|     Azlan Othman     |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday said that farming should not be exclusive to those with big plots of land, since vegetables and fruit can also be cultivated in home gardens or in pots.

The monarch made the observation while delivering his titah at the official opening of the Knowledge Convention 2018 at the International Convention Centre, in honour of His Majesty’s 72nd birthday celebrations.

His Majesty said, “We should avoid being passive and squandering this opportunity to take up farming. We must also contribute to the greening of the earth. A green earth is the symbol of wealth.

“This year’s Knowledge Convention focusses on a key area that is truly indispensible – agriculture, with the theme ‘Agricultural Sector: the Survivability of the People and Nation’.

“This theme is relevant enough to be discussed among experts such as academics, regulators and practitioners (entrepreneurs and farmers). It is undoubtedly an important area, but it is also vulnerable to various complexities, including the weather, unstable conditions, pests, crop diseases and other factors.

“Nevertheless, we are still required to delve into it. Why is that so? Because agriculture is the main driving force in life. Without agriculture, our lives would be impacted.

“That is why I have put particular emphasis on agriculture as the field for determining our survival as an independent people and nation.

“Therefore, there is no reason for us to slow down in making strides towards agriculture.”

The monarch also broached the topic of local paddy cultivation, saying, “I am very confident that the relevant agencies will continue to attend to and prioritise the boosting of rice and paddy output in this country.

“In this regard, I have permitted the implementation of new initiatives to increase rice and paddy production.

“Firstly, I gave my consent to a farming project for a high-yielding hybrid variety known as Padi Sembada this year, which is capable of producing six tonnes of rice per hectare in one season, compared to the rice seedlings at present that can only produce three tonnes of rice per hectare in one season.

“This will also be followed by the planting of Padi Titih seedlings, which can produce 8.5 tonnes per hectare in one season.

“These paddy seedlings will be widely grown in areas with complete irrigation systems.

“Secondly, I also consented to the opening of a new area for commercial paddy cultivation in the Kandol area, covering 500 hectares, in the Belait District. This area will be outfitted with the appropriate infrastructure.”

“To ensure the success of these projects, the management of the paddy cultivation will be open to companies, including government-linked companies (GLCs).

“Insya Allah, the introduction of the Padi Sembada and Padi Titih seedlings, coupled with the opening of this new area, will increase the percentage of livelihoods and rice production for Brunei Darussalam.”

His Majesty also added, “It is evident that my government has and will continue to provide a wide range of opportunities, for the field of agriculture.

“I am enthusiastic about the fact that we have produced several farmers who successfully made this field as their primary source of income, particularly in the cultivation of vegetables, fruits, flowers, livestock and fisheries.

“I believe that these successes are due to their sincerity, persistence and keen attitude. I want this attitude to linger among the members of the farming community.

“It is my fervent hope that our farmers will continue to manage their plantations with a sense of responsibility, dedication and self-command, for the survival of the people and the nation.

“Finally, in accordance with the demands of Syariah law and with the integrated efforts of government agencies and other stakeholders, I hope that this year’s Knowledge Convention will truly become a platform, as well as a stimulus for the expansion and empowerment of the agricultural sector in our country. May Allah the Almighty bless all our good works,” said His Majesty, concluding the titah.

Also present at the opening ceremony were Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, 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; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri 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.

Later, Their Majesties and other members of the royal family toured the Knowledge Convention Exhibition 2018, which focusses on five areas – the Introduction to Agriculture, Agricultural Education, Agribusiness Ecosystem, Entrepreneurship and Products, and Agro-technology.

|    Lyna Mohamad    |

A DELEGATION from the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB) on Monday visited the homes of four individuals in the Brunei-Muara District, who are in need of assistive equipment.

Acting Secretary of MUIB Haji Abdul Aziz bin Haji Akop led the delegation.

Their first stop was the house of Sudarmagi bin Mohammad at STKRJ Kampong Lumapas to present him with a continuous positive airway pressure (C-PAP) machine for his asthma condition. The MUIB officials then visited the residence of Muhammad Isa bin Haji Mohammad Jublee in Jalan Lebuhraya Tungku Jerudong, Kampong Sengkurong ‘B’.

Muhammad Isa, who is bedridden after a stroke, received a wheelchair and a mattress from the Acting Secretary of MUIB.

The delegation then proceeded to the house of Zapedi bin Bujang in Tanjong Nangka to present him with a phlegm suction machine and a wheelchair.

A former member of the armed forces, Zapedi has been in poor health after being afflicted with a stroke while on duty.

The final stop was at the residence of Asmah binti Haji Puteh in STKRJ Kampong Lugu to present her a C-PAP machine for her breathing problems.

The donated equipment totalled BND6,325, which was taken from the Zakat funds for the poor and the destitute.

|     Aziz Idris     |

MINISTER of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong expressed his gratitude to all speakers, moderators and presenters who shared their experiences in various fields during the three-day 13th Knowledge Convention 2018.

He also lauded the exhibitors participating in this year’s Knowledge Convention Exhibition for showcasing their innovative productions in line with 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 to increase output from the agriculture, agribusiness and fishery industries.

