Around 70 parents of primary school students participated in the Brunei Free from Bully workshop organised by the Health Promotion Centre (HPC) Mental Health Strategic Group, in collaboration with the Students Affairs Section, Department of Schools on Saturday.
The one-day workshop featured briefings to introduce the ‘Brunei Free from Bully’ programme, deliberations on bullying, parents’ and community’s role in fighting bullying and counselling tips from HPC officers and representatives from the Parents-Teachers
Association (PIBG).
The workshop was one of the activities promoting HPC’s Children and Teenagers Mental Health Promotion Programme.
The workshop aimed at enhancing awareness on the importance of early intervention, said the HPC, adding that the lack of early intervention could result in negative effects in a child’s development, including long term mental health impacts.
A discussion in session during the Brunei Free from Bully workshop. PHOTO: HPC
Residents of Mukim Bukit Sawat and other districts gathered at Kampong Sungai Mau Recreational Park as the Mukim Consultative Council (MPM) of Mukim Bukit Sawat held the annual Tamu Gayoh yesterday.
Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong who participated in the events, was welcomed by event chairman and Penghulu of Mukim Bukit Sawat Haji Mohd Salleh bin Haji Othman, as well as event co-chairman and Kampong Bukit Sawat Village Head Mohammad bin Abdullah.
Haji Mohd Salleh explained how the Tamu Gayoh represents an annual occasion for Kampong Bukit Sawat residents to band together to enliven the surrounding area of the village with booths and stalls with local businesses showcasing their products and services, as well as games and activities.
Thirty were set up at the recreational park, while another 13 booths showcased One Village One Product (1K1P) from Belait, Tutong and Brunei-Muara districts.
Activities included a warm-up session in preparation for a two-kilometre walkathon, which saw the minister walking on a selected route across the village before making his way back to the starting point.
Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong looks at products at Tamu Gayoh 2021. PHOTO: DANIEL LIM
Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar presented donations to 30 elderly residents, sponsored by Asia Enterprise (AE) Sdn Bhd.
The minister also officiated the launch of the newest 1K1P by Kampong Labi 1 – wajid ubi kayu.
He later toured the booths and stalls.
Legislative Council members Yang Berhormat Haji Abdul Hamid bin Haji Mumin as Penghulu of Mukim Liang and Yang Berhormat Hanapi bin Mohd Siput as Acting Penghulu of Mukim Labi, Permanent Secretary and Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), Acting Belait District Officer and senior officers at MoHA as well as officialts from the Belait District Office and MPM Bukit Sawat members also present.
The Ministry of Education (MoE), through the Special Education Unit (SEU), organised a charity drive at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital yesterday.
The drive was held in collaboration with the Brunei Darussalam National Association of the Blind (BDNAB), to mark World White Cane Day, which falls annually on October 15.
The fundraising event was also part of World Sight Day celebrations, while aiming to raise awareness on the importance of the use of white canes for individuals with visual impairment.
Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman was the guest of honour.
Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh also attended.
ABOVE & BELOW: Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman presents a certificate to a RBC representative; and the minister, blindfolded, participates in World White Cane Day. PHOTOS: ROKIAH MAHMUD
Photos show attendees participating in the World White Cane Day activities
Various activities and displays were set up for the drive, including a screening test booth by the Eye Clinic of Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital.
The SEU and BDNAB also hosted an exhibition on the assistive devices and specialised equipment used by the visually-impaired and low-vision members of the community. Additionally, members of the public were given the opportunity to interact with SEU and BDNAB officials to discuss visual impairment in the country.
Certificates of appreciation were presented to event sponsors as a token of gratitude for their contributions and support.
Proceeds from the charity drive will be channelled to the Special Education Fund and the BDNAB.
Mosques, suraus and religious halls across the country held Surah Yaasiin recitations to enliven Nisfu Sya’aban yesterday, with Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque in the capital being the focal point.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Haji Mohammad Rosli bin Haji Ibrahim was the special guest at the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque ceremony. The event began with the three-time recitations of Surah Yaasiin after mass Maghrib prayer, and concluded with the mass Isyak prayer.
Muslims commemorate Nisfu Sya’aban every 15th of Sya’aban, the eight month in the Hijrah calendar.
Muslims are encouraged to heighten devotion on the night of Nisfu Sya’aban by congregating in prayers to attain blessings and forgiveness from Allah the Almighty.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Haji Mohammad Rosli bin Haji Ibrahim joins others for the prayers. PHOTO: HAKIM HAYAT
Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP) and Shell Exploration and Production Brunei Sdn Bhd (SEPB) are making the final preparations to drill Merbah Deep-1 and Jagus Subthrust-1, both located in Brunei’s deepwater area.
