A Bandar Seri Begawan Indian Association member participates in the Health Camp at the Youth Centre yesterday. PHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUD
Some 100 members of the Bandar Seri Begawan Indian Association (BSBIA) participated in a health camp at the Youth Centre in the capital yesterday.
The camp, the third of its kind, and inaugurated after COVID-19, is part of BSBIA’s annual calendar, where Indian community members can register for a basic health check-up, including blood pressure, sugar, body mass index and health consultation.
Dato Seri Laila Jasa Dr Maliakel John Alexander delivered a presentation on gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD) or indigestion and dyspepsia, while Dato Seri Laila Jasa Dr Babu Sukumaran delivered a presentation on cancer awareness.
The event was organised under the chairmanship of BSBIA committee member Lal Mohamed and its co-ordinators Dr Dharmarai and Thomas Lype, guided by president Murugesan, vice president Sujaya Kamat and general secretary Bharathidasan.
The camp aimed to enhance awareness and educate people on healthcare. – Rokiah Mahmud
A Bandar Seri Begawan Indian Association member participates in the Health Camp at the Youth Centre yesterday. PHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUDDato Seri Laila Jasa Dr Maliakel John Alexander delivers a presentation. PHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUD
ANN/THE STAR – Food remains a top priority for Malaysians vacationing in Japan, according to a recent survey.
The survey revealed that Malaysian millennials (ages 28-43) and Gen Z (12-37) frequent these convenience stores during their travels in Japan.
It also showed that Gen Z travellers spend 37 per cent of their budget in these stores, while millennials spend 27 per cent.
This preference for convenience stores is due to the reputation of Japan’s convenience stores as budget-friendly places for quick and unique meals, offering items like onigiri and unique desserts.
Convenience stores like Family Mart, 7-Eleven, and Lawson are popular spots for Malaysian travellers to grab a quick bite or purchase unique snacks.
The survey by a multi-currency card provider is based on transactions made by Malaysia-based Wise cardholders at point-of-sale locations in Japan from March 1 to June 30, 2024.
The survey also showed that Malaysians spend less on restaurants and fast food, with popular choices being Japan Rail stations, Blue Bottle Coffee, Gyumon, Afuri Ramen, Wagyu Yakiniku Panga and Uniqlo Coffee.
Wise said Malaysian travellers are known to immerse themselves in the culture of the countries they visit through food experiences and also enjoy visiting popular attractions such as Tokyo Disney Resort, Universal Studios Japan, and other retail spots.
“Whether savouring sushi at a restaurant, grabbing a quick meal at a fast food outlet, or discovering the craziest snack at a convenience store, these travellers are fuelling their adventures with Japan’s best bites to get a unique taste of Japan.”
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.
PHOTO: ENVATOPHOTO: FREEPIKA 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
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 DoaPeliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam. – Azlan Othman
ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show Ahmad family predecessors during the Khatam Al-Quran ceremony. PHOTO: AHMAD FAMILYPHOTO: AHMAD FAMILY
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.
A teacher guides a student during a class. PHOTO: MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
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
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.
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.”
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.
