File photo shows 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 at the 42nd ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. PHOTO: INFOFOTO
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 will attend the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Vientiane, Laos from October 8 to 11.
Laos, as the Chair of ASEAN this year, carries the theme ‘ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience’, focusing on intensifying ASEAN cooperation across the three Community pillars; promoting infrastructure connectivity; narrowing the development gap; promoting greater economic integration and people-to-people exchanges.
It also emphasises further strengthening ASEAN’s relations with its external partners, while maintaining ASEAN’s relevance and centrality in the evolving regional architecture.
This year’s summits will gather the leaders of ASEAN and Timor-Leste, along with ASEAN Dialogue Partners, to push forward collective action in implementing the priority areas and key deliverables of ASEAN under Laos’ Chairmanship to enhance the region’s connectivity and resilience.
In response to emerging regional and global challenges, discussions will emphasise on ASEAN’s common goals and interests towards the promotion of peace, stability and prosperity in the region, such as sustainable and inclusive development; digital transformation; climate change; ASEAN’s Community-building efforts, ASEAN external relations, as well as regional and international issues of mutual importance.
File photo shows 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 at the 42nd ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. PHOTO: INFOFOTO
The Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB) has directed its licensee, Remittance@Seconds, to cease receiving money from the public for the purpose of remittance, effective from yesterday.
The central bank announced the action, “pursuant to its powers under Section 54 of the BDCB Order, 2010”, in a press release yesterday.
It said Remittance@Seconds failed to comply with several conditions of their remittance business license set by the BDCB, which include allowing unauthorised personnel to conduct remittance business on Remittance@Seconds’ behalf. The business was also found to have inadequate resources, internal controls and appropriate procedures to safeguard the best interests of their customers.
The directive will be in place until BDCB is satisfied that the appropriate and proper measures have been taken by the business to rectify the deficiencies.
Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) said it is aware of a growing number of scams involving fake job advertisements being circulated via social media platforms.
“These fraudulent schemes are targeting job seekers by presenting them with seemingly legitimate job opportunities, but the actual intention is to access personal and financial information,” the bank said in a press release yesterday. “The public is urged to remain cautious and vigilant when encountering such offers.”
BIBD said scammers typically approach individuals through job postings or direct messages, offering fake employment opportunities.
Once engaged, victims are asked to download and install an APK file for software which may be capable of stealing personal data or compromising the security of their devices.
Victims may also be directed to a fraudulent website that is a clone of BIBD’s NEXGEN Wallet login screen. Victims are asked to input their banking credentials, supposedly for ‘salary’ purposes.
Another tactic is for victims to receive a one-time password (OTP), which the scammers request to be shared under the pretext that it is required to process their application or salary.
BIBD advised the public to follow safety measures including not downloading or installing files from unknown or unverified sources; only accessing BIBD services via the official NEXGEN Wallet app or through the bank’s website; and never disclosing banking details, login credentials or OTP to third parties.
“BIBD urges all customers to help spread the word about these fake job offers and scams. Sharing this information with family, friends, and colleagues can help protect others from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes,” the bank added.
ABOVE & BELOW: Michelle Wong Su Heng; Nur Hafikah binti Haji Bakri; and Mohd Firdaus bin Mohd Salleh. PHOTO: BIBD
The Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) Advocating Life-Long Learning for an Aspiring Future (ALAF) programme continues to be a life-changing initiative for students across the Sultanate, supporting their academic journeys and enabling them to pursue higher education and meaningful careers.
As the bank celebrates Teacher’s Day, BIBD shines a spotlight on several ALAF scholars and alumni who shared how the programme, along with the guidance of their teachers, has shaped their futures.
Michelle Wong Su Heng, a 2024 graduate of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) with a Bachelor of Arts in English Studies, is now working as an English teacher at Chung Ching Middle School.
“I’ve been a part of the programme for almost 10 years now and it has never failed to aid me financially in my educational journey. My pursuit of higher education would have taken longer without these financial aids, as I would have spent a few years after my ‘A’ levels working to earn enough money to have the funds for it. Without the programme’s support, I probably wouldn’t have discovered my desire to teach as well. That is why, if I had to describe the programme and the effect it has on my life in one word, it would be: life-changing.”
In conjunction with Teacher’s Day, Michelle said, “I would like to thank all the teachers who have taught me when I was in Muhammad Alam Primary School, Anthony Abell College, Sayyidina Ali Secondary School, and UBD.”
ABOVE & BELOW: Michelle Wong Su Heng; Nur Hafikah binti Haji Bakri; and Mohd Firdaus bin Mohd Salleh. PHOTO: BIBDPHOTO: BIBDPHOTO: BIBD
On being part of the ALAF family, she said, “To be part of the ALAF family means knowing and believing that there will be people and organisations (both government and private) kind enough to provide support to students across the country who need it.
“I hope the current ALAF students will always remember to show gratitude to the individuals who have extended a helping hand. I hope they will continue to excel in their studies and make BIBD ALAF proud!”
Nur Hafikah binti Haji Bakri, who graduated from Al-Azhar University, Cairo, in 2022 with a degree in Syariah Islamiah, is another inspiring alumna of the ALAF programme. She is currently a Syariah Research Officer in BIBD’s Syariah Division and reflected on her journey: “Ever since I joined ALAF, it helped me with my studies until my degree. It has taught me a lot of things through programmes and workshops to develop new skills. I didn’t have to worry about my school necessities because ALAF provided everything I needed.”
Other recent graduates of the ALAF programme include Hong Hui Qin, who graduated from Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) in 2023 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and is now employed in the oil and gas sector, and Hazmi bin Haji Juli, who also graduated from UTB in 2023 with a degree in Civil Engineering and is currently participating in the i-Ready programme at an engineering firm.
Siti Nurul Izzah Adila binti Arfian, an ALAF scholar who is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons) at Monash University, Australia, expressed her gratitude for the role ALAF has played in shaping her academic journey, saying, “The programme has been instrumental in shaping my academic journey, providing financial support and guidance that helped me reach my educational goals. Studying abroad has been a transformative experience, exposing me to diverse cultures and academic perspectives.”
Mohd Firdaus bin Mohd Salleh, ALAF scholar pursuing a Bachelor of Economics and Management Sciences at the International Islamic University Malaysia, said, “Alhamdulillah, BIBD ALAF has done so much for me, including financial support, tuition, and school necessities. It has been a blessing. Without them, I would not have been able to secure this scholarship to continue my studies for a better future.”
Currently, nine ALAF scholars are studying at university, with four pursuing their studies overseas.
Five former ALAF students have completed their studies and are now employed in various sectors.
Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha and German Ambassador to Brunei Darusssalam Gerda Winkler cut the cake to commemorate the 34th Day of German Unity and the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Germany and Brunei. PHOTO: JAMES KON
The Embassy of Germany in Brunei Darussalam held a reception to celebrate the 34th Day of German Unity and the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Germany and Brunei on Thursday.
German Ambassador to Brunei Darusssalam Gerda Winkler in her welcoming speech said the diplomatic ties were established on January 30, 1984, just four weeks after Brunei gained independence. The first (non-resident) German Ambassador Dr Wolfram Dufner handed in his letter of credence on May 2 1984, and Brunei’s first (non-resident) Brunei Ambassador to Germany Pengiran Haji Jaya received approval on September 9, 1984.
She said, “The next step was opening embassies: Germany opened its embassy in Bandar Seri Begawan on March 14, 1985, and Brunei opened its embassy in Bonn on October 15, 1990.”
She emphasised the strong and reliable partnership between Germany and Brunei, noting shared values regarding a rules-based international order, multilateralism and free trade. 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 met with three German Federal Presidents and three Federal Chancellors over the years, reinforcing their diplomatic ties. She added, a delegation from the German Parliament visited Brunei as part of the Parliamentary Friendship Group for ASEAN member states. This marked the first visit of the ASEAN Friendship Group to Brunei since 2007 and served as an important contribution to the 40th anniversary celebration.
She said in terms of cooperation, “Germany and Brunei have a long history of cooperation, such as the joint venture between Lürssen Shipyard and Darussalam Assets Sdn Bhd for operations at Muara Naval Base. The Royal Brunei Air Force’s recent acquisition of Eurocopters H145M, replacing the Messerschmitt-Bolkow-Blohm BO 105, will further strengthen these ties.” She further highlighted the long-standing relationship between Brunei and German universities, noting that many Bruneian students are currently studying in Germany and that this area could see further development.
Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary Pengiran bin Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha was present at the event. The event concluded with the minister and Ambassador Winkler cutting a cake to commemorate the celebration. – James Kon
Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha and German Ambassador to Brunei Darusssalam Gerda Winkler cut the cake to commemorate the 34th Day of German Unity and the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Germany and Brunei. PHOTO: JAMES KONGuests at the event. PHOTO: JAMES KON
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show members of the public during the Mazda Customer Weekend. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
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
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show members of the public during the Mazda Customer Weekend. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLIPHOTO: RAFI ROSLIPHOTO: RAFI ROSLIPHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam officials in a group photo. PHOTO: BIBD
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.
Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam officials in a group photo. PHOTO: BIBD
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 in a group photo with the signatories and the signed documents.
PHOTO: YEAB
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.”
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 in a group photo with the signatories and the signed documents. PHOTO: YEAB
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.
Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Muhammad Haszaimi bin Bol Hassan attaching the rank insignia on an RBAF senior officer at a promotion ceremony yesterday. Nineteen officers of the RBAF were promoted to higher ranks at the Officers’ Mess, Bolkiah Garrison. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
With the consent 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, 19 senior officers of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) have been promoted.
RBAF Commander Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Muhammad Haszaimi bin Bol Hassan presented the insignias at the Officers’ Mess, Bolkiah Garrison yesterday. The ceremony saw four officers promoted to the rank of Substantive Colonel/Captain (RBN); one officer climbed the rank Substantive Lieutenant Colonel; and 14 officers promoted to Acting Lieutenant Colonel/Commander (RBN).
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 was also present at the ceremony. – Rokiah Mahmud
Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Muhammad Haszaimi bin Bol Hassan attaching the rank insignia on an RBAF senior officer at a promotion ceremony yesterday. Nineteen officers of the RBAF were promoted to higher ranks at the Officers’ Mess, Bolkiah Garrison. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIABOVE & 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 Yussof; and attendees at the event. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIPHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIABOVE & BELOW: Royal Brunei Armed Forces Commander Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Muhammad Haszaimi bin Bol Hassan presents insignias to the senior officers. PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIPHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIPHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIPHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIPHOTO: MUIZ MATDANIPHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI
