Over 139,000 visited dental clinics last year, says minister

National

March 20, 2025

A total of 139,885 patients visited dental clinics in Brunei Darussalam in 2024. Additionally, the rate of dental appointments booked through the BruHealth app is estimated to be between 90 to 95 per cent, according to the Department of Dental Services.

Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar shared this in his World Oral Health Day message yesterday.

The minister explained that the Ministry of Health (MoH), through the Department of Dental Services has implemented several programmes aimed at promoting oral health across all levels of society. One of these is the Program Senyum SiManja, organised at 16 healthcare clinics and hospitals nationwide for children aged one to four.

The programme aims to provide early education on maintaining good oral health for parents and guardians, along with preventative measures such as the application of fluoride varnish.

Fluoride varnish, the minister explained, is a concentrated fluoride gel applied to the surface of teeth after a dental examination. “Scientific studies have shown that it can provide additional protection against decay when used alongside routine brushing with fluoride toothpaste,” he said.

The Program Senyum Pelajar was introduced in several kindergartens and primary schools, featuring talks on oral health, fluoride varnish application, and fissure sealants. Fissure sealants are preventive treatments designed to protect posterior teeth from decay.

Another initiative, the Community Smile Programme, targets specific community groups, including the National Service Programme (PKBN) trainees and other sectors, to raise awareness and offer oral healthcare.

The Program Senyum Kasih focuses on providing dental services to patients with special needs, particularly those who are bedridden, ensuring that dental health services are accessible to those in need. World Oral Health Day, celebrated every March 20, aims to increase public awareness of the importance of good oral health. This year marks the second of a three-year campaign launched by the FDI World Dental Federation for World Oral Health Day, under the theme ‘A Happy Mouth is A Happy Mind’. The minister noted that the theme underscores the vital connection between oral health and mental well-being. “Oral health not only reflects good hygiene practices but also contributes to self-confidence, mental well-being and a better quality of life.” – James Kon

Praise for social workers’ tireless efforts

National

March 20, 2025

Director of General Medical Services Dr Muhd Hiza Wardy bin Haji Abdul Halim highlighted the essential role of social workers.

“Social workers play a vital role in supporting individuals, families and communities to overcome challenges and enhance their well-being,” he said.

“These dedicated professionals work across diverse settings, addressing social, emotional and economic issues individuals face daily. Their tireless efforts remind us of the power of compassion and collaboration in building stronger, more resilient societies,” he said when the Medical Social Work (MSW) Department of Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) celebrated World Social Work Day 2025 at Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre (PJSC) in Kampong Jerudong.

Dr Muhd Hiza Wardy also noted that the celebration aligned with the 2025 theme ‘Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Well-being’ which highlights how societies thrive when generations remain connected, support one another and grow together.

World Social Work Day is observed annually on the third Tuesday of March, bringing together social workers worldwide to promote compassion, resilience and solidarity.

The 2025 theme underscores the importance of bridging generational gaps, fostering mutual understanding, and building a sustainable future where all age groups thrive together.

The event featured a launching ceremony at the Lecture Theatre, followed by an exhibition in PJSC’s lobby showcasing social work activities and MSW’s stakeholders. Food vendors, including invited patients and their families, were also present.

Open to the public until tomorrow, the celebration provides an opportunity for the community to engage and learn more about the impactful work of social workers. It also reflects JPMC’s commitment to advancing social work values and strengthening intergenerational bonds to support those in need.

Chief Medical Officer of JPMC Dr Meera Sahib Kabeer officiated the event as the guest of honour. JPMC’s senior management team, heads of departments, staff members, patients and caregivers were also present.

ABOVE & BELOW: Director of General Medical Services Dr Muhd Hiza Wardy bin Haji Abdul Halim delivers a speech; and Dr Muhd Hiza Wardy and Chief Medical Officer of Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) Dr Meera Sahib Kabeer in a group photo with JPMC personnel. PHOTO: JPMC

Dr Muhd Hiza Wardy and Dr Meera Sahib Kabeer at the event. PHOTO: JPMC

Prayers at Royal Mausoleum

National

March 20, 2025

Aegis Secure Solutions Sdn Bhd (Aegis) and Sphere Secure Services Sdn Bhd (S3) gathered at the Royal Mausoleum on March 15.

The participants recited Yassiin and Tahlil, paying tribute to Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam and Al-Marhumah Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Bendahara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman, the late parents of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and for His Majesty’s late son Al-Marhum His Royal Highness Prince Haji ‘Abdul ‘Azim.

