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 consented to send a message of condolences to President of the Republic of the Philippines Rodrigo Roa Duterte, the Government and people of the Republic of the Philippines following the recent widespread devastation caused by Typhoon Goni in the Republic of the Philippines.
Lyna Mohamad
The School of Health Sciences of the Politeknik Brunei (PB), Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Saadatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences (PAPRSB IHS) of the Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and the Kampong Subok Village Consultative Council (MPK) collaborated in a Community Outreach Project at the Bukit Sipatir Recreational Park yesterday.
The project sought to raise hikers’ awareness on safety and draw more visitors to Bukit Sipatir as well as increase the village economy.
The ceremony began with a Doa Selamat followed by a speech by School of Health Sciences of the PB student representative Christy Deborah anak Dollah.
The ceremony saw the presentation of certificates to sponsors and an emergency aid kit to the Bukit Sipatir Rescue Team followed by the launching of the information signboard by Acting Director of PB Lim Kian Boon, Assistant Professor at the PAPRSB IHS of UBD Dr Deeni Rudita bin Idris and Acting Village Head of Kampong Subok Lawi bin Haji Lamat.
Future projects include the e-poster distribution and short video clip on hiking safety by project committee members, which will be shared on the project’s social network platform.
Also planned is the installation of an information board at the entrance.
The committee members and their students will be at the Bandarku Ceria on Sunday to interact with the public and conduct a quiz.
Rokiah Mahmud
Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, as the Executive Committee for Major Islamic Events Celebration for 1442 Hijrah attended a full-dress rehearsal for the Women’s Special Assembly in conjunction with the Maulidur Rasul celebration at the Royal Berkshire Hall in Jerudong yesterday.
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar; permanent secretaries and deputy permanent secretaries of the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) were also present.
The ceremony will be enlivened with a Dikir Marhaban by the female officers and staff of the Ministry of Development and Council of Women of Brunei Darussalam as well as the deliberation of a religious talk by Director of Environmental Health Services at the Ministry of Health Dr Hajah Anie Haryani binti Haji Abdul Rahman.
To curb the spread of COVID-19, guests with green and yellow code in BruHealth app are allowed to attend. They are also required to wear face mask, use hand sanitiser, practice social and physical distancing and are advised not to attend the ceremony if they are unwell.
Children below 12 years are not allowed to attend.
Jalan Muara Sixth Form Centre class of 1975-1978
Hakim Hayat
Former students of the Jalan Muara Sixth Form Centre (PTE) class of 1975-1978 organised a religious ceremony to mark Maulidur Rasul at the Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Malik Mosque in Kampong Tungku yesterday.
Guest of honour, Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, is the joint patron of the PTE Jalan Muara students of 1975-1978 committee.
Several principals and teaching staff of PTE Jalan Muara 1975-1978, as well as some 120 students from that year were also present.
The event commenced with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah by the guest of honour, followed by a special Tahlil for Al-Marhum His Royal Highness Prince Haji ‘Abdul ‘Azim led by the Imam of the mosque and Mosque Affairs Officer Morni bin Nayan.
Prime Minister’s Office
Izah Azahari
The Prime Minister’s Office and its departments commemorated the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) with a religious event at its Banquet Hall. The event was co-hosted by the Security, Enforcement and Law Division; the Attorney General’s Chambers and Information Department, Prime Minister’s Office.
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud was the guest of honour.
Permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, heads of departments, officers and personnel from the Prime Minister’s Office and its departments also attended.
The event began with the recitation of verses from Al-Quran by Haji Muhd Fikri bin Haji Awang Metussin followed by a special talk titled ‘Building with the morals of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)’ by Haji Muhammad Yusuf bin Haji Abdul Majid from the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
The event concluded with a Dikir performance by Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah students.
Ministry of Finance and Economy
Izah Azahari
The Ministry of Finance and Economy and departments under it held a Tahlil ceremony for Al-Marhum His Royal Highness Prince Haji ‘Abdul ‘Azim, a mass Asar prayer and special lecture at the Surau, Island Block yesterday.
Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Fiscal) Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman was the guest of honour.
Permanent secretaries, heads of departments, officers and staff at the Ministry of Finance and Economy and departments under it also attended.
The event began with the recitation of Tahlil followed by a mass Asar prayer and the special lecture delivered by Islamic Da’wah Centre Officer Muhammad Nasyith bin Superi.
Politeknik Brunei
Izah Azahari
Politeknik Brunei (PB) held a Maulidur Rasul celebration at its campus in Ong Sum Ping, Bandar Seri Begawan on November 2. It was organised by the institution’s Islamic Studies Unit of the General Studies Division.
PB Assistant Director Arbaniah binti Haji Sablee was the guest of honour. Also present were senior officers, officers, lecturers, staff and members of the PB Student Representative Council.
The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by the Religious Head of PB Haji Mohammad Ali Sanusi bin Haji Salim, followed by a special lecture delivered by Mosque Affairs Officer at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Pengiran Ahmad Faris Ramadhani bin Pengiran Haji Sellahuddin.
A Dikir marhaban was led by students from PB’s Nasyidul Islam Club. The event concluded with a Doa Kesyukuran led by PB Islamic Education Officer Awangku Haji Jamaluddin bin Pengiran Haji Zainal.
Islamic Da’wah Centre
Daniel Lim
The Islamic Da’wah Centre in cooperation with the Belait District Da’wah Centre continued their Dikir Syarafil Anam ceremony for newly converted residents in the rural area of the Belait District at the Kampong Merangking Religious Hall on October 31.
Assistant Director at the Islamic Da’wah Centre of the Ministry of Religious Affairs Abdul Aziz bin Haji Abdul Kahar was the guest of honour.
Head of Religious Officer (Belait District) Mohamad Aliyani bin Ismail, Senior Religious Officer Ruslan bin Haji Sulaiman, Acting Special Duties Officer Grade 1 Ali Hassan bin Mohd Said, Head of Muallaf Development Section Dr Hajah Rohanita binti Haji Yaakub, Head of Dakwah Unit Belait Zikrinaidah binti Haji Mat Dikir, along with officers and staff members form the Youth Religious Programme and Muallaf Development Section were also present.
The ceremony started with a mass Maghrib prayer followed by the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by the head of the contingent, and a short Tazkirah by Mohd Naqib bin Haji Awang. The ceremony continued with the mass recitation of Dikir Assalai, Alham, Khairuman and Marhaban before continuing with the Doa Selamat and Doa Allah Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei D led by the Acting Imam of the religious hall Mohd Fauzee bin Abdul Rahman. The ceremony concluded with a mass Isyak prayer.
Izah Azahari
The Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) Rover Scout Crew 1102 organised the 3rd Rover Scout Leadership Camp at Eco Ponies Garden, Kampong Lamunin, Tutong District yesterday.
Some 31 Rover Scouts aged 18-26 and students from higher education institutions and colleges participated.
UNISSA Rover Scout Leader Trainer Zainudin bin Haji Ishak lead the leadership and skills training in the basic Rover Scouts camping skills.
UNISSA Rover Scout Coordinator Dr Muhammad Alif bin Haji Sismat, Leader of the UNISSA Rover Scout Crew 1102 and National Scout Training Commissioner Haji Othman bin Durani were also present.
The outdoor activity by the UNISSA Rover Scout Crew 1102 exposed new scout members to a real camping atmosphere and the leadership basics.
The camp’s sought to build participants’ self-confidence, cultivate an attitude of liking outdoor activities, independence and mature thinking.
Prior to the camp, the UNISSA Rover Scout members underwent weekly leadership and skills training for 12 weeks to obtain a World Scout membership badge.
Lyna Mohamad
Skill adaptation is important to face technology developments and respond to the current more dynamic employment needs, said Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Vice-Chancellor Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina binti Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Aziz.
The Vice-Chancellor made these comments at the University Medal, Book Prize and Excellence Awards ceremony at the Chancellor Hall, UBD yesterday.
Seventy-three UBD students were honoured for their achievement.
Minister at Prime Minister’s Office and Deputy Chairman of UBD Council Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, the guest of honour, presented the medal and book prizes.
Attorney General Haji Ahmad bin Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Diraja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa and Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, other members of the UBD Council, permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries and parents and guardians were also present.
The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat followed by welcoming remarks by Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina. She hoped the awardees will continue to upgrade their knowledge particularly in the rapid technology development era and urged graduates to stay active as alumni and contribute towards UBD’s development.
Five of the 73 achievers received the coveted University Silver Medal award – Lo Siong Wei, Dayangku Norafina Syamimy binti Pengiran Zunaidi, Liew Wei Juen, Mohammad Hilmi Hamizan bin Haji Arsad and Priscilla Chin Yin Yee while Fatin Amanina binti Haji Abdul Azis was one of the top recipients of the year having been awarded the Vice Chancellor’s Medal.
The medal is awarded to graduates with excellent performance based on academic achievement, co-curricular involvement, contribution to society as well as demonstrating solid leadership qualities.
The recipients of the Book Prizes were eight Master’s degree students and 62 Bachelor’s degree programme students.
Out of the 62 Bachelor’s Degree recipients, 25 were recipients for level 4000 and 5000 (majors), 21 recipients for level 2000 and 3000 (majors) and 14 for level 4000 and 1000 (majors). One student received the Book Prize for her outstanding performance in the Melayu Islam Beraja module while another student received the Book Prize for her outstanding performance in the Bachelor of Health Sciences (Medicine) programme.
Meanwhile, a high performing final year Diploma student also received an Award of Achievement at the ceremony. Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd also presented to three recipients with Acer laptops.
James Kon
At the launching of ‘Selera Bruneiku’ and Islamic Values in Tourism Services, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong assured that the latest domestic tourism campaign will continue to adhere to the measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The minister said, “In promoting domestic tourism, the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT), in collaboration with other government agencies and travel agents, are continuously working to ensure that measures to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 are adhered to; this includes body temperature checks, hand washing and social or physical distancing.
“The level of safety, cleanliness and comfort of visitors is also always emphasised when handling tourism activities.”
The minister hoped the tourism campaign would ensure business continuity for entrepreneurs, together with employment in the local tourism industry: “The availability of new products or bespoke travel packages can generally open up many employment and business opportunities for the local people.
“According to statistics received by the Tourism Development Department, over 100 local personnel have been given employment opportunities with this domestic tourism packages.
“The Tourism Development Department has held joint consultations with hotels, local travel agents, tourism service providers, village consultative councils (MPKs) and relevant government agencies, such as District Offices, to make the Domestic Tourism packages a success.
“Some of the packages comprise a cruise on the Brunei River, participating in the Parang Making Workshop in Kampong Lamunin, Tutong District, and a visit to Mendaram Besar and Teraja longhouses located in Mukim Labi, Belait.
“Insya Allah, we hope to see more tourism stakeholders offer domestic tourism activities in the long term.
He added, “The Domestic Tourism campaign is also in preparation for the school holidays this December. Due to limited travel activities, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is expected that locals will spend their holidays visiting interesting places in the country with their families.
“It is timely for the campaign and these local travel packages to be made ready now.
“In accordance with the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) concept, the MPRT has incorporated Islamic values as part of our customer service training, in the ways we treat our guests as customers and tourists visiting the country.
“Several training programme sessions and talks on customer service were held by the Tourism Development Department, in collaboration with educational training institutions, such as SEAMEO Voctech and the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB).
“Participants comprised owners, managers, and supervisors of hotels, restaurants.
“In the initial phase, six restaurants often visited by tourists were selected to participate in the training. This training will also be extended to other restaurants, government agencies, hotels, tourism service providers, as well as travel agency staff, especially tour guides.
“Through this campaign, it is hoped that it will contribute to the country’s economic growth by encouraging locals and residents to spend locally.
“This in turn, will also help open up more business opportunities for our local entrepreneurs in the fields of agriculture, livestock and fisheries industries, as there would be higher demand for meat products, poultry, fish, seafood, vegetables and the like in local restaurants.”
James Kon
The Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) held a launching of ‘Selera Bruneiku’ and Islamic Values in Tourism Services to promote local destinations, activities and products yesterday.
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong presided over the launch of the new domestic tourism campaign.
Legislative Council (LegCo) member Yang Berhormat Haji Abdul Hamid @Sabli bin Haji Arshad, members of the Brunei Tourism Board, foreign dignitaries, district officers, senior government officials, and partners of the domestic tourism campaign also attended.
To date, 12 tourist agencies, 10 hotels and 26 tourism service providers are involved in the collaborative efforts to provide domestic packages.
Initiated by the MPRT and the Brunei Tourism Board, through the Tourism Development Department, Selera Bruneiku is a food journey of special delicacies at participating restaurants and destinations in all four districts.
Tourists will also experience a range of cultural and sporting activities such as learning to make handicraft, trekking and going on a river cruise.
To ensure the health and safety standards of the tourism offerings are observed at all times, the Tourism Development Department is conducting inspections and spot checks at restaurants, public restrooms and places of interest, in addition to monitoring the quality of services.
Izah Azahari
Get ready for a one of a kind, up-close and personal experience with animals as Jerudong Park has brought back Animals in the Park for a family fun time all throughout November.
Located at its Adventure Park, Canopy, Animals in the Park features a touch tank exhibition where visitors get to touch live marine animals such as starfish and sea cucumbers, as well as interact with exotic birds including Tamil Nadu, golden pheasant, African grey parrot and lovebirds.
Visitors also get to be wowed by python snakes, blue-tongue skinks, leopard geckos, iguanas and turtles in the reptile section, or be immersed in the soothing ambiance of the aquatic section with various marine and freshwater fish including shovel-nosed catfish, dragon fish, lung fish, frontosa, Malawi cichlid, and pipe fish.
Animals also have their own QR code for visitors to scan and obtain information about them.
Adding more fun to the month-long festivities are a number of carnival games and colouring activities for families to enjoy.
Visitors are assured a peace of mind as Jerudong Park strictly adheres to the standard of operating procedures (SOPs) required amid the COVID-19 pandemic with hand sanitisers and hand-washing stations readily available at every entry and exit of each section.
James Kon
The 20th Pusat Ehsan Charity Golf Tournament 2020 will take place from November 27-29 at Pantai Mentiri Golf Club after the tournament was postponed in March due to COVID-19 outbreak.
The date was announced by the advisor to organising committee Dato Paduka Mohd Alimin bin Haji Abdul Wahab.
Dato Paduka Mohd Alimin said, “COVID-19 has put pressure on Pusat Ehsan’s lifeline. As an non-governmental and non-profit charitable organisation, Pusat Ehsan runs on a shoe-string budget with corporate governance and don’t charge the wards.
“Our funding for operations and maintenance is largely derived from donations and contributions. Pusat Ehsan cannot survive without donations and support. This is why we are organising this fundraising project.”
In addition to fundraising, he said, “Other objectives include inculcating caring culture in the community, share Pusat Ehsan’s goals and raise awareness for the care of the differently abled.
“The tournament is in its 20th year and received support from local golfers. Despite COVID-19, we are hopeful that the tournament will be carried out successfully. We currently have more than 250 people with different abilities at the centre and we need the support of the local community.”
Chairman of the organising committee Seruji bin Haji Setia and members of the organising committee were also present.
Seruji said, “The tournament comprises five sessions on November 27, 28 and 29. The registration fee for each golfer is BND100 that comes with breakfast, lunch and buggy. For subsequent sessions, the participants only need to pay BND80. The tournament is based on System 36 (stroke play).”
The categories are Best Overall Gross, Best Overall Nett, Division A, Division B, Division C, Senior Golfers (aged 55 and Above), Ladies, VIP and Sponsors. There are prizes for nearest to the pin, hole-in-one on all par threes. Prizes include BND5,000 for hole-in-ones.
The 20th Pusat Ehsan Charity Golf Tournament 2020 will feature the Patron’s Challenge Trophy under the gross category where the top 12 golfers will be eligible for the final to vie for the trophy.
The fundraising tournament hopes to attract 250 golfers.
The registration form for the tournament is available at Pantai Mentiri Golf Club.
Azlan Othman
Members of the Asean Manufacturing Network (AMN) urged for their counterparts not to compete, but to complement each other and share information on manufacturing.
“Manufacturing should not be done just by one country, but must be open to all member countries of ASEAN,” they said this during the 1st AMN meeting yesterday.
President of National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCIBD) Haji Mohammad Hanafi bin Pehin Orang Kaya Digadong Seri Diraja Dato Laila Utama Haji Abdul Rahman represented Brunei Darussalam at the opening of the meeting, held at the NCCIBD, Beribi Industrial Complex.
AMN members also said that the COVID-19 pandemic has served as a wake-up call on the need for greater integration within ASEAN to look at near-shore options to shorten supply chains and increase proximity to customers, saying, “ASEAN, as a competitive economic grouping, should take advantage of this to distribute our production nodes according to the cost, skill and competitiveness across ASEAN.” They also called for supply chain coming from bigger economies to be minimised, as an opportunity for ASEAN to take lead participation.
They said, “The post-COVID-19 pandemic market is different. We need to share information which is sometimes difficult to attain due to competition domestically.
“We need to educate our workers on the Industrial Revolution 4.0, and ASEAN has the youngest workforce globally and is a great asset.
“There have been concerns on the obstacles faced in sharing information, and with the industrial revolution, the journey ahead is interesting.”
Members also called for the AMN chairmanship to be synchronised with the Chairmanship of ASEAN and the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ABAC), as well as for three AMN members to be in the ABAC.
The NCCIBD president meanwhile highlighted the fact that there aren’t many manufacturers in the Sultanate, but supports the efforts being undertaken by the AMN.
He said that he would like to see these efforts being formulated, while also welcoming matters put forward during the virtual meeting.
Deputy Secretary General of NCCIBD Haji Halim bin Haji Saim said, “NCCIBD is now getting more involved in ASEAN, and it is an opportune time to lure regional investors to carry out foreign direct investments (FDIs) in the country.”
While commenting that countries across the region should not compete, he said, “Countries with speciality can complement each other in manufacturing.”
However, he added, “It is unfortunate to note that some of the manufacturing companies are not among NCCIBD members”.
Haji Halim also underlined the logistics problem faced by Brunei amid the current pandemic.
The one-day meeting served as a platform to promote cooperation and coordination among manufacturing related associations in ASEAN; advocate and represent the interest of the manufacturing industry in ASEAN at regional and international forums; formulate and develop recommendations on measures to ensure sustainable supply of manufactured goods to be made available at national and regional levels; initiate, communicate and collaborate on programmes, plans and projects to restructure regional production networks in order to boost intra-regional trade and investments; and promote closer relations and cooperation between manufacturers in the region with other regional and international organisations with similar aims and objectives.
Dynamik Technologies
Dynamik Technologies hosted a religious talk in conjunction with Maulidur Rasul 1442 Hijrah themed ‘Meneladani Kepimpinan Budaya Kerja Rasulullah’ yesterday.
Muhammad Yadiy bin Haji Mat Yassin from the Brunei Islamic Religious Council delivered the talk.
He highlighted on the exemplary leadership qualities of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).
The event aimed to inspire the Anggerek Desa Tech Park Community in the aspects of physical, mental and spiritual health based on the Islamic faith according to the example set by Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). The event also featured a Dikir Maulud led by Imam Haji Wahab and youth of Kampung Masin Mosque.
The event concluded with the launch of Dynamik Charity Pledge by Chief Executive Officer of Dynamik Technologies Haslina binti Haji Mohd Taib.
The pledge was introduced in July in conjunction with Dynamik Technologies’ 19th anniversary.
The positive response from the first charity pledge inspired Dynamik Technologies to adopt the initiative as an annual practice for its personnel and clients.
Through the pledge, the donors have the opportunity to contribute to one of the recommended charities by entering a code with a predetermined value.
The beneficiaries include Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam, Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM), Children’s Cancer Foundation (YASKA), SMARTER Brunei, Society for Community Outreach and Training (SCOT) and Brunei Down Syndrome Association (ABLE).
Attorney General’s Chambers
Fadley Faisal
Attorney General Haji Ahmad bin Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Diraja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa yesterday led a Maulidur Rasul 1442 Hijrah celebration at the Law and Courts Building on Jalan Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha.
Solicitor General Hajah Zuraini binti Haji Sharbawi, officers and staff of the Attorney General’s Chambers were also present.
The ceremony began with the mass recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by verses from Al-Quran led by Pengiran Muhd Amirul Aiman bin Pengiran Haji Marjuki.
The event also saw a talk titled ‘Generasi Berilmu, Beramal dan Membangun dengan akhlak Nabi Muhammad SAW’ delivered by Pengiran Haji Reduan bin Haji Badaruddin, an invited speaker from the Islamic Da’wah Centre.
Ministry of Energy, SHENA, Petroleum Authority of Brunei Darussalam
Azlan Othman
The Ministry of Energy, the Safety, Health and Environment National Authority (SHENA) and Petroleum Authority of Brunei Darussalam held a Dikir ceremony, religious talk and donations in conjunction with Maulidur Rasul 1442 Hijrah at the Musyawarah Hall, International Convention Centre (ICC), Berakas yesterday.
Minister of Energy Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein was the guest of honour.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Energy Haji Azhar bin Haji Yahya and Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Energy Pengiran Haji Jamra Weira bin Pengiran Haji Petra as well as officers and staff from the Ministry of Energy, SHENA and Petroleum Authority of Brunei Darussalam were also present.
The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat, followed by a Dikir ceremony. A special religious talk titled ‘Rasulullah sebagai ‘Role Model’ Yang Sempurna’ was delivered by Ahmad Rashidi bin Haji Ansanawi from Nadi Quranic Learning Centre.
The event also saw the presentation of Waqaf from the minister to the Imam of Ash-Shaliheen Mosque.
Rokiah Mahmud
A financial assistance from 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 through the Community Development Department (JAPEM) of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) was presented to Haji Suzaini bin Abdullah yesterday at the Burns Treatment Room of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin presented the financial assistance to Haji Suzaini whose house was gutted by fire on October 27 in Kampong Labi.
The fire that occurred at 9.05am caused burn injuries on Haji Suzaini and one of his children.
They were rushed to RIPAS Hospital for treatment.
Rokiah Mahmud
Farahlim binti Abdul Baki was promoted from Superintendent of Fire and Rescue (SFR) to Senior Superintendent of Fire and Rescue (SSFR) during a rank insignia presentation at the Fire and Rescue Department (FRD) Headquarters in Jalan Airport Lama, Berakas yesterday.
Acting Director of Fire and Rescue Lim Hock Guan was present.
SSFR Farahlim began her career in February 2001 and has since worked at several offices, including the Director’s Office, the Information and Technology Unit, the Operation Unit, the National Development Plan Project Unit and the Assistant Director Technical Office.
She also participated in several courses, including Basic Training for Cadet Officers conducted at the FRD Training Centre; an Officers’ Basic Course at the Civil Defence Academy in Singapore; and an Information Technology Course in South Korea.
Meanwhile, the FRD is urging its newly promoted officers to enhance their commitment, work quality and productivity, in order to achieve the department’s mission and vision.
Lyna Mohamad
Scientists and medical specialists are predicting that COVID-19 will not be swiftly eradicated. It will continue to be with us, as in the case of Influenza A H1N1, 11 years ago.
This was highlighted in a talk delivered by Director of Environmental Health Services at the Ministry of Health (MoH) Dr Hajah Anie Haryani binti Haji Abdul Rahman at the Women’s Special Assembly in conjunction with the Maulidur Rasul celebration for 1442 Hijrah.
“To this day there are still cases of H1N1 detected worldwide, as well as the fatalities caused by it; and Brunei is no exception.
“What is important now is not to abandon hope. We must continue to carry out the preventive measures which are constantly made public.
“The advisories on hand-washing, the wearing of face masks, avoiding crowded places, avoiding contact or the shaking of hands, staying away from events if feeling unwell, and observing physical distancing – this is the new normal that we have to adapt,” she said.
She said, “Public health involves the control of environmental issues which pose a risk to health, along with the detection, prevention and response to infectious diseases, particularly outbreaks.
“When news of the pandemic began to surface late December last year, public health professionals closely observed and followed the development of the situation in Wuhan, China.
“At the same time, they began to think of how the health systems in their respective countries would be able to respond, should the infection spread outside of China.
“Among the questions being asked then were the origins of the virus, how it was transmitted, how it could be prevented, how to trace it, what would be the most effective treatment – and most importantly, would their country’s health systems be able to respond to it?
“Most of these questions could be addressed by scientific findings. But as to the main question of whether a country’s health system’s capability in responding, the answer is that it requires the cooperation of many parties, rather than just the health sector.
“Coincidentally, in October last year, the World Health Organization (WHO) sent a group of health specialists to Brunei to assess Brunei’s preparedness in facing any public health threats including infectious diseases, viruses, threats from chemical and radiation contamination.
“The preparations for this assessment were carried out approximately 18 months before the WHO specialists arrived in the country. Many meetings and collaborations were set up with the involvement of several agencies.
“It was at this time that the priority and effectiveness of the one-government approach were witnessed and proven. As we know, consultations and team efforts are greatly encouraged in Islam.
“The WHO specialists spent a week to assess the country’s preparedness in several categories in terms of legislation, health policy, financial allocation leading to technical issues such as zoonotic or animal-borne diseases, which can infect humans; food safety, and preparedness at the country’s main points of entry.
”Nearly all of the ministries were involved in this assessment. The results were positive and encouraging. There were some improvements that needed to be made, but overall, it
was satisfactory.”
The assessment report is available on the WHO website, and the next one conducted in 2024, she said.
She also said, “Two months after the assessment, COVID-19 appeared. Alhamdulillah, the lessons gained from the WHO assessment convinced all sides that we, in Brunei, were capable of tackling the virus through the one-nation approach principle which had already been instilled.
“This conviction was further bolstered by the concern and strong support from our sovereign leader, 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.”
Dr Hajah Anie Haryani also disclosed that scientists and medical specialists, including those in public health, have learned much about COVID-19, since its appearance 10 months ago.
Lyna Mohamad
Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam graced the Women’s Special Assembly in conjunction with the Maulidur Rasul celebration for 1442 Hijrah at the Royal Berkshire Hall, Jerudong.
Her Majesty was greeted by Minister of Religious Affairs and Chairman of the Executive Committee of Major Islamic Events Celebration for 1442 Hijrah Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, Chief Syar’ie Judge Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Haji Awang Salim bin Haji Besar, Co-Advisors of the executive committee and Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar.
Accompanying Her Majesty were Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Bini Hajah Faizah binti Dato Haji Nasir, Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah, Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The event began with the recitation of Al-Quran verses by Dayangku Siti Ummi Syazana binti Pengiran Haji Marjuki, Qariah Champion of the National Al-Quran Reading Competition for Adults 1441H/2020.
It proceeded to the Sembah Alu-Aluan by Acting Ra’es of KUPU SB Datin Dr Hajah Noor Hira binti Haji Noor Kaseh, as co-chairperson of the event’s working committee.
A Dikir Marhaban performance was then presented by the officers and staff of the Ministry of Development and the Council of Women of Brunei Darussalam’s (CWBD) Dikir Group followed by a talk by Environmental Health Services Director Dr Hajah Anie Haryani binti Haji Abdul Rahman. Dakwah and Tabligh Supervisor at the Islamic Da’wah Centre Dayangku Norhayati binti Pengiran Haji Kasharan recited the Doa Selamat.
This year’s gathering marks the 27th edition since its inception in 1995.
James Kon
The Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam is in discussion with ministries to set up the first-of-its-kind school for the differently abled, said Pusat Ehsan Executive and Operational Trustee Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini binti Pengiran Dipa Negara Laila Diraja Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin.
She made these comments when the centre received a boost in funding yesterday following donations amounting to BND11,000 from Teng Yun Chinese Temple, local companies and individuals.
Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini said the centre survives on donations from the public, fund-raising activities and sponsorships, while admitting that during the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak, it “has been a huge struggle (for the centre) as we were about to hold four fun-raising events but were forced to cancel them”.
“I kept wondering how we would be able to keep the centre running when the operational cost is about BND45,000 a month,” she said. “Then, help came in the form of donations. So now, we will be able to stay afloat until the end of this year.”
“With consultants from Singapore, we have managed to come up with a curriculum catered for special needs,” Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini said. “We want to register our centre as a school but there are many requirements to meet, and other issues to address first.”
The donations included: BND5,200 from Teng Yun Chinese Temple, presented by Chairman of the Executive Committee Lee Eng Ching; BND4,800 from Payung Emas Enterprise, Jimmy, Archlab, MNP Enterprise, Pui and Cityneon, handed over by Cityneon Managing Director Dato Jack Ting; and BND1,000 in personal donation by Dennis Lim of Build Mix Trading.
The digital future is no longer tomorrow’s reality, and Brunei is poised to explore technological advancements geared towards the 4th Industrial Revolution through the increasing level of digitisation across the nation’s economic sectors.
BAHDigital stands at the forefront of this journey, with an online platform that curates strategic content aimed to inspire Bruneians, and help them to aspire in becoming digital-savvy citizens.
The launch of BAHDigital’s hallmark video, broadcast on government platforms and Radio Television Brunei (RTB), will showcase a digital way of life in Brunei filled with opportunities and potential, made easier by technology.
So easy that even our Nini in Kuala Belait can wake us up via video-call for Subuh prayer in Bandar. Imagine being able to use drones to send medicine to our loved ones who live in remote areas. Or being able to present the horticulture of Temburong in real-time to a classroom of students back in Bandar. The hallmark video gives a glimpse of the technological aspirations that can enhance and facilitate our unique Bruneian way of life.
Since its launch in April 2020, the BAHDigital campaign has made numerous efforts in contributing and raising awareness on the nation’s digital and tech-related initiatives, big or small; from home business owners using social media to reach their audience, to the large-scale impact that government-led endeavours have had, such as the creation of BruHealth and other e-government processes.
Recent statistics from BAHDigital’s online questionnaires show that Bruneians have become more dependent on the use of technology for convenience and look forward to more technological-based solutions, with 84 per cent reporting an increase in their online shopping habits during the pandemic, and 76 per cent have bought from local online, home-based sellers. From e-commerce to e-government, 81 per cent show keenness for more e-government apps. On e-health, 77 per cent are open to scheduling virtual appointments as it provides more flexibility and saves time.
The campaign, led by the Digital Economy Council (DEC) of Brunei Darussalam in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and Economy (MoFE), Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC), Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry (AITI) and Darussalam Assets Sdn Bhd (DA), pushes technical explorations and reviews for six channels of the nation’s key economic players: Health, Tourism, Gig Economy, Education, e-Commerce and e-Government.
2020 saw a tremendous increase in the adoption of digitisation due to the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic. This has been captured through BAHDigital’s articles and videos on Bruneians integrating technology into everyday life as part of the new norm. This includes the increase in delivery apps such as HeyDomo, GoMamam and Tapow — and in the midst of the pandemic, GoMamam built a list of 90 delivery drivers to cope with the heightened demands for takeaways, and in education the necessity of e-learning during the home-based learning period was emphasised. The BAHDigital platform has also introduced tools that can be used by entrepreneurs to develop and expand their businesses with easy, 101-esque tutorials, like how to build a website. BAHDigital’s Hari Raya video series also highlighted how celebrations and expectations have changed from the physical to the digital, with the heartfelt story of a Bruneian family celebrating Hari Raya Aidilfitri over the decades.
“Transformation to a Digital Economy is one of the catalysts in our pursuit of economic prosperity and sustainability.”
This statement by the Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II, as Co-Chair of the DEC, Brunei Darussalam Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah in the ‘Digital Economy Masterplan 2035’ encapsulates the importance of adopting this transformation to move forward and realise Vision 2035 as a ‘Smart Nation’, together.
With government initiatives such as the urgent influx of online payment services, renewals and recruitment processes, other organisations are also adapting to the evolving business environment due to technology and customer demand. Step by step, nearly every aspect of life in Brunei is being influenced in a digital manner.
BAHDigital’s ‘Digital Way Forward for Government Processes’ article highlights how many of Brunei’s civil services have begun to embrace technology, including the QueUp app for booking time slots when visiting the Immigration and National Registration Department, Post Office, Health Screening Centre and Land Transport Department Headquarters.
It has saved applicants many hours of waiting, and this is a promising start for modernising government processes.
Bah. The 4th Industrial Revolution has already arrived. Are you ready?
Two aspiring architects from Universiti Teknologi Brunei’s (UTB) School of Design were recently awarded for their Bakers & Books concept, which will be used in the final scheme for the new library café at UTB.
Their winning entry, prioritising books and coffee within a cosy space, was part of the Conceptual Design competition co-hosted by UTB and Mr Baker’s Bakeshop, from August 17 to September 19.
Zayanah binti Zainal Abidin and Mohd Arrifin bin Morsidi, from the Architecture programme area, received the prize from Mr Baker’s Bakeshop founder Eric Pui Jeng Soon.
UTB Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman was among those who attended the presentation ceremony at the university’s Conference Room.
The competition drew several entries from UTB’s schools and faculties, with the designs based around Mr Baker’s given theme of space usage and user-friendliness.
UTB’s Library Cafe is expected to be opened to the public by January 2021.
Meanwhile, Mr Baker’s Bakeshop is offering a mentoring programme in the form of internship, where students will learn basic barista skills, customer service, inventory monitoring, food preparation and more. The café will also assist students from the Food & Science Technology programme area and the School of Applied Science and Mathematics (SASM), in the research and development of new products for their courses.
On June 22, Mr Baker’s Bakeshop and UTB signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to develop academic and research collaborative efforts in equipping students with professional and industrial skills in multidisciplinary areas.
Fadley Faisal
A fresh new look for the Hyundai Elantra in its all-new skin was unveiled at the Hyundai showroom in Beribi yesterday.
In a vibrant assembly of avid Hyundai customers, Setia Motors Sdn Bhd launched the all-new sedan, Hyundai Elantra coming in Premium and Standard specs.
The Hyundai Elantra is re-designed from the platform up making it a whole different and new car comparing it to its predecessor. It spells a very unique Sensuous Sportiness styling theme making it very bold and strong at first glance, with no less stock of groundbreaking tech as well as being very competitive against all its competitors within the same segment.
The launching saw around 100 guests at the unveiling officiated by Setia Motors General Manager James Chin and Sales Manager Mohd Fadhillah bin Haji Sulaiman.
Hyundai Brunei said the Hyundai Elantra is a new take on sporty/luxury sedan at an affordable price out of Hyundai’s lineup, making it one of the top contenders within its segment.
“The Hyundai Elantra premium and standard spec are now available for sale and also viewing by the public. Early bookings will have a choice of BND800 off the price tag or an iPhone 12 64GB.
“On October 31, a test drive will be held at the Hyundai Beribi showroom where the public can view and test-drive any of the Hyundai lineup available,” the Hyundai Brunei team said at the launch.
The Weekend Bulletin was told that the new Hyundai Elantra is built on a new architecture – Hyundai’s K3 platform which makes the car much more spacious, also making it safer and more efficient than previous platforms. The car’s exterior design is also adapting the all-new Hyundai’s design called the ‘Parametric jewel-pattern Design’.
On the all-new Elantra, it has been integrated on its side profile making it apparent. The Elantra is 2.2 inches longer, one inch wider and one inch lower than its predecessor giving it a more aggressive stance. The car’s wheel base has also been stretched by 0.8 inch. With 113.6 cubic feet of over interior volume, the Elantra is technically classified as a midsize car.
The Hyundai Elantra expands the sedan spectrum of the traditional Korean brand. The Hyundai Elantra comes with a 1.6MPI engine that pushes out 127.5 PS / 155 Nm of torque, which is more than enough to move it within the city. The long wheelbase of 2,720 gives the Hyundai Elantra a more comfortable stance on the road providing more spacious interior.
On the Premium spec, the interior is fitted with natural leather seats combined with Bose premium sound system of eight high performance speakers throughout the whole vehicle. The cockpit is also a fully immersive space with a 10.25” digital cluster tiled 10 degrees toward the driver for easier control.