He made these comments as co-chairman of the Knowledge Convention 2018 at a dinner reception held in conjunction with the 13th Knowledge Convention 2018 at the Banquet Hall of the Prime Minister’s Office on Tuesday.

Co-chairmen of the Knowledge Convention 2018 Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud; Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah; and Minister of Energy, Manpower and Industry Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein were present.

Thirty-seven certificates and souvenirs were presented by the co-chairmen to keynote speakers, moderators, presenters of the working papers deliberated by academics, industry experts and government during the Premier Forum, Premier Talk and the Knowledge Convention Seminar.

Now in its 13th edition, the Knowledge Convention is held annually in conjunction with the birthday celebration of His Majesty.

The event carries the theme Agriculture Sector: the Survivability of the People and Nation.

This year’s convention is organised by the Prime Minister’s Office in collaboration with the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, the Ministry of Finance and Economy and the Ministry of Energy, Manpower and Industry.

PERMANENT Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati binti Haji Tajuddin is attending the 41st Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization High Official Meeting (41st SEAMEO HOM) in Bangkok, Thailand from November 27 to today.

All 26 SEAMEO centre directors as well as senior officials from SEAMEO member countries, SEAMEO associate member countries and SEAMEO affiliate members are attending.

The SEAMEO HOM is convened annually, bringing together senior officials from the SEAMEO member countries, representatives from SEAMEO associate and affiliate members, directors and officers from SEAMEO Regional Centres to report, discuss, plan and review the programmes, activities and operations under the organisation.

This year’s meeting was officiated by the guest of honour, Vice Minister of Education of Thailand Dr Sophon Napathorn.

Dr Sophon Napathorn highlighted that Thailand has been engaging the private sector in further promoting technical and vocational education to develop the skills of students in line with the needs of the labour market.

He also touched on the introduction of High Potential Schools and the establishment of English Boot Camps to help improve the English Language competency of Thai teachers and their teaching pedagogies.

During the meeting, each SEAMEO member country had the opportunity to share their progress and development in addressing the SEAMEO Seven Priority Areas. These priority areas are (1) Early Childhood Care and Education, (2) Addressing Barriers to Inclusion, (3) Resiliency in the Face of Emergencies, (4) Promoting Technical and Vocational Education and Training, (5) Teacher Education, (6) Harmonisation in Higher Education and Research and (7) Adopting a 21st Century Curriculum.

The three-day meeting began with a closed In-Camera Session followed by a Plenary Session. The meeting concludes today with the overall adoption and review of the meeting agendas.

Accompanying Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati at the meeting are officials from the MoE.

|    James Kon    |

BRUNEI Darussalam’s sepak takraw team said they will give their best as Brunei hosts the 10^th BIMPNT-EAGA Friendship Games at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Bolkiah Garison from December 7-9.

The national team will compete in Inter Regu (five players) and Quad (six players ) categories.

Captain of Team ‘A’ Mohammad Norsaparizal bin Haji Awang in an interview said, “We have been training hard for three months in preparation for the competition. As host country, we hope we could make the country proud by winning medals in the Games.”

The captain has picked out Sabah and Indonesia as tough opponents, but said that his team will do their best to win all their matches.

Team ‘B’ captain is Md Nur Hafizullah bin Hafni, and the team is led by national coach Rawat Parbchompoo from Thailand.

Eight sporting events will be contested in the Games namely aquatics, athletics, karatedo, lawn bowling, pencak silat, wushu, taekwondo and sepak takraw.

This will be the second time that Brunei Darussalam is hosting the BIMP-EAGA Friendship Games, being the first in 2008 when Brunei won 12 gold, nine silver and 14 bronze medals.

Brunei bagged four gold and two silver medals in 2016 when the game was hosted in Samarinda.

THE 19th ASEAN Chiefs of Armies Multilateral Meeting (ACAMM) and the 8th ASEAN Sergeant Majors Annual Meeting (ASMAM) were held concurrently in Melaka, Malaysia on Monday.

Commander of the Royal Brunei Land Force (RBLF) Brigadier General Dato Seri Pahlawan Khairul Hamed bin Haji Lampoh led a delegation to the 19th ACAMM.

Chief of Army of the Malaysian Army General Dato’ Seri Haji Ahmad Hasbullah bin Haji Mohd Nawawi hosted the ACAMM which was themed ‘Fostering Camaraderie.’

In his keynote address, Minister of Defence Malaysia Haji Mohamad bin Sabu emphasised the prominence of threats to the ASEAN region by non-state actors, especially terrorism. He hailed ASEAN’s ability as a multicultural organisation to work together towards ensuring peace in the region.

Meanwhile, Chief of Army of the Malaysian Army stressed the need for ASEAN armies to continue working together to overcome the transnational challenges. All ASEAN Chiefs of Armies also shared their views on security issues affecting the region and discussed new initiatives in enhancing defence cooperation among the ASEAN armies.

ACAMM, an annual meeting conducted since 2000, is hosted by every ASEAN Army on a rotational basis. This meeting has become an important platform that contributes to the strengthening of unity and cooperation among the ASEAN armies.

The 20th ACAMM will be hosted by Republic of Indonesia in November 2019.

On the sidelines of the ACAMM, the Commander of the RBLF also held bilateral meetings with the Chiefs of Army from the ASEAN member countries. In these meetings, the camaraderie among the ASEAN member countries were reiterated through recognition of bilateral and multilateral defence engagements in a reflection of this year’s ACAMM theme.

Conducted concurrently with the ACAMM, the 8th ASMAM was attended by Warrant Officer 1 Selamat bin Haji Mohammad Yassin, Acting Land Force Sergeant Major (LFSM), Warrant Officer 1 Azami bin Omar, Regiment Sergeant Major, First Battalion RBLF and Warrant Officer 1 Sharol bin Omar, Regiment Sergeant Major, Support Battalion RBLF. The theme for this year’s ASMAM is ‘Regimentation of Military Virtues Reflects Strong Army.’

ASMAM is an annual meeting, conducted since 2011, aimed at promoting strong working relationship and sharing experiences among the ASEAN armies.

|    Khairil Hassan    |

GHK dominated the match and defeated KYG 59-24 in the Women category of the Low San Brunei Basketball Open at the Brunei Basketball Association Court in Batu Bersurat last night.

GHK led all the way leading 25-4 in the first quarter, 9-8 in the second quarter, 10-8 in the third quarter and 13-4 in the last quarter.

The second match of the evening was between YTE and Tool Box in the Open Category.

Tonight will see Honey Carsmart go against Mum Bakery Mobile World in the Women category at 7.15pm, and TSL will face JHY Enterprise in the Open category at 8.45pm.

|     Daniel Lim     |

CONNECTIVITY should be enhanced in a more comprehensive and complementary manner to realise sustainable connectivity, said Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof.

He said, “In a sense, the connectivity has to be made in collaboration with others, and by coming together we can help to drive the link to form a bigger market, which helps to incentivise tourists to visit the area.”

Connectivity within the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-the Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) sub-region was among the key topics discussed at the 22nd BIMP-EAGA Ministerial Meeting and Related Meeting by the minister during a press conference held in between the meeting yesterday.

Held from November 23-26 at the V-Plaza Hotel in Kuala Belait, the meeting saw officials from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines discussing topics on the best approach to help bolster the economy of the countries under the BIMP-EAGA.

Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah and Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan co-chaired the meeting.

Present at the meeting were Senior Advisor to Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs on Regional Development of Indonesia Bobby Hamzar Rafinus; Deputy Director General (Policy), Economic Planning Unit, Prime Minister’s Office of Malaysia Dato’ Dr Noor Zari Hamat; Chairman of Mindanao Development Authority of the Philippines Datu Abul Khayr Alonto; Director General of Southeast Asia Department of Asian Development Bank Ramesh Subramaniam; and ASEAN Secretary General Dato Paduka Lim Jock Hoi.

The meeting also marked the involvement of China at a ministerial level for the first time, helping to further drive the economical growth of the region by strengthening its cooperation with BIMP-EAGA.

Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan also stressed the importance of the inclusion of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as part of the engine of the economical growth, which was also another topic discussed during the meetings.

He noted that China’s involvement in this year’s ministerial meeting represents not only a development partner, but also a large substantial market to be tapped into, which can help benefit both parties.

“Among the strength of BIMP-EAGA is in agriculture, produce, and more. As such, we have looked into nine areas of cooperation that can help kickstart the upgraded cooperation between BIMP-EAGA and China, some of which were discussed in the meeting,” he noted.

He explained that the meeting also delved into how to best focus on certain key areas to start with, and how to gain the early harvest that is mutually beneficial for both parties.

He said, “With the strengthening of the ASEAN-China relations, this opportunity represents a platform to create a better environment for BIMP-EAGA in establishing a stronger relationship with China.”

Furthermore, the strengthening of relations can also help focus more on the infrastructure development through the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), and that through the developed infrastructure, can help link the region together and drive economical growth by providing important avenue for businesses to interact and trade through these infrastructure.

“With the infrastructure in place, we can help complement each other’s strength to make full use of each country’s own unique advantages,” he explained, referring to the notion of enhancing connectivity in a complementary manner.

Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew noted that as the country is diversifying its economy, and as part of the BIMP-EAGA collaboration, it can help create various downstream opportunities which will help drive the next phase of development as well as new opportunities for economic activities in Brunei.

He said, “These opportunities can also extend to neighbouring countries, as over time, these activities can help encourage the growth of other services and products within Brunei as well as in the neighbouring countries.”

Among the topics discussed during the 22nd BIMP-EAGA Ministerial Meeting and Related Meeting included the achievements and developments of projects, and initiatives under the BIMP-EAGA Vision 2025 (BEV2025); as well as strengthening cooperation with the People’s Republic of China, Northern Territory; as well as the Asian Development Bank, ASEAN Secretariat and the Islamic Development Bank.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

A SEMINAR on ‘Increasing Gross Domestic Product (GDP) through the Agriculture Sector’ was held at the Musyawarah Hall of the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas yesterday.

