Two individuals were detained yesterday by the personnel of the Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB) Central Police Station after receiving information shared by the members of the Kampong Menglait Neighbourhood Watch.
Neighbourhood watch members heard loud metal knocking sounds and alerted the Neighbourhood Watch Unit of the BSB Central Police Station to check the source of the sound.
An immediate joint patrol was conducted by police personnel and members of the neighbourhood watch leading to the arrest of two men digging and cutting underground cable.
The two suspects, local citizens aged 35 and 39, were taken into to the BSB Central Police Station for investigation.
Several tools and equipment were confiscated as evidence.
The Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam, the Children’s Cancer Foundation (YASKA) and the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei received BND1,000 each from Burger King Brunei, under the management of Sinofood Express yesterday.
The handing over ceremony took place at the Burger King branch of Citis Square. Students, parents and staff from each non-governmental organisation were treated to meals at Burger King in conjunction with the Teacher’s Day celebration. Sinofood Express introduced a corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme in 2015, with the installation of donation boxes at every outlet and these donations were compiled and donated to SMARTER Brunei, Pusat Ehsan, and YASKA.
Sinofood Express Director Wu Chun presented the mock cheque to the organisations. Wu Chun said, “CSR is part of our company’s culture, in recognising that as a business we love giving back to the community and to engage with them.”
Sinofood Express Director Wu Chun presents mock cheques to the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei (above); and the Children’s Cancer Foundation (YASKA). PHOTOS: JAMES KON
The Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Brunei Darussalam hosted a celebration to mark Saudi Arabia’s 90th National Day at the Indera Samudra Grand Hall of The Empire Brunei in Jerudong, last night.
The guest of honour, representing the Government of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam was 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 along with spouse, Datin Nurhayana Janis binti Abdullah.
The celebration began with the singing of the national anthems of Brunei Darussalam and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia followed by the recitation of verses from Al-Quran by Muhammad Ali of Rimba Arabic School.
The ceremony proceeded with the recitation of Doa by Ustaz Al Sayyed Abdul Kadir Zaghloul from the Hassanal Bolkiah Boys Arabic Secondary School.
A cake-cutting ceremony by the guest of honour and spouse, accompanied by Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Brunei Darussalam Emad bin Abdul Aziz bin Saad Al Muhanna, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Brunei Darussalam Sheikh Ahmed bin Hashel bin Rashed bin Hashel Al-Maskari and Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Brunei Darussalam Salah Mubarak Musleh Al-Mutairi marked the highlight of the event.
The ceremony continued with the presentation of a token of appreciation to the guest of honour – a replica of the Masmak, an important historical landmark in Riyadh in 1902 which played a major part in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s history.
The event also saw the presentation of a video clip on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
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, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Brunei Darussalam Emad bin Abdul Aziz bin Saad Al Muhanna, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Brunei Darussalam Sheikh Ahmed bin Hashel bin Rashed bin Hashel Al-Maskari and Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Brunei Darussalam Salah Mubarak Musleh Al-Mutairi during the cake-cutting event. PHOTO: WANI ROSLAN
A contingent of 30 Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) personnel left the country yesterday to be part of the peacekeeping mission of the United Nations Interim Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
A flag handing over ceremony was held at the Multi-Purpose Hall, Bolkiah Garrison. The RBAF personnel will join Malaysian Battalion 850-8 (MALBATT 850-8) in the peacekeeping mission.
Commander of the RBAF Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat presided over the ceremony and handed over the national flag to Head of Brunei Darussalam’s Contingent Major Zulazri bin Gapor.
RBAF has been serving in UNIFIL since 2008. Since then, RBAF sent 34 officers and 278 RBAF personnel to support United Nations’ (UN) initiatives in maintaining peace and stability in Lebanon in support of the UN Resolution 1701 (2006).
Commander of the RBAF Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat hands over the national flag to Head of Brunei Darussalam’s Contingent Major Zulazri bin Gapor. PHOTO: JAMES KON
The Ministry of Education (MoE) and Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) organised a recitation of Surah Yaasiin and Tahlil for Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam and Al-Marhumah Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Bendahara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman, the late parents of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and a Doa Kesyukuran ceremony in conjunction with the 30th Teacher’s Day Celebration.
Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman and Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman were present as co-chairmen of the Executive Committee for the 30th Teacher’s Day Celebration.
Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar was also present at the ceremony held at Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque in the capital.
Permanent Secretary at the MoRA Haji Mohammed Rosli bin Haji Ibrahim, Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the MoE Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad, Ra’es of Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) Dr Haji Adanan bin Haji Basar, Rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal, deputy permanent secretaries, heads of departments as well as senior officers from both ministries were also present.
The event began with mass Sunnat Hajat prayer led by Imam of Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque Mohammad Hassanal bin Haji Mohammad. It was followed by mass recitation of Surah Yaasiin and Tahlil led by Mosque Officer at Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque Begawan Mudim Haji Amran bin Haji Md Salleh and recitation of Doa Kesyukuran and Doa Peliharakan Sultan led by Mosque Officer at Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque Begawan Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Haji Emran bin Haji Kunchang.
The event concluded with mass Asar prayer led by Mohammad Hassanal.
This year’s Teacher’s Day celebration is themed ‘Pendidikan Berkualiti Teras Kecemerlangan Pelajar’.
Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman and Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman at the religious event. PHOTO: SYAZWANI HJ ROSLI
Ten students participated in yesterday’s Transform 2020 Townhall Forum through scholarship grants courtesy of Progresif, a telecommunications company with an entrepreneurial development commitment.
The students discussed business survival and opportunity during COVID-19 with perspectives from entrepreneurs and managers in Brunei, as well as speakers from abroad via video conference.
Themed, ‘Coming Out Stronger: Business Transformation in the time of COVID-19’, the Townhall served as a venue to discuss the lessons from business during the pandemic and the opportunities in a post-COVID world.
Overseas speakers included Business coach, Innovation expert and CEO of UCSI Consulting in Malaysia Dr Raj Kumar; President and founding partner of Rags2Riches in the Philippines and social entrepreneur Reese Fernandez-Ruiz; and Bruneian entrepreneur Hiro Tien who founded an artificial intelligence business in Silicon Valley, California.
Brand Strategy of Progresif Head Hafiza Mohamad, during the scholarship presentation to recipients at Progresif Headquarters, said, “Local youth entrepreneurship development is one of the pillars of Progresif’s community outreach, and we are delighted to give young aspiring entrepreneurs the opportunity to strengthen their capabilities and improve their results. The Transform 2020 Townhall Forum will be an ideal vehicle.”
This Transform 2020 Programme is an annual event convened by Asia Inc Forum with Baiduri Bank as Presenting Sponsor, with additional support from Progresif, Kingston Beverage & Creamery and Archipelago Group, and Borneo Bulletin and Media Permata as print and digital media supporters.
Progresif CEO Hajah Nurul Haniah binti Haji Mohd Jaafar (c) in a group photo with students who participated in the Transform 2020 Townhall Forum. PHOTO: ASIA INC FORUM
This year’s World Maritime Day, themed ‘Sustainable shipping for a sustainable planet’, is apt. It ties closely to the United Nations’ (UN) 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda of which this year marks the beginning of a decade of action and delivery.
This agenda is a call to action for people, and prosperity while protecting the planet.
These were highlighted by Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof in his message to mark the occasion.
The message further said, in Brunei Darussalam’s context especially in maritime and shipping, this means developing strategies to build economic growth, creating job opportunities and ensuring safety for all.
“This is while we keep our supply chain connectivity open during this pandemic and also for COVID-19 recovery.
Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof. PHOTO: MTIC
“Building economic growth goes hand in hand with new maritime and port related businesses. This will create new job opportunities. The Strategic Plan for the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC) 2025 sets the target to establish three new maritime and port related businesses in the maritime and port sector by 2025.
“Meanwhile, maintaining high safety standards in transport is one the key objectives under MTIC 2025 and, through the Maritime and Ports Authority of Brunei Darussalam (MPABD), it aims to implement corrective actions and close the audit findings by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) by 2025.
“The last decade has seen an increase in the fishing industry and fishing activities by small vessels with 200 registrations of fishing vessels every year.
“This recent development poses a growing challenge to ensure these vessels especially small boats operate safely at sea. Increasing incidents over the last year indicate the need to address this issue urgently.
“MPABD in cooperation with agencies is working to address the issues in providing information such as weather warnings and maritime safety information, ensuring the crew operating the vessels are equipped with valid certificates of competency, as well as technology that provides effective platform for communication as well as emergency response.
“Technology needs to be complemented with effective and efficient response in any emergency such as a well-coordinated search and rescue by relevant stakeholders. MPABD has conducted maritime safety exercises and will continue to test its emergency protocols by expanding the exercises with cooperation of our neighbouring country.
“Without a doubt, we have a substantial list of initiatives and action plans to be implemented by 2025. It is encouraging to note that the resilience of the global maritime sector, shipping and port, will play a key role in mitigating the unprecedented effects of the global pandemic, and that we remain strong in our pursuit to achieve the 2030 UN Sustainable Development Goals.”
Several local business founders, entrepreneurs, managers and corporate executives convened at this year’s Transform 2020 Townhall Forum in a collaborative effort spearheaded by Asia Inc Forum as convenor and Baiduri Bank as presenting sponsor.
Chairman of Baiduri Bank Group Board of Directors Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Dr Abdul Fattaah was among those attending the discussion to strengthen resolve in facing challenges and broaden horizons in the business landscape.
In his welcoming remarks, Asia Inc Forum Chairman Dato Timothy Ong said, “Amid the pandemic, I learnt that the power and reach of technology is imperative, and digitalistion and online presence must be included in the future of any business. I also learnt that human beings are social beings, thus it is essential to have company, support, empathy, goodwill, friendship and love, despite the rise of virtual meetings amid the pandemic.”
During the first part of the townhall moderated by Dato Timothy Ong, a panel comprised of Baiduri Bank Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ti Eng Hui, Brunei Press General Manager Hazizah Osman and Cuckoo International (B) Managing Director Wong Kim Guan discussed the lessons learnt in their businesses during the pandemic.
Ti said restrictions on the movement of goods and people among others impacted businesses and changed the way they operate. “Things will change and you will have to change. COVID-19 presented a situation where we can’t say it will not happen in Brunei. We have to look at what gaps we can fill in Brunei Darussalam, and see which areas we can fulfil (locally).”
Being in the news and commercial printing industry, Hazizah highlighted that Brunei Press was impacted from cut backs in marketing and advertising budgets. This was especially so when restrictions on gatherings and travel bans were implemented.
Chairman of Baiduri Bank Group Board of Directors Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Dr Abdul Fattaah at the forum. PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR & MUIZ MATDANIAsia Inc Forum Chairman Dato Timothy Ong, QAF Brunei Group CEO Albert Lau, Progresif CEO Hajah Nurul Haniah binti Haji Md Jaafar, Baiduri Finance Berhad General Manager Haji Haliluddin bin Dato Haji Talib and Nuara Group Managing Director Barbora GrexaDato Timothy Ong, Baiduri Bank Group CEO Ti Eng Hui, Brunei Press General Manager Hazizah Osman and Cuckoo International (B) Managing Director Wong Kim GuanAttendees at the forum
“In terms of digitalisation, the newspapers have had significant online and social media presence even before the pandemic. It has not been easy to monetise digital platforms though as consumers and businesses are used to getting free online advertisements.”
Brunei Press offers integrated advertising packages to ensure greater reach. It also offers content marketing opportunities for advertisers.
Hazizah noted that the human element is crucial for business survival. “We encourage our sales team to keep communication channels open with our partners. Although digital interactions have become more prevalent since the pandemic, nothing beats face to face meetings.”
Wong said while they thrived through the pandemic, it required immediate changes in how they conduct their business. “We had to quickly move to train our sales team to move everything online and leverage on social media platforms to reach our customers.
“One significant impact from the pandemic is our supply chain. The products come from South Korea and the current situation of the pandemic there impacts the supplies and logistics. Our factories were not allowed to open during the lockdown period so our
supply was disrupted.”
He said at this point, liquidity is more important than profitability. “Profit measuring doesn’t really matter anymore if you have no cash in the bank. Our main focus is now to retain good liquidity score and constantly plan for future liquidity to remain sustainable.”
The forum also featured notable voices from abroad via a Zoom video conference, including business coach, innovation strategist and CEO of UCSI Consulting from Malaysia Dr Raj Kumar, social entrepreneur helping to alleviate poverty in the Philippines Reese Fernandez-Ruiz and Bruneian investor and entrepreneur Hiro Tien who co-founded an artificial intelligence business in Silicon Valley, California.
Meanwhile, QAF Brunei CEO Albert Lau discussed the challenges and opportunities presented by the COVID-19 pandemic during the second session of the townhall forum.
Albert was among four panellists deliberating their perspectives and views on ‘Finding Opportunities after COVID-19’. The other panellists were Progresif CEO Hajah Nurul Haniah binti Haji Md Jaafar, Baiduri Finance Berhad General Manager Haji Haliluddin bin Dato Haji Talib and Nuara Group Managing Director Barbora Grexa.
Albert said, “Despite these challenges, there are opportunities that can be utilised by local enterprises to develop their business into digital technology, migration to new areas while expanding their workforce capacity.
