An inspiring journey

Features

September 27, 2024

Siti Madihah binti Haji Mohd Don. PHOTO: LYNA MOHAMAD

Graduating from university marks the beginning of new chapters, filled with ambitions and dreams to create an impact.

Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) continues to produce outstanding graduates, each with unique stories of perseverance and passion.

Here, four remarkable individuals share their insights on academic growth, their professional aspirations, and the support systems that helped them along the way.

SITI MADIHAH BINTI HAJI MOHD DON, PHD IN FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

After completing her PhD in Food Science and Technology, Siti Madihah is now actively seeking career opportunities in the Sultanate. She is particularly interested in teaching at a university or participating in research projects that will enable her to grow professionally.

With the country’s expanding job market, she believes her expertise will significantly contribute to academic and research endeavours.

“I am also open to exploring roles within the food and beverage sector. The technical skills I’ve acquired during my PhD – such as data analysis, project management, and research techniques – are highly transferable across various industries. These qualities are really important for jobseekers,” said Siti Madihah.

Her passion for food science stems from her curiosity about how diet impacts health. She noted that the increasing awareness of health and wellness trends in Brunei has further fuelled her desire to explore this field, particularly in combating non-communicable diseases.

She expressed hopes to innovate solutions that promote healthier lifestyles while contributing to Brunei Vision 2035 and the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“I intend to work in food safety, integrating various aspects of food science, including sustainability, safety, and availability.

Alifya Kayla Shafa Susanto. PHOTO: LYNA MOHAMAD

ABOVE & BELOW: Nur Syahirah binti Salim; Siti Madihah binti Haji Mohd Don; and Muhammad Al-Hadi bin Haji Abdul Jamal with his family. PHOTO: LYNA MOHAMAD

“My ultimate goal is to serve as an agent of change, positively impacting society.”

Siti Madihah’s journey to her PhD began immediately after her Master’s degree, with support from her family, friends, and supervisors. Her research is closely aligned with SDG 2, which focuses on ending hunger and achieving food security, a goal she is passionate about contributing to the benefit of both present and future generations.

NUR SYAHIRAH BINTI SALIM, BACHELOR OF BUSINESS IN FINANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT

For Nur Syahirah, her journey at UTB was about more than academics – it was a holistic experience that helped her grow both professionally and personally.

The supportive community at the university, along with her participation in the UTB ExperiencePLUS programme abroad, allowed her to gain invaluable international exposure.

“Yes, I am eager to further my studies, particularly in banking and finance, with a strong interest in delving deeper into research,” she said.

“I believe that advancing my academic journey will enable me to contribute more significantly to the field by understanding and analysing real-world situations in the finance sector.”

Nur Syahirah’s primary professional goal is to make a meaningful impact in the finance industry, particularly through research and analysis. She aspires to become a thought leader, influencing policies that promote financial literacy and sustainable investment practices.

“My academic training has provided me with a solid foundation in critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are essential in any career.”

Nur Syahirah also achieved her goal of graduating with First Class Honours and feels well-prepared for the next steps in her academic and professional journey.

ALIFYA KAYLA SHAFA SUSANTO, BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (FIRST CLASS HONOURS) IN INFORMATION SECURITY

As an international student from Indonesia, Alifya chose Brunei for its blend of academic excellence and natural beauty. Furthermore, UTB’s renowned research, especially in cybersecurity, attracted her to the Information Security programme.

“I chose Information Security because it’s like being on the front lines of a digital battlefield, where data integrity and privacy are paramount. My current research journey is focused on digital governance,” Alifya said.

Her aspirations include becoming a professor and researcher, advancing the field of cybersecurity through cutting-edge research and teaching the next generation of experts.

Alifya’s PhD journey is inspired by her deep sense of responsibility as the eldest daughter, with the belief that education opens doors and shapes the future.

She draws strength from her faith, citing Surah Al-Mujadalah, Verse 11 of Al-Quran, which motivates her to pursue knowledge for a higher purpose.

She shared that this verse reminds her that her efforts in education are not just personal achievements but a way to fulfil a higher purpose.

MUHAMMAD AL-HADI BIN HAJI ABDUL JAMAL, BACHELOR OF BUSINESS (HONS) IN TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT

Muhammad Al-Hadi found the community at the university to be one of the most rewarding aspects of his academic journey. The encouragement from his lecturers and collaboration with peers fostered a supportive environment where everyone could thrive.

“I’ve really enjoyed the supportive community at UTB. My lecturers were always encouraging and insightful, and working alongside my peers made the journey even more rewarding,” he shared.

Currently, Muhammad Al-Hadi is focused on gaining hands-on experience in the workplace, applying the skills he acquired through his studies. In the future, he is open to furthering his education, particularly if it aligns with his career growth.

“My academic training has equipped me with critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, and my projects and internship gave me hands-on experience. Alhamdulillah, I graduated with good academic results and completed several meaningful projects, providing me with a solid foundation and confidence as I move forward in my career.”

These UTB graduates are ready to take on the world, armed with the skills, experiences, and networks they’ve built during their time at the university. From food science to finance, cybersecurity to technology management, these individuals are poised to make significant contributions to their fields, both in Brunei and beyond.

As they embark on their professional journeys, their stories serve as an inspiration for current and future students, showcasing the transformative power of education and determination. – Lyna Mohammad

The milk debate

Lifestyle

September 27, 2024

Milk has held a cherished spot in our diets for as long as anyone can remember, often hailed as a nutritional cornerstone especially for growing children. However, with the rise of plant-based alternatives, more and more people are rethinking their relationship with traditional dairy.

While dairy milk remains a nutrient powerhouse, plant-based options are quickly becoming favourites for their health benefits and eco-friendly appeal.

But what really happens when you swap your usual glass of dairy for a plant-based version? Let’s dive into the nutritional perks of both, weigh the pros and cons, and explore how this shift might impact your body.

DAIRY MILK NUTRITIONAL POWERHOUSE

Dairy milk has long been praised for its rich nutritional profile. It’s naturally packed with calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. In fact, just one glass of dairy milk can provide around 30 per cent of your daily calcium needs.

Beyond calcium, dairy milk is also a good source of protein, vitamin D, and B vitamins like B12. These nutrients are essential for maintaining muscle health, boosting your immune system, and keeping your energy levels up throughout the day.

The protein in dairy milk is complete, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids your body needs to repair and build tissues. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain muscle mass, particularly athletes or anyone on a fitness journey.

Additionally, the fat content in full-fat dairy milk can provide a source of energy and help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K.

PLANT-BASED MILK RISING

On the other hand, plant-based milk options such as almond, oat, soy and coconut milk have gained a loyal following in recent years. These alternatives offer a range of nutritional benefits, particularly for those with dietary restrictions or ethical concerns.

For starters, plant-based milk is often lower in calories and saturated fat than dairy milk, making it an attractive option for those looking to reduce their fat intake or manage their weight.

Additionally, plant-based milk is naturally free from lactose, making it a suitable alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or have dairy allergies.

Most commercially available plant-based milk is fortified with vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin D, and B12, to ensure it offers a comparable nutrient profile to dairy milk.

Soy milk, in particular, stands out for its high protein content, which is similar to that of cow’s milk.

Almond milk is lower in calories but rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that supports skin health. Meanwhile, oat milk is a good source of fibre, which can aid digestion and promote a feeling of fullness.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Switching from dairy milk to plant-based milk can bring about several health benefits, especially if you have specific dietary goals or health concerns. If you are lactose intolerant, for example, moving to a plant-based alternative can ease digestive issues such as bloating, gas or diarrhoea.

For those looking to lower their cholesterol levels, choosing a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk can be beneficial, as these options contain little to no saturated fat.

Furthermore, plant-based milk is often lower in calories, which could support weight management efforts when combined with a balanced diet. Almond and coconut milk, in particular, are lighter choices, ideal for those watching their calorie intake.

POTENTIAL DRAWBACKS

However, the switch isn’t without its drawbacks. While plant-based milk is often fortified with essential nutrients, it may not be as nutritionally dense as dairy milk in its natural state. For instance, the protein content in almond, oat, and coconut milk is typically lower than that of cow’s milk.

Soy milk is the closest in protein content, but some people prefer to avoid it due to concerns about phytoestrogens, which may mimic oestrogen in the body.

Another consideration is the sugar content. Some plant-based milk is sweetened or flavoured, which can add unnecessary sugars to your diet. It’s always best to check labels and opt for unsweetened versions if you’re watching your sugar intake.

SWITCH EXPECTATIONS

If you decide to make the switch from dairy to plant-based milk, you may notice a few changes in your body. First, if you’re lactose intolerant, you’ll likely feel more comfortable after meals, with fewer digestive problems. You may also find it easier to manage your weight if you’re consuming fewer calories or less saturated fat.

However, you might need to pay extra attention to your overall protein intake, especially if you’re very active. Including other plant-based protein sources like beans, lentils, or quinoa in your diet can help to make up for any shortfall.

Taste and texture are also factors to consider. Plant-based milk often has a thinner consistency than dairy milk, and the flavour can vary depending on the type. Some people find the nuttiness of almond milk or the creaminess of oat milk appealing, while others may need some time to adjust.

A PERSONAL CHOICE

Whether you choose dairy milk or plant-based alternatives ultimately comes down to personal preference and dietary needs. Both options have their own health benefits, and each can fit into a balanced diet.

If you’re considering making the switch, it’s important to choose a plant-based milk that suits your nutritional needs and lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking to lower your cholesterol, cut calories, or simply explore new flavours, the variety of plant-based milk options available means there’s something for everyone.

Ultimately, the key is to ensure you’re getting the nutrients your body needs, whether that’s from dairy or plant-based sources. Happy sipping! – Izah Azahari

Students learn financial literacy

National

September 27, 2024

ABOVE & BELOW: Students during their weekly shopping activity at a department store. PHOTO: AZLAN OTHMAN

Students of Datu Mahawangsa Lambak Primary School were taught how to spend wisely during a recent shopping activity at a department store.

The initiative aimed to enhance financial knowledge, particularly numeracy skills, such as applying mathematical concepts to financial literacy and to boost students’ confidence in making sound financial decisions in their daily lives.

Every Wednesday in September, Years 2 to 5 students visited the department store in pairs and were provided with a paper showing a set amount of money, which they would use to select items, record prices and calculate their balance.

The process was repeated until they had no money left to spend.

Upon completing the exercise, teachers allowed students to use their allocated money to purchase items of their choice.

The students then returned to school to enjoy their purchases during break time.

Throughout the activity, students displayed enthusiasm, showing excitement as they carefully chose items and collaborated with their peers.

Some students demonstrated a cautious approach, checking prices and discussing with their partners to maximise their spending.

Younger students, particularly those in Years 2 and 3, took pride in successfully completing their calculations and tracking their balance. – Azlan Othman

Friday, September 27, 2024

BB Daily Digital

September 27, 2024

Tokyo Game Show kicks off

Technology

September 26, 2024

Seventeen announces dates in Asia for tour

Entertainment

September 26, 2024

20231115000283_0 — K-pop group Seventeen poses for picture at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France, on Tuesday. (Pledis Entertainment)

(ANN/KOREA HERALD) – Seventeen announced destinations for the Asian leg of its “Right Here” tour Wednesday.

It will visit Bulacan, the Philippines, Singapore, Jakarta and Bangkok between Jan. 18 and Feb. 15, said agency Pledis Entertainment. The tour will be held in 14 cities for 27 shows, according to the plan made public so far.

K-pop group Seventeen poses for picture at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France. PHOTO: ANN/Pledis Entertainment)

The 13-member act will go live in Korea on Oct. 12-13 before heading to the US to perform in five cities. Japan will be the group’s next stop, where it will hold five dome concerts.

Right after the two-day concert in Korea, the band will drop its 12th EP “Spill the Feels.”

The promotional activities and the tour, however, will not include Jeonghan since he begins serving his military duty on Thursday.

Blackpink’s Lisa to tour Asia in November

Entertainment

September 26, 2024

Lisa has garnered worldwide fame both as a member of Blackpink and as a solo artiste. PHOTO: THE KOREA HERALD

(ANN/KOREA HERALD) – Lisa of Blackpink will visit fans in Asia for the first time on her own in November, according to a local media report Wednesday.

She will be hosting fan meetups in the region with plans to visit Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, Kaohsiung and Hong Kong in mid-November, the report said.

FILE – Lisa has garnered worldwide fame both as a member of Blackpink and as a solo artiste. PHOTO: ANN/THE KOREA HERALD

The artist, as a solo act, won the Best K-Pop Award from the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards with “Rockstar” earlier this month and is set to headline the Global Citizen Festival in New York this weekend. “Rockstar” ranked No. 70 on Billboard’s Hot 100, the highest spot for her as a solo musician.

On Oct. 15, she will join the special guest lineup for the Victoria’s Secret fashion show which has been revived after six years. Tyla and Cher were also invited to perform at the event.

Yakuza offices in Japan face steady decline

World

September 26, 2024

(ANN/JAPAN NEWS) – Around 400 yakuza crime syndicate offices were shut down across Japan between 2014 and 2023, according to a report by the National Police Agency (NPA).

This marks a decade since the Fukuoka prefectural police launched a major operation to arrest Kudo-kai chief Satoru Nomura on suspicion of homicide, aiming to dismantle the only crime syndicate designated as “especially dangerous” by the national government. The operation, dubbed “The Summit Operation,” also led to the arrest of the syndicate’s second-in-command, Fumio Tanoue. The Kudo-kai is headquartered in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture.

The nationwide movement to eliminate yakuza organizations gained significant momentum following the arrests, supported by public organizations actively working to shut down crime syndicate offices. “Our neighborhood is now safer, and even a national restaurant chain has opened nearby,” said Tomoshi Okuda, 61, who leads Hoboku, a nonprofit organization planning to construct a welfare complex on the former site of the Kudo-kai headquarters.

FILES – Fukuoka prefectural police officers begin searching the home of Kudo-kai chief Satoru Nomura in Kitakyushu, in Sept. 2015. PHOTO: ANN/JAPAN NEWS

Located just two kilometers from JR Kokura Station, Kudo Kaikan was once a feared symbol of yakuza activity, regularly visited by Kudo-kai members and their distinctive black cars. However, since the summit operation, use of the office was restricted, and it was eventually sold to a private company in 2019. The profits from the sale were allocated to civilian victims of Kudo-kai-related violence. Hoboku purchased the site in 2020 with plans to build a three-story complex, including a relief center and a community hall.

The Kitakyushu city government played a key role in the sale of the property, with former Deputy Mayor Kazuhide Umemoto stating, “By being involved as a government entity, we fostered public trust and found a buyer.” Okuda hopes to change the city’s reputation from a “dangerous city” to a desirable place to live.

The NPA has not revealed the total number of crime syndicate offices nationwide. However, 407 offices were closed between 2014, when the summit operation began, and 2023, thanks to pressure from residents and public organisations.

In 2014, 41 yakuza offices were closed, followed by 62 in 2016. The number of closures gradually decreased after 2020. Tokyo led with 68 closures, followed by Fukuoka with 63, Hyogo with 35, Osaka with 29, and Aichi and Hokkaido, each with 23.

The Fukuoka police reported the demolition of 49 syndicate offices over the past decade, including 28 from the Kudo-kai and others from groups like the Dojin-kai and Namikawa-kai. Fukuoka police have shared their methods with other law enforcement agencies across Japan, contributing to the growing success of syndicate office closures.

In some cases, public organisations have filed lawsuits on behalf of local residents, seeking to prevent yakuza groups from using their offices, thereby shielding communities from potential retaliation. In October 2020, the Fukuoka Center for Removal of Criminal Organizations filed a successful injunction against the Namikawa-kai, resulting in the demolition of their office in July 2021. Similarly, a Higashiosaka-based affiliate of the Yamaguchi-gumi crime group was forced to close after legal action, with the city purchasing the site in 2022.

Local governments have also taken the initiative. In December 2022, Fukutsu City in Fukuoka Prefecture secured a provisional injunction to shut down a Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi office, marking another victory in the fight against organized crime.

In Shizuoka Prefecture, a Yamaguchi-gumi affiliate’s office was shut down in 2019 after joint efforts by the police, local bar association, and criminal organization removal center.

“Public involvement helps residents feel safer in speaking out,” said Eiichiro Mizuno, 82, a leader in the fight against yakuza presence in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture. Kiyoshi Hikita of the Japan Federation of Bar Associations added, “The success against the Kudo-kai, a notoriously dangerous syndicate, emboldened locals to take action.”

Hikita concluded, “We must continue our efforts to eliminate yakuza organisations and their offices, adapting our strategies as needed.”

Igniting passion in education

National

September 26, 2024

The Special EduTALK, held in conjunction with Brunei’s 34th Teacher’s Day celebration, commenced with a speech by Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education, Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati Haji Tajuddin. In her address, she emphasised the importance of teacher well-being, motivation, and passion as key factors in fostering student success.

