ABOVE & BELOW: Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar in a group photo with attendees; and Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi bin Haji Mohamad at the event.
PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
Progresif Sdn Bhd
Progresif Sdn Bhd hosted a Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house at The Garden’s Veranda yesterday.
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi bin Haji Mohamad were present.
Progresif Chief Executive Officer Hajah Nurul Haniah binti Haji Jaafar along with Progresif’s senior management team welcomed the guests.
High commissioners and ambassadors to Brunei Darussalam, stakeholders and business leaders were also present. – Rokiah Mahmud
ABOVE & BELOW: Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar in a group photo with attendees; and Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi bin Haji Mohamad at the event. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLIPHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
BIBD ALAF
Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) hosted the annual BIBD ALAF Hari Raya celebration at the PGGMB building in Bandar Seri Begawan recently.
Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) Ra’es Associate Professor Dr Abdul Nasir bin Haji Abdul Rani in his capacity as Chairman of BIBD’s Shariah Advisory Body, was the special guest.
Members of BIBD’s Board of Directors and Shariah Advisory Body were also present.
BIBD ALAF students and their families, senior government officers from the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA), the Ministry of Education (MoE), BIBD senior management, BIBD ALAF Taskforce comprising members from MoE’s Department of Schools and MoRA’s Islamic Studies Department and other stakeholders also attended.
The event aimed at enlivening the celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri for BIBD ALAF students and their families as well as other stakeholders.
Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan Ra’es Associate Professor Dr Abdul Nasir bin Haji Abdul Rani in his capacity as Chairman of BIBD’s Shariah Advisory Body in a group photo: PHOTO: BIBD
ABOVE & BELOW: A student belting a song; and Chung Hua Middle School Kuala Belait Principal Dr Chong Kui Kian launches the ceremony. PHOTO: DANIEL LIM & CHMS KB
Chung Hua Middle School Kuala Belait
Some 1,200 attendees engaged in Hari Raya Aidilfitri festivities at Chung Hua Middle School Kuala Belait (CHMS KB) on Saturday.
CHMS KB Principal Dr Chong Kui Kian in her opening remarks during the event, expressed immense pride in the school’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration.
She added that the outstanding performances by the students warmed her heart and thanked the organising team and departments for their hard work. Organised by the school’s Bahasa Melayu and Islamic Religious Knowledge departments, the annual gathering serves to bring together students, teachers, parents and guardians to spend a weekend of games and activities.
The celebration commenced with Dr Chong switching on Raya festive lights and decorations.
The event also saw performances, games and different booths by the school’s departments, as well as competitions including a singing and dancing competition, a Raya fashion show, a hut decorating competition and matching Raya outfits.
Prizes were presented to the winners at the end of the celebration. – Daniel Lim
Attendees at the event. PHOTO: DANIEL LIM & CHMS KBABOVE & BELOW: A student belting a song; and Chung Hua Middle School Kuala Belait Principal Dr Chong Kui Kian launches the ceremony. PHOTO: DANIEL LIM & CHMS KBPHOTO: DANIEL LIM & CHMS KB
Centre for Strategic and Policy Studies
It is important to give back to the society and create a meaningful impact, said Centre for Strategic and Policy Studies (CSPS) Executive Director Dr Diana Cheong.
She said this during a corporate social responsibility event celebrating Hari Raya Aidilfitri at Darul Ifrah Hall, Jalan Kebangsaan yesterday.
She added, “We are honoured to have had the opportunity to collaborate with Pusat Bahagia and host this special event for the students.”
The event welcomed 60 people with special needs from Pusat Bahagia, along with 40 trainees.
It saw performances by individuals from Pusat Bahagia, followed with attendees being treated to lunch.
CSPS will also organise a pro bono training workshop for officers and staff of Pusat Bahagia at a future date.
The event aimed to bring joy and entertainment to students with special needs, fostering inclusivity and the spirit of giving.
Centre for Strategic and Policy Studies Executive Director Dr Diana Cheong speaks with the attendees. PHOTO: CSPSThe attendees in a group photo. PHOTO: CSPS
TIBA Cooperative Association
The TIBA Cooperative Association (KOTIBA) and Tanggungan Berhad organised a Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration at an eatery in Kampong Salambigar on Saturday.
