Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Old News and Events - Archives

 

Week (March 08 to 12, 2010)

His Royal Highness The Crown Prince made the sabda at a parade in the Fire and Resque Dept HQ

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office has urged every level of the fire and rescue department to embrace a high level of dedication and commitment. This should goes alongside moral work ethics and discipline to elevate the department into an authoritative safety and civil defence institution, on par with others in the region. His Royal Highness made the sabda at a parade, field performance and special exhibition in conjunction with the department's Golden Jublilee anniversary, which took place at the Department's Headquarters in Berakas, this morning. Mohd Daud Haji Tuah reports.

Upon arrival at the Fire and Rescue Department Headquarters was welcomed by the Minister of Home Affairs, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan and the Director of Fire and Rescue, Awang Yahya bin Haji Abdul Rahman.

Shortly after the arrival, His Royal Highness consented to inspect a parade mounted by the fire and rescue personnel led by senior Superintendent Shahrin bin Haji Mohd. Jawie.

The initial establishment of a fire fighting team was on 1st January 1960. Upon the establishment of the fire brigade and its separation from the Police Force to become a separate department, its core responsibilities were maintained in fighting fires, rescuing and protecting properties.

In his sabda, His Royal Highness stressed that at fifty years of age, the Fire and Rescue Department has gone through various challenges and gained considerable experience, which have established its maturity as an agency which undertakes an important role in maintaining the safety and well-being of the citizens and residents in this country. The roles and functions of the department, His Royal Highness pointed, have expanded to include not only conventional tasks but have also advanced towards a much wider and challenging scope.


Crown Prince SABDA 1

We are readily aware that the community in the country has come to believe in the fire personnel as the core agency responsible for rendering assistance and rescue services in the event that various forms of emergencies and disasters occur. Lately the world community in general has experienced various phenomena caused by global climate change and threats of natural disasters which have affected a number of countries around the world including in this region. We in this country are most grateful to Allah the Al-Mighty, For His grace and His blessings in protecting our community as well as our country from most of these serious natural disasters, though we were also affected by incidents of flooding and landslides last year. Although these incidents were not as severe compared to incidents elsewhere, they have tested the level of capability and preparedness of the fire and rescue department as well as all related agencies. Alhamdullilah with the commitment, cooperation and full support of all agencies of His Majesty's government, as well as the active participation of non-government bodies and the community in general, we have been able to overcome these challenges.


His Royal Highness expressed appreciation for the efforts of all ranks of the fire and rescue, together with the other stakeholders, for their dedication and contribution, in safeguarding the well-being and welfare of those in need of assistance, particularly in saving life and property. However, all concerned should not be complacent and readily content with what has been achieved and implemented.


Crown Prince SABDA 2

Collaborative efforts which are more systematic and comprehensive must be enhanced in order to further strengthen capability and efficacy in not just overcoming any disasters risks but just as importantly, is the identification and implementation of appropriate measures with regards to circumstances which can contribute to the occurrence of disasters. Towards this goal, the Fire and Rescue Department needs to further raise its level of preparedness by strengthening its capacity to deliver its services through a comprehensive human resource development strategy that will enable all ranks of their personnel to become more knowledgeable and multi skilled in addition to maintaining a high level of professionalism. This includes competency in utilisation of assets, tools and equipment, as well as appropriate high technology info-communication systems that will enhance and complement the level of efficiency and effectiveness of the service.


His Royal Highness, in his sabda, called for action plans and collaborative operational procedures with relevant agencies to be constantly monitored, analysed and coordinated for their effectiveness to ensure the conduct of operations and actions in rendering assistance are efficient and accomplish their objectives.


Crown Prince SABDA 3

Public outreach programmes which have been introduced in this country such as volunteer firemen, fire and rescue cadets, and fire prevention campaign roadshows should continue to be implemented as well as strengthened based on current best practices particularly in order to nurture awareness and better preparedness amongst the community in overcoming as well as minimising any impact and possibility of disaster. The enforcement of and compliance with safety standards should continue to be improved and monitored constantly, in concurrence with the need for coordinated training with the various relevant agencies to overcome incidents or threats of disaster including those that are non-conventional, to raise the nation's overall level of preparedness. In the context of regional and international cooperation as well as relations, the Fire and Rescue Department should equip as well as elevate its capacity particularly in aspects of the conduct of disaster operations and also gain new skills relevant to the support of the functions of the National Disaster Management Centre in responding to public emergencies which should be planned based on a worst case scenario. In this regard the sharing of expertise, skills and training, should be increased based on the current framework of agreements and cooperation.


Doa selamat was read to bless the ceremony.

His Royal Highness consented to watch a field performances depicting fire rescue endurance and demonstration of operation on utilising motorcycles and other vehicles of the department.

There was also a demonstration of fire extinguishing by volunteers firemen and fire and rescue cadets. The highlight of the celebration were the presentations of score cards, choir and demonstration of nozzle jets application and water curtain.

At the Multipurpose Hall of the Department, His Royal Highness also consented to view an exhibition on the development of the department over the 50 years since its establishment. The Fire and Rescue Department has achieved various progress in terms of personnel strength, machines and equipment as well as infrastructure. The responsibilities of each and every personnel does not only confined to fighting fires but also in rescue efforts in line with current development consistent with its transformation to Fire and Rescue Department in 2006.

True to its name, the roles of the Fire and Rescue Department are not only confined on land but also on waters such as seas and rivers. Its emergency services include attending to road accidents, dealing with dangerous chemicals and volatile oil spillage as well as assisting in landslides and flood occurrences. The fire and rescue personnel also go on standby along with other agencies during major national events involving huge gatherings of people where they stand ready to give assistance.

Before leaving, His Royal Highness consented to sign a commemorative plaque. His Royal Highness also received greetings from officers and other personnel of the Fire and Rescue Department. Today, on its 50th anniversary, the Fire and Rescue Department has matured to being able to confront challenges and carry out its responsibilities fully. Mohd Daud Haji Tuah reporting for RTB News.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 09, 2010

Achievement of the Fire And Rescue Department

During the 50 years period, the Fire and Rescue Department has undergone various developments not only in the aspect of human resource and professionalism but also in the usage of machinery and sophisticated equipment. The achievements are in line with the rapid development and increasing current demand.

The Fire and Rescue Department which was formerly known as Fire Extinguisher Unit of the Royal Brunei Police Force was formed in 1960. Seven years later, the unit was upgraded as a department and named the Fire Brigade Department. On March 9, 2006 His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam consented to rename the department as the Fire and Rescue Department. In the early stage of its formation, the role of the department was only extinguishing fires. However, now the role has widened to cover various emergencies which are both challenging and dangerous. One such scenario was the strong winds at Kampung Ayer in 2007 and last year's floods and landslides.

Apart from that, time was also one of the main challenges faced by the department which needs accurate response time. It is important because the success or failure of any operation to extinguish fire and rescue the victims, depend mostly on the time factor.

In 1987 the Fire and Rescue Department made a landmark achievement following the first involvement of female personnel as "support staff". Before that, this profession was taken by male staff only. Today, the department has 152 fire-women including "direct entry staff". With the establishment of Women`s Operation Unit in 2006, the duties of fire-women have been diversified which cover operation and rescue. Although women are considered the weaker class, they are able to handle machinery when responding to emergency cases such as a fire or a road accident as well as capturing animals.

Due to its increasingly challenging role, the Fire and Rescue Department is always strengthening and upgrading its capability to meet the need of the mission which is "reducing the occurrence of fire and responding professionally to any emergency calls". In line with the current globalisation development, the duties of the fire personnel have also included the handling of incidents which involved materials endangering life and damaging environment. In this regard, the fire personnel who now total more than one thousand and three hundred, are equipped with operation special skills such as diving, security, investigation of fire, special squad and administration. Theses are very important to ensure that the department will continue to be relevant as an agency which provide services to the community.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 09, 2010

Endurance Program for Rescue Personnel

Various activities have been arranged to mark the golden jubilee anniversary of the Fire and Rescue Department. They include the endurance program to test the level of mental and physical capability of the public rescue personnel.

The Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Awang Mohammad Lufti bin Abdullah officiated the start of the event last night. About 50 personnel of the Fire and Rescue Department and its branches from all four districts including female personnel took part in an overnight endurance run.

The 50-kilometers run started at the Bandar Seri Begawan Fire Station, the first and oldest in the country, and concluded at the Fire and Rescue Department Headquarters in Berakas. The participants ran throughout the night along a number of main roads in the capital and passed through ten checkpoints including the Mohammad Bolkiah Mosque in Serusop where they performed the subuh prayers before continuing the run to their final destination. Also present was the Director of Fire and Rescue Services, Awang Yahya bin Haji Abdul Rahman.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 09, 2010

Presentation of Appreciation Certificate by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports

Brunei Darussalam's 26th National Day celebration this year saw the active participation of all parties involved, playing their part in ensuring the success of the auspicious event. Such displays of patriotism were lauded in an appreciation dinner held by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, last night. The function took place at the Jerudong Polo and Riding Club.

More than 20 thousand people and 109 teams participated in this year's mass gathering and procession. The Permanent Secretary One at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Dato Paduka Haji Jemat bin Haji Ampal as the Co-Secretary of the Executive Committee of Brunei Darussalam's 26th National Day celebration, in his speech, expressed appreciation on behalf of his Ministry to all parties involved in the success of the National day celebration on the 23rd. of last month.

Presenting the appreciation certificates was the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Doctor Haji Ahmad. Also present at the ceremony were the Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Badaruddin as well as members of the State Legislative Council.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 09, 2010

SPE Applied Technology Workshop for Asset Revitalisation

The oil and gas industry in Brunei Darussalam, though small, is seen globally as pushing the frontiers of technology and innovation. The Minister of Energy in the Prime Minister's Office made the remarks at the Opening of Society of Petroleum Engineers or SPE Applied Technology Workshop for Asset Revitalisation Through Technology Innovation For Economically Valuable Solutions this morning.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang kaya Seri Dewa Retired Major General Dato Seri Pahlawan Awang Haji Mohammad said that besides technology innovation it is also imperative in developing human capacity in oil and gas sector particularly in areas considered to be 'hot-skills'. Hence, from the workshop, it will provide the avenue for the sharing of new and innovative ideas to make the petroleum industry more competitive and progressive. This will directly assist in the industry ability in increasing efficiency which will enable more oil and gas to be recovered from areas that were once thought to be not easy to produce technically and economically as well as facilitate the development of challenging deep water areas. He further added, that at the same time it is important to note that fossil fuels are finite resources and alternate energy sources will still only contribute a small percentage of total global energy demand.

The three-day event attracted more than 45 participants representing 13 oil companies, service providers and government bodies from eight countries including Brunei Darussalam, China, Indonesia, Italy, Kuwait, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia and the United States. It is a platform to provide excellent networking opportunities for sharing of the latest technologies, its deployment, best practices and fit for purpose techniques focused upon revitalising assets through the interactive sessions.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 09, 2010

Presentations from The SPE Applied Technology Workshop

The Brunei Shell Petroleum, BSP, will soon play another significant role in supplying the most important feedstock to the local methanol industry. BSP is the supplier of natural gas to Brunei Methanol Company, BMC. This critical responsibility strongly demonstrates Brunei Shell Petroleum's support to the economic diversification of Brunei Darussalam. This was highlighted by the Asset Director of Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sendirian Berhad at the Society of Petroleum Engineers Applied Technology Workshop.

In a presentation entitled 'Revitalisation Through Integration, Innovation and Standardisation', Dayang Hajah Rosmawatty binti Haji Abdul Mumin highlighted that while the world's oil and gas demand is surging, it is intensifying pressure for energy companies to produce more. Since it is now a non-easy hydrocarbon era, everyone in the industry has to push themselves to be more integrated, more innovative and more strategic in delivery.

The Vice President Technology of Baker Hughes, Mr Rustom Mody in his presentation entited 'Technology Developments to Sustain Mature Field', elaborated on the need to drive down fixed cost such as de-manning operations, remotely monitoring and controling the entire operation. If desired knowledge can be displayed and moved to multiple experts working from their home bases around the world.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 09, 2010

Intellectual Property Rights Workshop: Trafficking of Imitation Products

Many fake products present potential health and safety hazards. There are cases of medicines that do not contain the necessary active ingredients and car accessories that fail to satisfy the minimum safety standards. The Acting Controller of Royal Customs and Excise highlighted this in his speech while officiating at the launch of the three-day workshop on Effective Practices in Border Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights, this morning.

Awang Yahya bin Haji Idris recalled, in the past, such an activity was limited to roadside vendors. The trafficking of fake or imitation products, are now being diversified by utilising the latest technological innovations such as promoting their fake or imitation products through the internet and making them available on the global markets. Trafficking through the Internet, he added, further speeds up transaction times, effectively making it harder for enforcement authorities to trace the culprits and the network responsible for the illegal sales.

The workshop is jointly organised by the ASEAN Secretariat and the United States Global Intellectual Property Academy. Taking part in the workshop are 124 representatives from ASEAN member countries and the United States, including private sector representatives and speakers presenting working papers.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 09, 2010

Al-Quran Adult Reading Competition in Temburong

Awang Mohammad Asri bin Haji Timbang from the Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar Mosque in Kampung Bokok and Dayang Rubiah binti Haji Timbang, from the Kampung Piasau-Piasau Religious Hall, have won the Temburong District Level Al-Quran Adult Reading Competition in the qari and qariah categories respectively. This morning's competition took place at the Kampung Belais Mosque in Temburong.

Second and third places went to Awang Norezam bin Zaini and Awang Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamzah, respectively. In the qariah category, in second place was Dayang Nooraslinawati binti Haji Awang Jaili and in third was Dayang Nurul Nadzirah Haji Simpon. Eighteen participants representing mosques and religious halls in the Temburong district took part in the competition. Winners in the qari and qariah categories will represent the Temburong district to the District Level of the Al-Quran Adult Reading Competition which will be held later. Present to hand over the prizes was the Assistant Temburong District Officer, Awang Haji Afero Eswandy Haji Mohammed.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 09, 2010

The Anti-Corruption Bureau's Strategic Plan 2010-2014

The Anti-Corruption Bureau's Strategic Plan 2010-2014 carries a theme 'Reforms and Changes'. The theme is aimed at making the Anti-Corruption Bureau as the best and respectable enforcement agency in the country. It is also hoped that the bureau would become an exemplary agency in upholding the nation's integrity and successfully controlling corruption from becoming a menace, through research, investigation and prevention. Towards achieving this hope, various efforts have been organised by ACB.

This morning, the Special Chief Investigator of ACB, Pengiran Imran bin Pengiran Haji Metarsat presented a briefing to the personnel of the Royal Brunei Police Force. He advised members of the public to report if there are any corruption activities and reminded them not to be involved in corruption.

The briefing was aimed at giving awareness and streamlining of information and knowledge to the participants.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 09, 2010

Women's Maulidur Rasul Celebration

The Maulud Nabi Muhammad Sallallahu Alahi Wassalam celebration continued to be held in the country. This afternoon, such a ceremony was organised by the wives of Penghulu, Ketua Kampung and the Brunei Muara Women's Bureau.

Among those present were the wife of the Brunei Muara District Officer, Datin Hajah Rupiah binti Hussin; and Pehin Manteri Bini, Datin Paduka Hajah Aminah binti Haji Mohammad Yassin. Besides to glorify the Maulidur Rasul, the day's ceremony was also one of the women's activities to gather in welfare events.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 09, 2010

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah has consented to receive in audience the outgoing Chief of Defence of the Republic of Singapore Armed Forces

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces, RBAF has consented to receive in audience the outgoing Chief of Defence of the Republic of Singapore Armed Forces. The audience took place this afternoon at Istana Nurul Iman.

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam granted an audience to His Excellency Lieutenant General Dato Paduka Seri Desmond Kuek Bak Chye.

Present at the ceremony were the Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces, RBAF, Major General Haji Aminuddin Ihsan and Singapore High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Joseph K H Koh. The two day farewell visit by His Excellency General Dato Paduka Seri Desmond Kuek Bak Chye aims to maintain the strong existing working relationship of both countries.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 08, 2010

Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha consented to receive in audience the wife of outgoing Chief of Defence of the Republic of Singapore Armed Forces

At the other part of Istana Nurul Iman, Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha consented to receive in audience the wife of outgoing Chief of Defence of the Republic of Singapore Armed Forces, Datin Claudel Elizabeth Kuek.

During the audience Datin Claudel Elizabeth Kuek was accompanied by the wife of Singpore High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam, Mrs. Peifen Koh and the wife of the Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Dayang Nurhayana Janis bte Abdullah. Datin Claudel Elizabeth Kuek is in the country accompanying her husband on a two-day farewell visit. Also present at the audience was Yang Dimuliakan Seri Laila Pengiring Diraja Datin Seri Utama Dayang Hajah Rosnah.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 08, 2010

Special Gathering of Women to mark the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, Sallallahu'alaihi Wasallam

Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha has consented to attend a Special Gathering of Women to mark the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, Sallallahu'alaihi Wasallam, for the year 1431 Hijrah. The function was held at the International Convention Centre in Berakas this morning.

Her Majesty was greeted on arrival by the Co-Chairpersons of the Special Gathering Committee of the Maulidur Rasul for 1431 Hijrah from the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports and members of women bodies affiliated to the Women Council, as well as members of this year's Special Gathering of Women's Working Committee.

Also present were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Bini Hajah Faizah, Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah, Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam.

The function began with the reading of Quranic verses by the third winner of the 51st International Qur'an Reading Competition in Kuala Lumpur last year, Dayang Hajah Nur Akmalina binti Haji Yahya.

The Co-Chairperson of the ceremony, Senior Special Duties Officer at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Dayang Hajah Zasia, in her welcoming address, said that today's Special Gathering of Women was the 16th such ceremony, and this year the ceremony was jointly conducted by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the Ministry of Culture Youth and sports and the Women Council as well as associations affiliated to the council.

The function was highlighted with a Nadwah khas or special forum on the characteristics and role of women with strong faith which can act as a pillar to the security of the nation, its people and religion. The forum consisted of two panel members, Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Setia Raja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Haji Awang Suhaili bin Haji Mohiddin and the Head of the Dakwah and Leadership Department, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Associate Professor Doctor Fariza binti Mohd Sham from Malaysia.

The ceremony culminated with the presentation of the Anugerah Bakti Hijrah Khas Wanita or the Special Hijrah Meritorious Award. Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha consented to present the awards to four recipients. They are Dayang Hajah Zainab binti Abdullah alias Zainab binti Periau, Dayang Hajah Marhani binti Abdul Latif, Datin Dayang Hajah Hindut binti Haji Lamat, and Datin Dayang Hajah Zaharah binti Abang Sulong alias Olong, Each of the four award recipients received ten thousand dollars, an honorary certificate, a souvenir and free medical treatment in first class ward in any of the government hospitals in this country.

A Dikir Marhaban, jointly presented by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports and the Brunei Women Council, was also one of the programmes at the event.

To bless the occasion, doa selamat was read by Pengiran Anak Datin Paduka Haji Masnah binti Pengiran Anak Sefiuddin.

Before leaving, Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha consented to receive greetings from members of the special gathering committee of the maulidur rasul 1431 Hijrah.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 08, 2010

His Royal Highness Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah consented to receive in audience the Chief of Defence of the Singapore Armed Forces

His Royal Highness Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and General of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces this afternoon consented to receive in audience the Chief of Defence of the Singapore Armed Forces. The audience took place at Istana Nurul Iman.

His Royal Highness consented to receive in audience His Excellency Lieutenant General Dato Paduka Seri Desmond Kuek. During the audience His Excellency Lieutenant General Dato Paduka Seri Desmond Kuek was accompanied by the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Major General Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan and the Republic of Singapore's High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Joseph Koh.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 08, 2010

Singapore Armed Forces paid a farewell call to the Ministry of Defence at Bolkiah Garrison

The outgoing Chief of Defence, Singapore Armed Forces, His Excellency Lieutenant General Dato Paduka Seri Desmond Kuek Bak Chye this afternoon paid a farewell call to the Ministry of Defence at Bolkiah Garrison.

Upon arrival at the Ministry, His Excellency inspected a Guard of Honour mounted by personnel of Royal Brunei Land Forces. This was then followed by a farewell courtesy call to the Deputy Minister of Defence, Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Singamanteri Retired Colonel Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohammad Yasmin and also to the Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Major General Haji Aminuddin Ihsan. During the tenure of His Excellency Lieutenant General Dato Paduka Seri Desmond Kuek Bak Chye, he contributed profoundly to the enhancement of the long standing relationship and bilateral cooperation between the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and the Singapore Armed Forces where both armed forces regularly send its personnel for military exercises, bilateral training, meetings and seminars. Consequently this visit was also meant to bridge their friendship they have built during his tenure.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 08, 2010

Launch of the World Glaucoma Day 2010

Based on Brunei population-based studies, at least thirteen thousand people in the country should have some form of glaucoma and at least six thousand people will be unaware of their ailment. Speaking at the launch of the World Glaucoma Day 2010 this morning, the Minister of Health disclosed that Glaucoma is the second cause of blindness after cataract and that sixty point five million people worldwide are estimated to be suffering from glaucoma this year. Out of that number, four point five million people would be blind due to glaucoma and will increase to eleven point two million by 2020.

According to Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Suyoi, fifty percent of the population are unaware that they have glaucoma while ten percent go blind in at least one eye by the time of diagnosis. In fact, Yang Berhormat added, fifty percent of the population are unaware that they have glaucoma while ten percent go blind in at least one eye by the time of diagnosis.

World Glaucoma Day is a joint initiative of World Glaucoma Association and World Glaucoma Patient Association which takes place annually on the 12th of March. The World Glaucoma Association has recommended to observe the " World Glaucoma Week" between 7th to 13th March and Brunei Darussalam join with the rest of the world by observing glaucoma week. The Ophthalmology Department, Ministry of Health organising a wide variety of activities to celebrate world glaucoma week, such as screening of officers and staffs of the Ministry of Health for glaucoma.

In conjunction with World Glaucoma Day today, the Ministry of Health received a contribution in the form of a new bus costing 84 thousand dollars from Goh Hock Kee Motors. The bus is to be used a Mobile Eye Clinic. It was handed over by the Managing Director of Goh Hock Kee Motors Sendirin Berhad,Yang Berhormat Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Awang Goh King Chin, to the Minister of Health. The Mobile Clinic is equipped with sensitive equipment for eye care tests and health screening in the country's rural areas.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 08, 2010

H1N1 Vaccination Programme Continued Today

The Influenza A H1N1 vaccination campaign that involves more people in the country, has to be carried out swiftly, besides preventive measures such as observing personal hygiene and cleanliness of the environment. As the H1N1 vaccination programme continued today, the Ministry of Health urged the public to get themselves vaccinated at the vaccination centres provided.

This afternoon, the vaccination campaign received the support of several Deputy Ministers. The Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Badaruddin,the Deputy Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, Dato Paduka Haji Hamdillah and the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Orang Kaya Dewa Pahlawan Dato Paduka Awang Haji Dani. had their vaccination at the Indoor Stadium Vaccination Centre. Also present was the Deputy Minister of Health,Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila
Diraja Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hazair.

With such precautionary measures, any chance of another spread of the Influenza A H1N1 virus can be prevented. Further information on Influenza A H1N1 can be obtained on the Health Line 145 during office hours or 7180991.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 08, 2010

A Lecture by the State Mufti at a Dikir ceremony in conjunction with the mukim-level Maulud celebration in Mukim Pengkalan Batu

A combination of an Islamic and Modern methods of treatment will be more effective and make the recovery process faster. The modern knowledge world has explicitly acknowledged the presence of undetectable ailments which is therefore incurable by modern medicine. This matter was raised in a lecture by the State Mufti at a Dikir ceremony in conjunction with the mukim-level Maulud celebration in Mukim Pengkalan Batu.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Doctor Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz in his lecture, gave several examples of illness with unknown causes such as insomnia or difficulty in falling asleep, hysteria and other mysterious ailments. Undoubtedly, such mysterious illnesses do occur and many traditions of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. remind people to protect themselves from satanic disturbances by reciting specific surahs from the quran and saying prayers before going to bed. The mufti added that Prophet Muhammad, S.A.W. would recite these surahs before going to sleep every night.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 08, 2010

Forum on Vocational and Technical Education Management and Leadership Training, VTET

Leadership is about producing a good leader and manager. A leader must be honest, supportive of the management, responsible and admit his own mistakes. The Deputy Permanent Secretary for Higher Education at the Ministry of Education made the remarks at a Forum on Vocational and Technical Education Management and Leadership Training, VTET, this morning.

Doctor Haji Junaidi bin Haji Abdul Rahman also touched on the national policies and strategies that have been established by the government to improve VTET institutions and the problems that may arise in the implementation process. Meanwhile, another speaker from the Faculty of Business, Economic and Policy Studies of Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Dr. Haji M. Nabil Almunawar underlined the difference between a leader and a manager. He also shared his experiences and insights on the challenges faced by leaders and managers at the school level. According to him, in the context of VTET institutions, good leadership and management is vital in the achievement of educational goals. 16 participants from ten Southeast Asian countries and around 150 teachers and officials from Ministry of Education attended the half-day forum.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 08, 2010

Universiti Brunei Darussalam Organsied a Special Seminar conducted by an invited lecturer from Indonesia

The birthday of Prophet Muhammad Salallahu Alaihi Wassalam continued to be observed by organising religious activities. Universiti Brunei Darussalam today organsied a special seminar which was conducted by an invited lecturer from Indonesia, Imam Sheikh Ali Salleh bin Mohammad Ali Jaber of Madinah.

