|      Azaraimy HH      |

A DELEGATION from Rajapark Institute, Yala Campus Thailand was at the Tutong District for a goodwill visit yesterday.

The 38-person delegation comprising lecturers and members of the village committee from Southern Thailand was led by Assistant Professor Kasem Benchawong, PhD, Director of Rajapark Institute, Yala Campus.

The visit aimed to provide cultural exchange between members of the Mukim and Village Consultative Councils in the Tutong District with the members of the village committee from Southern Thailand, including showcasing an exhibition of the ‘One Village, One Product’ (1K1P) and ‘One Tambon, One Product’ (OTOP) initiatives.

The arrival of the delegation at the Kampong Bukit Community Hall was welcomed by Haji Muhammad Shadiqin bin Abdullah Janjam, Village Head of Kampong Bukit, Tutong. Also present were Siti Joriahati binti Johari, Special Duties Officer as Head of the Corporate Division, Tutong District Office, and Muhammad Amir bin Haji Umarali as Chief Executive Officer of the Tutong District Tourism Coordination and Promotion Body.

Siti Joriahati binti Johari, Special Duties Officer as Head of the Corporate Division, Tutong District Office accompanying Assistant Professor Kasem Benchawong, PhD, Director of Rajapark Institute, Yala Campus, during the tour of the exhibition.

During the demonstration of the traditional Pinang fruit and betel leaf eating. – PHOTOS: AZARAIMY HYH

The ceremony began with a welcoming speech from Haji Muhammad Shadiqin. The delegation then enjoyed a traditional dance performance from the Dusun ethnic commu-nity.

During the cultural exchange activity, the delegation was given a chance to participate in ethnic dances and a demonstration of the eating of Pinang fruit and betel leaf – a common practice by the Dusun ethnic community.

The delegation was later taken to visit and watch a traditional food exhibition and local handicraft works at the Kampong Bukit Handicraft Gallery, which also included an exhibition and sale of products from both countries.

Before the end of the visit, both parties made an exchange of souvenirs in appreciation and as a memento of the visit.

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

BUSINESS owners who plan to run beauty and health establishments are required to register their business that falls under the Beauty and Health Establishment Order 2016 implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs on January 1.

The was shared by Haji Mohammad Sunadi bin Haji Buntar, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) during a press conference held yesterday at the ministry’s building in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Among the types of business under the order include aerobic facial and body treatment, gymnasiums, hair salons and spas.

After being registered with the Registry of Companies and Business Names (ROCBN) at the Ministry of Finance and receiving their license, business owners may start operating their establishments within one working day.

Haji Mohammad Sunadi bin Haji Buntar, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) during the press conference. – ROKIAH MAHMUD

However, these types of businesses must comply with the ‘Regulations for beauty and health establishments, Brunei Darussalam’ that was endorsed by the MoHA or face suspension or having their licence revoked.

Applications to have businesses registered may be submitted to the MoHA counter located at the Registrar of Companies and Business Names, Ministry of Finance, Commonwealth Drive.

Those wanting to renew business licenses may apply at the Business Support Centre, First Floor, Design and Technology Building, Simpang 32-37, Anggerek Desa Technology Park. More information is available at www.home-affairs.gov.bn.

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE Ministry of Home Affairs through the Labour Department yesterday announced a new policy that will shorten the processing period for employing foreign workers.

This was revealed by Haji Idris bin Haji Ali, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, during a press conference held yesterday at the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) building in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Haji Idris bin Haji Ali said that the Labour Department will incorporate the Foreign Workers Employment License and Work Pass Recommendation (BUR 500/ BUR 555) in a new policy known as the Foreign Worker License application (LPA).

The deputy permanent secretary added that the LPA was implemented to provide better and efficient services and assist business owners in dealing and submitting their applications to the Labour Department.

“Under this new policy process, the application will be shortened from 41 working days to nine and it will reduce the processing procedures to seven from the previous 12. Furthermore, the recruitment of foreign workers’ licence previously based on a quota system will no longer available,” said the deputy permanent secretary.

Haji Idris further explained that the Labour Department will allocate a number of counters at the Local Employment and Workforce Development Agency (APTK) as well as at the Immigration and National Registration Department to ease the application process.

Haji Idris bin Haji Ali Deputy Permanent Secretary at the MoHa, explaining on the new process in a press conference held at the ministry’s building yesterday. – ROKIAH MAHMUD

In ensuring the process can be implemented, a pilot test was carried out on September 6 where a number of companies and agencies were briefed on the matter before submitting their applications.

Currently, 15 applications have been approved out of a total of 22 that were received with the department’s Client’s Charter (TPOR) which is within seven working days for the release of LPA’s.

Under the LPA, businesses need to meet certain requirements that include registering and advertising vacancies.

An endorsement from the APTK is also required as well as an endorsement through e-Amanah at the Employees Trust Fund (TAP). A recommendation or certification from other government agencies, statutory bodies or associations is also required.

Following with the introduction of the new process, businesses were reminded to prioritise employing locals in accordance to a predetermined ratio of local to foreign workers that was agreed upon and certified by government agencies stakeholders.

The new process will take effect on October 1, while additional license applications will take effect on April 2017.

Meanwhile, the application for new licences for companies via online will be discontinued starting October 1. A series of roadshows will be carried out in every district to further provide information to employers and other stakeholders regarding the new process. More information can be obtained at the Labour Department’s website www.labour.gov.bn.

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|     James Kon     |

TUTONG District residents have a new method to purchase their prepaid electricity token (POWERKad) 24/7, following the launch of DSTIncomm’s instant vending for prepaid electric meter token via Cash Deposit Machine (CDM) at DST Tutong Central Mall yesterday morning.

Department of Electrical Services (DES) Director cum guest of honour Pengiran Jamra Weira bin Pengiran Haji Petra officiated the launch in the presence of DST CEO Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Hussain, DST executive members as well as personnel from the Department of Electrical Services.

This is the second CDM launched by DSTIncomm; the first being at Tanjung Bunut earlier this month.