Chief Operating Officer of Aegis Secure Solutions Rhyme Bakri expressed, “This meaningful occasion, enriched by the sanctity of Ramadhan, reinforces the values of gratitude, spirituality, and heritage that form the foundation of our community.

“Together, we look to the past for wisdom and inspiration as we strive toward a future guided by these timeless principles.”

The event highlights both reflection on the past and a commitment to upholding values to shape the nation’s future.

Prayers at the Royal Mausoleum. PHOTO: AEGIS

300 orphans receive support at iftar event

National

March 20, 2025

Close to 300 orphans from Mukim Berakas ‘A’ and Kampong Belimbing, along with their families, were hosted to an iftar on Tuesday evening at the Royal Berkshire Hall in Kampong Jerudong.

The event was attended by Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Mohd Yusof, as the guest of honour.

The iftar event also saw the presence of Ambassador of Turkiye to Brunei Darussalam Professor Dr Hamit Esroy and the Ambassador of Iran Mohammad Taghi Rajabi, alongside several penghulus, village heads, acting penghulus and acting village heads.

Organised and hosted by Nazeer Ahamed Zackiriah and his family, the event also included a special donation of cash and a pair of materials from Nazmi Textile Mall for the orphans.

The orphans were from several villages, including Kampong Belimbing, Kampong Delima Satu, Kampong Serusop, Kampong Anggerek Desa, and Kampong Pulaie, among others.

The donations were also extended to orphans from Kampong Burung Pinggai, Kampong Jaya Bakti, Kampong Jaya Setia, Kampong Pancha Delima, Kampong Orang Kaya Besar Imas, Kampong Lambak ‘A’ and ‘B’, Kampong Lambak Kiri, and STKRJ Kampong Lambak.

Before the presentation of donations, a recitation of Tahlil and Doa Arwah was held, led by Mosque Affairs Officer of Mohamed Bolkiah Mosque Haji Symsul Nizam bin Hj Badar.

The evening was a heartwarming display of community spirit and generosity, bringing together local leaders and residents to support and uplift the orphans during Ramadhan. – Lyna Mohamad

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Adanan in a group photo. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI

Photos show Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Mohd Yusof presenting the donations. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI

Special sungkai for underprivileged children, families

National

March 20, 2025

PetroVietnam Drilling and Well Service Corp recently hosted a special sungkai for 40 children and 10 of their parents, all beneficiaries of the Brunei Council on Social Welfare (MKM).

MKM is a registered society in Brunei dedicated to providing assistance to underprivileged families in need of support.

Ambassador of Vietnam to Brunei Darussalam Tran Anh Vu was the guest of honour at the event held at Arno Zoey Wonderland. The children had the opportunity to enjoy the facilities of the wonderland and create lasting memories.

Representative of PetroVietnam Rakeemah binti Haji Dollah presented green packets to all the children.

Managing Director of Arno Zoey Wonderland Jessie Lim presented tokens of appreciation to the ambassador, Rakeemah from PetroVietnam, and President of MKM Yusof Halim, in recognition for their contributions to the event.

Yusof Halim expressing gratitude, said, “Sometimes we forget that what we take for granted – a good sungkai meal and the joy of a wonderland – may be experiences an underprivileged child has never had.Tonight, these children will leave with memories they will treasure for a long time.”

The event served as a reminder of the power of community in bringing joy to those in need. – Fadley Faisal

Ambassador of Vietnam to Brunei Darussalam Tran Anh Vu and attendees at the event. PHOTO: MKM

Essentials donated to 15 families in need

National

March 20, 2025

The Embassy of China in Brunei Darussalam and the Chinese Enterprises Association in Brunei (CEAB) recently came together to host a donation of daily necessities to 15 families.

Ambassador of China to Brunei Darussalam Xiao Jianguo attending the donation ceremony, in his welcoming remarks, highlighted the long history of friendship between China and Brunei, noting that since the establishment of diplomatic relations over 30 years ago, mutual political trust has grown stronger and practical cooperation has yielded fruitful results.

He also mentioned the recent state visit of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam to China, marking a new chapter in building a China-Brunei Community with a shared future.

The ambassador remarked that during the holy month, all sectors of Brunei society dedicate their love and help each other, which aligns with the traditional virtues of the Chinese people. He also noted that this is the third consecutive year that the embassy has jointly hosted the donation with CEAB.

The development of Chinese enterprises in Brunei has been supported by the Bruneian people, he added.

The donation initiative is part of the ongoing efforts by Chinese enterprises in Brunei to fulfil their social responsibilities and express gratitude to the local community.

