|     Fadhil Yunus     |

VIKINGS successfully defended the Bandar Ultimate Open title after emerging victorious in a nail-biting 9-8 win over Ultras in a repeat of last year’s final at the Jerudong Sports Complex yesterday.

The Kuala Belait-based club edged foreign side from Kuching, Malaysia to claim a record third title in their fourth final appearance in the much-anticipated Ultimate Frisbee tournament.

“We won four years ago but we lost the second time and this is considered the second time we defended the title,” said Vikings captain Izmi Azim in an interview after the prize presentation ceremony.

Vikings’ solitary defeat in the title decider in the competition came against UWA Ultimate of Australia in the 2014 final before consolidating their position as one of the most successful teams a year later.

Izmi highlighted that they regularly meet the Malaysian side in previous years and fast becoming a major rival in the competition.

“For four years straight, we played against them. Even for quarters and semis we meet them.

“The first round is the groupings and then once the re-seeding they are strong in the other group and we’re strong in our group which is why we meet again in the final,” he concluded.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof in a group picture with the winners.

They did not cross paths in the final a couple of years ago as eventual winners UWA Ultimate stopped the Ultras’ journey in the last four.

Troopers settled for third place in the upper pool while Have You Seen My Disc (HYSMD) emerged champions of Pool ‘B’.

Other team winners included Madness scooping the Best Spirited Award while individual Most Valuable Player awards were also feted to a player from every participating team.

The competition, which entered its 7th year, attracted a total of 12 teams and a region of around 250 to 300 ultimate players in the mixed division including representatives from Sibu and Bintulu as well as visiting players from Guam, Cambodia, Singapore and USA taking part.

The guest of honour at the event was the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, who presented the prizes.

Brunei Adventure Recreation Association (BARA) and YPatera have collaborated together for the much-anticipated event.

BARA said in a statement that the main objective of the event was to promote Ultimate Frisbee in Brunei while at the same time inculcate the spirit of sportsmanship among the participants and foster friendships among players within and outside of Brunei.

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|     Danial Norjidi     |

THE government is continually implementing significant reforms that aim to make the business environment conducive to support local enterprises and transform Brunei into a country of choice for foreign investors, in order to boost the country’s economic production and growth.

In doing so, Brunei Darussalam uses the World Bank’s Doing Business Report ranking as a guide to develop clear strategies and action plans across the government that will enable the country to reach the goal of creating a truly pro-business environment by using benchmarking with the rest of the world.

This was highlighted recently in a press release prepared by the Ease of Doing Business Unit, under the Energy and Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office.

In this year’s Doing Business Report, Brunei ranked 72^nd out of 190 countries, jumping an impressive 25 places from the previous year and was named as number 1 in the ‘most improved economy in the world’.

In the press release, it is stated, “The government recognises that to achieve a truly conducive business environment, engagement and collaboration with stakeholders through Champion Group is the recipe for success and sustainability over the longer term. This will ensure that reforms and initiatives will respond to the needs and requirements of the businesses and public as the clients of government services.”

To sustain this commitment, the government’s pro-business reforms are driven and monitored regularly through a set of governance via the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) Steering Committee, consisting of Champion Groups from various Ministries and agencies with Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Awang Haji Mohammad Yasmin bin Haji Umar, the Minister of Energy and Industry at the Prime Minister’s Office as the Chairman.

The EoDB Steering Committee meets regularly every month in a set routine to: ensure the reforms towards improving the country’s business climate are effectively implemented in line with international best practices; ensure the reforms implemented by relevant ministries have positive impact by doing monitoring on-the-ground; and drive reforms towards improving Brunei Darussalam’s ranking in the World Bank’s Doing Business indicators as well as addressing other issues that may constrain businesses.

The focus of the Ease of Doing Business is on the end-to-end business life cycle from ‘starting up a business’ to ‘when things go wrong’. To further improve the business environment in Brunei and create a lasting impact that will be felt by businesses, continuous progress in the implementation of reforms and initiatives were agreed upon by the Champion Groups at the 11^th EoDB Steering Committee Meeting.

The main theme for this plan will be mainly on generating greater collaboration with the private sector to drive delivery. Amongst the plans that the government will do for 2017 are as follows:

Starting a Business

Champion Group: Ministry of Finance (Registry of Companies and Business Names) and Ministry of Home Affairs.

This indicator looks at the process, time taken and cost to start a business. Among the reforms completed this past year was the elimination of the business licence and automatic registration to TAP (Employees Trust Fund) system. The Champion Group is now working towards merging the procedures for Name Reservation and Incorporation of Company into one step, thus reducing time and number of steps to start a business.

Dealing With Construction Permits

Champion Group: Ministry of Development (Authority for Building Control and Construction Industry).

The objective of the reforms for this indicator is to make obtaining a construction permit easier, faster and cheaper. The past year saw the implementation of Building Control Order that ensure building safety are made priority as well as streamlining process of obtaining occupational permit from the reduction in time from 103 to 75 days. Moving forward, the Champion Group for this indicator is reviewing their processes in order to reduce the number of procedures based on Building Control Order by March 2017 as well as creating an Industrial Construction Guideline specifically to create awareness on both industrial and warehouse scenario procedures by January 2017.

Getting Electricity

Champion Group: Prime Minister’s Office (Department of Electrical Services, Energy and Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office).

This indicator looks at the efficiency in obtaining electricity connection and the reliability of electricity supply. The past year saw the implementation of the 1^st phase of the SCADA system for the Brunei-Muara District which monitors power supply, the length and frequencies of power outages, with efforts to complete the 1^st phase by 2017 and undertake the 2^nd phase by 2018. To ensure transparency and consistency of costs for electrical testing and external works, a ceiling price for works related to getting electricity and the permit to dig process will be introduced by early 2017.

Registering Property

Champion Group: Ministry of Development (Land Department).

