Reception celebrates Unity Day, 40 years of Brunei-Germany ties
Weekend fun for the whole family
The public is welcome to visit Grand Auto Sdn Bhd’s showroom to test drive a range of Mazda models and participate in a fun-filled family experience featuring activities and food vendors at the Mazda Customer Weekend which ends today.
The event is organised by Grand Auto, the exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles in the Sultanate. Attendees will have the chance to test drive and receive a Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf voucher.
Onsite sales consultants will answer questions and help customers find the perfect Mazda for everyone’s needs. – James Kon
Gadong branch re-opens for enhanced banking experience
Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) re-opened its Gadong branch to enhance the banking experience for its customers.
The upgraded branch now offers financing, credit card applications, account opening, and other related services, in addition to 24-hour access to self service machines such as automated teller machines, cash deposit machines, and cheque deposit machines.
BIBD Deputy Managing Director II Irwan bin Haji Lamit officiated the branch re-opening.
The re-opening of the Gadong branch is a testament to BIBD’s ongoing efforts to bring financial services closer to the public, ensuring that everyone can access essential banking services with greater ease. The community-centric approach reaffirms BIBD’s dedication to supporting the financial well-being of all customers.
It also highlights BIBD’s commitment to service excellence, accessibility, and providing greater convenience to members of the public. With a focus on improving customer experience, the newly reopened branch is designed to cater to the evolving needs of its clients by offering comprehensive suite of services.
BIBD Deputy Managing Director I Hajah Noraini binti Haji Sulaiman along with senior management and staff of BIBD were also in attendance.
MoU boosts Brunei-Sarawak trade, tourism collaboration
The Young Entrepreneurs Association of Brunei (YEAB) and the Sarawak Entrepreneur Association (SEA) formalised a memorandum of understanding (MoU) yesterday at Pavo Point, Kianggeh, marking the inauguration of the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office (STATOB) in Bandar Seri Begawan.
“The signing of this MoU underscores a shared commitment to enhancing business opportunities and strengthening ties in trade and tourism between the two regions,” the YEAB said in a press release.
“This partnership is expected to create a platform for entrepreneurs from both Brunei and Sarawak to collaborate, exchange ideas, and develop mutually beneficial initiatives in various sectors, including tourism, trade, and investment.” YEAB was represented by its assistant secretary Awangku Abdul Azim bin Pengiran Yusof, who also stood in for YEAB President Goh Chai Li.
SEA was represented by its president Khairulnizam Mohamed Khalid.
Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah and Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abaang Johari Tun Openg were present at the ceremony.
“This collaboration will open up significant opportunities for young entrepreneurs to share experiences, knowledge, and best practices in building a more dynamic and innovative entrepreneurial community,” Khairulnizam Mohamed Khalid said.
He added, “SEA is always committed to providing a platform for young entrepreneurs in Sarawak, and through our partnership with YEAB, our entrepreneurial agenda will be further strengthened with various joint projects and initiatives.”
He also highlighted the importance of networking and mentorship in the development of young entrepreneurs.
“Through this collaboration, we hope to offer better support and opportunities for our members to maximise their potential, especially in a global economy that is increasingly challenging.”
Meanwhile, the YEAB said, “The establishment of STATOB in Bandar Seri Begawan is expected to further enhance collaboration between Brunei and Sarawak, particularly in terms of trade and tourism, while this MoU serves as a catalyst for future joint projects and entrepreneurial initiatives between YEAB and SEA.”
Exclusive offers, rewards up for grabs at travel fair
Standard Chartered Bank is participating in the Sabre Brunei Travel Fair 2024, which ends tomorrow, at Booth 27 at the Arena Hall, Indoor Stadium, Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex in Berakas.
In conjunction with the travel fair, Standard Chartered is offering exclusive promotions and discounts for its Visa and Mastercard Credit Cardholders during the event. Standard Chartered Visa and Mastercard Credit Cardholders who purchase air tickets or travel packages during the fair will be eligible for upfront discounts.
The first 25 who spend a minimum of BND1,000 in a single receipt at Freme Travel Services Sdn Bhd today, and at Pan Bright Travel Service Sdn Bhd tomorrow, will receive an immediate discount of BND100 at the point of purchase.
Additionally, Standard Chartered credit cardholders who spend a minimum of BND500 in a single receipt at any participating travel agency during the fair will be eligible for one instant lucky dip, with prizes including vouchers and exclusive merchandise. Head of Retail Products and Digital Aisah Razali said, “We’re delighted to be part of the Sabre Brunei Travel Fair and provide our credit cardholders unparalleled financial flexibility but also bring unmatched value to our customers with exclusive benefits, rewards and security features that enhance their experiences.”
Standard Chartered is also running a promotion for new credit card applicants, in which successful application, activation and spending of their new credit cards will be entitled to an SC luggage bag, limited to the first 300 clients.
New SC credit card holders will also be entitled to a four-year annual fee waiver.
Strong religious community with ‘Pejuang Fajr’ programme
BND1,000 compound fine for illegal dumping
An individual found disposing used wood in Kampong Dadap, Kilanas recently was fined BND1,000 by the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe).
The fine was issued under the Miscellaneous Offences Act (Amendment) 2021, where the individual has seven days to pay the fine or face court action. If convicted in court, the fines will range from BND1,000 to BND3,000 for the first offence, and up to BND9,000 or six months in prison for repeat offences.
The public can report about littering via the Darussalam hotline 123 or JASTRe’s hotline. The department urged everyone to help keep the environment clean. – Daniel Lim
National netball team seal win against Sri Lanka State Services
Twelve excel in French exam
Twelve individuals on Thursday received their Diplôme d’Etudes en Langue Française (DELF) from the Alliance Française de Brunei Darussalam (AFBD) after passing their French language proficiency examination.
The ceremony took place at the official residence of French Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Eve Lubin in Kota Batu.
The ambassador congratulated the recipients of the diploma.
She added that the DELF certificate is an acknowledgement of their dedication to improve their proficiency in French language.
Several DELF recipients shared their insights on the benefits of learning French and how it can open new career opportunities.
Muhammad Aniq Najwa bin Ariffin from Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) said, “After receiving the certificate, I am more motivated to learn more about the French language and expand my teaching opportunities. If I can achieve a B2 level in the DELF diploma, I can become a French language teacher.”
He added, “I enjoy French because it complements English well. It’s an easy language to learn, and I have a passion for acquiring new knowledge, even though I am majoring in Mathematics at UBD.”
He recalled his high school experience, saying, “I learnt French from a Bruneian teacher with valid certifications. At UBD, I found a module allowing me to enroll in the French language class from levels one to six. If I can complete level six, I will be able to attain a minor in my degree.” He noted, however, that pronunciation can be challenging: “While many English words are similar to French, they often sound fancier.”
His advice for others interested in learning French is clear, “If you have a passion for learning French, go for it. It’s not a waste of time. Learning another language can significantly expand your job opportunities.” Meanwhile, Valerie Chui Moi Shang, who works in healthcare, shared her enthusiasm for the French language, saying, “Learning French is a hobby for me, and I believe it can expand my opportunities in my field of work. English is usually the first language, followed by French. Knowing the language can enhance my career prospects.” She added, “Learning French is not hard if you have interest. It’s enjoyable, so I don’t feel stressed.”
Expressing her joy upon receiving the DELF diploma, Valerie stated, “I am very happy and motivated to pursue the next level of the DELF. I continue to learn by listening to French music and reading French books and articles.” Her advice for those starting to learn French is, “Learning a new language like French can broaden your horizons and enhance your skills.”
The DELF is a recognised qualification that certifies the French language proficiency of non-native speakers, highlighting the importance of linguistic and cultural exchange.
AFBD President Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Haji Hazair bin Haji Abdullah and Alliance Française Director Guillaume Graff were present.
The Alliance Française looks forward to nurturing more language enthusiasts with upcoming courses and events aimed at promoting French language and culture in the community. – James Kon