In his talks, Imam Sheikh Ali Salleh among other things touched on the Islamic way to be successful in todays world and day after. He said, anyone who seek success in the world without the basic knowledge and aims to get the blessing of Allah Subhanahu Wataala, and he will not achieve the happiness and security. He also touched on one's will to give support to the practicing of good deeds to get the reward of heaven.

Among those present were the Head of History Centre, Yang Berhormat Pehin Jawatan Dalam Seri Maharaja Dato Seri Utama Doktor Haji Awang Mohamad Jamil Al-Sufri and Vice Chancellor of Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Doktor Haji Zulkarnain bin Haji Hanafi.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 08, 2010

Week (March 01 to 05, 2010)

Her Majesty the Raja Isteri, and Her Royal Highness the Pengiran Isteri attended The 2010 Thinking Day Celebration

Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha, and Her Royal Highness Pengiran Isteri Azrinaz Mazhar consented to attend the 2010 Thinking Day Celebration, this afternoon.

The arrival of Her Majesty the Raja Isteri, as the Royal Patron of the Brunei Darussalam Girl Guides Association, and Her Royal Highness the Pengiran Isteri were greeted by the function's committee members. Also present were Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Saadatul Bolkiah, as the President of the association, Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, as the Vice President of the association, and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam.

Her Majesty then consented to launch the Brunei Darussalam Girl Guides Association Website.

Doa selamat was read by the Association's Assistant Chief Commissioner for Religious Division, Dayang Hajah Fatimah binti Haji Abdul Ghani.

Subsequently, Her Majesty the Raja Isteri and Her Royal Highness the Pengiran Isteri consented to have a closer look at an exhibition of the activities carried out by members of the association. The world Thinking Day is celebrated every february 22nd by the World Girl Guides and Brownies Organisation. Thinking Day is especially celebrated in remembrance of each other and to convey appreciation and thanks to every member of the Girl Guides and Brownies throughout the world for carrying out voluntary charity works.

Her Majesty the Raja Isteri and Her Royal Highness the Pengiran Isteri consented to plant Yellow Durian trees at the Royal Park area.

A pantomime performance, 'Berbakti kepada Bumi' or 'In Dedication to the Earth', is among the activities in line with the project with the same theme carried out by the Brunei Darussalam Girl Guides Association. Each year the World Girl Guides and Brownies Organisation carries different themes according to the global situation which requires specific attention, and this year's theme is 'Together We Can End Extreme Poverty and Hunger' which is directly linked to the Global Action Theme of the Organisation and the United Nations Millennium Development Goals towards eradicating poverty and hunger.

The activity shown in this year's Thinking Day' celebration is related to this year's theme and is aimed at educating the association's members in particular young girls to continuously be prepared for any possibilities.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 05, 2010

Doa Kesyukuran Ceremony in Ministry of Finance

The Employee's Trust Fund, TAP through the Welfare and Sports Body, BKSTAP, last night held a thanksgiving or doa kesyukuran in conjunction with the 17th anniversary of the establishment of TAP, 26th National Day anniversary and the birthday of Prophet Muhammad Salallahu Alaihi Wassalam.

Present was the Minister of Energy at the Prime Minister's Office, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Retired Major General Dato Seri Pahlawan Awang Haji Mohammad as the chairman of the the Board of TAP and members of the board. The ceremony begun with the mass Maghrib prayer, followed by the hajat prayer and the reading of doa selamat. A lecturer from the Islamic Dakwah Centre, Haji Anwari bin Haji Rawee delivered a religious talk on the maulidur rasul. The talks among others urged the Islamic ummah to be grateful to Allah for the bless in life.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 05, 2010

Mufti's Pre-dawn Lecture in Masjid Setia Ali, Muara

In facing criticism towards Islam, the muslims need to be wise. They are commended to face such criticism with the guidance of the Hadith and the Al-Quran. This was stressed upon by the State Mufti, Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Dr. Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz, at a pre-dawn lecture today.

In his lecture on Islam and doa or prayer at the Setia Ali Mosque in Muara, Yang Berhormat reminded muslims to face each and every criticism to Islam made by enemies of the religion, wisely and guided by teachings in the hadith and the al-quran and not only using their own idea in debates to counter the criticism. He added, Allah the Al-mighty teaches the ummah not to keep quiet on such issues because this criticisms are only slander which will only result a bad outcome. Yang Berhormat explained that the enemies of Islam since the time of the Prophet Muhammad SAW, has always made unfounded speculations about Islam in a number of ways.

Touching on the benefits of prayers, Yang Berhormat said, prayers are much better, more worthy, stronger and powerful than money. According to him, Doa is a weapon for good and act as an equipment to request for blessings from Allah the Al-mighty. Yang Berhormat emphasised that to offer prayers for loved ones such as parents, spouses, children, siblings as well as for people outside the family circle such as the king, the royal family, friends and teachers, without their knowledge will be immediately lifted up.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 05, 2010

DST New Branch in Kg Tanjong Bunut

The opening of DST Group new branch in Kampong Tanjong Bunut, in Mukim Sengkurong will provides easy access as well as to reduce queues at other DST counters around the Brunei Muara District.

The opening ceremony was officiated by the Deputy Minister of Defence, Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Singamanteri Retired Colonel Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Mohammad Yasmin, in his capacity as DST Group's chairman. The new branch in Kampung Tanjong Bunut also provides a one stop service centre convenience. According to DST's Chief Executive Officer, Doctor Haji Mohd Amin Liew, the new branch is to facilitate customers services nationwide. To mark the new branch opening, DST also organised a two-day exhibition and promotion on its products and services.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 05, 2010

Bolkiah Garrison Promotion Ceremony

A senior of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, RBAF, has been promoted to the rank of Acting Lieutenant Colonel. The promotion ceremony took place this morning at the Officers' Mess Bolkiah Garrison.

The promotion of Major (Udara) Haji Mohammad Muluddin bin Awang Haji Latif to the rank of Acting Lieutenant Colonel was with the consent of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. Presenting the rank insignia was the Commander of the RBAF, Major General Haji Aminuddin Ihsan. Currently Lieutenant Colonel (Udara) Haji Mohammad Muluddin is holding the appointment of duty as Staff Officer 1 Logistics under the Directorate of Logistics at the Ministry of Defence.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 05, 2010

A family of six has chosen Islam as their new religion

A family of six has chosen Islam as their new religion. The conversion ceremony was held late yesterday afternoon.

The conversion ceremony was conducted by officers from the Islamic Dakwah Centre.

36-year old, Corporal Leonard Betti Anak Galau, who works at the Limau Manis Police Station is now known as Mohd Khairol bin Abdullah Galau. Meanwhile his wife and four children have also chosen their muslim names. Present were the Police Commissioner, Yang DiMuliakan Pehin Datu Kerma Setia Dato Paduka Seri Zainuddin and Datin Suriati.

Meanwhile in the Tutong district, a Dusun family of five has also converted in the islamic religion. The head of the family, 40-year old, Jaludin Bin Banda, from Kampung Bukit is now known as Muhammad Jaludin Bin Abdullah Banda. His wife and three children also chose their muslim names. Their conversion was witnessed by the Deputy Director of Forestry, Awang Mahmud Bin Haji Yussof.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 05, 2010

Launching of New Hyundai Tucson

The Setia Motors Sendirian Berhad this morning officially launched the latest version of the compact SUV vehicles this morning at their Headquarters Showroom in Beribi, Gadong.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Ghaffar Bin Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Setia Diraja Sahibul Karib Pengiran Anak Haji Idris launched The New 2010 Hyundai Tucson. The new vehicles attracted members of the public and invited guests as well as enthusiastic car owners to check and test drive the new vehicles. The sale of the previous Tucson of Setia Motor exceeds more than twenty five thousand units in the Brunei.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 05, 2010

Friday Sermon: Preparing basic fire fighting knowledge

Members of the public should be aware of the dangers of fire by at least preparing themselves with basic fire fighting knowledge such as fire prevention, preparations in handling fires and saving themselves prior to the arrival of the Fire and Rescue Services. The reminder is among the contents of today's Friday Sermon.

Fire will leave a heartfelt effect in which victims be it an individual or a family will definitely lose their homes as well as assets and is most heartbreaking when death is involved. Based on the 2009 statistics from the Fire and Rescue Department, a total of 73 cases of house fires have occurred with an estimated loss of more than 2 million dollars. Meanwhile, 46 cases of fires occurring in buildings involving a loss of more than 3 million dollars, were mainly caused by carelessness and a shallow knowledge of the use of electrical equipments. This resulted in overheating, short circuit and loose wire connection. Apart from that some of the fires were also caused by unattended cooking, children playing with fire, leaving lit candles unattended, throwing lit cigarette butts, gas leaks, open burning and the use of mosquito coils. Therefore, the public are urged to pay serious attention in avoiding fires from occurring by taking safety measures. Aside from that muslims are also encouraged to recite certain doa and zikir to prevent fires.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 05, 2010

Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College Scholarship Briefing

Parents and students should be given a clear picture on the opportunities and offers open to the students to pursue further studies. They should also be briefed on the conditions and terms for the awarding of government scholarship and important information on the application of the scholarship. Advices should also be given to the students on the courses which are the government's priority.

The matter were disclosed at the briefing on the scholarship offered by the government of His Majesty organised by the Association of Teachers and Parents, PIBG with the cooperation of Career Centre of the Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College this morning. The Assistant Director of Scholarship Section Ministry of Education, Awang Haji Aziz bin Haji Nayan also presented a briefing. It is hoped that the briefing session will explain clearly to the parents and students on how to get the application form and what kind of scholarships available. In an interview with RTB, Dayangku Hajah Siti Fatimah binti Pengiran Haji Petra explained on the briefing.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 05, 2010

Launch of Tamu Ria in Kampong Manggis

As a community institution, the Kampong Consultative Council should always support and promote the objective towards upgrading the quality of community life in their respective mukims and villages.

To realise the objective, the Kampung Manggis Consultative Council held a Tamu Ria at the open area of Gerai Pancar Harapan in Jalan Manggis Satu. The tamu ria which will be held once in two months, will become the activity of the villagers to promote and sell their products. The Secretary of the Kampong Manggis Consultative Council, Awang Haji Nayan bin Haji Nordin said the main objectives of the tamu ria is to promote the Gerai Pancar Harapan at Kampong Manggis because there are still many people who are not aware of its existence. It is also to encourage the villagers to get involve in small businesses.

Apart from promoting the permanent stalls at Gerai Pancar Harapan, nearly 20 stalls are also open to sell food, agricultural products, handicrafts and clothing. The tamu ria will open to the public until Sunday from eight in the morning till five in the afternoon. Gerai Pancar Harapan begun its operation in 1999 for the vendors to sell vegetables and fruits. It is equipped with a surau and public toilet.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 05, 2010

Newly Appointed Brunei Darussalam's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Brunei Darussalam's High Commissioner

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Muizzaddien Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, this afternoon, consented to receive in audience the newly appointed Brunei Darussalam's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Brunei Darussalam's High Commissioner.

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah received in audience His Excellency Dato Paduka Serbini bin Haji Ali, Brunei Darussalam's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Belgium, and His Excellency Pehin Datu Lailaraja Retired Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Brunei Darussalam's High Commissioner to Malaysia. Their Excellencies received their Letters of Credentials from His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Muizzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Saadul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam on 3rd March 2010. The audience ceremony took place at Istana Nurul Iman.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 04, 2010

His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah received in audience four newly-appointed ambassadors to Brunei Darussalam

His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, today received in audience four newly-appointed ambassadors to Brunei Darussalam. The audience was held at the Balai Penghadapan, Bukit Kayangan.

His Royal Highness first received in audience, the resident Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia, His excellency Handriyo Kusumo Priyo.

His Royal Highness then received in audience the resident Ambassador of the Russian Federation, His Excellency Victor Alexandrovich Seleznev.

Later, His Royal Highness granted an audience to the non-resident Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina, His Excellency Ensar Eminovoc. His Excellency is currently based in Kuala Lumpur.

His Royal Highness then received in audience, the non-resident Ambassador of Finland, His Excellency Tapio Kalevi Saarela. His Excellency is also currently based in Kuala Lumpur.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 04, 2010

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah made a sabda at a meeting with representatives of the National Sports Association

Meetings, such as those with National Sports Associations' Representatives including the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, held from time to time helps to create a more open, harmonious and unified atmosphere among the stakeholders, besides having a clear and comprehensive direction and objective. The President of the Brunei Darussalam National Olympic Council, in a sabda, said a discussion of this kind, would produce a combined and integrated team which are more directed, stronger, more organised and respectable in the country's efforts to achieve the objective and vision, stated in the national sports policy especially in the highly prestigious sports policy.

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah made the sabda at a meeting with representatives of the National Sports Association, this morning.

His Royal Highness, in a sabda, added that, the International Olympic Committee, I-O-C, through the Olympic Unity Programmes, has allocated a total budget of 80-thousand US Dollars to Brunei Darussalam in a four-year period from 2009 to 2013. The budget, His Royal Highness said, was specifically for instructor-training programmes, referees, skills and administration courses. This year, Brunei Darussalam is expected to participate in the Youth Olympic Games in Singapore in August, the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, India in October, the Asian Games in Sukan Asia di Guangzhou, China in November and the Asian Beach Sports in Muscat, Oman in December.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 04, 2010

Maulidur Rasul is glorified with dikir presentations and with religious talks on the Prophet's life history

The Maulud celebration in conjunction with Prophet Muhammad, S.A.W.'s birthday a major Islamic event that is highly upheld in the country in honouring the great personality and deeds of the Prophet. In this country, the Maulidur Rasul is glorified with dikir presentations and with religious talks on the Prophet's life history. One such ceremony was organised by the Ministry of Finance and departments under it, and was conducted by the Treasury Department. The ceremony took place at the Ministry of Finance Building at Commonwealth Drive.

Present at the ceremony was Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah. Also present was the Second Minister of Finance,Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman. A special talk, presented by Dr Andas Haji Shahroni from the Islamic Dakwah Centre, stressed on the words knowledge, advice and call, in line with the theme of this year's Maulud celebration,"Allah, Save Brunei Darussalam." A Dikir Marhaban presentation by officers and other staff of the Treasury Department also highlighted the ceremony. Others present included Permanent Secretaries, Deputy Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Department and Heads of Section.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 04, 2010

Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources held the Maulidur Rasul celebration

The Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources and Departments under it also held the Maulidur Rasul celebration.

The Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya, was present. The ceremony was highlighted with a talk entitled,"Rasulullah Sebagai Uswah Hasanah," or "Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. as the Best Example," delivered by an officer from the Islamic Dakwah Centre, Awang Isham bin Ismail. The talk touched on the exemplary life of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. The ceremony took place at the Setia Pahlawan Hall fo the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources in the capital.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 04, 2010

Reading of Ratib Al-Attas in religious schools

Various efforts have been made to protect the country from the Influenza A H1N1 pandemic - one of which that has been actively practised is the Reading of Ratib Al-Attas in religious schools. The religious practice has been conducted by the Islamic Studies Department since last year.

This afternoon, the Beribi Religious School held a Ratib Al-Attas Reading and Prayer for Protection Ceremony in an effort to ward off the spread of the Influenza A H1N1 infection and protect the country from the disease. The Ratib Al-Attas and prayer were also to train students to practise them regularly. Present at the ceremony was the Minister of Religious Affairs, Yang Berhormat Pehin Jawatan Luar Pekerma Raja Dato Seri Utama Doctor Ustaz Haji Awang Mohammad Zain. One hundred and eighty Primaries Five and Six pupils took part in the reading of the Ratib Al-Attas, led by a teacher from the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Institute of Tahfiz Al-Quran, Haji Sujairi bin Haji Dollah. Ratib Al-Attas contains numerous benefits, and if practised continuously, Allah the Almighty will protect the performer from any disaster. It also brings peacefulness and safety especially to the family and nation.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 04, 2010

Official Opening of the Ministry of Health's Counselling Unit in Jalan Ong Sum Ping

There is a difference between Counselling and Physiotherapy according to the stages that involve various diciplines and approach. Counselling is directed towards solving problems depending on the situation, while Physiotherapy is an personality-related issue and focuses on the time and past incidents. This was stated by the Minister of Health at the Official Opening of the Ministry of Health's Counselling Unit in Jalan Ong Sum Ping this morning.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Suyoi said the initiative is to take care of the welfare and well-being of the Ministry of Health officers and staff as well as help increase their productivity and work performance professionally. This, added the Yang Berhormat, can help create a healthy work atmosphere. Therefore, Counsellors at the Counselling Unit need to have the characteristics such as always providing time to meet their clients and pay full attention to their problems. The counsellors should also show a genuine caring attitude and be able to assess their client's personality. Besides that, the Minister added counsellors should also have a pleasant attitude and effective communication skills, as having a pleasant friendly voice is important; They should also be able to show the kind of body language that could encourage a person to speak out and discuss his or her problems, as it is often said that communication is 55 percent body language, 38 percent voice tone and 7 percent words. Apart from all these, counsellors must also be discreet, that is not in the habit of telling their clients' personal matters to other people.

Furthermore, according to the Yang Berhormat, the future of the Counselling Unit also depends on the existing counsellors, to what extent the result of their efforts would justify their services. Continuous demands would mean that the counselling service is very much needed and that the existing counselling services have been successful in guiding and bringing about changes in their clients' themselves and in their lives. Counselling involves giving advice or conducting systematic consultations to overcome emotional and social problems shared by the clients that is expected to leave a positive impact on one's health and feeling. In the United States of America, 43 percent of the adult population experience poor health condition due to pressure related to 6 main causes of death - heart disease, accidents, lung disease and suicide.

The Yang Berhormat presented Certificates of Appreciation to the authorities of the Counselling Units of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and the Narcotics Control Bureau and certificates of participation to 44 counsellors of the Ministry of Health Counselling Unit who had completed their training course.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 04, 2010

Seminar on Integrity in the Civil Service

Integrity in Civil Service is vital in order to improve the level of organizational transparency and accountability, to ensure the openness and excellence of the service delivered by each government ministry and department to the public. His Majesty's government through the ministry and department concerned, has already implemented various efforts to further upgrade the competency and effectiveness of the Civil Service Management and Administration to make work ethics and integrity a culture. The Minister of Energy at the Prime Minister's Office was speaking at a Seminar on Integrity in the Civil Service, this morning.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 04, 2010

Closing Ceremony of the 2nd Religious Teachers' Seminar

Resolutions issued, if carefully studied and implemented, will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of religious education management. The Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs has affirmed through the resolution presentation, that there are several resolutions that should be further studied for follow-up action by agencies under the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin was speaking at the Closing Ceremony of the 2nd Religious Teachers' Seminar this afternoon.

Yang Berhormat Pehin said he also believed that the implementation of the resolutions will also position those involved in the right place and make them exemplary individuals and organisations as advocated by Islam, provided that they had performed their best. It is therefore the duty of the ummah to pursue knowledge anywhere and at anytime to achieve excellence.

Earlier, the seminar debated 9 working papers covering various aspects and issues of Islamic management and education presented by Professor Madya Dr Ab Rahim bin Haji Ismail. This seminar was a follow-up to the first organised jointly by the Faculty of Education and the Post-Graduate Studies and Research Centre of the Seri Begawan Religious Teachers' University College, in an effort to uphold Islamic Studies through progressive and innovative management and administration.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 04, 2010

An appreciation night in conjunction with the 2nd Religious Teachers' Seminar

An appreciation night in conjunction with the 2nd Religious Teachers' Seminar was held last night.

Present at the ceremony was the Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Pengiran Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar. According to the Ra'es of the Seri Begawan Religious Teachers' University College, the seminar provides opportunity for exchanging views and the sharing of experiences among participants from within the country and abroad. Dr Hajah Masnon added that the seminar also served as the best platform for creating and enhancing cooperative relations and the sharing of academic activities between the Seri Begawan Religious Teachers' University College and respective institutions of the participants.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 04, 2010

His Majesty The Sultan received in audience The Foreign Minister of Malaysia

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Almarhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam today consented to receive in audience The Foreign Minister of Malaysia. The audience ceremony was held at the Istana Nurul Iman, this afternoon.

The Honourable Datuk Anifah Haji Aman, is currently in Brunei Darussalam for a two-day working visit. Also present during the audience ceremony was the Second Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Awang Lim Jock Seng.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 03, 2010

His Majesty The Sultan presented and received Letters of Credentials

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Muizzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang Di Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, today consented to present Letters of Credentials to newly-appointed Brunei envoys and receive Letters of Credentials from four foreign envoys to this country. The ceremony took place at the Istana Nurul Iman.

His Majesty first presented the Letter of Credentials to Brunei Darussalam's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Belgium, Dato Paduka Serbini bin Haji Ali.

His Majesty then presented the Letter of Credentials to Brunei Darussalam's High Commissioner to Malaysia, Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Datu Lailaraja Retired Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohamad Yussof.

After that, His Majesty consented to receive Letters of Credentials from four newly-appointed foreign envoys to the country. His Majesty first received the Letter of Credentials from the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Indonesia to Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Handriyo Kusumo Priyo.

His Majesty then received the Letter of Credentials from the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Victor Alexandrovich Seleznev.

The next foreign envoy to present his Letter of Credentials to His Majesty was the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Bosnia and Herzegovina to Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Ensar Eminovic.

His Majesty then received the Letter of Credentials from the non-resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Finland to Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Mr Tapio Kalevi Saarela.

The ceremony proceeded with His Majesty granting an audience to the two newly-appointed Brunei Darussalam envoys. Prior to his appointment as Brunei Darussalam's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Belgium, His Excellency Dato Paduka Serbini bin Haji Ali, 55 years old, held the post of Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs. Meanwhile, Brunei Darussalam's High Commissioner to Malaysia, His Excellency Pehin Datu Lilaraja Retired Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohamad Yussof, 53 years old, previously served as Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

His Majesty later granted separate audiences to the newly-appointed foreign envoys from the Republic of Indonesia, the Russian Federation, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Finland. The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Indonesia, His Excellency Handriyo Kusumo Priyo, 58 years old, was previously with the Directorate General of Protocol and Consular Affairs, Department of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia.

The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation, His Excellency Victor Alexandrovich Seleznev, 59 years old, previously served as the Deputy Director General, Department of Multilateral Asian Issues, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.

Meanwhile, the non-resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Bosnia and Herzergovina to Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Ensar Eminovic, 36 years old, is also the country's Ambassador to Malaysia.

Finland's non-resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Mr Tapio Kalevi Saarela, 63 years old, is currently serving as Finland's Ambassador to Malaysia.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 03, 2010

Religious Teachers Seminar; Management of Religion

As an Islamic institution of higher learning responsible for producing knowledgeable and charismatic Muslim Teachers, the Seri Begawan Teachers University College, KUPU SB, has been urged to handle very carefully and comprehensively all matters relating to management and administration, of religious education in general and religious teaching in particular. The call was made to ensure that the college's vision and mission will be achieved. The Minister of Religious Affairs, made the call at the official opening of the 2nd Religious Teachers Seminar this morning.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Jawatan Luar Pekerma Raja Dato Seri Utama Doctor Ustaz Haji Awang Mohamad Zain said KUPU SB needs an efficient, effective and dynamic management in order to meet the various forms of modern life demands in this globalisation era. In the Islamic education context, Yang Berhormat added, such management is needed to fulfill religious obligations for the prosperity of the Muslim ummah in this country in particular, and mankind in general. Muslim educators, therefore, bear a heavy responsibility to produce and implement a form of religious management and administration, particularly in the field of Religious Teaching. Yang Berhormat also touched on the objective of KUBU SB's establishment which includes producing efficient manpower in Islamic teaching education in order to develop a knowledgeable, pious and well-disciplined community and nation, as well as upholding Islam as the country's official religion. The Minister said that KUPU SB must work hard and with full commitment to achieve its objectives, because the university college graduates will face an ever-changing era. Yang Berhormat hoped that graduate teachers would ensure that their students would not slip away from their identity as devout Muslims who adhere to the teachings of the Al-Quran and As-Sunah.

Three working papers were discussed this morning. One was entitled, "Religious Teachers Training in Brunei Darussalam: Contribution, Challenge and Hope" by the Deputy Ra'es of the University College, Doctor Haji Abdullah bin Haji Awang Lampoh. The discussion focused on the religious teachers' training institution under the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The institution's major contribution is providing trained teachers to teach at schools under the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Education and the private sector. The institution also faces challenges to improve the quality of trained religious teachers.

More than 400 participants are attending the two-day seminar organised jointly by the Education Faculty and the KUPU SB Post-Graduate Learning and Research Centre. The seminar is an effort to enhance Islamic education through a progressive, innovative and highly capable management and administration.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 03, 2010

Presentation of Working Papers in the Religious Teachers' Seminar

Meanwhile, two more lecturers presented their working papers at the 2nd Religious Teachers' Seminar this afternoon.

The Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education, Awang Haji Suhaila bin Haji Karim, in his working paper entitled: The Planning and Implementation of the 21st National Education System or SPN 21, explained that in the 2007 - 2011 Ministry of Education's Strategic Plan, several internal processes have been presented to be implemented accordingly based on the five designs and key development strategies.

Meanwhile, the Director of Islamic Education, Awang Haji Ismail bin Haji Abdul Manap, presented a working-paper entitled: The Islamic Education Management and Administration in Brunei Darussalam: Planning and Implementation Strategy of The 21st National Education System. He also spoke about the role and responsibility of the Ministry of Religious Affairs through the Islamic Education Department in upholding the implementation of SPN 21, particularly Arabic schools and the Islamic Religious Knowledge, IRK subject at the level of primary and secondary schools under the control of the Ministry of Education.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 03, 2010

Ceremony Entertaining New Converts in AiTi

Two officers from the Authority of Info-Communication Industry of Brunei Darussalam, AiTi who have recently embraced Islam, were given a welcoming ceremony this afternoon.

Present were the Minister of Communications, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abu Bakar, and the Permanent Secretary at the ministry, Haji Awang Alaihuddin. The two converts are Mohammad Akif Ridwan Bin Abdullah Ukoi and Norrinnah Qaisyarah Bte Abdullah Engkarin.

The ceremony, which coincided with the birthday anniversary celebration of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W, was highlighted with a talk from a lecturer from Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Salleh Mohammed Ali Jaber.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 03, 2010

Contract Signing Ceremony in the Ministry of Development

In line with Brunei Darussalam's Vision 2035 as well as to meet housing demands in the country, the construction of more than 17-thousand 500 houses and land lots have been planned and implemented throughout the country. Of the number, more than 10-thousand units of houses and land lots are under the implementation of the Housing Development Department and the Public Works Department, Ministry of Development. And the rest are being implemented by the Brunei Economic Development Board, BEDB. This afternoon saw a contract signing ceremony for the Kampung Tanah Jambu and Kampung Meragang National Housing Scheme and the Kampung Tanah Jambu Indigenous Landless Scheme, as well as the Kampung Lumut/Sungai Liang National Housing Scheme in the Belait district.

Present to witness the signing ceremony was the Minister of Development, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdullah. The Director of Housing Development and the Director General of the Public Works signed on behalf of the government. Six contracts were signed for the construction of more than 2-thousand 300-houses and allocation of land lots in four housing areas. Also present was Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hajah Ameenah Bushral Bulqiah binti Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz who represented the Haaqqah (B) Sendirian Berhad, one of the construction companies.

The 915-hectare Kampung Meragang and Kampung Tanah Jambu National Housing areas can accommodate more than 4-thousand units of houses and land lots. Under the 60-hectare Kampung Tanah Jambu Indigenous Landless Scheme, more than 850 units of houses are being built. Meanwhile, more than 2-thousand units of houses and land lots are under the Kampung Lumut/Sungai Liang National Housing Scheme covering an area of 282 hectares.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 03, 2010

Japanese Standards Association hosted Total Quality Managament Forum

For the past 25 years, Japan and Brunei Darussalam have been strengthening their relations in various fields such as trade, economy, culture and environmental protection. In view of this, the Planning, Development and Research Unit at the Ministry of Development, and the Japanese Standards Association hosted a forum on Total Quality Management or TQM. The session is one of the corporate projects under the Brunei-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement.

Present at this opening ceremony was the Minister of Development, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdullah. The forum is a meaningful step to further promote the TQM activities which can contribute towards the social and economic development of the country. Fifty-five local entrepreneurs from small and medium entreprises attended the forum. TQM helps their companies to be competitive in the challenging world through the implementation of a Quality Management System.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 03, 2010

Keys Presentation to RIPAS Hospital's New Building

More than 15-million dollars has been allocated for the construction of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital's electrical and mechanical engineering plant and laundry building. The construction of the building located near the Specialist Clinics building took about 14-months to complete. The presentation of the building keys was held this morning.

The Deputy Permanent Secretary for Administration and Finance at the Ministry of Health, Awang Haji Rosli bin Mustapa, received the keys from the Director of HSE Engineering Sendirian Berhad, Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Orang Kaya Lela Pahlawan Retired Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohammad Jaafar. The Deputy Permanent Secretary then handed over the keys to the Executive Officer of RIPAS Hospital, Dayang Hajah Siti Mariam binti Haji Mohammad Jaafar. The project is aimed at upgrading the 25-year old electrical and mechanical plant. The new building provides laundry and sewing rooms as well as an 11 kilovolt transformer sub-station facility.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 03, 2010

SMEs Halal Workshop on preparation towards World Halal Market

With the world's total Muslim population at 2 billion, the halal food industry becomes one of the most rapid business enterprises in the world, valued at more than 560 billion U.S. dollars a year. The world halal market always comes up with various business opportunities for entrepreneurs who are sensitive towards consumers' needs, either in the form of products or related support services. Such a promising investment climate certainly opens many profitable business opportunities that in turn generate job opportunities as desired. The matter was underlined by the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources at the Official Opening of the 2nd Small and Medium Enterprises, SMEs Halal Workshop this morning.

Pengiran Hajah Mariana Pengiran Dipa Negara Laila Diraja Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin went on to say that the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources will implement its new initiative to support and assist SMEs develop local companies to penetrate the export market. According to Pengiran Hajah Mariana, this new initiative which is a form of financial assistance called Export Repayment Scheme, will be channeled through several commercial banks and offers a maximum loan of 500 thousand dollars for each loan.

The main objective of the SMEs Halal Workshop themed, "SMEs' preparation towards World Halal Market" is to discuss and provide understanding of the implementation strategy and the Action Plan of the Halal Industry Development Programme for local SMEs, particularly in the the food sector, through sharing of information with Ghanim International Food Corporation. The workshop is also to share up-to-date information on the development of the halal market in various sectors at the regional and global levels. Eighty potential entrepreneurs and association representatives as well as the government agencies are attending the workshop organised by the Industrial Development Centre of the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 03, 2010

The Brunei Economic Development Board, BEDB, Briefing

The Brunei Economic Development Board, BEDB, is a statutory board established to be the leading economic development agency for Brunei Darussalam. BEDB is focussing on business clusters, where Brunei has competitive advantage and always strive to work in partnership with foreign investors, government agencies and local stakeholders.

This morning, a briefing was held for the Belgium and Wallonia Foreign Trade and Investment Mission. The visitors who were led by the Trade Commissioner for Malaysia, Philippines and Brunei, Mr Philippe Delcourt heard a briefing on Brunei Economy as well as key business clusters and key initiatives that the BEDB is embarking on.

The briefing was presented by the Assistant CEO Head of Marketing and investment Promotion Division of the BEDB, Sheikh Rashid Salam. The briefing touched on several industry clusters which includes extending the oil and gas value chain, building on Brunei's Biodiversity consists of Eco tourism, aquaculture and alternative energy as well as on leveraging on the islamic brand including islamic business and Halal Processing Hub.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 03, 2010

Brunei Darussalam and Georgia have decided to Establish Diplomatic Relations

The Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and the Government of Georgia have decided to establish diplomatic relations with effect from yesterday,the 1st of March, 2010.

The signing of the joint communique took place at the office of the Permanent Representative of Georgia to the United Nations in New York. The Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam was represented by the Permanent Representative of Brunei Darussalam to the United Nations, His Excellency Latif bin Tuah, while the Government of Georgia was represented by the Permanent Representative of Georgia, His Excellency Mr Alexander Lomaia.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 02, 2010

2010 Book Fair Officially Closed by the Deputy Minister of Health

The 2010 Book Fair came to an end last night. It was officially closed by the Deputy Minister of Health, Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hazair.

The Deputy Minister of Health recited a poem to mark the end of the 10-day book fair.

Earlier the Acting Director of Language and Literature Bureau Dayang Hajah Aminah Haji Momin, who is also the chairperson of this year's book fair disclosed that the Language and Literature Bureau is supporting the campaign of the 'Kampong Excellence Award' by promoting efforts towards the development of knowledge through the print media or ICT. The Acting Director added that this is also inline with the Titah of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam during the announcement recently of the winner of the Kampong Excellence Award, urging the Mukim and Kampong Consultative Councils to act as a planner, thinker and a mover in community development.

The function also saw the presentation of certificates and souvenirs to the participants, donors, sponsors of the 2010 book fair as well as to individuals who contribute their personal books to the Language and Literature Bureau's libraries in the country.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 02, 2010

Brunei's largest card acquirer announced the launching of China UnionPay, CUP Card

Brunei Darussalam and China are good trading partners and good neighbours. In recent years, the economic and trade relations become increasingly closer. In 2009, there were about 18 thousand Chinese citizens visiting Brunei Darussalam. This morning saw the official signing of the partnership agreement between the two parties whereby Baiduri Bank, Brunei's largest card acquirer announced the launching of China UnionPay, CUP card acceptance in Brunei.

The chief representative of China UnionPay Company Limited, Mr Yang Jianmin signed on behalf of the card company while the General Manager of Baiduri Bank, Mr Pierre Imhof signed for the bank. Present was the Deputy Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamdillah. The acceptance of CUP card by Baiduri Bank will provide a convenient and fast mode of payment to CUP cardholders. Following the increase in economic and trade relations between the two countries, this partnership will enjoy a broader development. Other than providing acceptance network to CUP cardholder, it further enhances China citizen's spending power in Brunei, bringing more benefits to the merchants and through the ATM cash withdrawal services.

Earlier, a press conference was held before the launching ceremony. CUP is acknowledged as the fastest growing card brand in the world. As of today, 2 billion CUP cardholders worldwide whose cards are accepted in over 85 countries would be able to use their card in Brunei. This partnership marks a milestone between the 2 countries in the financial industry besides bringing convenience to the business and leisure travelers to Brunei. Today's function was held at the Empire Hotel and Country Club.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 02, 2010

The Launching of Capacity Building Workshop on Labour Market Information and Analysis in ASEAN

The Labour Market Information and its analysis are vital in understanding the nature of the labour market; of changes there in and for the design, implementation and monitoring of employment and labour policies. The current global economic crisis has made such information more significant and can be utilised as an important tool to formulate policies on labour and employment. In the context of Brunei Darussalam and ASEAN as a whole, addressing such issue is important in regards to achieve sufficient labour market information needed in the near future.

Speaking at the launching of Capacity Building Workshop on Labour Market Information and Analysis in ASEAN this morning, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs explained that the necessary labour market information is often inadequate and insufficiently analysed to inform policies. Awang Haji Mohammad Abdoh added, ASEAN need to address and discuss this pertaining issue through the proceeding workshop and finding ways to overcome such inadequacy. The workshop was held to build a better understanding the nature and changes of labour markets as well as building capacities in the use of labour market information and analysis to inform economic, employment and social policy processes.

The three-days workshop which is jointly conducted by experts from the International Labour Organisation and the Asian Development Bank Institute, is being attended by more than 40 representatives from ASEAN member nations. Their discussion will cover challenges in the collection and production of each country's labour market information and their solutions. Also present, the Commissioner of Labour, Dayang Hajah Rosliah binti Haji Hasbollah.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 02, 2010

Opening Ceremony of The Southeast Asia Oraganizational Development Forum 2010

Not all disasters, either natural or man-made, are predictable or can be avoided. Developing countries are hit hardest by natural disaster. But as national societies, people can help alleviate the trauma and suffering of the victims. In this country, there is a national level working committee known as National Disaster Management Committee, NDMC and the Brunei Darussalam Red Cresent Society is one of the NGO's providing volunteering services with other health professionals at the quarantine centre during the recent H1N1 outbreak.

This was stated by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports, Dato Paduka Haji Jemat bin Haji Ampal, in his speech for the Opening Ceremony of The Southeast Asia Oraganizational Development Forum 2010. The text was read by the Chief Officer, of the Youth and Sports Department's Youths Division, Awang Haji Abd Malik bin Haji Mohammad at the ceremony this morning.

The theme of this year's Organizational Development Forum 2010 is "Strategy 2020: Saving lives, Changing minds". The Forum focuses on three major areas of group discussions namely Humanitarian diplomacy, volunteering and Headquarters/Branch Relationship and decentralization. The Organizational Development forum is an annual event hosted each year by National Societies in the Southeast Asia Region, on a rotation basis, with the support of the Organizational Development Unit of International Federation of Red Crescent Societies Delegation for the Southeast Asian region in Bangkok, Thailand.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 02, 2010

Anti-Corruption Bureau Briefing for officers and employees from the Ministry of Health

Government officers and employees are urged to execute their duties honestly and avoid corruption-related activities. The call was made during a briefing organised by the Anti-Corruption Bureau for officers and employees from the Ministry of Health this afternoon.

Twenty-five government officers who have recently joined the Ministry of Health attended the briefing.It was delivered by the ACB's Chief Special Investigator, Pengiran Embran Bin Pengiran Haji Matarsad who among others touched on the danger and effects of corruption to the community.

Meanwhile, Anti Corruption Bureau's Special Investigator, Abdul Nasir bin Dagang, explained on the objective of the briefing. He said the ACB's Communication and Education Section aims to educate all government employees on the bad consequences of corruption, and damages they will face if they commit such crime. So as a lesson to them, it's important that they know that corruption can affect their work and duties. As government officers and employees, they must be aware of the consequences of corruption to the nation and people. In fact, as government servants, they must be sincere and honest in carrying out their duties and responsibilities.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 02, 2010

Story-telling Competition

In a continuous effort to find and guide talented children, the Language and Literature Bureau, LLB, continues to hold its story-telling competition among pupils. Through the competition, the children could practise to be more proficient in expressing their ideas before the public and develop self-confidence. This morning, 12 children took part in the competition. Out of the total, ten best participants will be selected for the District level competition.

The participants were given pictures without any text, on which they had to relate their story spontaneously based on their imagination. The judging took in account the presentation, story content and language. The story-telling competition is the LLB's effort towards developing the use of the Malay Language from the foundation level. In this way, it is hoped the mother tongue would become stronger and sturdier when the children grow up.

Besides aimed at encouraging the reading culture among children, the story-telling competition can also become a source of inspiration. It can influence the mind and leave a positive impact on the children's growth as well as their mental and physical development. Like other participants, Norazilah Abdullah and Ameerah Haji Abdul Mutalif of the Dato Marsal Primary School, find the new format of the competition constructive.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 02, 2010

House Break-in Cases in the Brunei Muara District

Three local men and three local women have been arrested on different dates and venues after they were believed to have involved and assisted in house break-in cases in the Brunei Muara District.

As the result of the operation led by Inspector Puasa of the Police District Bandar Seri Begawan, the police seized items as evidence from the six men and women. All the three men have appeared in court and are now in detention to help in investigation. Meanwhile the three women were released with bail. The police also launched inspections on three shops where the men and women sold the stolen items, and at two venues at the multi-storey car park owned by one of the local men,and seized several laptops and mobile phones as well as a goldsmith shop at Jalan Mc Arthur in Bandar Seri Begawan. Among the discovered items included mobile phones, laptops, DVD player, video camera, television sets as well as car accessories and jewelery.

The police have advised members of the public, who have made reports of lost items, to go to the Bandar Seri Begawan Police Station during working hours or to contact the nearest police stations or call direct hot-line numbers 993.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 02, 2010

Corruption Case

The Bandar Seri Begawan Magistrate's Court, today found a local businesswoman, Chen Yen Dji, guilty on one count under Section 6 (b) of the Prevention of Corruption Act (chapter 131). Chen Yen Dji was fined $6,000 dollars or 6 month imprisonment in default.

In the investigation conducted by the Anti-Corruption Bureau it was found that on the 30th of August 2008, the defendant from inside a vehicle parked behind the Standard Insurance Sendirian Berhad Office in the vicinity of the Surau near Supersave Complex Gadong, did corruptly offer a police personnel gratification to the sum of 200 dollars as inducement for forbearing to conduct inquiries on her and her male companion.The court ordered for the amount of gratification to be forfeited to the state and the passport to be returned to the defendant.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 02, 2010

International Conference on Islamic Finance 2010

Our strong standing towards Syari'ah principles in world finance remains limited in product offering compared to the ever growing conventional markets. What is quite popular and has also become a major concern in our country is the usage of credit card - this was one of the topics highlighted in the 2nd day of the International Conference on Islamic Finance 2010 this morning.

A working paper presented by a lecturer from the Centre for Islamic Thought and Understanding, University Technology Malaysia, Rafidah Mohd Azli entitled the "Issuance of an Islamic credit Card in Malaysia" focused on the operations and structures of the Islamic credit card in Malaysia. Among the three contracts applied are Bay' Al-inah, Tawaruqq and Ujrah which involve the buying and selling of properties or assets. According to the lecturer, Muslim scholars found out that a transaction of purchase and sale are interdependent and that the bank does not take the possession and business risk.

However, even though the implementation of the Islamic credit card could play a vital role in the development of Islamic banking, the study arrives to a conclusion that some operational and procedural implementations still needs to be resolved.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 02, 2010

His Majesty The Sultan granted an audience The Malaysian Minister of Defence

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces, RBAF has consented to receive in audience the Minister of Defence from Malaysia. The audience took place at the Istana Nurul Iman this afternoon.

His Majesty granted an audience Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Doctor Ahmad Zahid bin Hamidi. Present during the ceremony were the Deputy Minister of Defence, Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Singamanteri Retired Colonel Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohammad Yasmin and the Malaysian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Dato Ku Jaafar bin Ku Shaari.

The two day official visit of Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Doctor Ahmad Zahid aims to further strengthen the existing friendly relationship and underscores the importance of defence cooperation between the two countries.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 01, 2010

Her Majesty Raja Isteri received in audience the wife of the Malaysian MOD

In another part of Istana Nurul Iman, Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha consented to receive in audience the wife of the Malaysian Minister of Defence, Yang Berbahagia Datin Seri Hamidah bin Khamis.

Accompanying Yang Berbahagia Datin Seri Hamidah was the wife of the Deputy Minister of Defence, Datin Hajah Noryasimah binti Abdullah and the wife of Malaysian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam, Datin Zakiah binti Dato Haji Abas. Yang Berbahagia Datin Seri is in the country accompanying her husband for a two-day official visit.

Also present was Yang Dimuliakan Seri Laila Pengiring Diraja Datin Seri Utama Dayang Hajah Rosnah.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 01, 2010

His Majesty The Sultan sent his Condolences to President of The Republic of Chile

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to send his condolences to Her Excellency Michelle Bachelet, President of the Republic of Chile following the recent earthquake.

In the message, His Majesty expressed his great sadness upon learning of the loss of life and widespread devastation caused by the disaster.

On behalf, of His Majesty's Government and the people of Brunei Darussalam, His Majesty sent his deepest sympathy to Her Excellency Michelle Bachelet, President of the Republic of Chile, the Government and the people of Chile and especially to the bereaved families of the victims.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 01, 2010

Tahfiz Al-Quran Institute-Special Talk Strengthening Professionalism

Professional enhancement is essential to one's well-being, mind, body and emotional stability. This does not merely exist by possessing knowledge alone and will not develop if efforts for self-enhancement are neglected. The matter was touched during the special talk in conjunction with the Prophet Mohammad S.A.W(Peace Be Upon Him) organised by the Ministry of Religious Affairs this morning.

The talk entitled 'Strengthening Professionalism in Islamic Affairs Services' was delivered by Invited Lecturer from Malaysia, Dato Aidit bin Ghazali. He among others said it's important that one's professionalism must be strong especially in the aspects of soul, physical,mind and emotion.

The talk continued in the afternoon, with another topic entitled, 'Public Service, An Outlook', delivered by Dato Paduka Malai Haji Ali bin Malai Othman. The topic outlined leadership which means gathering a group loyal to Allah, devoted with noble values, work hard and ready to sacrifice in everything including their own life for the sake of the truth that Allah has set. He also stressed that a leader also uses his energy to educate and train the group which comprises of those who are obedient and responsible.
Present, the Minister of Religious Affairs, Yang Berhormat Pehin Jawatan Luar Pekerma Raja Dato Seri Utama Doktor Ustaz Haji Awang Mohammad Zain. This learning session aims to upgrade then skills and to further improve work ethics through the process of instilling noble values.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 01, 2010

Orientation and Induction Course in the Ministry of Health

Medical officers need to make use of their skills and knowledge accordingly to help the patients. In fact, as a health care professional, they need to place the patient's welfare as a top priority. The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Salam bin Abdul Momin highlighted the matters at the Official Opening of the Orientation and Induction Course for local officers who recently joined the Ministry of Health.

According to Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Salam, medical officers are also reminded not to neglect the medical profession ethics although they are determined in executing their tasks. For example, a doctor who is treating a patient need to double his or her effort in ensuring perfection on treatment given. Dato Paduka added, diagnosis on a disease must be cautiously carried out and medicine prescription must be suitable. Negligence in executing a duty, he said, will prolong illness. Such negligence will not only emotionally depress the patient himself but also his family. The effect will be placed on the medical officer itself. Not only his credibility will be questioned but also put responsible on the imperfection of implementing his duty. The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health also reminded medical officers to give the best while executing their duties and to preserve close relation between the patient and the family.

The 12-day Orientation Course, is being participated by 25 health officers. Throughout the course participants will also be given briefings from several government agencies as well as visit hospitals and clinics.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 01, 2010

Courtesy Call in Bolkiah Garisson, Berakas

Relation between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia continues to be enhanced in various fields, such as to promote international diplomacy in the area of defence, exchange visit programmes between senior officers of the Ministry of Defence and their international counterparts.

This morning, Malaysia's Minister of Defence, Yang Berhormat Dato' Seri Doctor Ahmad Zahid bin Hamidi paid a courtesy call to the Deputy Minister of Defence, Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Singamanteri Retired Colonel Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohammad Yasmin. Earlier, Yang Berhormat Dato' Seri Doctor Ahmad Zahid received a salute and later inspected the guard of honour that was made up of Royal Brunei Land Force personnel. The Malaysian defence minister's visit will further strengthen bilateral ties in the field of defence between both countries. Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia have long established defence ties with each other and have held numerous joint training exercises in the past.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 01, 2010

Technical education Department Launching of Induction Program

New government servants need to be exposed on the vision, mission, and the latest plans of each department under the Induction Program. Through such program, it is hoped that some of the best practices being implemented in a few places will be exposed.

Today, the first group of the two groups of more than 60 new officers and staff of the Technical education Department joined the Induction Program that will go on until the 6th of March. The program aims to provide participants closer views on the vision, mission and function of the Education Department and its institutions. Participants will also visit all Technical and Vocational Institution nationwide. Present was the Acting Director of Technical Education, Pengiran Suhaimi bin Pengiran Haji Bakar.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 01, 2010

Enhancing High Quality Early Childhood Educators' Workshop

The Ministry of Education, in its Strategic Plan 2007 highlights its commitment to develop and provide quality education. This includes to develop and equip children morally, intellectually, physically, socially and aesthetically with the right values and skills to become responsible dynamic citizens, who are able to contribute positively to the nation. This was stated by the Deputy Permanent Secretary for Core Education at the Ministry of Education, Awang Haji Suhaila during the launching ceremony for Enhancing High Quality Early Childhood Educators Seminar and Workshop this morning.

One hundred and 20 head teachers and 128 pre-school teachers from government primary schools attended the seminar and workshop, which aimed to strengthen the focus and improve learning outcomes of young children through high quality professional development programs.The programme was conducted by the Educational Consultant from the United Kingdom, Marion Ann Dowling.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 01, 2010

The First International Conference on Islamic Finance 2010

From its humble beginning more than 30 years ago, the country continues to obtain clear evidence that the current era of Islamic finance has gained credibility and visibility within the world of finance. This was stated by the Second Minister of Finance, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd Rahman during the opening ceremony of the First International Conference on Islamic Finance 2010 this morning.

Meanwhile, in his keynote presentation, Professor in Banking and Economic Finance from the National University of Malaysia, Professor Dr. Abdul Ghafar Ismail highlighted that the syar'iah concerning the community's wealth is to ensure its preservation and growth as the Islamic banking system could bridge the gap between the rich and the poor by modifying the distribution of wealth and economic resources.

With its theme, "Contemporary Challenges of Islamic Finance: Towards Realizing the Goals of Shari'ah", the conference will serve as a platform in consolidating numerous views and principles, between Scholars and practicioners. Some 100 participants from the Ministry of Finance, the Prime Minister's Office and various banks as well as academic institutions were present at the conference.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 01, 2010

Police case involving a woman and her child who are reported missing

The police is investigating a case involving a woman and her child who are reported missing. 19 year-old Dk Mona Merlini binte Pg Haji Merali, holder of I/C number 01-043412, and her two years and eight months old son,

Mohammad Hakim bin Abdul Rahman, with the birth certificate number E0015305 were last seen on 27th April last year at Simpang 141, No 9 Kampong Telanai, Jalan Tutong. Those with information on her whereabouts can contact the Investigative Officer of Bandar Seri Begawan Police Station at 2242334 extensions 132, 148, 142 and hot-line 993 or any nearby police station.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, March 01, 2010

Week (February 22 to 26, 2010)

In observance of the Prophet Muhammad SAW's  Birthday the Embassy will be closed on Friday, February 26, 2010.

His Majesty's Titah in conjunction with Prophet Muhammad SAW's birthday

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam stressed on the importance of sincerity, as it is most blessed and demanded. His Majesty was speaking in a titah broadcast nationwide over radio and television earlier tonight, in conjunction with Prophet Muhammad SAW's birthday celebration for the year 1431 Hijrah. In the titah, His Majesty also invited muslims to celebrate the occasion with praises and salutations to the Prophet and to exemplify his actions and traditions.


