|     Fadhil Yunus     |

HER Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah guided Ivy League to the final of the 9th Setia Motors Netball Open for Women Challenge Trophy 2016 where they were narrowly beaten 25-23 by Setia Motors at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex yesterday.

Her Royal Highness led Ivy League to yet another final this year having reached the Royal Brunei Police Force Sports Council Netball Open Championship title decider in September.

However, it was double heartbreak for Ivy League after suffering their second consecutive final loss having fallen short against NY13 (national Under-21 team) in the last edition of the Setia Motors tournament.

Ivy League, one of the top local netball teams in the country, stormed into the final after preserving an unbeaten record in the group stages before successfully negotiating a 12-9 victory over Angel Netball Team in the semi-finals.

Ivy League has been wary of the threat Netballisus, Angel Netball Team and Strives XOXO possess but it was Setia Motors, bolstered by the inclusion of national players Siti Norsaihah and Dayangku Khalisha Pengiran Abdul Rahman, which made a huge impression topping the group stage with four out of five wins.

The newly crowned winners, who assembled a star studded squad of their own, continued their fine form on the court with a solid 16-9 victory over Sixty9 in the last-four phase.

Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah with her medal. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

Setia Motors team manager Norlizawati Haji Md Kassim highlighted that teamwork was key to the team’s victory.

“The team gave a full commitment to the cause. Teamwork really helped the team to win,” she said in an interview after the victory.

The team manager expressed her delight of the result having beaten a strong team of Ivy League’s stature.

“The team is very happy with the result and we did not expect it,” continued the team manager.

Norlizawati also singled praise to their wing attack and the goal attack which she described as an important member in the squad who converted the baskets.

However, Norlizawati also heaped praise to every member in the squad for their contributions and commitments in their quest to capture the title.

“The goal attack is very important because it is a position where she will be the one who score the goals,” she added.

Setia Motors has six recognised national players in their squad but only three are allowed to play on the court.

Angel Netball Team claimed third place after defeating Sixty9 15-6 in the playoff.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office yesterday graced the 11th Challenge Trophy for Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota for Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Fund for Orphans (DANA) Charity Golf Tournament 2016 prize presentation ceremony at the Royal Brunei Golf & Country Club yesterday.

His Royal Highness also presented a mock cheque amounting $43,800 to the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Fund for Orphans (DANA).

Suhaimi bin Haji Ibrahim clinched the overall gross title after carding a score of 72 at the three-day tournament.

“I didn’t expect to win. I actually just play and enjoy out there. I find the course conditions very tough but maybe that day I felt confident which made me think I could play,” said Awang Suhaimi in an interview with the media.

The 51-year-old also expressed his satisfaction after securing his first ever DANA title with the tournament entering its 11th year.

The golfer, who has been playing the sport since 1999, also won competition overseas in the Astro Open and also represented the national team at the SEA Games in Jakarta and Manila in the past.

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, presents the prize. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

Though this was his first title in 2016, he has already posted big scores in the local tournaments.

Haji Shahminan bin Haji Damit finished runners-up with a score of 74 while Johari bin Haji Ahmad settled for third place with a total of 76.

Meanwhile, Haji Jamain bin Osman walked away with a $20,000 prize sponsored by Volvo as this year’s hole-in-one winner after sinking his effort in hole-no-3.

This year, over 268 golfers took part which was held from October 28 to October 30. According to a press release issued by Boustead, the competition received a 44 percent increase in registration compared to the previous edition making it the biggest turnout to date.

In conjunction with Boustead 60th anniversary, a gallery exhibition displaying its history and development in regards to the history background of DANA Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah Orphan Fund Charity Tournament was showcased.

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|      Achong Tanjong      |

THE Ministry of Health yesterday held the ‘Cycle 4 Men’s Health 2016’ in conjunction with Men’s Health Awareness Month, marked in November.

The event aimed to promote healthy lifestyle, give the public the opportunity to be active in sporting activities and, at the same time, support the ministry’s vision of moving ‘Together Towards Healthy Citizen.’

The event saw the participation of 250 people.

It started and ended at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital, covering a distance of 61km.

Cycle 4 Men’s Health 2016 participants at the event. – ACHONG TANJONG

The Cycle 4 Men’s Health 2016 helped enliven the ‘Bandarku Ceria’ car-free Sunday initiative.

Present at the event were Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Awang Dr Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health Haji Zakaria bin Haji Serudin, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy) at the Ministry of Health Dr Hazri bin Haji Kifle, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Professional) at the Ministry of Health Dr Hajah Maslina binti Haji Mohsin and other ministerial officials.

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|      Syazwani Hj Rosli in Taiwan      |

THE start of the 2016 Asia-Pacific Culture Day saw the participation of around 20 countries from Asia-Pacific, including Brunei. The event was launched last Friday by the Vice-President of Taiwan, Chen Chien-jen, at the Taipei Main Station.

