Lyna Mohamad

The Ministry of Education’s (MoE) annual Higher Education Expo has gone online this year, as an alternative to mass gatherings, in accordance with the Ministry of Health’s (MoH) guidelines.

Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh launched the virtual Higher Education Expo 2021 at the MoE’s Main Hall yesterday.

Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the MoE Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the MoE Dr Chin Wei Keh, the Acting Director General of Education as well as heads of departments and officers at the MoE also attended.

Organised by the MoE through its Higher Education Division, the expo gathers post-secondary, government and private higher education institutions, as well as local education agencies on a single platform to provide an overview of post-secondary and higher educational landscape.

Students wishing to further their studies can interact directly in real-time with participating institutions and educational agencies through live chat and video conferencing.

The participating institutions are Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), Politeknik Brunei (PB) and Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE).

Meanwhile, the participating private higher education institutions are Laksamana College of Business (LCB), Kolej International Graduate Studies (KIGS), Cosmopolitan College of Commerce and Technology (CCCT), Micronet International College (MIC), Kemuda Institute, BICPA – FTMS Accountancy Academy, Mahakarya Institute of the Arts Asia and HAD Tech College.

At the virtual expo, the institutions will introduce programmes, terms of admission and registration procedures.

The MoE will share the latest information on the Higher Education Centralised Admission System (HECAS), government scholarships, application for the accreditation of courses/qualifications and careers during the expo, as represented by the Higher Education Division, the Scholarship Section, the Secretariat of Brunei Darussalam National Accreditation Council, the Educators Management Department, the Private Education Section, the Lifelong Learning Centre and the Career Development Unit of the Department of Schools.

The participating government agencies include the Islamic Studies Department (JPI) at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA), the Youth Development Centre at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS), and the Educational Loan Assistance Scheme (SBPP) Unit and the Student Allowance Unit under the Treasury Department of the Ministry of Finance and Economy (MoFE).

Among the participating private agencies is Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd, alongside educational service agencies such as Findlay (B) Sdn Bhd, Paradigm Scholar Agency, HRDS Education Services and MEG Educational Services.

Several activities will be conducted throughout the event, such as a webinar. The sessions will feature the registration process for HECAS, scholarship opportunities, new programmes offered by higher education institutions and graduate success stories.

The expo is open to the public – especially secondary and pre-university school leavers with Brunei GCE ‘O’ Level and ‘A’ Level, or the equivalent – planning to pursue higher education, such as National Technical Education Certificate (NTec), Higher National Technical Education Certificate (HNTec), diploma, Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree and doctorate, as well as those looking to upskill or reskill.

Marking the sixth edition, the Higher Education Expo will be held virtually from 9am to 5pm until February 21.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Daniel Lim

Silat practitioners attended a roadshow organised by the Brunei Darussalam Pencak Silat Federation (PERSIB) at the multipurpose hall of the Mumong Sports Complex in Belait District on Sunday.

The event was aimed at encouraging youth in the district to take up the martial art.

PERSIB Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Pengiran Haji Abdul Karim bin Pengiran Haji Metassan presented information on the key changes in the new rulings that have been in place since March 2020, showcasing it through a physical demonstration and mock matches.

Silat instructors also provided first-hand guidance and lessons to young silat practitioners.

PERSIB will conduct a workshop at the Kampong Rataie Community Hall in Temburong District on February 26.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Rokiah Mahmud, Aziz Idris & Daniel Lim

A ceremony to distribute miniature table flags ceremony and the glorification of the national flag programme for primary and secondary schools, colleges, Arabic and religious schools were held across the country yesterday, in efforts to instil patriotism among students.

The ceremony was aimed at enlivening the upcoming 37^th National Day celebration.

In the Brunei-Muara District, the ceremony was held at Pengiran Anak Puteri Muta-Wakkilah Hayatul Bolkiah Religious School in Serusop. Acting Director of Islamic Studies at the Department of Islamic Studies of the Ministry of Religious Affairs Haji Shamshol bin Haji Omar was the guest of honour.

In the Tutong District, the event was conducted at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Secondary School. The ceremony commenced with the singing of national anthem, Allah Peliharakan Sultan, and followed by the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat led by Mohammad Emmy Rasmin bin Akop.

It proceeded with Acting Director General of Education of the Ministry of Education (MoE) Dr Hazri bin Haji Kifle distributing miniature table flags to the students.

Meanwhile in the Belait District, Acting Head of Private Education of the Private Education Section at the MoE Sofian Erwan bin Mohammad attended the ceremony at St John’s School.

The event commenced with the singing of the national anthem and patriotic song. The ceremony continued with the presentation of miniature flags to class representatives who distributed them to the students.

