The third Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) Postgraduate Colloquium 2021 was an opportunity for postgraduate students across faculties and schools at the university to network with their peers and established scholars in their fields of study, said UTB Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman during the one-day event held recently.

“This colloquium will provide an insight into what other postgraduate students are researching on,” she said.

Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah said she hoped that the colloquium brings together postgraduate students to share their research findings and create networks for future collaboration. “It may open doors for the young researchers to identify other disciplines of interest for their PhD work and it will help to discover how multidisciplinary research can be integrated and therefore benefit for their further research skills and career development”, she said.

The vice-chancellor said research activities at the university has developed ever since the upgrade of UTB to a university status in 2018 through strategic partnerships with industries and reputable universities, admission of postgraduate students, UTB’s research centres, and enhanced research culture and enterprise.

“In the current strategic plan of 2019-2023, research scopes at UTB have expanded to include impact, tangible products, technopreneurship culture and enterprise,” said the vice-chancellor. She said that amid COVID-19, the number of research publications and citations in 2020 increased to 166 and 1,369.

The colloquium was organised by the Faculty of Engineering (FEng) and Graduate Studies and Research Office and carried the theme ‘Impactful Research for the Society’.

The event aimed to bring postgraduate students to discuss the latest development in respective research areas such as engineering, technology and design; accounting, business management and economics; applied sciences and mathematics; and computing and informatics.

It also expected to generate more interest among participants in terms of sharing their research findings, creating a platform for wider discussion across area of specialisation and developing new research ideas, innovations and collaborations. The colloquium, which was divided into four parallel sessions were delivered by 53 graduate students comprising of 23 papers from the Faculty of Engineering, seven papers from the School of Computing and Informatics, 16 papers from UTB School of Business, six from the School of Applied Sciences and Mathematics, and a paper from the School of Design.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon, Izah Azahari, Daniel Lim & Fadley Faisal

Religious ceremonies and donation presentations were held over the last few days, in the run-up to Ramadhan.

The Kampong Kilanas Mosque Takmir Committee members organised a Tahlil and Doa Arwah ceremony, along with a donation for orphans and mass Isyak prayer at Kampong Kilanas Mosque.

Minister of Defence II and Patron of Kampong Kilanas Mosque Takmir Committee Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof handed over the cash donations to 19 orphans.

The funds were derived from donations boxes set up for orphans of Kampong Kilanas.

Advisors, mosque Takmir committee members, guests, orphans and guardians, congregants and residents from the area also attended.

Meanwhile, the Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM) distributed Al-Quran to 45 students of Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Girls Arabic Religious Secondary School(SUAMPRIPAHS).

The Years 7-11 students are from lower income groups, identified by the school.

Al-Quran with Malay translations are needed for their studies.

Principal Hajah Azizah binti Haji Mohammad expressed gratitude for the donation. MKM President Mohd Yusof bin Halim said a donation drive was immediately set up after MKM learnt of the students’ need for Al-Quran. “The response was overwhelming and we intend to extend this assistance to other Arabic schools in the country,” he said.

Serikandi Group of Companies (GoC) also stepped forward with a donation for 20 families in Belait District, under the Nadi Eksplorasi Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) Mosque’s ‘Siuknya Berbagi 2.0’ programme.

Serikandi GoC Chairman and Managing Director Shaikh Haji Khalid bin Shaikh Haji Ahmad handed over the donations to the families at the event at STKRJ Lorong 3 Selatan Mosque in Seria.

Shaikh Haji Khalid also presented a donation to the Nadi Eksplorasi KUPU SB Fundraiser – received by representatives Dr Haji Sham bin Haji Amin and Dr Haji Roslan bin Haji Untong; and STKRJ Mosque Charity Fund – received by the mosque Imam.

Meanwhile, a 50-member team from Radio Television Brunei (RTB) headed over to the Belait District for the Jalinan Kasih charity project.

Project chairman cum Assistant Head of Programmes Muhammad Alim bin Sani led the team to the homes of four families to distribute food items sponsored by Hamitan Group and SKH. Members from RTB Radio Section and Brusin Sdn Bhd also handed over financial aid to the families.

The annual RTB project aims to support the government’s aspiration of fostering a community that reaches out to the underprivileged.

This year marks the 13^th installation of the project of giving back to the community.

Additionally, the Rotary Club of Bandar Seri Begawan (Rotary Club BSB) handed over food aid to Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah (PMMPMHAMB) Hospital in Tutong, for needy families in Tutong District. Eight club members handed over the food items to Medical Social Worker Unit for distribution.

Chief Executive Officer Abdul Mu’iz bin Haji Ibrahim, Senior Hospital Administrator Rabi’atul ‘Adawiyah binti Haji Reduan and Hospital Administrator Haji Mohammad Danil bin Haji Othman witnessed the contribution hand over.

Rotary Club BSB President Clement Yong said “This Raya giveaway is the club’s annual contribution to the needy. We hope this will bring smiles to the families.”

Borneo Bulletin Online

Babu-Nya: Season 2 will premiere on OOPs! YouTube channel today. The locally produced sitcom stars acclaimed actress, Mimi Rahzia as the central character ‘Babu’.

Co-starring in the family-orientated series are Shafiee Mostar, Ian Zulkifli, Umi Raudhah, Farah Majid, Amir Rasid, Ikhlas Sahfri and making his acting debut, Bintang Search’s finalist, Najrul Maznibi.

Babu-Nya : Season 2 will feature 18 episodes and will be aired at 7.30pm from Monday to Thursday throughout Ramadhan.

Show creator Siti Kamaluddin said making a show for the fasting month is fulfilling because of its important cultural and religious significance.

The Babu-Nya series was launched in 2020 to capture life in Brunei during COVID-19.

Siti Kamaluddin revealed that Babu-Nya : Season 2 continues to feature local issues ranging from trendy culinary pop-ups to illegal cable thefts.

“Local dramas should be relevant at the time of broadcast. There is so much competition for viewers it seems counter-productive not to feature current issues,” she added.

Throughout pre-production, a number of local film directors were invited on set to observe the Origin production.

They were given access to the filming process while observing safety protocols and health guidelines.

Over 80 local workers have been employed for the series including two graduates and three students from Mahakarya Institute of the Arts Asia.

Sound recordist Alfath Sellahuddin, who was employed right after graduating said, “It is meaningful and important to me to know that my work and contributions are added to the production of the series.”

Each week, trivias, contests and behind-the–scene and exclusive footages of cast will be aired on www.oops-brunei.com.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) in collaboration with Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre (PJSC) and Brunei Breast Cancer Support Group (BBCSG) increased awareness on breast cancer through a sharing session recently.

Preventive measures, importance of self-examination and early-detection screening for cancer were shared by survivors and carers of those diagnosed with the disease during a session conducted by PJSC’s Oncology Specialist Dr Raden Mas Jeffri bin Raden Mas Ismail, BBCSG President Hajah Aminah binti Haji Momin @ Ratu Hajah Aminah binti Pangeran Hawa Haji Momin and BBCSG Secretary Datin Hajah Jaliha binti Haji Momin @ Ratu Datin Hajah Jaliha binti Pangeran Hawa Haji Momin.

It was hoped that AMBD employees would benefit from the session by fostering a better sense of responsibility towards their health, and support those who are, or have suffered, from breast cancer.

The event concluded with a donation handover collected through AMBD’s Pinktober 2020 Donation Drive, presented by AMBD Managing Director Hajah Rokiah binti Haji Badar to Hajah Aminah. The donation drive was conducted internally among AMBD employees to contribute mastectomy bras and breast prosthetics for survivors and patients.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Hakim Hayat

The second round of voting and selection for Mukim Ukong’s Penghulu candidate was held at the Kampong Bukit Community Hall in Tutong District recently for Kampong Bukit and Kampong Long Mayan residents, which followed a similar event held last Friday for residents of Kampong Ukong.

Tutong District received only one candidate, Mohammad Danial @ Tekpin bin Ya’akub, 57, according to Acting Tutong District Officer Md Amirul Hadi bin Haji Md Tajudin. The candidate went through a screening process and was brought to the voting process as the sole candidate.

A total of 281 people registered for voting, out of 829 eligible voters, excluding those who registered on the day.

Before the voting, Mukim Ukong residents were briefed on the procedures by Acting Special Duties Officer Level II of the Tutong District Office Mohammad Shazry.

A total of 502 voted for the candidate out of 780 eligible and registered voters, where 469 agreed, 26 did not agree and seven were spoilt votes.

The voting results will be submitted to the Appointment and Discipline Board of the Mukim Penghulu and Village Head at the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Haji Ramli bin Haji Lahit, who is Acting Penghulu of Mukim Ukong since 2019, was also present.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman

Echoes of the Sunnat Tarawikh and Witir prayers were heard from mosques, suraus and religious halls nationwide last evening as Brunei Darussalam begins fasting in the blessed month of Ramadhan today.

It was followed by the recitation of Al-Quran in the Tedarus ceremony as congregants glorify the first night of Ramadhan.

Twelve shots of the cannon were fired from Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital yesterday by the Military Police of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF).

The nation begins fasting today after the new moon to determine the start of Ramadhan was not sighted on Monday.

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 wishes for Muslims in Brunei Darussalam to be able to perform this year’s fasting obligation without any obstacle or interference.

His Majesty said this in a titah yesterday on the occasion of the month of Ramadhan.

“Apart from other religious obligations, Insya Allah we will be able to double the Sunnat obligations such as reciting Al-Quran and giving alms among others to be blessed with rewards and blessings,” His Majesty said.

As the world still struggles with the coronavirus pandemic, His Majesty praised Allah the Almighty that it is with His permission that Brunei is able to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

The monarch added, “This is good news for Muslims in this country, in particular, to be able to perform the fasting obligation in a comfortable environment, which is also a blessing to Brunei.

“We must show our gratitude by none other than performing loyalty and religious obligations to Allah the Almighty. At this moment, the priority is to fast throughout the month of Ramadhan.

“This is what Bruneians do in seeking blessings and graces. Hence, do not change this.”

Taking into account the current situation, His Majesty urged for the observation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) outlined by the authorities to continue, adding that it is imperative not to “ignore precautionary measures, for as long as they are needed”.

His Majesty continued, “We are not sure when this virus will end and when the world will be free from it. No one can predict that. Hence, the need to be cautious must continue.

“All daily activities must be done with prudence, including gatherings, recreational pursuits and shopping. If the SOPs must be observed, then it must be adhered to. We must continue with the new normal for safety and health purposes, particularly in performing the fast.

“Unlike last year when we were not able to visit mosques, suraus and religious halls for Friday prayers, daily prayers and Sunnat Tarawikh prayers, Alhamdulillah the current situation in the country will not prevent us from visiting religious places this year.

“After performing the month-long fasting, we will celebrate Hari Raya. May Allah the Almighty grant us all with health to be able to celebrate in a peaceful and safe environment.”

Concluding the titah, His Majesty called on the people to lead prudent lifestyle by factoring in the current economic climate, adding that “being frugal can only bring benefits to our lives”.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad

A forum on ‘Preparation of the Holy Fasting Month of Ramadhan, the Heart Servicing Month’ took place at Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam Mosque in Kampong Jerudong recently.

It was conducted by the An Naafi charity group in collaboration with the mosque. The forum focussed on preparing for Ramadhan and the need to be physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally prepared.

The forum panel comprised Dr Haji Harapandi Amaq Hairani and Hajah Aisyah Radhiah binti Haji Gani from Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB); Health Education Officer Siti Munawwarah binti Tarif from the Ministry of Health; and Rif’at bin Hj Anwari as the moderator and Spouse of the Minister of Religious Affairs Datin Hajah Nahriah binti Haji Asbi as the guest of honour.

The event began with the recital of Surah Al-Fatihah and concluded with a Doa Selamat.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Pengiran Anak Puteri Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Secondary School

Daniel Lim

Some 40 participants from Pengiran Anak Puteri Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Secondary School held a cleaning campaign at Kampong Labi Mosque and handed over Wakaf.

Deputy Principal of Administration Nazli Noor binti Haji Marmin led the event, organised by the school’s administration, Parent Teacher Association (PTA), Student Representative Council (MPP) and the Peer Counsellor (PRS).

Legislative Council member and Advisor to the Kampong Labi Mosque Takmir Committee Yang Berhormat Hanapi bin Mohd Siput welcomed the group.

Kampong Wasan and Batang Perhentian

Lyna Mohamad

Kampong Wasan and Batang Perhentian villagers held a cleaning campaign at Lakang, Rangau and Luagan Muslim Cemetery recently. The cleaning campaign was followed by the recitation of Tahlil.

Acting Village Head of Kampong Panchor Murai and Kampong Wasan Haji Ismail bin Haji Jumat was present.

Belait District Senior Citizen Activity Centre

Daniel Lim

Belait District Senior Citizen Activity Centre (PKWE) held a cleaning campaign at Tanjong Muslim Cemetery recently.

The centre’s Chairman K Salim bin Abdul Karim led the group of 12 committee members.

A Tahlil ceremony was held.

Kampong Jangsak

Azlan Othman

Kampong Jangsak residents and Bukit Dadap Recreational Park committee members spruced up the Tekuyung and Selancang Muslim Cemetery and paid respect to the departed.

MPK Kampong Tanjung Bunut

The Village Consultative Council (MPK) of Kampong Tanjung Bunut organised a cemetery cleaning activity involving over 30 volunteers at Sepayau and Pakuan cemeteries.

The volunteers started the annual activity at 7am at Sepayau before moving on to Pakuan at 8.30am. The activity concluded with a Tahlil and Doa Arwah at Taman Miaji attended by MPK members and Tanjung Bunut residents.

RPN Kampong Rimba Gadong

Izah Azahari

RPN Kampong Rimba Gadong committee members and residents held a cleaning campaign at a cemetery at Area 4 RPN Kampong Rimba.

Acting Village Head of Area 4 of RPN Kampong Rimba Gadong Captain (Rtd) Haji Julkepli bin Haji Ibrahim led the campaign.

RPN Kg Panaga Neighbourhood Watch

Daniel Lim

RPN Kampong Panaga Neighbourhood Watch organised a cleaning campaign at a cemetery near the old ferry terminal in Kuala Belait recently.

Some 26 participants comprising Neighbourhood Watch members, volunteers from Belait Police Station and Kampong Pandan Village Consultative Council (MPK) took part.

The campaign also saw the recitation of Tahlil in remembrance of the departed.

Welfare and Sports Body of Survey Department

Rokiah Mahmud

The Welfare and Sports Body of the Survey Department (BAUKUR) organised a cleaning campaign at a Muslim cemetery in Kampong Sengkarai.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Rokiah Mahmud

Following a gloomy period in 2020, Ramadhan vendors are back in business under a new normal, at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

Under the 5^th de-escalation plan, visitors are required to adhere to the implemented standard operating procedures (SOPs) by scanning the BruHealth QR code at several
entry points.

Razalina binti Haji Dullah, a grilled food vendor at Gerai Ramadhan Belia, said that the bustling atmosphere was very different from the few traders conducting drive-through services on the same premises last year.

“Alhamdulillah, it’s only the first day and customers have been turning up to support us,” she said.

“We will adhere to the SOPs and we hope for better business than last year’s Ramadhan.”

Dayangku Nur Waiedah, who sells Korean-style chicken wings at the FWINGS stall, told the Bulletin, “This is our first participation in the bazaar. Normally, we would conduct our business activities in Batu Bersurat.

“The COVID-19 experience last year gave us a broader platform, through social media. Now, our regular customers just place their orders by text or come here to purchase our chicken wings.”

One visitor, Mohammad Sa’ahrulreimy bin Haji Lamit, expressed his delight at being able to go food hunting again at Ramadhan stalls.

“This is a highly anticipated event for the public. Some of the food sold here is only available during the month of Ramadhan,” he said.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman

The month of Ramadhan is full of blessings, in which Allah the Almighty has made it obligatory for Muslims to fast. In this holy month, the gates of heaven are opened and the gates of hell are closed and the devils are bound.

There is also one night that is better than a 1,000 months. Whoever is kept away from the virtues of this month, means he is far from all forms of virtues.

This was said by State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Dr Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned during a special talk in conjunction with the beginning of Ramadhan, broadcast on Radio Television Brunei yesterday.

“Ramadhan is the holy month that purifies the sins of the repentant, the month that comes to elevate the ranks of the faithful and the obedient believers to Allah the Almighty. In this month, Allah the Almighty also revealed His books, including Al-Quran, which was revealed on the 24^th night of Ramadhan. There is also another opinion that Al-Quran was revealed on Monday, 17^th of Ramadhan.”

The State Mufti added that fasting in the month of Ramadhan is very special and distinctive. “Among its privileges are it helps to get rid of sins, inviting forgiveness and getting ‘two’ joys namely happiness to break fast after completing the obligatory fasting and when such fasting, the person ‘meets’ Allah the Almighty.”

Fasting, he stressed, is refraining from eating and drinking and the desires of lust to gain the blessing of Allah the Almighty. It has the status of “secret” between the servant and his God. In a sense, no one can know whether it is true that the servant is fasting or not, only Allah the Almighty knows.

The State Mufti added that Ramadhan is a month of patience and whoever enlivens Ramadhan patiently, his reward is paradise. “Struggling to resist the influence of consuming food and lust, according to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was the greatest challenge, beating that on the battlefield,” the State Mufti added.

“This struggle lasts for a month. We should strengthen that patience so that we can succeed and reject all influences to bring it down,” he said.

“The world’s battle with the coronavirus is not over. Let’s take this opportunity to sharpen our Doa (prayer) as the opportunity of the doors of heaven are wide open,” the State Mufti said.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman

Based on the fatwa issued by the State Mufti, the intramuscular injection of any medication during Ramadhan will not invalidate the fast, the Ministry of Health (MoH) said on its Instagram account.

The ruling was highlighted in the State Mufti’s Fatwa Series (13/95) and (19/88).

On the issue of whether the COVID-19 nasal swab test is permissible during Ramadhan, the State Mufti ruled that if the insertion of the swab device should exceed the base of the nose (khaisyum), then it will invalidate the fast.

If the swab device is not inserted too deep within the base of the nose, then it will not invalidate the fast.

However, as a precautionary measure, the State Mufti said that it would be more feasible to conduct the swab test at night during Ramadhan, to avoid interfering with the fast through the voluntary insertion of an object into a body orifice.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman

The opening ceremony of the nationwide Tedarus Al-Quran, signifying the start of the holy month of Ramadhan, was held at Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque in the capital on Tuesday.

The ceremony was organised by the Ministry of Religious Affairs through the Mosque Affairs Department.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, followed by Tadabbur Al-Quran by Special Duties Officer, Grade II at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Haji Yussof bin Haji Majid, and Tedarus Al-Quran recitation by participants.

Doa Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam was read by Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Haji Emran bin Haji Kunchang.

Tedarus Al-Quran at mosques, suraus and religious halls is one of the symbols to glorify the place of worship.

Muslims together recite Al-Quran and enliven the blessed month with acts of worship to gain forgiveness from Allah the Almighty. Ramadhan is of great significance in the life of a Muslim with double reward from Allah the Almighty for religious practices observed during
this period.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projected Brunei Darussalam’s economy to grow by 3.2 per cent this year while the Asian Development Bank (ADB) forecast it at three per cent. The Centre for Strategic and Policy Studies (CSPS) of Brunei Darussalam forecast the nation’s growth rate at 2.8 per cent.

The Department of Economic Planning and Statistics at the Ministry of Finance and Economy stated that Brunei Darussalam’s economy last year grew by 1.2 per cent. This was attributed to an increase in the non-oil and gas sector by nine per cent.

The Asean +3 Macroeconomic Research Outlook (AMRO) in its recent publication also projected the nation’s economy to grow by around 0.9 per cent last year, despite contraction in the oil and gas sector in the fourth quarter of last year. The financial sector remains sound with credit risks under control, amid slowing credit growth.

AMRO also said in 2021, the Sultanate’s economic growth is projected to rebound by 3.1 per cent, based on the assumption of improving world oil demand and the commencement of some large investment projects.

Meanwhile, Brunei’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation turned positive in 2020. Inflation, which was –0.4 per cent in 2019, has been rising since the beginning of the year and reached 2.6 per cent in June 2020, with an average of 1.9 per cent for the first nine months of the year, the report added.

The increase in inflation is partly reflected by COVID-19 supply chain disruptions and the weakening of the exchange rates, which led to higher prices in imported food items and household products. Inflation is estimated at 1.7 per cent in 2020 and projected to be 1.2 per cent in 2021.

During the last Legislative Council (LegCo) meeting, it was highlighted that the preliminary forecast of the Sultanate’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate for this year is between 0.8 to 1.6 per cent whereby the agriculture, fisheries and forestry sectors are expected to grow between two to 5.4 per cent, industrial sector at one to 1.9 per cent and the services sector at 0.3 to one per cent.

The AMRO report also stressed for efforts to diversify Brunei Darussalam’s economy through various structural reforms to be continued to improve the prospects for economic growth in the future.

It also states that the main risk for Brunei’s economy in the longer term is from its high dependence on the oil and gas sector. The COVID-19 pandemic provides an important lesson that a broad-based global recession can lead to a decline in world demand and oil prices, which in turn affecting economic growth, fiscal balance and the external sector of Brunei.

In the short term, any economic recovery from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic will depend on global oil demand and the realisation of major FDI projects, the report stated.

But the report said improvements in the former will have a significant impact on the economy, given the large role of the oil and gas sector in the country. The forecast for economic growth in 2021 also depends on the startup production of the Brunei fertiliser industry, as well as the commencement of the Hengyi Phase 2 project construction.

Banks continue to be well capitalised, with ample liquidity and reasonable profitability.

The policy of deferment of principal or interest payments since April 2020 has been successful in containing the deterioration in the non-performing loan ratio.

AMRO also said the fiscal deficit has increased in recent years, due to the sharp decline in oil and gas revenues. After recording a surplus of 0.2 per cent of GDP in financial year (FY) 2018/19, the fiscal balance again recorded a deficit of five per cent of GDP in FY 2019/20.

Although the government has succeeded in its fiscal consolidation efforts, as evidenced by the decline in current spending, the decline in oil and gas prices has resulted in an increase in the deficit in recent years.

In the financial year 2020/21, the sharp fall in oil and gas prices, accompanied by a reduction in the volume of oil exports in OPEC countries, contributed to a widening deficit, estimated at 11.1 per cent of GDP. This deficit is expected to improve to 5.4 per cent in the next fiscal year, in line with expectations of increasing world oil demand and prices.

It was also reported during the LegCo meeting recently, that the government has recorded a deficit of BND1.03 billion for the financial year 2019-2020.

Meanwhile, the government’s expenditure up to February 28, amounted to BND4.44 billion, which is 75.7 per cent of the allocation approved for the financial year 2020-2021. Revenue was BND1.46 billion.

As such, the government’s fiscal position for the financial year 2020-2021 up to February 28, has recorded a deficit of BND2.98 billion.

As for the projected revenue and expenditure for financial year 2021-2022, BND1.52 billion is from the oil and gas sector and BND1.09 from non-oil and gas sector. The deficit is projected to be BND3.25 billion.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Aziz Idris

The Gerai Ramadhan in Tutong District has returned after a one-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 outbreak that put a halt to the popular event in the local community last year.

Across the road from the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Hospital in a typically empty lot, more than 100 vendors fired up grills and line rows of plastic tubs and baskets filled with local favourites, ready to service hungry visitors.

Many buy in bulk to bring home to break a long day of fasting with family.

Before the pandemic, some of these vendors had been selling at the lot for decades.

Last year, the majority of them had to resort to online selling at the height of health concerns. Some operated home-based stalls to make ends meet, while others halted their
businesses entirely.

With most restrictions in the country eased, the vendors were delighted to be back, selling everything from kueh malaya to ikan salai (grilled fish).

When COVID-19 restrictions cancelled most public activity last year, Zuryati Zain used the pre-order and drive-thru business concept to stay in operation. “The response was okay, but nothing beats the ‘live-cooking’ that we have here,” she told the Bulletin. Her business, Marzu Enterprise, specialises in grilled meat. However, due to shortages, they have replaced their menu with grilled fish instead. They sold out on the first day.

“I guess people have craving for street food,” she said.

Izam Suhaili of Ayam Tajau decided to join the Gerai Ramadhan Tutong to pay homage to
his town.

When the bazaar was cancelled last year, Izam operated from home and offered delivery services to his customers, and marketed the business using social media. “Although the digitised annual Gerai Ramadhan saw positive feedback, we still prefer having a physical stall where we can prepare the food in front of our customers,” said Izam.

Sharing the same sentiment was Nurliyana of Ikan Percik. Like Izam she turned to social media to market her signature grilled fish last year. She is glad to be able to join this year’s gerai albeit under strict standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Under the government’s 5th de-escalation plan, patrons are required to adhere to the implemented SOPs by scanning the BruHealth QR code at several entry points.

The bazaar opens from 2pm to 6pm daily, until the last day of Ramadhan.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

Ambassador of Thailand to Brunei Darussalam Wanthanee Viputwongsakul paid a visit to Siam Safetech (B) Sdn Bhd at Bangunan Na’asihah Noralam in the capital recently.

Managing Director Thiti Suwansawang and the management team welcomed the visiting ambassador and officials, before taking them on a tour of the facility.

The ambassador was briefed on the business, vision, and human resource management policy of Siam Safetech, which is a joint venture company between Thailand and Brunei Darussalam that specialises in providing engineering and maintenance services for power station operators.

The company is in a long-term service agreement with the Brunei Government to help service and maintain power stations across various districts. It plans to further expand its business ventures into other energy-related areas.

To accomplish this goal, the company placed great importance on human resource development by providing extensive training programmes and transfers of technology to Bruneians, as well as extracurricular activities to promote good work-life balance and a self-sustainable future for the employees.

The company has 32 employees, 23 of whom are local.

The ambassador is pleased with the expanding cooperation between Thailand and Brunei in the field of trade and investment.

The ambassador and managing director also discussed joint social activities, such as blood donation drives, which the embassy has been holding since 2019.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Lyna Mohamad & Daniel Lim

In the hopes of creating a healthier populace, Fitness Zone founder and international celebrity Wu Chun has donated over BND100,000 worth of gym and sports equipment to four establishments – Tutong Sports Complex, Chung Hwa School Tutong, Chung Hua Middle School Belait and Sayyidina Ali Secondary School in Kuala Belait.

The Deed of Transfer signing ceremony was held at the Tutong Sports Complex between Tutong Sports Complex and Fitness Zone.

Wu Chun handed over two treadmills, one upright bike and one cross trainer to Haji Shahron bin Haji Shamsudin from the Tutong Youth and Sports Department.

“We thank Fitness Zone and Wu Chun for choosing us. We greatly appreciate the donation and your efforts in advocating good health for the community,” said Haji Shahron.

At Chung Hwa School Tutong, Wu Chun and his father, Goh Kim Tian, handed over two treadmills and two spinning bikes to School Committee Chairperson Soon Seng Lee.

Following the handover, Wu Chun and his father toured the school. Wu Chun also delivered a motivational talk, sharing how he often competed in school basketball matches 25 years earlier, and how it “feels good to be back”.

The donations hope to highlight the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle, and to serve as a mood-lifter – being one of the benefits of exercising.

Meanwhile, Chung Hua Middle School in Kuala Belait received four treadmills, one upright bike and three spinning bikes.

After presenting the donation to Principal Dr Chong Kui Kian, Wu Chun shared with students how he has always prioritised health, and on how to strike a balance between work and staying healthy.

The donations were made to mark Fitness Zone’s 18th anniversary.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman

Laksamana College of Business (LCB) International Tourism Management, Events Management and KCB Airline Hospitality Business students recently experienced tourism ‘in action’ during a field trip to Alai Gayoh Anak Pulau (HAGAP) in Kampong Bukit Udal, Tutong.

They were brought for an overnight trip to Alai Gayoh Anak Pulau to learn about cultural tourism and the Dusun ethnic group.

On the first day, they toured a mini museum around a longhouse followed by a talk on Brunei Dusun Materials Culture and Linguistic by Benson bin Tunggong and Haji Mohammed Syafien bin Yandol.

On the second day, they went on a biodiversity walk led by ASEAN’s Brunei Biodiversity Hero (ABBH) and a number of guides. They also learnt to play Dusun traditional music from Benson, who was assisted by Eyad Samhan Haji Mohammed Syafien.

The visit was part of the students’ module aimed to add context and substance to study materials and reinforces concepts learned throughout the academic years.

Borneo Bulletin Online

Azlan Othman

A total of 173 students, 15 lecturers and non-teaching staff participated in the Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College (MDPMAMB) Virtual Fun Walk 2021 recently.

Forty winners in the students’ category received their awards. Mohammad Aiman bin Johari finished top in the male students’ category, with a three-day accumulated walk of 141.93 kilometres.

Ayumi Qistina binti Haji Abdul Kadir won the female students’ category, with 148.61 kilometres. The virtual competition was held from March 12-14.

MDPMAMB Deputy Principal of Administration Dayangku Zalina binti Pengiran Haji Aliuddin also participated.

MDPMAMB Acting Principal Hajah Monaliza binti Haji Abdul Halim presented the prizes.

Borneo Bulletin Online

James Kon

Food trucks selling iftar meals are now available in the open space area near the Baiduri Bank headquarters, with the launch of the ‘Urban Bites by Baiduri’ initiative yesterday.

Vendors from Moonlight Kitchen, Casbah London Kebab and Bandar Bus will serve customers from 1pm to 7pm throughout Ramadhan.

Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong officially launched the initiative.

Baiduri Bank CEO Ti Eng Hui said Urban Bites aims to promote local entrepreneurship, in support of the national agenda. “We developed this initiative to provide a platform for food truck vendors to run their businesses during the month of Ramadhan, while utilising the strategic open space facing our headquarters,” he said.

“Providing platforms such as Urban Bites is in line with Baiduri Bank’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, one of which is aimed at supporting and empowering  local businesses.

“Additionally, since these food trucks are self-sufficient and use less energy, compared to traditional brick-and-mortar stores, the initiative is also in line with our commitment to environmental sustainability.

“Depending on how well the initiative is received by the public during the month of Ramadhan, Urban Bites could transition to an initiative held throughout the year.

“Over time, we hope ‘Urban Bites’ will be warmly received by the public, so that more ‘Made in Brunei’ franchises can utilise the space, too.

“We also hope it would inspire other budding entrepreneurs to use this platform and opportunity to gain experience, and venture into their own food businesses.”

Borneo Bulletin Online