Following the official launch of the InnoLab in February, Datastream Digital Sdn Bhd (DST) commenced its first cycle of Innovate@Uni: Catalyst programme on September 19, with 30 participants on an orientation session called ‘Coffee with the CEO’ to explore their views and new product ideas.
DST CEO Radin Sufri bin Radin Basiuni said, “InnoLab is the focal point of Innovation at DST, where all parties can innovate, spark and foster, create and develop, source and grow with innovation for the benefit of not only DST but also for our customers and our communities to support the development of the Digital Economy in Brunei.”
The first cycle to the Innovate@Uni: Catalyst programme has been designed specifically to meet the needs of university students in their final year of study and employed graduates, who have limited capacity and time to engage in a programme like Catalyst.
Over the next 14 weeks, the participants will work on understanding the problems they seek to solve by designing and testing solutions which will be validated with potential DST customers.
The participants will receive proper education, mentoring and coaching by national and international experts followed by continuous advice and support from the DST Senior Management team.
The second cycle to the Innovate@Uni: Catalyst programme will be launched in the coming weeks and will specifically targets university and institutes of higher learning (IHL) graduates interested in being Founders or Builders. The Founders Series will support participants to create their own product, build their own business and to be their own boss.
This series will focus on the participants’ creation and development of new business opportunities, which will then lead to the creation of their own businesses.
The Builders Series will support the participants to apply their own knowledge, enhance their own expertise and solve our problems. This series will focus on the creation of solutions to technical and commercial opportunities identified by DST. The second cycle will be short, more intense and focussed as compared to the 14-week programme of the first cycle. It will be a programme focussing on the view of supporting unemployed graduates who seeks to create new opportunities for themselves.
Those interested to register for the second cycle of the Innovate@Uni: Catalyst programme or for more information on the programme visit www.dst.com.bn/innovateuni-catalyst/.
Participants at the first cycle of the Innovate@Uni: Catalyst programme. PHOTO: DST
Demensia Brunei (dB), in collaboration with the Community Development Department (JAPEM) of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) and Ministry of Health (MoH), held a virtual dialogue session on dementia in conjunction with the World Alzheimer’s Month 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 officiated as the guest of honour the virtual dialogue session and World Alzheimer’s Month.
In his speech, the minister said, “Dementia is often misunderstood, and it needs to be enhanced in terms of knowledge and understanding at every level of society in this country.
“Even though two thirds of the people across the world understand the meaning of dementia, stigma or misconception still pervades in the society.
“Now is the time to be aware of the effects of dementia and to support those with the disease nationally, regionally and globally.
“The involvement and commitment of the youth as caregivers, carers and volunteers is crucial towards achieving the vision of having healthy and active senior citizens who can contribute to the development of the country.”
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 at the virtual dialogue. PHOTO: SYAZWANI HJ ROSLI
“We have an obligation to our senior citizens. We can do more and better, and to achieve this desire, we must change our mindset about dementia. The COVID-19 pandemic sweeping the world should not be seen as an obstacle to the progress of senior citizens, but rather as a challenge that needs to be faced together.
“We should equip ourselves with knowledge that in turn will become our daily practice. This way, we can take better care of ourselves and the elderly we love. At the same time, every level of society should prioritise self-awareness with full knowledge and understanding of the disease,” he said.
World Alzheimer’s Month is an international campaign organised by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) every September 21. This year marks the ninth celebration, and is themed ‘Let’s Talk About Dementia.’
The minister explained that the dialogue is also an effort to fighting the stigma surrounding dementia and misunderstanding towards those suffering from the disease.
Although dementia seems to be a common disease among the elderly, the fact is that this condition is not a normal ageing process, he said.
“Every three seconds, someone in the world suffers from dementia. To date, almost 50 million people worldwide are living with dementia. The number is predicted to up three-folds, making an increase of 152 million people with dementia by 2050. Brunei is no exception. According to the latest statistics from the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics, the population aged 65 and above is 22,200 people as of 2019”.
The virtual dialogue session discussed medical, social issues and community responsibilities.
The speakers of the session included Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Iswandy bin Ahmad; ADI Director for Asia Pacific Region and founder of Alzheimer’s Indonesia DY Suharya; former Secretary of Alzheimer’s Diseases Foundation Malaysia (ADFM) and dB Advisor Datin Jacqueline Wong, Caretaker of people with dementia Syu PG; Senior Neurology Consultant, Director of the Neuroscience, Stroke and Rehabilitation Centre Dr Pengiran Hajah Nur’ashikin binti Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Tengah; Geriatrics Medical Consultant at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital and dB President Dr Teo Shyh Poh.
Datin Jacqueline Wong encouraged the involvement of young volunteers in dB’s dementia-friendly initiatives and dementia care skills training workshops.
“This presents the opportunity to educate our young people of the benefits of leading healthy lifestyles, the importance of mental and physical wellbeing towards ageing active and staying well for later in life,” she said.
