ABOVE & BELOW: 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 Yusof; and Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin handing over the financial contribution. PHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUD
Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (Yayasan) yesterday handed over BND75,800 financial contribution to imams and mosque affairs officers nationwide in a ceremony at its complex.
In line with the whole-of-nation approach in collaboration with various stakeholders to strengthen Islamic eminence in the country, the financial contribution will be used to organise activities in conjunction with Maulidur Rasul for 1446 Hijrah celebration.
The contribution is handed to 29 mosques, suraus and religious halls in the Brunei-Muara District; 23 in the Tutong District; eight in the Belait District; and 12 in the Temburong District.
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 Yusof, as the chairman of the Yayasan Board of Directors, presented the contribution to imams and mosque affairs officers in the Brunei-Muara and Belait districts.
Meanwhile, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, as member of the Yayasan Board of Directors, handed the contributions to mosques, suraus and religious halls in Tutong and Temburong districts. – Rokiah Mahmud
ABOVE & BELOW: 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 Yusof; and Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin handing over the financial contribution. PHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUDPHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUD
A tree fell on Norimah binti Abdullah’s house on Friday. PHOTO: KOTIBA
A donation ceremony was held at the KOTIBA Cooperative Fuel Station yesterday, where financial assistance was provided to the station’s employee Norimah binti Abdullah, whose home was damaged by strong winds on Friday.
KOTIBA Cooperative Board Chairman Haji Matassan bin Haji Bungso presented the donation to Halimah binti Yahya, Norimah’s mother.
The donation was organised by KOTIBA’s Welfare and Religious Subcommittee, established to offer support and assistance to less-fortunate employees and residents of Kampong Salambigar, Sungai Hanching, and Tanah Jambu. The initiative is part of KOTIBA’s corporate social responsibility efforts to alleviate burdens of those in need through continuous support. – Fadley Faisal
A tree fell on Norimah binti Abdullah’s house on Friday. PHOTO: KOTIBAThe donation presentation in progress. PHOTO: KOTIBA
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, Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi bin Haji Mohamad at the agreement signing ceremony. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (Yayasan) Sultan’s Scholar 2024/2025 scholarship recipients signed agreements during a ceremony at Yayasan Complex’s An-Naura Hall on Monday.
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, as chairman of Yayasan Board of Directors, witnessed the ceremony.
The five scholars, who signed the agreements with two family members as guarantors, were: Nur Hidayah Haziyah binti Handrie from Jerudong International School (JIS), Muhammad Afiq bin Abdul Rahman from JIS, Muhammad Asfa Radhi bin Mohammad Yusran from Tutong Sixth Form Centre, Muhammad Nafeez bin Haji Arbaie from Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College and Awangku Mohammad Idris Fadhlee bin Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohd Tashim from Hassanal Bolkiah Boys Arabic Secondary School.
Nur Hidayah Haziyah will be pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in environmental geoscience at University College London in the United Kingdom while Muhammad Afiq will continue his Bachelor’s degree studies in mathematics at University College London. Muhammad Asfa Radhi will be pursuing Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering at University of New South Wales in Australia while Muhammad Nafeez will be taking Bachelor’s programme in data science and decisions at University of New South Wales. Awangku Mohammad Idris Fadhlee meanwhile will be doing his Bachelor’s in Syariah Islamiyyah at Al-Azhar University, Egypt.
Permanent Secretary (Planning, Land Use and Environment) at the Ministry of Development Dr Nor Imtihan binti Haji Abdul Razak as Acting Managing Director of Yayasan and Assistant Managing Director of Yayasan Haji Abdullah @ Dollah bin Haji Ahad signed on behalf of Yayasan.
The ceremony continued with the recitation of Doa Selamat.
Members of the Yayasan board of directors, members of the steering committee for Sultan’s Scholar, permanent secretaries and deputy permanent secretaries at the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Religious Affairs, members of the working committee for Sultan’s Scholar, parents, senior government officials and Yayasan officers were also present.
The Sultan’s Scholar scholarship scheme is Yayasan’s human capacity development programme aimed at producing the next generation of leaders for the betterment of the religion, nation, monarch and country, while contributing to the Sultanate’s socioeconomic development, in line with a goal of Brunei Vision 2035 of producing educated, highly-skilled and accomplished people. – 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, Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi bin Haji Mohamad at the agreement signing ceremony. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIABOVE & BELOW: Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi with Nur Hidayah Haziyah binti Handrie; and Muhammad Asfa Radhi bin Mohammad Yusran. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIPHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIABOVE & BELOW: Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi with Muhammad Nafeez bin Haji Arbaie; Muhammad Afiq bin Abdul Rahman; and Awangku Mohammad Idris Fadhlee bin Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohd Tashim. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIPHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIPHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
ABOVE & BELOW: Nur Hidayah Haziyah binti Handrie; Muhammad Afiq bin Abdul Rahman; and Muhammad Nafeez bin Haji Arbaie. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (Yayasan) Sultan’s Scholar 2024/2025 scholarship recipients vowed to contribute to the nation and help achieve the goals of Brunei Vision 2035 after completing their studies overseas.
Nur Hidayah Haziyah binti Handrie, who will be pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in environmental geoscience at University College London in the United Kingdom, said, “The programme in my studies covers environmental policy and management, which perfectly align with Brunei Vision 2035. The leadership opportunity that comes with the scholarship pairs well to my academic learning, which will contribute to the achievement of Brunei Vision 2035 of a dynamic and sustainable economy as well as high quality of life.”
The former Jerudong International School (JIS) student expressed her gratitude to 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 for awarding the scholarship.
“I am grateful and thankful because it requires a lot of hardwork. I would also like to thank my teachers and parents for always being understanding,” she said.
Muhammad Afiq bin Abdul Rahman, who will pursue his Bachelor’s degree in mathematics at University College London, said, “I am grateful to His Majesty for awarding this scholarship.”
ABOVE & BELOW: Nur Hidayah Haziyah binti Handrie; Muhammad Afiq bin Abdul Rahman; and Muhammad Nafeez bin Haji Arbaie. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIPHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIABOVE & BELOW: Muhammad Asfa Radhi bin Mohammad Yusran; and Awangku Mohammad Idris Fadhlee bin Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohd Tashim. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
The former JIS student said, “After I finish my studies, I plan to pursue a Master’s degree and then become a researcher or a lecturer at a local university.
“I hope to contribute to the country by helping improve mathematics as a subject. I choose mathematics because it is not popular among students, and I hope to make the subject more fun and intuitive. This is in line with achieving the goal of Brunei Vision 2035 for educated, highly skilled and accomplished people.”
Muhammad Nafeez bin Haji Arbaie who will be taking a Bachelor’s degree programme in data science and decisions at University of New South Wales in Australia hopes to be involved in improving the educational curriculum after completing his studies.
“Data science is about analysing and processing data to gain meaningful insights. Data science can help Brunei to analyse the current job and skill demands that employers need from current and future graduates.
“Data science can help to tailor the education curriculum to ensure that students and graduates have the necessary skills and qualities to strive in the workforce. This aligns with the first goal of Brunei Vision 2035 which is educated, highly-skilled and accomplished people,” he said.
“I am happy and grateful to receive the scholarship. I would like to thank His Majesty for the scholarship. I also want to extend my appreciation to my parent, teachers and friends who have been instrumental in my journey.”
Meanwhile, Muhammad Asfa Radhi bin Mohammad Yusran, who graduated from Tutong Sixth Form Centre, will be pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering at University of New South Wales.
He said, “I would like to express my gratitude to His Majesty for awarding the scholarship. I vow to study hard and serve the monarch and the country.
“One of the goals of Brunei Vision 2035 is to achieve a dynamic and sustainable economy. Therefore, I plan to help Brunei further its efforts in utilising alternative renewable energy such as solar energy.”
Awangku Mohammad Idris Fadhlee bin Pengiran Dato Seri Paduka Haji Mohd Tashim, who will be doing a Bachelor’s degree in Syariah Islamiyyah at Al-Azhar University, Egypt, said, “I would like to extend my gratitude to His Majesty as well as Yayasan for giving me this opportunity to become a recipient of the scholarship. Alhamdulillah, I feel blessed and happy to receive the scholarship.”
The Hassanal Bolkiah Boys Arabic Secondary School alumnus also said, “I would like to use this opportunity to study hard and complete my studies, so I can give back to my country by helping it achieve the goals of Brunei Vision 2035.” – James Kon
The Land Transport Department (JPD) announced yesterday that the close tender of vehicle registration number (VRN) for three and four digit BBH series will be available through NomborKu.
The VRN will be available fully online through NomborKu website www.nomborku.gov.bn from today until September 10.
VRN from BBH 100 to BBH 9999 that did not have a tenderer during the previous click-and-bid period will be available for bidding.
Bidders are advised to have an active email address with a payment card for BND25 service fee for each VRN bid.
Dr Billal Patel during the surgery. PHOTO: GLENEAGLES JPMC
Gleneagles JPMC achieved a milestone by successfully performing its first-ever procedure using the Impella device on August 22, a groundbreaking advancement in cardiac care.
Often referred to as the world’s smallest heart pump, the Impella device provides critical support to patients with severe heart conditions by maintaining blood flow during high-risk procedures, ensuring that the heart continues to function effectively while doctors work to address underlying issues.
The procedure was conducted and led by head of interventional cardiology at Gleneagles JPMC Dr Billal Patel, alongside senior consultant interventional cardiologist Dr Rajinikanth Rajagopal and consultant cardiologist at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital’s Department of Cardiology Dr Muhd Ezam Emran.
According to a statement, the success of this procedure sets a precedent for future cases requiring a similar intervention.
Dr Billal Patel during the surgery. PHOTO: GLENEAGLES JPMC
The minister receives the Most Improved Pension Fund (ASEAN) award from Asia Asset Management founder and publisher Tan Lee Hock. PHOTO: JAMES KON
The Employees Trust Fund (TAP) received the Most Improved Pension Fund (ASEAN) award at ‘The 2nd ASEAN Forum: The Future of Finance’, held at The Empire Brunei yesterday.
Asia Asset Management founder and publisher Tan Lee Hock handed over the award to 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 during the opening ceremony.
Tan, in his welcoming remarks said, “We are seeing how the world of finance is coping with the issues and challenges of today.”
He emphasised on the issue of climate change and COP29 by highlighting that the United Nations (UN) conference on climate change will take place in November, this year, in Baku, Azerbaijan, where the world is looking at how much progress can be made towards enhancing climate financing and commitments.
“The current arrangements are for developed countries to provide up to USD100 billion to developing countries to support sustainable transitions but this is evidently not enough,” he said.
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 in a group photo. PHOTO: JAMES KONThe minister receives the Most Improved Pension Fund (ASEAN) award from Asia Asset Management founder and publisher Tan Lee Hock. PHOTO: JAMES KON
In the area of pension reform, he said, “We are seeing new initiatives being launched and these moves are aimed at addressing the need to improve coverage and benefits for an ageing population.”
Tan said he is pleased to see the progress of the new National Retirement Scheme (SPK) system introduced in the Sultanate last year with enhanced features and benefits to provide a better and improved level of retirement income.
The event continued with a keynote address by Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew.
The forum was organised by Asia Asset Management (AAM), in collaboration with the Brunei Institute of Leadership and Islamic Finance (BILIF) with support from Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB) and Brunei Capital Market Association (BCMA).
It was held in conjunction with the 16th Annual Brunei Darussalam Roundtable, attended by local and international industry practitioners, as well as the public. The forum, themed ‘The Future of Finance’, explored key themes that shape the financial landscape and will have far-reaching implications for businesses and the society.
Amid the accelerating Industrial Revolution 4.0, the adoption of new technologies, including the increasing influence of artificial intelligence (AI), alongside evolving global trade dynamics and intensifying climate challenges, are new forces now underway that will have a bearing on the world of finance.
Discussions also centred on Islamic finance, a vital component of the financial sector, with a focus on its issues, challenges and progress within the ASEAN region.
