ABOVE & BELOW: Photos shows participants during the programme. PHOTO: UBD
The Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER), Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) held a community outreach programme in collaboration with a local non governmental organisation, Biodiversity and Natural History Society (BruWILD), on Friday.
The main objective of the activity was to allow participants, comprising children and young adults, to get up close with ferns, learn their morphology and appreciate their uses and unique properties, a programme facilitated by local and international fern experts.
The outreach programme included a sharing session on ferns and a series of hand-on activities such as viewing the plants with microscope. IBER and BruWILD aim to increase awareness on ferns through activities as they are not very well-known especially in the younger generation, despite having many benefits to people’s livelihood.
In addition, over the years, some populations of ferns have been found to decline in number.
Thus, through awareness, it is hoped that these plants can be preserved for future generations.
IBER continues to conduct biodiversity research, education and conservation activities on local flora and fauna of the Sultanate.
It is via the initiatives and efforts that the research and conservation of these unique flora will continue to progress and contribute towards achieving the targets of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, said IBER.
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos shows participants during the programme. PHOTO: UBDPHOTO: UBDA child views a plant through a microscope. PHOTO: UBD
Some 20 alumni members of the Seri Begawan Religious Teachers College (MPUSB) intake 1985 recently held their third gathering at one of the alumni members’ residence.
The gathering saw the recitation of Tahlil led by Haji Rosli bin Haji Batang followed by Dikir Asyraqal in conjunction with Maulidur Rasul, the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) led by Begawan Mudim Haji Abdul Latif bin Haji Saman, and a Doa Selamat by Haji Ajis bin Haji Yasin.
Former lecturer of the Seri Begawan Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB), an alumni of MPUSB, Dr Haji Roslan bin Haji Untong said that the first gathering was held in 2018 and the second in 2021.
“The idea to hold the gathering came from the alumni members to appreciate lecturers that educated, taught and shaped them during their years at MPUSB from 1985 until 1989,” he said.
He added that in conjunction with the 33rd Teacher’s Day celebration, the alumni took the initiatives to organise it with religious activities.
The ceremony also aimed to strengthen ties among the alumni to exchange ideas on future activities and visits. – Rokiah Mahmud
ABOVE & BELOW: Alumni during the gathering. PHOTO: ALUMNI MPUSB INTAKE 1985PHOTO: ALUMNI MPUSB INTAKE 1985
Deputy Minister (Civil Service Governance) at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Paduka Mohd Riza bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yunos launches Sabre Brunei Travel Fair 2023. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
Brunei’s gross domestic product (GDP) in first quarter of 2023 recorded a year-on-year increase of 0.8 per cent which the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics (JPES) attributed to a 6.2-per-cent increase in non-oil and gas sector driven by a 285.1-per-cent jump in air transport, 71.7-per-cent rise in finance and 33.1-per-cent surge in other transport services.
The increase in air arrivals and departures since the full lifting of travel measures contributed to GDP growth, said Sabre Travel Network (Brunei) Sdn Bhd Chairman and Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) Chief Executive Officer Captain Sabirin bin Haji Abdul Hamid during the opening ceremony of the two-day Sabre Brunei Travel Fair 2023 at OneCity Shopping Centre in Sungai Hanching yesterday.
Captain Sabirin said the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications reported a passenger movement increase of 55 per cent since the re-opening of the borders from August to December 2022.
The ministry said passenger movement is experiencing double-digit growth and expected to return to 2019 level by 2016.
“At Sabre, we saw encouraging booking figures in July. Brunei is recovering at 64 per cent of 2019 bookings while the Southeast Asian region sees an average of 62 per cent recovery rate,” said the chairman.
Deputy Minister (Civil Service Governance) at the Prime Minister’s Office Dato Seri Paduka Mohd Riza bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yunos launches Sabre Brunei Travel Fair 2023. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
The travel fair, in its 18th edition, is a platform for Sabre travel partners to showcase their products and services while helping travellers search for their dream holiday including local staycation packages.
Among the promotions was from Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) for customers using its credit card by offering them a chance to win return air tickets to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia or Singapore. Customers applying for financing facilities, opening accounts or subscribing to Aspirasi during the travel fair will receive BIBD merchandise while Mastercard and Visa credit card applications will also enjoy one-year annual fee waiver.
The travel fair, organised by Sabre Travel Network (Brunei), was opened by Deputy Minister (Civil Service Governance) at the Prime Minister’s Office and RB Deputy Chairman Dato Seri Paduka Mohd Riza bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yunos.
The deputy minister toured the booths located at the shopping complex’s ground and first floors.
Heads of missions, including Malaysian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Dato’ Raja Reza bin Raja Zaib Shah and Thai Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Boosara Kanchanalai, were present. – Lyna Mohamad
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi bin Haji Mohamad. PHOTO: MCYS
Senior citizens are assets to Brunei Darussalam because they have valuable knowledge and expertise.
“There is no doubt that the well-being and development that we currently enjoy is the outcome of the hard work of our previous generations who are now our elderly. Therefore, all senior citizens must be respected, appreciated and given attention. Their rights and needs should be taken care of in ensuring a continuous quality of life,” said Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi bin Haji Mohamad in his message to mark International Day of the Elderly 2023.
Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi said, “There is no denying that the ageing rate in Brunei is increasing and all levels of society should understand their role in facing the ageing nation scenario. Therefore, in preparing the country to face the phenomenon of population ageing, the government 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 has implemented strategic measures in prioritising the welfare, well- being, and interests of the elderly.
“The review for the Plan of Action for the Elderly 2023-2027 under the National Council on Social Welfare has been completed through joint efforts between the Ministry of Health (MoH) and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS).
“This plan of action reflects the commitment of the Government of His Majesty to focus on comprehensive successful ageing strategies, considering legal aspects, long-term care for the elderly, age-friendly cities as well as inclusive empowerment and development programmes for the elderly.”
The minister said the Sultanate is proud that the Tutong District Senior Citizens Activity Centre has been listed in the Global Database of Age-Friendly Practices and recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO) for implementing age-friendly practices.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi bin Haji Mohamad. PHOTO: MCYS
This month, the Sultanate, through Demensia Brunei in collaboration with the MoH and the MCYS, will host the Alzheimer’s Disease International Asia-Pacific Regional Conference for the first time.
According to statistics by the Community Development Department (JAPEM), 41,748 senior citizens are receiving Old Age Pension, and 654 of them also receiving Disability Allowance.
To ensure that no one needing assistance is left behind, JAPEM distributes in-kind assistance such as disposable diapers and milk to 130 recipients while Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah also provides similar assistance to over 70 senior citizens.
The minister also called on the private sector, non-governmental organisations, the community, volunteer bodies, youth and individuals to come forward and continue to contribute their service and expertise as well as carry out joint activities for the elderly community in the country.
“Let us all solidify our spirit and determination as a nation to achieve a high quality of life for the elderly. Most importantly, in planning and implementing initiatives in areas of interest, particularly in the social, economy, and cultural aspects, for the benefit of the elderly who deserve to be looked after, cared for, and given respect.
“At this juncture, let us join hands and work towards appreciating the sacrifices and contributions of the country’s jewel. The elderly are valuable in ensuring the well-being of the family, which will contribute towards social improvement, economic progress, national prosperity, and achieving Brunei Vision 2035,” said Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi. – James Kon
ABOVE & BELOW: Sabre Brunei Travel Fair 2023 visitors buying air tickets and travel packages; and visitors at the Tourism Development Department's booth. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
The Tourism Development Department is promoting domestic tourism at the two-day Sabre Brunei Travel Fair 2023 at OneCity Shopping Centre.
Visitors at the event, which ends today, can access information on more than 80 local tourism destinations offered by hotels as well as tour agents and operators.
Joining the department’s booth were The Rizqun International Hotel and Mendaram Besar Longhouse promoting family packages for school holidays and handicraft products. – Lyna Mohamad
ABOVE & BELOW: Sabre Brunei Travel Fair 2023 visitors buying air tickets and travel packages; and visitors at the Tourism Development Department’s booth. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLIPHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
Maju Motors Sdn Bhd, the authorised dealer for Renault vehicles in the Sultanate, strikes a milestone of selling over 500 units in the country since November 2022.
The company said their accomplishment reaffirms their strong commitment towards delivering exceptional automobiles at affordable prices, bringing extra-added value for their customers and providing closer support throughout the ownership experience.
The brand lineup encompasses a carefully curated range of Renault vehicle models, including the Renault Kwid RXT 1.0 AMT, Kwid Climber 1.0 AMT, Triber 1.0 MPI, and the Kiger RXZ 1.0 Turbo.
Among these, both the Kwid RXT and Kwid Climber have emerged from the pack as the hottest selling hatchback across Renault’s local portfolio, captivating customers with their exceptionally practical features, trendy aesthetic style, and attuned performance that certainly lives up to Renault’s brand ideology, Passion for Life!
With the aim to offer affordable transportation options and cost-effective maintenance to a wide range of customers, Renault Brunei is introducing special pricing and complimentary one-time free servicing exclusively for every Kwid RXT purchase, in addition to entry towards their lucky draw promotion that ends on December 2023.
The limited-time offer enable prospective buyers across various financial backgrounds greater accessible to own a brand new vehicle, providing them with increased mobility and independence.
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show visitors at the 18th Sabre Brunei Travel Fair 2023 booths yesterday. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
Tourism Malaysia’s presence at the travel fair is essential as it provides first-hand information to the public, said Tourism Malaysia (TM) Director Brunei Hazrina Azman.
Speaking to the Sunday Bulletin following the launching of TM’s booth at the Brunei Travel Fair yesterday, she shared that their booth has received an overwhelming response to inquiries on Visit Melaka 2024 regarding niche products such as diving, eco-tourism, and medical tourism.
She said, “This indicates that Malaysia is still the preferred destination amongst Bruneians.”
The TM booth was officially opened by Deputy Minister (Civil Service Governance) at the Prime Minister’s Office and Deputy Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines Dato Seri Paduka Mohd Riza bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yunos; Malaysian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Dato’ Raja Reza bin Raja Zaib Shah and Hazrina Azman.
TM’s participation this time is joined by Tourism Melaka, Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council, Tiara Labuan Hotel, Labuan Rusukan Besar Resort, Sutera Sanctuary Lodges and Sabah Fertility Centre.
Also joining them are Sarawak Tourism Board and Sabah Tourism Board to provide first-hand information to visitors at their respective booths.
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show visitors at the 18th Sabre Brunei Travel Fair 2023 booths yesterday. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLIPHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
Seeing the growing interest in travel to Malaysia, Tourism Malaysia has collaborated with Brunei travel partners to promote: ‘Cuti-Cuti Malaysia Swipe & Win’ campaign to offer holiday packages to Genting Highlands, Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, Penang, Johor, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu.
The campaign, which is a joint collaboration with Straits Central Agencies (SCA) and Baiduri Bank Brunei, that also offers a lucky draw entry exclusively for Baiduri Bank Debit and Credit Card holders for every minimum BND20 purchase in Malaysia.
Purchases of travel products at SCA during the two-day travel fair, offer travellers’ triple chances of winning in the campaign.
SCA is also offering Miss SHOPhia Shopping Hunt Penang Edition where customers can participate by purchasing a ‘three-day two -night’ Penang Miss SHOPhia Shopping Hunt Package from as low as BND399 per person from the travel agent.
The first three teams to register will get BND200 off and this package includes a two-night stay and return airfare from Miri to Penang, daily breakfast, return airport transfer from Penang airport to hotel and the Shopping Hunt registration fee worth MYR300 per team.
Meanwhile, customers purchasing accommodation, air tickets, and holiday packages to any Malaysian state from Freme Travel Services Sdn Bhd and Pan Bright Travel Services at the travel fair are eligible to receive Parkson Shopping Vouchers (for early birds).
Brunei Darussalam makes the top four tourist arrivals contributor from the ASEAN region where from January to June 2023, Malaysia recorded 407,566 Brunei tourist arrivals to Malaysia.
This year, Malaysia has set its target of 16.1 million international tourist arrivals with MYR49.2 billion (USD11.19 billion) in tourism revenue. – Lyna Mohamad
Thailand Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Boosara Kanchanalai at the ‘Amazing Thailand’ booth. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has actively been participating in the Brunei Travel Fair for 14 years, showcasing dedication to promoting Thailand’s tourism in the Brunei market.
Director of TAT at the Kuala Lumpur office Sirinthara Surakanitaya said Bruneians visiting the Thailand booth seek information and updates on popular Thai destinations, such as Bangkok, Chiangmai and Kanchanaburi, adding that there is a growing interest among Bruneians in health and wellness tourism.
As the number of Bruneians traveling to Thailand continues to rise, TAT expressed gratitude for choosing Thailand as their preferred destination. TAT representatives are actively conducting activities as part of the promoting Amazing Thailand campaign, including participating in the 18th edition of the Sabre Brunei Travel Fair.
The booth setup by the Tourism Authority of Thailand received a visit from Deputy Minister (Civil Service Governance) at the Prime Minister’s Office and Deputy Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines Dato Seri Paduka Mohd Riza bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yunos and Thailand Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Boosara Kanchanalai yesterday.
Surankanitaya also expressed gratitude to local travellers for choosing Thailand for their holiday getaway, adding that the agency has seen an increase in tourist arrivals from Brunei. – Lyna Mohamad
Thailand Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Boosara Kanchanalai at the ‘Amazing Thailand’ booth. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLIVisitors at the Thailand booth. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
Interested visitors at the Taiwan booth. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
“The difference between visitors at the Malaysia Travel Fair in Kuala Lumpur and Brunei Travel Fair is that in Malaysia the visitors go mostly for packages while here visitors are more inclined to buy air tickets directly,” said Director (Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, and Brunei) of the Taiwan Tourism Administration at the Kuala Lumpur Office Abe Chou.
Chou shared this in an interview with the Bulletin at the Sabre Brunei Travel Fair at OneCity Shopping Centre yesterday where Taiwan Tourism is among the participants.
Taiwan is a new destination for Muslim travellers, thus the introduction of a campaign called ‘Salam Taiwan’ to introduce more information about Muslim friendly tourism, said Chou.
“We have about 300 Muslim-friendly restaurants in Taiwan for Muslims to enjoy a variety food such as Halal beef noodles and fish menus are well recommended. We also have many facilities for Muslims. I think we should offer more information to change the perception of Taiwan.”
One of their initiatives in promoting Taiwan as a Muslim destination is a collaboration with Malaysian celebrities beginning with Mira Filzah in 2018 and Ayda Jebat this year.
Chou said there are direct flights from Brunei to Taiwan, while there are nine mosques in Taiwan of which three located in Taipei.
More events will be organised in promoting the new Muslim destination every season, not just at travel fairs.
“Taiwan is a new and friendly destination for Bruneians, so I want to invite more Bruneian travellers to Taiwan.” – Lyna Mohamad
Director (Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, and Brunei) Taiwan Tourism Administration Kuala Lumpur Office Abe Chou. PHOTO: LYNA MOHAMADInterested visitors at the Taiwan booth. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
DPMM FC and Tampines Rovers FC players vie for the ball during a Singapore Cup 2023 match. PHOTO: SINGAPORE PREMIER LEAGUE
DPMM FC seized control of top spot in Group ‘A’ of the Singapore Cup 2023 following a 1-0 win over Tampines Rovers FC at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore on Friday.
The visitors had an opportunity to deal their rivals with an early setback as forward Boris Kopitovic’s effort required a fingertip save from DPMM FC goalkeeper Kristijan Naumovski.
Building on from a promising start, Tampines Rovers captain Yasir Hanapi produced a great ball into the box but Joel Chew came second-best to Naumovski one-on-one.
The Stags came close to open the scoring after Shah Shahiran saw his shot graze against the bar much to the relief of the home defence.
The hosts were awarded a penalty following a VAR review for possible handball in the 63rd minute as Farshad Noor tucked away to gift DPMM FC the lead.
It was end-to-end action that would excite any neutral as both Hakeme Yazid bin Said and Boris Kopitovic left the fans at the edge of their seats.
DPMM FC and Tampines Rovers FC players vie for the ball during a Singapore Cup 2023 match. PHOTO: SINGAPORE PREMIER LEAGUE
DPMM FC Head Coach Adrian Pennock said, “We are in a Group of Death.
“We got four points in our first two games so it is incredible.”
He added, “But again, credit to the boys! They have a big heart and they gave me everything. We need a little bit of luck as well but I thought it was a penalty. It gives us confidence but it is not over. We got to be sensible and there is no point celebrating at the moment.”
The head coach asserted, “We want to qualify. There is still a lot of football to be played.”
Meanwhile his opposite number Tampines Rovers Head Coach Gavin Lee said, “I think it’s frustrating because before the penalty we kept them quiet on the set-plays and transition.
“I thought we did well but I think we kind of shot ourselves on the foot with the penalty.”
He continued, “The game became quite open in the end and that’s natural because we were chasing the goal.”
The Gegar Gegar men will continue their campaign against Geylang International FC – who stunned Albirex Niigata 2-1 – at Our Tampines Hub on October 22. – Fadhil Yunus