She shared that Brunei has the highest prevalence of obesity among youth aged five and 19 (at 14.1 per cent).
“One thing is clear from these health challenges – more Bruneians will be living longer in ill health. There may be some spending the last 25 years of their lives having to cope with diabetes and hypertension, and its complications. Some of these illnesses – if not all – could lead to dementia,” she continued.
“There is no one-size-fits-all solution to reducing the risk of dementia, but we can all work together in public education and risk reduction efforts towards lowering numbers as ‘a-whole-nation’ approach – Public-Private-Partnership with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the community,” she said.
The screening of the virtual dialogue was held live at the Senior Citizens Activity Centre (PKWE) both at the Brunei-Muara and Tutong branches, the Bestari Community Centre, and the Language and Literature Bureau in the Belait District.
Various activities have also been lined up this month to raise public awareness on dementia, including roadshows at Bandarku Ceria, RIPAS Hospital and PKWE.
In the second quarter (Q2) of 2020, retail sales performance in Brunei Darussalam continued to show an increase of 1.6 per cent year-on-year, after increasing by 5.8 per cent (revised from 4.3 per cent) in the first quarter (Q1) of 2020. The value of retail sales in Q2 2020 was estimated at BND423.7 million.
This was driven by the increase in domestic demand for certain goods following several measures implemented due to the COVID-19 outbreak in the country, such as online learning and teaching due to the closure of schools and educational institutions, work-from-home (WHF) arrangements and travel restrictions abroad.
The sales of Computer and Telecommunication Equipment increased by 59 per cent, while department stores and supermarkets, which are the top two activities in retail trade, also recorded increases in their sales by 7.7 per cent and 7.3 per cent.
Meanwhile, declines were recorded for goods such as books, newspapers and stationery in specialised stores (33.8 per cent), textiles, wearing apparel and footwear (32.4 per cent), food and beverages in specialised stores (20.3 per cent) and petrol station (18.2 per cent) due to the reduction in household expenses for those goods.
As compared to Q1 2020, retail sales recorded an increase of 4.4 per cent in Q2 2020, among others due to the increase in sales of electrical household appliances and lighting equipment in specialised stores (29.5 per cent), recreational goods (17.4 per cent), furniture and household equipment (17 per cent) and department store (12.7 per cent).
For food and beverage services in Brunei Darussalam in Q2 2020, sales performance declined by 12.4 per cent compared to Q2 2019. The value of sales for food and beverages services was estimated at BND71.1 million.
The decrease was attributed to the decline in income of restaurants (15 per cent) and other food services activities (38.3 per cent) following the impact of the dine-in ban at all food premises due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Q2 2020.
Meanwhile, compared to Q1 2020, food and beverage services also recorded a 16.3 per cent decline in Q2 2020. This is due to the decline in revenues of restaurants (18.3 per cent), fast food outlets (6.6 per cent) and other food service activities (36 per cent).
The Retail Sales Index (RSI) and Food and Beverages Services Index (F&BSI) are preliminary indicators of economic performance for both activities and outlook for consumer spending trends in Brunei Darussalam on a quarterly basis.
Full reports of both activities are available from the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics (DEPS) website www.deps.gov.bn.
Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) through its Research and Publication Centre launched UNISSA’s Book Corner at the Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah
(ITQSHHB) recently.
Director of Research and Publication Centre, UNISSA Associate Professor Dr Hajah Rose binti Abdullah was present.
A total of 197 books of various knowledge disciplines including Islamic Studies, Law, Economy, Culture, Civilisation, Arabic Language Learning and others published in three languages – Arabic, Malay and English were handed over to ITQSHHB.
The opening of the book corner was well-received by ITQSHHB and the books contribution was received on behalf of the institute by Acting Principal Pengiran Haji Amiruddin bin Pengiran Haji Damit.
The book corner serves as one of the university’s effort to promote and make their publications as a reference material for secondary and higher learning.
It also aims to add value to students’ quality of learning, and inculcate an interest in reading.
To date, UNISSA has launched its book corner at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Girls Arabic Religious Secondary School (SUAMPRIPAHS), Hassanal Bolkiah Boys Arabic Secondary School (SMALHB), Ma’had Islam Brunei and Rimba Arabic School.
ITQSHHB Acting Principal Pengiran Haji Amiruddin bin Pengiran Haji Damit receives the books. PHOTO: UNISSA
A food product in the local market was recently found to contain a harmful substance prohibited under the Public Health Regulations, said the Ministry of Health (MoH) in a statement yesterday.
Belgian weight loss chocolate powdered drink mix CoCo Curv, distributed by Fit One Global in Malaysia, was found by the Department of Scientific Laboratory Services to contain sibutramine, a weight loss agent no longer recommended for use in the treatment of obesity due to its harmful effects on the heart and liver.
Ingestion of the substance can cause serious adverse effects, such as high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat and difficulty in sleeping; and in the worst case, damage to the kidneys and liver.
