Insurans Islam TAIB Family Takaful Sdn Bhd (IITFT), a Takaful operator specialising in financial savings and protection products, handed over financial planning books to DARe (Darussalam Enterprise), who is one of IITFT’s corporate clients at the Design and Technology Building in Anggerek Desa Technology Park.
The financial planning book was authored by IITFT’s General Manager Haji Shamsul bin Haji Muhammad who is a certified Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) and an Islamic Financial Planner (IFP). The book creates awareness on the importance of personal financial planning and supports the government’s aspiration in creating a financially literate society as well as acculturating savings as part of everyday life.
Present during the handover were IITFT’s General Manager and DARe Officer Norsuzielawaty binti Haji Abu Bakar. IITFT will distribute the financial planning books to its corporate clientele in the coming weeks.
Insurans Islam TAIB Family Takaful Sdn Bhd’s General Manager Haji Shamsul bin Haji Muhammad and DARe Officer Norsuzielawaty binti Haji Abu Bakar. PHOTO: IITF
Malaysia’s good rapport with other countries, especially Brunei Darussalam, has played an integral part in Malaysia’s success stories, according to Charge d’Affaires at the Malaysian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam Nadia Azura binti Mohd Nudri.
For Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam is not just a neighbour but an exceptional friend who has always been with them through ‘thick and thin’, she noted.
The Charge d’Affaires highlighted Brunei-Malaysia ties during a reception ceremony in commemoration of the 63rd anniversary of the National Day of Malaysia at the Songket Ballroom of Rizqun International Hotel yesterday.
Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman represented the Brunei Government as the guest of honour. The minister’s spouse Datin Hajah Razina binti Haji Kassim was also present, along with other members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials as well as prominent figures in the country.
Nadia said Brunei and Malaysia share many things in common and have enjoyed close ties for 36 years of diplomatic relations, underpinned by shared deep-rooted Islamic values and Malay culture. The constant exchange of visits at the highest level in the form of Exchange of Letters meeting at the foreign ministerial level and the Annual Leaders Consultation among heads of government held alternately are a testaments to the two countries’ special relations.
“Although official visits have to be postponed this year due to the pandemic outbreak, I believe it will resume soon in a new norm setting.”
Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman and spouse and Charge d’Affaires at the Malaysian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam Nadia Azura binti Mohd Nudri during the cake-cutting. PHOTO: BAHYIAH BAKIR
The Charge d’Affaires said that Brunei was among the first countries to offer assistance to Malaysia in the effort to bring home Malaysians abroad amid the pandemic. Malaysia is grateful to 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 for the repatriation process of 84 Malaysians stranded in Egypt.
“On Malaysia’s side, we always ensure regulations imposed mainly related to the border control mechanisms did not disrupt Brunei Darussalam’s essential services. I also wish to applaud the Government of His Majesty’s effort in curbing the COVID-19 spread and it is not only protecting the Bruneians but also Malaysians and other nationalities in this country.”
She also expressed gratitude and appreciation to His Majesty for the unwavering efforts in maintaining close and brotherly relationship with Malaysia.
“I also pray to Allah the Almighty for His Majesty and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, and all members of the royal family and the people of Brunei Darussalam, for continued good health, harmony, success and prosperity.”
Malaysians celebrated their National Day on August 31 and Malaysia Day today. The Minister of Education and spouse also cut the cake during the ceremony.
Fifty-seven offences were recorded during a joint roadblock operation conducted by multiple enforcement agencies at Belait District on Monday night.
The operation, conducted by personnel from the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF), Land Transport Department (JPD), Royal Customs and Excise Department (RCED) and Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), was led by Belait Police District Traffic Investigation Officer Deputy Superintendent of Police Alvin Goh.
Out of the total number of offences, 31 were recorded by the RBPF, while the JPD recorded 19 offences, and the RCED recorded seven offences.
Some of the offences include expired road tax, vehicle modification, using car shades, worn out tyres and the possession of illegal cigarettes, among others.
The RBPF in a press release said that the operation aims to enhance community discipline as road users, and to ensure that the laws of the country are being abided.
The RBPF also issued an advisory for all road users to ensure that their vehicles are in good conditions amid unpredictable weather conditions in the country.
Enforcement personnel conduct checks during the operation. PHOTO: RBPF
Increasing awareness and educating the public are essential in the response to climate change. It will help create understanding among the society on the cause and effects and the impact of climate change, Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad said.
He stressed that one of the major tasks in preparing the community to adapt to climate change is to ensure a change in behaviour and attitude.
“Education, in particular research initiatives on environment and climate change, will be key to equipping ourselves and our economy to advance towards a green, low emission, sustainable and climate-resilient society. A number of initiatives is taking place at all levels,” Dr Haji Azman said.
He made these comments at the Brunei Darussalam National Climate Change Policy (BNCCP) Operational Document Taskforce (ODTF) workshop at the Atria Simpur Hall of the Public Works Department recently, focussing on Strategy 10: Awareness and Education to increase awareness and education surrounding mitigation and adaptation responses against climat change.