His Majesty's Titah 1

The Prophet was the bearer of light that brightens the world, which was previously in utter darkness and confusion. That light is Islam. In the endeavour to spread and defend Islam, the Prophet faced various tests and obstacles, not only from his enemies but also from his own family. In the face of adversity, the Prophet faced them with patience and perseverance. The Prophet was relentless, and he continued to spread the religion of Allah the Al-Mighty with confidence, certain that Allah would help him. Where did the Prophet's strength come from to face all these? The answer is in his faith and sincerity to the Al-Mighty. If there is faith and sincerity, all obstacles can be endured. The ability (to confront obstacles) does not only come from within ourselves, but also with the help from Allah the Al-Mighty, as we uphold His religion, and as He promised the Prophet in the verses of Muhammad: 'To all ye faithful! if you help Allah, that is to defend his religion, Allah will surely help you (defend yourself) too, (to achieve victory) and (He) shall strengthen your inner being'.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 25, 2010

His Majesty pointed out that Allah's help is promised to those who are truly sincere

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam further pointed out that Allah's help is promised to those who are truly sincere to Allah and His religion. The secret to sincerity is supreme in every matter. Sincerity is most blessed and demanded not only in acts of piety but also in all situations including while in learning, making livelihoods as well as in living as a family and as a nation. Without sincerity, His Majesty added, the outcomes would be bitter.


His Majesty's Titah 2

Sincerity is the panacea or cure for all defects, particularly at the fields of work and employment. If one is truly sincere, then one should be clean from any bad characteristic such as greed, envy, untrustworthiness, corrupt and the likes. This is why sincerity is important. I hope, in our joy to celebrate the birthday of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W., all rakyat and residents, irrespective of status and position, would embrace sincerity in life so that we will become a truly blessed nation by Allah the Al-Mighty, whose people are blessed with many bestowals. We must pursue profits with pious deeds and not contrarily. Profits reaped with pious deeds are invaluable compared to those acquired with insincerity which will only invite disaster, both on earth and in the hereafter. Hence, let us 'wear the clothes of sincerity' which is beautiful and pure, in the presence of Allah as well as in the presence of each other, so that our lives would be blessed, loved and liked by Allah and all His creations.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 25, 2010

His Majesty The Sultan sent Congratulatory messages to the State of Kuwait

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang DiPertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to send congratulatory messages to His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jabar Al-Sabah, Emir of the State of Kuwait and His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait, as well as the Government and People of the State of Kuwait on the occasion of Kuwait's National Day.

In the message to His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jabar Al-Sabah, Emir of the State of Kuwait, His Majesty expressed his pleasure at the warm and friendly relations between the two countries and looked forward to reaffirming and strengthening them even further. His Majesty also congratulated His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jabar Al-Sabah on Kuwait's assumption of the Chairmanship of the Gulf Co-operation Council.

In a similar message to His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait, His Majesty expressed his great appreciation for the excellent and brotherly relations shared by the two countries and looked forward to enhancing this much-valued friendship. His Majesty also congratulated His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah on the role played by Kuwait as the current Chair of the Gulf Co-operation Council.

In ending the messages, His Majesty prayed to Allah the Almighty for the continued good health and happiness to His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jabar Al-Sabah, Emir of the State of Kuwait, and His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of The State of Kuwait and Members of the Royal Family as well as continued progress and prosperity for the people of Kuwait.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 25, 2010

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade also sent a congratulatory message Kuwait

Meanwhile, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah,

the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade also sent a congratulatory message to His Highness Sheikh Dr Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait on the occasion of the National Day of the State of Kuwait.

In his message, His Royal Highness expressed pleasure with the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two countries and look forward to working closely with His Highness to enhance peoples' friendship.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 25, 2010

High Tea Reception in conjunction with The Crown Prince's 36th Birthday Anniversary

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince, Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Deputy Inspector General of Police and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman have consented to attend a High Tea Reception in conjunction with His Royal Highness's 36th Birthday Anniversary. The function was hosted by the Royal Brunei Police Force.

Upon arrival, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri were greeted by the Commissioner of Police, Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Datu Kerma Setia Dato Paduka Seri Awang Zainuddin as well as other senior officers of the force. Soon after arrival, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince consented to sign the parchment slip.

Also present were His Royal highness Prince Abdul Malik and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, the Commandant of the Women Police.

His Royal Highness and Her Royal Highness later consented to mingle with officers of the Royal Brunei Police Force together with their spouses. His Royal Highness the Crown Prince was appointed as the Deputy Inspector General of Police on the 5th of May 2005 by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

His Royal Highness consented to cut the birthday cake and received a 'Pasambah'.

Before leaving, His Royal Highness and Her Royal Highness, consented to receive greetings from officers of the Royal Brunei Police Force. Also present was the Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, Dato Seri Paduka Awang Eusoff Agaki.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 25, 2010

Mass gathering and Procession in commemorating the Prophet Muhammad's birthday anniversary

Brunei Darussalam will celebrate the Maulidur Rasul celebration simultaneously in the country's four districts on Saturday, February 27th. The national level mass gathering and procession will be held at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien, in the capital, starting at 7 in the morning.

To ensure the smooth running of the event, a full rehearsal was held this morning. Present to witness the rehearsal was the Minister of Religious Affairs, Yang Berhormat Pehin Jawatan Luar Pekerma Raja Dato Seri Utama Doktor Ustaz Haji Awang Mohd Zain as the Chairman of the Executive Committee of major Islamic celebrations. Also present was his deputy, Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Awang Haji Badaruddin. This year's celebration carries a theme 'ILLAHI SELAMATKAN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM'.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 25, 2010

Dikir Ceremony held by The Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources

Brunei Darussalam will observe Islam's important event - the Mauludun Nabi Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wassalam, on Saturday. In this regard, dikir ceremonies in conjunction with the Maulud celebration continue to be held at various mosques and religious halls, nationwide.

The Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources and departments under it held such ceremony last night. Present was the Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya. More than seventy staff and officers of the ministry took part in the ceremony.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 25, 2010

Handing Over Ceremony of The Muara Health Centre's Key

Muara Town now has its own new Health Centre. A handing over ceremony of the key for the Muara Health Centre was held this morning.

The key of the new Health Centre's Building, was handed over by the Acting Director-General of Public Works, Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Abdul Ghaffar to the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Salam, who in turn handed it over to the Director-General of Health Services, Doctor Hajah Rahmah Haji Mohamad Said.

The building was built on a one point five-zero-four hectare site of land under the Eighth National Development Plan with an estimated cost of four-million five-hundred and forty-four thousand, six hundred and twenty dollars ($4,544,620.00). Among the services provided at the centre are the Outpatient Clinic covering the Flu, General Illnesses and Dental clinics. The new building will be in full operation from the first of next month.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 25, 2010

The Islamic and Global Prosperity Seminar held at the Rizqun International Hotel

The Islamic and Global Prosperity Seminar offers an almost-perfect thinking package on the concepts of peace, security and prosperity of human life. The seminar which was held at the Rizqun International Hotel ended this afternoon with the discussion of the seminar's resolution.

The resolution among others called on political leaders worldwide to study Islam and its opinion on global prosperity so that the truth of Islam and its role in civilization can be understood. The resolution also demanded the Islamic Ummah to respect oneself, religion and their values first before they can respect others. More than 70 working papers were tabled by clerics and scholars from ten Islamic countries during the two-day seminar organised by the Usuluddin Faculty, Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 25, 2010

Prizes Presentation of The 5th National Skills Competition

The Department of Technical Education is gearing up to formulate a strategic plan to further upgrade its capacity by providing more education programs and technical and vocational trainings needed by the nation. The department is also planning to improve the quality of overall technical and vocational education systems in line with the country's National Education System for the 21st Century or SPN21. The Permanent Secretary for Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Awang Haji Mohd Daud made the remarks at the prizes presentation of the 5th National Skills Competition.

His speech was read by the Deputy Permanent Secretary for Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Dr Junaidi Hj Abd Rahman. He said the ministry is currently gearing up to plan and take preliminary action to establish a standard polytechnic institution, offering opportunities for students to pursue higher studies. Apart from that, two more vocational schools will also be built to accomodate more students. He said vocational education and training play an important role in developing human resources in Brunei Darussalam. Every year, the Department of Technical Education through technical and vocational education institutions is able to produce a semi-skilled or skilled labour force to meet the needs of the country's development and economic progress.

The competition was aimed at identifying participants to represent the country at the regional 'ASEAN Skills Competition' to be held in Bangkok, Thailand. A total of 42 participants won the competition which started on the 2nd and ended on the 11th of this month. 14 areas were competed in the competition which were conducted by five technical and vocational institutions.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 25, 2010

Recital of Ratib Al-Attas

The reading of the Ratib Al-Attas is one of the ways of seeking higher protection against Influenza A H1N1 and undesirable incidents.

The Lambak Kanan Religious School held such a ceremony. A recitation of the Surah Al-Fatihah was followed by the reading of Zainul Quran and the Ratib Al-Attas by pupils of Standard 5. Present was the Minister of Religious of Affairs, Yang Berhormat Pehin Jawatan Luar Perkerma Raja Dato Seri Utama Doctor Ustaz Hj Muhammad Zain. Ratib Al-Attas is recited to seek blessings from Allah the Al-mighty, and asking for protection for the family and property from unprecedented incidence.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 24, 2010

Official Launching of new face of Pelita Brunei

PELITA BRUNEI, the official government newspaper shows off its new look in its latest publication, today. The official launching of the new face of the PELITA BRUNEI was held last night.

The launch was officiated by the Minister of Energy at the Prime Minister's Office, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Retired Major General Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Awang Mohammad. The launch, in conjunction with the celebration marking the 26th anniversary of the national day, also coincided with the first official use of the new printing format, the Web Offset Gross Magnum.

Today's new look for the PELITA BRUNEI also showed a new Mast Head in Jawi lettering which is more prominent than the previous romanised one, and highlights its nationalistic characteristic as well as its Islamic identity. Its Bruneian identity can also be seen through the 'Air Mulih' pattern design. Starting with today's issue, the PELITA BRUNEI will be printed on a white 'wood-free' paper which will improve its printing quality, compared to the one that had been used since 1976.

Apart from the new look and improvements made on the paper quality, the design and layout have also been adapted to suit the printing of coloured images, illustrations, headlines and background decorations. These adaptations are more flexible with the use of the new Web Offset Gross Magnum printing facilities, compared to the earlier printing machine which had been in use since 1982. PELITA BRUNEI is now 54 years old and its first issue was published on February 15, 1956.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 24, 2010

Two-day Seminar on Islam and Global Peace and Properity

Official Opening of a Seminar on Islam and Global Peace and Prosperity at the Rizqun International Hotel

Islam is truly complete as a global peace formula, because Islam itself means safe, peaceful and prosperous. This is further strengthened with the verse on Prophet Muhammad, Peace be Upon Him, who brought Islam, as decreed by Allah, that was interpreted as "never would Muhammad be sent, unless to become a blessing to the whole universe." This was emphasised by the State Mufti, Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Doctor Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz at the Official Opening of a Seminar on Islam and Global Peace and Prosperity, this morning. The ceremony took place at the Rizqun Yang Berhormat was confident that the seminar could debate the issue of global peace and prosperity, given the knowledge and high academic spirit of the participants. The seminar could then issue a resolution that could become a formula for helping people or anyone to create global peace and prosperity. The state mufti was also confident that the seminar would truly look into Islam and not merely rely on people's perception of the religion. Apart from being a driving force towards prosperity, it also acts as a pillar of peace and justice.

The two-day Seminar on Islam and Global Peace and Properity is organised by the Usuluddin Faculty of Universiti Islam Sultan Shari Ali, UNISSA. More than 70 working papers are being presented by clerics and scholars from more than 10 Islamic countries. The Seminar aims to achieve UNISSA's aspiration to become a progressive and dynamic Islamic university through the reaches of genuine thoughts based on the Al-Quran and Al-Sunnah.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 24, 2010

Keynote Address at the Seminar on Islam and Global Peace and Prosperity

Meanwhile, in a Keynote Address at the Seminar on Islam and Global Peace and Prosperity, Professor Dato Doctor Ismail bin Ibrahim said Muslims' approach of entirely underscoring the era of ancient Islamic glory needs to be reviewed and renewed. This is in taking into account and benefiting from the realities of present Islamic ummah and their history as the people who had gone through the ups and downs of life according to the development of the era and change of time.

Professor Dato Doctor Ismail in his working paper entitled, "Global Peace and Prosperity; Understanding between the Islamic and Western World," clarified on re-thinking of the approach by the Islamic ummah towards any issue, that requires changes in speech and focus from discussing Islamic history to talking about the history of the Islamic community. Although both may come to the same conclusion, the emphasis and the main discussion on the history of the Muslim ummah would focus more on reality and that the conclusion would take a more practical and more down-to-earth form. According to the Professor, in nurturing the ummah, several important issues should be overcome, including the educational objective, that should be planned in order to produce a knowledgeable generation who understands the concept of Islam as Ad-din, that is, a perfect way of life.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 24, 2010

'Melayu Islam Beraja', or the Malay Islamic Monarchy

'Melayu Islam Beraja', or the Malay Islamic Monarchy, MIB, has long been in existence in Brunei Darussalam. Before the conversion of the 1st Sultan of Brunei and his people to Islam, the term was referred to as Malay Monarchy. It was only after the conversion that the term was changed to Malay Islamic Monarchy and has been in use until the present day.

The Principal of the History Centre, Yang Berhormat Pehin Jawatan Luar Seri Maharaja Dato Seri Utama Doctor Haji Awang Mohd Jamil Al-Sufri, underscored the matter at the first series of the Malay Islamic Monarchy Dialogue programme last night. Touching on the topic, 'The Historical Existence and Survival of Malay Islamic Monarchy, MIB', Yang Berhormat said that MIB was officially adopted as the national philosophy as stated in the titah of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam at the proclamation of Independence on 1st January 1984. The first series was chaired by Associate Professor Doctor Haji Hashim bin Haji Abdul Hamid from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam. The 50 minute programme will be aired once a month with different panel members and will discuss different topics pertaining to MIB.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 24, 2010

The 13th Meeting of the Steering Committee of the East Asia Emergency Rice Reserve Project

The 13th Meeting of the Steering Committee of the East Asia Emergency Rice Reserve Project was held this morning at the Rizqun International Hotel, Gadong. The 2-day meeting was attended by delegates from ASEAN plus Three Member States.

The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources, Dayang Hajah Suriyah, in her opening remarks, stressed on Brunei Darussalam's commitment in supporting the tackling of food security issues in the ASEAN plus three region. Dayang Hajah Suriyah also underscored the need to step up efforts to ensure the availability of sustainable food through an international mechanism, in light of the present World Food Security Challenges.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 24, 2010

Dikir Maulud Ceremony

The Dikir Maulud ceremony held for twelve consecutive nights marking the birthday anniversary of Prophet Muhammad S-A-W, organised by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, continue to be held throughout the country.

Last night, the delegation, led by the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the ministry, Pengiran Haji Bahrom Bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, held such a ceremony at the Kampong Pandan National Housing Scheme in Kuala Belait.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 24, 2010

Launching of the 5th "Youth Love the Nation" Programme

The "Youth Love the Nation" Programme aims to further raise the national spirit and cooperation among youths and the community. It is also to inculcate noble values of living as a community, with religion and country, as well as values of teamwork of being in an association. The Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister's Office said among the achievements targeted in the Brunei Vision 2035, is that the country will be a developed nation with highly-educated and skilled citizens. These were emphasised at the launch of the 5th "Youth Love the Nation" Programme, this morning.

Doctor Awang Haji Affendy in his address, also said that youth should stay away from anti-social activities, and are instead encouraged to be more actively involved in beneficial activities that can help develop a good personality and strengthen integration of the local community. He added that it is important for youth to practise such a standing while they are still young. As youth are often faced with challenges, it also vital for them to be able to handle problems efficiently and with self-esteem.

This three-day programme is the third phase for the youth and focuses on "Working for the Community." 31 youth between 15 and 25 years old from the Belait, Tutong and Temburong Districts have been actively participating in various phases of the programme in the Brunei Muara Distirct. These include visiting places such as Mukim Sengkurong to observe and experience the village culture. The programme is conducted by the Youth and Sports Department at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, and coincides with Brunei Darussalam's 26th National Day Anniversary celebration.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 24, 2010

"Youth Love the Nation" programme launched at the Kampung Pandan Civic Centre, Kuala Belait

The "Youth Love the Nation" programme at district level was launched today in the Belait, Tutong and Temburong districts. In the Belait district, the programme was launched at the Kampung Pandan Civic Centre, in Kuala Belait.

The programme was launched by the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister's Office, Awang Haji Mahrub bin Haji Morni. 40 youth from the four districts took part in the programme. The programme, through the youth's involvement in welfare, youth and community activities, is a mechanism of the Youth and Sports Department's effort to build the community's self esteem specifically for the youth. Bearing national flags, the youth walked towards Kampung Mumong and on arrival at the kampong, they were greeted by the Chairman of the Kuala Belait and Seria Municipal Board, Awang Haji Md Yunos bin Bolhassan.

Meanwhile, in the Tutong district, the Youth Love the Nation Programme today entered its third phase. Present to launch the programme at the Tutong Civic Centre was the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, Haji Mohd Rosli bin Haji Sabtu. 35 youth throughout the country participated in the programme. Youth need to be aware, that as the nation's young who will become future leaders, they must grab any opportunity and equip themselves with quality and excellence, to move Brunei Darussalam forward and to successfully develop the nation.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 24, 2010

Youth Love the Nation Programme in the Tutong District

Meanwhile, a procession around Tutong Town by participants of the Youth Love the Nation Programme for the Tutong District, ended at the Kampung Penanjong Mosque. They were greeted on arrival by the Acting Tutong District Officer, Awang Haji Muhammad Suffian bin Haji Bungsu.

The spirit of love for the nation was obvious when the youth raised the Brunei Darussalm National flag. The Acting Tutong District Officer, in his address, said the programme can further enhance the national spirit and cooperation among the young people and the community. Through it too, the pure values of living as a community, with religion, country, as well as a team and association can be instilled. The programme encourages syouth to move actively with the guidance of religion as their defence against unhealthy elements. The third phase of the programme takes place in Kampung Penanjong for three days.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 24, 2010

In observance of the 26th NATIONAL DAY OF BRUNEI DARUSSALAM the Embassy will be closed on Tuesday, February 23, 2010.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah has stressed the importance for rakyat and people in this country

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has stressed the importance for rakyat and people in this country to be thankful for the bestowals from Allah the Al-Mighty and for bestowals that include peace, prosperity and well-being to be maintained. His Majesty was speaking to the nation over radio and television earlier this evening in conjunction with Brunei Darussalam's 26th national day anniversary. His Majesty also spoke on the importance of consultation and preserving the environment while the country is intense in the midst of the process of development. The ruler also made a reference to the recently introduced regulations on credit card use. Touching on the theme of this year's national day celebration "Negaraku Brunei Darussalam" or "My country, Brunei Darussalam", His Majesty said it is not adequate to merely regard the theme as a means of instilling patriotism.

His Majesty Titah 1

More importantly, what our contribution is to perpetuate Allah's bestowals to us and to our country. Patriotism is always viewed vaguely in the form of pledges and during celebrations. People seldom look into its deep secrets: that bestowals should be embraced with gratefulness and polished with pious deeds to Allah the Al-Mighty. Should these be done, only then will the bestowals perpetuate as promised by Allah the Al-Mighty. So, in conjunction with this historic moment, let us together be thankful and carry out pious acts. Besides these, we also need continued actions in that whatever has been planned must be implemented timely and should not merely remain as plans on paper. The key to all these is the way we implement these plans. Among the most effective means are consultations among relevant agencies. For example, when plans to build schools or mosques are delayed, land regulations or land not having gazetted are sometimes attributed as obstacles causing the delay. If this is the reason, does it not come from the government? By right, if the government so wants it, obviously such a problem should not be difficult. Nevertheless, delays still occur. Are we really serious or not? If the delay is at the junior level, is the senior level willing to discuss it together? This is our problem, and this is why the key performance indicators was established to be used as guidelines by all government agencies.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 22, 2010

His Majesty stressed that intensive development is meaningless if the environment is compromised or jeopardized

Touching on the environment, His Majesty stressed that intensive development is meaningless if the environment is compromised or jeopardised. This is because the country still needs fertile land, clean air and drinking water and even clean sea water which is not polluted. According to His Majesty, all these factors are the true sources of prosperity.
 

His Majesty Titah 2

Hence, the time has come for us to expedite the legislation of laws or regulations for more orderly development. For example, we need to enforce an environmental impact assessment mechanism and the likes for development projects. Equally important to be mentioned are financial-related matters. Recently, my government had implemented a regulation controlling the use of credit cards. This measure has drawn the attention of various quarters and became a topic of conversation. The objective of the government is for us to understand that lavish lifestyles based on mounting debts is a fragile luxury that will only bring losses in the long run. Even though at the early stage, the measure may cause difficulty to some people or institutions, the government believes the measure is appropriate in order to take care of the people's well-being in the long-term. This is one of our strategies toward creating the economy - one of the three pillars of the Brunei Vision 2035. The country needs more orderly, stable and attractive economic policies as well as a conducive investment environment that can serve as a catalyst for comprehensive economic growth. Likewise, efforts that will enable us to balance shortcomings in the domestic, regional and global markets are also needed and make a transformation into a more positive and beneficial end.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 22, 2010

Brunei Darussalam's 26th National Day anniversary celebration began with Mass Maghrib and Isyak Prayers, Doa Kesyukuran and Reading of Surah Yassin

Brunei Darussalam's 26th National Day anniversary celebration began this evening with Mass Maghrib and Isyak Prayers, Doa Kesyukuran and Reading of Surah Yassin at all mosques and suraus throughout the country. The Omar 'Ali Saifuddin Mosque in the capital was the focus of the event. His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Muizaddien Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam joined his subjects at the prayers.

Upon arrival at the mosque, His Majesty was welcomed by the Minister of Religious Affairs,Yang Berhormat Pehin Jawatan Luar Pekerma Raja Dato Seri Utama Doctor Ustaz Haji Awang Mohd Zain and the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Doctor Awang Haji Ahmad as well as the Executive Committee of this year's Celebration.

Also present were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Abdul Azim, His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Malik and His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Mateen.

The function began with the Mass Maghrib Prayer led by Yang Berhormat Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Yahya.

Yang DiMuliakan Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Awang Hj Salim led the congregation in the Sunnat Hajat Prayer, for safety, peace and security as well as for protection against disasters and all infectious diseases specifically the Influenza 'A' H1N1.

The reading of Surah Yassin was led by Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin.

Doa kesyukuran was read by the State Mufti, Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Doktor Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz.

Meanwhile, the mass Isyak Prayer was led by Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Datu Imam Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Hamid bin Bakal.

Before taking leave of the event, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam consented to receive greetings from the congregation. The climax of the National Day celebration is the mass gathering tomorrow morning at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar 'Ali Saifuddien in the capital. This year's National Day celebration carries the theme 'Negaraku Brunei Darussalam' or 'My Country Brunei Darussalam'.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 22, 2010

The Promotion and Sale Expo in conjunction with the 26th National Day anniversary celebration

The Promotion and Sale Expo in conjunction with the 26th National Day anniversary celebration, currently on at the Mall, Gadong, continues until tomorrow. The expo that displays and sells goods such as clothes, as well as decorative and handicraft items, is open to the public from 9.30 in the morning until 10 at night.

40 local companies and financial institutions fill all the 46 booths of the expo. In interviews with RTB, several participating local entrepreneurs shared their experiences since they first started their businesses and agreed that the expo helps promote their products. Haji Ahmad Metassan ventured into fulltime business since 2004. His company produces snacks, such as crackers, biscuits and cookies as well frozen food. Haji Ahmad also assured the public that his products had been audited and had received the Halal Certification.

Haji Padzil Haji Ahmad has been promoting and selling local paintings including those he produced himself with the help of his wife. They have been running an art gallery at the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation Complex in the capital. According to Haji Padzil, his paintings, mostly local sceneries and Brunei culture, received an encouraging response from the public especially among tourists.

Also gaining popularity is processed crab meat from soft-shelled crabs produced by Haji Habolah Shah Rosmali Shah. He said his company had been managing the farm in rearing soft crabs for about seven years now and was glad that his industry is expanding.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 22, 2010

Ihya Maulidur Rasul Ceremony in Tutong

Ihya Maulidur Rasul ceremonies marking the birthday anniversary of Prophet Muhammad, S.A.W. organised by the Ministry of Religious Affairs continue to be held throughout the country. Last night, such a ceremony was held by the Kampong Lubok Pulau Mosque in Tutong.

The function was held to glorify the Maulidur Rasul celebration and foster relations between the ministry's officials and staff and the public. Present was the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Haji Awang Mohammad Mahdi.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 22, 2010

Anti-Corruption Act Amendment


The Anti-Corruption Bureau, ACB, announces that His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to the early amendment of Chapter 6 of the Anti-Corruption Act. The amendment provides more authority to the ACB to investigate and ensure that it is compliant with the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, UNCAC that has been ratified by Brunei Darussalam.

The Press conference on the amendment was chaired by ACB's Acting Director, Awang Haji Abdul Raub. The report on the press conference was conveyed by the Chief Special Investigator, Datin Hajah Elinda. In the amendment, the provision of commitments of the Bureau's Director and officers have been amended, listing the ACB's duties based on 3 ACB strategies in eradicating corruption, that is, through investigation, prevention and education.

According to the ACB statement, provision on the bail or bond has also been amended to give ACB the authority to issue bail or bond for an offender. Before this, the ACB had to refer all arrested offenders to the police for bail and bond. With the new provision, the ACB Director and officers can release an arrested offender by using their bail or bond authority. Amendment to Chapter 6 takes effect from the 8th of February.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 22, 2010

Brunei Islamic Religious Council handed over zakat money of 63 thousand dollars from its tithe collection

In the effort to assist the poor and destitute in the country who are in need of proper and safe housing, the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam will always extend its assistance. The building, completing and repairing their old houses need financial expenditure.

This afternoon, the Brunei Islamic Religious Council handed over zakat money of 63 thousand dollars from its tithe collection to the Brunei Muara District Office Charity Fund. The zakat was handed over by the Secretary of the Brunei Islamic Religious Council, Awang Haji Harun bin Haji Junid to the Brunei Muara District Officer, Dato Paduka Awang Haji MohdYusop bin Bakar. The money was to help finance the building, completion and repair works on six houses of zakat recipients registered with the Brunei Muara District Office. Last year, 23 houses were given financial and material aid for reconstruction and repair, amounting to 168 thousand dollars from the tithe collection.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 22, 2010

Full Dress Rehearsal at the Kampung Pandan Civic Centre in Kuala Belait

Brunei Darussalam will tomorrow celebrate the 26th anniversary of the country's National Day. This morning, the Belait district's procession team held a full dress rehearsal at the Kampung Pandan Civic Centre in Kuala Belait.

150 officers and staff from government and non-government organisations, will take part in tomorrow's march past which takes place at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddin, Bandar Seri Begawan. Present to witness the rehearsal was the belait District Officer, Awang Haji Jamain Bin Momin.

In Belait, national flags and banners can be seen raised at government and private sector buildings as well as homes and shops.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 22, 2010

'Negaraku Brunei Darussalam' or 'My Country, Brunei Darussalam' is the Theme of the 26th National Day

'Negaraku Brunei Darussalam' or 'My Country, Brunei Darussalam' is the theme of the 26th National Day. The theme stresses our sense of belonging towards the country, besides acknowledging that Brunei Darussalam is our country - an admission that is not only expressed verbally, but must also be taciturnly understood by the mind, and agreed upon by the senses, as senses are the catalyst of implementation.

The sense of belonging towards the country encompasses all nation-related factors including the leader, government, constitution, law, cultural heritage, treasures and philosophy. With the admission that Brunei Darussalam is our country, and that every possession of the country we feel is ours too, it is therefore the responsibility of all of us as the country's citizens to be loyal to the king, to practise the Islamic teachings as our way of life, preserve the Bruneian cultural legacy, maintain and uphold sovereignty and respect the constitution. The theme also calls for compliance with the law, maintenance of political stability, the upgrading of economic development, improvement of the people's social status, the upholding of honour and image, understanding and practice of the philosophy, preserving peace and well-being as well as sustaining unity and harmony.

The theme also welcomes all citizens of the country regardless of age, descent, rank and religion to carry out the responsibilities underlined together, so that the country will always be peaceful, prosperous and forever remain as a Malay, Islamic kingdom.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 22, 2010

Banners adorn the capital in conjunction with the National day celebration

Brunei Darussalam celebrates its 26th National Day Anniversary tomorrow with a mass gathering in the capital.

Around the capital, banners are put up on street lamps and buildings in conjunction with the National day celebration. These display the people's patriotism and support for the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. Last week, an estimated three thousand and one hundred banners were produced and sold. A majority of them were sponsored by major business companies in the country in participation of the event. Aside from that, billboards also take a part in decorating the streets. These banners and billboards adds festivity to Bandar Seri Begawan in the run-up to the celebration.

Meanwhile, among the events to glorify the National Day Anniversary celebration, is a group activity to make the National Flag with 500 pieces of used tin cans. The activity, in support recycling waste material to help minimise climate change and keep the environment clean, was carried out by 156 Pre-University One students of the Hassanal Bolkiah Boys' Arabic Secondary School.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 22, 2010

Week (February 17 to 19, 2010)

The Crown Prince attended the Afternoon Reception Ceremony

His Royal Highness Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince, Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and General of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah, this afternoon consented to attend a Reception in conjunction with His Royal Highness' 36th birthday anniversary. The ceremony was hosted by the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, RBAF.

Upon arrival at the Officers' Mess in Bolkiah Garrison, Their Royal Highnesses were greeted by the RBAF Commander, Major General Haji Aminuddin Ihsan, the Permanent Secretary One and Two at the Ministry of Defence, Dato Paduka Haji Mustappa and Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Majid bin Mangarshah. Also present was His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Malik.

His Royal Highness was introduced to 16 newly-commissioned officers of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

His Royal Highness then consented to sign the royal parchment to mark the visit.

His Royal Highness and Her Royal Highness then consented to view a collection of photographs of a series of visits by His Royal Highnesss the Crown Prince to official events of the Ministry of Defence and the RBAF throughout 2009 and 2010.

His Royal Highness also consented to receive an album entitled, "Sejambak Ristaan Tiga," featuring a collection of photographs of His Royal Highness' visits to the Ministry of Defence and the RBAF.

At the highlight of the occasion, His Royal Highness consented to cut a birthday cake and then receive a pesambah in the form of a Rehal or Quran stand.

The Rehal presented by the RBAF Commander on behalf of RBAF officers, symbolises His Royal Highness' strong adherence to the Al-Quran and its teachings. It is also in line with the noble desire of His Royal Highness' father, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam to make Brunei Darussalam a nation of Zikir.

To bless the occasion, a doa kesyukuran was read by the Head of the RBAF Religious Department, Air Lieutenant Colonel Haji Abdur Rahim bin Haji Abdul Karim.

At the end of the ceremony, His Royal Highness and Her Royal Highness consented to receive the junjung ziarah and chatted with the Ministry of Defence and RBAF officers and wives.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 19, 2010

Doa Kesyukuran Ceremony in the Foundation Complex

The Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation as the Secretariat of the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Fund for Orphans, yesterday afternoon held a Doa Kesyukuran Ceremony in conjunction with the 36th anniversary celebration of the birthday of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince.

The ceremony began with the mass Maghrib Prayer followed by the reading of Surah Yaasin, Doa Kesyukuran and the mass Isyak Prayer. Among those present were members of the Foundation's Board of Directors and the Fund's Board of Trustees. The ceremony took place at the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation Complex in the capital.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 19, 2010

Dikir Maulud ceremony in RIPAS Hospital Surau

For the past five days, areas around all mosques and suraus in the country echoed with the Dikir Syarafil Annam recitals in conjunction with the Maulud celebration, to commemorate the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, S.A.W. Ministries in the country are also actively involved in glorifying the occasion. Last night, the Ministry of Health held such a ceremony.

Among those present was the Minister of Health, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Suyoi. The ceremony began with the mass Isyak prayer, followed by a presentation of an endowment in the form of Prayer Mats and microphones contibuted by Muslim doctors at the Ministry of Health. The ceremony took place at the surau of the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 19, 2010

Dikir Ceremony in Mohammad Bolkiah Mosque, Kg Serusop

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister's Office also held a similar ceremony last night. The ceremony took place at the Mohammad Bolkiah Mosque in Kampung Serusop.

Present at the ceremony was the Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, Dato Seri Paduka Awang Eussof Agaki. The ceremony was highlighted with a Dikir Maulud Presentation. Dikir ceremonies such as this are held nightly for 12 nights. Also attending the ceremony was the Indian Entrepreneurs Association in the country as well as members of the Mosque Takmir Committee.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 19, 2010

The Opening of TRUFITNESS GYM in Kg Beribi

The Ministry of Health welcomes the formation of gym and fitness centres in the country. Their existence is seen as partners and is complimentary towards efforts of the Health Ministry in encouraging the public in the country to practice a healthy lifestyle and recreational activities to prevent chronic diseases. This was stressed by the Deputy Minister of Health at the launching of TRUFITNESS GYM this morning.

Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Paduka Haji Awang Hazair, in his address, also suggested that fitness centres cooperate with the Health Promotion Centre in promoting health awareness and the practice of healthy lifestyle among citizens and people in the country. The deputy minister said the Health Promotion Centre is willing to provide counselling, posters and pamphlets on health, to fitness centres for use in exhibitions and also for distribution to the public. Earlier, the deputy minister touched on his ministry's integrated health screening on nine thousand officers and employees from several ministries since 2008.

The deputy minister added that, following the health screening, at least 55 percent of government employees were found to have problems of obesity, while 60 percent experienced high-levels of sugar and blood pressure. He believed these people are risking their lives unless they opt for early treatment and change their lifestyles into a healthier one. The deputy minister also warned these people that symptoms of chronic diseases, if not treated, could manifest anytime as a stroke or heart attack.

This fitness centre began operational in March last year with a mission and vision to uphold the nation's vision towards producing healthy citizens. This centre also provides comprehensive services to those in need of assistance especially those who are obese.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 19, 2010

Closing of the Village Beauty and Cleanliness Contest

The 2009 Village Beauty and Cleanliness Contest organised by the Mukim Berakas 'B' Consultative Council upholds the goal to maintain a beautiful and cleaner environment. The contest is also hoped to boost awareness and responsibility of the local community in creating a harmonious and clean atmosphere in the village. This was said by the Permanent Secretary at the Home Affairs Ministry, Awang Haji Mawardi during the official closing of the Village Beauty and Cleanliness Contest of Mukim Berakas 'B' for last year.

Awang Haji Mawardi said without awareness and full support from all parties, efforts to keep up cleanliness and beauty will only be futile and is simply an unrecorded deed. Therefore, it is important that every individual in a community to acquire self-responsibility towards cleanliness and on handling wisely rubbish problems. The permanent secretary also touched on the provision of garbage dumping centres and the tasks of appointed garbage collection companies in helping out the community in disposing of their rubbish and waste. Awang Haji Mawardi believes that a beautiful and cleaner environment will certainly contribute to prosperous, cheerful and healthy lifestyles.

Two categories were competed, and five kampungs were selected in each category. Kampung Lambak Kanan National Housing Zone Three emerged champion in the Housing Areas category, while Kampung Sungai Akar won in the Original Village Area category. The winner in each of the respective categories received a Challenge Trophy donated by the Minister of Home Affairs, a trophy and cash prize.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 19, 2010

Defend the Country's Honour by Practicing Religous Obligations

All citizens and residents of Brunei Darussalam are responsible for securing the country's economic development, and upgrading the social standard of the people. They are also responsible for keeping the country's good image, upholding the national philosophy, as well as maintaining peace, unity and harmony of the community. The matter was highlighted in the Friday Sermon today that focused on the theme of the 26th National Day Anniversary, "My Country, Brunei Darussalam." The sermon said that the theme calls for sustainable peace, security and prosperity of the nation.

The sermon stressed that the theme calls on Brunei citizens - regardless of age, creed, status, race and religion - to carry out their responsibilities so that the country remains a peaceful, secure and prosperous Malay, Islamic, Monarchical nation. Although Brunei Darussalam is a small country with a small population, the imam added, it is not impossible for it to become a developed country with its own identity and honour in upholding the Malay, Islamic Monarchy philosophy and to become an exemplary nation, blessed with the protection of Allah the Almighty.

The people can defend the country's honour as forever a sovereign, Brunei Islamic nation, by faithfully performing their religious obligations. Besides that, they must also take good care of their own image, self-esteem, keep a sound mind and enhance their knowledge of Fardhu Ain or individual obligation, and Fardhu Kifayah or community obligation. They should also work together for the country's economic and political stability, to sustain generations of physically and spiritually healthy and strong citizens.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 19, 2010

Promotion & Sale Expo in The Mall, Gadong

Various activities have been organised in conjunction with the Brunei Darussalam 26th National Day Anniversary. One of the activities is the five-day Promotion and Sale Expo, now on at the Mall in Gadong.

Goods on sale at this expo organised by Syarikat Mughni Services include clothes, decorative items and handicrafts. This expo - ending Tuesday - also promotes banking products and services. Meanwhile, several entrepreneurs said the expo helps in the marketing and distribution of their products. For Mohamad Adiman, the expo gives local entrepreneurs like him the opportunity to promote their products and expand their SME business. Dayang Khairunnisa Saaniah binti Dr Haji Kamsani of De' Heritage Group of Companies shares her opinion.

More than 40 local companies and financial institutions are taking part in this Expo that provides 46 booths. The expo is open to the public from 9.30 in the morning until 10 in the evening.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 19, 2010

Brunei Delegation to APEC Junior Conference in Japan

Two students from the Sixth Form Centres and a supervising teacher will represent the country at the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation, APEC Junior Conference which will be held in Hiroshima, Japan. The five-day conference begins tomorrow. The delegation which comprises Awang Haji Izz Khairee bin Haji Mohamad Ya'akub, Awang Ahmad Faiz bin Haji Zailani and the teacher, Awang Makarimi bin Haji Kasim left last night.

Among the objectives of the conference is to reach an agreement and unified stance along with the exchange of ideas and interaction, despite the participants' different history, religion and lifestyles. The participants will also learn international communications and skills to overcome problems. They will also contribute ideas for future plans in community development.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 19, 2010

Conversion Ceremony in Kampung Lambak Kiri

The greatness of Islam has inspired many more non-Muslims to choose Islam as their religion. This afternoon, a Dusun family from Kampung Lamunin, Tutong, took the Islamic oath.

The head of the family, 43 year-old Awang Zuis bin Amit, is now known as Muhammad Hafizul bin Abdul Amit. Also embracing Islam were his wife and 6 children. The ceremony was conducted by officers from the Islamisation and Guidance Unit of the Islamic Dakwah Centre. The ceremony took place in Kampung Lambak Kiri.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 19, 2010

Teachers-Parents Association's Meeting in SMSAB, Lambak Kanan

The Saiyyidina Abu Bakar Secondary School will continuously look after the welfare and upgrade the progress of its students through methods based on law. This morning, the school held the third General Meeting of the Parents and Teachers Association, PIBG.

The meeting elected members of the PIBG's executive committee for 2009/2011 session, which includes parents in the school authority for the interest of the students. The school authority also hoped that PIBG members would implement their duties more successfully.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 19, 2010

Istiadat Bersiram for Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa'adatul Bolkiah

A Doa Selamat and Doa Kesyukuran ceremony in conjunction with the Istiadat Bersiram for Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa'adatul Bolkiah was held at the Istana Nurul Iman this afternoon. The Istiadat bersiram was in conjunction with the birth of Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Raqeeqah Raayatul Bolqiah binti Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Rahim. Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Raqeeqah Raayatul Bolqiah was born on Wednesday 16th December 2009.

The ceremony was conducted in the presence of Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz.

The reading of Surah Al-Fatihah was led by Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Khatib Haji Mustaffa who also led the dikir presentation by mosque officials.

The occasion was marked with a 17 gun salute at the lawn of Istana Nurul Iman.

Doa Dikir was read by Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Khatib Haji Mustaffa.

To bless the ceremony, doa selamat was read by the State Mufti, Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Doctor Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz.

Also present at the ceremony were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran-Pengiran Cheteria, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Councils, Deputy Ministers, Pengiran-Pengiran Peranakan, Pehin-Pehin Manteri, Manter-Menteri Pedalaman, Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Department.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 18, 2010

Interactive Workshop on Optimizing ICT Brunei-India cooperation

The field of Information and Communication Technology, ICT, in India is giving the country increasing visibility and relevance in the global ICT sector. The growth has been phenomenal whereby India is not only well-known in producing quality IT graduates but also in exporting software technologies and applications. ICT research and development in India is also flourishing at the technology parks in Hyderabad and Bangalore. This matter was stated by the Minister of Communications during the half day "Interactive Workshop on Optimizing ICT Brunei-India cooperation", held at AITI building, Anggrek Desa.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abu Bakar, added that cooperation between Brunei Darussalam and India is of great significance. This includes cooperation in building human resource capacity in the field of ICT as well as in the development of new software and applications. Yang Berhormat Pehin also said that the Government will continue to strive in making the most conducive environment for the growth and development of industrial players. The private sector also has to take up the challenge and fuel the growth of the industry. Also present was the High Commissioner of India to Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Shri R.V. Warjri, and the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry Of Communications, Awang Haji Alaihuddin.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 18, 2010

Brunei Darussalam as among the countries with best health prospects in the world

Health and medical staff including doctors and nurses, dieticians, health examiners, and food analysts form the backbone of health care in the country. At the same time, the World Health Organization, WHO, has recognized Brunei Darussalam as among the countries with best health prospects in the world. The Economic Intelligence Unit, EIU, listed Brunei Darussalam as the 100th most liveable country, and among the criteria is in terms of its health. This was stated by the Minister of Health,Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi at the Launch of the Ministry of Health's Career Carnival, this morning.

The Yang Berhormat said His Majesty's government's policy of continuously giving priority to the health care of the people in the country, is the reason why the country is recognized by the world. Each year, the government allocates more than 250 million dollars to the Ministry of Health for its staff's salaries and other expenses. The Minister of Health also touched on the shortage of the ministry's staff in nearly all areas and expertise. The Yang Berhormat said that from January 2009 until 2010, only 12 local doctors had completed their studies and begun their services, compared to 52 doctors from other countries who need to be recruited to fill in vacancies. There have been only six additional dental officers including one foreign dental officer since 2009. The Minister of Health expressed concern with the current trend where the number of students interested in health care is decreasing. If this continues, the country's health care status enjoyed now may not be improved or sustained, and this would certainly have a long-term effect on the health status in the country.

At this ceremony, the Yang Berhormat presented copies of the book, 'Career in Healthcare 2010' to school representatives. This four-day career exhibition and carnival is aimed at giving parents and guardians the opportunity to support students in choosing careers in the medical and health field. The exhibition is open to the public from 8 in the morning until 4.30 in the afternoon; while on Sunday, the exhibition will be open from 9 in the morning until 2 in the afternoon.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 18, 2010

The trial of former Minister of Development, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Wijaya Pengiran Dr Haji Ismail bin Pengiran Haji Damit and the managing director of Ted Sendirian Berhad, Wong Tim Kai has ended

The trial of former Minister of Development, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Wijaya Pengiran Dr Haji Ismail bin Pengiran Haji Damit and the managing director of Ted Sendirian Berhad, Wong Tim Kai ended yesterday at the High Court in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Hearing began on 14th February 2005 before former Chief Justice Dato Seri Paduka Mohamed Saied, and ran for 205 days before the prosecution asked for the case to be tried again before another judge owing to the Chief Justice's ill health. The new trial commenced before Judicial Commissioner Lugar Mawson on 28th September 2009 and the evidence concluded on 26th November 2009 after 40 days and 28 witnesses. The trial was conducted in the absence of Wong Tim Kai who had absconded before the first day of the new trial. A warrant of arrest was issued on 1st October 2009.

In a Judgement which took four hours to deliver, the defendants were convicted of all 11 charges against them; 3 contrary to the Prevention of Corruption Act, Chapter 131, and 8 contrary to the Penal Code, Chapter 22.

Yang Amat Mulia was sentenced today to a total of 7 years imprisonment and was ordered to pay a penalty of 4 million 219 thousand 242 Brunei dollars and 60 cents, with a further 12 months imprisonment in default of payment. Wong was also sentenced to 7 years imprisonment. Both defendants were ordered to pay prosecution costs of the trial with 6 months imprisonment in default of payment. In sentencing Yang Amat Mulia, the judge considered that as a Minister of the Government, he had abused the trust of his subordinates in the Ministry of Development, of his Cabinet Colleages and of His Majesty the Sultan himself.

The Anti-Corruption Bureau, ACB, began their investigation in 1999 under the direction of former Director, Datin Paduka Hajah Intan binti Hj Kassim. Led by Chief Special Investigator Haji Meraj bin Haji Ahmad, the ACB Investigation team took three years to complete their investigation. The file was sent to the Attorney General's Chambers in 2002. Formal charges were first filed in Court against both defendants on 13th May 2004.

The case clearly demonstrates the Government of His Majesty's commitment to the rule of law and the importance of zero tolerance towards corruption in Brunei. It also makes clear that no one is above the law and that all cases will be impartially, fairly and independently investigated by the ACB. The investigation and prosecution teams have, throughout the case, been given unwavering support and guidance of Datin Paduka Hajah Intan binti Hj Kassim, her succesor-in-office, Pengiran Kasmirhan Pengiran Hj Tahir, and the current Acting Director, Mr Ang Swee Kiang. ACB would also like to pay tribute to the prosecution team led by Mr Andrew Macrae QC from the Hong Kong Bar and officers of the Attorney General's Chambers.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 18, 2010

The Anti-Corruption Bureau honours and appreciates informants,witnesses in corruption cases and those who cooperate in fighting corruption

The Anti-Corruption Bureau, ACB, meanwhile honours and appreciates informants,witnesses in corruption cases and anyone who cooperates with the ACB in eradicating corruption problems. People like them have proven an aid in preventing corruption. The Acting ACB Director highlighted the matter at an appreciation ceremony for the main witnesses in the ACB trial cases this morning. The function took place at the Empire Hotel and Country Club.

Awang Haji Abdul Raub bin Haji Mohamad Yassin said being a witness in a trial is not an easy task. It requires one to be faithful, courageous and dislike wrong doings such as corruption.

Awang Haji Raub also hoped that ministries and government departments or the private sector will continue cooperate with the Anti Corruption Bureau by reporting corruption-related cases so that such cases can be stopped, thus leaving the nation free of corruption. In the meantime, he promised that protection will be given to informants by keeping their names in secret according to chapter 30 of the anti corruption act.

The role or cooperation and assistance from the public to the ACB, either from officers and government servants, the private sector or the public that help in investigation and prosecution have produced positive outcomes. This was so following the completion of 8 trial cases in Court last year.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 18, 2010

Stronger and continuous cooperation between the government and private sectors

Stronger and continuous cooperation between the government and private sectors clearly show their commitment in efforts to further upgrade the credibility of local job seekers before entering the workplace that suit their knowledge and skills. The Commissioner of Labour stressed the matter at the presentation of certificates of the '14th Basic Book-keeping' course, 'Motivational' course as well as a course on 'How to Write a Biodata or CV'. The event was held at the Job Centre in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Dayang Hajah Rosliah binti Haji Hasbollah said the Labour Department continues to implement measures towards increasing the involvement of locals to work with the private sector, thereby reducing unemployment in the country. She also stressed on the importance of local job seekers to upgrade their knowledge and skills by joining trainings and expose themselves to certain fields required by the private sector.

Certificates were presented to 25 people who completed the basic book-keeping course. 15 more participants received certificates for the motivational training course Part Two, and 13 others for the same course Part Three.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 18, 2010

Long Term Development Planning for Brunei Darussalam 2007-2035 Briefing

The Information Department as Secretariat of the Public Relations Committee of Government Ministries and Departments with the cooperation of the Economic Planning and Development Department this afternoon held a briefing on the Long Term Development Planning for Brunei Darussalam 2007-2035.

The briefing was aimed at boosting the knowledge of public relations officers and practitioners in the government sector in upholding the goals, policies, functions and regulations of the government. The Director of Information, Doktor Muhammad Hadi bin Muhammad Melayong in his speech, touched on the duties and functions of public relations, that is to upgrade the image and caring attitude of the government of His Majesty's government, and also on the importance of disseminating information on national planning and development.

Assistant Director of Planning of the Economic Planning and Development Department, Dayang Hajah Amimah, meanwhile outlined three goals of Brunei 2035 Vision which among others is to produce citizens who are successful, highly-educated and highly-skilled in sports and arts as well as having a high quality of life through political stability, clean environment and are socially healthy.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 18, 2010

Skilled female workforce in various career fields is expanding

The role of women in this country has become more prominent. In the past women were less significant, but now, skilled female workforce in various career fields is expanding. This was emphasised at a Taklim ceremony in conjunction with the Maulud celebration last night marking the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, S.A.W.

The talk at the ceremony also stressed on the role of women as wives, mothers and members of the community from the Islamic perspective. Among those present at the ceremony was the wife of the Minister of Religious Affairs,Pengiran Datin Hajah Johanah. More than 150 officers and women staff of the Islamic Dakwah Centre were present. The ceremony was aimed at propagating the Islamic syiar among women through religious activities. Besides that, it was also to foster and strengthen relations among the staff of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, including the retirees.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 18, 2010

Special Religious Talk by a motivation expert from Malaysia

Al-Quran is a miracle of the great Prophet Muhammad S.A.W and an undisputable source of knowledge. Al-Quran is also a complete map towards an excellent life besides rewarding readers who memerozise the holy book. The matter was delivered in a special religious talk this afternoon.
The special talk was delivered by a motivation expert from Malaysia, Datuk Abu Hasan Al-Hafiz. According to Datuk Abu Hassan Al-Hafiz, youths are responsible to support and promote Islamic harmony including by moulding youth who can master the knowledge of Al-Quran, particularly to counter today's life.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 18, 2010

More than $48 thousand for Cleaning Works

The Housing Development Department has allocated more than 48 thousand,69 dollars in its new tender to finance cleaning works in Kampung Rataie National Housing and the ndigenous Landless Scheme.
These works aim to ensure that residential areas under the Housing Development Department are well-looked after in various aspects most importantly its state of cleanliness, comfort and be well-organised. These include works on grass-cutting, rubbish collection, cleaning of natural and concrete drains.

According to Senior Housing Development Officer at the Housing Development Department for Temburong Branch, Awang Muhammad Aliyusri bin Haji Damit, cleaning and maintenance works are limited to targeted areas only around the Indigenous People's Housing Scheme and the National Housing Programme of Kampung Rataie. The areas include the government access, the roadside areas, but excluding house compounds. Maintenance on house compounds is however upon the initiative and responsibility of the houses' owners themselves.

Residents within Kampung Rataie housing areas are also advised to maintain the cleanliness of their houses and the surrounding environment as well. They are also urged to instill awareness on the importance of cleanliness and caring values among the community especially against littering in public places.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 18, 2010

Recitation of Ratib in Pelambayan Religious School

Several efforts have been implemented to prevent and safeguard the nation from the Influenza A H1N1. One of them is holding more recitation of zikir such as Ratib al-Attas. Ratib al-Attas, when practice daily will bring peace and safety including to family and the nation.

The Pelambayan Religious School held the recitation of Ratib al-Attas and the reading of special doa to prevent the widespread of the current Influenza A H1N1 pandemic as well as to encourage the pupils to practice the zikir Ratib al-Attas. Present was the Minister of Religious Affairs, Yang Berhormat Pehin Jawatan Luar Pekerma Raja Dato Seri Utama Doktor Ustaz Haji Awang Mohd. Zain. A total of three hundred and two pupils and twenty-two teachers attended the function. The recitation of the ratib was led by a teacher from the Institute Tahfiz al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Haji Sujairi bin Haji Dollah. Ratib al-Attas has many significances and when practice, Allah S.W.T will safeguard the practitioner from disaster.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 17, 2010

Establishing Cooperation Brunei-India MOU Meeting

The First Joint Working group meeting under the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Communications Brunei Darussalam and the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, of India discussed the setting up of the Joint Working Group, JWG, and the Strengthening of bilateral cooperation in matters pertaining to manpower development, expertise consultations, E-Government and ICT developments in Brunei. The meeting was held this morning at the Ministry of Communications in Berakas.

Prior to the meeting the Indian delegation led by the Additional Secretary, Department of Information Technology, Mr Shri Rakesh Singh, paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Communications, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong. Also present was the High Commissioner of India to Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Shri R.V. Warjri. Brunei Darussalam became the host for the First Joint Working Group Meeting.

The meeting was co-chaired by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry Of Communications. In his remarks, Awang Haji Alaihuddin said it is the role of the ministry through the Brunei agencies to work together with its relevant counterparts from India in their own respective specialized area of expertise. In this respect, he added, the Prime Minister's Office is involved and taking a pro-active role in taking up the opportunity to pave the way for cooperation especially in the area of e-Government where India has been well ahead in its e-Government implementation.

The Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Government of His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and the Government of the Republic Of India in May 2008, outlined its objective to establish inter-institutional mechanism to develop technologies cooperation, innovation activities, consultations and technology training services towards the formation of specialized human resources in the field of ICT between the two countries.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 17, 2010

Doa Kesyukuran Ceremony in Police Headquarters Surau

Doa Kesyukuran ceremonies in conjunction with the Birthday Anniversary of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince, Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office were held this morning.

One such ceremony was held by the Ministry of Development. The Minister of Development, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdullah was present. His Deputy, Dato Paduka Doktor Awang Haji Mat Sunny also attended the ceremony. The ceremony began with a mass reading of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by the Doa Kesyukuran.

Meanwhile, the Royal Brunei Police Force held a similar ceremony at the surau of the Police Headquarters in Gadong, last night. Present at the ceremony was the Commissioner of Police,Yang DiMuliakan Pehin Datu Kerma Setia Dato Paduka Seri Zainuddin bin Jalani. His Royal Highness the Crown Prince is the Deputy Inspector-General of the Royal Brunei Police Force. Last night's ceremony began with the mass Fardhu Maghrib Prayer, followed by the reading of Surah Yaasin and Doa Kesyukuran. Also present were the Deputy Commissioner of Police for Operation, Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Orang Kaya Pendikar Alam Awang Haji Hasrin, as well as officers and personnel of the Royal Brunei Police Force.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 17, 2010

Laboratories Workshop on Infectious Disease Programme

The Asean Plus Three Emerging Infectious Diseases, EID Programme has been in the forefront of the key initiatives on the region's pandemic preparedness and response. Mounting effective response and building capacity, both institutional and technical in laboratory services, are needed to form an integral part of the preparedness and response mechanisms in addressing the current influenza A H1N1 pandemic as well as future threats facing the region. Thus, the cooperation and collaboration of laboratories in the ASEAN region are an important component in tackling emerging infectious diseases.

The matter was highlighted by the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, at the Opening Ceremony of ASEAN Plus Three Emerging Infectious Diseases Programme: Planning Workshop On ASEAN Plus Three Partnership Laboratories, APL, this morning. Datin Paduka Doctor Hajah Intan binti Haji Salleh added that the cooperation between the ASEAN members states as well as the three partner countries, China, Japan and the Republic of Korea, is vital in fighting infectious diseases, especially in the midst of the current influenza A H1N1 pandemic, through the sharing of laboratory data and technology as well as expertise in the field.

According to the Head of Virology Laboratories, Doctor Haji Osmali bin Haji Osman, through the workshop laboratory, personnel in Brunei would be able to share datas as well as increase their researching skills in infectious diseases.

The two-day workshop is also attended by ASEAN delegates and ASEAN Plus Three delegates as well as World Health Organization WHO representatives. It is aimed at strengthening the capacity of ASEAN Plus Three countries to respond appropriately to infectious diseases through regional laboratory networking. Besides that it is also to discuss and prepare a drafted medium term work-plan for APLs in accordance with the First Regional Meeting of APL held in Singapore in 2009.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 17, 2010

Hadrah Competition for Cultural Empowerment

The country will always welcome efforts to empower the nation's cultural arts, particularly those at the Institution of Higher Education. This was underlined by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Brunei Darussalam during a Hadrah Competition among institutions of higher learning.

Associate Professor Doctor Azman bin Ahmad said efforts to raise the position of cultural arts will continue because the nation always adheres to the philosophy that a country's progress should not be measured entirely on the basis of its economic, physical and material development. Instead, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor added, the progress of the nation should also be considered from its spiritual and intellectual viewpoint.

UBD emerged as the champion in the competition with its song entitled, "Negara Brunei." The champion took home a cash prize of 800 dollars contributed by Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, BIBD, and the challenge trophy sponsored by B-Mobile. The Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Secondary School, Mentiri and the Seri Begawan Religious Teachers University College, each came up as the first and second runners-up respectively.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 17, 2010

Two charged for selling and possessing cigarettes without a permit

A local man has been brought before the Magistrate's Court on two charges of selling and possessing 3 thousand 482 packets of cigarettes without a permit.

24-year-old Mohammad Nasrul Hakimin bin Haji Amin, faced the first charge under Section 12 (1) of the Tobacco Order 2005, and ordered to pay a fine of 1 thousand 500 dollars or a 3 month imprisonment in default. He also faced the second charge under Section 146 (1)(d) of the Excise Order 2006, and fined 26 thousand dollars or 12 months imprisonment in default. The total amount of the fines is 27 thousand 500 dollars or 15 months imprisonment in default. All the contraband goods were confiscated and ordered to be destroyed. The accused is given 6 months to pay the fines.

Meanwhile, a permanent resident has also been brought to court on a charge under Section 146 (1)(d) of the Excise Order 2006, for possessing 13 cartons of cigarettes without a permit. Mohammad Salleh bin Abdullah alias Achun Anak Jalan, 67, has been fined one thousand dollars or serve a 2 month jail term in default. All goods involved have been ordered seized to be destroyed and the vehicle returned. The accused is given 2 months to pay the fine with one local surety.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 17, 2010

Institut of Tahfiz Al-Quran Hijrah Forum

It is important for every teacher to have a clean and sincere soul, mind and heart in carrying out his or her daily duty. Teachers must also be smart, active and interactive.

This was among the contents of this morning's forum entitled "Jati Diri Yang Mantap Memperkasa Sakhsiah Guru", or A Strong Identity Empowers a Teacher's Personality.The forum was presented by two panel members, the Head of the Professional Section, Islamic Studies Department, Dayang Siti Mariam binti Daud and an officer from the Counselling Services Unit, Civil Service Department, Awang Mohamad Adi Zaky bin Metassim.

The forum was chaired by the Assistant Principal of the Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic Boys Secondary School, Awang Haji Saharuddin bin Haji Patra. Present was the Assistant Director of Islamic Studies, Dayang Hajah Fatimah binti Haji Abdul Ghani. The forum aimed to impart knowledge, awareness and understanding of work ethics to the civil servants in particular the staff of the Islamic Studies Department.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 17, 2010

Temburong District Draft Plan Exhibition

Temburong District residents are given the opportunity to give their feedbacks and views on the final draft of the Temburong District Plan. The final draft plan for the district is now being displayed at the Bumiputera Multi-purpose Hall in Bangar Town.

Through this exhibition, the public can observe the development strategy according to the land usage planning suggested for the Temburong District.

The Acting Commissioner of Town and Country Planning, Awang Haji Othman bin Haji Mohammad Noor, urged Temburong residents to study the plan closely as it concerns the future of the district. Any suggestions or feedbacks will be taken into account before the plan is finalized and printed out as a guidance on the development strategy particularly in usage of land in the Temburong District.

The exhibition is open to the public, in particular, residents of the Temburong District, for four days from today until Saturday, from 9 am until 4 pm.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 17, 2010

Wasan Vocational School Open Day

The Wasan Vocational School is an agriculture-based training institution. Its establishment is in line with His Majesty's Government desire to produce school-leavers that can contribute to the country's economic growth through agriculture. This morning, the school held its Open Day for students who are interested in taking up courses offered at the school. The event runs for two days.

The school offers the Brunei Darussalam Technical and Vocational Education Certificate, BDTVEC courses such as the National Diploma in Agriculture Science which is a two and a half year course including a 6-month industrial attachment. The course offers students with basic skills and knowledge in agriculture science. Also offered is the National Diploma in Fisheries Studies which is also a two-and-a-half-year course with a six-month industrial attachment that provides students with the skills to contribute to the development of the fishery and aquaculture industries. Meanwhile, the National Diploma in Biotechnology with the same study duration as the other two courses, provides students with the theory and practical skills in the concept and foundation of biotechnology.

The engineering certificate programme, according to the school's Acting Principal, Awang Aket bin Melayong, includes crops production, fisheries studies and food processing. The latest course is the Engineering Certificate in Crop Production, while the National Diploma in biotechnology and Fisheries Studies are now in their second intake. Most graduates of the school will pursue a career in the field of agriculture under the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources.

The Wasan Vocational School began operations in July 2006. The school is one of the projects under the 8th National Development Plan. This school is also offering the National Trade Certificate for students who had completed Secondary Three.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 17, 2010

Dikir Ceremony in the Tutong District

Dikir ceremonies are being held to glorify the Maulidur Rasul in celebration of the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, S.A.W. apart from taking the example from the life history of the great prophet. Last night, the Executive Committee of the Maulud Celebration in the Tutong District held the Maulud celebration.

The ceremony began with the reading of Surah al-Fatihah, led by the Tutong District Chief Religious Officer, Awang Haji Madzneh bin Haji Md Noor. Four Dikir recitals, namely Dikir Assalaamu'alaika, Dikir Khairuman, Dikir Alham and Dikir Ashraqal, were presented by a group of government officers and staff in the Tutong District. The function took place at the Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah Mosque, Sungai Kelugos, Tutong.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 17, 2010

Week (February 8 to 12, 2010)

DUE TO THE WINTER STORM IN WASHINGTON, DC THERE ARE NO NEWS REPORT THIS WEEK.

In observance of the President's Day on Monday, February 15, 2010 the Embassy will be closed.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR COMPREHENSION.

Week (February 1 to 5, 2010)

Lecture with the Mufti held at the Kamung Sungai Liang Mosque

Life is transient. And in going through life in this world, things can change and can be replaced. This matter was discussed in a Lecture with the Mufti held at the Kamung Sungai Liang Mosque in the Belait District, last night.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Doktor Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz in his lecture, touched on the life of mankind, the difficulties faced in this world including difficulties in learning and at school, difficulties in revising lessons as well as in undergoing tests and examinations. The Yang Berhormat Pehin reminded Muslims not to take lightly tests that they are to be faced after death. The biggest, greatest and conclusive examination, according to the Yang Berhormat Pehin, will be on the Day of Judgement when men will come face to face with Allah the Almighty. On that day, all management matters are in Allah's power. All parts of the human body such as the tongue, hands and feet will come forward as prosecutors, witnesses, solicitors and interpreters.

The Lecture with the Mufti in conjunction with the Maulud celebration in commemmoration of the birthday of Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu'alaihi Wasallam, will continue on the 20th of February at Kampung Kupang Mosque, in the Tutong District.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 5, 2010

Nursing Potpourri Talk

Further Learning in Nursing is not only an important element in promoting skill competency, but also as one of the methods to further enhance the standard of the nursing profession. More importantly, Further Learning could also entail effective treatment towards fulfilling patients' needs. The matter was highlighted by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health at the official opening of the First Nursing Potpourri, this afternoon.

Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Salam Bin Abdul Momin also said that the first Nursing Potpourri is one of the steps or platform to encourage the nursing graduates from overseas universities to exchange of ideas among them, show their skills as professional nurses and subsequently exercise them in the training course. It is also hoped that these trained nurses would use the experience and knowledge in carrying out their nursing practice.

The Nursing Potpourri themed, "Sharing of Knowledge", was organised by the Further Nursing Education Unit of the Nursing Services Department, Ministry of Health. It was in support of the Ministry's vision for 2035 - Achieving excellent services, continuous professional development and evidence-based approach. This series of talk sessions that will be held every month involves three speakers comprising graduates from different areas of nursing.

From 2004 until 2009, 53 nurses and four midwives have returned to work after having successfully completed their studies and training abroad. One nurse obtained the Master Degree, 30 received first degrees, 20 obtained Higher Diploma, one obtained the additional Diploma, and six nurses obtained certificates in Basic Nursing.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 5, 2010

Friday Sermon - Respect the Brunei Darussalam Flag as one of the symbol of love for the nation

The national flag is the symbol of unity of the country's citizens. Despite the difference in religion, race, creed and beliefs, they remain united under the leadership of a king or head of state. The community must be aware that unity or solidarity ensures security and can lead to prosperity and development. Since the flag is a national symbol, the citizens should respect the Brunei Darussalam Flag as one of the symbol of love for the nation. This matter was highlighted in the Friday Sermon today.

It was emphasised in the Friday Sermon that in conjunction with the 26th National Day Anniversary celebration, the citizens and residents in the country should together answer the government's call to fly the national flag as a show of loyalty and faithfulness to the king and the nation. In the sermon, the imam added that flags can kindle the spirit of patriotism and nationalism. For example, in sports every contigent flies the flag of their respective country as an identification of the country they represent. The same applies to international conferences where flags of the participating countries will be placed on the table in front of the delegates to identify their respective nations. So meaningful is the national flag, that it is not surprising if a patriotic citizen will feel offended or insulted if the national flag of his or her country is not being honoured. Therefore, Muslims are urged to honour the national flag that represents the image of the race and nation. It is also necessary to ensure that the flag to be raised is in good condition, not worn-out or faded in colour.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 5, 2010

Oil Drilling Project in Tutong District

Two sites in the Tutong District have been identified for oil drilling project to be carried out soon. In this regards, a briefing on the project was given to residents in the effected areas this afternoon.

The locations known as 'LUKUT' situated at Kampong Birau and Kampung Lempuyang in the Bukit Barun area. The briefing was presented by the company manager, Awang Zulasmin bin Mohd Nor.

The first phase will involve drilling in the LUKUT. It will be carried out by Nation Petroleum and its consortium and takes about 110 days.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 5, 2010

H1N1 Vaccination at the Indoor Stadium in Berakas

Due to the increase of Influenza A H1N1 cases in Brunei Darussalam, the Ministry of Health once again reminded the members of the public to go for vaccination.

The Ministry of Health says that the Vaccination Centre at the Indoor Stadium in Berakas will now be operating on Fridays and Sundays as well as during public holidays this month from 2 in the afternoon until 8 in the evening. Meanwhile, on Monday until Thursday and Saturday, the Vaccination Centre will be opened during office hours.

Since it began operation on January 30th, the Vaccination Centre at the Indoor Stadium in Berakas recorded a total of 305 people had their vaccination. Yesterday alone, the number reached 680.

To get the vaccination, members of the public need to register and fill in the form while waiting for their turn. Once they had their vaccination, they will be given briefing and monitored by doctors and nurses on duty before leaving.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 5, 2010

The Official Opening of Audiomarc Company

In the current ever changing economic situation, business community need to diversify their business procedure or marketing strategy in effort to attract costumers. What is more important, they need to always implement the safety aspect. The Chairman of the Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Board, Pengiran Hj Ali Pengiran Hj Othman made the remarks at the official opening of Audiomarc Company in Gadong, this morning.

According to Pengiran Hj Ali, businessmen also need to make whatever changes necessary according to procedure underlined or enforced by the government agency involved to prevent any undesirable tragedy. Businessmen, especially building owners are urged to pay their electricity and water bills as well as building tax. In view of the current H-1-N-1 pandemic, they are also reminded to always keep their premises clean and to provide basic necessities for the workers and costumers. The Chairman of the Bandar Seri Begawan Municipal Board also touched on the Bandar Seri Begawan Development Master Plan.

Audiomarc Company, located at Simpang 103, Jalan Gadong, sell various electrical and household goods as well as renowned branded entertainment equipments.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 5, 2010

The website for Everest Trekking Charity Project was launched

The website for collection of contributions for the Everest Trekking Charity Project was launched this afternoon at the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre, OGDC, Seria this evening. The website was officially launched by the Belait District Officer, Haji Jamain bin Momin.

To donate to the Project Fund online, the public can log on to www.trekkingamal.com.bn. Besides donating online, donors can also send their contributions directly to the Community Development Department, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and to the HSBC throughout the country. Meanwhile, the organisers also plan to introduce the donation method via Brunei Prihatin SMS soon.

The Everest Trekking Charity Project is carried out by the Brunei Chess Association, BCF, with the cooperation of the Community Development Department, aimed at collecting donations for the National Welfare Fund.The project targets at a collection of 50 thousand dollars for the construction or repairworks on the homes of families in need of aid in the country. The objective of the project is also to establish the first Brunei team to reach the Everest Base Camp as well as to organise a chess tournament at the world's highest venue. Present at today's ceremony was a member of the State Legislative Council, Yang Berhormat Haji Shafiee bin Ahmad.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 5, 2010

Voluntary Work in Temburong

Caring attitude needs to be continuously nurtured among kampong residents. Such a move was seen this morning when residents of Kampong Kinalong in Mukim Bangar, Temburong carried out a voluntary work to repair one of residents' house.

The house belongs to Awang Haji Mohammad Yusof bin Haji Mohammad Misir. The voluntary work was joined by the Temburong District Office and the Kampung Belingus Consultative Council as well as residents in the nearby areas.

Also taking part in the vouluntary work were the District Officer, Awang Matusin bin Orang Kaya Sura Haji Tuba and a member of the State Legislative Council, Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Sulaiman bin Haji Ahad, who is also the Ketua Kampung of Belingus.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 5, 2010

BEDB received a call from a business delegation from Sabah Economy Development Corporation

The Brunei Economic Development Board, BEDB, this morning received a call from a business delegation from Sabah, Malaysia. The delegation is representing the Sabah Economy Development Corporation, SEDCO.

The delegation was led by the Chairman of SEDCO, Yang Berhormat Datuk Haji Mohd Arifin bin Mohd Arif. During the visit the delegation heard a briefing delivered by the Chairman of BEDB, Dato Paduka Timothy Ong. He among others explained on the current development of economic activities in Brunei Darussalam including the Sungai Liang Industrial Park, SPARK. Also being touched was the planned construction of Container Port at Pulau Muara Besar. The port will be equipped with a highly sophisticated infrastructure and a large scale of capacity compatible with the strategic location of the port. The delegation was also informed on BEDB efforts to create an ICT infrastructure at the i-Centre in Aggerek Desa.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 5, 2010

Career Briefing at Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College

Students often make the wrong career choice probably owing to peer influence, that could make them feel pressured and regret with their choice of career. This was disclosed by the Counsellor at the Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College, Dayang Harisah Haji Awang in an interview with RTB this morning.

According to Dayang Harisah, based on her own experience, some of the students made their career choice not based on their own capability but sometimes on influence from their peers, or relatives and different suggestions from their parents and teachers. This could confuse the students and lead to their making the wrong course or career choice that they later regret. They would then decide to change course even after they had already undergone the course for half a year.

Dayang Harisah then stressed the need for parents or guardians to comprehend and identify their children's potential and capability without determining the career their children should pursue. She said that the reason for inviting parents today was to suggest to them to allow their children to choose the type of career that suits their interest and capability so that they do not feel pressured and the question of learning half-way through and regrets will not arise.

RTB's interview with Dayang Harisah was held after a briefing session organised by the Paduka Seri begawan Sultan Science College through its Career Centre with the cooperation of the college's Guidance and Counselling Section. The briefing touched on the guidance for parents and guardians of the college students on how to make career choices that suit their children's academic qualifications, interest and capability. The briefing took place at the College Hall.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 5, 2010

Ambassador-at-large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade in a sabda hoped Dayangku Era can motivate the Bruneian youth

The United Nations last December gathered world leaders to plan urgent action on global warming and climate change. And at the same time, efforts were taken aimed raising awareness on the same issues.

A group of brave and determined young ladies from the Commonwealth countries skied to the South Pole, one of the most demanding of all environments. Among these outstanding young women was one of our own, Dayangku Era.

This was highlighted by Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade in a sabda during the reception dinner to celebrate Dayangku Era's achievement in reaching the South Pole as part of the team in the Commonwealth Women's Antarctic Expedition. Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna encouraged Era to share her exciting stories and experience with the Bruneian youth. Her Royal Highness added that Era's experience can be a motivator for the youth to build up their confidence and thought that "there is a South Pole for everyone".

Dayangku Era, aged 25, works at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Her adventure began in February 2009 when she was selected from among 800 applicants worldwide to be part of the first all-women team to attempt the trip to the South Pole. Era, who is also known as Brunei's Polar Girl said she is proud to have represented Brunei on this once in a lifetime adventure. Last night's event was held at the Royal Brunei Polo and Riding Club, Jerudong and Also present were, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz and the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Ahmad.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 4, 2010

World Cancer Day

Cancer is the main cause of death in Brunei Darussalam from 2004 to 2007 with the death rate of 55 point 1 percent per 100 thousand people in 2007.

In a message in conjunction with the World Cancer Day today, the Minister of Health, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi disclosed that from 2002 to 2006, the National Cancer record showed that a total of 1,348 cancer cases were identified which was an average of 269 cases per year. The record also showed that lung cancer normally occur among the male while breast cancer among the female. Other cancers include cervical, endometrium and nasopharynx.

According to Yang Berhormat cancer cases has been on the rise in the country and even more alarming is that breast cancer cases have been identified at an early age, lung cancer also occurred among non smoker and obesity was linked to endometrium cancer at a young age.

The theme of the this year's World Cancer Day, which is celebrated on every February 4th is 'Cancer Can be Prevented Too'. It is aimed at encouraging people to take simple steps to prevent cancer disease.

In the message Yang Berhormat also outlined four major ways for cancer prevention, namely, stopping consumption of tobacco products, a healthy diet and lifestyle, preventing Hepatitis B infection that cause cancer and staying away from alcoholic beverages. The theme is in line with the effort of the Ministry of Health to raise public awareness on the disease, and to promote healthy lifestyle among the citizens and people in the country.

Cancer is also one of the main cause of death througout the world. According to the World Health Organisation, WHO it is estimated that 84 million people died of cancer between 2005 and 2015 if preventive and control programmes are not implemented. Cancer is a disease which can be prevented and treated. More than 30 percent of cancer cases can be prevented if the public adopt healthy lifestyles.

To prevent and control cancer in Brunei Darussalam, the Ministry of Health has taken various measures including the implementation of the 2005 Tobbaco Order and Regulations so as to reduce the rate of tobacco products consumption as well as to reduce lung cancer in the country.

The Ministry of Health takes serious attention on the provision of hollistic and high quality treatment. To further improve treatment and health care services, through joint venture with the Jerudong Park Medical Centre,JPMC, the Oncology Unit of RIPAS Hospital has been permanently transferred to the JPMC on 21st December last year. The transfer is aimed at providing a more comprehensive Cancer Centre as national consultation centre to treat, cure and prevent cancer in the country,as well as to upgrade the quality of living of cancer sufferers. The centre provides special and more appropriate facilities as well comfort for cancer patients.

In conjunction with the World Cancer Day this year, the Ministry of Health will organise activities that will educate and instill public awareness on simple ways to prevent cancer and encourage them to change their attitude by adopting advices given.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 4, 2010

"Cancer be Prevented Too"slogan of the World Cancer day Campaign

Each year 12 million people receive a cancer diagnosis and 7.6 million people die of cancer. "Cancer be Prevented Too", is the slogan of the World Cancer day Campaign this year, that more than 100 countries are in the global fight against cancer through the implementation of the World Cancer Declaration.

According to Oncologist Specialist from the National Cancer Centre, Dr Haji Muhd Syafiq Abdullah, one-third or 30 percent of cancers are potentially preventable and that the risk of developing cancers can significantly reduced.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 4, 2010

Courtesy call from the Chairman of the Sabah Economic Developement Corporation

The Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya this afternoon received a courtesy call from the Chairman of the Sabah Economic Developement Corporation, SEDCO.

Yang Berhormat Datuk Haji Mohd Arifin bin Mohd Arif is leading a 14-member trade delegation from Sabah for a four-day visit to the country. During the call, both sides hoped for the bilateral and trade relations to be further streghthened.

The visitors were later briefed on the ministry role and functions including the Brunei Halal Brand and the upcoming International Halal Product Expo.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 4, 2010

Sabah Delegation visited Mahkota Crystal Sendirian Berhad

A trade delegation of 35 from the Sabah Economic Development Corporation, SEDCO, today visited a project site under the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources, Mahkota Crystal Sendirian Berhad, located at the Lambak Kanan Industrial Site. The visit to Mahkota Crystal Sendirian Berhad was part of a 4-day visit Itinerary to Brunei Darussalam.

The trade delegetion, led by the Chairman of SEDCO, Yang Berhormat Datuk Haji Mohd Arifin bin Mohd Arif was welcomed by the Board of Directors of Mahkota Crystal Sendirian Berhad, Pengiran Sharifuddin bin Pengiran Haji Matali and Haji Awang Faizal bin Haji Mohd Yaakub. The Sabahans were shown around the premises and given a briefing on the production process, its raw material imports and the machinery used.

According to SEDCO's Chairman the visit gave them several options to explore business and investment opportunities in the Sultanate. Yang Berhormat Datuk Haji Mohd. Arifin bin Mohd. Arif said they also seek experience in learning from Brunei in connection with business world and others. Besides that, he added, their visit was also to look for opportunities on how to co-operate and seek partners and will be of benefit to both sides particularly in Sabah and business partners di Brunei Darussalam.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 4, 2010

Mass Gathering in conjunction with the 26th Brunei Darussalam's National Day

One hundred and four teams have so far confirmed to take part in the Mass Gathering in conjunction with the 26th Brunei Darussalam's National Day. The event will be participated by the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Royal Brunei Police Force, Uniformed Organisations, Ministries and Government Departments, Special Teams, District teams, the private sector, Higher Learning Institutions, Schools and Colleges, Public Organisations and Associations including foreign nationals.

In a media briefing this afternoon, the Permanent Secretray at the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports, Dato Paduka Awang Hj Jemat bin Hj Ampal who's the secretary of the Executive Committee of Brunei Darussalam's National Day celebration, called on the public to join the spectators at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien in the capital to together glorify the national day celebrations, besides showing patriotic support and pride to loving the country in line with this year's theme, 'Negaraku Brunei Darussalam' which demands Bruneians to feel that Brunei Darussalam belongs to them, and that they should together uphold the image and secure the harmony of the country. This year's National Day theme, 'NEGARAKU BRUNEI DARUSSALAM'.

To avoid traffic jam during the celebration, the national day's committee of Transportation has provided 234 vehicles through shuttle services at two venues. For members of the public from Gadong, Berakas and the surrounding areas, the committee has provided transportation services at the car parking space of the Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah. While those coming via Jalan Tutong and its vicinity, the shuttle service is available at the Milem One Open Area adjacent to the Seri Complex Pot Office in Jalan Tutong. Both Shuttle Services will drop passengers near the Lapau and Madrasah Buildings.

This year's national day celebration will commence with the hoisting of the Giant Flag on Sunday the 7th of this month.
The Majlis Kesyukuran and Mass Maghrib Prayer, the reading of Surah Yassin and Doa Kesyukuran will be held on Monday Evening 22nd February at the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque in the capital.

Meanwhile, the rehearsals for the traditional parade at the Taman Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien will be held on Tuesday 16th, Thursday 18th and Saturday 20th respectively from 7.30 until 11 in the morning. The highlight of the celebration will take place on the morning of Tuesday the 23rd.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 4, 2010

A working visit by the Conservation and Improvement Permanent Committee of National Park, Ulu Temburong

The National Park in Ulu Temburongcontinues to be given due attention by improving the standard of the existing facilities, and building new premises. Among the improved facilities at the Park are the building of the Brunei Darussalam Outward Bound Operation Centre. The improvement works on the building which is regularly used as venue for field-activities have been fully-completed.

Yesterday, the Conservation and Improvement Permanent Committee of National Park, Ulu Temburong made a working visit to the park to have a closer look at the development progress of the area. Leading the visitors, the Deputy Minister of Development, Dato Paduka Doctor Awang Haji Mat Suny, who's chairman of National Park Committee together with the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources, Dayang Hajah Suriyah binti Haji Umar. A meeting was also held to discuss projects that have been completed under the improvement of standard and building structure as well as the construction of new additional buildings at the National Park.

During the working visit, there was also a handing-over of the Brunei Darusssalam Outward Bound Operation Centre's building in Ulu Temburong which have been improved. The improvement works on the facilities is one of the projects carried out by the Public Works Department. The buidling was handed over by the Acting Director-General of Public Works, Awang Haji Suhaimi bin Haji Gafar to the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mohd Hamid bin Haji Mohd Jaafar, and witnessed by the Deputy Minister of Development.

Major parts of the improvement works carried out on the O-B-B-D Operation Centre Building include - replacing the decayed or crumbling of woods structure especially the jetty and landing areas, dining room, meeting room and check-in block. The operation centre is one of the facilities at the Brunei Darussalam Outward Bound for field activities particularly for participants who are attending the self-defence course. Apart from the O-B-B-D Operation Centre, improvement works were also carried out on one of another facilities provided at the Brunei Darussalam Outward Bound namely: the Logistic Centre at the Kampong Batang Duri.

The delegation also visited the newly- improved Field Research Centre at Kuala Belalong that is located at the Kuala Sungai Belalong. The Centre is one of the important facilities as a tropical rainforest bio-diversification research centre in the country which is well-known to the world. This Research Centre is not only to attract interest of scientists and environmentalists, but also always welcome the visit state dignateries including foreign leaders. In the meantime, the National Park at Ulu Temburong is now having a special helicap which was fully-completed, last year. The improvement works aimed at upgrading the standard of facilities and structure at the Park besides building capabilities in producing a condusive and harmonious atmosphere towards developing tourism industry, forestry and those related with them.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 4, 2010

Hoisting of national flag campaign for the Tutong District

The hoisting of national flag campaign for the Tutong District level in conjunction with the 26th National Day of Brunei Darussalam was held this morning at the Tutong Civic Complex. This marks the beginning of the hoisting of national flag at every building besides glorifying the celebration.

Earlier, the Director of Information, Doctor Muhammad Hadi bin Muhammad Melayong, in his speech, emphasizes that close co-operation of all parties can create a united-community under the umbrella of a beloved ruling monarch. He said, the hoisting of national flag becomes a symbol of genuine patriotism spirit among the rakyat and people of the country.
A special briefing on Adat Istiadat Department was presented by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Seri Wijaya Pengiran Haji Ahmad. He urged every walks of life to hoist national flag or personal flag correctly and accordingly based on the stated rules.
Present, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Awang Haji Mawardi bin Haji Abdullah.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 4, 2010

RTB heard a talk on Corruption organised by the Anti-Corruption Bureau

Radio Television Brunei, RTB, is committed towards the prevention of corruption as well as aware on the dangers of such act. It will not only tarnish the organisation, the country and public service's image, and will also ruin the unity and prosperity of the country. This morning, officers and staff of RTB heard a talk on Corruption organised by the Anti-Corruption Bureau.

The talk is aimed at giving awareness and providing information and knowledge to the officers and staff of RTB while gaining beneficial insights that can be used as a precaution in carrying out their responsibilities. Special Investigative Officer of the Anti-Corruption Bureau, Pengiran Imran bin Pengiran Haji Metarsat, in his talks, among otherthings outlined the types of corruption and shared the outcome of several investigations on corruption cases that have been carried out. He also touched on criminal sentences that will be imposed on government servants who committed offences under the Anti-Corruption Act.

Present was the Acting Director of RTB, Awang Haji Idris bin Haji Md Ali. The briefing was jointly organised by RTB's Broadcasting Development Centre and the Anti-Corruption Bureau.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 4, 2010

Visit of ASEAN Workshop Participants to Mangrove Paradise Resort

About thirty participants of the ASEAN Workshop, this afternoon were on a tour to one of Brunei's Resorts which was officially opened in October, last year. The tour to the Mangrove Paradise Resort focussed on the development of Small and Medium Enterprises, SMEs in the country.

The Resort is a floating check-in accomodation surrounded with mangroves. Its construction costs about 2-million dollars. According to one of the workshop's participants, the resort has a great potential especially in attracting many foreign tourists to visit the country.

According to Awang Khairul, the two-day workshop focusses on sharing experience among small and medium entreprises in the ASEAN countries.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 4, 2010

His Majesty The Sultan consented to receive in an audience the Chief of General Staff of the UK

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces has consented to receive in an audience the Chief of General Staff of the United Kingdom, His Excellency General Sir David Richards at Istana Nurul Iman this afternoon.

At the audience ceremony, His Excellency General Sir David Richards was accompanied by the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Major General Haji Aminuddin Ihsan and the British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Robert Dominic Russell Fenn.

Brunei Darussalam and the United Kingdom first established its defence bilateral cooperation through the Exchange of Notes in September 1983. Since then a number of memorandum of understandings have been signed, which enhanced further the defence cooperation between the two countries. The four day official visit by His Excellency aims to further strengthen the friendly relationship and to extend the importance of bilateral military cooperation of both armies.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 3, 2010

The appointment of the new Director of Internal Security Department

By command of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the Prime Minsiter's Office hereby announces that His Majesty the Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to confirm the appointment of Yang Mulia Awang Haji Hamdan bin Haji Abu Bakar, Acting Director of Internal Security Department as Director of Internal Security Department. The confirmation of the said officer will take effect from Thursday, 19th of Safar 1431 corresponding to the 4th of February 2010.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 3, 2010

The Establishment of Fire and Rescue Cadets

The Co-curriculum Programme at education institutions in this country is one of the academic activity components that is important to secondary school students and ALSO to undergraduates of Centres for Higher Learning. This value-added programme becomes even more useful and beneficial to undergraduates in their studies at university, because besides obtaining knowledge, their involvement in the co-curriculum programme will train them to become responsible citizens.

The matter was underlined by the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, at the official opening ceremony of the establishment of the Fire and Rescue Cadet Team, of the Seri Begawan Religious Teachers University College, KUPU SB, this afternoon. Pengiran Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar said the co-curriculum programme at education institutions in the country is also an effective effort and initiative in creating balanced individuals mentally, physically, emotionally as well as intellectually. Pengiran Haji Bahrom hoped that such activities will continue to be extended to include other programmes to give students the opportunity to carry out social and community work. He also expressed confidence that the establishment of the cadet team would achieve its objective to produce religious teachers with holistic characteristics and personalities that are consistent with the policies of the country and the university college.

Sixty students from the January 2010 study session are taking part in the KUPU SB Fire and Rescue Cadet Team. The co-curriculum activity accounts for one credit under the management of the Core Knowledge Centre. The centre will further widen its co-curricular team to include other volunteer corps in the near future.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 3, 2010

ASEAN Workshop on 'Sharing of Best Practices On The Establishment of SME Financial Facility'

In Brunei Darussalam, SMEs account for 48.5% of all businesses and provide 92% of total employment in the private sector or 27.6% of the total workforce. This was disclosed by the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources, while officially opening the ASEAN Workshop on 'Sharing of Best Practices On The Establishment of SME Financial Facility'. The workshop is organised jointly by the Entrepreneurial Development Centre, Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources and SME Corporation Malaysia.

The two-day ASEAN Workshop held at the Rizqun International Hotel in Gadong aims to provide a platform, to share the outcome of the survey findings conducted earlier by small and medium enterprises or SME Bank of Malaysia with the assistance of all respective SME focal points in ASEAN Member States. In her opening address, Pengiran Hajah Mariana added that, as reported, SMEs are therefore a major source of employment in the country following a survey conducted by the Commonwealth Secretariat in June 2007. Pengiran Hajah Mariana also stated that The Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources, as the focal point for SME development, is committed to assist SMEs by adopting 3 broad approaches namely, expanding business opportunities, providing a favourable business environment for trade and investment, as well as ensuring that SME's are able to take full advantage of those opportunities.

This workshop is a joint cooperation project currently being executed by Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia as one of the four flagship projects listed under the Strategic Schedule of the ASEAN Economic Community, AEC Blueprint on SME Development for the period of 2009 to 2011. About 50 participants comprising those from the 10 ASEAN countries as well as from SME Agencies of the Plus Three Countries, China, Japan and Korea as well as Experts from SME Financial Institutions from ASEAN Member States are attending the workshop.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 3, 2010

'Study UK 2010' Seminar in Gadong

Another session of Study UK 2010 was held in Gadong to give opportunities for those who are still apprehensive about the procedures to apply to colleges or universities there. A number of things are to be reminded for students who wish to further their study in the United Kingdom.

Six seminars were held this afternoon to aid the students with their application processes and making full use of the time there. The seminars among others focused on the importance of taking International English Language Testing System - IELTS, student visa informations and on employability of UK Graduates.

According to the Entry Clearance Assistant, Trish Hickey from the British High Commission in Bandar Seri Begawan, there is a difference in applying the visa since three years ago. Soon students will only have to wait for a few weeks instead of months for their visas to be approved.

Meanwhile, the speaker for the seminar on employability of UK Graduates, Tim Gutsell advised students or graduates to use their visas to good use as they can apply for work opportunities in the UK to gain more experience.

Another thing that should be on the students checklist is to ensure that the universities they are applying for have the International English Language Testing System, IELTS grades.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 3, 2010

English has become the global language of Business and Technology

The English Language is seen as a global language and is fast becoming accepted as the lingua franca of South East Asia and the Pacific region. Economic globalisation has encouraged the spread of English, but at the same time, the spread of English has also encouraged globalisation. English has in fact become the global language of Business and Technology.

As links between people across the world grow, there is an increasing need for us to learn world languages, such as English. Knowing one or more of the world languages is becoming an increasingly important skill for any individual who wants to do well in today's global market. Global trade stimulates the growth of global languages, this in turns allow businesses to encourage their staff to improve their language skills in order to compete better in today's competitive global market. This was stated by the Chairperson, Michael G. Cross at the opening ceremony of English for Business and Technology Conference, E4BT this morning. The conference was officially launched by the Vice Chancellor of Institute of Technology Brunei, ITB, Doctor Haji Omar bin Haji Khalid.

The conference aims to be a meeting point for educators and trainers to keep abreast of current trends, innovations and latest development in the teaching of English for Business and Technology. In addition, it will also provide an opportunity for educators and trainers to present, discuss and generate ideas on the current trend and the effective delivery of English for Business and Technology. The E4BT conference brings together 28 paper presenters from around the region with the invitation of two international keynote speakers, Vicki Hollet and Doctor Alistair King.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 3, 2010

Tunas Mekar Competition Competition Final for Primary Schools

The National Education System of the 21st Century, SPN 21, highlights the necessary skills that students need to learn including skill in the Info-Communication Technology or ICT. In this respect, exposing and encouraging the use of multi-media in the learning process is an effort that should be welcomed by all parties. Activities such as the Tunas Mekar Group Competition can help teachers as well as students in diversifying the methods of teaching and learning. This was stated by the Acting Senior Special Duties Officer of the Schools Department, Ministry of Education at the final of Tunas Mekar Group Competition for Primary Schools throughout the country 2009, this morning.

Awang Aidin bin Haji Abu Bakar said if the skill training is conducted with full commitment and responsibility by all parties, with focus on the students, it will be fruitful in terms of attitude, skill, and knowledge. Awang Aidin viewed the learning process at the primary school level as vital to the children's development in the acquisition of knowledge and skills particularly in communication. Only with good basic skill and knowledge in certain fields, the students will find it easier to follow and continue their studies at a higher level. Such skills can be acquired through activities such as discussions, briefings, talks, workshops, exhibitions, demonstrations, campaigns, teamwork and communication exercises.

The competition was aimed at creating a more conducive school atmosphere apart from finding talents among the pupils who are able to speak up before an audience. The Pancong Primary School, Tutong Two, emerged the champion in the competition. The competition was organised by the Schools Department, Ministry of Education and held at the Rimba Secondary School, Gadong.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 3, 2010

The Police are distributing leaflets on safety guidelines during road block

In order to ensure that road users always obey traffic laws and regulations, the Royal Brunei Police Force this morning held a road safety campaign in conjunction with the 89th police day anniversary.

The campaign was led by the Acting Superintendent of Police, Muhammad hadini bin Haji Osman. In the campaign, the police personnel and staff distributed leaflets on road safety to motorists during a road block. In an interview with RTB, the Acting Assistance Commissioner of Police, who is also the Acting Director of the Traffic Investigation and Control Department, Pengiran Kamaluddin bin Pengiran Setia Raja Pengiran Haji Jaya said the aim of the road safety campaign was mainly to raise awareness or remind motorists to always be careful when driving on the road. Vehicles that are to be modified must first obtain permission from the Land Transport Department. Those without driving licenses must not drive and should also consider the safety of others.

The leaflets contain among other things, guidance and information for motorists on how to avoid accidents, the advantages of using the safety belt for drivers and passengers, guidelines for motorcyclists as well as statistics on road accidents that cause casualties. The Royal Brunei Police Force advises the public, especially road users, to always give their cooperation and obey the laws and regulations in together ensuring the smooth flow of traffic and safety for everyone on the roads.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 3, 2010

Presentation of Certificate and Badge in the Fire and Rescue Department

Four divers from the Fire and Rescue Department, the second team undergone a public safety diving supervisor course at the International Diving Academy Malaysia, have received their certificates and badges.

The four divers, Awang Haji Sapar bin Haji Judin, Awang Haji Nordin bin Haji Lias, Pengiran Zunaidi bin Pengiran Haji Duraman and Awang Haji Md Ali bin Md Yassin attended the two-week course on Public Safety last December in Terengganu, Malaysia. The certificates and badges were presented by the Director of Fire and Rescue Department, Awang Yahya bin Haji Abdul Rahman.

The course was aimed at giving knowledge to the divers as a preparation in the aspects of safety, physical and mental strength in search and rescue operation. Apart from that, the course also aimed at improving the capability, skill and strengthen the technique and strategy of the Diving Unit of the department.

One of the divers, said besides empowering the knowledge and experiences they have implemented since 1992, the course also assist them to reduce the risks while diving.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 3, 2010

Youth Development Program 2010/2011 session

Two hundreds and twenty-seven trainees will attend a nine-month course of Youth Development Program for 2010/2011 session.

The session begun with the registration of the trainees. A total of ten courses are offered including computer and office management, cooking and catering, and cake and pastry. The successful applicants of the Youth Development Program for 2010/2011 session will also attend a skill training. It is hoped that the course could build the participants' self esteem so that they can become an excellent youth. The trainees will also undergo a working attachment program which is hope could give them experience and knowledge on office procedure. Present was the Head of Youth Development Program, Dayang Hajah Fatimah.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 3, 2010

Officiating two base camps in the Temburong and Tutong Districts

All agencies are called to foster close cooperation in together curbing illegal logging activities and sandalwood theft at the country's forest.

The Commissioner of Police, Yang DiMuliakan Pehin Datu Kerma Setia Dato Paduka Seri Zainuddin made the call while officiated at two base camps in the Temburong and Tutong Districts. The camps are for the C Company Reserve Force of the Royal Brunei Police Force, who are assigned to monitor the vicinity of the camps.

The setting up of the camps acts as an effective inspiration strategy in the operation against sandalwood theft and illegal logging in the country. Also present were the Deputy Police Commissioner for Operation, Yang DiMuliakan Pehin Orang Kaya Pendikar Alam Haji Hasrin, General Surveyor and representatives of the government department and the Royal Brunei Armed Force.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 2, 2010

Ensuring a high standard of living for all Brunei citizens and enjoys stability

Brunei Darussalam with a population of 406, 200 and one of the highest Gross Domestic Product per Capita in Asia is highly fortunate that it has been able to maintain a sense of continuity with its past while at the same time embracing the present, ensuring a high standard of living for all its citizens and a sense of stability that is sometimes the envy of its neighbours.
The citizens of Brunei Darussalam are blessed with excellent health services, which provide universal access virtually due to the generosity of the state government. According to a 2007 World Health Organization, WHO, global survey of health services, Brunei Darussalam ranked 40th out of 190 countries. The survey also placed it second within the Association of South East Asian Nations, ASEAN, after Singapore, and fourth within the Pacific region.

At present the government provides health care that costs only BD$1 a visit for Bruneian citizens. Those under the age of 12 receive care for free, and those in particular need pay even less than BD$1. The nearly free service includes dental care as well as specialised health and medical treatments, operations and consultation with Doctors. Even those who lives in remote areas receives medical care by a fly-in-doctor service by The Flying Medical Team.

As part of the Sultanate's system of care for its citizen, Brunei Darussalam also offers free and universal education from the Primary to the tertiary levels. There is also a system of scholarships in place for undergraduates and postgraduates to study either at universities in Brunei Darussalam or overseas for degree or diploma courses. According to the Global Competiveness Index G-C-I released by the World Economic forum in September 2009, the Sultanate has one of the most educated populations in Asia. In 2009 Brunei Darussalam moved up some seven places overall from its 2008 performance with health and primary education, training and higher education singled out as outperforming pillars of the GCI for the Sultanate. This improvement helped Brunei Darussalam rise in the rankings from fourth to third position overall among Association of South East Asian Nations, ASEAN, member states.

Brunei Darussalam is also considered to have virtually non-existent poverty. In an effort to free the poor or fakir, destitute or miskin and people who cannot pay their debts Al Gharimin, The government through the Brunei Islamic Religious Council has distributed the balance of all zakat monies. The zakat for the fakir and miskin has assured their security with financial aid, staple food, schooling, accommodation, the empowerment programme, medication and more. The programme can help develop these people in terms of economic and daily living until they are able to escape from poverty.

The Government also operates a system of subsidies on many agricultural products, including rice. One kilogram of domestically produced rice was selling at BD$1.20, while the Department of Agriculture purchase price for farmers' padi was BD$1.60, an implicit subsidy of BD$0.40 per kilogram. In addition, fertilisers for domestic farmers as well as pesticides and packaging used in the processing of rice are also effectively subsidised by the government. Bruneians have also traditionally relied on the government to provide them with housing. It is part of the broader social contract between the citizens of Brunei and the government and a cornerstone of the country's generous welfare system. Besides that Brunei Darussalam is a country that does not practice imposing personal taxes.

According to a survey conducted by researches from the University of Leicester Great Britain in 2006, Brunei Darussalam was among the top 10 in the list of the Worlds Happiest Country. Thanks to the Government, Brunei Darussalam was listed number 9 in the list for providing its citizens with free medical services and education. Even university level education is paid for by the government which also subsidizes rice and housing that ensures virtually nonexistent poverty.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 2, 2010

Flag Hoisting starting Sunday the 7th until the 27th of this month

Brunei Darussalam celebrates it's 26th National Day this year. Members of the public are thus urged to raise their national or personal flags at private homes and at commercial as well as office buildings, starting Sunday the 7th until the 27th of this month.
Pengiran-pengiran and those bestowed with titles are to display their personal flags and for the rest, it will be the Brunei national flag.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 2, 2010

Reception to mark the transfer of representation of the European Presidency in Brunei

The French Ambassador and the British High Commissioner have hosted a reception to mark the transfer of representation of the European Presidency in Brunei, commonly known as local presidency. Last night's function took place at the French Ambassador's Residence in Jalan Kota Batu.

Present was the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Pengiran Dato Paduka Osman bin Pengiran Haji Patra. Also present were the British High Commissioner, His Excellency Rob Fenn and the French Ambassador, His Excellency Louis Le Vert. The transfer from France to the United Kingdom went into effect on the 1st of January this year. In accordance with the Treaty of Lisbon which went into force on 1st December 2009, the presidency of the European Council is carried out by an elected president for two and a half years. In third world countries, the representation of the European Union is now the responsibility of delegations of the Union. However, in countries where there are no Union resident delegation, the presidency is represented by the embassy holding the rotating presidency. When neither a Union delegation nor related embassy is present, it's represented by one of the embassies of member countries present in the capital, on a half-yearly basis. For Brunei itself: the delegation of the European Union responsible for relations with the country resides in Jakarta. The Swedish presidency is thus represented by France and the Spanish presidency by the United Kingdom.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 2, 2010

Mauludir Rasul Celebration Meeting

Brunei Darussalam will celebrate the birthday of Prophet Mohammad 1431 Hijrah, simultaneously in the four districts, on Saturday, 27th February. This year's celebration carries the theme 'lllahi Selamatkan Brunei Darussalam'. The theme is in-line with the 26th National Day celebration theme 'Negara Ku Brunei Darussalam'. This morning, a meeting to discuss the celebration was held at the Dewan Muafakat, Government Offices Building, in the Temburong district.

The meeting was chaired by the Temburong District Officer, Awang Metussin Bin Orang Kaya Sura Haji Tuba and also attended by a member of the Legislative Council, Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Sulaiman Haji Ahad, penghulus and kampong ketuas as well as government officers. Among the agendas including the appointment of Working Committee members, discussion on the format of this year's celebration and other matters of the mass gathering and procession in the district. This year's gathering will be held at the Civic Centre in Bangar town. In glorifying the celebration, the nightly dikir at mosques and prayer halls will also be held for 12 consecutive nights.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 2, 2010

Strategic Planning & Management Workshop

A workshop was conducted this morning on Strategic Planning and Management to formulate Organisational Strategic Plan as well as to facilitate its implementation through a Balanced Scorecard. The workshop also provides basic coaching and guidelines to the participants on ways and methods of implementation used in the Departmental Strategic Plan.

The participants include the Assistant Director of Islamic Education's Office; Heads of section and unit; Education officers for districts and areas, Headmasters of Arabic Schools and officers from the Islamic Studies Department. The workshop is a follow up of one held in last December. It's an interactive workshop that requires the participants involvement in group work and discussions. The workshop was conducted by a facilitator from Mind Matters Consultant, Awang Zainal Abidin.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 2, 2010

Study in UK Exhibition

In assisting those students who have just passed their 'A' level examination to find a suitable programme that matches their academic achievement, the 8th Study in UK Exhibition provides a wide variety of courses at institutions which are recognized by Brunei Government. The one-day event was organised by HRD Services.

30 Universities from the United Kingdom participated in the exhibition which give the students the opportunity to meet university staff personally and do their course selection in time for scholarship application deadlines. In an interview with RTB, the Managing Director of HRD, Dayang Hajah Rafiah Haji Momin said that the exhibition also help the in-service personnel to identify appropriate programmes that reflect their training needs.

According to Associate Director South East Asia Region, Tina Yeung, Law, Medicine and Engineering are among the most popular courses.

The exhibition was also participated by officials from the Brunei Government Scholarship Department of the Ministry of Education and the Public Service Commission. This year's event also includes a series of seminars and talks on undergraduate programmes, postgraduate courses and PhD Research opportunities.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 2, 2010

MTTSR launched 5th National Skills Competition

The Sultan Saiful Rijal Technical College, MTTSR, today launched the 5th National Skills Competition. The skills include Cookery, Restaurant Service, Web Design and Computer Aided Design and Drafting.

Present at the launching was the college's Acting Principal, Habib Mohamad bin Wan Junaidi, members of the Department of Technical Education, key members of Brunei's 5th National Skills Competition committee, experts of the competing trades, key persons from the industry and the competition finalists.

The event, held every two years, sees participants compete in the various skills to test themselves against demanding international standards. Saiful Rijal's Chief Expert in Cookery, Dayang Azizah, hopes the country's representatives would take gold at the ASEAN Skills Competition to be held in Thailand.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 2, 2010

Indonesian woman reported missing

The Royal Brunei Police Force is seeking public assistance in tracing an Indonesian woman who was reported missing.
26 years old, SETIANI, Passport holder AK 550265, was reported missing since 16 th January 2010. Members of the public who has information on her where about are asked to contact the Muara Police Station through telephone 2772253 or Hotline 993 or any nearby police stations.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 2, 2010

Power Supply Interruption

The Electrical Services Department says that the power supply to several areas, including the Tungku Housing Resettlement area and the Narcotics Control Bureau in Tungku Gadong and nearby area will be interrupted from 9 o'clock tomorrow morning. The interruption is due to maintenance work on High Voltage in those areas.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 2, 2010

Earthwork proposal plans are to clearly show proposed cut and fill

With effect from today, 1st February 2010, all earthwork development applications for land within the Development Control Competent Authority, DCCA area, irrespective of the land size and terrain shall be submitted by Qualified Persons, Q.P, namely architects and engineers who are registered with the Ministry of Development.

In a statement issued by the Town and Country Planning Department Ministry of Development, the Chairman of DCCA said the issue was brought up in light of the 4 landslides and flooding partly due to natural disasters and human activities in development. Previously, earthwork proposal plans and submission could be made by landowners for lot area of less than 0.50 acre while earthwork proposal plans and submissions were done by Q.P for lot area of more than 0.50 acre. However, with this new procedure, all earthwork applications must be submitted by Qps based on the proposed type of earthworks to be carried out. Detailed information about this can be obtained from the Department of Town and Country Planning.

The DCCA reminds the public and particularly the QPs to ensure the earthwork proposal plans clearly show the proposed cut and fill including its proposed platform level, cross-section, all relevant details of the existing topography such as contour intervals, drainage, roads and existing developments in the surrounding area.

This new procedure also requires all earthwork proposal plans affecting steep slopes, undulating terrain and other environmentally sensitive areas that the DCCA thinks would need proper earthwork, has to be prepared and endorsed by qualified engineers registered with the Ministry of Development based on a certified topographical plan prepared by Licensed Land Surveyor prior TO SUBMISSION.

The Town and Country Planning Department says it is the responsibility of everyone involved in the development; in particular the landowners, developers, the professionals and contractors to share the accountability of protecting the natural environment, to prevent damage to the surrounding and causing landslide and flooding in the area and elsewhere. To ensure that earthworks are carried out properly and accordingly the cooperation of landowners, earthwork contractors and developers are very crucial.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 1, 2010

RTB Media Carnival Appreciation Night 2010

Over 60 thousand have visited the RTB Carnival this year, and the response was beyond expectations. For the success, an appreciation night to compliment those involved especially the RTBMC committee members, was held at the International Convention Centre in Berakas last night.

RTB's Acting Senior Administrative Officer, Awang Ridzuan Haji Ahmad as Chairman of the RTB Media Carnival, in his speech, among others said the carnival was designed to promote RTB's products and services and use feedbacks by members of the public to upgrade the station's performance.

The chairman of the carnival's co-partner, SUNLIT Advertising Sendirian Berhad, Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman Bin Pengiran Haji Damit, in his address, said the carnival which coincided with the Consumers' Fair, has benefited the community, consumers and business operators as well as to highlight the role of RTB as a broadcasting media in the country, especially in the era of digital technology.

The function also saw the handing over of contribution to the Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah Orphans' Fund. The donation amounting to more than 5 thousand 700 dollars was presented by RTB's Acting Director, Awang Hj Idris Bin Hj Md Ali to the
Assistant Managing Director of the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation, Awang Hj Puasa Bin Hj Jumat, as the representative of the Fund's Secretariat. The contribution came from the proceeds of the five-day carnival. Sponsors and joint-venture partners of the 2010 Media Carnival also received appreciation certificates.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 1, 2010

RTB Media Carnival 2010 gave the public the opportunity of how RTB operates

The five-day RTB Media Carnival 2010 that ended yesterday gave the public the opportunity to take a closer look at how RTB is operating. Besides that, the visitors also could learn about the development of RTB's programmes and new products especially on the RTB's transition to digital broadcasting.

RTB's News and Current Affairs Section was one of the sections that received an overwhelming response from the visitors. Before that, members of the public only watched the news on the TV screen, but during the carnival they had the chance to experience reading through the audition session. Through such an opportunity, the visitors could also learn about RTB's functions and responsibilities in disseminating government information to the people and vice versa. RTB Newscaster, Haji Taha Haji Chuchu described this year's carnival was the most joyful.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 1, 2010

Cyber crime is increasing in Brunei Darussalam

Cyber crime is increasing in Brunei Darussalam not only among the youths but also amongst the adults. According to the Commercial Crime Division of the Royal Brunei Police Force from 2004 until 2008 there were already 51 cases of cyber crime.

From 2004 to 2008, the Royal Brunei Police Force had recorded 51 cyber cases. Since it was first reported in 2004, the number of such cases had increased. In 2005, 3 more cases were reported after the previous 2 in 2004. 14 cyber cases were reported in 2006, 11 in 2007 and 19 cased in 2008.

According to the Royal Brunei Police Force's Probationary Assistant Superintendent, Ak Omar Ali, among the cases reported are blog journals with intention to slander individuals or groups and the infiltration of data, which is stealing information for crimes and scams through emails. In 2008-2009 only, 15 cases had cost 36 thousand dollars in losses whereby the cases reported were scams through the internet. For example, individuals who have received emails stating that they have won a reward however before they are able to receive the reward, they need to first send deposits, usually through a remittance company in the country.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 1, 2010

Ministry of Religious Affairs organised a 3-day Workshop on Refining Prayer rites

Performing the prayer is the key religious deed in Islam and is a compulsory daily practice. In this regard, the Islamic Education and Cultural Section of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in collaboration with the Setia Ali Mosque Takmir Committee has organised a three-day Workshop on Refining Prayer rites.

The workshop ended yesterday with the presentation of certificates to the participants. Throughout the workshop, the participants had the opportunity to enhance their knowledge on prayer performance and the prayer recitals. Apart from that, they were also made aware of mistakes and improper movement in prayers. Like other participants, Dayang Hajah Bobiah binti Haji Abu Bakar found the workshop very useful as she learnt the correct reading and movement in the prayer. The same goes for Awangku Haji Muhamad Firdaus bin Pengiran Haji Rusman. He said the workshop was very helpful.

More than 160 participants of the workshop received their certificates, presented by the Secretary of the Islamic Religious Council, Awang Haji Harun Haji Junid.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 1, 2010

Supplemental Contributory Pension to Improve Standard of Living

To enhance Brunei citizens' standard of living in their golden years, the government of His Majesty has introduced a new pension scheme. It's the Supplemental Contributory Pension, SCP which requires all employers and employees to make an obligatory monthly contributions as a sufficient incentive for their post-retirement living expenses.

The SCP roadshows and awareness campaigns have already been carried out to provide clear information on the process of SCP or Supplemental Contributory Pension.

In an interview with RTB, the Head of SCP Unit, Dayang Norlia binti Haji Kuala explained more on the scheme. The SCP is an additional retirement scheme which complements the existing Tabung Amanah Pekerja or Employees' Trust Fund, TAP Scheme. Those who are self-employed are also encouraged to join the scheme.

The main objective of the SCP Scheme is to ensure that all participants of the scheme who meet the stipulated conditions, receive a minimum monthly income of 150 dollars after they have reached the mandatory pensionable age of 60 years. Through the scheme, the retirees will receive a total of 400 dollars minimum monthly income which included additional old-age pension of 250 dollars. The income will help secure the participants' well-being during their retirement. Conditions to become the SCP members are similar to that of TAP, that's they must be Bruneian citizens and permanent residents who work at the public and private sectors.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 1, 2010

SCP scheme requires a monthly contribution of 7%

Based on the ability of the participants and employers to make the deposits as well as the private sector's competitiveness, the deposits set would be limited to a reasonable amount of 7 percent that is 3.5 percent from the participant and 3.5 percent from the employer, coming from the participant's monthly salary, depending on the minimum and maximum amount stipulated.

The total amount of deposit is 35 Brunei Dollars a month, that is 17 dollars 50 cents from each participant and 17 dollars 50 from the employer. For the contribution of less than 17 dollars 50, His Majesty's Government will give a top-up assistance to make it 17 dollars 50 so as to meet the minimum requirment of $150 a month. Menawhile those are TAP participants before the SCP is introduced, effective from the 1st of January 2010 will receive 'catch-up' amount of $30 a month effective from the date they joined TAP.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 1, 2010

The synchronisation of Rukyah and Takwim between members of MABIMS

The synchronisation of the "Rukyah" and "Takwim" between members of the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore Religious Council, or MABIMS, was among matters discussed at the 14th MABIMS Committee Meeting for the Synchronisation of Islamic Rukyah and Takwim. Also in the agenda was the revision of the rukyah criteria as practiced in member countries.

The agreements reached between MABIMS members were an outcome of its 13th meeting which took place in Singapore. The Chief Syari'e Prosecutor, Haji Johar bin Haji Mohammad, in an interview with RTB, gave some insight into the latest discussions.

According to Haji Johar, the main rukyah criteria has already been practiced uniformly across the region. However, certain areas still need to be synchronised as each country possesses its own set of policies as far as the rukyah is concerned.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 1, 2010

The 2nd APEC Future Scientist Conference 2010

Young scientist generation from 21 APEC member countries currently convene in Thailand to participate in the Second APEC Future Scientist Conference.

Brunei Darussalam through the Science and Technology Environment Cooperation Centre, STEP, is sending four students to the conference in an effort to produce a new scientist generation. The presentation of the national flag to the delegation was held at the Brunei International Airport this morning.

The 2nd APEC Future Scientist Conference opens today until the 6th of this month. The national flag was handed over by the Acting Head of STEP Centre, Awang Haji Metali bin Haji Mirasan. The students were selected based on their excellent academic performance. Three students are from the Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College and one from Jerudong International School. They will be exposed to several activities such as Poster Presentation, Team-project implementation and Presentation as well as a Science Tour.

All these are desired to strengthen relations among science teachers and students from APEC economies.

According to the head of delegation, Dr. Chia Yaw Ming, an Education Officer at the Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College, the conference will bring together young scientists from 21 nations basically to learn and becoming potential scientists.
The officer said the students have made early preparations including an eight-hour intense session towards improving the students' presentations, and make them well-prepared for the conference.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 1, 2010

36 New cases of Influenza A H1N1 recently reported

The Ministry of Health has urged the public to obtain their Influenza A vaccination at the vaccination centres provided in all the districts.

According to the Ministry's media release, the call follows the latest Influenza A H1N1 cases in the country. Today alone, 36 new cases were reported in comparison to the 44 cases reported last week. The Ministry of Health urges the public to get the vaccination in together working towards preventing the H1N1 infection. For more information on the Influenza A H1N1, the public can dial 145 during office hours or 7180991 after office hours.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, February 1, 2010

Week (January 25 to 29, 2010)

Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah participates in the Ministry of Education's 3rd Netball Championship

The Ministry of Education's 3rd Netball Championship began today. Twenty teams are taking part in the championship organised by the Departmenf of Co-Curriculum Education. The championship takes place at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium Sports Complex in Berakas.

This morning, 10 matches were played. Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Salleh Ab'Rahaman took part in the championship. Her Royal Highness was in the UBD netball team. In this match, the UBD netball team met Brunei 2A 'C' and the Zone 3A team.

The championship continued this afternoon with eight matches being held. Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Penigran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah also took part in the match. The UBD netball team met Brunei 2B 'B-A' and Brunei 3 team. This year, the championship introduced one new category for players born in 1970. The championship aims to encourage officers and other staff of the Ministry of Education at all levels and sections to be active in sports and to find a representative netball team for the Ministry of Education. The championship will continue on Sunday.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, January 29, 2010

The state mufti spoke of the importance of knowing the history of Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu'alaihi Wasallam and His friends

Only a living person has a soul, spirit, feeling and attitude. The dead has none of these. According to the state mufti, the soul, spirit and attitude need to be nurtured, polished and nourished so that they will become great and mighty. A person would feel proud to be described as having a great heart or soul.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Doctor Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz was speaking about the soul and spirit of mankind in the talk with the mufti session. The talk took place at the RBAF surau, Ministry of Defence Bolkiah Garisson, Berakas. The Yang Berhormat Pehin said the way to nurture and polish the soul, spirit, feeling and attitude to become great is by learning from history, digging facts from history and to be history literate. The intellectuals describe history as a professor.

The Yang Berhormat Pehin underscored history as important and the main foundation of life. History is also unique and wide. The very mention of Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu'alaihi Wasallam makes history, let alone recalling his life journey, his efforts and sacrifices and the reason why he became the messenger of Allah. Man's knowledge of the history of Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu'alaihi Wasallam is undoubtedly the water and the best fertilizer for developing a great soul, a patriotic spirit as well as the feeling of loyalty and love for the religion of Allah.
The Yang Berhormat Pehin also stressed the importance of knowing the history of Prophet Muhammad's friends, as their behaviour and lifestyle reflect the genuine leadership of Prophet Muhammad, S.A.W. The Yang Berhormat clarified that the prophet's friends were the light of the universe and both of them remain as legacies.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, January 29, 2010

Passing Out Parade for the cadets and recruits from the Prisons Department's first intake 2009

Every staff member who is responsible for guarding and taking care of prison inmates must have self-discipline in carrying out the duty they are entrusted with. A degree of discipline a compulsory element in all levels of the prison staff, to ensure absolute alertness and efficiency in the execution of their duty. This was emphasised by the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Awang Muhammad Lufti bin Abdullah at the Passing Out Parade for the cadets and recruits from the Prisons Department's first intake 2009, this morning.

Awang Muhammad Lufti said, besides displaying a high level of efficiency and discipline, prison staff must also show good examples to the inmates under their care.

Eight cadets and the first intake of recruits had completed 6 to 9 months of training. They comprised one Prison Superintendant Cade, one Woman Cadet Officer and 6 Female Warden Recruits. The best in all parts of the course was Awangku Haji Mohammad Bahrin bin Pengiran Haji Jamaluddin; The best in Drill and Physical Training was Nurul Soffizah Afidah binti Moho'or; The best in law was Nurul Khairunnisa Nazura binti Ismail; and the Best in Shooting was Norazalina binti Yabib.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, January 29, 2010

Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Wish Campaign

A new Islamic Medical Facility, Philantrophist wish and entreprenuer opportunities were among the wishes that Bruneians submitted as part of their wish stories for the final leg of the Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, BIBD, Wish Campaign. The Campaign closed in December, last year, with a total of 16-thousand stories received over the course of the campaign's nine-month run.

Pengiran Doktor Hajah Rahmah binti Pengiran Haji Jadid who received one thousand dollars planned to start the Islamic Medical Facility in her effort to raise the standard of medical care for her organisation, Darusysyifa' Warrafahah.

Another Wish Awardee, Hajah Mas Siti binti Haji Awang Mukkim, hopes to donate her win to contribute to Brunei's social institutions as well as to help people who are in need.

Haji Abdul Majid bin Haji Ismail, meanwhile, expresses his happiness and was thankful to Allah Subhanu Wata'ala for the fortune and plan start-up a business for his family's future well-being.

Presenting the prizes was the Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister's Office, Dato Paduka Haji Ali. The event took place at the International Convention Centre in Berakas.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, January 29, 2010

Friday Sermon - Islam does not forbid its followers from borrowing money

Islam warrants its followers to work for their livelihood in meeting the requirements of life in this world, either for themselves or for their dependents. However, in this modern era, even fulfilling basic needs can be costly and may make people have to borrow money to satisfy the demand. The matter was the main content of the Friday Sermon today.

The sermon stressed that Islam does not forbid its followers from borrowing money; but does not encourage it either. Borrowing is permissible as a way out from hardship and scarcity, as long as the aim of borrowing is to fulfill basic needs such as food, drinks, clothing, home and other needs, and not intended for luxury or anything wasteful. People are encouraged to give assistance or help to anyone in need. This includes giving aid or a loan to alleviate the suffering of someone in need of finance assistance, to meet their basic needs. Extending assistance should be made sincerely and not with the aim of taking advantage or seeking a profit such as by lending 100 dollars and asking for 120 dollars in return. Such an act is cruel and condemned by Allah the Almighty and is Haram or forbidden.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, January 29, 2010

ASEAN Tourism Forum Delegations visited The State Mufti Department

The State Mufti Department, this afternoon, welcomed the visit by several delegations, who are currently in the Sultanate, attending the ASEAN Tourism Forum, ATF.

During the visit, the A-T-F delegation heard a briefing on the Department of State Mufti and the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Exhibition Gallery. At the Mushaf Exhibition Gallery, the visitors had the opportunities to look at the personal collection of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam which portrays the uniqueness, beauty and greatness of the Islamic Arts in the early glorious centuries of the mushafs. The delegates also have chances to see more than 2-hundred walking sticks and 60 types of rosary of His Majesty's Collection. Since the opening of the Islamic Exhibition Gallery of the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah on August 18th 2001, the Exhibition Gallery receives more than 100-thousand visitors.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, January 29, 2010

Opportunity To Promote Tourism

Eighty-seven editors, journalists and writers have attended the 29th ASEAN Tourism Forum. The media delegation included local media. Many of the foreign media delegation, stated that Brunei Darussalam is rich with Traditional Cultural Heritage. According to them, the ASEAN Tourism Forum - ATF, open up opportunities to promote the country's tourism which was not only in South East Asia but also in Europe and the United States.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, January 29, 2010

Maintaining Clean & Green Environment

Various efforts have been made to beautify the environment and continue to preserve the country's lush greenery. Such efforts were displayed through a campaign conducted by the Kuala Belait and Seria Municipal Board to clean and beautify the landscape of the Tudung Saji Stall site and the surrounding areas.

The cleaning campaign is among the initiatives to raise awareness among the community in the country on the importance of a clean environment. The efforts include giving the park area a facelift with a beautifully-designed landscape in addition to the facilities and infrastructure provided. This is to attract visitors to the park for recreation with the family.

More than one hundred officers and other staff of the Kuala Belait and Seria Municipal Board took part in the campaign. It was to raise public awareness of the importance of combined efforts and responsibility in taking care of and maintaining the cleanliness of the environment. The public is also reminded against littering and indiscriminate dumping of rubbish.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, January 29, 2010

Talk Show called 'BICARA MINDA' presented by Dato Dr. Hj Mohd. Fadzilah Kamsah

RTB Media Carnival 2010 which is currently being held at the International Convention Centre, Berakas, continues to be highlighted with various sideline events and activities. Members of public's visits to the carnival are always occupied with several attractive activities and useful informations. Last night, a Talk Show called 'BICARA MINDA' was presented by a lecturer from Malaysia.

The Talk show which was opened to the public with entrance free, received encouraging response. It elaborated on the Impact of the New Media in National Development. Dato Dr. Hj Mohd. Fadzilah Kamsah, in the talk also spoke on the role of new media towards influencing minds. According to him, wise usage of the new will cause positive impact. Dato Dr Hj Mohd Fadzilah also emphasized that in actuality new media can motivate and inspire people's nature. From the point of view of Islam, he stated that one's mind can be organised to utilise the new media as one of the tools to gain the blessings from Allah.

Among those present, the Acting Director of Radio Television Brunei, Awang Haji Idris bin Haji Md Ali. The talk was made possible with the cooperation of the Carnival media partner, the Bank Islam Brunei, BIBD.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, January 29, 2010

RTB Media Carnival 2010 will continue at ICC, Berakas

For those who have not yet been able to get a closer look at RTB's operations, products and programmes or auditions, the RTB Media Carnival 2010 will continue at the International Convention Centre, Berakas until the 31st from 9 in the morning until 10 in the evening.

Over 16 thousand visitors were estimated to have visited the Media Carnival as well as the 5th Consumer Food Fair held simultaneously at the International Convention Centre.

A variety of games, quizzes, prizes and researches are also available not only for adults but also the young ones. And for those interested in having a career in RTB for either the radio or the television section, walk-in auditions for news readers and TV presenters as well as deejays are also held.

And this visitor who took the audition for a TV Newscaster and experienced sitting in front of the TV camera for the first time, said he discovered that newsreading is not as easy at it seems to most viewers.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, January 29, 2010

IKE-SHIO Cup Badminton 2010 Day 2

The Brunei IKE-SHIO Cup Open Badmintion Championship: Several fourth round and quarterfinal matches were played last night. Meanwhile, the championship finals will take place tomorrow.

His Majesty's daughter, Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzillah Lubabul Bolkiah took part in the Mixed Doubles category. Her Royal Highness partnering with Mohamad Fadzli, won 16-21, 21-15, 21-16. Present to watch the championship was His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Mateen. The match took place at the Indoor Stadium of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex in Berakas.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, January 28, 2010

Ministry of Religious Affairs's gathering to entertain retiring officers and staff

Civil service officers and employees are urged to improve their self-capability in various fields of knowledge and skills besides high moral and discipline. Such characteristics along with strong faith, could help drive the civil service in leading efforts towards making the country a zikir nation. The remark was stressed by the Minister of Religious Affairs, Yang Berhormat Pehin Jawatan Luar Pekerma Raja Dato Seri Utama Doktor Ustaz Haji Awang Mohd Zain a ceremony to entertain officers and staff of the ministry who have retired.

The minister, said towards this cause, whatever they do should be centered on Islamic values. Quality work performance is not enough if it is based merely on knowledge, skill and productivity, but it is more important if it is valued in the Islamic teachings perspective.The minister stressed that the matter has been deliberated in book of moral rules and work ethics in Brunei Darussalam's Civil Service issued in 1996.

Three hundred and 77 officers and staff who have retired received appreciation and honoured for what they done during their service in the ministry.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, January 28, 2010

Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports Presentation of Appreciation Certificates

Meanwhile the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and departments under it this afternoon, held a presentation of Appreciation Certificates for retirees and officers who have transferred to another departments.

Present, Minister of Culture Youth and Sports, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Doktor Awang Haji Ahmad. The function was for 62 officers and staffs who have served the departments under the ministry and completed their services since 2006, and officers who have transferred to another departments. The function was held at the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports.

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, January 28, 2010

New Vaccination Centre at the Indoor Stadium

Another vaccination centre has been opened for public convenience in having the influenza 'A' H1N1 vaccination. The new centre located at the Indoor Stadium, Berakas, will be open to officers and staff of government departments nearby this Saturday.

According to a Senior Medical Officer at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Hajah Rafidah binti Haji Gharif, the new vaccination centre is in addition to the those already set up. The centre will be open to the public from this Saturday during office hours.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health advises the public not to be doubtful about the source of the vaccine, because it is made from chicken egg without any pig elements. Dr. Hajah Rafidah also said that the Ministry of Health has so far received 124 thousand doses of the vaccine. She said that the vaccine made from chicken egg came from Germany and Canada. The same type of vaccine is also used in the European countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States as well as in Malaysia and Singapore.

To date, about 10 thousand people have had the vaccination in the country and most who had received the vaccination experienced only minor side effects. The public is also advised to get the influenza 'A' H1N1 vaccination immediately