Deputy Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the Ministry of Eductaion Dr Chin Wei Keh in group photo with sponsors and schools representatives. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
Five government schools yesterday received a year of Wi-Fi connectivity service from Progresif Sdn Bhd through sponsorships in the company’s ‘Adopt a School’ initiative, following a handover ceremony at Progresif headquarters.
“This event marked the successful implementation of enhanced Internet connectivity, benefiting students and teachers,” according to the company in a statement.
Deputy Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the Ministry of Education Dr Chin Wei Keh was the guest of honour.
Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (Perbadanan TAIB) Managing Director Datin Hajah Hasnah binti Haji Ibrahim, General Manager from Audley Insurance Sdn Bhd Siti Zulaikha binti Haji Damit, Chief Financial Officer from BELTS Brunei Loo Mei Tim, Deputy Managing Director from DD-Pykes Awangku Md Hisyam Al-Yura bin Pengiran Haji Zainal Abidin and Director from Exceltech Solutions Sdn Bhd Rizal Bin Haji Adnin attended as representatives from programme sponsors.
The representatives’ companies and organisations partnered with Progresif to support the ‘Adopt a School’ initiative through Phase 2 of the company’s Donate Data campaign.
They sponsored the Tutong Sixth Form Centre, Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam Secondary School, Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Secondary School in Lumut, Rimba Secondary School and Menglait Secondary School for a year-long Wi-Fi connectivity service provided by Progresif.
“We are extremely pleased with the commitment we share with key and reputable stakeholders in enhancing our local education system through this campaign,” said Progresif Chief Executive Officer Hajah Nurul Haniah binti Haji Jaafar. “The ‘Adopt a School’ campaign is an initiative focused on sponsoring Internet connectivity, facilitated by stakeholders in Brunei.”
The selected schools were listed by the Ministry of Education to streamline the process for stakeholders to make meaningful contributions in enhancing online resources for education. – Azlan Othman
Deputy Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the Ministry of Education Dr Chin Wei Keh in group photo with sponsors and schools representatives. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
Panellists at the forum with students. PHOTO: ADIB NOOR
A mental health forum for students was held at the Menglait Secondary School yesterday.
The forum was organised by the Bruneian Contingent for the Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Programme (SSEAYP) 2023, with support from SSEAYP International Brunei Darussalam (BERSATU), as the first of their post-programme activities.
Around 130 people, including Year 9, 10 and 11 students and teachers attended the forum.
Panellists discussed a number of mental health issues, including common mental health issues prevalent in students such as stress and burnout, resilience tips and techniques during high-stress situations, as well as identifying common symptoms of depression and anxiety.
The forum hoped to enable students and teachers to openly discuss mental health issues and educate them on early detection and early signs of mental health problems. It also aims to raise awareness among both students and teachers about the importance of mental health.
An audience of 130 people, including students from Years 9, 10 and 11 as well as teachers, attended the forum. – Adib Noor
Panellists at the forum with students. PHOTO: ADIB NOOR
ABOVE & BELOW: United States Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Caryn R McClelland and Universiti Teknologi Brunei Vice-Chancellor Datin Paduka Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman at the event. PHOTO: UTB
Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) launched the Brunei Affiliate of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) on Tuesday.
“The event marked an important step towards supporting and advancing the careers of women engineers in the country,” according to the university in a statement.
UTB Vice-Chancellor Datin Paduka Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman and United States Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Caryn McClelland officiated the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The event concluded with a symbolic presentation of SWE certificate of accreditation from the ambassador to the vice-chancellor, signifying the official establishment of the Brunei affiliate of SWE.
The society aims to support and advance the careers of women engineers in Brunei and will focus on professional development, outreach activities, and creating connections for career opportunities, tailored to the needs of women in the engineering field within Brunei.