The ministry advised consumers of CoCo Curv to discontinue the use of the product immediately and surrender it to the Food Safety and Quality Control Division at the Environmental Health Services Department to be destroyed.
A similar call was made to importers and retailers of the product.
Meanwhile, the MoH warned against selling or importing food items that are harmful to health or face a fine or five years’ jail term or both, under Section 9, Chapter 182 of the Public Health (Food) Act.The public is also reminded that it is an offence under Section 17, Chapter 114 of the Poisons Act 1956 to sell products containing controlled substances. Individuals who violate the provision may be liable to a BND8,000 fine or six months’ imprisonment.
Additionally, those who commit a negligible act that results in the endangerment of a human life may be fined BND16,000 and 12 months’ jail term. Information on the importation of food products can be obtained from the Food Safety and Quality Control Division by contacting the agency at 2237417.
Belgian weight loss chocolate powdered drink mix CoCo Curv is found to contain sibutramine, a weight loss agent no longer recommended for use in the treatment of obesity due to its harmful effects on the heart and liver. PHOTOS: THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH
Twelve students with disabilities who completed the Go Digital ASEAN Workshop – Brunei Darussalam: Digital Literacy Workshop for People with Disabilities received certificates at Darul Imtiyaz Hall of the Pusat Bahagia in Kampong Pulaie yesterday.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin presented the certificates.
The workshop was a joint collaboration between the Community Development Department (JAPEM) of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) and Big BWN Project.
The workshop was also conducted at Pusat Bahagia in the Tutong, Temburong and Belait districts.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin with students. PHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUD
The Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Brunei Darussalam invited health workers as well as frontliners involved in the fight against the COVID-19 outbreak in the country to the private viewing of Pengiran Abdul Wahab Hassan Al-Abbas’ painting exhibition at the embassy last Saturday.
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar was the guest of honour.
Turkish Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Mehmet Suat Akgün and Pengiran Abdul Wahab were also in attendance. The embassy organised the visit for frontliners to express gratitude for their efforts during the pandemic.
A total of 194 paintings were on display at ‘The Flowing Ancient River’ art exhibition, which
ended on Sunday.
The one-week art exhibition also saw a number of side events such as an interactive live painting session by Pengiran Abdul Wahab, Pengiran Timbang bin Pengiran Haji Tuah and Dr Haji Zakaria bin Abdul Hamid with young artists and art students; a masterclass for emerging artists; art talks by Pengiran Abdul Wahab, Pengiran Timbang, and moderated by Osman Mohammad; and a masterclass with children with different abilities.
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar with Turkish Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Mehmet Suat Akgün and Pengiran Abdul Wahab Hassan Al-Abbas during the art tour. PHOTO: THE EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
The Ministry of Education (MoE) is taking a holistic approach to build a comprehensive ecosystem for digital learning and stepping up efforts to provide enablers for this.
This was highlighted by Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh at the opening ceremony of Huawei Brunei Seeds for the Future at the Lecture Theatre 2 of the Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah (PAPRSB) Insitute of Health Sciences Extension Building of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) yesterday.
Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah emphasised how COVID-19 affected the way people interact and work and how governments and businesses adapted to working remotely and integrating technologies to allow them to run their operation from virtual settings out of necessity.
“The same is true for the education sector as many countries closed their schools and embraced digital learning to curb the spread of coronavirus. The pandemic exposed the need to equip schools with the infrastructure and technologies, and provide teachers and students with the skills needed to adapt to a digital environment.
“Education systems are rethinking and accelerating plans for digital transformation. Inevitably, this ‘new normal’ will leave its mark on education,” said the deputy minister.
Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh at the Huawei Brunei Seeds for the Future launch. PHOTO: SYAZWANI HJ ROSLI
She also shared her gratitude to Huawei Technologies for bringing the Seeds for the Future programme online.
“There will be live-streamed engagement with well-known enterprises, key opinion leaders, and think tanks in China. Such exposure is indeed valuable and crucial to ensure students are up-to-date with the latest development in the ever-changing ICT industry,” said the deputy minister.
Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah also shared on the efforts undertaken by the MoE in stepping up its efforts to provide enablers for digital learning such as strengthening connectivity, upgrading of school network infrastructure and others.
At the same time, the ministry is also continuously working to develop the right human capital with the necessary skillsets and mindsets, she said.
“Vital to the success of our efforts is the continuous partnerships with stakeholders in technology, particularly Huawei Technologies who are at the forefront of the ICT industry, to value add to the ministry’s initiatives. As such, programmes like Seeds for the Future are crucial not only to pique students’ interest, but also in ensuring a sustainable ICT talent pool for the nation,” she said.
Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah called upon the students to take advantage of the opportunities the Seeds for the Future programme offers them.
“Be bold enough to take charge of your future and embrace your learning. We believe in you and we look forward to what you can show us in ensuring the future of our ICT industry in Brunei.”
Entering the Bruneian market in 2005, Huawei contributed to Brunei Darussalam’s 3G and 4G Internet construction. Since its launch in April 2019 on jd.com, a well-known Chinese e-commerce platform, Brunei National Pavilion has been gradually increasing supplies of Bruneian marine products to Chinese consumers, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam Yu Hong said.
Ambassador Yu Hong shared this at the Huawei Brunei Seeds for the Future programme launch at the main Lecture Theatre 2 of the Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah (PAPRSB) Institute of Health Sciences (IHS) Extension Building of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) yesterday.
“Last September, Beep, a local emerging Internet enterprise brought Alipay into the country for the first time. So far, over 100 Bruneian firms employed this new payment platform. In March, Chinese company Yidu Cloud arrived in the Sultanate one week after the first COVID-19 case was reported in the country. It contributed to the Brunei government’s efforts to set up an A1 data platform which functioned outstandingly in Brunei’s successful battle against COVID-19. During the epidemic, Huawei Brunei donated teleconference equipment and software to the Ministry of Health (MoH) for remote medical consultation,” she said.
The ambassador also expressed her hope for the students to not only become the seeds for the future technology progress, but also the seeds for the friendly relations and cooperation between China and Brunei.
“Huawei’s HQ team has continuously refined the course quality by focussing on industry-leading technologies and offers students the chance to work in a global environment and participate in numerous cultural exchanges. Let’s work together to sow the seeds of hope and create a brighter future for the ICT industry in Brunei,” said Huawei Brunei Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kevin Zhang Jianwei.
Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh officiated along with the ambassador and CEO of Huawei Brunei.
Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam Yu Hong and Huawei Technologies in Brunei Darussalam Chief Executive Officer Kevin Zhang Jianwei at the Huwai Brunei Seeds for the Future programme launch. PHOTO: HUAWEI Brunei
Thirty-five Bruneian students from UBD, Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), Politeknik Brunei (PB), Insitute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE), Micronet International College, Laksamana College of Business and Cosmopolitan College of Commerce and Technology are participating in the programme.
Proramme participants are exposed to Huawei’s cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), building and configuring their own stations as well as other cutting edge solutions. The programme is delivered through technology workshops and networking events at the Huawei headquarters in China.
However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual Seeds for the Future will be conducted virtually with support from UBD. Participants are undergoing the five-day programme at the computer laboratories of UBD’s PAPRSB IHS Extension Building from September 21 until 25.
Following the launch, guests were invited to tour the Seeds Programme Session venue.
Participating student Nur A’ishah binti Haji Khairul Amir Shahrin, a second year Bachelor of Engineering majoring in General Engineering in UBD, shared her gratitude for the opportunity by providing them with industry knowledge and skills to complement their studies. She said she is looking forward to learning skills towards becoming Industrial Revolution 4.0-ready.
Mohammad Ammar Shafwan bin haji Abkri, a fourth year Bachelor of Science student, majoring in Computer Science in UBD, shared that he was grateful to Huawei for giving the students the opportunity and was excited to immerse himself in trending tech topics.
Seeds for the Future is Huawei’s flagship global corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme launched in 2008. The programme aims to develop skilled, local information and communitcations technology (ICT) talent and bridge communication between countries and cultures. By sharing ICT expertise and experiences in the global business environment, young people from different countries can learn about advanced technologies in the ICT industry.
Participants can accumulate ICT expertise and skills through the programme and contribute to the global ICT industry progress.
UBD Vice-Chancellor Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina binti Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Aziz, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) Rector Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, senior officials from the Ministry of Education (MoE), Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Brunei Darussalam and Huawei Technologies attended the launch.
Some 275 bags of trash weighing up to 1,214 kilogrammes were collected during a monthly Starts From You Beach Clean-Up campaign over the weekend near Jalan Maulana, Belait District.
The event was organised by RYS Entertainment in collaboration with Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP), the Fire and Rescue Department (FRD), Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) and Brunei Darussalam Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) as the first aid team.
It was joined by 270 participants including Village Head of Kampong Lorong Tiga Selatan and Acting Village Head of RPN Lorong Tengah Haji Saidin bin Haji Ibrahim, Penghulu of Mukim Kuala Belait and Acting Village Head of Pekan Kuala Belait Haji Pungut bin Ali, Village Head of Kampong Mumong A and Acting Village Head of Kampong Mumong B Haji Mohd Yusof bin Haji Dulamin and BSP Social Investment Lead Haziq bin Abdullah Lim.
This month’s campaign was held to mark the International Coastal Clean-Up Day 2020, an Ocean Conservancy global initiative observed annually on the third Saturday of September for over 30 years to encourage volunteerism in cleaning and removing washed-up debris from beaches and coasts around the world.
In support of the global cause, volunteers also used Ocean Conservancy’s Clean Swell app during the campaign to catalogue and record the amount of trash collected to provide the agency with useful data needed to build a snapshot of ocean trash for researchers and policymakers.
