Hengyi Industries Sdn Bhd (Hengyi) organised a Reforestation Project at the Bukit Perumpong, Sungai Liang as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative to help with the protection of the country’s environment.

Five hundred saplings were planted across 0.5 hectares of land by over 70 volunteers comprising Hengyi staff and representatives from the Forestry Department, Petroleum Authority of Brunei Darussalam, Damai Holdings Limited and Brunei Climate Change Secretariat (BCCS).

The planted saplings included various species of local trees – Kapur Paji, Selangan Daun Tebal, Binchaloi, Meranti Timbul Putih, Kapur Bukit, Sarang Punai Bukit and Sarang Punai.

The Forestry Department chose the location for the reforestation project as it has been severely affected by forest fire and to mitigate the effect of climate change as well as to support Brunei Darussalam National Climate Change Policy Strategy number 2, which is
Forest Cover.

James Kon

With the 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, 112 senior officers and officers of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) were promoted yesterday.

The promotion ceremonies took place at two separate venues – at Bolkiah Garrison Officer’s Mess for the promotion of RBAF Senior Officers and at Berakas Garrison Officer’s Mess for the promotion of RBAF Officers with the rank of Major below.

Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof attended the ceremony at the Bolkiah Garrison Officer’s Mess.

Commander of the RBAF Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat presented the new insignias at the promotion ceremonies.

Permanent secretary, service commanders, deputy permanent secretaries, directors, commandants, senior officers and officers of the Ministry of Defence and RBAF as well as families of those promoted were present.

Three Senior Officers were promoted to the rank of Colonel, 23 officers to the rank of Substantive Lieutenant Colonel/Commander (RBN), and nine officers to the rank of Acting Lieutenant Colonel/Commander (RBN).

Meanwhile, at the Berakas Garrison Officer’s Mess, 19 officers were promoted to the rank of Substantive Major/Lieutenant Commander (RBN); one officer to the rank of Acting Major/Lieutenant Commander (RBN); 54 officers to the rank of Substantive Captain/Lieutenant (RBN) and three officers to the rank of Acting Captain/ Lieutenant (RBN).

Brunei Gas Carriers Sdn Bhd (BGC) recently appointed Pengiran Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha, previously Deputy Managing Director, as new Managing Director of BGC effective November 1.

Prior to joining BGC in November 2019, Pengiran Shamhary was Managing Director at Brunei Shell Marketing Company Sdn Bhd (BSM) and held several technical, commercial and managerial roles with Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP).

He brings over to BGC his 28 years working experience with the public sector, international bodies and industries that cover project delivery, organisation transformation, risk management, crisis management, new business development and commercial deal making.

Lyna Mohamad

Children and young people can play a significant role as agents of transformation with the capability to engage in decision-making processes, in accordance with their evolving capacities and gradually increasing autonomy.

This was said by Founder and Executive Director of Project Women Brunei Dr Nur Judy binti Abdullah in a speech at the National Dialogue on Voices of Girl-Children on Ending Sexual Violence at Co.Lab, Kiulap yesterday.

“We need to consider child and youth’s meaningful, safe and appropriate participation a key strategic priority for ensuring sustained child well-being and creating inclusive societies with informed and engaged citizens, particularly in the case of girl children,” she said, adding that “when children and young people learn to communicate opinions, take responsibility and make decision, they develop a sense of belonging, justice, responsibility and solidarity”.

Dr Nur Judy said girl-children belonging to the minority groups in Brunei Darussalam were engaged by Project Women and Girls Development (Project Women Brunei) in a roundtable discussion on sexual violence against girl-children recently.

The participants came up with recommendations on what they could do and what other key stakeholders could do to help end sexual violence against children as well as compiled the outputs of various engagements with indigenous communities of Belait, Tutong and Temburong districts with focus on the prevention of child sexual abuse and exploitation.

Also collected was a set of recommendations from thematic issues on sexual violence against children at home, in school and on the Internet, which was presented at yesterday’s event.

She said a copy of the recommendations will be formally presented to key stakeholders and policymakers for consideration.

The founder of Project Women Brunei also quoted UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children Marta Santos Pais as saying that “the perspectives of children are unique, and when they can influence discussions about their lives, then the decisions that impact that are better informed and can be more effective in positively promoting their full potential”.

She believes that the set of recommendations symbolises the voices of girl-children, especially those from minority groups, wanting to be heard. Putting a spotlight on them is part of Project Women Brunei’s advocacy for the inclusivity of women and girls, and a firm belief in leaving no one behind. “Child participation is one of the core principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which assets that children and young people have the right to freely express their views and that there is an obligation to listen to children’s views and to facilitate their participation in all matters affecting them within their families, schools, local communities, public services, institutions, government policies and judicial procedures,” Dr Nur Judy said.

Meanwhile, Commission for Women’s Rights at the ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children (ACWC) Hajah Normah Suria Hayati binti Pehin Jawatan Dalam Seri Maharaja Dato Seri Utama (Dr) Haji Mohd Jamil Al-Sufri expressed her support for the girl-children agenda to be given top priority.

“The strength of a nation depends on the people who run it,” she said yesterday’s event. “And the people who run it begin with girl-children.”

She also posed the questions: “If the beginning of the girl-child’s life is already traumatised, disturbed and troubled, what kind of nation will they lead? Or are they in the position to lead? And how can they contribution to the nation?”

Hajah Normah Suria Hayati believes if girl-children remain a national issue, then the community is to blame. “We have lost the essence of living in a community. We hardly know our neighbours, let alone talk with them; we’d rather chat with those halfway across the globe via WhatsApp,” she said. “We often blame the technology and the economy, rarely ourselves.”

However, she added, technology is the hardware and the community is the software. Striking a balance between the two that allows the return to the “good old days would help to reduce the issues surrounding girl-children, and perhaps prevent them from resurfacing”.

She also called on communities to make the effort to know their neighbours, so as to address it when a problem emerges.

“We should not refer to such an effort as nosey. We should provide our neighbours a helping hand, a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on and a place to run to,” she said.

Meanwhile, yesterday’s dialogue saw the participation of Legislative Council (LegCo) member Yang Berhomat Khairunnisa binti Haji Ash’ari, members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives from government agencies, community leaders and representatives from the women leaders and civil society.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Democrat Joe Biden was on the cusp of winning the United States (US) presidency on Friday as he opened up narrow leads over President Donald Trump in the critical battlegrounds of Georgia and Pennsylvania.

Those put Biden in a stronger position to capture the 270 Electoral College votes needed to take the White House. The winner will lead a country facing a historic set of challenges, including a surging pandemic and deep political polarisation.

The focus on Pennsylvania, where Biden led Trump by more than 9,000 votes, and Georgia, where Biden led by more than 1,500, came as Americans entered a third full day after the election without knowing who will lead them for the next four years. The prolonged process added to the anxiety of a nation whose racial and cultural divides were inflamed during the heated campaign.

Biden was at his home in Wilmington, Delaware, as the vote count continued and aides said he would address the nation in primetime. Trump largely remained in the White House residence as more results trickled in, expanding Biden’s lead in must-win Pennsylvania. In the West Wing, televisions remained tuned to the news amid trappings of normalcy, as reporters lined up for coronavirus tests and outdoor crews worked on the North Lawn on a mild, muggy fall day.

Trump’s campaign, meanwhile, was quiet — a dramatic difference from the day before, when it held a morning conference call projecting confidence and held a flurry of hastily arranged press conferences announcing litigation in key states.

With his pathway to reelection appearing to greatly narrow, Trump was testing how far he could go in using the trappings of presidential power to undermine confidence in the vote.

On Thursday, he advanced unsupported accusations of voter fraud to falsely argue that his rival was trying to seize power in an extraordinary effort by a sitting American president to sow doubt about the democratic process.

More details on Borneo Bulletin Sunday

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 has emphasised that ASEAN’s recovery would require a strategic and holistic approach, to rebuild a resilient and sustainable ASEAN community.

“ASEAN needs to urgently support the regional recovery by: first, prioritising the peoples’ well-being and livelihoods including by enhancing regional safety nets and addressing social issues such as unemployment and mental health; second, improving ASEAN’s preparedness by building resilience through enhancing regional capacity to detect and respond to emerging challenges; and third, keeping regional economies open and ready for businesses, so ASEAN can rapidly recover and prosper,” said the monarch in a titah yesterday.

His Majesty also looked forward to the signing of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement, which will signify ASEAN’s firm commitment towards an open, inclusive and rules-based multilateral trading system. In addition, building up bilateral and regional travel arrangements is encouraged, so that professionals can move safely and without risk to health and lives.