To mark the start of the drilling, Minister of Energy Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein attended a recent blessing and Doa ceremony at the site of Merbah Deep, on board the Maersk Viking drillship.
Also in attendance were Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Energy and Interim Managing Director of Petroleum Authority of Brunei Darussalam Haji Azhar bin Haji Yahya, Managing Director of BSP Agnete Johnsgaard-Lewis, and General Manager of SEPB Ivo Verstralen.
According to the Ministry of Energy, Maersk has secured a contract selected to fulfil this year’s drilling commitment for BSP and SEPB through their seventh generation, state-of-the art drillship, Maersk Viking. The rig arrived in Brunei waters on March 13, and began drilling the Merbah Deep-1 well on March 26. The drilling for Jagus Subthrust-1 is expected to take place in early May 2021.
The Maersk Viking is equipped with dual-derrick technology capable of reaching 12,000m drilling depth and operated at a maximum water depth of 3,657m.
The drilling exploration plays an important role in supporting the Ministry of Energy’s second strategic objective of effective and sustainable management of the country’s hydrocarbon resources. Both exploration wells will form a key test in proving new hydrocarbon volumes and opening up the deepwater further, in alignment with the Ministry of Energy’s strong emphasis to operators to develop existing deepwater fields in the near to mid-term.
Minister of Energy Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein in a group photo. PHOTO: MINISTRY OF ENERGY
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 the final match of the Brunei Darussalam CHSK Badminton Cup 2021 between Flying Gravity (Waznah) and Honey Carsmart at the CHSK Badminton Court in Kiudang last night.
Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim and his Flying Gravity (Waznah) teammates were confirmed champions after the pair of Wiwi Rahman and Zamiah Sapar sealed a 21-10 21-4 victory over Nur Azarinah binti Abdullah Mambang and Roslina binti Abdul Rahman in the women’s veteran doubles category.
Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah was also present.
Earlier, Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim and partner Dessen Chung Min Tin of the Flying Gravity (Waznah) team defeated the Honey Carsmart duo of Eqman Danish bin Duming and Muhammad Hamizan bin Maysufrizal in straight sets 22-20 21-8 victory in the under-14 boys doubles’ category.
With the title already wrapped up, the final score ended 8-3 in favour of Flying Gravity (Waznah) following Samantha Lee Harn Rou’s academic 21-6 21-10 victory over Honey Carsmart’s Nur Najmah binti Matshah in the women’s singles open category.
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, Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman, Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah pictured at the Brunei Darussalam CHSK Badminton Cup 2021 finals yesterday. The finals saw Flying Gravity (Waznah) crowned victor, after defeating Honey Carsmart. PHOTOS: INFOFOTOYang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah in actionYang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim in a group photo with Flying Gravity (Waznah) teammates and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin
Meanwhile, RHTS claimed third place after edging BRKP OCT 7-6 with victory secured through the pairing of Hajah Nur’alimah binti Abdullah Juna and Noraini binti Haji Bagol (21-8 21-18) in the women’s veteran doubles category.
Upon arrival, Their Royal Highnesses were greeted by 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; Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Haji Umarali bin Esung; Permanent Secretary (Administration, Finance and Estate) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Pengiran Mohd Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud; Deputy Permanent Secretary (Youth and Sports) at the MCYS Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Maiddin bin Pengiran Haji Said; Acting Director of Youth and Sports at the MCYS Mariam binti Ulat; and President of Brunei Darussalam National Badminton Association (BDNBA) Pengiran Haji Hamzah bin Pengiran Haji Mohammad.
The tournament, which commenced on March 14, had initially started with eight teams divided into two groups. The top two ranked teams from each group advanced to the semi-finals last Friday.
The remaining teams were R&T, Easyway, Muara Port Company and D’Sunlit.
Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan presented prizes to the champions.
The Brunei Darussalam CHSK Badminton Cup 2021 was held in conjunction with the 37th National Day celebration.
Some 140 youth took part in the Brunei Young Leaders Convention (BYLC) 2021 organised by Perspective Insan, Al-Huffaz Management and Generasi Bekarih, supported by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) and the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB) at the National Service Programme (PKBN) in Temburong District from March 23-25.
Participants attended forums, built network and worked with appointed mentors, comprising experienced youth who have contributed to the development of the country and Brunei Vision 2035.
The BYLC was first held in 2018 to deliver accurate and updated information on Brunei Vision 2035, unite youth development agencies and provide a platform for the youth to conduct projects in support of Brunei Vision 2035.
Permanent Secretary (Vision, Finance and Cabinet) at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) Pengiran Hajah Siti Nirmala binti Pengiran Haji Mohammad launched the opening ceremony and presented certificates to mentors, strategic partners, event partners, media partner, sponsors and supporters.
The first day of the convention featured a video on Brunei Vision 2035 by Pejabat Wawasan Brunei, followed by a ‘Youth Snapshot’ discussion session conducted by the Brunei Youth Council (MBB).
The first forum, ‘Well-Educated and Highly-Skilled People as Measured by the Highest International Standard’, was mentored by Dewi HK, Rozan Yunos, Hajah Zainab MA Omar, Pengiran Salimatul Sa’ada and Zed Peace.
Participants learn to make ambuyat during a visit to Kampong Batu Apoi. PHOTOS: BYLC 2021A discussion session in progress
The second forum on ‘Quality of Life’ was facilitated by Dina Alias, Rizan Latif, Syahmun Matassan, Haji Ali Yusri, Yussof Haji Abdul Majid, Noorhafizah Rashid, Radin Sufri Radin Basiuni and Malai Didi Abdullah.
The event also saw a Kuliah maghrib session on ‘Heart Therapy’ in the evening session, moderated by Loqman Hamdan along with Pengiran Abdul Basit and Khairul Nazif as invited panellists, followed by a session on ‘The Brunei Barometer: Youth Sample Survey’ conducted by the Centre for Strategic Policy and Studies (CSPS) and ended with an ‘adventure walk’ conducted by the Department of Youth and Sports.
The second day of the convention began with a ‘Temburong Excursion’ that showcased the efforts of the people in Temburong District towards sustainable tourism, community development and socio-economic development. Among the places in the itinerary was Kampong Batu Apoi where the youth learnt to make ambuyat.
There was also a ‘Resilience Building’ activity facilitated by the Department of Youth and Sports, followed by a ‘Leadership Circle’ session by the Young Professionals Network (YPN) Brunei.
The BYLC 2021 marked the end of the convention with three forums at PKBN building on March 25, joined by Deputy Permanent Secretary (Youth and Sports) at the MCYS Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Maiddin bin Pengiran Haji Said as the guest of honour.
Acting Temburong District Officer Mohd Amirul Hadi bin Haji Md Tajudin, Assistant Head of Radio Programmes at Radio Television Brunei (RTB) Salmi binti Haji Ibrahim and Camp Commandant of the PKBN Major (Rtd) Haji Mohammad bin Dollah were also present.
Two Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) officers who were part of the Independent Decommissioning Body Verification, Monitoring and Assistance Team (IDB VMAT) 2/2020 recently returned to Brunei Darussalam after a 13-month deployment.
Lieutenant Colonel Mohd Hanafi Azami bin Nayan and Captain (U) Mohammad Aliff bin Haji Zulkifli were welcomed by Joint Force Commander Brigadier General Haji Abdul Razak bin Haji Abdul Kadir during a ceremony at Bolkiah Garrison yesterday morning.
Also present were the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, RBAF Chief of Staff, directors, deputy service commanders and commandants, senior officers and officers of the Ministry of Defence and RBAF, as well as representatives from the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines. The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat followed by a detachment of IDB VMAT badges and a photo session.
As a member of the IDB VMAT in Mindanao, Brunei Darussalam’s involvement has been relatively small. However, it is still a manifestation of Brunei Darussalam’s commitment in contributing to the peace process in Mindanao, stated the RBAF.
Joint Force Commander Brigadier General Haji Abdul Razak bin Haji Abdul Kadir with Lieutenant Colonel Mohd Hanafi Azami bin Nayan and Captain (U) Mohammad Aliff bin Haji Zulkifli. PHOTO: JAMES KON
The Ministry of Defence and Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) held a religious function to mark Nisfu Sya’aban for 1442 Hijrah at Bolkiah Garrison on Sunday evening.
Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Commander of the RBAF Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, officers and staff of the Ministry of Defence and RBAF were present.
The function began with a mass Maghrib prayer led by Imam of Ad-Difa’ Surau Suhif @ Syu’aib bin Haji Abdullah. The event continued with three times recitations of Surah Yaasiin, a special Doa to mark Nisfu Sya’ban and concluded with mass Isyak prayer. Similar functions were also held at all suraus in the 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 and Commander of the RBAF Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat with MinDef and RBAF officers and staff at the event. PHOTO: MINDEF
The Royal Brunei Culinary (RBC) teamed up with Singapore High Commission, Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and Singapore Airlines to launch the Singapore Food Festival at Anjung Saujana Restaurant, Brunei International Airport yesterday.
The Singapore Food Festival held until April 11 was jointly launched by Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong 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.
Chairman of RBC Board of Directors and Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Economy) Dato Seri Paduka Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, High Commissioner of the Republic of Singapore to Brunei Darussalam Heng Aik Yeow, members of the RBC Board of Directors and representatives from the High Commission of Singapore in Brunei Darussalam and other guests also attended.
RBC General Manager Haji Jeff Hadiman bin Dato Paduka Haji Danial, in his opening remarks said that the Singapore Food Festival is the first cross-border food promotion in over a year. This was made possible due to the collabarotive effort between Royal Brunei Culinary, Singapore High Commission, Singapore Tourism Board and Singapore Airlines.
The Singapore High Commissioner said that while many are keen to travel after a year of travel restrictions, the measures are still necessary to protect against COVID-19.
ABOVE & BELOW: Guest of honour Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong with special guest, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah and High Commissioner of the Republic of Singapore to Brunei Darussalam Heng Aik Yeow at the ribbon-cutting ceremony; and the ministers touring the buffet. PHOTOS: IZAH AZAHARI
He added; “We hope the curated menu will help ease travel pangs and whet the appetite to visit Singapore when broader travel can resume safely.”
After the launch, tokens of appreciation were exchanged between the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism and the High Commissioner.
The Singapore Food Festival 2021 has specially flown in chef Md Zulfadli and chef Muhd Helmi from Singapore.
Executive Director of Southeast Asia at Singapore Tourism Board John Conceicao said; “We are excited to continue our collaboration with the Singapore High Commission and RBC to reimagine Singapore experiences and make our tastes and flavours accessible to locals through the Singapore Food Festival.
“We hope that this specially curated gastronomical experience will satiate the taste buds and pique the interest of travellers to rediscover what awaits them in Singapore.”
This year’s restaurant partners from overseas, The Black Hole Group, is an up and coming player in Singapore’s independent Halal culinary scene serving a variety of contemporary cuisines including Ribena Wings and Nasi Ayam Risotto.
The Black Hole Group, specialising in artisanal coffee and gourmet food, will specially curate a menu for the festival based on their best-selling dishes Tuna Tataki with Green Apple Ponzu, Tempeh Frieswith Sambal Matah and Nasi Rawon Claypot with Grilled Squid are a few selection from their a la carte menu. For their buffet spread, they will include live stalls and Working Title Burger Bar as well as their artisan Laksa Pasta dishes. Unique and contemporary Singaporean inspired desserts such as Durian Sarawa Crème Brulee, Red Velvet Speculoos Cake and Putu Piring Cake are also offered.
Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB) handed over financial contributions totalling BND88,400 to 79 mosques, suraus and religious halls nationwide at the Multipurpose Hall of YSHHB Complex yesterday.
The donations were aimed at supporting the propagation of Islam and organisation of religious activities especially during Ramadhan.
Minister of Health and Deputy Chairman of the YSHHB Board of Directors Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar handed over the contributions.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports and member of the YSHHB Board of Directors Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin; and Permanent Secretary (Planning, Land Use and Environment) at the Ministry of Development and Acting Managing Director of YSHHB Dr Nor Imtihan binti Haji Abdul Razak were present with officials from YSHHB and government agencies.
Meanwhile, former students and teachers of Muhammad Alam Primary School held a Doa Arwah and handed over donations at the Seria Branch of the Belait District Office recently.
ABOVE & BELOW: Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd ) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin at the event; and the Minister of Health presents a donation. PHOTOS: JAMES KON
ABOVE & BELOW: Muhammad Alam Primary School Acting Headmistress Siti Haironi binti Haji Ibrahim receives a donation from Haji Abdullah bin Abdul Rahman; and a Takaful Brunei representative presents a donation. PHOTOS: DANIEL LIM & LYNA MOHAMAD
Muhammad Alam Primary School Acting Headmistress Siti Haironi binti Haji Ibrahim was welcomed on arrival by Hassan bin Haji Masri who represented chairman for the reunion group Dr Haji Muhd Shah bin Imam Haji Ahmad.
Former teacher Haji Abdullah bin Abdul Rahman presented donations to five orphans studying at the school.
Group advisor Hajah Julia Chee also presented financial aids.
The alumni group with 94 members plans to conduct similar events leading to a reunion at the school hall on May 30.
Elsewhere, Takaful Brunei reached out to less fortunate families with donations of basic necessities such as canned food, detergent, cooking ingredients and rice in its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative named Jalur Kasih.
Visits to the residences were accompanied by recitation of Doa Selamat.
High Commissioner of Canada to Brunei Darussalam Jeanette Stovel has praised the launch of negotiations for the possible ASEAN Canada free trade agreement (FTA), as one of the 10 Priority Economic Deliverables (PEDs) at this year’s ASEAN Summit chaired by Brunei Darussalam.
“We are so delighted that Brunei has chosen the ASEAN-Canada FTA as one of its key deliverables,” she told the Bulletin in a recent interview.
“Brunei’s ASEAN chairmanship is really focussed on post COVID-19 Pandemic economic recovery for ASEAN, and the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) can only serve to further this. Therefore, we are very pleased that negotiations will start under Brunei’s chairmanship of ASEAN.”
On when the free trade agreement should conclude, she replied, “Negotiations will take time, so I am unsure when the agreement will be completed. I was posted in Europe when Canada’s free trade agreement with European Union (EU) was negotiated, and it took a number of years.
“The most important step is the launch of negotiations and continuing to work towards it. Therefore, it is very important that Brunei has taken the step of launching negotiations for the possible ASEAN-Canada FTA.”
Regarding this year’s ASEAN Summit theme ‘We Care, We Prepare, We Prosper’, Stovel said, “It signifies what Brunei’s deliverables are about this year – the resiliency of ASEAN to look after each other; and to make sure that everyone is recovering from this pandemic without leaving anyone behind.
“This shows the importance of ASEAN’s recovery as a whole region. Canada would like to commend Brunei on this and support Brunei in its chairmanship.”
High Commissioner of Canada to Brunei Darussalam Jeanette Stovel. PHOTO: JAMES KON
She also commended the government’s success in curbing the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak by saying that,” I am grateful every day that I am staying in Brunei Darussalam. The situation here is truly remarkable in that we can go out without wearing face masks, we can continue to visit our friends and families, and we can still go out hiking or carry out outdoor activities. The fact that we are living life to near normal here is a testament of how well Brunei has managed this crisis.”
With the growth of bilateral trade between Canada and Brunei Darussalam, Stovel noted the presence of several Canadian companies in the country.
“We have a number of Canadian companies in joint ventures here, such as CAE Brunei and Simpor Pharma Sdn Bhd as well as CIC Brunei. General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada recently won a tender worth BND17 million for a two-year coastal surveillance.
“We are seeing more engagement on the commercial side. In fact, we are seeing an increase interest of doing business in Brunei from Canadian companies. We have also seen an interest on the Bruneian side to talk to Canadian universities about further studies.”
In 2020, the bilateral trade between Canada and Brunei amounted to BND11.1 million, up from BND9.167 million in 2019. Canada’s exports to Brunei in 2020 totalled BND9.24 million and imports from Brunei totalled BND1.85 million.
In 2019, Canadian direct investment in Brunei was BND5 million. Two major Canadian companies, CAE (CAE Brunei MPTC) and Viva Pharmaceuticals (Simpor Pharma), set up joint ventures in Brunei. In November 2020, GDMS Canada won a CAD16.85 million tender for a coastal surveillance system in Brunei.
Stovel said, “ASEAN and Brunei are very important to Canada. We are dialogue partners; and we hope to become strategic partners. We have been a founding member of the ASEAN Regional Forum, and hope to become an observer in the ASEAN Defence Minister’s meeting.”
As for the overall ASEAN region, as a group, ASEAN ranked as Canada’s fifth largest merchandise trading partner in 2020. Bilateral merchandise trade between Canada and ASEAN reached BND26.7 billion in 2020, down slightly from BND27.2 billion in 2019.
Canada’s merchandise exports were BND6.3 billion and merchandise imports were nearly BND20.4 billion. Services trade totalled BND6.6 billion in 2019, up from BND5.7 billion in 2018, with Canadian services exports to ASEAN totalling BND2.5 billion, and ASEAN services exports to Canada amounted to BND4.1 billion in the same year.
The stock of known Canadian direct investment in ASEAN member countries reached over BND17.5 billion at the end of 2019, up from BND12.6 billion in 2018, while foreign investment from ASEAN into Canada reached BND526 million, up from BND496 million in 2018.
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 yesterday chaired the special Meeting of the Adat Istiadat Council. The conference took place at the Prime Minister’s Office Building Complex in Jalan Perdana Menteri.
Also in attendance were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Advisor to Adat Istiadat Council; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, Chairman of the council; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, Second Deputy Chairman of the council; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen, Third Deputy Chairman of the council; and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah, Fourth Deputy Chairman of the council.
Upon arrival, His Majesty was greeted by Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara as Assistant Chairman for Adat Istiadat Council Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibul Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar.
The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat read by State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned.
The Adat Istiadat Council comprises Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Cheterias, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Council, Commissioner of Police, Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and Pehin-Pehin Manteris.
ABOVE & BELOW: 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; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Advisor to Adat Istiadat Council; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, Second Deputy Chairman of the council; and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen, Third Deputy Chairman of the council upon arrival at the Prime Minister’s Office Building; and His Majesty; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, Chairman of the council; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen; and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah, Fourth Deputy Chairman of the council; at the meeting. PHOTOS: INFOFOTO
His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has called for the Adat Istiadat to be supported and strengthened.
In his titah at the Special Meeting of the Adat Istiadat Council yesterday, His Majesty said, “Brunei Darussalam is standing firm because of religion and the Adat Istiadat. Religion is upheld and the adat (custom) is valued. Both are interchangeable with our national identity. On the same basis as religion, the adat must be preserved.
“A nation with Adat Istiadat has prestige. Therefore, we must never relinquish the adat.
“Adat forms the main pillar of the institution of the monarchy and the nation. It should be supported and strengthened, instead of being left to deteriorate and fall into decline. Adat does not belong to any particular group, which is the royalty, but to the nation, where everyone is obliged to ensure that it continues to develop and stand out.
“In this regard, the vision of the Department of Adat Istiadat Negara is clearly to provide the public with knowledge and understanding on Adat Istiadat, while its mission is to perform Adat Istiadat ceremonies and inform the citizens and residents about Adat Istiadat as a cultural heritage.
“However, these efforts for development will require a leader as the planner and source for ideas, in addition to being a driving force.
“But if the leader is weak and lacking in ideas, then how can the organisation function effectively? This is what I see at present. We do not yet have a planner with brilliant ideas on how to empower the Adat Istiadat. Even upgrades, where necessary, are still not being implemented. It seems as though they are just waiting for instructions, without making any
proactive plans.
“This is in stark contrast to the role and responsibility of the Department of Adat Istiadat Negara in preserving conventions (adat resam) so that they remain acceptable, well-ordered and applied accordingly.
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 delivers a titah. PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIRABOVE & BELOW: Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar and members of the Adat Istiadat Council at the meeting.
“It is also responsible for contemplating and planning schemes for overcoming any deficiency, weakness or fault so that our adat could thrive, become enriched, further refined and remain unique.”
“This is the basic role of the Department of Adat Istiadat Negara and the Adat Istiadat Council.
‘‘They should not be concerned with matters outside of their own duties and responsibilities, such as pondering over the refurbishment of the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB). Regardless of whether it should be refurbished, there are other, more relevant parties to serve this purpose, not the Department of Adat Istiadat Negara and the Adat Istiadat Council.
“Similarly, the sprucing up of Bandar Seri Begawan with various projects is not the responsibility of the Department of Adat Istiadat Negara and the Adat Istiadat Council, when relevant parties are available for this.
“It is more important for the department and the council to fulfil their own duties and responsibilities, so that there will be no further occurrences of negligence or oversight.
“These need to be done in accordance with Adat Istiadat guidelines or standard operating procedures (SOPs) – if there are any – with precision and immediacy, instead of the delay which took place during the announcement of the royal death. The public had already learned about the news in advance.
“In addition to the delay, the announcement was left entirely to Radio Television Brunei.
“Similarly, the announcement on mourning attire caused a frantic rush among men to buy white cloth to line their songkoks, while women searched for white headscarves.
“The funeral management was also found to be improper, whereby the deceased was transported by an ambulance. Was this done in accordance with the guidelines from the Adat Istiadat?
“During the funeral ceremony, there were various issues which should not have occurred, such as using a cangkul to gather earth for the royal tomb. In the past, a scooping basket (bakul pungkis) would be used to carry earth for the royal tomb, rather than taking the short route of simply digging the soil.
“This is where the adat needs improving upon. If we do not want any improvements, then there is no need for us to have adat.
“Among the stated functions and responsibilities of the Department of Adat Istiadat Negara is providing assistance and advisory services to government agencies, non-governmental organisations, associations, and learning institutions on matters pertaining to Adat Istiadat.
“The question is, if the Department of Adat Istiadat Negara is unable to carry out its work properly, then how can it advise and guide other parties on an appreciation of the Adat Istiadat?
“By virtue of this, the Department of Adat Istiadat Negara will need to undergo self-evaluation to rectify its administration.”
Around 30 participants comprising representatives from the Attorney General’s Chambers, Royal Customs and Excise Department (RCED), Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, Ministry of Health, Internal Security Department and Criminal Investigation Department under the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) attended the Intellectual Property Enforcement workshop co-organised by the Brunei Intellectual Property Office (BruIPO) and the RCED at its Kyoto Training Room yesterday.
The event aimed at discussing procedures relating to intellectual property enforcement among government agencies.
Attorney General and Registrar of Trade Marks, Patents and Industrial Designs Haji Ahmad bin Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Diraja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa attended the opening ceremony.
RCED Acting Controller Haji Muhsin bin Haji Ahmad was also present.
The speakers were representatives from the Attorney General’s Chambers; Criminal Investigation Department of the RBPF; United Kingdom Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO); National Trading Standard of United Kingdom; UK HM Revenue and Customs; and UK Private Investigators and Hewlett-Packard Development Company (HP).
Attorney General and Registrar of Trade Marks, Patents and Industrial Designs Haji Ahmad bin Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Diraja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa in a group photo with speakers and participants. PHOTOS: RCEDParticipants in a group photo
The Environmental Club from Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) Business Campus planted 84 saplings at the Berakas Forest Reserve Recreational Park on Monday to mark Earth Day.
Twenty-five participants planted two species of trees – meranti kawang tikus and kapur bukit – with help from officials from the Forestry Department, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism.
The event aimed to support global efforts in preserving biodiversity and environment with tree planting, combatting de-forestation and the climate crisis. IBTE Business Campus Operations Manager Haji Md Sofian bin Haji Lamit was the guest of honour.
Forestry Department officials were also present.
A sapling is planted as part of Earth Day. PHOTO: AZIZ IDRIS
A training programme on the ‘Role of Clean and Hygienic Publics Toilets’ in Brunei Darussalam’s tourism industry provided knowledge and awareness to stakeholders on public toilet hygiene and effective toilet cleaning procedures using best practices recently.
The training encouraged the participants to reduce pollution and maintain a cleaner, more hygienic and safer public toilet environment, especially in the current COVID-19 pandemic.
The Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) through the Tourism Development Department, in collaboration with SEAMEO Regional Centre for Vocational and Technical Education and Training (SEAMEO Voctech) organised the four-part training.
The training was given to restaurants, shopping malls, checkpoints, markets, guest houses and beaches. Sixty-one participants comprising owners, managers, supervisors and government employees attended the training.
SEAMEO Voctech Training and Professional Development Manager Norhayati Cynthia binti Abdullah conducted the theory and practical classes.
Participants in a group photo
Participants also learnt how to manage toilets more effectively as well as practise proper water management and waste disposal to ensure that the equipment and facilities are appropriate while having specialised manpower to operate toilets.
Participants also visited the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex and Brunei International Airport, which feature model toilets assessed with Grade ‘A’ as a result of toilet audits conducted by the Standards and Compliance Unit at the Tourism Development Department.
Last year, the Tourism Development Department conducted a continuous audit of 58 public toilets throughout the country and conducted a grading assessment.
Auditing and scoring are divided into four categories – design and environmental management system; amenities and facilities; cleanliness; and safety – guided by the Audit Checklist of ASEAN Public Toilet Standard. Out of 58 public toilets audited, 28 were assessed Grade ‘A’ and ‘B’ while 30 were assessed Grade ‘C’ and below.
The Ministry of Health (MoH) alerted the public to a health product and two cosmetic products tested by the Laboratory of Pharmacy Section, Department of Scientific Services, Ministry of Health and found to be adulterated with undeclared, potent western medicine.
The health product is Majun Resdung manufactured by CT Aleys found containing dexamethasone, while the cosmetic products are Fairy Skin Glowing Facial Set – Glowing Facial Toner and Skin Magical Rejuvenating Set 1 – Rejuvenating Cream No 1 manufactured in the Philippines found containing hydroquinone.
The adulterants in the products can cause adverse effects and are potentially hazardous to consumers.
Unsupervised long-term consumption of potent corticosteroids such as dexamethasone can cause increase blood glucose levels leading to diabetes, high blood pressure, cataracts, muscular and bone disorders, and an increased risk of infections. Long-term use of corticosteroids can also lead to Cushing’s syndrome which is characterised by a round face or ‘moon face’, and upper body obesity with thin limbs. Consumers who have taken high doses of steroids over a prolonged period may suffer from withdrawal symptoms which include fatigue, muscle and joint pain, fever, low blood sugar, low blood pressure and dehydration.
Hydroquinone is used in western prescription medicines to treat skin conditions and is prohibited in skincare cosmetic products under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations. Unsupervised use of hydroquinone may cause skin hypersensitivity, skin discolouration resulting in gradual darkening of the affected skin area and an increased risk of skin cancer.
ABOVE & BELOW: Majun Resdung manufactured by CT Aleys; Fairy Skin Glowing Facial Set – Glowing Facial Toner; and Skin Magical Rejuvenating Set 1 – Rejuvenating Cream No 1. PHOTOS: MOH
The MoH has not issued any approval for the importation for the sale of these products and/or Cosmetic Product Notification Acknowledgement Letter for the sale of the rest of affected products. Following these findings, the products are not allowed to be imported and sold in the country.
Those who purchased or used the products are advised to stop using them immediately and consult a medical practitioner if unwell or experience any undesirable reactions as a result of using them.
Those involved in the retail of these products (including online retail such as through Facebook) are reminded that it is an offence under the Poisons Act 1956 to sell any product containing any substance controlled under the said Act. The penalty for such an offence upon conviction, is a fine of BND8,000 or six months’ imprisonment. If a person commits an act that amounts to such a degree of negligence so as to endanger or be likely to endanger human life, then the person is guilty of an offence which carries a penalty of a BND16,000 fine of and 12 months’ imprisonment.
The public is reminded that it is an offence under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations, 2007 to import and market cosmetic products in the local market without a Cosmetic Product Notification Acknowledgement Letter issued by the authority, where the penalty for contravening these regulations upon conviction, is a fine not exceeding BND5,000, imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or both.
Thirty Muallaf families residing in Belait District received donations of basic necessities as part of Project Fathul Barakah 2.0 yesterday morning.
The donation was carried out by the Muallaf Development Department with cooperation from the Belait District Dakwah Unit and Sinar Islam Association (PSI).
Islamiah Da’wah Centre Director Haji Abdul Rajid bin Haji Mohd Salleh was the guest of honour.
Head of Religious Officer in the Belait District Muhammad Aliyani bin Ismail, Head of the Muallaf Development Department Dr Hajah Rohanita binti Haji Yaakub, PSI representative Abdul Kalim bin Abdullah Igol and Head of Dakwah Unit in the Belait District Zikrinaidah binti Mat Dikir were present. Zikrinaidah explained how the project was based on donations collected from the public over the course of two days.
In total, 410 families have received donations through this project, which represented the efforts of Muallaf associations and the Islamic Dakwah Centre to further support new converts.
Islamic Dakwah Centre Director Haji Abdul Rajid bin Haji Mohd Salleh presenting a donation. PHOTO: DANIEL LIM
The Ministry of Education (MoE) hosted an awards ceremony at the Centrepoint Hotel in Gadong yesterday for 62 graduates who completed their overseas studies with First Class Honours.
Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman presented the outstanding graduate awards to the recipients.
Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh also attended the ceremony.
Head of Scholarship Section and Senior Special Duties Officer at the MoE Julaihi bin Mohamat said, “From the 62 graduates receiving the outstanding graduate awards, 40 completed their studies in 2019, while the remaining 22 graduates completed their studies in 2020.
“Twenty-two graduates are among those under the Government 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 Overseas Scholarship Scheme, one is under the Brunei Administrative System Scholarship Scheme of the Public Service Commission of His Majesty’s Government and 39 are under the Educational Loan Scheme.”
He disclosed that 52 of the award recipients graduated from universities in the United Kingdom (UK), five from Malaysia, two from Australia, two from the United States (US) and one from the Republic of Singapore.
The Ministry of Education (MoE) hosted an awards ceremony at The Centrepoint Hotel in Gadong yesterday for 62 graduates who completed their overseas studies with First Class Honours. Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman presented the outstanding graduate awards to the recipients.Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman and Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh in a group photo with recipients of the outstanding graduate award. PHOTO: JAMES KON
“The COVID-19 pandemic, which occurred at the end of December 2019 until now, has directly impacted our daily routines and journeys, including our students’ study processes.
“Students, including our graduates, had to adapt themselves to the new norm, including online learning. Alhamdulillah, with patience and resilience, the students successfully weathered the epidemic during their studies and maintained excellent academic performance for their parents and the government.
“The government has allocated a huge amount in sending students overseas. It is hoped that all the knowledge and experience they gained abroad will be used to the best of advantage, especially in contributing back to the nation’s socio-economic development.
“It is beyond question that some graduates are currently waiting for the opportunity to serve in the government or private sector. Therefore, each of the graduates must always be open to any available employment opportunity.
“The attitude of being open to employment among graduates is also heeding the titah of His Majesty during the official opening ceremony of the 17th Legislative Council (LegCo) session on March 13, regarding the implementation of several initiatives under the Economic Blueprint towards the creation of employment opportunities for locals. His Majesty also emphasised, ‘It is hoped that these opportunities will not go to waste, due to choosiness over jobs, which is a detrimental mindset.’”
The awards ceremony was intended as an appreciation of the graduates’ academic achievement, as well as a motivation for other students to excel in their studies.