Attending the event were Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong; Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Pengiran Haji Kamalrudzaman bin Pengiran Haji Mohd Ishak; and Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Haji Halidi bin Haji Mohd Salleh. The seminar was held as part of the Knowledge Convention 2018 and featured four presentations, with Assistant Vice Chancellor (Global Affairs) of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Dr Joyce Teo Siew Yean as the moderator.

The first speaker to feature at the seminar was Permanent Secretary (Economy) at the Ministry of Finance and Economy Dr Hajah May Fa’ezah binti Haji Ahmad Ariffin who delivered a presentation on increasing GDP through the agriculture, forestry and fisheries sectors.

Next to speak was Deputy Permanent Secretary (Management, Cooperatives and Industry) at the Ministry of Energy, Manpower and Industry (MEMI) Hajah Tutiaty binti Haji Abdul Wahab, whose presentation focussed on the topic of adding value to the agriculture sector towards diversifying the industrial sectors in Brunei Darussalam.

Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Islamic Economics and Finance at Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) Associate Professor Dr Hajah Rose binti Abdullah was another speaker at the seminar.

Her presentation focussed on the development of the contribution by the agriculture sector in Brunei Darussalam’s GDP.

The seminar also featured a presentation by Acting Director of Fisheries Mariani binti Haji Sabtu on the topic ‘Export Markets and the Growth of the Agriculture and Fisheries Sectors.’

The seminar is part of a three-day series of parallel sessions taking place from November 27-29.

The series of seminars is set to continue with its third and final day today.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

IN 2017, the output from the country’s agriculture sector increased by 91 per cent to BND380 million, compared to only BND200 million in 2007; and the output from this sector is also expected to increase by 2020.

This target is intended 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 prioritisation of the agriculture sector in ensuring the survivability and independence of Brunei Darussalam.

This was highlighted yesterday by Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy and Chairman of the Knowledge Convention 2018 Premier Forum Working Committee Dato Seri Paduka Awang Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman in his welcoming address at the Premier Forum of the Knowledge Convention 2018.

“This convention is a watershed under the leadership of His Majesty, in the advancement of knowledge as the ground-work for the development and survivability of the people and the nation,” he said.

The deputy minister pointed out that apart from the oil and gas sector, the local agriculture sector is expected to contribute significantly to Brunei’s economic growth and its gross domestic product (GDP).

“His Majesty’s Government has also shown its commitment and support towards the development of the agriculture and agrifood sector, whereby BND7 million in subsidies was allotted to farmers during the financial year of 2017-2018, compared to BND5 million in the financial year of 2016-2017. These subsidies include the purchase of fertilisers, pesticides, farming equipment and infrastructure, as well as maintenance and services.”

The Premier Forum was chaired by Ra’es of Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) Dr Haji Adanan bin Haji Basar.

The panel comprises Deputy State Mufti Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Japar bin Haji Mat Dain @ Maidin; Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Pengiran Haji Kamalrudzaman bin Pengiran Haji Mohd Ishak; and Director General of the Malaysian Agriculture Research and Development Institute (MARDI) Datuk Dr Mohammad Roff bin Mohd Noor; and Manager of Syarikat Marsya Farm Haji Muliadi bin Moksin.

Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Japar gave an Islamic perspective on the subject, saying that agriculture is a form of entrepreneurship which can provide income and sustenance to the farmers and the rest of the country.

Pengiran Haji Kamalrudzaman discussed the development of the country’s agriculture sector, while highlighting the value from agricultural production in 1998. “This included locally produced vegetables, fruit, eggs, livestock, poultry, goats, rice and others which amounted to BND92.64 million; and 20 years later, the value from agriculture has increased to BND379.65 million,” he said.

Datuk Dr Mohammad Roff, meanwhile, discussed the development of agriculture sector in Malaysia, with a particular focus on the role of research and development.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

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 consented to attend the Premier Forum of the Knowledge Convention 2018 at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas yesterday.

His Royal Highness was accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik.

Upon arrival, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah was greeted by Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong; Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud; and Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah.

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah was also greeted by Minister of Energy, Manpower and Industry and the Co-Chairman of the Knowledge Convention 2018 Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein; State Mufti and Advisor for the Knowledge Convention 2018 Steering Committee Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned and Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy and Chairman of the Knowledge Convention 2018 Premier Forum Working Committee Dato Seri Paduka Awang Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman.

The forum began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Imam Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Hamid bin Bakal, followed by a welcoming address by Dato Seri Paduka Awang Ahmaddin, who outlined the accomplishments of the agricultural and agrifood sector of the last few years.

Later, the Doa Selamat was read by Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Imam Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Hamid to mark the end of ceremony.

Prior to departure, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah signed a royal commemorative parchment.

This year’s Premier Forum is jointly organised by the Prime Minister’s Office; the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism; the Ministry of Finance and Economy; and the Ministry of Energy, Manpower and Industry.

Belait Arabic School

|     Daniel Lim     |

EIGHTY-NINE students were feted at the Belait Arabic School’s (SAB) ‘Best and Brilliant Students Award’ ceremony yesterday morning.

