Rokiah Mahmud

Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong attended the 42nd Meeting of The ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (the 42nd AMAF), the 20th Meeting of the ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry Plus Three (20th AMAF+3), and the 6th ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting on Agriculture and Forestry (6th AIMMAF) via video conference on Wednesday.

The 42nd AMAF Meeting was chaired by Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Cambodia Veng Sakhon.

The ASEAN ministers reiterated the importance of the Statement of the ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry in Response to the Outbreak of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) to Ensure Food Security, Food Safety and Nutrition in ASEAN released on April 15. The meeting expressed satisfaction on the progress made in the implementation of the Strategic Plan of Food Agriculture and Forestry (SP-FAF) 2016-2025, including the achievement of key deliverables in 2020. The ASEAN ministers endorsed the Mid-Term Review of the Vision and Strategic Plan for ASEAN Cooperation in Food.

SP-FAF, 2016-2025 and its Sectoral Plans of Action (SPAs), 2016-2020, highlighted the key challenges, opportunities and recommendations for the sector in the years to come. The ministers noted the progress in the implementation of the key deliverables for the food, agriculture and forestry sector in 2020, and adopted 10 indicative deliverables across livestock, crops, fisheries and forestry in 2021. The meeting also endorsed the new ASEAN Integrated Food Security (AIFS) Framework and Strategic Plan of Action on ASEAN Food Security (SPAFS) 2021-2025 to ensure long-term food security and to improve the livelihoods of farmers.

The ASEAN ministers adopted the Resolution and Plan of Action on Sustainable Fisheries for Food Security for the ASEAN Region Towards 2030, which outlines the priority actions for improving food security and improving the livelihoods of ASEAN people dependent on the harvesting, farming and marketing of fish and fishery products.

Meanwhile, in a joint statement for the 20th AMAF+3, the ASEAN ministers reaffirmed on the commitment to ensuring sustainable food sources and the unimpeded flow of food in the region and recognised the important role of ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR), and the ASEAN Food Security Information System (AFSIS) in reducing excessive price volatility of food, and agreed to continue our efforts to effectively implement the APTERR and AFSIS to ensure a stable supply of emergency rice reserves.

The ASEAN ministers were pleased with the progress made in the implementation of the ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation Strategy (APTCS) 2016-2025 in the strategic areas of strengthening food security, sustainable forest management, climate change mitigation and adaptation, animal and plant health and disease control, capacity-building and human resource development, strengthening of information system and knowledge networking and exchange, enhancing productivity, quality and marketability of agricultural products, and research and development.

The ASEAN ministers also noted the serious threat of Fall Armyworm to agriculture and food security of the region and encouraged the ASEAN Plus Three countries to support the implementation of the ASEAN Action Plan on Fall Armyworm 2020 – 2025. The ASEAN ministers also congratulated the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) on 60 years of service, and for its contribution of rice varieties, rice research and capacity building for the region.

The ASEAN ministers also conveyed their appreciation on the progress of the Research Project on Cold Chain Development and Application of Digital Technologies to FVC, towards Higher Value Added of ASEAN Agriproducts that the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) is implementing, and noted the utilisation of digital technology is one of the important cooperation areas for development of the ASEAN food value chain.

The ASEAN ministers on Agriculture and Forestry extended their appreciation to the People’s Republic of China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea for the continuous support and commitment to enhancing the ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation in Food, Agriculture and Forestry. The next meeting will be held at the 21st Meeting of AMAF Plus Three in Indonesia in 2021.

At the 6th AIMMAF, co-chaired by Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Cambodia and Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare of India Kailash Choudhary, the ASEAN ministers reaffirmed the commitment to ensuring the unimpeded flow of safe and nutritious agricultural produce in the region. The ASEAN ministers highlighted the progress made in the implementation of the Medium-Term Plan of Action for ASEAN-India Cooperation in Agriculture and Forestry (2016–2020) particularly in strengthening the regional capacity on the use of science-based interventions and sharing good agricultural practices for the overall development of the region, and strengthening collaborations through strategic expert interactions in agriculture, livestock and fishery sectors.

The ASEAN Ministers adopted the Medium-Term Plan of Action for ASEAN-India Cooperation in Agriculture and Forestry (2021-2025) and tasked senior officials on the implementation of the Plan of Action particularly the priority projects relating to the ASEAN-India fellowship for higher education in agriculture, exchange visits for farmers in ASEAN and India, climate-smart agriculture, application of robotics and drones in agriculture production and electromagnetic waves in food processing, promotion of post-harvest technology for fruits and vegetables, and trans boundary diseases and health management in agriculture, the ministers said.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

The Brunei-Muara District Office yesterday donated to Centre for Children with Special Needs (KACA) and Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei with funds raised during its JDBM Virtual Charity Run last month.

