Chiang Mai, Thailand – His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday called for greater cooperation among Asia-Pacific countries, especially Asean member states, to address the increasing demand and rising costs of water, food and energy to meet the needs of the world population, Borneo Bulletin reported.

“Water shortages affect harvest yields, a phenomenon that has already occurred in parts of Asia,” His Majesty said in a titah while attending the 2nd Asia-Pacific Water Summit (APWS) in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

According to a press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, “His Majesty said that competition for access to water resources, especially in rivers and basins which cut across borders, can lead to costly international disputes. To successfully avoid confrontations and meet the financing needs of water infrastructure and sanitation, cooperation and reliable institutions are the way forward.

“Institutions should be encouraged to look into long-term and efficient water management and development systems.

“His Majesty believed that in Southeast Asia, institutions such as the Mekong River Commission (MRC) and the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS), allow countries to work together towards an equitable allocation of these resources. Such institutions need to be further strengthened in order to ensure their relevance and effectiveness.

“Effective measures to deal with emergency situations are an essential area of cooperation among Asean and Asia-Pacific countries.

“His Majesty said that at the recent 22nd Asean Summit, the Asean member states agreed to expedite work of the Asean Coordination Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management. Other water security issues are also priorities in Asean, as part of the Socio-Cultural Community’ blueprint.”

The Asean Working Group on Water Resource Management meets annually to discuss cooperative activities, share experiences and raise awareness on this matter as part of a strategic action plan on water management.

Given the urgency of this matter, His Majesty called on the relevant Asean sectoral ministers to take the necessary steps to ensure water conservation and management are a priority in their work for the benefit of the present and future generations.

His Majesty also observed that Asia is being rapidly urbanised. However, according to the Asian Water Development Outlook 2013, Southeast Asia’s performance in urban water services has been poor. This magnifies the urgency to rethink on the region’s urban water management.

Furthermore, a sizeable portion of water produced is wasted through inefficient usage.

His Majesty viewed that a community-based approach is needed, which raises awareness on the importance of conservation and can change behaviour, thereby minimising wasteful consumption because individuals have to be responsible for managing their own water resources.

His Majesty then shared that Brunei Darussalam is fortunate that its people have access to adequate clean water. Nonetheless, Brunei Darussalam has been taking steps to create greater awareness amongst its people on the importance of reducing water wastage.

In closing, His Majesty said Brunei Darussalam would be interested to share its experiences as well as to learn from countries around the region as the proper management of water resources is a shared responsibility for all.

On arrival at the International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Chiang Mai, His Majesty was greeted by Dr Surapong Tovichakchaikul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand; and Niwattumrong Boonsongpaisan, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Department of Thailand. His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam then consented to join other leaders and heads of delegation for a group photo.

The morning’s plenary session began with introductory remarks and summary of technical workshops and focus area sessions by Dr Plodprasop Suraswadi, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of Water and Flood Management Commission of Thailand.

This was followed with the opening remarks and keynote address on “Disaster and Response: Thailand’s Action and Commitment to Water and Flood Management for the Future” by Prime Minister of Thailand Yingluck Shinawatra.

In the titah, His Majesty also thanked Yingluck Shinawatra for the invitation to the important event and commended Thailand for hosting the 2nd Asia Pacific Water Summit. His Majesty also applauded His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s “Royal Initiatives on Water” which sets an excellent example on managing water resources and conservation.

His Majesty said, “Water is an essential resource for human survival. Its importance affects every aspect of life in all parts of the world. However, many parts of the world face serious challenges in ensuring the security of water resources.

“The adverse effects of climate change, which cause severe weather patterns, floods and droughts, have also brought about further challenges to water security for an increasing portion of the world population.”

His Majesty added that as human populations increase, the greater competition for trans-boundary water resources, often gives rise to political tension. “These issues in turn have serious implications on regional and global stability, affecting agri-food production, global health and general security.”

His Majesty acknowledged that studies indicate that between 2010 and 2020, the improvement of water and sanitation systems – across Asia will need over $380 billion in investments, a vital undertaking that will require the involvement of all stakeholders.

His Majesty said, “What is needed are clear and practical policies in water management at the domestic, regional and global levels, that work in tandem with each other in order to ensure secure access not only to clean water, but also, builds resilience against disasters, and meets the future demands of our respective populations in a sustainable way”

Hence, His Majesty said the forum is part of the effort to build cooperation among governments in the form of regional and international initiatives, bringing together the relevant stakeholders in addressing these issues.

Statements and speeches were also made by several leaders and other international organisations.

Upon completion of the plenary session, His Majesty consented to join other leaders for a luncheon hosted by Yingluck Shinawatra.

Accompanying His Majesty were Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Development, and Pehin Orang, Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Lim Jock Seng, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II.
– Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

A total of 97 school leaders and MoE officers received their certificates as part of human capacity development towards ‘readiness’ in accepting the emerging technologies and ‘Development Programme’ that leads towards performance improvement.

As a follow up from the PEAKS^TM ICT Leadership training programme, the participants are expected to undergo another five-day workshop to design and develop the ICT Strategic Plan Framework for their respective schools and department. This framework will become their guideline to utilise the IT devices and leveraging the human capital towards transforming the culture towards ICT.

The training programme is divided into three cycles, with the first cycle of 900 personnel comprising heads of departments, school leaders and school administrative teams.

The 21 cycle will be 600 selected teachers from Pre-U (Sixth Form Centres), secondary and primary schools. These personnel will be trained and certified in PEAKS^TM Level 1, 2 and 3.

The 3rd cycle participants will be selected from the cycles 1 and 2 to undergo ‘further training and certification in PEAKS^TM Level 4 and 5.

Several participants gave their feedback on the programme. The Principal of the Meragang Sixth Form Centre (PTEM), Chong Li Chen said the PEAKS profiling is amazing as it is able to clearly identify her true personality and enabling her to understand herself better.

“By reflecting on my innate qualities and concentrating on my strengths, my leadership journey would be more focused and exciting. Being identified as a ‘compelling, dynamic, encouraging, visionary and robust’ person, it would help me with my leadership journey and beyond. I am now able to understand my team better by knowing that there is beauty in every nature and together we would be able to scale greater heights.

“Education today is full of challenges as the younger generation is tech-savvy. Students in the 21st century are so called ‘digital natives’ who like multi-tasking. ICT transformation is inevitable and schools must be ready to embrace ICT culture due to technological advancement. With PEAKS Teaching-Learning Pedagogy Profile and Student Profile, learning would be optimised through differentiated strategies. PEAKS profiling will definitely prepare me to embark on ICT transformation in my school,” said Ms Chong.

Another participant, Hjh Aji Hj Ahmad, Headmistress of Rimba I Primary School said, “In my capacity as the headmistress, I want to be able to support my teachers professionally that includes the elements of distributive leadership, professional development, coaching, mentoring, guidance, etc. An effective school autonomy requires adequate support that includes an appropriate model of distributed leadership and relevant forms of training and development besides guiding teachers to seek understanding the attributes to adaptability and creativity combined with conceptual and analytical skills to better and learn more about how they can be recognised and be high achieving models for others.”

She added that PEAKS had provided a deeper understanding on leadership such as leadership succession process that identifies and develops individuals for leadership posts, and a leadership development process, and that it can provide development activities for specific individuals at different levels within the organisation.

The Principal of Sayyidina Hasan Secondary School, Hj Metusin Hj Jais said through PEAKS training, which carries the motto ‘There is beauty and strength in every nature’, he learnt that every one has their own strengths and continued, “If we focus all of our strengths together, I am sure that we can all face any challenges ahead of us. That’s where PEAKS come in to help to bring all of us together and to bring all our strengths together to face any challenges ahead. As we know technology is moving very fast, I have faith that by having PEAKS with us, we can move forward as well as instil a culture of ICT to our new generation in our endeavour towards excellent nation.”

A ceremony to hand over the donations was held at the Dewan DiGadong, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, with the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Awg Hj Mohd Rozan bin Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Yunos on hand to present the donations to the organisations, as well as certificates to participants of the event.

Receiving on behalf of the benefitting charities were the President of SMARTER, Malai Hj Abdullah Hj Malai Othman; Assistant Director of Kompleks Rumah Kebajikan (Welfare Home Complex), Pg Mandi Pg Salleh; Acting Head of Administration of Pusat Ehsan, Nurul Huda Hj Muhin; Vice President of the Centre for Children for Special Needs (KACA), Haji Abdul Alim Othman; Derek Wong of Learning Ladders and Yayasan Kanser Kanak-Kanak or the Children’s Cancer Foundation (YASKA) treasurer, Tsara Nawwarah Abdullah Chen. Each organisation received $500.

Also present at the ceremony were representatives from Relentless Entertainment Brunei, the musical’s cast members and volunteers of the production.

Relentless Entertainment Brunei is an entertainment and event company based in Brunei Darussalam, and since its establishment in 2008, it has been actively involved in introducing, training and nurturing dance and the arts to the youths of Brunei.

Apart from conducting regular classes at Pusat Bella (Youth Centre) in Bandar Seri Begawan, Relentless also offers a scholarship scheme where talented young dancers will receive free training and opportunities for paid performances through the Relentless’ talent agency.

Another production is already in the pipeline for the end of the year.

For more information and enquiries, contact Mardi at 7186225 or Amy at 8243222 or email relentless.brunei@gmail.com. Relentless can also be found on Facebook at facebook.com/relentless.entertainment.

Among the participant was YAM Pengiran Muda Abdul Mu’min, who took part in the ‘Male Open’ category of 4.7 kilometres.

Split into eleven categories, the races were officially sounded off by the guest of honour, Dato Paduka Dr Awg Hj Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Hj Abidin, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs. Also in attendance was Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Roselan bin Hj Mohd Daud, the Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister’s Office as the advisor for the Kg Belimbing Consultative Council, along with the Brunei Muara District Officer, Hj Jamain bin Momin.

YB Awg Hj Gapor @ Hj Mohd Daud bin Karim, the Village Head of Kg Belimbing, in his welcoming remark highlighted the objectives of the Challenge Run by saying, “The aims of such events are to further enliven Brunei Darussalam’s National Day celebration, as well as to encourage the local community to actively participate in sporting and recreational activities as a means of practising a healthy lifestyle, as well as to introduce Markucing Hill as an avenue for recreation.”

In the ‘Boys 12 years old and below’ category, Mohd Hadri Haffizan bin Md Saifullah crossed the finish line first to claim the top spot, followed closely by Al< Azharuddin bin Pg Baharuddin in second place. Third place went to Md Aji Amirul Mukiminim bin Norman, while fourth place went to Md Rizauddin Sukardie bin Rizal and Rahmat bin Abdullah took fifth place.