The latest CDM is part of continuous efforts by DSTIncomm (the exclusive distributor for the prepaid electricity token POWERKad) to make available 24/7 electric token in denominations ranging from $1 to $400, making life easier for users.

DSTIncomm General Manager Juliana Sim said, “DSTIncomm launched the first CDM for the prepaid electric meter token earlier this month, so by next week we will be able to determine public response.

“However, observations over the past weeks have shown that the response has been picking up by the day.”

Department of Electrical Services Director Pengiran Jamra Weira bin Pengiran Haji Petra tries out DSTIncomm’s Instant Vending For Prepaid Electric Meter Token via Cash Deposit Machine, with DSTIncomm General Manager Juliana Sim. – JAMES KON

With regards to releasing more CDMs, she said, “We will have to evaluate response to the two CDMs launched by DSTIncomm.”

She noted the POWERKad can also be purchased from other DSTIncomm channels such as through SMS at 8885555 for $5, $6, $10 and $20 for DST Easi users, and online through www.incomm.com.bn – where customers can also trace their purchase history through the website.

Meanwhile, DES Finance Officer Haji Sabtu bin Haji Shahminan, who monitors the purchase of prepaid electric meter tokens nationwide, noted, “Currently there are four CDMs available for the public to utilise – two are under DST (Tanjung Bunut and Tutong Central Mall), while the other two are at the DES Headquarters and DES Seria branch.

“Its function is to provide public convenience in purchasing prepaid electric meter tokens through cooperation between DSTIncomm and DES.

“The CDMs are linked to the system in DES to issue the tokens once the correct number of the electric meter is entered as well as the mobile number. After purchasing a token in cash at the CDM, a receipt will be printed with the token number, while a token number will also be sent to the phone though SMS.”

For more information, the public can contact DSTCare 151 or e-mail at customerservice@incomm.com.

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|     Wani Roslan and Nazrin Asyraf     |

THE State Mufti’s Office yesterday held the official launch for a religious book titled ‘Rezeki dan Hutang: Tazkirah, Doa dan Amalan’ at the Darul Ifta building along Jalan Pengiran Babu Raja.

The 71-page book was published as a result of preliminary discussions between officials from the Publications and Information Department of the State Mufti’s Office and Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB).

In his speech, Deputy State Mufti cum guest of honour Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Japar bin Haji Mat Dain outlined the different aspects of provision (rezeki), including sound health and a stable family life.

“The common interpretation of divine provision is material goods from Allah the Almighty, which often leads to the pursuit of worldly possessions, wealth and luxury,” he said, adding that people tend to overlook the importance of practising Taqwa (righteousness) and forgiveness in their daily lives.

On the subject of debt, the Deputy State Mufti stated that it is caused by a lack of personal contentment and happiness, which is exhibited through excessive greed and materialism, regardless of one’s financial situation.

Deputy State Mufti Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Japar bin Haji Mat Dain takes a closer look at the newly launched book. – AZROL AZMI

He also said that the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) disapproved of Muslims getting into debt.

“Debts are not only a burden in this world, but also in the hereafter (if they are not settled), and Muslims are advised to avoid debts, except when necessary,” he said.

The new publication deals with specific ways of attaining divine provision or sustenance, and the importance of personal contentment to avoid the misery of being in debt.

The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, which was followed by a welcoming speech by Mohd Sofian bin Haji Basri, the Acting Director of Administration at the State Mufti’s Office.

Copies of the book were formally presented to Maswadi bin Haji Mohsin, a member of the TAIB Board of Directors, as well as representatives from the public library and higher education institutions.

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|     Abdul Hakiim Yakof     |

TWO houses in Kampong Burung Pingai Ayer were destroyed in a fire yesterday morning. No casualties were reported in the incident.

One of the houseowners, Hajah Siti Aidah bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Othman, aged 66, expressed her sadness when speaking to the Bulletin.

She said she was grateful that there were no deaths or injuries but said her loss due to the fire could amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

“Seventeen traditional weaving looms were housed there. A weaving loom costs $1,200, 43 types of threads were also destroyed. Each roll of thread can make three to seven sets of woven cloth which can cost tens of thousands of dollars.”

She and her husband, Haji Abdul Majid bin Haji Tuah, aged 76, said the house was occupied by two of their workers. The couple lives in a house nearby.

When the fire broke out, the couple were not at home because they were sending their children to the airport.

“We saw smoke rising from our neighbourhood on our way home in the capital. Soon after one of our workers called to tell us that our house was on fire,” Hajah Siti Aidah added.

Aftermath of the fire that burnt down two houses. – SYAHMI HASSAN

Asked about the cause of the fire, she said she was unsure.

The fire was said to have started and spread from the house of the neighbour, Pengiran Rafae bin Pengiran Haji Yassin.

Pengiran Rafae, 45, and his 40-year-old wife Masnah binti Tuah, speaking to the Bulletin at a relative’s house, said the fire originated from their bedroom but they didn’t know what caused it.

“I was in the kitchen when one of my children notified me about the fire in the bedroom,” said Masnah,

She added that during the incident she said only she, her husband and one of her children were at home as her five other children were at school.

The family of Pengiran Rafae are left with only the clothes on their backs as all of their belongings were destroyed in the fire.

They are hoping for assistance from the authorities, especially in the form of school supplies as most of their children are still in school.

Some 23 Fire and Rescue personnel from the marine fire station in the are awere dispatched to the scene in four boats and two fire engines.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

AS PART of the government’s vision to ensure that all its people have access to quality healthcare, 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 morning took a closer look at the progress and operations of the country’s largest hospital during an impromptu visit.

His Majesty’s arrival at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital in the capital was welcomed by the Minister of Health, Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, and Acting Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan bin Haji Mohamad Daud, who later accompanied the monarch in a tour of the hospital’s facilities.

During the visit, His Majesty took his time to scrutinise the operations of a number of units and facilities in the main block of the hospital including the Accident and Emergency Section, Medical Clinic, Medical Records Room, Pharmacy, Specialist Clinic Section, Cardiac Centre, Medical Library, Sports Complex, National Medical Store and the Acute Medical Unit.

As His Majesty was greeted by a host of hospital staff, health professionals, patients and the public who were elated with His Majesty’s presence, the monarch was seen mingling with patients to learn about their conditions and wish them a speedy recovery and also spoke to hospital staff to discover more on the progress and issues faced by staff in departments and units in the hospital.

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; Minister of Health, Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi; Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Roselan bin Haji Mohamad Daud, Acting Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; and other officials touring the Women and Children’s Centre block of the RIPAS Hospital.

Photos show His Majesty, Minister of Health, Acting Minister at the PMO, and other officials touring the Medical Records Room (above) and the Pharmacy of the RIPAS Hospital.

His Majesty interacting with members of the public at the Outpatient Clinic of RIPAS Hospital. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

His Majesty visiting the ward complex of the RIPAS Hospital.

Members of the public greeting His Majesty at the ward complex of the RIPAS Hospital.

His Majesty interacting with a young patient that was undergoing a treatment at the Haemotology Unit of the RIPAS Hospital.

The visit offered His Majesty a better understanding of the hospital’s operations and allowed the monarch to listen to any concerns or ideas raised that would help improve the hospital’s operations.

His Majesty also visited the and Children’s Centre block, which opened in January last year with its 11 floors and 382 beds. It offers paediatric services, midwifery and obst-etrics and gynaecology which are equipped with the latest facilities, infrastructure and quality medical equipment which meet international stan-dards. The centre also includes a neonatal intensive care unit, a fertility unit, first-class rooms and an operation theatre.

Before concluding his visit, the monarch also had a meeting with senior government officials at the Ministry of Health (MoH) where he delivered a titah.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

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 said the country’s health ministry needs to sustain its customer-centric values and put them into practice to ensure an objective healthcare system that benefits all.

Delivering a titah during an unscheduled visit to the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital in the capital yesterday morning, His Majesty focused on the need to improve the quality of healthcare services delivered in the country and touched on several issues that he said were brought to his attention recently.

Ensuring customer-friendliness and swift healthcare services for all:

The Ministry of Health (MoH) must continue to ultimately uphold and exercise its responsibilities and roles as an organisation central in maintaining the people’s well-being, His Majesty underscored in his titah. He added that people should not be asked to wait for long periods of time when they need medical attention.

The MoH’s strategic vision for 2035 that carries the slogan ‘Together towards a Healthy Nation’, His Majesty said, was devised to pioneer main elements of the ministry’s new strategies – a streamlined and comprehensive healthcare system, inculcating a healthy lifestyle, implementation of policies and regulations that are effective to ensure protection for all and the transparency and proactive measures in its administration system.

While praising the strategy’s theme that also embraces customer-friendly services that ensures patients, their families and the community are being given excellent, assuring, quality, consistent and safe, care and service, His Majesty however questioned if they are truly being implemented.

“What we need is its implementation. It is not enough if it is only on paper or theory only. It must be a reality that the people can benefit from,” added His Majesty.

Although the strategy’s main focus, which is the delivery of customer-friendly services is being implied as an excellent move, His Majesty also asked if it has been implemented adequately and reminded that it should not only be “on paper” but must be effectively executed.

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 touring the Women and Children’s block of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital.

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 delivering his titah. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

“If in theory it says customer-friendly, then practically it must also really be the case for anyone without any discrimination,” added the monarch.

His Majesty later underlined several fine qualities that he said the ministry and its hospital staff must possess in order to fulfil the customer-friendly goal such as friendliness, transparency, willingness to help, caring, showing concern, kindness, good manners, politeness, soft-spoken, considerate, responsive and to not be rude to patients. The monarch gave several illustrations of poor-customer service that he said haas been a public grievance.

“If someone was rushed into the Emergency Department and is left to wait for hours to wait for a doctor to attend them, that is not customer-friendly,” said His Majesty, while highlighting that the Accident and Emergency Department should not have such issues and also said that this in addition applies to cases of patients having been forced to be admitted into wards and stay overnight in order to wait and be attended by a doctor later.

His Majesty also reminded that patients are people going through hardship and they must be aided to ease their suffering.

“Never add in more hardship for them and one of the ways to ease their suffering is by applying customer-friendly values,” added the monarch while citing an example of a rude nurse that would inflict more suffering on a patient.

His Majesty also reminded hospital administrators and doctors to be more attentive to patients by engaging with them the best way possible by being more comprehending of their feelings and emotions because he said there are illnesses that could derive from psychological factors such as stress that would cause high blood pressure and coronary problems amongst others.

Managing patients and family members’ hopes for recovery:

His Majesty also urged hospitals to manage properly the hopes of recovery for patients and to refrain from giving optimistic hopes of recovery that might be detrimental to the patients and also their loved ones, which he added has become prevalent as of late.

“The guaranteed chances of recovery assured by the doctors are so optimistic, sometimes up to 80 to 90 per cent,” said His Majesty, while adding that when a doctor promises a good chance of recovery (of up to 80 to 90 per cent) if a patient undergoes surgery, and the doctor warns that the patient would not survive if the procedure is not carried out, patients and their families would of course jump on the prospect.

“However, after surgery, the progress is not encouraging and patients will be left unconscious and later pass away without even being awake… this did not happen to one person. A number of families have come forward and told that their children, husbands and other family members have experienced the unfortunate incident due to the promises,” shared His Majesty.

If this is really happening, His Majesty said the concerned doctor must be given stern warning because no one should promise hope more than what he could do and added that their efforts are only to treat the patient and not to promise full recovery, because the only real healer is Allah the Almighty.

“The concerned parties must take note of this so this is not becoming a norm in our hospitals…there are many other issues that needs to be rectified, hence we should not stop from making improvements especially in the administration and management,” added the monarch.

Efficient management of medical dispensary:

His Majesty also stressed the need to better manage medical dispensaries to avoid any wastage and any misappropriation of medical stock that would cause the quick depletion of supplies.

“The same goes to the distribution of medicine…if they are not being managed carefully, it will cause wastage and all this will impact our medical supplies,” added His Majesty.

Doctors must also give medical advice:

On the handling and treatment of patients, His Majesty also said that there have been many instances heard from the public that doctors would only write out prescriptions after examining a patient and would not give any further advice to them.

“In my opinion, an excellent doctor is not only good in prescribing medicine but would also not mind giving further advice…this is sometimes also much needed apart from medicine…we all must look into this as a step to fulfil MoH’s vision in 2035,” added His Majesty.

More follow-up action needed to prevent Zika:

Touching on the emergence of the Zika virus affecting many in neighbouring countries that has stirred a lot of panic recently, His Majesty said that he observed that no firm warning and effective action was taken in handling the situation since the beginning.

“It was only simply by reminding the public to not panic although the number of those infected with the virus continues to rise in many countries closer to us,” added the monarch.

Although public reminders such as how to prevent mosquito carriers of the disease have been rife, the monarch noticed that it is more inclined to advisory rather than more follow-up action, such as the reminder on the importance of keeping environments clean that proves to be ineffective because the relevant authorities are not taking action.

“The proof is that the rubbish here is still not being managed properly. Drains are still filled with rubbish and our rivers are also flowing with rubbish and are not being handled effectively (by the relevant authorities),” added the monarch, adding that if the blame is to the people who are still indiscriminately throwing rubbish, steps must be taken to rectify this.

Need to enforce existing regulations to keep environment clean:

His Majesty said that if the public are not giving their cooperation in keeping our environment clean, steps must be taken to rectify the situation.

“In this issue, I want to know what are the actions being taken? Are there any existing regulations and acts to solve this predicament? If yes, have they been enforced for the purpose of disciplining the people?” asked His Majesty, while also pointing out that if disposing cigarette butts in public places in other countries is already an offence, rubbish dumping on roads, drains or rivers must have more severe repercussions and later asked for a response from the relevant authorities on the matter.

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|     Khairil Hassan     |

THE DST Brunei FA Cup 2016 Managers’ Meeting and Draw was held at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the NFABD House yesterday evening.

The meeting was chaired by the League Chairman, Awang Metusin bin Sumpong and hosted by Awang Dayem bin Haji Ali, Director of Competitions.

The FA Cup is contested by 10 DST Super League teams, 10 Premier League teams and eight non-league teams.

The format for this cup tournament is knock-out format, with four preliminary rounds, quarter final, semi final and a final. Altogether, 27 matches will be played until December 23.

The eight non-league teams are FC Phosphor, Pandan FA, Dagang FT, Bentara United, DSP United, Telbru FT, Pandan XIV and Hawa FT.

The 10 Super League teams are IKLS FC, Setia Perdana, Tabuan U-17, BSRC FT, Rimba Star FC, Mengait FC, Al-Idrus Junior FT, Panchor Murai, Kilanas FC and Besa FC.

League Chairman, Awang Metusin bin Sumpong and by Awang Dayem bin Haji Ali, Director of Competitions as well as other officials during the meeting yesterday. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

While the 10 Premier League teams are Lun Bawang, Najip I-Team, Jerudong FC, MS PDB, MS ABDB, Kota Ranger FC, Wijaya FC, Indera SC, Tabuan U-21 and Kasuka FC.

The non-league teams are drawn together in the first preliminary round and eventually join the League teams in the third round.

The first two matches of the cup will be tentatively held on October 7 featuring FC Phosphor going against Pandan FA at the Berakas sports Complex and Dagang FT will meet Bentara United at Track & Field Complex.

All matches will be played at Berakas Sports Complex, Track & Field Complex and Tutong Sports Complex. Entrance is free and supporters are welcomed to watch.

For more info regarding the draw and match schedule, the public can visit nfabd.org.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam was announced as the overall champion of the 33rd Asean Senior Amateur Golf Championship 2016 after registering a total of 62 points based on seven events in a closing ceremony and prize presentation ceremony at the Parkview Hotel in Jerudong last night.

The points was accumulated based on the country’s performances in the gross team, nett team, stableford team, individual gross, individual nett, individual stableford and age group which took centre stage during the three-day competition at the Royal Brunei Golf and Country Club and the Empire Golf and Country Club.

The Brunei Darussalam team which comprised of Pengiran Haji Hassim bin Pengiran Haji Osman, Haji Raya Dollah, Hanafiah Besar and Lt Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Ali bin Pengiran Haji Tuah also emerged winners in the team nett and took home the Zakir Challenge Trophy.

The Philippines team comprised of Eduardo Bagtas, who won the Sultan Sallahuddin Challenge Trophy in the individual gross, Cipriano Abdon, Eddy Jose Manzanarez and Lino Magpantay collected the prestigious Tun Henry H.S. Lee Challenge Trophy after winning team gross.

Bagtas took the individual gong after carding a total of 234 strokes followed by Thailand ace Narintanarat Kumtean with 242 strokes in second place and Brunei’s Haji Raya Dollah with 244 strokes in third place.

The Minister of Health and Acting Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi presenting the overall champion trophy to Brunei Darussalam’s team captain. – FADHIL YUNUS

Ricardo Loyola of the Philippines emerged individual nett winner and collected the Mondonedo Challenge Trophy followed by Thailand’s Chaiyuth Khumpoo and Brunei’s Pengiran Haji Hassim bin Pengiran Haji Osman.

Brunei also collected the Pongpairojana Challenge Trophy after collecting 563 points to Malaysia’s 522.

Brunei’s Patrick Lau carded a 79 to win the Toh Shung Chee Challenge Trophy for best individual stableford score.

The guest of honour at the event was the Minister of Health and Acting Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, who presented prizes to the winners.

Among the highlights of the event were the introduction of the super seniors whom had contributed to the golfing scene and the presentation of certificates to sponsors as a token of gratitude and appreciation.

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|     Aziz Idris     |

REGISTRATION is now open for the upcoming Fun Run 2016 organised by the Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM) set to take place on October 23 at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

The run will be divided into three categories: 5km (men only), 2.5km (female only), and 2.5km (costume run).

Prizes will be awarded to the fastest runners in all three categories.

Organisers encourage runners to dress in their national or ethnic attire for the 2.5km Costume Run, and prizes will also be awarded for ‘Best Costume.’

Participants can wear traditional outfits based on the seven Brunei ethnic groups, namely Brunei Malay, Tutong, Kedayan, Belait, Murut, Dusun and Bisaya to promote the local culture in the category.

Fun Run 2016 Chairman Haji Johan bin Haji Tuah speaks to the media.

Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM) members hold up exclusive MKM Fun Run T-shirts. – PHOTOS: AZIZ IDRIS

Haji Johan bin Haji Tuah, Chairman of the Fun Run 2016, in an interview with the media said that the charity run aims to raise funds for underprivileged families, particularly unemployed single mothers who have children to support, while promoting a healthier lifestyle.
He hopes that proceeds from the charity run will also be used to assist senior citizens in acquiring basic needs such as house repairs, wheelchairs, ripple mattresses and many others.

Registration forms are now available at the MKM mobile booth at the ground floor atrium of the Times Square Shopping Centre, the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium and the MKM office located at Melabau Complex, Serusop.

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

FASHION designers in countries such as Brunei should explore traditional and cultural motifs as a base to create modern designs, said Zeena Altalib, the Iraqi-American founder and director of PrimoModa.com, an online company that sells apparel.

“Using your own colours, your own fashion ideas and creating an innovative and modern design has the potential for a foreign market, because there is a constant look-out for something new and acceptable,” she said.

The fashion and merchandising expert, who has been in fashion retail for 11 years, was speaking at a press conference yesterday at the Design and Technology building in Anggerek Desa, after her morning presentation titled, ‘My journey as an entrepreneur and insights into the Islamic fashion industry’.

Her talk is part of a two-day programme hosted by the United States Embassy in Brunei Darussalam, in collaboration with DARE (Darussalam Enterprise).

Altalib’s dynamic leadership style, attention to detail and her ability to identify emerging fashion trends contributed to the founding and success of PrimoModa.com, which sources its products from an international vendor network and serves as an international client base. PrimoModa.com has also captured the attention of prominent news and media outlets, and has been featured in major news articles and publications.

Altalib’s experience also spans product sourcing, and supply chain management in the fashion industry, which provided invaluable knowledge to the audience in attendance at her talk yesterday.

During the press conference, she said that creating a fashion identity for Brunei is important, “not just to preserve the national and cultural identity, but to mix the cultural aspects of it with modern and innovative design, and making it appeal to the world fashion industry”.

She also highlighted the importance of people-to-people contact, and getting in touch with the industry and promoting new ideas, using social media as platforms.

Zeena Altalib, founder and director of PrimoModa.com, an online company that sells apparel. – AZARAIMY HH

She also said that retailers would get more by focusing on one specific product, such as women’s fashions or children’s wear, and then diversifying that product line.

“If all companies are doing the same thing, then they are not achieving much, while one retailer can offer every single thing with less depth and less quality within each segment,” she explained.

During the two-day programme, Altalib will offer an afternoon session titled, ‘Electronic marketing and marketing strategies’, and a full-day workshop on how to start a business based on the US model.

In his speech, Craig B Allen, the US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, said, “We believe this programme will encourage Bruneians to consider starting their own businesses, thereby allowing for greater economic engagement between the United States and Brunei.

“Around the world, women entrepreneurs are increasingly more visible, as they start and grow their ventures into successful small businesses or global enterprises. Secretary (John) Kerry said that he firmly believes in investing in the training and mentoring of women entrepreneurs, so they can not only lift up their own families, but also help their countries’ economies grow.”

DARE Chief Executive Officer, Soon Loo, said, “The fashion industry has major potential for our local Brunei designers to tap into. With a Muslim population of 1.7 billion, it represents 23 per cent of the global population, which is a very big reach for both small and large enterprises. The unique factor about Islamic fashion is that it has a wider reach of catering, not just for the Muslim population, but also those who are into modest clothing.

“Many well-known and recognised fashion brands are on the bandwagon, and see the potential of tapping into this market of creating more covered-up options for their clientele. More and more, we can see an increasing number of our local designers taking the leap and collaborating with concept stores and online retail stores that have both regional and international reach.”

Zeena Altalib’s presentations are part of the US Speaker Programme, organised by the Bureau of International Information Programmes (IIP), where Americans of various professional backgrounds are able to engage with international audiences through lectures, workshops and seminars on American policies, society and culture.

In her welcoming remarks, Catherine Muller, the Public Affairs Officer at the US Embassy, said, “As we all know, 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, is committed to creating an economy in Brunei that is more diversified, more entrepreneurial, and more creative. Strengthening our economy ties and engaging with Brunei on economic diversification is a high priority for the US Embassy.

“In this year alone, we have been privileged to partner with Brunei across various initiatives that have strengthened Brunei’s economy and deepened Brunei-US economic engagement – whether it’s bringing over 20 Brunei entrepreneurs to US government-certified trade shows in industries like healthcare and tourism, or collaborating with DARE – as we are today – to bring US entrepreneurs to Brunei to share their best practices.”

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE Leading Business in Asia Forum took place yesterday, highlighting how competitive, high performance organisations are created.

Held at the Radisson Hotel, the forum covered core elements that businesses and organisations need to focus on to thrive in increasingly complex and volatile market conditions.

Yesterday marked the first day of the two-day forum, and consisted of series of short seminars outlining practical solutions for leaders. The second day, today, features mini-workshops that provide more in-depth coverage of the key solutions presented the day before.

The Leading Business in Asia Forum is convened by Asia Inc Forum and Human Capital Group Asia Ltd in partnership with Baiduri Bank and Brunei Press as media partner.

The forum’s aim is to support Brunei small and medium enterprises (SMEs), state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and business organisations by providing a learning opportunity for executives engaged in organisational transformation and creating competitive, high performance cultures.

The opening of the forum saw welcoming remarks delivered by Pierre Imhof, the CEO of Baiduri Bank Berhad.

In his speech, he highlighted that Baiduri Bank responded immediately and enthusiastically to the approach proposed by the Leading Business in Asia Forum’s focus on how competitive, high performance organisations are created.

“Those who are in business will be aware that the ability to go through organisational transformation and to develop a high performance culture in business is vital in order to respond to changing environment or situations and for businesses to reach a higher, more competitive level,” he said.

“This objective today by the forum to put together companies coming from different horizons of different sizes – SMEs, large corporates, state-run enterprises – operating in different sectors, is a good way in the current environment to exchange experiences and to learn how to progress and grow a business.

“So I hope that for all participants, this forum will be useful and will bring them new ideas to improve their performances to be more competitive, and new ways to develop their businesses,” he added.

Dr Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Abdul Fattaah, Board Member at Baiduri Bank; Dato Paduka Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, the Deputy Minister of Finance; Douglas Dean, the CEO of Human Capital Group Asia Ltd; Pierre Imhof, the CEO of Baiduri Bank Berhad; and Dato Timothy Ong, the Chairman of Asia Inc Forum, at the event. – SIM YH

The opening of the forum also saw the attendance of Dato Paduka Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, the Deputy Minister of Finance as the guest of honour, who also delivered a keynote address.

The first session of the forum featured a presentation by Douglas Dean, the CEO of Human Capital Group Asia Ltd, entitled ‘Leading Business in Uncertain Times: How to respond to technological disruption and economic volatility?’.

This was followed by discussion on ‘Leading Organisational Transformation’ with David Kay, the CEO of Telekom Brunei Berhad (TelBru), moderated by Dato Timothy Ong, the Chairman of Asia Inc Forum.

Rohn Rajen, Principal Consultant and Partner at Human Capital Group Asia Limited then delivered a presentation dealing with the topic of ‘Leading Change: How is a high performance culture created’.

Dato Timothy Ong then returned to the stage to moderate an open forum discussion, in which the aforementioned topic of creating a high performance culture was further elaborated.

This discussion featured a panel comprised of Haji Haliluddin bin Dato Haji Talib, General Manager of Baiduri Finance; Ambrose Nathan, Consulting Partner at BizAdvize Services Sdn Bhd; and Dayangku Kemariah binti Pengiran Haji Duraman, the owner of Kunyit 7 Lodge.

The proceedings then continued with a presentation on ‘Leading Quality: How do ISO & Global Benchmark work?’ by Dr Suresh Kumar Krishnan, the Managing Director of Strasys Solutions Sdn Bhd.

Another presentation ensued, this time from Tim Haynes, the Chief Digital Officer of Human Capital Group Asia Limited. He spoke on ‘Winning at Business: Leading Customer Centricity & Digital Transformation’.

After one more open forum, the first day of the event came to a close with a wrap-up of the programme.

The Leading Business in Asia Forum will continue today with interactive workshops on the topics, with four of yesterday’s invited speakers set to feature as lead facilitators.

Douglas Dean, will lead the workshop on Leadership in a Volatile Economy, and will cover the core areas that leaders need to focus on in order to thrive in uncertain markets.

Rohn Rajen, is lead facilitator for the High-Performance Culture workshop, and will focus on how to transform organisations and corporate culture through employee engagement.

A workshop on ISO and Global benchmark will be facilitated by Dr Suresh Kumar Krishnan, Managing Director of Strasys Solutions Sdn Bhd, and will highlight the need for quality systems, including ISO standard certification in order to be competitive in Asean markets.

The Customer Centricity and Digi-Transformation workshop will be facilitated by Tim Haynes.

Tim will provide an overview of digital transformation that is currently underway in the global market and what corporations need to do to take these changes on board.

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|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

THE Ministry of Health (MoH) yesterday denied the claims circulating on social media that the first Zika virus case in Brunei Darussalam is being kept secret from the public.

The false report is circulated through a popular social media application,and the MoH maintained that there has been no case of the virus reported in the country.

The MoH has advised the public not to believe any information or news disseminated through the Internet or social media without checking whether the source is credible or not.

The ministry warned that the act of circulating false information to confuse the public is an offence that can be reported under the Public Order Act, Cap 148, Section 34.

It states that whoever, either orally or in writing or in whatever way, spreads false reports or creates false statements that can affect public peace, can be imprisoned for three years and issued a fine of $3,000.

The MoH will continue to monitor and assess the Zika situation with the cooperation of the World Health Organization and partners in Asean.

The MoH advised all relevant parties, including the public, to fully participate in the national efforts to prevent and control the spread of the Zika virus by ensuring the cleanliness of the surroundings and environment.

For further information on the Zika virus and other mosquito-borne diseases, the public can visit the MoH’s website at www.moh.gov.bn or contact its hotline on Darussalam line 123.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

BRUNEI will continue to create a culture where small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can grow and thrive with true entrepreneurial spirit and leadership, Dato Paduka Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, the Deputy Minister of Finance said yesterday.

Delivering a keynote address at the Leading Business in Asia Forum held at the Radisson Hotel, he shared some of the work the government has been doing to support the changes in local SMEs and the transformation in many government-linked companies (GLCs).

He noted that the long term policy goals of the government, by way of the Brunei Vision 2035, sets measurable targets for both society and economy to drive economic diversification and sustainability.

“The recent circumstances facing the global economy, including but not least the volatility in the prices of oil and gas underscore the priority our government assigns to the accelerated attainment of the Brunei Vision 2035 targets; in other words, to diversify and meaningfully increase the contribution of sustainable commercial enterprises to drive our economy, and as a means to increase gainful, knowledge-based employment for all Bruneian citizens.”

He said that given the current size and structure of Brunei’s economy, the government has placed great emphasis on the importance of the success of SMEs in contributing to a sustainable economic development.

He noted that the national SME body DARE (Darussalam Enterprise) was established earlier this year to lead and develop a holistic and well-coordinated strategy to facilitate and drive the tangible growth of SMEs so that they can play a vital part in economic diversification initiatives.

Dato Paduka Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, the Deputy Minister of Finance, delivering his keynote address. – DANIAL NORJIDI

“Brunei aims to bring its SMEs to the next level of growth where focus has been given to create the right environment for innovation to spur and for the market network to expand beyond its shores.

“We continue to capitalise on the foundation we have created over the years in Brunei’s iCentre and Knowledge Hub to provide effective and vibrant start-ups the ecosystem to nurture their talents and potentials,” he said.

“With the provision of effective incubation programmes and co-working spaces, start-ups are able to tap into collaborative networks and a wide range of great ideas that can be turned into real and tangible opportunities.”

Another driving factor is the spillover effect of FDI inflows, he highlighted. “The effort to create strong linkages between foreign affiliates and our domestic SMEs will continue to provide opportunities for partnerships not only in the local supply chains but also in expanding their markets base to a wider network outside Brunei.”

“With market liberalisation, active engagement of multilateral trade agreements will allow for easier access to new market partners and will maximise the opportunities for our businesses to benefit from the potentials of the larger overseas markets, and open up opportunities for more FDI inflows and export activities.”

Providing an ecosystem conducive for local SMEs to grow is key, he asserted.

“Through the working partnership with DARE, we will continue to create an environment for them to flourish by improving their access to financing, access to wider markets, access to industrial space and access to effective development programs to enhance their capacity, capability and competency.”

“We will continue to improve our policy directions, regulations and processes to ensure that we remain relevant and appropriate to address their needs,” he said.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

MAZLAN bin Haji Yahya became the third different monthly winner in the Brunei Petanque League after storming to the leader board of the Brunei Petanque League following his 13-3 win over Abd Afiq bin Abd Aziz at the Petanque Field of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex recently.

He also became the third player to acquire the lead in the Brunei Petanque League after past winners plummeted in the overall standings.

The seasoned thrower has been the most consistent competitor over the three months in which the league was contested having also reached the final in August and secured third place in July.

The individual shooting specialist was the overwhelming favourite coming into the match and never looked like surrendering his commanding lead as he opened up a nine-point gap over second placed Azmi Eddy bin Mohd Harris in the race for the overall title.

Mazlan also received the coveted yellow jersey following his victory which was a fitting tribute shared by past monthly winners Hamidun Haji Abdul Hamid and Wirna bin Haji Mohd Yassin.

Rani bin Saidin secured third place for the month of September after defeating Surtini bte Haji Abidin 13-2 who claimed fourth.

Mazlan bin Haji Yahya became the third different monthly winner in the Brunei Petanque League.

Mazlan now leads the table with 45 points over second placed Azmi Eddy whose tally of 36 points after three months of play put him among the candidates with a shout in the overall race.

Azmi Eddy climbed two places to second after initially starting the league in fifth place in July and then fourth last month.

Masli bin Haji Mohd Said jumped from fifth to third in the leaderboard with 36 points while Wirna dropped to fourth as he remained on 31 points.

Surtini completed the top five with 27 points as July winner Hamidun slipped further in sixth place with 26 points.

Junaidi bin Ali has been ranked seventh with 20 points while Marhalim bin Haji Juni sat in eighth place with 18 points.

Abd Afiq, a finalist for the month of September, has been rewarded with ninth place with 15 points while Siti Badariah bte Tahir completed the top 10 with 14 points.

A total of 28 players took part in the league for the month of September was split into 8 groups in the preliminary rounds and subsequently the top 16 players advanced to the second round before the field was cut down to the best eight players in the third round.

The four best individuals advanced to the semi-finals to determine the placing from fourth to first.

Vice President of the Brunei Darussalam Petanque Federation, Haji Abd Karim bin Haji Ahmad, presented the prizes to the winners.

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THE Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM) sent three volunteers to join the 2016 E-Commerce Training Course for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) under the China-Asean and APEC Framework in Nanning City, Guangxi, China from September 22-27, 2016.

Some 50 participants attended the training programme that was fully funded by the Government of China and organised by China Disabled Persons Federation. The volunteers who attended were Siti Mariana binti Haji Makhbar, Dayangku Hanisah binti Pengiran Haji Bakar and Sharifah Adila Surya binti Malai Haji Abdullah, according to a press release issued by MKM.

The programme aimed to promote employment and productivity of PWDs and improve their quality of life and inclusive development in the Asia-Pacific region through participation in the Internet economy via e-Commerce.

Dayangku Hanisah who is also a child psychologist for children with special needs at International School Brunei said, “The knowledge we learned on e-Commerce was something we can potentially do in Brunei for PWDs. The course will help advance the cooperation among private sector, the government agencies and NGOs on employment of PWD.

“We can do a targeted training for them to provide customer service, sales network service and voice files record translation for companies.

“Our field trip to Guangxi Assistive Devices Center and Guangxi Disabled Persons training center was impressive as we saw PWDs work in various department like pastry making, sewing, ironing, music and dance where they are not discriminated.

“There were no limits on what they can do as long as proper training and logistics were provided,” she added.

Siti Mariana shared, “I believe our PWDs in Brunei can be trained how to use the social media to sell their handmade products.

Left to right: Sharifah Adila Surya Malai binti Haji Abdullah, Dayangku Hanisah binti Pengiran Haji Bakar and Siti Marian binti Haji Makhbar.

“More support is needed to get them to start their business and in MKM we have a programme on cottage industries and we will ensure that we include the PWD to make our programme more inclusive and without discrimination,” she said.

In addition, the training course has given Sharifah Adila a better perspective on how she can improve the programme of Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei where she works as one of the officers and focus on the employability aspect of children with special needs once they become adults.

“Although we label a person as disabled, through proper care and provision of facilities and opening opportunities for them, they too can fully participate with the community and become an interdependent productive member of the society,” said Sharifah Adila.

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|      Abdul Hakiim Yakof      |

PERBADANAN Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB) recently held Sunnat Hajat Prayer and Doa Kesyukuran at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, Kampong Kiarong in conjunction with TAIB’s 25^th anniversary.

The event’s guest of honour was Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs cum Advisor to Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors.

Former TAIB Board of Directors and Syariah Advisory Committee members since TAIB’s establishment in 1991 were also invited as special guests to the religious occasion.

They were welcomed by Dato Paduka Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, the Deputy Minister of Finance cum Deputy Chairman of Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors, and Acting Managing Director, Haji Rosdi Amin bin Dato Paduka Haji Yaakub. Also in attendance were members of the Syariah Advisory Committee and employees of Perbadanan TAIB, Insurans Islam TAIB Holdings and Darussalam Holdings Sdn Bhd.

Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs cum Advisor to Perbadanan TAIB Board of Directors, leading recitations during the Sunnat Hajat prayer and Doa Kesyukuran. – ABDUL HAKIIM YAKOF

The ceremony commenced with the closing of Khatam Al-Quran for the completion of 30 Juzuks 25 times by employees in conjunction with TAIB’s 25^th anniversary.

The guest of honour also presented Waqaf from TAIB to a representative of Jame’ ‘Asr, Haris bin Haji Suboh. Perbadanan TAIB was established on September 29, 1991 as the first Islamic financial institution to provide financial products and services in accordance to Islamic principles.

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|     Lyna Mohamad     |

THE Hijrah Festival 2016 – a joint project between the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and Battle Pro Marketing Services – was officially launched yesterday, at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

Present as the guest of honour at the launching ceremony was Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.

In his welcoming remarks, Haji Syed Mohd Yassin bin Haji Syed Anayatullah Shah, the founder of the Hijrah Festival, said that the festival was intended to promote interest in religious knowledge through fun and interactive activities, apart from providing a business platform for local entrepreneurs.

Open to the public from 11am to 10pm, the highlights of the festival will include a religious talk, word-building games and a calligraphy exhibition. Meanwhile, as part of the celebrations marking Teacher’s Day this year, a total of 1,000 vouchers will be given away to the first 1,000 teachers to attend the festival.

Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy touring a participating booth. – PHOTOS: LYNA MOHAMAD

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

FRANCHISING opportunities were highlighted in a dialogue organised by DARE (Darussalam Enterprise) in collaboration with the Embassy of the United States of America in Brunei Darussalam yesterday.

Held at the Design and Technology Building, the dialogue explained to attendees how franchising works, and how it can benefit local entrepreneurs, not only in the Brunei market but also abroad.

The dialogue featured presentations as well as panel discussions, in which various facets of franchising were touched on.

A number of speakers took the stage, from DARE, the US Embassy and as Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) as well as entrepreneurs that have run the Burger King, KFC and Wayback Burger franchises in Brunei.

The proceedings began with an introduction to franchising by the CEO of DARE, Soon Loo.

He noted in one of his slides that the worldwide franchise output value is US$892 million. He also said that the advantages of signing up with a franchise include: a proven business model, branding and knowledge transfer.

On the other hand, there is a need to adapt to locality, the requirement for high professionalism as well as franchise fee and negotiation.

In his presentation Soon also shared a flowchart of franchise process.

The first part of the flowchart begins with ‘finding opportunities’.

Here it was stated that DARE & partners can help to identify, support and provide guidance. Next is ‘negotiating’, and here it was said that industry experts can help to finalise deals.

The US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, Craig Allen speaking yesterday. – PHOTOS: DANIAL NORJIDI

Some of the attendees during the event.

This is followed by ‘launch’, where support is provided by banks and legal firms. Lastly is ‘expanding in Asean’, as the company should be looking to grow their business.

The US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, Craig Allen then took the stage to speak about growing franchises in Brunei and Southeast Asia.

“Like many Americans, I had my first formal job in franchise,” he said.

“I learnt many things such as showing up on time, having the right work attitude, personal cleanliness, customer service and teamwork.”

Working at a franchise is a wonderful first step into life’s lessons for all young people, he said.

“Franchises will help the economy and play on Brunei’s strengths: rule of law, lack of corruption, strong currency, capital, managerial talent and strong neighbourhoods,” he said.

He highlighted that franchising is about many things: relationships, brands, systems and support, investment, entrepreneurship and territory.

“At its core, franchising is about relationships – about how the franchisor supports the franchisee and how the franchisee contributes to the global network and brand of the franchisor.”

“Franchising is a contractual relationship. Every franchise is a license. The owner of the brand is the franchisor. He sells you the licence.

“Then, he supports you. You purchase the license with a contract then you are responsible for operating the location, serving the customers and dealing with all local issues – in accordance with the licensing terms in the contract.”

Franchise arrangements are about systems and support, he said. “Now, let’s be clear. You are responsible for management and day-to-day operations, but you will get support from franchisors.”

“The investment that you are making is long-term,” he said.

“You should look at it as a profoundly important personal or family investment that, if done right, can make you comfortable for generations.”

One cannot simply make this investment and then just sit back and collect profit, he said.

“Every franchise is a small to medium enterprise (SME), operating in the context of the network.

“The skills required to operate successfully are the same as any SME.”

Another presentation came from US Commercial Specialist Lucien Ong, who spoke on potential franchise possibilities from the US.

He highlighted that opportunities exist not only in food but also other industries such as automotive, cleaning services, corporate services, sports and education.

After the presentation, Soon Loo moderated a session in which Del Goh and Deno Goh, who have both had successes of their own with franchises in Brunei, shared their stories and franchise experience.

The dialogue came to a close with a session that discussed conclusions and next steps, featuring a panel comprised of DARE’s CEO Soon Loo; US Ambassador Craig Allen; Mubhashar Khokhar, Managing Director of BIBD; and John Burgos, Managing Director of JonRidge (B) Sdn Bhd.

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