✰ Brunei Darussalam ~ NEWS & HILITES ✰

feathers

Originally posted by LailaTempawan at 16-7-2007 08:41 PM
tempat fea duduk ani macam tempat ____________ duduk saja..   

ehem.. ehem.. ahhhh.. RUPANYA....

i don't know what on earth you are talking about.....
ntah ih, all i can say is, camera fea atu canggih zoom nya.......

LailaTempawan

eleh.. eksen tia..   inda apa tu.. sendiri-sendiri saja paham.. MPB..

[ Last edited by  LailaTempawan at 16-7-2007 10:03 PM ]

TheHawk

His Majesty, HRH the Crown Prince, HRH Prince
Abdul Azim, HRH Prince Abdul Malik and HRH
Prince Abdul Mateen at thanksgiving prayers yesterday

Day Of Joy On His Majesty抯 61st Birthday
By Sonia K.

Bandar Seri Begawan - Today, July 15, 2007, is His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam's 61st birthday.

And people from all walks of life are expected to gather at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien very early this morning to witness the traditional Royal Guard of Honour Parade in honour of His Majesty's 61st birthday. Last night, His Majesty attended Maghrib and Isyak prayers as well as the reading of the Surat Yassin, tahlil and a thanksgiving prayer at the Jame' Asr Bassani! Bolkiah Mosque. There were also similar ceremonies held at mosques and suraus nationwide.

This morning's parade will involve personnel from the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and the Royal Brunei Police Force. The occasion will peak with an air display of helicopters and aircraft of the Royal Brunei Air Force and most prominently, the call of "Daulat Kebawah Duli Tuan Patik" by parade participants and the

people. The morning parade would be followed by the audience and an investiture ceremony where His Majesty would accord honours on outstanding people with meritorious titles and awards at the Istana Nurul Iman. His Majesty will also address the nation in a much-awaited Royal Titah from the palace Throne Room. A state banquet will then be held in the evening followed by a display of fireworks.

As a reminder to the public, this morning, several roads leading to the capital will be closed from 6.30am onwards to ensure smooth running of the parade. .

Today is just the beginning of one of many programmes lined up over the next two weeks for His Majesty's birthday celebration. Tonight, there will be a fireworks presentation by the Tiong Hwa community at the surroundings of the Istana Nurul Iman in the capital. I On top of this, the highlight of the royal celebration is the get-together ceremonies that will be held in all the four districts. The ceremony will give members of the public both young and old an opportunity to meet and greet His Majesty as well as other members of the royal family.

Residents in the Temburong District will have the chance to kickoff the first Get-together ceremony on July 17 at the district's 慞adang Komplex Dewan Kemasyarakatan

TheHawk

One of the suspects (R) being questioned
by enforcement officers

Capital Check Before Big Day
By Za'im Zaini & Amin Hosni

Bandar Seri Begawan - Hours away from the nation celebrating His Majesty's 61st Birthday when people from all walks of life would converge in the capital for the royal guard of honour, six agencies worked in unison to ensure the nation's capital is free of crime.

In a latest stint to nip offenders, six agencies comprising 39 personnel from the Law Enforcement Section Department of immigration and National Registration, 17 from Internal Security Department, 34 from Royal Customs and Excise, 13 from the Religious Enforcement Section, 15 from the Narcotics Control Bureau and 37 from the Royal Brunei Police Force ran raids in four areas in and around the capital.

The four-hour operation eodenamed 慜ps Bongkar 87

TheHawk

Brunei's Deputy Minister of
Health (L) and China's Vice
Minister of Health (R) exchange
the signed documtents

Brunei China Renew Action Plan On Health Cooperation
By P Marilyn

Bandar Seri Begawan - People's Republic of China and Brunei Darussalam renewed their plan of action on health cooperation with a signing ceremony held at The Empire Hotel and Country Club, yesterday.

Signing on behalf of the People's Republic of China W as Dr Wang Guoyiang, China's Vice-Minister of Health who is currently in the Sultanate for an official visit.

Brunei's Deputy Minister of Health, Pehin Orang Kaya Pekenna Laila Diraja Dato Paduka Hj Hazair bin Hj Abdullah signed on behalf of the Government of Brunei Darussalam.

