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; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Abdul Qawi attended the AIA Singapore Premier League match between DPMM FC and Geylang International FC at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium last night.
| Rokiah Mahmud |
THE role of the young generation as the country’s assets needs to be further emphasised, as they are regarded as the country’s development engines who will continue to contribute to the overall development of the nation, said Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Yang Berhormat Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin during the morning session of the Legislative Council (LegCo) meeting yesterday.
“They should be provided with suitable opportunities so that their potential can be maximised in carrying out the country’s agenda,” he said.
He noted as well that any initiatives introduced should involve the youth to make them more “comprehensive”. “This is indispensable in our efforts to face the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. All parties, especially the youth, should work together as a team towards empowering communities, especially those of their own,” he said.
The minister highlighted that the country is very fortunate to be blessed by a monarch who cares and is concerned about the welfare of his people at all levels of society.
“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 emphasis on the welfare of the people must be prioritised to ensure that assistance is channelled to the needy while at the same time not get misused by any party,” Yang Berhormat Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan said.
“At the same time, the welfare of the people is also about providing employment opportunities, especially for the targetted groups. Therefore, the ministry will continue to prioritise efforts to realise the best mechanisms to create employment opportunities that can change the lives of these people.
“Our goal is to provide fair opportunities for target groups including disabled people, youth dropouts and families who receive monthly special assistance. This not only helps (in terms of generating income for them), but also brings these groups out of the poverty cycle by opening employment opportunities.”
| Azlan Othman |
MINISTER at the Prime Minister’s Office Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud said 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 at the opening of the 15th Legislative Council (LegCo) session on March 7 is “visionary” and depicted the monarch’s “far-sighted and deep approach” for the sake of the nation.
He said His Majesty’s titah reflects his concern in ensuring that the nation’s prosperity is preserved while facing current and future challenges.
“The welfare of the people is close to His Majesty’s heart and his intention to enhance the quality of the people’s lives is far-sighted, so that they will not be far behind in development,” the minister said in his motion of thanks on the second day of the LegCo session yesterday.
“The youth should be empowered and steer nation-building. His Majesty also highlighted on the impact of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and our readiness in facing it. The monarch once reminded us during his New Year 2019 titah that the 4IR will challenge our conventional skills and require us to carry out lifelong learning.”
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti added that His Majesty has pioneered efforts by holding consultations to open up the economy to the world and encourage foreign direct investment (FDI) to the country, and encourage local entrepreneurs to grab business opportunities and expand their operations overseas.
He continued, “His Majesty also emphasised the need to strengthen good governance at all levels to ensure that the provision of services to the public is excellent, efficient, effective, and people-friendly. In line with His Majesty’s titah, the Prime Minister’s Office will always review the regulations, including those facilitating the ease of doing business.”
The minister also highlighted the impact made on the country’s expenditure by the uncertain global economy and unstable global oil prices, noting that these realities will challenge the country’s mission to effectuate a sustainable economy and fiscal consolidation.
“Efficient and effective public service is needed. Other initiatives by other government agencies are fiscal consolidation, besides fine-tuning rules and policies. Corporatisation and public and private partnerships are also needed,” he said.
“In the public sector, efforts are being made to fill up posts in all government agencies. But the capacity is limited if these vacancies are seen as a solution for unemployment,” he said. “But the government will always give guidance to entrepreneurs.
The opportunities available to be explored both regionally and internationally are vast.
“E-commerce has the potential to expand from USD30 billion in 2016 to USD200 billion by 2025 as stated by His Majesty in his New Year 2019 titah. What is crucial is our willingness to engage in entrepreneurship and grab the opportunity.”
| Wani Roslan |
THE country’s high youth unemployment rate emerged as one of the prime concerns during the second day of the 15th Legislative Council (LegCo) meeting yesterday.
Speaking on the issue of unemployment among registered jobseekers and graduates, LegCo member and Penghulu of Mukim Berakas ‘B’ Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Ali bin Pengiran Maon shared that findings from a recent study has collated a list of industry priority clusters that the country must focus on in order to diversify and expand its economy to generate more employment openings.
The Halal industry, business services, technology and creative industries, as well as tourism are among the industry clusters that need to be developed, in addition to the oil and gas industry.
“With these findings, the agencies need to formulate proactive steps in providing specialised programmes to jobseekers, especially the youth,” Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Ali said.
“Planned programmes will be able to equip the youth with the needed skills, leadership qualities and experience, and can play a role in the growth of the private sector, which [in turn can] expand the job market in this country.”
He noted also that youth as human resources need to improve their attitudes and not fully rely on employment opportunities in the public sector.
“The respective ministries have offered many opportunities for youth, such as initiatives to help develop youth entrepreneurs.
“The private sector also needs to provide youth with work opportunities and attract them by giving various opportunities for improvement,” he said.
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Ali reminded parents of their roles in teaching children and the new generation not to be choosy and that success in academia and technical fields lie not only in the public sector, but also in the private sector.
LegCo member and Penghulu of Mukim Bokok Yang Berhormat Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu, meanwhile, praised the youth who were involved in establishing the Tarindak Ungkayah Graduan Restaurant.
| Hakim Hayat & Aziz Idris |
THE Ministry of Finance and Economy (MoFE) yesterday announced a proposed government budget of BND5.86 billion for the 2019/2020 fiscal year while forecasting another wave of budget deficit of BND1.5 billion for the new fiscal year, on the back of sluggish gross domestic product (GDP) growth due to falling revenues in the dominant oil and gas sector over the last few years.
A BND2.2 billion deficit was recorded in the last fiscal year 2017/2018 while the country is expected to record another deficit for the current fiscal year of 2018/2019 despite recovering global oil prices – now averaging USD62.70 per barrel which is higher in comparison previous years’ prices.
The 2019/2020 proposed budget sees a BND5.6 million increase from last fiscal year’s approved budget of BND5.3 billion, as the country also continues to record positive growth in the non-oil and gas sectors.
Addressing Parliament on the second day of the 15th Legislative Council (LegCo) meeting yesterday, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and Minister of Finance and Economy II Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah in the budget speech said the volatility in the global oil prices will continue to impact Brunei’s economy that is heavily dependent on the oil and gas sector revenues.
The International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) latest World Economic Outlook in January 2019 is forecasting a 3.7 per cent growth in global economy for 2018 and predicts a slight decline at a rate of 3.5 per cent in 2019 while it predicts Brunei’s economic growth to recover by 2.3 per cent for 2018 and jump to 5.1 per cent in 2019.
Despite the positive outlook from the IMF, Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew revealed that Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE) statistics show that economic growth for 2018 was at 0.1 per cent, which is much lower than the forecast due to a decline in the oil and gas sector by -0.1 per cent caused by falling global oil market prices.
Despite this, the minister shared that the non-oil and gas sector recorded a positive growth of 0.5 per cent in 2018, mainly contributed by the agricultural, livestock, wholesale and retail trade subsectors.
He also urged caution as a number of factors might continue to hinder global and ASEAN regional economic growth such as impacts from political and trade tensions, technological advancement such as the Fourth Industrial Revolution and also the position of monetary policies of developed countries; all risks which might impede Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Brunei.
Shedding more light on the priorities of the proposed budget centred on the theme ‘Investing in Our Future’, the minister said the approach for the national expenditure budget is geared towards long-term economic growth but cautioned that in Brunei’s context, economic growth does not necessarily drive increase in government revenue, hence more concerted effort is needed to achieve a balanced national budget to ensure the country’s resilience and fiscal stability.
He said investment in human capital will be continuously enhanced to ensure that the country’s workforce is equipped with skills and expertise that fulfills the needs of the job market, adaptable and highly productive.
Fiscal Consolidation Programme
The government’s efforts in achieving a balanced budget also needs a whole of government approach to the fiscal consolidation policy implemented a few years ago and this, he said must be given continued and serious attention.
The minister said that His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented for a Fiscal Consolidation Programme Guideline to help each ministry formulate their own fiscal consolidation plans.
“This includes re-assessing government revenue and expenditures with the main objective to focus expenditures towards activities than can spur economic growth and a more efficient consumption,” he said.
Some of the Fiscal Consolidation Programme’s initiatives include corporatisation and privatisation, public-private partnership (PPP), evaluating subsidies against targets, re-assessing fees and charges, efficient fiscal management, diversification of revenue streams, consolidation of the government’s asset management system and efficient revenue collection.
Investing in Our Future
The minister said the theme for the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2019/2020 ‘Investing in Our Future’ emphasises the importance of planning that must be carried out now through the implementation of efficient programmes and initiatives that are capable of offering an ecosystem for the growth and diversified economy for today and tomorrow, without too much reliance on the government.
He said the implementation of the programmes and initiatives are aspired to drive national development by creating job opportunities in various fields and new industries, increasing business and economic activities and the provision of capable, skilled and marketable human capital.
“All these efforts would not just enhance the quality of life and welfare of the people today, but will also be reaped by the next generations,” he added.
The minister outlined four main focus of the proposed 2019/2020 budget: increasing investment activities; facilitating businesses; generating competent and employable human capital and preserving public welfare.
In the first focus of increasing investment activities, the minister among others highlighted that the country aims at increasing the growth in the oil and gas sector and opening more job opportunities by giving attention to businesses that can be further intensified in priority sectors such as downstream oil and gas; food; tourism; services and info-communication technology (ICT) by taking into account the country’s existing competitive and comparative advantage in terms of infrastructure, natural resources and economic environment that has shown growth and has massive potential to be further developed.
The government is also proactively luring in quality FDIs to develop the private sector.
Meanwhile, towards a more efficient public sector, a key initiative actively pursued is the corporatisation of a number of government agencies through PPP with cooperation with government linked companies (GLCs).
“This is not just to achieve efficiency, effective government expenditure and quality service, but is also a platform to increase investment activities and in driving further the private sector to generate more quality job opportunities for locals,” he added.
In the second focus of facilitating businesses, the minister outlined the country’s continuous effort in supporting economic growth by prioritising the private sector, particularly in enhancing the roles and capabilities of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
For the third focus on generating competent and employable human capital, he said the government will continue to prioritise investment towards competent and employable human capital to help the country’s economic growth.
He said the focus emphasises on the aspects of education development plans that can generate more experts, professionals, entrepreneurs and leaders of today and tomorrow.
Meanwhile, for the fourth focus of preserving public welfare, the minister said the government will continue to maintain the social welfare of the people, including the provision of basic needs and services such as free education, quality health services and also subsidies for basic necessities such as rice, electricity, petrol, housing, water and others.
Meanwhile, among the key budget allocations outlined by Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew are:
Improving investment activities
• BND21.7 million for the tourism sector with planning cost (harga rancangan) of BND66.2 million
• BND91 million allocated to promote the agriculture and fishery sector including the development of livestock industries
Ease of Doing Business
• BND91.4 million to enhance the infrastructure for information technology in all sectors
Human Capacity Building and Employment
• BND15.9 million for training programmes
• BND1.2 million to fund youth and NGOs
• BND101.53 million to improve students’ well-being
• BND48.7 million to improve the capacity of all government officers and staff
• BND17 million for i-Ready Apprenticeship programme
• BND36.6 million to finance the Capacity Building Centre
Preserving public welfare
• BND100 million for health services and supplies
• BND14 million for welfare assistance
• BND95.4 million to improve electrical power supply
• BND294.3 million for the Temburong Bridge project with planning cost of BND1.04 billion
• BND10.5 million with planning cost of BND21 million to improve public transport
• BND33.1 million for water management and coastal protection
In closing his speech, the minister reminded that the budget for 2019/2020 must be utilised in a “more forward-looking manner” and “geared towards growth” to face the challenges in the future.
He also highlighted the importance to accelerate PPP and FDI initiatives to help the country achieve its economic diversification efforts, ensuring the fiscal stability and resilience, as well as in reducing the dependence on oil and gas revenues.
| Lyna Mohamad |
THE latest branch of Brunei’s premier supermarket opened yesterday.
Offering customers freshly flown produce and dairy from the UK and Australia, Supa Save One Riverside is the first branch to feature a cafe counter selling local favourites.
Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah graced the opening ceremony as the guest of honour.
On arrival at One Riverside, Her Royal Highness, accompanied by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hajah Taiyibah Qalbul Bolqiah, Yang Amat Mulia Tengku Amalin A’Ishah Putri binti Sultan Ismail Petra, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hajah Ruqiyah Mataul Bulqiah, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Abdul Mu’min, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Abdul Muqtadir and Pengiran Haji Mohammad Hakimmuddin bin Pengiran Haji Hashim, was welcomed by Chief Executive Officer of QAF Brunei Sdn Bhd Albert Lau and General Manager of Smart Sdn Bhd KY Lim.
The event began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by Her Royal Highness along with Albert Lau and KY Lim.
Her Royal Highness was then presented a token of appreciation and was ushered for a tour around the supermarket.
Following the morning opening ceremony, the supermarket began its business operation in the afternoon where customers with minimum purchases were given complimentary balloons, jute bags and birthday cakes.
Offering super fresh produce and dairy almost daily with a wide range of gourmet, healthy and organic products including vegan and gluten-free options, the latest branch of Supa Save is the fourth branch since the opening of its first branch in Mabohai in 1997.
One Riverside is the first integrated development in the country facing the Sungai Kedayan and Sungai Menglait and the area itself offers visitors a different experience from the usual shopping spots in the country with the atmosphere and architectural features of the buildings.
| Lyna Mohamad |
INTIATIVES like Bandarku Ceria further caps greenhouse emission by ensuring that Bandar Seri Begawan is free of cars every Sunday morning while the Energy Efficiency and Conservation (EEC) Building Guidelines for Government and Commercial Buildings was adopted to reduce unnecessary waste of electricity, Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman said.
Her Royal Highness made these comments in her Sabda at the opening of the 15th International School Brunei Borneo Global Issues Conference (ISB BGIC) yesterday.
Her Royal Highness, who is the Royal Patron of ISB BGIC, graced the opening ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Berakas.
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 at the United Nations (UN) Climate Summit in 2014, noted the extreme weather events and their threats, and emphasised that “failing to act decisively and collectively now may prove to be detrimental to global security, development and prosperity”, Her Royal Highness said.
Her Royal Highness said other world leaders have similarly answered the urgent call for ‘Climate Action’ and signed the Paris Agreement in 2016, which was a significant agreement as it saw the largest number of signatories to date on Climate Change thus showing how serious this issue has become for different nations worldwide.
“In line with the Paris Agreement, His Majesty’s Government has embarked on several initiatives. In keeping with the Heart of Borneo and as promised in our Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs), Brunei has increased its gazetted forest reserves from 41 per cent to 55 per cent of the country’s total land area,” Her Royal Highness said.
Her Royal Highness said severe weather events, rising sea levels, increased greenhouse gases, heat waves, and reduced water supply, continue to contribute towards alarming irreversible changes in the planetary climate system.
The theme for this year’s ISB BGIC ‘Climate Action’, is fitting as countries, continents and communities across the world experience first-hand the effects of these climate change, she said.
With young leaders in Brunei further upholding His Majesty’s titah, non-government organisations (NGOs) like ‘Green Brunei’ convenes a Climate Camp in Temburong, educating the youth on the environment, climate change and sustainable development and the same organisation has produced an easily understandable guide on installing solar panels for homeowners, helping the country’s shift towards more renewable sources of energy.
Her Royal Highness highlighted that being the future leaders of tomorrow, the participants will also have a part to play in conserving the planet.
“I therefore support the efforts and commitment of our young delegates, as they emulate our world leaders in meaningful debate and cooperative problem-solving,” Her Royal Highness said.
“I urge you to be vocal in your opinions, yet be receptive and collaborative during the discussions. Take time to consider the different ideas and circumstances of others in your committees, just as our world leaders wisely consider the perspectives of other countries in order to produce workable solutions.”
Her Royal Highness also expressed hopes that the young delegates understand that this crucial exercise they are undertaking now at BGIC, is actually an important part of their preparation for their future lives at university and work.
“This conference is a testament to the contributions and generous support of the organisers, teachers, guest speakers and other key players present today.”
Upon arrival, Her Royal Highness was greeted by ISB Executive Principal Laura Thomas.
The ceremony at the International Conference Centre in Berakas began with the opening address by Laura Thomas and a joint speech by BGIC Secretary Generals.
This was followed with a musical performance by the ISB concert band and vocalists and keynote presentations by Hannah Testa and Rita Kimani.
Prior to the delivering of the Sabda and royal declaration of the opening ceremony of the 15th ISB BGIC by Her Royal Highness, another musical performance was performed by the ISB concert band and vocalists.
Her Royal Highness also presented certificates of participation to representatives from the 25 participating schools attending the conference as well as appreciation certificates to event sponsors before posing for a group photo with the certificate recipients.
Keynote speaker Hannah Testa from the US, is a 16-year-old sustainability advocate, international speaker and founder of Hannah4Change, an organisation dedicated to fighting issues that impact the planet and has been awarded with Teen Earth Day Hero by CNN, the Young Superhero for Earth Award by Captain Planet, the Action for Nature International Young Eco-Hero Award and the Gloria Barron Prize.
A board member, advisor, and youth ambassador for a half-dozen organisations including Plastic Pollution Coalition and 5 Gyres Institute, Hannah is also part of the team of activists who push global coffee shop giants, Starbucks, to produce a more environmentally friendly, sustainable coffee cup.
UN Sustainable Development Goals Young Leader Rita Kimani of Kenya, meanwhile, is the co-founder of FarmDrive, a social enterprise that connects unbanked and underserved smallholder farmers to credit.
The 25-year-old computer scientist, despite challenges along the way, has seen how sustainable agriculture can be a vehicle for inclusive economic growth and a game changer for sustainable food production and security.
The conference ends tomorrow after the 300 delegates come together in the General Assembly to debate resolutions to mitigate and attack the issue of climate change.
| Khairil Hassan |
HER Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah attended the Netfit Netball Workshop organised by the Brunei Darussalam Netball Association (BNA) at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex in Berakas yesterday.
The Netfit Netball Workshop was facilitated by founder of the Netfit Netball programme in Australia Sarah Wall, who spent 12 years as an elite national netball player playing for the Queensland Firebirds, Melbourne Vixens, NSW Swifts and Giants Netball. Also present were national netball coach Jane Searle, who had stints with the Australian netball team, and Netfit Netball programme coach Sarah Norton.
The class was the last of the week-long Netfit Netball programme which aimed to broaden players’ knowledge and understanding of the game for the sake of the country’s netball development.
During the ‘Programme for School’ recently, the Australian coaches shared their expertise on fitness and conducted training sessions with students from International School Brunei, Jerudong International School, Chung Hwa Middle School, Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Secondary School, Pulaie Primary School, Anggerek Desa Primary School, Delima Satu Primary School and Dato Marsal Primary School, Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College, Sports School, Raja Isteri Girls High School (STPRI) and Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam Secondary School.
Training sessions were conducted with the national pool and the national under-21 team in preparation for the Southeast Asian Games in the Philippines and the Asian Youth Championship in Japan.
Netball players were encouraged to use the NETFIT Netball app to keep track of their fitness, including nutrition needs and coaching plan for coaches.
| Fizah HAB |
A TOTAL of 250 people participated in the Brunei Amazing Race at the Bandarku Ceria in the capital yesterday.
Organised by Le Voeu Event Company, the Brunei Amazing Race was held as part of the 35th National Day celebrations.
Teams of two competed with one another in tackling obstacles and solving puzzles at checkpoints scattered around the capital. Each checkpoint required participants to solve questions about Brunei’s history and traditional games, testing their knowledge, speed and teamwork skills. According to a representative from Le Voeu Event Company, the Brunei Amazing Race aimed to raise participants’ awareness on Brunei’s history and gave them the opportunity to explore the city.
| Fizah HAB |
A TOTAL of 650 students were presented awards and prizes for their outstanding academic achievements, during a ceremony at the Darussalam Hall of the Chung Hwa Middle School Bandar Seri Begawan (CHMS BSB) yesterday.
Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam Yu Hong, President of the Teng Yun Temple Lee Eng Ching and other invited guests presented awards and prizes to the recipients made up of kindergarten, primary, secondary and tertiary level students.
A handover of mock cheques from the Teng Yun Temple to several charities, including Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam, Community Service Centre Seria, Chung Hwa School Tutong and CHMS BSB was also held.
The annual awards ceremony is a motivation for students to excel in their academic pursuits.
| Lyna Mohamad |
MINISTER of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman yesterday officiated the ‘Run & Ride for Humanity’ charity run and cycling event at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, held as part of activities for Bandarku Ceria.
The event, organised by the Syababul Iman Youth Group of Sultan Sharif Ali Mosque Sengkurong (MSSAS) and supported by the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA), Ministry of Health, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Home Affairs, and Ministry of Education, was aimed at raising funds for victims of the earthquake and tsunami that hit Central Sulawesi, Indonesia last year as well as the needy in the country.
It was also meant as an activity for the Syababul Iman to strengthen ties with the community and government and non-government agencies and to encourage the community to practise healthy living.
It was held as part of the Masjidku Makmur, Negaraku Berkat programmes and to coincide with the occasion of Bandar Seri Begawan being chosen as the Capital of Islamic Culture for 2019 in the Asian Region.
The event consisted of a three-kilometre and five-kilometre run as well as a 19-km cycling segment around Bandar Seri Begawan. There was also a poetry activity, exhibition, clothing sale as well as activities organised by the Syababul Iman youth members.
A mass Surah Al-Fatihah recitation and an aerobic warm-up session kicked off the event. This was followed by the minister, who joined the three-kilometre run, flagging off the runners and cyclists.
The minister later presented prizes to winners of the Best Creative Video and Poetry Recital, and handed certificates of appreciation to representatives of the agencies involved in organising the event.
The minister received a souvenir from Head of the Syababul Iman Youth Group Najib Min Fadhillah bin Haji Abdul Majid.
Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, Permanent Secretary at the MoRA Dato Seri Setia Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Yussof, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy and Religious) at the MoRA Haji Mohd Serudin bin Haji Timbang, and Penghulu of Mukim Sengkurong Haji Musa bin Haji Tahir were also present at the event.
| Wani Roslan |
TWO representatives from Brunei Darussalam left to Jakarta yesterday to participate in The Annual Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz Alu Su’ud Competition of the Memorisation of Quran and Sunnah for ASEAN and Pacific countries that ends on March 14.
Sabaraya bin Abdul Ghani led as the head of the delegates. Muhammad Abu Hurairah bin Ariffin will be participating under 30 Juzuk Al-Quran memorisation category and Abdul Qayyum bin Kamarudjaman will be under 15 Juzuk Al-Quran memorisation category.
Muhammad Abu Hurairah shared that he will do the best for this year’s competition after gaining experience in past competitions in 2009 and 2011.
“For preparation, I read verses of Al-Quran daily at least five Juzuk per day. From previous experience, there is no doubt that the participants are challenging and Insya Allah, I will do my best as I improve in all aspects such as Hafazan and Tajweed,” he said.
Abdul Qayyum who is participating for the first time in such competition shared his gratefulness for the opportunity and hopes to do best for the competition.
Head of Islamic Syiar Development Division at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Haji Madzneh bin Haji Mohd Noor and Acting Principal of Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Pengiran Haji Amiruddin bin Pengiran Haji Damit were present at the Brunei International Airport to bid them farewell.
| Fizah HAB |
THE Muslimah Affairs Section at the Department of Mosque Affairs at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) and the Mosque Takmir Committee of the Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah recently hosted a forum titled ‘Challenges of protecting the family from social epidemic – adultery and drugs’ at the Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, Kiarong.
The spouse of the Minister of Religious Affairs Datin Hajah Nahriah binti Haji Asbi was the guest of honour. Female senior officers from the MoRA, Brunei-Muara Muslimah guidance class, students from Jamalul Alam Secondary School, Raja Isteri Girls High School and Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College were also present.
The event began with the mass recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by the forum moderated by Muslimah guidance class teacher of Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit Mosque Ustazah Hajah Rosita binti Yahya.
Panellists included Director of the Fiqh al-Usrah Research Centre of Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan Hajah Aisyah Radhiah binti Haji Abdul Ghani, officer from Community Development Department (JAPEM) Nurul Nazurah binti Jaya and Head Narcotics Officer II at the Prime Minister’s Office Hajah Nordina binti Haji Mohammad.
The forum was aimed at providing awareness to participants so that they would be aware of the current challenges of social illness. The forum also aimed to highlight the importance of women’s role in building a harmonious family.
| Fizah HAB & Daniel Lim |
THE Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) organised the 35 Times Khatam Al-Quran ceremonies across all four districts in conjunction with the 35th National Day celebrations.
A total of 2,000 youth participated in the ceremonies.
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 attended as the guest of honour. The event for the Brunei-Muara District was held at the Setia Ali Mosque in Pekan Muara.
Permanent Secretary at the MCYS Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, Brunei-Muara District Officer Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim, Ra’es of Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) Dr Haji Adanan bin Haji Basar and Rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal also attended.
A total of 1,000 participants attended the event, comprising youths from the National Service Programme (PKBN), Youth Development Centre, students from the Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (ITQSHHB) as well as students from higher learning and technical educational institutions, secondary and religious schools, youth associations and youths from the Belia Cinta Tanah Air programme and Qaris and Qariahs of the National Youth Al-Quran Reading Competition.
The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by the guest of honour, followed by the recitation of Surah Adh-Dhuha until Surah Al-Masad led by students from ITQSHHB and the reading of Takhtim by a representative from UNISSA.
The recitation of Doa Khatam was led by 2018 National Youth Al-Quran Reading Competition Qari Champion Muhammad Sa’dun bin Suhalili, while PKBN trainees led the recitation of Dikir Marhaban.
The ceremony concluded with the recitation of Doa Allah Peliharakan Sultan dan Brunei Darussalam read by Mosque Affairs Officer Nasehin bin Yahya and mass Zohor prayer.
In the Belait District, a similar ceremony was held at the Pekan Seria Mosque, seeing Deputy Minister of Development Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin attending as the guest of honour.
Head Religious Officer for the Belait District Haji Asminan bin Haji Chuchu, Head of the Belait District branch of Youth and Sports Gaung Jamit; mosques Takmir committee members, officers from government agencies and department; as well as students from several secondary schools attended the event. In total, over 300 attended the ceremony.
The ceremony started with a mass recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by the guest of honour, followed by the recitation of Surah Adh-Dhuha to Surah Al-Masad.
The recitation of Takhtim and Doa Khatam was then conducted, following with the Khatam Al-Quran.
The guest of honour presented Bunga Telur to the Khatam participants, following which the Dikir Marhaban was conducted.
The ceremony concluded with the recitation of Doa Allah Peliharakan Sultan dan Brunei Darussalam and mass Zohor prayer.
In the Tutong District, the event was held at the Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Wakeel Mosque, while the event in the Temburong District was held at Utama Mohammad Salleh Mosque.
| Danial Norjidi |
THE Dental Infection Control Symposium 2019 was held yesterday by the Department of Dental Services, Ministry of Health (MoH) in conjunction with World Oral Health Day 2019.
The symposium took place at the MoH’s Al-‘Afiah Hall and was launched by guest of honour Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohammad Isham bin Haji Jaafar.
Also present were the permanent secretary and deputy permanent secretaries at the MoH, directors-general, directors, officers and staff under the Ministry of Health.
According to a press statement, the symposium carried the theme, ‘Keep Calm, Safety First’, and put emphasis on the importance of safety when providing dental services and treatment to patients and also for all dental professionals that provide treatment. Cross infection can be controlled by practising a ‘Safety First’ work culture.
In addition, the symposium was aimed at raising awareness among dental professionals on the importance of cross-infection control especially in government dental clinics throughout the country through methods such as sterilisation of dental equipment, cleaning and disinfection of the environment and other basic aspects such as washing hands and the use of personal protective equipment.
Five speakers comprising local experts and dental officers were invited to deliver presentations.
The symposium was attended by 300 participants, including dental specialists, dental officers, dental nurses, dental technicians and dental assistants serving at the MoH.
The minister said the symposium was hoped to provide useful exposure and knowledge to be practised by all officers and staff at dental services under the MoH in preventing and controlling infection when providing treatment to a patient.
“Among the aspects that need to be given special attention in controlling cross infection during dental treatment is the use of clean and sterile dental instruments,” he said.
“This is very important and dental practitioners must be aware of the dangers of viral infections such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV which can be transmitted from one patient to another if the equipment used is contaminated and not cleaned before use. Infections such as these are the major issues to be considered.”
“Furthermore, with the development of advanced technology, people are always exposed and vulnerable to being influenced to obtain dental treatment services from members of the public who are not registered or accredited who offer dental services through social media.”
As an example, he noted those who offer the fitting of fake braces, conducted at homes, using tools and instruments that are unhygienic and not sterile.
“Unfortunately, most people who receive this treatment from people pretending to be dental practitioners eventually end up having to undergo treatment to deal with complications arising from improper, disorderly, non-hygienic and non-sterile dental treatment.
“I understand that there are other initiatives that have been carried out, including the initiative to control tooth infections by informing the public about dental hygiene in general, the dangers of fake braces through television and radio and, in cooperation with the relevant authorities, taking action against those members of the public who offer and provide irresponsible treatment.
“Such efforts should be continued and strengthened to protect oral health, especially among the citizens and residents of Brunei Darussalam,” he affirmed.
The symposium also saw the minister launching a book – the Dental Infection Control Manual – distributed to dental officers in-charge from each government dental clinic in the country.
Touching on the book in his speech, the minister said, “It aims to disseminate information to all dental officers and staff about the dangers of using instruments that are not clean and not sterile.
“This manual focusses on the essentials that are important to be done before, during and after dental treatment. The use of personal protective equipment, correct and orderly hand washing techniques, dental chair decontamination methods and techniques as well as waste disposal after dental treatment are among the basic items that are described in this manual.
“I hope this manual will be used as a reference to be utilised by all dental officers and staff towards optimal services and patient care, and taking into account the general safety of patients.”
The minister went on to acknowledge that yesterday’s symposium is one of the activities organised by the Department of Dental Services in celebrating the World Oral Health Day, which will be celebrated on March 20 with the theme, ‘Say Ahh: Act on Mouth Health’.
“The theme is to encourage every individual in their own oral health care by taking appropriate actions, such as brushing teeth at least twice a day and doing dental checkups at nearby dental clinics every six months.”
“The activities organised in conjunction with World Oral Health Day will hopefully help educate the public about the wider implications to protect their oral health and to raise awareness among the public on the importance of early detection and treatment of oral diseases and any related health complications.
“I would also like to urge all Department of Dental Services officers and staff especially the Ministry of Health in general to collectively inform the public about oral healthcare and the risks of cross infection,” he added.
“Insya Allah, this will increase the public’s confidence in the services rendered and will directly assist us in discharging our responsibilities in the best possible way to strengthen the quality of services rendered in a more productive and excellent direction.”
After the launch of the symposium and the Dental Infection Control Manual, the proceedings continued with two preliminary lectures – one from Dr Hajah Norsuhana binti Haji Sulong on ‘Infection Control in Dental Setting’ and another from Dr Chua Kai Lay entitled ‘Fake Braces Trend Poses Health Risks in Brunei Darussalam’.
The minister then viewed exhibitions highlighting the expert services of pedodontics, periodontics, orthodontics, endodontics, prostodontics, implants, oral surgery services for those with special needs, basic oral care and oral health promotion.
Concurrent lectures then took place. For dental officers, dental nurses and dental surgery assistants there were two lectures – ‘How to take care of your dental chair’ by Dr Hajah Amal Aqilah binti Haji Ajamain and ‘Sterilisation and disinfection of dental instruments’.
For dental technicians, there was a lecture entitled ‘Infection control in dental laboratory’ by Dr Sharon Han Shiou Shin.
| James Kon |
ELMEEZA Bazillah binti Muhammad Yasrinal Eddy Abdullah of Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College (MSPSBS) has done the country proud after being crowned as the SEAMEO Science Ambassador in the 1st SEAMEO Science Olympiad (SEASO) 2019, held recently in Penang, Malaysia.
Competing against 129 participants from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam, Elmeeza Bazillah topped the Level 1 individual category with the highest accumulated points by answering 100 questions, which were a mix of multiple choice and subjective questions.
Each question was shown on a projector for 30 seconds, requiring the participants to answer immediately upon seeing it.
For her efforts, Elmeeza Bazillah received a medal, trophy, certificate and a cash prize of RM200.
The SEAMEO Science Olympiad (SEASO) 2019 is a unique platform of inspiration and scientific knowledge stimulation of future scientists and science academicians all over Southeast Asia, and beyond. It aims to stimulate scientific thinking and know-ledge exploration among students in secondary school levels by applying knowledge into real-life technological problem-solving skills to address multiple issues, including sustainable development.
Thirty teams participated in the event from March 5-8, with the team from Philippines finally emerging as the overall champion, followed by the Malaysia team in second place and the Thailand team in third.
Brunei Darussalam was represented by four students: Elmeeza Bazillah and Radin Hannah Bazilah binti Radin Shafiee from MSPSBS; and Mohammad Amin bin Haji Mohammad Jazmi and Nur Syirin binti Sukarvena from Sayyidina Othman Secondary School, who were accompanied by Hajah Noormah Hayati binti Haji Mohd Noor from Pengiran Anak Puteri Hajah Masna Secondary School and Head Delegate Hajah Normimah binti Haji Abu Bakar of the School Co-Curricular Activities Unit under the Department of Schools.
Hajah Normimah said, “Alhamdulillah, I am proud of Elmeeza Bazillah’s victory, which is a high achievement for Brunei Darussalam. I hope that this will motivate and leave a big impact on students who will be representing Brunei in the future.”
| Hakim Hayat |
PRESIDENT of the Republic of Korea Moon Jae-in and spouse Kim Jung-sook arrived in Brunei last evening for a three-day State Visit to the Sultanate.
Present at Brunei International Airport to welcome the President and his spouse were Minister of Home Affairs as Minister-in-Attendance Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong and spouse; Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong and spouse; Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof and spouse; and Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Brunei Darussalam Yoon Hyun-bong.
The President and his spouse walked past a static guard of honour, mounted by members of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF).
The President and his delegation are scheduled to meet 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 at the Istana Nurul Iman in an official welcoming ceremony today.
A State Banquet will also be held tonight, in honour of his visit.
President Moon’s visit to Brunei makes him the first South Korean head of state to make a state visit to Brunei in 19 years. The visit is also the first leg of his three-nation tour that will later take him to Malaysia and Cambodia.
The President’s trip to the region comes amid his efforts to boost his country’s economic and diplomatic relations with its regional neighbours, under his country’s New Southern Policy.
Shortly before departing for Brunei, the President described it in a tweet as a ‘gem-like’ country with rich natural resources, while also adding that through this tour, he would reduce the distance between South Korea and ASEAN by practical cooperation and expanding South Korean business inroads across the region.
“With ASEAN, I will seek to build a people-oriented community of peace and prosperity,” he said in the tweet.
The New Southern Policy is designed to cement ties largely with ASEAN, which is a crucial partner for South Korea due to the bloc’s growth potential, rich resources and growing diplomatic influence.
The President will also consult with Brunei, the current Country Coordinator for ASEAN-Korea Dialogue Relations, to enhance Korea-ASEAN cooperation in part, through the successful hosting of the ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit.
Brunei Darussalam and the Republic of Korea have enjoyed close and longstanding diplomatic relation since 1984, with cooperation in various fields including economy, energy, education, ICT and people-to-people exchanges.
| Khairil Hassan |
BRUNEI Championship ADT Tournament promoter SPS Innovative Enterprise is collaborating with Butra Heidelberg Cement (BHC) as the championship’s title sponsor.
A signing ceremony between SPS Innovative Enterprise and sponsors was held at The Empire Hotel & Country Club yesterday.
The sponsors are Mar’azmala Petrol Station and Trading, Royal Brunei Airlines, DST Group, Cityneon Displays and Trading, Royal Brunei Catering, Jati Transport, GHK Motors and Hui Huang Enterprise.
The tournament, to be held from April 24-27 at The Empire Hotel & Country Club, is supported by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Health, as well as organisations from the private sector.
SPS Innovative Enterprise is looking forward to the participation of prominent golfers such as Kiradech Aphibarnrat, who won last year’s championship and currently ranked 38th in PGA Tour World Ranking; Prom Meesawat, a member of the Asian Tour; as well as other promising young golfers from Asia and others.
For the first time, the tournament offers two hole-in-one car prizes, sponsored by Jati Transport and GHK Motors. The champion will receive a grand prize of USD75,000.
The Brunei Championship ADT aims to highlight Brunei as a premium golfing destination in the region as well as promote golf as a sport in the football-mad nation.
Acting Director of Youth and Sports Haji Zafri bin Haji Mohamed was the guest of honour at the ceremony.
| Rokiah Mahmud |
THE Brunei Youth Council (BYC) held its 5th General Representative Congress (KAP) meeting recently.
Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Khairunnisa binti Haji Ash’ari, who was appointed as the temporary Supreme Standing Chair by the congress to chair the BYC Coalition and Renewal Agenda 2019-2021 Session, was present.
Supreme Permanent Chairman of the 2012-2018 Session Haji Jawawi bin Haji Ahmad chaired the KAP meeting.
The event was also attended by members of the Central Executive Committee for Session 2012-2018, comprising Associate Professor Dr Haji Hashim bin Haji Abdul Hamid, Mohd Zefri Ariff bin Mohd Zain Ariff and Haji Sahari bin Haji Abdul Rahman.
The meeting was held to discuss the coordination of the BYC administration and to determine the BYC framework, to dissolve and appoint the Central Administrative Committee, and to renew the consolidation of associations and groups with the BYC.
During the meeting, 12 legal associations/youth groups registered or established by either government or private agencies in Brunei – nine from the Brunei-Muara District, two from the Belait District and one from Tutong District – were consolidated.
The Central Executive Committee for Session 2019-2021 was also appointed. The members are President Mohd Aidil Firdaus bin Haji Jukin, Deputy President Mohd Haziq Hishyam bin Mohd Zaki, Chairman of the Supreme Standing Nurizzatul Izzah binti Haji Abdul Rahman, Deputy Chief Supervisor Muhammad Akmal bin Haji Marsidi, Supreme Secretary-General Awangku Mohd Noor Sham @ Awangku Hidie bin Pengiran Hidup, Deputy Supreme Secretary-General Muhammad Muqri bin Matahir, Supreme Treasurer Mohammad Aisamuddin bin Ali Omar, and Deputy Treasury Supreme High Court Haji Abdul Mateen Bolkini bin A Haji Ahmad.
Congress members also discussed the strategy of strengthening the BYC’s function as a body connecting associations in Brunei Darussalam with official foreign organisations and as a networking centre for youth in the country at the national, regional and international level.
| Aziz Idris |
THE First Lady of the Republic of Korea Kim Jung-sook, visited Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) yesterday to observe Korean Language classes and interact with students who have been following advanced levels of Korean Language at UBD.
On hand to welcome the First Lady at the lobby of the Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah (PAPRSB) Institute of Health Sciences were Acting Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh and Vice-Chancellor of UBD Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina binti Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Aziz.
At the lobby, the First lady was given a traditional welcome by a hadrah and gulingtangan troupe. A silat demonstration was also performed by the UBD students.
This was followed with a visit to the Korean Language class sessions, conducted through UBD’s Language Centre by two Korean Language teachers.
Currently, 122 UBD students are taking up Korean Language modules at the centre. Most are learning the Korean Language, which will enable them to pursue their Discovery Year at some of the top universities in the Republic of Korea that are partner universities with UBD.
The Discovery Year is a credit-bearing year out of UBD, for all of its undergraduate GenNEXT degree students to enrich their experiential learning.
The First Lady’s visit ended with an interaction session at UBD’s Business Library, with 20 students who have completed advanced levels of the Korean Language module.
UBD currently has 21 partner universities in the Republic of Korea for academic and research collaboration, including student and staff mobility. In 2015, UBD’s Faculty of Science signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Korea University’s College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology to offer a Dual Degree Programme in Masters and PhD in the fields of Biodiversity, Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering.
This is a joint initiative under the International Consortium of Universities for the Study of Biodiversity and the Environment (iCUBE). Formed in 2011, iCUBE is a consortium bringing together a core group of seven research universities from around the globe, to promote collaborative research and education on biodiversity and the sustainable environment.
In 2018, UBD hosted 29 Korean students who joined its Global Discovery Summer Programme and seven students on its Semester Exchange Programme.
UBD currently has three full-time students from the Republic of Korea in the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Business degree programmes.
In January 2018, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) from the Republic of Korea sent a team of basketball players to UBD as part of sport exchanges.
The Republic of Korea is a popular destination for UBD Discovery Year students. Since 2011, UBD has sent more than 720 students to the Republic of Korea for their Discovery Year activities.