The celebration saw long service awards presented to 13 employees who have worked between seven to 23 years with KOTIBA Filling Station.
KOTIBA Board of Directors Chairman Haji Matassan bin Haji Bungso was also present. – Rokiah Mahmud
An employee receives a long service award. PHOTO: KOTIBAAttendees at the celebration. PHOTO: KOTIBA
Kampong Sungai Kedayan ‘B’
A Hari Raya Aidilfitri gathering with orphans from Kampong Sungai Kedayan ‘B’ was held at Salam Hall II of Impiana Jaya Complex, Kiulap on Sunday. The gathering, which aimed to foster closer ties between former residents of Kampong Sungai Kedayan ‘B’, saw a presentation of donations to the orphans, a Raya performance and a lucky draw. – Rokiah Mahmud
Former residents of Kampong Sungai Kedayan ‘B’ and orphans in a group photo. PHOTO: HAJI ABDULLAH
Kampong Menunggol Village Consultative Council
The Kampong Menunggol Village Consultative Council (MPK Menunggol) invited some 250 guests to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri at the Kampong Menunggol Mosque compound on Sunday. Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Lawi bin Haji Lamat and Village Head of Kampong Subok and Acting Penghulu of Mukim Kota Batu Zaini bin Haji Salleh attended the celebration organised by the MPK in collaboration with the mosque takmir committee members. – Lyna Mohamad
ABOVE & BELOW: Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Lawi bin Haji Lamat presents a gift; and attendees at the event. PHOTO: KAMPONG MENUNGGOL VILLAGE CONSULTATIVE COUNCILPHOTO: KAMPONG MENUNGGOL VILLAGE CONSULTATIVE COUNCIL
Belait District Dakwah Unit
A delegation from the Belait District Dakwah Unit conducted several visits to new converts’ residences yesterday to further enliven Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration, especially among new converts residing in the Belait District.
Head of the Belait District Dakwah Unit Haji Muskrisman Safari bin Haji Mustapa led the delegation, visiting the residences of Hajah Norshamrina binti Haji Nasiruddin, Sinar Islam Association President Haji Mohd Yassin bin Abdul Rahim Sap and Zaidi bin Abu Bakar. The Belait District Dakwah Unit hoped the visit helped strengthen relations between the unit and new converts in the district. – Daniel Lim
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show Head of the Dakwah Unit Haji Muskrisman Safari bin Haji Mustapa and the delegation visiting the residences of the new converts. PHOTO: DANIEL LIMPHOTO: DANIEL LIMPHOTO: DANIEL LIMPHOTO: DANIEL LIM
Brunei Darussalam Amateur Radio Association
Forty-one members of the Brunei Darussalam Amateur Radio Association (BDARA) attended a Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration at a hotel in Kampong Jerudong recently.
BDARA President Haji Tamat bin Lampoh was the guest of honour.
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show attendees at the event. PHOTO: BDARAPHOTO: BDARAThe attendees in a group photo. PHOTO: BDARA
Chung Hwa School Tutong
Some 400 teachers, students and parents of Chung Hwa School in the Tutong District gathered for a Hari Raya Aidilftiri event yesterday.
Principal Haji Yahya bin Haji Abdul Rahman extended Raya greetings to all Muslim teachers and students, while also thanking teachers for efforts in organising the event.
The celebration saw the singing of Seloka Hari Raya performed by the school’s principal, Chairman of Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG) Haji Md Asrul Saniy bin Haji Md Aarif and teachers, as well as performances by the students.
Vice Chairman II of Chung Hwa School Administration Board On Wei Yeah was the guest of honour. Deputy Chairman Khoo Eng Cheong also participated. – Rokiah Mahmud
Attendees in a group photo. PHOTO: CHUNG HWA SCHOOL TUTONGStudents performing. PHOTO: CHUNG HWA SCHOOL TUTONG
ABOVE & BELOW: Representatives of disaster management agencies from ASEAN member states at the 44th meeting of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management. PHOTO: JAMES KON
The 44th meeting of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management (ACDM) convened at The Rizqun International Hotel yesterday.
