|    Izah Azahari    |

MERCEDES-Benz is cruising towards the holiday season with great deals on selected cars and SUV in its line-up that includes the C-Class, SLC, GLC, and GLA among others.

These models come with features including the Apple CarPlayTM and Android Auto which allows the media system to display selected apps stored in your hand phone, including navigation.

From today until the end of the year, Mercedes-Benz Autohaus will extend their showroom opening hours on Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

Test-drives are also available for most of the latest Mercedes-Benz models, including the A-Class.

|     Khairil Hassan     |

WINNERS of the 1st Shitokai Brunei Open Karate Championship receive their prizes at the closing ceremony yesterday at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex in Berakas.

Sixteen events were competed yesterday. Nur Salsabila Natasya of Brunei Sports School won gold for the Junior Female Kumite +59kg; Vivi Amal Aqilah of Shitokai Brunei ‘A’ took silver, while Nur Batrisya and Nur Balqis Hamizah of Shitokai Brunei ‘A’ bagged bronze.

Ken Kakuta of Showa Ren ‘A’ won gold for the Junior Male Kumite -55kg; Pui Rui Qi of Doushinkan Miri ‘A’ finished second and Muhammad Khudriy and Mohammad Mirza Syahmi of Brunei Sports School took home bronze.

In the Junior Male Kumite -65kg, Muhammad Adam Nawawie of Brunei Sports School ‘A’ won gold, followed by Awangku Izzat Hidayat of Brunei Sports School in second and Md Nur Hafizan Kadir of Shitokai Brunei ‘A’ and Andy Lau Puong Lik of Doushinkan Miri ‘B’ third.

Mohd Farhan of Shitokai Brunei ‘A’ clinched first place for the Junior Kumite +76kg, with Nong Wei Run of Doushinkan Miri ‘A’ in second place and Muhd Bil Muhtadin of Brunei Sports School third.

Rodhyatul Adhwanna of Showa Ren ‘B’ won gold for the Female Kata 18 years above; Syaza Darmanto of Goshinryu Sarawak bagged silver and Tan Hui Lin of Shitoryu Singapore and Rafidah Haji Rosli of Showa Ren ‘B’ settled at third.

In the Male Kata 18 years above, Adrian Ngui of Doushinkan Miri ‘A’ emerged champion with Sofie kudien of MASK Kota Kinabalu ‘A’ in second place and Amirul Iman of MASK Kuala Lumpur shares third with Malcolm Marwill of MASK Kota Kinabalu ‘B’.

Umi Fakhriyah of Showa Ren ‘A’ won gold for the Senior Female Kumite -55kg, followed by Nurul Syafiqa of MASK Kuala Lumpur in second. Syaza Darmanto of Goshginryu Sarawak and Nur Zafirah of Shitokai Brunei ‘A’ took bronze.

For the Senior Female Kumite +68kg, Wahidah binti Kamarulzaman of Showa Ren ‘A’ won gold, with Yu Sze Tee of Showa Ren ‘A’ trailing in second place and Siti Natrah @ Badriah of Brunei Sports School ‘A’ and Imani of Showa Ren ‘B’ third.

Muhd Junaidi Najib of Showa Ren ‘A’ won gold for the Senior Male Kumite -55kg; Ahmad Syauqi of Shitokai Brunei ‘A’ took silver and bronze went to Sufie Kudien of MASK Kota Kinabalu ‘A’.

Awangku Muhd Abdul Qudus of Showa Ren ‘A’ won gold for the Senior Male Kumite -60kg, with Ally Chong of MASK Kota Kinabalu ‘A’ in second and Faridzal bin Adenan of Shitokai Brunei ‘A’ settled at third place.

In the Senior Male Kumite -67kg category, Muhd Sufizan of Showa Ren ‘A’ won gold, followed by Bryan Isidore of Shotokan Sabah winning silver and Abdul Matin of Shitokai Brunei ‘A’ and Muhd Azhad Hamizan of Brunei Sports School ‘A’ in third place.

Muhd Fida’iy Sanif won gold for the Senior Male Kumite -75kg; Muhd Daniyal Kamal of Shitokai Brunei ‘A’ took silver and bronze went to Malcolm Marwill of MASK Kota Kinabalu ‘B’ and Mohd Nur Faiqal of Shotokan Sabah.

In the Senior Male Kumite -84kg category, Mohd Jamil of Showa Ren ‘A’ won gold; Sim Chung Hiang of Showa Ren ‘A’ won silver and Khairul Anwar of Showa Ren ‘A’ and Jay Calputera of Shotokan Sabah won bronze.

