✰ Brunei Darussalam ~ NEWS & HILITES ✰

TheHawk

Colourful Ceremony For Royal Engagement Gifts
By Azlan Othman, Za'im Zaini & Sonia K

Bandar Seri Begawan - The royal engagement gifts for the royal wedding were received yesterday afternoon in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah.

The ceremony called the "Istiadat Menghantar and Menerima Pertunangan Diraja" began at the Darul Karamah, the residence of the groom in Jln 'Beribi, before the delegation headed towards the bride's place at Istana Nurul Iman.
It all started with Pehin Orang Kaya Maharaja Kerna Dato Paduka Seri Awg Hj Yaakub telling YAM Pg Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pg Anak Hj Abdul Rahim that the ceremony was ready to proceed, who in turn told Pehin Dato Awg Hj Yaakub to inform HRH that the ceremony was ready to start.
Pg Anak Hj Abdul Rahim led the delegation for the engagement ceremony to the Istana Nurul Iman. Also in the entourage was a young girl wearing traditional accessories such as `gelang pengaluan', `gelang geronchong', `kanching', `puntu azimat' and `jamang' as her headgear. She was accompanied by a young boy dressed in local costume.

The royal engagement gifts on brass receptacles consisted of the surat mahar or letter of dowry, a pair of bangles, a pair of earrings, dresses, rings, `ceramai', `kelakatif and a knife.
Forty youths bore the janars on their right shoulders and females carried royal regalia such as 'Kaskol' and langguai'. Sixteen ceremonial candles were also carried along with other royal regalia such as 12 senipit', six `pedang' and 'perisai', six `tumbak bendarangan' and four `kabok' and 'panastan'.
The entourage then proceeded to the Istana Nurul Iman where the 'Istiadat Menerima Pertunangan Diraja' or royal engagement gifts ceremony was held.
At the Istana Nurul Iman, the delegation led by YAM Pg Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pg Anak Hj Abdul Rahim was greeted upon arrival by Pg Penggawa Laila Bentara IstiadatDiraja Dalam Istana Pg Haji Alauddin, as well as Pehin Jawatan Dalam Seri Maharaja Dato Seri Utama (Dr) Hj Awang Mohd Jamil Al-Sufri.
Upon arrival, the ceremonial gifts were carried by Pengarah Awang Jaini and Pengarah Awg Haji Kilali accompanied by a "muda-muda" or young man, who then handed over the ceremonial gifts to -Damong Awg Haji Ahmad and Pengarah Awg Haji Abdul Rahman accompanied by a 'muda muda'. This was followed by 17 shots of the cannon.
YAM Pg Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pg Anak Hj Abdul Rahim was then led to the Baitur Rahmah by Pehin Penyurat Awg Maidin and Pehin Penyurat Haji Awg Osman accompanied by Pengiran Penggawa Laila Bentara Istiadat Diraja Dalam Istana Pg Haji Alauddin. The delegation that followed with the engagement gifts to Baitur Rahmah comprised the young girl carried by Damong Awang Haji Ahmad and the young boy carried by Pengarah Awg Haji Abdul Rahman and accompanied by young men.
The delegation also included a `Pengiran Perempuan' wearing the `Gadong', a `Dayang-Dayang' carrying `Kaskol Langguai' accompanied by `Pengiran Pengiran Empat', and seven `Pengiran Pengiran Empat' and a 'Dayang-Dayang' carrying the 'Kaskol Langguai', and an `Awang-Awang' carrying the Gangsa containing the ' Surat Mahar' or Berian (gifts), which comprised a pair of bangles, a pair of ear rings, dresses, rings, 'ceramai', 'kelakati' and a knife, as well as 16 candles carried by 16 `Awang-Awang' led by 12 sinipit.
Many royal regalia items were also carried including eight swords, eight shields, tumbak Bendarangan and four kabok and Panastan.
All the gifts were taken to the centre of the ceremonial hall. Pehin Dato Hj Awang Hussain then conveyed the message to YAM Pg Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pg Anak Hj Abdul Aziz that the ceremony was ready to begins and was given permission to begin the proceedings.
YAM Pg Anak Haji Abdul Rahim then presented the pesambah from Pg Syed Hj Jaafari (the father of the groom) consisting of the young girl and the boy, as well as 25 brass receptacles and 40 janar to YAM Pg Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pg Anak Hj Abdul Aziz to be presented to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Her Majesty Raja Isteri and Her Royal Highness Pengiran Isteri.
YAM Pg Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pg Anak Hj Abdul Aziz then asked Pehin Dato Hj Awg Hussain to present the engagement gifts to His Majesty.
Pehin Dato Hj Awg Hussain then informed YAM Pg Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pg Anak Haj i Abdul Aziz that the engagement gifts have been presented, following which YAM Pg Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pg Anak Hj Abdul Aziz gave his permission to conclude the ceremony. A doa selamat was read by Pehin Khatib Awang Haji Mustafa.
The youths that carried the brass receptacles then conducted the "menyalin gangsa" ceremony. Sixteen ceremonial candles were placed at the centre along with other royal regalia.
Pg Anak Hj Abdul Rahim then informed HRH Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah that the delegations had been to the bride's place at the Istana Nurul Iman.
A doa selamat was then read. Pg Anak Hj Abd Rahim then told Pehin Dato Awg Hj Yaakub to inform HRH that the ceremony had been completed.-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Roads Closed For Royal Wedding Procession
By Azlan Othman