Held at the multi-purpose hall of Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Religious School, the annual event represents the opportunity to celebrate its students’ academic achievements as well as to showcase the best and brightest students of the academic year and motivate students to strive better in the future.

Attending as the guest of honour was Legislative Council member and Penghulu of Mukim Liang Yang Berhormat Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin who was welcomed by Headmistress Hajah Noramalina binti Haji Mohd Ali.

Also present were teachers and staff members of the school, as well as parents and guardians of the students.

She expressed her gratitude for the support given by the teachers, parents and guardians for providing the platform, helping the students strive for their best in their academics.

Among the categories the students received awards included Best in Class, Best Attendance of 100 per cent, Best Students in the Student Assessment Tracker (SAT), Brightest students in the Student Progress Examination (SPE) for Year 8, Brightest students in the Primary School Assessment (PSR), and Brightest students in academic and co-curriculum for the 2018 academic year.

Three special awards were also handed out to Nurfaqihah Khairunnisa binti Ibrahim for best performing student in academics, Mohammad ‘Arief Zuhairi Chia bin Abdullah Syihab for best performing student in co-curriculum, and Muhammad Syahmi Fahmi bin Haji Suhaimi for best performing student in both academic and co-curriculum.

The ceremony was also enlivened with a series of performances including a Masrahiyah performance titled Diari Ayah, a Kalam Jama’ie performance, and a singing performance titled Surat Cinta untuk Guru-Guru.

Menglait Secondary School

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

MENGLAIT Secondary School (SM Menglait) on Wednesday awarded 127 students at an ‘Outstanding Academic and Co-Curriculum Students 2018 Prize Presentation’ ceremony at the school’s Melati Hall.

Guest of honour Principal Osman bin Rajap presented the prizes.

The ceremony saw awards handed out to various categories such as ‘Outstanding Student in Academic’ for Year 7 to Year 10 students, ‘100 per cent attendance’ for Year 7 to Year 10 and Pre-Vocational, ‘Outstanding Subjects’ for Year 7 to Year 10 and ‘Outstanding SAP Subject’ for Year 9H, 10H and 11H.

Also presented were ‘Best Student in Pre-Vocational Programme 2018’, ‘Model Student in Co-Curriculum’ and the ‘Mifthahul Barakah Programme for Young Leaders 2018’.

Lambak Kanan Religious School

|     Azlan Othman     |

THE Lambak Kanan Religious School (afternoon session) on Wednesday held a prize presentation ceremony for 90 students who excelled in their studies this year.

Headmistress Nirna Nuryanna binti Suhaili in her welcoming remarks congratulated the top students.

She also urged students who managed to pursue their studies at Arabic preparatory school to continue their education earnestly.

The awards were also presented to outstanding special needs students and students with very good track record in their school attendance.

Certificates were also presented to students who succeeded in continuing their studies at Arabic preparatory school.

Students who achieved in every level of the religious school from pre-school to primary six classes as well as school prefects also received recognition.

Tanjong Maya Secondary School

TANJONG Maya Secondary School (SMTM) on Wednesday held an ‘Academic Prize Presentation’ ceremony to celebrate the achievements of the 2018 student cohort.

Principal Hajah Norzan binti Haji Meludin encouraged all students to resolve to work harder to achieve their dreams.

She also thanked the teachers and parents for supporting the students along their school journey and also encouraged increased parental involvement in all school activities.

The awards were not only given to the top students from each class and subject but also to those that have made monumental progress throughout the year.

Photo below shows the leading students of 2018 are Muhammad Nura’izuddin Hibatullah bin Abdullah from Year 7, Farah Alyssa binti Md Jeffry from Year 9 and Rabiatul Atiyah binti Haji Mahli from Year 10.

|     James Kon     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, a member of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) Finance and Audit Commission and President of the Brunei Darussalam National Olympic Council (BDNOC) attended the ANOC Finance and Audit Commission meeting on November 26, and the XXIII ANOC General Assembly 2018 held in Japan from November 28-29.

Held at Wakasuka Room, Pamir Convention Centre in Tokyo, Japan, the Finance and Audit Commission meeting discussed and proposed all matters relating to ANOC Financial report to the ANOC Executive Board to be brought to the ANOC General Assembly for adoption on December 28.

The ANOC General Assembly started with a welcoming remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

The assembly, held at Pamir Convention Centre in Tokyo, Japan, was the largest general assembly ever held in the history of ANOC with an attendance of 1,400 participants from all 206 NOCs, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) members, international sports federations and Games organising committees.

During the two-day assembly, reports were presented by all ANOC commissions and presentations were given by bidding cities for the 2026 Winter Olympic Games – Italian co-bidding cities of Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo (Italy) and Stockholm (Sweden).

There were also reports presentation from various games organising committees such as the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, Winter Youth Olympic Games 2020, XXIV Olympic Winter Games Beijing 2022, XXXIII Olympiad Paris 2024, XXXIV Olympiad Los Angeles 2028 and 1^st ANOC World Beach Games San Diego 2019.

