Rokiah Mahmud
Some 330 Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) Year 2 students participated in the second session of PREPanita Forum themed Communi-Kasih: Komunikasi Adalah Kunci Kebahagian or ‘Communication is Key to Happiness’.
The forum, organised by the Community Development Department (JAPEM) in collaboration with government agencies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), was held at IBTE Sultan Saiful Rijal Campus Hall, Brunei Muara District.
The programme was aimed at creating and enhancing awareness on the importance of women’s rights while preparing both men and women in facing problems or misfortunes.
Among the agencies involved were the Women and Child Abuse Investigation Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department, Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF); Medical Welfare Unit of Medical Service Department, Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital; Family Advice Service Division of the Syariah Affairs Department; Project Women and Girls Development Enterprise; and KESAN Association.
The forum commenced with a dialogue session moderated by KESAN Association Secretary-General Sarah binti Haji Abdul Mutalif, while members comprised Family Advisor Officer Salmah binti Haji Ahmad, ASP Hajah Anis @ Roszaffina @ Hajah Anis binti Haji Ahmad/Md Ariffin from the Women and Child Abuse Investigation Unit; RIPAS Hospital Medical Welfare Officer Nur Amalina Nadzila binti Ibrahim; and Project Women and Girls Development Enterprise Executive Director Nur Judy binti Abdullah.
Topics discussed were the role of men in protecting women from an Islamic perspective and identifying a healthy environment in an effort to lower the number of criminal cases.
The forum also saw a discussion on what students should do when faced with violence or threats, and a sharing session featuring victims under the Project Women and Girls Development Enterprise.