Sho Wa Ren ‘A’ won gold in the Female Team Kata category, followed by Showa Ren ‘B’ in second place and Brunei Sports School ‘A’ and Goshinryu Sarawak shared third place.

Doushinkan Miri ‘A’ won the Male Team Kata, while Brunei Sports School ‘A’ won silver.

Showa Ren ‘A’ won the Female Team Kumite, with Brunei Sports School ‘A’ in second and Shitokai Brunei ‘A’ third.

Showa Ren ‘B’ won gold for the Male Team Kumite, while Showa Ren ‘A’ trailed in second, and sharing third place were Shitokai Brunei ‘A’ and Brunei Sports School ‘A’.

Deputy Permanent Secretary (Tourism) at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali, President of Brunei Karate-do Federation Shihan Pengiran Haji Yura Kesteria bin Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran Dr Haji Mohd Yusof and referee Sensei Johnny Chong presented the medals.

|     James Kon     |

SIXTEEN students from the School of Business, Politeknik Brunei (PB) yesterday tested the viability of their business in the real market at the PB Startup showcase 2018 at the Open Plaza of Yayasan Complex.

Director of Politeknik Brunei Denis Ho Mun Tai launched the two-day showcase.

The event is an initiative by PB to promote youth entrepreneurship through a student incubation project in the last year of their diploma programmes in Business Studies (General) as well as Business Studies (Entrepreneurship). The current second batch of student entrepreneurs created seven micro startups offering food and beverages, fashion, agriculture and travel services.

Lecturer Goh Chai Li is leading the project, with five internal mentors from the PB School of Business.

Dennis said, “The significance of Entrepreneurship education is well noted at the national level as the country continues in its effort towards the economic diversification away from the oil and gas.

“PB continues to play an important and active role in promoting student entrepreneurship through the continuous initiatives in the teaching and learning of business skills, mentorship and industry partnerships,” he said.

Head of PB School of Business Ian Wall said, “The internship incubation programme is an initiative to guide student entrepreneurs in the creation of their first business venture through a structured programme in the form of a three-month internship with the industry and another three-month incubation with PB.”

The internship allows students to work closely with a local entrepreneur, who acts as a mentor in the industry sector that the student is interested in. The aim is for students to learn directly about the industry and in running a business from first-hand experience of working with entrepreneurs. Having an entrepreneur as mentor adds considerable value to the internship experience.

After the internship phase, “students spend three months in an incubation environment at the PB School of Business. The incubation builds on the industry experience and students’ learning from the internship. Students work on creating their business plans being guided through weekly workshop sessions that help prepare them to start-up their first business ventures,” he explained.

One of the participating group was Maitha Collection, a local brand selling elegant clothing, which was invited to join this year 28th Teacher’s Day celebration at the International Convention Centre. 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, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and members of the royal family visited the booth.

The other micro businesses are AOP (Adobe of Peace sportwears), Femmes Scarves, Byaqilah, FAZ, FunGro and Brunei Musafir.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

SIX Year 9-10 students from Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Secondary School are participating in an International Education, Culture, Exchange and Homestay programme in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, from November 29 until December 6.

The group left for Japan with the school Principal Chong Li Chen and school teaching staff member Zamany bin Haji Md Rais.

The participants are hosted by Japanese families to gain a first-hand experience of Japan’s customs, traditions, geographical aspects and economic issues.

During their eight-day stay, they will meet students of various nationalities to exchange views and networking opportunities in education, communication and others.

The students will visit places of interest in Wakayama Prefecture such as industries, places of trade and businesses.

It is hoped that the programme creates a sense of awareness in energy saving and nature conservation, two areas where Japan particularly excels on the global stage.

The visitors are also scheduled to visit the Governor of Wakayama Prefecture, and the mayors of Yura and Kimino, during their visit to Kobe and several other places of interest.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

THE Employees Trust Fund (TAP) yesterday hosted a fun-filled family day celebration for its staff and families to forge closer ties.

TAP and Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) also handed over donations in the form of school supplies to orphans of TAP employees and residents from Kampong Jerudong during the event at Jerudong Park Colonnade.

BIBD also handed over a donation totalling BND2,000 to the National Association for the Hearing Impaired (OKP).

The donations were handed over by Permanent Secretary (Safety, Welfare and Law) at the Ministry of Home Affairs Mohd Amir Hairil bin Haji Mahmud, who is also a TAP Board member.

Some of the activities during the event included a mass aerobic session and a walkathon, as well as family oriented games.

TAP said the event aims to inculcate a culture of cooperation, unity and also forge closer ties not just between TAP employees, but also their family members.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

INTERNATIONAL Day of Persons with Different Abilities is celebrated every December 3 as appreciation to the good deeds of persons with different abilities and to uphold their importance in society.

To commemorate the occasion, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) through the Community Development Department (JAPEM) in collaboration with the Council for the Welfare of Persons with Different Abilities (MKOKU) held a Tahlil ceremony yesterday at the Royal Mausoleum for Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam and Al-Marhumah Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Bendahara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman, the late parents of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

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.

Senior Special Duties Officer at the MCYS Haji Zakaria bin Haji Serudin; President of MKOKU Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Alimin bin Haji Abdul Wahab; representatives from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Religious Affairs; senior officers of the MCYS; as well as members of the associations under MKOKU also attended.

Imam of Kampong Sungai Hanching Mosque Haji Noorazaleneta bin Haji Ratu led the Tahlil recitation.

The press release added that in conjunction with the celebration of International Day of Persons with Different Abilities, JAPEM will hold a Kesyukuran ceremony at the Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque in Kampong Mentiri today and a forum on January 7, 2019.

|     James Kon     |

HEALTHCARE workers in the country were yesterday provided with the latest information on HIV prevention, treatment and care in Brunei Darussalam during the National HIV Symposium for Healthcare Professionals 2018 held at the Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah (PAPRSB) Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD).

The event, held to commemorate World AIDS Day 2018, was organised by the Ministry of Health through the Health Promotion Centre in collaboration with UBD’s PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences and the Brunei Darussalam AIDS Council’s (BDAIDSCouncil) Penyinar Club.

The symposium’s goal is to reduce the stigmatisation and discrimination of people living with HIV in Brunei and provide opportunities to network with other stakeholders in HIV and AIDS work in Brunei Darussalam.

Legislative Council member, Chairman of the Organising Committee and President of the BDAIDSCouncil Yang Berhormat Iswandy bin Ahmad highlighted the lingering mortal heft posed by HIV and AIDS in his symposium remarks.

On the symposium’s theme ‘Know Your Status’, Yang Berhormat Iswandy said that it is aimed at getting more people tested for the disease on the occasion of World AIDS Day.

“Anyone who feels that they are at risk should know their status and seek HIV testing,” he said. “Confidential testing involves a simple blood test that is available at most health facilities, if you are uncomfortable going to a government health facility, Jerudong Park Medical Centre and Panaga Health Centre provide voluntary confidential counselling and testing.”

Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohammad Isham bin Haji Jaafar the guest of honour at the event, also launched the BDAIDSCouncil website.

The symposium saw the presentation of a keynote lecture on best practices in HIV programmes in the region by Head of Mission and World Health Organization (WHO) Representative to Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam and Singapore Dr Ying Ru Jacqueline Lo.

Several talks were also delivered by speakers from National University Hospital (NUH), Singapore; PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, UBD; Jerudong Park Medical Centre; and local doctors from the Ministry of Health.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

MUSLIMS were reminded to be grateful for the various modes of transportation, in addition to the extensive range of transport infrastructures and networks during yesterday’s pre-dawn talk, .

“For those who drive or ride any means of transport, one should remember Allah the Almighty and the collective words of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) through good manners and etiquette while commuting,” said Assistant Lecturer from the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) Nazirul Munin bin Ahad.

Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong; Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong; Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof; Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud; Minister of 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 Royal Brunei Armed Forces Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud were present.

The talk is part of the Masjidku Makmur, Negara Berkat initiative, which aims to boost attendance for the Subuh prayer at the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque prior to the start of the Bandarku Ceria activities.

|     Aziz Idris     |

OVER 60 booths were set up at the official opening ceremony for the Brunei December Festival 2018 at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien yesterday.

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 toured the booths after officiating the festival and the Cycling Expedition as part of Bandarku Ceria programme.

Accompanying His Majesty was His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office.

The booths comprised event management companies in different categories such as food, religion, sports and adventure, culture and creative arts, as well as recreation and shopping.

His Majesty’s presence was meaningful and gave an opportunity for vendors to express the gratitude to their monarch while showcasing fun-filled activities at the festival.

This is befitting His Majesty’s personal aspiration on the role of youth as many young entrepreneurs or start-up companies are involved in this year’s festival.

Business activities are part and parcel of the ongoing Bandarku Ceria programme. Small enter-prises responded positively as the business activities provide them an extra income.

Royal Thai Embassy in Brunei Darussalam, Indonesi-an High Commission in Brunei Darussalam, Brunei Association of Hotels, homestay accommodations, Royal Brunei Airlines, Laksamana College of Business and sponsors were among the participants.

The Brunei Tourism Board aims to hold the Brunei December Festival as an annual event to promote Brunei Darussalam as a holiday destination as well as to spur economic activities in the country.

|     Wani Roslan     |

THOUSANDS of people from all walks of life flocked to Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien yesterday to witness 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 officially open the Brunei December Festival 2018 and take part in the accompanying cycling event through the capital.

Accompanying His Majesty were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; and Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah.

Upon arrival, the monarch was greeted by Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism and Chairman of the Brunei Tourism Board Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong and other Cabinet Ministers.

His Majesty and members of the royal family joined cyclists of varying ages and backgrounds during the cycling expedition, leading them along the special 11.5km route through the main thoroughfares of the capital.

After completing the course, His Majesty and members of the royal family toured the exhibition at the event – where they viewed the display of the longest braided rice  (Jalinan Kelupis Terpanjang) in Brunei Darussalam, which measures 200 metres and is listed in the Brunei Book of Records – and took in a drone performance, karate-do demonstration, and an arm wrestling demonstration, among other events.

Speaking to the Bulletin, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Tourism) at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali noted that the festival is meant to be a platform for youth and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to promote their products and provide them with experience.

“The Brunei December Festival also showcases local talents through competitions or championships,” he said.

“I hope members of the public will continue to support the event. Last year, 90,000 visitors took part in the activities held during the festival.”

He continued, “This year, we have various interesting activities, including the 200m-long braided rice (Jalinan Kelupis), which is made up of over 6,000 pieces of Kelupis and entered into The Brunei Book of Records as a record of achievement.”

Some 60 events are being lined up for the Brunei December Festival this year, including a food festival, Islamic festival, culture and creative arts showcases, recreation and shopping activities, as well as sports and adventure events.

Among the new events featured in this year’s festival are the 1st Brunei Open Double Dart competition, 1st Shitokai Brunei Open Karate championship, Drone race, Open Radio-Controlled Powerboat race, Unexpected Kingdom Ultra Marathon and Raja Julangan Kasih Rakyat Art Exhibition by local painter Huifong Ng to be held for one month at the Art Gallery at Dermaga Diraja.

Events to be held in other districts are the 3rd Green Jewel Night Run and Brunei Mountain Bike Challenge Temburong Chapter in Temburong District, White Sand Safari Adventure in Tutong District, and Brunei Rhythm Fest in Belait District.

The Brunei December Festival this year is organised by the Brunei Tourism Board in cooperation with various ministries, including the Ministry of Home Affairs; Ministry of Education; Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism; Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports; Ministry of Health; Ministry of Religious Affairs; and Ministry of Communications; as well as foreign embassies and high commissions in Brunei Darussalam, strategic partners and event organisers.

|     Izah Azahari     |

JERUDONG Park organises ‘The Story of Lights’, its first outdoor light exhibition, in conjunction with the Brunei December Festival 2018.

The exhibition, held alongside other activities at Jerudong Park, includes Movie Nights, ‘Animals in the Park’ and Interactive Games.

Visitors are greeted with a light tunnel leading to an illuminated open book which sets the scene for the five Aesop Fables – The Lion and The Mouse, The Peacock and The Crane, The Tortoise and The Hare, The Ants and The Grasshopper, as well as The Fox and The Goat.

There will also be a new expanded area at ‘Animals in the Park’ which houses more animals including black palm civets, geckos, a falcon, reptiles and floppy-eared rabbits.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

MD ALIAS bin Rashid emerged champion of the inaugural Master Alim Senior Cup 2018 after cruising to a 7-0 win over Bakhtyar Haji Zaini in the final at the Master Alim Pool Café in Kiulap recently.

The newly-crowned champion also collected the coveted Master Alim Senior Cup Challenge Trophy for his efforts.

Md Alias has been enjoying fine form in the domestic scene this year having won the 15 red snooker singles in the Brunei National Championship 2018 last September. He also climbed to the top of the snooker rankings in recognition of his stellar accomplishments.

In the earlier rounds, Md Alias overcame Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Awadi 7-3 in the quarterfinals before edging Lim Young Wee 7-6 in the last four.

En route to the final, finalist Bakhtyar enjoyed a 7-2 win over Hemran in the last eight before prevailing 7-5 in the semi-finals against Pengiran Haji Husairi.

Meanwhile, Pengiran Haji Husairi bin Pengiran Haji Metusain ended in third place after defeating Lim 7-2 in the playoff.

Organised by Master Alim Pool Brunei and supported by the Brunei Darussalam Cue Sports Association (BCSA), a total of 18 participants took part in the event.

The tournament, which was open to participants aged 35 and above, saw the preliminary rounds being played in a double knock-out while the final round are being contested in a single knock-out. All matches were played in a race to six.

|     Aziz Idris     |

TELEKOM Brunei Berhad (TelBru) feted some 800 guests for the first-ever charity movie night at Jerudong Park Colonnade last Saturday night to further enliven the holiday season.

Guests from various non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that focus on the welfare and development of children alongside their parents and guardians attended the event.

Among those who gathered for the event included children with different abilities, children living with cancer as well as those from financially-challenged backgrounds. Others who attended were winners of TelBru’s social media competition held earlier this week.

Three locally produced films were showcased namely Bungsu Story, Apa Ada Dengan Rina 2 and Anggur in Pockland as a means to promote local talent from the entertainment industry.

TelBru’s charity movie night was organised as part of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) in supporting not just the country’s efforts towards promoting home-based activities but also family values.

TelBru CEO David Holliday said, “As an organisation that values the Bruneian way of life, TelBru is proud to be part of a community that places great value on the family institution.

“This gathering is especially important to us. Many of the families invited face unique challenging circumstances that many of us cannot imagine, and so with events such as this, we help to provide an opportunity to bond and relax outside their regular routine.”

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

TSL advanced to the semi-finals of the Low San Brunei Open 2018 after easing to a comfortable 109-81 victory against Jedstar at the Brunei Basketball Association Court in Batu Bersurat last night.

The Group ‘A’ winners in the Men’s Tool Box Open extended their unbeaten start to 6-0 as they moved a step closer towards a place in the December 12 final.

The overwhelming favourites had long wrapped up the game when Fredrich Bernabe’s shot brushed the outside of the net though Fitz R Macasero was on hand to complete the scoring.

Sunday Megallon scored a game-high of 27 points while Cesar Asaldo also contributed with 16 points for the winning team.

Jedstar were simply chasing for points and Jamille Abdullah showed energy with his fine movement which earned him free throws.

But the gulf in class eventually told as TSL performed without necessarily hitting top gear. With Cesar Asoldo gaining control of the ball, the captain looked for options before sinking a three-pointer to help his team within a point of the century mark.

Abdullah’s individual performance was a rare bright spot as he drove forward to perform a lay-up which matched his run-up to the couple of points he bestowed to his team.

Having enjoyed an insurmountable lead, it was understandable that there was a clear absence in a sense of urgency but there was a collection of eye-catching passes on display at the court.

Ronnie Larrobis finished the job after he received a wonderful assist by Arnuito Deiparine before Gabriel Co made sure the trouble his teammate gone through to escape a tight defence was rewarded with a successful conversion.

The Jedstar defence was outnumbered after TSL launched an attack as Gabriel routinely made another two-pointer.

In the final few seconds of the first semi-final, TSL’s Ricardo Eliseo took on the defence without much resistance and made the two-pointer.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

BRUNEI Darussalam, through the Information Department at the Prime Minister’s Office, has been invited to participate in the 8th ASEAN Quiz (Regional Level) competition taking place from December 3-7 in Bali, Indonesia.

The Brunei contingent for the competition left yesterday.

The contingent comprises three students – Sharellyn binti Jonny from St Angela’s School, Siti Nur Insyirah binti Sahali from Sayyidina Ali Secondary School and Nurul Hidayatul Najiibah binti Haji Maiddin from Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College.

The contingent is led by Assistant Supervisor at the Extra Curricular Activity Unit of the Co-Curriculum Education Department at the Ministry of Education Nur Nadirah binti Haji Mohd Daud as the guiding teacher.

Prior to leaving, the contingent was presented the national flag by Acting Deputy Director of Information Hajah Norashidah binti Haji Aliomar.

The ASEAN Quiz is a project under the Sub-Committee of Information aiming to encourage healthy competitive spirit among ASEAN youth by holding a quiz about cultural, political, economic and social ASEAN developments in the region.

The three students representing Brunei at the competition’s eighth edition were selected following the national level of the 8th ASEAN Quiz last October.

The students each spoke to the Bulletin about their preparations and hopes for the competition.

Sharellyn said, “We hope to win for Brunei, and hopefully we will obtain first place in the competition.”

She highlighted that the competition is about teamwork.

Nurul Hidayatul Najiibah, meanwhile, said, “I hope that I will gain experience and be able to make Brunei proud.”

She explained the competition has three rounds. The first round involves true or false questions, while the second round is based on multiple choice questions.

“The third round is fill- in-the-blanks. If we are able to answer a lot, then we will get a lot of points,” she said.

Siti Nur Insyirah said, “I hope I can make my parents proud, and I want to at least make it to the top three, because the highest place that Brunei got was third place back in 2014. I hope we can attain that kind of achievement again.”

She shared that preparations have been going well, saying, “I’ve been reading a lot of articles on ASEAN. I also searched up on the previous competitions on YouTube, in which I get questions, note them down and try to memorise how they (the participants) answered the questions.”

This year marks Indonesia’s turn as coordinator and organiser for the regional level of the competition.

The ASEAN Quiz (Regional Level) was first held in Thailand in 2002, followed by Brunei Darussalam in 2004, Malaysia in 2006, the Philippines in 2009, Cambodia in 2012, Vietnam in 2014, and Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) in 2016.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) recently held its fourth meeting for 2018 in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea from November 13-15, bringing together senior business leaders from around the Asia-Pacific region.

The ABAC was created by APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) leaders in 1995 to be the primary voice of business in APEC, with each economy having three members. The ABAC meets four times a year in preparation for the presentation of their recommendations to the leaders.

Among those attending the council’s fourth meeting were ABAC Brunei members, Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii and Baiduri Bank Retail Banking and Branch Network Head Pengiran Azaleen bin Pengiran Dato Haji Mustapha.

Speaking on the meeting, Pengiran Azaleen said, “Being the final leg of the ABAC 2018 tour ahead of the APEC Leaders Summit, business leaders highlighted their concerns and recommendations on the well-being of the region’s business and trading environment, notably the trade tensions between APEC economies.

“Three major areas discussed were upholding the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP) initiatives which includes opposing protectionism; leveraging use of digital infrastructure for trades; and development of the region’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and women-led businesses.”

On what from the meeting was of particular significance to Brunei Darussalam, he said, “As a majority of businesses in Brunei are MSMEs, embracing the digital frontier in trades, either done locally or abroad, would be beneficial given the small and saturated market in Brunei.”

He added, “ABAC continuously promotes the digital economy initiative and championing a fairer free trade environment among APEC economies.”

Yang Berhormat Nik Hafimi also shared her takeaways from the meeting, saying, “I think this year’s ABAC Meeting was a little bit more on understanding the impact of a lot of what’s happening globally to MSMEs. We had various discussions as well about ABAC itself, and how it (ABAC) fits into the whole scheme of APEC. So, it was a lot of self-reflection from us as ABAC members, and the idea is to actually move forward into APEC post-2020.

“A lot of discussions centred towards the free trade of the Asia-Pacific region. That’s our main goal, with multi-level engagements and in line with the fairness approach with the World Trade Organization (WTO).”

She highlighted the APEC MSME Marketplace, a business-to-business platform enabling cross-border trade among MSMEs in the Asia-Pacific region. “We do encourage local MSMEs to tap into the marketplace, because that will give them immediate exposure within APEC,” she said.

According to an ABAC press release, in their annual report to APEC Leaders, ABAC members called on leaders to continue supporting the integrity of the international trading system, to commit to actions that lead to the eventual realisation of the FTAAP and undertake greater engagement with civil society and business to explain the benefits of trade liberalisation.

It was shared that ABAC asked governments to adopt complementary policies to ensure the benefits of trade are shared more widely across economies, through real income growth for lower and middle income groups.

The press release included comments from ABAC Chair David Toua, who said, “Closer economic integration and rules-based trading systems, including the WTO, have underpinned the shared prosperity we have achieved over the past 30 years.

“However, these systems and structures have not kept pace with the way business is done today, and multilateral efforts to modernise these systems are required to reflect current trade and economic realities.”

In addition, ABAC called on all economies to counter the trend towards protectionism and the deleterious impact that may have on the benefits of economic integration. The press release noted that, according to a report from the USC Marshall School of Business commissioned by ABAC, trade and globalisation have lifted geographic constraints for business of all sizes, including creating unprecedented opportunities for MSMEs, to engage in cross border trade.

ABAC’s core message to leaders emphasises the importance of fully leveraging the digital age. Acknowledging the concerns in communities around the digital and innovation revolution, it is clear the digital economy offers unprecedented opportunities for advancement if supported by appropriate policy settings and collaboration between governments and the private sector.

The press release added that these messages were supported by the results of a study conducted in collaboration with RMIT University.

“That means developing future-ready workforce and investing in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education; investment in effective infrastructure for affordable broadband access; and the right policy settings to ensure data flows, privacy and security, while not leaving some economies behind,” said Toua. He added that in empowering MSMEs, women remain a major priority, saying, “It is critical that MSMEs, including women-led MSMEs, are able to realise their full potential, particularly in the digital economy – whether operating domestically or internationally.

“That requires greater capacity building including training and market information; access to finance, e-commerce and the digital economy; and reducing structural impediments and trade barriers such as non-tariff barriers.”

He concluded, “A mindset in both business and society that encourages and enables equal economic participation, including diversity in leadership roles, is critical. Without addressing these needs, we will struggle to deliver truly inclusive and sustainable growth.”

The press release concluded that ABAC’s work is driven by a desire to build inclusive societies in the region, where all people prosper. The regional business community is committed to partner with governments to ensure a stable and prosperous Asia-Pacific region, with Toua saying, “Our report strongly supports an ambitious post-2020 vision for APEC, focussed on realising a seamless, dynamic, resilient, inclusive and sustainable region.”

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

THE Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei’s Bistro and Café was officially opened yesterday at the SMARTER Brunei Autism Centre for Adults (BACA) centre in Kampong Sungai Hanching.

Officiating the opening ceremony was guest of honour 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.

Others present at the event included member of the Legislative Council Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Pendikar Alam Dato Paduka Seri Haji Hasrin bin Dato Paduka Haji Sabtu; SMARTER Brunei President Malai Haji Abdullah bin Malai Haji Othman; Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Datin Paduka Dr Hajjah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil; Legal Manager and Personal Representative of Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd Haji Mohd Husini bin Haji Abu Bakar; ambassadors and representative officers of ASEAN member countries; as well as officers and staff from different ministries.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Malai Haji Abdullah and Haji Mohd Husini participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially launch the bistro.

They also signed a commemorative plaque to mark the opening of the bistro.

In his welcoming remarks, Malai Haji Abdullah said the launch of the bistro was made to commemorate International Day of Persons With Disabilities, and to support the causes of the MCYS’ ‘Day of Action’ initiative and the US-initiated Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) YOUnified programme, an annual community service campaign held on December 3 to commemorate YSEALI’s anniversary and celebrate the power and potential of YSEALI members.

“The launch of the bistro and café is also made alongside the launch of the SMARTER Brunei Employment Programme,” he said.

“Some 35 autistic students between 12 and 34 years of age are educated at the SMARTER BACA Centre in Kampong Sungai Hanching, where they are grouped into different categories of employability according to their abilities.

“The bistro and café is part of the employment programme that they are participating in. Here the participants will prepare coffee and menu items for sale, helping to bring in income and in the upkeep of BACA.”

Malai Haji Abdullah added that the programme is part of SMARTER Brunei’s efforts to support social entrepreneurship, to ensure that “every individual with autism (IWA) has a job and no one is left behind”.

Six brands of coffee products from six ASEAN member countries were presented at the newly opened bistro and café, with guests being served the beverages by the programme participants.

|     James Kon     |

ELEVEN paintings portraying the warm bond and close relationship between His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and the people of Brunei Darussalam are currently on display in the Raja Julangan Kasih Rakyat solo art exhibition by local portrait artist Huifong Ng.

The launching of the exhibition, which is being staged at the Dermaga Diraja from December 3, 2018 to January 3, 2019, was officiated by 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 yesterday morning.

The minister together with Huifong Ng unveiled a massive master portrait painting, measuring six-and-a-half feet by seven feet, of His Majesty delivering a sermon to his people after the Hari Raya congregational prayer at Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque to mark the end of the fasting month in 1992.

“This moment standing here is a dream come true for me,” Ng said in her speech at the painting unveiling. “I feel very blessed to finally have this wonderful opportunity to hold my solo exhibition in my country, Brunei Darussalam.”

She said that she had been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to receive many curious questions from foreigners on Brunei Darussalam during her extensive travels in pursuit of her art career over the past seven years.

“Besides painting picturesque images of the touristic wonders my country offers, I feel it is also very important to share with them that we the people of Brunei, the ‘Abode of Peace’, have also had the great privilege of enjoying a beautiful symbiotic relationship with our caring monarch over the past decades,” she said.

Ng explained that the collection of paintings in the exhibition is dedicated to showcasing the “historical and heartwarming moments that portray the love and close bond between His Majesty and his people”.

“The exhibition is also devoted to providing a deep appreciation and great understanding to the Bruneian people and tourists visiting Brunei of the unique and living concept of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) practised and embraced by the people of Brunei Darussalam,” she added.

The artist extended her thanks to the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism; Brunei December Festival Secretariat of the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism; and Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports for their “tremendous support” for the exhibition, and AsiaEuro Tech Sdn Bhd for making the event a reality.

Revealing the effort that went into the event and in completing His Majesty’s portrait, Ng said, “It took six to eight months to prepare the exhibition. The master painting of His Majesty is my favourite because it reflects the country’s MIB concept that the people embrace.

“It shows His Majesty delivering his sermon, which also conveys the theme of the exhibition and shows His Majesty’s care for the people and the people’s care for our monarch. The portrait took me three months to complete.”

Ng shared that all artworks featured at the exhibition will be up for sale, with a portion of the proceeds going to special needs children of dedicated special education centres throughout the country.

She added that her next goal is to explore more of Brunei’s beauty through art.

“Art can reflect the culture, life and civilisation of a nation,” she said. “I felt that I would like to give myself more opportunity to explore more of the beauty of Brunei culture and express it through my art to share with the people.”

|     Wani Roslan     |

THE Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) through Community Development Department (JAPEM) in cooperation with the Council for the Welfare of Persons with Different Abilities (MKOKU) hosted a Doa Kesyukuran ceremony at the Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque in Kampong Mentiri, yesterday.

The Doa Kesyukuran ceremony was held in conjunction with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities which is celebrated every December 3. This year’s theme is ‘Empowering Persons with Different Abilities and Ensuring Inclusiveness and Equality’.

The guest of honour of the ceremony was 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.

Also in attendance were Permanent Secretary at the MCYS Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil; President of MKOKU and associations under it Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Alimin bin Haji Abdul Wahab; representatives from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Religious Affairs, heads of departments and senior officials of MCYS.

The ceremony began with a mass recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah by Imam of Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque Haji Samsul bin Haji Abdul Latiff and verses of Al-Quran recited by a student from Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Khairul Azman bin Haji Mohd Salleh, while its translation was read by a trainee from Pusat Bahagia Mohd Alif bin Haji Taha.

It then continued with the recitation of Surah Yaasiin, mass Asar prayer and Doa Selamat. The event also saw a sharing session by a student from the Universiti Brunei Darussalam Muhamad Haziq Syafiq bin Haji Aisha.

An exhibition by MKOKU was also held to highlight information and activities conducted by persons with different abilities with their families and the community.

In conjunction with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, JAPEM in collaboration with MKOKU will be organising a forum on January 7, 2019 at the International Convention Centre in Berakas.

|     Azlan Othman     |

LOCAL companies are encouraged to export more of their products to move forward, as Brunei is still heavily dependent on imports according to the national import statistics report for 2017.

Purchases of several types of goods – notably agricultural, fishery and food commodities – are particularly high.

Speaking at the one-day workshop on current regulatory requirements in Brunei and across ASEAN at the International Convention Centre (ICC) yesterday, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) Haji Halidi bin Haji Mohd Salleh said that the government is also constantly reminding importers and exporters to always adhere to the regulatory control requirements for the import and export of food products.

“This compliance is vital in helping the government prevent any harmful effects towards humans, animals and plant life in the area of food safety, and also in particular the local industries and economy,” the deputy permanent secretary said.

Haji Halidi added that 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 has planned for progressive and sustainable economic growth for Brunei’s future generations through the Brunei Vision 2035 national development plan.

“His Majesty reminded us that our small domestic market should not be a hindrance to economic growth, and that every company be they private or government-owned should be able to sell their products and services to foreign markets,” he said.

Brunei’s representative for Asean Food and Beverage Alliance (AFBA), Haji Abdul Halim bin Haji Saim, meanwhile noted that the roadmap for establishing a dynamic and sustainable economy is provided under Brunei Vision 2035. Within the various strategies under this economic blueprint, agricultural production and agrifood processing have been identified as priority sectors for the country.

“At the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Brunei Darussalam (NCCIBD), we are constantly seeking opportunities to enhance the capacity of the local food industry,” Haji Abdul Halim said. “Besides strengthening the domestic food supply system, we hope for further expansion into the export markets for locally produced products.

“To tap into business opportunities in the region, we need to understand and comply with regulatory requirements to ensure quick market access. The purpose of this workshop is to create a platform that provides clarity on the local and regional regulatory framework.”

The harmonisation of standards and facilitation of regional trade are set as priority areas under the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint 2025. The ASEAN region has vast growth potential, offering member states attractive opportunities in the food industry.

Organised by the AFBA, the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood of the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, and the NCCIBD, the workshop’s goal is to help companies better understand the import/export regulatory requirements for the food industry in ASEAN, and provide them networking opportunities for venturing into export markets.

Invited speakers at the event included officials from government agencies and representatives from the private sector. Some 140 participants attended the workshop, comprising representatives of local food enterprises from the agrifood and fisheries sectors, foreign direct investor companies, the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Finance and Economy, as well as DARe (Darussalam Enterprise) and Ghanim International Corporation Sdn Bhd.

Also present were heads of departments of Brunei government agencies, the programme leader of AFBA, as well as managers and owners of local food companies.

AFBA is a non-profit organisation established in 2013, with members comprising national associations in Southeast Asia in the food and beverage industry.