“In today’s world where natural disasters are becoming increasingly frequent and severe, the need for effective disaster management has never been greater,” said Acting Permanent Secretary (Safety and Welfare) at the Ministry of Home Affairs Nor Hamidah binti Haji Hamidon, the guest of honour, during her opening remarks.
“The ASEAN community has long recognised the importance of solidarity, and collaboration, in mitigating the impacts of disasters, and enhancing resilience among our member states,” said the acting permanent secretary.
She noted the theme for this year’s ACDM is ‘Building a resilient ASEAN through inclusive and sustainable disaster recovery’.
“The theme underscores our unified efforts in disaster risk reduction, and disaster management, aiming to strengthen our region against adversities, while ensuring no community is left behind,” she added.
“Despite facing numerous trials, and enduring devastating catastrophes, our ‘Whole-of-ASEAN’ approach and commitment to ‘One ASEAN, One Response’ have showcased our resilience,” she said.
“As we confront evolving threats such as climate change, and environmental degradation, our dedication to mutual assistance and support has never been more crucial.”
Director of the National Disaster Management Centre Colonel (Rtd) Muhd Harrith Rashidi bin Haji Muhd Jamin co-chaired the meeting as the chairman with ASEAN and International Cooperation Advisor of Cambodia’s National Disaster Management Committee as the vice-chairman.
The meeting discussed the progress of the ASEAN Agreement Work Programme in Disaster Management and Emergency Response 2012-2025, risk assessment and monitoring, prevention and mitigation, preparedness and response, resilient recovery and global leadership.
More than 70 delegates from disaster management organisations in ASEAN member states, the ASEAN Secretariat and the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance in Disaster Management as well as observers from Timor-Leste attended the meeting. – James Kon
ABOVE & BELOW: Representatives of disaster management agencies from ASEAN member states at the 44th meeting of the ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management. PHOTO: JAMES KONPHOTO: JAMES KONPHOTO: JAMES KONABOVE & BELOW: Acting Permanent Secretary (Safety and Welfare) at the Ministry of Home Affairs Nor Hamidah binti Haji Hamidon at the event; and a performance during the opening ceremony. PHOTO: JAMES KONPHOTO: JAMES KONPHOTO: JAMES KON
Twelve students from Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam Secondary School and their chaperones prior to departure to Singapore for a twinning programme. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
Twelve students from Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam (SMJA) Secondary School are visiting Edgefield Secondary School (EFSS) in Singapore for a six-day twinning programme.
The students, who left for Singapore yesterday, are accompanied by three teachers. The students are visiting as part of the second cycle of the Brunei Darussalam and Singapore School Twinning Programme. The first cycle took place from 2018 to 2019.
Year 10 student Aadi Jawad bin Dr Aammton said he hopes to gain more knowledge on different cultures during the visit, as well as make long lasting friends.
The students will visit Gardens by the Bay and Sentosa island as well as join the classroom with Singaporean students. – Azlan Othman
Twelve students from Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam Secondary School and their chaperones prior to departure to Singapore for a twinning programme. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
Acting Belait District Officer Haji Amirol Hafidzin bin Haji Muhammad during a press conference. PHOTO: DANIEL LIM
Kampong Merangking and Kampong Pandan ‘D’ will be preparing to select new village heads this month, Acting Belait District Officer Haji Amirol Hafidzin bin Haji Muhammad said during a press conference yesterday.
“The first upcoming voting session will be for the position of Kampong Merangking’s village head.
“Voting will first commence through e-voting from May 10 to 12, with physical voting slated to be held on May 12 at the Merangking Hall from 9am to 11.30am,” he said.
Registration for e-voting will only be open until tomorrow, he added.
The sole candidate for the position is Nurulizam bin Haji Abdul Rahman.
Meanwhile, for the voting session for the position of the village head of Kampong Pandan ‘D’, e-voting will begin on May 17-19.
Registration for e-voting will close on May 16, said the acting district officer. “Physical voting will be held on May 19 at Sayyidina Ali Secondary School (SMSA), Kuala Belait, from 9am to 11.30am,” said the acting district officer.
The sole candidate for the position is Mohammad Farid bin Kasim.
The acting district officer said he hopes residents of the villages will uphold their responsibilities by casting their votes at the appropriate time and venue. – Daniel Lim
Acting Belait District Officer Haji Amirol Hafidzin bin Haji Muhammad during a press conference. PHOTO: DANIEL LIMABOVE & BELOW: Nurulizam bin Haji Abdul Rahman; and Mohammad Farid bin Kasim. PHOTO: DANIEL LIMPHOTO: DANIEL LIM
A number of petrol stations will be temporarily closed for inspection of fuel dispensing pumps this month, said the Weights and Measures Unit (SDT), Industry and Business Ecosystem Division (IBE) in a statement yesterday.
The authorities said they will be verifying the accuracy of readings on the fuel pumps at the stations. The process is estimated to take two hours, beginning at 9am, until which the station is closed.
This month, the scheduled petrol stations to be inspected are Tumasek Petrol Station today, Berakas Petrol Station tomorrow, Mar’azmala Petrol Station on May 11, Syarikat Perniagaan Melayu Sdn Bhd Petrol Station on May 14, Batang Duri Petrol Station and Kampong Keriam Petrol Station on May 21. – James Kon
Members of the newly-elected Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College student representative council for 2024-2025 during their oath-taking ceremony at the college.
College Principal Dayangku Hajah Nooramaliatifah binti Pengiran Haji Ahmad, addressing the students, reminded them to manage their time wisely and prioritise academics even as they serve as role models for others. – Azlan Othman
Ambassador of Korea to Brunei Darussalam Kim Soung-eun in a group photo with the winners. PHOTO: THE KOREAN EMBASSY IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
Mohd Nuramar Faiq bin Noraini took the winning spot and Lim Tian Yee was in second place in a commemorative logo contest held in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Sultanate and South Korea by the Korean Embassy in Brunei Darussalam recently.
The award ceremony for Bruneian winners was held at the embassy’s premises yesterday, while the Korean winner will be celebrated at a separate ceremony scheduled at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Seoul.
Some 150 individuals participated in the contest, which served as a testament to the strong and friendly ties between the two countries. The winning logos will be sanctioned as the symbol of the ongoing cooperation and friendship between the two countries, used by the embassy in producing commemoratives and promoting the 40th anniversary of Brunei-South Korea diplomatic relations.
Ambassador of Korea to Brunei Darussalam Kim Soung-eun in a group photo with the winners. PHOTO: THE KOREAN EMBASSY IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
I would like to respond to an announcement by the authorities calling for the public to switch to smart meters ahead of the global Token Identifier (TID) rollover, which will take place this November.
My household is still using the old system, and we are currently undecided if the move would actually benefit us in the long run. We are not alone in our concerns, especially in light of the recent outrage over the overcharging of certain homes.
With the inevitable rollover this year, we know we will have to embrace the smart meters, regardless. However, it would be good if the authorities could consider organising roadshows nationwide, in every village, government department and private company, to offer us more information on these meters.
I believe disseminating information through a roadshow would lead to a more favourable outcome as it provides the public with an opportunity to pose questions and voice concerns. This is especially true for older members of our society, who often have trouble grasping basic technologies, let alone the relevance of installing smart meters or what a global rollover means.
PHOTO: FILE PHOTO BY TOURISM DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
Brunei Darussalam’s cultural heritage and scenic adventures will be showcased by the Tourism Development Department at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism at the 39th Seoul International Travel Fair (SITF) from tomorrow to May 12.
The travel fair presents an opportunity for Brunei to highlight its hidden gems and attract travellers seeking unique experiences in Southeast Asia.
According to the Tourism Development Department, SITF stands as South Korea’s premier international travel fair, boasting participation from over 70 countries in the previous SITF in 2023.
The event not only draws in professionals from the industry, but also a huge number of public members.
The department aims to bring attention to the travel services in the Sultanate and draw more South Korean tourists to discover the rich cultural heritage, adventures and natural landscapes of the Sultanate. – James Kon
PHOTO: FILE PHOTO BY TOURISM DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
