|      Syazwani Hj Rosli      |

BRUNEI Darussalam can be developed into a global Halal hub that will help drive the country’s economic growth.

This was stated in a titah delivered by 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 during the 6^th Hafl Al-Takharruj (convocation ceremony) of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) held at the International Convention Centre yesterday.

“There are many areas that UNISSA must explore. One of them is the Halal industry that is fast expanding globally. Is the Halal status not a key requirement of Islam?” His Majesty asked.

“The global market value of the Halal industry is increasing and is estimated to be very large. Within the overall global food industry, the Halal industry has expanded by 16 per cent. The industry may expand to 20 per cent of global trade in food products.

“In view of this, I fully support UNISSA’s plan to set up a Centre of Excellence for Halal Research as a catalyst to fulfil my aim to make Brunei Darussalam a ‘global Halal hub’ that will help drive the country’s economic growth,” the monarch said.

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, Chancellor of UNISSA and His Royal Highness Prince (Dr) Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, and Pro-Chancellor of UNISSA, with graduates during the 6th Hafl Al-Takharruj of UNISSA at the International Convention Centre yesterday. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

His Majesty delivering a titah during the ceremony.

Photos above and below show some of the graduates of UNISSA during the institution’s 6th Convocation Ceremony yesterday.

– PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

Highlighting UNISSA’s present significance, His Majesty said, “In facing the current issue of accusations and provocations against Islam, I see UNISSA as having a very important role to play in portraying a correct and accurate image of this religion,” His majesty said.

“In moving towards this direction, UNISSA students not only have to be proficient in the Al-Quran and the Arabic language, but must also have a deep understanding of the classical works of the Ahli Sunnah Wal Jama’ah scholars of the past in various disciplines of knowledge.

“In addition to that, UNISSA, as an institute of knowledge, also has to be attuned to the developments in the academic landscape and the human resource demands in Brunei.

“As such, I am optimistic that the rebranding of the faculty, the expansion of programmes and the offering of new ones, as well as the assessment and changes to a number of courses, are wise and apt steps taken by UNISSA. These steps are some of the best initiatives in further expanding career opportunities for graduates of this university.”

“As such, it is important that we pay attention to UNISSA. A key focus that relevant parties should pay attention to includes the building of UNISSA’s permanent campus in Temburong. This is important in realising UNISSA’s status as a world-class Islamic institute of higher learning.

Earlier in the titah, His Majesty congratulated the graduates who are receiving their degrees and diplomas as well as the parents, guardians and lecturers “who have always worked very hard to see our graduates succeed”.

The monarch was happy to know that on the 6^th Convocation ceremony, UNISSA managed to produce its first batch of double degree programme graduates in Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Syariah Law and pleased to note that the first batch of graduates from the Syariah Criminal Justice System Certificate completed their studies at UNISSA.

“All praise be to Allah the Almighty, this achievement, in my view, is a significant one, aligned with the nation’s needs and the expansion of contemporary knowledge.

“Meanwhile, I also hope that the graduates will not be satisfied with merely having a certificate and their academic titles, but are also able to become the driving force in my government, specifically, in establishing the implementation of the Syariah Penal Code Order of 2013.”

His Majesty also took the opportunity to congratulate and thank the entire UNISSA community, including University Council and senate members, rectors, key officials, academics, and all officers and staff of the university for their contributions.

The post Halal is the future appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

ABDUL Kadir bin Abdul Ghani yesterday afternoon lifted the Challenge trophy of the ‘Terima Kasih Cikgu’ golfing tournament held in conjunction with the 26th Teachers Day celebration.

He captured the overall gross title by recording three under 69.

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education, presented the prizes.

In second was Haji Rahmad bin Haji Jafar who settled with seven over 79.

Third place went to Mohd Redha bin Haji Asmat who registered eight over 80.

Abdul Kadir bin Abdul Ghani receives his trophy. – JAMES KON

Dr Adam Haji Jait receives his prize.

Meanwhile, the title of Overall Nett went to Dr Adam Haji Jait who carded seven under 65.

Pengiran Haji Johari bin Pengiran Haji Md Daud finished second on five under 67 while Haji Alias bin Duraman came in third withi four under 68.

A total of 111 golfers teed off over two days, including the Minister of Education; Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Religious Affairs; Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs; and Dato Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam will be looking to correct their errors by studying video footage from their three matches in the recently concluded Asean Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki Cup qualifiers in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

The national team, who finished third in the four-team group, showed indications of progress with their competitive displays in all of the games but there is still considerable work to be done especially looking at the state of the team deprived of international experience.

Brunei Darussalam team manager Haji Mohd Noor Haji Abdul Hamid emphasised that international football is a major step-up compared to the domestic league football as they are exposed to a much higher level of playing standard.

“The players should adapt to the style of play commonly seen in international football which is vastly different than local football.

“The international players are very quick, they are known for producing good movement and are quick-thinking while we are still catching up,” said Haji Mohd Noor in an interview upon their arrival at the Brunei International Airport last Saturday.

“We will devise a new strategy focusing on tactical work and look at ways on how to correct errors with the aid of video footage,” he continued.

The Wasps were forced to rotate the squad following injuries sustained by first-team players Najib Haji Tarif and Nur Ikhmal Damit in the opening group fixture against Timor Leste.

“Because of injury, we have to involve new players though we managed to compete,” the team manager said.

The Brunei Darussalam national team in a group picture upon arrival at the Brunei International Airport on Saturday night. – FADHIL YUNUS

He admitted that they were holding on for the victory and had to overcome mental fatigue in the 2-1 win over Timor Leste.

Haji Mohd Noor said that they had to utilise three different strategies to accommodate the players stepping in with Faiq Jefri Bolkiah and Adi Said retaining their places as the focal line of attack.

“A lot of players were suffering from injuries so we had to make the changes by assembling a five-man defence in the Cambodia game.”

The team manager also revealed the team was playing in an artificial ground under the glaring lights to an extent where they could not see the ball clearly against Cambodia who were backed by vociferous home support.

Haji Mohd Noor added that continuous training will be held in preparation for the upcoming Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Solidarity Cup next month with the likelihood of bringing in fresh faces.

He also hinted that Leicester City prospect Faiq, who will be back in the East Midlands to resume the season, will not be linking up with the squad for the newly-launched competition.

Meanwhile, it is still early to bring in midfielder Azwan Ali Rahman who is side-lined by injury.

Haji Mohd Noor concluded that it will be a tough test to play against group opponents Nepal and Timor Leste in the upcoming AFC Solidarity Cup which will be contested in Malaysia.

Present to welcome the national team at the airport were Haji Madli bin Mohamad Yusuf, Acting Deputy President of the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) and Pengiran Mohd Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud, Acting General Secretary of NFABD as well as other senior members from NFABD.

The post Brunei bent on learning from mistakes appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Azaraimy HH      |

MORE than 700 people, both young and old, took part in a bicycle expedition yesterday that was organised in conjunction with the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah (PMMPMHAMB) Hospital’s 18th anniversary.

The big expedition was divided into two categories, the longest of which involved some 56 kilometres of cycling from the Perayaan field in front of the PMMPMHAMB Hospital in Tutong and ended at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien through the Tutong-Muara and Tungku Highways.

The other category involved 20 kilometres of cycling starting at the Perayaan field in front of the PMMPMHAMB Hospital and through the Tutong highway, going around several villages before ending back at the field.

Before ending the expedition, participants of the 20km cycling also got the chance to stop at the Tutong Waterfront for a rest and some picture-taking.

Meanwhile, the 56km cycling expedition that ended at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien certainly added colour to the Bandar Seri Begawan’s Bandarku Ceria – Day without Car.

Upon reaching the Brunei-Muara District, the participants also took the opportunity to make a stopover at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) for some rest and to take photos together, not only among the participants but also with participants of the UBD Convo Run & Cycle 2016 that was held yesterday.

Participants of the 56km cycling were also given certificates of appreciation to mark the completion of their expedition.

The Minister of Health, Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, leading the 56km cycling expedition that started at the Perayaan field in front of the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Hospital. – PHOTOS: AZARAIMY HH

The Acting Tutong District Officer, Haji Adnan bin Haji Adam, participating in the 20 kilometres of cycling category.

A mother and son while joining hundreds of participants with PMMPMHAMB Hospital in the background.

The young and old taking part in yesterday’s cycling expedition.

Back in Tutong and in conjunction with the cycling expedition, various activities were also held at the Perayaan field in front of the PMMPMHAMB Hospital, such as health checks, a medical welfare fund donation, as well as the presentation of certificates of appreciation to sponsors and a lucky draw event.

The event, organised by PMMPMHAMB Hospital in cooperation with the Tutong Cycling Team, carried a theme of ‘Cycling Recreational for Health’ to mark the hospital’s official opening on August 11, 1998.

Among those who took part in the 56km cycling expedition were the Minister of Development, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah; Minister of Health, Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi; and Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy) at the Ministry of Health, Dr Hazri bin Haji Kifle.

Taking part in the 20km cycling were the Acting Tutong District Officer, Haji Adnan bin Haji Adam; Acting Assistant Tutong District Officer, Haji Haizul Rizal bin Haji Yahya; as well as other senior-level officers from the Tutong District Office, PMMPMHAMB Hospital and the Ministry of Health.

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|      Lyna Mohamad      |

AS THE ‘Bandarku Ceria’ enters its fourth week following its October 2 launch, the event appears to be growing in popularity among both locals and tourists alike, ensuring the former ‘Brunei Town’ is alive and colourful on Sundays.

The various highlights of yesterday included aerobics, cycling and half-marathon, Silat exercise and the ‘One Village, One Product’ display set up by the Temburong District village consultative councils.

Among those present at the event yesterday were Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong as well as Fire and Rescue personnel led by their Director, Yahya bin Haji Abdul Rahman.

Visitors took advantage of the day’s activities, with some renting bicycles to take in the beauty of the capital without having to worry about traffic.

Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong joins others for a bicycle ride. – PHOTOS: LYNA MOHAMAD

Families and friends gather in the capital for a day of fun activities.

Bouncers were also set up for the enjoyment of the young ones, while others took pleasure in strolling around Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien and the capital.

The number of food and beverage stalls has multiplied since the event’s launch, offering vendors a chance to promote their products and to make extra income.

Not only does Bandarku Ceria provide the public the opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds of the capital, but it also encourages the public to be more active on Sundays by waking up early and participating in healthy activities typically carried out at recreational parks and fitness studios.

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|      Lyna Mohamad      |

UNPREDICTABLE weather was not an obstacle for more than 350 shutterbugs yesterday in their bid to be the grand prize winner to join a photo clinic in Japan through their participation in a photo-marathon event organised by Interhouse Company.

As the event began shortly after brief remarks by Business Development Manager Steven Goh at the Serambi Batil Ballroom of the Brunei Arts and Handicraft Centre, participants dressed in the competition official red t-shirt made their way out of the start venue and headed down to the capital to get the best shots according to the themes.

With a photo clinic worth US$5,000 as the grand prize, the competition also gave away a Canon EOS 80D EFS 18-55 as first prize, Canon EOS M3 EFM 18-55mm as the second prize and a Canon Pixma MG7770 AIO as the third prize.

Open to all photographers in Brunei, the competition was based on three themes; –theme ‘A’ – Splash of Colours; theme ‘B’ – Rain; and theme ‘C’ – Happy Birthday – with the participants given two hours to complete each theme.

Shutterbug Ling Yang Huy who won third prize in theme ‘B’ also emerged as the overall champion of the competition, thus naming him the grand prize winner.

Ling Yang Huy, who won third prize in theme ‘B’ also emerged as the overall champion of the competition, receiving the grand prize.

Winners in a group photo.

In theme ‘A’ first prize went to Najiha Jubidi, while Muhd Noriman bin Mohd Ali and Haji Muhamad bin Haji Sulaiman came in second and third respectively. For theme ‘B’ the winners were Pengiran Haji Haris bin Pengiran Mohamed in first place, Mad Fahri in second and Lim Yang Huy at third. Abdul Hafiz bin Abdul Hamid, Adam Hague and Adam Chao were the respective first, second and third prize winners of theme ‘C’.

The judges for this year’s competition comprised the Deputy Managing Director of Interhouse Company Vincent Goh, Senior Photographer at Istana Nurul Iman Haji Haranadi bin Haji Buntar, freelance photographer Ong Heng Seng, President of the Brunei Photographic Society Hamidun bin Haji Md Noor and Artist of Kaleidoscope studio Lisa Ahmad.

The grand prize winner will go on an all-expense-paid photography trip organised by Canon and will be joining other shutterbugs from other countries and have the experience to capture the essence of travel.

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|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

ZULKEFLI bin Abdullah Yumbah recently made history after completing a solo journey on foot from the Cendera Kenangan Tower in Kuala Belait to Muara Beach in 43 hours and 30 minutes.

Speaking to the Bulletin, Zulkefli said he commenced his journey at 8.15pm on October 14 and finally reached Muara Beach at 4.50pm on October 16.

His wife, Haslianawati binti Hassan, offered her unwavering support, even joining him as he made his way from Tungku Beach to Muara Beach.

“Zulkefli likes to challenge himself. He got the inspiration from friends who had sign up for the ultramarathon. Zulkefli walked 158 kilometres, and received support from the public as well as various associations and individuals who also participated in his journey,” Haslianawati said.

Prior to embarking on the expedition, Zulkefli hiked and jogged for a month to boost his stamina level.

The challenges faced during the journey included strong winds and rain showers as he walked from Lumut to the Sungai Liang Mosque, sleep deprivation and knee problems.

Strong-willed Zulkefli bin Abdullah Yumbah with his supporters. – SYAZWANI HJ ROSLI

However, despite the speed bumps, he remained positive, determined and of the firm belief that he would overcome these challenges that tested both his mental and physical strength.

Zulkefli made pitstops at various points including Anduki Resort Park, Zainab Mosque in Lumut, Sungai Liang Mosque, Tamu Telisai and Berakas Forest Reserve Recreational Park.

He also expressed gratitude to the various associations – such as Brunei Hikers Team and CARE, members of the public, his family and friends who came out to support him.

Having conquered this expedition, he looks forward to future challenges to raise awareness on the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

The post Zulkefli’s adventure on foot – From Belait to Muara in 43 hours and 30 min appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

MINISTER of Education Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman yesterday joined over 400 participants in promoting a healthy lifestyle through exercise at the Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Convo Run & Cycle 2016 held at the UBD Sports Complex.

Aside from promoting a healthy lifestyle, 10 per cent of the proceeds from the run will be donated to the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei.

The event saw the participation of public members as well as graduates, lecturers and senior officials from the Ministry of Education. Also in attendance was UBD Vice-Chancellor Datin Dr Hajah Anita Binurul Zahrina binti Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Aziz.

Following a warm-up session by an instructor from Fitness Zone, the minister flagged off the fun cycle. One of the participants at the fun cycle flag-off was Minister of Communications Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat.

Minister of Education Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman joins others in the Fun Run. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Minister of Communications Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat during the Fun Cycle.

Participants during the warm-up session.

This was followed by the flag-off for the 10km Run, 5.3km Run and 3.3km Fun Run. The Minister of Education joined the 3.3km fun run.

In the 10km male category run, Sefli Ahar took first place, followed by Md Shah Azahar bin Abdullah Ahar and Hamid bin Kaya in second and third places.

The 10km female category run saw Bazil Irwan in first place, followed by Norah Garisu in second and Suryana binti Haji Mashor in third place.

The 5.3km male category run saw Pengiran Mohd Shamsul Adli taking first place, while Mohd Nizam bin Haji Idris ranked in second, followed by Amie bin Haji Abdul Latif.

The 5.3km female category run saw Nurul Massanita binti Baharuddin in first place, followed by Natasha Keasberry in second place and Siti Salwana in third.

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|     Wani Roslan    |

OVER 250 people of different ages and backgrounds signed up for the MKM Charity Run at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium yesterday.

Organised by the Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM), the run was divided into two categories – 5km for men and 2.5km for women, who were flagged off by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports cum guest of honour Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof.

Themed ‘Sweat for Charity,’ the run aimed to raise funds for the less fortunate and senior citizens, and at the same time, instilling a sense of care for these individuals.

MKM President Datin Paduka Hajah Intan binti Haji Mohd Kassim expressed gratitude to companies, individuals and members of the working committees for their support in ensuring the success of the event. Appreciation was also extended to four local production houses – HadiYul, Regalblue Production, Bego Hazirul Production and Pestab.

Photo shows Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports during a warming up session prior to the start of the charity run organised by the Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM). The charity run, which was held at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, was participated by over 250 individuals of different ages.

ABOVE & BELOW: Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports cum guest of honour Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof awarding prizes to the winners of the MKM Charity Run. – PHOTOS: SITI NUR WASIMAH S

Warming-up before the big event.

Participants sweating for a good cause.

Mascot ‘Bodyman’ joins participants in the run.

“Alhamdulillah, we received encouraging public response which inspires MKM to continue its efforts in conducting charity works – especially in helping the less fortunate in the country,” she said.

The guest of honour later presented prizes to the top winners of both categories – Awangku Mohd Mazni bin Pengiran Saifudin and Nurul Nawwarah Noor placed first.

MKM is a non-government organisation (NGO) actively involved in volunteering activities that has helped 58 families since its establishment in December 2009.

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|     Aziz Idris    |

DESPITE medical advancements, death from cardiovascular disease (CVD) is still a leading cause of death worldwide with more than 17 million lives lost each year, around one in three deaths globally. Brunei is not exempted from this disease’s pattern.

CVD death remains as the second cause of death in the country only after cancer with the number of CVD patients in Brunei also increasing every year.

This was revealed by the President of the Cardiac Society of Brunei Darussalam (CSBD), Dato Paduka Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar in his opening remarks as the guest of honour for the CSBD 3^rd Annual Cardiology Conference held at The Rizqun International Hotel yesterday.

Some 250 people comprising nurses, doctors, and allied health practitioners attended the annual conference, and according to Dato Paduka Dr Haji Mohd Isham, it shows their commitment as health professionals to help and educate the public on the importance of living healthy lifestyles by learning a wide range of important cardiovascular topics ranging from statin therapy to management of heart failure and to management of arrhythmias during the event.

Among the topics discussed during the first session was on ‘Electrophysiology: Past, Present and Future’ by Dr Teo Wee Siong, Consultant Electrophysiologist, Singapore and President of Asia Pacific Heart Rhythm Society (APHRS), ‘The Management of Acute Heart Failure’ by Dr Ezam Emran, Consultant Cardiologist of Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital, and ‘Cardiology and Diabetes: Co-relation to Obesity’ by Dr Kan Yuk Man, Consultant Bariatric Surgeon, Singapore.

President of Cardiac Society of Brunei Darussalam (CSBD), Dato Paduka Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar, handing an award to a recipient during the CSBD 3rd Annual Cardiology Conference. – AZIZ IDRIS

President of Cardiac Society of Brunei Darussalam (CSBD), Dato Paduka Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar, speaking during the CSBD 3rd Annual Cardiology Conference. – AZIZ IDRIS

Dato Dr Haji Isham further revealed the number of patients having cardiovascular disease in Brunei is also increasing every year with patients having angiograms having risen from 659 in 2010 to 1,011 in 2015 while open heart surgery also increased from 140 patients in 2010 to 206 patients in 2015 with the mean age of patients at about 56 years old.

“Being a small country with a small population growth of less than 2 per cent per year, this is alarming. Therefore it’s paramount that as a society we should work hand-in-hand with the government through the Ministry of Health and other agencies in promoting healthy lifestyles – ‘Prevention is Better than Cure’,” he noted.

He believes that by increasing awareness, CVD can be tackled, intervened early or even prevented. He was happy to note that many weekly healthy activities are being organised by government agencies and NGOs, ranging from a healthy walk to running and cycling with very encouraging participation from the public.

“It is this kind of awareness and participation as a society and individuals we would like not only to encourage but also should facilitate. We should educate the public more not only about the symptoms and signs of cardiovascular disease but also the risks that could lead to CVD,” he added.

During the opening ceremony, various awards were also presented to outstanding cardiologists and supporters of the CSBD.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

WINRAN Tyre recovered from an astonishing 12-point deficit to beat Home Kitchen & Café 92-89 and sealed a place in the last four in a pulsating affair in the Concepts Veteran Cup at the Brunei Basketball Association in Batu Bersurat last night.

Winran entered the game needing a win to advance into Friday’s semi-final with Home Kitchen proving tough opposition so much so that earned the respect of the team’s captain.

Winran team captain Yu has credited their opponents for putting up a tough test in their must-win group game.

“I would like to congratulate the other team (Home Kitchen & Café) for being tough opponents,” said Yu in a post-match with the interview.

“We were surprised to win this game because our opponents were very tough. Hopefully in the next game we will repeat the same thing tonight.”

Yu said that the victory was a culmination of good defence, teamwork and shooting especially in the free throws.

A Winran Tyre player marked by two Home Kitchen & Cafe players. – FADHIL YUNUS

He is adamant that key man Bautista will return for the semi-final having missed a portion of the tournament.

Having been second-best in three quarters of the tie, Winran found renewed enthusiasm and energy to take the game to their opponents.

Yu said that the motivation from the coaches inspired them to a perfect fourth quarter and was central to achieving the victory.

“The coach told us to stay focused and keep it tight in defence. The coach and the manager gave us motivation.”

The post Winran Tyre in comeback victory appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Khairil Hassan     |

COMETS  beat Divas 12-10 in the ladies category of the President’s Cup at Jerudong Polo & Riding Club on Saturday evening.

After tying 5-5 in the fifth inning, Divas and Comets went into the tie breaker but still couldn’t be separated at 7-7.

In the eighth inning, Comets managed to lead 12-7.

Divas tried to catch up but could only manage to score three runs.

On Sunday morning, Wanderers staged a comeback win over Gunners. Trailing by four runs to nothing in the third inning. Wanderers then pulled together and levelled the match at 5-5 in the fifth inning.

Divas and Comets in a group photo. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

Wanderers scored the winning run in the sixth inning to make it 6-5 and held on tight with bases loaded in the seventh inning to secure their win.

Meanwhile, Black Arrows lost to Zombies 10-14 in the afternoon match at Jerudong Sports Arena.

More action will take place this weekend with the adies category still playing the first round and the men playing in the semifinal.

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|      Aziz Idris      |

THE Batu Apoi Industrial Complex in Temburong is now open to business people, especially youth entrepreneurs, to propose business activities at the complex or the adjacent industrial lands.

DARE (Darussalam Enterprise) which is responsible for the development of the site told reporters that “attractive rates” for rental will be provided for entrepreneurs in the hopes to attract more startups in the remote district.

According to DARE, the first year will be rent free, for the second year, the rent fees will be negotiated excluding electricity and water.

Moreover, with the construction of Temburong Bridge underway, DARE advised businesses to take this opportunity of starting a business now, rather than waiting for the bridge to be completed.

Once the bridge is completed, Temburong District will be more accessible to locals, tourists from overseas and regional neighbours from Malaysia.

The site is open to any type of business, whether its tailoring, a trendy coffee shop, or just an office space.

The total area of the site is 13 hectares and there are 14 plots of land available.

ABOVE & BELOW: Some of the sites that will be open to entrepreneurs. – PHOTOS: AZIZ IDRIS

The site has utilities such as electrical supply, telecommunications, water connection and wastewater management and road access.

The site is approximately 31 kilometres from the Brunei International Airport, two kilometres from the Temburong Jetty and 52 kilometres from the Brunei-Muara Port, according to information from DARE’s website.

The Batu Apoi Industrial Complex will be open to interested business people for viewing from 9am to 3pm until October 28.

Detailed information can be found on www.dare.gov.bn/sitepages/batuapoi.aspx. The deadline for submission of proposals is on November 18 at 5pm, to DARE, Batu Apoi Industrial Complex, KM 2, Jalan Labu, Temburong, PA1351 or via email to dare@ei.gov.bn, with the subject heading ‘Batu Apoi Industrial Site/Complex Proposal’.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to do their pitches to DARE between Monday, November 21 and Friday, November 25 at the Batu Apoi Industrial Complex.

DARE is a statutory body that aims to nurture and support local enterprises from startup to growth.

DARE works closely with government and non-government agencies to foster the growth of business enterprises so as to increase our nation’s exports and GDP growth.

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|      Rokiah Mahmud      |

TWENTY-EIGHT Brunei Participating Youth 2016 (BPY43) members will serve as the Sultanate’s ‘small ambassadors’ for 51 days as they will be part of the 43rd Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Programme (SSEAYP) 2016.

Leading the contingent was Pengiran Kamal Ariffin bin Pengiran Haji Md Yassin as the national leader for Brunei Darussalam.

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin and ministerial officials joined friends and family at the Brunei International Airport yesterday to bid farewell to the participants.

Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy reminded the participants to uphold the country’s image, maintain their discipline and actively engaged in activities outlined during the programme.

BPY43 will embark on the 51-day journey from October 25 to December 15, along with other participating youths (PY) from Asean member countries and Japan.

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin with the Brunei delegation prior to departure. – BAHYIAH BAKIR

Nippon Maru, the ship that will carry the 330 participating youths, will sail to Asean member countries starting with Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam as their first port of call, followed by Thailand and Indonesia, before ending in Japan.

The SSEAYP programme is an annual activity initiated in 1974, sponsored by the Japanese Government and supported by Asean member countries. The programme provides youths with unique opportunities to interact with others on board the Nippon Maru and at different ports of call.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

THE Chancellor of the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM), Dr Mohammad Shaeem Ali Saeed thanked Brunei Darussalam for giving scholarships to Maldivian students over the past years where Maldivians who graduated from the Sultanate’s universities could assist the Maldives to set up its own Islamic finance department at Maldives universities.

He was speaking with the media yesterday on the sidelines of his courtesy call to the Acting Ra’es of the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB), Dr Haji Adanan bin Haji Basar and other officers from KUPU SB.

“We really thank Brunei Darussalam from the bottom of our hearts. I attended Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) book prize presentations recently and two Maldivian students under the Brunei scholarship programme received medals in Islamic finance. It is a good contribution to the Ummah. In Maldives, there are no graduates in Islamic finance. I suggested these two Maldivian students join Maldives universities and serve the nation and establish Islamic finance department at the Maldives University,” Dr Mohammad Shaeem Ali Saeed said.

“Some of the Maldivian students who graduated from Brunei higher institutions are working in the Maldives parliament holding high ranking jobs there,” he added.

On his visit to KUPU SB yesterday, Dr Mohammad Shaeem Ali Saeed said KUPU SB is doing a very good job. Teachers are the backbone of the Muslim Ummah and they needed to deliver the message to the new generation, he added.

The Chancellor of Islamic University of Maldives, Dr Mohammad Shaeem Ali Saeed in a group photo with Dr Haji Adanan bin Haji Basar, Acting Ra’es of KUPU SB along with other officials. – AZLAN OTHMAN

“We have to teach our teachers and lecturers how to develop their skills, deliver their subjects with new presentation. I ask Allah the Almighty to guide teachers of KUPU SB and make them stronger than before,” he said.

Dr Mohammad Shaeem Ali Saeed also conveyed his appreciation to His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, and prayed for him and his efforts to implement Syariah law.

“His Majesty has made a lot of contributions to Muslim Ummah. His Majesty has made a contribution to the biggest national mosque in Maldives and all the Maldives people know His Majesty,” he added.

Dr Mohammad Shaeem Ali Saeed also met with the Minister of Education, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman and discussed academic cooperation with IUM.

“This is my first visit to Brunei Darussalam. This is not my last visit and (I) will come again to the Sultanate, which is a very good country with very good community with Islamic culture and values. I am very happy to see a community like this and hope to come with my family and children and show them,” he said.

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|     James Kon     |

TEN schoolchildren who were affected by recent blazes at Kg Burung Pingai Ayer and Kg Lurong Dalam in Kampong Ayer received donations in the form of daily necessities and school equipment from the Miftaahun Najaah Unit and Student’s Welfare Unit under the Ministry of Education.

The ceremony took place at the Awang Semaun Secondary School and saw the guest of honour, Haji Mustapa bin Haji Masri, the Acting Assistant Director of the Department of Schools, Ministry of Education and Hajah Jeriah binti Haji Duraman, the Head of the Welfare Unit under the Department of Schools, presenting the donations to the affected families and students. The donation was given to encourage the students to carry on studying hard.

The affected students from Awang Semaun Secondary School and Datu Ahmad Primary School had also received donations immediately after the blaze. The donations included school uniforms, stationery, note books and textbooks that came from each school’s student’s welfare unit and teachers.

The immediate action of each school has helped the students especially those who are sitting for the PSR examination this year, to continue in their studies with sufficient school equipment.

One of the parents of the recipients, Masnah binti Tuah in an interview conveyed her heartfelt appreciation for the donations to her six children who were affected by the blaze that destroyed their home in Kg Burung Pingai Ayer.

Recipients in a group photo with officials from the Department of Schools. – JAMES KON

She also appealed to the authorities to provide her family with a house to stay in. Following the fire on September 27, Masnah, her husband and children are temporarily sheltered at the Sungai Asam Community Hall.

“It’s nearly a month and we haven’t received any information on a permanent place to stay. I hope that we could get a place to call home soon so that my husband can continue his work of making fishing nets to earn income for the family while the children can concentrate on their studies,” she added.

After the fire, Masnah’s family survived on the assistance provided by the Community Development Department.

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|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

THE Embassy of Japan in Brunei Darussalam, together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Japan and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports in Brunei will be co-organising a Brunei-Japan Badminton Exchange in commemoration of the 70^th birthday celebration of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

A delegation from the Japan national badminton team is currently in Brunei for the sports exchange. The players include Sho Sasaki, who took part in Rio and London Olympic men’s badminton singles and made it to the top eight at the London Olympics.

The Japanese delegation paid a coutesy call on Noriko Iki, the Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam at the Japanese Embassy in Kiulap.

The sports exchange will take place from October 24 to 27 where the players will take part in friendly matches and coaching sessions with the Brunei players at the Indoor Stadium in Berakas.

Noriko Iki, the Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam, in a group photo with the delegation from the Japan National Badminton team. – DEAN KASSIM

Apart from sporting events, the delegation will also have the opportunity to visit interesting places in Brunei such as Kampong Ayer, mosques, museums, as well as the Jerudong International School (JIS) and International School Brunei (ISB).

The event is part of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s ‘Sport for Tomorrow’ initiative, which aims to promote sports to over 10 million people in over 100 nations until 2020 when Japan will host the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics.

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PEHIN Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports yesterday received a courtesy call from a delegation of the Japan National Badminton team.

The delegation is currently in Brunei Darussalam for the Brunei-Japan Badminton exchange organised by Embassy of Japan in Brunei Darussalam, together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Japan and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) in Brunei in commemoration of the 70^th birthday celebration of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

The event is part of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s ‘Sport for Tomorrow’ initiative, which aims to promote sports to over 10 million people in over 100 nations until 2020 when Japan will host the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics.

Also present at the courtesy call were Dato Paduka Dr Haji Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin and Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil, Permanent Secretaries at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports; as well as Noriko Iki, the Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam, and senior officials from the MCYS.

Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, yesterday received a courtesy call from a delegation of the Japan national badminton team. The delegation is currently in Brunei Darussalam for the Brunei-Japan Badminton Exchange organised by Embassy of Japan in Brunei Darussalam, together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Japan and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) in Brunei in conjunction with the 70th birthday celebration of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports and senior officials from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports in a group photo with the delegation from the Japan national badminton team.

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|     Azlan Othman     |

A WIDE array of products on display with unbelievable discounts on offer – that makes the annual Brunei Salebration a much-awaited fair for thousands who wish not only to make wonderful deals but also to contribute to nation building by supporting the local economy.

This year, the 65-day-long sales bonanza will begin on November 28 and continue until January 31, 2017, the Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE) said yesterday.

The objective of the sales fest is to contribute to increasing the country’s economic activities by making prices attractive and to encourage members of the public to shop locally.

All Brunei Salebration participants will be required to offer a minimum 60 per cent of their stocks on display at their premises with discounts of at least 20 per cent and above.

Grocery stores and electronic and electrical stores need to give discounts on least 15 types of goods they offer.

For the remaining stocks outside the minimum requirement of 60 per cent, participating stores must offer discounts between 10 to 20 per cent.

However, it must be supplemented with additional promotions such as purchase-with-purchase, free gifts, vouchers, coupons and so on.

JPKE said under provision Regulation 9 (1) of the Price Control (Cheap Sale Price) Regulations 2012, price tags must be clearly displayed on all items.

For Brunei Salebration 2016, two price tags must be displayed on all items being offered, showing the original and the discounted price.

Each participating outlet will receive a Brunei Salebration 2016 participation notice issued by JPKE which must be clearly displayed at the business premises.

JPKE said businesses are not permitted to organise any cheap sale event 14 days before the commencement of Brunei Salebration 2016.

The last day for businesses to conduct any cheap sale is on the November 13, 2016.

The Brunei Salebration notification form and participation guidelines are available on JPKE website at www.depd.gov.bn or, room 3.04, level 3, west wing of JPKE building at Block 2A, Ong Sum Ping in the capital.

Notification forms and price lists can also be submitted via email at sales@jpke.gov.bn two weeks before the commencement of the event.

For any inquiries, the public may contact the Consumer Affairs Division (CAD) of JPKE at 2230223 during office hours, or via facebook www.facebook.com/AduanPenggunaJPKE, or email at consumercomplaint@jpke.gov.bn.

JPKE expressed hope that the public will support the Brunei Salebration 2016 and be prudent in spending their money at the sales event.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

DPMM FC head coach Steve Kean is disappointed not to finish second in the S League but has vowed to carry on their unbeaten streak when they visit Toa Payoh Stadium for their concluding league game of the season against Balestier Khalsa tonight.

Tampines Rovers’ victory over DPMM FC’s opponents tonight confirmed they could not be overtaken in second place and will be playing to restore some pride against newly crowned S League champions Albirex Niigata (S) in a dress rehearsal for the Singapore Cup.

Kean would have been secretly hoping for a Tampines’ slip-up which would have brought the race for second place down to the wire on the final day of the season.

The Brunei-based outfit have settled for third place after managing an impressive run which saw them amassing 23 points out of a maximum 27 points.

“It is disappointing because we were always chasing second place and hoping that Tampines slipped up. As we’ve seen they haven’t so we’ve secured third place,” said Kean in an interview after a training session at the Jerudong Mini Stadium on Monday.

“Disappointed not to get second place and take it to the last game but we just want to keep our fantastic run going.”

The head coach has hinted that the local players which did not travel to Cambodia are in firm contention to start with the three foreign imports.

“Even though the lads that are coming back from Cambodia are a bit tired, most of the lads that will start have been the lads that have been based here for three weeks so we’ll still have the freshness about us,” he said.

“We’ve trained really well and we’re looking forward to finish our last game and finishing on a high.”

Hendra Azam of DPMM FC attempts a pass during a training session at the Jerudong Mini Stadium on Monday. – FADHIL YUNUS

While the majority of the players could be those who have featured in the 6 vs 6 games during training with Kean hinting 99 per cent of the players will be giving the nod, it is still someone’s guess which Brunei international will not start from the bench.

“We gave the lads that came back another recovery session. Fortunately, they didn’t all play in the last game.

“There is some that played 90 minutes in the last game and I think that would be difficult for them. But the ones who didn’t play 90 minutes they’re in contention because the game was on Friday,” he asserted.

The head coach added that they had a recovery session on Monday primarily for the players who travelled to Cambodia for international duty at the AFF Suzuki Cup qualifiers.

He also revealed that the returning players might only be able to play only one half of the match adding that he is ready to provide opportunities to the players that have trained for the last three weeks.

Kean also heaped praise to the players that have been performing well in training for the last three weeks despite having most of the regulars missing.

“We’ve missed the lads but you do the best you can. The boys that’s been here have been top class,” he said.

Kean’s side are undoubtedly the most in-form team in the league currently undefeated in their last nine league games and gunning for their seventh successive league win.

Despite oozing with confidence, Kean exercised caution against Balestier Khalsa who had a poor season by their own admissions and willing to end the season with a win.

“We know that Balestier had a tough season. We always find it tough especially against them in the first half because they are so direct but we’re confident we can get the points if we play to our maximum,” the former Blackburn Rovers manager said.

With Aminuddin Zakwan Tahir excelling in his role in his breakthrough season, Kean has been impressed with defender Yura Indera Putera’s contributions filling in the void left by no-nonsense defender Boris Raspudic.

“Yura has been great for us this season. Like any young player, sometimes he’s made a couple of little mistakes but overall his progress has been excellent. The amount of minutes that he has played for us this season will stand him in good stead for next season.”

The Brunei international has suffered a knock during the AFF qualifying campaign and will have the club assessing his fitness with Abdul Aziz Tamit in line to replace him if he is not fit in time.

Meanwhile, the club being linked with a move for Billy Mehmet from Tampines Rovers FC has dominated headlines though there is no confirmation of the player leaving the Stags for Brunei.

“At this time of year, you’ve heard names being mentioned who is a good player”, Kean said.

“He (Billy) would add a good profile to any club. I hope he is linked to us because he will be excellent,” he said.

The Gegar Gegar men will welcome back Azwan Ali Rahman having been unavailable due to injury for Brunei’s AFF qualifying campaign but Najib Tarif remains a doubt after picking up an ankle injury in the win against Timor Leste.

Versatile player Azwan Salleh is also available after playing in the Laos game unscathed having not been in full fitness in the opening fixture of the qualifiers.

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