ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh during the opening ceremony of the Sarawak Preschool International Convention 2024 in Kuching, Sarawak. PHOTO: MOE
Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh attended the opening ceremony of the Sarawak Preschool International Convention 2024 at The Waterfront Hotel in Kuching, Sarawak, on Saturday.
Themed ‘Inclusivity and Diversity in Early Childhood Education’, the convention focused on three key objectives. They were enhancing educators’ knowledge and skills to address challenges in early childhood care and education; providing a platform for educators, caregivers and parents to associate and collaborate; and creating opportunities for participants to share experiences and best practices fostering a culture of continuous learning for improvement in the field.
Sarawak Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Hajah Fatimah Abdullah officiated the event which brought together representatives from the Sultanate, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore.
Some 305 attended in person, while another 620 joined online.
The minister also visited the One Stop Early Intervention Centre (OSEIC), which provides early interventions for babies and young children diagnosed with autism, Down syndrome or other learning disabilities before they enter preschool. During the visit, the centre discussed its Early Intervention Programme (EIP), which offers educational and therapy support services to help children develop essential skills and reach their full potential.
Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati binti Haji Tajuddin accompanied the minister, along with four Bruneian preschool teachers and an officer from the Early Childhood Education Unit of the Department of Schools at the MoE.
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh during the opening ceremony of the Sarawak Preschool International Convention 2024 in Kuching, Sarawak. PHOTO: MOEPHOTO: MOEPHOTO: MOE
Az-Zain Travel and Tours Sdn Bhd gained approval to provide umrah packages using a Saudi Arabia tourist visa, according to the Ministry of Religious Affairs through the Haj Management Department.
This brings the total number of approved travel agencies to 30. – Azlan Othman
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show Jack Simpson during his visit for the Brunei Coffee Convention 2024. PHOTO: TOURISM DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
Jack Simpson from Axil Coffee, crowned recently the 2024 Australian Barista Champion by the Australian Specialty Coffee Association, visited Brunei Darussalam for the Brunei Coffee Convention 2024, in conjunction with International Coffee Day.
The annual event celebrates local and global coffee culture, bringing together coffee lovers, industry experts and international guests. Simpson’s attendance offered a unique chance for coffee enthusiasts to connect with a top barista.
During his trip, the two-time champion explored Brunei’s growing coffee scene via the Brunei Coffee Trail, featuring 50 top cafes near landmarks including the Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque and mangroves.
Simpson said, “It’s been incredible to see how Brunei is embracing specialty coffee. The Coffee Trail is a fantastic way to promote local cafes and connect coffee culture with the country’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
“I’ve enjoyed visiting these cafes and discovering how local baristas are pushing the boundaries in coffee craftsmanship.”
His visit also strengthened ties between Brunei and Australia, a nation known for its exceptional coffee culture. Australia’s influence is helping to enhance the Sultanate’s hospitality industry and develop a more dynamic coffee scene, highlighting potential collaboration in coffee, tourism and hospitality between the two countries.
The initiative also promotes sustainable tourism by blending cultural appreciation with support for local businesses.
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show Jack Simpson during his visit for the Brunei Coffee Convention 2024. PHOTO: TOURISM DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENTPHOTO: TOURISM DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENTPHOTO: TOURISM DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar in a group photo with the Boeffi team during the launch of the F1 ULTRA+. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
Boeffi launched its latest fitness machine, the F1 ULTRA+, at the Brunei Run 2024 during Bandarku Ceria yesterday.
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar officiated the launch.
The F1 ULTRA+ is designed to revolutionise home workouts with advanced features, high performance, and ease of use.
It caters to all fitness levels, offering speeds up to 20 kilometres per hour and a 20-per-cent incline. Powered by a 2.0HP motor, it supports up to 140 kilogrammes (kg) and adjusts speed and incline to suit personal goals, making it ideal for anyone looking to improve their fitness.
With 29 programme modes, including 17 workouts and 12 challenges such as ‘Olympic Games’ and ‘Special Force’, users can stay engaged and motivated.
