The Mosque Affairs Department through its Muslimah Affairs Division in collaboration with the Kampong Sinaut Mosque Takmir Committee members, conducted a one-day agriculture course on Tuesday for 90 Muslimah of the mosque’s Takmir committee.
The course aimed at providing knowledge on farming and gardening as well as maintaining the surroundings of mosque. It also aimed to foster closer ties among Muslimah committee members.
Participants were briefed on effective farming methods and generating income by Acting Senior Special Duties Officer of Department of Agriculture and Agrifood at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Hirman bin Haji Abu.
ABOVE & BELOW: Acting Senior Special Duties Officer of Department of Agriculture and Agrifood at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Hirman bin Haji Abu facilitates the course; and participants during the practical. PHOTOS: AZLAN OTHMAN
The Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) in collaboration with Qudoz Event Management Services organised a religious ceremony entitled ‘Rasulullah Qudwatuna’ at The Airport Mall, Berakas in conjunction with Israk Mikraj celebration.
Permanent Secretary (Strategy and Policy Management) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Pengiran Haji Mohd Hasnan bin Pengiran Haji Ali Hassan was the guest of honour.
Ra’es of KUPU SB Dr Haji Adanan bin Haji Basar and Acting Deputy Ra’es of KUPU SB Dr Haji Abang Hadzmin bin Haji Abang Taha were also present.
The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Ex-co of Religious, Takmir and Surau 2019/2020 session Abdul Hadi Nasrullah bin Muhammad Ashraf, followed by the mass recitation of Asma Ul-Husna and singing of national anthem.
Head Ex-co of Islamic Arts and Culture for 2020/2021 session of KUPU SB – Muhammad Nur Asymawi bin Asli said Israk Mikraj event signifies the journey of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) of being a prophet and delivering the teaching of Islam from Allah the Almighty.
A performance by champions of several competitions in conjunction with the event enlivened the ceremony.
The ceremony also saw certificates and prizes presented to Al-Quran reading competition winner Mohammad Hamiz Mirza bin Haji Sudirman; and winners in the make and female categories of the Tazkirah competition Mohammed Khairul Mu’az bin Haji Sibodaud and Norafifah binti Haji Latif. In Tausyeh competition, Firqah al-Muneer was named champion in the male category while Firqah Qatrunnida in the female category.
Several activities were also conducted by faculties and centres of KUPU SB to mark the event, including a motivational talk on education, deliberation on Kitab Munyah al-Musali and Idhahul Bab Li Muridun Nikah Bissawab, memorisation of Surah-Surah Lazim and other verses in Al-Quran; Jawi writing competition, interactive Tajwid, and forum.
ABOVE & BELOW: Permanent Secretary (Strategy and Policy) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Pengiran Haji Mohd Hasnan bin Pengiran Haji Ali Hassan presents a certificate to a judge of the competition; and Al-Quran reading competition winner Mohammad Hamiz Mirza bin Haji Sudirman. PHOTOS: ROKIAH MAHMUD
Scout leaders and members of the Girls and Women Section of the Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association (PPNBD) and the Belait District Scouts Association (PPDB) visited several underprivileged communities for the first phase of Jalinan Kasih project in Belait District yesterday.
Scout Commissioner of the Girls and Women Section and the Rover Section Commissioner of the PPNBD Hajah Norrahmat binti Haji Sidin and Acting Belait District Scout Commissioner of the PPDB Mohamad Hatta bin Haji Suhaili supervised the project.
The group visited to six residences in RPN Kampong Pandan, RPN Kampong Panaga, Lorong 3 Selatan in Seria and Jalan Pantai in Lumut, where they distributed basic necessities to orphans, senior citizens and destitute families.
Apart from distributing daily necessities, the visits were hoped to provide more details about the recipients’ daily concerns, which could be conducive to further plans for projects of a similar scope.
According to the PPDB, the second phase of the Jalinan Kasih project will be held during Ramadhan, to help ease the burdens of the less fortunate during the holy month.
Scout leaders and members present a donation to a family in Belait District. PHOTOS: DANIEL LIMABOVE & BELOW: Scout members unloading basic necessities from a van; and scout members with an underprivileged family
Brunei Darussalam observed the National-Level Israk Mikraj Celebration for 1442 Hijrah at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah yesterday.
Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara was present.
Cabinet Ministers, deputy ministers, senior officials and congregants were also present.
The event began with the recitation of SurahAl-Fatihah by Mosque Affairs Officer at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Begawan Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Haji Mustafa bin Haji Murad.
Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, as the Chairperson of the Executive Committee of Major Islamic Events Celebration for 1442 Hijrah, said in his welcoming remarks, “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 pays great attention to religious affairs, both as an institution and as a working mechanism, which in turn provide the catalyst for religious teaching in the country to be upheld and implemented wisely on the right course, in order to enhance the peace and stability that the citizens and residents of this country enjoy and which needs to be preserved.
Photo shows an overview of the National Level Israk Mikraj Celebration for 1442 Hijrah at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah yesterday. Among those present were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara, Cabinet Ministers and congregants.ABOVE & BELOW: Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara, Cabinet Ministers and congregants at the event; and Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman delivers his remarks. PHOTOS: AZLAN OTHMAN & MUIZ MATDANI
Mosque Affairs Officer Pengiran Ahmad Faris Ramadhani bin Pengiran Haji Sellahhudin delivers a special talk
“We will continue to observe historical events in Islam, which is the official religion of this country.”
The ceremony continued with an interactive Al-Quran recitation (Qiraa’atil Quran) by Md Firdaus bin Haji Salleh from the Youth Al-Quran Reading Scheme under the Islamic Studies Department (JPI), while the interpretation was delivered by Muhd Zulhafiz bin Tengah, a member of the teaching staff in the Youth Al-Quran Reading Scheme.
The recitation highlighted several types of intonation in Al-Quran recitation (Tarannum Al-Quran) such as Bayyati, Hijjaz and Jiharkah.
The event continued with a special talk, ‘Prayer is the Core towards the Excellence of Ummah’ (Sembahyang Teras Kecemerlangan Umat), by Mosque Affairs Officer at the Mosque Affairs Department under the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) Pengiran Ahmad Faris Ramadhani bin Pengiran Haji Sellahhudin.
To bless the occasion, a Doa Selamat was recited by Begawan Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Haji Mustafa.
Equality between women and men in the workplace has been one of the top priorities for Total Group, as gender diversity is a key factor for success in businesses.
By 2025, the group aims for women to account for 30 per cent of senior management and executive positions, and 30 per cent in all management committees.
Total Brunei, at present, has three local female executives as heads of department, making up 62 per cent of the company’s executive committee.
Three outstanding local women shared their insights and career journey during a Coffee Talk event by Total Brunei yesterday, to mark International Women’s Day.
Held at the Business Lounge of Radisson Hotel, the speakers were ophthalmic surgeon at the Ministry of Health Dr Hajah Helena binti Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Jaya Dato Paduka Haji Hurairah, film director and founder of Origin Artistic Siti Kamaluddin and Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam Head of Administration Huda binti Haji Muhin.
Dr Hajah Helena is President of the Brunei Ophthalmology Society, a council member of the ASEAN Ophthalmology Society which represents Brunei as an Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology Council. She was also awarded the 2020 Commonwealth Points of Light Award.
Siti Kamaluddin is the first female local director and considered one of the 50 most influential women in the country, while Huda is a member of the Youth Advisory Group for the Youth Policy and Strategy 2020-2035 by Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, member of United States (US)–ASEAN Innovation Circle. She was the first Bruneian of persons with different abilities to be selected to undergo a six-week Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative Professional Fellowship Programme in the US in 2019.
Ophthalmic surgeon at the Ministry of Health Dr Hajah Helena binti Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Jaya Dato Paduka Haji Hurairah, film director and founder of Origin Artistic Siti Kamaluddin and Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam Head of Administration Huda binti Haji Muhin during the talk. PHOTO: TOTAL BRUNEI
Dr Hajah Helena said people (especially women) cannot always be satisfied with what they have achieved in life because “there is always room for improvement; and you are never going to be perfect or the best of anything”.
She believed that things are easier for people who find passion in what they do, “whether it’s giving back to our family or the community”.
She added, “It has to come from the heart as only then everything will fall into place.”
On toxic behaviour, Dr Hajah Helena believed that people have the choice between accepting it and walking away.
She also saw the COVID-19 pandemic as a blessing in disguise as it helped her escape from a toxic mindset.
Huda, meanwhile, revealed she had faced challenges of proving her worth and responded to those who questioned her capabilities by showing the end results of her work.
Dr Hajah Helena responded to Huda by saying, “It is amazing when another woman believes in you, nurtures you and supports you. It is so exhausting to always have to prove yourself to other people. Eventually you reach a point where you are tired of trying to make everyone happy.”
Dr Helena advised people struggling with the same challenge to not “worry about the noise from outside” and instead “Just know yourself, love yourself and be yourself”.
Siti Kamaluddin added, “Always think of the positive and don’t let the environment stop you from doing what you want. If you want to do something and the platform is not there, you can create it instead of waiting for it to happen.”
She drew the belief from the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak in the country, which made movie-making challenging.
Siti said at Origins, where there are lots of freelance crew members who depend on the company for income, she had to get creative by using YouTube to showcase her work.
“If there is no platform available, you can always create your own.
“I count my blessings because we had Bintang Search and it was a success. For a small nation like Brunei, we attracted over one million views,” she said.
Yesterday’s event was aimed at creating awareness and celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women as well as fostering closer ties among employees.
Total Brunei General Manager Nicolas Wawresky and other management members were also present.
Grand Motors Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of Kia cars in Brunei Darussalam, unveiled the all-new spacious Kia Carnival at its showroom in Beribi yesterday.
With a longer wheel base and wider body, the new Kia Carnival offers more space and provides ideal comfort for a family travelling on a journey. It has attracted more than 85 bookings.
Its interior space allows passengers to sit in all three or four rows and offer three row seating configurations with spaces up to eight occupants. In its seven seaters configuration, the Carnival boasts Kia’s reclining captain’s chairs for second row occupants with adjustable backseats, armrest and leg rests, giving passengers a business-class seating for comfort especially on long journeys.
The new Kia Carnival features a shorter front with the base of the ‘A’ pillar moved backwards to create a longer hood. While also contributing to greater space throughout the cabin, its increased wheelbase also gives the car a longer and slightly more athletic silhouette.
The fourth generation of Kia brand’s flagship minivan also features a new tiger face which extends across the width of the vehicle giving it a distinct attractive look. The more futuristic face seamlessly integrates a lamp with the Kia’s iconic tiger-nose grille which is known as symphonic architecture. The grille and lamps are defined by the high tech, high precision details with the chrome trim above the grille forming its own character line around the face of the car.
The new Kia Carnival offers more space and provides ideal comfort for the family. PHOTO: JAMES KON
Its interior represents an increase in quality and design over its predecessor, with its futuristic new cabin comprising high tech ambiance noticeable in the wide, wrap around dashboard with a high fascia that is elegant in its simplicity and cutting edge features.
The Carnival features a 4.2-inch TFT-LCD digital driver instrument cluster and 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system that support the latest phone connectivity of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
For an exceptional music experience, a premium BOSE surround sound system is added combining the optimally tuned 12 high performance speakers including subwoofer based on BOSE’s unique sound technology. For ease of driving, a shift wire dial transmission at the base of the centre console expresses the new Carnival’s sense of technology and modernity.
The new Kia Carnival comes in petrol or diesel engines and under each engine systems, customers have the options of four different variants to choose from. Visit Kia Showroom in Beribi to take a closer look.
As part of its yearly corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme, imagine yesterday teamed up with members of the Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM) to assist in providing supplementary school supplies for underprivileged families.
The activity, funded by imagine and donors from the company’s A-Dollar-A-Cheer (ADAC) initiative totalling BND5,541.66, was supported by imagine volunteers, headed by imagine’s Vice President of Corporate Services Omardani bin Yusuf and Vice President of Marketing Dona Johan while MKM members were led by Vice President 1 Hajah Johana binti Haji Jaya.
Eighteen schoolchildren from eight financially challenged families were the focus of this year’s Back to School campaign, who required additional education provisions, from bags to books.
In line with imagine’s CSR pillars that encompass education as well as provide assistance to the underprivileged, the programme aims to alleviate the financial burden of families with the intent to ensure that their children are provided with the basic needs to thrive in their studies.
The activity yesterday was also part and parcel of imagine’s efforts to open opportunities for customers and members of the public in general to take part in raising funds for those in need under the company’s ADAC programme.
Shopping for school supply in progress. PHOTO: FADLEY FAISAL
There has been a spike in demand for IT experts around the world, said Acting Chief Executive of the Authority for Infocommunications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) Ir Haji Jailani bin Haji Buntar during the launch of the latest Coding.bn course, organised by AITI with support from Manpower Industry Steering Committee Working Group of ICT Sector (MISC-WG-ICT) yesterday.
He said the Fourth Industrial Revolution has led to an increasing demand for IT experts with niche skills as every business is embracing the new technological era as a means to gain a competitive edge.
He explained that the ranks of “software programmers or coders are growing, with coding being integrated almost everywhere, not only across businesses but also in our lives.
“The wide availability of smartphones has generated opportunities for people to create technology-centric businesses. Every sector offers niche opportunities where apps and other programs make jobs easier and processes more efficient”.
He also said since the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020, the world of work has been transforming by technology at an increasing pace. Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics technology, data analytics, immersive media, 3D printing and cybersecurity are among the new elements that have begun to take hold of the existing job functions and systems.
Deputy Minister of Energy and Chairman of AITI Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Matsatejo bin Sokiaw at the event. PHOTO: JAMES KON
From self-driving cars to drone-delivered online shopping, he said that new technologies are changing how people live, work, and communicate.
“More and more jobs opportunities with specialised competencies are required. We therefore need to prepare our workforce today with skills to stay relevant for future job markets.”
He also said that AITI has appointed Recap Sdn Bhd as the facilitator to run Coding.bn by bringing in both local and overseas experts as well as mentors to train participants as well as engage potential hosting or hiring companies to take up trainees as potential employees.
Coding.bn “was built upon the success of AITI’s upskilling pilot programme that started last year with only 15 unemployed youth as participants”, he said, adding that the youth were trained for three months and taught with fundamental programming languages such as HTML, CSS, React, ReactJS and NodeJS. Ninety-three per cent have since secured jobs in the infocommunication and technology industry.
The six-month course, launched yesterday by Deputy Minister of Energy and Chairman of AITI Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Matsatejo bin Sokiaw, will begin on Monday, participated by 36 youth.
Also present at the launch were Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abd Rahman and Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications Haji Mohammad Nazri bin Haji Mohammad Yusof.
The Ministry of Defence (MinDef) and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) held an Israk Mikraj celebration for 1442 Hijrah at Surau Ad-Difa’, Bolkiah Garrison yesterday.
This year’s theme follows the national-level’s Sembahyang Teras Kecemerlangan Umat (Prayer is the Core towards the Excellence of Ummah).
Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof attended.
Commander of the RBAF Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat, Permanent Secretary at the MinDef, as well as personnel from MinDef and RBAF were also present. Legislative Council member and Acting Village Head of Kampong Jaya Setia and Kampong Burong Pingai Yang Berhormat Haji Mohimin bin Haji Johari @ Jahari was an invited guest.
The ceremony opened with the recitation of Surah Al-Ma’idah led by Muhammad Nur Amin bin Haji Jali, a religious teacher from the RBAF Religious Department (Jama’at). The event continued with a special talk by Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ajak from Al-Minhaaj Centre. Similar events were also held across all suraus at RBAF garrisons, camps and bases.
Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof joins others at the religious event. PHOTO: MINDEF
Brunei Gas Carriers Sdn Bhd (BGC) held its second Maritime Talent Pipeline Achievements ceremony at The Empire Brunei yesterday, in celebration of three important milestones – BGC’s achievement of Ship Management Transition (SMT), the promotion to rank of BGC ship officers, and the signing of contracts for BGC scholars.
The joint special guests were Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah; and Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof as Chairman of the Maritime and Port Authority of Brunei Darussalam (MPABD) Board.
Also present were permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, senior government officials, Brunei Shell Joint Venture Companies senior management and BGC management, together with staff and families.
BGC Managing Director Pengiran Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha said, “In June 2019, BGC was awarded its full-term Document of Compliance (DOC) by MPABD, after a series of successful audits by a marine classification society.
“The significance of obtaining the DOC is the official recognition of BGC as a fully-fledged ship owner and manager, and the first deep water shipping company in Brunei to achieve this.
“It means that BGC’s capabilities are on par with international standards and has the ability to do business internationally, and carry Brunei’s name to new horizons in the world of shipping.
Brunei Gas Carriers Sdn Bhd (BGC) celebrated a triple milestone with a ceremony at The Empire Brunei yesterday. Photo shows Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah and Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof during a gallery tour.Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah and Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Dato Seri Setia Awang Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof in a group photo with signatories of the Cadetship Agreement Intake 2021. PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIRFleet Manager Captain Abdul Mateen Abdurrahman Liew affixing the epaulet onto the uniform of a promoted officer
“A lot of effort was put in by the people to complete the transition. The company had to restructure and develop the capability and competencies of both our onshore and shipboard personnel. The company had the will and belief to not just own the ships, but to manage and operate them ourselves.”
He paid tribute to the tireless efforts of BGC’s management, onshore and shipboard personnel, “not only over the past six years since the ship management transition journey began, but from the days of the Brunei Shell Tankers B-Class vessels”.
Pengiran Shamhary also highlighted BGC’s commitment to the development of Bruneian seafarers, which remains a key focus area in strengthening the BGC workforce, as well as supporting the growth of local talent in the Brunei maritime industry as a whole.
“In keeping with our promise to nurture and develop local talent, I am pleased to announce that we will be celebrating the promotion of 15 of our ship officers, out of whom six will be receiving their epaulettes from our fleet manager,” he said.
The managing directoradded that another achievement was the witnessing of the signing of contracts of BGC scholars during the event, as well as two new deck cadets under the Marine Cadetship Programme.
“Our scholarship programmes are instrumental in helping to develop our Bruneian seafarers from cadet level all the way up to senior management, in accordance with international standards.
“The COVID-19 outbreak has impacted on people’s lives, families and communities, and as the national and international response continues to develop, organisations are operating in uncharted waters. In these unprecedented times, the ability of shipping services to continue undisrupted across the continents plays a critical role in overcoming this pandemic.
“Shipping operations, including that of BGC, also face challenges, including the ability to send our seafarers to renew their international certifications or to attend training that enables them to move up the ranks.
“We have had to adapt and explore new means. In this respect, I am pleased to announce that BGC will be formalising our collaboration with the Singapore Maritime Academy through a signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) next week.
“This collaboration will provide a new platform for our scholars to undertake their studies somewhere closer to home. It also opens an avenue to explore potential business opportunities, increasing our technical know-how and ultimately boost our aspiration to become the main talent pipeline for the maritime industry in Brunei Darussalam.”
The speech was followed with the presentation of an SMT video, the promotion ceremony and the signing of the Higher Ticket Agreement 2021, as well as a video presentation from vessels and the signing of the Cadetship Agreement Intake for 2021.
The event ended with a gallery tour featuring BGC’s Ship Management Transition journey, talent pipeline achievements and various workstreams within the organisation.
By the consent of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, 83 probationary officer cadets have been appointed officer cadets.
The appointment ceremony was held at the Defence Academy Royal Brunei Armed Forces (DA RBAF) in Kampong Tanah Jambu yesterday.
Commander of the RBAF cum guest of honour Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat awarded the insignias to the 53 male and 30 female officer cadets, in the presence of officers of the Ministry of Defence and RBAF as well as parents of the newly appointed officer cadets.
The 83 officer cadets had been selected through the Armed Forces Commissioning Board and reported to the Officer Cadet School on January 26, 2021. Over the past six weeks, they went through basic military training spanning across drills, physical fitness, field craft, map reading, leadership and management, among others.
The officer cadets will now embark on the next 46 weeks of more rigorous and intensive training to become high-quality officers in leadership, knowledge and character.
Head of the RBAF Religious Department Commander Haji Ainolnizam bin Haji Ibrahim, RBN, recited a Doa Selamat to bless the ceremony.
Commander of the RBAF Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat affixes the insignia onto the uniform of a newly appointed officer cadet. PHOTO: MINDEF
The COVID-19 pandemic changed the world in 2020, including the momentum of ASEAN Community building. Due to the global lockdown, ASEAN’s information sector became not only a vital source of data, but it also became responsible in ensuring the information conveyed was correct and timely.
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud said this during the 15th Conference of the ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (15th AMRI) and Related Meetings held via video conference at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) yesterday.
At the plenary session of the 15th AMRI, Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti delivered a statement about the increased importance of the information sector due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti was pleased that AMRI’s actions on fake news and misinformation were in line with the Leaders’ Declaration of the Special ASEAN Summit on Coronavirus Disease 2019 and the Joint Statement of the Special ASEAN Plus Three Summit on Coronavirus Disease 2019, both adopted on April 14, 2020.
AMRI’s joint statement to minimise the negative effects of COVID-19 endorsed last year demonstrates its commitment to strengthening cooperation in enhancing public communication, and supporting the free flow of information during and after COVID-19 in ASEAN.
“From a positive perspective, COVID-19 has accelerated the process of moving towards a more digitised way of living. Even in lockdown, media technology enables us to sustain communication through digital means; improve our knowledge and use of digital technology; and develop digital commerce and trade. However, increased use of digital and social media has also given rise to the spread of fake news and misinformation; misuse of media technology; and cybercrime as well as cybersecurity attacks.”
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud during the video conference. PHOTO: PMO
“In this regard, AMRI must not be complacent in countering the negative aspects of the “new normal”,” it said.
Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti made four suggestions: to strengthen coordination in urgently addressing fake news, specifically through the ASEAN Task Force on Fake News; to continue shaping a community of responsible media users; to engage with other sectors to counter cybercrime; and to ensure timely information on travel bans and restrictions.
On this front, Brunei proposed for the information sector to work closely with other sectors and relevant national agencies in broadcasting travel updates and information.
As ASEAN Chair for 2021, Brunei Darussalam has chosen the theme ‘We Care, We Prepare, We Prosper,’ which underscores ASEAN’s collective pursuit to improve the wellbeing and livelihood of its people, especially as the region works to recover from the pandemic.
The theme emphasises on ASEAN’s need to work together to realise shared interests and confront challenges of common concern. All this will ultimately enable the people of ASEAN to thrive, prosper, and secure sustainable development for the benefit of present and future generations.
The theme of the 15th AMRI ‘ASEAN: A Digital Community with Accessibility for All’ is relevant to Brunei’s chairmanship goals, and welcomes the Framework for Promoting Accessibility for All in ASEAN Digital Broadcasting endorsed by the AMRI in December 2020.
The Sultanate supports the initiative to increase access for all groups of people, including those with different abilities and senior citizens, and launched the first phase of sign language interpretation on Berita Perdana national primetime news on February 1, 2021.
Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti also highlighted an excerpt 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’s titah at the 37th ASEAN Summit, in which the monarch stated that the regional outlook and post-2025 Community Vision will be shaped by actions in the coming years.
“These must therefore be arranged well so that future generations can face the next era with confidence and optimism.
“The information sector is as important as the health and finance sectors in helping ASEAN recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and build a more prepared, dynamic and sustainable community.
“AMRI’s support towards Brunei Darussalam’s aim to promote Strategic and Holistic Initiative to Link ASEAN Responses to Emergencies and Disasters (ASEAN SHIELD) in 2021 is important. SHIELD is an overarching approach to better shield the society, economy and the broader developmental agenda, as well as to enable a swift and collective response in mitigating impacts of emergencies and disasters.
“This work in particular includes supporting the use of digital technologies to facilitate the digital transformation of the region, enhancing communication practices and cooperation during crisis situations, and strengthening media and information cooperation with other relevant sectoral bodies, stakeholders, and partners within and beyond the region,” the minister said.
The conference began with an opening ceremony in which Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office of the Kingdom of Thailand Anucha Nakasai as AMRI Chair for 2020 and 2021, in his opening remarks, touched on the important role AMRI plays in maintaining ASEAN’s effective role under the fields of media and information, especially in light of the unprecedented situations brought about by the pandemic.
Nakasai said ASEAN is moving towards a digital community with accessibility to all, through the reinforcement of digital skills of ASEAN citizens and ensuring that no one is left behind.
Vice Minister of the Ministry of Information and Communications, Vietnam Dr Phan Tam was the deputy chair of the conference.
Ministers and senior officers from ASEAN member states as well as the ASEAN Secretary General Dato Paduka Lim Jock Hoi attended the conference.
The 15th AMRI discussed and endorsed three outcome documents which will be elevated to the 38th and 39th ASEAN Summits for the Leaders’ notation, namely the Framework for Developing Digital Readiness among ASEAN Citizens; Framework for Promoting Accessibility for All in ASEAN Digital Broadcasting; and the Joint Media Statement of the 15th AMRI and Related Meetings.
The 15th AMRI also noted the report of the 18th Senior Officials Meeting Responsible for Information (18th SOMRI), the 6th SOMRI+3 and the 3rd SOMRI+Japan which included Brunei Darussalam’s reports on ASEAN cooperation with the Republic of Korea (ROK) and the ASEAN Plus Three. Brunei Darussalam is currently the country-coordinator for ASEAN-ROK dialogue relations.
In the afternoon, Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti also attended the 6th AMRI+3 Meeting together with ministers and heads of delegation from ASEAN member states as well as the Plus Three countries. The meeting was chaired by Thailand.
The 15th AMRI Conference was preceded by the 18th SOMRI, the 6th SOMRI Plus Three Meeting and the 3rd SOMRI Plus Japan Meeting on March 10, 2021, attended by senior officers from the PMO, Radio Television Brunei and the Information Department.
Australian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Tiffany McDonald said we have still not reached a gender-equal world and this progress is backsliding due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
McDonald made these comments hosting a forum on how to maintain momentum towards a more equal world, to mark International Women’s Day (IWD) with Brunei’s three female Legislative Council members – Yang Berhormat Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii; Yang Berhormat FDr Ar Dayang Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman; and Yang Berhormat Khairunnisa binti Haji Ash’ari. “While progress has been made, we have still not reached a gender-equal world. Before COVID-19, the World Economic Forum predicted that, on current progress, it would take 257 years to close the economic gender gap. And initial evidence is showing that the socio-economic implications of COVID-19 are impacting women disproportionately.”
She added, “While this is concerning, COVID-19 also presents an opportunity to remember and enhance the role women can play as changemakers, innovators and leaders, as we seek to recover from the pandemic.” The event was attended by female leaders from across government, business and the non-government sectors.
It highlighted Australia’s support for women’s leadership in decision making, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. The high commissioner acknowledged the many strong and diverse female leaders in the country who continued to lead by example in challenging inequality.
She encouraged attendees – all women of influence and impact – to consider what more can be done to maintain momentum towards a more equal work and breakdown the barriers that remain.
Legislative Council members Yang Berhormat Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii, Yang Berhormat FDr Ar Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Adul Rahman and Yang Berhormat Khairunnisa binti Haji Ash’ari with Australian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Tiffany McDonald. PHOTO: AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSION
With the consent of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, 12 police officers received promotions during a ceremony at the Mess Banquet Hall of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) Headquarter in Jalan Gadong yesterday.
According to the RBPF, two officers were promoted to Senior Superintendent, one to Superintendent, two to Deputy Superintendent, and seven to Acting Deputy Superintendent.
The promotions are effective March 9. Police Commissioner Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohammad Irwan bin Haji Hambali and spouse attended the ceremony. Deputy Police Commissioner, Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Mohd Jefri bin Pengiran Haji Abdul Hamid, directors, senior officers and members of families of the promoted officers were also present.
Police Commissioner Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohammad Irwan bin Haji Hambali presents the certificate to a recipient. PHOTO: JAMES KON
The Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) and departments under it commemorated Israk Mikraj at Setia Pahlawan Hall yesterday, coordinated by the Forestry Department.
Minister of MPRT Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong was the guest of honour. The ceremony held a special talk on ‘Prayer is the Core towards the Excellence of Ummah’ (Sembahyang Teras Kecemerlangan Umat), delivered by Director of Jawi Studies and Kitab Turath Research Centre of Religious Teachers University College Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) Dr Haji Harapandi Amaq Hairani.
The event also witnessed a Dikir performance to celebrate a newly converted Muslim at the ministry.
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong at the event. PHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUD
Brunei Darussalam has seen an increase in the number of cases referred to the Child Development Centre (CDC) over a decade in 2020 (766 cases), compared to 2010 (400 cases).
Meanwhile, there were 218 reported autism cases in 2020 compared to 36 in 2011. In early March this year, CDC diagnosed 38 new autism cases.
This was stated by Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar during the official opening of the Child Development Centre (CDC), in Kiarong yesterday.
“Over the past 20 years, the number of children who have received and are still undergoing treatment at CDC has exceeded 7,000. Out of the figure, some 2,300 exhibit autistic traits, 430 with celebral palsy, 400 with Down Syndrome, and 200 with hearing impairment.”
The minister added that Brunei Darussalam is not only focussing on children’s survival and a reduction in child mortality rate but also in ensuring optimum child development with best health quality, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and Brunei Vision 2035.
In general, child development begins during pre-conception period till the first year of a child’s life. Rapid mental development is related to cognitive development and socio-economy. This period must be best utilised in changing developmental outcome of every child, the minister said, adding that it is also critical in mental development where outside factors play crucial roles. “Negative experiences, adversity and pressure during early childhood can give lifelong effect in terms of cognitive and socio-economic development.”
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar at the official opening of Child Development Centre in Kampong Kiarong yesterday.Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar in a group photo with MoH officials and sponsors. PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR
Meanwhile, Head of Community Paediatric Unit and Child Development Centre Dr Hajah Mawarni binti Haji Abdul Hamid said the CDC with the support from stakeholders, aims to assist children in leading a healthy life by intervening early with holistic treatment in the back of comprehensive healthcare facilities.
The centre will also lead in tackling child development issues including its clinical capacity and capabilities in carrying out scientific and epidemiological studies in assisting service planning.
The event continued with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to companies and individuals that contributed to the project and a tree planting ceremony as well as a tour of five bungalows in the area by the minister.
Acting Permanent Secretary at the MoH Dr Haji Zulaidi bin Haji Abdul Latif, Permanent Secretary (Community and Culture) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Hajah Nor Ashikin binti Haji Johari, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy and Management) at the MoH Haji Maswadi bin Haji Mohsin and senior officers were also present.
The construction for the CDC building began in December 2019 and was completed late last year at a cost of over BND1.2 million.
Over BND400,000 was received from sponsors including Brunei Shell Petroleum Co Sdn Bhd, Employees Trust Fund, Syarikat Intracorp, Ideal Multifeed Farm (Brunei) Sdn Bhd, Hong Kiat Trading and Company, Osco Sdn Bhd, D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd, Lotus Light Charity Society, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Ong Tiong Oh, Medicorp, The Impian Project, KN Nursery, Baiduri Bank Berhad, Pharmakho, Kosi Sdn Bhd and Medix Supplier.
Kidney disease presents a significant challenge to the Government of Brunei Darussalam, especially the Ministry of Health (MoH), said Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar during the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to outsource public haemodialysis services to Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) yesterday.
Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham said that by the end of last year, the number of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients in Brunei had risen to 881, of which 85 per cent (752) were on haemodialysis, adding that the figures will continue to rise.
He said the MoH is facing a significant number of people requiring renal replacement therapy which is complex and costly, at approximately BND25,000-BND35,000 per year per patient, just for dialysis alone. “Given the increasing demand and significant costs, it is easy to see that kidney disease presents a significant challenge for the MoH,” he said.
To accommodate the high prevalence of ESKD, the MoH and JPMC signed an MoU to provide quality care for patients requiring long-term haemodialysis.
Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham, who is also JPMC Chairman and Executive Director, shared data from the 2019 Brunei Dialysis and Transplant Registry indicates 1,708 per million population, which corresponds to 786 prevalent patients in the country.
“The national incidence of ESKD was 382 per million population, resulting from 176 new dialysis patients in the same time period. The predominant cause of ESKD in our population (58 per cent) is due to diabetes mellitus,” he said.
ABOVE & BELOW: Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar and Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah in a group photo; and the Minister of Health officiates the opening with JPMC Medical Director Dr Meera Sahib Kabeer. PHOTOS: HAKIM HAYAT
The minister said JPMC has been chosen in view of its existing infrastructure and recognised benefits of a hospital-based dialysis centre.
“We need to plan for the future to ensure that the existing health infrastructure and capacity do not get overwhelmed by the growing demand (in patient care).
“With privatisation, the burden of building and maintaining a new dialysis centre and its associated procurement of medical machinery, supplies and recruitment of trained staff is removed,” he said.
The opening of the JPMC Renal Dialysis Unit is a result of the Renal Services Department’s foresight in addressing the high growth in demand for dialysis and to ensure there is sufficient capacity in enabling quality treatment, in particular sufficient dialysis hours per week.
The new Renal Dialysis Unit has 17 dialysis points (stations), operating three shifts per day, six days a week, offering comprehensive thrice- weekly treatment that can accommodate up to 102 patients per week on an ongoing basis.
The minister also believed there is also potential for medical tourism with private facilities being able to attract paying foreign dialysis patients who are in the country for short or longer term stay.
“The opening of this new Renal Dialysis Unit in Jerudong Park Medical Centre exemplifies the committment of the Ministry of Health and the Government of Brunei Darussalam towards the value of healthcare.
“It demonstrates that foresight in planning and the desire to cross traditional boundaries in healthcare by collaborating with the private sector. Most of all, it demonstrates a commitment to quality patient services for the people of Brunei Darussalam,” Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham said.
Signing on behalf of MoH was Medical and Health Services Acting Director General Pengiran Dr Haji Mohd Khalifah bin Pengiran Haji Ismail while JPMC was represented by Medical Director Dr Meera Sahib Kabeer.
Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham and Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, who is also JPMC Deputy Chairman witnessed the signing.
Both ministers toured the new dialysis centre.
There are six existing dialysis centres in the country – Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Renal Dialysis Unit, Kiarong Dialysis Centre, Rimba Dialysis Centre, Temburong Dialysis Unit, Kuala Belait Dialysis Centre and Tutong Dialysis Centre – with the latter opened almost nine years ago, at a cost of BND3.89 million.
The JPMC Renal Dialysis Unit is the seventh dialysis centre and the first-ever public-private partnership of its kind in the country.
The Housing Development Department and Public Works Department (JKR) signed contracts with private companies to address repair and maintenance issues at the Ministry of Development yesterday.
Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Ir Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar witnessed the signings.
The contract for infrastructure repair works and the completion of construction for 140 units of H35 and H36 terrace houses in National Housing Scheme (RPN) Kampong Rimba worth over BND8 million went to Indramas Sdn Bhd. The project will take 18 months to complete and will accommodate the needs of applicants under the National Housing Scheme.
The Housing Development Department was represented by its Acting Director Haji Shaharuddin Khairul bin Haji Anuar, witnessed by Acting Deputy Director Haji Mohd Sufri bin Haji Abdul Hamid. Indramas Sdn Bhd was represented by its Managing Director Kavitha Mohan.
The ceremony also saw the signing of a designer’s warranty between the Housing Development Department with Gemilang Latif Associates, Alam Sejagat Consulting Engineers Sdn Bhd and Regional Consultants.
ABOVE & BELOW: Minister of Development Dato Seri Setia Ir Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar witnessing the signings. PHOTOS: JAMES KON
Haji Shaharuddin Khairul and Housing Development Department’s Head of Quantity Surveyor Rosniza binti Dato Paduka Haji Hamdani signed the contract with representatives of appointed contractors – Gemilang Latif Associates Managing Director Ar Mahri bin Haji Latif; Alam Sejagat Consulting Engineers Managing Director Ir Affandy bin Mohd Morshidi; and Regional Consultants Managing Director Ir Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Modin.
Under the JKR, the contract for integrated road maintenance on the Muara-Belait Highway has been awarded to DHHB Contractor and Engineering Sdn Bhd, to implement a more orderly and efficient road maintenance work for the safety and comfort of road users. The contract worth BND7.5 million will take 36 months to complete.
The contract for supplies and installation of clean water pipes from Kampong Sukang to Kampong Melilas has been given to Syarikat Noor Laila Jaya (Enterprise) (B) Sdn Bhd. The contract worth BND589,551 will be completed within 24 months. The project will also allow further development along the road leading to Ulu Belait.
JKR Acting Director General Ir Haji Mohd Salleh bin Haji Abdul Karim signed the contracts on behalf of the government agency, witnessed by Acting Director of Roads Rafitra bin Haji Abdul Razak and Acting Director of Building Services Ar Hajah Sarbiah binti Haji Burut. DHHB Contractor and Engineering was represented by its Director Haji Mohd Salleh bin Haji Mohd Noor and Syarikat Noor Laila Jaya by its Director Pengiran Umar bin Pengiran Lela Utama Pengiran Haji Mohd Said.
Politeknik Brunei (PB) and Hengyi Industries Sdn Bhd yesterday inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate in offering seven Level 5 diploma programmes at the Indera Samudra Grand Hall, The Empire Brunei.
The initiative, under the Manpower Planning and Employment Council (MPEC), is aimed at fulfilling the need for human resource development for the second phase of Hengyi Pulau Muara Besar project and to achieve Brunei Vision 2035.
PB Acting Director Lim Kian Boon said, “Politeknik Brunei is offering five new Level 5 diploma programmes in collaboration with Hengyi through the Higher Education Centralised Admission System (HECAS): Level 5 Diploma in Thermal Power Plant Technology, Level 5 Diploma in Storage and Transportation Technology, Level 5 Diploma in Power Plant and Power System Technology, Level 5 Diploma in Chemical Equipment Technology and Level 5 Diploma in Water Treatment Technology.”
The seven programmes have been planned and discussed thoroughly by Politeknik Brunei and Hengyi. They are also structured to fit core and essential modules taught by Hengyi and assisted by Lanzhou Petrochemical Polytechnic (LPP) College in China. In time, the teaching of specialised modules will be conducted by Politeknik Brunei’s teaching staff through the development of skills, transfer of knowledge and training of trainers programme.
The Level 5 diploma programmes, a qualification equivalent to a Higher National Diploma (HND) and accredited by the Brunei Darussalam National Accreditation Council (BDNAC), will take students through two years of academic learning with PB and LPP and one-year industrial placement with Hengyi at Pulau Muara Besar.
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Minister of Energy Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein, Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman and Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam Yu Hong witnessing the signing ceremony between Politeknik Brunei and Hengyi Industries Sdn Bhd. PHOTOS: JAMES KONDato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew, Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mat Suny, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah and Yu Hong taking a closer look at a booth
Two of the programmes – Level 5 Diploma in Laboratory Technology and Level 5 Diploma in Chemical Engineering – started in July 2020 and January 2021. They have been approved following extensive discussions between the Ministry of Education, the Petroleum Authority of Brunei Darussalam and the MPEC Secretariat.
As part of the MoU, Hengyi presented conditional offer letters to 85 students under Level 5 Diploma in Laboratory Technology and Level 5 Diploma in Chemical Engineering, which will provide them with employment opportunities with Hengyi upon graduation.
Hengyi is also prepared to provide students undertaking other new joint programmes with conditional offers.
Lim said PB and Hengyi are planning to establish the School of Petrochemical, which will absorb the seven programmes.
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Minister of Energy Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein, Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman and Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam Yu Hong witnessed the signing.
Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh as Chairperson of PB Board of Governors, Deputy Minister of Energy Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Matsatejo bin Sokiaw as Deputy Chairperson of PB Board of Governors, permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, Hengyi Industries Chief Executive Officer Chen Lian Cai, as well as officers from PB and Hengyi were also present.
Unified National Networks (UNN) yesterday detected an outage that affected both mobile voice and data services across the nation, affecting more than 100,000 subscribers. The teams that UNN deployed swiftly upon its detection found out that it was caused by fibre cut.
Further investigations whilst repairing the damage led to the root cause of the fibre cut which originated from cable theft gone awry, when the culprit(s) wanted to obtain copper from the telecommunication cables around Telanai area and pulled the cable with such force that the fibre was damaged.
Although UNN team eventually restored the services, the consequences of the outage on mobile subscribers was irreparable as the incident has severed the functions of public sectors such as businesses and educational institutions that require Internet or voice services to operate.
UNN aims to raise public awareness to the increasing cable theft affecting the nation, with more than 120 thefts or cable cuts since mid of last year.
Part of the current telecommunication infrastructure includes the use of two types of cables – copper cables and optic fibre cables to facilitate seamless connectivity in its surrounding areas. When the Internet connectivity is unstable or stopped, the most common cause of such disruption is cable tempering or cable theft.
Photo shows the tempered fibre cables. PHOTO: UNN
Cable tempering or theft is thought to be done by culprits who see this as making quick money but what is not made aware is the big impact cable theft can have on home, educational institutions, and businesses. It is also very dangerous and life-threatening to steal electrically charged cables that could lead to disfigurement, lost of limbs, and even death.
While UNN is responsible to replace or repair the national telecommunication infrastructure and its national assets such as copper or fibre cables effectively and efficiently, such resolve takes a lot of time, effort and monetary means that usually outweighs the actions and gains from such tempering or theft.
If disruption is not solved in a timely manner, the impact could escalate to sever the functions of all sectors within the ecosystem that require telecommunication services to operate. The longer the delay, the more the loss of income or revenue these businesses will have to endure as they would be unable to conduct sales, business transactions, logistic, etc, while students will miss their online lessons or unable to conduct their important research or tests, which could lead to falling back in their classes or courses.
Culprits responsible for cable tempering or cable theft may not be aware that copper cables do not fetch a lot of money or know how to differentiate between copper cables and fibre cables, which are of no value.
Culprits, if caught tempering or stealing national asset such as copper cables, can be charged under section 379 of the Penal Code Chapter 22 whereby if found guilty will face imprisonment of not more than three years or fine or both. For the violation under Section 427 of damaging national properties, if found guilty, the person responsible will face imprisonment of not more than five years and whipping.
UNN urges that every individual plays a part in understanding the impact of cable tempering or theft goes beyond UNN interest but towards the communities who rely on such connectivity to operate. And, by reporting suspicious activities or criminal activities through 993 or to the nearest police station as part of being a responsible citizen.