For the ‘Male 13 to 25 years old’ category, Azman bin Amir took the first place, followed by Md Rizauddin Sukarmie bin Rizal in second place and Amiruddin bin Hj Md Zarin in third place. Fourth place went to Ahmad Yazid bin Awg Hidup and Md Syafie bin Md Iskandar came in fifth.

The ‘Male 26 to 39 years old’ category saw Hj Busu bin Hj Nubin coming in first place. Mohd Shah Azahar bin Abdullah Ahar settled for second place while Zuinor Sam bin Md Zain took third place. Mastani bin Md Yusof finished the race in fourth position and Hamid bin Jumat took fifth place.

Meanwhile, Hj Mohammad Azmi bin Hj Suhaili proved that age is just a number when he won the ‘Male 40 to 55 years old’ category. Abdul Ramlan bin Maarof come in second place and Danial bin Abu Bakar finished in third place. Saban bin Hj Gambar won fourth place and fifth place went to Hassan bin Hj Kamis.

The ‘Male 50 years old and above’ category was won by Hj Mohd Bakir bin Hj Tahir, while Abas bin Hj Tengah come in second. Third place went to Ibrahim bin Hj Sura and fourth place went to Hj Osli bin Hj Md Nor while Zakaria bin’Hj Bakar took fifth place.

In the ‘Male Open’ category, Sefli Ahar continued his fine form in his marathon career by wining the event. Second place went to Abdul Malik bin Awang Hidup and third place went to Rahimie bin Hassan. Johan Forray took fourth place and fifth place went to Naarul Jamnuri bin Hj Ibrahim.

In the female categories, Sid Nun Razwina Syazwini binti Rizal won the category for ‘Girls 12 years and below’. Second place went to Siti Nun Razlina Syazlini binti Rizal and third place went to Syahirah binti Awg Muhammad, while fourth place went to Nurhaziqah binti Yahya and Nur Suryana Hartini binti Rudi took fifth place.

Norazemah binti Ali Akbar took first place in the ‘Female 13 to 25 years old’ category, while Bilai Marcella binti Kula took second place. Siti Nur Raihana Syazwani binti Raizal come in third place and Amiratul Husnal Hamizah binti Md Aidil Ariffin crossed the finish line in fourth place. Fifth place went to Khoo Bee Shuan.

Dk Haryatini binti Pg Abd Rahman emerged as the winner in the ‘Female 26 to 39 years old’ category, followed by Norsarinah binti Mat Taha in second and Louta Ahad in third. Haslinda binti Alibakar came in fourth position and Norazalina binti Hj Panjang took fifth place.

For the ‘Female 40 year and above’ category, Cecilia Maksimon completed the race first. Second spot went to Noorizan binti Hj Md Kassim and Siti Zahrinah binti Hj Md All took third place. Fourth place went to Kartine binti Lipli and Norsalam binti Kalong took fifth position.

The ‘Female Open’ category saw Siti Fatimah binti Hj Abu Bakar winning the event: Sufinah binti Hj Idris was in second position followed by Hjh Azahrina binti Idris in third place. Fourth place went to Nurdiayana binti Hj Kadir and fifth place went to Haryatie binti Mohd Antin.

Both countries also look set to further strengthen bilateral sharing experience and expertise in the said areas – in particular the enhancement of Brunei’s air quality monitoring network.

The close relationship and collaboration between Brunei Darussalam and the Republic of Singapore was raised in the joint statement issued by both countries following the 7th Brunei Singapore Annual Exchange of Visit held in Singapore attended by Brunei’s Minister of Development, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Suyoi bin Hj Osman and Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, the Singapore Minister for the Environment and Water Resources.

According to a joint statement released yesterday, the ministers welcomed the bilateral sharing experience and expertise in the said areas in particular the enhancement of Brunei’s air quality monitoring network. The ministers agreed that both countries should continue with the close collaboration.

The ministers also noted that officials from both countries have exchanged knowledge and experience on promoting environmental education and awareness to drive greater environmental ownership and sustainability.

Recognising the importance of nurturing youths as advocates for environmental ownership and sustainability, the ministers agreed to continue the exchange of youth environmental programmes conducted by both countries.

They also discussed the challenges posed by climate change and the importance of building capability in climate science and modeling to address these challenges.

The ministers encouraged bilateral and regional cooperation to develop better solutions to improve climate resilience in the region.

To build camaraderie among officers of both countries, the delegates also participated in friendly games, which was organised as part of the Brunei Singapore Annual Exchange of Visit.

The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen cooperation to foster continuous progress in the environmental relationship between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore.

Brunei Darussalam will host the 8th Singapore Annual Exchange of Visit in 2014.

Present as the guest of honour to hand over the grading certificates was Haji Ismail bin Haji Abdul Manaf, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Out of the seven restaurants, one restaurant, 11 Degrees Sports Café, was conferred a Grade ‘A’, while four restaurants received Grade ‘B’ and two restaurants obtained a Grade ‘C’.

The Belait District Office advised all owners of restaurants or food and beverage premises to have a Halal Certificate and Halal Labels no later than December 31 this year.

The restaurants as well as food and beverages premises must submit an application to obtain the Halal Certificates and Halal Labels no later than July 31.

Any restaurants or food and beverages premises that fail to obtain the Halal Certificate and Halal Label will have their licence cancelled.

Senior Trustee and Chairman of Pusat Ehsan’s ‘The Run’, Dato Paduka Mohd Alimin Abd Wahab, said that in the interest of safety and security of the participants, the organisers were not able to extend further the payment deadline or to accept any more late-payers of the entry fees.

The tally of the number of runners for 21km is 311; 12km (open) is 1,552; 12km (Veteran) is 171; 5km (open) is 3,316 runners; 5km (Corporates) is 170; and 1,366 runners had signed up for the 2.5km (Fun Run).

“We are finalising the tally of participants in the Wheelchair (Paraplegic) and Special Needs categories. We are expecting the respective NGOs to return to us on these within this coming week. We believe the number will be similar to the last years, which was about 200,” noted the chairman.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the collection of ‘Running Kits’ for all participants will take place at the Indoor Stadium, not at the Multipurpose Hall as originally planned.

The times and dates for collection of these kits are still the same, that is from 9am to 9pm on June 6; 9am to 12noon and 2pm to 9pm on June 7; and 9am to 9pm on June 8.

Runners are requested to submit their donation cards at the collection centre when they collect their kits.

He also reminded that the donation cards from collectors and non-runners must be returned by May 31 with the bank deposit receipts to the designated outlets from where or whom they got the donation cards.

Lost donation cards, bank deposit receipts or money must be reported to the police and a copy of the Police Report must be provided to Pusat Ehsan.

The chairman further added that all the necessary preparations are work in progress, with individual “power meetings” were being held to fine tune and update our committee members and stakeholders describing that the next couple of weeks will be “intense work”.

“We are deeply indebted to the sponsors and donors for their continuing confidence and support in us. To the participants, thanks for your support. We shall always be grateful to the many volunteers from Sixth Form Centres and other walks of life. Without them, this charity effort will not be viable;” he said.

The day also saw a presentation of various drinks from the sponsors to the organising committee. TLT Enterprise sponsored 100 Plus Isotonic Drink, 8,000 cups and 350 cartons of Suci water (240m1). Super Water Marketing sponsored 7,000 bottles of RainFresh water. Cataleya sponsored 7,000 bottles of POKKA Isotonic Drink (250m1). Kingston Creamery and Beverages sponsored 250 cartons of REVIVE 7UP (330m1). Coffeebean & Tea Leaf sponsored 10 cartons of Jasmine Oolong flavoured drink and DST sponsored 500 cartons of mineral water.

Carrying the theme “The Run: Where Every Step Matters”, The Run will take off on Sunday, June 9, from the Indoor Stadium in Berakas.

Pusat Ehsan guides special needs individuals and nurtures them towards independence and inter-dependence to boost self-esteem, mental and physical development within the society and the charity run is expected to raise further awareness of the role and organisation of Pusat Ehsan.

The guest of honour was Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdullah bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, Minister of Communications. Other attendees members of the Legislative Council, permanent secretaries, ambassadors and high commissioners, deputy permanent secretaries from various ministries and departments, and senior officials from various organisations.

This event was hosted by the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI), supported by Ministry of Communications and Brunei Darussalam Road Safety Council. The event partners were Telekom Brunei Berhad, DST Communications Sdn Bhd, B-Mobile Communications Sdn Bhd and Takaful Brunei Am.

An international speaker from International Telecommunications Union (ITU), Martin Adolph, spoke on ‘The Role of ICTs and Road Safety implications and Driver Distraction and Intelligent Transport Systems’. Other topics discussed included ‘What to do when your car breaks down?’ presented by Haji Mahmud bin Haji Idris from Megamas Training Sdn Bhd, which provided a more practical approach on what drivers can do when they get into the situation.

AITI’s Chief Executive Office Haji Yahkup bin Hj Menudin said ICT is an enabler in our daily lives and technologies like smart phones and mobile data services help us stay connected while on the move. However, we must be mindful when using these technologies responsibly and with caution as far as road safety is concerned.

‘As such, for the safety of drivers and pedestrians, we must continue to emphasise responsible use of technologies and minimise driver distraction activities while on the move.

Today’s event will drive home this message and create more public awareness on this aspect,” he said.

“On the other hand, we must harness the use of ICT in intelligent transport system which can also minimise driver related accidents. A variety of “driver assistance” technologies are appearing on new cars, which will not only take a lot of the stress out of driving in traffic but also prevent many accidents,” he added.

He said a variety of “driver assistance” technologies are appearing on new cars, which will not only take a lot of the stress out of driving in traffic but also prevent many accidents. More and more new cars can reverse-park, read traffic signs, maintain a safe distance in steady traffic and brake automatically to avoid crashes. Some car makers are promising ICT technologies that detect pedestrians and cyclists, again helping the driver and stopping the vehicle before it hits them.

Google has been testing the self-driving car and has claimed that their cars are better drivers than human. Indeed, ICT has a role to play in road safety.

During the forum, experts and relevant stakeholders shared information to the public on the latest ICT development and its contribution towards improving road safety.

Road safety videos were launched courtesy of Takaful Brunei Am to increase public awareness on the dangers of using mobile phone while driving. The launching included two mascots, ‘Awang Safe’ and ‘Dayang Salmi’, inspired by the road safety video launched last year from a collaboration project between AITI and Brunei Darussalam Road Safety Council and produced by Ambuyart Animations.

The forum consisted of presentations and panel discussions by local and international speakers on the topics related to the theme.

An exhibition showcased the current and upcoming ICT technologies and their contribution towards improving road safety. The exhibitors included ICT companies, car dealers and telecommunication.

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam through the National Immigration and Registration and Labour Departments, which handle the entry of foreign workers into the country, the district offices and Municipal Departments, which are authorised to issue Miscellaneous Licences, will work hand-in-hand with the Local Employment and Workforce Development Agency to make sure that all businesses will open employment opportunities for citizens and residents of the country, Borneo Bulletin reported.

The government agencies will need to work closely with businesses to realise the aspiration of the nation in overcoming unemployment.

Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Hj Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Hj Awang Othman, Minister of Home Affairs, said in his keynote address at the opening of the Brunei Mini Job Fair yesterday at the Chancellor Hall, UBD after revealing the huge employment opportunities for locals in various sectors which are not taken up by them.

The minister said, “There are many employment opportunities based on the number of businesses that were issued with Miscellaneous Licences nationwide and this does not include restaurant, catering, hotel and tourism sectors.”

Citing findings from the initial survey from district offices and Municipal Departments in December 2012, the minister said some of the business sectors still have vast employment opportunities for locals.

“The government issued 585 licences for convenience shops that employ 4,596 workers.

“This does not include supermarkets and department stores. From the employment figure, only 1,714, or 37 per cent, are locals while 2,882, or 63 per cent, are foreign workers.”

On hardware shops, he said, “138 licences were issued with (permits for) 742 workers; 242, or 33 per cent, workers are locals while 500, or 67 per cent, are foreign workers.”

In textile shops, the minister said 209 licences were issued with (permits for) 563 workers and only 142, or 25 per cent, are local workers while 421 workers, or 75 per cent, are foreigners.

For stationery or book shops, the minister said 68 licences were approved with (permits for) 238 workers. Only 92 workers, or 39 per cent, are locals and the remaining 146 workers, 61 per cent, are foreigners.

Overall, the minister said, “6,139 employment opportunities in the various business sectors were created. Of that 3,952 jobs, or 64 per cent, were filled by foreign workers while the remaining 2,187, or 36 per cent, were filled by locals.

“Looking at the statistics of locals who are actively looking for jobs and are registered with the Local Employment and Workforce Development Agency (APTK) until February this year, there were 2,740 jobseekers. It is evident that employment opportunities are still available looking at the 3,952 jobs that were filled by foreign workers.

“The permitted foreign workers’ quotas for the 46 companies that are currently taking part in the Mini Job Fair are as many as 4,074 (not all work permits were issued), which has shown that every company has the willingness to create jobs. We want to see companies in the country make progress and at the same time contribute to the nation and open employment opportunities to the people of the country,” the minister said.

He also noted that employers still need the service of foreign workers who have been employed for a long time and are also aware that not all local jobseekers can fill in some positions of foreign workers.

Therefore, he said, “the Ministry of Home Affairs has chosen a realistic approach by making employers as strategic partners in an effort to help locals get positions in the private sector.”

Earlier, the minister said t he main reasons behind less locals applying for employment offered during last year’s job fair week were mismatch of job skills, the location of the jobs as well as unattractive salary scales and benefits.

Last year’s job fair week saw 2,470 positioiis offered and only 49 per cent or 1,200 people applied. As many as 279 jobseekers were successful in getting jobs through on-the-spot interviews while others needed fitness and other basic tests.

Also present at the event yesterday were Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Hj Md Yussof, the Deputy Minister. of Home Affairs and officials from various government agencies.

The Brunei Mini Job Fair will conclude May 18 and offers more than 1,500 jobs in hospitality, tourism sectors and also restaurants.

–Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

Also participating were the 35 teachers and 10 administrative members of the schpol. The event amongst all served to raise funds for the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Orphans Fund (DANA).

The sports event, held for the first time, also aimed to raise funds for the school and in support of the health promotion to ensure that the students are not just active academically but also physically.

On hand to officially flag off the participants in the 5.5km (male) and 4km (female) run was the guest of honour, Pg Hj Anuar Pg Seri Indera Pg Hj Ismail, the Chairman of the Parent-Teacher Association.

The event began with a brief remark by the principal and chairperson of the organising committee, Madam Keasberry who amongst all extended her apprecaition to the participants and parents involved in the event.

This was followed by a warm-up session, which was also participated by the .guest of honour along with officers and staff of the SMYSHHB as well as parents registered with the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) of SMYSHHB.

–Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman yesterday attended the Standard Chartered Half-Marathon Brunei 2013 cheque presentation ceremony for benefitting charities, Borneo Bulletin reported.

The ceremony was held at the Radisson Hotel in the capital, which is the official hotel of the Standard Chartered Half-Marathon Brunei 2013.

Standard Chartered Brunei Half-Marathon, which was held early last month, successfully collected a total of B$89,139.57 was presented to SMARTER Brunei, Learning Ladders and Standard Chartered Bank’s Seeing Is Believing Programme.

On hand to receive on behalf of the associations were the Chairman of Learning Ladders Dato Paduka Hj Abd Rahman bin Hj Mohiddin, President of SMARTER Malai Hj Abdullah bin Hj Malai Othman and Seeing is Believing Champion Jennifer Kang.

Among others present at the event were Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Hazair bin Hj Abdullah and Permanent Secretaries at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Hj Mohd Rozan bin Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Yunos and Dato Paduka Awg Hj Mohd Hamid bin Hj Mohd Jaafar.

Also present were CEO of Standard Chartered Bank, Lai Pei-Si, event sponsors and partners.

