A follow-up of the Operation ‘Musang King’ by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) nabbed 28 more individuals believed to be linked to the family drug syndicate that was busted last month, during raids conducted at nine separate locations in Kampong Ayer in the capital on October 8-9.
According to the NCB, those apprehended comprise 22 males and six females aged between 19 and 54 and two are sons of the main suspects apprehended and charged from a raid that uncovered a massive haul of drugs believed to be syabu or meth on September 10. The spouses of the two sons were also apprehended.
The sons and their spouses, Bruneian citizens, aged between 26 and 35 were apprehended in two different raids at a house in Kampong Saba and Kampong Setia on October 8 while one surrendered to the NCB Headquarters the next day.
NCB added that four other detainees are drug runners of the massive family drug syndicate. The recent raid was one of its largest operations, involving 135 NCB personnel and supported by other security and enforcement agencies.
NCB said that the target was a simultaneous raid focussed on all houses at Kampong Saba, Kampong Setia, Kampong Peramu and Kampong Tamoi in Kampong Ayer.
Crystallised subtances seized during the raid. PHOTOS: NCBOne of the seized boats
They are all believed to be linked to the family drug syndicate, NCB added.
Following the raid and inspection of houses and cars of the suspects, several plastic bags and straws containing crystallised subtances believed to be syabu – a Class ‘A’ Drug, weighing more than two grammes and with an estimated street value of BND500 were seized.
Also seized were a number of appliances and electronic devices such as air conditioners and televisions, mobile phones, jewelleries, two bicycles, seven cars, four boats with its engines and also cash, all believed to be proceeds from drug dealing.
All those apprehended are under investigation under different sections of the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA), Chapter 27 for possessing controlled drugs; consuming controlled drugs; possessing drug paraphernalia for consuming controlled drugs; allowing private premise for the use of drug abuse activity and abetting under the MDA, Chapter 27. They are also being investigated under the Criminal Asset Recovery Order (CARO), 2012, for money laundering.
Following the operation, NCB reminded that they will pursue drug networks in the country, wherever they are. “We will also not compromise with any parties involved in abetting and supporting these illegal activities.”
NCB also extended its appreciation to security and enforcement agencies in the country for their support in executing the operation.
Twenty-two individuals who attended a three-day basic sign language workshop at the Temburong Senior Citizens Activity Centre (PKWE Temburong) are in a better footing with the skill hoped to bridge the gap in communicating with the hearing-impaired.
Permanent Secretary (Community and Culture) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Hajah Nor Ashikin binti Haji Johari presented certificates to participants, comprising those from the PKWE Temburong and Village Consultative Councils of Temburong at the closing ceremony at the National Service Camp at Kampong Batu Apoi in the Temburong District yesterday.
Jointly organised by the Community Development Department (JAPEM) and the National Association for the Hearing-Impaired, the participants were exposed to different modules of sign language, such as the use of hand shapes to spell alphabets and numbers, basic communication and role play activities.
Recognising the importance of sign language as a medium of communication, JAPEM hopes the workshop, that will be extended to PKWE in other districts, will promote ways to communicate with the hearing-impaired and inculcate a life-long learning culture.
Legislative Council (LegCo) member and Penghulu of Mukim Bokok Yang Berhormat Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu attended the workshop and closing ceremony. Acting Temburong District Officer Pengiran Ameer Mubarak bin Pengiran Haji Hashim was also present.
The closing ceremony saw performances using the sign language by participants, as well as a short video clip of the workshop.
Permanent Secretary (Community and Culture) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Hajah Nor Ashikin binti Haji Johari and Legislative Council (LegCo) member and Penghulu of Mukim Bokok Yang Berhormat Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu at the event. PHOTO: JAPEM
In 2019, China was Brunei Darussalam’s fourth largest trading partner with trade flow amounting to approximately BND1.5 billion accounting for 8.9 per cent of Brunei’s total trade.
In addition, China was Brunei Darussalam’s largest source of imports amounting to approximately BND915 million accounting for 13.1 per cent of total imports and China was the sultanate’s seventh largest destination for export amounting to BND584 million accounting for 5.9 per cent of total exports.
The growing bilateral relationship between Brunei Darussalam and China was lauded 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 in his recorded keynote speech at the 11th Pan-Beibu Gulf Economic Cooperation Forum themed ‘Push Forward Brunei-China Cooperation by Improving Interconnection’.
The establishment of Muara Port Company Sdn Bhd (MPC), a joint venture company between the Government of Brunei Darussalam, represented by Darussalam Assets Sdn Bhd and Guangxi Beibu Gulf Port Group, a Chinese state-owned enterprise is an example of this growing cooperation, said Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew. After three-and-a-half years of operation, the minister said, MPC contributed significantly to Brunei Darussalam’s economic diversification efforts by leveraging from Beibu Gulf Port’s extensive expertise and capabilities. “Today we are proud to share that we raised the efficiency of our container port operations by 60 per cent since takeover, achieved higher trade volume by 20 per cent, fostered human capital development and consequently provided further job and business opportunities for our local economy.”
Looking at opportunities for both countries to capitalise, he said, “Brunei Darussalam, rich in natural resources such as oil and natural gas, is located at the centre of the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA). I believe that Brunei-China cooperation not only strengthens the connection between China and BIMP-EAGA countries, but also benefits China-ASEAN cooperation as well as the Belt and Road Initiative.”
He said ASEAN and China are in the midst of establishing a multidimensional logistics network with the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor.
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 in his recorded keynote speech at the 11th Pan-Beibu Gulf Economic Cooperation Forum
This corridor promotes a more efficient logistics network by utilising multiple transport methods and also facilitates trade between ASEAN and Western China.
With strong efforts by China in recent years to promote the development of smart ports in Beibu Gulf, coupled with the strategic location and connection with ASEAN member countries, he said, “Brunei Darussalam is looking at the opportunity through the existing cooperation in ‘Brunei-Guangxi Economic Corridor’ to play a stronger role in the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor.”
The 11th Pan-Beibu Gulf Economic Cooperation Forum and 2020 Beibu Gulf International Gateway Port Cooperation Summit was held in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China yesterday.
Secretary of CPC Guangxi Committee, Chairman of the Standing Committee of Guangxi People’s Congress, China Lu Xinshe; Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Thailand, Jurin Laksanawisit; and Minister of Transport, China, Li Xiaopeng gave live and video keynote speeches for the opening ceremony.
Guangxi Governor Chen Wu, Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew and Malaysia’s Minister of Transport Datuk Seri Ir Dr Wee Ka Siong gave live and video keynote speeches for the forum and 15 domestic and foreign guests delivered their speeches in the seminars.
The theme of this year’s forum is ‘Focussing on International Gateway Port, Jointly Building New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor: A New Era of Pan-Beibu Gulf Cooperation’. Two topics are set under the forum – ‘Jointly Construct Beibu Gulf International Gateway Port and Explore New Model of Interactive Development’ and ‘Build High-Quality New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor to Serve the Development of International Supply Chain’.
Guests focussed on the co-construction of Beibu Gulf International Gateway Port, explored the construction of cross-regional mechanism of contribution and shared benefits in infrastructure, industry, trade, finance and other fields, and studied higher-level cooperation of building the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, maintain and promote the regional opening, security and stability and that of regional international supply chains.
It is believed that building New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor and Beibu Gulf International Gateway Port serves an important role in promoting China-ASEAN Belt and Road international cooperation. As for the forum outcomes, Unified Operation Ceremony of Qinzhou International Container Terminal, Commencement Ceremony of Zhonggu Qinzhou Container Multimodal Transport Logistics Base, Launch of Port and Shipping All-in-One Service Platform of Beibu Gulf International Gateway Port, Launching Ceremony of ASEAN (Cambodia)-Beibu Gulf Port Fruit Express Line and Release Ceremony of Guangxi Water Transport and Port Development Fund have been carried out.
Coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area, the forum marked the pragmatic and accelerated progress of the joint construction of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor and the Beibu Gulf International Gateway Port, bringing new impetus to the Pan-Beibu Gulf sub-regional cooperation and China-ASEAN connectivity.
Brunei Darussalam’s total trade was valued at BND1,330.7 million in July, an increase by 22.1 per cent from BND1,089.8 million during the same month last year, said the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics under the Ministry of Finance and Economy in a statement yesterday.
It added that for month-to-month changes, the total trade increased by 17.5 per cent from June to July.
Meanwhile, “total exports decreased by 24.2 per cent year-on-year to BND508.5 million compared to BND670.8 million in July 2019”, which the agency attributed to “the decline in crude oil exports from BND251.6 million in July 2019 to BND86.5 million in July 2020 and liquefied natural gas (LNG) from BND339.9 million in July 2019 to BND212.6 million in July 2020”.
The decline in exports of crude oil and LNG, the department said, was due to the slow global demand – crude oil, in particular – amid the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with a decrease in crude oil and LNG export prices.
“The total export volume of crude oil decreased to 45.73 thousand barrels per day in July 2020 from 86.88 thousand barrels per day in July 2019, while the average export prices of crude oil fell to USD43.96 per barrel in July 2020 from USD68.77 per barrel in July 2019,” it said.
Meanwhile, exports of LNG declined due to a decrease in the average export price to USD5.69 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) in July 2020 from USD10.87 per MMBtu in July 2019.
In terms of commodity by section, the department said mineral fuels are major contributors to Brunei Darussalam’s exports at 81.5 per cent, followed by chemicals at 17.4 per cent, miscellaneous manufactured articles at 0.3 per cent, miscellaneous transactions at 0.3 per cent and food at 0.2 per cent.
The main export market in July 2020 was Japan at 22.6 per cent, followed by Singapore at 19.1 per cent and Malaysia at 17.1 per cent.
For imports, the total value increased from BND419 million in July 2019 to BND822.2 million in July 2020.
The five main import commodities were – mineral fuels at 40.1 per cent; machinery and transport equipment at 24.4 per cent; manufactured goods at 12.7 per cent; chemicals at 9.1 per cent; and food at 8.6 per cent.
In the ‘By End Use’ category, imports of intermediate goods accounted for 56.5 per cent of total imports, followed by capital goods at 38.3 per cent and consumption goods at 5.2 per cent.
For imports by trading partners, the department said the highest share was from Malaysia at 20.8 per cent, followed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at 11 per cent and Nigeria at 10.2 per cent.
According to the mode of transport, the highest share was transported by sea, amounting to BND1,212.9 million or 91.1 per cent, followed by air at BND91.6 million or 6.9 per cent and land at BND26.1 million or two per cent.
The International Merchandise Trade Statistics (IMTS) for Brunei Darussalam adopts the general system for recording trade statistics, which covers imports, domestic exports and re-exports.
The IMTS full report for July is available at www.deps.gov.bn.
Modasys Technology recently launched HeloBN, a one-hub mobile application with the slogan ‘Made In Brunei, By Brunei, For Brunei’ that allows access to a wide variety of services such as telecommunications and information, shopping, news and radio stations.
Modasys Technology Executive Director Haji Mohamad Fawzi bin Haji Zainal Abidin launched the app at IBowl Utama.
Haji Mohamad Fawzi said the company is open to working with local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to raise the public profile of their products and services via the platform.
HeloBN is available for download on the Android Play Store and will be available for Apple users in the near future, he said.
“Our company has put a lot of effort into designing the app,” Haji Mohamad Fawzi said. “It took us three years of gathering ideas to putting the product together.”
Meanwhile, the launch also saw prizes presented to lucky winners of a social media competition. The winners – Pengiran Nurajlaamajidah binti Pengiran Haji Ibrahim, Mashuara Haji Ali and Siti Frezah binti Haji Nayan – received a carton of Kure water and a HeloBN shirt.
Modasys Technology Executive Director Haji Mohamad Fawzi bin Haji Zainal Abidin launches the app. PHOTO: IZAH AZAHARI
Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman attended the virtual ASEAN-UNICEF Conference on Digital Transformation of the Education System throughout ASEAN yesterday.
The event was co-hosted by Vietnam’s Ministry of Education and Training, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the ASEAN Secretariat and officiated by Vietnam’s Minister of Education and Training Pung Xuan Nha, ASEAN Secretary-General Dato Paduka Lim Jock Hoi and UNICEF Regional Director Karin Hulsof.
The objectives were to recognise the growing urgency to promote digital literacy and transferable skills across the ASEAN education system and to share good practices while highlighting their challenges.
The conference comprised three ministerial sharing sessions during which the minister shared the initiatives taken by Brunei’s Ministry of Education (MoE) in its journey towards digital education. It included the focus on capacity building in terms of enhancement of digital readiness of teachers and school leaders, digital competencies for students and equitable access to digital learning.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the MoE Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati binti Haji Tajuddin and officers from the MoE also attended the event.
Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman. PHOTO: MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
Ghanim International Corporation Sdn Bhd and Hamitan Marketing inked a Distributorship Agreement, for the nationwide distribution of bruneihalalfoods products yesterday.
Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Economy) and Chairman of Ghanim International Corporation Sdn Bhd Dato Seri Paduka Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin witnessed the
signing ceremony.
Chief Executive Officer Dr Nur Rahman signed on behalf of Ghanim International Corporation, while Hamitan Marketing was represented by its Managing Director Lau Kah Huon.
Dr Nur Rahman highlighted the partnership with Hamitan Marketing, saying, “We are delighted to appoint Hamitan Marketing as the distributor for bruneihalalfoods products to keep up with the growing requirements of the business for stronger visibility and wider distribution network, in line with Ghanim’s growing product portfolio.
“This is the start of a new collaboration with one of Brunei’s leading distributors, Hamitan Marketing, which will significantly open up nationwide distribution opportunities for bruneihalalfoods products across more than 500 retail outlets and independent stores.”
Ghanim International Chief Executive Officer Dr Nur Rahman and Hamitan Marketing Managing Director Lau Kah Huon exchange signed document as Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Economy) Dato Seri Paduka Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin looks on. PHOTOS: JAMES KONDato Seri Paduka Dr Haji Abdul Manaf takes a look at bruneihalalfoods products
He added, “Hamitan Marketing, under the management of Lau, having 35 years of experience, has become one of the large distributors in Brunei Darussalam representing various fast moving consumer goods, pharmaceutical, and health and beauty products from leading brands across Southeast Asia, USA, Australia and Europe.
“At Ghanim, we shall continue to work hard to realise the nation’s aspiration for continued growth of Brunei-made products and use the opportunity to expand Brunei’s potential in developing fast moving goods, not just locally, but also internationally.”
Lau said, “We are excited to partner with Ghanim International Corporation in bringing more locally made bruneihalalfoods products to the market.
“We are thrilled to join Ghanim on this exciting journey, as it embarks on its future expansion and in line with the call from His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, for increasing local business diversification and self-sufficiency.”
Following the signing, Dato Seri Paduka Dr Haji Abdul Manaf took a closer look at the many bruneihahalfoods products on display.
Permanent Secretary (Investment) at the Ministry of Finance and Economy (MoFE) Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abdul Hamid as well as the representatives of major department stores in the country were also present.
The Australian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam in collaboration with the Mahakarya Institute of the Arts Asia (MIAA) brought FLiCKERFEST to Brunei with a showcase of short films from Australia and ASEAN yesterday.
The FLiCKERFEST Short Film Festival is held annually in Sydney and showcases the works of amateur and professional filmmakers from around the world.
In 2019, FLiCKERFEST featured a special category for filmmakers from ASEAN in which Brunei’s Bunga, a short film directed and written by Hanis Hashim, was shortlisted and screened at Bondi Beach in Sydney.
Bunga along with other short films from Australia and ASEAN were screened at MIAA. Guests included local film students, filmmakers and other associations.
FLiCKERFEST’s Director Bronwyn Kidd spoke about how short film festivals can deliver surprising, exciting and ground-breaking content while providing filmmakers with an opportunity to test their work and a build diverse networks within the industry.
Australian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Tiffany McDonald praised Brunei’s local film industry for sharing their stories and experiences through films.
“Australia’s iconic screen industry is an important contributor to our rich cultural life. I am pleased we could share some of that culture with Brunei’s local screen industry, and that we were also able to share some of Brunei’s, and ASEAN’s more broadly, culture with Australia through the FLiCKERFEST Short Film Festival in Sydney earlier this year.
“Growing talent and creative industries is a focus of the Australia Government. I look forward to continuing to strengthen the connections between our two countries in this area, including through the MIAA’s partnership with TAFE Queensland,” she said.
Australian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Tiffany McDonald at Mahakarya Institute of the Arts Asia. PHOTO: AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSION IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
Members of the public can now donate to mosques, suraus and religious halls or Brunei Darussalam Mosque Construction Fund using BIBD QuickPay.
Powered by BIBD NEXGEN, it allows users to pay by scanning a QR code using the BIBD NEXGEN Wallet smartphone app.
This initiative is part of BIBD’s drive to encourage customers to go cashless and digital giving a modern twist to sedekah or charitable practices.
Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman launched the service at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) Mubashar Khokhar was also present.
Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman launches the new service of BIBD QuickPay.ABOVE & BELOW: Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman hands over a BIBD QuickPay QR code; and a poster about the digital transaction service. PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR
Mubashar Khokhar said Brunei has over 500,000 mobile users and there is room for growth in the usage of digital payment.
“One of BIBD’s priorities is to support the nation’s transformation into a cashless society. We are honoured to partner with the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) and are confident this collaboration will serve as an example to become a cashless society,” he said.
Through this initiative, the public can donate without bringing cash. With just their smartphones, they can scan and donate ‘digitally’ thus avoiding the risk of loss and theft.
Sixty-five mosques, suraus and religious halls in the country can accept donations via BIBD QuickPay. The public can also contribute to the Brunei Darussalam Mosque Construction Fund established by consent of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in 2015.
The ceremony continued with a video presentation on the digital payment service and handing over of BIBD QuickPay posters to representatives by the minister.
Staff of Brunei Gas Carriers Sdn Bhd (BGC) participated in the company’s ‘Workplace Wellness Time-Out’ event yesterday in conjunction with World Mental Health Day.
It was organised to promote awareness on mental health issues and foster a workplace that supports and improves the employees’ mental health.
A talk by Clarity Sdn Bhd certified counsellor Hajah Norajleen Uminatul Hafizan binti Haji Alimas on the importance of identifying the stress factors and ways to cope with workplace stress was held. BGC staff also did a Depression, Anxiety and Stress Test as well as ‘Wheel of Life’ activities.
BGC staff and family members also participated in several activities including a Tai Chi session for relieving stress.
Personnel from the Health Promotion Centre (HPC) and Community Development Department (JAPEM) were also present to provide information regarding mental health.
Brunei Gas Carriers Sdn Bhd (BGC) staff participated in the company’s Workplace Wellness Time-Out event to promote awareness on mental health issues and foster a workplace that promotes, supports and improves employees’ mental health, yesterday. Photo shows BGC Deputy Managing Director Shamhary Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha (R) at the event.A participant during an activity. PHOTOS: JAMES KON
Baiduri Bank reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring its customer data is protected to the highest standard when it was recertified to the latest Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) V3.2.1 for the seventh year consecutively.
The PCI-DSS Standard covers several aspects related to protecting customer confidentiality and data including the handling of data by the bank’s systems, guarding against theft of data as well as Internet-based intrusions.
Baiduri Bank Chief Technology Officer Simon Hansman said, “Privacy protection and data security are areas that the bank attaches great importance to. The PCI-DSS certification represents an important milestone for data security in Baiduri’s day-to-day operations.”
Baiduri Bank CEO Ti Eng Hui said, “The bank was first certified PCI-DSS compliant in 2014 with V2.0. Throughout the years, we have strengthened our data security technology and capabilities to provide customers with the highest quality of service with the highest industry data security standard.
“This certification is a testament to our commitment in putting our customers’ data and protection as our utmost priority.”
Baiduri Bank Chief Executive Officer Ti Eng Hui (C), Chief Technology Officer Simon Hansman (2nd left) and Baiduri Bank’s Group Information and Technology Division members in a group photo. PHOTO: BAIDURI BANK
The PCI-DSS is used by all major card brands as the common security standard for its compliance programmes and the PCI-DSS
Version 3.2.1 is the latest and most current standard consisting of steps that mirror best
security practices.
It includes building and maintaining a secure network and systems, protecting cardholder data, maintain a vulnerability management programme, implementing strong access control measures, regular monitoring and testing of the network and maintaining an information security policy.
The standard has been endorsed by major card brands – Visa, Mastercard, Discover Network, American Express and JCB – to safeguard customer information and mandates that merchants and service providers meet and maintain stringent security standards when they process and transmit cardholder data.
Five officers from various government agencies under the 29th Executive Development Programme for Middle Management Officers (EDPMMO), organised by Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), presented contributions of over BND12,000 yesterday towards the One Village, One Product (1K1P) initiative for the Village Consultative Council (MPK) of Kampong Kapok and RPN Meragang, and Al-Minhaaj Centre.
The donation was received by Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Mohamed bin Pengiran Haji Osman @ Othman at the residence of the Acting Village Head of Kampong Kapok and RPN Meragang.
The donation was part of the Al-Markabah Community Outreach Programme to provide transportation for children of low-income families to school.
Meanwhile, the EDPMMO participants have been carrying out surveys since September 30 to collect feedback from low-income students regarding the efficacy of the community outreach programme in collaboration with MPK Kampong Kapok and RPN Meragang.
Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Mohamed bin Pengiran Haji Osman @ Othman receives the contribution. PHOTO: AZIZ IDRIS
DSTIncomm, the retail arm of DST, yesterday launched letsbuy.com.bn, an online marketplace portal that provides a platform for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to run online businesses with little start-up costs and a secure payment gateway.
Chairman of DST Board of Directors Ahmad Jefri bin Abdul Rahman officiated the launch at the DSTIncomm branch in Gadong Properties.
DSTIncomm will provide training for entrepreneurs to guide them through the end-to-end online business process, including developing a product catalogue online, monitoring sales orders and arranging logistics, and a common helpdesk for customer and merchant inquiries.
Chairman of DST Board of Directors Ahmad Jefri bin Abdul Rahman delivers a speech at the DSTIncomm branch in Gadong Properties. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
Datastream Digital Sdn Bhd (DST) brought back its ‘Vote For Your School’ campaign this year to extend appreciation to teachers in the country for their hard work and dedication in moulding the younger generation for a brighter future as part of the Teacher’s Day celebration.
The voting, which ran between September 23 and 26, received overwhelming response from the public.
Members of the public cast their ballots on the best school in five categories – public primary schools, private primary schools, secondary schools, religious schools and higher education institutions.
Public primary schools that received the most votes were Beribi Telanai Primary School, Dato Ratna Haji Mohd Jaafar Primary School and Bandar Seri Begawan Arabic Preparatory School, while the top-voted private primary schools were Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah School, Stella’s School and Seri Mulia Sarjana Jangsak School.
For secondary schools, Pengiran Isteri Hajjah Mariam Serasa Secondary School, Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College and Rimba Arabic School received the most votes, while for religious schools, the top schools were Perpindahan Lambak Kanan Jalan 77 Religious School, Pulaie Religious School and Pengiran Anak Puteri Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam Mulaut Religious School.
Teachers from Seri Mulia Sarjana School, Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and Stella’s School during a celebration at Peak Performance Sdn Bhd. PHOTOS: DSTDST Chief Executive Officer Radin Sufri bin Radin Basiuni with Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) Rector Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal
Meanwhile, higher education institutions that received the most votes were Politeknik Brunei, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) and Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD).
Over the span of two-and-a-half weeks, between October 2 and October 16, teachers from the top 15 schools were treated to games and activities as well as a chance to win prizes.
At each event, the teachers were welcomed by DST Chief Executive Officer Radin Sufri bin Radin Basiuni and other members of the DST team.
Radin Sufri said, “Teachers play such an important role in everyone’s life. We wouldn’t be who we are today if not for the teachers for providing education and guiding us as we were growing up.”
The campaign, he said, was “to show not only our utmost appreciation to all teachers but to those who participated in the Teacher’s Day campaign and showed their appreciation to teachers through our campaign”.
The Manpower Industry Steering Committee Working Group for ICT Sector (MISC-WG ICT) recently conducted its first stakeholders engagement on ICT manpower and employment opportunities with the ICT and non-ICT businesses. The main aims of this engagement are to seek further understanding on the challenges for hiring local ICT professionals as well as to gather feedback and information on ICT manpower needs and future demand.
The events were held on October 13 and 15 for the non-ICT and ICT businesses respectively.
Acting Chief Executive of the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) Haji Jailani bin Haji Buntar and Chairman of InfoCom Federation Brunei (IFB) Sheikh Haji Abas bin Sheikh Mohamad as the co-leads of MISC-WG ICT delivered welcoming remarks.
Haji Jailani said that the MISC-WG ICT has been tasked to look into how to better align the supply and demand of ICT manpower in the country and overcome the skills gaps and mismatch, and further equip ICT graduates to be industry ready.
“In the midst of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR4.0), we have to ensure that the digital skills of our local workforce are also on par with the rest of the world,” he said.
AITI Acting Chief Executive Haji Jailani bin Haji Buntar and Chairman of IFB Sheikh Haji Abas bin Sheikh Mohamad at the event. PHOTO: AITI
Over 50 participants from the non-ICT sector and 90 representatives from ICT businesses attended the engagement. The attendees were briefed on the various manpower development initiatives by the Sekretariat Tetap of the Manpower Planning and Employment Council (MPEC) at the Prime Minister’s Office.
AITI, as the Secretariat of the MISC-WG ICT, also shared on the current manpower landscape of the ICT industry as well as the activities and expected deliverables of the working group.
The engagement concluded with a breakout session moderated by MISC-WG ICT member Dr Yong Tee Chuan. Attendees deliberated on issues pertaining to local hiring of ICT manpower, critical jobs in demand and suggestions to overcome these challenges.
The next engagement will be held with ICT jobseekers on October 19 at JobCentre Brunei. All local ICT jobseekers are welcome to attend. However, seats are limited and will be on a first-come-first-served basis. Interested parties will need to RSVP their names through https://miscict1910.eventbrite.com by 1pm today.
A Doa Selamat was yesterday held for Brunei Darussalam’s 17th International Monitoring Team (IMT) prior to their departure for Mindanao, the Republic of the Philippines on October 20.
Lieutenant Colonel Mohd Fakaruddin Zuraidie bin Haji Ramli will lead the contingent of eight Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) personnel and an officer from the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF).
The ceremony at the Bolkiah Garrison began with the recitation of Sayyidul Istighfar, Surah Al-Fatihah, Tedarus Al-Quran, Surah Yaasiin and Doa Selamat led by Ustaz Mohd Nur Amin bin Haji Jali, and followed by Tazkirah and Sunnat Doha prayer.
Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Commander of the RBAF Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat and Commissioner of Police Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohammad Irwan bin Haji Hambali attended the event.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence (MinDef), service commanders, deputy permanent secretaries at the MinDef, directors, commandants, military and civilian officers and staff of MinDef and RBAF also attended.
Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof with the 17th International Monitoring Team Brunei contingent. PHOTO: MINDEF
Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB) commemorated its 29th anniversary with an annual dinner at the Tarindak D’Seni’s Serambi Suluh Hall in the capital yesterday.
This dinner was also organised as a token of appreciation to its employees for their commitment and hard work over the nearly three decades of establishment.
Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman in his capacity as the Advisor to Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors was the guest of honour.
Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, as the Chairman of Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors and Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Fiscal) Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman, as the Deputy Chairman of Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors were also present.
Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi in his speech encouraged TAIB employees to continue working together and deliver quality banking products and services. He hoped the efforts would make TAIB not just the “financial provider of choice” for the public, but the “financial provider of choice” to work at, while highlighting TAIB’s employees are a key ingredient for its success.
ABOVE & BELOW: Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman presents a certificate; Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof delivers a speech; and TAIB Managing Director Datin Hajah Hasnah binti Haji ibrahim at the event. PHOTOS: HAKIM HAYAT
TAIB Managing Director Datin Hajah Hasnah binti Haji ibrahim in her speech shared some of the initiatives they are currently working towards to remain competitive with other financial institutions in the country. She said by the end of this year, customers can expect new products such as current account and overdraft, as well as a project to enhance their internal and external IT infrastructure that will boost cybersecurity, as well as customer experience.
She also extended her gratitude to the long service recipients and thanked employees for their contribution which led to their success throughout the years.
The highlight of the dinner was the presentation of Long Service Awards to 45 TAIB employees.
The recipients of 25, 20, 15, 10 and five years of service were recognised for their commitment and loyalty to the organisation.
Legal action was taken against 345 foreigners under the Immigration Act and Regulations Chapter 17 for violating Regulation 9(4), an offence for misusing the social visit pass, Regulation 15(2) for misusing work pass and regulations and Regulation 15(3) for not carrying the job stated in the work pass from January 2019 to September 30, the Immigration and National Registration Department (INRD) recorded.
The foreigners were nabbed by immigration enforcement officers during raids on business premises, vegetable farms, stalls selling nasi katok, kueh, flowers, fruits and vegetables and hawkers at villages and fish and meat markets.
If found guilty, an individual faces a fine of not more than BND2,000 or a six-month jail term or both. The suspect is also liable to a BND600 compound fine under Section 58A.
Officers on Thursday targetted three grocery stores in Kampong Serusop under Operasi Pumpung. During the morning operation, officers checked on three foreign men being investigated under the Immigration Act and Regulation Chapter 17 for further action as they are believed to have abused the immigration pass regulations.
Action will be taken against foreigners found guilty, deported to their country and blacklisted, the Law Enforcement Division of INRD stated.
Immigration operations and inspections are carried out based on public tip-offs and cooperation guided with details, individually or jointly with other enforcements agencies and serve to enforce the Immigration Act and Regulations, Passports Act and Regulations.
ABOVE & BELOW: Enforcement personnel take details of a suspect during the operation; and an inspection underway. PHOTOS: JAMES KON & JIPK
It is also carried out to enforce the Prevention of People Smuggling Order 2019 and Anti-Trafficking in Persons Order 2019 as well as to combat activities against the country’s rules and regulations.
Meanwhile, an operation at the Gadong market yesterday was led by the Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Department’s Enforcement Section with the participation of personnel from the INRD, Labour Department and Royal Brunei Police Force.
A suspect allegedly violated Regulation 9(4) of misuse of social pass while another suspect believed to have violated Regulation 15(2) by misusing working pass were nabbed by INRD officers. Three suspects violating rules in the work pass were also nabbed.
Labour Department officers found four Indonesian men, each holding the valid position as a driver, construction worker, fish breeder and fisherman, working as fishmongers and taking care of stalls and selling food.
Labour Department officers also found several offences under Employment Order 2009 where it is believed that employers did not give the employee a day off per week, the work placement of employees not as stated in the Foreign Worker Licence (LPA) and the misuse
of position.
If the suspects are found guilty, the Labour Department will issue compound fines. If a company is found guilty of not providing a day off per week, the company will receive a BND160 compound fine for the first offence and BND320 compound fine for the second offence.
For the offence of placement of worker not stated in the LPA, the company if found guilty, will receive a BND600 compound fine for the first offence and BND900 compound fine for the second offence.
Stall tenants were also found abusing rental requirements under the Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Department by employing foreign workers at stalls registered local Malays and
permanent residents.
Similar operations were also carried out at Tamu Kianggeh complex, Tamu Selera and Bumiputera Trade and Commercial Centre.
The department will continue to monitor and conduct operations and inspections.
Stall owners and entrepreneurs are reminded not to abuse the facilities and assistance provided by the government.
The Health Promotion Centre (HPC), Ministry of Health (MoH) and the Senior Citizens Activity Centre (PKWE) Belait District organised a talk on eye care at the Kampong Pandan Library yesterday, to educate senior citizens on the importance of maintaining good eyesight.
Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital Eye Specialist Pengiran Dr Noor Affizan binti Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahman delivered the talk to 50 PKWE Belait members and their families.
She advised those above 40 years to go for an eye check-up at least once a year, while those with diabetes should have their eyes checked at least twice a year, or as advised by their doctor.
Individuals with a family history of blindness or any eye problems are also encouraged to visit the eye specialist.
The talk concluded with a question and answer session.
The talk, held as part of HPC’s Elderly Health Programme, had been put on hold since the COVID-19 outbreak in Brunei. However, HPC revived and expand the programme to further engage the public, especially senior citizens. Future programmes will include topics on nutrients, first aid, dementia as well as physical/outdoor activities.
Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleh (RIPAS) Hospital Eye Specialist Pengiran Dr Noor Affizan binti Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahman delivers her talkAttendees at the talk. PHOTOS: AZIZ IDRIS
A three-day roadshow held in conjunction with the Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Awareness Campaign kicked off at Hua Ho Manggis Mall on Friday.
A large number of people took the opportunity to visit the participating booths lo learn more about NCD-related health issues.
Organised by the Ministry of Health (MoH) through its Health Promotion Centre (HPC) in collaboration with Hua Ho Manggis Mall, the roadshow runs until today.
A host of activities are being held to raise awareness on NCDs such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, dementia, cancer and its risk factors.
They include a health exhibition, healthy grocery tour (educational tour), Mixed Martial Art demo, breast screening and consultations with health professionals. There is also a children’s colouring competition and mental health poster designing competition today.
HPC strategic partners Demensia Brunei, Renegade Fitness Centre and RespectMe are also participating in the roadshow.
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show visitors taking part in activities at the roadshow. PHOTOS: LYNA MOHAMAD
