| Hakim Hayat |
THE Borneo Bulletin Yearbook (BBYB) hosted its Business Networking event yesterday, connecting industry leaders at the Royal Brunei Recreation Club (RBRC) in Berakas.
The event – the third of its kind – saw representatives from the energy, banking, communications, automotive, business services, healthcare and other sectors, as well as members from the government and government-linked companies (GLCs) converge to exchange ideas and form partnerships as Brunei steps up its economic diversification efforts.
Permanent Secretary (Investment) at the Ministry of Finance and Economy (MoFE) Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abdul Hamid was present as the guest of honour.
In her welcoming speech, Brunei Press Sdn Bhd Acting General Manager Hazizah Osman shared that since its inception in 1993, the BBYB has evolved into a publication with a circulation of over 50,000 today, with its digital version registering 2.2 million page views and receiving 6 million hits last year.
She also noted that the yearbook has received excellent response since undergoing a rebranding exercise three years ago to focus more on business, showcasing industry leaders in the various fields, foreign direct investment (FDI), local businesses, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Shedding more light on the theme for the BBYB 2019 – ‘Building Bridges, Gateway to ASEAN’, Hazizah said this year’s edition focusses on the government and private sectors’ efforts in transforming the country into a physical and digital business gateway to ASEAN and beyond.
“The success of the Borneo Bulletin Yearbook for the past 26 years is attributed to the demand for a comprehensive guide to Brunei. As we evolve further, we look forward to your continuous support,” she concluded.
First held in 2017, the networking event has been well-received over the last three years. This year’s edition features a mini exhibition to provide more opportunities for information sharing among participants.
The BBYB 2019, which can be redeemed for free through vouchers in Borneo Bulletin and Media Permata from the April 15 and 16, features key information on Brunei with a special focus on the halal industry, innovative technology, banking and finance, business services and energy.
It is available in all hotel rooms throughout the country, Brunei foreign embassies worldwide, and high commissions based in Brunei. A digital format is also accessible through borneobulletinyearbook.com.bn.