Lai Pei-Si in her welcoming remarks noted that when they first started in 2010 and till their 2013 charity run, today, collectively, with the support from their participants and generous sponsors and .donors, they have raised a total of B$438,323.24. This amount has benefitted the visually impaired, the physically challenged, orphans and the autistic.

“At Standard Chartered Bank, being able to contribute positively towards the community is important to us. After all, it is our brand promise which is to be here for good. We look forward to Running for a Reason with Brunei again in 2014,” she added.

The ceremony also saw Head of Corporate Affairs and Marketing Jennifer Kang, sharing a presentation on the Standard Chartered Half-Marathon Brunei 2013 and the awarding of prizes for the Cheering Competition, Highest Donor Collector and the Run for a Reason Facebook Competition.

Lai Pei-Si was also delighted to present appreciation certificates to all sponsors and partners of the event.

The much-anticipated Standard Chartered Half-Marathon Brunei 2013 last month saw a total of over 6,103 participants including 230 runners from 11 overseas countries registered to run.

Standard Chartered Half-Marathon Brunei 2013 is proudly sponsored by its official sponsor – Great Eastern Life – alongside official partners – GetFit CrossFit, Mixmediaworx, New Balance, Radisson Hotel, Royal Brunei Airlines, Soleus, Suci, Sunlit Advertising, 100 Plus, Borneo Bulletin and Media Permata.

This event was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and sanctioned by the Brunei Athletics Association.

The event was also kindly supported by the Department of Investigation and Traffic Control, the Royal Brunei Police Force; RIPAS Hospital; Medical Reception Service; Municipal Department; Public Works Department; Kelab Maxiscooters Kuala Belait (KEMAS) and Jerudong Park Medical Centre, Gleneagles JPMC.

Also supporting the event were the Humanitarian Emergency Aid Response Team (HEART), DST, Brunei Tourism, Ben Foods, ThreeG Media Sdn Bhd and VitaWorld.

Along with this were the volunteers from the various schools, colleges and organisations, namely, Seinenmaru Events Management, Brunei Polytechnic, Sultan Saiful Rijal Technical College and Maktab Sains and members of the public who stepped forward to lend a hand. – Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The enormous wastage in the consumption of water by the population of Brunei Darussalam will become unsustainable if nothing is done to reduce the excessive average usage of water per person in the country. Currently, Brunei Darussalam has the highest rate of water usage in Asia and it has become a concern for the Ministry of Development, Borneo Bulletin reported.

According to a survey carried out by the Public Works Department, the average water consumption in the country is too high. Normally an individual only needs 150 litres of water per day to live comfortably, but the usage is double that amount in Brunei. It stands at 420 litres for each individual per day that is equivalent to the amount of 280 one-and-a-half litre bottles. This shows that the excessive use of water is a waste. The wastage is not only water but also the cost of treating the water and supplying to homes and premises.

The concern on the high water usage was raised by Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Suyoi bin Hj Osman, the Minister of Development, in his speech at the launch of new labs for the Water Services Department and the newly set up Water Conservation Unit yesterday.

The new laboratory and the new Water Conservation Unit are located at the Water Services Department’s building in Tasek Lama.

“The Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has always carried out plans and projects to make sure that the population has enough clean water for domestic, commercial and industrial use,” he said.

He further elaborated that in the 10t” National Development Plan, the government will spend more than $400 million for water supply projects like the construction of dams, water treatment plants, pipes, tanks and other infrastructure.

“The current situation is unsustainable. If efforts to contain the situation are not taken, it may affect the supply of treated water that will be not enough and also from the price imposed on each consumer. Therefore the Ministry of Development has made the reduction of average water consumption a priority in the implementation of the ministry’s strategy” said the minister.

When asked about possibility of reviewing the low tariff to encourage people to use water more efficiently, the minister in an interview said, “We are trying to encourage people to get into the habit of saving water first before we introduce any changes. However, we have been talking about the tariff but are not certain yet.”

On the excessive usage of water, the minister said, “The situation is very serious whereby each person uses an average of 420 litres of water per day in Brunei. We are talking about treated water, and not raw water. The treated water goes through various processes before being distributed. It’s an expensive process.

“We are introducing some measures by encouraging people to use equipment that can save water and also encouraging people to change the habit on water usage. We hope that we don’t have to introduce any tariff or start penalising people for wasting water.”

The minister also noted that the public is more aware of the situation now, especially officers in the ministry, as they have signed up for water usage at their respective homes to be monitored. He also said that the officers are currently consciously reducing the usage of water. The initiative will likely spread to other ministries.

When asked how the minister himself conserves the usage of water, he replied, “I am educating my domestic helpers to reduce the usage of water when washing cars and so on. I agree that we have to start conserving water at home”.
– Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

Tokyo, Japan – His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan yesterday highlighted the growing ties between the two countries.

At a meeting with the Japanese Prime Minister in Tokyo, Japan, His Majesty delivered a titah and expressed delight in seeing economic relations between the two countries grow in strength, with Japan being one of Brunei’s main foreign investors and also the most important customer for oil and gas.

Accompanying His Majesty to the meeting held at the Official Residence of the Prime Minister of Japan was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik.

Bilateral co-operation, His Majesty said, has also been extended to education, agriculture and health, according to a press release issued by Prime Minister’s Office.

The press release stated, “There have also been increasing people-to-people exchanges especially amongst youth and a good level of interaction between officials of both countries.

At regional level, Brunei and Japan also worked closely together through Asean and valued Japan’s support for Brunei’s Chairmanship of Asean.

“His Majesty also said that later this year Asean and Japan will celebrate the 40th anniversary of Asean-Japan dialogue partnership and His Majesty felt confident that these relations will continue to grow”.

His Majesty thanked the Japanese Prime Minister for the warm hospitality extended to His Majesty for the visit.

His Majesty concluded his titah by welcoming Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to Brunei Darussalam later this year.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, in his remarks welcomed His Majesty and recalled the longstanding diplomatic relation established between both countries that has grown stronger.

The press release stated, “The establishment of diplomatic relation has weaved into many areas of co-operation and people-to-people contact including youths and government officials exchanges. On these memorandums of co-operation and with the signing of agreement in 2007, Japan will continue to strengthen the co-operation, especially in economic growth and youth development of both countries.”

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said that Japan will give its strong support and cooperation to Brunei Darussalam as the Chairman of Asean 2013 to achieve success with dialogue partners in the development of trade, investment, peace and prosperity of the region and the world.

The press release stated that the arrival of His Majesty was greeted by Kenichi Suganuma, the Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam. His Majesty then proceeded to the Meeting Room.

Outside the Meeting Room, His Majesty was greeted by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and both leaders then entered the Meeting Room.

Prior to the meeting, His Majesty consented to join a photo session.

During the meeting, both leaders discussed bilateral issues of mutual interests as well as regional and international matters.

After the meeting, His Majesty consented to proceed to the Small Banquet Hall for a Luncheon hosted by the Japanese Prime Minister.

Outside the Banquet Hall, His Majesty and the Japanese Prime Minister exchanged souvenirs, a model of a U2 Aeroplane and a traditional Japanese Yukata Kimono, and later proceeded to the Banquet Hall. – Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

BEST 91.4 features 10 selected talented singers from the “Take One Less One” programme, which is one of the most anticipated programmes in Pelangi FM.

The “Take One Less One” programme is broadcasted every Thursday at 4pm with songs chosen by the producer. Weekly winners will compete at the end of every month to vie for the monthly winner spot.

Among the finalists in this year’s BEST 91.4 are Man, Aida, Umi Nadhirah, Farah, Saiful Bahrin, Ayu, Rafy, Reduan, Nana and Ecah.

BEST 91.4 is further enlivened through the vibrancy of radio DJs from Pelangi FM, such as DJ Lydia and DJ Ashraff.

The crowd and loyal listeners of Pelangi FM were also entertained with several performances from local singers such as Nash, Susan, and the Brunei Ukelele Group.

Visitors who attended the BEST 91.4 session were also provided with a number of quizzes and opportunities to win gifts from Pelangi FM.

BEST 91.4, which first commenced in 2005, has produced talented singers such as Dayat and Rapul Rezal, among others.

Pelangi FM hopes that listeners will continue to provide support to participants of the “Take One Less One” programme, which is now known as the “Take Two Less One” programme with the format of singing without music.

Members of the public who wishes to take part in the programme are welcomed to join the radio segment every Thursday at 4pm on Pelangi FM through 2223914.

When tell his helicopter landed alongside the high-security track at La Ferte-Vidame, in north-western France, the rally star believed he was in for a routine test session but after just a handful of laps in the car, he realised that this was something different.

“The 208 T16 Pikes Peak is a rocket! It’s so powerful! The first time you drive it, each gear change practically stuns you. The shifts are really brutal, and it takes a little time to anticipate the sudden jarring. You get used to it, but it was quite disorienting to begin with.”

The Frenchman may have seen it all on world rally’s most challenging stages, but his words were far from blase after his first taste of the 208 T16 Pikes Peak, saying that he had never driven anything that accelerates so fast.

“In the lower gears, a Formula 1 car doesn’t deliver maximum power. With the Peugeot, though, its bang, bang, bang as you move up the box from standstill. You find yourself in sixth gear at 240kph in no time at all!”

This was agreed by the car maker, stating in its press release that with a 0-100kph time of 1.8s, the 208 T16 Pikes Peak would leave any F1 car standing.

It is not only the gearbox which made a big impression on the superstar but also its aerodynamic downforce, wide tyres and braking. The 208 package is a combination of the best of the best: it has the downforce of a Formula 1 car, the wide tyres of an endurance racing prototype and a differential, like a WRC car.

When it is time to race to the Colorado summit at an altitude of 4,301 meters, the world rally champion will need to be capable of mastering every buck and kick of the thoroughbred if he is to steer clear of the many pitfalls that await him along the giddy 20-kilometre course.

Nine teams participated in the challenge.

The guest of honour was YB Awang Hj Ramli bin Hj Lahit, Legislative Council member who is also the Penghulu of Mukim Telisai. Also present were the representatives from the government departments in Tutong District as well as officers and staff of the FRD.

Among the objectives of the challenge were to enhance teamwork and leadership qualities of the participants as well as to improve their readiness in facing daily incidents such as fire outbreaks which require mental and physical fitness.

The event concluded with the presentation of prizes by the guest of honour to the winners. Operational F Command emerged as champion while Operational A and Operational E came in the second and third places respectively.

The FRD Director, Awang Yahya bin Hj Abd Rahman also presented souvenirs to supporting agencies as well as to the guest of honour.