The donation of BND3,285 was handed over to the organisations by Brunei-Muara District Officer Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim.

The virtual run was a project under Brunei Bersih programme to raise public awareness on the importance of hygiene while raising funds for communities in need.

The event attracted the participation of 870 individuals to perform activities ranging from jogging to walking and cycling.

The charity run also presented seven lucky participants with BND50 meal vouchers and one-night stay at The Brunei Hotel.

Seven hundred participants also received a water pack from Cuckoo.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

The Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha (RIPAHS) Mosque Takmir Committee and Muslimah Affairs Division of the Brunei-Muara Mosque Affairs Department held a Doa Kesyukuran at RIPAHS Mosque on Thursday to mark the birthday of Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam.

The Acting Mosque Affairs Director’s spouse Hajah Aisyah Raudhah @ Hajah Rosni binti Haji Abdul Ghani was the guest of honour.

The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, led by the guest of honour, followed by the mass recitation of Surah Al-Mulk, led by Hajah Rusita binti Haji Yahya from Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit Mosque in Mukim Kilanas and Ar-Rahman Mosque in Kampong Tanjung Bunut mosques.

The event was further enlivened with a Dikir Asyraqal, performed by members of the Muslimah Guidance Class at RIPAHS Mosque.

To bless the occasion, a Doa Kesyukuran was read by Hajah Rusita following which she received a souvenir from the guest of honour along with Head of Brunei-Muara Zone, Muslimah Affairs Division of the Mosque Affairs Department Pengiran Hajah Maswita binti Pengiran Haji Sabtu.

The ceremony held for the first time to seek protection from Allah the Almighty for Her Majesty was also aimed at providing congregants with the understanding of the benefits of reciting Surah Al-Mulk while strengthening ties among members of the Muslimah Guidance Class.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Daniel Lim

The sign language workshop organised in the Belait District by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS), through the Community Development Department (JAPEM), in collaboration with the National Association for the Hearing-Impaired (OKP) concluded yesterday.

Seventeen members of the Senior Citizens Activity Centre (PKWE) and village consultative councils in the Belait District attended the three-day course aimed at bridging the communication gap between hearing and speech-impaired persons and others.

The closing ceremony began with a recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, led by a participant of the Executive Development Programme for Middle Management Officers (EDPMMO).

This was then followed by a singing performance of Rasa Sayang by the workshop participants, conducted in parallel with a sign language translation onstage.

Participants received certificates from Legislative Council member and Acting Penghulu of Mukim Labi Yang Berhormat Hanapi bin Mohd Siput.

Manager of PKWE Belait Salimo told the Bulletin that the experience was daunting, but rewarding.

“We want to continue learning, and we’ve encouraged participants to apply the use of sign language in everyday life,” he said.

“We will also pass what we’ve learned to our grandchildren, to pave the way for a more inclusive society.”

Similar workshops are being scheduled across the country. For those interested, contact the People with Different Abilities (OKU) Department through the hotline at 2330315 or email pusatbahagia@gmail.com.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

Twenty-one participants of the Basic Investigation Course by the office of the Boards of Management, Ministry of Health (MoH) in collaboration with the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) received their certificates of participation at a closing ceremony on Wednesday.

Guest of honour Acting Director General of Health and Medical Services at the MoH Pengiran Dr Haji Mohd Khalifah bin Pengiran Haji Ismail presented the certificates to the participants and souvenirs to the RBPF and course facilitators.

Deputy commandant of the Police Training Centre and senior officers from the RBPF were also present.

The three-day course, from October 19 to 21, aimed at upgrading and strengthening participants’ knowledge and experience in executing enforcement responsibilities in the fields of intelligence, investigation and prosecution.

Participants comprised officers from the Boards of Management and the boards under it – Brunei Medical Board, Nursing Board for Brunei, Brunei Pharmacy Board, Allied Health Professions Council of Brunei Darussalam, Traditional and Complimentary Medicine Unit, Enforcement and Licensing Facility and Health Professional Unit.

Officers from the Licensing and Compliance Section, Department of Pharmaceutical Services and the Department of Dental Services, MoH also participated.

The course exposed participants on the roles within the investigation team, crime scene management, statement taking, case management and prosecution and intelligence gathering methods.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Rokiah Mahmud

The Royal Thai Embassy in Brunei Darussalam held a screening of the official opening of the 3rd Princess Maha Chakri Award (PMCA) Forum in Bangkok via virtual conference yesterday.

Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn presided over the two-day forum, which provides a platform for the 2019 award recipients to share their experiences and best practices.

Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati binti Haji Tajuddin and Thai Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Wanthanee Viputwongsakul were present.

The Royal Thai Embassy invited three local teachers, who were previous PMCA recipients.

They are 2019 awardee Hajah Noorliah binti Haji Aspar, 2017 awardee Lim Soh Ngo and 2015 awardee Hajah Ratnawati binti Haji Mohammad.

Hajah Noorliah shared the projects and programmes in which she was involved in and future plans.

Hajah Noorliah and the other recipients were chosen for the award through a selection process set by the PMCA Foundation with the education ministries from all ASEAN member countries and Timor-Leste.

The biennial award was established in 2015 during Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand’s 60th birthday celebration.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman, Daniel Lim & Lyna Mohamad

Delegations from various ministries have been attending religious events held across the country as part of the 12-night event to mark the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

Yesterday evening, a delegation from the Ministry of Defence (MinDef) and Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) attended a Dikir Syarafil Anam at Kampong Jungongan Mosque, led by Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof.

Permanent Secretary at the MinDef Brigadier General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Shahril Anwar bin Haji Ma’awiah, deputy permanent secretaries at the MinDef and senior officials from the MinDef and RBAF as well as Acting Village Head of Kampong Junjongan Haji Tamam @ Haji Ahmad Shah Tamami bin Haji Timbang were also present.

The event commenced after the Maghrib prayers with the recitation of Surah Yaasiin, led by Kampong Junjongan Mosque Imam Haji Khairul bin Haji Hakim followed by Dikir Syarafil Anam. After the Isyak prayer, the Religious Department of the RBAF presented the Qasidah, followed by Dikir Marhaban by the delegation and the congregants.

The ceremony continued with Doa, read by Haji Khairul followed by the recitation of Doa Peliharakan Sultan dan Brunei Darussalam.

Meanwhile, a delegation from the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) held an Ihya Maulidur Rasul ceremony at Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah Mosque in Kampong Sungai Kelugos, Tutong District on Wednesday evening as part of the 12-night event to mark the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

The ceremony was joined by Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar.

The Dikir Maulud event is held at mosques, suraus and religious halls nationwide to gain blessings from Allah the Almighty and to instil awareness and repentance among Ummah to remember the sacrifice of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in propagating Islam, as well as to gain reward and assistance for those praising the Prophet through Selawat.

A delegation from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) also attended a Dikir Maulud ceremony at Kampong Bukit Sawat Mosque in rural Belait on Tuesday evening.

Leading the group of senior officials and staff was Permanent Secretary (Security, Welfare and Law) at the MoHA Mohd Amir Hairil bin Haji Mahmud.

Legislative Council (LegCo) members and Penghulu of Mukim Liang Yang Berhormat Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin and Acting Penghulu of Mukim Labi Yang Berhormat Hanapi bin Mohd Siput as well as Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary (Security, Welfare and Law) at the MoHA Azmi bin Haji Hafneh, Belait District Officer Ramlee bin Haji Jamudin, heads of departments under the ministry, officers and staff of the district office, penghulus, village heads and members of village consultative councils.

The ceremony began with a mass Maghrib prayer, followed by the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by the permanent secretary as the head of delegation.

Dikir Assalamualaika and Dikir Syarafil Anam were held, followed by a mass Isyak prayer before concluding with Dikir Marhaban and Doa Peliharakan Sultan dan Brunei Darussalam.
The delegation also joined a Dikir Maulud ceremony at Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Wakeel Mosque in Kiudang, Tutong District last night, organised by the Kampong Kiudang Village Consultative Council in collaboration with the Tutong District Office, Tutong District’s Mosque Affairs Department and the Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Wakeel Mosque Takmir Committee.

Among those in the delegation were Deputy Permanent Secretary at the MoHA (Municipal and District) Abdul Walid bin Haji Matassan and Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary (Security, Welfare and Law) at the MoHA Azmi bin Haji Hefneh.

Legislative Council (LegCo) members Yang Berhormat Haji Umarali bin Esung and Yang Berhormat Haji Ramli bin Haji Lahit as well as Acting Tutong District Officer Ajmin bin Haji Meludin, department heads and staff at the MoHA, penghulus and village heads in the Tutong District were also present.

The event opened with a mass Maghrib prayer and concluded with the recitation of Doa before a mass Isyak prayer.

The delegations are set to take part in similar events in selected mosques in the coming days, with MoRA to join the religious ceremony at Kampong Selangan Mosque in the Temburong District after tomorrow’s Maghrib prayer.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

Brunei Darussalam recorded a new case of COVID-19 yesterday when a foreign man who arrived in the country on October 16 was tested positive for the disease. The 40-year-old is receiving treatment at the National Isolation Centre (NIC).

The number of COVID-19 cases in Brunei has reached 148.

This was revealed by 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 as Acting Minister of Health in a press conference at Al-‘Afiah Hall of the Ministry of Health (MoH) yesterday.

The minister said, “Case 148 is a man aged 40 who arrived in Brunei on Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) flight BI874 seated at 27A on October 16 from Kuala Lumpur. He showed signs of infection (coughs) today. He is now treated and monitored at the NIC.”

He added that MoH identified 18 contacts of which 10 have undergone the COVID-19 swab test and were confirmed negative. The rest are still waiting test results.

With the latest case, the minister said, ”Seven import cases have been confirmed since the last local infection was reported on May 6. At present, Brunei recorded 169 days without local infection.”

He also revealed that 295 individuals are undergoing mandatory self-isolation at the monitoring centres provided by the government after arriving from abroad.

Some 7,248 individuals have completed self-isolation at the monitoring centres.

In the past 24 hours, 284 samples were tested for the SARS-CoV-2 virus that brings the total number of laboratory tests conducted since January 2020 to 65,947.

The minister reminded the public to practise personal hygiene, proper cough and sneezing etiquette and wear face masks in crowded public places. If feeling unwell, not to go to public places and attend social gatherings. The public is also urged to use BruHealth app and scan QR codes when entering and exiting premises.

In its breakdown of COVID-19 cases in the country, healthinfo.gov.bn revealed there were 114 cases in the Brunei-Muara District, 28 in the Belait District and six in the Tutong District.

Information can be obtained from the MoH official website at www.moh.gov.bn, Health Advice Line at 148, or through the BruHealth app or healthinfo.gov.bn webapp.

Borneo Bulletin Online

The Indian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam, in cooperation with Indian associations in Brunei – ie Indian Association of Belait (IAB), Bandar Seri Begawan Indian Association (BSBIA) and Malayali Association (MA) – organised the fifth chartered flight operated by Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) for the departure of 139 stranded Indian nationals from Brunei to Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India yesterday.

A total of 685 stranded Indian nationals have returned to India on chartered flights from July to October.

Indian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam Charge d’Affaires Ravi Chandar and other Indian High Commission officials bade the Indian nationals off at the Brunei International Airport.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Rokiah Mahmud

The Group of Wives of Cabinet Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Permanent and Deputy Permanent Secretaries and its Affiliated Members paid a visit to the Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre (PJSC) yesterday, with the objective of learning more about the factors causing different types of cancer, particularly breast cancer.

Leading the group was the spouse of the Minister of Home Affairs, Datin Paduka Hajah Jahrah binti Haji Mohamad, in her capacity as Chairperson II of the group.

On hand to welcome them were PJSC Executive Director Dr Haji Mazrul Adimin bin Haji Besar; Director of The Brunei Cancer Centre (TBCC) Dato Seri Laila Jasa Dr Babu Sukumaran and spouse of the Minister of Health, Datin Dr Hajah Noraslinah binti Haji Ramlee, in her capacity as Head of the Early Detection and Cancer Prevention (EDCP) Unit at PJSC.

The group was briefed on the range of services provided at the EDCP Unit by Datin Dr Hajah Noraslinah, who also described the screening examinations conducted on healthy individuals for the early detection of breast cancer, cervical cancer and colorectal cancer.

This was followed with a breast self-examination (BSE) demonstration by Breast Care Nurse Nurul Huda binti Muhamad.

The group was then invited for a closer look at the services and facilities provided at the EDCP Unit, along with a video presentation and an exhibition in the lobby area, for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The group visited an art gallery showcasing works by local artists, which are offered for sale to support efforts in cancer detection and prevention.

Before concluding the visit, the group participated in a sharing session with PJSC Oncologist Consultant Dr Raden Mas Jeffri bin Mas Ismail, on the topic of ‘Breast Cancer – Why it Matters’.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) joined in on the global Breast Cancer Awareness Month initiative by holding a charity fundraiser at RB Campus yesterday.

The event saw various activities taking place including a bake sale and charity auction featuring pink desserts symbolising the breast cancer awareness campaign. All proceeds were donated to Children’s Cancer Foundation (YASKA) and Brunei Breast Cancer Support Group (BBCSG), and received by YASKA Board member Siti Zaleha Abdi Manaf and BBCSG President Hajah Aminah binti Haji Momin.

A breast cancer screening booth was also provided by Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) for RB’s female staff.

Acting Chief Executive Officer of RB Martin Aeberli said, “We’re delighted to organise the breast cancer awareness day as health and wellness of our people is among the top priorities here in RB.”

He added that the fundraiser “is our way to give back to the community for their on-going support for the national carrier. We’re happy to have this opportunity to raise funds for YASKA and BBCSG”.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

An Iban teenager embraced the Islamic faith in a ceremony at the Islamic Da’wah Centre’s (PDI) Al-Muhtadiin Room yesterday.

Nineteen-year-old Liaty anak Jelidi’s conversion ceremony was witnessed by PDI Director Haji Abdul Rajid bin Haji Mohd Salleh.

She has assumed the name Nur Liaty Aqilah binti Jalidi.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by Nur Liaty Aqilah reciting the Syahadah.

Nur Liaty Aqilah was also presented with a souvenir by the guest of honour followed by a recitation of Doa Selamat.

Assistant Director of PDI Abdul Aziz bin Haji Abdul Kahar, Acting Special Duties Officer Grade I Ali Hassan bin Mohd Said, Senior Religious Officer Ruslan bin Haji Sulaiman, Head of Muallaf Development Division Dr Hajah Rohanita binti Haji Yaakub and officers and staff of PDI were also present.

PDI recorded 310 people embraceing Islam between January and October 12 out of which 149 are from the Brunei-Muara District.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman

The Ministry of Finance and Economy (MoFE) and the departments under it held a Dikir Syarafil Anam to mark the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) at the Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Mosque yesterday.

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 was present.

Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Fiscal) Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman, heads of departments and divisions, officers and staff also participated.

This year’s Dikir Syarafil Anam for the MoFE and the departments under it is coordinated by the Treasury Department.

Borneo Bulletin Online

The Culture and the Arts Sector, including the creative industries, has not been spared from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted ASEAN to adapt to the situation and adopt new norms, leveraging on technology with a strong determination to be more cohesive in its responses.

This was highlighted by 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 9th Meeting of the ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Culture and Arts (AMCA) via video conference yesterday.

Chaired by Minister of Culture and Fine Arts of the Kingdom of Cambodia Dr Phoeurng Sackona, the meeting was attended by ministers responsible for Culture and the Arts from ASEAN and Dialogue Partners China, Japan and the Republic of Korea, as well as the ASEAN Secretary General.

The meeting, with the theme Impact of COVID-19 and Way Forward for the Culture and Arts Sector, agreed on the importance of continuing ASEAN’s efforts in combatting the effects of COVID-19, particularly towards cultural practices, cultural industries and creative industries.

The AMCA Ministers agreed to continue to work together in the culture and the arts sectors.

The ability of the creative sector in adapting to the new norms of virtual service delivery was also highlighted, in which new technology was optimised to ensure business continuity through e-library and e-exhibition platforms; the rise in e-commerce, e-performances and online trainings; digital entrepreneurs; and new media.

Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan shared the way forward for ASEAN in the Culture and the Arts Sector, namely leveraging on technology to bridge ASEAN people, artists, artisans and cultural practitioners. Technology should be used to foster relationships towards a stronger ASEAN Community. AMCA should also nurture innovation and creativity through virtual means, and increase the diversity of multi-media content, to promote traditional and contemporary ASEAN artistic expressions.

In addition, engaging discussions through online consultation between policy makers, professionals, practitioners and institutions to strengthen cultural heritage management; and tapping the benefits of e-commerce to spur the development of Creative Industries. With the rise of young content creators, Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan highlighted the importance of greater synergy between relevant ASEAN sectoral bodies and strategic partners to develop the digital capabilities of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the creative sector.

The ministers issued a joint statement which stated the AMCA Ministers’ support and commitment to promote and mainstream the Narrative of ASEAN Identity in the anticipation of its adoption by the ASEAN Leaders in the 37th ASEAN Summit.

The ministers also reiterated that the ASEAN Identity would be strengthened by drawing on ASEAN’s mutual inherited and constructed values.

They welcomed the progress of the implementation of the Strategic Plan for Culture and Arts (2016-2025), noted the development of the Key Performance Indicators for Culture and the Arts Sector, and looked forward to the operationalisation of the KPI which is approaching its mid-term implementation.

In their meeting with dialogue partners China, Japan and Republic of Korea, the ministers expressed their appreciation on the implementation of the Plans of Action and stressed the importance of the cooperation in the areas of cultural exchange, cultural heritage management and human resource development.

The ministers were of the view that the establishment of the ASEAN Plus Three Culture Cities Network laid solid foundations for the long-term partnership between ASEAN and the Plus Three countries for advancing and expanding city-level exchanges.

The meeting also witnessed the launching of Siem Reap in the Kingdom of Cambodia, as the ASEAN City of Culture for 2020-2022.

The 9th AMCA and Related Meetings with Dialogue Partners was preceded by the 16th Senior Officials Meetings Responsible for Culture and Arts and related meetings with dialogue partners.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

Legislative Council (LegCo) member Yang Berhormat Haji Abdul Hamid @ Sabli bin Haji Arshad said there are ample opportunities for locals to venture into the field  of entrepreneurship.

“However, maybe there is a lack of interest from locals while the attitude of looking for an easy path by providing the opportunity to foreign entrepreneurs to make use of the local business licence led to the opportunities being grabbed by foreign entrepreneurs,” he said.

Yang Berhormat Haji Abdul Hamid @ Sabli, who is also the Brunei Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DPPMB) President, made these comments as the guest of honour at the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between DPPMBand LiveWIRE Brunei at Parkview Hotel yesterday.

He said, “Government agencies carried out a number of measures in addressing and reducing unemployment by providing opportunities to local businesses. Efforts are also already in place and will be carried out by Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP), banks and other companies through their programmes.

“It is hoped that more companies will also support the entrepreneurship development programmes and provide jobs to locals while they obtain knowledge by participating in business courses. Age is not an obstacle. What is most important are the will and want to succeed. ”

On the signing that can leverage on each other’s strength, the LegCo member said, “DPPMB and LiveWIRE Brunei have the same mission and vision of developing local  entrepreneurship skills.

“DPPMB and LiveWIRE Brunei have their own programmes. DPPMB lacks hard and soft skills while LiveWIRE Brunei has advantages on both skills.

“DPPMB has many experienced and skilled members who can share or mentor in entrepreneurship development.

“The signing of the MoU cemented the cooperation between DPPMB and LiveWIRE Brunei to work together in providing leadership, guidance and support to the programmes of both organisations to achieve success on two aspects – programmes that have an impact to employment and in the field of entrepreneurship.”

The MoU signing is also in line with the strategic plan portfolio 2020 objectives of strengthening Malay businesses and employers to lead the country’s economic development to achieve Brunei  Vision 2035.

The aim of the MoU signing is to officially cement cooperation between DPPMB and LiveWIRE Brunei. DPPMB and LiveWIRE Brunei are already helping Malay businessmen and youth by hosting the entrepreneurship workshops.

The workshops aim to raise skills, knowledge and strengthen business plans to become sustainable and dynamic.

DPPMB was represented by its Secretary General Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Sirat while representing BSP was its In-Country Value Manager Hajah Rosita binti Haji Hassan who is also LiveWIRE Brunei chairperson. The event was witnessed by Yang Berhormat Haji Abdul Hamid @ Sabli.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Hakim Hayat

Chairman of Baiduri Bank Group Board of Directors Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Dr Abdul Fattaah said businesses, whether start-ups or established, need to express their business goals clearly and tangibly to be effective.

He made these remarks at the conclusion of the TRANSFORM 2020 event, a collaborative effort led by Asia Inc Forum as Convenor and Baiduri Bank as Presenting Sponsor.

The event at Baiduri Bank headquarters on Jalan Gadong engaged young Brunei business founders in conversation on how to bring their businesses to the next level.

The event was facilitated by Asia Inc Forum Chairman Dato Timothy Ong and is part of Asia Inc Forum’s TRANSFORM 2020 Programme for Brunei businesses. Twenty local business founders and mentors took part in an active exchange of ideas and experiences on how to visualise and describe business goals more effectively.

Shazali & Partners founder and partner Shazali Sulaiman was one of the mentors. He said, “It was very interesting to understand how these founders framed their value propositions and deployed their strategies to get to the next level. Most were impacted by COVID-19 in different ways and I commend these entrepreneurs for their receptiveness and positivity in embracing uncertainty and overcoming challenges to keep their businesses relevant.”

TRANSFORM 2020 is supported by Progresif, Kingston Beverage and Creamery, and Archipelago Group, and Borneo Bulletin and Media Permata as print and digital media supporters.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman

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 and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam attended the Royal Burial Ceremony of His Majesty’s son, Al-Marhum His Royal Highness Prince Haji ‘Abdul ‘Azim at the Royal Mausoleum yesterday.

Also in attendance were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah and Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Bini Hajah Faizah binti Dato Haji Nasir; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Norhayati binti Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahman; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Nor’ain; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Nasibah; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Jefriah.

Prior to the ceremony, Their Majesties, as well as other members of the royal family proceeded to Baitul Rahmah, Istana Nurul Iman for a mass Jenazah prayer led by State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned.

Their Majesties, along with other members of the royal family, then proceeded to the Royal Burial Ceremony at the Royal Mausoleum.

At the Royal Burial Ceremony, the recitation of Tahlil and Doa was led by Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Setia Raja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Haji Awang Suhaili bin Haji Mohiddin. A recitation of Talqin was read by Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Salim bin Haji Besar.

Their Majesties, followed by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen, and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel then poured the ayer asah-asahan (scented water) on the grave of Al-Marhum His Royal Highness Prince Haji ‘Abdul ‘Azim.

Also pouring the ayer asah-asahan was Yang Mulia Puan Hajah Mariam binti Haji Abdul Aziz, the mother of Al-Marhum His Royal Highness Prince Haji ‘Abdul ‘Azim.

Also present at the Royal Burial Ceremony was His Highness Tunku Idris Iskandar Al-Haj ibni Sultan Ibrahim, Tunku Temenggong Johor, as personal representative of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Iskandar, Sultan Yang Di-Pertuan of Johor Darul Ta’zim.

Born on July 29, 1982, Al-Marhum His Royal Highness Prince Haji ‘Abdul ‘Azim passed away yesterday morning, 7^th of Rabiulawal, 1442 Hijrah corresponding to October 24, at 10.08am, at the age of 38.

Al-Marhum His Royal Highness Prince Haji ‘Abdul ‘Azim received his early education at International School Brunei and went for further studies at the Raffles Institution, Republic of Singapore, and subsequently studied at Oxford Brookes University, United Kingdom.

In his lifetime, Al-Marhum His Royal Highness Prince Haji ‘Abdul ‘Azim was awarded the Royal Family Order of the Crown of Brunei (DKMB), the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Medal (PHBS), and the Golden Jubilee Medal (Gold Medal). Al-Marhum His Royal Highness Prince Haji ‘Abdul ‘Azim was known as a virtuous person who was active in various charities such as arts, youth and welfare, especially in helping persons with different disabilities and autism.

Earlier, His Majesty announced to the people and residents of Brunei Darussalam, with the fate of Allah the Almighty and with deepest sorrow, that His Royal Highness Prince Haji ‘Abdul ‘Azim passed away yesterday, 7^th of Rabiulawal, 1442 Hijrah, corresponding to October 24 at 10.08am.

People and residents of Brunei Darussalam were required to hoist the national flag at half-mast (only on October 24), and mourn for seven days starting from yesterday.

Izah Azahari

A total of 30 Meraih Berkah Group members yesterday held a recitation of Ratib Al-Attas ceremony at Rimba III Primary School to seek the protection of Allah the Almighty against the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as for the students who sit for their Primary School Assessment examination this year.

Chairman of the Parent-Teacher Association Ahmad Muzhaffar bin Sahbudin, Senior Education Officer Cluster 4 Mazleyati binti Haji Ramlee and Headmistress Azimah binti Haji Ali Ahmad were present.

The ceremony also saw a Waqaf handover by group leader Hajah Florinda binti Haji Mejenis to the school’s headmistress.

The donation comprised Al-Quran translations, reading material and school supplies such as tables and chairs.

Ministry of Education

Azlan Othman

The Ministry of Education held a Dikir Maulud ceremony in conjunction with Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) birth anniversary at the Sultan Sharif Ali Mosque, Sengkurong yesterday.

The delegation from the Ministry of Education was led by Deputy Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education Aliuddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman.

Head of departments, officers and staff from Ministry of Education were also present.

The ceremony began with the Dikir Syarafil Anam and Dikir Marhaban followed by mass Isyak prayer and concluded with the Doa Allah Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam.

The ceremony was one of the ministry’s annual activities in enlivening the major Islamic calendar events as well as to strengthen the ties between officers and staff of the Ministry of Education, the congregants of the mosque and residents.

This year’s ceremony was jointly organised by the Department of Planning, Development and Research and the Department of Schools.

Ministry of Home Affairs

Izah Azahari

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) yesterday held a Dikir Maulud ceremony in conjunction with Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) birth anniversary at the Kampong Batu Apoi Mosque in Temburong District.

Permanent Secretary (Municipal and District) at the MoHA Salminan bin Haji Burut led the delegation.

Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Municipal and District) at the MoHA Abdul Walid bin Haji Matassan, Acting Temburong District Officer Pengiran Muhammad Ameer Mubarak bin Pengiran Haji Hashim, heads of departments, senior officers, officers and staff at the MoHA and departments under it, mukim penghulus, village heads and acting village heads as well as Kampong Batu Apoi Village Consultative Council members and Mosque Takmir committee members were also present.

The event began with a mass Maghrib prayer and recitation of Tahlil, followed by the Dikir  Maulud ceremony.

The delegation will visit the Sultan Sharif Ali Mosque in Kampong Sengkurong in the Brunei-Muara District as a closing of the MoHA Dikir ceremonies on October 27.

Islamic Da’wah Centre

Lyna Mohamad

Representatives of the Islamic Da’wah Centre (PDI) under the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) recently attended a Dikir ceremony held at the Dakwah Post in Kampong Selapon, Temburong District, as part of the preliminaries for the Maulidur Rasul event for 1442 Hijrah.

PDI Director Haji Abdul Rajid bin Haji Mohd Salleh led the delegation, which comprised of Assistant PDI Director Abdul Aziz bin Haji Abdul Kahar, Acting Senior Religious Officer Hajah Rosinah binti Haji Mangshor, Acting Special Duties Officer Grade I Ali Hassan bin Mohd Said and Senior Religious Officer Ruslan bin Haji Sulaiman, as well as officers and staff from the Temburong Dakwah Unit.

The event began with a religious talk on the spiritual benefits of sending prayers and blessings for Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), by PDI Officer Pengiran Haji Jufri bin Pengiran Haji Hidop, which was simultaneously translated into the Iban language by Alimin bin Abdul Wahid.

A recitation of Dikir Assalamualaika and Dikir Marhaban then followed, accompanied with the recitation of Doa Dikir and Doa Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam by Head of the Temburong Dakwah Unit Haji Hazimin bin Haji Metali.

Later, 12 converts received a handover of daily necessities donated by Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.

The PDI Director also presented the Mushaf Brunei Darussalam and its translation, as a Waqaf contribution for the Dakwah Post of Kampong Selapon.

Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam Secondary School Alumni Association

Rokiah Mahmud & Azlan Othman

Committee members of the Alumni Association of the first English stream intake of 1975-1978 from Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam Secondary School (SM SMJA) in collaboration with Kampong Bunut Perpindahan Takmir Mosque Committee held a Dikir Maulud ceremony on Friday in conjunction with Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) birth anniversary.

The religious event was part of annual activities organised by the alumni since its establishment in 2016. The event aimed to foster closer ties among its members and to engage more with the members of the Kampong Bunut Perpindahan and Ar-Rahman Mosque Takmir committee and its Muslimah group.

The ceremony commenced with mass Maghrib prayer followed by the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Imam of the mosque Haji Sabtu bin Haji Abdullah.

It continued with the recitation of Dikir Syarafil Anam led by Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei Dikir group, Dikir Khairuman by SM SMJA 75 alumni and Dikir Bisyahrin by the delegation of Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar and Haji Kambar.

After mass Isyak prayer, the ceremony continued with Dikir Alhamdulillah, Dikir Badat and Asyraqal, before concluded with Doa Allah Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam to bless the ceremony.

Lyna Mohamad

It is important to enlighten children on Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB), the Brunei identity, culture, who they are and whom they belong to. This can easily be done through daily routines such as flag-hoisting and Al-Quran recitation, Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB) School Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Fliti Abdel Majed said.

The CEO made these comments as the guest of honour at an event by Taman Asuhan Kanak-Kanak (TASKA) YSHHB to mark the 28^th anniversary of its establishment at the nursery’s multipurpose hall yesterday.

Mohamed Fliti Abdel Majed also shared the feeling of positive energy when he walks into the TASKA building.

“It is the school’s duty to ensure kindergarten students are emotionally, socially and academically balanced and see that that the positive energy prevails in the next 10 or 15 years,” he said.

“It is not all about results or tests, but the need to balance a child’s growth,” Mohamed Fliti Abdel Majed said, adding that together with the principal’s leadership, it will happen.

As a CEO, he said, that his title is only five per cent, while 95 per cent is continuously asking himself how he can support and make the teachers better and how together they can build a positive school climate. He also expressed his desire to see the children in the school, not only learn numbers and how to read, but that they are socially balanced.

“What the teachers do now matters as that is the foundation for the young children,” the CEO said.

Yesterday’s event began with the singing of the national anthem, flag-hoisting and was followed with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Mohd Nazmi bin Haji Puasa.

Principal Datin Hajah Zainab binti Haji Abdul Wahab noted that the 28 years has witnessed YSHHB’s achievements, including the establishment of TASKA YSHHB, which is now 23 years.

Expressing gratitude to teachers and staff for providing quality education, she hoped that they will continue to work together and strive to ensure that TASKA YSHHB achieves its goal as an institution of excellence and becomes the first choice by parents for the early learning of their children.