|     Achong Tanjong     |

BOUSTEAD Sdn Bhd yesterday officially announced that it is running its ‘Feel The Extra 4 The Win’ promotion, offering Suzuki customers the chance to win a BND8,888 cash voucher as the grand prize.

To enter the draw for the promotion, customers must purchase any Suzuki vehicles – excluding the Suzuki Jimny and Super Carry – within the period of December 5, 2018 to January 31, 2019.

Adding accessories to the newly purchased Suzuki will increase one’s chances of winning the grand prize.

An internal draw, which will be open to the media, will be held in February next year at the Suzuki showroom in Gadong to select three customers who will compete in a fun challenge to determine the grand prize winner.

The second and third place winners will also receive BND1,088 and BND888 cash vouchers respectively.

The goal of the promotion is to encourage customers to fit their newly purchased Suzuki with the extensive range of accessories available to get a feel of the true Suzuki driving experience.

The availability of the accessories is model-specific and each model – from a choice of the Swift, Ignis, Vitara, Ertiga and Celerio – has their own range of accessories.

Each accessory fitted is registered as one entry for the internal draw, in addition to the entry for purchasing the car during the promotion period.

This means that the odds of becoming one of the three finalists increase as more accessories are installed.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam ‘A’ athlete Ang Guat Lian sealed victory in the women’s taijijian event after registering a score of 9.20 points in the 10^th BIMPNT-EAGA Friendship Games at the Indoor Stadium of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex yesterday.

The wushu exponent demonstrated a combination of poise, elegance and athleticism during a perfectly-executed routine and her efforts will be rewarded with the gold medal during a victory ceremony today.

Ang Guat Lian earlier made her mark in the women’s taijiquan event with 9.25 points to put her in firm position for gold.

Brunei Darussalam ‘B’ Lim Yee Sean claimed second place with 9.14 points after collecting 8.97 points in the taijiquan event. Mo Shin Qi of Sarawak settled for third place with 8.97 points.

Brunei Darussalam ‘A’ continued their dominance from their opening-day haul with three more confirmed gold medals including the women’s changquan and men’s daoshu events.

The hosts enjoyed another clean sweep on the podium led by Brunei Darussalam ‘A’ athlete Sherissa Lim Wan Chi in first place with 9.05 points in the women’s changquan having accomplished a similar pattern in the women’s jianshu event.

Her teammate Ling Dexuan settled for second place with 9.03 points while Brunei Darussalam ‘B’ Ling Dexun took third place with 8.74 points.

Meanwhile, in the men’s daoshu event, Brunei Darussalam ‘A’ Mohd Safiee Shayferan bin Roslan struck gold with 9.18 points while the Mindanao duo of Lynter James B Franco and Walros Joseph B Franco took silver and bronze with 9.13 and 9.12 points, respectively.

Brunei Darussalam ‘A’ are also on course for a clean sweep in all events after gaining top place finishes on the second day of action.

Brunei Darussalam ‘A’ Mohd Adi Salihin bin Roslan topped the rankings in the men’s nanquan event with 9.30 points closely trailed by his teammate Majdurano Joel Majallah Sain in second place with 9.27 points.

The pair will be locked in another keenly-contested battle in the men’s nangun event to determine gold.

In the women’s nandao event, Brunei Darussalam ‘A’ athlete Nur Batrisyia binti Ripin took top spot with 9.13 points.

Brunei Darussalam ‘A’ Hosea Wong Zheng Yu is in the driving seat when the men’s taijiquan event commences after topping the men’s taijijian event with 9.20 points.

|     Khairil Hassan     |

BRUNEI Darussalam’s athletes secured podium finishes in the pencak silat event of the 10^th BIMPNT-EAGA Friendship Games 2018 at the Youth Centre yesterday.

Brunei Darussalam ‘B’ Alif bin Yahya @ Johari won gold in the Men’s Open Creative Solo category, followed by compatriot Md Mahadir @ Danish Naqiuddin bin Mahmud in the silver medal place, while Sabah’s Awangku Mohd Tarmizal bin Pengiran Tamin took bronze.

Brunei Darussalam ‘A’ Anisah Najihah binti Abdullah bagged gold in the Women’s Tunggal event, while South Sulawesi’s Yuniah Oktaviani won silver and Sarawak’s Nurimah binti Ramlee settled in third.

In the Women’s Ganda (Doubles), South Sulawesi pair Agustina and Nurwanda Sari won the gold medal, followed by Rozinah Janil and Joysherlyn Junih of Sabah in second place and Sarawak duo Nurul Fadillah Fitri binti Firdaus and Jascyenta Natasia Ratai in third.

In the Men’s Team event, Brunei Darussalam ‘B’ trio of Alif bin Yahya @ Johari, Muhd Nizammuddin Mukminin bin Fairulman and Awangku Muhd Hadi bin Pengiran Abdul Rahman Erwin were pipped to second place by South Sulawesi’s Erwin, Andi Muhd Arya Fatahillah and Jefry Aprilianto, who won gold. Bronze medals were won by Muhd Amirul Akid bin Haji Nordin, Md Rasyid bin Jainuddin and Mohd Hazim bin Ramlie of Brunei Darussalam ‘A’.

Akil Bohli and Muhd Firdaus Masri of Sarawak won gold in the Men’s Ganda (Doubles) event, followed by Niko Pasongli and Andi Firman of South Sulawesi in second place and Sabah’s Hafizam bin Amat and Mohd Ridzuan bin Majid third.

Brunei Darussalam ‘B’ Nur Amal Liyana binti Abdul Rahman won the Women’s Solo Creative event as Sabah’s Ros Amirah binti Mohd Alimin took silver and Qistina Athirah binti Zainal of Brunei Darussalam ‘A’ took bronze.

Md Mahadir @ Danish Naqiuddin bin Mahmud of Brunei Darussalam ‘A’ bagged gold in the Men’s Tunggal (Singles) event, while Muhd Iqbal Ansyary of South Sulawesi won silver, followed by Sarawak’s Mohammad Shafiee bin Musa in third place.

Trio of Nur Wasiqah Aziemah binti Rosihan, Anisah Najihah binti Abdullah and Qistina Athirah binti Zainal of Brunei Darussalam ‘A’ secured the most points to win gold in the Women’s Team event, followed by South Sulawesi’s Yuniar Oktaviani, Agustina and Sulastri winning silver, and Masdiana binti Julkiflin, Nur Zarifah Koo binti Husaini and Nur Amal Liyana binti Abdul Rahman of Brunei Darussalam ‘B’ taking bronze.

Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs Abdul Walid bin Haji Matassan presented the prizes.

|     James Kon     |

FIFTY-SIX participants in a convoy of 25 4WD vehicles are set for an adventurous trip in a five-day-four-night off-road expedition in Tutong District following the flag-off for the Jungle Quest 2018 yesterday morning in Pekan Tutong.

The guest of honour, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Tourism) at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali launched the event.

Acting Tutong District Officer and Chairman of Tutong Municipal Board Haji Azmi bin Haji Abdul Rahim was also present.

Event Director of NT Event Management Atiqah binti Abdullah said that the event is part of the Brunei December Festival 2018 to promote the country as a destination for off-road expedition.

Participants hailing from Sabah, Sarawak, Kuala Lumpur, Samarinda, Jakarta, Vietnam and Great Britain will go through Kampong Liulon, Kampong Penapar, Rambai, to the Hardcore Trail and Bukit Sulang and then to Kiudang.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

HUNDREDS of athletes and contingents from countries of the 10th BIMPNT-EAGA (Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Northern Territory of Australia-East ASEAN Growth Area) Friendship Games 2018 were given a warm welcome at a gala dinner last evening at the Tarindak D’Seni in Bandar Seri Begawan.

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 welcomed the young athletes to the Sultanate and wished them success.

He added that the Friendship Games is an excellent platform for young athletes to prove their abilities and allow them to compete on a larger stage and forge ties within the BIMPNT-EAGA region.

“The Friendship Games offers an interactive platform for networking and promotes our different cultures, people to people links by showcasing sporting talents,” said the minister.

The minister also presented prizes to top five winners of the Friendship Golf Tournament.

The welcoming dinner was filled with traditional performances comprising Gulingtangan and dances.

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and Chairperson of the Executive Committee of the Friendship Games Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, heads of foreign mission to Brunei from member countries and also senior officials from member countries were also present.

The 10th BIMPNT-EAGA Friendship Games began on Friday and will conclude today at the Indoor Stadium of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex in Berakas.

Themed ‘Friendship Through Sports’, the Games aims to foster friendship among BIMPNT-EAGA members and athletes towards solidarity, understanding and cooperation.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

A TOTAL of 394 youth enrolled in the 8th National Service Programme (PKBN) will embark on a three-month journey in an initiative geared towards producing youth who are responsible, disciplined, dynamic, united, courageous and capable of contributing to the country’s socio-economic development.

The 8th intake of the programme, which sees a total of 249 male and 145 female trainees, is the largest intake since its inception in 2011.

During the launching ceremony held at the PKBN Training Camp in Batu Apoi in Temburong District yesterday, 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 congratulated all the trainees for coming out of their comfort zones to gain new and challenging experiences.

“I am proud because all of you have come forward to respond to the responsibility towards becoming outstanding individuals much needed by the nation. You denote the sense of optimal human capital who possess strong self-identity and spirit of patriotism, as mentioned by 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 during the passing out parade for the previous intake in March this year,” the minister added.

The minister said that the trainees will gain useful knowledge to enable them to enhance their physical and spiritual abilities during their time in the training camp.

“The trainees are hoped to take full advantage of the next three months and open their minds, while facing new skills in the best possible way. With hard work and determination, I believe all trainees will make us all proud as exemplary Bruneian youth who are resilient in facing any hurdles or challenges,” he added.

The launching ceremony also saw the video screening of PKBN’s performances from the 8th intake, including the reading of the PKBN oath by all the new trainees.

Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu, Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam and other senior government officials from different ministries, parents and guardians were also present.

Implemented under the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS), the goal of PKBN is to enhance the spirit of patriotism, commitment and resilience among youth in addition to strengthening the understanding contained in the constitution of the state and the national philosophy of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB).

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

A LINE-UP of fun-filled activities await visitors at the DST Carnival 2018 at the Bridex Hall 2 in Jerudong as it opened yesterday. Several rounds of lucky draws offer attractive prizes throughout the two-day event with the Grand Lucky Draw to be held tonight, concluding the event.

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, in his capacity as the Chairman of DST, officially launched the carnival yesterday.

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance and Economy Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abdul Hamid, in his capacity as Deputy Chairman of DST, Acting CEO of DST Radin Sufri bin Radin Basiuni, foreign envoys, corporate guests, DST Board of Directors and management were also present.

DST’s Assistant General Manager of Customer Service and Chairperson of the DST Carnival 2018 Datin Hajah Umikalthum binti Haji Mat Daud, in her welcoming remarks, said that the carnival highlights DST’s on-going support to Brunei December Festival initiative.

Following the launching, the minister and guests toured the carnival pavilion showcasing exhibitions ranging from pro-ducts and services to engagement activities.

The engagement activities include gaming ‘Experience Zone’ powered by DST broadband, the ‘Fun Zone’ activities by Kristal Astro, KristalFM’s live studio and the 360degrees Smile Cam Booth.

The Smart Home lifestyle concept is also exhibited for customers to have a taste of home of the future.

Customers can experience various products and services offered by DST and enjoy the latest promotions, prima contract/noncontract and bundled device plans and also GO!broadband and Home Broadband packages throughout the event.

Games and activities inc-lude KFM Acoustic Sessions Live!, Kristal Astro Colouring Competition and Kids Costume Competition, Futsal Tournament, the Next KFM Voice, Triple Threat Fitness, Stage Games and DST Smile Campaign Grand Draw.

The carnival also featured a motivational talk by Datuk Professor Dr Muhaya Mohamad yesterday. Another talk will also be held tonight.

The carnival also sees stage performances featuring local artistes namely Gzul Yusof, Syasya Sahira, Ezah Hashim, Syafiq Abdillah, Browne, Zed Peace and Play Forte.

DST announced its exclusive carnival promotion, which is upfront payments on phone plans for as low as $0 with selected phone models from Vivo and Samsung as well as Lifestyle essentials by DSTIncomm, including mobile phones and tablets.

Promotions from Kristal Astro are also available at the carnival until 10pm tonight.

|     James Kon     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office is to step down as Chairperson of the National Disaster Council.

Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong will take over the post, with other members of the council retaining their positions.

The announcement, made by the minister himself in his opening remarks at the 2nd National Disaster Council meeting at the Brunei-Muara District Office yesterday afternoon, came following 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 declaration that the National Disaster Council will be chaired only by ministers from now on, as outlined in the Permanent Secretary’s letter, Prime Minister’s Office’s dated May 5, 2018.

The minister together with members of the National Disaster Council conveyed their utmost appreciation and gratitude to His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah for his all-encompassing leadership, vision and guidance during His Royal Highness’ tenure as chair of the Council.

The minister also thanked all members of the council and government agencies, private sector bodies, volunteers and members of the public for their donations in addressing disasters that affected the country this year.

“With close cooperation and assistance from all the agencies,” the minister highlighted, “we were able to control the disaster situations – such as the floods in early January and forest fires – and provide help to people who were affected and ease their burden”.

The minister recounted that during the previous meeting, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah called for the council to continuously work towards enhancing the country’s resilience and community strength in handling risks of disasters as well as man-made incidents such as explosions, oil spills and other crisis events.

He said that the Council will continue to serve as a platform to discuss ways to address disaster events using holistic approaches and manage them effectively as described in the Disaster Management Order 2006.

To uphold the sabda of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah as previous chairperson of the council, the minister said, “The National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) has taken proactive steps to further improve cooperation with the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (AHA Centre), especially in raising staff capacities by providing the opportunity for the staff of the centre and other agencies to attend training programmes under the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER 2009).

“Brunei also joined the ASEAN Regional Disaster Emergency Exercise and Simulation 2018 (Ardex-2018) in Cilegon, Indonesia as part of these efforts,” the minister added.

The minister revealed that Brunei Darussalam has sent two officials from the NDMC and the Fire and Rescue Department to join the ASEAN Response Assessment team and representatives from other ASEAN member countries to collect information and conduct assessments in areas affected by the earthquake and tsunami in Sulawesi.

“We also went to assess the needs of the populations affected by the disaster, to support the efforts of the national board for disaster management in Palu, Indonesia.

“This was an opportunity for local officers to gain exposure and experience to raise their skills in facing disasters such as earthquakes,” he said.

“The NDMC will be implementing workshops and Table Top Exercise to assess and coordinate our capabilities in tackling disaster situations. I hope integrated trainings such as this will continue to be implemented in 2019.”

The meeting also saw NDMC Director Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Maiddin bin Pengiran Haji Said presenting a report on natural disasters that took place in Brunei and efforts implemented by the NDMC in 2018 to tackle such events, as well as flood mitigation steps taken by the Ministry of Development in preparation of the rainy season, which is expected to last until early next year.

Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, Permanent Secretary (Security, Welfare and Law) at the Ministry of Home Affairs and Secretary to the National Disaster Council Mohd Amir Hairil bin Haji Mahmud, permanent secretaries and officials of various ministries were also present.

|     Daniel Lim     |

THE Belait District Office and the Belait District Branch of the Youth and Sports Department conducted a ‘Day of Action’ Campaign yesterday in the Belait District in conjunction with International Volunteer Day 2018.

The campaign, held nationwide, provided a platform for volunteers and local agencies to conduct activities that benefit the communities.

Acting Belait District Officer Ridzuan bin Haji Ahmad officiated the campaign at the Golden Jubilee Recreational Park in Belait District.

The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat led by Imam of Kampong Sungai Teraban Mosque Haji Omar Ali bin Haji Mohd Hussain.

The Acting Belait District Officer, in his speech, urged members and volunteers to take the opportunity to maintain the cleanliness of the environment.

He distributed gears and supplies to members and volunteers.

The activities conducted included a cleaning campaign alongside the road of Jalan Maulana, along the beach-front of Kuala Belait’s Silver Jubilee Park, and the surrounding area of the Golden Jubilee Recreational Park.

Over 400 members and volunteers participated in the campaign.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

OVER 300 participants took part in the ‘Run and Cycle’ event organised by the Institution of Surveyors, Engineers and Architects (PUJA) Brunei with RYS Entertainment Aewon Garment & Embroidery as event partners at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien yesterday.

The event, in conjunction with the Brunei December Festival 2018, began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah by Hafiz Ishamuddin followed by a warm-up session.

The event saw a 21km cycling event participated by Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar and Deputy Minister of Development Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin.

It was flagged off by member of the Legislative Council and President of PUJA Yang Berhormat Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman.

The event also saw the flagging off of the running events – 10km, 6km and 3km.

The event aimed at raising awareness regarding the association and its objectives to promote, foster, recognise and advance the science and art of surveyors, engineers and architects’ professions.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

SYARIAH Subordinate Court Judge at the Syariah Subordinate Court in Tutong District Pengiran Haji Shahril Azman bin Pengiran Haji Metusin emphasised on how acts of charity can bring about positive effects, as a spiritual investment in gaining the blessings from Allah the Almighty.

He made these comments during yesterday’s pre-dawn lecture on the virtues of charity.

Among those present were Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, Syariah Court of Appeal Judge Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Setia Raja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Haji Awang Suhaili bin Haji Mohiddin, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Yussof and Permanent Secretary (Corporate Affairs and Public Administration) at the Prime Minister’s Office Haji Roslan bin Haji Taja’ah.

The pre-dawn talk was jointly organised by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Prime Minister’s Office, as part of the Masjidku Makmur, Negara Berkat programme to motivate more active participation for mass Subuh prayer at the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

A MEMORANDUM of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony was held for sponsors and partners of the Cuckoo Stardom Quest 3 at Annajat Complex yesterday.

Managed by SGA Media and Marketing, the Cuckoo Stardom Quest 3 is a singing competition that aims to provide a platform for locals to showcase their talents. It is being held in conjunction with the Brunei December Festival (BDF) 2018 organised by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT).

SGA Media and Marketing General Manager Danny Tay, delivering his opening remarks, thanked all the sponsors and partners.

These include title sponsor Cuckoo International (B) Sdn Bhd; honourable sponsor the Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited; main sponsors Kingston Beverage and Creamery Sdn Bhd (Pepsi), Setia Motors Sdn Bhd (Hyundai), Entrek (B) Sdn Bhd (Jollibee Brunei) and E&E Industrial Sdn Bhd (Pure Nectar); silver sponsor Mohan’s Carpet Palace; as well as partners D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd, Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, Korea Lee So Ra Sdn Bhd, Tech Haven, Studio Eleve, Fitness Zone, Digi-Mark Enterprise, Chua Interior Furnishing Company, Maxtrack, Annajat Complex, Opixel Production, Aewon Garment and Embroidery, Begawan Athlete Enterprise and Chorz Music.

“It has always been a dream of mine to create and nurture the talent of singing and acting in Brunei,” Tay said. “Stardom Quest is a competition that provides a stage close and near to professional talent quest competitions.”

He added that the first and second Stardom Quests were held in 2010 and 2012.

“With the collaboration of the MPRT and BDF, Stardom Quest 3 is born again this year,” he said. Speaking to the Bulletin, Tay explained, “The ultimate aim of the competition is to create a career path in talent for singers. There are solo singers, bands and acapella singers. We are trying to create path in this line for them.”

He added that the top finalists will also have a chance to become an ambassador for Cuckoo, while there are also cash prizes on offer.

The Cuckoo Stardom Quest Charity Carnival to be held at the Jerudong Park Garden from December 28-30 will feature a wide range of activities including a charity run, a products and services expo, a colouring contest, a motor show and a dinosaur mini-park.

A key highlight will be the Cuckoo Stardom Quest 3 grand final at the Jerudong Park Amphitheatre on December 30.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam ‘A’ swimmer Nur Haziq bin Samil grabbed his second bronze of the 10th BIMPNT-EAGA Friendship Games in the 100m freestyle at the Swimming Pool of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex recently.

The swimmer posted a time of 58.21s behind silver medallist Ka Yong Chong of Sabah who posted a time of 56.77s and gold medallist Martin Krantz of Northern Territory of Australia who recorded 56.41s.

Nur Haziq also bagged bronze in the 200m freestyle with a time of 2:05.93s on the first day of the competition.

The Brunei Darussalam swimming team also established nine age group records and 38 new personal bests during the two-day regional meet.

A total of 17 swimmers across two teams – Brunei Darussalam ‘A’ and Brunei Darussalam ‘B’ – took part alongside swimmers from Mindanao, Northern Territory of Australia, Federal Territory of Labuan, Sabah, Sarawak and South Sulawesi.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

SNAPSHOTS of sporting fever and the joyful spirits among the participating contingents in the 10th BIMPNT-EAGA Friendship Games captured on the giant screen were met with cheers and applause during the closing ceremony at the Indoor Stadium of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex yesterday.

Deputy Minister of Energy, Manpower and Industry Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Matsatejo bin Sokiaw was the guest of honour.

The ceremony began with the march-past by the contingents led by the Royal Brunei Armed Forces marching band and the logo flag carriers comprising alumni from the National Service Programme.

The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, in her capacity as the Chairperson of the 10th BIMPNT-EAGA Friendship Games Executive Committee 2018 in welcoming remarks said, “Since the commencement of the Games, athletes across boundaries have come together to observe the unbelievable snapshots of the games. Each and every one of our athletes has contested fairly and put forth a valiant effort, showing solid commitment, amazing diligence and genuine sportsmanship.

“I am happy to see that your participation has shown us the power of unification through sports by overriding national, political, religious and language barriers. The outstanding participation from all of you has contributed to the spirit of solidarity.

“In fact, this Friendship Games has become an important event on our regional sports calendar as a platform for networking, strengthening friendship and cultural diversity across the region,” she said.

The ceremony continued with the declaration of the closing of the 10th BIMPNT-EAGA Friendship Games by the guest of honour and the lowering of the flag.

The handing-over of the BIMPNT-EAGA flag followed with the guest of honour presenting it to the Chairman of the BIMPNT-EAGA Sports Council Datok Jufri Rahman, who then presented it to Charles Raymond A Maxey, the head of the Philippines contingent.

The Philippines will host the 11th BIMPNT-EAGA Friendship Games in 2020.

Among the highlights of the closing ceremony were a video presentation of the future host of Davao City as well as a lively performance centred towards the next host country from Seri Mulia Sarjana School and Seri Mulia Sarjana International School students.

This edition of the BIMPNT-EAGA Friendship Games featured eight sports events – aquatics, lawn bowl, karatedo, athletics, pencak silat, sepak takraw, taekwondo and wushu.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

MD ASHREEN bin Haji Tamynuddin, Mohammad Syamimi bin Haji Mohd Samrin and Nur Hafizah binti Mohammad Esa were selected as the top participants of the Muslim Youth Camp held in conjunction with the Brunei December Festival 2018.

Over 90 youth from all four districts completed the camp. The three top participants were awarded for their exemplary and excellent attitude and skills.

The three-day camp, jointly organised by the Mosque Affairs Department with the Mosque Takmir Committee of the Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, aimed to inculcate and nurture self-identities of its participants by teaching them spiritual and leadership skills, and values to allow them to be more responsible, concerned and loyal to the religion and the country. The camp saw students aged 15 and above from different secondary schools, colleges, higher educational institutions as well as mosque youth groups taking part in activities, which included special lectures, motivational talks, teamwork exercises, Islamic art activities and field trips.

The closing ceremony at the Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah was attended by guest of honour, Acting Director of Administration at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) Sofian bin Haji Basri, who handed over the certificates of participation.

|     Izah Azahari     |

BORNEO Kustom Show (BKS) held its ‘Petrolhead Sunday Hangout’ yesterday at Kontena Park, Anggerek Desa Technology Park.

The event, supported by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism and part of the Brunei December Festival 2018, was launched by guest of honour Deputy Permanent Secretary (Tourism) at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali and BKS founder Asmalee bin Haji Ariffin.

Asmalee explained that the activity is part of BKS’ efforts to promote Brunei and its soon-to-be-held main event.

Held from 10am to 10pm, Petrolhead Sunday Hangout showcased more than 50 types of vehicles and products and services by a number of car dealers.

Some 25 local businesses also set up booths selling food and beverages.

The event was held in support of Brunei December Festival 2018 and to provide opportunities for car enthusiasts to interact with each other and share information and their experience on all things automotive, such as techniques for modifying exhibition cars and motorcycles.

The event additionally aimed to promote travel and tourism in Brunei Darussalam, assist local and foreign entrepreneurs in highlighting their products, promote tourism in ASEAN member countries, and to improve the bonds between car and motorcycle enthusiasts in the country.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

LOCAL writers in Brunei Darussalam’s fledgling film industry will get the opportunity of a lifetime to meet famed Hollywood screenwriter Mark Shepherd and glean his expert tips on the craft at Brunei Film Blitz 2018.

The sessions with Shepherd, who has written several feature-length scripts for major studios and independent producers, will take place at the Mahakarya, Level 3, Plaza Athirah in Jalan Tutong from today till December 15.

Shepherd is a successful screenwriter for television and film with extensive industry experience.

He serves as Associate Professor of the Practice of Cinematic Arts at the University of Southern California (USC).

He notably co-wrote Ground Control (ABC 2000) starring Kiefer Sutherland and Kelly McGillis.

His other works include Emerald City and Silk Road.

At USC where he earned an MFA in screenwriting, Shepherd teaches graduate students the basics of dramatic screenwriting as well as advanced feature-length writing.

He has extensive feature film experience and has held a senior management position with the Sundance Film Lab.

One of Shepherd’s most notable students is Shonda Rhimes, the creator of Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal.

At a press conference on the scheduled sessions, Shepherd explained briefly that he will pass on to the participants valuable bits of his firsthand knowledge on the Hollywood film industry, and give them a range of presentations and discussions on the trade.

He will also discuss the importance of intellectual property rights (IPR) in the film industry and lead cinema production workshops.

During Brunei Film Blitz, content creators and writers will be treated to various master classes.

Fifteen ‘Powered by Progresif’ secondary school students will also have a chance to pitch their stories and attend master classes on how to improve their writing skills for the screen and publication.

Film-goers will be treated to a University of Southern California Film Showcase, and will also have the opportunity to view George Lucas’ (the creator of the Star Wars franchise) student films.

A creative content pitching session will also be held on December 15, providing budding filmmakers the opportunity to test the marketability of their ideas, with the view of possibly landing a production deal.

All of Shepherd’s master classes, organised with support from the US Embassy in Brunei Darussalam, will be free of charge.

Brunei Film Blitz Director Siti Kamaluddin, US Embassy in Brunei Darussalam Public Affairs Officer Daniel Lee and members of Brunei Film Blitz were present.

“We are thrilled to welcome Professor Shepherd as the embassy’s first US Arts Envoy to Brunei,” Daniel Lee said. “He will engage with the growing creative community here, sharing insights into what he has learnt working in the entertainment industry. The embassy is excited to work with the local arts community and support their endeavours in media and the performing arts.”

The sessions with Shepherd are: December 10, 7.30pm-9.30pm – Meet Mark Shepherd; December 11, 7pm-9:40pm – Wayang Kitani United Film Nation; December 12, 7pm-9:30pm – Mark Shepherd: Content Creators of the Future I; December 13, 7pm-10pm – University of Southern California Showcase, 3pm-5pm – Mark Shepherd Pitching Session, and 7pm-9.30pm – Mark Shepherd: Content Creators of the Future II.

A workshop called ‘Meet Mark Shepherd, United Film Nation’ will include a panel discussion on ‘Bruneian Screen Identity and Content Creators of the Future Workshop’, where the panellists will explore filmmaking ideation using a generalised approach to the writing process.

The majority of the sessions will take place at the Mahakarya, Plaza Athirah.

To book seats for the master classes, log on to www.bruneifilmblitz.org or call 8188777.

For the latest updates on the sessions, visit Brunei Film Blitz’s social media pages and official website.

|     James Kon     |

SOME 12 speed limit camera signs have been installed by the Brunei National Road Safety Council (BNRSC) at specific roads throughout the country as a reminder for road users to adhere to the speed limits.

The BNRSC in a press statement stated that the areas where the speed limit camera signages were placed have already been placed under speed limits even before the new signs were installed.

The areas where two of these new speed limit camera signages are installed are Jalan Gadong after the Beribi roundabout heading to Jalan Tutong through Kampong Jangsak, and the road after entering Gadong from the traffic lights at Jalan Tutong heading towards the Beribi roundabout.

Another two signages are installed along Jalan Jerudong, namely at the section upon entering Jalan Jerudong from the Muara-Tutong Highway heading towards Jalan Tutong, and after entering Jalan Jerudong from the traffic lights at Jalan Tutong heading towards the Muara-Tutong Highway.

Four signages are located along the Muara-Tutong Highway, namely at the section after passing the junction in front of Meragang Sixth Form Centre heading towards Tutong; after the 70km/hr speed limit signage in the Jerudong area heading towards Tutong; after the 70km/hr speed limit signage in the Jerudong area heading towards Muara; and another after the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Defence Academy in Tanah Jambu heading towards Muara.

Two signages were placed along Jalan Kumbang Pasang, before the 50km/hr speed limit signage in the Raja Isteri Girls High School (STPRI) area heading towards Gadong, and after the traffic lights on Jalan Gadong heading towards Bandar Seri Begawan.

The last two signages are installed along the Telisai-Lumut Highway, at the section after passing the traffic light at the junction to Kampong Telisai heading towards Kuala Belait, and another after passing the traffic lights at the Lumut Campus of Politeknik Brunei heading towards Tutong. Enforcement of the road speed limits is also carried out from time to time by the Royal Brunei Police Force at selected roads across the country with the use of portable speed camera technology.

The BNRSC is reviewing the speed limits of roads nationwide in accordance with their conditions and proneness to accidents.

THE DST Carnival 2018 opened its doors to smiles as thousands of visitors flocked to Bridex Hall 2 in Jerudong for the anticipated line up of fun, games and entertainment.

Last Sunday marked the end of the two-day annual carnival organised by DST. It is also one of the event highlights under the Brunei December Festival (BDF) 2018 to support tourism activities in Brunei for visitors as well as an avenue for locals to visit during the seasonal holiday period.

A range of fun activities, games, exhibitions, promotions and stage entertainment awaited customers. Promotions were the major highlight of the carnival as hundreds of customers grabbed the opportunity to register to DST’s phone plan services that offered upfront prices as low as BND0 for selected models. Other bundle packages, broadband services and box sets were also a hit, with many devices sold out.

Carnival highlights also included performances by local artistes including musical entertainment from new and upcoming singers and bands through the ‘KFM Acoustic Sessions Live’ programme organised by KRISTALfm (KFM).

KRISTALfm also hosted the prize presentation for the KFM Voice DJ Search, a programme contest run by KRISTALfm since October to find the next English and Malay voice with KRISTALfm’s own DJs guiding the contestants as mentors. Results were determined by public votes online, with Awangku Shahmarizal Indra bin Pengiran Abdul Jaman the winner for the Malay category and Muhammad Adi Razi Sharbini the winner for the English category.

Over the two-day carnival, activities were also catered for children including the much anticipated Kids Costume Contest where over 70 children in various costume character outfits participated.

For their participation, a prize presentation was held to judge the top three winners for their creativity and effort. The rest of the participants received consolation prizes.

DST Assistant General Manager of Customer Service Datin Hajah Umikalthum binti Haji Mat Daud, who is also the Chairperson of the carnival, presented the prizes to the winners.

Lailatul Tiara Carissa Shaiful Harris won first place dressed up as a Chucky Doll while Muhammad Azka Hakimi grabbed second place dressed up as a Bumblebee. Md Aqil Arsyad Marzuki placed third dressed up as an Ancient Egyptian.

Reward activities were also an anticipated highlight, bringing excitement to visitors.

Six lucky draw sessions were organised over two days for customers who stood a chance to win amazing prizes such as 55’ Toshiba TV, Samsung 40’ Smart TV, Dell Laptops, iPad Pro 10.5, Samsung S9 256GB, iPhone 8 256GB and iPhone XR 256GB.

The grand prize for the final grand lucky draw was an iPhone XS (265GB) which was presented by DST Acting CEO Radin Sufri bin Radin Basiuni.

|     Khairil Hassan     |

HONEY Carsmart crushed KYG 81-34 to clinch third place in the women’s category of the Low San Brunei Basketball Open at the Brunei Basketball Association Court in Batu Bersurat yesterday.

The third-place matches for veteran and open categories will be held tonight, with Menglait facing GHK and TSL go against Tool Box, respectively.