The assembly agreed with the following resolutions: ANOC fully supports the IOC position not to introduce prize money at the Olympic Games and respecting the diversity of all NOCs and IFs in solidarity with the Olympic values; ANOC fully supports the Independent Testing Authority (ITA) and calls for NOCs and Continental Associations to join the ITA as Major Events Organisers (MEOs) to ensure the protection of clean athletes; ANOC reiterates its commitment to implement the highest standards of good governance and approved the ANOC Legal Commission’s proposed changes to the ANOC Constitution; ANOC approved the proposal of the ANOC Legal Commission to establish an independent Ethics Commission and the members of the ANOC Ethics Commission were approved by the General Assembly and others.

Other events taking place during the two-day assembly were a welcoming reception hosted by the Japan Olympic Committee (JOC) held on November 27 evening at Hokushin Room, Pamir Convention Centre.

The reception was attended by JOC President Tsunekazu Takeda and former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori, who is also the President of the Tokyo Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Meanwhile, the main social event of the assembly was the ANOC Awards 2018 held on November 28 evening at Hiten Hall of the Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa.

The XXIII ANOC General Assembly 2018 concluded yesterday.

|     Wani Roslan     |

THE Survey Department emerged champions in the male and female categories of the Dikir Syarafil Anam competition organised by the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe) yesterday.

The competition, held in conjunction with the Maulidur Rasul celebration 1440H/2018 for Ministry of Development (MoD) and its departments, took place at Betabur Hall of the ministry.

The Water Services Department took second spot in the male category, while third place went to MoD.

In the female category, the Land Department claimed the runner-up spot, while the Department of Electrical Services was named second runner-up.

Guest of honour Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar presented the prizes.

The event began with a welcoming address by Acting Director of JASTRe Aliman bin Haji Ahmad.

A religious talk on Tarbiyah Rasulullah Membawa Rahmat dalam Berkeluarga was also presented by invited speaker Mosque Affairs Officer Pengiran Haji Hafizuddin bin Pengiran Haji Bakar.

The event concluded with the recitation of Doa Selamat by Pengiran Haji Hafizuddin.

Also in attendance were Deputy Minister of Development Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin, Acting Director-General of Public Works Alice Lim Sui Kau, directors, deputy directors, heads of divisions and unit, senior officials, officers and staff members of the ministry and its departments.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

GRADUATES, as the nation’s major human resources, are a catalyst and main engine for nation building and raising the socio-economy and life quality.

This was highlighted by Deputy Minister of Development Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin in his speech at the Cosmopolitan College of Commerce and Technology’s (CCCT) 12th Convocation Ceremony at the Indera Samudra Grand Hall of The Empire Hotel & Country Club in Jerudong yesterday.

The deputy minister expressed hope that the graduates will fully benefit their knowledge and experience and share with the community.

He also hoped that the graduates will possess the attitude of self-improvising and are actively creative and also engage in welfare activities.

In this convenient technology era, graduates are hoped to be able to move forward, holding on to the teachings of Islam and double their efforts to improvise by equipping themselves with values and capabilities that could produce a skilled generation.

With this year’s convocation theme Kemahiran Di hari ini, Kejayaan Di esok hari, he believes that the college will continue to move proactively in producing competitive and high-skilled graduates in the current globalisation world.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the organising committee Dr Haji Abdul Aziz bin Haji Abdul Latip highlighted that this year’s convocation marks another milestone in the college’s achievement, in which CCCT has produced 2,537 graduates since its establishment in 2004.

“Our respect and gratitude to 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 and the Ministry of Education for their support and trust in allowing us to contribute to the development of our nation albeit small,” he added.

Touching on this year’s theme, he pointed out that it serves to create awareness to the graduates that each one of them has a pivotal role in ensuring the continuity of the country’s prosperity, peace and economic stability and they are the future leaders and backbone of Brunei Darussalam.

“CCCT has always prioritised on the quality of delivering the best education to our students. This is well reflected in our overall success rate of 86 per cent, and even higher at HND level which stands at 95 per cent.”

CCCT’s teaching methodologies, he added, always emphasised on hands on skills tailored to the suitability of the working industry in Brunei Darussalam to provide them well with an added competitive advantage in the job market later.

“Our team of lecturers comes from diverse professional backgrounds and they are always eager to share their real industry experience to our students.”

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

A ONE-DAY Breast Cancer Awareness Seminar and Al-Quran Terapi Kanser Bersumberkan Ayat-Ayat Suci Al-Quran book launch was organised by the Brunei Breast Cancer Support Group (BBCSG) yesterday.

The event, held in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2018, took place at Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre.

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health Haji Abdul Manap bin Othman officiated the seminar and launched the book.

In her welcoming address, Al-Quran Terapi Kanser Bersumberkan Ayat-Ayat Suci Al-Quran author and BBCSG President Hajah Aminah binti Haji Momin explained that it took her six months to complete the book, including research, writing, editing and publication.

She said that the book is meant as reading material not only for individuals afflicted with cancer, but also for anyone interested in the topic.

“People who donate to the BBCSG Fund will be given the book, as a sort of Sedekah and Waqaf gift. Contributions can be as low as BND2,” Hajah Aminah said.

Besides Al-Quran Terapi Kanser Bersumberkan Ayat-Ayat Suci Al-Quran, BBCSG had previously published several other books such as Buku Yaasiin dan Doa-Doa and Yaasin Fadilat dan Doa-Doa Pilihan on June 9, 2017 and June 8 this year in dedication to breast cancer patients who had passed away.

“The number of patients diagnosed with breast cancer is alarming, and the figure is increasing over the years. Cancer can strike anyone regardless of age, gender, beliefs or status,” the BBCSG president said.

“Because of this, BBCSG organised its first edition of the Breast Cancer Awareness Seminar with the theme ‘Facing Breast Cancer from Medical Perspective, Spiritual and Peers Support Group’ to mark Breast Cancer Awareness month, which is celebrated every October 5.

“The seminar is part of our group’s continuous efforts to provide exposure to the community and breast cancer patients on the importance of handling the illness properly and watching their diets and their daily activities.”

The event saw several presentations on topics including Menghadapi Kanser Payudara dari Perspektif Perubatan by an oncologist medical officer Dr Raden Mas Jeffri bin Raden Mas Ismail and a senior lecturer at Universiti Brunei Darussalam Dr Hajah Mas Rina Wati binti Haji Abdul Hamid; Cancer from Islamic Medical Perspective by Ustaz Haji Sammali bin Haji Adam of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA); Experience Sharing from Peers Support Group by Hajah Masjuwita binti Haji Abdul Hamid; and Breast Self Examination briefing by Secretary of the BBCSG Datin Hajah Dayang Jaliha binti Haji Momin.

|     Aziz Idris     |

SEVENTEEN students left for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia yesterday to represent Brunei in the advanced stages of the inaugural CIMB 3D Conquest ASEAN-wide hackathon-style competition to be held at Asia Pacific University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia until tomorrow.

The delegation is divided into five teams comprising students from Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) and Kolej IGS at the Malaysia In-Country level finals this weekend.

The Brunei teams will compete against 92 other shortlisted teams from Malaysia and Thailand for a place among top five to make it to the Grand Finale in January 2019. Singapore and Indonesia are also hosting In-Country level finals for the remaining 114 shortlisted teams.

Team Syn3rgy from UTB, represented by Lee Chee Hong, Tang Dun Hao and Debbie Lim, is competing on Data Science track.

From UBD, Team Suumato, led by Teo Zhi Jun and his team members, Ho Ying Ying and Foo Yeun Ming, is competing on FinTech track while Team Crispy Coders represented by Ong Chueng Yu, Siti Nurzahrah binti Emran, Talent Chong Yee Jun and Muhammad Zeeyad bin Abdul Rahman, is competing on Coding track.

Joining them, two teams from Kolej IGS have also been shortlisted to compete on FinTech track. Team ReckITRats members include Nur Almira Ufairah binti Salim, Siti Nabilah binti Awang Mohammad, Nurul Najihah binti Jaini, and KIGS TECH team members are Sri Nurul Syahirah, Dayangku Siti Syahirah, Ma`sum Haji Isa, and Syauqi Suhaili.

The 17 students accompanied by a senior representative from CIMB Investment Bank Brunei branch throughout the competition.

CIMB Brunei had collaborated with DARe (Darussalam Enterprise) and Progresif in reaching out to interested students to participate in this competition. Thirteen teams registered and five teams were shortlisted to proceed to In-Country Finals after two rounds of assessment.

The CIMB 3D Conquest competition was launched in September 2018 aimed to identify and attract ASEAN’s top creative, young digital talent with an agile and entrepreneurial mindset. Open to all tertiary students, the hackathon-style event runs on three tracks – Data Science, FinTech and Coding.

Apart from cash prizes totalling more than USD120,000 for the ASEAN-wide competition, the regional winners will also gain exposure through a trip to Silicon Valley.

Present at Brunei International Airport to send off the delegation was Country Manager at CIMB Investment Bank Berhad, Brunei, Brian Wong.

|     Izah Azahari     |

A PRIZE presentation for the Maulidur Rasul procession Competition 1440 Hijrah was held at the Multaqa Hall of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Jalan Dewan Majlis yesterday.

Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the guest of honour presented the prizes to the five categories winners.

Also present were Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Yussof and Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy and Religious) at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Haii Mohd Serudin bin Haji Timbang.

The Maulidur Rasul celebration for 1440 Hijrah themed Tarbiyah Rasulullah Membawa Rahmat Dalam Berkeluarga held on November 20, was participated by 126 groups with a total of 13,008 individuals taking part according to the various categories in a 2.3 kilometre procession.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by a welcoming address by the Co-Chairman of the Maulidur Rasul procession competition 1440 Hijrah and Head of the Development of Islamic Syiar Division Haji Madzneh bin Haji Mohd Noor.

The winner of the Secondary School, Arabic School, College, Higher Education Institution and Private School Category went to Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB), followed by the Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah in second place, and Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) in third place.

Meanwhile, the Ministry and Government Department Category was won by the Ministry of Development, followed by the Ministry of Education in second place, and Ministry of Defence (Public) in third place.