ABOVE & BELOW: United States Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Caryn R McClelland and Universiti Teknologi Brunei Vice-Chancellor Datin Paduka Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman at the event. PHOTO: UTBPHOTO: UTB
File photo shows a car wade through a flash flood in Kampong Beribi.
PHOTO: BB STOCK PHOTO
Active weather condition is forecasted to extend until Sunday morning with occasional heavy and thundery showers, affecting numerous areas in the country, the Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Department (BDMD) stated yesterday.
Wind gust may reach up to 45 kilometres per hour (km/h) during or near heavy and thundery showers.
Over Brunei waters, the sea state is generally moderate to rough, with waves up to three metres, especially at offshore areas.
The agency also said the Sultanate is in the southwest monsoon, which is expected to last until September. During southwest monsoon, atmospheric conditions over the Sultanate tend to be quite stable with minimal thunderstorms compared to the inter-monsoon period.
The wind condition will generally be blowing from the southwest direction during this period.
The public is advised to take precautionary action as there is a risk of flash floods especially at low-lying and flood prone areas as well as near river banks during continuous heavy rain and also high tide.
The risk of landslides and fallen trees are also possible during heavy showers and gusty condition.
The public, road users and fishermen are also advised to always be up to date with the latest weather forecast, advisory and warning issued by the BDMD and to take action to ensure safety.
File photo shows a car wade through a flash flood in Kampong Beribi. PHOTO: BB STOCK PHOTO
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof presents korban meat to a recipent. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
Prime Minister’s Office
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) held a korban ceremony at the Banquet Hall, PMO building yesterday, in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidiladha.
Four cows were sacrificed for the ceremony, and the korban meat distributed to some 48 recipients from the PMO and its departments, as well as 124 asnaf recipients registered under the Brunei Islamic Religious Council (MUIB).
A talk on the meaning of sacrifice was delivered by Islamic Da’wah Centre officer Ahmad Muzhafar bin Haji Marsidi.
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, the guest of honour, along with Deputy Minister (Civil Service Governance) at the PMO Dato Seri Paduka Mohd Riza bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yunos and Deputy Minister (Energy) at the PMO Haji Mohamad Azmi bin Haji Mohd Hanifah distributed the meat to recipients. The ceremony expressed gratitude to Allah the Almighty for His blessings, while also cultivating a sense of compassion among the community and strengthening relationships between fellow Muslims at the PMO.
The event was organised by the Public Service Commission Office (SPA) in collaboration with the Department of Energy at the PMO. – James Kon
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof presents korban meat to a recipient. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLIThe minister at the event. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
Ministry of Health
The Ministry of Health (MoH) held a korban ceremony at the ministry premises yesterday, in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidiladha.
This year, three buffaloes were sacrificed and the korban meat distributed to some 199 recipients comprising MoH staff from all four districts.
Acting Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi bin Haji Mohamad, along with Permanent Secretary at the MoH Haji Maswadi bin Haji Mohsin and Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary (Professional) at the MoH Dr Hajah Rafidah binti Haji Gharif, distributed the korban meat.
The ceremony was jointly organised by the Department of Administration and Finance at the Health Promotion Centre as well as the Project Development and Estate Management Division at the MoH.
A talk on Ibadah Korban was also delivered by an officer from the Royal Brunei Armed Forces’ Religious Department Mohammad Fahmi bin Haji Matnor. – James Kon
Acting Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi bin Haji Mohamad at the event. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLIABOVE & BELOW: Photos show the acting minister distributing korban meat to recipients. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLIPHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism
The Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) held their annual korban ceremony yesterday at the Setia Pahlawan Hall.
The event, organised by the Department of Fisheries, saw three buffaloes sacrificed and the korban meat distributed to some 80 recipients, which included staff from the ministry and its departments. Meanwhile, the communal takbir chanting was led by the Department of Fisheries Takbir group.
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, the guest of honour, officiated the distribution of sacrificial meat.
Permanent Secretary at the MPRT Hajah Tutiaty binti Haji Abdul Wahab; deputy permanent secretaries; department heads; senior officers; and staff were also present.
A religious talk ‘The Sweetness in Sacrifice’ was also delivered by Islamic Da’wah Centre officer Mohammad Nasyith bin Suferi.
The annual korban ceremony is held to express gratitude for the blessings and bounties granted by Allah the Almighty, while fostering a spirit of mutual assistance among Muslims. – Fadley Faisal
ABOVE & BELOW: Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin at the event; and presents korban meat to recipients. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIPHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIPHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
Royal Brunei Police Force
The Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) held a korban ceremony at the Gadong Police Surau yesterday, in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidiladha.
The ceremony, organised by the RBPF Islamic Religious Body, saw the sacrifice of two cows and three goats, with part of the korban meat distributed to 53 asnaf in mukims Gadong ‘A’ and Berakas ‘B’.
Commissioner of Police Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohammad Irwan bin Haji Hambali was the guest of honour at the event, joined by Deputy Commissioner of Police Dato Seri Pahlawan Sulaiman bin Alidin, directors and deputy directors of departments, formation heads, commanding officers, senior officers and RBPF personnel. – Fadley Faisal
ABOVE & BELOW: Commissioner of Police Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohammad Irwan bin Haji Hambali presents korban meat to recipients. PHOTO: RBPFPHOTO: RBPF
Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohd Tashim bin Pengiran Haji Hassan presents korban meat to a recipient. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
WARGAMAS Association
A korban ceremony was organised by the WARGAMAS Association yesterday at Multaqa Hall, Ministry of Religious Affairs.
Eleven cows were sacrificed during the ceremony and the korban meat distributed to some eighty recipients among the less fortunate.
Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohd Tashim bin Pengiran Haji Hassan attended the ceremony along with some 77 participants.
WARGAMAS Association President Haji Abu Bakar bin Haji Mohd Don said it was the third year the association held a korban ceremony, and hoped that it would help those who are less fortunate.
The ceremony was enlivened with a tausyeh performance by the association. – Rokiah Mahmud
Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohd Tashim bin Pengiran Haji Hassan presents korban meat to a recipient. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association
The Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association (PPNBD) held a korban ceremony at its premises in Kampong Beribi yesterday, where four cows were sacrificed and the meat distributed to its members as well as the underprivileged in the community.
Present as the guest of honour was PPNBD Chief Commissioner Skip Haji Junaidi bin Haji Hussin, who also distributed the korban meat.
Also in attendance were PPNBD’s deputy chief commissioner Skip Arif bin Haji Abdul Hadi, secretary-general Skip Haji Rasni @ Rosli bin Haji Bakir and treasurer-general Skip Pengiran Sufri bin Haji Othman as well as district commissioners and committee members. – Lyna Moahamd
The Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association members during the korban event. PHOTO: LYNA MOHAMAD
Politeknik Brunei
Around 276 containers of korban meat was distributed by Politeknik Brunei (PB) during a ceremony at the PB Lumut Campus yesterday, in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidiladha for 1445 Hijrah.
Three buffaloes were sacrificed for the korban ceremony, and the meat distributed to students, teachers and staff of PB along with less fortunate families living in the area.
A special talk on ‘Menghayati Ibadah Korban’ was delivered by Islamic Da’wah Centre officer Abdul Khaliq bin Kamree, highlighting the importance of appreciating sacrifices made during Hari Raya Aidiladha.
PB Assistant Director Arbaniah binti Haji Sablee was present to witness the event. – Daniel Lim
A recipient receives korban meat. PHOTO: DANIEL LIM
Mashhor Group of Companies
Mashhor Group of Companies and Yayasan Al-Mashhor yesterday held a korban ceremony at its premises at the Lambak Light Industrial Area.
Mashhor Group Deputy Director Malai Shamil Faris bin Dr Malai Haji Abdul Hamid shared that two buffaloes were slaughtered for the ceremony.
