip.

His Royal Highness the Crown Prince also handed over cash donations to five non-governmental organisations (NGOs), with each receiving BND5,000.

The recipients were DANA Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah, with the donation received by DANA Chief Executive Officer Dato Paduka Eddie bin Dato Paduka Haji Sunny; Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam, with the donation received by the centre’s Senior Trustee Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Alimin bin Haji Abdul Wahab; Centre for Children with Special Needs (KACA), with the centre’s Managing Director Haji Abdul Alim bin Haji Awang Othman receiving the donation; the Association for Paraplegic and Physically Disabled (PAPDA), with the association’s Deputy Chairman Haji Sahari bin Haji Tinggal receiving the donation; and the Society for the Management of Austism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei, whose donation was received by President Malai Haji Abdullah bin Malai Haji Othman.

Prior to leaving the ceremony, Their Royal Highnesses previewed a short video presentation on the background of both Insurans Islam TAIB Holdings and Darussalam Holdings, and visited the exhibition gallery showcasing the development of both subsidiaries for the past 25 years.

A number of products were also launched during the event.

Insurans Islam TAIB Holdings launched a new family Takaful product called Pelan Takaful Khairat and the Insurans Islam TAIB Mobile App.

Takaful Khairat provides coverage for funeral expenses for individuals who passed away due to an accident or illness. The product helps alleviate and reduce the financial burden of the individual’s family members in terms of bearing funeral costs.

The Insurans Islam TAIB Mobile App meanwhile features thorough information on Takaful products and claims guidelines, and allows users to ask for quotations on their latest Takaful coverage from both Insurans Islam TAIB Family Takaful and Insurans Islam TAIB General Takaful.

Darussalam Holdings, meanwhile, launched its iManasik Haji & Umrah and iBrunei mobile applications, both of which can be downloaded for free.

The iManasik Haji & Umrah app includes guides, steps, materials and information for anyone wishing to perform Umrah and Haj, while iBrunei is targetted at local and foreign tourists, providing information on places of interest in the country.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

RISING challenges and unpredictability in today’s stiff business competition environment call for businesses to be agile and geared to weather various risks such as global crises, 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 said in a sabda yesterday.

Making the remark on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee Celebration for the establishment of Insurans Islam TAIB Holdings Sdn Bhd (IITHSB) and Darussalam Holdings Sdn Bhd (DHSB) at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas, His Royal Highness cited rising challenges in regional and international spheres involving economic and geo-political issues such as trade wars, the fourth industrial revolution, climate change and natural disasters.

“All these possibilities call for us to constantly be alert and devise more objective research on its impacts to existing business activities, while at the same time formulating solving-strategies to face the possibilities of various risks including the rapid escalation to a global crisis stage,” His Royal Highness highlighted.

In this era of technological revolution, His Royal Highness also noted the crucial role of innovation in businesses and called for them to harness the latest modern technologies by merging with service delivery systems as well as a wider market and product reach.

Touching on the evolution of IITHSB and DHSB in the last 25 years, His Royal Highness said that as pioneers and contributors to the development agenda and the growth of Islamic finance in the country, the establishment of both companies has created a specific niche industry that has given new job opportunities to locals, helping to widen the scope and landscape of the job market in the country.

With both companies’ success sustained by the domestic market, His Royal Highness also highlighted the potential for their further expansion by tapping and venturing into the regional market. “This silver jubilee occasion must become a cornerstone to make re-evaluation or the needed transformation because it is tied to the development, resilience and sustainability of the business in the long run,” His Royal Highness added.

IITHSB and DHSB’s milestone of reaching 25 years should also mark as a starting point for the companies to start setting up human capital development programmes or initiatives, especially in niche Islamic expertise areas such as Haj rituals, Takaful, actuary and law, His Royal Highness noted, citing the relevance as the management concept is based on syariah-compliant practices.

With diversified skills, it becomes an added value for a progressive company, as well in capacity development to formulate new strategies so the progress and resilience of the business are guaranteed even in an economic crisis, His Royal Highness added.

Towards this goal, he called on Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB), the parent company for IITHSB and DHSB, to forge further cooperation with higher education institutions and local or international industry partners to enhance the expertise and the compositional membership of its Syariah Advisory Board that encompasses knowledge on the economy, finance and law.

As a next direction, he also called on the Takaful industry in Brunei to explore new and innovative Takaful products, offer diversified, dynamic and quality services in compliance with international standards that are syariah-compliant to fulfil the needs of the public. “This is in line with the aspiration 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 to make Brunei a centre for Islamic finance”.

|     Azrol Azmi     |

HER Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam received in audience the outgoing High Commissioner of India to Brunei Darussalam Nagma Mohamad Mallick.