The donation reflects the continued spirit of cooperation between China and Brunei, with hopes for the continued development of Chinese enterprises in Brunei and further promotion of the consensus reached by the leaders of both nations.

President of CEAB and General Manager of Bank of China Brunei Branch Li Feng, Counsellor Shi Rongke from the embassy and 12 other representatives from CEAB also participated.

Li Feng thanked the embassy for its support and participation, and expressed his gratitude and extended blessings to the attending Bruneians in Malay language. – James Kon

Ambassador of China to Brunei Darussalam Xiao Jianguo in a group photo. PHOTO: EMBASSY OF CHINA IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

Over 3,000 bottles of water donated to mosques

National

March 20, 2025

The Brunei Institute of Leadership and Islamic Finance (BILIF) donated over 3,000 bottles of water to 12 mosques across the Brunei-Muara District. The donation aims to assist with the breaking of fast and other religious activities throughout the holy month.

The initiative, known as BlLlFinSharing, reflects BILIF’s dedication to fostering community spirit and providing meaningful support during Ramadhan. As of now, 2,400 bottles have been distributed to nine mosques, including Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Mosque, Kampong Perpindahan Mata-Mata Mosque, Kampong Bengkurong Mosque and Setia Ali Mosque in Muara Town, among others.

The distribution is set to continue on Monday, when donations will be made to three other mosques.

Acting Chief Executive Officer of BILIF Afero Eswandy Mohamad alongside other BILIF personnel led the donation.

ABOVE & BELOW: Photos shows Acting Chief Executive Officer of Brunei Institute of Leadership and Islamic Finance Afero Eswandy Mohamad in a group photo; and the donation in progress. PHOTO: BILIF

Ministry holds Tedarus Al-Quran

National

March 20, 2025

The Ministry of Finance and Economy (MoFE) held a Tedarus Al-Quran ceremony in conjunction with Ramadhan at Kampong Kilanas Mosque.

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 attended the event with Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Economy) Dato Seri Paduka Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abdul Hamid, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Fiscal) Pengiran Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Zety Sufina binti Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Sani.

The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, led by the minister, followed by a Tedarus Al-Quran session involving ministry officers and staff. It concluded with congregational Asar prayer and the handover of charitable contributions to the mosque’s imam. – Fadley Faisal

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 presents a donation to Kampong Kilanas Mosque. PHOTO: MOFE

163 orphans treated to iftar

National

March 20, 2025

The Rizqun International Hotel, in collaboration with the Islamic Studies Department (JPI) at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, hosted an iftar for 163 orphans from Year 6 Arabic schools and Year 4 religious schools across the country.

Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof was the guest of honour.

The ceremony began with the recitation of Sayyidul Istighfar, Surah Al-Fatihah, Surah Yaasiin, Tahlil and Doa Arwah, led by Mohammad Zamery Haji Nayan from JPI.

Before the event concluded, the guest of honour and The Rizqun International Hotel’s board of directors presented green packets to the orphans.

The initiative, a charitable contribution by Abdul Razak Holdings, was held in the spirit of Ramadhan to alleviate the financial burden of orphans in preparation for Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

Additionally, the gathering provided an opportunity to pray for departed loved ones, particularly the parents and guardians of the orphans, as well as the wider Muslim community. – Fadley Faisal

Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof presents a donation to an orphan. PHOTO: JPI

Religious teachers attend Hubbul Quran programme

National

March 20, 2025

The Islamic Studies Department through its Islamic Religious Knowledge (IRK) Division organised the Al-Ukhuwwah Wal-Mahabbah: Hubbul Quran Programme at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Girls Arabic Religious Secondary School’s surau in Kampong Katok.

The programme, held in line with this year’s Nuzul Al-Quran theme, ‘Akal Sihat Dengan Al-Quran’ gathered over 450 religious teachers from primary and secondary schools as well as technical and vocational institutions across the country.

The event aimed to strengthen bonds among IRK educators while fostering a greater appreciation for Al-Quran. It began with the recitation of Sayyidul Istighfar and Asmaa Ul-Husna, led by Haji Shahmin bin Haji Akop. This was followed by the recitation of Surah Ar-Rahman, guided by Seri Begawan Religious Teachers University College Assistant Ra’es of Student Affairs and Alumni Dr Haji Mohammad Shahrol Azmi bin Haji Abdul Mulok.

The programme concluded with the presentation of tokens of appreciation to the speakers and a Doa Selamat led by Haji Mohd Shaffiee bin Haji Masri. – Fadley Faisal

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