The Association and Private Sector Category was won by Persatuan Masyarakat Indonesia (PERMAI), followed by Telekom Brunei Berhad (TelBru) in second place, and Pertubuhan Zaidana in third place, while the Village and Mosque Takmir Category was won by the Ukhwah Kejiranan RPN Meragang, followed by the Mosque Takmir and Youth Group of Kampong Perpindahan Serasa Muara Mosque committee members in second place, and third place went to the Perdana Wangsa Haji Mohammad Mosque, Kampong Setia.

In the Special Prize Category, UNISSA won the Secondary School, Arabic School, College, Higher Education Institution and Private School Category, while the Prime Minister’s Office won the Ministry and Government Department Category, Pertubuhan Zaidana won the Association and Private Sector Category, and Ukhwah Kejiranan RPN Meragang won the Village and Mosque Takmir Category.

The winners received cash prizes, accompanying gifts and participation certificates for all teams participating in the procession this year.

Cash prizes were also awarded to selected teams that won in each category.

Assessment of the categories took into account the presence and preparedness of the assembled teams, the uniformity of clothing, added accessories that brought the uniqueness of each teams, creativity of the framed banners and the neatness of rows before the start of the event.

The winner for the Secondary School, Arabic School, College, Higher Education Institution and Private School Category received a cash prize of BND4,500 and accompanying gifts as well as participation certificates, while the Ministry and Government Departments Category winner received a total of BND3,500, accompanying gifts and participation certificates.

The winner of the Associations and Private Sector Category received a cash prize of BND2,000, accompanying gifts and participation certificates, while the Village and Mosque Takmir Category winner received a trophy, participation certificates and cash prize worth BND3,500.

Certificates of appreciation were also presented during the event to the judges of the competition.

The event was enlivened with a Dikir, and the recitation of Doa Selamat.

|     James Kon     |

A NEWBORN baby boy is recovering at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital, after being found wedged face-down in a public toilet yesterday, near the food stalls at RPN Kampong Rimba.

The infant was rescued by stall vendor, Zaharudin bin Haji Durahim, who heard a commotion in one of the toilet cubicles and initially thought that a snake had surfaced through the plumbing system.

But when he went to investigate, he found a newborn infant partially submerged inside the toilet bowl, with the placenta still attached.

Suppressing his horror, Zaharudin immediately reached down and lifted the newborn out of the bowl.

“As a father, I couldn’t let anything happen to this baby,” he said. “I patted him on the back to remove the excess water, until I heard him crying.”

While waiting for the emergency services to arrive, Zaharudin cradled the infant to keep him warm, praying that all would be well.

He added, “I have spoken to my wife about it, and we are hoping to adopt the baby, if the authorities will allow us.”

The newborn’s rescue was captured on video by a bystander, and circulated on social media.

Meanwhile, the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) is investigating the case.

Anyone with information that might assist the police can contact the Women and Children’s Abuse Investigation Unit under the RBPF’s Criminal Investigation Department at 993, or 2459500 ext 496/333.

|     Izah Azahari     |

HER Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman yesterday consented to attend the Premier Talk of the Knowledge Convention 2018, at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.

Her Royal Highness was accompanied by 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.

Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Elinda binti Haji CA Mohammad as Chairperson of the Working Committee for the Premier Talk of the Knowledge Convention 2018 greeted the royal entourage upon arrival.

Datin Hajah Norhaida binti Haji Sulaiman, Datin Hajah Zalina binti Haji Omar, Pengiran Datin Noor Yasimah binti Pengiran Anak Haji Hashim and Datin Hajah Maimunah binti Haji CA Mohammad, the spouses of the Co-Chairmen of the Steering Committee for the Knowledge Convention 2018 also greeted Her Royal Highness.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Senior Religious Officer at the Department of Mosque Affairs Norainiyanti binti Haji Hussin.

This was followed by a welcoming address by Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Elinda, who said that this year’s theme ‘The Agricultural Sector: the Survivability of the People and Nation’, is a response to 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, which highlighted the importance of economic development, towards realising the goals of Brunei Vision 2035, particularly in the field of agriculture.

She also gave an outline of the main topic at the Premier Talk, ‘Women as Supporters of National Aspirations in the Field of Agriculture’, which focussed on the involvement of women in the agriculture and livestock industry.

“It is hoped to give a correct perception to the public, especially among women, that this field can be positively managed as a career or source of income, to support our country’s aspirations for more robust and effective gains in the agricultural sector,” she said.

The ceremony continued with the Premier Talk, presented by Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman.

Later, a Doa Selamat was recited to mark the conclusion of the Premier Talk.

Her Royal Highness proceeded to the Royal Lounge, where she signed a commemorative parchment and posed for a group photo with the members of the Steering Committee for the Knowledge Convention 2018.

Her Royal Highness then toured a mini-exhibition at the ICC, highlighting main areas of the local agriculture industry: Paddy, Cultivation, Livestock, Agrifood and Fisheries.

The exhibition was conducted with a ‘whole-of-nation’ approach, involving the joint cooperation of the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, the Ministry of Finance and Economy, and the Ministry of Energy, Manpower and Industry.