The objective of the reforms for this indicator is the reduction of time, procedures and cost to register and purchase land. Past reforms include reduction of procedures and the introduction of an online system for land applications known as LARIS (Land Application and Registration Information System).

Getting Credit

Champion Group: Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD).

The reforms for this indicator aim at strengthening the credit reporting systems and to enhance effectiveness of collateral and bankruptcy laws in facilitating lending. This year saw the development of the Secured Transaction Order (2016), allowing movable property to become collaterals which will help ease the application of loans. The Secured Transactions Order 2016 as well as the Secured Transactions Regulation 2016 will come into force will by the end of December 2016 with the launching of the Collateral Registry System.

Protecting Minority Investors

Champion Group: Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) and Ministry of Finance (Registry of Companies and Business Names).

This indicator looks at initiatives that protect the interest of minority shareholders in large private companies. The Champion Groups for this indicator are working towards amending the Companies Act that will further gives protection for Minority Shareholder by benchmarking with the best in the world and those that shared similar jurisdiction.

Paying Taxes

Champion Group: Ministry of Finance (Revenue Division).

This indicator looks at the processes relating to tax audits, tax appeals and tax refunds. The past year saw amendment to the Income Tax Act which reduces the overall corporate tax rate from 20 to 18.5 per cent, a reduced time taken for tax refund from six months to 30 days as well as the increased utilisation of the e-Amanah online system for employee tax contributions. On e-Amanah; more than 88 per cent of all employers are now paying online via eAmanah which ease payment without going to the counter. The Ministry of Finance are currently streamlining processes to reduce time to complete corporate income tax audit from 22 weeks to 14 weeks from January 2017 onwards. The Revenue Division in doing so will conduct Field Audit and Public Ruling on tax by end of this year.

Trading Across Borders

Champion Group: Ministry of Finance (Royal Customs and Excise Department), Ministry of Communications, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism and Ministry of Health.

The past year saw some enhancement done to the Brunei Darussalam National Single Window (BDNSW), an online portal to apply permits and declaration submissions. Enhancements include on-boarding of more government agencies into BDNSW for permit application processes, implementing auto-approval and introduction of online payment of duties. In addition, Ports Department have reduced ports charges for laden container by 36 per cent and the Ministry of Health have introduced an online Food Import Registration System. With regards to improving Ports efficiency, investment and procurement of new port equipment will be rolled out with the privatisation of Muara Port in 2017 with a Joint Venture Company under Special Purpose Vehicle that is expected to significantly change the Ports Operations to make it more efficient.

To stimulate growth of local enterprises, the government will also establish the National Food Authority by 2017 that will allow exports from Brunei to international market. The Postal Office has also laid out its plan to improve its service delivery to further facilitate e-Commerce with more door-to-door delivery.

Enforcing Contracts

Champion Group: Prime Minister’s Office (Law and Welfare).

This indicator focus at reducing the time and cost for resolving a commercial dispute. The past year saw the establishment of a dedicated Commercial Court and the Brunei Darussalam Arbitration Centre (BDAC) as an alternative dispute mechanism. Other alternatives to court have also been implemented in order to consolidate the processing of summons through relevant enforcement agencies. In addition, the Judiciary Case Management System (JCMS) with online e-filing and e-payment was also introduced for greater efficiency in management of courts documents electronically. 2017 will see the introduction of new laws that will reduce the time taken for dispose Commercial Cases especially for non-active cases for more than 12 months.

Resolving Insolvency

Champion Group: Prime Minister’s Office (Law and Welfare) and Ministry of Finance.

The reforms of this indicator aim at addressing the procedural and administrative bottlenecks in the insolvency process. Brunei recorded 2.5 years to close insolvency cases. This year’s efforts was focused on the commencement of the Insolvency Order 2016 that helps companies to have a better chance to survive bankruptcy and better protection for all creditors and debtors.

Labour (Non-World Bank indicator)

Champion Group: Ministry of Home Affairs (Labour Department).

This indicator looks at the efficiency of obtaining labour approvals particularly in hiring foreign talent and the costs. This year saw the introduction of a new process for obtaining foreign workers in October 2016. The JobCentre Brunei will also do proactive matching for job vacancies and local job seekers to fill in the vacancy in the private sector. In the event that there is no local available to fill a particular vacancy, the applicants can proceed to Labour where approval for work permit will be given within nine working days.

The government will also introduce pro-business reforms in 2017 where business owners will be given a specific Visa for business purposes that are deemed to benefit Brunei Darussalam including a new system that will replace Labour Control System that are promised to be more efficient and integrated with other government agencies. The government will ensure it has a productive workforce, while also looking to consider introducing reasonable wage for selected sectors with certain local concentration.

Halal (Non-World Bank indicator)

Champion Group: Ministry of Religious Affairs.

This indicator looks at the efficiency in processing halal certification of food and non-food items. The past year, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has streamlined its processes to obtain Halal Certification and Halal Permit to be within 45 days. Amendments to the Halal Label and Certificate Act is also underway and expected to be gazette by December 2016 that will cover Cosmetics and Non-Oral products such as logistics and cosmetics. This is expected to have an impact on attraction of Foreign Direct Investment in the Halal sector. To further assist MSMEs in the country, the government is currently studying the price mechanism for Halal Permit and it is expected to conclude by 2017.

Selling to Government

Champion Group: Ministry of Finance.

This indicator looks at the process of public procurement from bid, payment and incentives to SMEs as well as complaint mechanisms. Ministry of Finance is developing action plans to improve the process vis-à-vis with best benchmark in the region and globally. 2017 will see public procurement portal to be launched where all public tenders will be published on single online platform. Payment process from government projects will also be further improved with internal processes to ensure vendors are paid on time and the government is also exploring Local Business Development Framework that has been practiced in the oil and gas industry to promote local content in public procurement.

The Business Help Desk is contactable through the hotline +6738363442 or by visiting www.business.gov.bn for more information.