The Brunei Darussalam’s Trade and Tourism Office Taipei set up a booth offering promotions from the Royal Brunei Airlines as well as Brunei’s quality blue shrimp throughout the weekend event.

Speaking at the event, the Vice-President spoke of improving economic and trade relations between Taiwan and the Asia-Pacific nations.

According to him, the event provided an excellent opportunity to enhance cooperation between the participating countries in terms of economy, trade and investment.

Chen stated that the event provided an opportunity for the people of Taiwan to explore and experience the quality of various products offered by the participating countries.

Speaking to the Bulletin, the Acting Representative of the Brunei Darussalam’s Trade and Tourism Office Taipei said that trade between Brunei and Taiwan has been satisfactory and hoped that the event will help enhance bilateral relations and cooperation.

Around 20 countries took part in the 2016 Asia-Pacific Culture Day organised by Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Trade), at the Taipei Main Station, Taiwan.

A showcase of Brunei’s blue shrimp at the event.

A group photo at Brunei’s booth. PHOTOS: SYAZWANI HJ ROSLI

Also speaking at the event was Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, David Lee, who emphasised that this year’s Asia-Pacific Culture Day features numerous booths set up by the diplomatic missions of the Asia-Pacific nations, showcasing music, dance, art and cuisine.

“The Asia-Pacific Culture Day highlights Taiwan’s appreciation of different cultures. It also demonstrates that Asia-Pacific cultures have blended into the lives of the Taiwanese people,” he said.

“Thanks to globalisation, exchanges between countries such as in culture are growing in both number and importance. Such exchanges enrich our cultures, foster mutual understanding, reduces friction between people and nations, and move us closer to realising a true global village.”

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|      Rokiah Mahmud      |

MEMBERS of the Special Olympics Brunei Darussalam (SOBD) are set to participate in the 5^th Special Olympics Southeast Asia 5-A-Side Football Tournament 2016 from November 15 to 21 in Manila, Philippines.

At a press conference, SOBD Deputy Chairman Haji Jumaat bin Salleh explained that this is the third year Brunei will be participating in the tournament.

The team has undergone training and been making preparations since August, and are ready to do their best at the event.

“We hope they go to the finals,” he said.

“We would also like to take the opportunity to thank our sponsors for the jerseys, and the Ministry of Development for allowing the SOBD’s team to use their football field for practice,” he added.

The SOBD contingent is made up of 11 participants – eight male athletes (three unified partners and five special athletes), Delegation Head Haji Hamdan Ajak; two officials and a coach.

SOBD Deputy Chairman Haji Jumaat bin Salleh (seated 2R) with the SOBD contingent.

The day also saw the handing over of sponsorship items from Fitness Zone, which has provided tracksuits and shirts for the contingent.

Wu Chun of Fitness Zone said, “We are happy that SOBD has been very active in educating, encouraging and exposing people with special needs here in Brunei internationally. They bring great pride to our nation.”

SOBD was founded in April 2004 as a non-profit, non-government organisation. It works closely with several government ministries and Brunei-based non-government organisations.

SOBD’s mission is to provide individuals with intellectual disabilities opportunities to participate in Olympic-type sports such as Bocce, football and bowling, while promoting a healthy lifestyle through healthy bodies, minds and attitudes.

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|      James Kon      |

IN A bid to further promote sign language, DST organised the ‘Sign and Win!’ competition, seeing 10 individuals receiving their prizes at the Hearing Awareness Charity Bazaar at The Mall, Gadong yesterday.

Manager of Group Corporate Communications at DST Elixsurian bin Haji Busu and Manager of Group Human Resources at DST Hajah Noor’Aisah binti Haji Othman presented the prizes to the 10 winners who were able to sign the phrases ‘I Love DST’ and ‘The Future. Now.’

Mohd Nashrul bin Ridwuan took home the grand prize of a Samsung Galaxy K-Zoom, together with an Easi Starter pack, $10 Easi recharge and $10 DST Incomm voucher. Meanwhile, seven consolation winners bagged DST merchandise.

The bazaar ran from November 2-6, allowing visitors to learn about DST’s contribution to the special needs community. Hearing impaired employees present at the booth also shared their experience about their working life at DST.

Mohd Nashrul bin Ridwuan receiving the grand prize from Elixsurian bin Haji Busu, Manager of Group Corporate Communications at DST.

A winner shows her sign language skills.

Manager of Group Human Resources at DST Hajah Noor’Aisah binti Haji Othman presenting the consolation prize to a recipient. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

Discussing DST’s participation at the exhibition, Elixsurian said, “Being involved here over the past week has been a good opportunity for DST to raise awareness about our continuous involvement in the community, working with various agencies such as the Special Education Unit of the Ministry of Education, the Community Development Department (JAPEM) and businesses like Hear Better Services.

“It is another important face of DST that we’d like the public to be familiar with, asides from being a well-known info-telecommunications provider.

“This exposure will allow us not only to share our experience, but to also receive feedback or ideas for future programmes and collaborations. We hope that with continuous effort, all our Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives can help better the lives of Bruneians and shape the future of Brunei,” he said.

For more information on DST activities, promotions, products and services, subscribers can visit the official website at www.dst.com.bn or contact the DST Call Center at 151.

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|      Abdul Hakiim Yakof      |

THREE thousand people turned up with smiling faces despite gray skies and heavy rain, to take part in the Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAirF) Obstacle Challenge yesterday morning at the RBAirF Sports Complex in Rimba.

The challenge was organised in conjunction with the 50^th anniversary of the RBAirF and was open to the public. It featured six categories for civilian and military personnel namely the Individual 10km Male Open, Individual 10km Female, Individual 10km RBAirF Male, Individual 10km RBAirF Female Open, 5km Fun Run and 3km Fun Run for Family and Children. With the exception of those registered in the 3km and 5km Fun Run categories, all the participants had to go through nine obstacle challenges.

The first obstacle was the ‘Terrain’ where participants hiked on a steep slope followed by ‘Divert’, a series of road barriers. The participants then navigated through numerous sets of tyres in ‘Turbulence’. Their upper body strength was then tested in ‘Gravity’ as participants swung across the monkey bars before they manoeuvred over trucks in ‘Target’ followed by the ‘Vertigo’ where spider web-like strings obstructed the participants’ path. Then they had to lift sand bags in the ‘Rapier Lift’ obstacle over a distance of 200-metre to reach the next obstacle, the ‘POL Pit’ and crawled through mud to reach the final ‘Mystery Obstacle’.

Brigadier General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Shahril Anwar bin Haji Ma’awiah, the Commander of the RBAirF presenting the mock cheque to a winner. – PHOTOS: DEAN KASSIM

Participants during the warm up session.

Participants going through one of the obstacles.

Among the participants of the Obstacle Challenge.

Prizes were presented by the guests of honour, Brigadier General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Shahril Anwar bin Haji Ma’awiah, the Commander of the RBAirF and his wife for the top three runners in the 10km competition both male and female categories.

Entertainment during the event were parkour performances by youth members of the Brunei Parkour group, and lucky draw for the participants. Partnering in the event were Fitness Zone, GHK Motors, Kingston Beverage and Creamery Sdn Bhd, Hua Ho and Power Breathe. Sponsors for the event included McDonald’s, Royal Brunei Technical Services, Simpor Pharma, Bang Olufsen, Nichtech, SCR, Pondok Seri Wangi, Brunei Halal, and Royal Brunei Catering Sdn Bhd.

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|      Hakim Hayat      |

HALAL food industry, followed by Islamic-compliant finance and fashion, are the three main growth areas and drivers of today’s global Islamic market where there is still very much room for growth, a visiting professor and researcher said.

During a talk on ‘Understanding the Islamic Marketing Environment’ hosted jointly by ESSEC Business School, Asia-Pacific and Alliance Francaise de Brunei yesterday, Dr Cedomir Nestorovic shared that figures show that industries that cater for the demands of the multi-trillion dollar Islamic market are booming at a rapid pace, as a result of the expansion of Muslim population and economies globally.

During the talk, he also spoke of some of the unique challenges that the Islamic marketing environment poses, given the diverse nature of the Muslim world in terms of economic development, customs and traditions and political and legal systems.

He said this cannot be ignored and must take into account the cultural and geopolitical dimensions in the region where Islamic marketing is being practised to avoid any ethnocentric snares, which therefore warrants for companies and marketers to conduct in-depth analysis and research on the environment.

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Education; Loan Forgeron, the French Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam; and other guests at the event. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

Dr Cedomir Nestorovic, ESSEC Business School, Asia Pacific during the talk on ‘Understanding the Islamic Marketing Environment’ hosted jointly by ESSEC Business School, Asia-Pacific and Alliance Francaise de Brunei yesterday.

A section of the guests.

Dr Nestorovic holds a PhD from the Institute of Political Sciences in Paris. He has taught geopolitics and international marketing at the ESSEC Business School for more than 15 years, with a specific focus on Islamic Business and Management.

He has authored a book called ‘Marketing in an Islamic Environment’ in 2007.

The event held at Alliance Francaise de Brunei’s office was attended by Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, the Minister of Education; Loan Forgeron, the French Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam as well as academics and students.

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|      Azlan Othman      |

IN LINE with Brunei’s ambition to create a Smart Nation, the Department of Town and Country Planning has launched two online systems to accelerate the processes of issuance of planning permission and site approvals.

Dubbed Planning Permission Electronic System (e-KP), and Site Selection System (e-3S), the new in-house-developed facilities can reduce processing time, improve work quality and minimise the use of human resources and office equipment.

The online systems were officially opened yesterday at the Ministry of Development (MoD), during a convention organised by the Department of Town and Country Planning to celebrate the World Town Planning Day.

Delivering the opening speech was guest of honour Haji Muhammad Lutfi bin Abdullah, Permanent Secretary (Administration and Finance) at the Ministry of Development (MoD), who also launched the web platforms.

The e-KP System enables qualified persons (QPs) to submit applications online. Within the department, the process of assessing applications by the department will be easier and faster compared to the current manual method which is time consuming and requires massive resources.

Haji Muhammad Lutfi bin Abdullah, Permanent Secretary (Administration and Finance) at the Ministry of Development; Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Development; Shahrom bin Haji Suhaimi @ Azhar, Commissioner of Town and Country Planning in his capacity as chairman of the event; heads of departments and senior officers of the Ministry of Development and its departments during the event. – AZLAN OTHMAN

Meanwhile through the e-3S system, applicants can submit applications upon which the department can make comments on whether to approve or disapprove the proposed sites through electronic means. It also allows the department to process and refer the proposed sites to members of the Site-Selection Working Committee for reviews, opinions and approvals via online.

Both systems allow the applicants and QPs to monitor their respective applications. Notifications via short message service, or SMS, will be sent automatically to the applicants/QPs everytime an application is received. These systems also enable the department to monitor its client charter and the performance of QPs and members of the Site Selection Working Committee.

Themed ’Strengthening the work system in contributing towards a dynamic and sustainable town planning’, this year’s convention aimed to improve the existing processes and procedures by implementing various methods in accordance with prescribed guidelines as well as introducing new work guidelines. In addition, it also intended to increase the capacity and skills of the workforce through a more systematic human resource management that includes succession planning, training and career development.

The department said it organises several briefings and workshop sessions for its employees, aiming to enhance their knowledge on work ethics and good governance and to implement recommendations to improve the existing work system. Training on online systems will also be conducted for both employees and relevant stakeholders, it added.

Also attending the event were Haji Marzuke bin Haji Mohsin, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the MoD; Shahrom bin Haji Suhaimi @ Azhar, Commissioner of Town and Country Planning in his capacity as chairman of the event; heads of departments and senior officers of the MoD and its departments.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam coach Kwon Oh Son has expressed his disappointment at losing 3-0 to Nepal in the AFC Solidarity Cup final group game at the Sarawak Stadium in Kuching, Malaysia on Tuesday.

The national team have been knocked off top spot in Group ‘A’ finishing as runners-up with three points while Nepal finished as group winners with four points.

The coach has also warned the players and coaching staff not to be overconfident after they were brought back to earth having started their campaign with a 4-0 rout against Timor Leste.

“It’s very disappointing that we lost 3-0 and it’s important for the players and the coaching staff that we shouldn’t be overconfident after our 4-0 win against Timor Leste,” Kwon told AFC.

The coach, who took over the senior side since nearly guiding them into the AFF (Asean Football Federation) tournament proper in 2012, hoped that they could learn from the defeat.

“We have to learn from this and we will try to do our best on the training ground to learn from our mistakes and not be overconfident,” the South Korean said.

Kwon shuffled his defence bringing on Fakharazzi and Hairol Azaman in place of the unavailable Rosmin Kamis and Mohd Shafie bin Haji Mohd Effendy.

Brunei Darussalam’s Helmi Zambin vie for the ball with Nepal’s Bharat Khawas during the AFC Solidarity Cup match.

“Our defensive line suffered a lot of setbacks and some of them were playing with pain for the 90 minutes.

“We made some changes in defence and they didn’t do so well and that’s why Nepal were able to go up two goals. We need to fix that before the semi-finals,” the coach said.

Kwon had earlier hinted that he will not be fielding a full strength squad with several of his players having fitness doubts since playing on a waterlogged pitch in their group opener.

Azwan Ali, who netted twice in the Timor Leste drubbing, was the other notable absentee in the Nepal game.

“Several of our players sustained ankle injuries and we require recovery time. As we are already in the semi-final, we do not want to take risks with them,” Kwon said.

“We want 100 per cent recovery of every player. So my first priority will be protecting the players,” concluded the South Korean.

The Wasps will face Macau this Saturday for a place in the AFC Solidarity Cup final.

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|      Wani Roslan      |

NINE delegates from Brunei Darussalam comprising six Year 6 students, two supervising teachers and a head of delegation yesterday left the Sultanate to participate in the 13^th International Mathematics and Science Olympiad (IMSO) 2016 at the Tangerang City, Banten in Indonesia.

The delegation is led by Hajah Normimah binti Haji Abu Bakar, coordinator from the Science, Technology and Environment Partnership (STEP) Centre, Ministry of Education, accompanied by two supervising teachers, Amal Nadiah binti Haji Mulok from Sayyidina Husain Secondary School and Suriayanti binti Haji Junaidi from Sayyidina Abu Bakar Secondary School.

Hosted by the Directorate of Management for Primary School, Ministry of Education and Culture, the delegates will be in Indonesia from November 9 to 13. Among the key activities include theoretical examination I and II, science experiments, social event, tour programme and cultural party.

In an interview, Hajah Normimah said that Brunei started participating in since 2004 and has had satisfactory results from the participants.

Preparation for the competition included intensive training by STEP during the weekends, providing the participants notes and question papers for revision at home, she added.

The nine-person delegation for the International Mathematics and Science Olympaid (IMSO) leaving for Indonesia yesterday. – BAHYIAH BAKIR

The competition was opened to every government and private primary schools in the country, with the best six students chosen to represent Brunei.

Also seen at the Brunei International Airport was Sarimah binti Abu Bakar, Acting Head of STEP Centre, bidding farewell to the delegation.

The Olympiad aims to enhance the competencies of elementary school students in mathematics and science, motivate the students in developing their intellectual capacity and skills in both subjects, as well as to foster friendly relationships between primary schools students.

Among the countries invited to participate in the Olympiad are Bulgaria, China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, Netherland, Nigeria and Tajikistan.

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|      Danial Norjidi      |

PUBLIC sector innovation and the role governments can play in fostering it were among the highlights of the recent Asian Forum on Corporate Social Responsibility (AFCSR) 2016.

The topic of public sector innovation was discussed during one of the concurrent sessions of the AFCSR 2016 when it took place in Naw Pyi Taw, Myanmar in September.

One of the speakers to lead the discussion was Peter Batchelor, Country Director of the United Nations Development Programme in Myanmar.

Batchelor began his presentation by defining social innovation, saying that it means new solutions, methodologies and approaches to meet a social need. It also means new or improved capabilities and relationships and better use of assets and resources.

Social innovation is good for society, and enhances society’s capacity to act, he shared, adding that it provides new ideas for the public sector to meet social challenges and social goals.

It combines design thinking, systems thinking and entrepreneurial action. It is “more than invention or creativity,” he said, adding that it is the practical application of new ideas in financially sustainable form.

He then highlighted why social innovation is relevant for the public sector, noting that governments are faced with growing social challenges. Addressing these challenges requires a paradigm shift, mindset or behaviour change, he said.

“The public sector needs to be receptive to social innovation,” he highlighted in his presentation. “Public managers need to interact with, partner with and support social innovators inside and outside the public sector.”

Peter Batchelor speaking at the event. – PHOTOS: DANIAL NORJIDI

Verity Lomax speaking during the session.

The private sector can also help with social innovation, he continued.

“Social innovators exist in all sectors, including the private sector,” he said. “Social innovation is about new relationships, new partnerships.”

He shared that the role of the private sector in social innovation is to: identify social needs/challenges;

provide funding to support innovation to address social need; support CSR initiatives; develop business opportunities pioneered by civil society; develop new consumer solutions (high-tech and low-cost); and to deliver innovation to address social needs (public-private partnership).

Batchelor proceeded to highlight the added value of social innovation in the public sector.

This includes improved outcomes for citizens (to address social challenges); improved implementation at scale; greater cost-effectiveness; new partnerships; helps cross-sectoral (whole of government) approaches; improved public institutions; enhanced social stability and social cohesion; and a more dynamic society.

On what governments can do to foster social innovation, he said that they can redefine the vision of the public sector (public passion for innovation), promote motivation for innovation amongst public managers as well as redefine the notion of citizenship with aspects of citizen engagement.

Governments can also embrace experimentation, introduce user and citizen perspectives (design thinking), share evidence for free, introduce competition with a diversity of providers (including the private sector), invest in innovation (incubators, hubs, funding instruments), reward innovation (make public managers innovators) and develop a national innovation system and strategy, he added.

Verity Lomax, Advisor at the Australia-Myanmar Chamber of Commerce was another speaker to feature at the session.

In her presentation, while touching on what governments can do to foster public sector innovation, she listed three things, saying they can create enabling environments, create incentives and create shared value.

She explained that creating enabling environments requires transparency, accountability, certainty and stability, trust, clarity and protection.

She then spoke on “The Stick” and “The Carrot”.

In this context, “The Stick” is regulation in the form of legislation creating an enabling environment that has: strong oversight bodies, open data, ESG disclosure requirements and strong financial institutions.

“The Carrot” refers to creating incentives. Such incentives can come in the form of: public recognition through awards and rankings; tax incentives; sharing risk and outcomes based contracting; grants and finance; and government procurement.

As an example of an incentive, she mentioned the Australian Government’s social benefit bonds – a financial instrument that pays a return based on achieving agreed social outcomes. “If the provider achieves the agreed social outcomes, this can result in savings to the government in the form of future avoided costs,” she shared in her presentation.

Another example she provided was that of a grants programme – Australia’s Business Partnerships Platform. Here she shared that the Australian government collaborates with the private sector to solve social challenges, offering dollar for dollar grants of AUD100,000 to 500,000 leading to joint investments of AUD200,000 to 1 million.

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|      Fizah HAB      |

PROMOTING the concept of practising polite manners in everyday life is important, said Dr Hajah Fatimah binti Haji Chuchu, Senior Lecturer of Malay Language and Linguistics, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), yesterday at the Santun Bahasa stage performance held at the UBD Multipurpose Hall.

Comprising three sketches and presented by 24 students currently taking the module – AB1302 – the Santun Bahasa performance highlighted the practical aspects of politeness complementary to the theoretical knowledge and comprehension learnt throughout lectures and tutorials and what should be practised in daily life.

In an interview with the Bulletin, Dr Hajah Fatimah binti Haji Chuchu explained that in the 21st Century, people should be more sensitive in various issues and social aspects related to polite manners such as the behavioural aspects in different issues such as age, gender, location and situation.

The three sketches showcased different situations, highlighting and accentuating the knowledge of politeness and strategies in different contexts and settings. The performances also drew interactions with the audiences where it promoted the audiences to ruminate and practise the moral values integrated within them.

AB1302 is one of several modules offered by the Department of Malay Language and Linguistics, under the auspices of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. The module aims to raise awareness on the practice of modesty in communication and social behaviour.

One of the sketches performed by AB1402 Santun Bahasa students is ‘Mujur ada Dr Yusuf’ – a situation comparing bedside manners of two doctors.

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|      Abdul Hakiim Yakof      |

THE Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic Boys Secondary School (SMALHB) A team emerged as the champion in the final of the 3rd Arabic Debate Contest for Arabic Schools 2016 at the Multipurpose Hall of the Arabic Preparatory School in Bandar Seri Begawan yesterday.

The final saw a debate in Arabic between SMALHB A team and SMALHB B team on the topic ‘Media, TV and Radio, Reasons for Moral Decadence Among Youth’.

The guest of honour was Ustazah Hajah Norjarah binti Haji Luidin, the Acting Assistant Director (Professional), Islamic Studies Department, Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA), who handed over prizes to the winners, including the ‘Best Debater’ Abdul Qayyum bin Haji Isa from the SMALHB A team.

The debate is an annual event of the Islamic Studies Department, MoRA, which aims to improve Arabic speaking skills among secondary to upper secondary students.

Ustazah Hajah Norjarah binti Haji Luidin, the Acting Assistant Director (Professional), Islamic Studies Department, Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) handing over the prize to the representative of Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic Boys Secondary School (SMALHB) A team.

SMALHB A team during the debate.

Students of the Arabic Preparatory School at the debate. – PHOTOS: PG FAIROL RMF

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|      Azaraimy HH      |

A HOUSE in Jalan Palu, Penanjong was destroyed on Tuesday evening in a fire which an initial investigation found may have been sparked by a battery charger that was connected via an overloaded extension wire.

The house belonged to 84-year-old Haji Abdullah bin Metamit and he was staying with his children in Brunei-Muara District when the fire broke out.

His son, Mohammad bin Haji Abdullah, who was living in the house said he was cooking when his daughter alerted him to the fire in the bedroom.

He said he tried to put out the flames with buckets of water but the fire was spreading quickly.

The Fire and Rescue Department which conducted the initial investigation into the incident said it received a distress call at around 5.53pm.

A fire engine from the Tutong Fire Station was sent to the scene at around 5.54pm, followed by another fire engine at 5.57pm.

Haji Abdullah bin Metamit whose house was destroyed in the fire receiving assistance from JAPEM official. – AZARAIMY HH

Some 10 fire personnel took about five minutes to control the fire but the blaze had already destroyed the house. All the occupants are safe.

The family received visits from several agencies yesterday, including officials from the Community Development Department (JAPEM) and Tutong District’s Head Religious Officer, Hassan bin Amat.

The family was also comforted by the Village Head of Kampong Penanjong, Haji Jumaat bin Haji Kadir.

The family, which is now staying with other family members elsewhere, also received emergency food rations from JAPEM officials yesterday.

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|      Danial Norjidi      |

THE Information Department began its two-day Program Masyarakat Bermaklumat (Informed Community Programme) for Kampong Jerudong yesterday.

Held at the Mukim Sengkurong Community Hall, the opening ceremony of the programme saw the attendance of the Acting Director of the Information Department, Hajah Noorashidah binti Haji Aliomar as the guest of honour.

Also present was the Penghulu of Mukim Sengkurong, Haji Musa bin Haji Tahir @ Haji Siti as well as the Kampong Jerudong Village Head, Haji Mohammad Rais bin Ishak and Advisor of the Kampong Jerudong Village Consultative Council, Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Razak bin Haji Mohamad, as well as officers and staff of the Information Department.

Around 50 people are participating in the programme, including members of the Village Consultative Council and residents of Kampong Jerudong.

Among the aims of the programme is to enhance knowledge and share information on the developments as well as the efforts of the government in enhancing the citizens’ living standards through briefings and visits.

Hajah Rabi’atul Adawiyah binti Haji A Ahmad, Acting Senior Information Officer at the Information Department in her capacity as the Chairperson of the committee for the programme delivered remarks yesterday.

Hajah Rabi’atul Adawiyah binti Haji A Ahmad, Acting Senior Information Officer at the Information Department, delivering her speech.

Participants of Informed Community Programme in a group photo. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

She explained that the programme is an initiative of the department to share official information on the policies and purposes of the government so that all members of the community can understand, support and appreciate effectively through the delivery of briefings, dialogues and visits.

“The programme will be continued in all four districts in line with the department’s efforts towards creating an informed society,” she said.

Among the briefings presented yesterday were from the Brunei Vision 2035 Secretariat, Prime Minister’s Office; the Halal Food Control Division at the Syariah Affairs Department; Department of Labour; Adat Istiadat Negara; and the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood.

As part of the programme the participants will also have the opportunity to visit the State Mufti’s Office, BMC Food Industries Sdn Bhd and Mangrove Paradise Resort Brunei today.

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|      Hakim Hayat      |

BUILT upon nearly two decades of strong bilateral relations and partnership, fundamental interests between Brunei Darussalam and the United States of America will remain strong and constant, despite changes to the current administration, said Craig Allen, the United States (US) Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, yesterday.

In what was described as a surprising outcome by many global citizens, real-estate mogul and former reality-TV star, Donald J Trump, claimed victory for the Republican Party in a close Presidential race, beating Democratic Party candidate Hillary Clinton.

“Brunei and the United States have had 171 years of really good partnership and excellent relations and that won’t change – that partnership has lasted dozens of American Presidents and indeed, generation after generation,” said Allen in an interview on the sidelines of the US Election Watch event hosted by the American Embassy in Brunei Darussalam yesterday morning at the Radisson Hotel, as American expatriates eagerly awaited the results of the much-anticipated Presidential election.

Allen adopted a neutral stance in his comments – which is a standard practice for the American Embassy on the issue of possible changes in foreign policy and direction – only saying that all would be made clear after the official transition of power from the Obama administration to a new one on January 20, 2017.

“After that, the new president will have an opportunity to appoint a Secretary of State, and at that stage, we will be able to see if the new administration has different priorities or the same one,” he said.

He said there are some constant and variables with the new transition. “On the variable side, we will have a new president and we may have new Secretary of State…so we are going to have to give that individual time and room to be able to determine what he or she wants to do,” he said, while also stressing that it was in their best interest to have firm and “unshakable” relations with Brunei.

Craig Allen, the United States (US) Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam speaking to the Borneo Bulletin.

Craig Allen adressing guests during the US Election Day Watch event.

Craig Allen in a photo with invited guests during the US Election Day Watch event held at the Radisson Hotel. – PHOTOS: HAKIM HAYAT

Guests following the live electoral results on a screen during the event.

When asked about whether the new American administration would implement the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade deal that the Obama administration has been pushing, Allen replied that it was too premature to comment on the issue at this juncture.

Throughout his presidential campaign, President-elect Trump was strongly opposed to the multilateral trade deal which aims to eliminate an array of barriers to commerce between its signatories.

Seven of the deal’s 12 signatories are countries from the Asia-Pacific region: Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Brunei, Australia, and New Zealand. Final negotiations concluded in October 2015, with all signatories signing the pact, with ratification to take place at a later stage.

Until the transition of office on January 20, 2017, Allen said that he would still be carrying out directions under the current Obama administration. “I think Obama has spoken quite clearly on this [TPP], and that it is time to move the TPP to ratification,” he told the Bulletin.

Meanwhile, in a short address to invited guests, including American citizens and members of the Diplomatic Corps, Allen said that the American elections had highlighted a number of domestic and foreign policy issues that the next president has yet to address.

“But our system, regardless of who is in the White House, represents a country that moves forward every day, seeking to create a better nation than the one we grew up in.. seeking to better its relationships with friends and allies around the world…and wanting to help make the world a more peaceful and prosperous place for all.”

Allen also played down concerns from several countries that foreign policies might change with the new administration, saying that “regardless of the changes that will be seen in personnel or policy, we know our relationships with our friends around the world will continue to be of paramount importance. I am firm in my belief that our friendship with Brunei Darussalam will continue to thrive under the next administration, just as it has under President Obama.”

The US Ambassador also mentioned the constructive and warm relationship that the United States shares with the Brunei Government and its citizens. “Our joint efforts to build a greater mutual understanding between the people of the US and the people of Brunei will continue,” he said.

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|     James Kon     |

WITH the shortage in the number of football and futsal referees in the country, the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) and Brunei Darussalam Referees’ Association are hoping that participants from the refereeing programme – jointly organised by NFABD and Politeknik Brunei – will be actively involved in the local leagues.

The need to increase the number of referees in football and futsal were highlighted by Awang Zulkifli bin Haji Duraman, executive member of NFABD, who is also President of Brunei Darussalam Referees’ Association, during his speech at the certificate presentation to Politeknik Brunei Darussalam students who completed the futsal and football refereeing programme yesterday afternoon.

“There is obviously a lack of referees in the country. Not many people are interested in becoming a referee because of the challenges in mental and physical fitness and knowledge of the law of the game.”

Awang Zulkifli said only one participant from the previous futsal and football refereeing programme was actively involved in refereeing.

“He went on to referee the AFC U-14 Regional Festival of Football recently,” he said, adding that “there is a bright career of refereeing”.

Budding referees as well as NFABD and Politeknik Brunei officials and members in a group photo.

The certificates were presented by Dennis Ho, Director of Politeknik Brunei, and Pengiran Mohd Amirrizal Pengiran Haji Mahmud, Acting General Secretary of NFABD. A total of 27 students from Politeknik Brunei took part in the programme.

The programme comprised theoretical and practical assessments.

It was facilitated by experienced local referees Mohd Tusof bin Abdullah, Mohd Yusof bin Haji Serudin, Degat Anak Chandau, Haji Dasnan bin Haji Abdul Rahman and Bakri bin Haji Bintang.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

DAGANG FT have underlined their intentions to take the step-up of playing league football in the Brunei DST Premier League, the second tier of the country’s domestic league in the future.

The non-league side are one of many teams hoping to win a slot in the Brunei DST Premier League but first must overcome a qualifying structure in the Brunei-Muara District League to realise the dream.

Founded in November 1996, the family-oriented team was originally known as Compound FC until 1999 before it was renamed to Compound Junior from January 2000 to 2003.

The team was renamed for a second time to TIS FC from September 2003 until November 2005 when it was finally known as Dagang FT.

The Delima-based team, who were eliminated in the second round of the DST FA Cup, have already featured in the Brunei Muara District League which Al Idrus Junior won to make the leap to the Brunei DST Premier League.

Dagang FT have also previously sparred against Brunei-based Indonesian teams Lorena FC and BWS FC as well as the management of DPMM FC in order to help improve their style of play.

Dagang FT have underlined their intentions to take the step-up of playing league football in the Brunei DST Premier League. – MD KHAIRUL HASMI

The team, who recently celebrate its 20th year anniversary, have also been active in competing in mini tournaments organised in and out of the district.

There is also a possibility that Dagang FT will be testing their abilities in Miri, Labuan and Kuala Lumpur for much-needed exposure.

The Delima-based team have also emerged victorious in the 8-0 mauling of B.O.B and secured a 1-1 draw against Anklers which comprised of foreign players.

Dagang FT coach Md Khairul Hasmi bin Md Ali, who has two years of experience as the holder of a Class C coaching certificate, is aiming to impart his knowledge to the team.

“With the presence of a coach who holds the Class C coaching certificate, then this could help to improve, correct and upgrade the quality of the players and the club,” said Md Khairul Hasmi.

The team also play friendly matches three times in a week to ensure that the style of play between the existing and new players is well aligned within the squad.

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|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI Darussalam national petanque team collected a silver medal in the men’s triples event of the 10th Pan Pacific International Petanque Championship 2016 Nations Cup at Krabi, Thailand which was held from November 4 to 7.

The national team represented by the trio of Awang Mazlan bin Haji Yahya, Wirna bin Haji Mohd Yassin and Hamidun bin Haji Abd Hamid suffered a 13-5 defeat to Malaysia in the final.

In the preliminary round, Brunei Darussalam thrashed Japan (1) 13-2 before defeating New Zealand 13-4 in the quarterfinals.

Brunei Darussalam upstaged Chinese Taipei 13-6 to book a spot in the final against regional rivals Malaysia.

Despite falling short in the tournament, the national team demonstrated an excellent performance ousting strong teams such as Chinese Taipei and New Zealand en route to the final.

The trio of Awang Mazlan, Wirna and Hamidun of the Brunei Darussalam national petanque team pose with their trophies.

The championship was participated by eight countries namely Australia, Chinese Taipei, Japan, Malaysia, Mongolia, New Zealand, Singapore and Brunei Darussalam and attracted a total of 16 teams.

For the tournament, Brunei Darussalam had sent two national petanque teams. Brunei Darussalam national petanque team was led by Abd Ghani bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohd, President of the Brunei Darussalam Petanque Federation (BDPF) and Awang Junaidi bin Haji Mohd Said as the national team manager.

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