ABOVE & BELOW: A volunteer carries bags of trash towards the collection point near Panaga Club; and Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP) Social Investment Lead Haziq bin Abdullah Lim (R) lends a helping hand during the beach cleaning campaign near Jalan Maulana. PHOTOS: DANIEL LIM
ABOVE & BELOW: Volunteers comb through the beach for washed-up debris and trash; and bags of trash at the collection point
RYS Entertainment expressed hope that the public will continue to support the Starts From You Beach Clean-Up initiative as it not only encourages the spirit of volunteerism but also promotes a sense of unity among participants in working towards a common goal – keeping Brunei beaches immaculate.
It also revealed that the next cleaning campaign will be held at Jerudong Beach on October 25.
Meanwhile, on Friday, Panaga Club teamed up with Last Straw to clear the coast of washed up debris and trash in conjunction with the International Coastal Clean-Up Day.
Joined by members of the Panaga Club and Last Straw, six bags of rubbish were collected during the campaign that aimed at promoting the importance of cleanliness in public spaces, especially beaches, to maintain a healthy ecosystem.
Panaga Club said more beach clean-ups are in the pipeline.
It is estimated that there are 1,200 individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and 2,000 suffering dementia in Brunei Darussalam. A majority of them are unidentified.
According to findings by Geriatric and Palliative Unit of Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital in 2015, 36.8 per cent of geriatric patients have dementia and additional 20 per cent may have cognitive impairment needing further assessment before giving diagnosis.
The rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the country also led to increasing rate of vascular dementia patients.
This was revealed by Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar in a message on Sunday to mark World Alzheimer’s Month and World Alzheimer’s Day. The awareness campaign called on the public to talk more about dementia and better understanding to overcome stigma on the condition. The minister said dementia is a group of brain related diseases that can affect memory, thinking, behaviour and feeling.
For patient with dementia, 90 per cent of them are Alzheimer dementia and vascular dementia.
The signs and symptoms of dementia are memory loss, difficulty in speaking accurately or understanding other people’s words, confusion, difficulty in carrying out daily tasks and experience changes in personality and withdrawal from social activities. To date, there is no cure but treatment, advice and support are available for patients and their family members
or caregivers.
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar. PHOTO: MOH
Brunei, the minister said, marks World Alzheimer’s Month in September and World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21. The theme for this year is ‘Let’s Talk About Dementia’ to encourage the public to understand the importance of recognising Dementia and overcoming the stigma related to the condition.”
According to Alzheimer’s Disease International, he said it is estimated that in every three seconds, an individual will have dementia. The number of individuals with dementia is expected to reach 152 million by 2050. It is believed that two out of three people in the world have little or no understanding of dementia. This caused dementia to be declared as one of the most significant health crisis of the 21st Century.
Dementia, the minister said can cause the function of the brain to deteriorate resulting in difficulty carrying out daily activities. Dementia normally is associated with senior citizens. However, dementia can happen to anyone regardless of age.
The minister said practising a healthy lifestyle from an early age can reduce the risk of dementia. He recommended healthy eating, regular physical exercise and to quit smoking.
For senior citizens, mental stimulation and social interaction needs to be maintained.
The effect of dementia is not only on the patients but also their family members or guardians as well as the society. Family and the society play a vital role because dementia patients need constant assistance in daily activities. This year’s COVID-19 outbreak increases the challenge as social distancing adds to the difficulty for those experiencing loneliness, depression and social isolation possibly worsening dementia symptoms.
Dementia patients’ family and society need to be more patient and caring during this period.
The minister encouraged the public to talk about dementia and share information about the symptoms of dementia so that signs can be detected early and seek early treatment.
The minister said the outbreak of COVID-19 revealed shortcomings in the provision of daily services and support for dementia patients and the Ministry of Health (MoH) will prepare a system offering easy access to fair and high quality healthcare to the population of Brunei.
The MoH will also ensure that dementia awareness and intervention programme will continue to be implemented in places like Senior Citizen Activity Centres with cooperation from Demensia Brunei, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) dedicated to the illness.
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 said all National Development Plan (RKN) meetings should be based on thorough research supported by facts with open discussions, focussing on issues relevant to socio-economic growth, in addition to the development of the oil and gas sector.
In delivering a titah at the first National Development Plan Executive Committee Meeting yesterday at Istana Nurul Iman, His Majesty said, “I see that any planning under the upcoming National Development Plan project, especially the 12th National Development Plan will not only focus on the provision or construction of infrastructure, but it is also necessary to focus on projects that can contribute to efficiency and productivity.”
His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office was also in attendance.
The monarch who chaired the meeting added that in implementing any plan, several factors need to be taken into account such as the resilience of the project, its contribution to industrial and economic development as well as its ability to stimulate the fiscal resilience of the nation.
In addition, matters that need to be included in the planning are to provide employment opportunities to the locals by emphasising on in-country value as well as improving skills.
“As an independent and progressive nation, we do not have to rely too much on foreign labour. This method is not a solution in achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), but locals need to be given exposure to all environments including construction and so on,” the monarch said.
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 meeting. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIHis Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office at the first National Development Plan Executive Committee Meeting. PHOTO: BAHYIAH BAKIRABOVE & BELOW: Cabinet Ministers at the first National Development Plan Executive Committee Meeting. PHOTOS: MUIZ MATDANI
His Majesty also expressed appreciation to His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah for His Royal Highness’ leadership, service, energy and ideas that have contributed during His Royal Highness’ tenure as Chairperson of the National Development Plan Executive Committee.
“I would like to congratulate all the members for their re-appointment and new appointment in the National Development Plan Executive Committee. Similarly, I would like to express appreciation and gratitude to the former Members of the National Development Plan Executive Committee for their contributions.
“The change in the position of Chairman and members of the National Development Plan Executive Committee is a strategic platform for a common good. It is hoped that it will continue to bear the responsibility of triggering big thoughts or ideas for the benefit of national development,” the monarch said.
His Majesty also stressed on share facilities method which should not be neglected. “Every ministry needs to ensure that available facilities are shared. It is important to remember that development does not mean the number of buildings owned by each ministry, but more importantly the integration to achieve the objectives of the Whole-of-Government Approach.
Planning should also be for the long term to avoid wastage and duplication in the use of government resources,” the monarch added.
His Majesty also said, in the meantime, it is also reminded that the design and tender for the 11th National Development Plan projects that are still in the planning process must be re-examined to ensure that they are still relevant to be implemented.
“Furthermore, in line with the current trend, I also see that government agencies need to strengthen the potential of the digital economy through the implementation of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and the Whole-of-Nation approach that has already begun to be applied in this nation with the development of several applications such as BruHealth, MoHcares, Pengguna Bijak (Smart Users), Transport BN and so on.
“This is important for us to be able to deal with the challenges ahead, including an effort to maintain peace, prosperity and harmony,” His Majesty added.
“Undoubtedly through the National Development Plan, some achievements have been enjoyed, but I see it is time for us to move forward more to make reforms as a continuation between the planning process and project selection.
“We also consider this as strategic planning aligned as a guiding principle to facilitate each agency to plan and prepare projects in a more orderly manner.
“In this way, it will further strengthen cooperation between stakeholders in both the government sector and the private sector including government-linked companies (GLCs), public private partnerships (PPPs) and also foreign direct investments.”
The monarch also noted that the Economic Blueprint for the Third Goal in Brunei Vision 2035 has been prepared.
“In this regard, I hope to see the existence of Manpower Blueprint for the First Goal in our Vision which will be led by the Ministry of Education (MoE) and Manpower Planning and Employment Council, and Social Blueprint for the Second Goal, will be led by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and the National Council on Social Issues (MKIS),” the monarch said.
His Majesty hoped that the National Development Plan Executive Committee Meeting will be able to focus more on strategic matters for development. Appointed members are hoped to be more open in giving their views without hesitation. This is the main role of each member to ensure the success of the National Development Plan.
The United States (US) Embassy in Brunei Darussalam organised a masterclass for students of hospitality and tourism of the Institute of Brunei Technical Education’s (IBTE) from September 21-26.
The masterclass, part of the embassy’s Culinary Diplomacy Programme, was led by Aziz Zaidi of The Nomadic Chef, a Bruneian graduate from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in New York.
Students were supervised by Aziz on the production and delivery of a three-course American meal at the Longhouse Training Restaurant, IBTE Sultan Saiful Rijal Campus, Jalan Muara.
Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy in Brunei Darussalam Emily M Fleckner visited the campus and dined at the restaurant along with IBTE Acting CEO Dr Haji Mohammad Zamri bin Haji Sabli, IBTE Acting Principal of Central Campus Armi Durani bin Haji Durhman, and Head of School of Hospitality and Tourism Mohd Kamarul Izzudin bin Haji Kamaluddin yesterday in support of the American Cuisine Week.
Fleckner also toured IBTE’s ASEAN Kitchen and interacted with students and instructors at the School of Hospitality and Tourism.
The United States Embassy in Brunei Darussalam Chargé d’Affaires Emily M Fleckner speaking speaks with a teaching staff at the ASEAN Kitchen. PHOTO: US EMBASSY IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
On September 16, Aziz delivered a lecture to 50 students and demonstrated the preparation of classic American dishes. The students practised their tournée skills, with the winner receiving a prize for the best peeled potato. Aziz also shared his personal experience working at American establishments and emphasised the importance of practical training.
Aziz prepared popular American dishes such as Tex-Mex taco bowls and New Orleans gumbo using locally sourced ingredients. The masterclass encouraged students to be creative and to think beyond traditional cooking methods. It was conducted in an interactive manner involving hands-on preparation of American cuisine.
Aziz also shared his experience at the Culinary Institute of America in New York.
Meanwhile, EducationUSA advisor at the embassy was present to guide students on further studies in the US.
The American Cuisine Week is part of the institution’s initiative in providing students with on-the-job training. The event at IBTE is the second of the US Embassy’s Culinary Diplomacy series, which aims to promote American culture through food to build cross-cultural understanding, enhance people-to-people interaction, and further cooperation between Brunei and the US.
The programme also helped broaden the students’ understanding of the relationship between food and culture.
The Community Development Department (JAPEM) of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) conducted a basic sign language workshop.
The workshop, a joint effort by the People with Different Abilities Services Section of JAPEM and the National Association for the Hearing-Impaired (OKP), was held at the Kampong Bukit Beruang Community Hall in Tutong District yesterday.
The guest of honour, Permanent Secretary (Administration, Finance and Estate) at the MCYS Pengiran Mohd Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud officiated.
Legislative Council member and Penghulu of Mukim Telisai Yang Berhormat Haji Ramli bin Haji Lahit, Acting Tutong District Officer, Acting Village Head of Kampong Bukit Beruang, as well as officers from JAPEM and MCYS were also present.
Some 50 participants are attending the workshop that also features a drama sketch titled Dengar Daku: Pentingnya Bahasa Isyarat performed by trainers and facilitators of Pusat Bahagia as well as members of the OKP.
The workshop, aimed to raise community awareness on the importance of sign language,
ends tomorrow.
Some 238 members have registered under the OKP nationwide since August.
Permanent Secretary of Administration, Finance and Estate at the MCYS Pengiran Mohd Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud sounds the gong to mark the opening ceremony of the Basic Sign Language Workshop. PHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUD
Muara Port Company Sdn Bhd (MPC) signed a long-term agreement with Brunei Shell Marketing Company Sdn Bhd (BSM) for the supply of bunkering services at Muara Port recently.
Chief Financial Officer of Beibu Gulf Holding (HK) Co Ltd Lyu Guoli, Investment Manager at Darussalam Assets Johan bin Dato Paduka Dr Haji Johar, Chief Operating Officer of MPC Mohd Fazilah bin Haji Mohd Yassin and BSM Supply and Distribution Manager Haji Hairul Radzi bin Shahri witnessed the event.
MPC Director of Marketing and Business Development Zhong Kunyu and MPC Director of Strategic Management Md Akmal Hanis bin Haji Jefri signed on behalf of MPC while BSM Sales and Marketing Manager Hajah Rozalina binti Haji CA Mohamed and BSM Head of Commercial Suzelawati binti Haji Radin signed on behalf of BSM.
Senior officials from the Maritime and Port Authority of Brunei Darussalam, management and staff from MPC and BSM were also present.
Starting October 1, BSM will start supplying Marine Gas Oil (10 PPM) to vessels calling at Muara Port via a barge with a capacity of 800 metric tonne called ‘Star1’. With this collaboration, Muara Port can accommodate more ships calling at the port further increasing its contribution to Brunei Darussalam’s economy.
MPC is a joint-venture company between Darussalam Assets Sdn Bhd and Guangxi Beibu Gulf International Port Group Co Ltd (Beibu) via Beibu Gulf Holding (HK) Co Ltd.
Group photo of the witnesses and signatories during the agreement signing ceremony. PHOTO: MPC
The National Archives of Brunei Darussalam, Department of Museums, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) organised the Kenali Sejarah Melalui Koleksi Arkib Negara Brunei Darussalam (Understanding history through the collection of National Archives of Brunei Darussalam) programme during the Gerai Hujung Minggu Pasar Kitani at the Sports Gallery of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.
The event included an interactive picture puzzle of Brunei Darussalam archives collection, screening of historical video collection, mini exhibition on the history of bicycle racing in Brunei Darussalam, as well as a quiz and prize presentation.
Deputy Permanent Secretary (Youth and Sports) at the MCYS Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Maiddin bin Pengiran Haji Said attended.
The programme enlightened the public on the roles of the National Archives of Brunei Darussalam, especially on record collections such as photographs and audio visual material. It also allowed families to better understand Brunei’s history.
Deputy Permanent Secretary (Youth and Sports) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Maiddin bin Pengiran Haji Said with National Archives of Brunei Darussalam officials. PHOTO: NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
Hajah Rosnani binti Haji Hashim opted to drive home in a brand new Hyundai Verna as the grand prize winner of the ‘Travel & Win A Car or Birkin’ by Pan Bright Travel yesterday. She followed in the footsteps of the past five grand prize winners.
Singaporean Hajah Rosnani, 56, who has been in Brunei for 36 years and works with Royal Brunei Airlines (RB), expressed jubilation for the unexpected surprise.
Explaining that her children had bought her a car as a birthday gift on February 18 this year, she said the Hyundai Verna can be used by her children.
Pan Bright Travel Service General Manager Johnnie Cheong awarded prizes to the top 15 winners of the grand draw during a ceremony at Times Square Shopping Centre in Berakas.
Meanwhile, second place winner Kahar Hassan was over the moon to be able to pick up the keys to a Hyundai i10, a new addition to the prize list. Both vehicles were sponsored by Pan Bright Travel.
Hajah Rosnani binti Haji Hashim with a mock key to the Hyundai Verna. PHOTO: LYNA MOHAMAD
Other prizes included return air tickets to Dubai, Tokyo, Taipei and Kuching sponsored by RB; return air tickets to Istanbul, Maldives, Osaka and Singapore sponsored by Singapore Airlines; and two prizes of 50,000 Royal Skies Miles sponsored by Baiduri Bank Berhad.
Tourism Malaysia Brunei supported with the prizes of a 3D/2N package for two to Kuala Lumpur and to Kota Kinabalu. This includes a four-star hotel with daily breakfast. All prizes can be redeemed for travel to commence next year.
RB Senior Vice President (Sales) Ng Ai Ling and Singapore Airlines Acting General Manager (Brunei) Alfian Rahim presented the tickets to the winners. Baiduri Bank Head, Card Business, Retail Banking Division Davern Lim presented the 50,000 Royal Skies Miles prize to the two winners, while Tourism Malaysia Brunei Director Haji Ibrahim Seddiqi bin Talib presented the prizes for the Malaysian packages.
Representatives from RB, Baiduri Bank, Tourism Malaysia Brunei as well as the public attended the event.
The Centre for Islamic Art Studies and Calligraphy under the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (PPKKI-YSHHB) and Ar-Rafi Archery Brunei collaborated for the first time to organise a dual class on calligraphy and archery.
The activity to support both Islamic and domestic tourism was split into two sessions on September 13 and September 20. The first session saw the involvement of 15 participants, while the second saw 22 participants.
Participants were briefed on calligraphy writing, before attempting it on canvas. They visited the PPKKI-YSHHB Gallery to observe the types of calligraphy arts and paintings produced by locals and foreigners.
Later, they learnt about basic archery conducted by Ar-Rafi Archery Brunei.
Participants try their hand at calligraphy writing. PHOTO: YAYASAN SULTAN HAJI HASSANAL BOLKIAHA participant takes aim
His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah received British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam John Virgoe and Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Brunei Darussalam Tran Van Khoa in separate audiences at the Balai Penghadapan, Bukit Kayangan yesterday.
His Royal Highness congratulated the envoys on their appointments and wished them much success in their work.
ABOVE & BELOW: His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah with British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam John Virgoe; and Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Brunei Darussalam Tran Van Khoa during the audience ceremony. PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR
Brunei Darussalam will continue its pledge to work together with all United Nations (UN) member states and carry out its commitment and responsibilities, as well as pay its dues, to ensure that the world and its people will continue to live in peace, to develop and progress, said 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 monarch said this in a titah at the High Level Meeting to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the UN, themed ‘The Future We Want, the UN We Need: Reaffirming our Collective Commitment to Multilateralism’ yesterday.
His Majesty congratulated UN members on the momentous occasion and congratulated Volkan Bozkir on his election as the 75th President of the UN General Assembly.
“It is certainly a remarkable achievement for any grouping, let alone a large organisation like the UN, to remain relevant for three quarters of a century,” the monarch said.
“This global body has actively engaged and carried out its mandates on matters of significant concern to all.
“It reflects the commitment placed by UN members and the specialised bodies, who want it to work, and make the world a better place.
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 delivers his titah. PHOTOS: INFOFOTOA screen at the UN Headquarters shows 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 High Level Meeting to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the UN.
“Over the years, we have faced many challenges and were able to resolve conflicts in Bosnia, Timor-Leste and closer still to us in ASEAN, in Cambodia.
“However, the question of Palestine terrorism, achieving the Sustainable Goals and many others remain work in progress.
“And now, we are facing new unprecedented challenges in our lifetime like climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“If history has taught us anything, it is that, we could not have realised such achievements without the strong support, and commitment from all nations.
“Not by abandoning the UN when it becomes politically difficult, but by working together and by seeking convergence both at the national and international levels.
“The UN is far from perfect, and the cost of maintaining it continues to rise every year.
“Nonetheless, there is no other option available that can replace its role.
“Therefore, we must continue to make it better, more cost-effective and more empowered to support multilateralism, and a world order based on the universal rule of law, in ensuring this organisation remains relevant to us all,” said the monarch.
Integral to this, His Majesty added, “is the commitment by all member states to ensure that every nation uphold and respect the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, as enshrined in the UN Charter, and where small countries like Brunei Darussalam can rely on and have our voice heard as equals among all nations, big or small.
“If this organisation failed, we would all fail, diminishing the hopes of more than seven billion people. It was in this spirit that my country joined this family of nations more than 35 years ago.”
His Majesty also extended best wishes to the UN from the Government and the people of Brunei Darussalam in the spirit of peace and solidarity, and condolences and sympathies to all those affected by the COVID-19 virus.
