✰ Brunei Darussalam ~ NEWS & HILITES ✰

holmes

ada kisahnya lagi kah ni cubby??

mun ada share deh..arah MPB ah..

TheHawk

His Majesty during the brisk walkabout
with Mr Lee followed by HRH the Crown
Prince and HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah

Marching On Together
By Sonia K

Bandar Seri Begawan - Small countries look at the world with similar perspectives. Brunei and Singapore see the world similarly, said Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, in an impromptu press conference after a briefing by the Ministry of Finance and the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB), at the Empire Hotel and Country Club yesterday. He also called for the strong relationship between Singapore and Brunei to he continually nurtured and renewed.

Earlier in the morning, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Mr Lee had a brisk walkabout at the Empire Hotel and Country Club.

Accompanying them was HRH Prince Hj Al-Mubtailee Billah, the Crown Prince and HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah.

In the afternoon HRH Prince Mohamed and HRH Pg Anak lsteri Pg Anak Hjh Zariah hosted a luncheon to Mr Lee and his wife at Balai Penghadapan, Bukit Kayangan.

Mr Lee, during the interview, highlighted the very strong relationship the two small countries has and how the two have managed to maintain this for a long time going back to the time when Senior Lee was the premier.

"Basically, because we are both small countries we see the world with a certain similar perspective and we cooperate with each other and exchange notes. It's a stable relationship which has endured. The Currency Interchangeability Agreement is 40 years since we embarked on it and it has served us well and continued to serve us well." he said.

He also said that the two countries need to continue the projects, which are working well, and find new areas of cooperation and keep on maintaining the relationship; renewing and refreshing the links because new generations of ministers and younger civil servants need to get to know one another.

"So, this time when I came I brought quite a number of people with me so they can work on their contacts," the premier said.

On the question of future investments in Brunei, the premier said, "The private sectors of both countries are always in touch with each other so there are projects, which private companies will be evaluating, and wherever they make business sense the government blesses them and encourages them to go ahead."

In relation to the upcoming Asean Summit, which Singapore will be hosting in November, he said that early this year in Philippines, he had discussed about the Asean with two leaders (His Majesty and Philippine President Arroyo) and added that the leaders understand for the need to have a good charter.

"We have to have the charter ready and -signed by November. There are issues, which have to be resolved, like high-level task forces to negotiate the charter.

"But I think the top leaders appreciate the urgency of this, that you have to be on the investors' map and to do that you have to have a strong organisation, good vision, effective rules so that we can work together as a regional group so we can be part of the game with China, India and what's going on all over Asia," he said.

In preparation for the November Asean Summit, discussions arc under way on what costumes the leaders shall wear for the family photographs.

"One of the more vexing issues is the costume for the leaders to dress in for the photographs. We'll work that out in good time. We have a high-level committee working on that too," he added.

During the BEDB briefing, a welcoming remark was delivered by the Minister of Finance II Pehin Orang Kaya Lai la Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim, and a presentation on "Islamic Banking and Finance in Brunei Darussalam" by Dato Paduka Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, was presented to the Singapore PM.

After that, a presentation on "Developing New Economic Opportunities for Brunei Darussalam" was made by Dato Paduka Timothy- Ong, Acting Chairman of Brunei Economic Development Board. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Deputy Permanent Secretary at the
Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports
presenting a certificate to one of the
people who handed over protected
animals to the Brunei Museum

Posters Launched To Highlight Endangered Species
By Jon Tampoi

Bandar Seri Begawan - The Brunei Museum yesterday launched posters to highlight the country's endangered animal species, at the museum in Jalan Kota Batu.

The guest of honour was the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Youth And Sports, Awg Hj Ahmad bin Hj Abdul Rahman, who said that the Endangered Species Act 1978 listed 34 species of birds, mammals and reptiles as protected species.

The enactment of the Act is necessary to ensure that these species continue to exist in order to maintain the stability of the ecology and be enjoyed by future generations, he said.

Brunei Darussalam signed the Convention On The International Trade Of Endangered Species (CITES) in 1990, he said.

He called on all parties to abide by the law, which was difficult to enforce if there was a demand for the protected species.

However, he was happy to note that the Brunei Museum has lately been receiving public assistance and support in protecting the endangered species.