Yesterday's signing is a revamp of the previous action plan signed in 2003. It covers the bilateral cooperation between the two countries in terms of legal and health information exchange, exchange of officers and working visits for sharing of knowledge and experience, enhancement of cooperation among health institutions, training and research and the recruitment of medical workforce and paramedics in fields such as traditional medicine, children and maternal healthcare, oncology, neonatology, hepatitis, plastic surgery as well as health promotions.

Prior to the signing ceremony, Dr Wang Guoyiang and his entourage paid a courtesy call on Brunei's Minister of Health, Pehin

Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Suyoi bin Hj Osman.

Also present was the Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Brunei, Mdm Tong Xiaoling.

The visit was followed by a bilateral discussion session between senior officers from both ministries.

In the afternoon, Dr Wang and his entourage continued their visit to Jerudong Park Medical Centre and Gleneagles Jerudong Park Cardiac Centre.

Dr Wang arrived in the Sultanate on July 13 and will be departing on July 17. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 22-7-2007 03:45 PM ]

TheHawk

The Minister of Communication at the
passenger terminal.

New Ferry Terminals Almost Ready To Take Off
By Azaraimy HH

Bandar Seri Begawan - The new multimillion-dollar Vehicles and Passengers Ferry Terminals in Muara are veil on their way to completion, and yesterday, the Minister of Communication, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia Haji Abu Bakar bin Hj Apong went to ascertain the readiness of both the new terminals and the Muara port as part of a working visit.

Accompanying him was the Deputy Minister or Communication, Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Yusoff bin Hj bhd Hamid, Permanent Secretary Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Yusoff bin Hj Abd Hamid, and several senior officers from the Ministry of Communication, the Ports Department and the Marine Department.

The minister made his first stop at the new Vehicles Ferry 'Terminal, which will operate under the jurisdiction of the Ports Department. The terminal is expected to make travelling by car from Brunei to Menumbok and vice versa easier, and once it is completed, those who prefer travelling to Labuan in their own vehicles should find its Facilities making the journey more efficient.

After his visit to the Vehicles Ferry Terminal, the minister made his way to the new Passengers Ferry Terminal located next to the car ferry terminal.

This particular terminal, a project undertaken under the Ports Department's authority, was started in November 2005 and costs approximately B$4.8 million. The terminal will become an entry point Mr passengers travelling from Labuan to Brunei and vice versa. It will also offer several facilities such Asia custom checking area, a tourist information counter spacious offices anti car parks gun will ease the flow of passengers. Such modern features indicate commitment on the part of the Ministry of Communication in developing secure and efficient infrastructure for the country.

The minister then went aboard the ship Tanjung Bakarang to survey Muara Poll and its facilities from the sea. The port is the main commercial entrance to Brunei Darussalam. Located some 15km from the capital, the port commenced its commercial operations hack in 1973. With the capacity to handle several hundred thousand tonnes of cargo each year, the port's facilities are constantly updated to ensure smooth processes. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 22-7-2007 03:47 PM ]

TheHawk

HM Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah

Early Bonus For Govt Servants
By M K Anwar

Bandar Seri Begawan - Public servants in the country will be receiving their bonuses early beginning this year.

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam announced this in a titan at the Audience and Investiture ceremony at the Istana Nurul Iman's Throne Room in conjunction with His Majesty's 61st birthday. His Majesty also spoke on the importance of Small and Medium Enterprises or SMEs, as well as public services, environment and national security.

His Majesty yesterday also consented to bestow titles and medals to 25 people.

Calling the peace and prosperity the country has been enjoying as blessings from Allah the Almighty, His Majesty said, "It is also due to the solidarity and cooperation of the rakyat". The ruler called for these values to be preserved and strengthened for the development and prosperity of the country. Highlighting on the efforts to enhance the economy, His Majesty said that cooperation and services are the two basic factors that are capable of pacing the development and strengthening SMEs for short and long term benefits. Government agencies must also provide an avenue for the growth and development of SMEs so that they will become a sector that can together help develop the nation.- said the monarch.

In order to attain economic excellence, all parties must appreciate the contribution of SMEs and together assist them in overcoming their problems, His Majesty added.

His Majesty urged agencies that are still using regulations and processes that can hinder SMEs' achievements and prevent them from delivering an efficient service to change their attitude.

The ruler, at the same time, also called on SMEs to become more creative and independent in exploring businesses, whether locally or abroad.

The Government of His Majesty has provided several avenues (for SMEs) to facilitate business, which are aimed at encouraging more locals to enter the business foray.

