HIS Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office yesterday received in audience newly appointed Brunei Darussalam envoys, newly appointed foreign envoys to Brunei Darussalam and an outgoing foreign envoy to Brunei Darussalam in separate audiences.

His Royal Highness first received in audience newly appointed Brunei Darussalam envoys, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan Haji Mahadi bin Haji Maidin; Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to Japan Haji Shahbudin bin Haji Musa; Ambassador of Brunei

Darussalam to the Republic of Korea Pengiran Hajah Nooriyah binti Pengiran Lela Wijaya Pengiran Haji Yussof; and High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to the People’s Republic of Bangladesh Haji Haris bin Othman.

The newly appointed Brunei Darussalam envoys received their Letters of Credence from His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam on Monday.

His Royal Highness then received in separate audiences newly appointed foreign envoys to Brunei Darussalam, High Commissioner of Malaysia to Brunei Darussalam Ismail bin Haji Salam; Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Brunei Darussalam Homeira Rigi Zirouki; and Ambassador of the United States of America to Brunei Darussalam Matthew John Matthews.

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

Lastly, His Royal Highness received in audience outgoing Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Brunei Darussalam Vladlen Stanislavovich Semivolos.

Semivolos presented his Letter of Credence to His Majesty on March 9, 2015.

The audience ceremonies took place at Qashr Al-Meezaan.

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 received a courtesy visit from Member of Parliament of the House of Representatives (Port Dickson Parliamentary Constituency) and President of the Parti Keadilan Rakyat, Malaysia Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim.

Photo shows His Majesty in a group photo with Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Anwar and the Malaysian diplomats. – PHOTO: RAHWANI ZAHARI

|    Aziz Idris    |

BRUNEI Toastmasters duo Dr Sophiana Chua Abdullah and Sarah Oleyami emerged champion of the International Speech Contest and first runner-up for Table Topics Speech Contest at the 9^th Toastmasters District 87 Annual Conference held in Medan, Indonesia recently.

The duo from Brunei reached the championship level after several eliminating rounds that began in January 2019.

According to a press release from Brunei Toastmasters, Dr Sophiana Chua’s winning speech resonated to the crowd of nearly 400 from Brunei, East Malaysia and Indonesia.

She claimed the title of District 87 International Speech Champion with a motivational story of her own experiences as a mother who wants only the best for her children, drawing on how she thought she knew best only to be proven wrong by her own parents.

Meanwhile, Sarah Oleyami was given the topic of ‘When is love a weakness?’. She gave a two-minute impromptu speech arguing that love is never a weakness, and always a strength.

International speech contes-tants delivered five-to-seven-minute speeches on wide-ranging topics while Table Topics speech contestants delivered a two-minute impromptu speech based on a topic previously unknown to them.

Both speech contests were judged on content, organisation and delivery.

|    Fizah HAB    |

A SMARTHPHONE application, Reka Bentuk Kain Tenunan Kitani under the Pelestarian Motif Tenunan Brunei project was launched at the Academy of Brunei Studies, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) yesterday.

Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Innovation and Enterprise) of UBD Associate Professor Dr Mohammad Ayub Sadiq @ Lin Naing launched the app.

Deputy Permanent Secretary (Cultural) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Dr Siti Norkhalbi binti Haji Wahsalfelah as the project supervisor, Acting Director of Academy of Brunei Studies Dr Haji Tassim bin Haji Abu Bakar, Project Coordinator Abdul Hai bin Julay, lecturers and students from the Academy of Brunei Studies were also present.

Pelestarian Motif Tenunan Brunei project was the brainchild of a group of undergraduates under the Academy of Brunei Studies.

Hajah Nurzahidahtul Hikmah binti Haji Seribini, Dayangku Nurul Faten Nazurah binti Pengiran Zul Amli and Noramalina binti Zulkefli came up with the idea in response to 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 official opening ceremony of the 15^th Legislative Council session on March 7, in hope that it will realise the intention to make Brunei Darussalam a progressive nation towards innovative technology in the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI).

Reka Bentuk Kain Tenunan Kitani app aimed as a platform for people to recognise Brunei’s weaving motifs as well as a way to document and preserve the legacy of Brunei’s weaving motifs.

The application is supported by Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, Ideal Food Industries (B) Sdn Bhd, D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd, and Ya-Nur Restaurant and Catering.

It can be downloaded through Google Play Store for Android and AppStore for iOS users.

|    Lyna Mohamad   |

THE 99^th Advance Guidance Scheme (I) course for Muslim converts in the Brunei-Muara District concluded with a certificate presentation ceremony at the Al-Irsyad Room, Darul Huda Building of the Islamic Da’wah Centre (PDI) yesterday.

Senior Religious Officer at PDI Haji Ahmad Abdussalam bin Haji Abdul Rahman was the guest of honour.

The two-week Advance Guidance Scheme (I) from April 4-17 was conducted by PDI through its Muallaf Development Section, in collaboration with the Belait, Tutong and Temburong districts branch Dakwah Section Dissemi-nation.

The guidance scheme course was carried out nationwide where in the Brunei-Muara District, 24 converts participated; 14 in Belait District; and 13 in Tutong and Temburong districts.

The two-week course featured topics on Tauhid, Fiqh Solat, Fiqh Haji, Fiqh Munakahat and Islamic moral as well as practical activities on Muqaddam, being an Imam and improvising the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah.

PDI also provided several guidance programmes for converts including Introduction of Islamic guidance, Basic Guidance in Malay and English amd Advance Guidance Scheme I and II.

Converts guidance classes are open weekly in 12 locations where one class is in the Brunei-Muara District; two in Belait District; six in Tutong District and three in Temburong District.

|    Aziz Idris    |

JERUDONG Park Medical Centre (JPMC) officially opened the new general ward aptly named ‘Sea View’ which overlooks the serene water of the South China Sea, during a ceremony at JPMC yesterday.

Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar, in his capacity as Chairman and Executive Director of JPMC, officiated the event.

Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham expressed his appreciation for the contribution of the employees of JPMC, for the renovation of the new general ward.

“The ward is a part of the hospital’s vision, mission and core values to provide excellent, quality and compassionate healthcare for the customers. More importantly, the ward is JPMC’s way of providing viable options to our discerning and prudent clients without compromising on comfort and quality of care,” he said.

After the launch, the Minister of Health toured around the facility guided by Medical Director of JPMC Dr Meera Sahib Kabeer.

According to Dr Kabeer, the newly opened general ward is fully equipped and set up with all the necessary medical equipment and fittings such as automated comfortable beds and a host of other amenities including complimentary wi-fi.

“The ward will be manned by the same group of doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals as well as hospital teams who have been instrumental in providing safe and quality care that JPMC has been known for,” he added.

The ‘Sea View’ ward is part of an extension of the JPMC Executive Suite. The ward offers high quality healthcare at an affordable cost.

The new ward offers a pleasant stay facing the scenic ocean coastline of Jerudong beach, to help patients to heal and recuperate in a relaxing and peaceful environment.

The new general ward represents an important direction for the company to provide a competitive edge by reaching out to new client demographics. From client perspectives, the new general ward means access to safe and quality care by the only Joint Comission International (JCI) accredited hospital in the country is now within reach.

|     Khairil Hassan     |

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, who is also the Chairman of DPMM FC, yesterday joined the DPMM FC squad as well as members of club management and the backroom staff for an official team photo at the Jerudong Mini Stadium.

Also present was Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Rahim bin Pengiran Indera Mahkota Pengiran Anak (Dr) Kemaludin Al-Haj, Vice Chairman of DPMM FC

His Royal Highness interacted with the newly appointed DPMM FC head coach Adrian Pennock, and other DPMM FC management, staff members and players.

Brunei DPMM FC are competing in the Singapore Premier League, headed by Team Manager Ali bin Haji Momin and Club Manager Pengiran Haji Muhammad Waslimin bin Pengiran Setia Jaya Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin.

Long-serving goalkeeper Wardun Yussof takes over the captaincy this season with a squad featuring a combination of youth and experienced players.

|    Fadley Faisal    |

OFFICERS of the Employees Trust Fund (TAP) Enforcement Unit made surprise visits to 34 business premises around the vicinity of Mukim Berakas ‘B’ yesterday, and found that 19 local employees under 14 employers had not been registered to the TAP and Supplemental Contributory Pension (SCP) schemes.

Employers who failed to present necessary documents during the visit were instructed to be present at TAP office for further action.

It is mandatory for employees who are citizens and permanent residents of Brunei Darussalam to be registered and contributing to the TAP and SCP schemes. This includes part-time workers, contract workers, daily-paid workers and workers on probation.

Under Section 26 of the Employee Trust Act (Chapter 167), if found guilty, an employer will be fined not more than BND3,000 for the first offence and not more than BND10,000 for second and subsequent offences.

TAP continues its efforts to ensure employers undertake the responsibility of registering local employees and making contributions to the TAP and SCP schemes.

Complaints can be lodged by visiting any TAP branch, contacting TAP Call Centre at 2382800 during working hours or through WhatsApp at 8998290.

Alternatively, e-Amanah users may lodge complaints by logging into their account via website at www.tap.com.bn.

|    James Kon    |

VISITORS to Brunei Darussalam now have the chance to see several of the country’s iconic landmarks and sample a portion of its rich history with a scenic cruise through the Brunei River, thanks to the launch of the Brunei River Heritage Trail tourism package yesterday morning.

Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong launched the new tour package at the Dermaga Diraja in Bandar Seri Begawan, as part of the Tourism Development Department’s initiatives to promote tourism products available in the country.

The package puts the spotlight on the Brunei River as a tourist destination with the aim of creating awareness on the historical development and birth of Brunei Darussalam.

The offering gives one the opportunity to view the famous Jong Batu, a rock outcrop located in the river and the subject of the legend of Nakhoda Manis, as well as the island of Lumut Lunting, which is associated with the local folktale of an epic cockfight between the rulers of Brunei and the Majapahit Empire, a story chronicled in the famed Syair Awang Semaun.

Visitors will also be given a historical account of the establishment of the traditional stilt settlements on the Brunei River and its banks, otherwise known widely today as Kampong Ayer.

Other highlights of the cruise include passing through the newly completed 750-metre-long Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Bridge, named after Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam and the second longest single-pylon cable-stayed bridge in the world.

Tour-goers will also catch sight of the Islamic architectural marvel that is the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque, the Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas, and the golden dome of the Istana Nurul Iman, as well as Kampong Sungai Bunga, which can be easily identified with its neat rows of modern houses standing out in the water.

The village is a modern resettlement project, part 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’s government’s initiatives to provide housing fitted with modern facilities for residents of Kampong Ayer. Schools, clinics and other amenities are available in the village.

The launch event featured nine exhibitors comprising government agencies, tourism service providers and members of the local community showcasing and selling a variety of tourism products in support of the Brunei River Heritage Trail tourism package.

Members of the Brunei Tourism Board and selected guests at the event also went on a test cruise for the package through the Brunei River.

|    Daniel Lim   |

THE importance of the penghulu and head of village institution, ‘One Village, One Product’ (1K1P) initiative, and the proposal to restart the Excellent Village Award were discussed by Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong.

Yesterday’s dialogue session held at the Belait District Officer’s residence during his working visit to the Belait District is the first Muzakarah or discussion held for the Belait District in 2019.

“The discussion on the topics today is meant to benefit the welfare and lifestyle of the citizens and residents of the country, districts, mukims and villages,” the minister said. “I believe that the relevant agencies are constantly hearing the views and suggestions put forth by the communities of the (Belait) district and finding effective solutions to solve them.”

Speaking on the penghulu and head of village institution, the minister said the two are essential in building a strong and harmonious community, and in helping boost the local economy and improving the prosperity and comfort of the surrounding community.

He added, “In line with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and Brunei Vision 2035’s mission of developing a united community, the smallest unit of society, which is the family, is the basis from which we can realise the mission and vision of a united community. The topic of family has been brought up in discussion not only in this year’s Legislative Council (LegCo) meeting, but also in last year’s session.

“Last year, among the suggestions brought forward included involving youth in community affairs as they not only form a large part of the community, but also can provide fresh ideas that can help in developing and bettering their community.”

The minister also congratulated the mukim penghulu and head of village of Mukim Sungai Liang for successfully revamping the Gerai Wawasan last year.

He noted that the revitalisation effort has not only helped provide the surrounding community a place to conduct their businesses, but also given residents in the area a focal location to meet with friends and family and enjoy leisure activities.

He also spoke about the 1K1P initiative, pointing out that it has since expanded to all areas since starting as a national pilot project at Temburong from 2006 to 2009.

“Today we have more than 280 products under the 1K1P banner, produced by 80 mukims and villages from across the country. There are four categories of products under the 1K1P – food and beverages, handicrafts, services and ecotourism, as well as agriculture and fishery,” the minister said.

He said though the 1K1P has been successful, there is “still room for improvement” and the initiative “has the ability to expand further to help ensure that the villages are sustainable and able to prosper as a community, which is in line with the mission of MoHA and Vision 2035”.

The minister highlighted that one of the main objectives of his visit to the Belait District is to determine the number of products under the 1K1P in the district and to identify any issues encountered by the residents making the products.

On the relaunching of the Excellent Village Award project, the minister said the project’s goal is to give village residents that incentive to develop their villages to spur economic activity and generate work opportunities.

“I hope that a committee will be established to determine and discuss the various criteria for villages in the district to achieve this award,” he said. “I also hope that (such a committee) will help drive creativity among the residents in coming up with progressive ideas to further develop their villages as a community.”

|    Rokiah Mahmud    |

THE Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) should enhance its initiatives in relaying information on the dangers of drugs to members of the public, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud said.

This includes strengthening collaboration with stakeholders to communicate the anti-drug message to youth and students, as they are regarded as valuable assets prone to succumbing to the influence of drugs, he added.

Underscoring these points during his work visit to the NCB Headquarters yesterday, the minister also iterated that education programmes on the dangers of drugs should be carried out for this particular group as part of an early-prevention initiative.

“Apart from using current information technology and apps as mediums to channel (such as anti-drug message), roadshows also need to be continuously carried out at schools and villages,” he said.

“At the same time government media bodies like Radio Television Brunei (RTB) need to enhance their broadcasting of visual promotions and make them more attractive, and in the process share messages on the danger of drugs.

“I was informed that the NCB is also joining the Awasi Anak Kitani programme along with the Information Department to increase awareness and knowledge on drug prevention, a programme that will see villagers and the NCB collaborating with each other.

“In relation to this, there needs to be increased collaboration with NGOs such as the National Anti-Drug Association (BASMIDA) from time to time to organise activities and preventive programmes related to drugs,” the minister added.

He highlighted that the NCB also needs to conduct studies on its existing programmes, including the treatment and rehabilitation programme for addicts under detention.

“Studies need to be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness and success of the programmes. Results from the studies will serve as a tool to improve and increase the success of the programmes.

“Best practices from other countries should be adopted to bring the best results,” said the minister.

“It is hoped that the treatment and rehabilitation programme will gain accreditation from experts and organisations concerned with drug addiction treatment and rehabilitation programmes.”

|    James Kon    |

MINISTER of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong said Brunei needs to enhance its tourism offerings to keep up with the increase in visitors.

Brunei Darussalam saw a 7.4 per cent increase in visitor arrivals last year compared to the figure for 2017, according to statistics from the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism.

Speaking at the launch of the Brunei River Heritage Trail cruise package yesterday at the Dermaga Diraja, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali added that the ministry believes this figure will “steadily increase over time”.

He also noted that with the increased connectivity brought about by the addition of new routes to Royal Brunei Airlines’ (RB) list of destinations, Brunei will “see an increasing demand for more diverse tourism packages and offerings, not only for the international market, but also for the local market”.

“I hope we will all continue to do our part to preserve our culture and heritage, and continue to support and promote tourism for Brunei Darussalam,” he said.

Touching on tourism, the minister highlighted, “Alhamdulillah, Brunei Darussalam is experiencing a positive drive for tourism development. However, we must also strive to maintain, conserve and preserve our values, heritage, culture, and history.

“This Brunei River Heritage Trail package seeks to educate and create awareness both for locals and foreign visitors on the historical development and birth of what we now know as Brunei Darussalam.”

Giving his views on the Brunei River, the minister said, “The Brunei River flows through our capital Bandar Seri Begawan and into Brunei Bay. It is the shortest major river in Brunei Darussalam, but also the most important. Historically, the pristine thick jungles of Borneo led to the establishment of our traditional settlements on stilts on the water and riverbanks, which we now know as Kampong Ayer.

“Traditional boats such as the perahu or sampan – some of which you still see being used today – were used on the river [by Kampong Ayer residents] as the main method of transportation, communication and trade with those living inland.

“Everyone is welcome to explore the areas along the Brunei River, including those who are interested in conducting research and educational activities on our rich and humble history.”

Also present at the launch were members of the Legislative Council, foreign dignitaries, permanent secretaries, members of the Brunei Tourism Board, deputy permanent secretaries, the Brunei-Muara District Officer, and village heads.

|    Daniel Lim    |

OVER 15 members of the Foochow Association (Women’s Section) visited Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam, Belait District branch (Pusat Ehsan KB) yesterday morning.

Head of the Women’s Section of the association Hwong Ching Ping led the group.

The visit, held annually, was the association’s effort to give back to the local community by providing aid to Pusat Ehsan students and spend quality time together in fun-filled activities and games.

Acting Chairman of Foochow Association Tan Tei Tei, Vice Chairperson Tong Bouy Lan, Vice Head of the Women’s Section Agnes Huong, committee members and association members were also present.

The association also donated basic necessities and goodie bags to the students.

The event concluded with members of the association receiving a drawing made by a Pusat Ehsan KB student.

|    Daniel Lim    |

HIGHER education institutions help shape students, equip them and make them capable ahead of the important role of ensuring they are ‘industry-ready’. Meanwhile, the industry can provide and impart knowledge beyond theory as well as practices, Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP) Development Studies Manager cum Chief Geologist Mariana binti Omar said.

She made these comments during a lecture series aimed at encouraging and preparing young Bruneian engineers to work in the energy sector at the Politeknik Brunei School of Science and Engineering’s Satellite Campus in Lumut, Belait District yesterday.

“Collaboration between industry and higher education institutions such as Politeknik Brunei is important for both parties. It is okay to give us a hard time by asking questions and even challenging us – because we want to see that drive, ambition and urge to know more, because those skills will keep you resilient throughout your programme. Brunei needs strongly driven young Bruneians to foster the future,” Mariana added.

The lecture series, organised by BSP, also aimed to share industry experience and best practices to help students build a network and maximise employment opportunities.

Eighty engineering students were present.

Fourteen lectures are planned throughout this year, which represents the second set of industry lectures with the first one started in March at Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB).

BSP’s Head Production Technology for East Asset Chandran Peringod shared an overview of the energy business and gave an outlook of job opportunities.

Stephanie Chow from Schlumberger, Francisco Padilla from Baker Hughes and Dean Sullivan from Weatherford also shared their experiences.

Their companies have acquired a global presence and could be among the students’ potential future employers.

The lecture series is one of BSP’s mission to provide continuous support to the wider community through social investment, which includes education programmes, and achieve Brunei Vision 2035.

|    Rokiah Mahmud    |

THE Ministry of Health (MoH) penned a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a collaborative venture with Gleneagles JPMC Sdn Bhd yesterday at the Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre (PJSC) in Jerudong.

Signing the agreement on behalf of the Government 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 was Deputy Permanent Secretary (Professional) at the MoH Dr Haji Zulaidi bin Haji Abdul Latif.

Signing on behalf of Gleneagles JPMC was its Chief Executive Officer Dr Peter Tay.

The MoU signing was witnessed by Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar and Chairman of Gleneagles JPMC’s Board of Directors and Group Chief Operating Officer of IHH Healthcare Berhad Dr Lim Suet Wun.

In his welcoming address, Dr Lim punctuated the importance of the MoU for both the MoH and Gleneagles JPMC in strengthening and synergising existing efforts to promote healthy lifestyles and preventing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Brunei Darussalam, with particular focus on promoting physical activity at government workplaces and community settings.

The agreement will see Gleneagles JPMC Sdn Bhd funding two major projects under the MoH’s Health Promotion Centre – the Workplace and Health (WAH!) Programme and the Happy Environment and Lifestyle (HEAL) Programme – as part of Gleneagles JPMC Sdn Bhd’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts.

Gleneagles JPMC will be pumping BND120,000 towards the projects under the MoU, one of the largest contributions made by a private entity to the MoH and one of the biggest public-private partnerships (PPP) ever entered into by the MoH.

The goal of the WAH! Programme is to encourage workplaces to provide a supportive environment and initiate actions to enable employees to be more active, eat healthier, be smoke-free, and be in a good mental state.

The programme also aims to catalyse the rolling out of workplace healthy lifestyle programmes or workplace health promotion programmes in all government ministries by 2021.

The objective of the HEAL Programme, meanwhile, is to support physical activity interventions in community settings through building, strengthening and maintaining social networks that create opportunities for physical activities.

The programme aims to enhance awareness and knowledge on the various health benefits of regular physical activity and discourage sedentary behaviours within community settings.

It also seeks to engage and form partnerships with the community, schools, private businesses and health centres, as well as sports and recreational stakeholders to encourage people to participate in culturally appropriate physical activities.

Apart from the two projects, Gleneagles JPMC will also be working closely with the MoH and rendering their support to raise public awareness on the importance of healthy living by holding events to commemorate international health days, such as World Heart Day, World No Tobacco Day, World Diabetes Day and other related observances.

|    Danial Norjidi    |

THE Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB) presented BND4,067,812.90 Zakat (tithe) money to the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB) yesterday.

The ceremony was held at the Dhifayah Room of the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) extension building at Jalan Menteri Besar.

A mock cheque was presented by Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof in his capacity as the Chairman of Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors to Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman in his capacity as the President of MUIB and Advisor to Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors.

Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy and Religious) at the MoRA Haji Mohd Serudin bin Haji Timbang in his capacity as member of Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors; Acting Secretary of MUIB Haji Abdul Aziz bin Haji Akop as member of Perbadanan TAIB Syariah Advisory Committee; Acting Managing Director of Perbadanan TAIB Hajah Noorrafidah binti Haji Sulaiman; members of Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors; as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Perbadanan TAIB were also present.

According to a press release, the Zakat presentation was a collection from account holders who have authorised Perbadanan TAIB for the Zakat deduction of their savings accounts from January to December 2018.

Perbadanan TAIB is one of the financial institutions that offers Zakat services on savings to its account holders. The service was introduced in 2001 with the objective to facilitate Perbadanan TAIB’s account holders to conveniently arrange for Zakat deduction on their savings with Perbadanan TAIB.

It was shared that customers can register for Auto Zakat Deduction, whereby the Zakat will be deducted based on the Islamic calendar. Customers can also make one-time Zakat payment through Perbadanan TAIB’s Self-Service Terminal.

|     Wani Roslan    |

THE Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) and its departments organised an Israk Mikraj 1440H/2019 celebration at Setia Pahlawan Hall of the MPRT yesterday.

Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong was the guest of honour.

Permanent Secretary at the MPRT Pengiran Haji Kamalrudzaman bin Pengiran Haji Mohd Ishak, Deputy Permanent Secretaries at the MPRT Wardi bin Haji Mohammad Ali and Haji Abdul Halidi bin Haji Mohd Salleh, senior officials, officers and staff members of the ministry and its departments were also present.

The highlight of the ceremony was a talk on Sembahyang Membentuk Umat Bertaqwa by Hilman bin Haji Saman from Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB).

He highlighted that performing prayer is a main ibadah that can strengthen iman and taqwa as well as to seek the blessing of Allah the Almighty, and performing five obligatory prayers can strengthen spiritual as protection from wrongdoings.

The talk hoped to give lessons to members of MPRT to form a noble character through faith, obedience and taqwa to Allah the Almighty and enhance their individual personality to perform duties and responsibilities as government officers and staff.

The ceremony, an annual event of the ministry, was organised by the Department of Fisheries of MPRT this year aiming to strengthen ties among the officers and staff members of the ministry and its department.

|    James Kon    |

AN ARRAY of projects and gadgets were on display at the Serambi Suluh Hall of Tarindak D’Seni yesterday, from sensors and applications to detect water leakages in water supply pipes and a Variable Speed Multi Grits Sander, to a pen and accompanying app designed to assist dyslexic children and adults in writing, to name but a few.

The innovative exhibits are the products of a group of winners for this year’s Crown Prince CIPTA Award.

The awards ceremony was graced by His Royal Highness Prince (Dr) 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, and Pro-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB).

Category 1: Creating New Product, Process or Technology, third place

For the competition’s Category 1: Creating New Product, Process or Technology, third place was won by Dr Haji Sharul Tazrajiman bin Haji Tajuddin and Nur Hamizah binti Haji Awang Harun for their Water Leakage Detection and Management system. There were no winners for first or second place in the category.

The system is a prototype product that involves the use of sensors and an application to detect water leakages in water supply pipes to households (main supply pipes that are usually buried underground). The sensor will measure the pressure of the water volume in the pipes at appropriate intervals.

“It took three months to complete the project. The idea came from one of my family members who experienced water leakages at home but didn’t notice it until the water bill amounted to more than BND1,000,” Nur Hamizah said of the system. “So I decided to come up with an early-detection sensor to help homeowners avoid such huge water bills. I hope to commercialise the project.”

On taking third place, Nur Hamizah, who is currently job hunting having graduated from UTB last year, said, “I didn’t expect to progress this far in the competition. This is my first project that I am doing alone and it’s my first time participating in the Crown Prince CIPTA Award.”

Consolation prizes for the category were awarded for the ‘Ghusl Stretcher for the Deceased’ and ‘Food Processor’.

Category 2: Modifying Existing Product, Process or Technology, first place

Category 2: Modifying Existing Product, Process or Technology was won by Sufre bin Haji Muhamad with his ‘Variable Speed Multi Grits Sander Machine’ project. The system is suitable for both amateurs and skilled users.

Speaking about his creation, Sufre, a mechanical and electrical engineer working at the Public Works Department, said, “Alhamdulillah, my hard work and sacrifices have paid off. I live in Lumut and work in Bandar so I commute daily to work. I could only work on my project at night and in my free time. This is the first time I emerged a winner in the Crown Prince CIPTA Award. I love to come up with inventions.”

On where he got the idea for the sander, he explained, “My hobby is carpentry, so I face difficulties while doing some carpentry works. I was looking for a machine that has multi grits but I couldn’t find one, so I invented this machine – 80 per cent of the parts can be found in Brunei, while the rest of the system is made from recycled electronic parts. It took one and a half months to complete the project.”

Second place went to the Spotgenic (Plant disease detection system) project, while third place was awarded to the ‘Vepo Device’ project. Consolation prizes went to the ‘Diabetic Emergency Notification with MedibAind’ project and ‘Mobile Hydroponic’ project.

Category 3: Creating New or Modifying Existing Product, Process or Technology by Young Inventors, second place

Second place for Category 3: Creating New or Modifying Existing Product, Process or Technology by Young Inventors went to Janelle Joyce Ampongan Perez, Muhammad Haziq Safwan bin Sheran and Nurayezha Barasi Nurul Islam – all students of Seri Mulia Sarjana School – for their ‘Eco BN Waste Management Bin’ project.

Made of steel and aluminium for product longevity, the system comes with a can crusher and has three compartments for different recyclable materials, allowing the user to segregate common recyclable materials such as aluminium cans, plastic straws and paper.

“The idea of the project came about when we noticed that the cleaner in our school was stomping on the empty drink cans and our teacher thought it would be a good idea to come up with the project,” Nurayezha Barasi Nurul Islam said. “We produced our prototype in less than two weeks and the project took around two years to complete. We’ve joined other competitions in the past like BruBiz and LiveWIRE with the same concept and an improved prototype.”

She added, “It’s an achievement for our team and the project. Although we are in second place, it feels like we have won the category because there is no first place winner. We plan to further improve the Eco Bin and outsource it in the future. Special thanks to teacher Rhoel Pacis for his guidance in the project.”

Third place went to the ‘Blind Assist Sensory Suit’ project by students of Berakas Secondary School. Consolation prizes went to the ‘Smart Lure’ project by students of Anthony Abell College and the ‘Electricity, Clean Water and Slat from Sea Water’ project by students of Chung Ching Middle School.

Smart Junior Competition, first place

For the Smart Junior Competition, the winning entry was the ‘My Penpal – Pen for Dyslexics’ project by Jordan Hee Shan Yung, Loo Chun Yung and Sharlaine Tan Qi Jie of Chung Ching Middle School.

The project involves a pen and an accompanying app designed to assist dyslexic children and adults in writing.

“We are really happy that we emerged as the winner. Our hard work has really paid off, and we are happy to represent our school,” Sharlaine Tan Qi Jie said. “From doing our research we noticed that there was an increasing number of dyslexia cases, so we modified the pen to help dyslexics to write without spelling mistakes.

“The project was completed in a few weeks with the guidance of our supervisor teacher Madam Shanti. If given the support, we hope to make the product available to people with dyslexia.”

Second place went to the ‘Bfit Shoes’ project by students of Chung Hua Middle School, while third place went to the the ‘Innovative Green Energy Collector’ project by students of Berakas Secondary School. Consolation prizes went to the ‘3 in 1 Cost Efficient Farming System’ by the team from St Andrew’s School and the ‘FoodVisor’ project by the Seri Mulia Sarjana School team.

ASEAN category: Young Inventor Category, first place

The winner for the ASEAN Young Inventor Category went to the ‘TE-Ractor’ project by Siti Nurhasya Dinie binti Abdul Mahdi, Che Ku Ahmad Habib bin Che Ku Ahmad Amir and Adam Fitri bin Mohd Shariff Lei, students of Tengku Lela Segara National Secondary School, Terengganu, Malaysia.

TE-Ractor is a seafood drying machine designed to help small entrepreneurs in producing dried seafood and maintain their quality, such as salted fish and fish crackers. The system detects changes in the weather and the presence of rain and covers up the dried seafood as required.

“We are really happy and it’s an honour to be able to compete in the Crown Prince CIPTA Award. This is our first time competing overseas,” Che Ku Ahmad Habib said.

“We conceived the idea with our friend, who noticed his grandmother drying seafood products, and whenever it rains, she will rush to collect the products to prevent them from getting spoiled. We took three months to complete the project. We are in the process of availing it to the market, and there are already entrepreneurs who are interested.”

|    Lyna Mohamad    |

THE current development and transformation of education is part of the continuous efforts by the retired officers and staff of the Ministry of Education (MoE), said Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the MoE Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad.

He made these comments at a ceremony to celebrate 264 retired officers and staff of the MoE at The Rizqun International Hotel in Gadong yesterday.

Dr Haji Azman also highlighted that throughout the retirees’ many years of services, various development have been witnessed.

The ceremony was attended by guest of honour Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman and Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh.

Organised by the ministry through the Department of Schools Inspectorate, the Private Education Section and the Science, Technology and Environment Partnership (STEP) Centre, the ceremony is an annual event to show appreciation to MoE officers and staff as well as acknowledging their services.

Yesterday’s ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat led by Schools Inspectorate Haji Mohammad Rasidi bin Haji Sulaiman.

This was followed by the speech by Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the MoE and a speech by a representative of the retirees as well as by Director of Examinations at the MoE Ali Hazis bin Haji Mohd Tahir.

Dr Haji Azman said retirement is a chance for them to open up a new page in their life that will be far different from their past career. The permanent secretary hoped that they will continue to support the efforts 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’s government as well as contribute to achieving Brunei Vision 2035.

Ali Hazis, meanwhile, noted that with the advance of life stage, some may return to the learning of new things particularly in family welfare, domestic work and physical activities.

The ministry will stay close to the hearts of the retirees as working in the ministry had been a privilege, surrounded by supportive officers and staff, he said

Yesterday’s highlight was the presentation of certificates and appreciation plaque to the retired officers and staff by the Minister of Education.

Also in attendance at the ceremony were Acting Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the MoE Aliuddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, Acting Vice Chancellor of Universiti Brunei Darussalam Dr Noor Maya binti Haji Mohd Salleh and Deputy Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the MoE Dr Chin Wei Keh.

|     Hakim Hayat    |

BRUNEI Darussalam and Bangladesh hope to further boost bilateral trade and commerce through the signing of different Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) in different areas of potential growth and collaboration, as Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina arrives here for a three-day official visit on Sunday.

In the run up to the Prime Minister’s arrival, the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry yesterday shared that during her three-day visit here, both countries will likely sign six MoUs covering areas of assistance in using science and technology in agriculture; liaison in the field of arts and culture; cooperation in sports and youth related activities; cooperation in the field of fisheries; and assistance in the field of livestock as well as cooperation in the field of fuel and energy.

According to the Press Secretary of the Bangladesh Prime Minister, the visit is at the invitation 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 and aims to encourage Brunei to invest in Bangladesh and to hire more trained Bangladeshis.

During the April 21-23 visit, the Bangladesh Prime Minister will attend a community reception to be hosted by expatriate Bangladeshis in Brunei and will have an audience with His Majesty at the Istana Nurul Iman on Monday, where both leaders will hold bilateral talks.

The Bangladesh Prime Minister will also join a meeting between businessmen from Bangladesh, Brunei and the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Brunei Darussalam.

She will be hosted to an official banquet at the Istana Nurul Iman. She is also scheduled to lay the foundation stone of the new Chancery Building of the Bangladesh High Commission in Brunei Darussalam at Jalan Kebangsaan on Tuesday morning.