At the same time, His Majesty emphasised that ASEAN needs to work with partners, to collectively overcome future challenges and ensure an ASEAN community that can provide more opportunities to its people.

His Majesty concluded the titah, at the summit themed ‘Cohesive and Responsive ASEAN’, held virtually via video conference, from Baitul Mesyuarah, Istana Nurul Iman, by assuring that as ASEAN Chair for 2021, Brunei Darussalam will work with all ASEAN member states and partners towards a caring, prepared and prosperous region.

At the summit, the leaders were presented with reports by the World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, on the COVID-19 pandemic situation and global response.

This was followed by a progress report on ASEAN by Secretary-General of ASEAN Dato Paduka Lim Jock Hoi, which included achievements throughout the year under the three community pillars; more action to push transformation and bolster recovery, including higher productivity; and strengthening human capital.

Afterwards, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam Pham Bình Minh, as Chair of the ASEAN Coordinating Council (ACC), also delivered a progress report on ASEAN, including the promotion of its identity and sub-regional development.

At the end of the summit, ASEAN leaders adopted the ASEAN Leaders’ Statement of the 37th ASEAN Summit; the Hanoi Declaration on the ASEAN Community’s Post-2025 Vision; the ACC’s Report on ASEAN 2020’s Deliverables and COVID-19 Response Initiatives; ASEAN Strategic Framework for Public Health Emergencies; the ASEAN Declaration on an ASEAN Travel Corridor Arrangement; the Hanoi Declaration on the Adoption of the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Work Plan IV (2021-2025); the ASEAN Declaration on Digital Tourism; the Narrative of ASEAN Identity; and the Hanoi Declaration on Strengthening Social Work Towards Cohesive and Responsive ASEAN Community.

This was followed with the launch of the Mid-term Reviews of the ASEAN Community Blueprints 2025, ASEAN Comprehensive Recovery Framework and the ASEAN Regional Reserve of Medical Supplies.

The Plenary Session was preceded by the opening ceremony of the 37th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, to welcome the ASEAN heads of state and government which featured cultural performances and the ASEAN theme song, The ASEAN Way.

This was followed with opening statements from General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam and President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam Nguyen Phú Trong; and Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam Nguyen Xuân Phúc, as the ASEAN Chairman for 2020, which focussed on effective responses to emerging challenges towards regional economic growth and recovery, forming a suitable position for a post COVID-19 world, as well as enhancing ASEAN’s global role.

At the ceremony, a video on ASEAN’s progress in 2020 was presented, and the ASEAN Prize 2020 was awarded to the ASEAN Studies Centre (ASC) of the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS) – Yusof Ishak Institute in the Republic of Singapore.

The ASEAN Prize honours the outstanding achievements of individuals or organisations who foster the ASEAN identity, promote the ASEAN spirit, champion the ASEAN way and have significantly contributed towards ASEAN community building efforts.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Baiduri Capital continued its educational webinar series on the Singapore stock market, in line with its efforts of improving investors’ knowledge on the global financial markets.

Binni Ong, who has more than 15 years of experience in providing trading education to both institutional and retail clients, conducted the webinar titled Trade Idea Generation and Formulation of Trade Plans on Singapore Stocks.

She was previously invited to give similar seminars in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Hong Kong.
The webinar was the second in a series of educational webinars organised by Baiduri Capital in collaboration with SGX Academy, a leading provider of investor education and professional training based in Singapore.

The series is also part of Baiduri Capital’s fifth anniversary activities, aimed to increase awareness of its investment products and services.

The webinar provided participants with a better understanding of how to interpret technical aspects of investing such as technical charts, signals, and how to formulate suitable trade plans.It also gave participants an overview of trading strategies that focussed on these same aspects in relation to the Singapore stock market.

To aid the participants’ understanding, the speaker also included real-life case studies from various sources such as the SGX Daily Momentum Report, the SGX Institutional and Retail Fund Flow Weekly Tracker, and other reports from the SGX Research Team.

These were used to help identify potential trends as well as generate and the narrow trade ideas for the Singapore market.

General Manager of Baiduri Capital Peng Eng Soon said, “These kinds of educational webinars aim to equip our investors with a more global perspective and enhance their knowledge on regional and international market trends. We’ve received encouraging feedback so far and weare planning to continue webinars such as these in the very near future.”

He added, “Through our collaboration with an international investing education centre such as the SGX Academy, we are able to provide the latest insights and perspectives from industry leading experts.”

As part of the collaboration, SGX Academy has also agreed to provide a real-time price data feed to Baiduri Capital’s clients for the securities listing in the Singapore Stock Exchange for a period of six months, from October 1 until March 31, 2021.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

Boustead Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of Suzuki cars in the country, launched the new Suzuki Swift Sport at the Suzuki Showroom in Gadong yesterday.

Boustead management, banks, insurance companies and the media attended the launch to take a closer look at the new Suzuki Swift Sport and test drive the vehicle.

With a practical use around town and affordable pricing, the new Swift Sport appeals to a wide market.

The journey of Swift Sport in Brunei Darussalam kick started in 2009 when the first generation was unveiled. Powered by a 1.6 litre engine, the first generation Swift Sport can produce torque up to 148Nm. It comes with a speed automatic and four-speed manual transmissions. The next model in 2012 was fitted with an improved 1.6 litre engine to produce 160Nm torque and gives the option of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and six-speed Manual Transmission weighing 1,070 kilogrammes.

In September 2017, the third generation Swift Sport made its global debut in the Frankfurt motor show with minor changes. It incorporated highly responsive acceleration with a powerful 230Nm torque from a new 1.4-litre direct injection turbo (booster jet) engine. The performance is complemented by a smooth shifting six-speed manual transmission with the option of a six-speed automatic transmission.

The new Swift Sport comes with a distinct sporty look and a new front grille and bumper. Dual exhaust pipes convey potent engine performance and comes in several vibrant colours including the Swift Sport’s exclusive champion yellow.

In the cabin, the semi bucket seat is comfortably sculpted to welcome the driver and front passenger to provide lateral support and stiffness. The sportiness is boosted with red stitching and sport logo embossed on the seats. A dimpled D-shaped steering wheel and stainless steel pedals add to the hot hatch’s sportiness.

The new Swift Sport also adopts the new generation platform HEARTECT to strengthen the underbody rigidity and provide an ultralight kerb weight of 970 kilogrammes. The body roll is reduced due to the suspension system from Monroe shocks and struts.

Customers purchasing the Suzuki Ertiga, Vitara, Jimny or new Swift Sport will stand a chance to win the grand prize of the new Swift Sport.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

Representatives of the event and activity partners for the Warehouse Market 2020 officially inked the partnership during a signing ceremony at D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd premises yesterday.

Signing on behalf of D’Sunlit was Operations Manager Ngu Tiing Siang, accompanied by Head of Sales Relationship Department Mike Chia.

The official representative from each organisation was accompanied by witness representatives.

Later, an exhibitor briefing was held, attended by representatives of the companies and establishments that will be showcasing their most popular products and services at the five-day event.

Attendees were updated on the latest developments, logistic concerns, and rules and regulations, in addition to other relevant matters, to ensure the smooth running of the event.

They were also reminded to submit the necessary documents to respective government bodies to avoid any unnecessary complications.

Aimed as the largest platform in Brunei for consumers to get the best value under one roof, the Warehouse Market 2020 provides exhibitors the opportunity to gather and showcase their products at discounted priceS.

With the year end approaching, D’Sunlit believes that this is a great opportunity for consumers to grab the best deals while experiencing a warehouse market.

Among the activities lined up are the Shop and Win and the Price Match Get W Tagged.

There will also be a ‘Wear-house’ contest for fashionistas, while artists are set to win prizes by getting creative with the Graffiti Showdown and the Artsy Uncover.

Additionally, the organising committee will be adhering to all precautions and safety measures, based on the rules and regulations implemented by the Ministry of Health (MoH) and other authorities.

Brunei Press Sdn Bhd is the event’s Exclusive Print and Digital Media Partner, while other partners include Oregon Systems as CCTV services provider; Aewon Garment & Embroidery Sdn Bhd as the apparel provider; IBIC Sdn Bhd (Sehat) as the mineral water supplier; Guerrilla Artchitects as the activity partner; and Mixmediaworx as the outdoor digital media partner.

Inquiries can be made by contacting D’Sunlit, or by following the organiser on social media for regular event updates.

Borneo Bulletin Online

“It is a great pleasure welcoming Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) cabin crews into Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) as Patient Ambassador and we are thrilled that we will benefit from RB’s best practices and knowledge in further enhancing our patient experience,” said Minister of Health and Chairman and Executive Director of JPMC Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar during a ceremony to mark the completion of an intensive training for 21 RB cabin crews to become Patient Ambassador for JPMC yesterday.

The minister as a guest of honour added”, The Patient Ambassador will provide value added personal touch that JPMC aims to establish with our patients and customers.”

Meanwhile, JPMC Chief Operating Officer Zauyah Md Tarmizi said, ”JPMC management is confident that the selected cabin crews will be able to relief JPMC healthcare providers after attending the two-week intensive training. JPMC doctors, nurses and allied health professionals can devote themselves to caring for patients even more.”

Chief People and Performance Officer of RB Richard Rendell, management and staff of JPMC and RB were also present.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between JPMC and RB recently.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

Deloitte, across its global network, annually dedicates a day to Impact Day, during which activities are carried out to make an impact in the communities it serves.

This year, due to COVID-19 restrictions, Deloitte practices in Southeast Asia held an Impact Month in October instead, to give its people more time to give back to the communities.

Deloitte Brunei held a series of events that saw its management and staff gathering to make a positive mark on society.

This year’s theme aligns with the larger Deloitte World Class ambition to prepare 50 million futures for a world of opportunity through the sharing of skills and knowledge, to empower the less privileged to succeed by 2030.

Four key events were conducted, in partnership with several local organisations, for beneficiary groups in the community, ranging from students, jobseekers, health workers and various non-government organisations (NGOs).

Over 150 individuals attended the events, while over 200 individuals benefitted indirectly through viewing and liking related social media posts.

The events included a healthy eating workshop hosted by an advocate and attended by culinary students from a local private institution and Deloitte staff. Attendees were educated on the benefits of a macrobiotic diet, veganism and the link between health and the environment.

The next event was a physical wellness class, attended by health workers, to raise awareness on the importance of making time to care for one’s physical wellness amidst hectic schedules and other daily stresses.

Deloitte management and staff, with various local NGOs and support groups, also attended a mental health workshop that focussed on the stigma around mental health and the importance of paying attention to one’s mental well-being in a bid to become a productive member of society.

Finally, a virtual youth employability Workshop was attended by students and jobseekers.

The workshop sought to assist in the development of critical CV writing and interview skills, to improve the future job prospects of young Bruneians.

Deloitte also held a charity donation drive for a local NGO, during which the Deloitte people were encouraged to donate pre-loved items such as clothing, toys, books, kitchenware, bags, glassware and other miscellaneous items in good condition to support individuals with special needs.

At the end of the month, Deloitte Brunei donated over 25 boxes of items, as a result of contributions from its people, clients and business partners.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Aziz Idris

Entrepreneurs can learn to boost their business activities by using platforms offered by Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) at the Borneo Bulletin Yearbook (BBYB) MSME Showcase at One Riverside which began yesterday.

The public can experience the bank’s digital business solutions and use cashless payment methods.

BIBD Head of Corporate Banking Koh Swam Sing said, “Products including BIBD BizNet, the micro, small and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) current account and BIBD QuickyPay have helped fill the gaps and improve operations, in line with the bank’s objectives to serve the needs of MSMEs.

“BIBD has always been committed to the development of local MSMEs, and have complemented national efforts by boosting SME-related initiatives and programmes by empowering them with robust and comprehensive digital business solutions.”

The public can also learn about the bank’s all-in-one SME360 platform – a comprehensive banking solution that complements the needs of businesses, especially SMEs which includes a dedicated relationship management team, financial solutions and digital payments.

Local entrepreneurs Gelatiamo and At-Taqwa Travel & Tours, both locally owned and operated businesses that have benefitted from the SME360 ecosystem, will also be present at the MSME Showcase.

The latest cohort of mothers from the BIBD SEED programme, one of the bank’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes aimed at empowering underprivileged mothers through entrepreneurship, are also participating.

BIBD also works closely with stakeholders including DARe (Darussalam Enterprise) to provide support, advice and mentorship to its MSMEs through the BIBD Catalyst programme, which focusses on providing acceleration programmes intended to help promising small businesses scale and grow into medium-sized enterprises.

Visitors can also meet with BIBD Catalyst participants, Mumtaz Collections and Mukaku Cosmetics.

BIBD aims to support the local economy amid the COVID-19 pandemic, by encouraging customers to buy locally.

Entrepreneurs and business owners can visit the MSME Showcase and get advice from BIBD’s relationship managers.

BIBD was recently named Best SME Bank in Brunei 2020 by Global Banking and Finance Review in recognition of the bank’s efforts at supporting SMEs, continued investment in technology, deployment of innovative services and commitment to the socio-economic development in Brunei.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Hakim Hayat

The inaugural Borneo Bulletin Yearbook (BBYB) Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Showcase opened its doors yesterday, showcasing some of the country’s most inspirational entrepreneurship success stories to the public, while also allowing budding entrepreneurs to engage and learn through an extensive network of business support, ideas and solutions.

The event at One Riverside in Jalan Gadong is an extension of the range of events for the BBYB Networking Session and was launched 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.

The three-day event is geared towards providing a platform for MSMEs to showcase their products and services to the public. A community-based project made possible through partnerships among leading local corporations, it is also aimed at encouraging entrepreneurship and engaging MSMEs to learn, improve processes and have further insights into financial management.

Brunei Press Sdn Bhd General Manager Hazizah Osman in her opening speech highlighted that MSMEs continue to be drivers of growth for Brunei’s economy and the number, while small, has continued to grow.

“MSMEs in Brunei operate effectively within our small domestic market in various sectors including digital, fashion, services, and food and beverages. Most belong to the services sector and are dominated by traditional wholesale and retail trade; some have reached out to global markets,” she highlighted.

She said the showcase aims to further engage and enhance the MSME market in Brunei and through not only the marketing of their products and services, but also exchange of ideas and in seeking expert advice in the areas of finance, banking and telecommunications.

The showcase features food, coffee, fashion, telco solutions and made-in-Brunei products. Physical distancing and health regulatory measures are also being observed where visitors are required to scan their BruHealth QR codes and have temperature checks before entering the venue.

The showcase is supported by BIBD, imagine, DARe (Darussalam Enterprise), One Riverside, and Radio Television Brunei (RTB).

The BBYB is a comprehensive guide to Brunei, providing updated business information with special focus on investment opportunities and the nation’s developments and diversification efforts. It was incepted in 1993 as an annual publication of Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, the publisher of Borneo Bulletin and Media Permata.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

Baiduri Bank has once again been recognised as the country’s winner in the World’s Best Banks Awards 2020.

The award marks Baiduri Bank’s sixth award from Global Finance since 2014.

The year 2020 is a very challenging year for all banks and the recognition from Global Finance magazine is testament to Baiduri Bank’s resilient performance, strong balance sheet, prudent risk management practices and the ability to offer most of the services on a digital platform, said CEO Ti Eng Hui.

“We have invested heavily in new technologies to provide a better experience for our customers and the public with digital solutions like the b.Digital banking platform,” Ti added.

The bank also looked inwards towards building human capital capabilities through digital solutions. “Last year, we signed an MoU with an international financial services provider for the provision of a structured e-learning solution and this is the first of its kind for a Brunei bank,” the CEO said.

Global Finance in a press release said Baiduri Bank has a strong international brand, thanks to collaborations with global and regional banks, and is recognised for innovation, dynamism and consistently strong metrics.

Baiduri Bank has received two international banking awards this year, with the other being ‘Domestic Retail Bank of the Year’ from the Asian Banking & Finance magazine for the eighth consecutive year.

The winners for the World’s Best Banks 2020 were selected by editors at Global Finance with input from industry analysts, corporate executives and technology experts using information provided by banks and other providers as well as independent research.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Hakim Hayat

Challenges faced by industries this year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, have pushed for constant innovation through exploration of better opportunities and adaptation to new technologies, which are all important attributes in this era where maximising the use of technology is the new norm, said Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah yesterday at the launch of the Borneo Bulletin Yearbook (BBYB) MSME Showcase at One Riverside in Jalan Gadong.

The minister, who attended as guest of honour, said this year’s challenges have provided an opportunity to re-evaluate priorities and directions, to ensure that the industries are on the right path, to be more adaptable to the ever-changing trends in industries and to be more innovative when it comes to product development and sales.

As seen over the past year, he assured that efforts will continue to be taken by the government and all stakeholders, to support growth and innovation in the private sector, especially for MSMEs, and protect jobs in the private sector, especially during times of crisis.

“I hope that the collective hard work we have seen, coupled with the positive energy we are seeing today and improving quality of products, are indicators that Brunei Darussalam can continue to develop a vibrant private sector, which will drive the economic growth of our country and raise the standard of living of our people,” he added.

Over 20 MSMEs are participating in the MSME Showcase held this weekend.

The event provides a platform for MSMEs to showcase their products and services to the public and provide opportunities for mentoring and for budding entrepreneurs to discover the various types of assistance and services available on the market.

Borneo Bulletin Online

The closing ceremony for the Table-Top Exercise (TTX) was recently held at the Banquet Hall, Prime Minister’s Office.

Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat was the guest of honour. Permanent secretaries, RBAF service commanders, deputy permanent secretaries and other heads of government departments were also present.

The TTX, dubbed Eksesais Perisai Kebangsaan (EPK), was conducted over three days and involved 30 government and non-government agencies, comprising participants from strategic, operational and tactical level.

The exercise served as an opportunity for security agencies and stakeholders to undergo comprehensive training, while emphasising on the importance in adopting the ‘Whole of Nation’ approach in managing threats and crises.

In his closing speech, Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah encouraged participants to continue the efforts made during the TTX.

He said issues derived from the After Action Review should be taken into consideration to review as well as synergise standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to operations involving multiple agencies.

The recently concluded TTX was the fifth of its kind conducted at the national level with previous exercises conducted in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2015.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

The Brunei Young Leaders Convention (BYLC) is scheduled to return on March 23-25 next year at the National Service Programme Training Camp in the Temburong District.

Details of the third BYLC were shared in a press conference led by Legislative Council (LegCo) member and Perspective Insan Academy Chairperson Yang Berhormat Iswandy bin Ahmad at the Youth Centre yesterday.

The convention aims to unite youth and stakeholders from public and private sectors as well as the community to deliver accurate and updated information on Brunei Vision 2035. It also provides a platform for youth to carry out programmes in achieving Brunei Vision 2035.

Al-Huffaz Management Co-Chairperson Haji Mohd Loqman Al-Hakim bin Haji Hamdan and Generasi Bekarih Project Manager Muhammad Syukri bin Jamil were also present.

Yang Berhormat Iswandy said, “We have seen a lot of initiatives from the government, the private sector and the community. At this convention, we would like to hear from the youth.

“It is interesting to note that in the previous two conventions, we saw the involvement of not only youth from non-government organisations (NGOs), but also youth of different abilities, as well as grassroots leaders.”

He said the programme will include forums, talks, an adventure walk, mentoring clinics and tree-planting activities.

Yang Berhormat Iswandy added, “BYLC 2021 will be organised by three youth business organisations – Perspective Insan Academy, Al-Huffaz Management and Generasi Bekarih.

The motto for BYLC 2021 is BELIA which stands for ‘Believe, Empower, Lead, Inspire and Act’.”

Haji Mohd Loqman meanwhile shared some of the achievements of the previous BYLC, with eight organisations established, 19 companies set up, over 30 projects initiated and 59 partnerships formed.

“From the conventions, the participating youth discovered that there were opportunities and potential for them,” he said, while calling for youth to “make use of the opportunity to join us next year in the Temburong District”.

Muhammad Syukri said, “The BYLC is open to youth between 18 and 40, who are passionate about making positive changes, contributing to the nation’s development and achieving the Brunei Vision 2035.

“We hope to attract student councils, excelled students, active youth from NGOs, graduates, jobseekers, young progressives and talented youth to join the convention.

“We will also be conducting roadshows so interested youth can register with us. The registration deadline is March 1, 2021. ”

Visit www.bylconvention.com or the social media accounts @bylconvention to register.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Izah Azahari

The Survey Department, Ministry of Development and the Brunei Institution of Geomatics (BIG) jointly organised the Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Programme at the Betabur Hall, Ministry of Development, which featured technical presentations by new BIG applicants from the Land Surveying and GIS Mapping Section and the Real Estate Section.

Surveyor General Haji Arefin bin Haji Jaya was the guest of honour.

The event began with welcoming remarks by BIG President Haji Ali Bakar bin Haji Kasim who highlighted that the objective of the CPD Programme was to share knowledge and keep abreast with latest technologies on geomatics among BIG members and other related government officers, as well as the private sectors.

“This is in line with the objective of professional institutions in the country to always collaborate with government departments and other international organisations to share information or knowledge on latest technologies for our national development,” said the president.

He added that the CPD programme saw papers presented by seven new BIG applicants from the Land Surveying and GIS Mapping Section and the Real Estate Section. Presenting a paper in the CPD Programme is one of the pre-requisites before applicants can be accepted as a full member of BIG.

“I hope there will be more papers presented by not only new applicants, but by members of BIG in the next CPD Programme or seminar,” the president said.

Fifty-nine participants comprising of government officers and members of BIG and other professional bodies attended the programme aimed at encouraging officers and members to promote and highlight the importance of CPD, enhancing everyone’s knowledge and skills in the profession and ensuring that the knowledge shared is relevant and up-to-date.

The speakers comprised officers from the Survey Department, Land Department and Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE). Among them were Hajah Siti Hairaney binti Haji Shahri with her paper on The Development of the Land Laws in Brunei Darussalam, Nur Sabrina binti Haji Ahmad with The Valuation Profession and its Role, Eddy Nor Exwan bin Haji Mohamad with Pegging of Land Value, Abdul Rahman bin Haji Abdul Karim with Acquisition of Water Village Houses, Visualising 3D Spaces for Smart Buildings presented by Mohammad Syazwan bin Abang Abas, Building Cost Analysis by Iqabal bin Haji Mohd Taufik, and Haji Khairul Abidin bin Haji Sulaiman with Kajian Awal Penentuan Waktu Subuh (Fajar Sadiq) di Negara Brunei Darussalam.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

The National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) will be re-branded as Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (FAB) along with a new logo, subject to an approval from the Registrar of Societies (ROS).

The NFABD will also proceed with FIFA-approved projects to build a Technical Centre and a mini grand stand, expected to be completed by July 2021.

These developments were announced during the NFABD 5th Congress at the Radisson Hotel in the capital yesterday.

The congress also discussed and approved the consolidated financial statements and statutory financial statements for 2019; the initial and revised budget for 2020 and proposed budget for 2021; the appointment of Deloitte & Touche as independent auditor for 2020-2023; the admission of new NFABD members: ALMEREZ Futsal Academy and Brunei Darussalam Association of Football Coaches (BDAFC); and proposed amendments to the NFABD Statutes, the Regulations Governing the Applications of the Statutes and the Standing Order of the Congress.

During the congress, On Hung Zheng was appointed as Chairman of Disciplinary Committee and Ahmad Basuni bin Haji Abbas as Chairman of Appeals Committee.

NFABD President Pengiran Haji Matusin bin Pengiran Haji Matasan led the congress, assisted by NFABD General Secretary Mohammad Shahnon bin Haji Mohd Salleh.

Also present was NFABD Deputy President Haji Salleh Bostaman bin Haji Zainal Abidin.

The NFABD 5th Congress was held physically and virtually, marking the first time the national football governing body has held such congress due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

FIFA representative Niko Nhouvannasak, Asian Football Confederation (AFC) representatives Nhodkeo Phawadee and Victoria Koh and ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) General Secretary Windston Lee also participated in the congress via video conference.

The next congress will be held on May 29, 2021.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

QAF Auto, the sole importer and distributor of BMW and Mini vehicles in Brunei Darussalam, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Laksamana College of Business (LCB) recently.

Signing on behalf of QAF Auto was its General Manager Alisa Khoo, while LCB was represented by its director, Haji Suhaimei bin Haji Besar, witnessed by BMW Sales Manager Vince Soon and LCB COO and Deputy Principal S Sivarajah.

“We are delighted to welcome LCB as our new partner to the BMW Corporate Programme and look forward to doing more collaborations in the future,” Khoo said.

“We would also like to thank LCB again for the equal benefits they are extending to us in exchange of the partnership and we hope this partnership will be a valuable one for the staff and management of both parties.

Sivarajah said, “We are excited on what the future beholds for our staff and students through this partnership. We also thank QAF Auto for their support towards our students and the college in general by giving them potential internship opportunities and also potential project collaborations, including corporate social responsibilities (CSR) in the near future”.

For more information on the BMW Corporate Programme, visit www.bmw.com.bn.

Borneo Bulletin Online