Thank you, teachers everywhere

Lifestyle

September 23, 2024

Today is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate all educators who dedicate their lives to guiding our youth, from school teachers to university lecturers and tuition instructors.

Their influence reaches far beyond the classroom, shaping futures and instilling essential values. While schools and the government will honour educators through various events across the country, we – students, parents, and community members – have unique opportunities to express our gratitude and support.

In the Sultanate, our cultural values of respect and gratitude naturally guide how we view our educators. This Teacher’s Day, let’s explore meaningful ways to show appreciation that can truly resonate.

Before we dive in however, it’s essential to remember that Teacher’s Day honours not only those who teach in primary and secondary schools but also educators at various levels.

This includes university lecturers, tuition teachers, and even mentors who guide us in different aspects of our lives.

Each of these individuals plays a crucial role in shaping our understanding and skills, often providing support, wisdom, and encouragement when we need it most.

Whether they’re helping us navigate academic challenges or guiding us through life lessons, these educators deserve our recognition and gratitude.

A teacher attending to her student. PHOTO: DANIEL LIM

PERSONALISED GIFTS FROM THE HEART

Small, personal gestures can carry immense significance. Students of all ages can create heartfelt thank-you notes expressing how their teachers – whether in primary school, university, or a tutoring centre – have influenced their lives.

These notes, filled with genuine sentiments, can become cherished keepsakes, reminding teachers of their profound impact. After all, God knows teachers do so much nowadays!

However, if you’re considering tangible gifts, here are a few thoughtful suggestions that can brighten a teacher’s day:

Quality markers and pens

A vibrant set of markers or gel pens can make lesson planning or grading more enjoyable.

Notebooks and planners

A stylish notebook or planner can help teachers stay organised. Choose one that reflects their personality, adding a personal touch to their work.

Classroom and office supplies

Essential supplies like sticky notes, whiteboard markers, or educational games can significantly ease their workload. Acknowledging the challenges they face daily helps provide meaningful support.

Hijabs

For female educators, a beautiful hijab can be a thoughtful gift. Choose one in a colour or pattern that suits their style, making it a personal and cherished gesture.

THE PERFECT GIFT IDEAS

In addition to teaching tools, consider gifts that promote relaxation and well-being, recognising that educators often juggle multiple responsibilities:

Personalised mugs

A custom mug with a thoughtful message can brighten their morning routine. Pair it with gourmet coffee or tea for an extra touch of warmth.

Gift cards

If you’re unsure of what to give, a gift card to a local bookstore or café allows teachers to choose what they need or enjoy a well-deserved treat.

Self-care packages

Treat teachers to relaxation gifts like scented candles, essential oils, or cosy blankets. These items can provide much-needed moments of comfort after long days.

PRACTICAL HELP AND ACTS OF KINDNESS

Showing appreciation can also take the form of practical support. Parents can volunteer their time for initiatives that help lighten teachers’ workloads.

Organising a clean-up day at local schools or community centres or gathering supplies for classroom projects can demonstrate community spirit and appreciation.

Students can also contribute by taking on small responsibilities, like helping organise classroom materials or creating a community art project dedicated to their teachers and lecturers.

These acts not only express gratitude but also foster a sense of teamwork and collaboration. And let’s be honest: they might even earn some brownie points for that next test!

A LIVING TRIBUTE

As an avid gardener, I’m fortunate to share this passion with many educators, for whom gardening serves as a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Many schools today have embraced this idea by establishing community gardens, where kids learn about the beauty of growing plants and the importance of nurturing life.

This Teacher’s Day, let’s channel that love for gardening into a living tribute for our teachers. Imagine gathering a group of students, parents, and community members to plant flowers or trees in honour of the educators who have inspired us.

Each plant we place in the ground can symbolise the growth they foster in their students.

Plus, watching those plants thrive over time will serve as a constant reminder of the nurturing spirit our teachers bring into our lives.

If planting something isn’t feasible, consider gifting a beautifully arranged bouquet instead.

Scented flowers like lilies or jasmine can infuse a room with a refreshing aroma and brighten a teacher’s day.

After all, who doesn’t love receiving flowers? It’s a small token of appreciation that says, “Just like these blooms, you help us grow!”

As we celebrate Teacher’s Day, let’s remember that appreciation isn’t just about grand gestures. It’s in the small, genuine acts of kindness and support from students, parents, and the community.

They are the architects of our future, deserving of our deepest gratitude. Let’s come together to make this Teacher’s Day a memorable celebration of their invaluable contributions! – Wardi Wasil

Family marks Sultan’s birthday with Khatam Al-Quran

National

September 23, 2024

ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show Ahmad family predecessors during the Khatam Al-Quran ceremony. PHOTO: AHMAD FAMILY

Some 60 Ahmad family predecessors held a Khatam Al-Quran ceremony yesterday to mark 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’s 78th birthday celebration.

The event, held for the third time, was organised by the family members.

Dato Seri Setia Haji Mohd Zaimi bin Haji Talip, the guest of honour, led the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah at Suri Seri Begawan Raja Pengiran Anak Damit Mosque in Kampong Manggis/Madang.

The event also saw the recitation of Dikir Marhaban, Selawat Tafrijiyyah and Doa Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam. – Azlan Othman

Legacy of a monarch, legacy of our teachers

Features

September 23, 2024

A teacher guides a student during a class. PHOTO: MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

As we celebrate the 34th Teacher’s Day in the Sultanate, it is fitting to reflect on the profound legacy of educators who have shaped our nation. Among them, none shines brighter than Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam, our 28th Sultan of Brunei Darussalam.

Revered as the Architect of Modern Brunei, Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien’s reign from 1950 to 1967 reshaped the nation’s destiny.

The late monarch visionary leadership not only shaped Brunei’s educational landscape but also laid the cornerstone for a future where knowledge could flourish for generations, as he championed the transformative power of education, well before it became a national pillar.

Moreover, his unwavering dedication to education inspired a generation to excel, fostering a pursuit of knowledge deeply rooted in faith.

His legacy serves as a reminder that the influence of teachers reaches far beyond the classroom, reflecting a lifelong devotion to nurturing both the intellectual and spiritual growth of Brunei Darussalam.

Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien’s focus on education was far-reaching, grounded in his belief that knowledge was essential to the development of an independent and prosperous Brunei.

Early in his reign, he established the Education Department in 1953, marking the beginning of a formalised national education system.

One of his most significant initiatives was sending Bruneian students abroad, starting with a group to Singapore’s Al-Juned Arabic School in 1950.

This opened doors for higher education at institutions like Al-Azhar University in Egypt, ensuring Brunei would cultivate a highly skilled workforce.

Under his reign, with an investment of BND10.65 million, new schools and vocational training centres were established, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive education system.

By 1954, institutions such as the Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien College and Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam Secondary School ensured access to quality education for Bruneian youth.

His dedication to Islamic education was also profound, where in 1964, he founded the Religious Affairs Department, and by 1956, seven religious schools were established, blending faith with modern education.

His most significant contribution came in 1964 with the founding of Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic Boys Secondary School, combining Islamic teachings with modern sciences, balancing tradition and progress.

A man of many talents, Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien also earned the title of ‘Royal Poet’ for his eloquent contributions to Bruneian literature. His poetry, rich with themes of Islam, patriotism, and vision for an independent Brunei, continues to inspire generations.

Though he abdicated in 1967, passing the throne to his eldest son, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien’s legacy endures.

His educational reforms, religious leadership, and cultural influence have shaped modern Brunei into a nation that harmonises progress with its deep-rooted Islamic traditions. In many ways, Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien was ahead of his time and his visionary contributions continue to define Brunei’s identity, making him one of the most respected figures in the country’s history.

Today, as we celebrate our teachers, we also honour the legacy of a leader whose passion for knowledge still lights the path for future generations.

Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien was born on September 23, 1914 in Kampong Sultan Lama. He was the second son of the 26th Sultan of Brunei, Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam II.

At 18, in 1932, Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien enrolled at the Kuala Kangsar Malay College.

In 1938, Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien entered the State Administrative Service and was stationed in Kuala Belait for a year, and lived and worked in the jungle of Ulu Belait.

Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien later joined the Legal Department as a cadet officer, and learned the civil and criminal law matters.

In 1938, he left the department and devoted his time to studying religion under a well-known religious teacher.

In 1941, Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien married Pengiran Anak Damit, the daughter of the then Pengiran Bendahara. The late monarch’s older brother, Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin passed away on June 4, 1950.

Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien was crowned Brunei’s 28th Sultan at the age of 35. – Izah Azahari

Monday, September 23, 2024

BB Daily Digital

September 23, 2024

Ten Hag bemoans Man Utd’s lack of killer instinct

Sports

September 22, 2024

Britain Soccer Premier League — Manchester United's goalkeeper Andre Onana punches the ball away during the English Premier League match against Crystal Palace. PHOTO: AP

London (AFP) – Manchester United must be more ruthless said Erik ten Hag after missing a host of chances in a 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace on Saturday night.

Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes hit the bar for the visitors in the first half as United dominated on a ground where they were thrashed 4-0 just four months ago.

But only a stunning double save from Andre Onana after the break denied Palace their first league win of the season.

A point leaves United down in 11th after winning just two of their opening five matches of the new Premier League campaign.

“I’m not content, we should have won,” said Ten Hag. “First half we left them alive, the second half was more balanced.

“We played very good (in the first half), total control of the game, the only thing was in the box and in the box is where the game is decided. We should be more clinical there.”

The humiliation of their last visit to Selhurst Park in May was the nadir of a troubled season for United.

Many wondered whether Ten Hag would even oversee another match but a shock FA Cup final victory over Manchester City handed the Dutchman a second chance.

The Red Devils this time arrived in south London on a high after scoring 10 goals in the past week to dispose of Southampton 3-0 and smash Barnsley 7-0 in the League Cup in midweek.

Manchester United’s goalkeeper Andre Onana punches the ball away during the English Premier League match against Crystal Palace. PHOTO: AP

Marcus Rashford had ended a barren run by scoring three times in those two matches, but he was surprisingly dropped to the bench by Ten Hag.

However, the decision to keep Garnacho on the left was inspired as the Argentine tore Palace to shreds early on without applying the final touch.

Former United goalkeeper Dean Henderson kept the Eagles in the game before half-time.

Garnacho did not get enough on his curling effort to beat Henderson with his first big chance before the England stopper denied Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez.

United knew their luck was not in when the visitors then hit the bar twice in the matter of seconds.

Garnacho sprinted onto Diogo Dalot’s incisive pass to curl off the woodwork before Fernandes’ follow-up effort also clipped the bar.

Palace boss Oliver Glasner reacted with a double substitution at half-time which resulted in a far more competitive second half.

“In the first half we needed a great goalkeeper and fortunately we had one today,” said Glasner.

“In that second half it was more like a Crystal Palace team and that is what we need to be competitive against a team like Manchester United.”

Fernandes was inches away once more with an audacious outside of the boot effort that flew wide after a neat one-two with Joshua Zirkzee.

But only a moment of magic from Onana prevented United from slipping to a third defeat in five league games this season.

The former Ajax ‘keeper got down well to parry Eddie Nketiah’s strike from distance before leaping off the ground to prevent Sarr tapping in the rebound.

“It’s not so important (how I made the double save) because we didn’t win,” said Onana. “Unfortunately we didn’t score. It’s pitiful to go back home with the one point when you deserve to win.”

Palace had another huge chance to snatch all three points when Eberechi Eze side-footed wide with the goal gaping from close range.

A draw leaves Palace down in 16th, but it is United who will be more frustrated with the missed opportunity to gain some momentum with three wins in eight days.

Microsoft to reopen meltdown nuclear plant for AI energy needs

Technology

September 22, 2024

page 10 b_23092024 — File photo shows the Three Mile Island nuclear plant in the United States. PHOTO: AFP

SACRAMENTO (XINHUA) – Microsoft and Constellation Energy announced a groundbreaking deal recently to re-open the partially-melted-down Three Mile Island nuclear plant, with the tech giant purchasing all the power for 20 years after restart.

The deal marked the first time a decommissioned United States (US) nuclear plant had been brought back into service and the first time a commercial nuclear power plant’s entire output had been allocated to one customer.

The agreement aimed to feed the growing energy needs of Microsoft’s artificial intelligence (AI) operations while restarting the infamous Pennsylvania facility, the site of the worst nuclear accident in US history.

Constellation Energy, the plant’s owner, planned to restart Three Mile Island Unit 1 by 2028 at a cost of about USD1.6 billion. The unit sits adjacent to the reactor that suffered a partial meltdown in 1979, an event that sent the nation into panic and dealt a severe blow to the nuclear industry.

“The nuclear power plant never should have been allowed to shut down,” said chief executive Joseph Dominguez of Constellation, in a press release. He added that the nuclear plant would produce as much clean energy as all the renewables built in Pennsylvania over the last 30 years.

File photo shows the Three Mile Island nuclear plant in the United States. PHOTO: AFP

The restarted facility would provide Microsoft with 835 megawatts of electricity, equivalent to powering about 800,000 homes.

According to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, on March 28, 1979, the Unit 2 reactor core at the Three Mile Island plant partially melted down when equipment malfunctions, compounded by human operator errors, caused a water pump failure that resulted in a loss of coolant to the reactor.

The partial meltdown led to the release of radioactive gases and iodine into the environment, though no deaths or injuries were directly linked to the incident.

Unit 2 remains sealed, with its highly radioactive core encased in concrete.

The revival of Three Mile Island is part of a broader trend of tech companies seeking reliable, zero-emissions power sources to support their expanding data centers and AI technologies.

However, Microsoft’s plan has faced significant regulatory hurdles and public skepticism. Constellation must clear intensive safety inspections from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, which has never before authorized the re-opening of a nuclear plant. The company expects the review process to be completed by 2027.

The deal also raised questions about the use of federal subsidies, as the project relies heavily on tax breaks earmarked for nuclear power in the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act. Critics argued that using public funds to benefit a single private company may be inappropriate.

Social media reactions to the news were mixed.

One Washington Post’s website commenter sarcastically suggested, “Okay, as long as the waste is sent to Microsoft HQ in Redmond, WA.”

Another user on The Verge expressed concerns about the broader implications, “The potential power demand is looking to be so large – it will delay the transition to carbon-free energy (in the US) and not by a little bit… Seems like a law saying all electricity for AI and Crypto farms in the US has to be carbon-free is in order.”

Some community leaders welcomed the potential economic revival, with a study funded by the Pennsylvania Building and Construction Trades Council projecting the creation of 3,400 jobs and USD3 billion in state and federal taxes.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro expressed support, saying that the plant will “safely utilize existing infrastructure to sustain and expand nuclear power in the Commonwealth while creating thousands of energy jobs,” said a Constellation press release.

However, nuclear safety advocates have expressed alarm.

Former deputy for nonproliferation policy at the Pentagon Henry Sokolski criticised the use of public subsidies, telling the Washington Post, “Microsoft says it will buy all of the nuclear electricity from Three Mile Island, but it wants rate and taxpayers to pick up the tab to refurbish the plant.”

Nine Indian fishermen feared dead after trawler capsizes

World

September 22, 2024

KOLKATA (AFP) – Nine Indian fishermen are feared dead after their trawler capsized in the Bay of Bengal during a storm, an official told AFP on Sunday.

The trawler had left from the Sundarbans in West Bengal on Wednesday with 17 men on board, said Surajit Bag, assistant director of fishing in the state government.

Eight were on the deck while nine others were asleep in the cabin below when the storm struck early Saturday near Bagher Char island he told AFP.

“The trawler was overwhelmed by high waves and it capsized” he said.

Another trawler rescued the eight on deck after they were thrown overboard, he said.

“Despite an extensive search, the remaining nine fishermen who were asleep below the deck could not be found. We fear they are dead.”

An Indian Coast Guard vessel had towed the trawler back to land, where the survivors were in a stable condition, Bag said.

The Sundarbans, a UNESCO world heritage site famed for its mangrove forest, is home to thousands of fishermen who fish throughout the year.

But the onset of the annual monsoon season sets off bad weather and storms in the coastal region, making sea voyages risky.

Sultan arrives in New York for ‘Summit of the Future’

National

September 22, 2024

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 arrived in New York City, United States, on Sunday for the ‘Summit of the Future’ at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Accompanying His Majesty were His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel and Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah.

Upon arrival at the John F Kennedy International Airport, His Majesty was greeted
by Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to the United States Dato Paduka Haji Serbini and Acting Permanent Representative of Brunei Darussalam to the United Nations Izzat Hayati binti Haji Zakaria.

Timeline of Malaysian child abuse scandal

Southeast Asia

September 22, 2024

AHLI GISBH DIREMAN TUJUH HARI — SHAH ALAM, 22 Sept -- Sebahagian daripada 29 individu yang dikaitkan dengan GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd (GISBH) direman antara satu hingga tujuh hari bermula hari ini untuk membantu siasatan. Permohonan reman ke atas kesemua individu berusia lingkungan 19 hingga 62 tahun itu dibuat di hadapan Timbalan Pendaftar Md Subri Hashim dan mereka ditahan di lokap berpusat Ibu Pejabat Polis Daerah (IPD) Shah Alam, Subang Jaya serta Petaling Jaya. --fotoBERNAMA (2024) HAK CIPTA TERPELIHARA

Some of the 29 individuals involved with GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd (GISBH) remanded as part of the investigations. PHOTO: BERNAMA.

BERNAMA – On September 11, the Malaysian police launched ‘Op Global’, a nationwide operation targeting 20 charity homes linked to GlSB Holdings Sdn Bhd (GISBH), suspected of child exploitation and promoting alleged indoctrination.

Following the raid, a total of 402 residents of the charity homes were rescued and 171 individuals between the ages of 17 and 64 were arrested.

Below is the chronology of the case as of Sunday.

August 16
The Malaysian Centre for the Study of Deviant Teachings (PUKAS) revealed on its official Facebook page allegations of deviant teachings within GISBH.

September 6
Perlis Mufti Datuk Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin in a Facebook post called for investigations into violence and cruelty reportedly linked to GISBH, calling for authorities’ intervention.

September 11
Police raided 20 charity houses believed to belong to GISBH in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan and arrested 171 individuals to help investigate cases of child and religious exploitation.

Police revealed that a total of 402 individuals, 201 males and 201 females aged between one and 17 years old, were rescued in the operation. Of that, a total of 10 children are persons with disabilities and autism and were handed over to the Social Welfare Department (JKM) after screening.

The remaining 392 underwent a health screening test at the Police Training Centre (Pulapol) Kuala Lumpur.

GISBH issued a statement denying allegations that they exploit children as workers and said that they will not compromise with activities that violate the law, especially involving children.

September 12
The process of documenting rescued children continues at Pulapol Kuala Lumpur.

A 19-year-old teenage girl was charged in the Seremban Sessions Court, Negeri Sembilan with four charges of physical abuse against four children girls between the ages of five and six at a childcare centre in Seremban linked to GISBH. The accused pleaded not guilty.

September 13
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain held a second press conference regarding the case and revealed that a total of 41 police reports related to GISBH had been received from 2011 until September this year.

A total of 159 individuals from the 171 detained were remanded while the rest were minors and no need to be investigated.

Some of the 29 individuals involved with GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd (GISBH) remanded as part of investigations. PHOTO: BERNAMA.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed the matter of faith, misuse of power and religion and abuse of children are serious matters that need to be dealt with immediately.

September 14
The IGP, in his third press conference, said that the raid on 20 charity homes through Op Global was the result of six months of police intelligence and investigation.

The investigation into the company has, however, been carried out since 2011 and the police met with PUKAS representatives six months ago.

September 15
Police confirmed that 483 individuals had recorded conversations consisting of complainants, witnesses, victims and suspects.

A total of 384 children and teenagers completed a health screening and the results of the screening found that there were elements of neglect and abuse.

September 17
The IGP confirmed that 96 accounts belonging to GISBH have been frozen, as well as four accounts closed involving assets worth more than RM581,000.

All 392 victims rescued through Op Global have completed health screening, physical and emotional criminal elements have been detected. Three investigation papers regarding Op Global were submitted to the Attorney-General’s Chambers

September 18
A businessman and GISBH member, Mohamad Riza Makar, pleaded not guilty at the Putrajaya Magistrate’s Court, near here to the charge of making criminal threats against a woman on September 9.

September 19
Nineteen individuals including top management, wives and several GISBH leaders were remanded for seven days to assist investigations.

Three teaching assistants from a madrasah in Kuala Pilah, who are suspected of having links with GISBH, were charged in the Seremban Sessions Court, Negeri Sembilan with 14 charges of sexually abusing five children in 2022 and 2023. They pleaded not guilty.

September 20
Seven more individuals suspected of having links with GISBH were arrested to assist in the investigation of human trafficking cases. They include the son of former Al-Arqam leader Ashaari Mohammad, a member of GISBH’s ‘Remaja Pembela Ummah’ (RPU) group.

Another teaching assistant at a madrasah in Kuala Pilah was charged in the Sessions Court in Seremban and pleaded not guilty to six charges of sexual assault against four boys, last year.

The Special Meeting of the Perlis State Fatwa Committee decided that the beliefs and teachings in GISBH contain deviant elements, in particular, ‘batiniah’.

September 21
Op Global enters its fourth phase across Peninsular Malaysia, with raids on 82 premises. A total of 186 victims, including 102 men and 84 women, were rescued, while 155 suspects, comprising 78 men and 77 women, were nabbed.

Razarudin said that during the operation, conducted with the involvement of JAKIM, several documents containing elements believed to be contrary to Islamic teachings were seized.

In Penang, four premises, including two childcare centres linked to GISBH, were raided, with six religious books suspected to be linked to the banned Al-Arqam movement, outlawed by the National Fatwa Council in 1994, confiscated.

In Melaka, 285 items related to Al-Arqam, including photos of its founder, Ashaari Muhammad (also known as Abuya), were found during raids on 19 GISBH-linked premises.

In Kelantan, three houses, believed to house the family of GISBH’s CEO, were raided in Kampung Panji, and various GISBH-related books and documents were found buried by the riverbank or partially burnt.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said that the doctrinal teachings of GISBH would be discussed by the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs’ Muzakarah Committee during its meeting from Tuesday to Thursday.

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is closely monitoring social media content related to GISBH, including viral videos and parodies circulating among the public.

Scouts clear 250kg of trash from Sungai Liang beach

National

September 22, 2024

Scouts pull a discarded cloth from the beach front. PHOTO: DANIEL LIM

Some 250 kilogrammes of washed-up rubbish along the Sungai Liang Recreational Park beach was cleared by local scouts during a clean-up campaign on Sunday.

The Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association (PPNBD) came out in force, with 350 scout leaders and members participating in the event organised in conjunction with World Clean-Up Day 2024 and the International Day of Peace.

Kampong Sungai Liang Village Head Mohammad Haszrin bin Bagol said he hoped the initiative will inspire similar campaigns and programmes to be held frequently at other public spaces.

“This is to ensure that everyone can enjoy the pristine beauty found across the nation,” he said. – Daniel Lim

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

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