James Kon

The temporary pause in the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine for the National COVID-19 Vaccination Programme will not impact the target of vaccinating 70 per cent of the population by the end of the year, said Public Health Specialist, Disease Control Division at the Ministry of Health (MoH) Dr Justin Wong.

In an interview with the local media yesterday, he said, “We do have other vaccines on the way.  And if the findings of the review states that it is unusable, we will source for available alternatives.

“We have put a temporary pause on its use, due to reports from different regions on blood clots associated with the AstraZeneca vaccine.

“It is important to bear a number of things in mind. Firstly, this is the process that we are going through where safety issues are taken into careful consideration. If things look a bit uncertain, we will have no hesitations about pausing the roll-out and acquiring more data to evaluate. This is part of the process, so it’s not unexpected.

“This is also the reason why we have different vaccine options in Brunei. Having several vaccine options gives us a choice, so the government has implemented its procurement strategy this way.

“With regards to AstraZeneca, we found that there were a number of reports from various regions, on similar issues, if not exactly the same.”

Dr Wong said, “When we receive such reports, the committee will check if this is due to chance or natural causes, because people do suffer from organic blood clots or clotting disorders.

“Cases of clotting are extremely rare. The rate of occurrences is one in a million people. In the meantime, we will see if this is affecting a specific gender or age group. If we can identify any possible links, then this vaccine will not be used for certain groups. This could be one outcome.

“We could also look at the review data and determine that the benefits outweigh the risks. There is no harm of putting a temporary pause, as the vaccine rolls out.

“In Brunei, more than 2,000 individuals have received their first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine, but we have not seen anything to suggest clotting disorders.

“The vaccine is safe, but we want to reassure ourselves and the public, so it would be better to put things on a temporary pause. The team will be working hard to acquire and compile data in evaluating the vaccine. We don’t want to hold off and prolong the process, as we want a good answer.”

When asked about whether this would affect public confidence on vaccination, he replied, “The Bruneian public is more mature and wise. They will see that the MoH has acted proactively, in taking the initiative to pause the vaccine even though we have just begun the rollout.”

Consultant Geriatrician and Physician and Chair of the Brunei Darussalam Pharmacovigilance Advisory Committee Dr Teo Shyh Poh added, “This is not the first time that we have put a pause on medication during rollout.

“As soon as concerns on safety and quality arise, we will put a pause to the acquiring or usage of the medication. We will just source out other alternatives.

This is the most publicised case, since the COVID-19 vaccine is in the mass immunisation programme. This is a normal process, in terms of monitoring and safety for medication and vaccine.”

On the monitoring of Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFI), Dr Teo said, “The Brunei Darussalam Pharmacovigilance Advisory Committee was established in 2018. In 2019, we had training from the World Health Organization (WHO) to specifically monitor vaccine safety surveillance.

“Since then, we have actually been planning on how to monitor vaccine safety in Brunei, which is quite opportune, because of the recent implementation of the vaccination programme.

“In terms of AEFI surveillance, there are a few things that we want to monitor. We need feedback from the public and also from healthcare professionals, about potential symptoms that we think could be attributed to the vaccine. On the BruHealth app, there is a slot where you can report symptoms a week after receiving a dose of the vaccine.

“Whether they have symptoms or otherwise, we would like members of the public to fill up the form.”

Dr Wong said, “Naturally people will be a bit cautious and fearful when they encounter some side-effects. It’s very reassuring that most of the side effects are mild and transient. If you do experience arm pain or a headache, the best thing to do is practise basic healthcare like we would on a day-to-day basis, such as taking some Panadol. If the side-effects last longer than two days or are unusual, then it’s best to see a doctor.”

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

Universiti Brunei Darussalam’s (UBD) environment allows young artists to drive the economy while enriching the local cultural and social spheres, said its Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs) Pengiran Dr Mohammad Iskandar bin Pengiran Haji Petra.
“As a university of innovation and enterprise, UBD supports the academic endeavour of ‘Spectrum’ and what it stands for as a platform for students to tap into their creative potential with an entrepreneurial approach.”

He highlighted this at the opening of ‘Spectrum 2021: Anew’ graduation exhibition yesterday, and expressed the university’s pride in supporting the growth of the creative industries through the training of the skilful, marketable and industry-ready young individuals.

“As its name suggests, Spectrum Anew serves as a brand new platform for the young artists and creative entrepreneurs to showcase their talents and what they have to offer as the next generation of leaders and innovators,” he said.

“The event celebrates research, creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit that the university encourages. The projects are the exemplary products of what can be achieved when the practice of academic research is combined with  the knowledge of art, technology and business,” he said. “The university and Spectrum share the beliefs of showcasing and strengthening the relevance and development of the creative industries and their socio-economic impacts in Brunei Darussalam.”

He added, “It is important for the youth to be equipped with the qualities and skills for the workforce and for developing the country as the main driving force in the future, in line with the nation’s goals for Brunei Vision 2035.”

Pengiran Dr Mohammad Iskandar noted that through the university’s Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, the Design and Creative Industries (DCI) programme and ‘Spectrum’ have established a multidisciplinary approach in educating and training students to ensure they are future-ready and able to overcome challenges.

“The multidisciplinary approach will prepare them for the high demands of the society,” he said, adding that the students’ spirits reflect the hopes of the university and the achievements reflect the university’s goal.

Spectrum is the creative industries graduation exhibition for the DCI undergraduate programme and carries on the legacy of Spectacle – the graduation exhibition for the now discontinued Art and Creative Technology (ACT) programme.

To mark the fresh beginning, the 2021 exhibition organised by the first DCI graduating year is themed ‘Anew’.

The exhibition, which will conclude on May 8, showcases the creative works of the 28 students, their skills in their projects and collective effort in making the exhibition happen.

Students are sorted into six clusters in accordance with the nature of the projects – visual arts, creative writing and publishing, entertainment, film and animation, interior and furniture design and fashion.

Spectrum aims to promote interests in the creative industries across different generations, encourage artistic and technical creativity across different generations and to promote the graduating year of DCI as skilful, flexible and brimming with potential in professional environments.

It also serves to positively influence the creative community and catalyse the growing potential of other DCI undergraduate students, to illustrate the diversity and relevance of the creative industries, creative activities and their socio-economic impacts and to strengthen and solidify the relationships between the university as well as the local creative industry and its supporters.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

Over BND300,000 was collected in last year’s SMS Brunei Prihatin for Orphans Fund, a three-fold increase compared to previous years usually around BND100,000.

This was stated 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 during the launch of this year’s SMS Brunei Prihatin for Orphans Fund at the VIP Lounge of Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium recently.

“We are grateful that the three telcos are involved in this year’s SMS Brunei Prihatin for Orphans Fund,” the minister said.

Members of the public can help orphans in the country by sending a donation via Short Message Service (SMS) through the three Telcos – DST, Progresif and imagine – by typing YATIM (without space) and followed by the amount of donation which are 1, 5, 10 , 15, 50 or 100 from April 8 to July 8.

As an example, type YATIM20 for donation of BND20 and send to 38111 for DST and Progresif subscribers or to 39999 for imagine subscribers.

The minister added, “The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) will see to it that the donation will not only be given as a one-off during the month of Ramadhan for the Hari Raya celebrations, but also for studies and other things. We need to change the strategy to be beneficial for orphans, especially when it comes to education.”

SMS Brunei Prihatin is an annual project organised by the MCYS through the  Community Development Department with Radio Television Brunei (RTB), DST, Progresif and imagine.

Deputy Permanent Secretary (Community) at the MCYS Saidah binti Haji Wahid, Acting Director of Community Development Pengiran Siti Rahmah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh and officials from Radio Television Brunei, DST, Progresif and imagine were also present.

The project has been running since 2005 and have been well-received by the public.

Last year, SMS Brunei Prihatin for Orphans Fund collected BND350,824 between May 2 and July 31.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

Tokong Cina donated BND36,900 to several associations and schools during the Tokong Cina BSB Charity Night hosted by the association at The Emperor’s Court, Manggis Mall yesterday.

Permanent Secretary (Community and Culture) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Hajah Nor Ashikin binti Haji Johari was the guest of honour.

Several government senior officers were also present.

Secretary General of Tokong Cina Chua Kim Chew said the association prioritises charity activities, donations and extending assistance to those in need.

He said Chairman of Tokong Cina also donated BND2,900 to a student of Chung Hwa Middle School, Bandar Seri Begawan whose family members are facing financial problems.

The Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Fund for Orphans (DANA), Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam, National Welfare Fund and Orphans Fund for the Brunei-Muara, Tutong, Belait and Temburong districts each received BND3,000.

Permanent Secretary (Planning, Land/Use and Environment) at the Ministry of Development Dr Nor Imtihan binti Haji Abdul Razak as the Acting Managing Director of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah received the donation on behalf of DANA, followed by Board of Trustee for Education Dato Paduka Dr Haji Omar bin Haji Khalid representing Pusat Ehsan and Pengiran Siti Rahmah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh representing the National
Welfare Fund.

Brunei-Muara District Officer Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim received on behalf of the Orphans Fund for Brunei-Muara District, Acting Belait District Officer Mohammad Yassin bin Haji Ahmed on behalf of Belait District, Acting Tutong District Officer Md Amirul Hadi bin Haji Md Tajudin on behalf of Tutong District and Acting Temburong District Officer Pengiran Mohd Ameer Mubarak bin Pengiran Haji Hashim on behalf of Temburong District.

The Old Folks Home in Seria received BND1,000, represented by Sofia.

Meanwhile, Chung Ching Middle School, Seria and Chung Hua Middle School, Kuala Belait received BND2,000 each while Chung Hwa Schools in Labi, Kiudang and Tutong, Chung Lian School in Sungai Liang and Pai Yuek School in Temburong received BND1,000 each.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Rokiah Mahmud

A foundation laying ceremony for the Kampong Lugu National Housing Project Phase 2 was carried out yesterday by Minister of Development  Dato Seri Setia Ir Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar.

The National Housing Project is under the 11th National Development Plan (RKN) and will provide 1,000 units of terrace house on 165 hectares of land.

The project will also provide basic infrastructures and facilities such as electrical supply, water supply and roads. The project costs some BND108 million and is scheduled to be completed within 24 months with Swee Sdn Bhd appointed as contractor for the project.

The ceremony coincided with the planting of saplings as part of initiatives towards climate change and to support the 26,000 trees under the Green Protocol campaign.

Deputy Minister of Development Dato Seri Paduka Ar Awang Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin, Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Abdul Rahman, permanent and deputy permanent secretaries were also present.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Rokiah Mahmud & Daniel Lim

Selected mosques across the country yesterday observed the commencement of the 75 times Khatam Al-Quran recitation for Mukim and Village Consultative Council (MPMK) members, school students and higher learning institutions, in conjunction with the 75th birthday celebration of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

The ceremony began after mass Asar prayer, with a recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah by the guests of honour, followed by the recitation of Al-Quran verses from the first Juzuk.

In Brunei-Muara District, the ceremony took place at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah in Kiarong, where the guests of honour were Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, in his capacity as Chairman of the National Committee for His Majesty’s 75th Birthday Celebration; Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman; and Minister of Education Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sulaiman.

Also present were Legislative Council (LegCo) members; permanent secretaries at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) and the Ministry of Education (MoE); the Brunei-Muara District Officer; the heads of department and senior officials under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), MoRA and MoE; mukim penghulus and village heads; and MPMK members.

In Belait District, the ceremony was held at Muhammad Jamalul Alam Mosque in Kuala Belait, where the guest of honour was Permanent Secretary (Administration, Finance and Estate) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Pengiran Mohd Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud.

In Tutong District, the ceremony was held at RPN Kampong Bukit Beruang Mosque, with Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC) Haji Mohammad Nazri bin Haji Mohammad Yusof as the guest of honour.

In Temburong District, the ceremony was held at Utama Mohammad Salleh Mosque in Pekan Bangar, where the guest of honour was Permanent Secretary at the MoRA Haji Mohammad Rosli bin Haji Ibrahim. Also present was the deputy permanent secretary at the MoHA.

The participants of the 75 times Khatam Al-Quran recitation are nationwide MPMK members divided into groups of adult males, adult females and youth who were selected to represent their mukims and villages.

The number of participants in the programme are 1,708 of which 564 are from Brunei-Muara District, 410 from the Belait District, 400 from Tutong District and 334 from Temburong District.

Borneo Bulletin Online

A Doa Kesyukuran ceremony marked the return of two Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) officers at the Bolkiah Garrison yesterday.

The two officers returned to the country on March 10 after serving 13 months as part of the Independent Decommissioning Body Verification, Monitoring and Assistance Team (IDB VMAT) 2/2020 in Mindanao, the Philippines.

The contingent was led by Lieutenant Colonel Mohd Hanafi Azami bin Nayan, together with Captain (U) Mohammad Aliff bin Haji Zulkifli.

Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, RBAF Commander Major General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat,  military and civilian officers, and staff of the Ministry of Defence and the RBAF attended the event.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman

Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar has called on the local Muslim community to be mindful of the obligation to pay Zakat (religious tithe).

“It is a Fardhu Ain (obligatory act) commitment which must be fulfilled and not to be taken lightly,” he said yesterday, in his capacity as Vice-President of the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB), during a presentation of letters to appointed Amils at the Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit Mosque in Mukim Kilanas.

The appointments were made with the consent of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

“It is a trust and confidence given to all Amils, to enable them to perform the duties and responsibilities of collecting Zakat in this country conscientiously and in compliance with the given rules and instructions,” said Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom.

He also advised the Amils to read and revise the book on Task Guidelines and Amil’s Responsibilities, published by MUIB under the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA).

Also present at the event were directors, assistant directors and senior officers from MoRA; officers from MUIB; officers from the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF), the Fire and Rescue Department (FRD); and other government personnel.

Statistics from MoRA have shown a drop of 0.32 per cent in the number of Muslims paying Zakat Fitrah in 2020, compared to 2019.

Around BND977,815.59 Zakat Fitrah was collected from 346,103 people in 2020, compared to BND980,254.22  from  347,208 people in 2019.

Meanwhile, there was an increase of 11.42 per cent in the number of people paying Zakat Harta (property tithe), with 5,678 in 2020 compared to 5,096 in 2019. However, the amount received dropped to BND16,962,896.45 in 2020, compared to BND17,312,345.60
in 2019.

Since the enforcement of Zakat and Fitrah Regulations 1969, MUIB has appointed Amils from among mosque officers; Imams; Bilals; village heads; religious teachers; uniformed personnel from RBAF, RBPF, FRD; and officers.

This year, 349 Amils have been appointed to collect Zakat in 140 areas across the country.

A total of 203 Amils have been assigned to 79 areas in Brunei-Muara District, 24 to 15 areas in Belait District, 51 to 29 areas in Tutong District, and 26 to 13 areas in Temburong District.

Meanwhile, 45 Amils have been appointed at MUIB.

Zakat collection and payment can be made at mosques, suraus, religious halls, Amil houses (village heads), and offices for Zakat distribution and collection at the MUIB in Brunei-Muara District and its branches.

In addition, Islamic financial institutions such as Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB) and Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) have also allocated personnel to collect Zakat, especially Zakat Harta, for their depositors.

On April 5, MUIB introduced online services as a new alternative to pay Zakat Fitrah. The services were made possible through a collaboration between MUIB, MoRA, DST and BIBD, to facilitate Muslims in paying the obligatory Zakat.

The public has the option of paying Zakat online through BIBD QuickPay and DST’s eZakat starting from 1st to 28th of Ramadhan, 1442 Hijrah.

Borneo Bulletin Online

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 received in audience First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom (UK) Dominic Raab, who is in the country for a two-day working visit, at Istana Nurul Iman.

During the audience ceremony, His Majesty and Raab discussed bilateral cooperation and regional issues of mutual importance to Brunei Darussalam and the UK, which reflects the longstanding relations between both countries.

Accompanying the UK First Secretary were British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam John Virgoe and Head of Southeast Asia Department in London Sarah Catherine Cooke.

Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof was also present.

Borneo Bulletin Online

LONDON (AP) — Buckingham Palace officials say Prince Philip, the husband of Queen Elizabeth II, has died. He was 99.

“It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen has announced the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh,” the palace said. “His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle.”

Philip spent a month in hospital earlier this year before being released on March 16 to return to Windsor Castle.

Philip, also known as the Duke of Edinburgh, married Elizabeth in 1947 and was the longest-serving consort in British history. He retired from public engagements in 2017 after carrying out more than 20,000 of them.

Philip was a member of the Greek royal family and was born on the Greek island of Corfu in 1921. He was an avid sportsman who loved country pursuits. He had four children, eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

More details on Borneo Bulletin Weekend

Borneo Bulletin Online

Aziz Idris

Some 436 Kampong Ukong residents cast their votes yesterday to elect a penghulu and village head to lead the community at Dato Pemancha Saging Ukong Primary School in Tutong.

The objective was to determine whether Haji Mohamad Danial @ Tekpin bin Ya`akub and Muhammad Hakimi bin Abdullah Gampar were well-received as penghulu of Mukim Ukong and village head of Kampong Ukong.

Residents from Kampong Bukit and Kampong Long Mayan will cast their votes for Mukim Ukong penghulu on April 11 at Kampong Bukit Community Hall.

Muhammad Hakimi got the majority vote of 335 out of 341. His nomination as new Kampong Ukong village head will be forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA).

Acting Tutong District Officer Md Amirul Hadi bin Haji Md Tajudin in a speech stressed the importance of the residents’ participation in the election and lauded them for their enthusiasm.

The vote were supervised by officials from Tutong District Office and MoHA’s voting committee members.

Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Haji Ramli bin Haji Lahit was present as Penghulu of Mukim Telisai and Acting Penghulu Mukim Ukong.

The Kampong Ukong village head and Mukim Ukong penghulu posts have been vacant since June 23, 2019.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

Baiduri Bank reached out to underprivileged students with two sponsorship drives for private schools in Belait, Tutong and Brunei-Muara districts.

The bank sponsored school fees for underprivileged students from seven private schools in Belait District on April 7, with the presentation held at the All Seasons Restaurant in KB Sentral Shopping Centre.

The bank’s Head of Group Strategic Marketing and Communications Ng Yick Wei presented the sponsorships to representatives of Chung Ching Middle School, Chung Hua Middle School, Chung Hwa School Labi, Chung Lian School, St Angela’s School, St John’s School and St Margaret’s School.

Yesterday, the sponsorship drive was held for students of schools in Brunei-Muara and Tutong districts, namely from Chung Hwa Middle School, St Andrew’s School, St George’s School, Chung Hwa Schools in Tutong and Kiudang.

Baiduri Bank Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ti Eng Hui presented the sponsorships.

He said the initiative began during Chinese New Year as part of the bank’s efforts to give back to the community during the festive season.

“We hope this humble contribution from the bank can help ease the burden of the students’ families and motivate them to achieve academic excellence, reach their full potential and contribute to society with their knowledge and skills,” said the CEO.

The final sponsorship drive for private school students will be held on April 16 at Pai Yuek School in Temburong District.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

The official importer and dealer of Porsche vehicles in Brunei Darussalam QAF Eurokars Sdn Bhd unveiled the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur – the Crayon 911 Carrera S and 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition – at the Porsche Centre Brunei in Beribi yesterday.

Commissioned by QAF Eurokars exclusively for the Brunei market, the Crayon 911 Carrera S is the first Porsche sports car embedded with the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur logo in the country.

Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Brunei Darussalam Gerda Winkler and QAF Eurokars General Manager Lahiru De Silva unveiled the Crayon 911 Carrera S.

It was followed by the unveiling of the Cherry Metallic 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition, the first of four collector’s pieces of the Heritage Design strategy with a state-of-the-art 911 design elements from the 1950s and early 1960s.

The Porsche 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition is where sports car technology meets historical design and it is limited to only 992 units worldwide.

Historical exterior and interior design elements have been re-interpreted and combined with the latest technology in a special limited edition from Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur.

To showcase the craftsmanship capabilities of Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, the 911 Carrera S comes with a mixture of high-quality materials, such as leather interior package featuring two-tone Bordeaux Red and Crayon. For a sportier appearance, the car comes with an aerokit design, exclusive design tail lights, 20/21-inch Carrera Exclusive Design wheels, sports seat plus leather backrests with decorative inlay and the seat belts coloured and detailed in Crayon.

Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur door sills guard brushed aluminium in darksilver and the aluminium PDK Gear selector adds further exclusivity to the interior.

The theme is a product of the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, a department within Porsche specialising in bespoke modifications for their owners.

“To further enhance our customer experience, we specified the very unique 911 sports car to give owners the chance to own a thoroughbred performance Porsche that is unique to them, guaranteeing even more head-turning moments,” said De Silva.

“Our goal was to provide extreme sportiness, coupled with the fulfilment of individual wishes and requirements. For example, we have accomplished this by offering striking exterior colours featuring a luxurious leather interior, with exclusive interior colour detailing.

“In addition, the 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition is limited to 992 units in the world and we are extremely glad to have the opportunity to bring this limited edition to the market,” he said.

The 911 Carrera S in Crayon will be on display at Porsche Centre Brunei. Members of the public can get up-close with the car.

Every Porsche has always been customisable according to owner’s choice, but Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur is now a stand-alone department responsible for all customisation work conducted by Porsche, including building specialised cars.

The in-house workshop specialises in bespoke Porsche modifications offering a range of services including customer advice, developing special equipment options for each model range and producing limited production runs.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

Following good response at the last roadshow recently, QAF Auto returns with thrilling offers at its Ramadhan Roadshow in The Mall, Gadong.

The three-day event, which will run until tomorrow, features several offers including special financing with low monthly repayments on selected models from as low as BND199 for the first six months. And customers who book their car at the roadshow will be rewarded with a complimentary BMW Advanced Car Eye 2.0 worth BND1,300 including installation.

BMW’s high-powered performance 306bhp BMW M135i xDrive and the M235i xDrive, and the all-new BMW 420i Gran Coupé M Sport with 184bhp are showcased at the roadshow.

Meanwhile, MINI fans can also get an exclusive look at the MINI 5-Door in the iconic British Racing Green and Thunder Grey during the roadshow. In addition, MINI merchandise is also available.

The showcase event also features a test drive and experience on the go-kart hero.

Every sign-up entitles customers to either a home decor shopping voucher worth up to BND3,000, electronic appliances voucher worth up to BND3,000, extended warranty up to five years/200K kilometres, Land Transport Department-approved car tint, roadside assistance coverage up to three years and trade-in plan.

Customers will also be entitled to lucky draw with prizes such as discounts on MINI lifestyle merchandise, Supa Save shopping vouchers, Hari Raya hampers and one-year car detailing package.

Borneo Bulletin Online

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 received in audience First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom (UK) Dominic Raab at the Ministry of Finance and Economy (MoFE) yesterday.

Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew and Raab welcomed the warm and long-standing relations between Brunei Darussalam and the UK and acknowledged the mutual interests to strengthen bilateral engagements.

The minister discussed the UK’s support for Brunei Darussalam’s economic diversification efforts and potential areas of cooperation including Fintech and renewable energy.

The UK First Secretary also reiterated the UK’s interest to enhance ties with ASEAN by becoming an ASEAN Dialogue Partner, and expressed interest for a possible 2^nd ASEAN UK Economic Dialogue this year. He also sought Brunei Darussalam’s support for the UK’s application to accede to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.

Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew shared on Brunei Darussalam National Climate Change Policy which aims to pave climate change resilient pathways for sustainable nation.

Raab briefed on the UK’s aspirations as Chair of the 26^th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) which is scheduled to be held on November 1 – 12 in Glasgow, UK.

Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Economy) Dato Seri Paduka Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, Permanent Secretary (Investment) at the MoFE Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abdul Hamid and Permanent Secretary (Economy) at the MoFE Dr Hajah May Fa’ezah binti Haji Ahmad Ariffin were also present.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Rokiah Mahmud

With the approach of the holy month of Ramadhan, 154.5 tonnes of Safawy dates (kurma) will be distributed to all Muslims in the country, irrespective of their age and citizenship status.

Each recipient will get a 300-gramme box of dates, supplied by Al-Madinah Dates Company in Saudi Arabia. The dates are a personal gift (Kurnia Peribadi) from 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, in conjunction with Ramadhan 1442 Hijrah.

Starting yesterday, the distribution process will be carried out in phases, throughout the month of Ramadhan. Meanwhile, Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah has allocated several distribution points for members of the public, through their respective village heads.

Civil servants can obtain the dates through their respective ministries and departments, while officers and staff members in registered private companies can collect the dates through their respective firms.

“Yayasan is depending on the support and collaboration from all parties, in ensuring smooth coordination in the distribution of the dates,” said Yayasan in a statement.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Rokiah Mahmud

Former commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Major General (Rtd) Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud was conferred ‘The Knight Grand Cross (First Class) of the Most Noble Order of the Crown of Thailand’ by His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua yesterday, in recognition of his significant contribution and outstanding accomplishment in strengthening relations between RBAF and Royal Thai Armed Forces.

Ambassador of Thailand to Brunei Darussalam Wanthanee Viputwongsakul and other officials of the Royal Thai Embassy in Brunei Darussalam were present during a conferment ceremony at the embassy.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Aziz Idris

First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom (UK) Dominic Raab is keen on exploring new opportunities with Brunei to enhance relations between the two countries, including trade, security cooperation, modern sustainable economy, threats to cyber and the roles in the ‘Indo-pacific Tilt’.

“UK-Brunei have a rich history together. We look forward to building an even stronger relationship for the future,” he said in an exclusive interview with the Weekend Bulletin hosted by the British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam John Virgoe on Thursday.

He said “the dynamics of our people, the blistering trade, security cooperation with the garrison and new threats like cyber” are the areas being explored to see “how we can do more to support each other. We have forged bilateral cooperation for development in various fields. The visit will explore where we can do more. We are optimistic of making good progress”, he added.

Raab, who visited Indonesia on Wednesday before arriving in Brunei for the first time, received an audience with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam on Thursday. He also held meetings with his Bruneian counterparts from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs along with the Ministry of Finance and Economy.

The British Foreign Secretary who looks forward to Brunei hosting the ASEAN Summit later this year, expressed confidence that Brunei can forge a dynamic partnership in the region to advocate climate commitments.

He described Brunei’s Chairmanship for ASEAN as a “force-multiplier” given the Sultanate’s exceptional progress on renewable technologies — “something that the UK is trying to do”.

Raab’s visit is also timely with the UK’s bid as ASEAN’s Dialogue Partners, considering the country’s existing substantive linkages and prospective contributions to ASEAN Community-building. On hosting the 26^th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) this year by the UK, he said that COVID-19 hasn’t stopped the climate emergency conference.

“As Chair, UK can encourage others to take ever more ambitious action to the Paris Agreement on climate change,” he said. The foreign secretary has actively expressed his commitment to supporting international students, ensuring that they will not be forgotten as the vaccine is being administered.

He reaffirmed that the COVID-19 treatment, including the vaccines, will be provided to all students according to procedures. “Bruneian students should be able to access these vaccinations, just as they are able to access healthcare,” he explained.

Raab’s visit signals Britain’s keenness to bolster relations with countries in the region “because the Indo-Pacific tilt is vital for the UK to grasp the economic opportunities and rise to the new challenges ahead”.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman, Rokiah Mahmud & Izah Azahari

Donations are flowing into homes across the nation in the run-up to the holy month of Ramadhan.

Brunei Darussalam Insan Seni Group handed over donations to 40 orphans and underprivileged individuals from Brunei-Muara District on Friday in a ceremony at Soto Pabo in Kampong Pintu Malim.

Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar presented the donations.

The annual charitable drive looks to lessen the burden shouldered by recipients, and serves as a medium to seek blessings from Allah the Almighty.

A Tahlil recitation was also held for the departed.

Meanwhile, the Council of Women of Brunei Darussalam (CWBD) on Friday held its first Bantu Keluarga Kitani Project (Foodbox Ramadhan) targetting 177 families across the four districts.

The project was this year organised by the Women Graduates Association of Brunei Darussalam (PSW), a CWBD-affiliated association.

CWBD President Datin Hajah Siti Hajar binti Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yusof, along with the presidents of the other associations, handed over to recipients the foodbox containing essentials in the form of rice, sugar, cooking oil, eggs and drinks, among others.

Eleven CWBD-affiliated associations were involved in the project, including the Women’s Business Council of Brunei Darussalam. Each association provided aid to between seven and 10 families, including families of association members.

The project aims to instil compassion towards those in need, and cultivate a spirit of care and responsibility in alleviating poverty.

Additionally, members of BMW owners organised the annual Muslim cemetery spruce up in Kampong Kilanas on Friday.

Mohammad Zairulkamal bin Haji Mat Zaini and Haji Hasbie bin Bujang led the charitable project. The initiative was held in memory of departed loved ones, and to foster ties among members in conducting community and welfare activities.

A Tahlil and Doa Arwah were also read.

Donations for the Kampong Kilanas Mosque orphans fund was also handed over by BMW owners representative Hajah Rosni binti Haji Yahya to Kampong Kilanas Acting Village Head Haji Amirul Bahraini bin Haji Abdul Hamid.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Izah Azahari

The Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) Zikir Nation Education Symposium was launched at the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) targetting a wider audience of civil servants and educators.

In his welcoming remarks, Director of the Core Knowledge Centre of KUPU SB Ustaz Kharhan bin Haji Jait said compared to previous lectures which focussed on students, the ones at the current symposium had an expanded scope for senior officials, government officers, MIB instructors at higher education institutions, curriculum officers from the Ministry of Education and MIB teachers at government and private sector schools.

The director said the symposium is also hoped to open up space and opportunities for KUPU SB to work with other agencies and experts, so that its activities remain relevant, holistic and effective.

Some of the activities in the works, include the addition of the symposium as an annual event of the MIB Supreme Council, exploring areas of cooperation in research, seminars and writing with government and private higher education institutions, competitions and exhibitions related to MIB and Islamic education at primary, secondary and pre-university levels.

The symposium also aims at providing a better understanding of the importance of a Zikir Nation and the MIB concept, in addition to strengthening the appreciation and practice of MIB and the Bruneian identity.

The event, co-organised by KUPU SB and the Secretariat Office of the MIB Supreme Council, began with the recitation of the Asma Ul-Husna and singing of the national anthem Allah Peliharakan Sultan, along with the recitation of Surah Al-Mujadalah Verses 11 to 12 by Education Officer at the KUPU SB Core Knowledge Centre Ustaz Haji Nasrul Fakhri bin Haji Yahya.

The event then continued with a video presentation on the Proclamation of Brunei Darussalam’s Independence Day 1984 and the en masse ‘laungan takbir’ of the Declaration of Independence followed by a Hadrah performance from KUPU SB students before the symposium was officially launched by Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman in his capacity as a member of the MIB Supreme Council 2021-2024.

The minister then delivered a lecture on ‘Pendidikan Negara Zikir Berfalsafahkan Melayu Islam Beraja’. The afternoon session saw a special nadwah titled ‘Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) Education’ by Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong and chaired by KUPU SB Ra’es Dr Haji Adanan
bin Haji Basar.

The symposium also features numerous exhibitions on MIB, kites, gasing, archery and pencak silat. Also present at the launch were Legislative Council members, permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, representatives of universities, senior government officers and government officers, lecturers, teachers, and higher education students.

The symposium will continue on April 20 featuring a lecture by State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned.

Borneo Bulletin Online