The 15.6-inch multimedia tablet provides access to Google, Netflix, YouTube and more, while Bluetooth, USB charging, and the FitShow app allow users to track progress. The F1 ULTRA+ emphasises safety with heart rate sensors, oxygen monitoring, anti-slip tread and an electronic control system. Its adjustable tilt and control panel offer easy customisation, and built-in lubrication ensures durability.
Designed for a professional home workout, it balances comfort and quality. Available in stores now, Boeffi continues to promote health and wellness.
For those looking to challenge themselves, the F1 ULTRA+ is the ideal workout partner. – Fadley Faisal
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar in a group photo with the Boeffi team during the launch of the F1 ULTRA+. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar during the Doa Kesyukuran ceremony. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
Ministry of Health
The Ministry of Health (MoH) celebrated the birthday of Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam with a Doa Kesyukuran ceremony at Surau Nuurul ‘Inayah, Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital yesterday.
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar was the guest of honour.
The ceremony commenced with the mass Maghrib and Sunnat Hajat prayers, led by Haji Mohd Emmarul bin Haji Azamain.
This was followed by the recitation of Surah Yaasiin and the Doa Kesyukuran to commemorate Her Majesty’s birthday, led by Head Religious Teacher of the Religious Services Unit at RIPAS Hospital Ahmad Syuja’iee bin Begawan Mudim Haji Metassim.
The ceremony concluded with the reading of Doa Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Permanent Secretary at the MoH Haji Maswadi bin Haji Mohsin, along with heads of departments and staff from the ministry were also present at the event. – James Kon
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar during the Doa Kesyukuran ceremony. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIGuests at the ceremony. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
Group of Wives of Cabinet Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, Deputy Permanent Secretaries, and Affiliated members
A Khatam Al-Quran, Doa Kesyukuran and Sunnat Hajat prayers ceremony were held yesterday in conjunction with the birthday celebration of Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam. The ceremony was organised by the Group of Wives of Cabinet Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, Deputy Permanent Secretaries, and Affiliated members (KI) at Dar Al-Intishar, Jerudong Sports Complex.
The ceremony commenced with the recitation of Sayyidul Istighfar and Surah Al-Fatihah, led by spouse of the Minister of Religious Affairs Datin Hajah Nahriah binti Haji Awang Asbi, who serves as Chairperson II of the Steering Committee and Head of the Religious Committee for the group. – Rokiah Mahmud
Spouse of the Minister of Religious Affairs Datin Hajah Nahriah binti Haji Awang Asbi at the ceremony. PHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUD
The Brunei Darussalam Nurses Association (PENJURU)
A Khatam Al-Quran and Doa Kesyukuran ceremony was held yesterday at Al-’Afiah Hall, Ministry of Health (MoH), in conjunction with the birthday celebration of Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam. The event was organised by Brunei Darussalam Nurses Association (PENJURU).
In her welcoming remarks, PENJURU President Datin Paduka Hajah Suraya Noraidah binti Abdullah stated, “As the patron of PENJURU, Her Majesty has been a source of inspiration for all members. We express our sincere gratitude for Her Majesty’s support for the development of the nursing and midwifery profession, which enables us to provide excellent services to the community.”
Datin Paduka Hajah Suraya highlighted that PENJURU, as a professional body for nurses, midwives and all health workers registered with the Brunei Nursing Board, plays an important role in supporting the MoH’s objectives to deliver the best services to the community.
Some 40 PENJURU members participated in the ceremony, which was also attended by the acting director of nursing and nurses from all four districts. – James Kon
Participants at the Khatam Al-Quran ceremony. PHOTO: JAMES KON
Participants joining the Human Capital Development course. PHOTO: PDI
Asy-Syahadah Youth under the Youth Religious Programme Secretariat (PKB) organised a human capital development course at the Islamic Da’wah Centre (PDI), Ministry of Religious Affairs yesterday.
The course aimed to equip participants, known as Muallaf Icons, with essential skills for effective interaction as well as to enhance their understanding of emotional intelligence.
The course featured two sessions, which were ‘Effective Communication Skills’, led by Assistant Training Officer from the Civil Service Institute (IPA) Haji Noor Husseini bin Haji Mohd Hussein and ‘Wise Emotion Management’, delivered by Secretary-General of the KESAN Sarah binti Haji Abdul Mutalif. – Rokiah Mahmud
Participants joining the Human Capital Development course. PHOTO: PDI
Participants during the warm-up session at the fun walk yesterday. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
Approximately 300 religious teachers from Brunei IV Zone joined a fun walk yesterday at Kampong Parit Recreational Park, Pengkalan Batu to mark the 34th Teacher’s Day celebration.
The 2.5-kilometre walk began with a warm-up session. Islamic Studies Officer of Brunei Zone IV at the Islamic Studies Department at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Hajah Mu’izzah binti Kefli was the guest of honour.
The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by a health talk in conjunction with the Mental Health Awareness Month by Acting Assistant Director of the People with Different Abilities Division (BOKU) at the Community Development Department of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Irnawati binti Haji Mahir.
The event also featured a lucky draw and a group photo session, aimed at fostering camaraderie and unity among the religious school teachers.
The event aimed to promote a healthy lifestyle as well as maintain the mental and physical well-being of the teachers, while appreciating their contributions under the Department of Islamic Studies, through the School Leaders Committee of Religious Schools of Brunei Zone IV. – Azlan Othman
Participants during the warm-up session at the fun walk yesterday. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN
Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman during the Munajat night. PHOTO: MORA
The role of a teacher and civil servant should not be seen just as a job but as a noble responsibility, requiring sidq (honesty), trust and integrity, as demonstrated by Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), who upheld truth even in difficult times, said lecturer at Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Centre for Islamic Studies (SOASCIS), Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Dr Haji Muhammad Majdey bin Haji Zawawi.
He said this delivering a tazkirah during the 154th Munajat night on Saturday.
He added, “As teachers, we must lead by example with integrity, teaching honestly and sincerely, knowing we are accountable to Allah the Almighty for what we teach.
“A teacher’s responsibility is to guide students not just in knowledge but also in morals.
“For public servants, the responsibility is to serve the society with honesty and fairness.”
The Munajat night, organised by the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA), invited UBD’s Student Association president from the University Mosque Muhd Zulkhairi Jifli bin Jainudin to lead the recitation of Sayyidul Istighfar and Surah Al-Fatihah.
UBD’s Student Association members; Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah alumni members and students; Tahfiz and Qira’at students of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali; SOASCIS members; takmir committee members and congregants of Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Mateen Mosque in Kampong Mulaut, Kampong Mata-Mata Religious Hall in Gadong and 63 other mosques, suraus and religious halls nationwide; and the MoRA workforce participated.
The event also saw the recitation of Surah Al-Mulk, Doa Munajat, Selawat Tafrijiyyah and Doa Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Munajat night invites the public to enhance their spiritual practices, seek forgiveness from Allah the Almighty, read Al-Quran verses and collectively pray for the Sultanate to be protected from calamities, disasters and diseases.
The public can participate virtually every Saturday night through the link: https://tiny.cc/munajatkheu, or https://www.facebook.com/pdi.kheu. – Azlan Othman
Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman during the Munajat night. PHOTO: MORA
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show participants during a leisure activity for religious teachers at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium area in Berakas. PHOTO: JPI
The Islamic Studies Department (JPI), through the Islamic Religious Knowledge (IRK) Division, held a leisure activity for religious teachers at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium area in Berakas yesterday.
The event commenced with a warm-up session, followed by a 1.5-kilometre walk.
The activity aimed to promote a healthy and active lifestyle and mental well-being, as well as strengthen ties between teachers.
JPI acting director Hajah Mariana binti Haji Jamil, as well as officials and teachers from secondary, primary, technical, vocational and private schools were present. – Azlan Othman
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show participants during a leisure activity for religious teachers at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium area in Berakas. PHOTO: JPIPHOTO: JPI
Some 37 tutors of Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah College received the 100-per-cent Achievement Award, while eight received the Productivity Champion Leader Award during a Teacher’s Incentive Award Day on Saturday. – Azlan Othman
