|     Hakim Hayat     |

THE outgoing Chief of Army of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) General Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Zulkiple bin Haji Kassim on Monday called on Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Major General Pengiran Dato Paduka Seri Aminan bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud.

During the call at Berakas Garrison, both sides reaffirmed the long-standing close relationship between the RBAF and the MAF, and noted the good progress made in elevating the relationship, bolstered through a multitude of interactions such as exchange visits, cross-attendance courses, professional exchanges, trainings, as well as bilateral and multilateral exercises.

General Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Zulkiple was in the Sultanate for a farewell visit from August 4-6. He also visited the Royal Brunei Land Force (RBLF) Headquarters and was accorded a guard of honour, comprising personnel from the Third Battalion (3Bn) RBLF led by Lieutenant Md Affandi bin Juna.

He also called on the Commander of RBLF Brigadier General Dato Seri Pahlawan Khairul Hamed bin Haji Lampoh, where both sides assured that the excellent and warm relations between both land forces will continue to be enhanced in the future.

General Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Zulkiple and his delegation participated in interactions with senior military officers from the RBAF and also attended a dinner hosted by the RBLF Commander.

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|     Abdul Hakim Yakof     |

THE Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) through its Neighbourhood Watch Programme visited village heads of Kampong Lumapas and Kampong Labu Estate areas on Monday to share and acquire information to ensure safety and security in those areas.

From the Kampong Ayer Police Station, Sergeant 3794 Matsaini bin Haji Wahab, together with three station officers visited the residence of Village Head of Kampong Lumapas ‘A’ Haji Mohd Yassin bin Haji Hassan.

They discussed on improving the Neighbourhood Watch programme and steps to prevent and crack down crimes in the village.

The initiative was also carried out by the Bangar Police Station. Lance Corporal 5398 Zainuddin and female officer 6463 Siti Sabariah who visited the residence of Village Head of Kampong Labu Estate Haji Sulaiman bin Haji Nasir discussed plans of the Kampong Labu Estate Neighbourhood Watch.

Through these initiatives, the RBPF hoped that it can improve the relationship between the RBPF and the public.

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|     James Kon     |

DIRECTOR General of Road Transport Department Malaysia Dato’ Sri Shaharuddin bin Khalid proposed the formal establishment of a steering committee for bilateral cooperation and a technical committee from both countries yesterday to better address issues of movement in cross border transportation.

He also proposed that the steering committee could host meetings twice a year; once in Brunei Darussalam and once in Malaysia.

The proposal was raised during a bilateral meeting between Road Transport Department Malaysia with Land Transport Department (JPD) of Brunei Darussalam at the JPD Headquarters in Beribi.

Dato’ Sri Shaharuddin, who is leading a delegation of officials from the Road Transport Department, Malaysia, said, “This is our first formal working visit to Brunei Darussalam to further boost cooperation between Road Transport Department, Malaysia and JPD.

The aim of the visit is to align and share information on the procedure on traffic enforcement practised between both countries.

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“This is a universal issue between Brunei and Malaysia because both countries are connected through Sabah or Sarawak.

“The visit is also to forage strategic cooperation between Brunei and Malaysia as well as to build regional cooperation in the spirit of ASEAN member countries,” he added.

In the current global trend, Dato’ Sri Shaharuddin noted that there will be continuous changes in the future and one day, there may be autonomous vehicles on the road.

“Toward this, Malaysia and Brunei needs to think of how to address the on the road technology.”

Meanwhile Acting Director of Land Transport Pengiran Mohammad Amirrizal bin Pengiran Haji Mahmud said, “The transportation sector has entered a challenging era. The department and Ministry of Communications need to undergo transformation to be competitive and more effective to facilitate in Ease of Doing Business, to be relevant in the regional and global stage as well as to achieve Brunei Vision 2035.

“We will be able to share the best practices implemented by JPD and Road Transport Department Malaysia, to share latest development in the field of transportation like public bus, taxi, electric car and others, enforcement affairs, vehicle mobility between both countries and discussion to strengthen the administration system of transportation sector,” said Pengiran Mohammad Amirrizal.

Also present from the Road Transport Department, Malaysia were Director of Vehicle Licensing Division Dato Mohd Rusdi bin Mohd Darus, Deputy Director of Enforcement Division Dato Ahmad Nasir bin Abdul Gani, Director of Sarawak’s Road Transport Department Malaysia Mohd Syafiq Anas bin Abdullah, and Director of Sabah’s Road Transport Department Malaysia Haji Sadim bin Haji Abdul.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

THE Ashabul Haliim youth club was officially launched at Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Malik Mosque in Kampong Tungku Katok recently.

The guest of honour was Acting Director of Mosque Affairs at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Haji Amir Hisham bin Haji Masri.

Ashabul Haliim, which means visionary youth, is made up of 45 university graduates and undergraduates.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by a welcoming remark by head of the club Ahmad Tarmizi bin Haji Abu Bakar and a speech from the guest of honour. Ahmad Tarmizi hoped to organise events and deliver Dakwah in an effort to enliven the mosque and honour its role in the development of Ummah.

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|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

THE Brunei Young Leaders Convention (BYLC) 2018 officially kicked off yesterday at the Goldstone Ballroom of The Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong.

The first-of-its-kind event, organised by Al-Huffaz Management and Generasi Berkarih and launched by Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, will continue until tomorrow.

The convention’s objective is to gather youth development agencies and youth between the ages of 18 to 40 in a common setting, where they will be provided with updated information on Brunei Vision 2035 and given the opportunity to plan projects or programmes in support of the long-term development plan.

Some 200 youth of various backgrounds will participate in the convention, including representatives from 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, local NGOs, as well as specialists and professionals from various fields.

The event’s theme, ‘Believe, Empower, Lead, Inspire and Act’ or ‘BELIA’, serves to highlight a paradigm shift or mindset change that is required among the youth to achieve Brunei Vision 2035.

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Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Iswandy bin Ahmad, who is also the convention leader said that the event will focus on three main objectives: Producing well-educated and highly skilled citizens; creating a high standard of living among Bruneians; and realising a dynamic and sustainable economy.

The launching also saw the minister presenting certificates of appreciation to the event sponsors and supporters.

This was followed by a keynote presentation on Brunei Vision 2035 delivered by Administrative Officer Special Grade of the Sekretariat Tetap Wawasan Brunei 2035 Muhammad Aziman bin Haji Awang Nasir.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports then facilitated a sharing session called ‘Youth Snapshot’, where a number of youth speakers shared their experiences in pursuing their goals and dreams.

A session titled ‘Be the Change’ was held later in the afternoon by the Centre for Strategic and Policy Studies (CSPS), followed by a networking session for the convention’s youth mentors and all participants.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

AS A precautionary measure against the entry of bird flu into Brunei Darussalam, the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood has announced a temporary ban on imports of live poultry, chicks, ducklings, fertilised eggs, fresh eggs, chicken meat and chicken feed in to the country from Sabah, Malaysia.

According to the department, the decision to freeze imports was taken following an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), which was confirmed to have occurred in the Tuaran District of Sabah on August 3 through the Department of Veterinary Services of Sabah.

In a press statement, the department explained that the HPAI is a type of zoonotic disease that can infect not only poultry but also humans.

It was shared that the bird flu epidemic can lead to bad implications for the poultry industry in this country and that the spread rate of this disease is very high and can cause “up to 100 per cent” death of poultry.

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This temporary freeze is being enforced immediately until a date that will be announced later.

The withdrawal of the temporary freeze is subject to confirmation of being free of the bird flu by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE). However, imports from Sarawak in Malaysia and Kalimantan in Indonesia are unaffected.

Commercial importers are also advised to get supplies for the above commodities from other exporting countries that have a status of being free from avian flu.

In this regard, as a precautionary measure the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism advised the public to cooperate and not to carry animals or livestock goods to the country without permission from the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood.

The press statement added that members of the public are also advised to watch out for smuggling activities, particularly of live poultry, chicks, ducks, fertilised eggs, fresh eggs, chicken meat and chicken feed in the country, in together dealing with the entry of avian flu into the country.

“COMMEMORATING ASEAN Day is an opportunity for us to reflect on the achievements of our association as well as a chance for us to celebrate how much our region and its people have grown over the past 51 years,” said His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in the monarch’s ASEAN Day message 2018.

The message: “Throughout during this period, ASEAN has experienced significant economic progress and technological advancements as well as growing support from external partners for ASEAN’s community-building process.

Our region has benefitted from these developments through improvements to our education and health systems as well as the expansion of infrastructures that have raised the living standards for our people.

Nevertheless, developmental challenges to the region still remain and coupled with other issues of the 21st Century such as disruptive technology, climate change and the threat from terrorism and violent extremism, require the collective efforts of countries to overcome.

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In this regard, ASEAN continues to provide a platform for its member states and partners to cooperate and work with each other to achieve common goals.

With the ASEAN Community Vision 2025, we are committed to realising a region that is politically cohesive, economically integrated and socially responsible for its people.

This involves a broad range of cooperation including addressing cybersecurity, promoting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), protecting the natural environment and developing our youth for the future.

At the same time, ASEAN will continue to enhance cooperation with its regional and international partners to ensure peace, security and prosperity in Southeast Asia and the wider region.

We fully support Singapore and their work as ASEAN Chairman in 2018 under their theme ‘Resilient and Innovative ASEAN’. Brunei Darussalam will continue working with Singapore as well as with other ASEAN members and regional partners in achieving our common goals for the benefit of all its people.

My best wishes for a very happy ASEAN Day and our continued hope for a bright future for ASEAN and its people.”

|     Syazwani Hj Rosli     |

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 yesterday paid a surprise visit to the Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (ITQSHHB) at Jalan Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha.

The visit was a follow up to the monarch’s visit to the Female Hostel of ITQSHHB at Jalan Ong Sum Ping on August 4.

Upon arrival, His Majesty was greeted by Acting Principal of ITQSHHB Pengiran Haji Amiruddin bin Pengiran Haji Damit as well as teachers, officers, staff members and students of the institute.

His Majesty began the visit by taking a closer look at the condition of the institute’s facilities for the teaching staff and students to ensure that their welfare is well taken care of. Among the facilities included classrooms, administrative office, surau, dining area, kitchen, examination hall and dormitories.

Later, His Majesty held a two-hour-long closed-door session with the senior officers, officers, teaching staff and students of ITQSHHB.

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After the session, His Majesty consented to a Junjung Ziarah from the teachers, officers, staff as well as students of institute who also took the opportunity to take selfies with the monarch.

Also present during the visit was the Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud.

The unscheduled visit provided an opportunity to the monarch to ensure that all strategies and initiatives related to education are effectively implemented at education institutions in the country to the highest quality and are making positive impact on improving the quality of teaching and learning.

ITQSHHB currently accommodates 348 students comprising 173 males and 175 females.

Students living in the hostel are allowed to visit home once a week every Saturday and during public holidays.

Living in dorms makes the students independent, and disciplined, and helps them adapt themselves to different environments.

|     Izah Azahari     |

TO ACCOMPLISH the goals of Brunei Vision 2035, 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 given top priority for the education sector, to produce a highly-educated and skilled generation for the continuing economic development and stability of the nation.

This was stated by Acting Minister of Education Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh in her speech as the guest of honour during the Micronet International College Graduation Ceremony yesterday, at the Indera Samudra Grand Hall of The Empire Hotel & Country Club.

The acting minister also urged all agencies, including private higher education institutions, to ensure that their programmes and initiatives are relevant and industry-driven, to meet the objectives of His Majesty’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri titah of July 5, 2018, which called on the private sector and graduates to contribute towards the implementation of the country’s economic development.

“I hope that, after receiving the certificates and diplomas, the graduates will be able to continue their education or apply their skills in the world of employment that they will be joining, as the field of computing is a universal and competitive one,” she said.

Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah further explained that in keeping with the current and future global development path, Brunei Darussalam is no exception in revitalising its development process by focussing on high-tech industries and services.

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“Graduates need to realise that the country is very much in need of a young generation that dares to lead its development, and so they should avail themselves of this opportunity to increase their individual abilities through programmes offered locally or abroad,” she said.

“Youth are usually rich with new ideas, so they need to be brave enough to face various challenges.”

She added that the widespread use of information technology has shifted the focus to a wider digital economy.

“We should be proud that Brunei Darussalam is capable of generating products which enhance the development of home-grown infrastructure and telecommunications,” she said.

Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah called upon graduates to uphold the national value system of the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB), stating that every graduate is an asset who plays a role in determining the country’s direction.

|     Izah Azahari     |

A TOTAL of 179 graduates from five different Information Technology (IT) programmes were filled with a sense of accomplishment yesterday, as they attended the Micronet International College Graduation Ceremony at the Indera Samudra Grand Hall of The Empire Hotel & Country Club.

The guest of honour was Acting Minister of Education, Datin Seri Paduka Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh, who presented certificates and awards to the graduates.

Also present were Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education Nadia Lee Siew Hoon binti Abdullah, along with other top educational officers, vice-chancellors of state-run universities in Brunei Darussalam and the Rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), as well as the Chief Executive Officer of Micronet International College Sylvester Yong.

The IT programmes include the Brunei Darussalam Technical and Vocational Educational Council (BDTVEC) Diploma in Information Technology; the NCC Education Level 3 Diploma in Computing; the NCC Education Level 4 Diploma in Computing, NCC Education Level 5 Diploma in Computing; and the Pearson BTEC International Level 2 Certificate in Information Technology.

The event began with a recitation of the Surah Al-Fatihah, followed with a welcoming address by the General Manager of Micronet International College, Sharon Chin, who announced that 91 of the graduating students would receive the BDTVEC certificate, 60 the NCC Education certificate and 28 the Pearson BTEC certificate.

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The event continued with a speech from graduate representative Fatin Haziqah binti Haji Abdul Rahman, a recipient of the Micronet Special Merit Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement, who shared pleasant memories of student life at the college.

Another recipient of the Micronet Special Merit Award was Dayangku Nur’izatul Namirah binti Pengiran Muhammad Noorhasni.

A speech was also delivered by the guest of honour, who presented certificates and the Special Merit Awards to the graduates.

Micronet International College was established in December 1989, and was formerly known as Micronet Computer School. It is a satellite partner to Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), offering Foundation Programme in Computing for post-GCE ‘A’ Level students.

Apart from the Foundation Programme in Computing, Micronet International College also offers IT programmes from Pearson BTEC; Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA); and NCC Education for International Certificate Level, Diploma Level and also Higher National Diploma Level.

The registration for the October 2018 intake is now open.

|     Danial Norjidi     |

A TWO-DAY Youth Business Talk workshop began yesterday at Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB).

The event, organised in collaboration between the Youth and Sports Department, the Youth Centre and UTB, saw the participation of students and graduates.

The proceedings started in the morning with talks by Head of Youth Entrepreneurship Programme at the Youth Centre Pengiran Kamal Ghadafi bin Pengiran Haji Suhaimi.

His sessions focussed on the topics ‘Self-Evaluation’, ‘Positive Mindset’ and ‘Mind Challenge: How do I make BND1 million out of BND50,000?’.

Two sessions followed in the afternoon, beginning with a talk on Financial Literacy by President of the Financial Planning Association of Brunei Darussalam Hajah Raeidyah binti Haji Bujang.

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The final talk of the day, entitled ‘Creating Advantage: the Progresif experience’ was delivered by Head of Product and Business Development, Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd Radi El Fassed.

Speaking to the Bulletin yesterday, Pengiran Kamal Ghadafi explained that the talk aimed to help people understand entrepreneurship, as well as the difference between entrepreneurship and business.

“We want to encourage them to be more aware, and how to be an entrepreneur,” he said.

“Just having a good idea is not good enough,” he said, highlighting the importance of knowing how to sustain it, and having the necessary communication skills.

The talk will continue today with breakout sessions, as well as a plenary session on ‘Challenges Facing Youths in Entrepreneurship and Life: Setting your Ambitions while in University’.

|     Ishan Ibrahim     |

STUDENTS should equip themselves with proper skills and the right attitude to gain employment, said Principal of Central Campus at the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) Campus Dr Sheikh Lukman bin Sheikh Abdul Hamid.

Employers nowadays give priority to people with the right attitude and commitment, he said.

He made these comments in his welcoming address at a ceremony when IBTE entered into an apprenticeship partnership with 13 companies with the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) yesterday at the Lecture Theatre of the School of Aviation, IBTE Sultan Saiful Rijal Campus at Jalan Utama Berakas.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by Acting Commissioner of Labour at the Ministry of Home Affairs Zulhilmi bin Haji Abidin.

Dr Sheikh Lukman and CEO of IBTE Dr Chin Wei Keh signed on behalf of IBTE Sultan Saiful Rijal Campus.

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Thirteen representatives from Ams-oil Pro Auto Services Sdn Bhd, Bee Motors Sdn bhd, Bengkel Kereta Berakas Sdn Bhd, Boustead Sdn Bhd, GHK Motors Sdn Bhd, Grand Motors Sdn Bhd, Hock Siang Hin Automotive Parts and Service Centre, Jati Transport Sdn Bhd, NBT (Brunei) Sdn Bhd, Premier Motors Sdn Bhd, QAF Auto Sdn Bhd, Setia Motors Sdn Bhd and TCY Motors Sdn Bhd also signed the agreements at the event.

The apprenticeship programme aims to help foster a long term partnership between IBTE and the industry to help train students and develop their skills as technicians needed by the industry.

Dr Sheikh Lukman said the cooperation between IBTE and the relevant parties has helped in the development of the curriculum and bridged the gap in skills and expertise.

The cooperation also presents students the opportunity to gain invaluable experience and training in terms of practical and theoretical aspects, he added.

He stressed that the relevant parties should prepare for the challenges in human resources in the 21st Century. IBTE has been successful in producing apprentices in various fields and the existing collaboration has been successful, he added.

With the current Dual Apprenticeship Scheme programme, it is hoped that the industry can assist in employment by providing guidance and the right platform, he said.

Twenty-five students are enrolled under the NTec Apprenticeship in Automotive Technician programme at the IBTE Mechanical Campus.

They will undergo an on-the-job training with the 13 companies.

|     Rokiah Mahmud     |

MINISTER of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin yesterday officiated the launch of the Open Office at the Youth Centre in the capital.

The Open Office is one of the facilities provided by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports as part of a follow-up of the Legislative Council meeting held on August 17, 2017 for youth to carry out programmes and activities based on culture, community, sports and youth.

It is hoped the youth will fully utilise and maximise its usage in conducting their activities.

Chairman of the organising committee Pengiran Anak Mohd Sofian bin Pengiran Anak Haji Ibrahim explained that the Youth Centre in the capital has undergone several rebranding processes since 2012.

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The Open Office marked another milestone for the centre, providing a space for organisations, youth leaders and students to fill the facilities with fruitful discussions and meetings.

The Open Office is open daily from 7.45am to noon, except for Thursday, when it closes at 6pm. It is closed on Friday from 11.45am to 2pm and also on selected public holidays.

|     Azaraimy HH     |

KAMPONG Kiudang welcomed a delegation from the fifth ASEAN Children’s Forum recently. The 44-member delegation, comprising ASEAN children and accompanying officials was given a tour to experience the village life and its entrepreneurial activities. The village has won awards, including the ASEAN Community-based Tourism Award in 2017 for its achievement in attracting visitors, both local and foreign.

It also won a bronze medal for the Excellent Village Award in 2013, an annual award which recognises villages that have an excellent record on community and village entrepreneurship. Kiudang was also chosen by BIMP-EAGA as a community-based Eco-tourism Village in 2015.

Member of the Legislative Council Yang Berhormat Haji Umarali bin Esung and Acting Village Head of Kampong Kiudang Pengiran Kahar bin Pengiran Haji Damit greeted the delegation upon arrival.

The visit began with a briefing by Pengiran Kahar, followed by a tour at Gerai Muafakat Kampong Kiudang, a community joint market to see the local produces and handicrafts sold there. The tour was led by a committee member of the Tutong District Tourism Promotion and Coordination Body Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan.

The delegation watched a demonstration on making handicrafts and traditional tea processing using sambah bangangan.

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The herbal tea was produced by a local villager and member of Kampong Kiudang Village Consultative Council Fatimah binti Jali.

The delegates also watched a demonstration on making popular local delicacy kuih penyaram.

The delegation visited Ariffin Gallery and was greeted by a traditional gulingtangan musical performance by the villagers upon arrival. The small gallery houses collections of antique materials, traditional ethnic items and an exhibition on the history of Dusun people in Kiudang. It also displayed medals of the owner, Haji Arifin bin Abdullah, 75, an elder in the community.

Before leaving Kampong Kiudang, the delegation watched a local Dusun dance and had the opportunity to try it out. According to Abdul Aziz, the visit aimed to help the ASEAN children learn about the unique culture and tradition of the Dusun ethnic community, as well as display the societal cohesion and solidarity between various ethnic groups in the country.

He believed that Kampong Kiudang has its own uniqueness, with its places of interests, and hoped that villagers will continue their efforts to develop the village as a tourist destination.

|     Fizah HAB     |

THE three-day fifth ASEAN Children’s Forum came to a close yesterday with a presentation of results of the plenary session at the VIP Room 2, Z’Yan Restaurant, Mangrove Paradise Resort.

The guest of honour was Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Haji Amer Hamzah bin Pehin Orang Kaya Amar Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Zakaria.

Also present were member of the Legislative Council Yang Berhormat Khairunnisa binti Haji Ash’ari; members of ASEAN Diplomatic Corps to Brunei Darussalam; and representatives of ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children (ACWC); representative of ACWC Brunei Darussalam for Women’s Rights Hajah Misnah binti Bolhassan; representative of ACWC Brunei Darussalam for Children’s Rights Dato Paduka Dr Haji Junaidi bin Haji Abdul Rahman; and Acting Director of Community Development Rostinah binti Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Sura Pahlawan Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Tahir.

The plenary session was presented by the delegates under four themes; Peace (Cybersecurity and Delinquency), respect for all including people with different abilities, senior citizens and racial and cultural diversity; environmental care; and a healthy lifestyle in terms of physical and mental health.

The outcome of the plenary session will be considered for an action plan by ASEAN leaders as reference in providing policies involving issues of importance and interest in the ASEAN region.

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|     Wani Roslan     |

THE Ministry of Education (MoE) through the Co-Curriculum Education Department will organise a cycling and running event in conjunction with the national celebration for Teacher’s Day 2018.

The announcement was made by Acting Director of Co-Curriculum Education Mohamed Jais bin Haji Abdul Rahman during a press conference yesterday.

Also present were Acting Assistant Director of Co-Curriculum Education Haji Eady Sardi bin Pehin Datu Derma Sakti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Razak in his capacity as the deputy co-chairman and Head of Uniform and Community Service Unit and Jalil bin Pengarah Haji Kapitan in his capacity as the secretary of the executive committee of the event.

According to Mohamed Jais, who is also the chairman of the executive committee for the event, the event will be held on September 30 at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital and start at 6am.

This year’s theme, Guru Dedikasi Pendidikan Cemerlang is aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle among the community as well as to support the government’s initiatives Bandarku Ceria and ‘Car Free Day’ while forging closer ties among members of MoE and Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA).

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The event is divided into two categories – the 5km Fun Run and 11.5km Fun Ride (Cycling) open for officers and staff of MoE and MoRA, educational institutions and members of the public.

The registration begins today from 9am to 3.30pm at all branches of the Co-Curriculum Education Deparment in each district.

All participants are encouraged to purchase official T-shirts. For the Fun Run event, round neck T-shirts are priced BND13 (short sleeve) and BND16 (long sleeve), polo shirts are BND15 (short sleeve) and BND18 (long sleeve) and Fun Ride jersey at BND20 (short sleeve).

The form can be downloaded at www.moe.gov.bn and the completed form should be submitted by September 6.

A fundraising project will also be held as part of the event. Proceeds will be distributed to educational institutions, Co-Curriculum Education Department, Special Olympics Brunei Darussalam and MoE Welfare Fund.

Senior Education Official Pengiran Jusri bin Pengiran Haji Hassim in his capacity as the Sports Secretary of the event pointed out that there are sports activities that will be held to further enliven the event including badminton, netball, bowling, football and golf.

“The objectives of these activities are to address obesity among civil servants and it is part of the methods used by the MoE for them to be more active,” said Pengiran Jusri.

Mohamed Jais also urged both MoE and MoRA and its departments, schools, and institution as well as the public to participate and support the event as well as Bandarku Ceria programme.

The collection and distribution of the T-shirts will be from September 24 – 29 from 9am to 5.30pm at the Co-Curriculum Education Department in each district.

For more information, contact the event secretariat at 2333041/43/53/54 ext – 109/205/301.

|     Azlan Othman     |

MINISTER of Energy, Manpower and Industry Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein yesterday launched the Brunei Halal Showcase (BruHAS) 2018 which is being held from August 8 to 12.

BruHAS 2018 is a testament of Brunei Darussalam’s efforts in developing and expanding its local Halal industry, said Dean of the Faculty of Syariah and Law, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), Dr Hajah Mas Nooraini binti Haji Mohiddin.

Speaking at the launching ceremony of BruHAS 2018 and the Second International Seminar on Halalan Thayyiban Products and Services III (SAPPHAT 3) 2018 at the International Convention Centre in Berakas, she said BruHAS aims to create awareness on the development of the local Halal industry, increase exposure of local Halal products and services, and support local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to become competitive global players.

Dr Hajah Mas Nooraini, who is also the Co-Chairperson of the organising committee of BruHAS 2018 added, “Insya Allah through BruHAS 2018, Brunei Darussalam will gain further prominence as a global Halal knowledge hub and also as a major producer and supplier of Halal products and services.”

During the seminar, a keynote presentation on ‘The Stability of Halalan Thayyiban Industry as a Catalyst of Zikir State’ was delivered by Deputy State Mufti Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Japar bin Haji Mat Dain @ Maidin.

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The presentation focussed on the administration of Brunei Darussalam to strengthen the Halalan Thayyiban industry and its initiatives to achieve the objective of creating a Zikir Nation.

“All parties should understand the true meaning of the Halal, Haram and Syubhah laws on food which will greatly contribute to the creation of a generation close to Allah the Almighty.

“In addition, Halalan Thayyiban industry consolidation needs to be supported and endorsed by all parties – consumers, entrepreneurs and enforcement agencies – to safeguard the welfare of the public. Besides, obedience to law and obedience to Allah the Almighty’s command will ensure security and prosperity of the nation and harmony in the life of the people,” he said.

“Furthermore, failure to strengthen the Halalan Thayyiban industry will be a major challenge to the country in achieving its desire to become a Zikir Nation as the people might not have received the attention from Allah the Almighty due to their many sins and vices,” he added.

Also in attendance at the event were Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar; Deputy Minister of Energy, Manpower and Industry Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Matsatejo bin Sokiaw; permanent secretaries and deputy permanent secretaries at the Ministry of Energy, Manpower and Industry as well as foreign dignitaries and senior officials.

Themed ‘Developing the Halalan Thayyiban Industry Towards Achieving the 2035 National Vision’, BruHAS 2018 demonstrates the wider sphere of the Halal industry economy, including companies from the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and personal care, modest fashion and services sectors.

Several sideline events are also being conducted during BruHAS 2018, namely, the 2nd Halalan Thayyiban Products and Services Expo, the 3rd International Seminar on Halalan Thayyiban Products and Services (SAPPHAT III), Halal Business Investment Seminar, BruHAS Clinic and the Business Networking and Matching Session.

SAPPHAT III is co-organised by the Ministry of Energy, Manpower and Industry and UNISSA.

Over a hundred local MSMEs and international companies representing various Halal industry sectors are participating in the 2nd Halalan Thayyiban Products and Services Expo.

Participating vendors will be showcasing their products and services at the ICC every day until August 12 from 9am to 9pm. They have also an opportunity to join the business networking and matching session, which will be held on August 11.

The Halal Business Investment Seminar will be held from 2.30pm to 4.30pm today, while the BruHAS Clinic will be on August 11 from 10am to 4.30pm. These events will be open to the public.

|     Aziz Idris     |

HIS Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel and Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah graced the Gala Night for the 5th ASEAN Children’s Forum (ACF) held at Serambi Suluh, Tarindak D’Seni last night.

On hand to welcome Their Royal Highnesses were Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin along with senior officials from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) and representatives from the Senior Officials on Social Welfare and Development (SOSWD) Brunei Darussalam.

Following the arrival, Their Royal Highnesses consented to take a group photo with all members of the delegation of the recently concluded 5th ASEAN Children’s Forum and signed the guestbook in commemoration of the event.

Their Royal Highnesses then witnessed a traditional performance entitled Senandung Budaya from MCYS in-collaboration with Yippie Music School to begin the gala night.

In his opening remarks, Acting Permanent Secretary at the MCYS Haji Amer Hamzah bin Pehin Orang Kaya Amar Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Zakaria, who is also a representative from SOSWD Brunei, congratulated all delegates for a fruitful forum.

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“For the past three days, our young delegates have shared their experiences on issues relating to their country, identifying root causes as well as the national initiatives that have been done in their respective countries,” he explained.

Haji Amer Hamzah also lauded delegates for raising recommendations that contained action plans which can benefit all sectors in each member state.

“I’m proud to say that our children have done very well in sharing their knowledge, they have shown enthusiasm and they came up with excellent initiatives and ideas that we can forward to our leaders and all sectoral bodies under ASEAN so that we can come up with better programmes towards securing our children and ASEAN’s future,” he added.

The night also saw a summary of the deliberation presented by ACF participant from Malaysia, Nurul Farah Nabilah binti Kamarudin followed by a video presentation showcasing the activities conducted by the delegation through the forum. The gala night was enlivened with cultural performances from the delegation of each member state.

Prior to the conclusion of the event, Their Royal Highnesses consented to receive a pesambah in the form of a painting from the ACF delegation.

Some 70 youth delegates from across the region were invited to debate on current issues at the 5th ACF which carried the theme ‘Our Children, Our future, Our ASEAN’.

The 5th ACF is a project under the ASEAN Strategic Framework on Social Welfare and Development 2016-2020. The forum is held every two years since 2010 by an ASEAN member state being the host country.

|     Hakim Hayat     |

THE Neighbourhood Watch Unit from the Kuala Belait Police Station recently met with Neighbourhood Watch members of Kampong Pandan ‘A’ for a discussion which was also attended by the Village Head Haji Sulaiman bin Udin.

A similar interaction was also held in the Brunei-Muara District, with three separate meetings with different village heads and Neighbourhood Watch groups organised by the Neighbourhood Watch Unit of the Muara Police Station and Berakas Police Station.

The visits were made to the residences of the village heads of RPN Kampong Mentiri 1, Kampong Jaya Setia / Jaya Bakti / PMK Burong Pingai Berakas and also the Village Head of RPN Kampong Rimba II.

Close cooperation between the RBPF and village residents is part of the objective of the Neighbourhood Watch programme, which is seeing increased interaction aimed at combatting criminal activities.

The police also said the strong neighbourly cohesion has generated social interactions that have shaped a community network that works hand in hand in preventing and combatting criminal activities in their respective villages.

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|     Aziz Idris     |

BRUNEI Press Sdn Bhd organised a blood donation campaign in collaboration with the Blood Donation Centre of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital at their Head Office in Beribi yesterday, carrying the theme ‘Give Blood, Save Lives’.

Some 25 pints of blood were donated during the two-hour campaign led by Brunei Press General Manager Reggie See together with Brunei Press and QAF subsidiaries staff.

The blood donation drive was part of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme which shares the belief that every drop of blood donated matters.

It also aimed to provide support towards the community by replenishing the national blood bank.

Every successful donor was provided refreshment courtesy of Yellow Cab Pizza Co.

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Haji Matusop bin Haji Daud, who led medical officers from the RIPAS Hospital’s Blood Donation Centre, welcomed people from government agencies and private associations to give back to the community by donating blood for a good cause.

He also said the centre is also inviting schools, government agencies and the private sector to donate blood while also raising awareness of blood donation campaigns organised nationwide.