The Borneo Bulletin Photography Contest has offered a platform for aspiring and talented photographers to capture and showcase the captivating essence of Brunei Darussalam through their creative lenses.
This sentiment was emphasised by Brunei Press Sdn Bhd General Manager Anafiah Omar during her speech at the Borneo Bulletin Photography Contest prize presentation ceremony held at the Radisson Hotel on Thursday.
The contest featured a variety of categories, including People, Food & Culture, Landmarks & Wildlife, The Royal Wedding, Brunei’s 40th National Day, and Fitness, Sports & Lifestyle.
Anafiah highlighted that the winning entries were evaluated on their originality, technical excellence, creativity, photographic quality, and their ability to convey the distinct beauty and character of Brunei Darussalam.
Present as the guest of honour was Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Hajah Nor Ashikin binti Haji Johari, who presented prizes to the winners.
The contest received an overwhelming response, with over 1,000 creative entries submitted both online and in hard copy. The winning photos were judged based on their photographic quality, creativity, and effectiveness in highlighting the uniqueness of Brunei, with input from representatives of the contest sponsors and Brunei Press.
In the Landmarks & Wildlife category, Raul Padernal took home first place, while Aina Azyyati binti Mohamad Rezal won the Fitness, Sports & Lifestyle category. The 40th National Day category was won by Law Hieng Hing.
Meanwhile, Yusri Omar emerged victorious in the Royal Wedding category, and Haji Kahan bin Haji Nasir claimed first place in the People, Food & Culture category.
Winners of the contest received a variety of exciting prizes, including Canon EOS 1500D cameras, Baiduri Bank savings accounts, a BMW M Bike, AIFA vouchers and appliances, Radisson Hotel accommodations, Supa Save vouchers, and Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (CBTL) merchandise and vouchers. – ROKIAH MAHMUD