He highlighted the turtle conservation that is well received by schools and the public.

The chairman of yesterday's event, Awg Samhan Bin Nyawa, a senior officer from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, said the Brunei Museum, with the assistance of other government departments, is continuously widening and strengthening networks on preserving the endangered wildlife in order to protect the wealth in the country's biodiversity.

He said that the Brunei Museum will continue to conduct campaigns at schools to raise the awareness of the endangered species and the law among the public at a young age.

The guest of honour later presented the posters to representatives of 18 Brunei-Muara District primary schools, seven primary schools from Belait District and 11 primary schools from Tutong District.

The Deputy Permanent Secretary also presented certificates to people who have handed over various endangered aminals to the Brunei Museum.

Meanwhile, primary schoolchildren joined the guest of honour in releasing butterflies as part of the launching ceremony at the compound of the Brunei Museum. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Mr Hong and his family showing
their uncut sheet of new $20 notes.

Collectors Snap Up Commemorative $20 Notes
By James Kon

Bandar Seri Begawan - The new $20 notes in special sets and uncut sheet to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Currency Interchangability Agreement between Brunei Darussalam and the Republic of Singapore are selling like hot cakes at the Brunei Currency and Monetary Board.

The 200 sets of three $20 notes and the 24 pieces of $20 uncut sheets were sold out. While the sets of B$20 and S$20 notes with similar serial numbers are still available but only a limited number of the sets of commemorative new $20 notes are left.

The special sets and uncut sheets of the new $20 notes were made available to the public from yesterday following the official launching of the new $20 notes by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang DiPertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Mr Lee Hsien Loong, the Prime Minister of Singapore, at the Istana Nurul Iman on Wednesday afternoon

People eagerly waited at the doorsteps of the Brunei Currency and Monetary Board from 8am just to purchase the unique new $20 notes issued jointly by the two countries.

One of the buyers, Mr Hong who was accompanied by his wife and daughter, bought nine sets of the B$20 and S$20 notes with matching serial numbers and another four sets of the uncut sheets, priced at $820 each.

"It is the first time that Brunei and Singapore have together issued commemorative notes. I had to come and get them," said Mr Hong.

He added, "It is also very rare to see two countries come together to issue new currency notes and I will treasure the notes by keeping them forever to remember the special occasion."

"I also bought a few for my relatives who could not buy the notes personally because they are at work."

One of the government officers who joined the line to buy the new notes, Awang Dani said, "It's a once in a lifetime opportunity to have currency notes issued by both countries".

He noted that, "It might also be a good investment for the future as the value of the sets of commemorative notes with similar serial numbers might go up."

Members of the public who do not want to miss out on owning the special sets of new $20 notes can go to the Brunei Currency and Monetary Board (Ministry of Finance Building) during working hours. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Turtle Egg Sales & Fewer Nests Threaten Species
By Jon Tampoi

Bandar Seri Begawan - Turtle eggs are still being sold on the black market, the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports said yesterday.
Awg Hj Ahmad bin Hj Abdul Rahman said that recently thousands of turtle eggs were seized by the Royal Customs and Excise Department and the suspects were charged in court.
He said in the past, collecting turtle eggs was fun as there were a lot of turtle eggs hack then., However, the Fisheries Department has data which show that the number of turtles coming to the shore to lay eggs has been decreasing, and lately only a few nests were found throughout the whole country, he said.
The data show that the turtles could easily become extinct if the laws (protecting the species) are not enforced, he said. If we fail to enforce the laws and the turtles become extinct, we will lose an important source of economy, the added. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Her Majesty Calls For Creative Students
By P Marilyn & Azrol Azmi

Bandar Seri Begawan - Her Majesty Raja 'sten Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha called upon all teachers and students to value as well as fully utilise educational facilities provided by the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

Her Majesty said that she hoped the teachers and students would fully utilise and appreciate the amenities and educational facilities provided by His Majesty's government. They should not be ignored, as the quality in students must reflect into a quality workforce. "As such, I encourage the instilment of creativity, innovation, competitiveness that will allow them to flourish either physically or mentally. This is not a simple task," Her Majesty said.

"We do not want the Government's efforts to go to waste. Quality students will generate a quality workforce".

Her Majesty made these observations in a titah during the Sekolah Tinggi Perempuan Raja Isteri's (STPRI's) 50th Golden Jubilee Ceremony held at the school in the capital.Her Majesty said that students must be instilled with creative innovative, endurance and competitive characteristics so that they will develop into healthy young people both physically and mentally. Her Majesty said that this was not an easy task and that it required cooperation from parents, teachers, community and students, as well as public awareness for the importance of education.

"If we can establish such cooperation, I believe our vision to see our future generation become responsible towards religion, race and the nation will become a reality."

Earlier, Her Majesty expressed her pleasure to be back at the school where she was once a student during the 60s. . Her Majesty further stated that she still reminisced over those days and can still recall the teachers who taught her in STPRI, some of whom were present at the event.

STPRI has undergone many changes over the years, overcome many challenges and borne witness to development since its establishment in January 1957 and has made a name for itself as the first all-girls' school in the country.

Her Majesty said "this school has gone through many transitions, challenges and developments since it was first officiated in January 1957. Despite all the challenges faced, the school still stands firm and makes history as the first all-girls' school in Brunei Darussalam."

Her Majesty further said, "The school also achieved success in various academic fields and has become the students' pride and joy. I am sure that the spirit of teachers and students of this school are still going strong with rapid developments in education." -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Imams Slam 慖ce Cream & Ikan Putih

TheHawk

Guest of honour (2R) presents
the prize to the representative
of Kg Manggis Bersatu, the
champions of the 1st Melabau
Gasing Championship Cup 2006

1st Melabau Gasing Champs Awarded
By Amin Hosni

Bandar Seri Begawan - A prize presentation for participants in the 1st Melabau Casing Championship Cup 2006 was held yesterday, at the Jade Restaurant.

Present as guest of honour at the ceremony was Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Awg I lj Mohr] Yussof, the Minister of Home Affairs.

Prior to the prize presentation, a speech was made by Hj Ladi bin I lj Ali in which he said the competition was a great success because it was witnessed not only by locals who came to see the event, but also tourists and foreigners.

The `gasing' or 'traditional top spinning' championship saw the participation of some 177 participants in six competing teams, namely Kampong Manggis Bersatu, Kg Tanjong Nangka, Kg Sengkurong, Kg Kupang, Kg Bukit Panggal and the Prisons Department.

Kampong Manggis Bersatu emerged champions after scoring 16 points in the competition. The team looks home the champions' cup, individual medals and a B$2,300 cash prize.

Runners-up were Kg Tanjong Nangka (12 points), who look home individual medals and a $1,700 cash prize.

Prisons Department finished second runners-up. They received individual medals and $1,500. There were no real losers in the competition, as the remaining three teams took home certificates of participation and $400 for each learns.

The purpose of the competition was to foster closer relations between family and friends as well as between participants. The event was also meant to preserve and hand down the 慻asing

TheHawk

Border Hoppers Lament Long Waiting Time
By Rosli Abidin Yahya

Bandar Seri Begawan - Border control posts at Kuala Lurah and Tedungan were inundated with heavy traffic yesterday as families, groups and individuals headed to Limbang to take advantage of the Malaysian Mega Sale.

Vehicles lined up for up to lour hours betbre they could reach the control posts at Kuala Lurah and Tedungan. Further contributing to the traffic jam was the fact that most of the travellers had received their salaries in the past couple of days.

The waiting time was further extended by inconsiderate drivers who jumped the queue on their way to the control posts.

"If drivers did not jump the queue and just waited for their turn the waiting time would have been much shorter," said one disgruntled driver. "Unfortunately no action was taken on the culprits, so the patient ones had no choice but to endure it and wait much longer," he added.

However the drivers said the officials at both border control posts had done their best in ensuring that the drivers could pass through as quickly as possible.

Border hoppers have the alternative option of leaving their cars at the border and hiring taxies to go to Limbang.

Or they can choose to travel on weekdays, when the posts are relatively quiet. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Brunei gets ready for Royal Birthday

A decorative arch in Jalan Tutong

An arch under construction in Kuala Belait

Arches and decorations are coming up in the sultanate as the nation gets ready to celebrate His Majesty's 61st birthday.
The construction work of arches is shown here in Jalan Tutong in the capital and Jalan Panglima in Kuala Belait. Arches are also put up at the entrance of government buildings to officially mark the celebration.

TheHawk

HRH the Crown Prince walking on the
glass cube bridge, a distinctive feature
of the Ministry of Development building


HRH the Crown Prince being briefed upon his arrival


HRH the Crown Prince viewing a slideshow at the
Environment, Parks and Recreation Department
during his working visit to the Ministry of
Development yesterday.

Crown Prince抯 Focus
By James Kon & Azrol Azmi

Bandar Seri Begawan - His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al- Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, showed concern for the environment and transparency of utility agencies when he visited the Ministry of Development yesterday morning. He also raised the issue of speedy payments for work done.

Receiving HRH the Crown Prince on his working visit to the Ministry of Development Building were the Minister of Development Pehin Orang Kaye Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Ahdullah bin Begawan Mudim Date Paduka Awang Haji Baker, with his Deputy Date Paduka Dr. Awang Haji Mat Suny bin Haji Mohd Hussein, Permanent Secretary of Development (Technical and Professional) Mulia Awang Haji Mohd Said bin Pehin Orang Kaye Pekerma Setia Dato Paduka Haji Hashim, and the Permanent Secretary of Development (Administration and Finance), Awang Haji Brahim bin Haji Ismail. For an insight on the role of Ministry of Development, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister of Prime Minister's Office listen to a presentation delivered by the Permanent Secretary of

Development (Administration and Finance) Awang Haji Brahim and welcoming remarks from the Minister of Development. The main role of the ministry is to plan the physical aspects of development for Brunei Darussalam, especially in infrastructure and basic facilities to raise living quality and the socio-economy.

The Ministry of Development also plays a role in ensuring healthy competition in the construction industry, overseeing public safety to international standards. To meet these aspirations, the ministry has implemented a number of functions namely, to provide a clear and proactive background and to report suitable regulation, provide basic facilities and civil services such as quality air, road network, sewage system, building and services, affordable quality housing, provide geometric and land usage management, ensure a clean environment and to develop an efficient construction industry.

Also, to introduce Bruneian Malays as a leader in the construction industry, to introduce science and technology in nation development, to create professional staff and to ensure efficient management of finance, assets and projects.

During the briefing, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince raised the issue of how far the transparency and accountability goes for the maintenance agencies which arc involved in providing facilities like water and electricity and in speeding up the payment process for contractors.

His Royal Highness also makes enquiries on the agencies on related matters regarding the rubbish dump site in Sungai Akar. In reply, His Royal Highness was briefed on the action plan. After the briefing, His Royal Highhness toured a number of sections and units under the Ministry of Development namely the minister's office, the deputy minister's office, Adminstration and Finance Section/ .and Unit, construction research and planning unit, Research and Development Unit, Financial regulation unit, Housing unit, Istana maintenance unit, finance unit and data centre.

In the Environment, Parks and Recreation Department, HRH the Crown Prince was briefed by Awang Hj Zakari a Bin Hj Sarud in, before viewing an exhibition and presentation on solid waste management projects, environmental awareness, a programme to reduce ozone depleting substances and others.

After completing the tour at the Ministry of Development's main Building, His Royal Highhness visited the Bumiputra Guidance and Development unit at the Pusat Ujian Kemahiran Kerja and Latihan followed by a visit to a number of sections including contractors and suppliers' registration and guidance section.

The working visit by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah the Crown Prince shows his concern as Senior Minister of the Prime Minister's Office to take a closer look at the development and implementation of projects and infrastructure.

The latest visit is one of a series in support of the Government of His Majesty in ensuring that government agencies will always be responsive and attentive to current developments to ensure the prosperity and harmony of the nation. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 1-7-2007 09:14 PM ]

TheHawk

Arrested: Suspect In Murder Of Couple
By Za'im Zaini & Rol Ezam

Bandar Seri Begawan - The Royal Brunei Police Force, acting swiftly on a tip-oft; have detained a man in his 20's suspected to be involved in the recent murder case of two bodies found in Kg Telamba, Tutong, on June 25.