He highlighted that the gathering was held to remember the sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim (pbuh), while also assisting the less fortunate through the distribution of korban meat.
Present as the chief guest was Deputy Permanent Secretary (Trade and Industry) at the Ministry of Finance and Economy Mohammad Harris bin Brigadier General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Haji Ibrahim.
The religious gathering also forged closer ties among celebrants while expressing gratitude to Allah the Almighty for His blessings. – Azlan Othman
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show Deputy Permanent Secretary (Trade and Industry) at the Ministry of Finance and Economy Mohammad Harris bin Brigadier General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Haji Ibrahim hands over sacrificial meat. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMANPHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
Former Malaysian prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
PHOTO: BERNAMA
BERNAMA – The trial of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and former Treasury secretary-general Tan Sri Mohd Irwan Serigar Abdullah who are facing six charges of criminal breach of trust (CBT) totalling MYR6.6 billion has been postponed yet again to July 22.
High Court Judge Datuk Muhammad Jamil Hussin allowed the application for postponement by Mohd Irwan’s lawyer Datuk K Kumaraendran as the defence has yet to receive 48 other documents from the prosecution.
“Please make sure that all relevant documents are handed over to the defence before the trial begins. On June 4, the trial was postponed to today, but it still cannot proceed today. I don’t want to hear any more excuses for postponement due to failure to hand over the documents,” the judge said.
Earlier, Kumaraendran told the court that the prosecution has yet to hand over the 48 documents to the defence, which would prejudice his client.
“Most of the documents are the transcription of my client’s recorded conversation that will be used as a defence in this case. In the letter submitted to the prosecution on June 18, we requested that the relevant documents be handed over to us,” he said.
Former Malaysian prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak. PHOTO: BERNAMA
Lawyer Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah representing Najib, on the other hand, said that the defence of the former prime minister would depend on Mohd Irwan’s statement or testimony.
“Tan Sri Mohd Irwan can be deemed the chief executive officer of the Ministry of Finance and he has vast knowledge about the ministry. The documents that need to be handed over are very much relevant to my client,” said the veteran lawyer.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Muhammad Saifuddin Hashim Musaimi confirmed that there were 48 other documents classified as ‘secret and confidential’ which had yet to be declassified and handed over to the defence.
“These documents include those from Land Public Transport Agency, Economic Planning Unity and Cabinet papers. Before they can be submitted as exhibits, these documents need to be declassified as they fall under the Official Secret Act.
“We (the prosecution) need a month for the documents to be declassified by the officials at the relevant agencies before we can hand them over to the defence,” he said.
With the postponement, Judge Muhammad Jamil also vacated the trial dates on June 20, 24 to 27, and on July 2 to 4, 9 to 11 and 15 to 18.
On October 24, 2018, Najib, 70, and Mohd Irwan, 66, pleaded not guilty to six charges of CBT of MYR6.6 billion in government funds involving payments to the International Petroleum Investment Company (IPIC).
Malaysian students in a group photo. PHOTO: UNISSA
A delegation from the Faculty of Islamic Studies Student Association at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (PERMAFIS UMS) were recently in the country for a joint programme with local students from religious higher learning institutions.
The delegation joined with members of the Usuluddin Student’s Body (BadrU), Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali Student Representative Council (MPP UNISSA) and Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan Student Representative Council (MPP KUPU SB) for the ‘Jaulah Ilmu Mahabbah’ programme which was carried out from May 30 to June 1.
The UMS delegation, local students and faculty members highlighted topics such as ‘Efforts to Seek Controversy and Publicity on Social Media based on Religious Issues’, ‘Roles of Women in Da’wah’ and ‘Roles of Educators in Building Sustainable and Balance Individuals’ as well as ‘Student Leadership’ during the programme.
The delegation also joined a physical activity at Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas with local students. – Azlan Othman & Rokiah Mahmud
Malaysian students in a group photo. PHOTO: UNISSA
In today’s rapidly evolving world, effectively managing finances and utilising digital tools has become increasingly essential.
To support this shift, the Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB) is committed to promoting digital financial literacy through a series of insightful articles.
This series aims to educate the public on the diverse digital financial tools available in Brunei, highlighting how they can simplify, secure and expedite everyday transactions.
Here we will delve into some of the key digital payment options that are enhancing convenience for residents of Brunei Darussalam:
SELF-SERVICE TERMINALS
Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and Cash Deposit Machines (CDMs) have revolutionised banking by offering a contactless alternative for essential transactions.
These machines allow you to withdraw cash, deposit funds and check your account balance without the need for direct interaction with bank personnel.
To locate the nearest ATMs and CDMs, simply use your bank’s website or mobile app. This accessibility means you can manage your banking needs anytime, anywhere, reducing the need to visit a physical branch.
Online banking has emerged as a powerful tool that puts financial control directly at your fingertips.
By logging into your bank’s online platform through your computer or smartphone, you can effortlessly pay bills, transfer money, and manage your account from the comfort of your home or on the go.
This eliminates the need to endure long queues and crowded bank spaces, making financial management more efficient and stress-free.
CONTACTLESS PAYMENTS
Contactless payments are gaining popularity as a secure and speedy method of transaction.
This includes using debit and credit cards equipped with Near Field Communication (NFC) technology or scanning QR codes via your smartphone.
With contactless payments, you can complete transactions without physically touching cash or card readers, thereby minimising the risk of spreading germs. This method is especially convenient for quick purchases, enhancing both safety and efficiency.
PAYMENT GATEWAYS
The surge in e-commerce has made online shopping an integral part of modern consumer behaviour. Payment gateways play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of online transactions.
These gateways encrypt sensitive financial information, providing a secure pathway for transactions between customers and merchants.
When shopping online, always verify the legitimacy of the websites or e-commerce platforms to safeguard your finances.
Trusted payment gateways offer peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy the convenience of online shopping without compromising security.
EMBRACING THE DIGITAL FINANCIAL FUTURE
As we advance into the digital era, staying informed about the available financial tools and embracing digital payment options is vital.
Whether it’s utilising self-service terminals, engaging in online banking, or exploring new FinTech solutions, technology can significantly enhance your financial management and sense of control.
By learning to use digital financial tools responsibly, individuals can contribute to Brunei Darussalam’s economic growth and prosperity.
The BDCB’s initiative to promote digital financial literacy underscores the importance of adapting to these changes, ensuring that everyone can benefit from the efficiencies and security offered by digital financial services. The digital transformation in financial services presents numerous opportunities for individuals to improve their financial well-being.
By adopting and mastering these digital tools, you can make your financial transactions easier, safer, and more efficient.
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show labour enforcement officers conducting an operation at a food outlet in Kampong Sungai Tilong. PHOTO: LABOUR DEPARTMENT
The Labour Department conducted an operation at a restaurant in Kampong Sungai Tilong recently and found nine violations of the Employment Order, 2009, including failure to pay staff for overtime and the deduction of wages.
Other offences included failure to grant staff days off, making staff work beyond the prescribed number of working hours, failure to grant leave on a gazetted public holiday, failure to grant annual leave and failure to grant sick leave.
If found guilty, the employer could face up to BND1,000 fine for each offence.
The Labour Department also reminded employers to monitor their employees’ welfare as required by the order.
More information can be obtained by contacting the agency at 2381848 (during working hours) or 7298989 (outside working hours). – Azlan Othman
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show labour enforcement officers conducting an operation at a food outlet in Kampong Sungai Tilong. PHOTO: LABOUR DEPARTMENTPHOTO: LABOUR DEPARTMENTPHOTO: LABOUR DEPARTMENT