Dr Shamsiah also highlighted the participation of Associate Professor Ng Pak Tee from the National Institute of Education (NIE), Singapore, who served as the keynote speaker. Professor Ng’s sessions, which span over four days and include eight engagements, aim to provide insights into the “Interplay of Well-being, Motivation, and Pedagogy for Student Success.” These sessions are expected to benefit over 6,000 teachers across Brunei.

Reflecting on her personal experiences in education, Dr Shamsiah shared stories of impactful teachers who significantly shaped her understanding of effective teaching. She recounted a light-hearted anecdote about Professor Ng, who once assisted a student with a math problem while on a bus ride, illustrating how passionate teaching can leave a lasting impact.

Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education, Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati Haji Tajuddin during her address. PHOTOS: FADLEY FAISAL

The Permanent Secretary also addressed the transformation of teaching methods over the past two decades, particularly the shift from traditional approaches to the integration of digital tools and a greater emphasis on critical thinking. She acknowledged the evolving challenges teachers face with technology and student engagement. Despite these changes, she reminded educators of the need to reignite their passion for teaching, or as Professor Ng puts it, to stay “bright-bright,” ensuring they continue to deliver meaningful and impactful education.

In closing, Dr Shamsiah expressed her gratitude to Professor Ng for his valuable contributions, as well as to the organising committee from the Brunei Darussalam Leadership and Teachers Academy (BDLTA) and the Department of Educators Management for their efforts in organising the event. She commended Brunei’s educators for their unwavering commitment to maintaining a supportive and inspiring learning environment.

The Special EduTALK will run until October 1, offering educators continued opportunities for professional development and the enrichment of their teaching practices.

The audience included heads of departments, senior education officers, school leaders, and educators. – FADLEY FAISAL

India overtakes Japan to become 3rd most powerful Asian nation

World

September 26, 2024

NEW DELHI (ANN/THE STATESMAN) – India has overtaken Japan to become the third most powerful nation in Asia, as per the 2024 edition of Asia Power Index (API). According to the report, India now stands third on the index after the US and China.

Launched by Australia’s Lowy Institute in 2018, the Asia Power Index is an annual measure of power dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region. It evaluates 27 countries across the Asia-Pacific, on eight parameters including military capability, defence networks, economic capability and relationships, diplomatic and cultural influence, resilience, and future resources.

In a press release issued here by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, the current edition of the report offers one of the most comprehensive assessments of power distribution in the region to date. Timor-Leste has been included for the first time, reflecting its growing importance in Southeast Asia.

Stating that even though India’s “clout remains below the potential promised by its resources,” it claimed that it has overtaken Japan to become the third-ranked power in Asia. “However, the gap between the expectation of “India rising” and reality remains pronounced. The API shows that New Delhi still has limited ability to project power and influence east of the Malacca Strait. But the fact that its influence remains well below the level promised by its resources suggests it still has ample potential for further growth as a major power,” it read further.

Attributing the success of India to its resources, the report claimed that the country’s strength lies in its huge population, landmass, and economy. PHOTO: ANN/THE STATESMAN

Attributing the success of India on its resources, the report claimed that the country’s strength lies in its huge population, landmass, and economy.

Observing that India’s youthful population may well deliver a demographic dividend in the years ahead, as compared to the rapidly ageing and contracting workforces in many other countries in Asia, including rival China, the report stated that post-Covid economic growth saw India increase its Economic Capability by 4.2 points. It also grew well in all other resource measures, especially Future Resources, where its score increased by 8.2 points.

It was also mentioned that even though the country’s Diplomatic Influence saw a rise in the 2024 API, a large gap still remains between the narrative of “India rising” and the reality of its limited power projection in Asia.

Economic relationships remain India’s weak point, and it again lost a ranking in its score, being overtaken by Indonesia. India’s low-level economic integration with the larger economies in Asia and weak participation in regional economic architecture means this trend is set to continue, the report further stated.

Besides, India’s score for Defence Networks also went down for the third year in a row, reducing it to the 9th position. The report claimed that India’s non-aligned stance and caution about deepening security cooperation with the US alliance network means it will likely continue to lose relative ground in this measure, even as it launches flagship initiatives such as the sale of BrahMos missiles to the Philippines.

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

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