Partnership strengthens entrepreneurship

National

September 28, 2023

The One Village, One Product (1K1P) initiative received a massive boost yesterday following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and Ghanim International Corporation Sdn Bhd.

The MoU was signed to create partnership to strengthen entrepreneurship under 1K1P and increase the quality production capacity to break into the international market while further expanding in the local market.

The signing ceremony at the showroom of the Brunei Food Industry Development (BFID) at the Salambigar Industrial Park was witnessed by Minister of Home Affairs Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman and Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Economy) Dato Seri Paduka Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abdul Hamid, the chairman of Ghanim International Corporation.

Ghanim Chief Executive Officer Dr Nur Rahman said, “Ghanim has been actively engaging with Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), home based businesses including 1K1P entrepreneurs since 2016 where we collaborate to develop and produce products under Bruneihalalfoods as well as to supply to Junction outlets.”

He added, “We are taking another step forward to support the development of 1K1P initiative through this partnership with MoHA through the opportunities we have at BFID manufacturing facilities.”

Minister of Home Affairs Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman with Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Economy) Dato Seri Paduka Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abdul Hamid witness the signing ceremony. PHOTO: JAMES KON

Under the MoU, entrepreneurs under 1K1P will gain several benefits, including expert service and advice from Ghanim and access to facilities of BFID on a large scale production of 1K1P.

The other benefits include the supply of raw materials at a competitive price and an opportunity to market 1K1P more widely at the local and international level, receive training and guidance in terms of packaging, and sales and marketing according to an established standard. Meanwhile, MoHA will play a significant role in recommending potential and quality 1K1P entrepreneurs based on the criteria set by Ghanim.

Aura Sribunda and Partners from the Kampong Panchor Village Consultative Council and Ayunda Enterprise from Kampong Batu Apoi Village Consultative Council have begun manufacturing as part of its trial process at the facilities of BFID. These efforts will continue to further increase quality and the production capacity of products to meet the demand of the local market and break into the international market.

Permanent Secretary (Municipal and District) at the MoHA Abdul Walid bin Haji Matassan and Deputy Permanent Secretary (Law, International and Research) at the MoHA Haji Ahmad Nizam bin Dato Paduka Haji Ismail signed on behalf of the ministry. Signing on behalf of Ghanim was its CEO and witnessed by member of the Ghanim Board of Directors Edzwan Zukri bin Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Adanan. – Lyna Mohamad

MoU inked to foster innovation

National

September 28, 2023

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and Muara Port Company Sdn Bhd (MPC) for both parties to leverage on each other’s strengths to advance academic, research and technological endeavours while fostering innovation, development and mutual growth.

The MoU also focuses on the Master of Business Administration programme offered at UBD School of Business and Economics.

The signing ceremony at the university yesterday, marked UBD’s moves to collaborate and initiate a working relationship in different areas of mutual interest in the human capacity development of Bruneians in the logistic and port industry UBD Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs) Associate Professor Pengiran Dr Mohammad Iskandar bin Pengiran Haji Petra represented UBD while MPC was represented by its Chief Finance Officer Lyu Guoli.

MPC Chief Executive Officer Zeng Caili was the guest of honour.

UBD’s collaboration with MPC will create opportunities beneficial to both entities including industrial internship, study visits and training, as well as industrial engagement.

MPC is a joint-venture company between the Brunei government represented by Darussalam Assets Sdn Bhd and Guangxi Beibu Gulf International Port Group Co Ltd via Beibu Gulf Holding (HK) Co Ltd. – Lyna Mohamad

Agency cracksdown on errant employers

National

September 28, 2023

ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show Labour Department enforcement officers inspecting various business premises. PHOTO: LABOUR DEPARTMENT

The Labour Department uncovered a wide ranging number of labour offences by employers in six areas in the Brunei-Muara and Temburong districts.

Offences include not providing a service contract, failing to provide rest days, having employees exceed prescribed working hours, failing to provide public holidays, failing to provide emergency equipment and violating conditions for the foreign workers licence.

Six offences were recorded during an inspection at Kampong Delima Satu, three offences were found in Kampong Sungai Hanching, four offences were recorded at a retail shop in Kampong Anggerek Desa and three offences were found at a retail shop in Kampong Gadong.

Meanwhile, inspections conducted at a restaurant in Pekan Bangar uncovered four offences, including having foreign workers employed as waiters working as dish washers, while at a convenience store in Kampong Ampar, six offences were uncovered, including failing to provide rest days, public holidays and emergency equipment, as well as having three labourers working instead as cashiers.

The department said the offences are subject to a fine of no more than BND1,000 for each violation.

The failure to pay the fine will result in the employer being brought to court.

The department reminded employers to monitor the welfare of their employees, in accordance with the Employment Order 2009, which includes preparation of contracts and the timely payment of wages.

Employers were also reminded to not misuse the foreign workers licence. – Azlan Othman

Company fined for dumping liquid into river

National

September 28, 2023

Photo shows the site of the incident. PHOTO: JASTRE

A concrete-making company was fined on Tuesday by the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe) for disposing liquid into the river near Kampong Mulaut Industrial Area.

The company was given seven days to settle the fine. Failure to do so will result in the case being brought to court. If found guilty, the company will be fined between BND2,000 and BND10,000 for the first offence; between BND10,000 and BND30,000 or imprisonment of no more than 12 months or both for subsequent offences. – Daniel Lim

Four adulterated cosmetics banned from sale

National

September 28, 2023

Photos of the banned products. PHOTOS: MOH

Four cosmetics sold in the country were found to be potentially harmful being tested for banned ingredients, said the Ministry of Health.

The Karisma Brightening Day Cream, Karisma Aqua Bird Nest and Karisma Golden Tumeric Cream distributed by Karisma Empayar Sdn Bhd, Kelantan, Malaysia were found to contain mercury and tretinoin, according to the ministry.

Meanwhile, the SCI Beauty Night Scream Pelicin manufactured by BT Berlian Kosmetika, Indonesia was found to be adulterated with tretinoin and hydroquinone.

The adulterants found in these products can cause adverse effects that are potentially hazardous to users, said the ministry.

“Tretinoin and hydroquinone are used in western prescription medicines to treat skin conditions and is prohibited in skincare cosmetic products under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations, 2007. Inappropriate use of tretinoin could lead to redness, peeling and scarring of the skin,” said the ministry.

ABOVE & BELOW: Photos of the banned products. PHOTO: MOH

Unsupervised use of Hydroquinone may cause skin hypersensitivity, skin discolouration resulting in gradual darkening of the affected skin area and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Meanwhile, mercury is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its hazardous effects on human health, said the ministry.

“It is readily absorbed through the skin on topical application and tends to accumulate in the body. Exposure to mercury can cause skin rashes, memory loss and muscle weakness while high exposures may result in damage to the brain and kidneys. It is also extremely toxic to unborn children.”

Individuals who have purchased or used these products are advised to stop using them immediately. They should also consult a medical practitioner if they feel unwell or experience any undesirable reactions as a result of using them.

Retail of these products (including online retail such as through Facebook, etc) is an offence under the Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations, 2007, said the ministry.

The penalty for contravening these regulations upon conviction, is a fine of no more than BND5,000, imprisonment for no more than two years or both.

Redefining tourism in post-COVID era

National

September 28, 2023

An exhibition for tourism and sustainable investments will be held at the Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery from September 30 to October 7.

The exhibition, organised by the Tourism Development Department, aims to offer a platform to eco-driven agencies dedicated to sustainable initiatives that benefit the environment and uplift local communities. The exhibition will be held in conjunction with World Tourism Day, an annual celebration held every September 27.

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has chosen ‘Tourism and Green Investments’ as its central theme this year. It seeks to redefine tourism investments in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic with a specific focus on three key priorities: people, planet, and prosperity.

UNWTO emphasises the crucial requirement for both traditional and innovative investments to promote sustainable tourism.

World Tourism Day 2023 will serve as a global call to action, urging governments, financial institutions, development partners, and private sector investors to rally behind a new tourism investment strategy that focuses on education, sustainable infrastructure, green transformation, and innovation.

The ‘Green Horizons: Tourism & Sustainable Investments Exhibition’ serves as a direct response to these priorities, bringing together groups that exemplify a commitment to environmental sustainability, community well-being, and economic prosperity.

Visitors can expect an exhibition that showcases the efforts of these organisations towards a green and sustainable tourism. – James Kon

Charting a course for global prosperity

National

September 28, 2023

An aerial view of the Kuala Belait port. PHOTO: KHAYR ZAKARIYYA

Brunei Darussalam’s commitment to upholding principles of MARPOL (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) for over three decades, has been evident through its accession to various MARPOL Annexes, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha said.

“Think of MARPOL as a set of rules that ships must follow to keep our seas clean and safe. These guidelines cover different aspects, such as preventing oil pollution, controlling the discharge of harmful liquids, handling dangerous substances in packages and preventing ships from polluting the sea with garbage,” the minister said in a message in conjunction with this year’s World Maritime Day.

MARPOL also takes a stand against plastic waste in the oceans and regulates the proper disposal of sewage by ships at sea. These regulations are crucial in preserving the cleanliness and health of the oceans, ensuring they remain pristine and pleasant environment for all, he said.

The minister said in line with the ongoing initiatives, Brunei continues to consider these regulations, aligning with SDG 14; at ensuring safe, secure and efficient shipping on clean oceans, which promotes a more environmentally conscious and sustainable future for the industry.

“Today, maritime transport remains the backbone of the international trading system, moving about 80 per cent of world cargo by volume. It is the most secure, safest and relatively energy-efficient means of transporting goods and people. Moreover, international shipping plays an integral part of the worldwide logistics network and serves as a crucial component of many industries’ supply chains, ensuring the seamless flow of cargoes and commodities across international borders,” he added.

“However, the potential impact of pollution stemming from maritime activities can be far-reaching and is multi-faceted – from oil spills that devastate marine ecosystems to emissions that contribute to air quality deterioration and climate change,” the minister said.

Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha. PHOTO: INFOFOTO

He added; “This year’s World Maritime Day holds immense importance in recognising the pivotal role that maritime activities play in the global economy and sustainable development.

The theme ‘MARPOL AT 50 – Our Commitment Goes On’, serves as a tribute to the 50th anniversary of the most significant global legal instrument for the prevention of pollution from ships. It resonates with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) long history of safeguarding the environment against the repercussions of maritime activities caused by ships’ operational or accidental interventions through a robust set of requirements and standards.

“The MARPOL Convention remains an indispensable instrument in a world where maritime pollution incidents have served as a potent catalyst for change. As we reflect over the past five decades, we acknowledge the tremendous progress made collectively amongst all relevant stakeholders, including the international shipping and maritime community in reducing maritime pollution and fostering a culture of an environmentally sustainable shipping industry.

“Such steadfast commitment also heeds the call of the United Nations towards forging a pathway to sustainability for the betterment of present and future generations as stipulated in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. While acknowledging sustainable maritime transportation is a crosscutting issue and, as such, it forms an important enabler for most of the 17 associated Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), among others ensuring accessible and clean energy (SDG 7), promoting industry, innovation, and robust infrastructure (SDG 9), advancing climate action and the responsible utilisation of oceans, seas, and marine resources (SDGs 13 and 14), while also acknowledging the importance of partnerships and effective implementation in achieving these objectives (SDG 17). Brunei Darussalam in particular, reiterates its support to the realisation of SDG14 which is an integral part of the IMO work that aimed at ensuring safe, secure and efficient shipping on clean oceans.

“It is imperative to recognise that our responsibilities extend beyond individual actions as there are also shared obligations to protect the health of our planet and the well-being of future generations. As the challenges posed by maritime pollution continue, our journey towards a more ecologically sound maritime sector remains an ongoing endeavour as we look ahead to the next 50 years.

“On this World Maritime Day, let us together ensure that our commitment to MARPOL goes beyond words and translates into impactful actions that shape a cleaner and greener maritime industry for generations to come. It is our aspiration for Brunei Darussalam to embrace a vision where the seas remain a sustainable source of life, inspiration and sustenance for all.”

Chinese ambassador hails growth in bilateral trade

National

September 28, 2023

The bilateral trade between Brunei Darussalam and China has reached a record high of USD3 billion, an increase of over 200 times compared with that of 1991, when bilateral ties were just established. In the first eight months of this year alone, bilateral trade volume reached USD1.71 billion.

This was highlighted by Ambassador of China to Brunei Darussalam Xiao Jianguo at a dinner reception marking the 74th anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China yesterday at the Rizqun International Hotel.

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 spouse Pengiran Datin Hajah Noor Yashimah binti Pengiran Anak Haji Hashim attended the event.

He said, “This year marks the 32nd anniversary of China-Brunei diplomatic ties, the fifth anniversary of the establishment of the Strategic Cooperative Partnership between the two countries, and the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and 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, and with the strategic docking of BRI and Brunei Vision 2035, China-Brunei relations have enjoyed healthy and steady progress, with pragmatic cooperation flourishing and BRI projects yielding remarkable fruits, bringing tangible benefits to the two countries and peoples.”

The Chinese ambassador added, “From Hengyi Industries Sdn Bhd to Muara Port, from the Pulau Muara Besar Bridge to the Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Bridge, from Brunei’s USD500,000 donation to Wuhan to China’s donation of 152,000 doses of vaccines to Brunei, many visible and tangible benefits have been harvested for the good of the two nations and their people.”

With the relaxation of pandemic control from the beginning of the year, followed by the continuous resumption of direct flights, he said, “Bilateral exchanges and cooperations become more frequent and closer including in the fields of politics, economy, culture, education, defence, people-to-people and media.

Xiao Jianguo greets Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin. PHOTO: JAMES KON

ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show the performers during the event. PHOTO: JAMES KON

“The China-Brunei strategic cooperative partnership has been continuously enriched with an even brighter future.”

China and Brunei, he noted, “Also maintain communication and coordination in regional and international affairs, making contributions to regional peace, stability, development and prosperity.

“The trade between China and ASEAN went up by 16.8 times over the past two decades. Last year, the region accounted for 21.5 per cent of the world’s economic aggregate, up from 6.1 per cent in 2002.

“The two billion people’s living has improved tremendously. China-ASEAN relations have become the shining example of the most successful and robust one in the Asia-Pacific cooperation.”

A week ago, the 20th China-ASEAN Expo was held. The Chinese ambassador said, “Brunei signed a letter of intent to purchase over USD2 billion of Chinese mid-sized aircraft.

“It was the largest trade order ever at the expo, fully demonstrating the high level cooperation between China and Brunei as well as China and ASEAN. China will continue to implement the concept of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness in our relations with neighbouring countries, to build a peaceful, safe and secure, prosperous, beautiful and amicable home together with ASEAN, and jointly build a closer community with a shared future for China and ASEAN.”

The event saw Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew and Xiao Jianguo officiate the launch of the documentary Eternal Friendship.

The Embassy of China in Brunei Darussalam initiated the documentary in 2019, with the technical support from Sesame World Technology (B) Sdn Bhd and Universiti Teknologi Brunei.

The documentary combines animation, interviews and field shooting, vividly reproducing the historical story of the visit by the King of Boni to China in 1408AD, demonstrating the long history of friendly exchanges between the two countries.

This was followed by the cutting of a cake to mark the 74th anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China and the presentation of a souvenir to the guest of honour and spouse.

Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew received a special calligraphic art work with two Chinese characters personally written by the Chinese ambassador.

They read as ‘Guang-ming’, the Chinese pronunciation of Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew’s name.

He said in Chinese culture, ‘Guang-ming’ stands for light and bright, and further symbolises hope and justice. A person who is righteous and full of courage can be described as ‘Guang-ming’. By presenting the gift, it is hoped that the China-Brunei friendship and cooperation will embrace a brighter future.

The audience also enjoyed performances by students from Chinese schools. – James Kon

Bank employees donate to children’s foundations

National

September 28, 2023

Baiduri Bank presented contributions from its employees to the Centre for Children with Special Needs (KACA) and Children’s Cancer Foundation (YASKA) yesterday through their Employee Wellness Initiative (EWI).

Throughout the month of Ramadhan, the EWI conducted a campaign in conjunction with the bank’s annual ‘Let’s Give Back This Ramadhan’ initiative and in line with their core values of inclusivity and empathy.

The initiative allowed employees to pledge BND5, BND10 or BND20 to purchase shopping or stationery sets for 50 underprivileged families identified by the Ministry of Education.

The bank’s Acting Head of Group Human Resources at Baiduri Bank Chiam Chin Huei emphasised the importance of fostering a culture of giving back and supporting the broader community within the organisation. She said due to the overwhelming response to the initiative, the bank was able to carry out a second donation.

“We encourage our staff to continually seek opportunities to make a positive impact, not only as bank employees, but also as responsible and caring members of the society.”

Employee Relations and Governance Officer of Group Human Resources Haji Mohammad Yazid bin Haji Abdul Ranni said, “To determine the beneficiaries of these donations, a poll was conducted within the bank.”

President of KACA Dato Paduka Haji Zainal bin Haji Momin and President of YASKA Tsara’ Nwarrah binti Abdullah Chen received the BND1,000 donations at the organisations’ centres.

Student flies to Jordan to expand horizons

National

September 28, 2023

Degree student in Islamic History and Civilisation at the Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) Mohammad Abdullah Daniel bin Mohammad Noor left the country yesterday to participate in the study abroad programme at Yarmouk University in Jordan.

Mohammad Abdullah Daniel, selected by the UNISSA’s Faculty of Islamic Development Management (FPPI), will undergo a one-year programme at the university.

Dean of the FPPI Associate Professor Dr Anis Malik Thoha, officers and students from FPPI bid farewell to Mohammad Abdullah Daniel at the Brunei International Airport.

The study abroad programme aims to upgrade students’ knowledge and experience particularly in the field of Islamic history and civilisation.

The programme provides a platform for students to gain as well as share knowledge and views with international students and indirectly promote the diverse culture of the two countries. – Lyna Mohamad

Borneo Bulletin OnlineThe Independent Newspaper in Brunei Darussalam, Sabah and Sarawak

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