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|      Achong Tanjong      |

OVER 100 cycling enthusiasts took part in the ‘Cycle 4 Health’ activity yesterday, which started at the Institute for Leadership, Innovation and Advancement (ILIA), Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD).

The cycling activity was divided into two routes – A and B.

Route ‘A’ covered a distance of about 99 kilometres, with the flag-off at 6am from ILIA’s car parking lot to Sungai Basong in Tutong and ended at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital.

Route ‘B’ covered 17 kilometres, starting from ILIA at 7am towards the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien.

Participants in action yesterday. – PHOTOS: ACHONG TANJONG

Some of the ‘Cycle 4 Health’ activity’s 99-kilometre Route ‘A’ participants in a group photo.

Participants also joined the ‘Bandarku Ceria’ activities.

The cycling activity was flagged off by Dr Justin Wong Yun Yaw, the Medical Superintendent of Public Health at the Ministry of Health (MoH).

The aim of the activity was to encourage and promote a healthy lifestyle amongst members of the public while giving them opportunities to be more active in sports activities in order to realise the MoH’s mission of ‘Together towards a Healthy Nation’.

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|      James Kon      |

THE Brunei Darussalam Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) held a distribution of donated items at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium yesterday, for the victims of a recent fire which destroyed 24 houses in Kampong Ayer.

Ten affected families received daily necessities in the form of water, dried food, rice and instant noodles through the BDRCS’s ‘Ikhlas 4.0’ project, following an outpouring of contributions from the public.

The remaining families will receive the donated items in another distribution ceremony today.

One of the fire victims, Nazibah, told the Bulletin, “Despite losing everything in the fire, I feel so blessed that many Bruneians are providing us with assistance.”

Nazibah, who is currently staying with her uncle, was reduced to tears when she learned that a large section of the local community turned up to give donations to the fire victims.

“We would like to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has helped us during this difficult time, including non-go-vernmental organisations (NGOs) and government agencies such as JAPEM,” she said. “This shows that the people of Brunei are very kind and helpful.”

One of the fire victims collecting the donated items. – JAMES KON

On the recent mishap, she said, “We lost everything in the fire. But I really miss the heirlooms from my late father, who passed away last year.”

She added, “I still think about that wooden house where my family has stayed for generations. We cherish the memories of the times spent at that house, and those times are all gone now.”

Nazibah is currently searching for her 20 cats that went missing during the fire, and hopes that they are still alive.

Meanwhile, Ahmad Akbal Adi Yusa bin Haji Md Yusuf, the Head of Disaster Management and Climate Change at the BDRCS, told the Bulletin, “We managed to collect more than 500 bottles of water and more than 100 sacks of rice, as well as other daily essentials, in just three days.”

The overwhelming response from the public, he said “demonstrates the Bruneian people’s willingness to help others in times of difficulty”.

He added, “We are distributing the donated items in portions, because the affected families do not have a permanent home yet, where they can store those goods. We would also like to thank the donors for their contributions to the fire victims.”

The post Bruneians show concern, kindness for fire victims appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

IN LINE with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s vision 2035 to develop highly educated and skillful individuals to be future leaders of Brunei, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) through the Advocating Life-Long Learning for an Aspiring Future (ALAF) programme held a three-day ALAF Ta’aruf Camp including a Public Speaking Workshop and ALAF Convention.

The ALAF Ta’aruf Camp was held from December 5-7 and brought together 42 students from the 4th batch of ALAF for 2017.

The students were formally introduced to BIBD and the ALAF programme, providing them with a deeper understanding of the bank’s vision and how its flagship CSR programme can help underprivileged but deserving students achieve their aspirations, according to a press release issued by BIBD.

“Through the ALAF Ta’aruf Camp, we hope that the newest batch of beneficiaries will get a deeper appreciation of the support and commitment of BIBD in helping them grow holistically through the ALAF programme. More so, this event gave everyone involved in ALAF, both the students and teachers, a greater sense of belonging,” says Haji Minorhadi bin Haji Mirhassan, Head of Government Relations and Special Projects of BIBD, who was also the guest of honor at the event.

The interactive camp consisted of team building exercises, art workshop, spelling contest as well as a presentation from the senior ALAF students on their recent educational trip to Singapore, to inspire and motivate the incoming students to excel in their studies.

A Public Speaking Workshop was also held which culminated with the ALAF Convention. The three-day workshop conducted by the Silva Method, prepared the students for the culminating event which was aimed to harness and develop their leadership capabilities as part of BIBD’s vision to hone future Bruneian leaders.

The guest of honour, Haji Minorhadi bin Haji Mirhassan, Head of Government Relations and Special Projects of BIBD presenting a prize to one of the winners. – BIBD

Twenty ALAF students presented topics ranging from Entrepreneurship, Agrifood Industry, Environment to Vision 2035 before six judges and the audience, comprising of senior officers and educators from the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Religious Affairs, as well as the students’ families.

With just less than three days of preparation time, all the students made remarkable performances, however only the top three performers were selected for the Junior and Secondary category.

The winners each received prizes consisting of a plaque and certificate of appreciation as well as an Acer Iconia Tablet for second runner up, a Samsung A Tablet for the first runner up and the winner received an Acer 14” laptop.

The winner in the junior category went to Muhammad Hadif Hamizan bin Zulazmi from Saba Darat Primary School, while Lai Fook Looeng, from Anthony Abell College won the title in the senior category.

In addition, these winners are also awarded with an educational trip on the ‘Fascinating Adventure to Malaysia’ package.

The trip will inspire Brunei’s young leaders of tomorrow to achieve the country’s Vision 2035, transforming the Sultanate into a nation widely recognised for the accomplishments of its well-educated and highly skilled people, high quality of life, as well as a dynamic and sustainable economy.

Consolations prizes were also handed to the rest of the speakers in recognition of their outstanding performances. All prizes were presented by Haji Minorhadi.