The workshop held on September 14 and 15, was officiated by Dr Haji Azman.
About 50 participants attended the workshop comprising key stakeholders such as government departments, education institutions, private sectors, key industry players, media, bank association and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
The workshop provided ideas for new opportunities towards a more coherent and systematic approach to this strategy. It was stressed that a monitoring mechanism needs to be in place to gauge the effects and adequacy of the programmes, and ensure its sustainability.
The workshop was co-facilitated by the MoE and the Brunei Climate Change Secretariat (BCCS) as co-lead agencies for Strategy 10 Awareness and Education, and by external facilitators from Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP).
The next ODTF workshop for Strategy 8: Climate Resilience and Adaptation will be held on September 21.
Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad. PHOTO: BCCS
The Ministry of Health (MoH) marks the World Patient Safety Day every September 17. It was officiated during the 72nd World Health Assembly in May last year with ‘Global Action On Patient Safety’ declaration of resolution.
The celebration aimed to enhance global understanding on patient safety and public involvement in healthcare safety as well as promoting actions at international level to lessen dangers towards patients based on ‘First, do no harm’ principle.
These were highlighted by Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar in his message to mark the occassion.
The message further says, this year, stressing on healthcare safety is crucial to face COVID-19 challenges and threats.
“Safety concept must be seen in a broader perspective. COVID-19 pandemic has shown how health workers are exposed to these risks and the importance of healthcare system in maintaining the country’s function, in line with ‘I Stay at Work for You, You Stay at Home for Us’ tagline.
“The pandemic also gave pressure on health system globally. The health system can only function properly if the health workers are knowledgeable, skillful and motivated to provide safer service.
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar. PHOTO: MOHABOVE & BELOW: The Jerudong Park (JP) Diamond and the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Bridge lit up as a show of support for World Patient Safety Day. PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR
“The MoH supports the World Health Organization’s (WHO) call to ‘Speak up for health worker safety!’ to emphasise on safety culture for health workers through the establishment of Event Reporting System.
“The online reporting system has been implemented since February last year under the management of Quality, Governance and Innovation Office of the ministry with the support of the Patient Safety Unit at health facilities under the National Committee on Quality and Patient Safety.
“Reporting any incidence is voluntary and accessible by health workers.
“The aim of the reporting system is to provide an easy, fast and safe platform for staff to report incidences or issues related to work ethics to improve services. To date, the system has received 4,000 reports from health facilities nationwide.
“It showed several shortfalls in patient and staff safety due to the lack of staff, resources in terms of protection equipment, not adhering to policy and standard operating procedures, unsafe working environment and so on.
“What is more alarming is the high rate of violent incidences towards health workers.
“It is regrettable to note that health workers have to face such violent incidences when treating patients. Hence it is timely for health workers to be respected and recognised by all parties. Among the initiatives taken by the ministry is the implementation of the International Patient Safety Goals (IPSG) policy led by the National Committee on Quality and Patient Safety.
“Goals outlined under the IPSG focusses on issues regularly faced by health facilities globally. Six aspirations are outlined – Correct Patient Identification; Effective Communication; Management of High Alert Medication; Safe Surgery; Hand Hygiene; and Falls Prevention.
“The MoH has implemented three out of six aspirations and policies while the rest are still under amendment. The public is urged to cooperate and abide to safety policies set by the ministry.
“The public can also assist in reminding health workers to practise these policies.
“COVID-19 pandemic poses greater challenges to health workers worldwide including our nation.
“However, the health industry perseveres in facing these challenges and always plays a role to ensure quality of service and safety is upheld.”
Meanwhile, the Jerudong Park (JP) Diamond and Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Bridge were lit up as a gesture of respect and show of gratitude to health workers in conjunction with the global campaign.
The Belait District Museum hosted the first in a series of activities for children to make the school holidays educational and entertaining for them, yesterday.
Activities included traditional games, colouring sessions, quizzes, origami craft and a book sale.
Museums Department Public Relations Officer Mariani binti Abu Bakar said the activities are designed for families to spend time together, while learning more about the culture, traditions and history of the Belait District.
“We want more people to get into the habit of visiting museums, to gain a better understanding of our culture and history,” she said.
The museum also houses a Temporary Gallery for the canvas and batik art produced during the Trio Battle exhibition organised in August by the Museums Department. It will remain open until November.
More activities have been scheduled for tomorrow and Saturday.
Children take part in one of the activities. PHOTO: DANIEL LIM
Brunei Darussalam’s boxing sensation Muhammad ‘Irfan bin Haji Abdul Razak will conduct a boxing seminar in collaboration with iconic trainer Jeff Mayweather on September 25.
The local boxer will hold the session at Fitness Zone while the United States (US)-based Mayweather, will feature as a special guest via Zoom.
