|    Azlan Othman    |

WITH Bruneian schoolchildren embarking on their first-term school holidays from March 17 to April 2, religious authorities are advising parents to engage them in meaningful and productive activities.

“Parents play an important role in the planning and organising of beneficial holiday activities, since the school break is not meant for children to engage in fun activities completely neglecting their studies,” said the Imams during yesterday’s Friday sermon.

“Be conscientious, responsible parents: plan wisely, so as to make the most of the holidays. Do not leave the children to manage their own time unsupervised. There are all sorts of activities organised for them at the local library or at mosques, such as fitness routines and educational visits,” the religious authorities added.

Parents were also advised not to leave children to their own devices, since it could leave them vulnerable to activities contrary to the teachings of Islam.

“The threat to their character and morals is a real one, since youths are easily impressionable and prone to imitating unhealthy behaviour demonstrated by their peers,” said Imams in the sermon.

“Parents should constantly remind their children to use their time productively, in ways that will bring them happiness in this world and the next, since we will all be questioned on how we used our time in the best way.

“These holidays will see a host of activities and programmes being prepared for them – whether by the government or private organisations. There are also religious programmes promoting the memorisation and proper recitation of the Al-Quran, as well as motivational camps involving sports, arts and crafts and travel.

“This is the opportunity for parents to encourage and support children to hone their abilities in whatever hobbies and interests they may have. Their current involvement in these programmes can inspire them to mature into individuals who excel in these pursuits.”

The sermon concluded by enjoining those with limited finances to explore local tourist destinations, as a low-cost alternative to holidaying abroad.

“This helps to promote local economic growth. Aside from that, vacationing in Brunei can also provide exposure to the local arts and culture scene through visits and outings to beaches, recreational parks, playgrounds and historical sites. It also helps us to better appreciate the beauty of our own country,” said the Imams, concluding the sermon.

The post Spend school holidays in productive ways, say Imams appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|    James Kon    |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the Minister of Defence, and the Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) consented yesterday to grant the Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAirF) Honorary Pilot Wing to Air Chief Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto, Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force.

Held in a ceremony at the Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAirF) Base in Rimba, the award was given in recognition of Air Chief Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto’s services in advancing the ties between the RBAirF and the Indonesian Air Force.

The RBAirF Honorary Pilot Wing was presented by Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, Commander of the RBAF.

Also in attendance was Brigadier General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Shahril Anwar bin Haji Ma’awiah, Commander of the RBAirF.

Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) presenting the Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAirF) Honorary Pilot Wing to Air Chief Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto, Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force. – JAMES KON

The post Indonesian Air Force Chief of Staff receives honorary RBAirF award appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|    Azlan Othman     |

THE total number of international tourist arrivals to Brunei Darussalam through the Brunei International Airport (BIA) reached 218,809 in 2016 compared to 218,213 in 2015, recording a 0.3 per cent year-on-year increase.

The Tourism Development Department of the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) said in a statement that in 2016, the Far East region was the only source market that has continued to show positive growth at 10.4 per cent especially from countries such as South Korea, Hong Kong, China and Japan which have all grown by 23.7 per cent, 19.4 per cent, 10.7 per cent and 3.2 per cent respectively.

Australia and New Zealand markets have both showed a decline at 18.7 per cent (year-on-year), followed by the long haul market such as the United Kingdom at 10.1 per cent and Asean markets such as Malaysia and Singapore at 1.1 per cent.

The overall increase can be attributed to the high travel demand from the Far East market, visa facilitation (visa on arrival) for China and chartered flights from China and South Korea, the department said.

Whereas, the weakening global economy and high regional competition from neighbouring countries in the Asean have affected the performance and growth of the Australia and New Zealand, Asean and long haul source markets in 2016 to some extent.

Malaysia contributed to the top tourist arrivals in 2016 due to its easy air accessibility and proximity with 24.8 per cent (26.6 per cent in 2015), followed by China in second place with 18.7 per cent (16.9 per cent in 2015).

Indonesia moved up one ranking at 9.5 per cent (7.9 per cent in 2015), Philippines dropped to fourth place at 7.8 per cent (8.2 per cent in 2015) and Singapore remained at the same position from last year at 6.6 per cent (7.4 per cent in 2015).

In total, the top five countries have contributed the majority portion of international tourist arrivals into the country in 2016 at 67.4 per cent.

The main source market for 2016 was Asean region at 53.2 per cent (53.9 per cent in 2015), followed by Far East region at 23.9 per cent (21.7 per cent in 2015), long haul markets such as Europe and Middle East at 11.1 per cent (12.4 per cent in 2015) and Australia and New Zealand markets contributed at 4.3 per cent (5.3 per cent in 2015).

According to the department, the main of visit to Brunei Darussalam was for leisure and holiday purposes at 42.8 per cent (40.7 per cent in 2015).

About 17.1 per cent of tourists travelled for business (19.0 per cent in 2015), followed by visiting friends and relatives (VFR) at 11.6 per cent (12.1 per cent in 2015), in transit at 10.7 per cent (11.0 per cent in 2015), government purposes at three per cent (three per cent in 2015), exhibitions at 0.6 per cent (0.5 per cent in 2015), others at 11 per cent (10 per cent in 2015) and not specified at 3.3 per cent (3.6 per cent in 2015).

China and Malaysia remained as the main contributors for the leisure and holiday market with each comprising 39 per cent and 17.6 per cent respectively.

The average length of stay for hotels in 2015 and 2016 was 2.2 days.

Whereas, the average hotel occupancy rate for 2016 was 38.7 per cent compared to 41.4 per cent in 2015.

Moreover, the average occupancy rate among the top five hotels for 2016 was recorded at 64.4 per cent compared to 64.6 per cent in the previous year.

For accommodation in 2016, there were a total of 84 establishments ranging from luxury resorts (for example The Empire Hotel & Country Club), international-standard hotel (for example Radisson Hotel), to business standards, budget, lodgings, apartments, guest houses and homestays.

The total number of hotels, resorts and apartments were 50, followed by homestays (17), guest houses and rest houses (14) and government guest houses (2).

Meanwhile, the total number of rooms and beds available were 4,311 and 6,044 respectively.

In 2015, total number of establishments was recorded at 74, with 3,680 rooms and 5,297 beds available from the same categories of accommodations.

In 2016, the total number of registered travel agents under the Tourism Development Department was 60 compared to 57 last year. All travel agents offer inbound and outbound travel services.

The post 2016 sees rise in tourist arrivals to Brunei appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|    Abdul Hakiim Yakof    |

MASSIVE developments are currently under way in Brunei’s civil aviation sector which will see more airlines operating from the country soon.

These initiatives are part of the Ministry of Communications’ (MinCom) Strategic Plan 2008-2017 towards improving the communication and transport sectors, said YB Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, the Minister of Communications.

Speaking on the ninth day of the Legislative Council (LegCo) session on Thursday, he said the Government of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has been investing in a big way to improve the infrastructure of the Brunei International Airport (BIA).

“The ministry will implement a number of strategies to attract more airlines to operate in Brunei,” he added.

They are: Promoting BIA into the Skytrax list which is a list of world’s leading international airports; encouraging fair competition between the airline companies within the framework of the Open Sky Policy; working closely with Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) and reviewing the best reciprocity practices; giving appropriate incentives to airlines to operate into Brunei Darussalam which will attract more visitors to the country; and privatising the BIA in the long run, the minister explained.

During his budget speech, YB Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa said that at present, as many as five airline companies operate, handling 1.5 million passengers a year. This means BIA has a large capacity to accommodate more companies from other countries to establish their air services.

With the intention of making BIA a regional aviation hub, Brunei Darussalam has adopted the Open Sky Policy and signed Air Services Agreement with 48 countries. Nevertheless, we are only able to operate 13 air services to 16 destinations and on an average 35 flights a day, the minister noted.

Therefore, the MinCom will take a more active approach to improving the civil aviation sector and strive to benefit from the economic spin-offs it creates, he added.

According to the minister, the civil aviation sector is witnessing continuous growth in recent years with a slew of modernisation drives under way. Among them include expansion of the space of BIA terminal; upgrading of the communication navigation systems and air traffic management; rehabilitation of runway which is carried out every 10 years; and updating of the civil aviation management and legislation – for which the Department of Civil Aviation is receiving consultation from the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority International (UK CAAi).

Currently, the government is also actively working towards increasing tourism, promoting investment and strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with foreign countries on the basis of mutual interest, all of which will help boost the country’s civil aviation sector, the minister said.

The post More airlines set to take off from Brunei appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|    Lyna Mohamad    |

STANDARD Chartered Bank (SCB) yesterday officially relaunched its new and improved branch located at the Hua Ho Tanjung Bunut Mall with a ceremony jointly officiated by SCB Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Anirvan Dastidar and Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) Acting Assistant Managing Director Hajah Rashidah binti Haji Sabtu.

Since the opening of the Tanjung Bunut branch over two years ago, the growth of the bank’s customer base has enabled SCB the opportunity to further expand its branch services, the CEO said.

“Brunei continues to be an important market for Standard Chartered. We are committed to our clients and to the development of financial services in Brunei,” the CEO added.

SCB customers and senior AMBD officers attended the launch, which began with a recitation of a Doa. Following the launch, Hajah Rashidah was taken of a tour of the branch.

SCB has five branches located in Gadong, Manggis, Tanjung Bunut, Seria and in Kuala Belait, with 42 ATMs and CDMs across the country, and a full network available on its website.

Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam Acting Assistant Managing Director Hajah Rashidah binti Haji Sabtu touring the SCB Tanjung Bunut branch. – AK FAIROL RMF

The post New, improved SCB branch opens doors to public appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|    Syazwani Hj Rosli    |

THE Learning Ladders Society recently welcomed and hosted Miriam Alizo from Statewide Parent Advocacy Network (SPAN) – a parent training and information centre of New Jersey that supports effective transition from school to adult life for youths with disabilities. It’s part of a reciprocal visit under the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Professional Fellows Programme.

Prior to the visit, Lim Hui Min, a supervisor from Learning Ladders Society, successfully completed the Fall 2016 YSEALI Professional Programme hosted by SPAN from October to November last year.

Throughout her stay in Brunei Darussalam, Alizo visited two Model Inclusive Schools and NGOs such as Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam (Pusat Ehsan), SMARTER Brunei and Special Olympics Brunei Darussalam (SOBD).

As part of the visit, parents of special needs children from Learning Ladders Society, SOBD, Pusat Ehsan, SMARTER Brunei and the Down Syndrome Parent Group in RIPAS had the opportunity to partake in a casual sharing session with Alizo.

During the session, Alizo discussed topics such as the role of SPAN and Parent Advisory groups in the United States and the importance of parent get-togethers from time to time, as a means to share information, knowledge, and to form Parent Advisory Groups (PAG), which serve as platforms for advising and sharing of tips among parents with disabled children on how to better educate their children at home – beyond the sphere of their schools or therapy centres.

Miriam Alizo of Statewide Parent Advocacy Network (SPAN) of New Jersey

“I met with the parents over there and spoke with them about what the US does with regard to special education, and how parents are part of the law over there and what we do regarding identifying issues and proposing solutions, especially when children start moving out (of home) and get a little bit older, because the laws (we have) only cover for children until the age of 21,” Alizo said. “After that, the law is no longer valid. There are other laws but they are not as comprehensive on special education, so parents have to know and need to advocate for the children because they are the experts.”

Alizo specifically stressed the importance of parents’ roles and involvement in the needs of the special needs children. She also shared the importance of identifying issues faced by special needs children and proposing solutions – if possible – on topics relating to the needs of these children once they reach adulthood.

These include employment opportunities and facilities such as public transportation specially catered for such individuals, for example, how individuals with disabilities can find jobs or move around in the city with their own transportation.

Alizo said she was delighted to see Brunei well-equipped and involved in the care of special needs children, particularly with parents actively supporting the cause of special needs children and raising awareness of their need for proper care and education.

The post Special needs children care in Brunei delights SPAN consultant appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

THE Youth Development Centre (PPB) recently conducted the 2017 Career Trajectory programme which aimed to give trainees options to further their studies in government or private high learning institutions.

Among the objectives include identifying suitable career paths related to the expertise and competency of trainees, giving exposure and opportunities to trainees to choose careers that match their interests and abilities and helping them to assess their competency level in forming two in-line impacts – youth professionalism and expertise and thinking ability.

A briefing and sharing session on furthering studies for 81 trainees was conducted on March 16 at the Self Development Hall, PPB.

Some of the involved agencies included Institute of Brunei Technical Education, Laksamana College of Business, Kemuda Institute, and Cosmopolitan College of Commerce and Technology.

One of the speakers at the event. – PPB

The introduction of skills courses that have industrial marketability in the country and youth activities leading towards community, sports, and opportunities to further studies at an international level were among what was discussed at the briefing.

The programme is another initiative of the PPB to diversify independent methods for trainees in field work, entrepreneurship or studies.

In line with the national Vision 2035, which is to enhance self competency in skills, the centre hopes that the trainees will be able to form youth professionalism based on skills that are of interest to them and decrease the rate of unemployment among youths.

The post Youth Development Centre conducts Career Trajectory programme appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|    James Kon    |

FIRST Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit, the Deputy Minister of Defence, yesterday received a courtesy call from Air Chief Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto, Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force, who is currently on an introductory visit to Brunei Darussalam.

During the call, the Deputy Minister of Defence expressed his pleasure on the close and friendly relations between the Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAirF) and the Indonesian Air Force that has positively contributed to the overall warm state of bilateral defence relations.

He further encouraged both air forces to further build upon the existing good ties in the field of exercises, exchange of visits and professional exchanges, in addition to organising courses for the enhancement of mutual understanding and professionalism on both sides.

Prior to this visit, the last interaction between the RBAirF and the Indonesian Air Force was the ‘Latihan Bersama (Latma) Brunesia Exercise’, held in Brunei Darussalam from October 25 to 28, last year.

Air Chief Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto also paid a courtesy call to Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) yesterday.

First Admiral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz bin Haji Mohd Tamit, the Deputy Minister of Defence, welcoming Air Chief Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto, Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force. – PHOTOS: MINDEF

Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Major General Dato Paduka Seri Mohd Tawih bin Abdullah, the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) with Air Chief Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto, Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force

The RBAF Commander welcomed Air Chief Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto to Brunei Darussalam and congratulated him on his appointment as the new Air Force Chief of Staff of the Indonesian National Armed Forces.

The RBAF Commander expressed his pleasure to see the cordial bilateral defence relationship, which is continuously developed through courses, exercises, conferences, interactions and formal visits between the RBAF and the Indonesian National Armed Forces.

Both sides also discussed potential areas of enhancing bilateral military and defence relations between the two armed forces, particularly the RBAirF and the Indonesian Air Force.

Air Chief Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto assumed his post as the Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force on January 18, 2017.

The post Deputy Defence Minister, RBAF Commander receive courtesy call appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

THE prize presentation and closing Negara ceremony for the Adat Istiadat Department Goodwill Games was held yesterday, graced by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara.

The honours’ list for this year’s Games included Haji Abidin bin Haji Rashid in individual table tennis, the pair of Asmadi bin Asmad and Julika bin Haji Serudin in the doubles’ dart, the duo of Mohd Zaim bin Mahmud and Haji Mohd Abidin bin Haji Rashid in the badminton doubles’ open and the Dissemination Team ‘B’ in the inter-section futsal tournament.

The purpose of the Games was to help officers and staff be active in sports.

Winners in a group photo with their prizes

The post Curtain falls on Adat Istiadat Negara Goodwill Games appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Fadhil Yunus     |

BRUNEI-Muara District have underlined their desire to retain their Brunei Darussalam National Games 2017 (SKBD) overall title.

“At the last Brunei Darussalam National Games, the Brunei-Muara District contingent retained the overall title by collecting 54 gold, 34 silver and 47 bronze medals,” said Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim, Acting Brunei-Muara District Officer in his welcoming remarks during the shirt presentation for the contingent at the Theatre Hall of the Brunei-Muara District Office yesterday.

“We hope that the representatives or athletes in the third edition of SKBD at the minimum match the accomplishments of the previous contingent which is winning the overall title,” the acting district officer said.

“Probably the medal collection will not be the same considering that the championship is only open to only eight sports but it is hoped that the athletes will defend the title just as in the first and second edition.

“Certainly success cannot be blocked through sacrifice, tireless efforts and discipline as long as we set it in our hearts and do it earnestly,” he further said.

He also advised the sportspersons to safeguard values such as good sportsmanship adding that they must accept defeat with grace and demonstrate humility in victory.

Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim, Acting Brunei-Muara District Officer, is targeting a top finish for the district at the Brunei Darussalam National Games. – KHAIRIL HASSAN

The acting district officer added that the athletes should not only perform steadily but also instil the spirit of sportsmanship by respecting their opponents.

He also hoped that the athletes will not suffer injuries after the competition and will constantly be in a healthy state to take part in the event with healthy competition.

He concluded that the athletes will provide best competition and said that hopes lies in the shoulders of the Brunei Muara District’s contingent.

Brunei-Muara futsal head coach Mohd Qasmal Haji Abdul Ghani expressed his hopes that his charges will be providing stern competition to all teams in the Brunei Darussalam National Games 2017.

“We hope that we will provide competition until we reach the final stage,” said Mohd Qasmal.

He added that only one player has represented Brunei-Muara noting that there are a lot of new faces in the squad.

Touching on the team’s preparations, Qasmal continued that they began preparing for the side in early February.

Brunei-Muara netball team will be hoping to deliver a strong performance and contribute towards defending the SKBD crown.

“Representing Brunei-Muara we hope that we would be able to get the gold medal and as well as to try and defend. Hopefully we’ll be able to defend our Brunei-Muara title,” said netball player Adi Khairun Norinsan Haji Kassim.

“Most of us are first-timers representing Brunei-Muara. This is the new and young generation level because previously it was all seniority and this is a young squad.”

Leading the contingent as the Chef De Mission is Pengiran Kamal Ariffin bin Pengiran Haji Ahmad Yassin, Acting Deputy Brunei-Muara District Officer.

During the ceremony, each team across various sports representing Brunei Muara received bottled water and 100 Plus sports drink.

The post Brunei-Muara keen to defend SKBD title appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Azaraimy HH      |

THE Minister of Communications, YB Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, said that boat operators connecting the Brunei-Muara and Temburong districts will eventually face a changing situation once the two bridges – one connecting Brunei-Muara and Temburong and the other connecting Bandar Seri Begawan and Sungai Kebun – are completed.

During the 13th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday, the minister said the two bridges will bring about many benefits, but it will also affect the business of water taxis.

Thus, he asked the boat operators to be prepared when the time comes and to embrace the changes by considering the opportunities, such as an increase in demand and tourism-related advantages, which the bridges will bring.

He urged the operators to be positive and ‘berhijrah’ (migrate) from the past to the new situation.

He added that the government has established many facilities to encourage Bruneians to do business, as well as facilities to help locals upgrade themselves or obtain new skills.

File photo shows a water taxi in Kampong Ayer. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI

A scale model of the Temburong bridge

The post Minister urges boat operators to embrace change, bridges appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Aziz Idris      |

FREER movement of people within the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines – East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) routes will enhance cross-border connectivity and opportunities to upgrade the infrastructural transportation projects in the region.

However, a feasible study should be carried out before Brunei decides to implement any projects to identify the sustainability towards activities that help narrow linkages within the routes.

This was shared by YB Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, the Minister of Communications, on the 10th day of the 13th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday in response to a suggestion by YB Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii to develop an infrastructural railway that links BIMP-EAGA routes.

Such linkages can boost economic cooperation among economies in the sub-region and ultimately increase trade investments and tourism within the participating areas through cross-border cooperation, she added.

The minister also pointed out that there is a need for a holistic approach towards the national land transport system.

The transportation sector is a key enabler as well as a key beneficiary in realising the BIMP-EAGA’s goals.

Brunei can potentially tap into a multi-model transportation system that will influence how and where the movement of people will be located.

This, in turn, will lead to potential economic spin-offs and enhanced quality of life for the people in BIMP-EAGA.

YB Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii. – AZROL AZMI

The post Freer movement within BIMP-EAGA routes appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Azlan Othman      |

THE bridge linking Bandar Seri Begawan to Temburong – expected to be completed by the end of 2019 – is facing delay, however, contractors have added on more machineries and employees to expedite the process.

Minister of Development YB Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah yesterday said this at the Legislative Council (LegCo) meeting in response to a query by YB Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Rahim on the Temburong Bridge project.

The factors behind the delay include mobilisation and the provision of casting yard, storage of heavy machineries, sites to place employees and a construction office, which have taken quite some time. Site provision alone has taken eight months, he said.

At present, the mega project is 17 per cent completed.

The minister listed the other issues which include difficulty accessing the area, especially the mangrove section in Temburong. The initial stage proved to be an obstacle for heavy machineries attempting to enter by means of land and sea.

YB Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Ghani bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Rahim. – AZROL AZMI

There was also the problem of the water access being too low to cross, for which 13 kilometres of the river needed to be dug out and deepened for goods barge and piling to be transported. A total area of 100 metres (and 25 metres deep) of soil had to be dug out and removed.

The geology strata of soil underwater in the area also affected piling works. The average piling work is 600-900 metres deep, where 900mm concrete pipes are used for piling.

Also delaying the process were uncertain weather conditions as well as the unavailability of construction materials and special machineries, which then had to be imported from China, South Korea and Malaysia via sea.

Technical issues have also sprung up but with the expertise and experience available, we will monitor the project, the minister added.

The post Extra hands pulled in to iron out Temburong Bridge delay appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Ishan Ibrahim      |

SOME foreign companies are keen on investing in the country to produce electric cars, Minister of Communications YB Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat said.

The Land Transport Department (JPD) welcomes this move, the minister said on the 10th day of the 13th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday.

Responding to a query by YB Iswandy bin Ahmad, he said that the JPD follows the directives from the Energy and Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office which stipulates government policies concerning fuel efficient vehicles.

There has been several positive developments taking place in the field of hybrid or fuel efficient vehicles and vehicle suppliers also have a general awareness on the issue of hybrid cars, especially on the advancement of these types of vehicles, he added.

“What’s important is the infrastructure that should be in place such as charging stations,” the minister noted.

File photo shows the Minister of Communications YB Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat. – AZROL AZMI

In response to another issue raised by the LegCo member on developing a communication link between the government and the public, the minister said that forums for discussions are currently available online where the public can participate and the Information Department can give more details on this issue.

He said the discussions should adhere to the customs and regulations of the country and participants should refrain from posting images, information and accusations that may embarrass an individual or a group.

On another issue, the minister said that the Authority for Infocommunications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) is working closely with mobile and phone operators such as TelBru, DST and Progresif Cellular in a bid to keep abreast with the current developments in weather prediction technologies. DST, for instance, has introduced 4G, the fourth generation of wireless mobile telecommunications technology, he noted.

The advent of the 5G system could be the future in Brunei. AITI has announced concepts where these new technologies can be efficiently utilised such as ‘Smart Nation’ and ‘Smart Society’, and such programmes can be disseminated to the public and with the participation of the private sector and relevant parties, the new technologies can be developed sustainably, the minister said.

On the issue of weather forecasting, the minister said that the Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department operates on a 24-hour basis that gives advanced information to relevant parties, adding that warnings on earthquakes, tsunamis and other similar disasters are outside the scope of the department. The department only gives information to the public on rainfall, winds, ocean tides and others, he added.

On this note, the Minister of Home Affairs YB Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong said disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis are handled by the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) in cooperation with the Jakarta-based Asean Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (AHA) Centre where disaster-related information is shared between the two parties.

Hence any information that arrives at the AHA will be conveyed to the NDMC, added the minister.

The post Foreign firms keen to invest in hybrid vehicle production appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

THE Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) received a goodwill delegation yesterday morning from the Religious Affairs Office of Bogor Regency, Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia.

According to a press release by MoRA, the visit was to strengthen ties between Indonesia and Brunei, as well as for the Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia to obtain more information about the functions of MoRA.

A delegation of 44 led by Haji Dadang Ramdani, Head of the Religious Affairs Office of Bogor Regency was briefed on the organisational structure of the MoRA.

This followed with a briefing on the functions and roles of the Mosque Affairs Department, as well as a briefing from the Islamic Da’wah Centre regarding the centre’s activities and the Islamisation of Brunei Darussalam.

The delegation also visited the MoRA building at the Council Hall in Berakas and the Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah.

The delegation from the Religious Affairs Office of Bogor Regency, Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia in a group photo at the Ministry of Religious Affairs. – MORA

The post MoRA receives Indonesian delegation appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Azlan Othman      |

BRUNEI Darussalam’s passport is continuing its powerful journey allowing its holders to move across borders without having to undergo the ordeal of a cumbersome visa application process.

The Sultanate’s passport has been ranked sixth in Asia and retained its 23rd place globally in this year’s Visa Restrictions Index of Henley & Partners, bucking a global trend of decreased travel freedom.

In the Index for Asia, Brunei was ranked after Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia and Hong Kong.

Brunei was also ranked third among South-east Asian countries, behind Singapore and Malaysia. The number of countries and territories that Brunei passport holders enjoy visa-free access to has remained unchanged from last year at 151 out of the 218 countries and territories surveyed.

Germany (176) and Sweden (175) retained their last year’s first and second positions respectively, although both lost visa-free access to one country.

File photo of the immigration checkpoint at the Brunei International Airport. – AZROL AZMI

Brunei’s rank of 23 in 2016 was a drop from 18th place in 2015 and 17th in 2014.

In January this year, the passport index devised by global financial advisory firm Arton Capital ranked the Sultanate as the world’s 20th most powerful passport with a visa-free score of 134.

Dr Christian H Kälin, Chairman of Henley & Partners, said that although the size and make-up of the top 10 remain the same as last year, the changing geopolitical climate could well affect the rankings over the next 12 months.

“We have witnessed several major events recently that are likely to have an impact on global mobility – including Brexit and the election of US President Donald Trump,” explained Dr Kälin, a leading authority on international immigration and citizenship law and policy.

“Both can be interpreted as steps toward restricting movement and creating barriers to entry. This trend towards curbing travel freedom is already apparent in the shift in rankings on this year’s Visa Restrictions Index,” Dr Kälin said.

The Henley & Partners Visa Restrictions Index is a global ranking of countries according to the travel freedom that their citizens enjoy.

The post Brunei passport powers ahead appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Hakim Hayat      |

THE slower pace of economic growth due to global oil price woes and a tight overall budget for the 2017-2018 fiscal did not deter the government to do a pump-priming to catalise the economy.

A budget totalling $1 billion has been proposed to fund projects and programmes under the 10th National Development Plan (NDP) during the new financial year, a 30 per cent increase compared to the $700 million allocated for the 2016-17 NDP.

This was announced by YB Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim, the Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and Minister of Finance II, on the 10th day of the 13th Legislative Council (LegCo) session yesterday.

During the budget deliberation, he said that the new financial year’s proposed budget for the 10th NDP has been devised to sustain the focus and priorities of the budget theme for 2017-2018 which emphasises objective spending to support sustainable economic growth.

The distribution of the budget will focus on the commitment for completed projects with liability and ongoing projects, while projects that are in the process of bidding/design/planning will be given priority only if they are in line with the new financial year budget’s focus, the minister said.

He added that 24.8 per cent of the allocation will be for completed projects with liabilities while 73.4 per cent will go to projects that are in progress and 1.7 per cent will be for projects that are still in bidding/design/planning stages.

The allocation will also take into account the focus on a number of main sectors, with the transportation and communications sector getting the largest share of 37.8 per cent. Industry and trade sector will receive 19 per cent.

The social services sector will be allocated 9.8 per cent of the budget while the public consumption sector will have a 6.4 per cent share.

The science, information technology, research, development and innovation sector will be allocated 1.1 per cent of the budget while one per cent will be earmarked for the security sector.

The public building sector will receive a budget share of 0.3 per cent.

Earlier in the speech, the minister said the NDP is envisioned to support the country’s economic diversification policies and boost the source of national revenue.

“It does not just pave the way for growth of the private sector, including micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and support the ease of doing business initiatives in the country, but what’s more visible today is a change in mindset among the people, which is evident from the emergence of new entrepreneurs among the youth who are contributing to the country’s economic activities,” he added.

The minister also informed the session that out of the 567 projects under the 10th NDP, 416, or 73.5 per cent, have been completed while 13.2 per cent are still in various stages of implementation.

Some 41 projects are still in bidding process while 35 projects are in design and planning stages.

He revealed that until the end of February 2017, the actual expenditure under the 10th NDP during the last financial year stands at 90.3 per cent of the original allocation of $700 million.

This brings the total expenditure so far for the 10th NDP to over $5 billion to date.

The minister also highlighted some of the efforts made by the Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE) to ensure the projects are being completed according to schedule, adding that close monitoring of their progress will continue.

JPKE will also continuously assess the suitability of planned projects so that they will be sustainable and effective in realising the socio-economic growth of the country and ensuring that all purchases are made according to the allocated budget.

The 13th LegCo session was adjourned to tomorrow morning, where the members are expected to deliberate on the 10th NDP budget before it is approved.

The post $1 billion for 10th NDP appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|      Abdul Hakiim Yakof      |

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) attended the Santap ceremony in conjunction with the 96th Police Day celebration held at the Banquet Hall of the RBPF Officers Mess yesterday evening.

Also attending the event were His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Honorary Commissioner of Police; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Commandant of the Women Police; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Nor’ain, Deputy Commandant of the Women Police.

Upon arrival, His Majesty and Their Royal Highnesses were greeted by Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jammy bin Haji Muhd Shah Al-Islam, Commissioner of Police, and senior police officials.

His Majesty then officiated the launching of RBPF’s new Officers Mess building with the signing of a plaque.

The ceremony also saw the Takbir and Doa Selamat, led by Muhammad Aimi Safwan bin Zailidin, Assistant Superintendent of Police.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) attends the Santap ceremony in conjunction with the 96th Police Day celebration. Also seen is His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Honorary Commissioner of Police

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF); in a group photo. Also seen were His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Honorary Commissioner of Police; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Commandant of the Women Police; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Nor’ain, Deputy Commandant of the Women Police

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Inspector General of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) during the Junjung Ziarah

His Majesty signing the royal parchment

His Majesty and His Royal Highness during the Santap ceremony

Their Royal Highnesses during the event

A section of RBPF officers at the Santap ceremony. – PHOTOS: BAHYIAH BAKIR

ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show some of the RBPF officers at the Santap ceremony, in conjunction with the 96th Police Day celebration

His Majesty signed a royal parchment and consented to pose for group photo at the lobby of the Banquet Hall before entering it.

Following the national anthem, the emblem of the Royal Brunei Police Force was brought into the Banquet Hall as Serunai and Tambur music played in the background.

The dinner ensued, accompanied by music played by the RBPF Brass Band.

At the end of the dinner, the emblem of the RBPF was taken out of the Banquet Hall and the national anthem was played again.

Following this, the monarch greeted the senior police officials before leaving the ceremony.

The RBPF’s Police Day celebration this year carries the theme ‘Unity and Harmony Strengthen Security’.

The post Sultan graces Santap ceremony appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

|     Wani Roslan     |

TEN members from the Brunei Darussalam AIDS Council (BDAC) on Saturday departed for an educational visit to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The delegation led by the Vice-President of BDAC (Administration), Mohd Hazrin bin Daud, will stay in Malaysia until March 23.

The visit is aimed to exchange and share knowledge, and exposes BDAC members to the activities of the association and non-government associations (NGOs) outside the country. It is also an attempt to strengthen the ties and cooperation between BDAC and these foreign NGOs.

YB Iswandy bin Ahmad, a member of the Legislative Council (LegCo) and President of BDAC, was present at the airport to see the delegation off.

In a speech at the airport, YB Iswandy expressed hope that the delegation will learn and gain a good experience from the visit.

A group photo taken at the Brunei International Airport prior to the delegation’s departure. – WANI ROSLAN

The post BDAC delegation to Kuala Lumpur for study visit appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.

RAIPUR, India (AFP) – At least five suspected Maoist rebels were killed Saturday in a remote part of central India, police said, the latest attack in the country’s internal simmering conflict.

The gun battle took place when a police patrol, following a tip on the presence of rebels in a forest area in the restive Chhattisgarh state, was out on a search operation.

“Five bodies of Maoists have been recovered so far,” police deputy inspector general Sundarraj P told AFP.

Two policemen were also injured in the shootout.

“They are under treatment and out of danger,” the officer said.

Police also recovered hand grenades and two rifles.

Police was on the trail of some of the rebels who managed to escape, the officer said.

The attack is the latest in a deadly conflict that pits the insurgents against local and national authorities in the forests and rural areas of mainly central and eastern India.

Last week rebels killed 11 paramilitary commandos in the region after ambushing their convoy. The troops were on their way to provide protection to workers for a road construction project when the gunmen attacked. The guerrillas, who say they are fighting for the rights of tribal people and landless farmers, often collect funds through extortion.

The Maoists are believed to be present in at least 20 states but are most active in Chhattisgarh, Orissa, Bihar, Jharkhand and Maharashtra, occupying thou-sands of square kilometres of land.

The post Maoist rebels killed in central India: Police appeared first on Borneo Bulletin Online.