"I want to especially see SMEs seize this opportunity," said the ruler.

His Majesty is confident that with proper planning, the country can produce trained entrepreneurs that can be the pioneers of the export industry.

"If this happens, it will provide us the chance to put our local products in the regional and international market.

"In the fast flow of development anything new must be acted on with intelligence," said the ruler.

Energy issues, specifically oil and gas, are the closest examples, said His Majesty.

"We must realise that these two natural resources will not last forever."

A saving attitude in the use of energy is the best way (to move forward) for all public and private agencies and also individuals, the ruler reminded.

Another challenge to development is the impact of the environment.

Lately, we have experienced flash floods, landslides and mud filled rivers and although they were not as bad as those experienced by others, His Majesty perceived that the situation is undeniably a warning that we must not neglect.

Evaluating the effectiveness of proper planning and construction of infrastructure in the country should be given utmost importance:

Natural disasters and pollution can be seen as two related issues with pollution as a result of our way of living.

"For example, dirty drains, markets, restaurants and others are caused, by the way of living that does not emphasise cleanliness.

"This issue must not be neglected," His Majesty pointed out.

The appropriate government agencies must be ready to tackle it with proper management and if needed, the enforcement of laws or acts without any compromise, said the ruler.

His Majesty said that all these are related directly with the process and service mechanism.

"We must always study and update the regulations, procedures and laws that are related to public services."

The aim is to have an effective, customer friendly, fair and visionary service.

An example of a service that is in need is when we are able to lessen the burden of others such as by reducing the waiting time, expediting the decision making process and also providing an easy way for people to interact with the government.

These services include those in the field of security, His Majesty said.

The Sultan added that prosperity and security must continue to be emphasised as our basic needs.

Towards this, the appropriate agencies must take firm steps. Besides, cooperation from the community is paramount, especially in providing information, if any, on suspicious activities that can undermine the security of the nation.

Touching on security, His Majesty reiterated that the government agencies would continue to enhance regional and international cooperation for the benefit of all.

Through these relations with other friendly states and also world organisations, the country can further achieve its aims, the ruler said.

His Majesty underlined the importance of faith in the religion, saying no matter what we do whether in our development, education and security, we should continue to seek blessings from Allah the Almighty.

"We must never forget that peace and prosperity are the blessings of Allah the Almighty

and we must always be thankful," His Majesty said.

The monarch also spoke of the establishment of two higher educational institutions - University Islam Sultan Sharif Ali and the Seri Begawan Religious Teachers University College - that should perform their duties in producing an excellent generation.

The caring monarch announced that bonuses for all government staff including security personnel would henceforth be given out a month early.

The annual bonus, which normally is given at the end of January, will now be given at the end of December. The change takes effect beginning this year.

The early bonus, said His Majesty, can help those especially in the low-income group to tide over new school year preparations for their children.

Before concluding the titah, His Majesty expressed his appreciation and thanks to all who have continued to support the Government of His Majesty and also those who are involved in the preparation for the birthday celebration. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 25-7-2007 09:34 AM ]

TheHawk

Nurqilah Abdullah delivered the
first baby yesterday.

Record Number Of Babies Born On Sultan's 61st Birthday
By Hj Minor Absah

Bandar Seri Begawan - A record number of babies were born at the RIPAS Hospital yesterday and what made it even more special of course was that it coincided with His Majesty's 61st Birthday celebration.

As of 5pm yesterday, a total of 19 babies were horn - the highest number so far in three years.

The earliest arrival was a baby girl, who weighed 3.5kg and was born at I2.09am to Nurgilah Abdullah from Bukit Beruang in Tutong.

The second baby was born to Mazina Abu Bakar who delivered a healthy 2.8kg baby boy at 12.15am in the Tutong District.

Other proud mothers included Fauziah Zakaila, RasyidahAbdullah. Noorsiti Jorinah Johari, Noorexmahmaisuriani Suhaili, Rosnani Noraini Hj Damit, Hjh Scrbanun Hj Mudim, Siti Duran Duaraman, Amal Nazuha Hj Mohd Satri, Nolilawati Rahn, Noor Aderaizah Hj Tuah, Nurul Syazwaini Hj Abd Kadin.

