|     Aziz Idris     |

THE Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) will continue to strengthen and improve the profile of local agricultural and agrifood-based sector through means of technology which in turn will contribute significantly to the gross domestic product (GDP).

This was stated by Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong in his closing remarks on the final day of the 15th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday.

He explained that apart from poultry, vegetables and fruits farming, flower, and livestock; aquaculture and deep-water fishing has enjoyed the biggest growth and has been identified by the MPRT as the emerging sector that will contribute significantly to the economy in the near future.

The Fisheries Department has set a target to increase aquaculture revenue from BND9 million in 2015 to BND400 million per year by 2020.

“In view of this development, we have also seen the processing sector grow, especially the processing of fresh fish and prawns not only for local consumption but also for the export market,” he noted, adding that it has generated local employment.

The minister also shared some success stories from local and joint-venture companies involved in agriculture.

Several processing companies have managed to tap into the export market, using the Brunei Halal brand. One of the latest companies is BMC Sdn Bhd, who supplies ready-cook chicken to a Japanese restaurant franchise which has over 300 branches in Japan.

Meanwhile, the cultivation of poultry and livestock has also seen a significant growth with several poultry breeders successfully improving their income. This is also reflected in local fruit farming whereby farming companies have already registered and started to export their produce outside Brunei.

He also reiterated 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 during the 13th Knowledge Convention whereby His Majesty underscored the significance of farming and achieving food self-sufficiency for the nation’s survivability.

He also urged all stakeholders, including the LegCo members, to continuously support the development of agriculture, especially among youth, to curb unemployment while at the same time assuring sufficient food security for the nation.

In the tourism sector, the minister highlighted the success of the Brunei December Festival (BDF), which has now become a national phenomenon.

“What started with the ministry’s initiative to attract tourists and encourage locals to spend in Brunei, especially during December, has now turned into a lucrative business for event managers,” he added.

The minister also acknowledged local tour operators who have offered attractive tour packages for tourists, especially from China and Republic of Korea.

In conclusion, the minister urged all to adopt a Whole of Nation” effort by partnering businesses, citizens and other stakeholders to develop better solutions.

|     James Kon     |

MINISTER at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud in his concluding remarks at the 15th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday morning suggested the setting up of a Body or Committee comprising Yang Berhormats to discuss views and provide advice on eliminating or reducing the need of asking common questions (such as what is the action, what is the plan? What is this or what is that?) at LegCo meetings.

The minister firstly highlighted that “Brunei Darussalam has an unique identity of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB). In this regard, national plan must not sway away from the MIB philosophy as 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’s titah which stated, “In planning and carrying out action also need policy that is clear. Our policy in this country is MIB. Therefore, all the planning and action must be based on MIB’.”

His Majesty also stated in the titah that “to become a leader, the need to practise, instil and appreciate the values inherent in the MIB concept is essential.

Not only the leader, we are all called upon to practise it to maintain our integrity and credibility as the members of community in contributing to the development”.

Secondly, the minister said, “Efforts to diversify and generate economic growth will be further enhanced by facilitating the flow of government processes and regulations. Since long time ago, we have realised that the country will not depend on oil and gas forever. His Majesty has also frequently reminded of the importance of diversifying the country’s economy.

“The prosperity enjoyed by the people in this country will only be sustainable if we all strive together and play a role in supporting efforts towards diversifying the economy. Local entrepreneurs need to be courageous to explore the export market, where government agencies will always ready to provide assistance and guidance.”

Thirdly, on security and stability, he said, “We will never compromise on issues involving national security including elements that try to threaten peace and stability.

“The PMO in collaboration with security agencies will continue to work on developing strategies to preserve political stability, protect national sovereignty and link defence capabilities as well as diplomatic capabilities and national preparedness in addressing security threats. This includes in enhancing works in combating crimes and strengthening the capacity of relevant agencies in handling national and cross-border crises.”

However, he also stressed that the role of safeguarding harmony and peace is also the responsibility of all.

The minister also said, “The cooperation of the appointed Yang Berhormats as grassroots leaders, mukim penghulus, village heads as well as the community as a whole is expected to combat crime.

“I would like to convey my gratitude to members of the public who have provided information to the authorities in combating crimes. This is also thanks to the cooperation and leadership of village heads, mukim penghulus and the appointed Yang Berhormats .”

The minister said he was impressed by the advice given by the LegCo Speaker when the issue of bullying was raised and discussed as the Speaker proposed the issue should be discussed together.

He said, “There are some matters or problems that we are discussing along the way of the meeting that we all have been able to share the responsibility through the establishment of a body or committee. This includes the proposal raised by LegCo member Yang Berhormat Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari on the youth farming programme.”

Through this, he said, “We can often meet each other and discuss on important meetings and priorities of common interest. Through this, the common questions can be reduced.

“I would like to seek the cooperation of Yang Berhormats to convey national development agendas as well as government policies to the community and the public.

“The PMO will always share government’s policies and initiatives to the people through mainstream media, social media and discussion session with grassroots leaders and villagers.”

Before concluding, the minister said, “I would also like to iterate that we all can uphold the Legislative Council as the platform to discuss strategic matters that were outlined by His Majesty in his titah during the official opening ceremony of the Legislative Council.”

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE Ministry of Defence (MinDef) will continue striving to execute its three thrusts of defence strategy, namely Deterrence, Holistic Defence and Defence Diplomacy to achieve its ‘Key Result Areas’.

Minister of Defence II Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof highlighted this in his adjournment speech on the final day of the 15th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday.

He added that these strategies will continue to be used as a guide and direction for the MinDef and Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) in the formulation of policies and the implementation of defence activities.

To ensure that these strategies remain relevant, the minister said they will always be aligned with changes in the domestic, regional and global strategic environment and adapted to national development strategies.

The minister explained that because the youth are seen as key assets in building the country, the MinDef and the RBAF’s recruitment and training programmes are geared towards producing highly educated and highly capable youth with a strong commitment in defending the sovereignty of the country, nation and religion.

As for financial and economic aspects, austerity measures are continuing in accordance with the needs and priorities of managing the country’s defence directions.

At the same time, the MinDef and RBAF are also actively offering opportunities for local businesses to tender for non-core support services such as catering services, training skills, transportation services, and continuing to explore the public-private partnership (PPP) in the implementation of services in order to achieve the national goals of promoting entrepreneurship, enhancing economic diversification and increasing employment opportunities.

The minister said in implementing the core business of the MinDef and RBAF in defending the country’s sovereignty and protecting its territorial integrity, a Whole of Nation approach will always be the best practice towards achieving Brunei Vision 2035.

“Although investment returns can hardly be measured in defence if compared with other sectors that may be more significant, especially in enjoying peace and prosperity of the country, the maintenance of credible defence is equivalent to the provision of services in other sectors for Brunei as an independent and sovereign developed nation,” he said.

“Basically, the country’s defence is a public good that has multi-tiered benefits to the country, society and individuals. This includes aspects of stability and security.”

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE Ministry of Development (MoD) has implemented several procedures to improve disposal of government assets, said Minister of Development Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar.

He was responding to a question from Legislative Council (LegCo) member Yang Berhormat Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman on procedures of disposal of government assets at the LegCo meeting.

The minister explained that the declaration letter of disposal has been implemented and will be presented to the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance and Economy as proof that the disposal has been made.

Meanwhile, the Permanent Inspection Board (LPT) will carry out measures to expedite the process of disposing the government property. This includes providing a checklist to ensure that every application received is completed accordingly.

Secondly, it also aims to enhance communication between the government agencies in addressing issues faced such as providing proactive views and advices for disposal of application from time to time.

Thirdly, it aims to enhance knowledge of the government officers and staff on procedures of disposal application through briefings conducted by the Treasury Department from time to time.

The Ministry of Finance and Economy with the cooperation of stakeholders will further review the current process of disposal.

|     Daniel Lim     |

A CAR burst into flames in Jalan Pandan 7, Kuala Belait yesterday.

The driver escaped after noticing a section in the glove box compartment was on fire.

The vehicle owner, a 55-year-old local male, told the authorities that he saw the fire in the vehicle’s glove box compartment and evacuated immediately.

Investigations revealed the fire was caused by a broken fuel pipe leading to the engine bay.

The Fire and Rescue Department (FRD) Operation ‘B’ Branch, Belait District which received the call at around 2.13pm, dispatched two firefighting vehicles along with eight firefighters from the Kuala Belait Fire Station.

The team was led by Station Commander of Kuala Belait Fire Station Assistant Superintendent of Fire and Rescue Zulkeflee bin Alimas.

The firefighters brought the fire under control in five minutes.

The FRD advised drivers to ensure that their vehicles are in a good and safe condition and to ensure that the wiring is not damaged and that the connection between the cables is tightly sealed.

Modification to vehicles, especially the vehicle’s engine compartment, should be conducted by trained and certified mechanics and in accordance with the proper standard, rules and regulations, the FRD stated.

Drivers were also advised to be attentive to rules and regulations and exercise road safety practices.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

SUSTAINABILTY which will further diversify the country’s economy will remain as the key priority and be the focus in further implementing the government’s strategies and formulation of the policymaking, Special Advisor to His Majesty and Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Diraja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa bin Pehin Datu Perdana Manteri Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Ibrahim said at the final day of 15th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday.

In his adjournment speech, the Special Advisor to His Majesty and Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office also noted that LegCo members’ ideas and suggestions will further be reviewed and evaluated according to its suitability by the relevant agencies by taking into account the government’s strategy and policymaking and implemented according to the needs and priorities.

He also advised the Civil Service that acted as the government’s administrative machinery for the need to update their policies so that they will remain transparent and effective, especially in delivering services to the public.

Stressing on youth development, the minister said youth, seen as the country’s asset, need to be continuously guided and instilled with the spirit of self-esteem and values of patriotism.

He also called on to equip youth with the needed knowledge and skills, especially in facing challenges brought by the fourth Industrial Revolution as part of the efforts in tackling unemployment.

The minister also advised the entrusted agencies to ensure the welfare and well-being of citizens and residents in the country by properly taking care and ensuring that assistance provided by the government is properly managed. In the aspect of peace and sovereignty of the country, all parties should shoulder the responsibility and not just by safety and security agencies.

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 was conferred the Honorary Doctorate (Islamic Leadership) in conjunction with the 90th Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Convocation Ceremony at the Dewan Agung Tuanku Canselor (DATC), UiTM, Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia yesterday morning.

Accompanying His Majesty at the ceremony was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen.

Upon arrival at the grounds of the DATC, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan was welcomed by His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong XVI (the 16th) of Malaysia, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah ibni Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah, the Chancellor of UiTM, and Her Majesty the Raja Permaisuri Agong, Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah binti Al-Marhum Al-Mutawakkil Alallah Sultan Iskandar Al-Haj.

Yang Mulia Tengku Muhammad Iskandar Ri’ayatuddin Shah, Yang Mulia Tengku Ahmad Ismail Muadzam Shah, Yang Mulia Tengku Puteri Afzan Aminah Hafizatullah and Yang Mulia Tengku Puteri Jihan Azizah ‘Athiyatullah were also present.

Thereafter, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam was introduced to the Minister of Education of Malaysia, the Chairman of the UiTM Board of Directors, and Vice Chancellor of UiTM Professor Insignor Dr Mohd Azraai bin Kassim.

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia were then invited to proceed to the DATC to attend the 90th UiTM Convocation Ceremony.

The ceremony commenced with the national anthems of both countries and recitation of Doa Selamat by UiTM Islamic Affairs Officer Ustaz Mohd Faizan bin Tajuid.

At the beginning of the ceremony, His Majesty Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia delivered a titah for the opening of the 90th UiTM Convocation Ceremony, followed by opening remarks by the Vice Chancellor of UiTM.

The UiTM convocation ceremony was also graced with a video clip presentation that showcased the Islamic leadership of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in leading the nation both domestically and internationally.

His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia then conferred the Honorary Doctorate (Islamic Leadership) on His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, in recognition of the achievements of His Majesty’s five decades of reign in successfully instilling Islamic values to the extent of achieving progress and development in various fields including religion, economy, education and health under the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) philosophy, thus effectively making Brunei Darussalam a safe, prosperous and harmonious country, which is well-recognised and respected throughout the world.

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam then delivered a titah, whereby His Majesty thanked His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia for the conferment of the Honorary Doctorate (Islamic Leadership).

The conferment is a great honour for His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, and serves as a catalyst in further enhancing the close and special relationship between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia in various fields including education.

The bilateral relations are further strengthened with cooperation from the universities of both countries including UiTM, such as cooperation in student mobility between UiTM and universities in Brunei Darussalam; industry training for UiTM students at the Halalan Tayyiban Research Centre, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA); and in the pilot cooperation between UiTM and UNISSA in several fields that include organising the Halal International Conference to be held in April.

To this end, the field of research and student exchanges between the higher education institutions should be strengthened further so as to give greater impact for both countries. In addition, Brunei Darussalam welcomes Malaysians who wish to continue their education in higher education institutions in Brunei Darussalam.

In concluding the titah, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam emphasised that both countries hold importance in history based on Islamic teachings.

In addition, 109 UiTM graduates received Honorary Doctorates in their respective fields.

This was followed by a titah by His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia, welcoming His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan to UiTM and congratulating His Majesty on the Conferment of the Honorary Doctorate (Islamic Leadership).

After the convocation ceremony, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam received a Cendera Kenangan from His Majesty Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia. their Majesties were then invited for a group photograph session.

Meanwhile, at noon, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, together with His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia proceeded to the Perdana Hall, Grand BlueWave Hotel, Shah Alam for a Royal Luncheon, hosted by His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia and Her Majesty the Raja Permaisuri Agong.

His Majesty left Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia yesterday afternoon.

Accompanying His Majesty was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen.

His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia was present at Subang Air Base to bid farewell to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, along with Yang Mulia Tengku Muhammad Iskandar Ri’ayatuddin Shah and Yang Mulia Tengku Ahmad Ismail Muadzam Shah.

High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to Malaysia Dato Paduka Haji Alaihuddin bin Pehin Orang Kaya Digadong Seri Lela Dato Seri Utama Haji Awang Mohd Taha was also present.

A Doa Selamat was recited by Ustaz Mohd Faizan.

Prior to boarding the special aircraft, His Majesty walked past a static guard of honour, mounted by the members of the 1st Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment, the Malaysian Army.

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

LOCAL boutique Bajoo hosted a showcase for its Raya 2019 collection for kids and adults designed by Jackie at the I-Lotus Restaurant recently.

The Sugar Sugar label, which caters primarily to children, launched its Lil Sweet Hearts collection for girls and Super Hero version 2.0 collection for boys.

The atelier’s Raya 2019 collections ‘Blooms’, inspired by English gardens, was also launched at the event.

Designer Jackie said the designs are a reflection of her love for travel with the desire to incite the feel of crisp spring air.

“We also added hand-sewn 3D flower bead work with hints of crystal beads to make the collection look intricate and stunning,” added Jackie.

|     Daniel Lim     |

WINA JR FT emerged champions of the KB Sentral Under-13 Street Futsal Challenge at the KB Sentral Shopping Centre’s front entrance over the weekend.

Wina JR FT won comfortably against S-Thirty 4-1 to take the title in the final match.

Held in conjunction with the school holiday, the tournament saw eight teams competing in the tournament namely Zeus FT, Assassins FT, Wina JR FT, Pink Panther, Black Pearl, Predators FT, S-Thirty and F-90 X.

Champions Wina JR showcased their dominance earlier after hammering Predators 6-0 in the first semi-final match. In the second semi-final, S-Thirty won against Pink Panther 3-0.

Pink Panther edged Predators 3-2 in the third place playoff match.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam under-23 national team suffered another painful defeat for a second successive match in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Under-23 qualifiers as they were mauled 8-0 by Thailand at the My Dinh National Stadium in Hanoi last night.

The youthful Wasps entered the break only one goal down to the Thais but they could not prevent the onslaught when the flurry of goals finally arrived.

The War Elephants took the lead through Supachok Sarachat in the 22^nd minute after the goalkeeper moved off his line and the Thai forward steered the ball into the empty net.

Brunei were rescued by the post six minutes before half-time with Thailand looking on top. Unlike the Vietnam game when the ball was turned in, the score-line at half-time made them believe they were still in the picture.

But the Bruneians could not hold any longer as Thailand finally ran riot with every opportunity.

Supachai Jaided finished a superb team-oriented move with a string of passes unlocking the Brunei defence four minutes into the second half.

The early goal in the second half brought the Thais more confidence as they tore their opponents to shreds.

The Brunei goalkeeper stood tall amid relentless Thai pressure as he at least delayed the inevitable with a vital hand in the 54^th minute.

Four minutes later, Thailand were unsurprisingly on the scoresheet again as Suphanat Mueanta broke free of the last defender and rounded off the goalkeeper.

Thailand added a fourth through a low drilled finish by Anon Amornlertsak before Supachai netted his brace with an icy cool header in the 67^th minute.

Supachai’s prolific form proved to be Brunei’s downfall and he completed his hat-trick in the 73^rd minute. The forward benefitted from a mistake by the Brunei goalkeeper to blast the ball into the empty net.

Brunei conceded a third penalty in as many games, and Saringkan Promsupa converted from the spot to make it 7-0.

Chotipat Poomkaew fired his shot into the post but the ball rebounded off an unfortunate Haimie anak Nyaring into goal.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

YOUNES Ammouta and Yvette Jacobine Maria Kortekaas successfully defended their National Day Run 2019 titles having been tagged as firm favourites in the men’s and women’s 10km open categories respectively at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien yesterday.

Younes finished the race with a time of 33.29s while Yvette clocked 44:59s to emulate similar success in the 2018 edition.

Overcoming a big field of runners with a common interest of dethroning the champion, Younes was the first to emerge in the final straight of the route while Yvette shrugged off a competition by her rival to seal a back-to-back victory.

Younes is a household name in the local running scene and his latest triumph bodes well for his preparations ahead of the upcoming KB Run, highly anticipated Borneo Open in April 7 and the Reintegration Run in April 14.

He has also set his sights on an appearance in a 10km event in Kota Kinabalu before the start of Ramadhan.

The victory in his third running event of the year came on the heels of his third place finish in a half marathon in Miri earlier this month.

“My preparations went smoothly. I managed to stay at the front in the start and kept like that until the finish line,” said Younes, who completed his third successive National Day Run, in an interview with the Bulletin.

The Moroccan’s final podium finish before he came to Brunei was a 10km event in 2016 in Frankfurt, Germany where he triumphed with a time of 29.25s.

With 23 years of experience, Younes previously represented Morocco as a teenager in the North African Championships and is a six-time Moroccan cross-country champion.

Meanwhile in the women’s open category, Yvette had second-placed Katherine breathing down her necks amid a crowd of the male 10km runners who were finishing the race.

“I was quite stoked because the second place finisher was right behind me. She (Katherine) pushed me the whole way,” Yvette said in an interview with the Bulletin.

“I thought I can go a little bit slower but there was no slowing down,” she continued.

“The guys (10km male runners) came right behind us so I constantly hear footsteps. So I was a bit anxious who was behind me. In the last corner, I turned around to check to see whether there is a lady behind me or not.”

Yvette has enjoyed success in the country including the Tasek and the Sungai Liang 15km trail run.

“It is nice to have a competition to run and I really like the National Day Run. It brings all the locals together and it is always nice having Bandarku Ceria around here,” said Yvette who has been in the country for eight years.

Asked on her preparations leading to the race, she replied, “I run about three or four times a week. Occasionally I do some track for technique and I do my road runs.”

Mohammad Samsul bin Zamri settled for second place with a time of 35:44s in the 10km men’s open with Muhammad Haziq Syazwan bin Hermanti coming in third with a time of 35:47s.

In the 10km women’s open, Katherine Jane Deuerlein finished second with a time of 45:14s, while Siti Fatimah binti Mohammad was ranked third with a time of 49:27s.

Local running star Sefli Ahar won the 10km men’s veteran with a time of 36:31s while Airince Liam secured the women’s veteran with a time of 49:16s.

Md Safwan Syazwan bin Haji Md Roney emerged winner of the teenage boys category with a time of 43:12s while Dayangku Nurul Aina Syafiqah won the teenage girls category with a time of 1:04.04s.

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 presented the prizes.

|     Aziz Idris     |

THREE customers took delivery of their first all-new BMW 330i M Sport variant at the QAF Auto showroom in Beribi yesterday, just after the seventh generation model was launched last Friday.

The customers are Abdul Wahab bin Mohd Fadillah, Awangku Nazeerul Fadhli bin Pengiran Abdul Rahman and Mohammad Zulhadi bin Mohd Huzaimi.

The handing over was done by the sales consultants.

The BMW 330i M Sport is the first variant of the model available in Brunei market. The engine in the all-new BMW 330i generates more spirited performance than ever.

Boasting numerous detail upgrades, this two-litre, four-cylinder unit delivers a maximum output of 258 hp between 5,000 and 6,500rpm, while peak torque of 400Nm is available from 1,550 to 4,400rpm.

Other characteristics of this engine include a lighter crankshaft, reduced internal friction, optimised heat management and a new digital engine management system.

The BMW 3 Series has epitomised the concept of sporty driving pleasure in the global premium midsize class for more than 40 years.

The seventh generation of the sports sedan has moved the game on once again in its segment in terms of driving dynamics, premium quality and innovation.

The all-new BMW 3 Series is available for viewing and test drive at the QAF Auto showroom.

|     James Kon     |

RENOWNED Pakistani artist Shehla Rehman, showcasing 20 of her latest masterpieces at the ‘Beautiful Pakistan Art and Culture Exhibition’ at the Malay Technology Museum, from March 24 to April 3, hopes to meet some of the local artists, for an exchange of views and experiences.

Rehman said, “In this exhibition, there are about 20 art pieces on very powerful words from Al-Quran. It took around one month to complete these works for the exhibition.”

Hosted by the Pakistan High Commission in Brunei Darussalam, the exhibition was officially launched by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin.

Foreign dignitaries and offi-cials from various government agencies were also present.

Acting High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Brunei Darussalam Ahmed Ali Sirohey thanked the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports for attending the event as guest of honour.

In 2017, Rehman displayed works at the Art Gallery of the Dermaga Diraja, where all were bought by collectors.

Apart from working with some of Pakistan’s most acclaimed artists, including Sadquain and Yahya Shati, she has a highly distinctive style, whether it is a huge mural or delightful cameo of everyday objects. Her art has a purely artistic and poetic appeal, which is expressed through still life and landscape portraits.

Rehman has also tackled issues such as terrorism and crimes against women, and even designed postage stamps for her country.

Her works can be found in private collections in different parts of the world, as she travels extensively and has been a guest in many countries.

She has also painted exclusively for Prince Aga Khan and Al-Marhum Sultan Azlan Muhibuddin Shah of Perak, in addition to receiving an award from the Governor of Anatolia, for her portrait of founder of modern Turkey Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.

|     Fizah HAB     |

THE Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department (BDMD) under the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC) organised a mass recitation of Surah Yaasiin, Tahlil and a Doa Selamat yesterday, in observance of World Meteorological Day 2019.

Held at the Brunei International Airport Surau, the mass recitation was accompanied by the mass Maghrib prayers.

Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof attended the event. Permanent Secretary at the MTIC Haji Mohammad Nazri bin Haji Mohammad Yusof and Deputy Permanent Secretaries Pengiran Mohd Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, Haji Hairul Mohd Daud bin Haji Abdul Karim and Pengiran Haji Mohd Zain bin Pengiran Haji Abdul Razak, as well as heads of departments, deputy heads of departments, senior officers and staff from the MTIC were also present.

The event is an annual activity for the BDMD and the MTIC, alongside other activities that include system launching, exhibitions and a national weather briefing on the World Meteorological Day 2019 theme ‘The Sun, The Earth and The Weather’ to be conducted on April 1 at Rimba Garden Central.

World Meteorological Day is observed annually on March 23 to commemorate the establishment of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) Convention in 1950. It is also a day to commemorate the massive contributions devoted to the safety and well-being of society in general and the specific contributions in various sectors such as agriculture, aviation, construction, fisheries and tourism, as well as safety and emergency responders, by the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services around the world, under the WMO leadership.

|     Azlan Othman     |

LEGISLATIVE Council (LegCo) members approved a motion to revive the Young Farmers Programme conducted several years ago in Kampong Jerudong with new approaches not only in the Brunei-Muara District, but also in the four districts as suggested by LegCo member Yang Berhormat Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari@Jahari at the 11^th day of the 15^th LegCo meeting on Saturday.

Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong in his deliberation regarding the programme said youth are the ministry’s main target in realising the vision and mission to increase the output of the agriculture and fishery sector in the country and contribute to GDP growth and to the diversification of the country’s economic activities.

This was clearly seen by the LegCo members’ visits to the Communal Farm in Tungku, Kilanas and Sungai Liang and Agricultural Development Area (KKP) Sinaut in the previous year, where the involvement of the young people was very impressive.

Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali said originally, the programme was introduced by the Department of Agriculture, which was then under the Ministry of Development. “According to our records, this project was introduced in 1976, or 43 years ago, and ended in 1985, or over 34 years ago.”

It involves eight recruitments, with the number of students attending the Young Farmers Course totalling 130. Participants attended a two-year agricultural course at Sinaut Agricultural Training Centre in the Tutong District.

After completion of the Young Farmers Course, a number of students interested in agricultural activities have participated in the Young Farmers Placement Project. Thirty former students managed the company at the Young Farmers Placement whereby 18 farmers were stationed at Luahan area in Jerudong and 12 farmers in Birau, Tutong.

Each participant of the programme is provided a 10-acre piece of land without paying rent, and a home for free, and a monthly allowance of approximately BND400.

However, the allowance was stopped on May 1, 1986. Some former students opted to enter the Department of Agriculture, while others withdrew from joining the project. Based on information monitored by the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood from 2013-2018, it was found that most of them were engaged in small-scale vegetable production companies and conventional methods.

Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali also highlighted the initiatives made by his ministry since two years ago.

The first initiative is the Agricultural Exposure Programme for Youth, including former students of tertiary education from within and outside the country. This programme includes briefing sessions on entrepreneurship opportunities in agriculture, financial simulations or financial flows analysis of several types of agricultural enterprises, guidelines to register agricultural sites, procedures for registering companies and business names and opportunities to sell crops, especially through contract farming; and a tour to expose participants to agricultural systems and technology and visits to successful youth farms, such as Marsya Farm and Ameenfarm Agrotech and Trading.

Thirty youth have participated in the programme, where two have been offered sites under the Agricultural Pilot Project.

A youth was offered a site at KKP Batumpu (Azim Agro Farm) for vegetable plantation, and another at KKP Tungku (Assmah Farm) for melon using a greenhouse fertigation system.

The second initiative, according to Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali is the Agricultural Pilot Project. “Alhamdulillah, with the consent of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the offering of site for the pioneer project was introduced aimed at providing opportunities for entrepreneurs or farmers, including youth interested in exploring agriculture on a trial basis.”

They will be offered a site that is suitable within a two-year trial, and if the operators perform very well, the site size can be increased, and the tenure of the land may be extended to an appropriate period.

Since the Agricultural Pilot Project was introduced during the two years, 46 entrepreneurs have been offered sites under this scheme involving over 290 hectares of agricultural land. Of these, 16 are young entrepreneurs, out of whom two young entrepreneurs are working on sites at KKP Sinaut namely Mori Enterprise in herbs and Nature Fruit Farm engaged in fruit plantation, such as dragon fruit, passion fruit, durian, soursop (durian salat), jackfruit, banana and others.

A young entrepreneur is involved in farming at KKP Batang Mitus, namely the Green Technology Farm in a banana plantation.

Two young entrepreneurs are working on sites in KKP Labu namely Wina Wiya Enterprise and ODE Aquaculture & Agriculture Company in fruit plantation, such as durian, longan, mango, jackfruit, rambutan and others.

Another young entrepreneur is operating at KKP Bekarut namely Eco-Agro Farm in durian plantation while four young entrepreneurs are working on sites at KKP Tungku, namely Teratak Jaya Enterprise to grow vegetable using fertigation and hydroponic systems; Assmah Farm and Gropoint Sdn Bhd in melon plantation using a fertigation system inside the greenhouse; and CF Arsyad Farm in melon plantation.

A company is operating a site in KKP Kilanas, namely RZ Prisma Enterprise in vegetable crops using a fertigation and hydroponic system. Two young entrepreneurs are working on sites at KKP Batumpu, namely Abdul Aziz Agro Farm in a vegetable plantation using fertigation systems; and Golsyne Enterprise in fruit plantation.

A young entrepreneur is operating at KKP Sibongkok, which is Haqasha Jaya Farming Sdn Bhd in a vegetable plantation. Another young entrepreneur at KKP Sungai Liang namely Kitani Enterprise is engaged in vegetable plantation while a company operates a site at KKP Lumapas namely KMB Sdn Bhd in a vegetable and melons plantations using a fertigation system, where one of the company’s partners is a youth.

Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali also highlighted the third initiative which is Contract Farming. This programme is introduced to ensure that farmers are able to sell their produce through long-term contracts with hypermarkets and wholesalers in the country, even with exporters.

Since the programme was introduced in the past two years, 11 companies (Sinar Tenaga Sdn Bhd; Assmah Farm; Bioprop Sdn Bhd; RZ Prisma Enterprise; Ameen Farm Agrotech & Trading; Riverland Enterprise; Naaz Hanan; Sykt Hj Salleh bin Hj Ludin & Anak Anak; Marsya Farm; Abdul Aziz Agrofarm and Mori Enterprise have contract farming in the initial stage with local supermarkets (Hua Ho; Supa Save; Sim Kim Huat; and Farmgate) to supply various high-value vegetables such as tomato, chilli, lettuce and salad leaves.

Three of these companies – Assmah Farm; Abdul Aziz Agrofarm and Mori- are managed by youth.

Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali also highlighted the fourth initiative which is the Enterprise Expansion Programme. This initiative was introduced in the form of an additional offering of sites to farmers who successfully worked on the sites they had been offered to increase their productivity and to contribute to GDP growth of the agriculture sector.

Since the programme was introduced in the two years, 15 entrepreneurs have been offered additional sites to expand their company and increase their farm produce, including a young entrepreneur (Mori Enterprise) who is working on herbs at KKP Sinaut.

Meanwhile, six other companies (Riza Fudhlana Farm, Asia Enterprise, Loong Ji Sdn Bhd, ODE Aquaculture & Agriculture Sdn Bhd, Hj Salleh bin Hj Ludin & Anak Anak and RZ Prisma Enterprise) are also offered additional sites and have got their children involved in the management of the companies.

The fifth initiative, according to Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali, is to introduce simple and cheap farming techniques including for low-income groups, youth who are waiting for jobs and single mothers.

The ministry has also embarked on introducing easy and cheap agricultural techniques to other agencies, including the Ministry of Religious Affairs; Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports; and the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, which is for the use of the assistance applicants under their respective jurisdiction. Six people were introduced with simple and inexpensive agricultural techniques.

The sixth initiative is the Substitution Import Programme. This initiative is still in the final study stage.

It is a match-making between supermarkets, wholesalers, restaurant operators, and hotels with local farmers. The objective is to make supermarkets, wholesalers, restaurant operators and hotels to buy their vegetable and fruit from local farmers, especially for crops that can be cultivated in the country like tomatoes, chilies, salads, mushrooms, melons and others.

In this way, farmers will be able to further increase their output, and thus hopefully reduce the import of the goods.

Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali also highlighted the seventh initiative which is to introduce an account manager system, by arranging each agricultural officer to accompany a number of farmers, including young or youth farmers, while monitoring their development and their problems.

Each account manager will assist in solving the problem of farmers under their care, such as infrastructure problems, problems with labour, fertiliser, crop disease, floods, market access, importing of materials and so on. For example, in the livestock industry (broiler and ruminant), four account managers have been appointed to assist 16 entrepreneurs in the industry. Some companies monitored by several young farmers are Ideal Multifeed Farm; Riza Fudhlana Farm, Brugoat, and Hua Ho Agricultural Farm.

In the vegetable industry, 11 account managers have been appointed to assist 39 entrepreneurs, involving 138 hectares of vegetable crops. This includes several companies involving young people such as Kitani Enterprise; Mori Enterprise and Teratak Jaya Company.

In the fruit industry, 12 account managers have been appointed to assist 33 entrepreneurs, involving 520 hectares of fruit plantations. These include several companies involving young people (such as KMB Sdn Bhd; Gropoint Sdn Bhd; ODE Aquaculture and Agriculture; Green Technology Farm and CF Arsyad).

The minister said, “We have seen over the last two years, a growth in the involvement of young people in the field of agriculture, although without encouragement in the form of free accommodation and without a monthly allowance from the government. They are also willing to pay rent for land just like other farmers.

“Till today, 113 young people are actively involved in agriculture. Twenty-five people are actively involved in the vegetable cultivation industry; 13 people in the fruit plantation; 26 are active in the paddy industry; four are active in flower and ornamental plants; 16 people are active in the livestock industry and 29 people are active in the agrifood industry.”

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

MORE than 1,700 runners converged at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the heart of the capital yesterday to take part in the National Day Run 2019 armed with the collective purpose of promoting the spirit of unity and harmony as well as solidarity.

A total of 2,178 people across four districts registered for the National Day Run 2019, with the majority coming from the Brunei-Muara District which totalled 1,724 entries, 136 from the Belait District, 184 people from the Tutong District and 134 people from the Temburong District.

The National Day Run 2019 was organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports with the cooperation of the Brunei Darussalam Athletics Federation in conjunction with Brunei Darussalam’s 35^th National Day celebration.

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 led the running event in the Brunei-Muara District.

The event commenced with a warm-up session and followed with the flag off for the National Day Run 2019 in two separate stages for the men’s and women’s categories as well as the 4km run.

The men’s and women’s events were divided into three categories namely open, veteran and teenagers who are under the age of 16.

Meanwhile, the guest of honour for the event in the Temburong District was member of the Legislative Council Yang Berhormat Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu.

Besides commemorating Brunei Darussalam’s 35^th National Day celebration, the annual event was held to encourage the community in the country to practice a healthy lifestyle by engaging in sports and recreational activities continuously.

The run also aimed to foster unity, understanding and cooperation among the community for the development and sports in the country.

The running activity brought together various circles and levels of the community particularly the youth, elderly and the children.

|     Azlan Othman     |

GOVERNMENT ministries are playing their part in promoting and reviving the Young Farmers Programme which was highlighted on the 11^th day of the 15^th Legislative Council (LegCo) meeting on Saturday.

LegCo members approved a motion to revive the Young Farmers Programme which was conducted several years ago in Kampong Jerudong with new approaches not only in the Brunei-Muara District but also in the other three districts as suggested by member of LegCo Yang Berhormat Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari.

In his motion to support the speech, 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 said the ministry’s target for agriculture is youth, people facing hardship and those receiving a monthly assistance and their dependents with the aspiration to make agriculture a career, to become entrepreneurs and a source of extra income, thus contributing to the gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the agricultural sector.

The minister said his ministry and their strategic partners will continue to implement and enhance the youth agricultural programme in a more affordable way, participated by 32 youth and the Paddy Planting Programme through the Youth Development Programme and at the same time provide entrepreneurship grant including an independent programme and an empowerment assistance programme through the Community Development Programme.

Next week, four youth under the Youth Paddy Planting Programme will start paddy planting at the new site in Kampong Wasan in an area covering 8.5 hectares. “We also plan to provide hydroponic facilities in three strategic areas at the Youth Development Centre (PPB), Pusat Bahagia and Welfare Home Complex to equip youth in this field.”

Minister of Education Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman said agricultural and basic programmes are offered by the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) Agro-Technology Campus in Kampong Wasan.

Programmes offered are HNTec in Agro-Technology and NTec in Crop & Livestock Production, Food Processing, Aquaculture, and AgroTech Veterinian and Livestock. Recently, IBTE also offered a joint venture with LiveWire to implement an agrobase to revive the Young Farmers Programme with new approaches to produce agropreneurs who are trained in agrotechnology.

The project is hoped to contribute to the food security strategy to attain 35 per cent self-sufficiency in rice production by 2025. The agrobased project gives opportunities to young entrepreneurs’ comprising students from IBTE Agro-Tech Technology Campus. They have been identified to have the potential to expand and maintain their business in producing paddy and plants in the form of cash crops.

The project is also intended as a platform to guide agroprenuers to be developed in entrepreneurship to open opportunities to be suppliers of seed, manure, machinery and to be competitive and independent.

It is also hoped to develop agroprenuers to drive towards the paddy-driven industry such as production of paddy seeds, manure and pesticides distributor and maintenance of machine. It is also to nurture them in poultry farming.

In addition to the initiatives presented by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, initiatives to promote youth involvement in agriculture are also led by other ministries, said Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong.

He said the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports introduced the Agriculture and Plantation Exposure Programme (Young Farmers) and the Paddy Planting programme for youth with cooperation between the PPB and the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood. So far, 36 youth are active in agriculture under the ministry’s initiative.

The Ministry of Education’s initiative is through IBTE Agro-Technology Campus (Wasan). The campus is responsible for taking over the role of Sinaut Agricultural Training Centre by offering courses on agriculture, livestock, fisheries, agribusiness and agricultural services, including classroom, practical and field training.

Currently, this campus trains 426 students in various courses. Since its inception in 2006, the campus has trained 1,248 students.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs, and the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB), through the Zakat (tithe) Recipients Enhancement Programme (PROPAZ), also channelled a portion of Zakat recipients to see agriculture as a field that can be used to increase the income of Zakat recipients.

For all the initiatives, the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism is a key partner to these ministries, especially in providing technical support services such as skills training, offering agricultural sites, and other technical advice and agricultural development.

Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali also said the involvement of various parties (or the whole-of-nation approach) is appropriate to ensure that different youth needs are taken into account, especially in terms of how to lead, guide, provide assistance and teach them. 

|     Lyna Mohamad     |

FORTY students of Cahaya Bina Insan School recently participated in the second Sunnah Camp 2019 at the Katimahar Agri Park, as part of the school break activities.

Themed ‘Survival Skill,’ the camp ran from March 18-19, and also involved students from other schools.

The event aimed to increase participants’ endurance through mental activities to boost confidence, shape their discipline and teach them teamwork. At the same time, it taught them to care for the environment and tapped their leadership skills.

Activities included cooking, night walks, starting fires with the use of bamboo, a zoo visit as well as Tahajjud and Qiyam activities, among others.

|     James Kon     |

RAJA Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital held a handover ceremony yesterday, during which BND5,194.50 from the proceeds of its 35th National Day Charity Sale was presented to the Medical Social Work Unit.

Held on the fourth floor of the Women and Children’s Centre, the handover ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat.

This was followed with the presentation of the mock cheque by RIPAS Hospital Chief Executive Officer Saidah binti Haji Wahid to Deputy Head of the Medical Social Work Unit Nuruljannah binti Jumat.

Nuruljannah said, “The money will be put to good use, to help underprivileged patients at the hospital.”

She also conveyed her gratitude to members of the public, for their support during the charity sales event.

|    Fadhil Yunus    |

HAJI Md Haikal Qarin bin Haji Haironi Hamizin’s meteoric rise in the national snooker scene as the youngest winner of the Pro X National Snooker Championship 2019 came two years after he landed his first major breakthrough in pool.

The fresh-faced teenager, then aged 14, sent shockwaves among the local billiards community when he claimed the 1^st Zain 9-Ball Pool Open Championship in 2017 after a 9-2 victory over Pengiran Husairi bin Pengiran Haji Metusain in the final.

Two years later, he captured a big snooker prize having outlasted one of the most competitive fields with the top eight containing four champions in snooker.

Just days before his 15^th birthday, Haji Md Haikal Qarin made his mark in the regional scene after reaching the semi-finals of the 8^th Golden Break 9-Ball Championship 2017 Stage 1 qualifiers at the Golden Break Kuchai Avenue in Kuala Lumpur.

Having impressed in the local scene, the young talent defeated Singapore’s Darren Young in the last 16 and Indonesia’s Ahuat before falling to Hong Kong’s Ip Tung Pong in the last four.

Last year, he added another trophy to his pool cabinet with victory in the HH 9-Ball Tournament at the Master Alim Pool Café after he defeated Md Khalid bin Abu Bakar 7-4 in the final.

After gaining a reputation in the pool scene, the youngster quickly made an immediate impact in the snooker discipline where he reached the semi-finals of the Brunei National 6 Reds Snooker Championships, a competition at national level, last year.

His performances in both the 6 and 15 reds event catapulted him as the fifth ranked player in the country in snooker.

The victory was the more impressive as Haji Md Haikal Qarin was also the only player below the age of 20 who joined the Pro X National Snooker Championship.

The Pro X National Snooker Championship is the first event in the Brunei Darussalam Cue Sports Association (BCSA) calendar.