“Identifying opportunities involves three stages. First, during COVID-19, we need to survive in situations where steady cash flow is needed, to ensure the continuity of business, as well as to seize opportunities that are available.
“Secondly, finding opportunities means knowing your team will be there, and they can deliver results. It is equally important not to just look beyond what they are currently doing – but very often opportunities exist right in your backyard that you have never thought of. But COVID-19 put you in a position where you have to accelerate that thought process.
“The third is identifying future opportunities. As leaders, we need to identify relevant trends and the opportunities to be explored.
Meanwhile, Hajah Nurul Haniah said, “The COVID-19 pandemic affects enterprises and businesses, in which some are seeing the impact in a positive way compared to others. The pandemic gives them the opportunity to change the way they conduct business, especially in approaching customers and quickly adapting to the changing environment.
“The opportunity does not come by itself. We need to look for it and need to think creatively, have a clear strategy and ensure that everyone in the organisation understands the direction.
“The COVID-19 pandemic prepared us for upcoming changes, in terms of preparing a Business Sustainability Plan (BCP) and ready to change, according to circumstances.”
Haji Haliluddin said, “In the face of challenging situations, such as the pandemic, it is important for us to reflect on the situation, the challenges that will be faced and the opportunities that can be utilised.
“The opportunities to be explored by local enterprises are wide open, such as food processing, domestic tourism and agriculture.”
Barbora Grexa said, “In a world faced with the COVID-19 pandemic, the survival of an enterprise or organisation depends on its readiness to change according to the circumstances and digital transformation is crucial.
“In the post-COVID-19 world, business or enterprise transformation need to be implemented where data digitisation should be the basis along with seizing opportunities by generating innovation, enhancing competencies and leveraging the inherent strengths in the organisation or enterprise.”
The sessions were designed to inform and educate, encourage creative thinking and motivate attendees with real-life experiences and lessons.
Now in its 14th year, the entrepreneurship and local business forum is a platform for learning, sharing, and relationship-building for Bruneian businesses, in support of the government’s call for entrepreneurship development and job creation.
The Transform 2020 programme also has additional support from Progresif, Kingston Beverage & Creamery and Archipelago Group, with the Borneo Bulletin and Media Permata as print and digital media partners.
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic forced businesses to look at the world from a new perspective and presented them with opportunities to adapt, strive and be resilient amid challenges and adversity, said Chairman of Baiduri Bank Group of Directors Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Dr Abdul Fattaah, in his opening address at Transform 2020, a townhall forum on business survival and opportunity in the time of the pandemic, at the Radisson Hotel yesterday.
This year’s townhall forum was themed ‘Coming Out Stronger: Business Survival and Opportunity in the Time of COVID-19’.
During the session, some 80 to 90 local business leaders from domestic and regional industries participated. Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Dr Abdul Fattaah said, “During these uncertain times, there are benefits to be found when we take our time to assess our own business, our own industry, and our country’s economy. Only by analysing strengths and weaknesses can businesses take full advantage of what makes them strong and take action to overcome weaknesses and deficiencies. We can devise new business practices to respond to evidence-based research studies, which provide clear descriptions of consumer behaviour relevant to our industry or line of business.
“I also believe that, in the current situation, there is a continuing need for trust and greater degrees of collaboration. Human beings are instinctually social creatures; we need to trust each other if we are to build communities of commerce and industry.”
He noted that more collaboration presents greater opportunity to thrive and prosper, although with challenges expanding abroad in this testing time, “businesses can use this time to build strong foundations and form strategic partnerships”.
Earlier, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Dr Abdul Fattaah said, “The new normal shows just how fragile human society is, and this does not just include our public health systems but also our most advanced systems such as food supply chains, education infrastructure, cyber-security, job markets, information networks, electoral machinery and more.”
“The next few decades will probably bring more crises… and many if not most countries are not fully equipped to meet and overcome these future pandemics.
Chairman of Baiduri Bank Group Board of Directors Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Dr Abdul Fattaah at the Transform 2020 Townhall Forum. PHOTO: BAHYIAH BAKIR
“Under these new conditions, business leaders and owners are concerned about the future of their businesses, such as profit figures and cash flow, as well as job security.”
He also warned, “In this current situation, we may never be able to go back to the so-called normal conditions of the past. That’s why it’s popular to say we must accept the new conditions of life, and we must each adapt to the new normal.
“Amid challenges posed by the pandemic, we should not underestimate our ability to think enterprisingly about how to thrive and prosper in the new conditions prevailing in our society.
In one way or another, all aspects of human life have been affected by the pandemic, in every country. Yet I remain confident in our individual ability and our collective capacity to triumph over these adversities.
“This confidence is founded upon historical record. There is ample evidence that humans are adaptable, resilient, creative, imaginative and purpose-driven.
“On this foundation, I believe that business leaders will overcome these adversities. Business owners will contribute to the building up of societies where entrepreneurship and the spirit of enterprise will lead to increasingly better conditions of life. Social enterprises will grow and develop. Start-ups will flourish. Disruptive innovation will continue to shake things up and make things work better. The Fourth Industrial Revolution will continue, and we will adapt and overcome these adversities with resilience.
Despite the less severe impact in Brunei compared to other nations, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Dr Abdul Fattaah said, “We had our ups and downs, and some sectors of our economy have been hit much harder than the others. This, in some way, highlights the strengths and weaknesses in different aspects of the country’s economy.
“The pandemic highlights how the business community needs to be resilient in times like these. There are many difficulties when there is a downturn in the market, and these difficulties may look worse because the community is small and close-knit. If there is a down-turn, those affected are familiar names.
“What is imperative is that Brunei business owners must be quick to adjust and adapt to changing conditions. Nowadays, we are using technologies in ways that could not be imagined or anticipated. Due to governmental regulations, the recent widespread acceptance of track and trace technologies in the country was quite remarkable, and, personally, I am amazed by how Bruneians of all ages adapted so quickly.”
Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Dr Abdul Fattaah said the pandemic offered a gamut of hidden opportunities. Citing Brunei as an example, he said, “The turmoil in the global oil and gas industry could, for instance, be seen as a crisis for the local economy – but it could also be regarded as an opportunity for business leaders to search imaginatively for new opportunities and make entrepreneurial efforts to diversify the economy, to adapt to the current realities confronting the fossil fuel industry, and seek new ways to make the Brunei economy more resilient and less dependent on petroleum and natural gas.
“Whenever a crisis appears, we can loom purposefully for opportunities to engage in business experimentation. Brunei Darussalam’s business and social ecosystem can provide the ideal environment for experimentation. We should not think of Brunei as a small economy; if we know our business and have the correct partners, when we are reaching the right consumers, we can still thrive and prosper greatly in the country.
“Today, Brunei Darussalam has seen more and more virtual stores popping up, and there has also been an increase in delivery services set up to take advantage of the current conditions. Online retail is also growing and thriving in some countries, and Brunei Darussalam has also got into the act with business owners developing an online presence as part of their promotion and marketing efforts.”
In concluding his remarks, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Dr Abdul Fattaah said, “In order to become truly resilient, business owners need opportunities to do business across national borders, and therefore need governments to collaborate with each other to conquer COVID-19 and to ensure that global economic recovery is not held back by the onset of new waves of infection.”
Brunei Darussalam’s consumer price index (CPI) in July 2020 increased by two per cent year-on-year compared to July 2019.
Prices of Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages increased by 2.2 per cent. Meanwhile, Non-Food prices increased by 1.9 per cent.
The CPI increase was largely attributed to increases in the prices and costs of Miscellaneous Goods and Services (10.6 per cent); Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages (2.2 per cent); and Transport (2.2 per cent). However, this was moderated by the decrease in prices of Restaurants and Hotels (1.1 per cent) and Recreation and Culture (0.2 per cent).
The rise in prices of Miscellaneous Goods and Services was mainly due to an increase in the price of jewellery, insurance and other services.
Meanwhile, limited supply of goods due to reduced imports following the COVID-19 situation in the country and neighbouring countries led to a hike in the prices of Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages, mainly imported soft drinks, vegetables and meat.
The increase in the prices of Transport was due to the increase in the prices of passenger transport by land and also passenger transport by air of a few limited flights scheduled.
On a month-on-month basis, the CPI in July 2020 decreased by 0.1 per cent compared to June 2020. The Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages Index decreased by 0.4 per cent.
Meanwhile, the Non-Food Index decreased by 0.02 per cent.
The CPI is a measure of price changes of goods and services paid by the consumer in a specified period and compiled on a monthly basis.
The list of goods and services in the CPI is based on the average expenditure per household from the Household Expenditure Survey (HES). The CPI full report for July 2020 is available from www.deps.gov.bn.
Eight youngsters from Sufri Bolkiah Mosque in Kampong Perpindahan Berakas yesterday completed a month-long air-conditioning course at the Youth Development Centre, organised by the Kampong Jaya Bakti/Jaya Setia and Burong Pingai Village Consultative Council (MPK).
Special Duties Officer Grade 1 Anisa binti Haji Mohd Taib presented certificates to the participants.
The MPK’s Youth Sports Bureau Head Pengiran Hassanuddin bin Pengiran Haji Damit believed that the course equipped the youth with the necessary skills and knowledge to secure employment in the future.
He also said the participants “will be placed in a company under the village consultative council in the near future”.
The youth will also join a computer course next month as part of the continuation of an initiative to make them more employable.
Pengiran Hassanuddin expressed hopes that with skills, knowledge and work experience, the youth will someday replace the current members of the village consultative council as leaders of the area.
ABOVE & BELOW: Special Duties Officer Grade 1 Anisa binti Haji Mohd Taib presents certificates to the participants. PHOTOS: IZAH AZAHARI
New features, such as Online Personal Health Records, Online Visit Appointment and Online Consultation, will be added to the BruHealth app to improve health management among members of the public.
This was said by Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah during yesterday’s press conference, adding that these additions will allow the government to acquire the necessary data in assisting the Ministry of Health (MoH) and other stakeholders to have a more complete picture of the health status of citizens and residents of the country.
The minister said these features will also assist in predicting infection rates, provide medical resource mapping for more effective planning, especially in the provision of healthcare infrastructure, and help to draft better public health policies.
He also attributed the success of the expansion of the app to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), MoH and Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications as well as IT Protective Security Services Sdn Bhd (ITPSS), Dynamik Technologies Sdn Bhd, Unified National Networks Sdn Bhd (UNN) and EVYD Technology.
“The strong support from both government and private agencies reflects the unity and consensus of all in addressing the challenges, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic,” said the minister.
Meanwhile, Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar added that the new features on the app will be particularly helpful in finding out one’s personal health history, such as disease diagnoses, laboratory tests undertaken, visits to hospital and clinics, and medical prescriptions received.
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar speaks during the press conference. PHOTO: AZIZ IDRIS
“So if a person goes to a clinic or hospital in this country, the information will not be lost or misinterpreted,” he said. “It’s truly in the hands of the user as the information is under his or her control via the BruHealth app.”
The minister added that users will also be able to make a doctor’s appointment and seek consultation without setting foot in hospital or clinic, as well as make payment online.
While an Online Visit Appointment feature will be available to all users, the minister said it’s not the only way to receive medical help. “For example,” he said, “if there are 20 slots available in the morning, maybe 10 will be reserved for Online Visit Appointment and the rest for walk-ins because we understand that there are people who will find it difficult to make an appointment online.”
The one-month trial run for the new features will begin at the health centre in Sengkurong in the coming week, said the minister.
Afterwards, he added, the trial will be expanded to the rest of the public hospitals and clinics in phases to smooth out the kinks that may arise before extending it to private clinics.
“From then onwards, whatever information received will be fed through the artificial intelligence behind the application to improve the quality of healthcare in the country,” the minister said. “We are going for value-based healthcare and further reducing the risks of chronic diseases with data obtained through the BruHealth app.”
Since its inception on May 14, the app has drawn a total of 436,047 registrations. It serves as epidemic response and population engagement platforms to assist the MoH in carrying out contact tracing in the event of a community spread of COVID-19 in the country.
Some 50 students of Laksamana College of Business attended a workshop on business management for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) recently.
Allen Ang of EpiPeople Consultants facilitated the course, during which he highlighted the 3Ps – products and services, processes and people.
Ang also called on aspiring entrepreneurs to focus on building rapport with the staff as they are the ones that will prove useful in challenging times when problem-solving is of utmost importance.
He also emphasised on the importance of employees and the need to take care of their welfare by admitting that he had thought of folding his business but the thought of the welfare of his staff drove him to coming up with a solution to avert the crisis.
Ang shared tips on stress management, including reaching out to more seasoned entrepreneurs, adding that it is important to “have someone who can help you to find a work-life balance, as it keeps you from being demotivated”.
Allen Ang from EpiPeople Consultants shares his knowledge with students of Laksamana College of Business. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
The 17th ASEAN Chiefs of Defence Forces Meeting (ACDFM) themed ‘Military Cooperation for a Cohesive and Responsive ASEAN’ was held via video teleconferencing yesterday.
Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Commander Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat represented the RBAF in the meeting.
Also present during the virtual meeting were the Joint Force Commander as the Head of the ASEAN Military Operations Meeting (AMOM) and the Director of Intelligence as the Head of the ASEAN Military Intelligence Meeting (AMIM).
The 17th ACDFM was chaired by Chief of General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army Senior Lieutenant General Phan Giang.
According to a press statement, the ACDFM adopted the ASEAN Militaries Two-Year Activity Work Plan (2020–2022), Joint Statement to commit the ASEAN militaries’ continued support and participation in ACDFM initiatives in the future, as well as enhancing the roles of ASEAN militaries through practical and concrete activities.
The conference concluded with a handover ceremony of the ACDFM Chairmanship to the RBAF as Brunei Darussalam will take the helm of ASEAN Chairmanship in 2021. During the ceremony, the RBAF Commander gave his takeover remarks for ACDFM 2021, followed by a video presentation of Brunei Darussalam.
Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Commander Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat during the 17th ACDFM virtual meeting. PHOTO: RBAF
Since the June 2020 enforcement of directives under the Infectious Disease Act (Chapter 204), 891 business premises have been inspected nationwide, with 540 violations found and compound fines issued.
The common offences include food handlers not wearing face masks while working, and premises not performing temperature checks on customers.
The high number of violations was highlighted by Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar during a press conference at the Ministry of Health (MoH) Al-‘Afiah Hall yesterday.
The minister reminded the public to comply with all regulations and directives from the authorities that are still in place. He reminded that the public is required to use the BruHealth application and scan the QR code when they enter/exit premises – especially at shopping malls, retail shops, restaurants, beauty establishments, barber shops and others.
Premises owners are required to print and display their QR code at their entrance. The public is urged to take the usage of the BruHealth app seriously, especially in scanning the QR code, as it will be used by the MoH for contact tracing in the event of an outbreak.
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar speaks at the press conference. PHOTO: JAMES KON
The public is also required to maintain personal hygiene, practise proper cough/sneeze etiquette, wear face masks in crowded public places, and to refrain from going to public places and attending social gatherings should they feel unwell.
Those attending Friday prayers are required to wear face masks when in the mosque compound, as well as before and after Friday prayers; to bring their own prayer mat and to scan the QR code when entering the mosque or surau.
The minister warned that violation of any order issued is an offence under the Infectious Diseases Act (Chapter 204). If found guilty, an individual can be issued a compound fine of up to BND5,000 or prosecuted in court carrying a fine up to BND10,000 or imprisonment of up to six months or both.
The MoH will not hesitate to take legal action against anyone who does not comply with the directives issued.
The MoH will continue to monitor the situation of the outbreak at the national, regional and global levels, and carry out ongoing risk assessments to consider further mitigation measures.
Should the outbreak situation become alarming again, the MoH will not hesitate to tighten the social distancing measures.
Several companies have benefitted from the government’s COVID-19 relief measures.
Over 200 companies involving 2,000 employees applied for deferment for Employees Trust Fund (TAP) and Supplemental Contributory Pension (SCP).
This was revealed by Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah at a press conference yesterday.
“We also gave salary subsidies of 25 per cent for those earning BND1,500 and below. More than 500 companies with about 5,000 employees were involved. We gave subsidies from April to June,” said the minister.
Deferment on contributions towards TAP (five per cent) and SCP (3.5 per cent) for local employees earning less than BND1,500 per month in micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and 25 per cent salary subsidies for Bruneian employees earning less than BND1,500 in MSMEs were provided for three months.
Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew said most restrictions are lifted and business activities like retail sectors, gymnasiums and childcare are returning to normal.
“There are no more restrictions for these sectors, with the exception of the hotel industry which is still affected. If these companies don’t perform well, it is probably due to the business plan and model, not COVID-19,” the minister said.
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah at a press conference. PHOTO: AZIZ IDRIS
Members of the public can make payment for the SARS-CoV-2 test or swab test for entering Brunei Darussalam online via http://www.healthinfo.gov.bn/entry-payment/#user/login.
In the first week of its availability, 47 payments were made.
This was revealed by Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar during a press conference yesterday at the Ministry of Health’s (MoH) Al-‘Afiah Hall.
The MoH reminded the public that those wanting to take the swab test for travel abroad must take it three to five days before flight, subject to terms and conditions of the destination. The result of the test will take time and the ministry seeks the public’s patience.
Swab tests can be carried out at Berakas Health Centre and Sports Complex of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital.
At Berakas Health Centre, the tests are available from 8am to noon and 2-4pm from Monday to Thursday and Saturday.
On Friday, Sunday and public holidays, the swab tests are conducted from 2-5.30pm.
The swab tests at the Sports Complex of the RIPAS Hospital are conducted from 7am-10pm daily, except on public holidays.
Members of the public will have more reason to visit the Pasarneka and Tamu Tutong Complex on Thursdays, following yesterday’s launching of the One Village, One Product (1K1P) weekly market.
The platform for the promotion of 1K1P products was officially opened by Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong.
Among those present were Legislative Council (LegCo) members, senior government officials and village heads at the Tutong District. An initiative of the Tutong District Office, Tutong Municipal Department and the Tutong District Creative and Development Body, the weekly market aims to provide a conceptual business environment to increase the marketability of 1K1P products on a sustainable basis.
Seventeen entrepreneurs from the Tutong District, two from the Brunei-Muara District and one from the Belait District will showcase their products at the newly launched market.
Acting Tutong District Officer Ajmin bin Haji Meludin said, “Statistics indicate there are around 4,000 visitors to the Tutong market, so it is an appropriate move to introduce the 1K1P weekly market here, and make use of the opportunities to diversify marketing approaches in creating a business networking hub for 1K1P products.”
Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong launched the One Village, One Product (1K1P) weekly market yesterday. An initiative of the Tutong District Office, Tutong Municipal Department and the Tutong District Creative and Development body, the weekly market featured entrepreneurs from Tutong, Brunei-Muara and Belait districts.ABOVE & BELOW: Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong cuts the ribbon to mark the launching of One Village, One Product weekly market; and the Minister of Home Affairs talks to a vendor at the market. PHOTOS: JAMES KON
In an interview, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar said, “Being located strategically at the Pasarneka and Tamu Tutong Complex, we believe the weekly market can attract more visitors.
“Although space within the premises can only accommodate 20 vendors, more 1K1P entrepreneurs will be given the opportunity to take part in the coming weeks.”
He added, “The Ministry of Home Affairs is cooperating with Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) in conducting a course for 36 1K1P entrepreneurs, which has helped identify 10 potential 1K1P products to be further developed.
“This programme will continue to be delivered. Apart from providing guidance on entrepreneurship and how to run a business, it will also teach the participants how to boost the quality of their products. Some of them are also involved in the 1K1P weekly market, and they are trying to improve the quality of their packaging and add more variety.
“In the future, these products can become prime products after undergoing an upgrade.”
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar stressed the need for an empowered health system around the world where Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) economies must continue to work together in an integrated manner to support all walks of life to achieve greater peace and stability in the Asia -Pacific region.
He made this statement at the 10th APEC High-Level Meeting on Health and Economy held virtually on Wednesday.
The annual meeting is a forum between governments at ministerial level to discuss issues related to health and economy. The minister also expressed Brunei Darussalam’s support to the APEC leadership and its efforts in line with the World Health Organization (WHO) approach.
The meeting carrying the theme ‘Building a Resilient Asia-Pacific in a COVID-19 World’ among others discussed the proposals to make a health investment that can be beneficial to sustainable economic growth, in addition to establishing mechanisms to strengthen the health system and support digital economy as well as health innovation in tackling the COVID-19 pandemic.
The meeting agreed on the APEC High-Level Meeting on Health and the Economy Joint Statement which among others highlighted the need to invest in health and focus on evidenced-based interventions in prevention and response to COVID-19 pandemic waves which will help in economic recovery, and reduce the likelihood of occurrence of pandemics in the future. The statement elaborated on an agreement to take action to further strengthen the health system, further enhancing efforts to collaborate to obtain an accessible vaccine and continue efforts to addressing other health issues in member countries in the Asia-Pacific.
The meeting involved health ministers from APEC economies, senior government officials, researchers, academia, the private sector and businesses to facilitate integrated action, exchange of best practices and sharing of innovative approaches against cross-border health threats.
The 10th meeting was organised by the Ministry of Health of Malaysia. Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy and Management) at the Ministry of Health Haji Maswadi bin Haji Mohsin and senior officials were also present.
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar at the virtual meeting. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
Indera Motors, the sole distributor and retailer of Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles in Brunei, is opening their doors to clients who are interested in pre-owned cars at its Jaguar Land Rover Approved Pre-owned Weekend from September 25-27.
Customers can learn about the Approved cars premium quality and standards as well as its benefits from Jaguar and Land Rover sales consultants.
Customers can also test-drive Approved cars and walk away with limited-edition merchandise. Customers are entitled to exclusive gift bundles when they make an Approved purchase from September 25 to October 31.
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show Approved Land Rover and Jaguar vehicles. PHOTOS: INDERA MOTORS