Through ALAF, BIBD demonstrates its strong support to His Majesty’s 2035 vision of obtaining 100 per cent level of education for everyone, which will help reduce poverty and lead to a more prosperous Brunei.

The post Shaping Brunei’s future generation through holistic education appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Danial Norjidi      |

THE TEDxGadong 2016 event took place yesterday, highlighting the theme, ‘Globalising Local Design’.

Held at the auditorium of the Design & Technology Building, the event was organised in collaboration with Magic Media and Rhymin & Partners, with support from iCentre and with Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd as a silver sponsor.

TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) is a non-profit devoted to spreading ideas, usually in the form of talks, while TEDx events are independently run and help share ideas in communities around the world. TEDxGadong holds events such as these in Brunei.

Yesterday’s TEDxGadong 2016 event was a day of informative talks, with six speakers on hand to present on various topics in line with the theme.

The first speaker was Akhmal Aiman, a final year undergraduate student at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), as well as the director and scriptwriter for the recent UBD play, ‘TW!STED’. In his presentation, he spoke on the five keys to successful identity expression in contemporary performing arts through what he called the ‘5 EXPs’ in performing arts – explore, experiment, experience, express and expose.

Liyana Hanif, a graphic designer for Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd was the next to speak. In her presentation “A Beautiful Thing”, she spoke on the beauty of having a career and passion come together.

“Passion is the key ingredient to being a successful designer,” she said. “By doing what you love, you won’t be the only one benefitting from it – people around you will benefit from seeing someone with a passion-driven life.”

Akhmal Aiman speaking yesterday.

Liyana Hanif giving her talk.

Wa’iz Maidin delivering his presentation, ‘Space and Character’. – PHOTOS: DANIAL NORJIDI

Wa’iz Maidin, an interior designer and final year undergraduate student at UBD was next to speak, with a presentation entitled, ‘Space and Character’. He explained that it is essential to understand each client’s personality, wants and needs in order to achieve the desired character of a space that is being designed.

Syen Sofian, the Principal Designer for Syensai & Co and the Founder of Designer Alliance Brunei in his talk, ‘Localising Global Design’, shared with the audience ways to bridge the gap from designs to ideas and, finally, inventions.

Sara Khadra, a graphic designer at Magic Media and third year Creative Multimedia student at Universiti Teknologi Brunei, was the next to speak. In her presentation, entitled ‘Expression in Visual Identity’, she talked about the importance of finding, building and establishing a certain style to carry one’s identity in one’s works.

The last speaker was Safique Husain, the CEO of SUHBE Co, a private accelerator incubator based in Brunei Darussalam that has set out to provide local and regional entrepreneurs in Brunei and BIMP-EAGA with an alternative solution to build and nurture their ideas into businesses.

In his presentation, ‘YOUpgrade: Getting the Most Out Of You’, he shared his life experience and business knowledge, with the hope of inspiring, motivating andinitiating action from the audience to reach their ultimate potential.

In the event programme, Muhammad Fadli bin Haji Zaini, the Chairman of TEDxGadong stated that TEDxGadong is looking to create a roadmap for the expansion of the TEDx Brunei series through TEDx Ambassadors, TEDx Salon events, TEDx workshops and opening up other TEDx events.

“As passionate pioneers, we are not just in the business of unearthing local voices and producing great content but to develop and equip individuals on our platforms to take charge and diversify our ideas as well as ultimately creating a connected TEDx community,” he said.

“With the mentorship of the TEDx community, we celebrate and protect the TEDx vision together by bringing a diverse range of opportunities with the support of our young and vibrant community in Brunei.”

The post TEDxGadong holds talk on ‘Globalising Local Design’ appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

THE Indian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam, Nagma Mohamed Mallick, expressed her concerns over human trafficking from India yesterday, during an informational briefing on the illegal trafficking of manpower.

Several issues regarding human trafficking and crimes in relevance to labour laws were among the key topics discussed at the meeting.

During the talk, Mallick mentioned a recent event in which four Indian girls were brought to Brunei Darussalam under false promises of nursing jobs at government hospitals.

She praised the relevant authorities in Brunei Darussalam for their efficiency in ensuring that the unfortunate girls were safely flown home within two days.

Mallick also raised the hope that the briefing would serve to highlight various health and safety issues faced by some Indian nationals working in Brunei Darussalam.

The Indian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam, Nagma Mohamed Mallick speaking at the briefing. – PHOTOS: ISHAN IBRAHIM

DPP Christopher Ng, the Senior Counsel and Deputy Public Prosecutor from the Attorney General’s Chambers, speaking during the briefing.

Several senior government officers, embassy staff and a section of the Indian expatriate community in Brunei attended the briefing, which was held at the High Commission of India in Brunei Darussalam at Jalan Sungai Akar.

Among those in attendance yesterday were DPP Christopher Ng, the Senior Counsel and Deputy Public Prosecutor from the Attorney General’s Chambers; Deputy Superintendent of Police Ang Lay Bee, Head of the Human Trafficking Investigation Unit at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF); Assistant Superintendent of Police Pengiran Saiful Amirul Muhammad bin Pengiran Haji Ramlee, Assistant Head of the Human Trafficking Investigation Unit at the CID of the RBPF; Zulhilmi bin Haji Abidin, the Assistant Commissioner of Labour (Corporate); Shariful Bahri bin Haji Sawas, the Assistant Commissioner of Labour (Operations); Mohd Hazizul bin Hassan, the Senior Labour Inspector; Pengiran Jamaluddin bin Pengiran Haji Hidop, the Chief Immigration Officer at the Immigration and National Registration Department; and Haji Yahaya bin Haji Razali, the Senior Immigration Officer at the Work Pass Section under the Immigration and National Registration Department.

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

THE Ministry of Religious Affairs held a formal closing of the Dikir Maulud last night, at the Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah in Kampong Kiarong.

The guest of honour was Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs.

The event began with a ‘Dikir Assalamulaika’ conducted by a Dikir group from the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

This was followed by Dikir ‘Khairuman Udana Laila’ performed by the Al-Mukmin group from Kampong Perpindahan Lambak Kanan, together with the Zaidana and the Al-Mu’tashimun Billah Dikir groups.

A recitation of Dikir ‘Bisyahrin’ was then conducted by the PERANGKAP and Belimbing Subok Dikir groups.

Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs, and senior officials during the Dikir Maulud last night. – PHOTOS: YUSRIN JUNAIDI

An overview of the ceremony last night at the Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah in Kampong Kiarong.

Two groups from the Brunei-Muara District Office and the Malay Chamber of Kampong Bunut and the Malay Chamber of Business and Commerce joined the Teratak Sumor Dikir Group of Kampong Bunut for a recitation of Dikir ‘Alham Allah’.

A delegation from the Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, meanwhile, held a recitation of Dikir ‘Badat’ and Dikir ‘Asyraqal’.

The Dikir ceremony is annually observed for 12 consecutive nights in mosques and prayer halls across the country, starting on 1^st Rabiulawal, 1438 Hijrah, in honour of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his sacrifices for Islam.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

FIRM grip on Aqidah or faith is fundamental to safeguard Muslims and Islam in the wake of multi-faceted provocations and elements that seek to weaken the religion and its followers, 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 said in a titah yesterday.

In a televised address from the Istana Nurul Iman on state broadcaster Radio Televisyen Brunei (RTB) last evening to mark the Maulidur Rasul or birthday anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) for the year 1438 Hijrah which falls today, the monarch said that with reports on provocations towards minority Muslims in certain countries rampant in this era, the relevant parties should promptly find a peaceful resolution to ensure the protection and harmony of all people. “In the name of Islam, the merciful religion, and humanity as well as regional solidarity, we hope this will be dealt with justice promptly,” His Majesty said.

The monarch went on to say that strengthening of faith, which is based on the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), is crucial to protect Muslims, while noting that Muslims in the golden age back then prioritised faith more than anything else, which made them not just protected, but also tough and revered by all.

His Majesty also called on those responsible for Dakwah or preaching Islam to be relentless in strengthening and empowering faith, warning that delaying it is no option because this will allow negative elements to take advantage of it.

Earlier in the titah, His Majesty praised the work of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), likening him to a “shining light and grace for all realms” as stated in the Al-Quran. “What is more reminiscent than a light that can shine upon darkness and shower grace upon humanity to save it from torment?” asked His Majesty.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam delivering the titah. – HAKIM HAYAT

Without Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), His Majesty said that the world will be in the dark while grace will be far from reach. “But Allah the Almighty, being the most merciful and gracious, sent us the final Prophet and Messenger, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), to be the torching light and grace for the entire universe.”

The monarch added that there is no doubt that Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is the beloved Prophet of Allah the Almighty, indicated by the many privileges showered upon Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) that was never given to anyone else, noting that some, including the mentioning of the Prophet’s name in the Syahadah or testimony, goes in tandem with the name of Allah the Almighty and also the fact that Allah the Almighty and his Malaikat or angels have given their Selawat or salutations and blessings to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), as mentioned in Surah Al-Ahzab, Verse 56 of the Al-Quran.

Moreover, His Majesty noted that in the hereafter, Allah the Almighty has consented for Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) to grant his followers the Syafa’at or intercede to lessen the burden and release them from hardships.

Although Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is gone, the intimate bond is still present with his followers, such as during the Azan or call for prayer and while performing prayers or reciting the Selawat. His Majesty said this is the connotation that our bond with Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is eternal.

“This is why Muslims are fortunate, because by just saying the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) name, we are granted with bounties and if we recite the Selawat once, Allah the Almighty will return it to us ten fold,” said His Majesty.

Therefore, His Majesty said that it is appropriate for us to remember the Maulidur Rasul as a way to show our affection towards Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and start afresh with our resolutions to have more understanding of Islam that was brought to us by Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

The post Faith crucial to protect Islam, says His Majesty appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     James Kon     |

NASI Katok cruised to an easy victory in the final of the open category of the 3×3 Basketball Championship over Chicken King, winning 21-7 at Brunei Basketball Court on Sunday.

Chicken King could not stop the Nasi Katok’s towering Zainul, who finished with nine points.

Lim Liang Wei scored four points for Chicken King.

Third place went to Da Fat Chef after they defeated Street Roc A 17-15.

However, the highlight of the finals was the U-23 category as W-Strike came from behind to beat YTE 21-20.

The winning shot came in the dying seconds from Jeremy Chu, who sunk a three-pointer to deliver the title.

Third place went to Street Roc who defeated Bromance 22-18.

In the U-16 category, Sparkies fought off BYD Alpha 21-17 in the final to lift the championship trophy.

Third place went to Swek Bunnies after overcoming BYD Rock 11-9.

Lim Ting Chai, chairman of Brunei Basketball Association, presented the prizes.

Lim Ting Chai, chairman of Brunei Basketball Association, with Nasi Katok players. – JAMES KON

Lim with the W-Strike team.

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

THE Brunei contingent that enjoyed a memorable outing at the 9th BIMP-EAGA Friendly Games in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, returned home late Sunday evening via military aircraft at Rimba Airforce Base.

The contingent brought home four gold and two bronze medals from three events.

The athletes bagged two golds and a silver in athletics, a gold and one silver in sepak taktaw, and a gold in pencak silat.

They were welcomed by Minister of Culture, Youths and Sports, YB Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof at the Rimba Airforce Base.

The athletes had a photo session with the minister, who congratulated the team on their exploits.

The contingent was led by Chef de Mission, Awang Haji Mohamad Rosfazillah bin Haji Yusly.

This was the first time, the contingent flew with a military aircraft CN 235, No 15 Squadron of the Royal Brunei Airforce.

Minister of Culture, Youths and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, in a group photo with the Brunei contingent at the Rimba Airforce Base. – AZARAIMY HH

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THE 2016 Asean – China Workshop on Cooperation for Cultural Production Capacity recently concluded in Hengdian, China.

Attending the workshop to represent Brunei were representatives from Origin Films: Director, Siti Kamaluddin; Director of Photography, Chan Man Ching; Actress Liyana Yus and Actor Shahrain Zulkifli.

The seven-day workshop involved discussions and a symposium regarding producing Asean-China films to be screened on China’s leading broadcaster, CCTV.

During the workshop, Siti Kamaluddin signed a Memorandum of Understanding to begin her cooperation work with China.

In her closing speech, rep-resenting the Asean member countries, Siti Kamaluddin said, “Working together to further the same goals, the synergy between Asean member countries and China, will ensure production quality and values that will help countries that are just starting out like Brunei to continue to progress.”

Film Director, Siti Kamaluddin, speaking during the 2016 Asean-China Workshop on Cooperation for Cultural Production Capacity. – ORIGIN FILMS

The representatives, during the workshop, were also given a tour around the Hengdian World Studios – one of the largest movie studios in Asia.

Siti Kamaluddin expressed her gratitude for the week-long experience in China.

“In one short week, we have been talking to each other and collaborating. It is definitely a good start. I can’t wait to go back home and get started,” she said.

The cooperation work between Asean-China is set to begin in 2017.

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|      Rokiah Mahmud      |

THE Brunei Darussalam Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) yesterday distributed donations at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium. The distribution of donations was for the fire victims who were affected by the recent fire mishaps that have destroyed 24 houses in Kampong Pandai Besi and Kampong Lurong Dalam in Kampong Ayer.

Some 13 affected families received their daily essentials in the form of dried foods, rice, instant noodles, baby essentials, water and more.

According to Community and Resilient Empowerment (CARE) Director of BDRCS, Hisham Ismail shared with the media that the project was part of BDRCS’s ‘Ikhlas Project 4.0’ following the success of previous projects held by them.

He added that, the project was carried out for three days from December 9 to 11 and received enormous support from the general public.

Brunei Darussalam Red Crescent Society Secretary General, Sheikh Haji Abdul Kadir bin Abdullah, distributing donated items to one of the fire victims.

Some of the fire victims collecting the donated items. – PHOTOS: ROKIAH MAHMUD

He also shared that BDRCS will also carry out another project for the upcoming 2017 New Year school terms. The project will be in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.

Presenting the donation to the recipients was BDRCS Secretary General, Sheikh Haji Abdul Kadir bin Abdullah.

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|      James Kon      |

FORTY remote control 4WD Crawler enthusiasts, some from neighbouring Sabah, demonstrated their skills in maneuvering through the hilly obstacle course of the Terunjing Challenge over the weekend.

Organised by the RC 4WD Brunei, the annual event aims to promote interest in remote control 4WD and at the same time to foster closer ties among RC enthusiasts within Brunei and overseas.

Organising chairperson Wandy Bakri noted, “This is the fourth time we are hosting the competition, and we always invite our Sabah counterpart to come join us.”

With the over 70 registered members in the RC 4WD Brunei Club, Wandy believes the hobby is gaining popularity.

He conveyed his appreciation to the sponsors – Warisan Utama Jaya Department Store, DC Com of Sabah, Guan Hock Lee, Aewon, Atees, Boomracing and private sponsors – for supporting the event.

Joro receiving the first prize from Sharifful Bahri bin Ismail, one of the sponsors.

Photos above & below show Brunei participants demonstrating their skills in maneuvering through the hilly obstacle course of the Terunjing Challenge.

Participants with their remote control 4WD in a group photo. – PHOTOS: JAMES KON

The competition saw Remote Control 4WD enthusiasts from Sabah dominating the competition by sweeping the top three spots in the event.

The event comprised four trials, three of which were based on time trials, while the forth tested the skills of the participant.

The first prize of a 42-inch TV went to Joro of Kota Kinabalu, while second place winner Ah Hao won a brand new refrigerator, and third place winner Ah Lee took home a washing machine.

Members of the public keen on discovering more about the Remote Control 4WDs can follow the club’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

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ROYAL Brunei Airlines (RB) has signed an agreement with Beijing Longway International Travel Service Co Ltd for direct charter flights connecting Brunei to Xi’an, China.

From January 21, 2017, RB will operate a weekly flight from Bandar Seri Begawan to Xi’an (and vice versa) until January 13, 2018.

RB first commenced scheduled services to China with flights to Beijing in 1993, followed by Shanghai in 2002. Ever since, it has been operating flights between the countries to develop tourism to Brunei from the world’s largest market.

The announcement was made at a press conference held in Xi’an, China on December 12, 2016. Representing RB at the press conference was Brett McDougall, RB’s Executive General Manager in Sales and Marketing.

“We are delighted to partner with Beijing Longway for these flights from and to Xi’an to boost tourism traffic between Brunei and China.

“Xi’an, a city in Central China most famous for having the largest mosque in China and for the Terracotta Warriors, will enhance RB’s route network” and provide more choices to our customers, said Brett McDougall.

Brunei has plenty to offer to visitors from China. It is the gateway to Borneo, where they can experience Brunei’s and Borneo’s pristine environment.

Tour packages are readily available to visit the tropical rainforest, go underwater for the country’s unique dive spots and visit the historical and cultural places in Brunei.

Since its rebranding in 2012, and the launch of its Boeing 787 Dreamliner service in 2013, RB has steadily developed its route network with the re-introduction of direct flights to Bali and Ho Chi Minh City in 2014, and recent introduction of code share flights to Istanbul and Tokyo, and soon direct charter flights to South Korea.

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THE Public Works Department, Royal Brunei Police Force and National Road Safety Council have informed the public that traffic flow at Gadong market is being modified to smoothen traffic in the area.

The changes, as indicated in the chart, start after midnight last night.

Several roads have become one way system and a mini roundabout is also put in place to smoothen traffic flow and to facilitate journey in the area.

The authorities concerned urge road users to plan their journey and to be considerate while behind the wheel.

For any complaints or suggestions, the public can contact the Darussalam hotline at 123 or livechat 8333123, or Facebook, Jabatan Kerja Raya Brunei Darussalam or e-mail pro@pwd.gov.bn.

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|     Azaraimy HH     |

MAULIDUR Rasul processions were yesterday held simultaneously across all four districts in the country.

In the Belait District, the procession played out at the Padang Bandaran with Deputy Minister of Development Dato Paduka Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar as guest of honour.

The event began with the recitation of verses from the Al-Quran by Haji Mohd Kharuddin bin Marajah/Meraji, the winner of the Belait District Al-Quran Reading Competition 2016 (Adult Level).

The ceremony was also enlivened by a Tazkirah presented by Haji Sammali bin Haji Adam from Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), and a Dikir Marhaban performance staged by a group of mosque officers and committee members of the Mosque Takmir in the Belait District.

The day later saw the guest of honour presenting certificates to the heads of delegations for their involvement in the procession. In total, 45 delegations made up 3,600 participants were involved this year.

Before the procession around Pekan Belait, a recitation of Doa Selamat was held and a three-time Selawat was performed by Imam Haji Mohd Alias bin Bakar from Muhammad Jamalul Alam Mosque.

The 3.4-kilometre procession started from Padang Bandaran, passing through Jalan Maulana, Jalan Panglima, Jalan Bunga Raya, Jalan Dato Shahbandar and Jalan Sultan, before heading back to Padang Bandaran.

Deputy Minister of Development cum guest of honour Dato Paduka Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar joins other guests in peforming the Dikir. – PHOTOS: AZARAIMY HH

Dato Paduka Awang Haji Suhaimi leading the procession.

A Dikir performance at the start of the procession.

Among those present were Belait District Officer Haji Haris bin Othman and heads of government departments, penghulus, village heads, as well as representatives from the private sector, associations and NGOs, and public members.

Meanwhile, at the Kuala Belait Convention Centre, there was a congregation for women to mark Maulidur Rasul.

Present as guest of honour was Pengiran Datin Hajah Juraidah binti Pengiran Haji Hidup, wife of the Deputy Minister of Development.

The event commenced with a recitation of verses from the Al-Quran by Hajah Norzirwatul Fadhilah binti Haji Puteh from Sayyidina Ali Secondary School, followed by welcoming address by Rohhaslinda binti Haji Yahya, chairperson of the ceremony.

Performances in conjunction with Maulidur Rasul were staged by religious teachers, women groups, members of women bureaus from mukim and village consultative councils, and members of Muslimah groups.

The event included a religious talk titled ‘Berwawasan yang berkat dengan bercontoh kepada Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘Alaihi Wasallam,’ presented by Ustazah Siti Noraziah binti Haji Asli, a resident speaker at the Islamic Da’wah Centre.

Also present at the event were Surayah binti Haji Md Salleh, wife of the Belait District Officer; Hajah Hajijah binti Haji Moktal, Acting Director of Islamic Studies at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, wives of penghulus and village heads, women from government and private sectors, associations and Muslimah groups from the district.

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|     Hakim Hayat     |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam joined thousands of people from all walks of life in a mass gathering and procession to mark Maulidur Rasul or the birth anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in the capital yesterday morning.

Themed ‘Berwawasan Yang Berkat Dengan Bercontoh Kepada Rasulullah SAW’ for the year 1438 Hijrah, the annual gathering, held every 12^th of Rabiulawal in the Muslim calendar is a significant and historic date for the Islamic community worldwide in remembrance and in glorifying the birth anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

Also in attendance were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel.

Some 12,207 people from 129 teams comprising those from different organisations took part in the national-level gathering and procession for the Brunei-Muara District held at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien yesterday, while similar events were also held simultaneously in other districts.

The objective of the celebration was not only to encourage the community to remember the sacrifices of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) but also to take heed of his life of success in creating a civilisation through peace for the universe under the wings of Islam.

The event commenced with a mass recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by the State Mufti, Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned.

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 mass gathering and procession for the Maulidur Rasul celebration at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien.

His Majesty; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel during the mass procession. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

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; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel arriving for the mass gathering.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, in a group photo with some of those that took part in the mass gathering for the Maulidur Rasul Celebration.

Minister of Religious Affairs, Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman in his capacity as this year’s Chairman of the Executive Committee for Major Events in the Islamic Calendar in his welcoming speech said that the event has been a religious tradition in the country that symbolises the unity among the people, especially among Muslims.

“It is crucial to maintain the spirit of unity to demonstrate and sustain our harmony, peace and prosperity in this country,” the minister highlighted.

The theme for this year’s celebration, the minister said, was chosen in part to contribute in the way we think, take action and attempt our endeavour in achieving Brunei Vision 2035.

He said that although the Vision 2035 aspires for rapid development of the country and also high standard and quality of living for its people, it must also be under Allah the Almighty’s blessings.

He reminded that efforts towards achieving this vision should not just merely exist by being proud of our achievements, but it must also be in line with Islamic teachings from Allah the Almighty and His messenger Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

Before leading the 3.7km procession around the capital, His Majesty received greetings from each leader of participating teams comprising those from government ministries and departments, associations and the private sector, villages and mosques, higher education institutions and schools, among others.

The Minister of Religious Affairs, Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman delivering his welcoming speech.

Recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by the State Mufti, Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned.

ABOVE & BELOW: Some of the participants of the mass procession.

Among those who took part in the mass procession. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

The Dikir Marhaban was performed by the Dikir group from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MoFAT) with the support from staff of the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) while 21 shots of cannon were fired to mark the occasion.

A Doa Selamat was read by the State Mufti to seek blessings for the event and Pehin Datu Imam Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Hamid bin Bakal led the recitation of the Selawat that resonated throughout the procession to mark its commencement.

Meanwhile, the event yesterday also saw teams from four categories contending to be the best performing teams. They will be evaluated on participation, procession, attire, Selawat and slogans.

The winners will be announced at a later date.

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|      Abdul Hakiim Yakof      |

IN CONJUNCTION with TAIB 25th anniversary, Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB) is facilitating the Tarbiyyah Project for Kids from December 13-24, 2016 beginning with Temburong District at the Community Hall of Kampong Rataie.

Around 250 underprivileged children between ages four and nine from all four districts in Brunei Darussalam registered for the programme organised by TAIB in collaboration with muBn Learning and Growth Company.

The Tarbiyyah Project for Kids is a scientific enrichment programme that boosts spiritual awareness and moral etiquette in young children through the ‘pray and play’ approach. It is a means of instilling understanding among the children of Allah the Almighty’s greatness in their everyday lives.

Hajah Zazarina binti Haji Zainuddin, Senior Executive Officer, Event Management at TAIB, said, “The Tarbiyyah Programme is organised as part of a series of events in conjunction with TAIB’s 25th anniversary. Through this programme, we hope to be able to contribute in the nurturing and development of knowledge and creativity among children in line with Vision 2035.”

Hajah Zazarina binti Haji Zainuddin, Senior Executive Officer, Event Management at TAIB holding up a finished art guide during the paper cutting art activity.

Dr Hajah Mona Yati binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Mohd Kassim, CEO of muBn Learning and Growth Company. – PHOTOS: ABDUL HAKIIM YAKOF

The programmes are being conducted by Dr Hajah Mona Yati binti Dato Seri Laila Jasa Haji Mohd Kassim, CEO of muBn Learning and Growth Company.

Dr Hajah Mona Yati has been running the Tarbiyyah for Kids project since December 2015 to provide children with knowledge of Islam in a way that they can apply it to their everyday lives. “Historically, how Islam grew is through the love of Allah the Almighty. When we love our creator, we understand our purpose in this world and we strive to live in the way Allah the Almighty wants us to. With Tarbiyyah, we aim to plant the early consciousness and belief in Allah the Almighty through activities that will allow them to apply the Islamic teaching in their everyday lives.”

Classes in the remaining districts will be held from December 16-24.

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|      Izah Azahari in Tokyo, Japan      |

THE World Assembly for Women 2016 (WAW! 2016) officially began yesterday with an opening ceremony held at the Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa in Tokyo, Japan, with this year’s theme being ‘WAW! for Action’.

Present to deliver the welcoming speech at the event was the Japanese Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, who expressed that a change in the ways of thinking through actions is needed to create a society in which people from all walks of life and in all situations will be able to overcome various limitations to live and flourish in a way that befits each person as an individual.

During his speech, the Prime Minister highlighted three areas that the WAW! 2016 conference will focus on, particularly the reforming of work styles; leadership by women; and building a peaceful and safe society with women playing key roles.

In terms of reforming work styles, the Prime Minister expressed the difficulties in continuing work after giving birth to children for women which often becomes a major obstacle and hinders their activities. With this, Japan hopes to create an environment in which women can be fully active in pursuing their goals for both work and family without undue hardship.

The biggest and highest-priority challenge for them to bring this about, said the Prime Minister, is reforming their ways of working, to which he hopes Japan will be able to formulate an action plan for it no later than this coming March with first rectifying the practice of working long hours, closing unjustifiable gaps that exist between regular and non-regular employees in terms of wages, tackling overall differences in treatment including employee benefit packages and training opportunities.

“We have also introduced incentives for companies to review their ways of working,” added the Prime Minister. “This system is applicable to projects totaling roughly five trillion yen in scale”.

Under the reforming of work styles, Shinzo Abe also outlined childcare leave and measures to tackle the childcare waiting list through strengthening the support provided so women can continue working even after the birth of a child; recurrent education to help women who have left the workforce for a while in undergoing recurrent education at universities or other institutions and later receive support for their reentry into the workforce, allowing women to choose a job that matches their particular stage in life; teleworking which is an effective way to enable people to continue work while raising children; and paternity leave which aims to change the men’s ways of thinking where couples should share responsibility for household chores and child raising.

Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, delivering his welcoming speech at the opening ceremony of WAW! 2016.

The first panel discussion on ‘Building Peace in Society by Women’. – PHOTOS: IZAH AZAHARI

One of the exhibits during the WAW! 2016 opening ceremony.

Meanwhile, in terms of improving women’s participation in decision-making and enhancing their leadership, the Prime Minister explained that data has shown companies with at least one female executive officer have a 20 per cent less chance of going bankrupt than companies with executives that are exclusively male.

Lastly, in terms of building a peaceful and safe society with women playing key roles, Shinzo Abe expressed that women are exposed to major risks when conflicts arise and vulnerable women are most likely to be ignored.

“By including the perspective of women in times of conflict, we will tremendously improve the responses provided by the international community,” said the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Abe later added that in the area of disaster prevention, at the UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction held in March 2015, the perspective of women was highlighted by Japan where the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction was adopted at the conference as a framework for action until 2030, marking the first time the importance of leadership by women has been clearly laid out.

Continuing the event was a Keynote Speech by Marne Levine, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Instagram, followed by remarks from Sadayuki Sakakibara, Chairman of Keidanren, Japan Business Federation; and Yuriko Koike, the Governor of Tokyo.

Attendees also viewed a video message from Aung San Suu Kyi, State Counsellor of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, and listened to two panel discussions on ‘Building Peace in Society by Women’ and ‘Sports and Women’.

The event also saw remarks from Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, United Nations Under-Secretary-General, Executive Director of United Nations Women; and a video message by Homare Sawa, Former Captain of the Japan Women’s National Football team.

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