Director of Crime Investigations Department (CID), SAC Peng Eng Lee said this in a press conference at the CID building yesterday.

Now in police detention for investigations, the local man was brought to the BSB court yesterday for remand under section 302 for murder under the penal code, Chapter 22. The magistrate has issued a remand order for 14 days.

The CID director, when asked about the post-mortem and motive for the murder, said: "Investigations are still early, we are unable to reveal this matter."

After five days of investigations, police moved in to detain the suspect following the grim discovery of the bodies of husband and wife Awg Jofri bin Ahmed Juriah, a bus driver in his 40s, while the wife's name was Derosna binti Jumat, in her 30s. Both the deceased are Bruneian Malays.

Awg Jofri is the eldest of seven siblings according to his father, and is survived by 10 children, six from a previous marriage and four from his second wife who was also found dead at the scent. He married his second wife in 1995.

Those with information to assist can contact the Special Investigations Unit at tel: 2232001-7 or 993.


Extradited: For Robberies In Brunei


Meanwhile, SAC Peng told the press "that a criminal by the name of Farley Anak Libau from Miri, Sarawak, one of the criminals from the serial gang robberies between 2002 till 2004 in Brunei, has been extradited after his release from prison on June 28.

Farley Anak Libau was imprisoned in Sarawak for three years for car thefts.

Yesterday, he was charged in the BSB court under section 392 under the penal code for gang robbery and remanded for 14 days. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Head of Health Promotion and Education
Dr Hjh Norhayati delivers her speech


Minister of Health (R) launches the World
No Tobacco Day in Brunei

MoH To Implement Tobacco Order 2005
By Sonia K

Bandar Seri Begawan - In Brunei Darussalam, the main causes of death are lung disease, cancer, stroke and diabetes. All of these have risk factors that are linked to smoking. The main cancer disease is lung and bronchus cancer, which is closely related to smoking.

This was stated by the Minister of Health, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Awg Suyoi, in his speech as guest of honour at the World No Tobacco Day launching ceremony held at The Mall in Gadong, yesterday.

According to the minister, the incidence of lung and bronchus cancer in Brunei had increased from 30 cases in 2003 to 56 cases in 2005.

This year's theme, which as chosen by World Health Organisation, is "100 per cent tobacco-free environment", while the slogan for this year's World No Tobacco Day is "Smoke-free inside

TheHawk

Chairman, PetroleumBrunei
giving his speech


Guests at PetroleumBRUNEI dinner

Celebrating PetroleumBRUNEI
By Azaraimy

Bandar Seri Begawan - PetroleumBRUNEI is currently in discussions with Mitsubishi Gas Chemicals (MGC) to invest in methanol tankers as part of Company activity and investment in shipping for the delivery of Brunei Methanol to the buyers.

The Minister of Energy Pehin Orang Kaye Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Abu Baker said this when Brunei National Petroleum Company S endiri an Berhad (PetroleumBrunei) held its annual dinner at the Jerudong Park Country Club last night.

In his speech, Pehin Hj Yahya in his capacity as Chairman of PetroleumBrunei, recalled one of the reasons for the formation of PetroleumBRUNEI five years ago, was for the company to act as the Government's commercial arm in the national petroleum industry. It was highlighted that several possible upstream investment opportunities (local and overseas) have since been identified and discussions are underway for these investment opportunities.

In the upstream industry, seismic surveys will begin end 2007 and 2008, said Pehin Yahya.

Pehin Yahya also congratulated PetroleumBRUNEI for its efforts and achievements in reaching Final Investment Decision for the US$55-million world-class Brunei Darussalam Methanol Project in March 2007.

Pehin Yahya said, "If this same commitment and cooperation with the Brunei Methanol Company Sdn Bhd consortium and other stakeholders continues, we will all witness the first Brunei Darussalam Methanol product in early 2010, as planned."

He also hoped that any spin-off projects carried out by PetroleumBRUNEI would benefit local businessmen, assist in the development of companies especially "Bumiputra" and the development of local small and medium enterprise (SME), as well as open up more employment opportunities for Bruneians.

"Towards this, the company must have a framework to ensure the involvement of local enterprises is increased in every project undertaken by PetroleumBRUNEI and its subsidiaries," remarked Pehin Yahya.

Touching on the challenges PetroleumBRUNEI will face, Pehin Yahya stated that this will include: big escalation of exploration and production as in hire of rigs and equipment; competition from Petroleum companies globally; production of oil and gas that needs secondary recovery which in turn needs huge investments which have resulted in increased difficulties in achieving balanced; Reserves Replacement Ratio (RRR); and increase public consciousness on the importance to take care of the environment during any production of oil and gas.

In being able to face these challenges, Pehin Yahya stated that there is a need to ensure proper human resource development including providing adequate training so that human resources are committed and productive.

The annual dinner was also attended by PetroleumBRUNEI's Board and Alternate Members, senior officers from Energy Division, the Prime Minister's Office and the Petroleum Unit at the Prime Minister Office.

Guests at the dinner were entertained by local artistes and lively performances staged by PetroleumBRUNEI staff. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

kecubung

Kuala Belait - A road mishap at Jalan Sungai Bera, Seria late yesterday afternoon claimed the lives of two brothers, in their 30s, and the wife of one of the deceased.

The brothers were pronounced dead upon arrival at Suri Seri Begawan Hospital yesterday and the wife succumbed to her injuries in the evening after receiving treatment at the hospital's Intensive Care Unit.
Fortunately, their children, aged two and three, and their maid survived the gruesome accident.

The police confirmed that the mishap involved two cars. Three people rrom the other vehicle escaped with minor injuries.

The Fire and Rescue Department said they received an emergency call informing them about the accident at about 3.03pm and nine firefighters were deployed at the scene led by Station Officer Awang Tasim bin Haji Abd Rahman.

Both vehicles were reportedly travelling on opposite lanes when the collision occurred.

According to the firefighters, rescue works took about 15 minutes. The police are still investigating the cause of the accident. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

kecubung

Bandar Seri Begawan - A sunday picnic to Pantai Tungku turned tragic for two young Bruneian brothers and their cousin as two of them drowned and another is reported missing and feared drowned.

The three victims aged 20, 18 and 12 respectively were believed to be camping in the area with their relatives the previous night, said Inspector Shamsul, Operations Officer of the search and rescue of the Marine Police.

The eldest of the three, from Kg Lambak Kanan, was the cousin of the other two brothers, who hailed from Kg Rimba, according to police sources.

RUB, meanwhile, identified the victims as Mohamad Shariman bin Awgliaji Ali, 20, Abdul Awi bin Haji Ibrahim, 18 and Mohamed Nabil Syafiq bin Haji Ibrahim, 12.

The body of the 20-year-old youth was found by members of the public yesterday afternoon. The Fire and Rescue Services received a call from the public on the finding at 1222pm and eight personnel from the Jerudong Fire Station arrived at the scene at 12.35pm.

Other relevant agencies - seven from Marine Police of the Royal Brunei Police Force, six from the Diving Unit of the Royal Brunei Navy and Royal Brunei Air Force, and 16.from search and rescue of Fire and Rescue Department -- were also at the scene to search for the victims.

The 18-year-old victim was found at around 223pm by Marine Police. Both victims were found in the same area of the beach. At press time, search and rescue personnel were still trying to find the third victim.

The Royal Brunei Police Force advised members of the public, who go to beaches for recreation, to take extra precaution due to the current unpredictable weather patterns and big waves.

It was also learnt that this incident is the third to happen in the area in recent memory. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

chichi

Originally posted by kecubung at 2-7-2007 09:33 AM
Kuala Belait - A road mishap at Jalan Sungai Bera, Seria late yesterday afternoon claimed the lives of two brothers, in their 30s, and the wife of one of the deceased.

The brothers were prono ...

was shocked with the news..
coz Allahyarhamah Norita is my best friend. n me pun biasa the hubby, Allahyarham Hj Azalani.
me received few sms & MSN messages informing me abt this sad news
... news really travels fast nowadays.

i last met her Feb 2006... before me ke mari.. inda tah ku dpt jumpa Rita lagi
now.. i only have memories of her...masih ku tebayang ketawa2nya..
sebak rasa dada..

TheHawk

Royal Brunei Navy personnel preparing
to fly the giant national flag

Flying Start Fo Sultan抯 Birthday Celebrations
By Zalm Zaini

Bandar Seri Begawan - The official celebration of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam's 61st birthday begins today following the national flag hoisting ceremony yesterday morning in front of Yayasan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah complex in the heart of the nation's capital.

The arrival of the guest of honour, YAM Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz, who is the Advisor to the National Committee for His Majesty's 61 Birthday Celebrations, marked the beginning of the ceremony.

Also present was Pchin Orang Kaye Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Awang Adanan, the Minister of Home Affairs, who is Chairman of the National Committee for His Majesty's 61st Birthday Celebrations.

This was followed by 61 officials from the Fire Services and Rescue Department together with the Prison Department carrying the national flay to the grounds of the ceremony.

The guest of honour then handed over the national flag to the personnel of the Royal Brunei Navy I RBN). Some 20 RBN officers hoisted the national flag onto a flagpole in front of the open area of the Sultan Omar. li Sai luddien Mosque. This was followed by the singing of the national anthem by a choir comprising 61 personnel of the Language and Literature Bureau, the Brunei-Muara District Office, Municipal Department of BSB, as well as some 130 students. Music was performed by the Royal Brunei Police Force band. The choir sang "Lagu Bendera Negara" and other patriotic songs.

The guest of honour also presented the national flags to the four District Officers to be used in flag hoisting ceremonies in their respective districts.

Among the guests at the auspicious occasion were members of the celebration national committee, permanent secretaries and deputy permanent secretaries.

The gigantic national flag hoisted during the ceremony yesterday in Bandar Seri Begawan will be flown until July 31. From July 1-31, the public are required to fly the national flag, while Pengiran-Pengiran and those bestowed with titles are required to raise their respective flags.

The hoisting of the national flags all over the country in conjunction with His Majesty's 61st birthday celebrations is expected to generate a sense of patriotism as well as love of the monarch and country.

Flying the national hags, whether at buildings or residence, provides the people with the opportunity to show their commitment, patriotism, loyalty and support towards the celebration of His Majesty's 61st birthday. -- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

TheHawk

RBA To Introduce Boeing 777
By Za'im Zaini

Bandar Seri Begawan - Royal Brunei Airlines will be acquiring Boeing 777 extended range aircraft on lease, with the first due to arrive in the third quarter of this year.

The B777 aircraft, to be used on the long-haul routes to Europe and Australia, will vastly improve RBA's capabilities by offering a higher passenger and cargo load capacity. It will also present the opportunity to operate direct flights to London.

The 8777's seat capacity of 273 seats is significantly higher than the current Boeing 767's capacity. It will have a three-class configuration, encompassing Royal Executive Class with 12 seats, Darussalam Class with 46 seats and an Economy Class with 215 seats. The introduction of the new Royal Executive Class gives premium travellers the opportunity to upgrade to a class that offers "cocoon" flatbed sleeper seats, which provide plenty of space and privacy.

The leased B777 aircraft are an interim solution to the airline's re-fleeting programme. In line with RBA's Strategic Business Plan, it aims to phase out the current Boeing 767 aircraft. Under the re-fleeting programme, RBA will also acquire new Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft that have been ordered and are due for delivery in late 2009. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Their Majesties, HRH Pg Isteri, HRH the Crown Prince, HRH Paduka Seri Pg Anak Isteri with
Yang Di-Pertuan Agong and Raja Permaisuri Agong prior to the royal banquet.


Their Majesties and Their Royal Highnesses during the courtesy call prior to the banquet


Yang Di-Pertuan Agong delivers his speech


His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Agong.


His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Agong viewing the 'pesembah'.


Their Majesties and Their Royal Highnesses during the banquet.


Her Majesty, Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Nur Zahirah, HRH Pg Isteri, HRH the
Crown Prince and HRH Paduka Seri Pg Anak Isteri arrive for the royal banquet


HRH Prince Mohamed and HRH Pg Anak Isteri Pg Anak Hjh Zariah.

Closer Brunei, M抯ia Ties

By Sonia K

Bandar Seri Begawan - His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam last night upheld Brunei's close and friendly relations with Malaysia while urging both the nations to work together for find opportunities in trade and investment in the region and around the world.

His Majesty, in a titah, also lauded the Heart of Borneo (HoB) project launched by Brunei, Malaysia and Indonesia and hoped that it would be an example for other countries to follow.His Majesty, Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hjh Saleha and Her Royal Highness Pengiran Isteri Azrinaz Mazhar hosted a royal banquet at the Istana Nurul Iman for His Majesty Yang Di-Pertuan Agong Al-Wathiqu Billah Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin Ibni Al-Mahrum Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah and Her Majesty Raja Pennaisuri Agong Tuanku Nur Zahirah.

Also present at the banquet were HRH Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince, HRH Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, HRH Pg Anak lsteri Pg Anak Hajah Zariah, HRH Prince Hj Sufri Bokiah, Pengiran Bini Hajah Faizah, HRH Prince 'Abdul 'Azim, HRH Prince 'Abdul Malik, HRH Prince 'Abdul Mateen, HRH Princess Hajah Masna, HRH Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam and other members of the royal family.

In a return speech, His Majesty Yang Di-Pertuan Agong called for closer cooperation as Brunei and Malaysia has a vast potential to grow in spite of an 11 per cent increase in two-way trade last year. He called on both countries to jointly explore potentials in the halal food market and Islamic banking and investment sector.

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam said His Majesty Yang Di-Pertuan Agong's visit will further strengthen the friendly relationship between Brunei and Malaysia.

He said the exchange of visits is a good culture that can become a stimulator for the government and society to continue to enhance cooperation and understanding.

"The relationship all this while between Brunei and Malaysia has brought us cooperation in various fields, especially in education, defence, trade, health and culture. In trade and investment, both countries have shown potential and success.

"This is the time for us to work together to grab trade and investment opportunities, not only regionally but also internationally," His Majesty said.

At a time when the world is facing challenges in the depletion of forest resources, environmental pollution and climate change, we are thankful that the two countries are still rich in various biological and green resources.

Brunei, Malaysia and Indonesia recently launched the 'Heart of Borneo' project that has received support from all over the world, as well from organisations such as UNESCO and World Wildlife Fund. His Majesty hoped that this initiative would become an example for other countries in efforts to nurture tropical forests.

His Majesty also said that the initiative would hopefully become a catalyst for tourism cooperation, including transportation, immigration, marketing and investment.

His Majesty also congratulated Malaysia for its role in the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) and the Nonaligned Movement (NAM). The monarch also to congratulated the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, Malaysia's government and citizens for achieving 50 years of independence.

"Malaysia's success is a good example for developing counties in this region, as well as for other Islamic countries," His Majesty said.

The monarch also conveyed his appreciation to some 17,000 Malaysians that are working in Brunei currently.

In his speech, Yang Di-Pertuan Agong said Malaysia and Brunei have had a close and intimate relationship for a very long time in the aspects of history, culture, language, religion and nationality.

In recent years, the increase in cooperation has been achieved in various areas. The Yang Di-Pertuan Agong said he was certain that this cooperation could he further strengthened into other new areas, which would he beneficial for the two countries.

"A good relationship in economy between Malaysia and Brunei has a vast potential to grow In 2006, the amount of two-way trade exceeded RM1 I .54 billion, which is an eleven per cent increase from the previous year," he said.

The Yang Di-Pertuan Agong also welcomed Brunei to raise its investments in Malaysia. The Malaysian government also encourages Malaysian companies to invest in Brunei to assist in the country's efforts to diverse its economy, he said.

He also encouraged cooperation in defence by organising various trainings from time to time. He congratulated His Majesty's government for successfully organising a defence exhibition for the first time in Brunei.

At the international level, he said, both countries share the same stance in many matters, especially in global issues in various organisations participated by them like the United Nations, Asean, Organisation of Islamic Conference, Non-Aligned Movement, Commonwealth and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation.

"I hope the aspiration and spirit of cooperation to fight for freedom, justice and sovereignty of nations will be pursued more actively towards global peace and balanced development," he said.

The Yang Di-Pertuan Agong and Raja Permaisuri Agong arrived yesterday and arc here on a three-day visit. This is their first visit to Brunei since Tuanku Mizan was installed as the 135 Yang Di-Pertuan Agong on April 26. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin