|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

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 yesterday received in audience newly appointed Brunei Darussalam envoys and newly appointed foreign envoys to Brunei Darussalam in separate audiences at the Qashr Al-Meezaan.

His Royal Highness first received in audience Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to the State of Qatar Mohamed Bahrin bin Dato Paduka Haji Abu Bakar, and Permanent Representative of Brunei Darussalam to the ASEAN in Jakarta, Republic of Indonesia Hajah Kasmalati binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Mohamad Kassim.

Mohamed Bahrin had served as the Acting Director of International Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Meanwhile, Hajah Kasmalati was previously the Acting Director of Administration at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The newly appointed Brunei Darussalam envoys received their Letters of Credence from 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 February 4.

His Royal Highness then received in separate audiences the newly appointed foreign envoys to Brunei Darussalam.

His Royal Highness first received in audience Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Brunei Darussalam Salah Mubarak Musleh Al-Mutairi.

The new ambassador was formerly the Non-Resident Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to the Republic of Paraguay.

His Royal Highness then received in audience Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam Yu Hong.

She was previously the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal.

His Royal Highness then received in audience Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Brunei Darussalam Wanthanee Viputwongsakul.

The new Thailand ambassador had served as Minister at the Royal Thai Embassy in Hanoi, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

The newly appointed foreign envoys to Brunei Darussalam presented their Letters of Credence to His Majesty on February 4.

INSTITUTION of Civil Engineers (ICE) representative for Brunei Bahrin Mohammad visited the Chairman of Board of Architects, Professional Engineers & Quantity Surveyors (BAPEQS) and Permanent Secretary (Infrastructure, Housing and Professional) at the Ministry of Development Haji Amer Hishamuddin bin Pehin Orang Kaya Amar Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Zakaria at the Ministry of Development.

Under the Architects, Professional Engineers and Quantity Surveyors Order (APEQSO), consented on March 26, 2011 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, BAPEQS objectives include granting authorisation to the qualified architects, professional engineers and quantity surveyors to practise in Brunei Darussalam, maintaining and developing standards of professional conducts and ethics and to promote learning and education.

Around 95 per cent of Civil Engineering Practitioners registered under BAPEQS are members of the Institute of Civil Engineers. Based in London, the ICE is an independent body for civil engineers with over 92,000 members, of whom three quarters are located in the United Kingdom, while the rest in more than 150 other countries.

As a professional body, ICE aims to support and promote professional learning (both to students and existing practitioners), managing professional ethics and safeguarding the status of engineers, and representing the interests of the profession in dealings with government, etc. It sets standards for membership of the body; works with industry and academia to progress engineering standards and advises on education and training curricula.

During the meeting, which was held at the Ministry of Development, BAPEQS Chairman and the ICE representative exchanged ideas to uphold the professionalism among civil engineering practitioners and encourages life-long learning to help broaden their technical and professional capabilities.

ICE members can access the world’s largest collection of civil engineering resources with over 130,000 library titles in the civil engineering library which includes e-books, journals, textbooks and reference material.

There are currently 148 members in Brunei of which most are active practitioners. ICE aims to continue supporting the civil engineering profession by offering professional qualification, promoting education, maintaining professional ethics, and liaising with industry and academia.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

SEVERAL parents of children with special needs spoke to the Bulletin yesterday during the graduation ceremony hosted by the Special Education Unit (SEU) under the Ministry of Education (MoE).

Haji Ariffin bin Haji Suhaili said there has been some marked improvement in his son, Faid, who initially studied at SMARTER Brunei before being enrolled into Sayyidina Ali Secondary School.

“For someone who hardly speaks, Faid now is able to speak a little with some confidence; as a parent, I am really grateful for this positive development,” he said, adding, “I am also indebted to my son’s teachers who continuously supervise and monitor his development, and have provided great support to encourage and motivate him.”

Nursinah binti Mohd Kassim who drove all the way from Kuala Belait yesterday with her husband expressed pride in her daughter, who has shown some positive improvement since entering the Pre-Vocational 1 class at the PGGMB School in Kuala Belait.

“I have no complaints about the care given to my daughter who has Down Syndrome,” she said. “Despite her condition, she is very independent and does not give any trouble.”

Nursinah’s husband told the Bulletin, “When my daughter is at home, she does things on her own such as ironing her clothes, tidying her room and cleaning the house – and all this is done without her mother’s supervision.

“At school, she is also independent, and there are times when her teachers need her help in persuading her fellow classmates to attend class or to do their duties.”

Nasir Javed, an expatriate who works at the Ministry of Health and has been in the country for the past 14 years, spoke of his daughter who is a Year 11 student at Sufri Bolkiah Secondary School.

“Despite her mild dyslexia, she is an intelligent girl, and her memory is better than mine,” he said. “She has problems in reading and writing, but having supportive teachers helped her to improvise; and Alhamdulillah, she is doing all right.

“She is also independent in all her daily activities. We also had a religious teacher to come over to give her lessons in Al-Quran recitation. Alhamdulillah, she can now recite from Al-Quran independently.”

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

THE Special Education Unit (SEU) under the Ministry of Education (MoE) held a certificate presentation ceremony at the Airport Mall’s Mahligai Hall yesterday.

Acting Director-General of Education at the Ministry of Education Hajah Anis Faudzulani binti Haji Dzulkiflee was the guest of honour at the ceremony that also coincided with an Open Day event to celebrate the graduation of 75 students who recently completed a Pre-Vocational Programme between 2014 and 2018.

The ceremony began with welcoming remarks by Acting Head of the SEU as chairperson of the organising committee Haji Ali Yusri bin Haji Abdul Ghafor who said that the unit is in the process of implementing several initiatives to further expand these learning programmes at the primary and secondary levels.

“Among the initiatives currently being processed is a special curriculum for special needs students; and in the near future, the curriculum at the secondary level through the Pre-Vocational Programme will be reviewed to ensure that it is capable of meeting the skills required by the industries,” he said.

“In sports, six special needs students will be participating in athletics and track-and-field in the 2019 Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi. This clearly is evidence that special needs students can also succeed in sports, and elevate our country at a regional and international level.

“On the religious side, the SEU has successfully provided opportunities for four special needs students to enrol in memorising programmes according to specific categories.”

The guest of honour presented certificates to 75 graduating students, as well as certificates of appreciation to four homeroom teachers and six Special Education Needs Assistance (SENA) teachers who recently retired from service. The guest of honour also presented 16 companies with certificates of appreciation for their support and partnership in providing work placements for students in the Pre-Vocational Programme.

Designed to meet the needs of students with special needs who require additional support in mastering skills in one or more of the following domains namely academic, social and communication, physical, sensory and independent living, the Pre-Vocational Programme is an alternative pathway.

At the same time, it sets out to maximise the potential of students with special needs, so that they can acquire various vocational and life skills which will empower them to become independent adults.

The five-year programme includes Years 7-9 on Basic Academia and Visits on Career Exploration and Preparation; Year 10 on Career Placement and Career Awareness; and Year 11 on Career Specialisation Placement and Follow-up.

Following the presentation ceremony, the guest of honour toured an exhibition showcasing a wide variety of items for sale, prepared by students in the Pre-Vocational Programme from 22 secondary schools.

Hand-crafted bags, pillows, framed artwork and needlework, fresh produce grown in gardens and greenhouses, biscuits, cupcakes, and rosella jam were among the items featured at the exhibition.

In the Open Day event, the students’ parents and guardians were invited to meet with representatives from several institutions and agencies which could potentially assist in broadening their career prospects.

Among the participating institutions and agencies were JobCentre Brunei, the Manpower Policy and Planning Unit at the Ministry of Energy, Manpower and Industry; and the Youth Development Centre at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.

The Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE), Pusat Bahagia, the Community Development Department (JAPEM), UnikLearn, Paralympic Council of Brunei Darussalam (PCBD), Special Olympics Brunei Darussalam (SOBD), Brunei Darussalam National Association of the Blind (BDNAB) and National Association for the Hearing-Impaired (OKP) were also among those participating in the event.

|     Daniel Lim     |

THIS year’s convocation ceremony for Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Primary School (SRPSBSOAS), Kuala Belait Year 6 students for 2018 was garden-themed with decorations as well as food and beverages being showcased reflecting them.

The convocation ceremony was held at the Kuala Belait Convention Hall in Jalan Mckerron yesterday.

In total, 57 students from the classes of Year 6 in the 2018 session participated.

Teachers, parents and guardians were also present.

Guest of honour, Head of External Affairs, CEA3, Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd Suriani Garip who was welcomed to the venue by the Headmistress and Senior Education Officer of the school Hajah Nor Zurina binti Haji Assim, handed over the certificates.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat by Ustaz Ali Yusri bin Haji Buang followed by the welcoming speech by the school’s Headmistress.

She congratulated the students and thanked the parents for their continuous support.

“I would also like to extend my gratitude to the teachers of our school for their hard work and dedication as they represent a major pillar in ensuring that the student’s academic achievement,” she said. A student representative, Siti Fitriah binti Haji Hamri also delivered a short speech expressing gratitude on behalf of the students to all the teachers and staff members of the school, as well as the parents.

The ceremony continued with the handing over of certificates to the graduating students and to those who had performed exceptionally over the course of the 2018 academic year.

|     Aziz Idris     |

INDERA Motos Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of Jaguar and Land Rover in the Sultanate, treated customers and guests to a Chinese New Year spread at the Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) Showroom in Lambak yesterday.

Managing Director of Indera Motors Sdn Bhd Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Ghaffar bin Pengiran Indera Setia Diraja Sahibul Karib Pengiran Anak Haji Idris was present.

Meanwhile, Indera Motors General Manager Alfred Yong Foh Sen along with staff welcomed guests.

The event, held from 10am to 5pm, was enlivened with a lion dance performance.

Customers also had the opportunity to get behind the wheels of the latest Jaguar and Land Rover models.

Alfred Yong Foh Sen said the celebration was held to show appreciation to customers for their support.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

THE Badan Tanmiah Harta Majlis Ugama Islam held a foundation-laying ceremony for the construction of an additional block for an existing school on a plot of land owned by Baitulmal in Kampong Anggerek Desa yesterday.

Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs and Chairman of the Badan Tanmiah Harta Majlis Ugama Islam’s Board of Directors Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar was the guest of honour.

Members of the Board of Directors, senior officials from the Islamic Religious Council Department, director, officers, and staff of Badan Tanmiah Harta Majlis Ugama Islam were also present.

Investment Manager at the Badan Tanmiah Harta Majlis Ugama Islam Mohammad Adi Asnawi bin Awang Adanan said the two-floor extension building, with eight classrooms, will accommodate around 240 students.

He hoped the building will provide a comfortable and conducive environment for both teachers and students. The initiative is in line with the Badan Tanmiah Harta Majlis Ugama Islam’s mission to generate income through socio-economic development for the well-being of the Muslim community in Brunei Darussalam.

The project is expected to be completed within 12 months with an estimated budget of BND551,600.

|    Fadhil Yunus    |

DPMM FC’s new fitness coach Davis Lindsay underscored the need to address the players’ nutritional needs in a concerted effort to get into optimal condition ahead of the Singapore Premier League season next month.

The club has acquired the services of the British to help improve the squad’s fitness level as they step up their preparations for the Singapore top flight.

“We cover every area especially when we eat, for example breakfast, pre-match and recovery meal,” said Lindsay in an interview with the media recently.

“I’ve seen the games and after 60 minutes, they seemed to go and run out of energy. We need to sort that out, hydration test the player to see if that’s the problem.

“The players have been working hard and they have bought in to what we want to do. Every day, six days a week for training, three sessions some days – there is no hiding that they found it tough but they have not given up.”

Lindsay, who studied at the International Institute of Sports Therapy, added, “I’ve been really impressed with their attitude and we will be a fitter and stronger side this year in the Singapore league for it.”

The fitness coach also said that it is easier for the players when they are playing away matches as they could provide details to the hotel.

“It makes it easier for us when we are away because we can tell the hotel and give them (the hotel) a menu. Each player has got a menu now for what they need for breakfast and recovery meal. They will have electrolytes afterwards and we monitor that.”

The players have been assessed through a series of tests during the early period of training.

Lindsay said, “Basically, initially we came in and assessed the fitness so we do a few tests and see where they are physically, both in endurance and strength. We initially did some tests on them and then we assessed each player individually.

“We looked at their weaknesses, strengths and we tried to adapt the programme.”

When the players first met for training, initial observations found that stamina and endurance were a problem as well as upper body strength and core strength vital in injury prevention.

The Gegar-Gegar men will begin their campaign away against Home United on March 3.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

FINANCIAL assistance were presented to three victims of recent disasters as part of the government’s effort to lessen their hardship.

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 handed over the donations during a ceremony at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Complex in Jalan Kebangsaan yesterday.

The recipients comprise house collapse victims from Kampong Saba Darat B on December 18 last year, and another from Kampong Pekan Lama, affected on January 9. Victims of a December 28, 2018 house fire in Kampong STKRJ Kampong Tungku also received the financial aid.

The MCYS stated in a press release that the donations were expected to lessen the burden of the victims and their families.

Permanent Secretary at the MCYS Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil and Acting Director at the Community Development Department (JAPEM) Rostinah binti Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Sura Pahlawan Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Tahir were also in attendance.

|     James Kon & Hakim Hayat     |

A FURNITURE shop at the Chuchu Plaza in Kampong Telanai, Jalan Tutong, was completely destroyed in a massive fire yesterday afternoon.

According to the Fire and Rescue Department (FRD), 20 personnel in four fire engines from the Beribi and Berakas fire stations, were immediately deployed to the scene after a distress call was received at 1.06pm.

Led by Commanding Officer at the FRD ASFR Hanif bin Haji Subuh, the firefighters extinguished the fire within 22 minutes, using lines from the fire engines and a nearby water hydrant.

There were no reports of casualties or injuries.

Further investigations are being made to determine the cause of fire and the actual amount of loss.

|     Azlan Othman     |

MINISTER at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, yesterday said that interaction and balanced communication by means of Syura (consultation) can help make decisions in a mature, precise and purposeful manner.

The minister said this during a dialogue session between the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and members of the Legislative Council (LegCo), at the PMO building in Jalan Menteri Besar.

“We need to find solutions to issues raised, proposed and presented by the community,” he said.

“If possible, these matters should be settled early, without waiting to be brought before the Legislative Council meetings.”

Among those present were 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 Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Elinda binti Haji CA Mohammad.

The 12 LegCo members, meanwhile, were led by Penghulu of Mukim Kota Batu Yang Berhormat Naim bin Haji Kamis.

In his closing speech at the dialogue session, the minister said, “I hope that we can work together more closely and agreeably to effectively addressing the challenges being faced, as a supportive team with a sense of respect in serving our monarch and our faith.”

In his reply speech on behalf of the LegCo members, Yang Berhormat Naim expressed the hope that no member of the civil service would abuse authority for self-gain or for their families.

“People in this country want the civil service to be trustworthy and sincere in the provision of services,” he said. “The power entrusted to them must be used wisely and nobly, taking into account the laws, regulations and policies to be implemented properly without any prejudice or injustice.”

Yang Berhormat Naim also called on the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) to step up its measures in the prevention of illicit drug trafficking, and urged the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to prevent bribery and corruption from becoming more widespread.

Also present at the session were the Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force; the Auditor General; permanent secretaries and deputy permanent secretaries; and the directors and senior officers from the PMO and departments under it.

On January 15, the LegCo members had a similar dialogue with the Media and Cabinet Division at the PMO, which was followed with a visit to Radio Television Brunei. A day later, another dialogue session was held between the LegCo members and the Department of Adat Istiadat Negara.

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

OVER 300 senior citizens participated in the 73 Times Khatam Al-Quran ceremony at the Sufri Bolkiah Mosque in Kampong Perpindahan Berakas yesterday afternoon.

The ceremony was held in conjunction 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 73rd birthday celebration this year.

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.

The ceremony began with a mass Asar prayer led by Sufri Bolkiah Mosque Imam Morni bin Haji Nayan followed by the mass recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by the guest of honour.

Chairman of the 73 Times Khatam Al-Quran Senior Citizen Management Plan Commitee Haji Abdul Hakim bin Haji Mohd Yassin in his remarks highlighted that the objective of the initiative was to express appreciation, gratitude and love to His Majesty and to encourage the citizens to read Al-Quran.

The ceremony was divided into 21 female Halaqah and six male Halaqah with the monitoring and Tasmik sessions assisted by the head of the Halaqah.

The ceremony ended with the recitation of Doa Selamat and Doa Peliharakan Sultan by the Sufri Bolkiah Mosque Imam.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

AUTORITI Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) held a Cancer Awareness Event for its employees recently at the Ministry of Finance and Economy (MoFE) complex in Commonwealth Drive in conjunction with World Cancer Day 2019.

Organised in collaboration with Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital and Health Promotion Centre (HPC) of the Ministry of Health (MoH) and Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC), the event aimed to raise awareness on the risk factors and ways to reduce cancer risks.

Consultant Oncologist and Physician at RIPAS Hospital Dr Haji Muhammad Syafiq bin Abdullah @ Kian Chee Lim delivered a presentation entitled ‘Cancer in Brunei – What You Need to Know’.

The talk focussed on the prevalence of cancer within the country. “Cancer is one of the top two killers in Brunei Darussalam – and is the leading cause of death, with records of over 600 cases diagnosed per year. Therefore, awareness is crucial to understand that there are preventative measures and that early detection is important,” he said in his presentation.

The talk also covered various types of commonly occurring cancers within Brunei, the risk factors associated with the disease including lifestyle, environmental and inheritance factors, as well as prevention and controls.

In line with Cancer Awareness Day 2019’s theme ‘I Am and I Will’, Dr Haji Muhammad Syafiq stated, “The drive for change should first come within ourselves and that includes healthy behaviour and habits that can be practised at home and within the organisation, improvise to reach your daily food intake and physical activity goals and aim to change your lifestyle in the workplace together to move towards a healthier and a more positive and productive workforce.”

In November 2017, AMBD also held a Mental Health Awareness programme for its employees highlighting the importance of understanding their mental health status and the importance of ensuring their mental health.

The event also included a Cancer Prevention Exhibition by the HPC, and assisted self-breast examinations by JPMC.

Vouchers were given out to female employees to undergo an ultrasound or a mammogram at the JPMC.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

UNIVERSITI Teknologi Brunei (UTB) is leveraging on its diverse campus environment with first-rate faculties and international reputation for innovation and research to address today’s challenges and ensuring that its graduates are marketable and industry-ready.

Masters by Research in Engineering student from Malaysia, Angel Tan Eng Hie commented that learning in UTB reduces the chance of job mismatch by facilitating smooth transition from academic to the working environment.

This, she added, saved for three years for her tuition fee to enrol into UTB’s Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Civil with Structural Engineering and pursued on with her postgraduate study also at UTB.

Tan also shared her satisfaction in the quality of education she gained from the university where she noted that not only does UTB have experienced lecturers, the students are also provided with invaluable industrial knowledge that enhance their theoretical understandings.

The lecturers-turned-supervisors and mentors guide the students constructively in their studies and lecturers with prior work experiences often would share their hands-on knowledge and their perspectives and highlight points that are less discussed in the books.

“I believe UTB is equally competitive as any other regional and international universities.

“Furthermore, studying in UTB allows me to be closer to my family and the best part was I can complete my degree at a fraction of the cost.

“This is in particular an important factor for prospective students facing financial constraint,” she added.

Having a son who will turn six in April, Tan noted that the understanding of the lecturers and the flexibility given to her is important in her role as a mother.

“I love the fact that both the lecturers and non-academic staff here are very understanding and supportive, because I am a mother and with the continuous support given, I can juggle family commitments,” she said.

UTB’s reputation as a ‘hands-on’ and interactive school meanwhile kindled Lu Shir Mao’s interest in pursuing his architectural studies in UTB.

The School of Design’s Architecture student said that despite being a new course, the School of Design launched in August last year has been very active. Local and international industry practitioners are also involved as UTB’s adjunct staff, enabling students to benefit from first-hand knowledge and experience of the industry.

Lu is also excited to share and contribute his knowledge in developing Brunei’s architecture and what he particularly enjoy at UTB is the friendship of people, where everyone’s respects each other and shares knowledge.

A Masters by Research student from the School of Applied Sciences and Mathematics Nurhazirah binti Nurazmy on the other hand shared that UTB offers programme that allows her to pursue her passion in food sciences and technology and hopes to contribute to the development of the Agri-food industry in the country.

“From my research projects, I would like to develop products for the local and export market. Once I graduate from UTB, I can see myself applying my research skills in developing the agricultural sectors 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 titah on developing agriculture in the country,” she said.

Nurhazirah also added that besides having approachable lecturers, UTB has helped her to become more independent.

She also realises that her communication skills have improved from her experiences during workshops, conferences and public speaking.

She further noted that UTB allows her to meet new people and improve her communication skills that are beneficial for her personal development and it also pushes her to become more independent that allows her to do her best in achieving her utmost potential and talents in research studies.

Opportunity to attend briefings, conferences, workshops and site visits are some of the things she enjoyed best at UTB and the university also has that calming environment unlike other universities that she has been to before.

Current PhD student, Nurul Izzati Naqibah binti Zaidi, who is also a young entrepreneur and founder of Mayang Couture said that UTB has created a platform for her to be the best person she could ever have imagined, venturing into areas she never thought she would.

Both UTB and UTB School of Business helped her change her views and perspectives on what can be achieved especially for young entrepreneurs and as a student and while pursuing her Degree in Technology Management last few years, it opened up her eyes and encouraged her to build he own start-up company, and venture into oil and gas business.

“At UTB, we are encouraged to go beyond our comfort zone and see obstacles as opportunities. I must admit it is hard but it doesn’t stop me because in life we can always slow down, but we should never stop,” said the 25-year old entrepreneur.

She has also encountered failures several times, but with continuous support from the university she is still able to withstand the challenges and is also grateful that UTB has helped her realise her dreams by opening up her own Mayang Couture Boutique at the university campus last year.

“What I would like other students to realise is that starting a business is for everyone even though you are still a student and UTB provides the best foundation for this.

“This is the reason why I chose UTB and why UTB is different from others,” said Nurul Izzati.

UTB alumni, Naasiruddeen bin Abdul Wahab said UTB nurtured his leadership, decision-making and management skills.

This helped him throughout the process of applying for an engineering job with Brunei LNG.

UTB was his university of choice because of the high marketability of its courses especially in engineering and UTB’s balance in education and non-academic activities are its strengths which he believes can create a lot of successful graduates Naasiruddeen, a Bachelor of Engineering graduate in Electrical and Communication Engineering was also the President of UTB Student Council 2014/2015, and he was awarded the Vice-Chancellor’s award in 2016.

Another alumni, Qamaruzzaman bin Affandy meanwhile saw the potential from the prospects offered by UTB, as it matched what other universities offered globally.

“UTB has always been known for its capabilities in equipping students with technical abilities,” he said adding that with its numerous research efforts and co-curricular activities, it is known for producing well-rounded graduates.

Qamaruzzaman, who currently works as a Database Administrator in Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) added that UTB has definitely provided him with a platform during the six years (from Higher National Diploma to Undergraduate Degree) of studies and helped him grow to be where he is now.

“Looking back and seeing where I am now, I definitely made the right decision,” he said.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

FAIZAH binti Haji Bair @ Haji Nordin was beaming with happiness as she walked away with a return air ticket to Bangkok as the grand prize winner of the Main dan Menang 2 lucky draw promotion organised by Jerudong Park Country Club Sdn Bhd (JPCC).

The promotion’s grand draw and prize presentation was held at the JPCC headquarters yesterday, according to a press release.

The lucky draw covered over 380 participants who entered the Jerudong Park Playground in January.

JPCC Acting General Manager Datin Hajah Sakdiah binti Haji Md Noor presented prizes to the winners.

The press release added that as the grand prize winner, Faizah also won a Peak Performance Sdn Bhd day pass, a Nadi Quranic Kilanas registration voucher, a Garden Sentral Hotel room voucher, a shopping voucher from Shop @ Sarah’s and movie vouchers from Times Cineplex. Second place winner Safiana binti Zainin won a return air ticket to Bali along with a day pass from Peak Performance Sdn Bhd, a shopping voucher from Shop @ Sarah’s and movie vouchers from Times Cineplex.

Third place winner Shamshol Omar won a return air ticket to Saigon while fourth place winner Juvielyn Marco won a return air ticket to Kuching.

Both the third and fourth place winners also won PowerKad vouchers worth BND30, vouchers from McDonald’s Brunei and two Jerudong Park child tickets.

In January, visitors who spent BND40 or above in a single receipt to the Jerudong Park Playground were eligible for the weekly draw and the grand lucky draw, with 25 weekly draw winners picked each week for January.

Prizes include BND20 McDonald’s Brunei vouchers, BND20 fuel vouchers, BND30 PowerKad vouchers, BND20 Times Cineplex movie vouchers, BND50 grocery vouchers, Jerudong Park Playground tickets and 30 per cent discount vouchers off Jerudong Park tickets.

The press release also stated that the Main dan Menang lucky draw was made possible by sponsors: Jits Irmao, KB Sentral, Shop @ Sarah’s, Nadi Quranic LC Kilanas and Peak Performance Sdn Bhd.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

AS PART of its corporate social responsibilities towards people in need in the country, Telekom Brunei Berhad (TelBru) yesterday donated financial aid worth BND5,000 for the Back to School project conducted by the Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM).

TelBru Head of Corporate Communications Haji Ideris bin Haji Ali presented the cheque on behalf of TelBru to Head of MKM Children Committee Zubaidah binti Dato Paduka Abu Zar at the TelBru office in Royal Brunei Plaza building in the capital.

The project is an annual project by MKM to help children from underprivileged families get their schooling necessities. In this year’s project, 25 students from underprivileged families have been selected by MKM to receive TelBru’s financial sponsorship.

Apart from the sponsorship, a group of volunteers from TelBru also joined the MKM’s administrative committee members and MKM volunteers to help shop for school items with the recipients.

The project started a few years ago since the launching of MKM’s Legal Clinic.

The needy families are registered under MKM.

Zubaidah said MKM does get a lot of support from individuals as well, adding that for each child it provides BND250.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

SEVERAL members of the Tutong Senior Citizens Activity Centre (PKWE Tutong) led by officials from the Community Development Department (JAPEM) in the Tutong District visited Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin and family during a Chinese New Year (CNY) open house in Kampong Sungai Besar recently.

The visit was a gesture of appreciation for his contribution to the PKWE Tutong building, which was officially launched by Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof when he was the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports on July 10, 2017.

Senior citizens thanked Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh for providing them an opportunity to enjoy their retiring years at the centre.

Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh was also informed that the application to have the building extension was approved and will help the PKWE Tutong to accommodate additional members.

He offered to cover the costs of building the extension and contribute additional health equipment.

|     Rokiah Mahmud & Hakim Hayat     |

WITH the consent 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, Chief of Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) General Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Haji Affendi bin Buang was conferred with the Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAirF) Honorary Pilot Wing in recognition for his services in advancing ties between the RBAirF and the RMAF.

Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud presented the award to General Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Haji Affendi.

The Chief of the RMAF was recently in the country for the presentation ceremony and for his introductory visit to the RBAirF.

Upon arrival at the RBAirF Base, he was received with the honorary salute by a guard of honour comprising personnel from the RBAirF, followed by the RBAirF Honorary Pilot Wing Presentation.

The Chief of the RMAF also paid courtesy calls on the Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof.

Both sides reaffirmed the longstanding and strong relationship between the air forces. The RBAirF and RMAF interact regularly through a broad number of exchanges and exercises, which have deepened the mutual understanding and camaraderie between the two air forces.

He also paid courtesy calls to the Commander of the RBAF and the Commander of the RBAirF Brigadier General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat.

General Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Haji Affendi was appointed as the Chief of the Royal Malaysian Air Force on December 21, 2016.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

KASUKA FC lost ground in the race for the DST Super League title after they were held to a goalless stalemate by Kota Ranger FC at the Track and Field of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex last night.

Title rivals Kasuka cut MS ABDB’s lead to six points but the defending champions can widen the gap to nine points with victory over MS PDB in the uniformed derby tonight.

Kasuka FC weathered the early storm as Kota Ranger looked to spoil their plans of piling pressure to league leaders MS ABDB in the first half but a breakthrough was still a requirement.

Kota Ranger were the last team who challenged the current holders for the title but eventually fell short after their draw to Tabuan Muda in the penultimate game of last season meant that it was not mathematically realistic to catch them.

Fast forward to this season, Kasuka looked to fill in Kota Ranger’s shoes with victory putting them four points behind the army personnel.

Kota Ranger started the game the brighter of the two sides as Muhd Abu Bakar bin Haji Mahari expertly skipped his marker before unleashing a drive which was well handled by Kasuka goalkeeper Mohd Ishyra Asmin Md Jabidi.

Their forward line nearly had a clear sight on goal but Muhd Hafis bin Haji Mahari overlooked his pass which was intended for Khalil bin Saab. Nevertheless, Khalil grabbed hold of the ball and forced a smart stop by Mohd Ishyra for a corner.

Kota Ranger’s forward Muhd Fathurrahman bin Embran did have the ball at the back of the net but the whistle had long been blown for an apparent offside.

Kasuka showed promise when Md Mardi Mirza bin Abdullah Bujang released a clever pass to Afindi Yati bin Tuah but the Kota Ranger defence snuffed out the danger.

Afindi Yati was through on goal for Kasuka but Kota Ranger’s Md Syarafuddin Hamdi bin Haji Talip came to his team’s rescue with a well-timed clearance.

The Kasuka attacker proved a handful with his strength and the goalkeeper was off his line when he squared the ball into the middle which was hacked away by the alert defence.

The experienced forward was responsible in the last three of his team’s set-pieces as opponents got excited with the challenges.

Kasuka ended the first half as the likelier side to break the deadlock as Reduan bin Petara’s successive goal-bound efforts were blocked by Md Syarafuddin Hamdi and Mohd Khalid Wassadi Salleh bin Haji Mahmud on separate occasions.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

DPMM FC continued their relentless pursuit for the DST Premier League title in their debut season after an emphatic 9-0 victory over Jerudong FC at the Jerudong Park Mini Stadium yesterday.

DPMM FC, the ‘B’ side to the team competing in the Singapore Premier League may have just joined Brunei’s second tier this season but their victory over Jerudong were their fifth in a row.

It is also a fifth game that they have not conceded a goal while rising star Md Hakeme Yazid bin Said further enhanced his reputation as a lethal goal-scorer after his second consecutive brace lifted his league haul to eight this season.

Nevertheless, the younger sibling of famed stars Shahrazen and Adi was overshadowed by the displays of the returning Abdul Azizi bin Ali Rahman after scoring five goals.

The DPMM FC striker, who netted a hat-trick in the Singapore Premier League last season, also rose in the scoring charts with seven, one behind his strike partner.

DPMM FC midfielder Imam Mahdi bin Suhaimi also joined in the act with a brace in the rout.