Lelamardiana Hj Zakaria, Rofizah Mohamad, Norza'imah Hj Bad Malek, None Faridah Abdullah, Jamilah Hj Abd Rahman and Norafizah Hafni.

Out of the 19 babies delivered at RIMS Hospital, nine were girls.

Meanwhile, in Belait, three baby girls were born, including the twins of Hjh Suriwati Hj Morsidi, weighing at 22 and 2.5kg respectively and were born around 5.24am.

The other baby girl, born at 8.07am yesterday and weighed 2.6kg, was to Nora Seleman.

No births, however, were recorded in the Temburong District. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin



[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 25-7-2007 09:36 AM ]

TheHawk

The Ford family and Josette with students
of OKBI Subok Primary School.

People In Awe Of Royal Birthday Celebration
By Aemy Azlena, Huraizah Ahmad & Za'im Zaini

Bandar Seri Begawan - Bandar Seri Begawan was abuzz with activity yesterday, as people from all walks of life thronged the capital for the 61st birthday celebration of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

Thousands of students anxiously awaited the arrival of His Majesty and other members of the royal family as they lined the streets leading to the Taman Hj Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien.

As His Majesty arrived, the capital transformed into a sea of yellow, as thousands upon thousands waved mini national flags to wish the beloved ruler "Daulat Kebawah Duli Tuan Patik".

For Siti Julianna Md Junaidi, a teacher from Maktab Duli Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah, waving mini flags in the capital with her students yesterday reminded her of the days when she was a young student.

Even though teachers had many things to do to prepare for the big day, it was all worth it in the end, she said.

Meanwhile, the Bulletin approached a group of cheerful students from OKBI Subok Primary School. When asked why they were so happy, they said that it was their first time waving mini flags in the capital and they were eager to catch a glimpse of His Majesty.

Lai Suan Teck, a student of Chung Hua Middle School, said that the weather yesterday was great, as it was not too hot.

"I'm happy because my schoolmates and I get free flags and food," he said with a cheeky grin.

Students and teachers were not the only ones who gathered in the capital early yesterday morning.

Frank Ford, who is a teacher in Brunei, brought his family Naj and Sam and a friend, Josette Saiang, along to witness the grand event.

"We've been here for 16 year's and have seen a number of royal birthday celebrations over the past seven years," said Naj.

One reason why we like to witness events such as this is that we get to take photos with the cheerful children of Brunei, she added.

It is better to see the event live with your own eyes rather than watching it on TV, according to Ak Danny Pg Tajuddin, who convinced his friend from Kuala Belait, Junief bin Panda, to drive up for the event.

Jielus Hendrik Kuijntjes and Tettje from Holland were very impressed with the large turnout for His Majesty's birthday celebration in the capital.

They described yesterday's celebration as a "must see" event. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 25-7-2007 09:42 AM ]

TheHawk

Sultan presents a DPMB medal
to 177 Colonel Pengiran Haji Azmanshah

25 Bestowed Titles Sultan's Birthday
By Azrol Azmi & Yusrin Junaidi

Bandar Seri Begawan - His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday consented to bestow titles and present medals to 25 people during an Audience and Investiture ceremony at Singgahsana Indera Buana, Istana Nurul Iman, in conjunction with the monarch's 61st birthday.

The event was also attended by Her Majesty Raja lsteri Pengiran Anak Hjh Saleha, Her Royal Highness Pengiran Isteri Azrinaz Mazhar, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, HRH Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah and HRH Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hjh Zariah, HRH Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, Pengiran Bini Hjh Faizah, HRH Prince Abdul Azim, HRH Prince Abdul Malik, HRH Prince Abdul Mateen and other members of the royal family.

There were also foreign guests present, including HRH Princess Basma of Jordan and senior officials from Asean countries.

Among the recipients of the tides and medals were permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries and senior government officials.

The ceremony began with the bestowing of "Darjah Seri Paduka Mahkota Brunei Yang Amat Mulia Darjah Kedua (DPMB)", which carries the title "Dato Paduka" to eight recipients - Orang kaya Jaya Patera Awang Hj Muhammad Taha bin Abd Rauf, Awang Lim Jock Hoi, Awang Hj Mohd Said bin Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Setia Dato Paduka Hj Hashim, Awang Hj Abdul Rashid bin Hj Abdul Rahman, Awang Hj Abd Majid bin Mangarshah, 177 Colonel Pengiran Hj Azmansham bin Pengiran Hj Mohammad @ Mohamed, Awang Hj Daud bin Serudin, and payang Hjh Salbiah binti Hj Sulaiman.

This was followed by the bestowing of "Darjah Seri Ugama Islam Negara Brunei Yang Amat Bersinar Darjah Ketiga (SSUB)" to two recipients Awang Hjh Zainal @ Abu Bakar bin Hj Idris and Dayang Hjh Norzainah bte Md Tahir.

Meanwhile, 15 people were bestowed "Darjah Setia Negara Brunei Yang Amat Bahagia Darjah Ketiga (SNB)". The recipients were: Dr Awang Hj Affendy bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Hj Abidin, Awang Yusof Amba, Awang Hj Abd. Hamid bin Hj Janudin, Pengiran Kasmirhan bin Pengiran Hj Mohd Tahir, Supt Awang Hj Abd Murad bin Hj Abd Hadi, Senior Superintendent Awang Matamit Hj Kanak, Hulubalang tnspector Awang Lunden bin Hj Salleh, Awang Hj Md Aminuddin bin Dato Paduka Hj Abd Wahab, Awang Lim Sam Lee, Pengiran Maun bin Pengiran Hj Said, Awang Lim Ming Siong @ Lim Ming Siam, Dayang Naimah bte Mohd Ali, Dr Dayang Hjh Kalsom bin Abd Latif, Dayang Aminah the Hj Mohd Jaafar, and Dayang Nora抋lia bte Pehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Hj Abd Rahim.

Also present to witness the ceremony were Pengiran-Pengiran Cheterias, cabinet ministers, members of councils, deputy ministers, Pengiran-Pengiran Peranakan, Pehin-Pehin in M anted, Manteri-Manteri Pendalaman, foreign diplomats permanent secretaries and heads of government departments.

The event concluded with a doa selamat, read by the State Mufti. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 25-7-2007 09:46 AM ]

TheHawk

Public welcome early bonus
By P Marilyn & Kartika Rahman

The public swarmed to the capital last night to celebrate His Majesty's 61st birthday at the Pasar Ria during the-two day public holiday until today.
They also welcomed the announcement of the early bonus for government servants starting this year as consented by His Majesty in a titah at the Audience and Investiture ceremony earlier yesterday. The overall response was overwhelming as the citizens of His Majesty expressed their gratitude when the Bulletin spoke to them. "I am very happy with the good news as many families including mine have been waiting for this," said Haji Mohd Wasiuddin. A father of one, he said he will be setting aside a portion of his bonus for his child's education. Pengiran Haji Mohd Faizul, a government servant with two children aged six and seven years old, is grateful to His Majesty for the advance bonus that he will be receiving this year. He said he would be able to buy his children's school supplies for the new term. "It's not easy to set aside a budget. Our kids feel left out when their friends have new school bags and stationery," he said. A mother of four, Rozaidah, shared the same view. Expressing her gratitude to His Majesty for the advance bonus, she said, "So far the budget for my children's school supplies is from 'sedekah' Hari Raya. The advance bonus will really help with this expense in preparing for the children's new term," she said. "It's difficult to set aside for school supplies when our bonus comes at the end of January and classes start early January," said Md Daniel. "I have five children. They all go to school. It's a big expense to cover all their school needs. The early bonus is a blessing." Gratitude was also shown by vendors at Pasar Ria. Hj Rizal, a vendor, said, "We had the opportunity to set up shop during the Royal Wedding too. Having the Pasar Ria for His Majesty's birthday as well as the forthcoming Ramadhan Gerai provides good business prospects for us vendors, as out of 1,000 applicant perhaps only 100 get picked."

[ Last edited by  TheHawk at 25-7-2007 09:47 AM ]

holmes

Originally posted by TheHawk at 17-7-2007 12:33 PM
http://www.brunei-online.com/bb/mon/16pic4.jpg
Taman Sir Omar Ali Saiffudien packed
with families enjoying the holiday

http://www.brunei-online.com/bb/mon/16pic7.jpg
Hj Rizal and family te ...

Bravo on this one...

heard about it last year..but may be it was too late...

TheHawk

Tuesday, 17th July 2007

Brunei Capital

SMEs Key To Brunei抯 Growth
By M K Anwar

Bandar Seri Begawan - From small corner shops to restaurants, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) arc the backbone of the country's economy. His Majesty the Sultan and Yang DiPertuan of Brunei Darussalam in his birthday titah Sunday asked relevant agencies to provide further recognition to SMEs as their contribution to the nation's economy is important as ever.

In the 13-minute titah, His Majesty called on all parties to appreciate the contribution of SMEs and together assist them in their problems and urged the relevant agencies to iron out or streamline any regulations or processes that can hinder the growth of SMEs. Government agencies must also provide an avenue for the growth and development of SMEs so that they will become a key sector that can help develop the nation, the monarch said.

His Majesty said he was confident that with proper planning, the country could produce trained entrepreneurs that can be the pioneers of the export industry.

"If this happens, it will provide the chance to put our local products in the regional and international market," the ruler said.


This was not the first time His Majesty had highlighted the importance of public services and the private sector. In the National Day titah this year, His Majesty said that the public sector services need upgrading and improvement in more appropriate ethics.

His Majesty also urged the private sector to contribute to the development of the country, especially in strengthening the country's Gross Domestic Product through more direct and meaningful economic activities.

SMEs in Brunei have certainly come a long way. Their contribution as the engine of economic growth has been reiterated over the years.

According to a report by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) published in November 2006, SMEs constituted the dominant form of business organisation, accounting for 95 to 99 per cent of enterprises in many countries and this has resulted in a 60 to 70 per cent of job creation in OECD countries.

SMEs in countries like Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia constitute a large portion of the respective countries' economies.

In Brunei, SMEs account for 98 per cent of all active business enterprises and have contributed about 92 per cent of employment in the private sector and a little over 66 per cent of GDP within the non-oil sector of the economy.

The 8th National Development Plan provided an incentive for Ahem to participate further in the economic diversification of the country.

His Majesty in a titah on the 8th NDP said since much depends on the cooperation between the government and private sector for the country's economy to prosper, all government agencies should take necessary steps to create a conducive environment to encourage more local and foreign investments in the country.

"All ministries and departments should continue to coordinate their activities to ensure more efficient and effective implementation of National Development, whilst the private sector should play an active role to accelerate the country's economic diversification process."

The Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources (MIPR) has undoubtedly been the focal point for SME development.

The ministry recently formed a committee for the development and promotion of local products with representatives from local business organisations, entrepreneurs and senior officers from several related government agencies.

The committee coordinates, plans and implements supporting programmes for SMEs, as well as ensures a more effective cooperation and communication between the government agencies and the private sector.

Assistance from the government has not stopped there, the introduction of two finance schemes that aims to provide loan facilities to local entrepreneurs in starting or expanding their business have seen loans of up to B$23 million approved through the MIPR to 406 entrepreneurs in 2006.

The Minister of Finance II, Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim, at the official launch of the First International Islamic Conference on Inclusive Islamic Financial Sector Development said that through various initiatives to encourage local SMEs' growth, the government in 2006 had granted B$18.38 million worth of financial support to 66 entrepreneurs via the Industrial Facilities Scheme in sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, manufacturing and tourism.

Several banks in the country have come forward with attractive financial loans for local SMEs.

Several SMEs, however, have asked for authorities to consider providing flexibility in repaying loans.

But the Minister of Finance II said, "Entrepreneurs must assume a high level of personal integrity and adopt a strong capacity towards business management, especially financial discipline since a true understanding and strict demonstration of financial discipline would always underpin a successful business."

Apart from the financial support, there have been other efforts to further improve the skills of entrepreneurs in managing their businesses.

Recently, the SME Innovation Centre, an initiative by the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB), was opened as part of its ongoing efforts to support and develop the local SMEs, in particular the growing number of technopreneurs in Brunei.

Courses conducted by specialised agencies have noticed a significant increase in the number of participants from different business fields. The Entrepreneurial Development Centre (EDC) in Sinaut, for example, has been carrying out training programmes for prospective and qualified SMEs in Brunei for the past 20-25 years. Since 2002, around 700 participants have attended these programmes every year.

Furthermore, special areas have been earmarked to accommodate SMEs aimed at encouraging more locals to enter the business foray.

His Majesty Sunday said, "I want to see especially SMEs to seize this opportunity."

So, it's up to SMEs to make good of the opportunities provided by the government and help pump-prime the nation's economy. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Tuesday, 17th July 2007

Customer checking the environment friendly
reusable shopping bags at SupaSave

Supasave Goes Green With Environment Friendly Bags
By Azaraimy and Za'im Zaini

Bandar Seri Begawan - Fits Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in his birthday titah Sunday said that our way of life has a direct bearing on the country's environment and cleanliness.

Natural disasters and pollution are two related issues with the latter happening as a result of our way of living.

"For example dirty drains, markets, restaurants and others are caused by the way of living that does not emphasise on cleanliness. This issue must not be neglected," His Majesty said.

Environment is just not the responsibility of the public sector but also the private sector, most importantly the consumer sector.

The royal call to protect the environment has been answered by SupaSave, one of Brunei's supermarkets.

SupaSave has provided customers a chance to safeguard the environment by shunning plastic bags and opting to purchase environment friendly reusable shopping bags.

Some customers, who care for the environment, have shunned plastic bags, which are non-biodegradable, and carried their own bags while shopping at supermarkets in the country.

In Brunei, the usage of plastic bags is quite rampant. According to research, waste that is sent to the Sungai Akar disposal site showed an estimated 30,000 tonnes of plastic.

We only need to look back to solve the plastic problem as in the olden days people traditionally used the woven baskets and bags to carry goods.

SupaSave has made the right move to keep Brunei clean and green. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Tuesday, 17th July 2007

Hiding in a closet

Man Found Hiding In Closet During Immigration Check In Temburong
By Za'im Zaini

Bangar - Six foreign nationals were apprehended in Temburong Sunday night during an operation conducted by officers from the Law Enforcement Section, Department of Immigration and National Registration.

The four-hour operation eodenamed "Ops Bongkar 88" was held in conjunction with the upcoming get-together ceremony between His Majesty the Sultan and Yana Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and the rakyat in Temburong.

During the inspection, five Indonesians - two males and three females and a Bangladeshi man were temporarily detained. They were later released after their employers produced their passports.

Officers found an Indonesian man who pretended to he asleep inside a closet in a room rented by two Indonesian women.

The man was issued a special pass, and the case has been referred to the Religious Enforcement Section.

Some 14 officers were involved in the raid, which was led by the Acting Assistant Director of Immigration. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Tuesday, 17th July 2007

SEIZED: Six boxes of undeclared
and dubious meat bones and the
smuggler's motorcycle

Dubious Meat Smuggler Stopped In His Tracks
By Za'im

Bandar Seri Begawan - An attempt to bring in contraband into the country was met with failure when a smuggler was apprehended by police personnel of the Reserve Unit Muara C Company in the mouse trail in .lunjungan, Sunday night.

The smuggler, a 30-year-old foreign national was caught at around 7.40pm while the police personnel were carrying out their routine patrol in the area, the OCS of Liman Manis Police Station Insp Jainalabidin Pg Hj Abdul Rahman said.

During the arrest the man was found carrying contraband comprising six boxes of undeclared and dubious hones on in motorcycle. The smuggler claimed that he had been paid to bring the six boxes into the countries.

The man is being detained for further investigation and the case will be transferred to the Royal Customs and Excise Department and the Department of Immigration and National Registration for further action. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Tuesday, 17th July 2007

Remand Extended For Suspect In Couple's Murder
By Rol &am
Bandar Seri Begawan - A 20-year-old local, who is facing the death penalty if convicted of the charge for committing murder by causing the death of a husband and wife, was ordered to be further remanded for another two weeks by the Bandar Magistrate's Court Saturday.
The application of remand was applied by Deputy Public Prosecutor Hj Nabil Daraina PDH Badaruddin who appeared for Public Prosecutor.
The defendant, Mohd Hazri bin Besar, will appear again before the same court on July 28 at 2pm.
The defendant was separately charged with committing murder by causing the death of Joffri bin Ahmad Juni/Ahmad Juriah, 41, sometime between 8pm on June 24 and 5am on June 25 in the vicinity of a house at Lot No 2924, Simpang 41, Kampong Telamba, Tutong.
The youth was also charged with causing the death of Derosna binti Jumat, 35, at the same time and place. The offence carries the death penalty.
The couple was found dead in front of their house in Tutong three weeks ago.-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Wednesday, 18th July 2007


Brunei Capital

Boom Time For Auto Sector
By Azlan Othman

Bandar Seri Begawan - Brunei抯 auto industry has bounced back from a poor showing in late 2005 and beginning of 2006 with a 27 per cent increase in the first half of this year, official statistics revealed.

