Senior Officials Committee for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Council (SOCA) Leaders yesterday held their 30^th Meeting of the Senior Officials Committee for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (30^th SOCA Meeting) through video conferencing.

Permanent Secretary (Community and Culture) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Hajah Nor Ashikin binti Haji Johari as Chair of SOCA chaired the meeting.

Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Kung Phoak, SOCA leaders and delegations were also present.

The 30^th SOCA was held as a preparation for the 25^th ASCC Council Meeting to be held today.

Hajah Nor Ashikin highlighted that the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic taught ASEAN to always be ready. Thus, prioritisation is the key, focussing on ASEAN’s cohesive journey to resilience, and ensuring the well-being of ASEAN’s people taken care of, to build one ASEAN community. She also called on the SOCA leaders and the ASEAN Secretariat to look into ways to consolidate and strengthen ASEAN’s efforts, including renewing those committed to in the past and reinforcing them through stronger cross-pillar, cross-sectoral collaboration. In turn, to assure ASEAN’s partners that ASEAN is an organisation that is sustainable and resilient.

The meeting supported Brunei’s ASEAN 2021 Chairmanship, guided by the theme ‘We Care, We Prepare, We Prosper’, and agreed to work closely, together with the ASCC sectoral bodies, to deliver ASEAN’s collective commitment to care for its people and prepare for further challenges and opportunities, with the goal of ensuring that the whole ASEAN community can sustainably prosper.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

A local senior citizen died in a road accident at Simut Bridge of Jalan Padnunok, Kampong Kiudang in Tutong District yesterday.

The 78-year-old man was believed to be on his way home.

Lamunin Police Station received a distress call around 8.35am of a road accident involving two vehicles at Simut Bridge, according to Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF).

Initial investigations revealed that the vehicles collided from opposite directions involving seven with one fatality.

The deceased was the lone driver of one vehicle while the other vehicle had one driver and five passengers. The six are receiving treatment at hospital.

The Fire and Rescue Department (FRD) assisted to remove the elderly man out of the mangled vehicle. He was pronounced dead at Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Hospital.

The RBPF is investigating and urged road users to comply with the speed limit and to pay full attention to the road and its surroundings while driving.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Hakim Hayat

The Ministry of Energy (ME) through its department and statutory bodies marked the Israk Mikraj celebration with a religious talk jointly organised by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary Office through its Policy and Strategy Division and Energy Manpower Division at the Main Theatre Hall of the Prime Minister’s Office Building Complex yesterday.

Acting Minister of Energy Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Matsatejo bin Sokiaw was the guest of honour.

The event featured a special talk entitled ‘Teladan dan Hikmah Peristiwa Israk dan Mikraj’ by Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) Assistant Lecturer at the Faculty of Usuluddin Haji Mohd Khairul Nazif bin Haji Damit, who emphasised the significance of the five daily prayers for Muslims, is a pillar of Islam that should not be neglected. The speaker also demonstrated some common mistakes people make during performing prayers and showed the correct ways based on the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

Acting Permanent Secretary at the ME Pengiran Haji Jamra Weira bin Pengiran Haji Petra, senior officials, officers and staff from the ministry, its department and statutory bodies were also present.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Aziz Idris & Lyna Mohamad

Nineteen pints of blood from 26 donors were collected during a blood donation drive organised by Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB) Primary School in collaboration with the Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) yesterday.

The two-hour cause was held in conjunction with the Science, Mathematics and ICT subject month which saw support from donors consisting of YSHHB teachers, staff and parents.

Campaign organiser Head of Science Department Shanju Najumunniza Ammal believes that donating blood “is a win-win for everyone involved”.

“Receivers get a vital substance and donors get to burn calories and keep their heart healthy. We believe that campaign will benefit the donors and those in need,” she said.

Meanwhile, 38 pints of blood were collected at GHK Motors Sdn Bhd headquarters in Beribi Industries yesterday as employees and management donated towards the good cause.

The blood donation drive was organised by GHK Motors as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities in reaching out to the community in collaboration with the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital Blood Donation Centre.

Members of the public at the showroom also donated.

With the slogan of ‘Give Life for Others’, GHK Motors firmly believes that a simple contribution of donating blood is crucial in saving lives.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna MOhamad & Rokiah Mahmud

The Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) Library launched its World Book Day celebration on Tuesday, with the event set to run until April 3. The celebration is held in collaboration with the Centre for Research and Publication (PPP) and Centre for Promotion of Knowledge and Language (PPIB).

UNISSA Rector Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal launched the event and officiated the English Language Club ‘Empower UNISSA’ event, with its students as members.

Dean of Syariah and Law Faculty Dr Hajah Mas Nooraini binti Haji Mohiddin held a book discussion titled ‘Waqaf Sudah Tiba Masanya Untuk Berubah’ to discuss in greater detail waqaf– (endowment) related issues.

The event aims to galvanise students’ interest in book reading, attract students and academicians to UNISSA’s Library, and enlighten the public on how practising waqaf can bring about rewards.

The five-day event includes a book exhibition, book discussions, ‘Plagiarism and Turn It In’ workshop; book donation, book clinic and story-telling. Members of the public are welcome to join in the event.

World Book Day is celebrated every April 23 as declared by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman

Legislative Council (LegCo) Speaker Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Lela Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Dato Setia Haji Mohamed Taib received a courtesy call from High Commissioner of Singapore to Brunei Darussalam Heng Aik Yeow at the Councils of State Building yesterday.

Secretary to the Cabinet Ministers’ Council and Clerk to the Councils Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Jaya Dato Paduka Haji Judin bin Haji Asar was also present.

The courtesy call was the first official meeting held between the two sides. Both sides expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the close ties between the two countries for a long time.

The High Commissioner of Singapore to Brunei Darussalam stated that with the monarch’s leadership and leaders in both countries as well as the cooperation that has been held, the current generation can enjoy benefits in various fields such as education, health and exchange of visits.

Both sides further on touched on regional issues of common concerns and interests, and hoped that the issues that were of concern to the regional community would be resolved as soon as possible for the well-being and security of the community.

Both sides also touched on the recently concluded LegCo session in approving the government budget, touching on the active participation of LegCo members in discussing national issues and youth development in the country.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman & Hakim Hayat

The 7^th ASEAN Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting (AFMGM) convened virtually on Tuesday.

Preceding this meeting were the ASEAN Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting with Heads of International Financial Institutions (AFMGM-IFIs) and the 25^th ASEAN Finance Ministers’ Meeting (AFMM).

The 25^th AFMM was chaired by 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, while the AFMGM and AFMGM-IFIs meetings were co-chaired by Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew and Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) Managing Director Hajah Rokiah binti Haji Badar.

Brunei Darussalam was represented by Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Fiscal) Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman and AMBD Deputy Managing Director Hajah Noorafidah binti Haji Sulaiman.

Permanent Secretary (Performance and Corporate) at the Ministry of Finance and Economy Suraya binti Haji Jaidin also attended the meetings.

At the Special Session between ASEAN Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors with Heads of International Financial Institutions, views were exchanged with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB); Asian Development Bank (ADB); the International Monetary Fund (IMF); the World Bank and ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) on regional and global outlooks as well as efforts towards inclusive, digitally enabled and sustainable recovery.

Related to this, Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew summarised the key points of discussions, highlighting the importance of technology and digital economy as a part of the ‘new normal’ and enablers for growth, quality investments that create more job opportunities and enhanced productivity, and ‘green’ growth strategies.

The 25^th ASEAN Finance Ministers’ Meeting welcomed the progress of the various working groups under the purview of the ASEAN Finance Ministers’ Meeting. This includes issues pertaining to infrastructure financing; cooperation in insurance matters; ASEAN disaster risk financing and insurance; cooperation in customs; anti-money laundering and counter terrorist financing; ASEAN forum on taxation and ASEAN capital market forum. The meeting also noted the progress in the implementation of the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) and cooperation on sustainable infrastructure.

The 7^th ASEAN Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting discussed the progress and development of working groups under the Roadmap for Monetary and Financial Integration of ASEAN (RIA-Fin), whose overall progress has been encouraging. Brunei Darussalam’s three priority economic deliverables (PEDs) that fall under the ASEAN Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors track were endorsed, namely the signing of the 9^th ASEAN Framework on Services (AFAS) Protocol on Financial Services which will further liberalise financial services sector in ASEAN and therefore contribute to economic growth as well as progress ASEAN’s integration agenda; Convene ASEAN Financial Literacy Conferences to enhance financial literacy and financial inclusion which are key components in ensuring sustainable and resilient economic growth; and initiate the work on the establishment of the ASEAN taxonomy on sustainable finance.

The taxonomy will function as a tool to determine the eligibility of activities or investments to be classified as sustainable and provide more clarity to assist investors in identifying sustainable projects and prevent market fragmentation.

In continuing the AFMGM dialogue with the private sector, the meeting held a dialogue with the ASEAN Business Advisory Council, the EU-ASEAN Business Council and the US-ASEAN Business Council on issues relating to economic recovery efforts towards achieving sustainable, resilient and inclusive growth.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

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 visited the Ministry of Defence (MinDef) at Bolkiah Garrison yesterday.

Accompanying His Majesty were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; and His Royal Highness 920 Captain (U) Prince ‘Abdul Mateen.

Upon arrival, His Majesty was greeted by Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof and Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Commander Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat.

Right after, His Majesty received the royal salute and inspected the guard of honour comprising five officers and 105 other rank personnel of Company D, Third Battalion, Royal Brunei Land Force (3Bn RBLF) led by parade commander Major Harensuhandy bin Haji Abdullah from Unit Tugas Pengawal Diraja.

His Majesty was then ushered to the Tower Block and consented to a photo session with members of the Defence Executive Committee and RBAF senior officers before proceeding to the Bolkiah Garrison’s Gymnasium, where a recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat were read by Head of RBAF Religious Department Commander Haji Ainolnizam bin Haji Ibrahim, Royal Brunei Navy (RBN).

His Majesty then delivered a titah in the presence of RBAF officers.

The visit ended at the Bolkiah Garrison Officers’ Mess where His Majesty consented to a meet and greet session with RBAF senior officers from Royal Brunei Land Force, Royal Brunei Navy, Royal Brunei Air Force, Joint Force Headquarters, Training Institute RBAF, Defence Academy RBAF, MinDef, British Loan Service officers and Republic of Pakistan Loan Service Doctors.

His Majesty then received a pesambah and signed the royal parchment.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

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 said that the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), as a security institution, bears a huge responsibility in defending religion, the nation and the country.

“To achieve this objective requires a line of truly authoritative leaders. They must possess noble qualities as a chief or senior military officer in the Royal Brunei Armed Forces,” said His Majesty in a titah during a visit to the Ministry of Defence (MinDef) yesterday.

“They must also steer clear of negative elements, such as the inclination to build up their positions and power for their own benefit, rather than the interests of the country.

“As senior officers, it is their duty to ensure that every member is given fair treatment without resorting to the practice of favouritism, cronyism, and nepotism. It should be a priority, or a must for all, that there is no abuse of power or violation of any rules.

“But if that occurs, then no one should escape punishment. In other words, no one is above the law,” His Majesty said.

His Majesty continued, “Another matter of priority is for all levels of leadership to be responsible in empowering the spirituality of each member based on the core values of the RBAF, which are piety, courage, professionalism and loyalty.

“Through that, Insya Allah, blessings will be conferred upon the RBAF. I am convinced that if these values continue to be practised by all levels in the Armed Forces, these blessings will be magnified and all negative elements dispersed.

“This is why I believe that such noble values are essential, as part of the course and training curriculum.

“The next step is making efforts to bolster the image and credibility, for the RBAF to truly become a respected and revered organisation. To achieve this, all parties and levels within the force must always show solidarity and the will to work together, regardless of their respective areas of responsibility.

“All problems must be addressed through the proper channels in the chain of command, instead of being shared on social media, which can affect the integrity and reputation of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

“In this field of duty, all parties must not be apathetic (camah mata). Any shortcomings or weaknesses must be addressed together. The RBAF Care Centre was established for this very purpose in attending to all issues.

“In this respect, senior officers, in particular, should not be derelict. They should show sensitivity and commitment towards any problems and complaints coming from officers and subordinates.

“Senior officers are also responsible for ensuring the standards of officers and subordinates. It is also important for them to understand and know the level of standards that need to be achieved by the officers and subordinates.

“Meanwhile, the quality of young officers is more determined by the Officer Cadet School at the Defence Academy of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, as an early education centre for officers.

“It is my hope that the centre will continue to produce disciplined and professional military officers, while at the same time capable of nurturing aspects of spirituality and genuine loyalty. This is especially true, given the 10 years of the centre’s establishment, during which it managed to train 2,216 officers, including 605 officer cadets.

“I am confident that the senior officers have so far been able to act wisely in implementing any plans, including the capacity to overcome all issues being faced by the personnel of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces. These are among the challenges to be addressed in the best possible way.

“With regard to challenges, this includes the challenge of maintaining the usability of the RBAF’s assets, which cannot be taken lightly. The capacity and readiness of these assets must always be at a high level.

“With this, I wish to remind that all levels in the RBAF must really make sure that the usability of these assets is always at a high level of readiness.

“In the era of the fourth industrial revolution, with the evolution of ever-growing advanced technology, the establishment of the Cyber Defence Unit in the RBAF should also be realised, considering that the RBAF will observe its 60^th anniversary.

“In addition, it also serves as a buffer against cyber threats which can have serious implications for the level of operations and defence systems of Brunei Darussalam. From the aspects of defence and security, responsibility is a shared obligation that must be nurtured without compromise.

“Lastly, it is my hope that all senior officers will be able to carry out their duties with transparency and trust in upholding the country’s defence institutions, and in maintaining the security and well-being of Brunei Darussalam.”

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon, Aziz Idris, Daniel Lim & Lyna Mohamad

Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar, senior officials and frontliners received the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital yesterday.

The minister, who was under observation for 15 minutes after being vaccinated, told the media that “it was painless” and encouraged the public to be inoculated.

A total of 754 were vaccinated nationwide as of yesterday.

Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham said, “We need to be together in protecting the whole country. Therefore everyone needs to play a part. Everyone eligible should get vaccinated.

“We need to achieve a herd immunity where at least 70 per cent of the population gets vaccinated to protect the people who will not be able to be inoculated.”

He said frontliners including healthcare, police and uniformed personnel, RB pilots and people manning the borders were vaccinated on the first day.

“The vaccination of senior citizens will start this month.”

Sinopharm and AstraZeneca vaccines were administered yesterday.

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 received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine on Thursday.

Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham said, “We hope the people will be more confident and come forward to be vaccinated. We hope to reach a herd immunity by the end of the year where 70 per cent of the population is vaccinated. Only then the country will be more receptive to border restrictions easing.”

Asked if the country needs to follow the new norm after vaccination, the minister said that it is still necessary.

“We still need to live in the new norm. Research has shown that it can only reduce the risk of severe complications for individuals who have been vaccinated. No data shows that vaccinated individuals will not get the virus. An ongoing study has revealed that it can prevent the actual virus but it’s still a small study. The aim of being vaccinated is to reduce the risk of severe complications and needing to be admitted to the ICU or death.”

He said vaccination does not mean an individual can do whatever he wishes.

“If a person travels to a high risk country, he will still need to practice good hygiene, wear masks and practise social distancing,” Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham said.

“Individuals who are at high-risk, people over 60 years and above, people with chronic diseases like diabetes, kidney disease and others need to be protected and should get vaccinated.”

The permanent secretary, deputy permanent secretaries, senior officers, officers and staff of the Ministry of Health and frontliners were administered the vaccine.

Over 468 in Brunei-Muara District received the first dose of the vaccine yesterday.

Meanwhile, 117 frontliners and healthcare workers at Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah (PMMPMHAMB) Hospital received their first dose of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine yesterday.

PMMPMHAMB Hospital Chief Executive Officer Abdul Mu’iz bin Haji Ibrahim was the first to receive the dose of AstraZeneca in the cohort of frontline workers as part of the National Vaccination Programme for the district.

He said the rollout was an important milestone in the country’s fight against the virus.

“Frontlines get priority vaccination ahead of the rollout to the general public. When more people are vaccinated, the safer it will be for all,” he noted.

Echoing the same sentiment was PMMPMHAMB Hospital Deputy Medical Superintendent Pengiran Dr Noor Affizan binti Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahman, who also received her vaccine yesterday.

“Today is a historic day. All this while – for the past year, we were only battling defensively against COVID-19. But today is the day we go on the offensive. Today we are given the weapon to fight this virus,” she said.

Pengiran Dr Noor Affizan expressed her gratitude to the volunteers who stepped forward during Phase One of the vaccination programme.

“You (volunteers) are setting a great example by becoming one of the first to be vaccinated. I hope that when others have their turn to get the vaccine, they will also confidently roll up their sleeves. The only way we can fight the virus is if we work together,” she added.

In Belait District, the focal point for the inoculation was the Learning and Development Centre of the Suri Seri Begawan (SSB) Hospital, Kuala Belait. Among the first to receive the vaccine was the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer Borhan bin Haji Hamdan.

Medical Superintendent Dr Chong Chean Leung, Deputy Medical Superintendent Dr Haji Mohd Ali Shahbana bin Mohd Yassin, Officer- in-Charge of Health Department Dr Haji Muhammad Norizni bin Haji Mosli, Basic Health Care Services Senior Medical Officer Dr Mohd Elham bin Haji Mohd Ismail, Deputy Head of Nursing Hajijah binti Abdul Harris and the hospital’s medical officers and staff were also vaccinated.

With over 129 frontliners receiving the vaccination yesterday, the SSB Hospital CEO said he did not have any side effects after the vaccination.

“The vaccination is one step closer to achieving a herd immunity against the virus,” he said.

Borhan said the proper procedure was being followed and the public should not fear to be inoculated.

Over 700 frontliners in Belait District are to be vaccinated and is estimated to take around two weeks.

In Temburong District, 40 frontliners, comprising staff and officers of Pengiran Isteri Hajjah Mariam (PIHM) Hospital, received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at the hospital yesterday.

PIHM Hospital Deputy Medical Superintendent Pengiran Dr Noor Azmi bin Pengiran Dr Haji Mohammad and Medical Officer for Health Section at the Department of Health, Temburong Dr Hajah Martina binti Dato Seri Paduka Haji Kifrawi were the first to be inoculated.

Dr Hajah Martina said being a healthcare worker, it is her social responsibility to protect herself, her family and also the community.

She added that she’d noticed misinformation on social media about the vaccine which did not come from reputable sources.

Dr Hajah Martina urged the public to ensure that whatever is read should be from a reputable source with official information with the logo of a reputable organisation such as the Ministry of Health or World Health Organization (WHO).

Speaking about registering, she said a yellow booklet is issued which serves as an international document containing details of the vaccination such as the date of the first dose and the type and brand of the vaccine.

After vaccination, a person will be on observation for 15 minutes for side effects and informed of the date of the second dose.

“If a person experiences side effects on arrival at home such as fever or muscle ache, the person can fill in the adverse effect form available in the BruHealth app. If the app is not available, the form given during the vaccination should be completed and submitted to the clinic.”

The recommended dosage is two given intramuscularly (0.5ml each) with an interval of eight to 12 weeks.

A vaccine card will be given after the first jab and updated for the second dose. The card also includes the holder’s details, vaccine manufacturer, the dose numbers and the date and location each was administered.

Vaccinations are also tracked by the BruHealth.

The public is urged not to go to any of the vaccination centre as the Ministry of Health will inform when booking for appointments is open.

The public is advised to verify their BruHealth accounts and ensure personal information in Bru-HIMS is updated.

For information the public can log on to the Ministry of Health website at www.moh.gov.bn or contact the Health Advice Line at 148 or through the BruHealth app.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Fadhil Yunus

Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman attended the second day of the 28^th Brunei Age Group Swimming Championships at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex Swimming Pool yesterday.

Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim; Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah; Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda Muhammad Aiman and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Faathimah Az-Zahraa’ Raihaanul Bolkiah were also present.

Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah, performing under the banner of Mabohai Swimming Club, competed in the 50-metre (Long Course) freestyle and 100-metre breaststroke events, both in the 10-11 years girls’ age group.

Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah clocked a time of 40.70s in the 50m freestyle event and recorded a time of 2:00.10s in the 100m breaststroke event.

Earlier during the opening day of the competition on Friday, Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah bagged bronze in the 50m butterfly event.

A total of 249 swimmers comprising 171 males and 78 females registered in the competition with the country’s junior swimming talents on display.

Nine swimming clubs – Mabohai Swimming Club, Hammerhead Swimming Club, Brunei Speed Swimming Club, Jerudong Swimming Club, Dolphin Swimming Club, Psi Swimming Club, KB Piranha Swimming Team, H20 Tolerant and Life Skills Swim School are participating in the three-day meet.

Among the familiar names that headlined the competition were national swimmers Christian Nikles, Muhammad Isa Ahmad and Ashley Chai. All three eased to victories in their events.

During the second day, Mabohai Swimming Club star Kayleigh Ang emerged as one of the standout performers after winning six individual gold medals in the 400m freestyle, 200m backstroke, 50m freestyle, 100m butterfly, 100m breaststroke and the 200m Individual Medley (IM) events.

The competition, which concludes today, is organised by the Brunei Amateur Swimming Association (BASA) with the support of the Youth and Sports Department.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

Md Daniel’s Cotton who won the judges’ hearts was named this year’s grand prize winner of the  SmartHeart “PAW-SOME” Cat Competition 2021 Grand Finals at the atrium of The Airport Mall in Berakas yesterday.

Asmah’s Anger and Nur Azizah’s Snarfy took the second and third spots.

Cotton won BND1,000, a trophy, certificate, cat bowl and a gift voucher. The second prize winner walked away with BND500, a trophy, certificate and gift voucher and third prize won BND400, a trophy, certificate and gift voucher.

Fifty-two cats vied for the pre-qualifying round at Wisma Sunlite in March. Each cat had to go through a series of basic health screenings and consultations before moving forward to the final round.

Twenty-one entries were shortlisted and announced during the grand finals and proceeded with the final judging and screening by veterinary doctors.

Minor awards of IG Star, People’s Choice, Best Cage and Best Dress were also awarded with the IG Star winning BND50, a photo frame and certificate, People’s Choice won BND50, a trophy and certificate and the remaining won BND50 and a certificate each.

Seven other winners were also awarded with cash prizes, trophies, certificates and gift vouchers.

The event also featured activities for the cats and owners.

The competition – organised by Parvati Textiles Centre – was supported by Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, Care for Stray Action for Strays (CAS) organisation, Institute of Brunei Technical Education and with the participation of Si Manja Pet Grooming Spa.

Manish, Hemant and Priyanka Punjabi of Parvati Textile Centre presented the prizes.

Dr Muhammad Faiz bin Haji Metussin from the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood also delivered a talk.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

Brunei-Muara Senior Citizen Activity Centre members in collaboration with De’pirates Sails Seafood Restaurant held a cooking demonstration on local traditional food at a restaurant in Kiulap on Friday.

Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Saidah binti Haji Wahid @ Burut, highlighted that initiatives from private sectors assist senior citizens and provide a platform for activities.

De’pirates Manager Noor Hazny bin Sani meanwhile said the event served as the restaurant’s corporate social responsibility to keep senior citizens active to ensure their mental and physical healths are maintained.

He said the event was aimed at introducing De’pirates’ expertise in traditional food cooking among the younger generation as well as providing a platform for senior citizens to conduct cooking classes and generating income from teaching and product selling.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat by Mohd Hazrin bin Daud.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

The Fire and Rescue Department (FRD) held a rank presentation ceremony for 39 Class One Fire and Rescue personnel promoted to the post of Senior Fire and Rescue personnel.

Acting Assistant Director of Operations of Fire and Rescue Abdul Hadi Zulfadli bin Haji Yahya officiated the ceremony at the Fire and Rescue Department Headquarters.

Assistant director, senior officers and officials from the FRD attended the event alongside families of the promoted personnel.

The promotion was awarded in acknowledgement of the personnel’s excellent service, dedication and high discipline.

The FRD encourages personnel to instil an attitude of healthy competition and self-progress towards forming a culture of healthy teamwork.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Since the launch of its Employee Wellness Initiative (EWI) in November 2020, Baiduri Bank has held multiple activities at its headquarters to promote wellness lifestyle practices among staff. Wrapping up the first quarter of this year’s activities was a health talk and workshop delivered by Dr On Sui Chee from Lee Clinic and Dispensary at the Baiduri Community Space on March 24.

Over 50 staff members joined the workshop that covered heart health and diabetes, two of the biggest non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Brunei Darussalam. The bank’s Learning and Development Unit also introduced activities to highlight healthy nutrition habits as well as everyday wellness practices.

Brunei Halal was also participated, where staff sampled healthy products endorsed by the Health Promotion Centre (HPC) at the Ministry of Health. As the bank recognises the importance of wellness on staff productivity, this workshop was considered as part of
staff development.

The bank has also held activities geared towards encouraging Baiduri staff to nourish their physical health and mental well-being throughout the past three months.

The wellness activities kicked off in February with a workshop and training session for the Baiduri Wellness Ambassadors – selected staff who champion a wellness culture among colleagues. The workshop was held in collaboration with HPC to equip the Wellness Ambassadors with the basic understanding of healthy diets and nutrition as well as the importance of physical exercise within the workplace.

The ambassadors were also trained how to use Baiduri’s in-house basic health monitoring equipment such as blood pressure monitors, glucose and cholesterol machines, and the body mass index (BMI) scale to be equipped to conduct health check related initiatives as needed in the bank.

The bank launched ‘Feel Good Fridays’ (FGF), a series under the EWI that commits to hold monthly activities led by the Baiduri Wellness Ambassadors. The first event in the series focussed on preparing healthy and convenient meals for working professionals guided by certified health and fitness nutritionist and Fuel’d owner Shazrinah binti Shazali.

On the success of the initiative among staff, Head of Group Human Resources and Administration Veronica Chong said, “We are very pleased with our progress on advocating wellness within Baiduri Bank so far.  It shows that our staff are interested in becoming healthier and to achieve good work-life-balance.

“We will be looking to hold more activities and collaborate with medical experts and local vendors to better engage and raise awareness among staff on the importance of nutrition, physical and mental health.”

Baiduri Bank CEO Ti Eng Hui explained that the EWI recognises the need to promote a healthy well-being as it can have many benefits, including happier staff.

“Our success greatly depends on the productivity and performance of our staff. This ability to function and perform at a high level consistently hinges on having a workforce that is happy, healthy and resilient in both mind and body,” he said.

The goal of the EWI’s activities is to enhance staff engagement within the bank, promoting good working culture and well-being. For the rest of the year, continuous activities and different wellness themes will be held, aiming to foster group interactions and community involvement as well as to nurture the staff’s overall well-being with a focus on mental health.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Hakim Hayat

The management of fracture forms a vital element of orthopaedic surgery and contributes towards a major trauma workload for the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital, according to Acting Director General of Medical and Health Services, Ministry of Health (MoH) Pengiran Dr Haji Mohd Khalifah bin Pengiran Haji Ismail.

This is in addition to ligament reconstruction surgery, joint replacement surgery and management of diabetic foot problems that the department covers.

Pengiran Dr Haji Mohd Khalifah said this as the guest of honour at the third National Fracture Management Workshop at Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah (PAPRSB) Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) yesterday.

A total of 200 doctors, paramedics, nurses and allied health professionals attended the workshop.

The Department of Orthopaedic Surgery receives over 20,000 patients per year, according to statistics from the Orthopaedic Society of Brunei Darussalam.

Over 2,000 patients were admitted to RIPAS Hospital and at least 400 surgeries were performed just for fracture fixation.

The society said that apart from the increasing number of road traffic accidents contributing to the trauma workload, there is also an increasing number of work-related injuries among labourers. Also worrying is the increasing number of falls and fragility among the elderly.

The workshop primarily targetted the accident and emergency doctors, general practitioners, nurses and other allied healthcare professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists and paramedics.

The workshop saw lectures on the updated basic fracture management, and highlighted the common issues and challenges faced in the management of various types of fractures.

Interactive group discussions allowed the targetted audience to share their challenges when facing the management of an injured patient.

An Orthopaedic Society of Brunei Darussalam press release stated that it hopes to improve the quality of services provided by the MoH:

“Management of fracture forms a vital element of orthopaedic surgery. Fractures contribute a major trauma workload for the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at RIPAS Hospital being a tertiary centre.

“The department has branched out to Suri Seri Begawan Hospital which acts as a secondary referral centre mainly for the Belait District population.

“The department also provides clinic services to Pengiran Isteri Hajjah Mariam Hospital in Temburong and Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Hospital in Tutong,”

The society noted that despite the large number of facture surgeries undertaken in a year, there is a large number of fractures that do not require surgery.

“These patients are normally seen first by the accident and emergency doctors of general practitioners in government or private peripheral health centres. Their role is to identify the injury or fracture and to make appropriate referrals directly to the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery.

“They could also request the appropriate investigation and initiate the first line of treatment, and then refer them to the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery for further management.

“Delay or missed referrals of certain unstable fractures or even inappropriate first line management can affect the outcome of the fracture healing.

“Any fracture can cause a great deal of loss to the patient individually in terms of health, income earnings, mobility, and a great burden to the patient’s carer or family. Looking at it from a larger perspective, a significant amount of loss to the nation as well, in terms of loss of productivity and efficiency at work.

“Therefore, the society aims to achieve swift diagnosis, appropriate management and early rehabilitation as this is key to a swift recovery.”

With the collaboration of UBD, the Orthopaedic Society of Brunei Darussalam said it will continue its mission to educate and train doctors, nurses and allied health professionals as well as medical students.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Izah Azahari

Over 300 participated in the Pusat Ehsan Charity Fun Walk, Run & Cycle Tutong 2021, organised by Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam yesterday.

The event which began at the Tutong District Community Hall was divided into two categories – three-kilometre Fun Walk and Run and 27-kilometre Cycle.

Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar, who participated in the Fun Walk and Run category, flagged off the participants.

The minister also joined in an aerobics warm-up session before the race.

Pusat Ehsan Board of Trustees member Pengiran Sarimah binti Pengiran Haji Abdul Latiff, event Co-chairpersons Lieutenant Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Ramlee bin Pengiran Setia Raja Pengiran Haji Jaya and Hajah Mariah binti Pehin Datu Indera Sugara Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Johari were also present.

The event aimed to raise funds for Pusat Ehsan and instil awareness of the special needs community.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Fadhil Yunus

Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman attended the morning session of the third and final day of the 28th Brunei Age Group Swimming Championships at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex Swimming Pool yesterday.

Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah were present in the morning and afternoon session.

Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda Muhammad Aiman and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Faathimah Az-Zahraa’ Raihaanul Bolkiah were present in the afternoon session.

Her Royal Highness was 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 and Permanent Secretary (Administration, Finance and Estate) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Pengiran Mohd Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud and Deputy Permanent Secretary (Youth and Sports) at the MCYS Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Maiddin bin Pengiran Haji Said.

Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah bagged the bronze medal in the Girls 10-11 Years 100-metre backstroke after clocking a time of 1:44.96s, adding to the 50-metre butterfly bronze she won on the first day of the competition.

Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah, performing under the banner of Mabohai Swimming Club, also competed in the Girls 10-11 Years 50-metre breaststroke event yesterday. She recorded a time of 55.72s.

Among the swimmers whom dominated their age groups were Kayleigh Ang and Hayley Wong in the Girls 10-11 Years and Girls 12-13 Years category.

A total of 249 swimmers comprising 171 male and 78 female participated in the competition.

Participating teams were Mabohai Swimming Club, Hammerhead Swimming Club, Brunei Speed Swimming Club, Jerudong Swimming Club, Dolphin Swimming Club, Psi Swimming Club, KB Piranha Swimming Team, H20 Tolerant and Life Skills Swim School.

The meet also witnessed the presentation of best boy and best girl awards from all age groups in recognition of the swimmers’ performances throughout the competition.

Pengiran Mohd Amirrizal presented the awards.

The three-day meet, which commenced on Friday, was organised by the Brunei Amateur Swimming Association (BASA) with the support of the Department of Youth and Sports, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Prime Minister of Malaysia Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and spouse Puan Sri Noorainee Abdul Rahman and delegation arrived in Bandar Seri Begawan for a two-day official visit and the 23rd Annual Leaders’ Consultation between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia yesterday, marking the first official visit by a foreign leader to the country since the COVID-19 outbreak in early 2020.

Present at the Brunei International Airport to welcome the Malaysian Prime Minister and spouse on arrival were 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 as Personal Representative 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; and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman.

Also present to greet the Malaysian Prime Minister and spouse were Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong as the Minister-in-Attendance, and spouse.

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 spouse; Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, and spouse; Deputy Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh; Deputy Minister of Energy Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Matsatejo bin Sokiaw, and spouse; and Charge d’Affaires of the Malaysian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam Nadia Azura binti Mohd Nudri were also present to welcome the Malaysian delegation.

His Royal Highness, together with the prime minister, proceeded to a special dais to receive the salute of honour, followed by the national anthems of both countries. Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin then inspected the guard of honour mounted by members of the Royal Brunei Land Forces, Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

The Malaysian Prime Minister was then introduced to Cabinet Ministers, deputy ministers, Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force, Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, foreign envoys in Brunei Darussalam, and permanent secretaries at the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Malaysian delegation includes Malaysia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Dato’ Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein; as well as senior officials of the Malaysian government.

During the official visit, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, Puan Sri Noorainee and delegation are expected to have an audience with His Majesty and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam at Istana Nurul Iman today, followed by the 23rd Annual Leaders’ Consultation between the two leaders.

The Annual Leaders’ Consultation between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia was last held on March 5, 2019 in Putrajaya, Malaysia.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Izah Azahari

Brunei Darussalam is still lacking writers capable of producing quality scholarly articles, an important component in the Language and Literature Bureau’s (DBP) initiative in achieving a journal of high impact, said Acting Deputy Director of the Language and Literature Bureau Mohd Azurin bin Othman.

“Insya Allah, with the Mastery of Academic Writing Workshop, participants will be able to produce scholarly works of a quality comparable to the writings of world scholars that can be absorbed in every issue of the Beriga Journal and other publications,” he said during the opening ceremony of the workshop yesterday, as the personal representative of Acting Director of the Language and Literature Bureau Suip bin Haji Abdul Wahab.

DBP, through its Research, Documentation and Recognition Division, began the workshop yesterday as an initiative to enhance the skills needed to master the writing of scholarly articles.

The three-day workshop, participated by 35 government officers and local writers with potential in writing scholarly articles, will conclude tomorrow at the Sengkurong Library, DBP.

The workshop is aimed at guiding and strengthening the scholarly article writing skill, promoting the application and cultivation of quality scholarly writing, and emphasising qualitative and quantitative research as well as development activities in scholarly writing towards achieving high-impact journals.

The workshop includes discussions and training by workshop supervisor Dr Haji Hashim bin Haji Abdul Hamid, covering ‘Introduction to Scholarly Writing: What is Scholarly Writing?, ‘Guidance on Scholarly Essay Writing Techniques and Styles’, ‘Choice of Title, Content and Language in Writing Scholarly Essays’, ‘Importance of Charts, Statistics, Diagrams and Tables in Articles’, and ‘Importance of Fieldwork’.

Borneo Bulletin Online