US ambassador to Japan ‘extremely optimistic’ about trade deal

Business

April 19, 2025

AFP – The new United States (US) ambassador to Japan said yesterday he was “extremely optimistic” that the two countries will agree a trade deal, after Tokyo’s tariffs envoy visited Washington.

Ryosei Akazawa met US President Donald Trump and held talks with senior US officials as Japan looks to pare back stiff levies announced by the White House.

While there was no immediate breakthrough, the next round of negotiations is scheduled before the end of the month.

“I’ve met now with most of the principals who are in the room and doing the negotiating… I’m extremely optimistic that a deal will get done,” Ambassador George Glass told reporters.

“(We) have the best and the brightest from Japan there doing the negotiations. We have the best and brightest from the US,” he said at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.

“And when I saw that President Trump then decided he was going to get involved and has now named this his top priority, that’s why I have a lot of confidence that we’ll get something done.”

Japanese companies are the biggest investors into the US and Japan is a vital strategic ally for Washington in the Asia-Pacific region.

But the country is subject to the same 10 per cent baseline tariffs imposed by Trump on most countries as well as painful steeper levies on cars, steel and aluminium.

New United States Ambassador to Japan George Glass during a press conference after his arrival at Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Japan. PHOTO: AFP

Trump also imposed “reciprocal” tariffs on Japan of 24 per cent, although these have been paused for 90 days along with those on other countries except China.

The talks were closely watched as a barometer of Washington’s negotiations with other countries reeling from US tariffs.

Trump said after meeting Akazawa on his Truth Social platform that there had been “big progress”.

Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba warned that the negotiations “won’t be easy”. But he added that Trump “has expressed his desire to give the negotiations with Japan the highest priority”.

Ishiba reiterated to Parliament yesterday that there was still a “gap” between the two countries’ positions.

In addition to taking more US goods, Trump reportedly wants Japan to buy more US defence equipment and strengthen the yen against the dollar.

Akazawa said in Washington that the strength of the Japanese currency was not discussed.

The US president also reportedly wants Japan to pay more for hosting 54,000 US military personnel in Japan, from the current USD1.4 billion a year.

“In a negotiation like this, we can say an agreement has been achieved only when we ultimately complete it as a package,” Akazawa said yesterday.

Stephen Innes at SPI Asset Management said, “These talks aren’t just bilateral – they’re a global litmus test.

“Everyone from Berlin to Seoul is watching for clues on Trump’s strategy. If Tokyo can cut a deal, it may set a precedent. If not, the message is clear: everyone’s fair game.”

Officials from Indonesia also held talks in Washington this week, while the finance minister of South Korea, a major semiconductor and auto exporter, will meet Bessent next week.

Kawhi Leonard is fresh in mind, body

Sports

April 19, 2025

INGLEWOOD (AP) – Kawhi Leonard is fresh in mind and body this year, no longer relegated to watching from the sideline when the Los Angeles Clippers begin the post-season.

After appearing in just two playoff games over the last two years, the 33-year-old two-time Finals MVP is healthy and looking like his old self as the fifth-seeded Clippers take on the fourth-seeded Nuggets in the first round starting today in Denver.

“Just happy that I was able to get here,” he said. “My teammates did a great job down that last stretch.”

The Clippers have been a much different team since Leonard got healthy and found his rhythm. He missed the first 34 games of the season because of lingering issues with his surgically repaired knees.

Los Angeles won 18 of its final 21 games, a stretch in which it had the NBA’s Number 1 offence.

Golden State Warriors Mose Moody and Jimmy Butler III defend against Los Angeles Clippers Kawhi Leonard
in the second-quarter of an NBA game in San Francisco, United States. PHOTO: AP

Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard moves the ball while defended by Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green. PHOTO: AP

“It feels good for us and him playing at a high level helps our team out tremendously,” coach Tyronn Lue said. “I’m happy for him for all the hard work he’s put in to get to this point and to be healthy at the end of the season.”

Leonard won two NBA championships – one with San Antonio and another with Toronto – but his health has been a major issue during his five years in Los Angeles.

In 2020-21, he hurt his knee in Game 4 of the Western Conference semi-finals against Utah and missed the rest of the series. The Clippers advanced to the conference finals for the first time in franchise history and lost to Phoenix. Leonard sat out the entire 2021-22 season while rehabbing his knee. He came back strong in 2022-23 only to tear his meniscus in the first round of the playoffs. Last season, he hurt his right knee and played in just two games as the Clippers lost in the first round to Dallas.

“I love the game and I have a passion for it still,” he said. “I love to compete out there, so that’s pretty much what drives me back. Everything has its ups and downs and you got to go through those in life. You just keep going.”

Leonard has said the Clippers allowed him to seek outside opinions on his health and then blend that information with the team’s medical staff to get healthy.

“The biggest thing is just trusting,” Lue said, crediting medical staff president Maggie Bryant with showing Leonard different ways he could do things to be healthy at the end of the 82-game regular season.

Egypt central bank lowers interest rate for first time since 2020

Business

April 19, 2025

AFP – Egypt’s central bank announced that it was lowering interest rates for the first time since 2020, days after the government announced a reduction in fuel subsidies.

The Central Bank of Egypt cut interest rates by 225 basis points, its monetary policy division said in a statement.

Its overnight deposit rate, overnight lending rate, and the rate of the main operation now stood at 25 per cent, 26 per cent and 25.5 per cent.

The bank cited “recovery in economic activity for the fourth consecutive quarter” and a decline in inflation to its lowest rate in three years.

The central bank has raised or held interest rates since 2020, during an economic crisis that saw the local currency devalued several times against the dollar. The Egyptian authorities last week raised fuel prices for the fourth time in a year.

The latest move comes weeks after the International Monetary Fund approved a USD1.2 billion payout to Cairo following its fourth review of the country’s economic reform programme.

Authorities have issued a number of tough reforms to comply with an International Monetary Fund deal that was expanded from USD3 billion to USD8 billion last year.

Egypt remains burdened by soaring foreign debt, which has quadrupled since 2015, reaching USD155.2 billion by September 2024. Much of the debt is tied to large-scale infrastructure projects, including a new capital east of Cairo.

File photo shows the Central Bank of Egypt building in Cairo, Egypt. PHOTO: XINHUA

Luka Doncic eager to start playing big games for Lakers

Sports

April 19, 2025

EL SEGUNDO (AP) – Luka Doncic has been with the Los Angeles Lakers for over two months now, and he’s feeling fairly comfortable in his new home. He is building chemistry with his new teammates, who are getting used to his brilliant passes, prolific scoring outbursts and fiery competitiveness.

But the playoffs begin this weekend, and the Lakers know they’re about to see yet another side of their Slovenian superstar.

“I like big games,” Doncic said with his typical understatement. “The playoffs is a fun time. Everybody plays 100 per cent. It’s just fun to be out there.”

Doncic is one of the top playoff performers of his generation, and he is just one year removed from his remarkable effort in carrying the Dallas Mavericks to the NBA Finals despite significant injuries to his right knee, left ankle and chest.

Doncic is healthier now – and he has LeBron James on his side this spring when the third-seeded Lakers begin the first round against the surging Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 on Saturday night.

While Los Angeles drew a difficult opening-round matchup for a team still assembling an identity around its new centrepiece, the Lakers expect to see something special from Doncic.

“The goal is to win a championship,” Doncic said. “I think we have a great team. We have guys that are willing to go to war. Everybody is staying together. The chemistry is high, so I think we for sure have a chance.”

Los Angeles Lakers Luka Doncic. PHOTO: AP

Local qari joins Al-Quran recitation competition in Bangkok

National

April 19, 2025

Local qari participant Haji Muhammad bin Ali left the Sultanate yesterday to attend an invitation to perform a recitation of Al-Quran at the Mawlid Al-Nabawi Celebration at the National Administrative Centre for Islamic Affairs, Nongchock District, Thailand this weekend.

Haji Muhammad is the reigning national champion after winning the National Al-Quran Reading Competition for Adults for 1445 Hijrah.

He told the Bulletin in an interview, “Alhamdulillah, so far I have represented Brunei Darussalam at international level in countries such as Malaysia, Iran, Russia and Indonesia.”

In Malaysia, the qari participant has competed at both university and international levels.

Since establishing himself on the national scene, Haji Muhammad has found success overseas, with winning a competition in Moscow, Russia being his biggest highlight and attaining third place in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Local qari participant Haji Muhammad bin Ali prior to departure to Bangkok, Thailand at the Brunei International Airport. PHOTO: FADHIL YUNUS

At university level, Haji Muhammad also secured third place in a competition organised by Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia.

During his burgeoning international career, Haji Muhammad has also competed alongside globally renowned qari participants who boast extensive experience.

Haji Muhammad, who is seen as the successor to the country’s multiple national qari winner Pengiran Muhammad Adibul Amin bin Pengiran Haji Marjuki, also shared his preparations ahead of the overseas meet.

He said, “In terms of preparations, this includes voice training by reciting Al-Quran regularly, which may take less than an hour and taking good care of my health. Besides that, the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) also often holds workshops, courses and training sessions.”

Head of the Islamic Syi’ar Development Division Haji Aziman bin Haji Awang Zaman and Head of the Public Relations, International and MABIMS Division at the MoRA Haji Mohammad Albi bin Haji Ibrahim were present at Brunei International Airport to wish Haji Muhammad a safe journey.

The qari reader was accompanied by Special Duties Officer Level 1, Public Relations, International and MABIMS Division Pengiran Muhammad Azrin bin Pengiran Jarail as an escort officer. At the Mawlid Al-Nabawi Ceremony for the year 1446 Hijrah, several representatives from ASEAN member countries were also invited to join the recitation of Al-Quran. – Fadhil Yunus

Evening gala marks milestones, future aspirations

National

April 19, 2025

Liqui Moly Brunei reaffirmed its commitment to growth and partnership during the ‘Towards the Future 2025’ appreciation dinner held at the Radisson Hotel recently, bringing together key stakeholders, partners, and clients for an evening of celebration and reflection.

The event featured cultural performances, entertainment, a lucky draw, and a question-and-answer session with stakeholders, while also serving as a platform to highlight Liqui Moly’s vision and strategic direction for the years ahead.

Delivering his opening remarks, Autotools Sdn Bhd General Manager Krit Smuthkochorn reflected on Liqui Moly’s journey in Brunei since its introduction in 2002 under Malpy Machinery Sdn Bhd.

“In 2004, Autotools Marketing Company was established, and we were given the opportunity to further grow the Liqui Moly brand in the local market,” he said. “That opportunity became a turning point in 2022 – and today, we proudly stand as Autotools Sdn Bhd.”

He added that over the past 23 years, the brand has grown into a trusted name both in Brunei and internationally. “It’s been a journey fuelled by commitment, hard work, and the unwavering support of our service partners – you,” he said, addressing the audience.

A question-and-answer session with Autotools Sdn Bhd General Manager Krit Smuthkochorn and the Liqui Moly Germany team. PHOTO: FADLEY FAISAL

ABOVE & BELOW: Krit delivers a speech; and a lucky draw recipient receives his prize. PHOTO: FADLEY FAISAL

Krit also acknowledged the challenges the company has faced in recent years, including parallel imports, counterfeit products, and global economic pressures. “This issue affects not only us as a company representing Liqui Moly in Brunei, but also our trusted partners across the network,” he said. “We believe that the best way to overcome this is by continuing to support one another, staying united, and upholding the integrity of the Liqui Moly brand together.”

To strengthen ties with its partners, Liqui Moly Brunei welcomed several representatives from the Liqui Moly Germany team to the event, including Roland Braun, Jochen Rohm, Sudarath and Gordon Lit.

“Your role is more vital than ever,” Krit said. “Having direct engagement from the brand itself is something we value immensely.”

He expressed appreciation for the long-standing support from stakeholders and partners.

“Tonight is not just about reflection – it’s about appreciation. We hope that this evening will be one of memorable moments, where we celebrate what we’ve achieved and look forward with confidence and optimism.”

The dinner night was held in line with several key objectives, including strengthening business relationships, showcasing innovation, celebrating growth, and fostering networking within the automotive industry.

The event’s theme, ‘Liqui Moly – Towards the Future’, served as a reminder of the brand’s ongoing commitment to excellence and its forward-looking approach as it continues to expand its presence in Brunei and beyond. – Fadley Faisal

France-Brunei trade sees strong growth in 2024

National

April 19, 2025

France emerged as Brunei Darussalam’s 28th largest global supplier in 2024, with exports reaching EUR13.8 million – more than double the amount recorded in 2023, representing an increase of over 106 per cent. The growth was primarily driven by strong performances in wood products (26 per cent), industrial and agricultural machinery (22 per cent), and electronics (11 per cent).

On the other hand, Brunei’s exports to France amounted to EUR929, with agri-food products accounting for 55 per cent of total imports. France ranked Brunei as its 199th largest global supplier and the smallest in the region, below Laos. The import increase was supported by rising demand for agricultural goods and textiles.

The trade figures were shared by Financial Counsellor for ASEAN member countries at the Embassy of France in Singapore Raphael Badr during a talk titled ‘Dialogue: ASEAN…Brunei…France: Looping Brunei In’ hosted by the French Bruneian Business Association (FBBA) yesterday at Baiduri Community Centre. Honorary President of FBBA Musa bin Haji Adnin; President of FBBA Pierre Imhof; Ambassador of France to Brunei Darussalam and Patron of FBBA Eve Lubin; executive committee members; and guests were present at the event.

Raphael Badr noted that France currently maintains a modest trade surplus with Brunei of EUR12.8 million. He also highlighted that bilateral trade peaked in 2018 following a major order by Royal Brunei Airlines for seven A320neo aircraft, with the first batch delivered in May of that year.

Meanwhile, Head of Economic Department for ASEAN at the French Embassy in Singapore Adeline-Lise Khov delivered a presentation on ‘Building the France of 2030 Today’, where she underlined France’s strong economic fundamentals and its standing as the world’s seventh-largest economy. – James Kon

French Ambassador in Brunei Darussalam Eve Lubin and French Bruneian Business Association executive members at the event. PHOTO: JAMES KON

Bringing Raya celebration to children, families

National

April 19, 2025

The Children’s Cancer Foundation (YASKA) organised a Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration event at a hotel yesterday, continuing to spark the joy of Raya.

Some 31 children and members from YASKA, along with their families were invited to enjoy the festivities as well as partake in various activities prepared by the YASKA committee members.

YASKA Advisor Dr Hajah Norehan binti Haji Johari and YASKA President Tsara’ Nawwarah Abdullah Chen were present. – James Kon

ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show the attendees during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI

Combining style, savings and sustainability

National

April 19, 2025

BYD’s Sealion 6 aims to become the number one car model for Brunei Darussalam with already more than 300 vehicles sold in the country.

The target was announced by Managing Director of Maju Motors Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of BYD cars in Brunei Darussalam, Chan Key Hong during the Hari Raya celebration with BYD and local media at the BYD’s showroom yesterday.

Chan added, “BYD’s Sealion 6 is currently the number one plug-in hybrid (PHEV) in the country. We can’t do it ourselves, we need the support of the local media.”

“The PHEV allows you to drive with a full tank of fuel and full electric vehicle travelling an estimated combined driving range of up to 1,100 kilometres (km),” he said.

He added, “If you charge the Sealion 6 at home and only travel 100km per day, it will only cost 20 cents. Imagine for 3,000km in a month, where you would only pay BND6, saving on daily expenses.”

The attendees were also given a view of the display of BYD Sealion 7 set to be launched next month. – James Kon

Managing Director of Maju Motors Sdn Bhd Chan Key Hong with the marketing team. PHOTO: JAMES KON

Full of Raya spirit

National

April 19, 2025

The GHK Group of Companies hosted its Hari Raya celebration at the GHK Motors Sdn Bhd headquarters showroom yesterday.

Guests were treated to a variety of local dishes, while customers visiting the showroom during the event were also invited to join the celebration.

The gathering was part of the group’s annual Hari Raya tradition, and highlighted the strong camaraderie between management and staff. Employees across departments came together to prepare and decorate the venue, reflecting a shared spirit of teamwork and celebration.

The GHK Group currently employs over 200 staff members, with GHK Motors accounting for more than 100 of them. Of the workforce, 99 per cent at GHK Motors are locals, while at the GHK Assembly in Muara, 70 per cent of the employees are Bruneian, reflecting the company’s commitment to local employment and development.

Managing Director Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin and Director Jake Goh were present.

Founded in the 1970s, GHK Motors has grown from a small enterprise into a leading name in the automotive sector under the leadership of Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin.

The company now operates from its own purpose-built headquarters and showroom, a testament to its sustained growth and success. – Lyna Mohamad

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

Trending News

Social Media

Category

Site Links