Headline – Borneo Bulletin Online

| Rokiah Mahmud |

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 Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, yesterday graced the 70 Times Khatam Al-Quran ceremony held in conjunction with His Majesty’s 70th birthday celebrations at the Istana Nurul Iman.

A total of 1,708 participants took part in the mass recitations, which commenced simultaneously in all four districts on March 1, and ended at the Istana Nurul Iman yesterday.

Accompanying Their Majesties to the religious event were Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam.

Their Majesties and other members of the royal family were greeted on arrival by Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, the Minister of Home Affairs, in his capacity as the Chairman of the National Executive Committee for His Majesty’s 70th birthday celebrations; and Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs.

The religious ceremony commenced with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti.

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 Her Maj-esty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam during the 70 Times Khatam Al-Quran ceremony yesterday

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah, His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel during the 70 times Khatam Al-Quran ceremony held at the Istana Nurul Iman

Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah, and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah during the ceremony

Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Ha-fizah Sururul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Prin-cess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam at the ceremony yesterday

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak ‘Abdul Haseeb bin Pengiran Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Rahim is the participant of the ceremony. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

This was followed by a mass recitation of selected chapters from the Al-Quran, led by a student from the Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic Boys Secondary School (SMALHB).

The Khatam Al-Quran participants comprised mainly of members from the Mukim and Village Consultative Councils in all four districts.

Each district was represented by adults constituting 70 men and 70 women, and youths constituting 70 boys and 70 girls.

The ceremony also saw the participation of 180 boys and 102 girls from various religious institutions, including the Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB) Primary School.

Among the young participants was the grandchild of His Majesty, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak ‘Abdul Haseeb bin Pengiran Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Rahim.

The religious event also featured students from secondary and vocational schools, as well as from higher education institutes.

The Doa Takhtim was read by female officers and religious teachers from the Islamic Studies Department, while Tahlil was read by officers and Imams from the Mosque Affairs Department.

The Doa Khatam was read by a student from the Youth Tilawah Al-Quran Scheme (STAR) Programme of Tutong District.

The Dikir Marhaban was recited by officers and imam from the Mosque Affairs Department, and female religious teachers from the Islamic Studies Department, along with the Khatam Al-Quran participants.

The Doa Selamat was read by the State Mufti.

Before departing the religious ceremony, His Majesty received a Junjung Ziarah from the male participants, while Her Majesty received a Junjung Ziarah from the female participants.

The 70 Times Khatam Al-Quran ceremony was inaugurated in 2011, and represents His Majesty’s aspirations for an increased Al-Quran literacy among the Brunei population, in addition to a heightened appreciation for the Al-Quran.

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| Fadhil Yunus |

Brunei Darussalam under-14s suffered a heavy 5-0 defeat to Vietnam under-14s in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Under-14 Regional Festival of Football at the Track and Field Sports Complex yesterday.

The national under-14 team have shown fighting spirit and character during the second half of their clashes against Myanmar and Singapore but they could not contain the relentless Vietnamese onslaught under humid conditions.

The national juniors entered the break only a goal down after Vo Nguyen Hoang scored for Vietnam in the 19th minute but they crumbled after the first goal-scorer capitalised on susceptible defending.

The Young Tabuans’s shaky defence was exposed as Hoang sled in his effort into the bottom corner to double the lead with the match having restarted after the interval.

Vietnam delivered an inviting cross into the box and a Brunei defender could not leap high enough to hook the ball away enabling the unmarked Nguyen Quoc Hoang to time his volley to perfection into the rippled net.

As one of the more popular players in the Brunei squad with the supporters chanting his name, Md Addy Zaky Billah Haji Awang Raimi flew down the blocks from his left-back position to tend to a loose ball and managed to direct his effort towards goal before it passed for a goal-kick.

The players pose for a group photo. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

However, Vietnam’s substitute goalkeeper Pham Van Dong Dien who received his first real test showed a safe pair of hands with a Brunei player lurking.

With Brunei showing more ambition on the final third of the pitch, their good work came undone as Doan Minh Nhut scored Vietnam’s fourth goal in the 54th minute.

Vietnam’s substitute Pham Thanh Long received a good ball which allowed him through on goal but Brunei’s substitute goalkeeper Md Bil Muhtadin Yusrin Abu Bakar left his lines early to narrow the angle and saved his shot.

The forward got a second bite of the cherry but a Brunei defender was on hand to sweep the danger for a corner.

From the ensuing corner, the young Golden Stars extended their lead as Tran Thanh Tu nodded home a powerful header.

The Young Tabuans were still armed with hope in search of a consolation as Md Zainul Ariffun Mahdinee called his team-mates to fill the box with only three players in his own half.

However, his long ball forward failed to reach any of the eight players in Vietnam’s half as Pham Van Dong who has been kept quiet except for his first real contribution let the ball land harmlessly for a goal-kick.

Meanwhile in Group ‘B’, Laos produced a solid 4-1 win over the Philippines with goals coming from Anousone Xaypanya, Chony Wanpaserth, Souphan Khambai On and Sombat Manyvong while Jiannecel Molina scored a mere consolation for the young Azkals.

In the other Group ‘B’ match, Malaysia ran out 5-1 winners over Cambodia inspired by a Muhammad Danial Amali double as well as strikes from Muhammad Firdaus Kaironnisam, Harith Naem Jaineh and Muhammad Alif Mutalib while Cambodia’s only goal came from Ry Leap Pheng.

Brunei will conclude their group game tonight at the Berakas Sports Complex against Thailand who are on course of racking their fourth consecutive victory in the regional festival.

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| Fadhil Yunus |

DPMM FC will meet defending champions Albirex Niigata (S) in an all-foreign Singapore League Cup final for a historic fourth title at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore tonight.

Having started their journey in the S League with the 2009 triumph and then in 2012 and 2014, the Brunei-based outfit will hope to maintain their consistency of filling the trophy cabinet.

DPMM FC head coach Steve Kean guided the club to their third League Cup trophy in 2014 after a 2-0 win over Tanjong Pagar United FC and hope for a repeat of that fine evening.

Standing in their way, Albirex Niigata (S) have already looked firm favourites of wrestling the S League title away from Steve Kean’s men who boast an almost unsurpassable gap at the top.

The League Cup remains the only realistic target of attaining silverware this season for DPMM FC after seeing their league title defence hampered by inconsistency and a series of misfortunes.

The three-time winners will be boosted with the return of Portuguese maestro Paulo Sergio having served a two-game suspension after picking up a red card in the Hougang win.

However, Kean will be faced with a dilemma on whether to leave out striker Adi Said who has been impressive partnering Brazilian striker Rafael Ramazotti in the Portuguese’s absence.

A DPMM FC player vying for the ball

DPMM FC head coach Steve Kean guided the club to their third League Cup trophy in 2014. – SLEAGUE

The local striker proved to be one of the standout players in the League Cup after curling a fine free-kick attempt to give his side the lead against Tampines Rovers FC in the group game. Few would mind his inexpensive miss when he latched on a defensive error but placed his shot horribly wide with goalkeeper Joey Sim rooted to the spot.

Known for their tireless running, the Japanese side have rediscovered their form after a 4-0 thrashing of Tampines Rovers FC in the semi-finals thanks to an Atsushi Kawata treble.

Despite Albirex being tagged as favourites, the ‘Gegar Gegar’ have orchestrated results which did not quite work out in the league evident with three clean sheets in five matches.

Currently the most successful team in the League Cup’s 10th year history, DPMM FC also face the likelihood of sharing that honour with tonight’s opponents should they lose. The two sides have started the domestic season with the first opportunity of winning silverware with Albirex Niigata (S) claiming a 3-2 victory to lift the 2016 Singapore Community Shield.

The Japanese outfit are also gunning for a third straight cup competition win following a 2015 double.

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| Hakim Hayat |

A HANDING over ceremony to officiate the appointment of Colonel Khairul Hamed bin Haji Lampoh as the new Commandant of the Training Institute of Royal Brunei Armed Forces (TI RBAF) from Colonel Haji Abidin bin Haji Abdul Hamid was held at the Parade Square, TI RBAF, Penanjong Garrison yesterday.

Upon arrival at the parade square, Colonel Haji Abidin bin Haji Abdul Hamid, the outgoing Commandant of TI RBAF, was given the Honorary Salute followed by an inspection of the parade comprising of personnel from the Training Institute under the command of Major Pengiran Haji Nazri Amir bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Md Zain.

Colonel Haji Abidin began his service as a Second Lieutenant on January 13, 1989. His previous appointments included Platoon Commander in the First Batallion Royal Brunei Land Forces (RBLF). He also served as the Officer Commanding, Officer Development Wing at the Training Institute from 2008 until 2010.

He later served at the RBAF Inspectorate Unit from 2010 until 2015 and was appointed as the Commandant of TI RBAF in September 2015.

Outgoing Commandant of TI RBAF Colonel Haji Abidin bin Haji Abdul Hamid shakes hand with the new Commandant Colonel Khairul Hamed bin Haji Lampoh following the signing of the handing over certificate. – HAKIM HAYAT

Meanwhile, the new TI RBAF Commandant Colonel Khairul Hamed began his service as a Second Lieutenant on 23 July 1991. During his career, he served as a Platoon Commander in the Second Battalion RBLF. He had also served at the Training Institute in 1993 as Intake Commander and in 2002, he served as the Officer Commanding of Recruit Company TI RBAF and was appointed as the Chief Instructor of TI RBAF in 2008.

In addition to that, he was the Chief of Staff, Joint Force Headquarter in 2014 and later became the Chief of Staff, RBLF in 2015.

The handing over ceremony was proceeded with the signing of handing over certificate between Colonel Khairul Hamed and Colonel Haji Abidin. To bless the ceremony, a Doa Selamat was later read by Captain Pengiran Khairuddin bin Pengiran Haji Tali from the RBAF Religious Department.

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| Azaraimy HH & Faza Suraj |

MORE than 300 special needs children residing in Tutong were treated to a Hari Raya celebration organised by DST yesterday at Community Hall at Kampong Serembangun, Pekan Tutong.

A similar event was also held in Belait for special needs children residing in Belait District.

The DST’s Hari Raya celebrations with special need children called ‘Ihsan Kasih’ were held in conjunction to the month of Syawal bringing a joyful atmosphere.

DST said the events involved a total of 600 Special Needs Children from Tutong and Belait District yesterday.

In the Tutong District, DST’s Ihsan Kasih invited the children, the families and members of staff from the Centre for Children with Special Needs (KACA), Pusat Bahagia and Special Education Unit under the Ministry of Education (MoE).

Leading the DST Ihsan Kasih Hari Raya team was Derek Wong Tet Leong, General Manager of Group IT and Facilities Services in DST.

Also present was Timong Musing, senior teacher in Pusat Bahagia of the Community Development Department (JAPEM); Hajah Siti Arbi binti Ahmad, Instructor and Head of Tutong Branch for KACA; as well as Dr Hajah Norbayah binti Haji Shahminan from Special Education Unit, MoE.

Derek Wong Tet Leong, General Manager of Group IT and Facilities Services in DST handing over DST Raya gifts to special needs children. – AZAIRAIMY HH

The students performing on stage at the event. – FAZA SURAJ

While in Belait District, DST’s Ihsan Kasih Hari Raya team invited the children, the families and members of staff from KACA, the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER), Pusat Bahagia Eric Goh, Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam (Pusat Ehsan) and Special Education Unit under the MoE.

DST’s Hari Raya celebration was led by Hajah Fa’ikah binti Ahmad, Assistant General Manager of Group Facilities Management in DST.

Also present was Awang bin Haji Ramli representative from KACA; Rafidah binti Hidup, Senior Educator in Pusat Bahagia of JAPEM; Hamimah Haji Sapar, Branch Manager from Pusat Ehsan in Belait; Malai Haji Abdullah bin Haji Malai Othman; CEO and President of SMARTER Brunei and Aziz Assan, Education Officer for Hearing Impaired Services at the MoE.

The highlight of the celebration was the presentation of green packets presented by the chief guests and accompanying DST Senior Management to the children accompanied by their parents and guardians.

In addition, in Tutong District a performance was presented by the students from Special Education Unit and Pusat Bahagia, while in the Belait District, guests were entertained by performances from students from Special Education Unit, Pusat Bahagia Eric Goh, and Pusat Ehsan. The children and invited guests were also entertained by DST staff performing Hari Raya melodies.

The celebration with the children, as part of DST Ihsan Kasih’s overall Corporate Social Responsibility Project, aims to share the joyous experience, and show care, love and concern to the special needs community.

Especially during the spirit of Aidilfitri, the Hari Raya events hosted by DST helps foster better understanding amongst fellow DST staff, parents and children and the representatives from each centre.

DST’s Ihsan Kasih will celebrate its final Hari Raya celebration with special needs individuals from Brunei-Muara next week.

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BLOCK B Joint Venture (BBJV) operated by Total E&P Borneo BV (TEPB) celebrated another historical milestone with the start of the first well from the newly completed platform MLJ3 from Maharaja Lela Jamalulalam Field (MLJ) on July 10, 2016.

Located in Block B approximately 50km offshore in 65m of water and adjacent to the two existing MLJ1 and MLJ2 platforms, the MLJ South project involved the installation of a new platform (MLJ3), the installation of new in-field subsea pipeline, the debottlenecking of the existing onshore gas processing plant (OPP) in Lumut and the drilling of high pressure wells at record depth of more than 4,500m TVDSS for the region. Thanks to this project, MLJ field production capacity increases from 40,000 to reach 50,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day.

“The MLJ South Project is an investment from BBJV in Brunei’s future. Two major goals were achieved: the extension of MLJ fields’ gas production for many years by at least to 20 more years as well as the development of local competencies with the construction of the platform jacket on PB Services’ (PBS) Muara yard and involving more than 60 young local trainees. These young local talents were given the opportunity to learn new skills in areas such as lifting, scaffolding, welding or painting operations,” said Yves Grosjean, General Manager of TEPB. “I’m also particularly proud of the track record in terms of safety with zero lost time injury during the whole execution of the project and therefore since the start of the Field in 1999, which represents more than 16 million man hours worked in total.”

The MLJ, located in Brunei Block B, was discovered in February 1990 and has been producing gas and condensates since 1999. BBJV is comprised of TEPB (37.5 per cent) Shell Deepwater Borneo Limited (35 per cent) and PB ExPro (27.5 per cent).

MLJ3 platform. – PHOTOS: TOTAL E&P BORNEO BV

File photo shows Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Awang Haji Mohammad Yasmin bin Haji Umar, Minister of Energy and Industry at the Prime Minister’s Office, in a group photo with Yves Grosjean, outgoing General Manager of Total E&P Borneo BV, and local trainees

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| Rokiah Mahmud |

THE Royal Brunei Catering (RBC) yesterday handed over a contribution to the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Fund for Orphans (DANA) in a ceremony held at the Dynasty Restaurant, Gadong.

For the first time this year, RBC held fundraising projects which successfully collected $27,292.58 throughout the month of Ramadhan.

Every $2 spent by each individual customer through their month-long Sungkai buffet during Ramadhan was donated to DANA. In addition, 10 per cent of the revenue proceeds from Ramadhan Bazaar was donated to DANA.

Six of the RBC outlets namely Dynasty Restaurant, Anjung Saujana Restaurant, Seasons Restaurant, Express Fast Food, RBC Outside Catering and Ministry of Finance Cafeteria participated in the DANA contributions.

A member of RBC’s Board of Directors, Junaidi bin Haji Masri (C), handing over the mock cheque to DANA, which is received by the Assistant Director of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Haji Puasa bin Haji Jumat

RBC and DANA representatives in a group photo. – PHOTOS: ROKIAH MAHMUD

Apart from generating funds from the Sungkai Buffet and Ramadhan Bazaar, RBC also donated Bubur Lambuk every Friday of the fasting month to in-patients and their family members that accompanied the patients at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital, Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Hospital in Tutong and Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC).

On hand to present the proceeds was a member of RBC’s Board of Directors, Junaidi bin Haji Masri, while receiving the proceeds was a representative from DANA, Haji Puasa bin Haji Jumat, the Assistant Director of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.

Witnessing the handover ceremony was the General Manager of RBC, Ahmad Husaini bin Hassan.

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| James Kon |

MAYBANK Brunei has further consolidated its growing presence in Brunei Darussalam with yet another special accolade this year after being awarded the ‘Fastest Growing Foreign Bank Brunei 2016’ by the Global Banking & Finance Review for the second consecutive year.

Despite the challenging economic environment, Malaysia’s largest financial services and leading banking group in Southeast Asia managed to achieve double digit growth last year and is looking further to expand its presence through new products and services as well as targeting a new market segment.

The latest achievement by Maybank was announced by Lim Yu Kwang, Country Head and General Manager of Brunei Operations of Maybank Brunei, in a press conference held at the bank’s headquarters in Kiarong yesterday.

Also at the press conference were Bobby Sia, Head of Business Banking and Transaction Banking and Leong Cheng Thai, Head of Consumer Sales.

“It’s an honour and a proud achievement for us because it’s another milestone for the bank. It’s not easy to receive a prestigious award for two consecutive years,” said Lim.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Leong Cheng Thai, Head of Consumer Sales; Lim Yu Kwang, the Country Head and General Manager of Brunei Operations; Bobby Sia, Head of Business Banking and Transaction Banking; and Woo Chang Huei, Product and Marketing Strategy Manager of Maybank Brunei with the award

The award for the ‘Fastest Growing Foreign Bank Brunei 2016’ by the Global Banking & Finance Review. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

“Maybank has been very visible in the market and will continue to be so in the near future to tell the Brunei market that we are here to stay and further reinforce our footprint as well as to further expand in the country. Being a truly Asean bank with branches in all 10 Asean member countries, we can help Bruneian customers,” he said.

Comparing year on year growth, he revealed that Maybank managed to achieve a double digit growth last year.

“One of the main reasons for the growth is the improved visibility of the bank due to its strategic location which is near the busy Kiulap roundabout where people who pass by can see the bank every day,” said the general manager. “Another reason is that our head count sales are always in the market to see more customers.”

He also cited the importance of good customer service where in the banking industry, competition is very intense.

“Products are almost similar among all banks and is actually about how you can stand out in terms of customer service,” he said.

“Maybank offers retail banking which includes personal loans, credit cards and mortgages. On the business banking side we have corporate financing, development financing, and property financing, to name a few. The growth comes from both segments where mortgage is doing well and the number of customers has increased in business banking.” Lim said.

Looking into continuous growth, Lim said, “We are still growing and this is just the start of the journey. There is plenty of growth opportunity here. We have been focusing on mortgage and business banking, two key engines for growth. There are still other areas where we can actually look at. We are constantly looking out for growth opportunities to see which particular niche market we can enter.”

Speaking about the possibility of opening new branches, he explained, “There is no intention of opening new physical branches yet. However, I think that we will concentrate on technology advancements like e-banking and a self-automated branch for the future.”

Maybank Brunei currently has 61 staff members and is looking to further increase its personnel next year to accommodate the growth of the bank.

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| Hakim Hayat |

AMID peace and stability, Brunei Darussalam is well-equipped to handle armed conflicts through its excellent grasp of International Humanitarian Laws (IHL) and has served as a benchmark for other countries looking to draft and implement the Warfare Law under the Geneva Conventions of 1949, a visiting official from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said yesterday.

The Law of Armed Conflict or the Law of War is the body of rules that, in wartime, seeks to protect persons who are not or no longer participating in the hostilities. It also seeks to limit the methods and means of warfare.

The Geneva Conventions Order of Brunei Darussalam (GCO 2005) was drafted to put into effect the country’s obligations under the Geneva Conventions of 1949.

Through the GCO 2005, Brunei Darussalam has demonstrated its commitment to the laws and principles of IHL, and particularly to international criminal justice.

Having equipped itself with the GCO 2005, Brunei is well-placed to respect and ensure respect for IHL as provided for in the first article common to all four Geneva Conventions of 1949.

Collectively, the Geneva Convention and the Additional Protocols provide for the protection for the wounded and sick, medical and religious personnel, medical units and medical transports, civilians and prisoners of war and regulates the conduct of hostilities in times of armed conflict. Brunei became a party to all four of the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and its two Additional Protocols of 1977.

Fiona Barnaby, Legal Advisor for the ICRC Regional delegation. – DEAN KASSIM

In an interview on the sidelines of a public seminar held at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium yesterday, Fiona Barnaby, Legal Advisor for the ICRC Regional Delegation based in Kuala Lumpur, said that by having the law gazetted, it has become a very important source of authority – such as for the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) to guide their doctrines, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and rules of engagement especially for the deployment of international peacekeepers and also for the international monitoring team (IMT) in Mindanao.

“You actually have this body of law standing behind them, supporting them saying this is how you can behave when you go into a place where there is armed conflict,” Fiona added.

She said, although Brunei is blessed with peace and stability, its armed forces is very well equipped and protected with the rules, making them ready in times of conflict.

In Southeast Asia, Brunei is one of only a handful of states that are parties to all the four Geneva Conventions and the two Additional Protocols of 1977, with a domestic law in place.

“So for us, this is the biggest contribution from Brunei – we always use Brunei’s GCO 2005 as a very good example of a domestic implementation of an international treaty and a good piece of law, specifically the IHL treaty which is one of the most important treaties of humanitarian law to be put into place,” she added.

Fiona also praised the positive reception and keen interest on the IHL.

“We noticed that in our meetings with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade as well as the Attorney General’s Chambers and the Ministry of Health, that there is a very keen awareness of the law, not just written in paper. They make it practical and infuse it in their work… It was signed, put into Bruneian law, and they make effort to ensure it works. It is a very steady process that we see,” she said.

Apart from meeting with Bruneian officials, the IHL Seminar, the largest of such seminar ever hosted by the Brunei Darussalam Red Crescent Society yesterday, was to raise awareness about humanitarian principles.

“When you talk about law, people sort of space out, but we want students, teachers, academics and the general public to have a humanitarian reflex – it’s almost instinctive especially if you see someone in need. You can see this evident in Brunei among the society,” she explained.

Although some may say that people shouldn’t be talking about war in a peaceful country, Fiona said, “Most countries that have gone into conflict were in peace, so it is important to be prepared.

“If you want people to have a humanitarian reflex and to look at each other in spite of differences, and to just remember that this person is also a human being – whatever his religion or race, you need to do that now in the time of peace, because when the bullets are flying, nobody is going to be listening.. nobody wants to think it must be cultivated and you’re lucky that Brunei is a country of peace and you can do that kind of cultivation.”

Fiona and her team’s line of work include talking to all countries, particularly when there is a situation of armed conflict.

“Usually the ICRC will ask to meet with the authorities to just talk about the rules that apply, to remind them, so those are some of the things we do in the region whenever there is a conflict,” she said.

During the seminar, four speakers from the ICRC Legal Delegation gave multi-faceted presentations on the ICRC and Red Crescent Movement’s roles and also its fundamental principles.

Fiona explained that this is part of their “prevention work,” in efforts to prevent the violation of the body of law by getting people to know who they are and getting people to understand the importance of respecting the law.

“Sometimes the war will end and you will want to move to peace. The best way to move to peace is if you actually fought by the rules. If you haven’t, it will be hard to get past that resentment to a place of forgiveness and healing.

“Thankfully for Brunei, we need not do that, but there are a lot of countries that have to go through that process,” she said.

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| Danial Norjidi |

AS PART of efforts to improve the ease of doing business in Brunei, Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) recently signed a contract on the development of a Collateral Registry System with IOS Partners.

“The development of the system represents the country’s commitment in building a more conducive business environment and will improve Brunei Darussalam’s standing in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business ranking,” AMBD said in a press statement.

The signing took place at AMBD’s headquarters at the Ministry of Finance Building, Commonwealth Drive.

Signing on behalf of AMBD was Yusof bin Haji Abdul Rahman, its Managing Director, while IOS Partners was represented by Rober S Hans, its Senior Managing Director.

Witnessing the signing ceremony were Haji Mohd Zulkairi bin Haji Mohd Noor, Head of Collateral Registry at AMBD and Tea Alania, Director for Project Management.

The event was also attended by officers from AMBD and representatives from IOS partners.

The objective of the Collateral Registry System is to improve the ease of doing business in Brunei through the introduction of an online facility, statement said.

The online registry allows the registration of financial statements that shall contain the information of the debtors, information of the secured party and description of the collateral.

Registered users, consisting of financial institutions and other relevant agencies, are able to use the search features to obtain information from the Collateral Registry System, the statement added.

The Secured Transactions Order (STO), 2016, was gazetted in February 2016, and the Collateral Registry Office was set up under Section 6 of the Order.

The aim of this office is to maintain a register of security interests in personal property. This order will provide the framework for obtaining an interest in personal property in order to secure an obligation. In addition, it also facilitates the granting and obtaining of credit.

“The creation of a Collateral Registry System provides a modernised or effective means of searching for prior security interests, which previously lacked transparency,” the AMBD statement said.

“Therefore, the system will reduce the risk in giving credit, and subsequently, reduce the cost of obtaining credit. In addition to this, the Collateral Registry System and the Secured Transactions Order will enable entrepreneurs to leverage their assets in order to obtain credit for growth.”

IOS partners have met with the relevant parties and agencies to understand the business process and to capture all the requirements in order to expedite the formation of this system.

Further information on Collateral Registry System AMBD can be attained by emailing collateral.registry@ambd.gov.bn.

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SEASONS Restaurant by Royal Brunei Catering is offering ‘From Bangkok to Jakarta’ buffet promotion every Thursday, Friday and Saturday starting from July 28 until August 27 rom 7pm until 10pm. According to a press release, there will be diverse selection of food to choose from as this promotion comprised of dishes from capital city of Thailand and Indonesia respectively.

Some of the featured dishes are Thai Pumpkin Custard Pudding, Black Sweet Rice Pudding, Water Chestnut and Coconut Cream, Roasted Chicken (Marinated with Red Curry Paste) with BBQ Sauce and Nam Prik Makhaam as well as Soto Madura with condiments.

Black Sweet Rice Pudding

Roasted Chicken (Marinated with Red Curry Paste) with BBQ Sauce and Nam Prik Makhaam. PHOTOS: SEASONS RESTAURANT

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| Fadhil Yunus |

DPMM FC saw their hopes of winning silverware this season evaporated after losing 2-0 to Albirex Niigata (S) in the Singapore League Cup final at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

The Japanese outfit equalled the DPMM FC for the most wins in Singapore’s football third sought-after competition after becoming the first side to win back-to-back League Cup finals.

DPMM FC’s forward Adi Said produced an exquisite first touch with the ball hoisted by Brian McLean glued to his feet before knocking the ball forward to set up a shot but it was well taken by Albirex Niigata’s goalkeeper Yosuke Nozawa.

Helmi Zambin drifted in from the right and teed off for Azwan Salleh who fired his shot wide under pressure by an Albirex player.

The in-form Adi then played a short pass to the returning Paulo Sergio before setting up Rafael Ramazotti who created space to pull the trigger but Nozawa saw the incoming shot early and pulled a smart stop.

An Albirex Niigata (S) dribbles the ball

Albirex’s forward Kawata found Nagasaki but the latter contrived to blast his effort wide.

The effervescent Tatsuro Inui took out the defence with a brilliant lob with the onrushing Kawata using his chest to round off the keeper but the unbalanced striker could only hit the side-netting.

Inui faked a cross with a short pass for Rui Kumada who despite was tightly marked managed to hold off his marker and produced a magnificent effort past the hapless Wardun.

Inui’s first-time volley ended wide after after his team-mate shrugged off the attentions of a DPMM FC player to provide the cross. Mikiya Yamada also delivered a fine cross through the flanks as Kumada volleyed his effort wide.

Kento Nagasaki sprinted into the box before seeing his effort saved by Wardun but the rebound fell to Albirex captain Naofumi Tanaka whose shot into the empty net was cleared off the line by Najib Tarif.

Brazilian striker Rafael Ramazotti lifted the ball for Adi Said who steered clear in the box but his shot was parried away by Nozawa.

The tricky Albirex’s frontmen were toying with DPMM FC as Kawata cheekily back-heeled the ball for Yamada who ballooned his effort wide.

The White Swans found a killer second after Kawata showed strength to nod home Nagasaki’s corner at the far post.

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THE Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof yesterday received a visit from Sabah’s Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan committee members.

The delegation was led by the 2016 Chairperson of Sabah’s National Level Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan, Joanna Datuk Kitingan; the crowned winner of the 2016 Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan, Sherry Anne Laujang, who is also Sabah’s ambassador of culture and tourism, accompanied by several officers from Sabah’s cultural institution and the Malaysian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam, a press release said.

During the visit held at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) building, the minister and the visiting party exchanged ideas on how to conserve, promote and preserve the nation’s culture and tradition.

Sabah’s Kaamatan is a festival held after the harvest of paddy, commonly celebrated by the Kadazan-Dusun since time immemorial. Tadau Kaamatan has been considered as national holiday in Sabah since the 1960s, and is also considered as a national level festivity.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, in a group photo with the Sabah’s Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan delegation

Some of the activities in the Kaamatan celebration include the Sumazau (farmer dance) competition, Sukan Rakyat, arts and crafts exhibition, state level rally and Unduk Ngadau. In Brunei, the harvest festival is also celebrated by ethnic groups in traditions such as the Makan Tahun by the Kedayan, the Adau Gayoh by the Dusun, the Perakong by the Belait and the Tamarok Parai by the Bisaya.

Also present during the visit were the Permanent Secretaries at the MCYS, Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin and Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil; Deputy Permanent Secretary at the MCYS, Haji Mohd Noor Jusmin bin Haji Abdul Samad; and senior officers at the ministry.

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| Azlan Othman |

TO CELEBRATE the 70th birth anniversary celebration 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 with religious activities, the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) once again held 70 Times

Khatam Al-Quran as the special contribution of the workforce to the caring monarch during the current birthday festivity.

It was also to pray to Allah the Almighty for the longevity of the ruler and for the well-being and prosperity of the monarch, the people and the nation.

Present was Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs.

Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs at the religious gathering. – AZLAN OTHMAN

Some 2,100 officers and staff of the ministry comprising of 45 male and 25 female groups were involved in the recitations held at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, Kampong Kiarong.

It began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah by the minister followed by Khatam Al-Quran from Surah Ad-Dhuhaa to Surah An-Nas by the staff.

It was later followed by Takhtim, Dikir Marhaban and Doa Khatam.

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| Hakim Hayat |

UNIVERSITI Brunei Darussalam (UBD) inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with tech start-up from iCentre of Brunei Darussalam Economic Development Board, Mindplus Education Sdn Bhd. The partnership intends to work on technology solutions to aid in learning and research.

At the MoU signing, UBD was represented by the Director of Centre for Lifelong Learning (C3L), Professor Abdal-Hakim Hardaker @ Glenn Hardaker; while Mindplus Education was represented by its CEO, Pengiran Khairi bin Pengiran Haji Metussin. Present to witness the signing were Rubiah binti Haji Yacub, Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Corporate and Administration) of UBD; and Awangku Mohd Azri bin Pengiran Haji Metussin, Project Executive of Mindplus Education.

Professor Hardaker said that the strategic intent of both parties is to work on the project ‘Adaptive Portfolio for Personalised Learning’, which is a research project sponsored by Brunei Research Council.

This project is focused on research and development that supports a more personalised experience online and in the classroom. Mindplus is keen to provide technology solutions for research outputs from the project. Mindplus will be supporting the development of an Adaptive Learning Portfolio Tool Kit (APPL) that is underpinned by the concept of Islamic pedagogy.

The collaboration between SMEs and universities is very critical for a successful amalgamation of research and industry expertise in order to diversify economy of the country, Nurul Ain Jaafar said.

Pengiran Khairi bin Pengiran Haji Metussin, CEO of Mindplus Education and Professor Glenn Hardaker, Director of Centre of Lifelong Learning UBD, sealing the MoU as Rubiah binti Haji Yacub, Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Corporate and Administration) of UBD looks on. – HAKIM HAYAT

She mentioned that innovative and entrepreneurial capabilities of SMEs can make an important contribution to real implementation and commercialisation of emerging technologies.

Pengiran Khairi said, “This collaboration made sense for both parties as this could be a good start for us to maximise technology in modern education. Brunei has massive potential in this niche market with its resourceful sources of knowledge.”

Mindplus Education is a local tech start up specialising in innovative IT solutions for learning needs.

The company had won several awards including the Ignite Open Category 2012, Brunei ICT Awards 2012, Brunei ICT Awards 2013 and the Asean ICT Awards 2013. Mindplus Education recently branched into Indonesia and released its first product for the Indonesian market called Islamic Mind Indonesia in December 2015.

UBD has closely collaborated with industry partners to enhance its teaching and research output. Last year, UBD forged partnership with international corporations such as Pixela Corporations from Japan and Sengenics based originally in the United Kingdom to create opportunities for research collaborations. UBD also worked with a technology commercialisation platform, PlaTCOM Ventures, in securing and commercialising its intellectual properties (IP).

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| Hakim Hayat |

AS PART of its annual event to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri, the Baiduri Bank Group last evening hosted its ‘Malam Silaturrahim’ at the Indera Samudra Grand Hall of The Empire Hotel & Country Club in Kampong Jerudong.

With the theme ‘Salam Aidilfitri’, guests were greeted with the warm smiles of the Baiduri Bank Group staff, to the accompaniment of festive music as they entered the venue.

It was a night full of glitz, bringing together Baiduri Bank clients, business partners and associates from around the country in the spirit of ‘silaturrahim’ or closer ties.

Present as guest of honour was Dr Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Abdul Fattaah, a member of the Board of Directors at Baiduri Bank.

Also present was Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hajah Taiyibah Qalbul Bolqiah and spouse Pengiran Haji Mohammad Hakimuddin bin Pengiran Haji Hashim.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Taiyibah Qalbul Bolqiah and Dr Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Abdul Fattaah during the event. Also seen in photo are Pengiran Haji Mohammad Hakimuddin bin Pengiran Haji Hashim and Pierre Imhof, Chief Executive Officer of Baiduri Bank. PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

In his welcome address, Pierre Imhof, Chief Executive Officer of Baiduri Bank, expressed his appreciation to the guests for their continuous support over the years which have led to the bank’s multi accolades it has achieved over the years.

“Last year, we received five major banking awards and recognitions. Since the beginning of this year, we have received three more major awards – the Domestic Retail Bank for Brunei from the Asian Banking and Finance Magazine, the Best Banking Group for Brunei from World Finance and the World’s Best Emerging Markets Bank in Asia-Pacific for Brunei for Global Finance.

“We hope to receive more by the end of the year,” Imhof said.

Touching on the future outlook of the bank, Pierre Imhof said that despite the challenging economic environment, he believes there are many opportunities for businesses and for the group to grow as Brunei intensifies economic diversification and local business development.

Further elaborating on the future of the bank, Pierre Imhof spoke on the development of its new head office which is expected to be completed in 2017.

Invited guests during the event

One of the performances

He further added that there are plans to relocate some of the bank’s branches to bigger premises.

Following the relocation of its Tutong branch to larger premises at the Petani Mall, he also mentioned plans to relocate their Serusop and Kiulap branches by the second quarter of 2017.

The event followed with a video presentation on the group’s highlights over the past year and a presentation of tokens of appreciation to the guest of honour by the various charity organisations present during the event.

The evening was enlivened with entertainment from Brunei’s very own Nash, Dila of P2F Fame and Khairy, as well as contemporary Malay dance acts by DKS Culture Group.

The event concluded with a grand draw to three lucky guests and a closing performance by the artistes.

Around 1,500 guests attended the event including Cabinet Ministers, senior government officials and prominent local business leaders and professionals.

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| Hakim Hayat |

BRUNEI Darussalam’s ranking in e-Government initiatives penetration showed a slight improvement during a 2016 survey carried out by the United Nations (UN). The Sultanate is ranked 83rd out of 193 countries globally, up three notches from 86 in the last survey conducted in 2014.

Initiated by the UN Division for Public Administration and Development Management to support member states’ efforts in e-Government and information communications technologies (ICT) for socio-economic development, the biennial comprehensive survey includes 193 UN member states.

The ranking is based on three dimensions, namely provision of Online Services Index (OSI) – for example, number of services, availability of national portal ability to process transactional services; Telecommunication Infrastructure Index (TII) – such as percentage of individuals using the Internet and mobile-cellular telephone subscriptions per 100 inhabitants; and also Human Capacity Index (HCI) – such as adult literacy and mean years of schooling. The Brunei Government uses the survey as a benchmark on e-Government progress and initiatives.

At a press conference chaired by Muhammad Norshafiee bin Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, Deputy Permanent Secretary (IT, e-Government and Industry) at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) to announce the survey results, he also noted several improvements in the dimensions compared to the previous survey.

Brunei has significantly improved its capability in providing online services to citizens which showed a positive growth in the OSI from 0.3622 to 0.5072, when compared to the 2014 survey.

Muhammad Norshafiee bin Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, Deputy Permanent Secretary (IT, e-Government and Industry) at the Prime Minister’s Office (3L) during the press conference with other officials. – HAKIM HAYAT

Meanwhile, in the telecommunication dimension, the Telecommunication Infrastructure Index (TII) slightly decreased from 0.36898 to 0.3512, whereas for the human capacity dimension, the HCI also slightly decreased from 0.7815 to 0.7310. Muhammad Norshafiee said this can be attributed to several “relative” factors that they would gauge and assess once the full survey statistics are available.

Also assessed in the survey is an e-Participation Index, which gauges a country’s ability to engage citizens through the use of ICT in policy and decision-making to encourage a more participatory, inclusive, and collaborative public.

Brunei has showed a significant improvement in this e-Participation Index, jumping 65 places from 179 in 2014, to 114 in 2016.

Pengiran Adrian bin Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman, Head of Strategy, Planning and Governance at e-Government National Centre (eGNC) mentioned that since the launch of the Digital Government Strategy 2015, a lot of initiatives have been put into place to enhance their engagement and in increasing the efficiency, effectiveness, quality and accessibility of information and services.

He said in the last year, the government has taken a Whole-of-Government approach to providing online services that enhanced and engaged public through various platforms such as the revamp of the e-Darussalam One Stop Portal, Launch of the data.gov.bn to enable easier access to publicly available data and the launch of Talian Darussalam (TD123) that provides a single number for queries and complaints for non-emergency government services.

In addition, the government has also recently introduced new online service platforms such as the Judiciary Case Management System (JCMS) that enables the submission of court documents electronically, Land Application and Registration Information System (LARIS) which enables land owners to apply for land applications online, Public Service Commission Recruitment System (PSC Recruitment) that enables the public to search for and apply for government jobs online.

Furthermore, they have also taken key steps to enhance support for businesses and Brunei’s ease-of-doing-business ranking through Job-Centre Brunei that allows business to advertise jobs via a single portal, Registry of Companies and Business Names (ROCBN) which simplifies the registration of businesses, business.gov.bn that consolidates relevant business information into a single portal and also the improvement to the OneBiz platform that now enables online payment of business licences and applications.

Muhammad Norshafiee noted that most of the new initiatives were done after the survey period, and hopes that they will provide a bigger contribution to the next survey. He said they are aiming to improve the ranking by least 20-30 places in the next survey.

The Digital Government Strategy 2015 aims to lead digital transformation and make government services simpler, faster and more accessible to support greater efficiency and collaboration, and to improve all stakeholders’ experience, government processes and services that require transformation and continuous improvement.

Also present during the press conference yesterday was Mazriyani binti Haji Abdul Ghani, Director of e-Government National Centre.

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| Rokiah Mahmud |

THE role and involvement of the country’s young entrepreneurs was the main highlight of this year’s Hari Raya gathering organised by Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (Yayasan).

As part of the efforts to provide exposure to local entrepreneurs, Yayasan is currently hosting a two-day expo, ‘Young Entrepreneurs’ Exhibition and Booth Sales’, at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.

In an interview on the sidelines of the exhibition, Hajah Norminah binti Haji Mahali, Head of the Asnaf Zakat Empowerment Programme (PROPAZ) Secretariat, explained that the scheme was introduced in 2007 for providing the underprivileged community with assistance towards self-sufficiency.

Hajah Norminah also said that 70 per cent of its recipients are currently being employed either at government or private sectors, while some have already started their own businesses, after joining the scheme which is being funded by Agihan Wang Zakat Asnaf Fakir Miskin (Tithe Collections for the Poor and Destitute).

Recently, PROPAZ recruited the eighth intake into its fold, during which participants will undergo nine months of training – six months of acquiring skills at the Youth Development Centre (PPB) and three months of attachment at private companies.

His Majesty, Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman with some of the children participating in the exhibition

His Majesty and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, at the Mumtaz Collections booth

His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Bini Hajah Faizah binti Dato Haji Nasir touring the exhibition

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel with one of the guests at the exhibition

“If they perform well during their attachment programme, the chances of employment for them are high,” said Hajah Norminah.

“Usually, by the end of the programme, we always discuss with participants whether they want to be employed or start their own business. Some of them prefer to ply their own trade, so we forward the matter to DARe in helping them to acquire more skills such as accounting, making business plans and so on. In terms of capital, PROPAZ usually forwards the matter to the Brunei Religious Islamic Council (MUIB) for a start-up funding.”

When asked about whether PROPAZ has been successful in achieving its main objective, she replied, “So far, the scheme is a success. In our early years, we focused more on employment for parents by helping them to acquire more skills. But over the years, we received positive feedback from the children of the underprivileged, who were determined to break out from the cycle of poverty. The training provided them with the necessary skills to earn a living.”

Meanwhile, SCG Group, a cube-based company that has been supporting more than 500 local businesses, is one of the participants at the ICC expo.

Dr Hajah Mona Yati binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Mohd Kassim, Adjunct Senior Assistant Professor at Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA). – ROKIAH MAHMUD

Hajah Norminah binti Haji Mahali, Head of the Asnaf Zakat Empowerment Programme (PROPAZ) Secretariat. – ROKIAH MAHMUD

Muhd Wafiuddin bin Haji Jumat, the Marketing Manager of SGC, told the Sunday Bulletin that their company first began in Kiulap in 2012. From only one cube shop, they now have four branches – at Citis Square, The Mall Gadong, Yayasan Complex and Mentiri.

By offering cube slots to encourage more local entrepreneurs to get in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the concept has generated positive response among their own clientele.

For Dr Hajah Mona Yati binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Mohd Kassim, an Adjunct Senior Assistant Professor at Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), who is also the founder of MUBN Learning and Growth Company and the creator of Hawa 1.0 that focuses on the Muslimah Entrepreneurship Clinic, aspiring entrepreneurs need to possess a strong will and plenty of confidence.

She told the Sunday Bulletin that the need for children to be exposed to scientific education based on the Al-Quran and As-Sunnah, motivated her to launch MUBN, a programme which focuses on Islamic enrichment for children and its application in their daily lives.

The Yayasan Young Entrepreneurs’ Exhibition and Booth Sales is currently taking place both today at 2pm-10pm, and tomorrow at 10am-8pm, at the ICC in Berakas.

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| Syazwani Hj Rosli |

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 Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, together with other members of the royal family, yesterday graced the 13th Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah’s (Yayasan) Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.

Accompanying Their Majesties at the ceremony were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah and Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Bini Hajah Faizah binti Dato Haji Nasir; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam.

With the consent of His Majesty, Yayasan invited around 600 young professionals to take part in the celebrations, comprising those serving at mid-level and high-ranking positions in both the government and private sectors.

Upon arrival, Their Majesties and members of the royal families were greeted by Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Education and Chairman of the Yayasan Board of Directors.

The special ceremony commenced with the recitation of the Doa Selamat by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti.

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; Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah and Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah at the celebration yesterday. PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

Their Majesties being greeted by the public

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Bini Hajah Faizah binti Dato Haji Nasir; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

In his welcoming remarks, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi said that youths are instrumental towards realising the aims of Vision 2035, in guiding the country towards integrity and prosperity.

“They need to equip themselves with knowledge and skills, and should always be aware of the existing challenges in carrying out their responsibilities as future leaders,” he said.

“Yayasan has outlined efforts to enhance youth involvement and participation in community development as one of its objectives, by offering various schemes and programmes through education, entrepreneurship, culture and literature and others.”

The main highlight of the celebrations was a titah delivered by His Majesty prior to the performances themed ‘Generasi Berwawasan’, from the students of Taman Asuhan Kanak-Kanak (TASKA) YSHHB, YSHHB Primary School and YSHHB Secondary School.

The event then continued with a Junjung Ziarah by Their Majesties and members of the royal family, with the young participants.

A group photo of among those who attended the 13th Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah’s (Yayasan) Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations at the International Convention Centre

Photos above show some of the performances during the event

The event also witnessed an exhibition from various agencies, including the Public Service Department of the Prime Minister’s Office, the Community Development Department (JAPEM), Youth Development Centre, the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB), Yayasan, DARe (Darussalam Enterprise), LiveWIRE, Youth Entrepreneurs Association Brunei (YEAB), Muslimah Enterpreneurship, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE).

The young professionals were chosen to be part of the celebrations, in order to enhance their understanding of His Majesty’s aspirations of the country’s youths as independent and outstanding individuals, capable of contributing to Brunei’s economy and achieving the goals of Vision 2035.

Also present at yesterday’s event were Pengiran-Pengiran Cheteria, Cabinet Ministers, deputy ministers, members of the Legislative Council, permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, as well as officers from the government and private sectors.

The post Young professionals take centre stage in Yayasan Hari Raya celebrations appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

| Azlan Othman |

THE small but increasing number of young entrepreneurs in the Sultanate has shown that there is a growing interest in venturing out into productive economic activities among the youth.

This was stated 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 in a titah during the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah’s (Yayasan) Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas, yesterday.

To support this, government agencies have provided allocations and organised schemes and programmes for the nation’s budding entrepreneurs. The Ministry of Education (MoE) for instance, has included business literacy and entrepreneurship skills development programmes from the primary school level to higher education including at the technical and vocational levels, His Majesty said.

Among the government approach towards this includes the establishment of DARe (Darussalam Enterprise) on January 21, which is responsible to instil and supervise the growth and development of local entrepreneurship in the country, the monarch added.

DARe has also established a business support centre to assist in producing entrepreneurship that is conducive and can enhance the business ecosystem holistically. Thanks to the commitment of all, this has improved the country’s ranking in the 2016 World Bank Ease of Doing Business Report to the 84th place this year from 105th in 2015, among 189 global economies, His Majesty noted.

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; Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman during the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah’s (Yayasan) Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas

His Majesty delivering his titah. PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

“I urge all youth to be ready to develop themselves as they are the heirs with big responsibilities and roles to generate the development of the people, nation and the religion. Their young age is the best time to acquire as much knowledge and skills as possible to shoulder future responsibilities,” His Majesty said.

Speaking on this year’s celebration, the monarch welcomed youths especially young professionals and entrepreneurs that constitute nearly 50 per cent of the nation’s population.

“Through the national policy, my government gives a wider provision for all levels of the society to acquire high skills and education that the nation needs. It has been proven judging by the increasing number of locals that are holding main positions like in human resource management, finance, medical, engineering, education, legal profession, defence, information technology and so on.

“In the near future, we hope the young executives and professionals will take the country’s leadership. But they need to empower themselves with knowledge, skills and experience. These elements make them capable to face any challenges, be it economic, social and political that are complex,” the ruler said.

“At this juncture, I wish to welcome young entrepreneurs who answer the government’s call to engage in entrepreneurship to empower the country’s economy. I wish to express my thanks to the youths in the country for their involvement in all efforts and activities that bring benefits to the country,” His Majesty added.

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