Muhammad ‘Irfan will also hold a boxing clinic for participants aged eight and above on September 26-27.
The three-day seminar will help enthusiasts from different levels to build a foundation for boxing in both competitive and fitness perspectives.
The seminar aims to help Bruneian youth to cultivate interest in boxing as a sport
and lifestyle.
It will cover important aspects of the sport including boxing techniques, boxing fundamentals, boxing biomechanics, lifestyle mentality, boxing for fitness and weight loss.
An exclusive sparring match between Muhammad ‘Irfan and local celebrity Wu Chun will also be held on the first day of the seminar.
Muhammad ‘Irfan, dubbed the ‘Brawler of Brunei’, made headlines earlier this year after signing a deal with Jeff Mayweather as he begins his quest towards making a professional debut.
Muhammad ‘Irfan bin Haji Abdul Razak. PHOTO: RAHWANI ZAHARI
The Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department (BDMD) yesterday addressed social media rumours regarding Typhoon ‘Mangkut’ to hit the region.
“No such typhoon was identified across our region, and the one which went viral on social media had actually occurred in September 2018,” said Acting Director of BDMD Rokiah binti Haji Angas, during a press conference at the department’s office in Kampong Anggrek Desa.
“However, there is a tropical storm named Noul, currently located at 13.0°N 118.5°E, as of 2am local time yesterday, which is approximately 933km from Brunei Darussalam and expected to move to the northern part of South China Sea, away from Brunei Darussalam.”
She added that Tropical Storm Noul is expected to have an indirect influence on Brunei’s weather. Occasional gusty and heavy showers are expected, especially over coastal areas, with wind gusts reaching up to 50 km/h and a rough sea state of up to 2.5m during or near
gusty showers.
“Members of the public, particularly motorists and mariners, are advised to take precautions for their safety, especially during the expected unsettled weather conditions,” said the acting director. “Our department will continuously monitor the development of the Tropical Storm, and issue weather advisories or warnings when necessary.”
The public was also warned to be wary of unverified news, and to refrain from spreading misinformation which could cause unnecessary panic among the local community.
Also present at the press conference was Acting Deputy Director of Meteorological Marzeti binti Haji Mahadi, who briefed media personnel on the country’s weather forecast.
For the latest weather updates, contact the Duty Meteorological Forecaster at the BDMD Forecast Centre through the Weather Line at 114 or visit the BDMD website at www.met.gov.bn or follow BDMD on Facebook, Instagram and the Brunei WX mobile application.
BDMD Acting Director Rokiah binti Haji Angas and Acting Deputy Director Marzeti binti Haji Mahadi at the press conference. PHOTO: LYNA MOHAMAD
Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam yesterday received in audience the newly appointed foreign envoys and spouses of envoys. The audience ceremony was held at Istana Nurul Iman.
Her Majesty first received Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Brunei Darussalam Gerda Winkler. Her Majesty then received Australian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Tiffany Anne McDonald. Also present was Second Secretary at the Australian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam Jo McIntosh.
Her Majesty also received in separate audiences the spouse of the British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Tuti Suwidjiningsih. British Deputy High Commissioner Natalie Gowers-Barnes was also present.
Her Majesty then received the spouse of the High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to Singapore Datin Mariaratnah binti Haji Mohd Apong.
ABOVE & BELOW: Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam with Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Brunei Darussalam Gerda Winkler; and Australian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Tiffany Anne McDonald
ABOVE & BELOW: Her Majesty with spouse of the High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to Singapore Datin Mariaratnah binti Haji Mohd Apong; and spouse of the British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Tuti Suwidjiningsih. PHOTOS: INFOFOTO
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 made an unscheduled visit to the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) and departments under it yesterday.
MoRA holds a leading role in all aspects pertaining to religious affairs including planning, implementing, evaluating programmes and activities related to Islam in the country.
During the visit, the monarch went to have a closer look at the ‘Taklimat Pemberigaan dan Bengkel Plan Tindakan Rancangan Strategik Kementerian Hal Ehwal Ugama 2020-2024’ briefing. The two-day briefing was carried out for directors and deputy directors of the departments, heads of department and its assistance for sections under MoRA.
The briefing aimed to enhance the understandings of leaders and administrators of departments and divisions in handling the strategic plan of MoRA 2020-2024 and as a guide in implementing their role and responsibilities.
His Majesty then visited the Haj Management Department, in which the department acted as a medium between the Government of His Majesty and related agencies to facilitate Haj and Umrah management matters.
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 being briefed during the visit to the Ministry of Religious Affairs. PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIRHis Majesty tours the Julangan Titah Graduan BersepaduHis Majesty in a group photo
From the Finance Section, His Majesty also visited the Islamic Legal Unit established under Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB).
The unit is responsible in drafting laws that are related to religious or current issues. His Majesty also toured different departments at MoRA including Public Relations Section, International and MABIMS Division, MUIB, Policy, Planning and Research Division, Administrative Department, Library and Information Technology Unit.
At the ground floor, His Majesty took a closer look at the Zakat Distribution Counter located at the Zakat Collection and Distribution Section of MUIB.
Accompanying His Majesty during the visit at MoRA were Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, and Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar.
From MoRA, the monarch also made a surprise visit to Julangan Titah Graduan Bersepadu that was recently opened to the public, at Kampong Jaya Setia, Burong Pingai, Berakas.
His Majesty went to have a closer look at facilities available at the centre, established on the consent of His Majesty’s titah as an initiative allowing graduates from different fields to provide entrepreneurship services.
The Graduan Bersepadu houses the Pustaka Graduan, Designer Graduan, Sajian Graduan, Tutor Graduan and Pasaria Graduan.
The efficiency of the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB) was called into question by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, during an unscheduled visit yesterday to the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA).
“MUIB bears the responsibility of managing Baitulmal, together with the management, collection and distribution of Zakat affairs, and so on. However, the role of the department is perceived as not proactive enough in carrying out duties in assisting the underprivileged community,” said His Majesty in a titah delivered at the ministry.
“There are also complaints about the management and administration of Zakat. The applicants and recipients are said to have made repeated trips to the MUIB office to settle matters. Apart from that, members of the public often encounter difficulties when contacting the department by telephone.
“Another issue concerns house rental payments made by MUIB under a Baitulmal scheme, where the landlords were paid in arrears after a two-year delay. If this is true, then it needs to be rectified.” The monarch also described the existence of MoRA as vital to the management of Islamic affairs, saying, “It has a broad range of fields encompassing the religious section, policy and Syiar, the education section, the legal and enforcement section, and the corporate and services sections.
“Under these sections are the Islamic Da’wah Centre (PDI), Syariah Affairs Department, Islamic Studies Department (JPI), Mosque Affairs Department, Haj Management Department, Department of Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB), Administrative Department, Religious Affairs Offices in each district, and others.
“Taking its vast responsibilities into account, MoRA needs officers and members of staff who are dedicated, efficient and capable of making quick decisions. Otherwise, it will affect important issues or hinder progress in carrying out duties.
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 during the visit to the Ministry of Religious Affairs yesterday. PHOTO: BAHYIAH BAKIR
“For instance, the Dakwah propagation movement seems to be waning. Previously, several Dakwah programmes were carried out in rural areas, to promote Islam, but it has ceased to exist now. If the Dakwah movement has been truly abandoned, there is a risk of alternative movements, especially in the Temburong District.
“On the other hand, the PDI is actively promoting Islam, aside from producing local preachers of a fine quality. This is vital in ensuring the effectiveness of Dakwah among all levels of society.
“Therefore, the Dakwah movement should be maintained. It should not be diminished or abandoned, to meet the desired objective.”
His Majesty also alluded to the important role of mosques in the country: “Alhamdulillah, the number of mosques is increasing in an organised manner, but the management aspect needs to be examined.
“We keep hearing about how Imams and mosque officials are unable to cope with the requirements of mosques in the country. As a result, some Bilals are carrying out the duties of an Imam. Are we lacking in religious graduates to fill this need?
“There are also complaints regarding certain Imams who failed to fulfil their obligations during prayer times, or simply deserted the mosque after carrying out their duties. This is an ongoing problem, but when will it be addressed?
“It has become a habit for MoRA to ascribe all weaknesses to a lack of funding. Is the scarcity of imams and their poor performance also due to a lack of budget allocation?
“Among the ministry’s primary responsibilities is the administration of Islamic education. A department has been set up for this purpose and its basic duties include upholding the welfare of religious teachers. To that effect, a scheme called the Religious Teachers Service Scheme (SPGU) was implemented in August 2018. But has this scheme been fully utilised to meet certain needs, such as addressing the shortage of religious teachers?
“The irregularities in the management and administration are apparent when several religious teachers are obliged to carry out the duties of Imams and mosque affairs officer. Meanwhile, the lack of religious teachers is hardly or never addressed at all.
“On the other hand, we have many Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) graduates who are still unemployed. The scarcity of Imams should not be an issue when we have many religious graduates from local or overseas institutions, who are still looking for work.
“Another issue which has not been addressed is the use of the Arabic Language among students in the Arabic stream. As of now, the country has seven Arabic schools.
“I am aware that this department has a strategic plan towards effective religious education in producing a generation of intellectuals and professionals through Arabic language programmes. It looks good on paper, but we want to see a better or a more excellent outcome from this strategic planning, including holding examinations for teachers, aligning teaching methods with learning needs, and so on.
“If the usual methods are no longer relevant, then why don’t we create a new and relevant approach? This is an educational issue which needs consideration.
“Another issue which deserves attention is the condition of student housing and school buildings in Egypt, which require proper inspection and conservation to prevent more damage and unwanted incidents from occurring.
“Regarding the role of the Syariah Affairs Department in implementing Halal food control under the Halal Certificate and Halal Label Order, which have been enforced since 2017 – more food control standards need to be applied, especially among Muslim.
“For example, in April 2018, among the several restaurants approved for Halal certification, one was discovered with non-certified meat and alcohol drinks on its premises.
“The matter was verified and the restaurant was fined BND800 under Chapter 37 of the Halal Certificate and Halal Label Order.
“There were a number of similar cases, but the relevant enforcement agencies appeared to be unconcerned. All aspects of these cases should have undergone re-evaluation. This includes a close examination of the existing Acts for revisions, especially if these go against Syariah laws. These Acts should be reviewed for amendment or repealed and substituted with more relevant acts.”
The Belait District Disaster Management Committee and the Community Development Department (JAPEM) travelled to Mukim Sukang in Ulu Belait last Tuesday, to deliver aid to those affected by recent floods in the area.
The delegation was led by Belait District Officer Ramlee bin Haji Jamudin, as the Chairman of the Belait District Disaster Management Committee.
Also present was Acting Penghulu of Mukim Sukang, along with officers and staff members from the National Disaster Management Centre, the Belait District Office, the Belait District Branch of JAPEM, the Royal Brunei Police Force, and the Operations ‘B’ Branch of the Fire and Rescue Department.
After assembling at the Merangking Community Hall, the group made their way by boat to the affected areas where water levels of more than 1.8 metres were recorded, including the vicinities of Sukang Clinic, the Kampong Sukang Police Station, the Kampong Sukang Rest House, the Kampong Sukang Religious Hall, the Datu Maharaja Setia Dian Primary School that houses 14 students, as well as the surrounding areas of Kampong Dungun and Kampong Kuala Rawai.
The delegation’s first stop was the Punan Longhouse, where nine families reside. The Belait District Officer handed over basic food necessities to each of the families.
The delegation then travelled up the Belait River to deliver basic food necessities to eight more families in Kampong Dungun and Kampong Kuala Rawai.
In an interview, the Belait District Officer talked about the struggles faced by the residents of remote areas such as Mukim Sukang, and how providing aid could help to lessen their burdens.
“The Belait District Office will continue to monitor the situation, not only at Mukim Sukang, but also the rural regions of Belait, to keep track of the current situation and formulate plans to provide aid when necessary,” he said.
Belait District Officer Ramlee bin Haji Jamudin hands over necessities to a flood victim. PHOTOS: DANIEL LIMThe Belait District Officer and other officials arrive at an affected home
International School Brunei (ISB) hosted their annual Board of Directors Achievement Awards Evening for their International Baccalaureate (IB) students who achieved outstanding results in the May 2020 session and celebrated the graduation of the May 2020 Year 13 cohort at the Lecture Theatre on Wednesday night.
ISB Board of Directors Chairman Haji Ahmad bin Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Diraja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa in his opening speech said, “We are honoured to send our IB graduates all over the world, secure in the knowledge that ISB prepared them to succeed and face challenges with tenacity, determination and positivity.”
In the 2020 cohort of 58 Year 13 students, 18 students received ISB Board of Directors Awards for their performance, marking an outstanding year of IB Diploma results.
The Year 13 Class of 2020 received their graduation certificates, marking the end of their educational journey at ISB.
The Board of Directors Achievement Awards began in 2018, making this event the third time that ISB’s top IB achievers received awards, together with financial bursaries to contribute towards their cost of tertiary education.
Globally, 170,344 students were assessed for the IB Diploma in May, with an average point score of 31.4. The average point score for ISB was 33.
ISB Head of Secondary Stephen Kay presents a graduation certificate to a Year 13 student. PHOTO: ISB
For reaching the top echelon of IB results, graduates received Excellence Awards in Bronze, Silver or Gold categories and graduates who achieved substantial performance improvement were awarded a Special Achievement Award.
Kim Hyeonah, Ashley Ha, Auni Afiqoh, Valerie Tan and Kim Joo Hyung received the Silver Award for achieving between 40 and 42 points overall.
Shannon Yew, Hazwani Omar Ali, Chan Shiuh Lin, Andrea Young Zi Yi and Sulaiman Norhisham received the Bronze Award for achieving between 37 and 39 points.
Hazwani Omar Ali, Sulaiman Norisham, Shreya Pradhan, Isabel Una Klaja, Kayleigh Patricia Erminda Bogart, Chuang Wei-Che, ‘Aisyah Batrisya Dr Muhd Hiza Wardy, Henry Kwang Wei Liang, Shi YingJie and Fenila Babu Vini Fread also received achievement awards for performing at least five points higher than their individually set IB baseline.
The event also saw Marketing Communications Manager at Grand Hyatt Dubai, and ISB alumna and IB graduate of the Class of 2009 Nur ‘Ayeshah Ahmad sharing her experiences in the IB Diploma Programme and how it helped prepare her for success at university and careers in Switzerland, Portugal, London, Singapore and Dubai.
While the IB Diploma was challenging, she said, “The key skills you acquired in the IB will always be handy. Coupled with support from your loved ones, they play a vital role in your future success.”
The event concluded with closing remarks from ISB’s four 2020 scholarship recipients Hazwani Omar Ali, Ashley Ha, Valerie Tan and Felicia Kwa and a final farewell for the Year 13 students as they embark on tertiary education at universities worldwide including Melbourne University, University of Edinburgh, Trinity College Dublin, University of Manchester, University of Essex, Nanyang Technological University, University of California, Beijing International Studies University and University of British Columbia.
ISB Executive Principal Laura Thomas said, “We are incredibly proud of each and every one of our Year 13 graduates. They embody our ISB ethos alongside the IB Learner Profile. We are confident that they are well-prepared for the challenges they’ll face at university and beyond, and we look forward to seeing them again the future to hear stories of their global successes.”
The event was streamed live for graduates and their families who were unable to attend via the school’s official YouTube account.
Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman attended the ASEAN High Level Conference on Human Resources Development (Ministers Special Session) hosted by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs of Vietnam yesterday.
The conference was jointly opened by Vietnam’s Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs Dao Ngoc Dung and Minister of Education and Training Professor Dr Phung Xuan Nha, and ASEAN Secretary-General Dato Paduka Lim Jock Hoi.
The meeting saw the adoption of the Roadmap of the ASEAN Declaration on Human Resources Development for the Changing World of Work by ASEAN education and labour ministers and the launch of the ASEAN TVET Council, officiated by Dato Paduka Lim Jock Hoi.
The conference comprised four ministerial panel sessions, during which Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah shared insights on human resource development in the post-pandemic era.
He shared the initiatives taken by the Brunei’s Ministry of Education in responding to human resource development with a particular emphasis on developing 21st Century skills and life-long learning, such as implementing a new recruitment process and strengthening training programmes for teachers.
Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman during the virtual ASEAN High Level Conference on Human Resource Development (Ministers Special Session). PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
Also present at the virtual conference were Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, ASEAN education and labour ministers and ASEAN dialogue partners, as well as representatives of International Labour Organization (ILO), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and ASEAN Business Advisory Council.
Prior to the ministerial session, a conference among senior officials of ASEAN was also held, on September 15.
Representing Brunei Darussalam at the event was Permanent Secretary (Core Education at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati binti Haji Tajuddin, joined by senior education, economic and labour officials from ASEAN member states, ASEAN dialogue partners, as well as representatives from the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO), ILO, World Bank, UNESCO, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and World Economic Forum (WEF).
During the conference, ASEAN senior officials reviewed and adopted the Roadmap of the ASEAN Declaration on Human Resources Development for the Changing World of Work. The session also saw the sharing of areas of interest pertaining to human resources development.
The Intermediate Court acquitted an Indonesian man recently of all charges of using a counterfeit BND10,000 banknote.
Judge Muhammed Faisal bin Pehin Dato Haji Kefli found Al Mutasar Amir innocent after considering the evidence provided by lawyer Ahmad Basuni Abas.
The court established that Al Mutasar did not have any reason to believe that the banknote was a counterfeit.
Al Mutasar, the court’s findings stated, is a 49-year-old businessman with a company that saw an annual turnover of USD1.7 million.
At 7.20am on February 6, he left his hometown of Padang in Sumatera on a flight to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia with the BND10,000 banknote kept in an envelope.
He missed his connecting flight and spent the night in Kuala Lumpur. In the Malaysian city, he tried to exchange the banknote at a money changer but was unsuccessful because they did not have sufficient funds for the exchange.
The following day, at 6.30am, he left Kuala Lumpur for Bandar Seri Begawan. (He was set to depart the Brunei capital at 4.30pm on the same day).
However, on arrival at the Brunei International Airport, he took a taxi that took him to a bank at The Mall Gadong where he presented the banknote to a teller. He was arrested shortly afterwards.
The defence had maintained that Al Mutasar had no idea that the banknote was a counterfeit; he had merely wanted to help a farmer in his hometown to break the BND10,000 banknote.
“The defendant’s testimony and statement have been consistent from the beginning… his defence has assisted in casting doubts in my mind with regards to the prosecution’s case,” said the judge. “I believe that it will be (unwise) to convict, given the set of facts laid before me.”
DPP Muhd Qamarul Affyian bin Abdul Rahman prosecuted the case.
PUJA Academy Sdn Bhd (PASB) and local training organisation Pakar Tenaga Bersatu (PTB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the introduction and advancement of capacity building and training programmes.
The September 11 signing took place at the PUJA Hub, Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB).
PASB Managing Director Julian Fung and PTB Founder and Managing Director Pengiran Hishamuddin Alli bin Pengiran Jaya Indera Pengiran Haji Mokhtar Puteh signed the MoU.
Institution of Surveyors, Engineers and Architects (PUJA) Brunei President Ir Haji Muhammad Zin bin Haji Salleh, PUJA Engineers Division Vice President Alice Lim, Co-founder of PTB Hajah Normawati binti Dato Paduka Haji Othman, and members of PUJA, PASB and PTB attended.
The programmes to be developed will be for PUJA members, the construction industry and other industries in Brunei. PASB is the training and development arm of PUJA.
The MoU is the first step in collaborating with the local training organisation to provide continuous professional development and training programmes (such as Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) training), for PUJA members and the construction industry in Brunei Darussalam. The collaboration includes co-operation into developing and delivering capacity building training to cater for and to meet regulatory and industrial requirements and demands locally.
PTB is a locally owned and operated company committed to contribute to the competency development and skills, as part of lifelong learning and increasing productivity of Brunei Darussalam’s workforce.
Through its existing strategic partnership with the Nisai Group, the construction related training programmes carry internationally recognised qualification and certification through NOCN Cskills Awards (previously under the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), the United Kingdom).
PUJA Academy Sdn Bhd (PASB) Managing Director Julian Fung and Pakar Tenaga Bersatu (PTB) Founder and Managing Director Pengiran Hishamuddin Alli bin Pengiran Jaya Indera Pengiran Haji Mokhtar Puteh sign the Memorandum of Understanding. PHOTO: PUJA ACADEMY
Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) Representative in Brunei Darussalam Andrew Lee handed over 2,400 medical masks to the Brunei Darussalam BIMP-EAGA Business Council (BD BEBC) recently, on behalf of the Importers and Exporters Association of Taipei (IEAT).
BD BEBC Chairman Pengiran Haji Haris bin Pengiran Haji Duraman received the donation. The donation represents IEAT’s determination to join the BD BEBC in fighting against COVID-19 pandemic.
Permanent Advisor of the Supreme Advisory Council of BD BEBC Pengiran Haji Yura Kesteria bin Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran Dr Haji Mohd Yusof, Vice Chairman Captain (Rtd) Zailan bin Pehin Datu Kerma Setia Major (Rtd) Dato Seri Laila Jasa Mohd Don and BD BEBC members attended.
Taiwan and Brunei Darussalam have effectively contained the virus, making both exemplary models for the global fight against COVID-19. The effective cooperation between the public and private sectors as well as governments is key to combatting the virus.
This is the third batch of masks given to Brunei’s industry association, following donations to the BSB Chinese Chamber of Commerce and National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Brunei Darussalam (NCCIBD), as part of IEAT’s effort in joining international efforts to contain the pathogen.
IEAT, one of the largest and most influential business organisations in Taiwan, was established in 1947, with more than 6,000 member companies based in Taipei City and other major cities throughout Taiwan. BIMP-EAGA was established in 1994 in Davao.
Both large-scale commercial organisations have a long history and outstanding contributions to social and economic developments in Taiwan and Brunei.
Pengiran Haji Yura Kesteria led a BD BEBC delegation to Taiwan in 2012 and 2019. The delegates met with government agencies, leaders of business associations and private enterprises to explore cooperation projects and business opportunities in a wide range of fields.
Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) Representative in Brunei Darussalam Andrew Lee hands over the donation to Brunei Darussalam BIMP-EAGA Business Council (BD BEBC) Chairman Pengiran Haji Haris bin Pengiran Haji Duraman, as Permanent Advisor of the Supreme Advisory Council of BD BEBC Pengiran Haji Yura Kesteria bin Pengiran Setia Negara Pengiran Dr Haji Mohd Yusof and Vice Chairman Captain (Rtd) Zailan bin Pehin Datu Kerma Setia Major (Rtd) Dato Seri Laila Jasa Mohd Don look on. PHOTO: TECO
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) through the Faculty of Arabic Language (FBA) and Faculty of Islamic Development Management (FPPI) with the Brunei History Centre (PSB) yesterday.
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 witnessed
the ceremony.
Signing on behalf of UNISSA was Rector Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal while PSB was represented by its Deputy Director Hanafi bin Haji Salleh.
The minister also launched the Arabic translation of three illustrated history books – Sultan Sharif Ali and Lagenda Jong Batu both written by Kartini binti Haji Sapar and Lumut Lunting written by Nurdiyan binti Haji Misli.
These books were translated by four academicians from the FBA – Dr Ahmad Asri Lubis, Associate Professor Dr Siti Sara binti Haji Ahmad, Dr Salah Sebouai and Dr Muhammad
Alif Sismat.
The ceremony was followed by presentation of certificate and book contribution to Islamic Education and Arabic Language Unit under the Curriculum Development Department of the Ministry of Education (MoE) to principals of Arabic schools, Alif School, Arabic Language Association and PAZ Tarbiyyah Islamic Enrichment Centre.
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 witnesses the memorandum of understanding signing between Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali and Brunei History Centre. PHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUD
About 200 positions from 20 companies in the construction industry were open to local jobseekers at the Construction Industry Job Marketplace and ARMECS Bridging Programme Interview Session at the Ministry of Development (MoD) building yesterday.
The event, organised by the Manpower Industry Steering Committee in Construction was officially opened by Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Ir Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar.
Legislative Council (LegCo) member Yang Berhormat FDr Ar Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Awang Haji Abdul Rahman as co-chairperson, Deputy Minister of Development Dato Seri Paduka Ar Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin and Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh were also present.
The event enabled local graduates and jobseekers to interact with potential employers in the construction industry.
Permanent Secretary (Infrastructure, Housing and Professional) at the MoD Ir Haji Amer Hishamuddin bin Pehin Orang Kaya Amar Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Zakaria said, “The Manpower Industry Steering Committee in Construction was established under the Manpower Planning and Employment Council (MPEC) to enhance the capacities of the local workforce and ensure that local graduates obtain skills in the local construction industry.”
“From the establishment of the MISC Construction in March, Alhamdulillah, today the Manpower Industry Steering Committee in Construction, with the cooperation of the Ministry of Development, the Ministry of Education (MoE), the MPEC Secretariat and JobCentre Brunei (JCB) have come together to organise the Construction Industry Job Marketplace and interview session called the Armecs Bridging Programme especially for construction industry trainees in the fields of draughting and construction site supervisor under the i-Ready Apprenticeship programme.
Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Ir Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar visits the Manpower Planning and Employment Council (MPEC) booth.Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat FDr Ar Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Awang Haji Abdul Rahman, Deputy Minister of Development Dato Seri Paduka Ar Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin and Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh visiting one of the booths. PHOTOS: JAMES KONVisitors at the Construction Industry Job Marketplace and ARMECS Bridging Programme Interview Session
“This event is the Steering Committee’s first initiative to enhance the marketability of locals, and ensuring local jobseekers obtain skills in the construction industry.
“The Steering Committee held several stakeholder consultations, including with employers, local employees and to identify top 11 critical positions in the construction industry that are currently available to local jobseekers.
“The ARMECS Bridging Programme is for four of the said positions, namely drafting and site supervision which include resident technical officer, contractor site representative and clerk of works.
“Trainees under the ARMECS Bridging Programme will undergo six months of on-the-job training with consultant firms in the fields of Architecture, Civil and Structural Engineering and Mechanical and Electrical Engineering to gain an in-depth and overall exposure of the construction industry before being employed by contractors or consultants for 12 months under the i-Ready Apprenticeship programme.”
As many as 45 trainees have been accepted to undergo industrial training for six months in three different disciplines, while 45 consultant firms in the three disciplines of Architect, Mechanical and Electrical, as well as Civil and Structural, have agreed to participate and provide the trainees with six months of training.
As many as 26 construction companies are participating in the scheme.
The ARMECS Bridging Programme Draughting is industry-based training designed to enrich trainees with skills and competencies in Computer-Aided Draughting for Architectural, Mechanical and Electrical, as well as Civil and Structural.
ARMECS Bridging Programme RCC-Visor is formulated to enrich the trainees with skills and competencies in supervising and controlling of the quality of work at construction sites.
One hundred and fifty-nine Year 11 students at Jerudong International School (JIS) recently celebrated success in the results of the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examinations.
“The exams were affected by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which meant that the students were unable to sit for the exams in May and June of this year,” said the school in a statement.
However, it added, “the students of JIS saw their efforts over the past two academic years rewarded despite these challenging times with 64 per cent of the 1,379 grades being awarded an A* or an A and 96 per cent of the students receiving grades A* to C overall”.
Grade A to A* were awarded to 91 per cent of students of physics, 85 per cent of chemistry and 84 per cent of biology, while 88 per cent of those taking foreign language Chinese and 89 per cent of those taking foreign language Malay achieved grade A to A*.
Meanwhile, 11 students – Filippa Baur, Anusha Bhushan, Athena Chalmers, Ridwan Iqbal, Ray Kakuta, Zhi Min Lim, Xun Ling, Tiana Moore, Chi Phan, Rafeeqa Teo, Otto Wiseman and Lili Woodard – achieved nine A*, 11 students – Eleanor Briffa, Gabriel Chan, Chloe Hill, Liz James, Cheryl Kong, Josh Lindsay, Ethan Officer, Nadya Rozaiman, Jun Heng Tan and Iffah Yusri – received eight A*, and 14 students – Syaheedah Sazali, Atip Adimas, Aliah Adzlan, Miza Athaa’ullah, Ruey Chan, Manahil Chughtai, Baasim Isa, Iffah Jamsari, Justin Lim, Kiefer Lim, Mustafa Nasir, Diyatha Premaratne, Rania Zamhadi and Muhammad Zulaidi – received seven A*.
JIS Principal Nicholas Sheehan said, “We are tremendously proud of our students. This year has been exceptionally challenging for students, families and teachers alike.
“I am very proud of the achievements of our students and know that their IGCSEs will form a solid foundation for their future academic path in the A-Level examinations or the IB Diploma.”
