Officers of Haj Management Department at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) and their counterparts from Tabung Haji Malaysia discussed Haj management amid the COVID-19 pandemic during an online sharing session yesterday.
The topics included the selection of intending pilgrims, Haj courses, health screening procedures, estimated Haj costs, development programmes for Haj workers, new standard operating procedures (SOPs) in the management of Haj pilgrims, Umrah management, and the basis of postponement for intending pilgrims due to the pandemic.
Among the officers from the Haj Management Department the virtual meeting were Acting Director of Haj Management Haji Abdullah bin Haji Mohamad, Acting Assistant Director of Haj Management Hajah Zunainah binti Haji Gunong, Religious Education Officer (Head of Haj Management Division) Normawarni binti Md Janai, Haj Communication Attache at Brunei Darussalam Consulate General in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Haji Muhammad Naqib bin Haji Awang, and Acting Head of Division for Policy and Haj Communications Haji Muhammad Izzuddin bin Haji Abdul Rani.
The officers from Tabung Haji Malaysia comprised Haj Executive Director Dato’ Sri Syed Saleh Syed Abdul Rahman, General Manager (Haj Management) Haji Nurrinanuwar bin Shamsuddin, General Manager (Domestic Operation) Dato’ Haji Ahmad Ruzman bin Ahmad Razali, General Manager (Guidance) Haji Tengku Aziz bin Raja Abdullah, General Manager (Haj Research and Development) Haji Mohd Sawal bin Abong, and Head of the Haj Agency Haji Mohd Zawawi bin Haji Bostam.
Officers from Brunei’s Haj Management Department at the online meeting with their counterparts from Malaysia. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong launched the third installation of the District Potential expo at the parking area opposite Royal Regalia Museum yesterday.
Organised by the Brunei-Muara District Office, the expo aimed to provide opportunity and assist local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) including One Village One Product entrepreneurs, Sinar Harapan (former inmates), Muallafpreneurs.
It will be held until January 3, 2021 and is open from 7am onwards.
Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong tours the expo. PHOTO: 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, a Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) senior officer was promoted to the rank of ‘First Admiral’ effective yesterday.
The ceremony for 359 Captain Spry bin Haji Serudi @ Haji Seruji RBAF Chief of Staff took place at the Officers’ Mess at Bolkiah Garrison yesterday.
The insignia presentation ceremony was led by Commander of the RBAF Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat.
Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, permanent secretary, services commanders, deputy permanent secretary and acting deputy permanent secretary, commandants, directors and family members of the officer were also present.
The ceremony was also blessed with a Doa Selamat by Acting Head of RBAF Religious Department (JAMA’AT) Major Ariffin bin Amit.
Commander of the RBAF Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat presents an insignia to 359 Captain Spry bin Haji Serudi @ Haji Seruji. PHOTO: MINDEF
“On the advice and cooperation of the Ministry of Health (MoH), students from Brunei Darussalam heading to the UK will be temporarily delayed until January 31, 2021, subject to efforts in risk assessment methods from the MoH,” said Acting Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh at a press conference yesterday.
She added, “The temporary delay is, therefore, inclusive of the permission for students initially scheduled for return to the UK using the Royal Brunei flight BI 003 on January 2, 2021.”
She also said, “Based on the information given by the Students’ Unit of the Brunei Darussalam High Commission in the UK, the students’ mode of learning will still be conducted online.
“Online learning will still be maintained, as one of the methods for learning in the UK , even though face-to-face teaching and learning will be conducted starting next semester (second semester).
“The Ministry of Education (MoE) will work closely with the MoH to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic situation in the UK.”
Acting Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh speaks during the press conference. PHOTO: JAMES KON
Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah advised anyone requiring further information to contact the Scholarship Section on the fifth floor of Block C at the MoE building in Berakas, or at 2380019, during office hours.
Several countries are imposing restrictions on travel from the United Kingdom (UK), in response to a new strain of COVID-19 found in London and parts of southeast England.
On December 23, Singapore confirmed an imported case involving the new strain of COVID-19.
Responding to media questions yesterday regarding travel restrictions to the UK, Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar said, “Brunei has yet to ban flights to or from the UK. “We are still allowing them, but we will need to follow the quarantine procedures that have been stated.”
In Brunei, the current travel restrictions for entering and leaving the country remain in force, as part of the preventive measures against COVID-19.
All non-essential travels into Brunei have been temporarily halted. Essential travellers who have had their application for entry approved by the Department of Immigration and National Registration are required to show proof of a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test, taken no more than 72 hours before departure.
Travellers into the country must complete up to 14 days of mandatory self-isolation on arrival, and will only be released pending a negative COVID-19 test result in Brunei.
Brunei Darussalam currently has no infections caused by the new variant strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus which was discovered in various parts of the United Kingdom (UK).
At a press conference yesterday, Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar said, “Based on scientific analysis conducted by the Ministry of Health (MoH), the existing PCR tests in Brunei Darussalam are capable of detecting infections resulting from the new variant.
“Although there are no cases of the new variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the country, our ministry has taken steps to increase preventive and regulatory measures, to prevent the importation of this new virus variant.
“On December 19, the UK government reported information regarding a new variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that was found to be circulating in various areas in the UK. This variant, termed B.1.1.7 (VUI-202012/01), is caused by mutations in the virus’s genetic code which first occurred in September.
“SARS-CoV-2 is an RNA virus, and mutations arise naturally as the virus replicates. Many thousands of mutations or changes have already arisen on the SARS-CoV-2 virus, but only a very small minority is likely to be important and to change the virus in an appreciable way.
“The health authorities in the UK have stated that this newly reported variant enhances the virus’s ability to be more contagious or transmissable from one individual to another.”
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar speaks during the press conference. PHOTO: JAMES KON
Although the variant or strain is suggested to be more transmissible, Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham said, “There is currently insufficient evidence to determine if this strain is associated with any change in disease severity or antibody response or vaccine efficacy to the virus. These aspects are being investigated by the authorities in the UK.
“The concerns over the new COVID-19 variant highlight the importance of identifying and deploying safe and effective vaccines against COVID-19, to ensure that Brunei is protected from these emerging threats.”
He added, “In this regard, the MoH has examined the data and information on the current vaccine candidates. The government is actively identifying effective and safe vaccine candidates and is securing access to these vaccines.
“Both multilateral arrangements via the COVAX facility and bilateral arrangements with specific vaccine manufacturers were held, as well as additional arrangement to ensure vaccine access and procurement for Brunei.
“The vaccine candidates available so far, use different technologies including inactivated viruses, proteins, viral vectors and mRNAs. All these vaccine technologies have different safety and effectiveness profiles, which can only be determined after the results of the Phase 3 Clinical Trial vaccines is examined later.
“Any vaccine that is used will be required to undergo a regulatory research process enforced by the Brunei Darussalam Medicines Control Authority (BDMCA).
“On vaccine procurement, the MoH is also preparing for prioritisation and national deployment strategy, once a vaccine for COVID-19 that is safe and effective becomes available for use.
“A technical committee has been established to develop and implemented a National Vaccination Strategy. Due to the limited global supply of vaccines; the distribution will be done in phases, and priority will be given to high-risk individuals first.
“When this vaccination programme is implemented, each individual can play a role by getting vaccinated. This will ensure their protection and that of their loved ones, as well as the wider community, from COVID-19.”
On effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine in addressing the new strain, Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham said, “At the moment, the vaccine will still be effective against the new strain, adding that “Brunei will expect to receive the vaccine by the second quarter of next year, but this has yet to be confirmed”.
The Syariah international Webinar 2020 organised by the Faculty of Syariah, Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) in conjunction with its 10th Convocation Ceremony was held on Thursday at the university.
Ra’es of KUPU SB Dr Haji Adanan bin Haji Basar attended the opening ceremony as the guest of honour.
The webinar themed ‘Methodology of Islamic law in undergoing new post-COVID-19 pandemic norms’ was broadcasted live using Zoom.
One premier, two main and seven papers were presented by scholars from Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) of Brunei, Alauddin Makassar State Islamic University of Indonesia and Tun Hussein Onn University (UTHM) of Malaysia.
The scholars discussed issues related to religious practices in the new post-COVID-19 normal and presented the Islamic law methodology in the current environment.
The event aimed at providing the public an understanding of Islamic law methodology, its relationship with Maqasid Syariah and its importance in explaining the purpose and wisdom of the legislation.
Among the topics presented were: the practice of Sunnah in undergoing new post-pandemic norms; worshipping in the new normal; between ‘Azimah and Rukhshah; integration of Naqli knowledge and Aqli knowledge in the face of pandemic; control of the pandemic according to Syarri’yyah perspective; strengthening social jurisprudence as implementation of Maqasid Syariah in new normal era; and validity of COVID-19 fatwa through method applications.
The Belait District Football Association (PBDB) recently hosted a gathering at Serikandi Restaurant, attended by representatives from football clubs in the Belait District, committee members from the PBDB and the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD).
NFABD President Pengiran Haji Matusin bin Pengiran Haji Matasan and spouse were welcomed to the venue by PBDB President Pengiran Saiful Redzalli bin Pengiran Jaya Indera Pengiran Haji Mokhtar Puteh.
NFABD Secretary General Mohammad Shahnon bin Haji Mohd Salleh, PBDB Deputy President Morni bin Haji Zakeria, and representative from the Belait District Branch of the Youth and Sports Department Gaung Jamit were also present.
The event discussed next year’s itinerary including Futsal League for 19-year-olds and below, Grassroot Football Tournament and District Leagues.
It continued with the presentation of certificates to football clubs in the Belait District including Nelayan FT, Tanoshi FC, Mengelella FC, Nusantara FC, and HR FT for their contributions.
The event, held to foster ties, also saw the presentation of football sporting equipment by the guest of honour to Pengiran Saiful Redzalli.
NFABD President Pengiran Haji Matusin bin Pengiran Haji Matasan presents a certificate of appreciation. PHOTO: DANIEL LIM
Kelab Pusat Belia Temburong/Belia Permata Hijau organised leisure sport activities dubbed ‘Maie Tah Kitani Besihat’ at the Bumiputera Main Complex of Pekan Bangar, Temburong District recently.
The event was part of the HEAL (Happy Environment and Lifestyle) Programme to support physical activity interventions in community settings through building, strengthening, and maintaining social networks creating opportunities for physical activity.
It was also a platform to disseminate information on the mental and physical health of individuals and communities.
Acting Temburong District Officer Mohammad Amirul Hadi bin Haji Mohd Tajudin as guest of honour, officiated the event.
Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu, Senior Medical Officer Dr Norhayati binti Haji Ahmad, Health Education Officer Ummi Salmah binti Arrif and Acting Head of Kampong Batu Apoi Norasmandi bin Haji Karim were also present.
ABOVE & BELOW: Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu with participants during the walkathon; and Acting District Officer of Temburong Mohammad Amirul Hadi bin Haji Mohd Tajudin officiates the event by sounding the gong. PHOTOS: HPC
The event began with a warm-up session led by Joana binti Labih followed by a two-kilometre walkathon from Batu Apoi Sports Complex to Kampong Peliuanan and ended back to Batu Apoi Sports Complex.
Participants also joined a bicycle-thon activity.
The guest of honour also toured the exhibition booths, vendors and activities inside the Batu Apoi Sports Complex. A lucky draw prize presentation concluded the event.
HEAL Programme is a private-public partnership (PPP) between the Ministry of Health and Gleneagles Jerudong Park Medical Center (GJPMC) Sdn Bhd. The programme aimed at raising awareness and knowledge of the benefits of regular physical activity and reduced sedentary behaviour in the community.
The activity was held in collaboration with the Health Promotion Centre, Temburong Paddlers, Temburong Red Crescent Society, Temburong RC Boat, Pengiran Isteri Hajjah Mariam Hospital Temburong, Gleneagles JPMC, Temburong District Office, Royal Brunei Police Force and Youth and Sports Department, and supported by Suci Mineral Water and Tai Wang Advertising company.
Employees Trust Fund (TAP), through the TAP Enforcement Unit continued its roadshow for 175 newly registered employers at the Theatre Hall, Ministry of Finance and Economy Building recently.
The roadshow was part of TAP’s efforts to inform employers on their responsibilities in managing employees who are eligible to be registered under TAP and SCP schemes.
It is mandatory for employees including part-time employees, contract employees, daily-paid employees and employees on probation who are citizens and permanent residents of Brunei Darussalam to be registered and contribute to the TAP and SCP schemes.
Offenders who fail to pay TAP and SCP contributions within the prescribed time are liable to a BND3,000 fine for the first offence and no more than BND10,000 for second and subsequent offences under Section 26 of the Employees Trust Act (Chapter 167) and Section 29 of the Supplemental Pensions Trust Order 2009.
The session continued with a sharing session on the application of TAP’s online service, e-Amanah. For every new company registration via the Registry of Companies and Business Names (ROCBN), the company will be automatically registered to e-Amanah.
The Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) held a closing ceremony for the ‘ICT Upskilling for Unemployed Youth’ programme recently.
Sixteen participants took part in the three-month pilot programme through blended learning.
Acting Chief Executive of AITI Ir Haji Jailani bin Haji Buntar presented the certificates.
The event saw Manager of Industry Development Group of AITI Haji Hadi Iskandar bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohammad delivering a remark. The event continued with a speech by a participant, Ang Chian Yien.
The ceremony also saw the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the hosting organisations.
The ‘ICT Upskilling for Unemployed Youth’ was initiated by AITI to assist youth jobseekers with at least Higher National Diploma (HND) qualification in ICT-related fields to undergo on-the-job training and eventually secure a potential job in hosting organisations.
Facilitated by Recap Sdn Bhd, the training programme taught the participants fundamental programming languages such as HTML, CSS, React, ReactJS and NodeJS.
The participants were also mentored by local and oversea technical specialists and underwent an internship programme with hosting organisations – Agrome IQ International, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD), DotRoot Technologies, Halosis, Karya Digital Sdn Bhd, Nuara Group, Progresif Sdn Bhd and ThreeG Media Sdn Bhd.
About 81 per cent of the participants have secured jobs in the ICT industry.
AITI planned to train at least 60 youth jobseekers in the coming months with the in-demand programming skills to equip them with job readiness skills.
Participants in a group photo with their certificates. PHOTO: AITI
A number of Brunei students attending Al-Azhar University and Ma’had Qiraat Al-Shoubra in Egypt remotely have been taking online examinations in the country since Wednesday.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA), through the Department of Islamic Studies and the Embassy of Brunei Darussalam in Cairo, partnered with the Supreme Council of Al-Azhar University in Egypt to hold online examinations for 208 students to ensure the welfare and continuity of studies of Bruneian students studying at Egyptian institutions.
The online examinations are held in stages until mid-January next year at the Computer Lab Room of Arabic Religious Secondary School of Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha.
Students taking their examinations. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
A total of 72 traffic offences were recorded during a joint roadblock operation carried out by the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) at several locations in three districts, on December 23.
The operation commenced at 8pm, led by officers and personnel from the Traffic Control and Investigation Department; District Traffic Investigation Officers; Officers-in-Charge of police stations; and heads of units from other enforcement agencies.
At the Tutong-Muara Highway, personnel from the Tutong Police Station found 12 offences.
In the Lamunin area of the Tutong District, personnel from the Lamunin Police Station found seven offences.
In the Belait District, the roadblock led by the Panaga Police Station and Belait Police District Headquarters caught 18 offenders for violations.
There were also two offences under the Royal Customs and Excise Department (RCED) and four offences under the Land Transport Department (JPD).
In the Brunei-Muara District, 26 traffic offences and one docket offence were recorded. There were also three offences under JPD.
Any suspicious activities can be reported through the police hotline at 993.
One of the several roadblocks in the operation. PHOTO: RBPF
More than 500 local gamers are vying for the BND15,000 pool prize in the Brunei Esports Championship 2020, at the Bridex Hall 2.
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof, 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, and InfoCom Federation Brunei (IFB) Chairman Sheikh Haji Abas bin Sheikh Mohamad jointly launched the championship yesterday.
The Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT), the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC), the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) and InfoCom Federation Brunei are organising the three-day championship as part of the Brunei December Festival (BDF) 2020.
The gamers are competing in Dota 2, Tekken 7, Mobile Legends and PUBG Mobile.
Sheikh Haji Abas said, “Esports is now a multi-billion-dollar industry globally, especially in Southeast Asia, where it has become a highly popular sport among youth.
“The inclusion of esports at the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Manila is a testament to the immense popularity of esports in this region, and with Vietnam next year to include esports in the up-coming 31st SEA Games, prove that it is here to stay for the long run.”
He added, “Brunei also has its own talented esports players, who have been actively competing in tournaments here and abroad. Although just coming into existence, there have been positive signs of growth in Brunei in recent years.
“We have witnessed a high number of tournaments being organised and increased sponsorships from the private sector in the past two years. This is to ensure that our e-athletes are well-equipped to compete regionally and globally, and ultimately win gold medals for our country.”
Sheikh Haji Abas also expressed hopes that the tournament would inspire more youth to take up esports and compete on the international arena, carrying the Brunei flag.
The ministers, toured the championship and try their hands on a few games.
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof and 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 launched the Brunei Esports Championship 2020 yesterday where more than 500 gamers are vying for the BND15,000 pool prize. PHOTOS: JAMES KONMinister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof, 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 and InfoCom Federation Brunei (IFB) Chairman Sheikh Haji Abas Sheikh Mohamad launches the tournamentThe Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism watches as Minister of Transport and Infocommunications and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports try out a game
The Royal Thai Embassy in Brunei Darussalam hosted a media get-together at its premises in appreciation of coverage to promote the strong relationship between Brunei Darussalam and Thailand.
A total of 71 media members were treated to an authentic Thai food dinner served by some 11 companies.
Ambassador of Thailand to Brunei Darussalam Wanthanee Viputwongsakul highlighted several events hosted by the embassy, including a blood donation drive in May, donation to the Community Development Department (JAPEM) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports in July as part of the Royal Initiative Volunteers Project ‘Good Deeds from the Heart’, a blood donation drive to commemorate the National Day of Thailand, birthday anniversary of His Majesty the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great and Thailand’s Father’s Day, and the virtual forum for the 3rd Princess Maha Chakri Award (PMCA) Forum at the embassy for the recipients of the Princess Maha Chakri Award Foundation.
“2020 has brought a lot of challenges for us to continue our activities. But we have managed to overcome them by doing our best to adapt to the situation,” she added.
The Thai Ambassador expressed her appreciation to the media and looks forward to their continued support.
“The media plays an important role in strengthening relations between countries by disseminating information to promote better understanding in every aspect particularly people-to-people relations,” added the envoy.
The gathering also saw local media personnel participating in fun games and a lucky draw.
Ambassador of Thailand to Brunei Darussalam Wanthanee Viputwongsakul delivers a speech. PHOTOS: IZAH AZAHARIA member of local media receives a prizeGuests being served an authentic Thai cuisine
Meraih Berkah Group (KMB) presented donations and school necessities to orphans and underprivileged students in the Temburong District recently.
The group leader Hajah Florinda binti Haji Mejenis presented the donations to 36 students.
The; activity is KMB’s annual activity to help lessen their burden and motivate the students in their studies.
KMB also reward two students Nurul Syafiqah binti Norhashim and Nurul Ros Aqilah binti Rosman for using facilities donated by KMB at the school’s library during the school break.
Brudesh Engineering and Management Sdn Bhd recently organised its healthy lifestyle programme for its staff at the Anduki Recreation Park, Seria.
Managing Director Hajah Sapurahbee binti Haji Ibrahim said the programme aimed at promoting healthy lifestyle by encouraging physical activities while fostering closer ties.
She believed that healthy lifestyle is instrumental in preventing chronic illness as well as improving self-esteem.
“I hope this programme will be carried out more frequently to ensure the health of employees is maintained,” she said.
Human Relations Director Syarifah Safinatul Najah binti Malai Haji Abdul Hamid, and Operation Director cum Contract Manager Malai ‘Izzat Faris bin Malai Haji Abdul Hamid were
also present. Over 50 staff members joined the programme featuring team building exercises and games.
A prize presentation for winners and lucky draw concluded the event.
Prizes to the winners. PHOTOS: DANIEL LIMA warm-up session in progress
Discussions are on to propose June as the conference and seminar season with expos and exhibitions, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong said, speaking on plans to introduce festivities during the June school holidays.
“We hope this will attract local and international organisers. The matter is still under discussion. We will wait for its confirmation and then inform the public,” he said.
Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali made these comments on the sideline of the launch of the two-day China Day at the Indoor Stadium yesterday.
“The Brunei December Festival was first introduced as an activity for December amid school holidays, with the majority of the people travelling abroad,” he said.
In the past four years, we have been organising the Brunei December Festival as an opportunity for locals to organise activities and the public to consider ‘staycation’.
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong speaks to the media during the event. PHOTO: BAHYIAH BAKIR
The minister continued, “The involvement of foreign diplomats in the Brunei December Festival is very much welcome. We are thankful to embassies and high commissions for organising activities as part of the Brunei December Festival. We hope such activities will continue in the future. “These activities allow people in Brunei Darussalam to better understand other countries’ cultures.”
Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali thanked the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Brunei Darussalam and the Brunei-China Friendship Association for hosting the China Day event.
Speaking on domestic tourism, he said the campaign launched by Brunei Tourism Board received a good response.
“We have seen synergy between the promotion of local tourism and Brunei December Festival. We hope this will carry on into the future,” the minister said.
Former students of Jalan Muara Sixth Form Centre (PTE) Classes of 1975-1978 organised a 126 times Khatam Al-Quran ceremony at the Suri Seri Begawan Raja Pengiran Anak Damit Mosque in Kampong Manggis/Madang, Berakas yesterday.
Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yusof, who was co-patron and PTE Jalan Muara alumnus, was the guest of honour.
The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi, followed by the recitation of Al-Quran verses and Takhtim jointly led by Ustaz Haji Abdul Wahab bin Haji Safar and Haji Yakob bin Haji Yusof.
The Doa Khatam was read by Pengiran Haji Yunos bin Pengiran Haji Salleh.
A Dikir Dabaie followed led by Major (Rtd) Haji Yaakub bin Haji Tahir and Dikir Asyraqal jointly read by Haji Zainal Arifin bin Begawan Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Haji Awang Sirat, Haji Jasni bin Haji Abdul Latif and Lieutenant Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Rambli bin Pengiran Haji Bunut.
Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yusof at the event. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
It concluded with a special Doa Kesyukuran, Doa Allah Peliharakan Sultan dan Brunei Darussalam as well as a prayer against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dubbed ‘PTE Classic Jalan Muara of 1975-1978’ students intake, the group has been active in holding religious and welfare activities in the past years.
On November 25, 2018, the 100thKhatam Al-Quran ceremony was organised at the Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam Mosque in Kampong Jerudong.
The group also held the launch of Khatam Al-Quran ceremony to mark the 73rd birthday celebration 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 at the Ash Shaliheen Mosque on March 31 last year, and at the Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah on August 21, 2019.
In addition, the group held a Khatam Al-Quran at the residences of former students, while also caring for the underprivileged by donating to the Brunei-Muara Orphans Fund as well as Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam.
Former principals and teachers as well as some 150 former students were present.
Brunei continues to see an increase in Muslim converts, with 414 people having embraced Islam since the start of this year. As of December 19, 94 of which belonged to the Iban community, statistics revealed.
On Friday, an Iban family comprising Michal anak Mang and his family converted to Islam by reciting the Syahadah at a ceremony in Kampong Sumbiling Lama, Temburong District.
The ceremony began with the recitation of Sayyidul Istighfar and Surah Al-Fatihah followed by the recitation of Syahadah by Michal, 42, who chose his Islamic name Muhammad Anshary Amrullah bin ‘Abdur Rahim.
His wife Madeline anak Lusing, 37, is now known as Nur Safirah binti Abdullah Lusing while their son Sebastian Juman, 10, has taken the name Muhammad Safiyuddin bin Muhammad Anshary Amrullah.
Zulkini anak Berauh, 21, who also has converted to Islam is now known as Muhammad Zul Fadhli bin Abdullah Berauh.
ABOVE & BE;OW: Muhammad Jaad Jameel Junsay bin Abdullah and Keysha Marcos binti Abdullah; and Muhammad Zul Fadhli bin Abdullah Berauh, Muhammad Anshary Amrullah bin ‘Abdur Rahim, Muhammad Safiyuddin bin Muhammad Anshary Amrullah and Nur Safirah binti Abdullah Lusing recite the Syahadah at separate ceremonies. PHOTOS: IZAH AZAHARI & LYNA MOHAMAD
Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar as the guest of honour presented souvenirs to the converts.
Members of Jeep Owners Group Brunei (JOGB) also attended the ceremony and presented souvenirs and basic necessities to the new converts as well as other less fortunate converts in the Temburong District.
Astronomer and surveyor Haji Khairul Abidin bin Haji Sulaiman, as a representative of the Surveyor General at the Survey Department handed over the Qiblat marker to the new converts.
Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Haji Emran bin Haji Sabtu also participated.
The deputy minister and delegation also took the opportunity to visit Kampong Sumbiling Lama Longhouse and mingled with the longhouse occupants, and participated in an opening ceremony of the Islamic Da’wah Centre Bookrack for the longhouse.
Meanwhile, two Filipino nationals embraced Islam after reciting the Syahadah at a conversion ceremony at The Rizqun International Hotel in Gadong, on Friday.
Dolores Marcos Mercado, 46, has chosen the Muslim name Keysha Marcos binti Abdullah, while Jaillord Rodavites Junsay, 31, is now known as Muhammad Jaad Jameel Junsay bin Abdullah.
Islamic Da’wah Centre Director Haji Abdul Rajid bin Haji Mohd Salleh presented gifts to the new converts.
The ceremony ended with the recitation of Doa Selamat.
China-Brunei cooperation has played a positive role in Brunei’s economic and social development.
This was said by Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam Yu Hong at the opening ceremony of the China Day event at the Indoor Stadium yesterday.
She continued, “Hengyi Industry has achieved new breakthroughs in extending the downstream oil and gas industry chain of Brunei, and at the same time increased local employment and expanded local talent pool of petrochemical professionals.
“The Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien (SHOAS) Bridge, co-constructed by China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC), has greatly facilitated the connection between Temburong and the Brunei-Muara districts, and has become a new symbol of Brunei’s modernisation.”
Chinese drum performances, traditional Chinese dances, wushu and a panda dance marked the start of the first-of-its-kind China Day.
The special event held in conjunction with Brunei-China Year of Tourism 2020 and Brunei December Festival 2020, was officially launched by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Wadood Bolkiah bin Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz and spouse Pengiran Seti Aminah binti Pengiran Othman; Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong; 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; and the Chinese Ambassador.
The China Day was officially launched by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Wadood Bolkiah bin Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz and Pengiran Seti Aminah binti Pengiran Othman; Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong; 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; and Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam Yu Hong yesterdayYang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Wadood Bolkiah bin Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz and Pengiran Seti Aminah binti Pengiran Othman tour the exhibit. PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIRMinister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong and 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 tour the exhibit, accompanied by Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam Yu HongA performance during the event
The two-day event is hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Brunei Darussalam and organised by the Brunei-China Friendship Association, supported by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism and Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.
According to the ambassador, China Day is a cultural carnival full of Chinese colours and tastes, prepared and ready in a short time.
“The visitors will not only be able to try traditional Chinese calligraphy but also enjoy the tea ceremony, Chinese chess, songs and dances, martial arts and guzheng as well as Chinese delicacies.”
“Tomorrow there will be a taijiquan display with 2,020 people from all four districts participating. Initiated by MPRT, the event is particularly relevant in the context of the fight against the epidemic and the recent inscription of taijiquan on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO),” she said.
She said China has a long history and splendid culture.
“Chinese civilisation, which has stretched for thousands of years, has shown extremely high openness and inclusiveness. Not only is it the result of ethnic integration in Chinese history, but also the product of exchanges with other countries,” the envoy said.
Highlighting the strong bilateral relationship between both countries, she said, “China and Brunei have a long history of friendship and the Silk Road recorded the history of exchanges and mutual learning between our two countries. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, bilateral cooperation in various fields has continued to expand. Since the outbreak of COVID-19 this year, the governments and people of the two countries have shown concern and support for each other, with mutual trust further enhanced and friendship deepened.”
The China-Brunei friendship calls for the support of the people of the two countries. Culture is a bridge that connects hearts and emotions between people, a bond that deepens understanding and trust between countries.
As such, the ambassador said, “I hope ‘China Day’ helps Bruneians feel more about China, know more about China, participate and support the cooperation and friendship between China and Brunei.”
She said next year, China will embark on the new journey of building a modern socialist country, set its long-range objectives through Year 2035 and start the 14th Five-Year Plan.
Next year will also mark the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Brunei as well as the 30th anniversary of China-ASEAN dialogue partnership.
China stands ready to work together with Brunei to strengthen cooperation and join hands on the road to achieve the Long-Range Objectives through Year 2035 and Brunei Vision 2035, the ambassador said.
Following the launch, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Wadood Bolkiah and Pengiran Seti Aminah, joined by Cabinet Ministers toured the exhibitions featuring calligraphy, music demo, making knick-knacks and a virtual reality game at Huawei Brunei as well as exhibitions from Hengyi Group, Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited, Muara Port Company, and CSCEC.