Tutong - The Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) announced road closures for the Royal Wedding procession this Sunday (June 10) and for the solemnisation of marriage vows around the town area on Thursday (June 7).
Supt Ibrahim Hj Hassan, Head of Operation of the Investigation and Traffic Control Department of RBPF said yesterday that several roads and junctions around the capital would be closed during the wedding procession of Her Royal Highness Princess Hjh Majeedah Nuurul Bulqiah and YM Pengiran Khairul Khalil bin Pengiran Syed Hj Jaafari.
The procession will start from Istana Nurul Iman to the town centre passing along .11n Tutong, Jln Sultan then to .11n McArthur, Jln Stoney to Jln Tutong and finally back to Istana. Nurul Iman.
To ensure the procession goes smoothly, roads will be closed at two stages at 9am and 10am. The roads are T-junction of Jln Tutong/ Jln Telanai, T-junction of Jln Tutong/ Jln Istana Nurul Iman, T-junction of Jln Tutong! Jln Istana Darul Hana, T-junction of Jln Tutong/Jln Pg Babu Raja, T-junction of Jln Tutong/Jln Chempaka, T-junction of Jln Tutong/Religious Teachers Training College, T-junction of Jln Tutong/Jln Kubah Makam Diraja.
Other roads that will be closed are T -junction of Jin Tutong/connecting road of Hassanal Bolkiah highway and in front of Ba'adiah, T -junction of Jln Tutong/Jln RIPAS Hospital, the cross junction of Jln- Tutong/Hassanal Bolki4h highway and in front of Magistrate's Court and T juvi'etion of Jln Tutong/Jln Dato Basir and in front of tlJe Fire Station.
The T -junction of Jln Tutong/Jln Kumbang Pasang and 'Christian cemetery, T -junction of Jln Tasek Lama/Jln Stoney, in front of Terrace hotel, the cross junction of Jln Tasek Lama/JIn Kianggeh/Jln Berangan/Jln Bendahara in front of the Sheraton Hotel will also be closed.
Other roads that will also be closed include T -junction of Jin Kianggeh/Jln Elizabeth II near the Chinese temple, T junction of Jin Kianggeh/Jln Pemancha, near the Brunei Hotel, T -junction of Jln Cator/Jln Jintan Manis near TFC shop and TAIB, T -junction of JIn Kianggeh/Jln McArthur/ Jln Residency, in front of Jasra Harrisson, T -junction of Jln Tutong/Jln Sumbiling, T -junction of Jln Tutong/JIn Istana Darussalam.
The police have identified several places to drop off students who will be lining up along the road during the procession. They urged bus drivers to go straight to SOAS college car park, Jame Asr mosque and the empty space at Mile One, Jln Tutong as soon as they drop off the students.
The public has been advised to take precautionary measures and drive with care and to abide by the police order that will close and detour roads during the procession and to use alternative roads.
The public has also been urged to cooperate and not to park their vehicles along the roads where the procession will pass through. They have also been urged to come early and to park their vehicles at specified areas.
Vehicles that obstruct the traffic flow and procession will be towed away to an allocated area. VIP guests attending the procession and solemnisation are advised to come early and show their car passes. Failure to bring car passes, as well as invitation cards or identity cards would affect their attendance during the royal wedding events.
The public has also been advised to cooperate by giving way to police escorting royal families and foreign guests.
Insp Hj Maramit bin Hj Saban, Operation Officer of the Investigation and Traffic Control Dept, also said that roads would be closed during the solemnisation ceremony at Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien mosque in the capital.
He said main roads leading to the mosque would be closed to traffic except for invited guests with car passes issued by the Adat-Istiadat Department effective 12noon.
Roads that will be closed are part of Jln Stoney (from the cross junction of Jln Tutong/ Jln Stoney to the Tjunction of Jln McArthur/Jln Pretty/Jln Stoney) and part of Jln Sumbiling (from the T -junction of Jln Stoney/ Jln Sumbiling/connecting road of Jln lstana Darussalam).
Other roads that will be closed are part of Jln Elizabeth II from the cross junction of JIn Sultan/Jln Elizabeth to the cross junction of Jln Stoney/JIn Elizabeth, as well as part of Jln Pretty from the T -junction of Jln Elizabeth II/Jln Pretty to the T -junction of Jln Pretty/Jln Pemancha. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Booze Smuggler On The Run
By Yusrin Junaidi

Bandar Seri Begawan - Officers from the Preventive and Intelligence Section of the Royal Customs and Excise Department foiled an attempt to smuggle 18 cartons of beer into the country via the Brunei River at around 1 am yesterday following a public tip-off.

However, the suspect managed to get away.

At around 12.45 midnight, officers from the Surveillance Unit spotted a suspicious looking wooden boat believed to be carrying contraband goods along the Brunei River. At lam, the boat was tracked down by officers from the raid unit near the housing area of Kg Setia.

When the suspect noticed the officers in the area, he jumped off his boat and ran into a forest. Officers did not manage to catch the foreign man.

Besides the cartons of beer, officers also found a small bag containing the suspect's house keys and some money inside the boat.

Officers from the Surveillance Unit, meanwhile, went to the suspect's house to carry out investigations. The suspect's elder brother cooperated with the officers by handing over the suspect's passport and 'Mykad'.

The contraband goods and boat were confiscated. The Preventive and Intelligent Unit thanked the public for their continued sup-port.

Those with any information about suspicious activities in the country can call 238422 or send an SMS to 8714422.

The Preventive and Intelligent Unit will be stepping up its surveillance in a number of areas.-- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 7-6-2007 11:40 AM ]

TheHawk

The mother showing her
daughter's medical slip

9-Year-Old Traumatised Bullies
By Liza Mohd

Kuala Belait - Another case of alleged bullying in school has come to light in Kuala Belait.

A 28-year-old mother from Kuala Belait seems lost on how to deal with her nine-year-old daughter who has been traumatised following an alleged incident of bullying a few months ago.

The parent who did not want to be identified expressed disappointment on how the matter was handled by a primary school in Kuala Belait and called the Borneo Bulletin to reveal her plight.

She said that her child was undergoing therapy after doctors diagnosed her of suffering from a phobia.

Sometime in February this year, the mother recalled her daughter complaining about being hit on the head and kicked in school. She also claimed that her stationeries were stolen.

The mother of three told her daughter to report the matter to a teacher. However, the daughter said that her complaints fell on deaf ears.

The mother noticed drastic changes in her child's behaviour. Her daughter who used to be a bright student lost interest in her studies and often felt depressed and irritable.

On May 23, her child was admitted to a hospital after she complained of chest pains and breathing difficulties. She was treated twice at the hospital's emergency ward prior to being admitted to the pediatrics ward.

The mother showed records of her child's hospital admittance and discharge certificates, as well as medical leaves granted by the doctor.

After assessment the doctor told the mother that her child was suffering from psychiatry problems and asked if she was having trouble at home or in school.

The mother then related to the doctor about the string of complaints over the months. The doctor advised the mother to talk to the school's principal and teachers.

However, she was not satisfied with the outcome of the meeting as she felt that no proper action was taken and school officials were trying to avoid the matter.

She said that she did not want to prolong the matter but the assistant principal's failure to reassure her that the matter would be resolved has made it difficult to reach a compromise. After being discharged from the hospital three days later, her daughter was given medical leave until June 2.

However, the mother said that her daughter was trembling under her table in the classroom when she returned to school last Saturday.

She was absent from school on Monday.

Her daughter's case has been classified as confidential by the hospital and this has left the mother feeling helpless, as she does not know what her child was going through emotionally.

Another concerned mother informed the Bulletin about how her daughter's prayer veil and 'tudong' were ripped by bullies in school. Two other mothers, meanwhile, said that their children's pocket money and school fees were stolen in school.

A mother of a disabled child, on the other hand, said that her son was always the `target' for bullies during break time where they would steal his lunch money.

Parents have urged school authorities to view these matters seriously especially as they happen behind closed doors.

"Parents are not there to watch their children in school. Therefore, parents have to rely on the school's disciplinary system as well as the teachers' eyes and ears to ensure that no students are harmed in school," they said.

"It's when teachers turn their backs during break time that the alleged bullying occurs," a concerned parent lamented.

Bullying in school is looked upon seriously in other countries and anti-bullying programmes are implemented in schools to prevent the problem from spreading.-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 7-6-2007 11:39 AM ]

TheHawk

His Majesty King Carl Gustaf XVI
of the Kingdom of Sweden

His Majesty Sends Congratulatory Messages To Sweden

Bandar Seri Begawan - His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday consented to send congratulatory messages to His Majesty King Carl Gustaf XVI of the Kingdom of Sweden and to Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt on the occasion of Sweden's National Day.

His Majesty expressed his satisfaction with the warm and friendly relations and deep understanding that have been established between Brunei and Sweden. His Majesty hopes this would be fostered and enhanced in the future for the good of the two countries. His Majesty wished His Majesty Carl Gustaf XVI good health and happiness, and for the people of Sweden to enjoy continued progress and prosperity.

At the same time, His Majesty congratulated Reinfeldt and the government and people of Sweden on their National Day. His Majesty also wished Reinfeldt good health and happiness, and for the prosperity of the people of the Kingdom of Sweden.

Meanwhile, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, sent a similar congratulatory message to His

Majesty King Carl Gustaf XVI and the royal family and sent his best wishes to Carl Bildt, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Sweden, and to the government and people of Sweden on their Flag Day.

HRH expressed his appreciation with the excellent relationship between the two countries and looks forward to continuing to work together to develop these much-valued relations both bilaterally and as partners through the ASEM and Asean-EU dialogue.-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 7-6-2007 11:37 AM ]

TheHawk

Sultan At Berbedak Ceremony
By Aemy Azlena and Sonia K

Bandar Seri Begawan - His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hjh Saleha and Her Royal Highness Pengiran Isteri Azrinaz Mazhar yesterday attended a colourful 'Berbedak' ceremony, rich in Brunei tradition for the royal bride and groom at the Istana Nurul Iman and Darul Karamah last night.

The `Berbedak' ceremony was the fifth in a series of traditional ceremonies for the Royal Wedding between Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bulqiah and YM Pengiran Khairul Khalil bin Pengiran Syed Haji Jaafari. The ceremony for the groom began immediately after the ceremony of Berbedak Diraja for the bride was completed. The bride and groom were fully dressed in customary traditional Malay attire and adorned with traditional ornaments.

The `Berbedak' ceremony of HRH Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bulqiah began with YB Pehin Orang Kaya Digadong Seri Lela informing YAM Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah that the ceremony was ready to proceed.

His Majesty consented for the ceremony to proceed after receiving the message from YAM Pengiran Lelea Cheteria Sahibun Najabah. Also present at the ceremony were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince, Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah, His Royal'Highness Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah, Pengiran Bini Hajah

Faizah, His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Azim, His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Malik, His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Mateen, YTMPengiran Babu Raja Pengiran Anak Hajah Besar and other members of the royal family.

The royal bride was brought to the Balai Singgahsana Indera Buana led by Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna.

`Hulubalang Diraja' and 'Hulubalang Asgar' carrying the `Pemuras', `Karga', `Kalasak' and `Kampilan' and the 'Dian Tunggal' carried by Pengiran Hajah Masni Pengiran Hj Ahmad also accompanied the delegation of the royal bride.

Also following were seven `Pahawai' women, each carrying either a `Puan', `Tarian', `Kabok' and `Panastan', `Kiap', `Chupu', `Pasigupan

TheHawk

Cable Theft Leads To Power Outage
By Rahmat Bin Hj Abd Rahman

Bandar Seri Begawan - Some houses in Lambak Kanan Housing Area on Tuesday did not have any electricity after earthing cables from a 500-kilovolt transformer at Jalan 77 were allegedly cut and stolen by vandals.

Aside from street lightings around the area, houses along Jalan 77, 83 and 88 were also affected by the blackout. The emergency hotline 144 began receiving complaints from 5.30pm.

Power was frilly restored by Wednesday afternoon when technicians from the Department of Electrical Services installed a new generator. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 7-6-2007 11:33 AM ]

TheHawk

World-Class Bruneian Students
By Sobrina Rosli

Bandar Seri Begawan - Forty-five students from all over Brunei received the "Top in the World", "Top Ten in the World" and "Top in Brunei Darussalam" awards in specified subjects ranging from the '0' to A' Level examinations yesterday.

Charlene Bong Yin Siet from Sayyidinna Ali Secondary School received "Top Ten in The World" awards for Mathematics, Physics and General Paper as well as "Top in Brunei Darussalam" awards for Physics and in General Paper.

"I have always been strong in the subjects I have been awarded and I was surprised when I was told of the awards as I have not heard of it before. I am proud of it," she said after the presentation ceremony dubbed the "Brilliance Award" at the Main Conference Hall of the Ministry of Education.

"With my accomplishments so far I have also managed to gain entry to Stanford University, I managed to gain entry even before my A' level results," she added.

Students in the United States have a 10 per cent chance of getting into Stanford University, she explained "whereas the chances of international students is even smaller".

Amiza Zainal Abidin, from the Sixth Form Centre in Berakas received awards "Top Ten in The World" and "Top in Brunei Darussalam" for History and Psychology. "My achievements are mostly based on History and Psychology which I am very interested in," she said.

Muhd Ayyub Kamaludin from the Sayyidina Ali Secondary School received the "Top Ten in the World" award for Commercial Studies and "Top in Brunei I)arnssalani" for the Lnglish language. I le is currently in the Lower Sixth level in the subjects of Physics, Chemistry, Maths and General Paper.

In an interview with The Brunei Times, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Lela Dato Seri Setia I laji Awang Abdul Rahman, the minister of education said: "First and foremost I am happy with the results achieved last year, it has not only shown the capabilities of our Bruneian students - that they are able of producing outstanding results but they are now able to complete globally."

He elaborated that the students are in no doubt able to gain entry to prestigious university's either locally or internationally. The school curriculum will help to shape them into becoming future leaders of Brunei, he said.

"We hope this will boost the morale of other students to study harder," he added. In a speech, Dr Newman Burdett, head of International Ministry of Partnership, which is the representative from the University of Cambridge International Examinations, who was also present at the ceremony, highlighted that in November last year, there were more than 100,000 students sitting for the '0' Level examinations from more than 100 countries.

"What we have today is incredibly talented world-class students who would go to prestigious universities and shine further from there," he said.

Other students honoured ,it the ceremony included Quek Juinn Huei from Sayyidina Ali secondary school who received "Top in the World" and "Top in Brunei Darussalam" awards in Biology, Mathematics and the "Top Ten in the World" award for Chemistry.

In Biology, she achieved the highest mark among 5,156 participants while for the Mathematics subject she achieved the highest among 16,294 others from 66 countries. Nine students received "Top Teri in the World" awards for exceptional results in the '0' Level Commercial Studies and Mathematics Syllabus 'D'.

A "Top in the World" award means the student has gained the highest mark in the specific subject in the world, while "Top Ten in the World" means the student gains the ranking between number one and 10 based on the marks scored and "Top in Brunei Darussalam" means the student has gained the highest mark in Brunei.-- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 7-6-2007 11:32 AM ]

TheHawk

Man Declares Watermelons, Officials Find Liquor
By Malai FadleyRizal & Rol Ezam

Bandar Seri Begawan - What was declared as watermelons by Bruneian man to Customs personnel at the Sungai Tujuh Checkpoint eventually turned out to be 360 bottles of white wine.

The 49-year-old Teo Hock Heng was fined $17,000 by 3andar Magistrate's Court yesterday or serves a year and two months in jail in default for conveying vast amounts alcoholic beverages.

He was caught smuggling the bottles of wine in his vehicle at the incoming bay of the checkpoint on May 6.

Officers at the checkpoint conducted a check on the defendant's vehicle and found the contraband placed inside 60 plastic bags in the car's bonnet and under the footrest.

The defendant admitted during the investigation that he was promised $250 to convey the liquor to Brunei by a Malaysian friend in Miri.

The contraband was estimated to be worth about $1,800 while Customs duty evaded amounted to $2,233.

Magistrate Harnita Zelda Skinner also heard from Customs prosecuting officer Pg Abdullah Pg Hj Matahir that the defendant had previous related convictions.-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 7-6-2007 11:30 AM ]

TheHawk

Blaze Destroys House In Kg Lambak
By Hj Minor Absah

Bandar Seri Begawan - Neighbours rushed into a burning house in Kg Lambak yesterday afternoon to save an elderly woman.

Hjh Tuah bte Awg Daman, 80, was one of three people who were in the two-storey house belonging to Pg Johari bin Pg Hj Jeluddin as fire began to spread in the kitchen. Hjh Tuah first realised that the house was on fire when her 11-year-old grandson Azmin Nizam ran into her room screaming at around 4.30pm.

Pg Johari's son-in-law, Fadilah bin Abdullah, tried to save some of their belongings after he saw smoke coming out of the kitchen. He also managed to move the family's car, which was parked close to the house.

The semi-wooden house, which was built in 1966, was occupied by two families comprising seven people.

Personnel from the "C' Command of Berakas Station and Lambak Station, as well as female firefighters, rushed to Kg Lambak after the Fire and Rescue Services received a distress call at 4.38pm. They managed to control the blaze within 15 minutes. Fortunately, no one was injured. Fire and Rescue Services Acting Director Awg Yahya bin Abd Rahman as well as officers from the Community Development Department, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, were also at the scene.

Police personnel were dispatched to keep curious bystanders at bay.

According to the Fire and Rescue Services, the fire was caused by a short circuit. Damage caused by the fire was estimated to be over $100,000, according to the head of investigation, Pg Roslan bin Pg Hi Halus. He also revealed that the recent blaze at a house in Kg Subok was caused by candles left alight.

According to a press release from the Fire and Rescue Services, there have been three fire incidents this week alone.

In light of this, the department reminded the public to turn off electrical appliances when they go out and to keep flammable products such as matches and candles away from children. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 7-6-2007 11:28 AM ]

TheHawk

Unstable footbridge in Kg Ayer needs attention
By Yusrin Junaidi

Unstable bridge leading to the Pehin
Dato Jamil Primary School in Kg Setia


Student stands near the edge of the
lopsided and unstable bridge at the
entrance to the school.

A resident at Kg Setia, Kg Ayer in the capital said he found the footbridge leading to the Pehin Dato Jamil Primary School, to be tilting to a side virtually unsupported, in what could be a potentially dangerous situation for students.
Hj Nudin said he noticed that the bridge was lopsided when his son accidentally tripped over the damaged area. He added that the bridge was also unstable. He hoped that the relevant authority would soon rectify the problem to make the bridge safer for all to use.

holmes

sepandai2 tupai melompat...  mau lagi kan menipu tu..

holmes

hom proud of these students... amongst the top in the world!

DkNatasah

aduiiii maaaaaaaaa takut tasha eh mun lalu arah titian cam atu

TheHawk

Sultan At Solemnisation Ceremony Of Royal Couple
By Azlan Othman & Azrol Azrni

Bandar Seri Begawan - His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday attended the "Istiadat Akad Nikah Diraja" or solemnisation of the marriage vows of Her Royal Highness Princess Hjh Majeedah Nuurul Bulqiah to YM Pengiran Khairul Khalil bin Pengiran Syed Hj Jaafari.

Also in attendance at the ceremony, held at Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien mosque in the capital, were His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, HRH Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah and HRH Prince Abdul Malik. Prior to the ceremony, His Majesty performed the highly recommended `Sunat Tahiyatul Masjid' prayer.

The ceremony began with Pg Khairul Khalil led by Pg Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pg Anak Hj Abdul Rahim proceeding to the mosque. Men carrying 12 Sinipit, six Pedang and Perisai, six Tumbak Bendarangan and four Kabok and Penastan accompanied the entourage.

Pg Khairul Khalil was invited to sit at Kasur Namat, a square cushion, surrounded by four ceremonial candles in the centre of the room.

The ceremony began when Pehin Dato Dr Awang Haji Hussain informed YAM Pg Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pg Anak Haji Abdul Aziz that the Istiadat `Akad Nikah Diraja' was ready to proceed. YAM Pg Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pg Anak Hj Abdul Aziz informed His Majesty that the solemnisation of marriage or 'Akad Nikah' was ready to begin to which His Majesty gave his consent.

Pehin Dato Hj Awg Abdul Salim then approached His Majesty along with two men carrying a marriage vow certificate placed in a brass receptacle.

The `Akad Nikah' ceremony began with Pehin Dato Hj Awg Abdul Salim reciting the Surah al-Fatihah. Pehin Dato Hj Awg Abdul Salim then performed the `Akad Nikah' with Pg Khairul Khalil affirming his acceptance of the `akad nikah' or marriage solemnisation. Outside the mosque, cannons were fired 17 times to mark the conclusion of the ceremony.

`Lafaz Ta'liq' was then read by Pg Khairul Khalil who later signed the solemnisation form followed by Pehin Dato Hj Awg Abdul Salim. A doa selamat was read by the State Mufti.

Pg Khairul Khalil later paid his respects to His Majesty, HRH the Crown Prince, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, HRH Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah and HRH Prince Abdul Malik.

Pg Khairul Khalil also paid his respects to his father Pg Syed Hj Jaafari. His Majesty and other members of the royal family later left the mosque followed by Pg Khairul Khalil, who was accompanied by Pg Anak Hj Abdul Rahim and entourage. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Float Procession Rules Highlighted
By Azlan Othman

Bandar Seri Begawan - The Land Transport Department (LTD) will organise a float procession to mark the 61st (birthday anniversary of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

It aims at glorifying the festivities and attracting visitors to the Sultanate. Entries are open to government ministries, departments, private sector and associations.

The measurement of the float should not be less than 20 feet and not more than 40 ft in width and not more than 10 ft in height. It must also not be less than two ft above the ground.

The design of the float must not include personal signage/ symbol of the royal family, any sharp object, any explosive material and uniforms resembling the aimed forces or official attire of the government personnel. It should not be yellow in colour and the attire used must be in accordance to Brunei's values and norms.

If the float breaks down, the committees have the right to withdraw them and have the right to suspend participants that fail to abide by the rules and regulations or achieve the required level.

Appropriate audio is allowed to be used and will be included in the markings. The judges' decision is final. The synopsis of the float must not be more than 50 words. Prizes will be given to the winner, first and second runners up, as well as five consolation prizes.

Application forms are available at the Secretariat of the competition at the first floor of the LTD building in Jln Gadong or by contacting 24519789 ext 111/112/117 or by dialling 2455050 or fax 2454362.

Entry forms along with sketches of the procession must be submitted not later than 3pm on June 30.-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Over 500 Bootles Of Alcohol Seized In Brunei
By Azlan Othman

Bandar Seri Begawan - Over 500 bottles of alcohol were seized from a boat by Customs Enforcement officer抯 yesterday morning after they foiled another attempt to smuggle contraband goods into the country via Brunei waters.

It was the biggest seizure of alcohol this year. Sixteen officers from the Preventive and Intelligence Section of the Customs and Excise Department were involved in the early dawn operation.

The officer in charge told the Bulletin, the Surveillance Unit detected a suspicious looking boat carrying alcohol that was heading towards the capital from Sungai Blair at 4.05am.

At 4.10am, two Customs boats were dispatched to Kg Setia in Kg Ayer. However, officers did not manage to find the boat. A water taxi operator informed officers that he saw the boat heading towards Kg Sungai Besar.

At 4.35am, the Surveillance Unit detected the boat near a house in Kg Dato Gandi, where officers spotted two people offloading bottles of liquor packed in black plastic bags. The two suspects managed to get away.

Some 540 bottles of liquor worth $9,540 were found inside the boat, which was fitted with a 60-horsepower engine. Officers also found two parangs and three bottles of oil.

The Preventive and Intelligence Unit thanked the public for their continued support.

Those with any information about suspicious activities can call 238422 or send an SMS to 8714422.

On Tuesday, officers foiled an attempt to smuggle 18 cartons of beer through the Brunei waters at around 1 am.-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

KB School Probes 'Bully' Claims
By Liza Mohd

Kuala Belait - Following the publishing of a story about a nine year-old girl who was allegedly traumatised by bullies at a school in Kuala Belait on Wednesday, the principal informed the Bulletin that the school was deeply concerned about the claims and was conducting an investigation.

The school, meanwhile, clarified that investigations had been initiated when the mother of the child first raised the matter to the assistant principal. In an interview with the Bulletin, the assistant principal said that one of the girl's classmates came forward and admitted that she was the one who pulled the girl's tudong when teachers were not around.

This matter was brought to the attention of the mother of the victim, the assistant principal said, adding that she did not want to take aggressive measures to call the parents of the bully.

However, the school was disappointed that the victim's mother made the matter public.

The school principal said that she did not want to prolong the matter and has scheduled a meeting with the victim's mother. She said that the school will be closely monitoring the nine-year-old girl to ensure her well-being.-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

New graduates of religious school
By Husin Ismail

Bandar Seri Begawan - Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic Secondary Boy's - School distributed certificates to 131 of its Upper Six students who completed their higher Brunei religious studies and gave away prizes to exemplary students yesterday.
It was the school's 13th certificate presentation ceremony, said acting school principal Ustazah Hajah Asmah Haji Randah, stressing that this "shows the school has produced more knowledgeable and religious intellectuals needed by the country".
The completion of their studies, however, is just the start of their journey, said guest of honour Dato Paduka Awg Hj Abdul Rahman Hj Mohiddin, permanent secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs. More challenges are to come, he added.
"I feel proud with the development of the students and the parents' awareness of the importance of the Arabic language education, which will provide chances for these students to further their studies here or abroad," said Dato Paduka Awg Hj Abdul Rahman. He added that with the establishment of Sultan Syarif Ali Religious University and Seri Begawan Religious Teacher University College, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and government departments concerned will give out scholarships to graduates of religious studies.
This year alone, 10 students from the religious school have been offered prestigious scholarships by the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Ministry of Defence, he added.
Nurul Syazwani Hj Abd Kahar secured the best student award, while Mansur @ Maisur Hj Kamis received the special award. The Brunei Times.-- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

TheHawk

Prince Mohamed Attends Promotion Ceremony
By Kartika Rahman

Bandar Seri Begawan - His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of foreign Affairs and Trade of Brunei Darussalam and her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah yesterday afternoon attended the promotion ceremony of Royal Brunei Armed Forces officers which included Prince Abdul Fattaah and Prince Abdul Mu'min.

Prince Abdul Fattaah and Prince Abdul Mu'min were promoted to the ranks of Lieutenant and Second Lieutenant respectively effective April 13, 2007. Also receiving their rank insignias yesterday were Officer Cadet Haji Mohd Aisamuddin bin Ali and Officer Cadet Md Nur Hidayat Dhiyurrahman bin Jamil. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin