The spread of COVID-19 and the associated stay-at-home and social distancing orders have acted as a catalyst in the growth of digital payments, including payments conducted over the Internet and mobile channels.
E-Commerce and mobile commerce have grown at a faster pace as customers have resorted to online shopping more and many retailers are embracing online shopping platforms to capitalise on this trend, a press release from Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) stated.
With digital payments having the advantage of requiring little to no contact, or physical interaction, it is a useful means of paying for goods and services while practising
social distancing.
AMBD will be sharing articles on digital payments in Brunei Darussalam, which will cover, among others, the benefits of digital payments, types of digital payments platforms available in Brunei Darussalam, as well as safe ways to use digital payments.
Digital payments provide convenience and efficiency in making transactions as users of digital payments no longer need to be burdened by having to bring physical cash with them at all times and waste time queueing for counter services to manage bills.
In terms of security, keeping or carrying large amounts/values of cash or cheques make individuals vulnerable to misplacing them or becoming victim to theft. Digital payments reduce these risks thanks to the controls that technology enables.
Trusted digital payments adopt security measures, such as identity verification of customers and access control.
Digital payments can also assist to facilitate record keeping and better financial planning, ie budgetting, active savings through direct debit instructions, etc.
Awangku Abdul Ghafur Ur Rahman bin Pengiran Abdulrahman and Muhammad Musa Saifullah bin mohammad Satria Alam Shah emerged first place winners in the Code Pirates Category and Syntax Ninjas Category of the first Brunei Kids Can Code coding competition. It was organised by Dynamik Technologies Sdn Bhd, wrapping up the competition with a closing ceremony at the Design & Technology Building, Anggerek Desa Tech Park yesterday.
Meanwhile, Lamuel Dhanushan McFarlane Chinniah and Muhammad Ibrahim Asadullah bin Mohammad Satria Alam Shah won second and third places in the Code Pirates Category, while Ashville Ariel Petrus and Redzuan bin Shahrinan won second and third places in the Syntax Ninjas Category.
First, second and third place winners brought home BND500, BND300 and BND150 prizes.
Muhammad Musa said he was exposed to coding from an early age thanks to his father. He liked it so much that it got him interested to learn more as he has learnt to code in HTML, CSS, and is currently learning JavaScript. “I feel very grateful for winning this competition and thankful to my family for helping me,” said Muhammad Musa.
Meanwhile, Awangku Abdul Ghafur Ur Rahman expressed his gratitude for winning the competition as it shows that his hard work was worth it. “For the three days, I was coding non-stop. I actually planned much more than this, but I didn’t have much time. I hope to continue it at home. “
In her opening remarks, Dynamik Tehnologies Chief Executive Officer Haslina binti Haji Mohd Taib highlighted the importance of generating interest in computer science from an early age. She said with learning how to code, the youth can improve their problem solving skills, stimulate their creative and design thinking and boost their overall confidence by coming with solutions through coding.
The ‘Brunei Kids Can Code’ coding competition came to a close yesterday with the awarding of prizes to the young winners. Photo shows Dynamik Technologies Chief Executive Officer Haslina binti Haji Mohd Taib presenting the top prize to Awangku Abdul Ghafur Ur Rahman bin Pengiran Abdulrahman for excelling in the Code Pirates Category.Participants in a group photo. PHOTOS: IZAH AZAHARI
The coding competition aims to teach coding to young students in a fun and rewarding way. The programme, organised by Dynamik Technologies, is supported by the Brunei Tourism Board and in collaboration with BISTEC Global, as well as led by student volunteers who guided the participants.
The programme kicked off with a live and interactive coding competition from August 30 to September 11 where over 31 participants completed three weekly coding challenges based on their age categories – Syntax Ninjas (eight to 12 years) and Code Pirates (13 to 16 years).
The event also saw special mentions presented to the five female participants.
Another participant from the Syntax Ninjas Category Ashville Ariel Petrus commented that his teacher recommended him to join the competition, and though it was very challenging, he overcame it and learnt new things. He added that he will definitely join the competition in the future.
“I believe coding is the future and it will help the nation. We just need a platform to enrol and develop our children,” said parent Go Lai Fong.
“My son enjoyed the competition and if he wants to develop his interest in coding, I will encourage it. I certainly would recommend this programme for other parents.”
Meanwhile, another parent Siti Najmoon said she sent her daughter to join the competition because she is interested in coding, and has a lot of ideas regarding animation and games.
The competition encouraged Siti Najmoon to help her daughter develop and implement her ideas further through the competition.
Following the competition, the participants will automatically receive membership to the Brunei Kids Can Code Club where coding classes will be held monthly to build their interest further and develop their programming capabilities.
Dynamik Technologies is already planning for the next round of competition for Brunei Kids Can Code that will take place during the Brunei December Festival in collaboration with the Brunei Tourism Board.
The Community and Communication Bureau of the RPN Kampong Panchor Mengkubau Village Consultative Council yesterday opened a tailoring shop as part of the ‘One Village, One Product’ initiative.
A ceremony was held at the Mukim Mentiri Community Centre to mark its opening, joined by Fairuz binti Haji Zolkifli, spouse of Brunei-Muara District Officer Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim, as the guest of honour as well as member of the Legislative Council (LegCo) Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Mohamed bin Pengiran Haji Osman @ Othman, the Brunei-Muara District Officer and Acting Penghulu of Mukim Mentiri.
The event saw 16 certificates presented to individuals who completed a tailoring course held from October to November last year.
Head of Community and Communication Bureau Fatimah binti Haji Jamil said the course was not only joined by residents in RPN Kampong Panchor Mengkubau but also those residing in Kampong Kiulap, Kampong Bendahara Lama, Kampong Jerudong and Kampong Menunggol.
She expressed hope that the course would encourage participants, especially single mothers, to attain skills necessary to generate an income.
Spouse of the Brunei-Muara District Officer Fairuz binti Haji Zolkifli being briefed during a tour of the facilities. PHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUD
The Brunei Malay Teachers Association (PGGMB) has over 3,000 members and among them the younger generation that has the potential to lead the association to great heights.
This was said by Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong yesterday during the 70th PGGMB Representative General Meeting at the multipurpose hall of PGGMB School in Kampong Sungai Akar.
“I am confident that the teachers, comprising graduates and youth, not only have innovative ideas needed to improve the quality of education but will also implement plans to improve the welfare of PGGMB members as well as the community,” he said.
The minister added, “We are honoured to be given an opportunity to contribute to education through the provision of school services, from kindergarten to secondary school levels.”
He also called on the need for PGGMB to extend its scope to enhancing the level of professionalism among its teachers in a bid to elevate the association to a professional teachers’ federation.
“Accountability and integrity must be present in every member of the association, fuelled by a strong work ethic,” he said. “Only leaders with the integrity of an organisation in mind are able to formulate an innovative economic reform policy.”
Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong delivers a speech. PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIRPGGMB President Haji Yusof bin Haji Mohamad delivers a speechPehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar at the 70th PGGMB Representative General Meeting in Kampong Sungai Akar
Therefore, the minister added, PGGMB “should prioritise its members’ socio-economic status as part of the association’s founding policy of putting the welfare of its members above all else”.
Amid the increasing challenging global economic climate, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar believes that the reformation of education should be top priority.
“PGGMB has long contributed to the country by providing high-quality educational services,” he said. “PGGMB schools are among the private schools revered for their academic excellence.”
However, he said, the vision of achieving great heights cannot be attained without “the involvement of its younger members”. Thus, the association has the task of identifying youth members that possess “skills in religion, education, economics and information technology”.
Earlier, PGGMB President Yusof bin Haji Mohamad, in his capacity as event chairman, said, “In less than two decades, PGGMB will be 100 years old. Therefore, the administration needs to progress towards the golden year with clear visions, strategies and missions.”
Amid the ever-evolving and increasingly challenging world, he urged PGGMB members to incorporate activities that will help the association attain the status as the top non-governmental organisation in the country.
“In 1996, there was an amendment to the PGGMB constitution to limit the duration of service as committee members to two years,” he said. “It opened up opportunities for other capable members to step up and lead the association.”
He added that having over 3,000 members allows PGGMB to utilise a wide spectrum of skills and ideas to ensure programmes and other activities implemented to fulfil the objectives of the association.
The meeting yesterday, chaired by PGGMB Permanent Chairman Haji Jamal bin Haji Kahar, saw a presentation on the latest developments of the association, annual reports covering social, economic and financial activities and proposed amendments to general term requirements.
Over 200 PGGMB members attended the meeting, including 66 delegates representing six zones in the country.
Julangan Titah Graduan Bersepadu opened its doors to the public following a Doa Selamat and Doa Kesyukuran ceremony at its premises in Kampong Jaya Setia, Berakas yesterday.
Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman; Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong; 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 attended the opening.
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud; 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; Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof; Minister of Energy Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein; Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman; Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof and 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 were also present.
The ceremony opened with recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah by Designer Graduan representative Muhammad Ikhwan bin Mahni@Azizan and a recitation of Surah As-saf verses 1-14 by Sajian Graduan representative Muhammad Haznawi bin Abu Bakar. Its translation was read by Muhammad Hafizuddin bin Muhedin (also from Sajian Graduan).
This was followed by speeches from Dr Siti Norrasidah binti Haji Zahiri and a Doa Selamat by Mohamad Hadiudin bin Haji Jali, both Sajian Graduate representatives.
Cabinet Ministers in a group photo after the opening of the Julangan Titah Graduan Bersepadu in Kampong Jaya Setia, Berakas. PHOTOS: MUIZ MATDANIMinister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman checks out the selections on offerMinister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof; 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; Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof and Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof during the tourJulangan Titah Graduan Bersepadu building in Berakas
Dr Siti Norrasidah expressed her Junjung Kasih 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 for His Majesty’s concern towards the people of Brunei, particularly fresh graduates.
Graduan Bersepadu (established on the consent of His Majesty’s titah) is as an initiative allowing graduates from different fields to provide entrepreneurship services. Graduates will be equipped with knowledge and skills corresponding to their qualifications, and prepared before exploring the world of entrepreneurship.
This is in line with the Brunei Vision 2035 to become a nation widely recognised for the accomplishment of its educated and highly skilled people, measured by the highest international standards; quality of life that is among the Top 10 nations in the world and a dynamic and sustainable economy.
“We are grateful to be given this opportunity and entrusted to carry out the responsibilities in answering His Majesty’s titah… towards seeing the youth becoming agents of change, working successfully and not being dependent on the government,” she added.
Graduan Bersepadu hopes to set an example and encourage graduates to be bold in venturing into the world of entrepreneurship.
She said although graduates may come from various fields, they are fortunate to be able to receive guidance from experienced parties.
“We have been given a strong platform at Graduan Bersepadu to ease their preparation in starting the business operations and they will be even more motivated and confident to explore new fields should more approaches by other agencies come by,” she said.
Prior to a tour of the four units under Graduan Bersepadu, the call of Selawat was read by Pasaria Graduan representative Awangku Muhammad Safwan @ Awangku Hazwan bin Pengiran Razak.
Under the Graduan Bersepadu roof are Pustaka Graduan, Designer Graduan, Sajian Graduan and Tutor Graduan as well as a convenience store. Sajian Graduan offers restaurant services, Pustaka Graduan is a stationery store, Designer Graduan is a boutique showcasing products designed by graduates, and Tutor Graduan offers tutorial classes.
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 the country is attempting to bring down the unemployment rate to four per cent, or even lower.
In an interview with the Bulletin at the opening of the Julangan Titah Graduan Bersepadu yesterday, the minister said, “Previously, the unemployment rate was 9.3 per cent, then it went down to 8.7 per cent and currently stands at 6.8 per cent.
“Every year, we have about 6,500 graduates coming into the labour market. So if you are hiring people, it is a constant moving target. Even with many being hired this year, there are still new people coming into the labour market,” he said.
On the establishment of Graduan Bersepadu, he said, “Junjung Kasih 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, since it is actually an initiative by His Majesty with the objective of providing job opportunities and experience to local graduates.”
“This should definitely help with the unemployment rate, but of course, the question is: to what extent are we going to do this?
“Hopefully this concept can be replicated elsewhere and if that can be managed, then it would really bring down our unemployment rate.
“Unemployment is handled by the Manpower Planning and Employment Council, which is constantly looking into the issue. During the COVID-19 outbreak, JobCentre Brunei called up many businesses and encouraged them to take local people.
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 during a tour of Graduan Bersepadu. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
“From the start of this year up to the present, about 4,500 new jobs were created and so far only 50 per cent of that number has been hired.
“The remainder are in the process of being interviewed. We are actually speeding up our process in terms of interviews and so on. Once the employers find someone whom they like, they can employ them immediately.
“In the past, the hiring process was longer, but now we can get someone hired within two to three weeks.
“We also created i-Ready Apprenticeship Programme for TVET and HND graduates, and a number of people are taking the opportunity to hire them. This is support from our side, as many businesses couldn’t bring in foreign workers or had to curtail their activities when a lot of foreign workers went home.
“When the country began the process of de-escalation and businesses began to pick up, they needed people, but it’s not easy to bring foreigners in. Currently, training is being provided for locals, to enable them to start working when companies are hiring.
“What is important is for them to start working. Once they do so, they gain experience and they will be able to make choices later, when other opportunities arise.
“As for the government sector, we are constantly trying to get new jobs in that area as well.
“When we try to bring in foreign direct investors, they will set up plants, factories and so on.
At the moment, we are still looking at a number of new investments, which could create more jobs for the locals.
“But while this is not ready yet, it is hoped that people will work wherever they can. When some of these new investment materialise, they can decide whether these new opportunities are suited to them or otherwise.”
Regarding Julangan Titah Graduan Bersepadu, Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew described it as encouraging effort while providing the graduates a platform to gain experience.
“If you look at the housing scheme areas, they don’t have many grocery, book or clothing stores, so the residents would need to drive to the nearest town to make purchases,” he said.
“If goods or small items can be obtained easily within a walking distance, then it’s an advantage, infused with a sense of community spirit, as the people running these businesses are locals.”
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong applauded the graduates’ willingness to embrace new ideas. “They are no longer in their comfort zone and bold enough to step into something unrelated to their academic background,” he said.
“Graduates are now regarded as resolute, with the capability to contribute towards the nation. Their determination to start a business which is irrelevant to their academic field shows the graduates’ willpower to move forward on a positive note.
“At the same time, we are grateful that His Majesty’s Government is providing opportunities for graduates to venture into entrepreneurship, not merely as a platform, but also in the aspects of reskilling and upskilling to venture into different fields.”
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, meanwhile, expressed his admiration for the initiative by the Office of His Majesty through Julangan Titah.
“There are so many business activities available to graduates from universities and colleges across the country, including operating restaurants, supermarkets and a boutique for local handicrafts such as Brunei batik and weaving,” he said.
“I am impressed with the graduates’ eagerness to take up this opportunity, and hopefully there will be more graduates who will come forward to benefit from this initiative.
“I hope that the graduates involved in Graduan Bersepadu will continue being active in entrepreneurship by opening up their own business or collaborating with others to start up businesses, which will activate the nation’s economy and reduce the unemployment rate.”
The Share Ride pilot project was launched yesterday aimed to provide access to on-demand transport services in an effort to boost public transport accessibility and enhance public mobility within the Belait District.
The three-month project is held in collaboration between Dart (Brunei’s first ride booking app) and Aziz Latif Company (ALC).
The latest milestone hopes to further boost In-Country Value initiatives championed by Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP) through the creation of sustainable business opportunities and additional employment in Belait District and beyond; while providing fresh solution for greater public mobility and accessible public transport for the community in the district.
“Share Ride can provide another means of public transportation, which in turn will accommodate the needs and boost the socioeconomic status of the community.
“Over time, we hope to see more drivers which will also generate more employment opportunities for our locals,” said BSP In-Country Value Manager Hajah Rosita binti Haji Hassan.
Dart Sales and Marketing Officer Muhammad Adib bin Haji Mahamud briefs BSP Deputy Managing Director and Technical Director Yap Kong Fah on Dart’s mobile app. PHOTOS: BSPOne of the vehicles used for the Share Ride project
The service will now allow any member of the community in the Belait District to book their next car ride via the Dart application downloadable via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
The public can enjoy a safe and comfortable ride every day from 6am.
“Safety is our number one priority. The cars are in excellent conditions and the drivers from ALC are well-trained.
“We rely on our drivers to continue upholding the importance of road safety and set a good example for other drivers ensuring that everyone goes home safely. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this service and support our local entrepreneurs”, said Deputy Managing Director and Technical Director Yap Kong Fah.
The project will utilise ALC’s fleet of cars along with trained drivers, providing additional support to DART’s existing team. Supported by BSP, the initiative is in line with the company’s In-Country value strategy to help realise Brunei’s Wawasan 2035 by growing sustainable local goods, services and capabilities.
Proceeds from the #MakeAnImpact campaign, a fundraising event for Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam by Jab Gym, were presented at a handover ceremony at the Bank Islam Brunei Darsusslam (BIBD) Executive Boardroom at its headquarters in the capital yesterday.
Presenting the mock cheque of BND23,217.25 was Jab Gym Operations Coordinator Fakhrul Aizat Sufri and receiving on behalf of Pusat Ehsan was its Executive and Operational Trustee Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini binti Pengiran Dipa Negara Laila Diraja Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin.
BIBD Chief Marketing Officer Hajah Nurul Akmar binti Haji Mohd Jaafar as well as members of Pusat Ehsan and Jab Gym also attended the ceremony.
Hajah Nurul Akmar said BIBD through Community for Brunei takes pride in playing a role in inspiring greater support and inclusivity for members of the community who require assistance.
She said the Community for Brunei acts as a platform to highlight and bring together different community and charitable causes important to Brunei Darussalam.
Jab Gym Operations Coordinator Fakhrul Aizat Sufri presents the mock cheque to 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. PHOTO: BAHYIAH BAKIR
The campaign unites with BIBD’s ‘Whole of Nation Approach’, adding that the 2030 Agenda complements Brunei Vision 2035, said Hajah Nurul Akmar.
“The government makes it a priority to continue in guaranteeing the welfare of the people at all levels, thus ensuring that no one is left behind,” she said.
Community for Brunei collaborated with Jab Gym to raise funds for Pusat Ehsan from July to August. The campaign featured cold-pressed juices and energy bars made by vocational students from Pusat Ehsan which were made available for purchase on the Community for Brunei marketplace or at the gym.
The campaign raised the money through the sale of over 500 juices, 200 bars and care packages as well as BND20,000 donated by Jab Gym.
The proceeds will go to develop Pusat Ehsan’s new primary school, as well as the maintenance of its educational and rehabilitation programmes.
Seri Mulia Saujana School and Beyond Tomorrow Sdn Bhd inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the Young Professionals Programme yesterday.
Under the MoU, students will have access to the programme based on the Subject Matter Expert (SME) certifications that will nurture them to be fundamentally equipped in cellular technologies.
The partnership was established with the goal of producing future skilled workers in the field of telecommunication and broadcasting technologies, in line with Brunei Vision 2035.
The MoU was signed by Seri Mulia Sarjana School Secondary Section Deputy Principal of Administration Gazala binti Abdullah with Beyond Tomorrow CEO and founder Tee Kok Keon.
Tee said the necessity to cope with rapid changes in Information and Communication Technology industries, alongside the emergence of 5G cellular technology, brought about the need for Beyond Tomorrow’s Young Professionals Programme.
Guests at the signing ceremony. PHOTO: LYNA MOHAMAD
“The aim of this programme, while taking the basic differences between educational perspective of the 20th Century and the concept of learning in the 21st Century, is to prepare children and young adults for the ICT industries, particularly filling the gap in the cellular telecommunication domain – 4G LTE and 5G NR,” he said.
“Since the formation of Brunei Vision 2035, the Brunei government’s plan is to produce local experts. This meaningful collaboration between Beyond Tomorrow and Seri Mulia Saujana School opens up a gateway for children and young adults in transforming into professionals, thus meeting the goals of Brunei Vision 2035, and at the same time filling up the digital skills gap.
“Today, we are living in a technological society where telecommunication is an important tool in the world because everyone uses it to communicate. For this reason, it is crucial for Bruneians to be well trained in telecommunication.”
The MoU signing was witnessed by Acting Director-General of Education at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Marina Chek binti Bujang, Imagine Sdn Bhd Head of Innovation Joey Heng and Manager of AITI Capacity Outreach Haji Hadi Iskandar bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohammad.
Twenty people attended a religious talk at Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque in RPN Kampong Mentiri on Sunday aimed at fine-tuning prayers among participants.
Al-Minhaaj Centre Co-founder Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ajak said the salat prayer is one of the five pillars in Islam, thus obligatory regardless of age and socio-economic status.
He added that the objectives of the talk were to deepen the knowledge of the pillars of Islam among participants.
The two-day workshop also showed the participants the right way to perform prayers.
Al-Minhaaj Centre Co-founder and facilitator Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ajak at the two-day religious talkSome of the 20 participants at the talk. PHOTOS: AZLAN OTHMAN
The Language and Literature Bureau (DBP), through its Literature and Magazine Division, organised a poetry writing workshop as part of the Young Writers Programme 2020 in a bid to nurture young literary talents.
The three-day workshop opened yesterday at the DBP premises in Old Airport, Berakas.
Some 46 youngsters are attending the workshop, led by DBP Senior Language Officer Dr Haji Mohd Ali bin Haji Radin to provide the participants with basic poetry writing skills as well as an understanding of the creative writing process.
It is hoped that the workshop will inspire the youth to continue the literary tradition of the country by producing literary works of notable quality.
The Young Writers Programme is one of the annual projects fronted by the DBP with an aim of honing the skills of aspiring young writers.
ABOVE & BELOW: DBP Senior Language Officer Dr Haji Mohd Ali bin Haji Radin; and aspiring young writers at the workshop. PHOTOS: WANI ROSLAN
Brunei Darussalam yesterday entered the 11th day of no new COVID-19 cases keeping the national tally of confirmed cases at 145. There is one active case receiving treatment at the National Isolation Centre (NIC).
The Ministry of Health (MoH) has taken 133 samples for SARS-CoV-2 virus testing in the past 24 hours. The ministry carried out 54,763 tests for the virus since January 2020.
This information was shared by MoH in its daily press release.
Some 405 individuals are undergoing mandatory self-isolation at government monitoring centres after arriving from abroad while 5,564 have completed their stint since March 2020.
The ministry reminded the public that individuals wanting to take the SARS-CoV-2 swab test for travelling abroad must take it three to five days before their flight – subject to the terms and conditions of the destination. The results of the swab test will take time and the ministry seeks the public’s patience.
Swab tests for overseas travel can be carried out at Berakas Health Centre and the Sports Complex of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital.
At the Berakas Health Centre, the swab tests for SARS-CoV-2 are available from 8am to noon and 2pm-4pm from Monday to Thursday and Saturday.
On Friday, Sunday and public holidays, the swab tests are conducted from 2pm-5.30pm.
The SARS-CoV-2 swab tests at the Sports Complex of the RIPAS Hospital are conducted from 7am-10pm daily, except public holidays.
In its breakdown of COVID-19 cases in the country, healthinfo.gov.bn revealed that there were 112 cases in the Brunei-Muara District, 27 in the Belait District and six in the
Tutong District.
Information can be obtained from the MoH official website at www.moh.gov.bn, the Health Advice Line at 148, or through the BruHealth app or the web app at healthinfo.gov.bn.
A media preview to the Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum in Kota Batu was held yesterday to showcase the Brunei Maritime Glory Gallery.
The gallery is open for visitors and divided into three zones including the rise of Brunei Empire – one of the oldest Malay kingdoms in the Malay Archipelago; Brunei in international trade; and the ceramics of Southeast Asia.
During the preview, members of the media were briefed about the gallery that showed Brunei at its height of power during the reign of Sultan Bolkiah in the 15th century (1485 to 1524). The Golden Age of Brunei was due to maritime trade and its strategic location between China and Southeast Asian region making Brunei an entrepot.
The second zone of the gallery shows international trade between 13th to 17th Century Brunei with China, Pegu, Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan, Malacca, Acheh, Bugis, Manila, Suluk, Patani and Siam. Archaeological artefacts such as coins, beads, glass bangle, shells (once used as currency) and some of products produced by the sultanate such as copper are exhibited.
The exhibition also showed historically riverine Bruneians carry out their daily necessity such as communication, economy, transportation and social activities as well as trade. Collections on display included replica boats.
On the third zone of the gallery, ceramics from a number of Southeast Asia kingdoms are on display. The items are from Thailand, Vietnam, Champa and Burma. Carbon dating showed they were produced in the 10th Century to 13th Century.
Under the fourth de-escalation plan, visiting hours will be on Tuesday to Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 2pm and closed every Monday and Friday.
The museum was opened by 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 on March 23, 2015.
A media preview to the Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum in Kota Batu was held yesterday to showcase the Brunei Maritime Glory Gallery divided into three zones: The rise of Brunei Empire; Brunei in international trade; and the ceramics of Southeast Asia.ABOVE & BELOW: Artefacts on display at the Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum; and the museum in Kota Batu that opened in 2015. PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR
Brunei Fertilizer Industries Sdn Bhd (BFI) plant will be among the largest fertiliser plants in Southeast Asia once completed. It is set to produce 2,200 metric tonnes of ammonia and 3,900 metric tonnes of urea per day. It will create 500 direct employment opportunities during its first year of operation, of which 70 per cent of the workforce will be locals.
This information was shared by the Ministry of Energy in a statement yesterday.
According to the ministry, the demand for refined petroleum products is increasing, resulting in major expansion of the downstream industries globally. Because of this, Brunei Darussalam has embarked on a large-scale investment of downstream projects, creating opportunities for export markets and domestic industries.
One of the country’s mega downstream projects, under construction is the ammonia and urea plant operated by BFI. The construction of BFI’s state-of-the-art plant on a 55-hectare site in Sungai Liang Industrial Park (SPARK) began in May 2018 and is scheduled for first urea production by second quarter (Q2) 2021. The BFI plant is majority-owned by 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.
The BFI plant is one of the two large downstream oil and gas projects in Brunei alongside PMB Refinery and Petrochemical Plant in Pulau Muara Besar. The plant consists of three parts: Offsite and utilities, ammonia and urea plants. The products will be exported to the agriculture industry in the region.
The Brunei Fertilizer Industries Sdn Bhd (BFI) plant under constructionAn artist’s impression of the BFI plant
The Ministry of Energy is responsible in facilitating the BFI project and is committed to ensure the sector’s contribution to local employment opportunities while enhancing the strategic economic benefits to the country. In 2018, the ministry has issued the Bruneianisation directives as part of its strategic plan to ensure that Bruneians are leading and driving the oil and gas industry. The aspiration of the directive is to achieve a minimum of 90 per cent Bruneianisation at all levels and skill-pools in each company in the oil and gas industry. In line with this directive, BFI is committed to offer individuals a solid platform to learn from international experts in efforts to further enhance their knowledge and skills in the global markets.
As a part of BFI’s commitment in developing local talents, 161 trainees had undergone various programmes under BFI’s operation and maintenance training programme at Institut Teknologi Petroleum Petronas (INSTEP) in Terengganu; ASEAN Bintulu Fertilizer in Bintulu; Petronas Chemicals Fertiliser in Kedah; and Gas Processing Plant Utilities in Kertih. These trainees are being assigned at the BFI plant for hands-on training in different disciplines comprising operations, maintenance, safety and laboratory to complete their 12 months training programme.
The trainees are being mentored and trained by BFI industry experts to inculcate their know-how on the technical aspects of the plant such as process, functions and its equipment. The trainees will be offered full-time employment with BFI upon completion of the training programme. In supporting the country’s local talent in technical and non-technical fields, BFI also recruited 16 i-Ready trainees in 2018 and 2019 who are now full-time employees at BFI.
As of August 2020, BFI’s current workforce stands at 357, consisting of experienced professionals from the industry and trainees. BFI is targetting 500 direct employment opportunities during its first year of operation, of which 70 per cent of the workforce will be locals. The BFI project will also present opportunities for local contractors and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through the provision of support services in the area of construction, maintenance, transport, logistics, catering and accommodation.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC) Haji Mohammad Nazri bin Haji Mohammad Yusof in his capacity as Chairman of the ASEAN Senior Transport Officials Meeting (STOM) for 2020, co-chaired the 18th ASEAN-Japan STOM Leaders Conference with Director-General for International Affairs, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), Japan Kawarabayashi Yasuto via video conferencing yesterday.
The conference saw participants exchange views on the countermeasures undertaken by ASEAN member countries and Japan against the COVID-19 pandemic in the transport sector.
It also discussed the progress report of projects implemented under the annual ASEAN-Japan Transport Partnership (AJTP) Work Plan, including several new initiatives for the next AJTP Work Plan 2020–2021.
They are; Deliverables for the year 2020 – Final report under ASEAN-Japan Cruise Promotion Strategy, Guidelines for Maintenance of Navigation Channels in ASEAN; and Guidelines on Safety Measures with Ships’ Routing in the ASEAN region.
Meanwhile, under New Initiatives for 2020-2021 – Development of Guideline for Capacity/Performance Evaluation of Container Terminals in the ASEAN region; Development of Guidelines on Maritime Information Provision Service to Small Boats in the ASEAN region; and ASEAN-Japan Action Plan on Environment Improvement in the Transport Sector 2021-2025.
The conference was held in preparation for the 19th ASEAN and Japan Senior Transport Officials Meeting (19th STOM+Japan) and the 18th ASEAN and Japan Transport Ministers Meeting (18th ATM+Japan) scheduled for November.
The conference, hosted by the MLIT, Japan, is an annual platform for ASEAN and Japan to deliberate on priority transport related initiatives under the framework of ASEAN-Japan Transport Partnership (AJTP). Senior officials from the MTIC and relevant agencies under the ministry were also present.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications Haji Mohammad Nazri bin Haji Mohammad Yusof in his capacity as Chairman of the ASEAN Senior Transport Officials Meeting (STOM) for 2020 during the conference. PHOTO: MTIC
A variety of options are available for digital payments in Brunei Darussalam, Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) stated in a release yesterday.
Among them are self-service terminals for example, Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and Cash Deposit Machines (CDMs). Amid this COVID-19 outbreak, the public is advised to exercise physical distancing as much as possible. The public can check with their bank’s websites and apps for the location of their ATMs and CDMs in Brunei.
The other is online banking such as electronic and mobile banking. Never miss out on any bill payments. The public can avoid crowds and skip long queues by utilising their bank’s online or mobile banking services. Convenience in managing finances is at your fingertips.
Contactless payments for example, mobile payments (through QR codes), debit card and credit cards are another option. Make full use of mobile phone or contactless payments which do not require any touching or exchange of cash. Through this payment method, the public can do transactions seamlessly and track their finances to avoid unnecessary overspending.
Payment gateway such as e-Commerce sites is also included under this. Find ease in purchasing necessities through online means. It is worth looking for websites that support payment gateways to securely make the transactions. However, remember to always check and verify the legitimacy of a website with authorities or reading trusted e-Commerce review websites before making any transactions.
Another option is e-Payments. There are several FinTech companies participating in AMBD’s regulatory sandbox offering digital financial products or services to the public. The public can refer to the list of approved FinTech sandbox participants on the AMBD official website and see which products or services might fit their needs.
The spread of COVID-19 and the associated stay-at-home and social distancing orders have acted as a catalyst in the growth of digital payments, including payments conducted over the Internet and mobile channels. E-Commerce and mobile commerce have grown at a faster pace as customers have resorted to online shopping a lot more and many retailers are embracing online shopping platforms to capitalise on this trend. With digital payments having the advantage of requiring little to no contact, or physical interaction, it is a useful means of paying for goods and services while practicing social distancing, the release added.
The Ministry of Development and the Manpower Industry Steering Committee (MISC) for the Construction Sector, a committee under the Manpower Planning and Employment Council (MPEC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education (MoE), the MPEC Secretariat, Prime Minister’s Office and JobCentre Brunei will organise a Construction Industry Job Marketplace and Architect – Mechanical and Electrical – Civil and Structural (ARMECS) Bridging Programme interview sessions tomorrow from 8.30am until 4.30pm at the Ministry of Development headquarters building in Airport Lama Berakas.
The event aims to provide a platform for graduates and jobseekers to interact with potential employers within the construction industry.
The event will showcase job opportunities in the construction industry as well as walk-in interviews for direct hires.
There will also be separate interview sessions for the i-Ready ARMECS Bridging Programme.
The sessions will be open to jobseekers with TVET and HND qualifications in construction, architecture and related backgrounds. Apprentices will be given the opportunity to be trained on-the-job under the ARMECS Bridging Programme.
The ARMECS Bridging Programme, organised in collaboration with the industry, the MoE and regulators via the MISC Construction is designed to bridge the identified gaps between the industry needs and the graduates’ current skills. The on-the-job training will be conducted by consultants and contractors from the industry.
The programme also seeks to equip eligible local graduates with the relevant skills, competencies and experience by working professionally in the construction industry.
There are two types of programmes under the ARMECS Bridging Programme – the ARMECS Draughting and the ARMECS RCC-Visor. Through these two programmes, trained locals will have the opportunity to become a qualified draughtsperson, resident technical officer, company site representative and clerk of works.
Meanwhile, through i-Ready ARMECS Bridging Programme, selected local graduates will first undergo the ARMECS Bridging Programme for six months in architecture, mechanical and electrical engineering, and civil and structural engineering before undergoing apprenticeship at designated host organisations within the construction industry.
The programme is open to local jobseekers with qualifications in Level 4 HNTec in Design and Drafting, Level 4 HNTec in Construction Engineering, Level 5 Diploma in Architecture, Level 5 Diploma in Interior Design, Level 5 Diploma in Civil Engineering or its equivalent.
Other relevant and equivalent qualifications that are related to the construction industry are also welcomed.
There are more than 30 openings for locals to be trained under the ARMECS Draughting and the ARMECS RCC-Visor programmes. Trainees will be mentored by industry professionals within the construction industry.
Local jobseekers are encouraged to grab the opportunities and are reminded to bring their CVs and relevant documents for the walk-in interviews.
Interested applicants must register at the Authority for Building Control and Construction Industry (ABCi) website at www.abci.gov.bn, prior to attending the event.
In adherence to the COVID-19 preventative measures, attendance during the session is limited to 350 people at all times. The public is also required to comply with the safety measures incorporated at the premises.
The Language and Literature Bureau (DBP) Library in Tutong received a group of 13 Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) Nakhoda Ragam Campus Library Club members led by Head Librarian Azaman bin Menuddin on Monday.
DBP Tutong Library Head Norhadijah binti Haji Abdul Wahab welcomed the students and shared with them the history of the Tutong library. She said the first library was established on September 1, 1975 at Jabatan Penyiaran dan Penerangan, Jalan Ence Awang, Pekan Tutong.
The new building at Kampong Sungai Basong was officially opened on July 21, 1992, 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 on the occasion of the monarch’s birthday.
The Tutong branch library services include a Mobile Library for Tutong District primary schools and Book Loan Services for children, teenagers and adults. Past year examination papers are also available at the library.
Material Submission Acts Unit Head Suziana binti Mos/Mostaffa enlightened the students on the 1984 revised edition of the Preservation of Books Acts 1967. She discussed materials published in Brunei that include books, reports, working papers, edition material, such as magazines as well as media material.
The students browsed through old and rare books, engaged in origami-making, and guess the dialects’ of Brunei, Tutong and Dusun ethnics along with DBP Tutong Teenage Library Club members.
DBP Tutong Library Head Norhadijah binti Haji Abdul Wahab talking to the students. PHOTOS: LYNA MOHAMADStudents during the origami-making session
The Blood Donation Centre of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital of the Ministry of Health (MoH) called for the public to participate in its upcoming blood donation drives.
The Blood Donation Centre will conduct the blood donation campaign throughout the third week of September to help the centre replenish its blood supply particularly type ‘A’, for blood transfusion especially for Thalassaemia patients who will be undergoing operations.
A campaign will be held at the Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam Concourse Area tomorrow from 10am to 2pm and at the Belalong Hall of Temburong District organised by the Fire and Rescue Department on September 19 from 9am to noon.
Donors are reminded to scan their BruHealth QR code and practice social distancing.
For information call 2242424 ext 5745/6001 or email to bloodbank@moh.gov.bn or visit the blood bank’s Instagram and Facebook pages.
Laksamana College of Business (LCB) students are finally back in campus after a semester of online classes. The semester began on September 7.
Culinary students had their orientation on September 11 at the Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas as part of team-building activities between senior students and freshies.
They were split into five teams to compete in challenges. The White Team took home the trophy.
Another orientation will be held at the Berakas Forest Reserve on September 26 and 27 for newly registered students.
With COVID-19 precautionary measures in place, all students entering the college are to adhere to the Ministry of Health’s regulations by scanning their BruHealth QR code. Students are also required to have their temperature checked at the entrance of the college.
Expanding its international student body, LCB has received new students from Seoul, South Korea for their 18-month Cabin Training programme. LCB’s September 2020 intake registration has been extended to September 21.
LCB students during the orientation. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