The audience ceremony took place at Istana Nurul Iman yesterday. – PHOTO: AZROL AZMI

|     Wani Roslan     |

THE Language and Literature Bureau (DBP) held the Perkampungan Perpustakaan at DBP’s parking area in Bandar Seri Begawan, yesterday as part of the bureau’s annual activity in enlivening Memperkasa Budaya Membaca 2018.

DBP Acting Director Suip bin Haji Abdul Wahab was the guest of honour.

Among the event’s objectives were to uphold the titah of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, on the importance of knowledge among the people and community.

In his remark, the guest of honour said with the challenges on globalisation and current technology, the library needs to move forward and follow the trends in line with the culture.

“Changes must be made for the library to provide current services for the community and identify the needs of the community so the service can be improved, because without users there will be no library,” he said.

He also urged the public and library members to give their views and suggestions to the staff for them to know what can be provided and needed to further develop and improve the library.

Games and activities held included book scanning, VR Quiz, Perambahan Brunei, Lontar dan Jawab, Putar dan Jawab, and traditional games, which further enlivened the event.

The event also aimed to create and strengthen ties between the public and library staff throughout the country while at the same time promote the services, collection and activities provided by the library.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

A TOTAL of 160 scholars presented working papers at a Tarannum Al-Quran seminar, at the Pengiran Anak Puteri Muta-Wakkilah Hayatul Bolkiah Religious School in Serusop yesterday.

Director of the Islamic Da’wah Centre Haji Abdul Rajid bin Haji Mohd Salleh the guest of honour, was welcomed by event organiser, Cahaya Bimbingan Tarteel Al-Quran.

Haji Abdul Rajid urged the seminar participants to continue seeking knowledge with regard to Al-Quran recitation and to make it a part of their daily lives.

He also commended the efforts of Cahaya Bimbingan Tarteel Al-Quran in helping support the aspirations of Brunei Darussalam as a Zikir Nation.

Among those presenting working papers during the seminar were Imam of Al-Akram Mosque in Kuala Lumpur Dato Haji Muhammad bin Hasri, a senior Islamic officer at the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM) Haji Abdul Karim bin Zakaria and an official from the Madrasah Al-Quran Fadhlul Qurra’ in Medan, Indonesia Dr Ustaz Haji Fadhlan Zainuddin.

|     Aziz Idris     |

QAF Auto Sdn Bhd, the sole importer of BMW in Brunei Darussalam, held the BMW Customer Day 2018 at the BMW showroom in Beribi Industrial Area yesterday to show appreciation to their loyal customers.

Customers along with family members had the opportunity to win official BMW merchandise or get a free haircut by hairdressers. Female customers were treated to free nail therapies while children were entertained with BMW’s Kids Track, bouncer, face painting and colouring activities.

Hardcore BMW enthusiasts were also present to test drive the latest BMW and MINI models. Guests also enjoyed food and beverages served throughout the day by participating vendors.

QAF Auto General Manager Sivakumar Krishnan in his remarks said he was delighted to host the event in a show of appreciation for their loyal customers who have been supporting the dealership throughout the years.

One of the invited guests, Haji Mohammad Loqman Al-Hakim bin Haji Hamdan, was impressed with the number of attendees during the event and the variety of activities organised, especially for the children.

He added that he looks forward to upcoming events hosted by QAF Auto.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

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 and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman yesterday graced the 7-9 Years Old 3^rd ISB Sprints and Masters Swimming Championships at the International School Brunei (ISB) Swimming Pool.

Also present at the meet was Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah.

Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah binti Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah competed in the 25m backstroke and 25m butterfly events.

|     Daniel Lim     |

SIX shoppers received prizes during KB Sentral’s ‘Bah Manang Lucky Draw’ campaign for November yesterday.

Grand prize winner Norasidah binti Ontong received the BND200 KB Sentral Party Package, which is inclusive of food and drink, mascot appearances, balloon giveaways and a free playground entrance for birthday celebrations at Time Zone.

In second place was Dandan Setia, who won a one-night stay at the Garden Sentral Hotel, inclusive of free breakfast for two and free access to the in-house swimming pool and gym.

Third prize winner Lai Jit Hua walked away with a brand-new Philips rice cooker, while Hajah Asinah binti Mokti received an All Seasons meal voucher as fourth prize. In fifth and sixth places were Nurhamizah binti Abidin and Muhd Amir bin Zhahirin, who won a shopping voucher from KB Sentral Cube Enterprise and a play voucher at Time Zone.

Next month’s lucky draw will be held on December 23. Shoppers are reminded to bring their original IC and original coupon during the prize presentation ceremony.

|     Aziz Idris     |

A DELEGATION from the Legislative Council (Legco) held a muzakarah session with the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) at the Officer’s Mess, Gadong yesterday.

The session was chaired by RBPF Police Commissioner Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam.

The delegation from the Legislative Council was led by Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Pendikar Alam Dato Paduka Seri Haji Hasrin bin Dato Paduka Haji Sabtu.

Also present was Acting Director of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Haji Jaffari bin Haji Mahadi.

The session’s main objective was to give an opportunity for all parties to have an open dialogue to clarify any queries as well as sharing of the latest criminal and traffic reports and brainstorming new strategies to prevent crime.

The session aimed to strengthen ties among members of the Legislative Council and the force to actively involve in curbing criminal activities.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

PUSAT Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam raised BND27,792.20 during the 17th Pusat Ehsan Charity Golf Tournament held from November 23-25 at the RBA Golf Club in Berakas.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin was the guest of honour at the prize presentation ceremony.

The tournament proceeds will support children and youth with special needs at Pusat Ehsan and the centre’s monthly expenses and development plans.

A total of 188 contestants took part in the three-day charity event.

Johari bin Ahmad successfully defended the men’s overall gross title with a score of 69.

The silver sponsors of the event was Daelim Industrial Co Limited while the bronze sponsors included Mar’Azmala Petrol Station and Trading, Fun Bocks Edutainment Sdn Bhd, Miftah An-Nur Islamic International School, Amin Bio Technology, RY Prime Sdn Bhd, Hafiz the Clubmaker, Al-Mazya Tenunan and Razytaa.

Chairman of the Main Organising Committee of the 17th Pusat Ehsan Charity Golf Tournament Seruji bin Haji Setia said this weekend marked the second time that the tournament was held this year.

“Pusat Ehsan, as a non-government, non-profitable charity organisation, derives its funds totally from donations and contributions from the community. Raising funds for the centre is the key objective of this tournament,” the chairman said.

Other winners at the tournament were Almas Syadzwanie Kamis in the ladies’ gross category with a score of 76 and Abdul Kadir bin Abdul Ghani (OCB) in the overall nett category.

The top 12 qualified for the final round yesterday where they competed for the overall gross title and the coveted Patron’s Challenge Trophy.

Abdul Kadir sealed top spot in the qualifying round with a total of 70 followed by Suhaimi Ibrahim, Awangku Md Syakir bin Pengiran Haji Ali and Johari bin Ahmad.

The in-form Johari made five birdies in the front nine en route to his victory and a fifth tournament win this year.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

YESTERDAY’S weekly pre-dawn talk, titled Tanggungjawab Mempertahankan Keamanan Negara (The Responsibility in Upholding the Country’s Peace and Stability), was delivered by Religious Operations Officer at the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Religious Department and Da’ie at the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB) Captain Mohammad Ayza Azrine bin Ayahani.

In his lecture, Captain Mohammad Ayza Azrine said that while the armed forces are the country’s first line of defence, ordinary civilians are also responsible for maintaining the peace by refraining from social evils and corrupt practices.

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 Communications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohammad Yusof, 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, Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar and Commander of the RBAF Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud were present.

The pre-dawn talk is part of the Masjidku Makmur, Negara Berkat programme, which aims to encourage active participation in the mass Subuh prayer at the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque.

|     James Kon     |

A RECORD of over 2,000 participants turned up at the grounds of the Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAirF) in Rimba yesterday morning, testing their mental and physical strength at the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Alpha Challenge 2018.

The competition was held in conjunction with the 57th anniversary of the RBAF and part of events organised for Brunei December Festival 2018.

The event saw two royal appearances, with Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah taking part in the 3km fun run and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Abdul Mu’min participating in the team competitive challenge.

D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd Advisor Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman bin Pengiran Haji Damit and D’Sunlit Managing Director Jackson Ting were also present.

Officiating the races was Commander of the RBAirF, Brigadier General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat as the guest of honour.

This year’s RBAF Alpha Challenge comprised two categories: the 3km and 5km fun runs, and the Competitive Challenges consisting the ‘individual’ and ‘team’ 10km challenges.

Cash prizes were awarded to finishers with the top three best times in the competitive challenges.

Participants in each of the categories were required to complete a number of obstacle courses such as the Cammo Net Crawl, Wall Climb, Sandbag Carry, Tyre Drag and Pull, Walk on Plank, Frame Cargo Net, Mud Shake, Apex Ladder, Tunnel Trouble, and Monkey Bar.

Commander of the RBAD Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud presented prizes to the winners.

The RBAF Commander also handed over cash donations to two charitable organisations: the RBAF Fund for Orphans, which received BND2,045; and An Nur Harapan, which received BND2,500.