The event included presentations and panel discussion. The forum concluded with closing remarks by BILIF Acting Chief Executive Officer Haji Afero Eswandy bin Haji Mohamad, who emphasised the significance of the ongoing discussions on the key themes can foster collaboration and innovation.
He expressed optimism that the ongoing engagement will enable participants to drive transformation and achieve a lasting impact. – James Kon
I am writing with a heavy heart over the growing unemployment crisis in our country.
Despite earning a Master’s degree, which should have been a mark of achievement, it feels hollow in the face of the anaemic job market. It is a rude awakening to learn that I am now part of the statistics.
I had hoped that my previous work experience would make a different, but after countless applications – and even seeking help from the authorities – I haven’t heard from any of them.
I’m left wondering if all my efforts have been in vain, or if companies only take notice if you have decades of experience.
How can young graduates, like me, gain experience when the door to the job market remains firmly shut?
It’s disheartening to see my dreams stall even before they begin. I spent years working towards the degree, believing that it would open doors. Instead, I find myself locked out of the very opportunities that I have worked so hard for.
I’m left questioning my worth and the value of my education in a system that seems indifferent to the struggles of fresh graduates. Every rejection chips away at the hope I once had for my future.
ABOVE & BELOW: 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 delivers a speech; and participants of the forum. PHOTO: JAMES KON
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, in his keynote address at The 2nd ASEAN Forum: The Future of Finance, stressed on adaptability as crucial for businesses, investors and policymakers as well as collaboration on global issues like climate change and technology is essential.
The minister said, “Despite a strong post-pandemic recovery, we are now facing slowdowns in major economies, high inflation and challenges like supply chain issues and geopolitical tensions. Advanced economies struggle with low growth, while emerging markets are faced with inflation and reduced demand.”
He added, “Central banks, particularly the Fed, have raised interest rates in the past to combat inflation, affecting global capital flows and emerging markets. The Fed recently signalled that inflation is moving back to target and the labour market is slowing. China’s shift to manufacturing in high-tech sectors has increased competition, prompting responses like higher tariffs from Europe. Geopolitical risks also disrupt global trade and energy markets.”
The minister said, “With interest rates declining and Basel III tightening lending practices, banks are becoming more restrictive. The high demand for financing is pushing private lenders, backed by long-term capital from institutional investors, to fill the gap.
“While these challenges highlight the need for adaptation, they also present opportunities for innovation and growth. Staying informed and proactive will be the key to navigating this evolving financial environment.”
He also said, “Adaptability is also evident in the world of pension funds. Pension funds have increasingly diversified their assets to achieve solid returns amid economic uncertainty and an ageing population. Many mature and sophisticated funds are now investing more in alternatives, which offer higher returns, greater diversification, and unique opportunities.”
Highlighting Brunei’s adaptability, he said, “It is advancing its sustainability goals by taking several initiatives which includes updating its Debenture Issuance Guidelines to align with ASEAN Sustainability-Linked Bonds Standards as well as promoting green and sustainable bonds in line with the ASEAN Capital Market Forum’s Roadmap.
“With over USD48 billion in ASEAN-labelled bonds issued since 2016, the move enhances funding for sustainable projects. Additionally, the ASEAN Annual Report 2022-2023 underscores the Sultanate’s commitment to regional cooperation through cross-border trade facilitation, service improvement, investment enhancement and financial integration, turning challenges into opportunities for mutual prosperity and strong partnerships.” – James Kon
ABOVE & BELOW: 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 delivers a speech; and participants of the forum. PHOTO: JAMES KONPHOTO: JAMES KON
People shop in the food section of a retail store in California, United States. PHOTO: AFP
I would like to applaud the authorities in response to the news article, ‘Six businesses fined for price control violations’, published in the Bulletin on August 30, 2024.
It is assuring to know there is an enforcement team actively monitoring supermarkets and mini marts to make sure that the populace isn’t getting ripped off.
I’m a young mother, who depends on baby formula to keep her child fed. But it is also the one product that is often marked up.
I hope that this is the beginning of the end for these errant businesses as there are still so many of them, who have escaped the attention of the authorities, even well-established supermarkets.