In the Temburong District, the ceremony was held at Sultan Hassan Secondary School, Bangar with Acting Senior Special Duties Officer, Department of Schools at the MoE Nor Asurah binti Haji Meluddin as the guest of honour.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

Brunei recorded no new COVID-19 cases yesterday, with no local transmissions in the country for 285 days. The national tally remains at 184 cases.

Meanwhile, four imported cases are receiving treatment at the National Isolation Centre, according to the Ministry of Health (MoH) in its daily update. All are in a stable condition.

Currently, 758 individuals are undergoing mandatory self-isolation at government self-isolation centres after arriving from overseas while 12,922 have completed their stint since March 2020.

As of yesterday, 193 samples for SARS-CoV-2 were tested, bringing the total number of tests conducted since January 2020 to 95,943 tests.

Healthinfo.gov.bn revealed that there have been 149 cases in the Brunei-Muara District, 29 in the Belait District and six in the Tutong District.

Visit www.moh.gov.bn, contact the Health Advice Line at 148 or the BruHealth app for information.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Hakim Hayat

Brunei Darussalam will deploy four officers from the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) to join the third Independent Decommissioning Body Verification, Monitoring and Assistance Team (IDB VMAT) in Mindanao, the Philippines.

A flag handover was held at Bolkiah Garrison Gymnasium yesterday.

RBAF Commander Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat handed over the flag to head of delegation Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Shalleh bin Haji Ismail.

Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to Brunei Darussalam Christopher B Montero and Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence (MinDef) Brigadier General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Shahril Anwar bin Haji Ma’awiah were also present.

According to the Mindef, IDB VMAT is a step in the peace process in Mindanao to oversee the decommissioning of the forces and weapons of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman

Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health (MoH) Dr Haji Zulaidi bin Haji Abdul Latif stressed the importance of cooperation of all parties in dealing with COVID-19 in Brunei Darussalam.

He said this during a visit by Legislative Council (LegCo) members to the Tutong District Civic Centre Complex prior to making a stop at the National Isolation Centre (NIC) in the district yesterday.

Dr Haji Zulaidi said Legco members play an important role in managing expectations of the public, especially on the quality of health services in the country.

He said the wise leadership and generosity 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 helped to successfully implement COVID-19 measures in the country.

The monarch’s leadership is the most important factor in the effectiveness of the response to COVID-19 outbreak with a whole-of-government approach and firm decision making.

These include surveillance, ‘test, trace and isolate’ strategies by the MoH and social distancing measures. The integrated response and transparency have raised public confidence in the government’s handling of the crisis while sparking cooperation and volunteerism.

The whole-of-nation approach is apparent in the public’s support and compliance of governmental directives such as social distancing, maintaining personal hygiene, restrictions on mass gathering and the use of BruHealth QR code.

The country also witnessed the generosity of the people in providing resources and donations in the form of food, goods and financial assistance. These contributions come from local and international businesses, organisations and individuals through the COVID-19 Relief Fund. The fund was used in the purchase of resources and the construction of an extension to the NIC.

The government’s commitment in ensuring public health is proven through the investment in infrastructure such as the construction of a new Virology Laboratory, provision of PCR tests and introduction of BruHealth app.

Yang Berhormat Iswandi bin Ahmad led the group of 15 LegCo members in the visit during which he commended MoH’s efforts in producing positive results.

He said while COVID-19 has not spared Brunei, the leadership of His Majesty and MoH as well as Brunei residents’ compliance in restrictions resulted in the disease being under control.

He noted that it will still be a challenge and policymakers are working hard to pave the way for a post-COVID era under the new normal.

Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr Riamiza Natalie binti Haji Momin gave a briefing on NIC. The LegCo members then toured the facilities of the new extension at the NIC.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad and Aziz Idris

Two thousand heads of ready-to-slaughter sheep from Australia arrived in the Sultanate to fill the void in supply brought on by the COVID-19 travel restrictions.

The first batch of lamb arrived at midnight yesterday and will be available for distributors, restaurants and supermarkets from tomorrow. Another batch is scheduled to arrive during the course of a week.

The live cattle will be housed at PDS Abattoir Sdn Bhd (PDS) sheep yards and slaughtered at PDS’ certified slaughterhouse at Batang Mitus.

As a leading accredited Halal and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) certified facility, PDS’ core business activities include the importation of livestock from Australia, and the production of fresh and chilled beef and processed products.

PDS continues to support the national food security initiative by the Ministry of Finance and Economy, with collaboration from the Ministry of Primary Resource and Tourism. Last year, it imported ready-to-slaughter cattle from Australia and live sheep from Indonesia in December 2020.

The company will continue to import ready-to-slaughter sheep for the production of fresh and chilled lamb and mutton meat.

PDS is a joint venture company under the purview of Darussalam Assets Sdn Bhd.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Aziz Idris

Porsche is expanding the Taycan model range to include a rear-wheel drive variant to the all-electric sports salon line up.

The first rear-wheel drive Taycans will make their way to dealerships from the middle of March.

Apart from the rear-wheel drive, other features of this fourth variant of the Taycan also includes two sizes of battery – standard performance battery or optional performance battery plus – with nominal power of 240kW or 280kW.

The Taycan includes Plug & Charge function and optional equipment include a colour head-up display and an on-board charger with a charging capacity of up to 22kW. With Functions on Demand (FoD), Taycan drivers can purchase additional convenience or assistance functions as required.

According to Porsche, over 20,000 Taycans were delivered to customers worldwide in 2020.

The electric sports car has already received around 50 international awards, above all in its principal markets of Germany, the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK) and China.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) took another step towards international recognition for one of its Master’s degree programmes recently.

In a statement issued yesterday, UTB announced that under its School of Computing and Informatics (SCI), the Master programme for Computing and Information System (By Coursework) is now partially accredited by the BCS as partial Chartered IT Professional (CITP) and partial Chartered Engineer (CEng) (Further Learning). It means that upon graduation, students undertaking the course will have fulfilled part of the academic requirements to be registered as a CITPand as a CEng.

The BCS is the Chartered Institute for Information Technology, a professional body that represents those working in information technology and computer science, both in the United Kingdom (UK) and internationally.

BCS accreditation of degrees is an important benchmark of the standard of Higher Education programmes and their contribution to the IT profession, said the university. Other UTB courses accredited by the body include a number of Bachelor of Science programmes in computing, digital media and computer network security.

Dean of SCI, Dr Mohamad Saiful bin Haji Omar said that with this accreditation, the programmes they offered are internationally recognised and benchmarked, offering prospective and graduate students an important mark of assurance that the programme meets the highest standards set by the IT profession.

“Alhamdulilllah, with this achievement it will provide our graduates with a pathway to professional registration such as Chartered IT Professional and Chartered Engineer status. Most importantly it provides added advantage for our graduates when looking for a job as some employers may look for graduates with accredited degrees,” he said.

Meanwhile, Deputy Dean of SCI and SCI Accreditation Coordinator Dr Hajah Nor Zainah binti Haji Siau highlighted the important benefit of this accreditation being an opportunity to consult at length with experts and getting feedback for the SCI’s programmes and modules for development and improvement.

“The exchange is invaluable in ensuring our school’s future direction and was an important agenda for BCS,” she said.

Some important highlights resulting from the accreditation process include: ensuring the learning outcomes of the school are well mapped and represented in every programme, for final year projects; comprehensive guidelines and supervisions, and ensuring the majority of modules meet the criteria of international industrial standards and best practices.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman

Bukit Tempayan Pisang in Serasa has become a popular destination for trekkers after major improvements were made by the Pioneering Committee of Bukit Tempayang Pisang. The committee was formed by the Kampong Serasa and RPN Kampong Serasa Village Consultative Council.

Along the main road and at the base of the hill, bushes have been cleared for new plants and flowers. Huts for resting as well as a water tank have also been set up. The trail leading to the top of Bukit Tempayan Pisang has been improved with the addition of timber steps and rope for safety.

Kampong Jangsak Silver Jubilee Mosque Committee members led by Merusin bin Haji Hashim trekked the hill. The group was greeted by Chief Guide of the Pioneering Committee of Bukit Tempayan Pisang PW1 (Rtd) Haji Saedan bin Haji Mohammad Said.

The group attended a briefing and warm-up session as well as recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat.

Patron for the Pioneering Committee of Bukit Tempayan Pisang Serasa Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah attended.

Acting Village Head of Kampong Serasa and RPN Kampong Serasa Abdul Hamid bin Haji Zainin was also present.

They visited Gua Harimau, Gua Radat, Batu Wajah, Batu Siapan, Batu Berlubang, Sungai Kumangsih and Telaga Dang Mawar along the 3.4-kilometre trail.

Bukit Tempayan Pisang is over 400 metres tall. From the top, Pulau Muara Besar, Pekan Muara and during clear weather, Mount Kinabalu in Sabah can be seen.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon, Lyna Mohamad, Daniel Lim & Rokiah Mahmud

The spirit of patriotism filled the air yesterday with the hoisting of the giant national flag in the run-up to the 37^th National Day celebration.

The event at the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex signifies the start of the 10-day flag-hoisting throughout the country, from February 16 to 25.

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 was the guest of honour.

Members of the Executive Committee of the 37^th National Day Celebrations, Legislative Council (LegCo) members, permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, district officers, representatives from the public and private sectors, mukim penghulus and village heads also attended.

The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Allah Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam by Mosque Affairs Officer Haji Amran bin Haji Mohd Salleh from the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Twenty Royal Brunei Navy personnel and national flag-carriers from the army cadets, police cadets and fire and rescue cadets marched in for the hand-over and received the giant national flag from the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports.

The 37-member Berakas Secondary School choir sang the national anthem, accompanied by the Royal Brunei Police Band.

The ceremony was enlivened with the performance of two patriotic songs – Bendera Negara and Berkibarlah Bendera. Following a miniature flag-waving was the presentation of flags and National Day posters to district officers.

A similar ceremony was held at the Brunei-Muara District Office, with its District Officer Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim attending as guest of honour. LegCo members, mukim penghulus and village heads from the district also attended.

Acting Penghulu of Mukim Berakas ‘B’ and Village Head of Zone 3 RPN Lambak Kanan Haji Mahir bin Mohd Yusof led the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah.

The guest of honour presented the national flag to the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) for hoisting, accompanied by the national anthem. The Syababul Bahir Choir performed Bendera Negara and Berkibarlah Bendera.

The ceremony continued with the guest of honour presenting national flags and appreciation certificates to penghulus and representatives from associations, the private sector and NGOs.

In the Belait District, the ceremony was held at the Menara Cendera Kenangan Recreational Park, with Belait District Officer Ramlee bin Haji Jamudin overseeing the ceremony.

LegCo member cum Penghulu of Mukim Liang Yang Berhormat Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin, LegCo member cum Village Head of Kampung Labi I and Acting Penghulu Mukim Labi Yang Berhormat Hanapi bin Mohd Siput, government department heads, mukim penghulus, village heads and representatives of private associations and local companies also attended.

Assistant Belait District Officer Mohammad Yassin bin Haji Ahmed led the flag bearers to the venue.

RPN of Kampong Pandan Mosque Imam Muhammad Nor Islam bin Mohd Suria led the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat.

RBPF personnel hoisted the national flag as the Perdana Wazir Secondary School choir belted out the national anthem and Bendera Negara. The Belait District Officer presented to the penghulus national flags that are to be hoisted in their mukims.

Meanwhile, at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), the ceremony saw Vice-Chancellor Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina binti Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Aziz attend as the guest of honour.

The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed with Doa Allah Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam led by UBD Imam.

The national flag was handed over to Dean of Student’s Affairs Saidai bin Haji Hitam, who passed it to the vice-chancellor, who then presented it to the UBD Cadet team. The UBD choir, lecturers, officers and students sang the national anthem and Berkibarlah Bendera.

Effective yesterday, all citizens and residents of Brunei Darussalam are required to hoist the national flag at their homes, as well as office and business buildings. Additionally, decorative lights are to be installed at government and private sector buildings.

Pengiran-pengirans and titled persons are required to hoist their respective flags. The hoisted flags must adhere to the stipulated rules and procedures, and be in good condition.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Izah Azahari

Progresif Sdn Bhd and the Ministry of Education (MoE) launched the ‘Donate Data’ campaign yesterday that will see the telco company sponsoring WiFi connections to 10 local schools.

Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh launched the campaign at the Progresif Headquarters.

The initiative is part of continuing the ‘Progresif for Schools’ campaign launched last September, to provide infrastructure for arguably the most important educational resource in this era – high speed Internet. It also innovates simpler ways for the community to contribute data to the schools, thus creating better conditions for the success of youth and the country’s education system efficiency, according to Progresif CEO Hajah Nurul Haniah binti Haji Mohd Jaafar.

Just 140 days since the partnership was inked, Progresif and its collaborators have managed the most significant breakthrough of the Progresif for Schools campaign, laying the foundation for the public to directly contribute to the education of Brunei’s students.

Through the ‘Donate Data’ platform, Progresif subscribers can SMS DATAEDU1/5/10/15/20/50/100, while non-Progresif subscribers can use Progresif PAY or BIBD Online, with Baiduri soon to follow, and know that their contribution is broadening the horizons of the nation’s youth. The SMS line was officially opened by the Deputy Minister of Education and Progresif Deputy Chairman Edzwan Zukri bin Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Adanan.

As part of the programme, the first 10 schools to become Progresif’s benefactors are: Sengkurong Sixth Form Centre; Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College; Rimba II Secondary School; Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College; Tutong Sixth Form Centre; Perdana Wazir Secondary School; Belait Sixth Form Centre; Meragang Sixth Form Centre; Sultan Sharif Ali Secondary School; and Sultan Hassan Secondary School.

Since 2015, Progresif has committed to advocacy for education as a core pillar of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR). From creating teaching tools for local schools in their Progresif magazine, to promoting passionate teachers in their ‘Progresif Heroes’ campaigns, and their sponsorship of big school events like the International School Brunei Borneo Global Issues Conference (ISB BGIC), the company has long been committed to corporate stewardship of important social and educational issues.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

Giant hashtag #nbd37 incorporates several themes reflecting on Brunei Darussalam’s atmosphere and the country’s commitments in the international arena.

In conjunction with the country’s 37^th National Day celebration, giant hashtag #nbd37 was officially launched at the open plaza of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex in the capital yesterday.

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 officiated the giant hashtag #nbd37 by completing one of the drawings before visiting five other giant hashtags #nbd37 on display.

Project Manager for giant hashtag #nbd37 Wan Nur Zahidah binti Metussin said 80 artists, including guest artists, were involved in the project.

Two persons with different abilities from the Down Syndrome Association (ABLE) took part in the giant hashtags #nbd37 project. They are Muhd Akmal Qawi bin Bohari and Muzamrie bin Haji Muhammad.

ABLE representative Hajah Marina binti Haji Abdul Hadi said, “We are touched and honoured to be part of this giant hashtags #nbd37 in conjunction with Brunei Darussalam’s 37^th National Day celebration.

“This demonstrated the inclusiveness of people with different abilities as part of the community in the national day celebration and we are not left behind to contribute to the country.”

Hashtag #1 carries the theme ‘Brunei’s Comic and Illustrations’, designed by comic and illustration artists with a guest artist from Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam.

Hashtag #2 comes in two themes, the first being ‘ASEAN Flowers’ designed by Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah School students with a guest artist from Pusat Bahagia, and the second themed ‘ASEAN Colours – Graff Element’ designed by Guerrilla Artchitects.

Hashtag #3 – ‘We Are Brunei Darussalam!’ – was designed by fine art artists from 20:21 Art Exhibition, with a special appearance artist and guest artist from Pusat Ehsan.

Hashtag #4 themed ‘Brunei Recycled Art’ is a collaborative effort by several artists, where a guest artist from ABLE also contributed.

Hashtag #5, themed ‘COVID-19 Awareness’ was designed by Graphic Designer from Justbruniens and a guest artist from ABLE.

Hashtag #6, carrying the theme ‘Graffiti Modern Art’ was designed by graffiti artists from Guerrilla Artchitects, with a guest artist from Pusat Bahagia.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman

Baiduri Bank believes in supporting young and curious minds, while providing opportunities for them to probe further in the realm of technology.

This was said by Baiduri Bank CEO Ti Eng Hui during the launch of the Teens in Artificial Intelligence (AI) programme at the Baiduri Bank Headquarters in 1 Jalan Gadong, yesterday.

“Platforms such as the Teens in AI initiative are important in nurturing and developing a habit of learning beyond the classroom and hopefully inspire the next generation of leaders and change makers who will contribute to Brunei’s bright future,” he added.

The launch kick-started the second phase of the project, where teachers will facilitate a nine-week programme in selected schools across the country.

Teens in Al was initiated by Founder and CEO of Teens in AI and Acorn Aspirations Elena Sinel. It was launched at the United Nations’ (UN) AI for Good Global Summit, with the mission of increasing diversity and inclusion in Al, as well as empowering young people to solve real-world problems through Al.

The programme is made possible through a close collaboration between DARe (Darussalam Enterprise), Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP), Baiduri Bank Berhad, Brunei Shell Marketing Sdn Bhd (BSM), Unified National Networks Sdn Bhd and Dynamik Technologies Sdn Bhd, with support of the Science, Technology and Environment Partnership (STEP) Centre at the Ministry of Education (MoE), Jerudong International School (JIS) and the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI).

The main objective of the programme is to provide a platform to shape, develop and utilise the digital and leadership skills of Brunei’s youth, as part of Brunei Darussalam’s Industry 4.0 aspirations which envision a sustainable, collaborative startup ecosystem supporting innovation and growth.

The programme is geared towards the following outcomes, including developing ‘new technology’ skills in the areas of AI and programming, which will prepare Bruneian teens for long-term careers in jobs of the future and equip them with skills that will make them globally marketable.

At the same time, the programme will look into opportunities to develop high tech businesses to support the vision 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, as outlined in his titah to explore areas such as AI, as part of Brunei Darussalam’s Industry 4.0 initiative.

It is also aimed at putting Brunei on the global innovation map as a driver for AI development in teens. Acorn Aspirations is connected to major global technology companies such as Microsoft and many more, which will take notice of rising tech talents.

The programme runs in three phases. Phase 1, the pilot programme in September 2020, involved an online hackathon which took place for eight days, with the participation of 48 teens and 18 teachers from 10 schools, accompanied by 30 industry mentors from sponsor organisations.

The teens came up with 10 ideas and prototype solutions in tackling one of the UN Sustainable Initiative Development Goals challenges set out for them. These solutions were pitched to a panel of judges during Demo Day, held physically at the Design & Technology building in Anggerek Desa.

The second phase will see a bigger turnout with participation from a wider audience – 159 students from a mix of 12 government and private schools, to be facilitated by 47 teachers.

Phase 2 places more emphasis on the importance of the teachers’ role as facilitators for Teens in Al. The learning and ‘competition’ will be held in each individual school over a duration of nine weeks, where the teachers will facilitate the students’ independent learning and provide them a safe space to discover and experiment with tech tools.

To prepare the teachers for the programme, InTurn Co conducted a two-day training workshop in January, where it aided the teachers in planning their weekly Teens in AI sessions, provided them with resources to use in their teaching, and shared some exercises they could conduct to introduce tech jargons to the students.

The transfer of knowledge to teachers is guaranteed to ensure the sustainability and continuity of the programme within the foreseeable future.

“Alongside the teachers, the participants will be supported by industry mentors comprising employees and stakeholders from sponsor organisations in the field of design thinking, technology and business,” said Chai Roslin of InTurnCo, the local delivery partner for Teens in AI.

“The students will have the opportunity to learn from the mentors’ industry experience and seek advice on their projects.”

The top 10 teams from Phase 2 will take centre stage at the end of the programme, to pitch their ideas to a panel of industry-leading judges, during Demo Day in April.

By the end of the programme, the expected target is to train and skill more than 500 teens (public and private secondary students aged 12-18), more than 50 teachers (in public and private secondary schools), more than 100 mentors (comprising local tech startup founders, unemployed IT graduates and skilled corporate employees).

Borneo Bulletin Online

Danial Norjidi

In conjunction with the 37^th National Day celebration, various institutions hosted flag-hoisting ceremonies.

At Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman was the guest of honour. Principal officers, lecturers, staff and students were also present.

The ceremony commenced with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat, followed by a flag-bearing by UTB Army Cadet members. Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah presented the national flag to the Flag-Hoisting Lead 92183 KPL KT Siti Noraziemah binti Mohd Khairuddin.

The UTB Army Cadet members hoisted the flag, accompanied by the singing of the national anthem.

Meanwhile, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) through its Student Affairs Section held a similar ceremony on Tuesday at its Zone ‘A’ parking lot.

The ceremony began with a recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by the handing over of the national flag by the Rector of UNISSA Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal to UNISSA’s uniformed team led by Fire and Rescue Cadet Muhd Waseem bin Muhd Rizal.

The proceedings continued with the hoisting of the flag accompanied by the singing of the national anthem, and concluded with the recitation of Doa Allah Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam led by Army Cadet Lkpl Muhd Hafiz Syami bin Shafiee.

The event aimed at instilling patriotism and a sense of national awareness in taking responsibility for the development of Brunei Darussalam through the role of education to respond to this year’s National Day theme, which is Menjayakan Wawasan Negara or ‘Accomplishing the National Vision’.

Deputy rector, assistant rectors, senior officers, officers and staff as well as lecturers and students of UNISSA were also present.

This year, the event was enlivened with a march past accompanied by flag bearers from UNISSA’s uniformed teams comprising 46 Army Cadet members, 47 Police Cadet members, 33 Fire and Rescue Cadet members, 48 Rover Scout 1102 members, 25 Red Crescent members and 31 UNISSA Girl Guides Association members.

Politeknik Brunei (PB) also held a national flag hoisting ceremony at the main campus building of PB at Jalan Ong Sum Ping, Bandar Seri Begawan yesterday.

PB Acting Director Lim Kian Boon was guest of honour.

The proceedings began with the handover of the national flag by the PB Acting Director to PB Army Cadet 93376 SJN KT Muhammad Abdul Raziq bin Abdul Rahim.

This was followed with the hoisting of the flag accompanied by the singing of the national anthem, followed by the singing of the patriotic song Berkibarlah Bendera.

The event concluded with the recitation of Doa Selamat and a group photo session.

Deputy Commanding Officer of the Royal Brunei Malay Reserve Unit at the Ministry of Defence Major Zool Addyhamddymee bin Haji Bahmin; Royal Brunei Malay Reserve Regiment Deputy Commanding Officer PW2 Runi bin Sani; SJN Muhammad Ady Norshah bin Chuchu; special military cadet coaches of PB; as well as members of PB including the assistant director, registrar, division and school heads, teachers, staff and students also attended the ceremony.

PB will also organise a Surah Yaasiin and Doa Kesyukuran ceremony at the main campus’ Surau.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Daniel Lim

A delegation comprising members from Village Consultative Council (MPK) of Kampong Amo, Temburong District recently visited Teraja Longhouse in the Belait District.

Led by Head of the MPK Kampong Amo Hujan anak Muit, the delegation was welcomed to the area by Chairman of the Teraja Longhouse committee Burong anak Nyanggau.

The visit aimed to establish closer ties and discuss opportunity to develop ecotourism between the two districts.

The delegation was briefed on the expansion and future development made to the Teraja Longhouse ecotourism efforts. They also observed the traditional dance and cultural performances. The visit concluded with a gifts exchange.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

“Food can be a major driver for visitors when choosing a destination; hence gastronomy tourism has evolved to encompass activities beyond the plate,” said Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong at the launching of Brunei Gastronomy Week (BGW) 2021 yesterday.

“This includes attending food events and festivals, visiting local markets, taking cooking classes, going on food tours, and learning about the production of food by visiting farms and producers,” he added.

The minister urged all tourism service providers “to look beyond providing just a normal package tour; and look into more experiential, community based or ecotourism initiatives, as well as sustainable tours, to make the tourism offering more attractive for both domestic and international visitors”.

The two-week event was officially launched by the Brunei Tourism Board and the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) in conjunction with the 37^th National Day celebration.

The minister also presented certificates of participation to all of the involved agencies.

Also present at the official launching ceremony were foreign dignitaries, permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, district officers, the chief executive officer of Royal Brunei Airlines (RB), the president of the Brunei Association of Hotels (BAH), senior government officials, restaurants, hoteliers, food service providers, travel agencies, and event partners.

Meanwhile, Mulia Hotel won over the judges with its Grilled Prawn with Coconut Kerabu starter, to claim the Best Starter Award for BGW 2020.

Royal Brunei Culinary’s (RBC) Anjung Saujana Restaurant took the Restaurant Best Main Course Award with its Coconut Seabass, while The Horizons Seafood Restaurant won the Best Dessert Award for its Coconut Madness.

Head Chef at Mulia Hotel Chef Zamrul Hafizi bin Mohammed Ismail said the win was beyond his expectations, as he had created the starter during his spare time.

His winning starter was a fusion of Asian and Western cuisine, where the grilled prawn with coconut Kerabu flesh, mixed with coriander dressing, gave a combined taste of sweet, sour and tangy.

Best dessert winner Haji Hasizul Bahrie bin Ibrahim, who is a Cook II at The Horizons Seafood Restaurant, said that the entry was mainly prompted by enthusiasm at creating his own coconut-based dessert.

The chosen theme for BGW 2021 is Selera Bruneiku, which is an extension of the Domestic Tourism Campaign launched on November 4, 2020, to celebrate local cuisines that can be found in all districts.

Sixteen hotels, restaurants and food service providers will be promoting their own signature dishes such as Bamboo Chicken by Sumbiling Eco Village, which is a local favourite in Temburong; Daging Salai Masak Lemak by the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) School of Hospitality and Tourism; and Bidasari Grilled Organic Chicken by Eco Ponies.

The participating agencies for BGW 2021 are The Lanes Hotel, Wafa Hotel & Apartment, AZ Back to Nature, Mulia Hotel, Eco Ponies Garden, Sumbiling Eco Village, Radisson Hotel, The Rizqun International Hotel, Nona Manis Food Industries, The Capital Residence Suites, The Empire Brunei, Anjung Saujana Restaurant, IBTE School of Hospitality and Tourism, Stoneville Hotel, Manna Wa Salwa Café, and Spoonfull Restaurant.

This year’s event will feature young budding chefs who have gained followings on social media over the years for their signature dishes, namely Muris, U’zaiz, Terry’s Supper Club by Terry Wong, Plat Du Jour by Aziz Mokhsen and Karbs.bn by Kahar El-Fiarra who will be showcasing their take on Selera Bruneiku dishes at a special event on March 6 -7, at Avenue 41 in Kiarong.

Members of the public are invited to take part in the BGW 2021 experience from February 23 to March 9, at participating venues.

The MPRT has also collaborated with the BAH and the Brunei Food Awards Company to invite several hotels and restaurants in Brunei Darussalam, to participate in this yearly event.

The Brunei Food Awards Company will also be the judges for the next Brunei Gastronomy Award 2021. The winners will be announced at the next Brunei Gastronomy Week.

The event is supported by the Brunei Tourism Board, the BAH, the Association of Travel Agents Brunei, Brunei Food Awards Company, The Creative Core BN, Avenue 41, Riza Group, Radio Television Brunei (RTB), and local media.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Prime Minister’s Office

Azlan Othman

The Prime Minister’s Office and departments under it held a Doa Kesyukuran to mark the 47^th birthday of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office at the Ash-Shaliheen Mosque yesterday.

Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, Attorney General Haji Ahmad bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Laila Setia Bakti Diraja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa, Chief Syar’ie Judge Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Salim bin Haji Besar and Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force Dato Paduka Seri Haji Muhammad Irwan bin Haji Hambali were present.

Permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, heads of departments, officers and staff at the Prime Minister’s Office attended.

The religious gathering began with the recitation of Surah Yaasiin followed by Doa Kesyukuran led by Mosque Affairs Officer Haji Md Izzuddin bin Begawan Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Haji Emran.The event concluded with Asar prayers.

The Doa Kesyukuran was coordinated by the Security, Enforcement and Law Division at the Prime Minister’s Office with the cooperation of the Civil Service Institute (IPA).

UBD, UNISSA, UTB

Azlan Othman

Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) and Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) held a Doa Kesyukuran ceremony and recitation of Surah Yaasiin in conjunction with 47^th birthday of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and Pro-Chancellor of UBD, UNISSA and UTB.

The ceremony took place on Tuesday at UBD Mosque.

Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the Ministry of Education Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad attended the ceremony.

UBD Vice-Chancellor Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina binti Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Aziz, Rector of UNISSA Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal and UTB Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman as well as academic staff, officers, staff and students from UBD, UNISSA and UTB were also present.

Mass Maghrib, Sunnat Hajat and Isyak prayers were led by Imam of the university mosque Mohammad Amirul Rahmad bin Haji Mohammad, who also led the recitation of Surah Yaasiin and Doa Kesyukuran.

Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College

Azlan Othman

Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College (Maktab Duli) held a mass Maghrib and Isyak prayers, Sunnat Hajat prayer, recitation of Surah Yaasiin and Doa Kesyukuran ceremony to mark the 47^th birthday of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office.

The event was held at the Boys’ Hostel Surau, Maktab Duli on Tuesday.

Deputy Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Aliuddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman was present.

The event began with a mass Maghrib prayer led by Usuluddin lecturer Syed Mohsen bin Syed Abdul Rahman AlKaff and a mass Sunnat Hajat prayer led by Usuluddin lecturer Haji Md Shafiee bin Haji Japar.

This was followed with the recitation of Surah Yaasiin, Doa Kesyukuran and ended with mass Isyak prayer.

Heads of departments at the MoE; Head of Cluster 1, Department of Schools; Maktab Duli acting principal and deputy principal as well as staff and students also attended the ceremony.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB), as the Secretariat of the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Fund for Orphans (DANA), held a Doa Kesyukuran ceremony yesterday in conjunction with the 47^th birthday of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik attended the religious ceremony at the YSHHB Complex in the capital.

The ceremony began with mass Maghrib prayer led by Syariah Court of Appeal Judge Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Setia Raja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Haji Awang Suhaili bin Haji Mohiddin, before continuing with the recitations of Surah Yaasiin, Tahlil, and Doa Kesyukuran and mass Isyak prayer.

Minister of Defence II cum Chairman of the DANA Board of Trustee Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, and Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II cum Deputy Chairman of YSHHB Board of Directors and Deputy Chairman of the DANA Board of Trustee Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah attended.

Members of the YSHHB Committee of Governors, members of the YSHHB Board of Directors, members of the DANA Board of Trustee, permanent contributors to DANA, officers and staff at YSHHB as well as YSHHB School teachers were also present.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Aziz Idris

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman attended a high-tea reception hosted by the Ministry of Defence (MinDef) and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) to mark the 47^th birthday of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince yesterday.

The reception was held at the Officers’ Mess, Bolkiah Garrison.

Accompanying Their Royal Highnesses were His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah and His Royal Highness 920 Captain (U) Prince ‘Abdul Mateen.

Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof and RBAF Commander Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat welcomed the royal entourage.

Their Royal Highnesses joined a group photo session and were introduced to RBAF officers from Brunei Darussalam’s 16^th International Monitoring Team (IMT) to Mindanao, Philippines; RBAF personnel embedded under the Malaysian Battalion 850-7 (MALBATT 850-7) for the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL); the recipient of the RBAF Commendation Award from the 9^th RBAF Command and Staff Course 2020; RBAF personnel from the Independent Decommissioning Body Verification, Monitoring and Assistance Team (IDB VMAT) to Mindanao; and newly commissioned officers who received awards of excellence during the recent Sovereign’s Parade Ceremony for the 19^th intake of officer cadets, RBAF Officer Cadet School.

His Royal Highness the Crown Prince watched a video clip and was presented with a photobook album titled ‘Sejambak Ristaan XIV,’ containing a collection of photographs from previous high- tea receptions at the RBAF from 2005 until 2020.

This was followed with the signing of a commemorative parchment, a cake-cutting ceremony and a pesambah from RBAF personnel.

To bless the ceremony, a prayer was read by Head of the RBAF Religious Department Commander Haji Ainolnizam bin Haji Ibrahim of the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN).

Borneo Bulletin Online