Datastream Digital Sdn Bhd (DST) officially launched the MOBI contract plans with the all-new Samsung Galaxy Note20 series bundle at the DST Headquarters, Tungku Link, Gadong yesterday.
DST Chief Executive Officer Radin Sufri bin Radin Basiuni and Baiduri Bank Deputy Chief Executive Officer Pengiran Azaleen bin Pengiran Dato Haji Mustapha, the guests of honour, launched the event.
With the MOBI contract plans, DST customers can get the Samsung Galaxy Note20 and the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra at an affordable price for the upfront payment when bundled up with MOBI 80.
The MOBI 80 enables customers to enjoy unlimited calls, unlimited SMS and unlimited data, where the speed will be regulated to not higher than 512kbps upon reaching 65GB.
Customers will be able to continue to enjoy an unlimited Internet experience without any additional charges.
Earlier this month, the MOBI contract plans with the Samsung Galaxy Note20 series bundle were opened for pre-order. Pre-order customers collected their devices together with their free gift the Samsung Galaxy Buds+ during the event.
DST Chief Executive Officer Radin Sufri bin Radin Basiuni and Baiduri Bank Deputy Chief Executive Officer Pengiran Azaleen bin Pengiran Dato Haji Mustapha take a look at the Samsung Galaxy Note20. PHOTOS: JAMES KONABOVE & BELOW: Radin Sufri presents Nazurah binti Hapiz and Jasmine Tan with their new phones
As part of the promotional campaign, Baiduri Bank cardholders will also enjoy a BND100 rebate when they make their full payment for the Samsung Galaxy Note20 using their Baiduri Credit Card and also a 50 per cent processing fee waiver on their zero per cent instalment plan.
Twenty-four pre-order customers of the latest Samsung phones attended the event to receive their phones.
Radin Sufri and Pengiran Azaleen presented the new Samsung phones to the owners during the ceremony.
One owner of the latest Samsung Galaxy Note20 Nazurah binti Hapiz said this was her first Samsung phone. “I wanted to try something new knowing that Samsung is very innovative. As a student I use Microsoft edge and I like to sync my devices.”
On the promotion, she said, “I am happy that DST and Baiduri Bank worked together to provide us with the platform to pay through the bundle packages.”
Jasmine Tan, who purchased the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra, is an avid user of the Samsung Note. She said, “It’s a premium phone and with the promotion, it is a good deal. I have always used Samsung phones as it is a very reliable brand. I also like the S Pen feature because it is convenient for writing notes and cropping pictures.”
Those interested in subscribing to the MOBI contract plans with the Samsung Galaxy Note20 series bundle can do so via DST’s official website at www.dst.com.bn or visit any DST branch.
The Ministry of Defence (MinDef) and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) held a religious talk for the personnel of the Ministry of Defence and Bolkiah Garrison at the Surau Ad-Difa’ yesterday.
Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Commander of the RBAF Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, Permanent Secretary at the MinDef Brigadier General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Shahril Anwar bin Haji Ma’awiah, service commanders, deputy permanent secretaries at the MinDef, officers and personnel of the MinDef and RBAF were in attendance.
The event began with the recitation of Verses 80-86 of Surah An-Nisa followed by a religious talk on Generasi Berilmu, Beramal dan Berakhlak Memacu Pembangunan Umat by Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) Director of International and Public Relations at Haji Sammali bin Haji Adam.
The talk touched on the importance of youth development in upholding Islamic teachings and realising Brunei Vision 2035.
ABOVE & BELOW: Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof and Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud at the event; and Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) Director of International and Public Relations at Haji Sammali bin Haji Adam delivers the religious talk. PHOTOS: MINDEF
The legacy of Hijrah is the greatest in history. It will remain relevant for thousands of years.
Even after the Day of Judgement, it will continue to be superior and distinctive, said State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned in a special religious talk on Radio Television Brunei (RTB) yesterday in commemoration of the Islamic New Year 1442 Hijrah.
The State Mufti said Hijrah means “moving or changing places. But it is not like people who move house or to another country. Hijrah is a migration with the aim of upholding the commands of Allah the Almighty”.
He said, “Hijrah contains wisdom to save the Aqidah (belief), and Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was the head of such a rescue mission. But moving wasn’t an easy task as Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was not provided with assistance to ease the journey, such as a line of helpers, guards and vehicles.
“Instead, the Prophet (pbuh) only had a camel bought from his companion Abu Bakar (ra). While the camel had many flaws, Allah the Almighty gave the animal strength and extraordinary speed.
State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
“The destination covered a distance of 480 kilometres. It took the Prophet (pbuh) 10 days to complete but not without tribulations. However, the Prophet was not put off by the obstacles; He instead prayed to Allah the Almighty to execute His orders.”
The State Mufti noted three components in the journey of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh): number, place and belief.
“Belief is of utmost importance because without it, a weak soul will remain weak, and a cold spirit will remain cold and lifeless, making it difficult to overcome challenges such as migration.
“However, once there’s belief, a soul that is initially weak will strengthen, and the dim spirit
will brighten.
“That was the injection of faith from the Prophet (pbuh) upon the companions of Abu Bakar (ra).
“As Muslims, we must be confident in our belief that if the struggle is sincere solely because of Allah the Almighty, then Allah the Almighty is with us,” he said.
The State Mufti added, “To be helped by Allah the Almighty, a person must meet two conditions – to be a believer and to humbly ask Allah the Almighty for help.”
Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati binti Haji Tajuddin attended the virtual Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) Executive Committee Meeting 2020 recently.
The annual meeting was attended by members of the Executive Committee for 2020 comprising officials from the Ministries of Education from Malaysia (as Chair of the SEAMEO Council), Singapore (as next Chair of SEAMEO Council), Indonesia (as previous Chair of the SEAMEO Council), with Brunei Darussalam and Vietnam as nominated members together with the SEAMEO Secretariat Director as ex-officio member.
The members of the Executive Committee were tasked to advise the SEAMEO officials on the overall thrusts and effort of the SEAMEO Units, set directions and make recommendations on the management of the SEAMEO Secretariat and the overall development of the SEAMEO Centres.
The discussion included the proposed SEAMEO Strategic Plan 2021-2030 outlined in the new roadmap for the next decade of enhancing regional understanding, cooperation and unity of purpose.
The session concluded by adopting the various agenda which will be presented at the SEAMEO Higher Official Meetings in November.
Accompanying the permanent secretary were MoE officials.
Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati binti Haji Tajuddin during the virtual meeting. PHOTO: MOE
A two-storey house in Kampong Sungai Hanching was gutted by a fire yesterday, and in trying to save the house, firefighters also found three nearby fire hydrants faulty.
Ten firefighters from Lambak Kanan Fire Station and the water tank support from Beribi Fire Station, led by Commanding Officer of Operation ‘C’ Branch SSFR Pengiran Azizul Rahman bin Pengiran Haji Yusop, rushed to the scene after receiving a distress call at 8.34am, according to the Fire and Rescue Department (FRD).
Firefighters put out the blaze in eight minutes. No injuries were reported.
The cause and cost of damage are being ascertained.
In light of yesterday’s incident, the FRD urged public to equip their residence with fire extinguishers and blankets and to ensure all electrical appliances are switched off before leavin the house.
ABOVE & BELOW: A firefighter at the scene; and the two-storey house engulfed by the fire. PHOTO: FRD
The FRD also cautioned against leaving food on the stove unattended. In case of a gas leak, the public is reminded to open windows and doors for ventilation.
The public is also reminded to make sure all wirings are in good condition and all inspections conducted by companies accredited by the Department of Electrical Services.
The FRD requested the public to check fire hydrants in the neighbourhood and contact the FRD if any are faulty.
Members of the public can contact 995 for emergencies.
Kampong Sungai Liang residents were told to remain calm, keep a safe distance and inform authorities when they encounter a crocodile.
Kampong Sungai Liang Acting Village Head Haji Mohd Ibrahim bin Datu Maharaja Setia Dian made these comments at a demonstration to disseminate information on the skills and knowledge on preparing, locating and trapping crocodiles yesterday.
The event at the Sungai Liang Beach-front was organised by the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Department at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism.
Haji Mohd Ibrahim said the demonstration by officers and staff from the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Department is in response to the increase in crocodile sightings, especially along the riverside of the village, in the past month.
“The demonstration saw the participation of members of Kampong Sungai Liang Village Consultative Council (MPK Sungai Liang) and residents. They learnt skills such as tying knots and the proper use of equipment to safely capture the crocodiles,” he said. Haji Mohd Ibrahim said this will benefit the residents as it serves as a precaution in not only separating the habitat of the crocodile and residences, but also to understand their nature and habits.
“Despite only having members from MPK Kampong Sungai Liang and residents participating, it is hoped that the knowledge will be passed to families and friends, to ensure that the safety of the village is maintained.”
He hoped the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Department will further disseminate the skills and knowledge, which can be put to good use in setting and preparing the traps ahead of the arrival of officers from the Wildlife Division; which can expedite the capture and relocating of the crocodiles.
Some of the equipment used to secure and relocate crocodiles showcased during the demonstration. PHOTO: DANIEL LIM
Brunei Darussalam marked its third consecutive day of no new COVID-19 cases yesterday, keeping the national tally at 143 confirmed cases. This includes one active case at the National Isolation Centre (NIC) in Tutong District.
The Ministry of Health (MoH) has taken 206 samples for SARS-CoV-2 testing over the last 24 hours, with a total of 49,159 tests conducted since January. Meanwhile, 635 individuals are undergoing mandatory self-isolation at government monitoring centres after returning from abroad, while 4,567 have completed their mandatory self-isolation since March 2020.
For information, the public can visit the MoH website at www.moh.gov.bn or contact the Health Advice Line at 148 or through the BruHealth app or the health info.gov.bn.
The Britain Brunei Business Forum (BBBF) presented a donation to Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam in Kampong Bengkurong on Friday.
BBBF Chair Yvonne Kuan handed over the donation to Pusat Ehsan Executive and Operational Trustee Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini binti Pengiran Dipa Negara Laila Diraja Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin.
“I am privileged to present this donation to Pusat Ehsan. I hope our donation will support the organisation as it continues to help individuals with special needs in Brunei Darussalam,” Yvonne said.
The donation came from proceeds of a BBBF organised Charity Bake Sale. BBBF expressed gratitude to the organisations and individuals involved in the sale, without whom the event would not have been a success.
Members of the BBBF executive committee and Pusat Ehsan Board of Trustees also attended.
Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam Executive and Operational Trustee Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini binti Pengiran Dipa Negara Laila Diraja Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin receives a mock cheque from Britain Brunei Business Forum (BBBF) Chair Yvonne Kuan. PHOTO: BBBF
As the nation celebrated the Islamic New Year of 1442 Hijrah on Thursday, 18 couples welcomed their bundles of joy into the world.
The Brunei-Muara District recorded the birth of 13 babies (10 boys and three girls) delivered at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital while the Belait District recorded five births (two boys and three girls) at the Suri Seri Begawan Hospital, Kuala Belait.
The new year’s first baby was born at 9.21pm on Thursday. The parents of the baby boy weighing 3.43kg are Md Hazmi Syafie bin Haji Shahri and Norabidah binti Abdul Hamid.
In expressing gratitude for the blessings, a Doa Kesyukuran ceremony for babies born in the Brunei-Muara District was held at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) yesterday.
Presentation of gifts were officiated by Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, 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 the Board of Directors of Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB) handed over gifts from TAIB, and Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar.
ABOVE & BELOW: Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof and Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar present the gifts. PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR & DANIEL LIM
ABOVE & BELOW: Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health Haji Abdul Manap bin Othman and Perbadanan TAIB Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications Haji Afero Eswandy bin Haji Mohammad present the gifts
Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar also presented gifts.
The Belait District ceremony was held at the multi-purpose hall of the Muhammad Jamalul Alam Mosque, Kuala Belait.
Guest of honour Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health Haji Abdul Manap bin Othman was accompanied by Perbadanan TAIB Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications’ Haji Afero Eswandy bin Haji Mohammad.
Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Hanapi bin Mohd Siput, Belait District Officer Ramlee bin Haji Jamudin, Belait District Head Religious Officer Mohamad Aliyani bin Haji Ismail, as well as officers and staff members from government agencies in the district were also present.
The first birth in the Belait District was recorded on August 20 at 6.45am. The baby boy weighing 3.48kg was born at the Suri Seri Begawan Hospital in the Belait District.
The child’s parents are Norhazirah binti Hanafi and Mohammad Mu’iz bin Sham Khiruddin.
The last delivery was at 4.52pm. Zaimah binti Jaladi and Awangku Mohd Adanan bin Pengiran Haji Ahmad are the parents of the baby girl weighing three kilogrammes.
The fathers of the newborns received the gifts which among others included baby essentials and a religious book titled Panduan Menyambut Kelahiran presented by Haji Abdul Manap.
The fathers also received a BND200 SiManja savings account along with baby essentials each from Perbadanan TAIB presented by Haji Afero Eswandy.
The ceremony concluded with the recitation of Doa Selamat.
A special religious talk titled ‘Perubahan Diri Bermula Pada Diri Sendiri’ was the highlight of the Islamic New Year 1442 Hijrah celebration hosted by the Ministry of Development (MoD) and departments under it at the ministry’s Bertabur Hall yesterday.
The event was organised by the Department of Development and Department of Technical Services of the Public Works Department.
Acting Minister of Development Dato Seri Paduka Ar Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin was the guest of honour.
The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Dr Andas Haji Ismuhadi bin Haji Abdullah, an invited speaker from the Islamic Da’wah Centre who later presented the religious talk.
Dr Andas Haji Ismuhadi explained on the historical mark of Hijrah in Islam as a religion which refers to the migration of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his followers from Makkah to Madinah which is believed to have caused the teachings of Islam to flourish and grow as a community.
He added that Hijrah also refer to a period of inner-reflection, a process of self-change, and often a perfect time for Muslims to better themselves.
Permanent Secretary (Planning, Land Use and Environment) at the MoD Dr Nor Imtihan binti Haji Abdul Razak, Permanent Secretary (Infrastructure, Housing and Professional) Ir Haji Amer Hishamuddin bin Pehin Orang Kaya Amar Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Zakaria, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Corporate and Legal) at the MoD Sr Hajah Norhayati binti Haji Mohammad Yaakob, heads of departments, heads of divisions and units; officers and staff members of the MoD and departments under it were also present.
Acting Minister of Development Dato Seri Paduka Ar Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin at the event. PHOTO: SYAZWANI HJ ROSLI
With Singapore allowing travellers from Brunei and New Zealand to visit the country starting next month, the country’s Transport Minister Ong Ye Kung praised the two countries for controlling the COVID-19 virus “very well” adding the move was unilateral.
The minister said the move aims to strike a balance between controlling the spread of the virus and reviving air travel, a key driver of the trade-and tourism-reliant economy.
“I think this is a small cautious step to start to re-open aviation and resuscitate Changi Airport,” he told reporters. “Remember, as a small open economy, to survive we’ve got to keep our borders open.
“To earn a living, (we) got to have connections with the world and to thrive and to prosper, we must be an aviation hub,” news agencies reported.
Travellers from Brunei Darussalam and New Zealand will be subject to a COVID-19 test upon arrival, in-lieu of a Stay-Home Notice (SHN).
Singapore has also reduced the SHN duration from 14 days to seven for travellers from low risk countries/regions, Singapore’s Ministry of Health said in a statement.
Co-chair of the COVID-19 multi-ministry task force Lawrence Wong said during a press conference on Friday that the arrangements with Brunei and New Zealand are not reciprocal, but discussions with both countries are ongoing.
File photo shows a passenger checking-in at the automated booth at the international departure area of Changi International Airport in Singapore. PHOTO: AFP
“When we are ready with the reciprocal green lane arrangements with these two countries, we will announce the details,” he told the Singapore media. “Specific to these two countries, we are making a move based on the evidence, based on our assessment of risk,” he added.
Singapore’s Ministry of Health added, since March 21, Singapore implemented a 14-day SHN on all incoming travellers (ie Singapore citizens, permanent residents and long-term pass holders to minimise the risk of importation leading to community spread in the country.
Since June 18, they have also allowed travellers from Australia (excluding Victoria State), Brunei Darussalam, Macao, Mainland China, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam to serve their 14-day SHN at their own place of residence. A testing regime before the end of SHN has also been put in place for all incoming travellers.
Singapore monitored the situation and assessed that there are several countries/regions where the virus situation is well under control and the risk of importation is low. They will therefore update the border measures accordingly. Changes will be with effect from September 1, 2020, 0000 hours, for all travellers entering or departing Singapore.
Among these low-risk countries, Singapore will start by lifting current border restrictions to allow the entry of visitors from Brunei Darussalam and New Zealand into Singapore.
Travellers entering Singapore and who have remained in either Brunei Darussalam or New Zealand in the last consecutive 14 days prior to their entry will not be required to serve a SHN. Instead, they will undergo a COVID-19 test upon arrival at the airport and only be allowed to go about their activities in Singapore after receiving a negative test result.
Prior to travelling to Singapore, visitors from Brunei Darussalam and New Zealand will need to apply for an Air Travel Pass (ATP) between seven and 30 days before their intended date of entry into Singapore. They will be responsible for their medical bills should they require medical treatment for COVID-19 while in Singapore.
Despite several offers from countries to ease travel movement between their countries and Brunei Darussalam as the Sultanate reports no new community spread for over than 100 days, Brunei’s senior government officials indicated during recent press conferences that the matter is still being studied and Brunei will not open its borders for international travellers very soon, although this stance is still unclear if it has changed with the new developments.
On June 14, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah said that Brunei is not ready to open borders with neighbouring countries any time soon as there were no negotiations taking place at the time.
On June 20, Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof indicated that Singapore and the People’s Republic of China offered limited and restricted travel for their citizens into the country, specifically for government officials and businessmen.
Following the official receipt of offers, the Minister of Foreign Affairs II said that they began internal discussions looking at the criteria proposed and then to consider whether Brunei can go along with the proposals or if we can make counter proposals.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs II during a press conference on June 20 revealed that Singapore and China have officially offered to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through its government agencies, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Prime Minister’s Office will consider the offers in terms of it appropriateness, the country’s preparation, as well as the preparations of the other countries.
It was also previously reported that the Malaysian Government will grant Brunei citizens and residents entry into Malaysia without mandatory COVID-19 screening and 14-day quarantine, on the basis that the terms are reciprocal.
Tremors were felt in some parts of Brunei around midday on Friday following a strong 6.6-magnitude deep undersea earthquake at eastern Indonesia about 1,596 kilometres from the Sultanate.
Reports of tremors in several buildings in the Brunei-Muara District were experienced including by occupants of the Design and Technology Building (D&T) in Kampong Anggerek Desa at 12.43pm; RB Plaza at 1.28pm and areas of Kampong Bolkiah in Kampong Ayer in the capital, according to a joint statement released by the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC); Ministry of Home Affairs and the Public Works Department (JKR) yesterday.
No injuries were reported.
The strong earthquake occurred at Katabu, Indonesia (Flores Sea) at 12.09pm local time with a depth of 650 kilometres.
The seismic station of the JKR detected the seismic wave at 12.12pm, the statement added.
According to a resident of an apartment building at Kampong Sumbiling in the capital, who declined to be named, he was in his bedroom, playing games on his phone when he felt a slight tremble. He did not realise it was a tremor resulting from an earthquake until later that day.
Tremors were felt around the Brunei-Muara District following a 6.6-magnitude earthquake at Katabu, Indonesia. PHOTO: AFP
Upon receiving emergency calls from occupants of several buildings on Friday, the Fire and Rescue Department assisted security personnel in activing emergency plans and evacuation procedures to vacate the buildings. Thirty individuals from the D&T building and 137 from the RB Plaza were evacuated.
The Fire and Rescue Department and JKR also conducted structural integrity inspection and safety level for the affected buildings and later deemed the buildings to be safe. Occupants were allowed to enter the buildings at 4.15pm.
Following the earthquake, AFP reported that Indonesian authorities issued no tsunami warnings and there were no immediate reports of casualties or major damage.
In Kupang city, far south of the quake’s epicentre in the Banda Sea, frightened residents ran outside as buildings and streetlights swayed. “I was in the shopping centre when the quake hit,” said resident Engky Nussi.
“Many people ran outside as stuff started falling off the shelves and we were afraid something worse might happen.” Deep quakes tend to cause less damage than shallow ones and the United States Geological Survey (USGS) said there was a low likelihood of casualties and damage.
The Brunei Photographic Society appointed a new executive committee for 2020/2021 recently.
Haji Hamidun bin Haji Mohd Noor was appointed President of the Brunei Photographic Society. He thanked the members for their support and believing in his leadership.
He expressed hope that the society will cooperate with the new executive committee, respect each other and work as a team to achieve success.
Pengiran Haji Sulaiman bin Pengiran Md Salleh was appointed Vice President, Murni bin Haji Mahali was appointed Secretary-General, Amri bin Haji Salleh was appointed Assistant Secretary-General I, Ahlimun bin Haji Nawang was appointed Assistant Secretary-General II, and Haji Kahan bin Haji Nasir was appointed Treasurer-in-General.
Group photo during the meeting. PHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUD
The Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce Brunei Darussalam last night organised in honour of the outgoing High Commissioner of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to Brunei Darussalam Air Vice Marshal (Rtd) Mahmud Hussain and spouse Abeda Islam, at the Songket Hall 3 of The Rizqun International Hotel in Gadong.
The outgoing high commissioner said farewell to the guests and extended his appreciation for their continued support throughout his tenure in Brunei.
Over 80 people comprising members of the Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce Brunei Darussalam and guests attended the farewell dinner.
Air Vice Marshal (Rtd) Mahmud Hussain presented his Letter of Credence 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 on February 15, 2017.
Outgoing High Commissioner of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to Brunei Darussalam Air Vice Marshal (Rtd) Mahmud Hussain with guests during the farewell dinner. PHOTO: SYAZWANI HJ ROSLI
Unified National Networks Sdn Bhd (UNN) is working with stakeholders such as the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC) and Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry Brunei Darussalam (AITI) to evaluate the introduction of a
5G network.
UNN CEO Dr Steffen Oehler said the demand for 5G is still low as few people own 5G compatible mobile phones which tend to be higher cost models.
The introduction of 5G is strategically important for the country, said Dr Oehler.
There are plans to introduce 5G but it would not be feasible to allocate too many resources to meet the demand of the few. Instead, the focus now is on customers using 3G and 4G networks. However, current implementation on 4G+ and LTE is going towards the preparation for a 5G network.
He added that a substantial amount of additional capacity was added with 100MHz band @3,500MHz. UNN is applying with AITI for additional spectrum in the lower band as lower frequency allows better penetration in buildings and can reach a radius of over four kilometres.
UNN is also looking into providing and improving fixed network services for difficult areas such as water villages. Dr Oehler said UNN is evaluating fibre infrastructure for houses in Kampong Ayer.
Unified National Networks Sdn Bhd CEO Dr Steffen Oehler speaks with media personnel. PHOTO: BAHYIAH BAKIR
From January to July 2020, 16,358 customer connections were completed. They are 12,272 connections in the Brunei-Muara District, 2,404 in Belait District, 1,503 in Tutong District and 179 in the Temburong District.
Fibre to the Home (FTTH) network was expanded to include an additional 2,744 connection points – 946 in Tutong District and 1,798 from other districts.
“Currently, we believe we are passing around 80,000 to 85,000 homes on fibre,” said Dr Oehler. UNN projected that between 2022 to 2024, another 20,000 homes will be added as more houses are being built including housing projects.
Temburong witnessed several firsts in Brunei, including the first use of blown fibre and the technology combining 3G and 4G in one antenna.
UNN is also focussing its spotlight on cybersecurity. “We are keen to protect data and our customers. That is why we are building a Cyber Defence Centre,” said Dr Oehler.
The Cyber Defence Centre is one of the initiatives in realising the digitisation of Brunei. It will protect all digital services, data interfaces, communication and production systems of UNN from domestic and foreign threats.
UNN will also implement training programmes to help experts detect, prevent and respond to cyber-attacks to safeguard the entire network.
Toyota Brunei unveiled its latest SUV in its current line-up in a media preview recently.
The new Toyota Cross is a must-own for those looking to take quality time with family and loved ones to a whole new level.
Best described as “reliable, active and versatile”, the Cross comes equipped with innovative and safety functions offering the ultimate confidence and maximum comfort in all journeys.
On the active note, it is an assemblage of sleek and sophistication that veils an active design with a newfound sense of energy that can be seen through its front and rear fenders.
It creates a stronger impression: a double trapezoid grille that provides a wide, strong and stable appearance alongside Toyota-first “light curtain” effect on daytime running light (DRL) and clearance lamp graining for a unique and high-quality look.
Stepping into the cabin and the interior will instantly stand out with its spacious room with magnificent views and ample head clearance that distinctively outlines and easy entry and exit.
The all new Toyota Cross. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
An outstanding heightened luggage room with a capacity that amounts up to 487 litres gives the class-leading space suitable for all scenarios and lifestyles. In addition, there is also a power back door with activated kick sensor.
What makes the Toyota Cross versatile is the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) which elevates the driving performance and comfort beyond expectations and sports impressive handling with greater agility, stability and visibility.
Under its chassis is the new torsion-beam suspension that draws out a comfortable journey as every turn is cushioned through the use of large yet soft brushings in a geometric movement.
With a ride height of 166 millimetres on the ground clearance, it showcases the agility of the SUV while the manoeuvrability is handled by the best-in-class 5.2-metre turning radium portraying the stability of the car. The elevated driving position bedecks thinner A-pillars that maximise the field of view, all the while minimising blind spots which hold the best-in-class visibility with its repositioned side mirror. It also boasts functionality, which is displayed in the form of a new level of speed and strength paired with dignified sturdiness and class-leading utilities.
With safety being few of the many elements that provides every passenger with a peace of mind, the Toyota Cross is available in 1.8-litre gasoline engine for both high and standard grades.
More than 400 personal items from the closet of local celebrity Wu Chun and his wife Lim Lee Yen are up for sale at a pop-up charity event on the ground floor of Fitness Zone.The event will run until October 1 and 100 per cent of the proceeds from the sales will go to La Vida, a non-profit organisation that provides assistance to the needy.
Wu Chun, in an interview, said, “I had been looking to get involved in a charity such as the pop-up event for three years as I had a lot of stuff, like clothing and shoes.”
On the first day of the event last Saturday, he said, “The response was very good; we made BND5,500.
“I’m estimating the total worth of the collection to be well over BND30,000.”
One of the highest priced items is a pair of customised Nike Air Jordan Spizike shoes, which have been put up for silent auction, along with 10 other rare items. On the decision to work with La Vida, Wu Chun said, “I have worked with La Vida in the past. They are very active in helping and training individuals with special needs in the community.”
Meanwhile, La Vida founder Dawn Lee said, “(The collaboration with Wu Chun) was totally unexpected. We have collaborated in another charity event in the past. When he heard about our second-hand shop, he actually donated one truck load of items to us.”
She also expressed hope for more collaboration with the international star in the future.
Wu Chun holding up a limited edition Michael Jordan jersey for the silent auction. PHOTOS: JAMES KONWu Chun with La Vida founder Dawn Lee during media engagementVisitors browsing the items on sale
The public welcomed the recent announcement made by Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar on a revised fee for the COVID-19 swab test on foreigners entering Brunei Darussalam.
“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 Ministry of Health (MoH) would like to inform the public on the reduction of the charges for the RT-6 PCR COVID-19 swab test imposed on foreigners that have been granted permission to enter the country from BND1,000 to BND350,” the minister said.
Director of Operations at Mulia Hotel Mohd Iswandi bin Maaruf, who is also President of the Brunei Association of Hotels (BAH), said, “It is a good initiative; business and corporate travellers can resume travelling into the country and filling up the hotel rooms again.”
As the hotel sector is among the hardest hit sectors amid the COVID-19 pandemic, he believes that the revised fee is a boon to the revival of hospitality and tourism industries.
Meanwhile, The Brunei Hotel General Manager Andy Goh said the reduced price on swab test is a good move as it encourages travellers to consider entering Brunei, thus improving the outlook of the hospitality industry.
ABOVE & BELOW: File photos of Director of Operations at Mulia Hotel and President of the Brunei Association of Hotels Mohd Iswandi bin Maaruf and The Brunei Hotel General Manager Andy Goh. PHOTOS: RAHWANI ZAHARI
“Of course, we still hope a vaccine will be found soon as most hotels and in-bound travel agents, as well as airline operators are dependent on tourist arrivals,” he added.
Meanwhile, Danial, a Malaysian in business partnership with a local, applauded the move and said the previous price of swab testing put a lot of financial burden on businesses. Now that it’s been revised, he believes the business sector is letting out a collective sigh of relief.
A family member of an expatriate, whose husband is currently working at an established firms in the country, also expressed her gratitude to the government for the price reduction as it means her children, who are currently studying abroad can visit during semester breaks.
“I think most of us expats were relieved when we heard the announcement made by the minister,” she said. “It gives us all the more reason to be thankful and appreciative of the opportunity to live in this Abode of Peace for many years.”
Gerai Hujung Minggu Pasar Kitani is proving to be an ideal platform for local farmers, agropreneurs and entrepreneurs to showcase their products. The weekend market is also helping the creative arts in Brunei Darussalam.
One vendor, Mohd Iman Khairi, told the Bulletin it was his first time showcasing his creative arts at the weekend market at the VIP parking area of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.
“For a first timer like me, the response was good. The pop-up-sale is a good venue for artists to showcase their products and talents. The platform is also good for those waiting for employment or fresh grads.
“Maybe our creativity will catch the attention of companies in search of creative designs/drawings and they might even employ us,” he said.
Imran bin Haji Musa, a visitor, shared the same view. He believes the weekend market allows artists to explore more and exchange ideas with the public.
“It is a good opportunity for the youth. Aside from promoting themselves via social media, they can engage directly with the public, letting them know what they have to offer.”
Pasar Kitani is held every Sunday from 6am to 11am.
Mohd Iman Khairi showcases his creative work at the weekend market at the VIP parking area of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium. PHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUD
Over 610 kilogrammes of trash were collected from the beach near the Billionth Barrel Monument in Seria yesterday, as part of the ‘Starts From You 2.0’ cleaning campaign.
The day began with a warm-up session, followed by a safety briefing. Over 160 participants picked up trash across a one-kilometre stretch of the beach.
Rosnah Yusof and Sons (RYS) Entertainment conducted the campaign with support from the Kuala Belait and Seria Municipal Board; Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation; Institute of Brunei Technical Education; Politeknik Brunei, Lumut Campus; and Green Brunei.
STKRJ Lorong Tiga Selatan Seria Village Head Haji Saidin bin Haji Ibrahim, Kampong Bukit Sawat Village Head Mohammad bin Abdullah and village consultative council members also participated.
RYS Entertainment looks forward to continuing its campaign over the next few months.
The next clean up will be at SMR, located at the far end of Jalan Maulana in Kuala Belait on September 27, followed by Jerudong Beach and Muara Beach on October 25 and November 22.
Members of the public keen on lending a helping hand can contact +7290700.
A similar clean-up was held earlier at the beach near the Silver Jubilee Recreational Park in Kuala Belait.
ABOVE & BELOW: Participants during the cleaning campaign. PHOTOS: RYS ENTERTAINMENT
Volunteers work together to clear the beach of trash