St James’ School Recognition Day which took place at Kg Pandan Community Hall, Kuala Belait, saw the presentation of Loyalty Awards, Primary and Secondary Academic Awards, PSR 2012 Top Achievers’ Award, SPE Best Performance Award and Outstanding Performance in GCE ‘O’ Level Examination 2012.

“My sincere congratulations go to parents, guardians and teachers on your extraordinary effort in helping the students. I am happy to announce that in BGCE ‘O’ Level Examination, our results increased to 11 per cent (Credits 3-10) and our PSR has shown an improvement in 5 A’s by 3.6 per cent,” said Gazala binti Abdullah, Principal of St James’ School.

The guest of honour at the event was Pg Othman bin Pg Mohamed Daud, Assistant Director, Private Education Section, Ministry of Education.

The Minister of Industry and Primary Resources Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, who is also the Chairman of BIBD cum the guest of honour, said this during the “Awards Night” themed annual dinner for all BIBD staff at The Empire Hotel & Country Club in Jerudong yesterday.

In terms of recognition for BIBD from 2012 onwards, the bank have won a total of 10 regional and international accolades where among others are the “Best Retail Bank in Brunei” from The Asian Banker and “World’s Best Emerging Markets Banks 2013 in Asia- Pacific for Brunei” from Global Finance.

The minister also shared the bank’s strategic initiatives for the year 2013, where in general, focuses on the branding of BIBD. This includes upgrading the status of BIBD in domestic as well as international level.

BIBD will focus on increasing its’ activities that will generate new sources of income in form of online-based service such as eTunai and new products which will be provided by BIBD Securities. There are also increased efforts, among others, in helping towards developing domestic capital market and financial services to appropriate industries from the corporate sector.

The minister also said that BIBD will continue to enhance its commitment in terms of corporate social responsibility. The main focus for the bank this year is the programme Advocating Life-long Learning for an Aspiring Future (ALAF).

The guest of honour also presented service awards to 91 BIBD staff as a token of appreciation for their loyalty and outstanding contributions towards the bank.

Also present at the dinner were BIBD board members, Syariah Advisory Body, Managing Director of BIRD Javed Ahmad as well as officers and staff of BIBD and its subsidiaries: BIBD At-Tamwil and BIBD Securities.

Minister of Development, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Suyoi bin Hj Osman said as he spoke at the signing of Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) and contracts for the bridge project yesterday at the Ministry of Development.

Ove Arup & Partners said the bridge will be a reality by 2018 and will be built under a fast track project to complete the very important physical connection.

Pehin Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Suyoi added that this is a significant and historical event. The construction of the bridge has become a reality with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement with Over Arup Consultant and Partners and Civil and Structural Consultant. It also officially kick starts the designing of the project which will be carried out for several months before the project is offered.

He added, 14 kilometres of the bridge go over the Brunei Bay making the total length of the road and bridge to 30 kilometres starting from Jln Utama Mentiri to Labu Estate.

The ministry will do its best, said the minister, to ensure that all aspects of the bridge project from its design (which meets the Bruneian criteria) to its construction and quality refl&ted an engineering work that we could be proud of.

The contract signings include several research projects such as comprehensive environmental impact assessment, soil investigation work, four survey contracts and marine geophysical work which are needed to design the structure of the Temburong bridge.

Pehin Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Suyoi urged consultants and contractors that have been given the research project under the bridge project to provide quality service with their expertise, in line with the image, performance and function of the bridge that would be on par, if not better, with other bridge projects in the region.

He also urged all government agencies involved in the preliminary preparation, be it directly or indirectly, to give their high commitment and cooperation to ensure that the project runs as planned, meets its aspiration and complete on time.

What is important to note is that it is a national project which not only involves the Ministry of Development as a stakeholder but also almost all government agencies. “This is a mega project, the first of its kind implemented in this country which would uplift the image of the nation internationally through the infrastructure and construction technology,” said the minister.

The MoA signing for the appointment of civil and structural consultant in Ove Arup & Partners was made between the Permanent Secretary (Technical and Professional) at the Ministry of Development, Dato Paduka Hj Suhaimi bin Hj Gafar and Ove Arup & Partners representative, Lim Siew Yong.

The ceremony also saw the signing of contracts and presentation of tendering offer letters to six local companies for preliminary research works. They are: Consultant MWH (comprehensive environmental impact assessment), Teca (B) Sdn Bhd (soil investigation works) and Juruukur Taib Said, Juruukur Bersatu Consultant, Juruukur Perunding Services and Juruukur CMK Consultant (for surveying works and marine geophysical).

Meanwhile Ove Arup & Partners said they will undertake the task with the same dedication that the firm has been dealing with other projects around the world.

The bridge will start from Jln Utama Mentiri from the Brunei-Muara District side and pass through Subok hill through tunnels before crossing the Brunei Bay to Pulau Baru-Baru and Pepatan and straight to Jln Labu Estate in Temburong.

For the Brunei Channel, the main span length will be about 145 metres with the tower measuring 120 metres high. The Eastern Channel (Temburong side) will have two towers with the main span length of 260 metres and 120-metre-high towers.

The construction will be divided into a series of packages with the first tender scheduled at the end of the year. The project will give opportunities for local professionals to be involved and to acquire experience in construction and maintenance of various sections of the bridge. There will be downstream benefits in terms of employment services, trading and real estate.

“In order to achieve this, we need cooperation and support from all parties involved be it the government ministries, various shareholders, contractors, peer professionals as well as the people,” said the minister.

–Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin