|     Fadley Faisal     |

THE Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) yesterday honoured 24 retired officers including former Commissioner of Police Dato Paduka Seri Haji Bahrin bin Mohd Noor at function held at the Banquet Hall of the Gadong Police Officers’ Mess.

Present as chief guest was Commissioner of Police Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam along with Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police SAC Mohammad Irwan bin Haji Hambali, who chairs the Officers’ Mess committee.

Officers in service were also present to commemorate their seniors’ contributions to the force.

Retired Senior Super-intendent of Police Sharazuddin bin Haji Masri delivered a speech on behalf of the retired officers to show their appreciation to the Commissioner of Police for gracing the event.

President of PEKERTI (Welfare Body of Police’s Wives and Families) Datin Hajah Kamariah binti Haji Abdul Hamid also attended the event and handed mementos to the retired women officers and retired officers’ wives.

Former Commissioner of Police Dato Paduka Seri Haji Bahrin bin Mohd Noor receiving a memento from his succcesor, the Commissioner of Police Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam. – RBPF

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BY CONSENT of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the Prime Minister’s Office has announced the appointment of Dr Haji Abdul Latif bin Haji Chuchu (pic 1st below), President of the Federation of Brunei Malay Entrepreneurs; and Lau Shiew Yuen (pic 2nd below), General Manager of Sahid Sendirian Berhad, as board members of DARE (Darussalam Enterprise).

According to a statement issued by the Energy and Industry Department, Prime Minister’s Office, the date of appointments is effective September 3, 2016.

DARE is a statutory body that looks to nurture and support local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with the aim to foster their growth in order to enable them to contribute to the country’s GDP.

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

A PRODUCT exhibition showcasing Indonesian food, handicrafts and fashion accessories is currently being held at The Mall in Gadong, to mark the 71^st Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia.

The exhibition was officially opened yesterday by Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong.

Also present during the launch were other ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps in Brunei, as well as senior government officers and invited guests from local industries.

In her welcoming speech, Indonesian Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Nurul Qomar said the theme of the exhibition was suited to the Indonesian Government’s main goal of advancing industrial growth by developing a marine-based economy.

She also pointed out that the trade balance between Indonesia and Brunei Darussalam has a tendency to fluctuate, with trade surpluses for Brunei Darussalam.

“In 2015, bilateral trade balance reached US$262.2 million, with a trade surplus for Brunei in the amount of US$19.4 million,” she said.

“However, in 2016, until the month of May, the trade surplus is for Indonesia, with the amount of US$14 million.”

Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong tours the exhibition with Indonesian Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Nurul Qomar. – PHOTOS: AZARAIMY HH

An Indonesian performance at the event.

The Indonesian Maritime Product Exhibition runs until September 5.

The Indonesian ambassador was quick to state that the numbers did not necessarily reflect the true potential of both countries.

“Therefore, we need to collaborate in finding ways to develop unchartered potentials for the benefit of both countries,” she said.

“Through participation in the exhibition organised by the Embassy of Indonesia in Brunei Darussalam, Indonesian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have had the opportunity to widen their knowledge on how to fit in with the demands of the foreign market. Experience will enrich their ability to creatively adapt and enhance themselves to meet the various demands of foreign market. We believe that Brunei Darussalam is the best place to fulfil these goals.

“Besides promoting Indonesian products, this exhibition which is annually held in Brunei is to develop further cooperation with Brunei’s business communities. In this sense, I am urging the participating companies to see the bigger picture, not merely in terms of sales, but also on how to set up networks with Bruneian partners to serve a larger market, both regionally and beyond.

“On the other hand, I would also like to urge Bruneian companies to seek potential cooperation with the Indonesian partners. With those thoughts in mind, I would like to encourage both parties to work together in forming better understanding and better cooperation for the benefit of both sides.”

The highlight of the opening ceremony was a display of traditional dances and martial arts from Indonesia. Several marine-related businesses are participating in the exhibition, including SMEs from Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta and Kudus.

The Indonesian Maritime Product Exhibition 2016 is currently taking place from 10am to 10pm at The Mall, Gadong, until September 5.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

A ROADSHOW on Halal Certification Mark and Guidelines for the Manufacturing and Handling of Halal Cosmetic Products was yesterday held at the main auditorium of the Design and Technology Building in Anggerek Desa.

The programme was organised by the Energy and Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office (EIDPMO) in collaboration with DARE (Darussalam Enterprise), Brunei Islamic Religious Council, Syariah Affairs Department, Ministry of Religious Affairs, and Pharmaceutical Services Department, Ministry of Health.

The roadshow aimed at creating awareness on the Halal Certification Mark and on the Guidelines for the Manufacturing and Handling of Halal Cosmetic Products, which was recently launched by the Minister of Energy and Industry at the Prime Minister’s Office during the opening of the International Seminar on Halalan Tayyiban Products and Services 2016 on August 31.

The roadshow is part of activities under the Brunei Halal Showcase 2016 (BruHAS 2016), and is also part of EIDPMO’s efforts in supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in their business venture to become internationally competitive and a global player in the Halal industry.

In addition, the roadshow hopes to increase regional and global awareness on Brunei’s strategy on the Halal industry and also to increase the Halal industry (food & non-food).

The event under way at the Design and Technology Building. – DANIAL NORJIDI

It is also hoped that more foreign direct investment will be attracted to Brunei to invest in the Halal industry as a result of the increase in prominence of the Brunei Halal Certification Mark through the BruHAS 2016 roadshow.

The Brunei Darussalam Guidelines for Manufacturing and Handling of Cosmetic Products covers, among other things, the sourcing of materials, manufacturing, packaging, transportation and storage of Halal cosmetic products as well as the usage and labelling of the term Halal in accordance with Hukum Syara’.

The guidelines also touch on the definition of alcohol as well as its usage according to Hukum Syara’ and all aspects of hygiene and sanitation such as clothing, equipment and the working premises.

The same roadshow was also held yesterday afternoon at Resthouse Hall of the Kuala Belait and Seria Municipal Department in the Belait District.

Eighty participants comprising SMEs and industry players as well as from government agencies attended the events.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE Federation of Brunei Malay Entrepreneurs (PPPMB) will be joining a delegation of local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and government-linked companies (GLCs) in representing Brunei Darussalam at the upcoming China-Asean Expo (CAEXPO) in Nanning, China, on September 11-14.

The CAEXPO is an annual trade show that brings together enterprises from Asean member countries to explore the international market by showcasing trade in goods and services.

PPPMB’s involvement at this year’s CAEXPO was highlighted in a press conference yesterday, led by Adi Shamsul bin Haji Sabli, the Permanent Secretary (Industry) at the Prime Minister’s Office.

Also in attendance were several senior PPPMB members including Dr Haji Abdul Latif bin Chuchu, the President; Duraman bin Kassim, the Deputy President for Administration; and Haji Aminorashid bin Haji Ghazali, the Deputy President for Trade.

They disclosed that six PPPMB members will be attending the CAEXPO, where they will have three booths to showcase items which include dry food, handicrafts and locally-made goods.

According to Haji Aminorashid, “The products that we will be bringing are 100 per cent made in Brunei.”

The press conference in progress. – DANIAL NORJIDI

On the subject of CAEXPO, he said, “This is exposure which should provide our members with more encouragement and optimism towards doing business.”

As for their hopes at the CAEXPO, he said, “Of course, PPPMB would like to expand, and certainly we would like to see our members’ businesses grow and make a lot of profits. If you look at the current economic climate, I think we shouldn’t be left behind. We have to pick up as much as we can, learn as much as we can, and of course we have to work intelligently.

“Although we are really eager to work on an international scale, we also have to be cautious about certain external factors,” he said, highlighting the importance of being careful when picking overseas partners to work with.

When asked how they felt about finding a market for their products, Dr Haji Abdul Latif answered, “We are very confident,” adding that they would also be looking out for potential investors in the Brunei market.

PPPMB has participated at the trade fair on a number of occasions, but this is its first entry with the support of a government agency.

When asked whether the experience should be different this time around, Dr Haji Abdul Latif said, “It is totally different, because previously, we went there on our own. We had to rent booths from other people in China. Now it’s totally different with the support of DARE (Darussalam Enterprise) and the Energy and Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office (EIDPMO). We are very thankful. It’s very encouraging, and the logistics are much easier now.”

Meanwhile, the permanent secretary responded to a question on what the Brunei Government expected from local participation in international trade fairs, saying, “Our objective is simple. It is to see SMEs grow.

“What we are doing, as a facilitating role, is to help in whatever way we can to see SMEs develop and grow in Brunei. One of the ways is through exposure to international markets, and we try to select the right companies to go out. We have criteria that we follow, and we are very transparent about it.

“There are always adverts to welcome any SMEs. I really encourage all SMEs, no matter how large or small you are, to speak to us if you are interested in joining an international event. We will help.

“We’ve been talking to a few young entrepreneurs as well, and have exposed them to this idea about going overseas to help them grow, and they are very keen.

“So the message goes out to all SMEs, particularly if they have a product/service that can be sold within or outside of Brunei: Please join us in helping you to develop your company,” he concluded.

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|     Lyna Mohamad     |

HER Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman graced the exclusive hi-tea reception for Baiduri Prestige Ladies at the Indera Kayangan Ballroom yesterday.

Also gracing the reception were Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Rakiah; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Nasibah.

Greeting the arrival of Their Royal Highnesses were Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank and Hajah Maripas binti Abdullah, Prestige Programme Manager.

Yesterday’s hi-tea was a treat by Baiduri Bank in collaboration with Bait Al Hijaab for their Prestige members where Bait Al Hijaab unveiled its latest collection of modest wear at the reception.

The Bait Al Hijaab collection features a wide range of Muslimah apparel such as inners, tops, dresses and their range of delicate lace-accented scarves locally crafted here.

The exclusive hi-tea also saw a presentation on Young & Living, a world leader in therapeutic grade essential oils, by its representative Jessie Neo, who gave a short introduction of the company and its products to the guests.

Another representative of Young & Living Noorafzah Ahmad, also gave a short presentation on everyday essential oils for children and during the event, the Prestige ladies were able to indulge in some retail therapy as limited edition pieces from Bait Al Hijaab were also available for purchase.

Baiduri Prestige is a unique programme designed to provide a range of personalised services and offers its members various benefits all year long tailored to suit their lifestyles. The programme is built around five core principles: Personal Touch, Progression in Wealth, Privileges, Priority Recognition and Platinum Status.

Baiduri Prestige Centres are located at the Kiarong, Kiulap, Kuala Belait and Seria branches. For more information about Baiduri Bank current news and other promotions, visit their official Facebook, lnstagram or Twitter accounts, or download their Baiduri Deals mobile app. Alternatively, the call centre is available from morning till midnight daily.

Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Rakiah and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Nasibah in a group photo with Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank (right) and Hajah Maripas binti Abdullah, Prestige Programme Manager (left).

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HER MAJESTY Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam yesterday received in audience Kyu Kyu Hla, the wife of the Commander-in-Chief, Myanmar Defence Services, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. She was accompanied by the wife of the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary the Republic of the Union of Myanmar to Brunei Darussalam, Nang Yin May Win. Also present at the audience was the wife of the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Pengiran Datin Nuur ‘Izzah Nabilah binti Pengiran Haji Ahmad Mahdi Al-Sufri. The audience took place at Istana Nurul Iman. – Photos and story by Bahyiah Bakir

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|     Azrol Azmi     |

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, the Minister of Defence and the Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), yesterday afternoon received in audience Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services, Myanmar Armed Forces, who is on a three-day introductory visit to Brunei from September 2-4.

Accompanying the Commander–in-Chief at the audience was U Cho Htun Aung, Ambassador of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar to Brunei Darussalam; General Mya Tun Oo, Chief of General Staff (Army, Navy and Airforce); Rear-Admiral Moe Aung, Chief of Staff (Navy); and Major General Maung Maung Kyaw, Chief of Staff (Air).

Also present were First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit, Deputy Minister of Defence; Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces; Dato Paduka Haji Mohammad Juanda bin Haji Abdul Rashid, Permanent Secretary (Law and Welfare) at the Prime Minister’s Office; and Datin Paduka Hajah Suriyah binti Haji Umar, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence.

The audience ceremony took place at the Istana Nurul Iman.

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, the Minister of Defence and the Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services, Myanmar Armed Forces. – AZROL AZMI

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

THE duo of Pengiran Anak Basheer bin Pengiran Indera Mahkota Pengiran Anak (Dr) Kemaluddin Al-Haj and Colonel (Rtd) Haji Mahmud will be playing at this year’s Audi quattro Cup World Final at the Real Club de Golf El Prat in Barcelona, Spain after emerging victorious in the 7th Audi quattro Cup Brunei 2016 Charity Golf Tournament at the Royal Brunei Golf and Country Club in Jerudong yesterday.

The pair carded a total of 42 to win the tournament by the narrowest of margins as the second place which was occupied by Leonard Lim Kuan Honn and Haji Ahmad trailed by a solitary point with 41 while the pair of Colonel (Rtd) Dato Haji Harith and Major (Rtd) Haji Suhaimi settled for third place with a score of 40.

The winning duo will join other national qualification winners to play in the world class golf course from October 6 to 10 which covered one practice round and two tournament days.

The guest-of-honour was the Minister of Education, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman in his capacity as the Chairman of Board of Directors and Board of Trustees for DANA under the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, who later presented the prizes to the winners.

A total of $26,880.00 collected from all golfers’ entry fees was donated to the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Orphans Fund (DANA) with a mock cheque presented by the Organizing Committee Chairman Teng Chee Khiong to Haji Brahim bin Haji Ismail, Chief Executive Officer of the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.

Minister of Education, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, presenting a mock cheque to the Barcelona-bound championship team winners. – MOHAMAD ASYRAMISYANIE

A total of 51 teams representing their countries will be taking part in what has been billed as the world’s largest amateur golf tournament. Over a million golfers have played in the tournament since its inception in 1991.

The ladies’ category has also been added to this year’s tournament with the pair of Garwani Gapar and Hajah Sarinah taking the title with a score of 23.

Meanwhile, Mohd Khairol Bakar went home $10,000 richer after sinking his hole-in-one effort in Hole Number 3 during the last day of the competition.

The Audi quattro Cup is a team format amateur tournament utilising the Greensome Stableford or ‘best ball’ rule of play, which ultimately elevate the whole golfing experience as most tournaments are played by individual golfers.

The tournament was organised by T.C.Y Motors Sdn Bhd as the sole dealer and importer of the Audi brand.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

HER Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah guided Ivy League to the final of the Royal Brunei Police Force Sports Council Netball Open Championship which finished 16-12 to eventual winners Target at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium at the Police HQ yesterday.

The two pre-tournament favourites booked their berth in the championship decider as group winners after producing a clean sweep of victories.

Target carried better momentum in the final with their series of comprehensive victories while Ivy League faced a minor scare against Sixty Nine 69 and Varsity en route to the final.

The eventual winners fashioned a 3-0 lead in the opening minutes before Ivy League pulled one back and a good block from Target’s goal defence prevented their opponents to close the gap.

Target’s Nurafiqah Samat showed agility to prevent the ball from rolling out of play and assisted her team-mate through an airborne throw who made no mistake with the first basket of the game.

Nurafiqah, who inspired B.T Forwarding to the Inter Company Netball Tournament title earlier this year, converted a penalty to make it 4-1.

Ivy League’s scorer made amends after missing a few throws to reduce the deficit but an in-form Nurafiqah would extend Target’s lead.

Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah poses with the prize. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

The national player survived a major scare after colliding with Ivy League defensive players but as soon as she got back her feet she further extended her team lead with two more conversions.

However, Ivy League refused to budge and their player found form shooting three successful attempts in quick succession.

Target increased their lead again in a see-saw battle after a perfectly executed centre pass just when Ivy League looking to have settled into the flow of the game.

But with Target increasing the pressure in the second quarter, there were little time for Ivy League to stage a late comeback as the former closed out with a fine victory.

Target has developed a certain likeness of the court there after following up their success in the Intermediate Ladies Netball Tournament at the turn of the year while Ivy League was denied another title after winning the 1st Ladies 2016 Netball Championship in February.

Meanwhile, Sixty Nine 69 grabbed third place after defeating Zero 1 16-10 in the playoff after both teams had finished respective group runners-up.

A total of 12 teams participated in the one-day tournament including hosts Royal Brunei Police Force Sports Council, Varsity, Cosmic, 10 Plus Squad, Skidz United, Sunshine Netterz, Sakura and Team X.

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CFLT (S) Pte Ltd in partnership with Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) – Singapore conducted their inaugural event ‘Discover the Green Heart of Borneo – Brunei Darussalam’, which was hosted by the High Commission of Brunei Darussalam in Singapore.

The event showcased Brunei as an educational destination for Singaporean students and provided them with the opportunity to get a first-hand look at places of interests, local culinary delights and the unexpected treasures of the country.

The event further provided the audience with an experience that they could achieve when they choose Brunei as a destination for their Overseas Learning Journey or School Twinning Programme.

Interesting packages and adventurous expeditions were also shared at the event for schools to plan enhanced and exciting Education and School Immersion Programmes to Brunei.

The winner of a three-day, two-night stay at Orchid Garden Hotel with air ticket to Brunei, presented with the prize by Pengiran Hajah Saadiah binti Pengiran Muda Haji Hashim, the spouse of Haji Awang Saifulbahri bin Haji Mansor, High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to Singapore.

Participating vendors, such as the Orchid Garden Hotel, StarLodge, Jerudong International School, Jerudong Park Country Club and Darussalam Holdings Sdn Bhd helped add to the experience, and invited guests were able to immerse themselves in the ambience of the Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures.

The world-class boutique airline RB also showcases Bruneian hospitality and grace to enrich one’s journey for a timeless experience.

The event welcomed around 200 educators and facilitators from all over Singapore, and everyone had a chance to understand what Brunei can offer, and also at the event, attendees had a chance to sample the local delicacies, such as Ambuyat, Kelupis and authentic Prawn Crackers.

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|     Hjh Saemah Kepli     |

OVER 500 participants took part in the Royal Birthday Run 2016 that was held in Taman Persiaran in Kuala Belait yesterday. The run was organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Home Affairs in conjunction with 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’s 70th birthday celebration.

Attending as guest of honour was the Minister of Development, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah who also participated in the fun run and also presented the prize to the winners.

Apart from the effort to further enliven His Majesty’s birthday celebration, the Royal Birthday Run 2016 is also held to encourage the community to practise a healthy lifestyle, and also to foster unity among the community.

The run consisted of three categories, for male and female – 10km category for 18 years old and above; 5km category for 17 years old and below, and 3km fun run category.

Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah, Minister of Development in a group photo with the winners (above) and pre-senting a prize to the winner for female category 17 years old and below (below). – PHOTOS: HJH SAEMAH KEPLI

First place winners for the 18 years and above category received $500 cash prize along with medals and certificates, meanwhile the winners for the 17 years old and below category received $300 cash prize along with medals and certificates and also special award of a $100 cash prize was given to the 70th place participant, with medals and certificates.

For the 3km fun run category, the route started from Taman Persiaran Jalan Sungai to Jalan Pretty and then back to Taman Persiaran Jalan Sungai. The 5km category for 17 years old and above route started from Jalan Sungai to Jalan Pretty and back to Jalan Sungai. Meanwhile, for the 10km category for 18 years old and above, the route began from Jalan Tengah to Jalan Sungai.

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|      Abdul Hakiim Yakof      |

MORE than 12,000 visitors were recorded throughout the three-day travel fair organised by Sabre Travel Network (Brunei) Sdn Bhd hed on the 7^th Floor of The Centrepoint Hotel in Gadong.

The exhibition featured 19 participants including Royal Brunei Airlines, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam and Baiduri Bank Berhad, Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, Sarawak Tourism Board, Taiwan Tourist Bureau, Tourism Authority Thailand, Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism, Anthony Tours & Travel Agency, Century Travel Centre, Darussalam Holdings Sdn Bhd, Freme Travel Services, JJ Tour Service, Pan Bright Travel Service, Southern Cross Travel Agencies and Straits Central Agencies.

In an interview, Abdul Halim bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Senior Manager, Sales Marketing Department, Sabre Travel Network (Brunei) Sdn Bhd, said, “Sabre is a global distribution system (GDS), we provide systems for the travel agents for them to perform flight bookings, more than 30 local travel agents are using our system. During this travel fair more than 50 terminals were deployed for nine participating travel agents.

“We are growing every year in terms of exhibitors, and next year we are looking into hosting at a better venue where there is less traffic jam so more people can come by,” he said.

Huge crowd turnout at the travel fair . – PHOTOS: ABDUL HAKIIM YAKOF

Abdul Halim bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Senior Manager, Sales Marketing Department, Sabre Travel Network (Brunei) Sdn Bhd in a photo with the rest of Sabre staff.

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|      Abdul Hakiim Yakof      |

THE 2^nd edition of the Yes2Malaysia Education Experience Exhibition, featuring 19 Malaysian education institutions from West and East Malaysia, opened yesterday.

The last day of the exhibition is today from 4pm to 9pm at the Orchid Garden Hotel, Anggerek Desa.

The exhibition was organised by RexpoCentral Sdn Bhd from Malaysia and MEG Educational Services, catering to those wishing to pursue their studies in diploma and up to post-graduate level.

In an interview, Ahmad Rezal Chan, Senior Partner at RexpoCentral Sdn Bhd, said, “The demand for education in Malaysia is growing among Bruneians.

The education has a lot of value and quality, in addition to being affordable for Bruneians to pursue their post graduate and even undergraduate programmes in Malaysia”.

“MEG facilitates the early application process of Bruneian students to identify the most suitable courses for them.

During the Yes2Malaysia Education Experience Exhibition yesterday. – ABDUL HAKIIM YAKOF

“We work closely together with agencies such as the Ministry of Education, as well as banks, to see what courses meet the needs of the Bruneians,” said Rozin binti Jaafar from MEG Educational Services.

“During the application process, we assist the students in accreditation approval for their various courses.

“Sometimes we carry out counselling on finance such as living expenses, and what the students should expect in terms of budgeting for the duration of two or three years,” she added.

Free air tickets are up for grabs when visitors apply to selected participating universities during the event.

Other prizes include Samsung tablets and Apple iPhones, depending on the type of programme chosen with the selected participating institutions.

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|      James Kon      |

WINNERS of the competitive categories in the Royal Birthday Run 2016 received their respective prizes yesterday at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium yesterday.

Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs and Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education presented the prizes to the winners.

Awangku Md Mazni bin Pengiran Saifuddin crossed the finish line first with a recorded time of 34m56s to win the men’s open 10km category. Mohammad Zulkhairi came in second place with a recorded time of 35m41s while Mohd Waiz Rusyaidi placed third with 36m10s.

The women’s open 10km category saw Yvette Kortekas take home the winner’s medal with 43m53s while Jenny Tan came in second place with 46m 29s and Vanessa Gomez in third place with 50m 53s.

The honour for the men’s veteran 45 years old and above 10km category went to Ramlan bin Haji Maarof with a recorded time of 42m 11s. Suhairai who was only 17 seconds behind took second place while Abdul Mahmud bin Haji Mohammad placed third with 43m43s.

Meanwhile with a recorded time of 47m 11s, Airince Liam won first place for the women’s veteran 45 years old and above 10km category. Second place went to Tan Siew King with 48m 11s followed by Siti Fatimah binti Haji Abu Bakar in third place.

Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs, presenting the prize to Ahmad Yazid bin Hidup. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi presenting the prize to Yvette Kortekas.

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Education presenting the prize to Ramlan bin Haji Maarof.

The Minister of Education presenting the prize to Airince Liam.

For the youth categories, Ahmad Yazid bin Hidup crossed the finish line to win the men’s 5km category for 17 years old and below with a recorded time of 21m 16s. Nur Haziq Bin Samil who was just four seconds behind took second place while third place went to Md Muiz Rafluddin.

First place for the women’s 5km category for 17 years old and below went to Shana Holmes with a recorded time of 25m 36s. NurAishah binti Haji Khairul took second place while Siti Nur Razwina Syazwini Raizal placed third.

Captain (Rtd) Haji Osman placed first in the 70 years and above 3km category with a time of 15m 40s. Haji Ariffin bin Abdullah came in second place with 20m 15s while Abdul Wahab bin Metali placed third.

The event was held in conjunction with 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’s 70^th birthday celebration.

The event was organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports with cooperation of Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Health.

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|      James Kon      |

OVER 6,000 people from all walks of life yesterday gathered in all four districts to participate in the Royal Birthday Run 2016 organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) with cooperation of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and Ministry of Health (MoH) in conjunction with 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’s 70^th birthday celebration.

The Brunei-Muara District had the largest number of registration with a total of 4,376 participants ready to run at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Education as the guest of honour officiated the run in the Brunei-Muara District.

The minister was joined by Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs.

Also in attendance were First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit, the Deputy Minister of Defence; Dato Paduka Haji Md Roselan Haji Md Daud, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, Deputy Minister of Education; Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih Abdullah, Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Commander and other officials.

Before starting off the run, invited guests and participants took part in a 10-minute warm up session.

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Education, officiating the start of the Royal Birthday Run 2016 for the men’s open category. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Education and guest of honour of the Royal Birthday Run 2016; Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs; and other officials during the 10-minute warm up session.

Participants of the female youth category.

Participants of the male youth category.

Apart from celebrating His Majesty’s 70^th birthday, the run also aimed to encourage members of the public to practice a healthy lifestyle through the involvement of sports and recreational activities as well as working together to further build on the progress of sports in the nation.

It is also hoped that the activity would unite the various communities.

There were six categories contested in the run – the 10km men’s open category for 18 years and above (born in 1997 or below); 10km women’s open category 18 years and above (born in 1997 or earlier); the men teens category of 17 years old or below (born in 1998 or later); teenage women category of 17 years old and below (born in 1998 or earlier); people with special needs category (visually impaired, wheelchair bound, hearing and intellectual disability) with a distance of 3km and a fun run category (public participation without age limit) covering 3km.

Prizes were provided for the men’s and women’s open 18 years and above in all districts.

The winners of the first, second and third places received cash of $1,000, $800 and $600 respectively with a medal and a certificate of participation.

For the men and women category 17 years and below, they received $500 for first place, $300 for second place and $200 for third with a medal and a certificate.

Winners in special needs category each received $300 for first place, $200 for second place and $100 for third with medals and certificates of participation.

The MCYS will continue its effort to carry out sporting projects for the communities. Through the Royal Birthday Run 2016 the ministry is aimed at instilling a healthy lifestyle with running activities and to revive the sports of running in the country.

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|      Achong Tanjong      |

THE stunning and brilliant performances of pupils from the Pengiran Dipa Negara Pengiran Jaya Sengkarai Primary School in Tutong clinched the school the championship title at the 2^nd Action Song Choir Competition which was held yesterday at the Raya Hall of Radio Televisyen Brunei (RTB) in the capital.

The team became victorious with a score of 87.33 per cent, winning themselves a trophy, certificates and $500 cash prize.

Second place went to Anggerek Desa Primary School, whose team scored 78 per cent and received a trophy, certificates and $400 cash prize.

Placing third was also a team of Anggerek Desa Primary School with 77.67 per cent, receiving a trophy, certificates and $300 cash prize.

Meanwhile, teams that ranked fourth to 10^th place received the consolation prizes of $200 each.

Presenting the winners with their prizes was the chief guest, Haji Brahim bin Haji Ismail, the Managing Director of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.

The competition was organised by the Centre for British Teachers (CfBT) in collaboration with the Akil Unit, Co-Curriculum Education Department, Ministry of Education (MoE).

This year, a total of 10 primary schools competed in the finals of the competition, which was opened to pupils from pre-schools as well as Year One and Two students from government primary schools.

The chief guest and Managing Director of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Haji Brahim bin Haji Ismail, with winners onstage after the prize presentation.

Young champions from the Pengiran Dipa Negara Pengiran Jaya Sengkarai Primary School in Tutong with their teachers and prizes.

A performance by Selangan Primary School at the Raya Hall of Radio Televisyen Brunei in the capital. – PHOTOS: ACHONG TANJONG

The aims of the contest were to strengthen the cooperation between CfBT and the MoE, as well as to promote the use of the English language among the younger pupils while giving them the opportunity to perform in front of an audience.

The judging was made based on several criteria which included vocals, interpretation, expression, dress and props.

The preliminary round of the competition was held on August 22 and 23 at the Brunei Sports School.

From the 14 schools that competed in the preliminary, only 10 were selected to compete in yesterday’s finals.

Present at the competition were Dr Greg Keaney, the Country Manager of CfBT Brunei; Roslin bin Suhailee, the Acting Assistant Director of Co-Curriculum Education; teachers and officers from the MoE and CfBT, as well as the parents and pupils of participating schools.

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THE Centre for Strategic and Policy Studies (CSPS) will hold a forum for senior government officers and executives and CEOs from private organisations. The event follows up on the successes of the previous Forum on Strategic Foresight for Policy Making, held in May 2016, which received an overwhelming turnout of nearly 200 hundred participants, with permanent secretaries, senior officers from the government as well as executive level participants from the private sector.

CSPS’s special guest speaker for the forum is Professor Sohail Inayatullah, inaugural UNESCO Chair in Futures Studies. Professor Inayatullah is an associate of the Melbourne Business School, the University of Melbourne; and adjunct professor, the University of the Sunshine Coast, also a Professor at Tamkang University, Taipei and Visiting Senior Research Fellow, CSPS Brunei.

Amongst many others, as a Foresight Expert, Professor Inayatullah has consulted for National Academy of Sciences and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, Malaysia; Office of the PM, Government of Singapore; Office of the President, Government of South Korea; Office of the Prime Minister, Government of Thailand; Office of the Prime Minister, Government of Canada; The European Commission; Australian Council for International Development and the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology, Government of Iran.

Working with city councils around the world on their scenario planning and foresight projects, his business and corporate clients include: Tenaga Nasional Berhad, Malaysia; Dow and Sadara Chemical Company, Dubai; Centre for Investment Education, Melbourne; Bluescope Steel, Sydney; Northern Queensland Airports, Cairns; Bristol Myers Squibb, Singapore; Glaxosmithkline, Melbourne; Australian Pharmaceuticals Association; Fuji Xerox, Sydney; Zurich, Sydney; AAMI, Sydney; National Transport Insurance, Queensland; Stepbeyond, Perth; The Family Wealth Forum, Sydney; Cisco, Melbourne; Indue, Sydney; Ozri, Melbourne; BUPA Group, Melbourne; Ergon, Queensland; Suncorp Bank, Queensland and Royal Automobile Club of Western Australia.

Professor Inayatullah has written and co-edited 22 books/CDRoms, more than 350 journal articles, book chapters, encyclopedia entries and magazine editorials. Limited number of Professor Inayatullah’s latest books will be available for purchase at the forum.

The three presenters Professor Sohail Inayatullah (top), Dr Ivana Milojevi (above) and Dr Diana Cheong (below).

Professor Inayatullah will address the topic of ‘Global Waves of Change: Drown, Ride or Become the Wave Maker’. For a taste of what you will experience consult the Introduction to Sohail Inayatullah and his TEDx talk at http://www.metafuture.org/videos-2.

Dr Ivana Milojevi will make the second presentation on scenarios for Brunei’s Future Development Options.

Dr Milojevi has recently joined CSPS and is currently coordinating CSPS’s foresight initiatives. Before joining CSPS, Dr Milojevi was a university professor and a consultant delivering foresight related speeches, workshops and courses for governmental institutions and NGOs in Europe, Asia and Australia and includes AKEPT (Malaysia’s Higher Education Leadership Academy); INEGMA, Dubai, UAE; CSIR South Africa; Centre for Australian Foresight; European Commission and UNESCO.

The final presentation at the forum will be by CSPS Chief Researcher, Dr Diana Cheong, who will discuss ‘Brunei’s Trends and Emerging Issues as Warning Signals for Addressing the Future’. Dr Cheong heads research and consultancy projects at CSPS.

She is a leading local consultant in the analysis of Social Change and Development and an expert in the fields of Strategic Planning, Leadership & Change Management, Strategic Foresight and Horizon Scanning.

The forum will be followed by CSPS Executive Development Workshop Series in Strategic Foresight and Strategic Planning, starting the end of November 2016 and finishing in March 2017, and an International Conference on Government and Foresight Planning and Post-Peak Oil Policy Solutions Workshop in April 2017.

These are excellent opportunities to enhance policy-making intelligence and responses in a changing world and to network with Who’s Who in Government and the corporate world. Enhancing your foresight understanding and skills within the corporate field, you will hear how to detect major disruptions and change early, interpret the consequences of trends and emerging issues for your company, identify new opportunities and formulate effective responses in order to ensure longevity and financial success of your business. – CSPS

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

THE Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, has called on the private sector to invest in ecotourism and biodiversity through the Heart of Borneo (HoB) Initiative, during the opening ceremony of the 10^th HoB Trilateral Meeting in Brunei.

The meeting, which began yesterday and ends on September 7, addresses various issues, one of which is the concept of achieving sustainable development within HoB member countries.

Attending the 10^th Heart of Borneo Trilateral Meeting were special guests and invited dialogue partners from the World Wildlife Fund for Nature, WWF, non-government organisations and funding agencies. Also present at the opening ceremony were senior officials from the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism. During his welcoming speech, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism said, “We should pursue the call from the ministers responsible for the HoB Initiative to encourage green economy applications and its related scientific and technological development thro-ugh various endeavours such as Public Private Partnership (PPP) and cooperation on a multi-sectoral basis.”

“Ecotourism and bio-industry have high economic potentials. In this context, the private sector is very much welcome to invest in these ventures. The restructuring and renaming of the ministry to become the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, reflects our current focus on the tourism sector.

“Therefore the development of ecotourism in the HoB Initiative is very relevant. Our recent launch of the Temburong holiday destination packages which includes the element of ecotourism is proof of our commitment.

Joint ecotourism packages within the designated HoB areas especially in the HoB Corridor Initiative can be further explored at this meeting,” he added.

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin touring the exhibition in conjunction to the 10th HoB Trilateral Meeting.

Dr Haji Abdul Manaf speaking during the meeting. – PHOTOS: AZARAIMY HH

In his speech, Dr Haji Abd Manaf also highlighted the encouraging outcome of the recently held 2^nd Asia-Pacific Rainforest Summit, where participating countries expressed their strong support to regional forest conservation and protection initiatives.

The 2^nd Asia-Pacific Rainforest Summit, held in Brunei was jointly organised with the Australian Government and Center for International Forestry Research.

He added that it is time to be reminded that the obligation to manage our natural resources in a more sustainable manner is no longer the sole responsibility of the government. All stakeholders should play their part and share the responsibility, since the issue is a global agenda.

“Over the last 10 years, we have shown to the world a very consistent and coherent policy approach to our common conservation vision. Since then, we have achieved success in various areas of concern and shared our progress at the national level during our meetings,” he said.

Dr Haji Abdul Manaf said that for Brunei, the HoB Initiative is part of the country’s contribution to the global community and the on-going issues of global concern.

It reflects Brunei’s full support and commitment to the existing national, sub-regional and global initiatives and agreements such as the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF), the Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD), United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and other related international multi-environmental agreements.

“As the geographical size of Brunei is relatively small, a more effective Borneo forest protection initiative requires joint and collective efforts. On this note, we welcome the idea of the HoB Corridor Initiative, to bridge the ecological functions of the present protected areas within HoB member countries.

“We are very thankful to the WWF Global Initiative for its concerted efforts so far in the Hob’s outreach programme where HoB member countries have participated in IUCN, World Park Congress 2014 in Sydney, Australia and the Paris Climate Conference in Paris, France, in December 2015,” he added.

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|     Aziz Idris     |

VISITORS to the SupaKart circuit at Jerudong Park can enjoy upgraded tracks and new, custom-made go-karts, starting September 8.

This was yesterday revealed by Haji Jeff Hadiman bin Dato Paduka Haji Danial, the Senior Manager of Jerudong Park Country Club Sdn Bhd (JPCC), during a press conference.

Go-kart enthusiasts can opt for either the single-seater ‘BANDIT’ on the ‘F1’ circuit, or the two-seater ‘Le MANS’ on the ‘F2’ circuit.

The ‘BANDIT’ is designed for simplicity of operation without compromising driver appeal, and equipped with stringent safety features.

This go-kart is one of the most advanced and exciting machines to date, while the two-seater ‘Le MANS’ is a more family-friendly kart, ideal for parents and children.

Both karts are fitted with a Honda 5.5-horsepower engine and reinforced fibreglass bodywork with padded seating area for comfort. The controls are operated by two pedals system (accelerator and brake).

In terms of safety, visitors on solo go-kart rides must be at least four feet four inches tall and 10 years old. Any child between four to 10 years old, with a minimum height of two feet nine inches, must be accompanied by adult.

A conductor will constantly monitor each go-kart, using a remote control device that will determine the speed in each circuit to ensure optimum safety and comfort for riders.

Getting a feel of the new rides.

Jerudong Park officials at the press conference. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

Members of the media with the newly upgraded go-karts.

According to Haji Jeff Hadiman, the go-kart tracks are in compliance with international standards and have received acknowledgement from the Go-Karting Association, while he and his team are committed to safety as the top priority.

Jerudong Park also provides function rooms within the SupaKart area which are ideal for private gatherings, corporate team building, social events and even a professional go-kart racing event.

The SupaKart will be part of the ‘All-Rides’ entry ticket, where customers can also enjoy other attractions including the Musical Fountain and the popular Waterpark, as well as the Mini-Golf course and Laser Maze.

Haji Jeff Hadiman was also pleased to note that the park received positive response for the Musical Fountain since its re-opening last month at the Jerudong Park Garden.

“During the first weekend, Jerudong Park attracted around 10,000 guests to the Musical Fountain and it has seen a constant flow of numbers ever since,” he said.

The ‘Enchanted Night’ held at the JP Colonnade has also managed to attract more guests to the park, with more than 400 guests attending the opening show last weekend.

It was recently reported that Jerudong Park Playground has received over half a million local and foreign visitors, since its re-opening in May 2014.

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