Another encouraging sign is that car finance companies are now in better shape with proper loan processes and guideline procedures in place. They said nowadays it is not as easy as it was a few years ago to get financing resulting in a decline in 'delinquency' cases.

The financing companies are now more cautious as one bank even interviews the potential customer before approving the loan to ensure that nobody buys a car using another person's name.

Though the first half of this year has shown a 27 per cent increase in the number of cars sold in the Sultanate, some finance companies are predicting the total volume of business this year to be the same like last year.


According to official statistics from the automobile traders association, in the first half of this year (January till June), some 6,738 units have been sold compared to 5,297 units during the same period last year. Once again, NBT Sdn Bhd, the distributor of Toyota, took the lion's share of the market with 2,016 units (30 per cent), with Suzuki and Hyundai trailing behind with 783 and 593 units respectively. Dealers sell an average of 12,000 cars annually.

Car sales towards the end of 2005 and beginning of 2006 were slow due to the tightening of loans in the country. Sales surged again after the second half of last year following the announcement of a pay rise to government servants, especially in the lower divisions, in the form of accelerated increments.

Nowadays, new ear models mainly from China are making their way into the Sultanate, notably Geely distributed by Daha Trading, Great Wall distributed by World Wide Motor and Mahindra distributed by United Motors. On the whole, 11 units of Geely, 11 units of Great Wall and one unit of Mahindra have been sold.

However, one of the dealers expressed his concern about the drop in the quality of some cars never heard before in the local market. The dealer also said there are some reconditioned car dealers who have now shifted their strategy by renting their cars to customers.

Even though Brunei has a high car ownership to population ratio in the region, another dealer said the sector is heading for saturation. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Wednesday, 18th July 2007


Awg Haji Mohd Zakaria

Brunei Complies With Montreal Protocol
By James Kon

Bandar Seri Begawan - Brunei Darussalam has complied with the Montreal Protocol to wipe out the use of Ozone Depleting Substances (including chlorofluorocarbons called CFC) by year 2010 by restricting the importation of such substances in 2005 and 2006.

The landmark international agreement is designed to protect the stratospheric ozone layer that protects life on earth from harmful solar ultraviolet radiation.

Awang Haji Mohd Zakaria bin Haji Sarudin, Director of Environment, Parks and Recreation. Ministry of Development, in his welcoming remarks at the opening ceremony for National Train the Trainer Workshop for Customs officers on monitoring and controlling of Ozone Depleting Substances, yesterday morning, also said that according to statistics, Brunei imported 39.12 metric tonnes of Ozone Depleting Substances in 2005 and 26.5 metric tonnes in 2006, both in line with the guideline of 39.12 metric tonnes set by the Montreal Protocol.

"Brunei has successfully maintained its state of compliance on Ozone Depleting Substances as stated in the Montreal Protocol. It is hoped the state of compliance will continue until the deadline to completely eliminate its use in the country by 2010," he said.

"The success in controlling the quantity of Ozone Depleting Substances imported into the country conies from the joint cooperation between the Environment, Parks and Recreation Department as the National Ozone Unit and the Royal Customs and Excise Department. The Customs officers act as an agency that plays a vital role in controlling, monitoring and reducing Ozone Depleting Substances in Brunei. The monitoring and controlling of the use of such substances has been further reinforced with the introduction of a permit system in June 2005.

"Since Brunei became a member of the Montreal Protocol in August 1993, it has the responsibility to implement steps in controlling, reducing and monitoring the substances including export and import. The data is updated from time to time and reported to the Ozone, Secretariats," the director said.

Under Chapter 36 Customs Act, Customs Order (prohibition and control on import and export) amendment 2005, laws arc enforced to control and eradicate the use of Ozone Depleting Substances in Brunei.

Haji Mohd Zakaria also said the agreement signed on the "Implementation of the Refrigerant Management Plan (AMP): Customs Training Programme" between Brunei Darussalam and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) on April I I, 2007, the framework to control, reduce and monitor Ozone Depleting Substances will be further enhanced to fulfil the responsibilities. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Wednesday, 18th July 2007



His Majesty Makes It Day To Remember For Temburong Residents
By Azaraimy, Za'im Zaini & Amin Hosni

Bangar - Thousands of loyal subjects, undeterred by the scorching sun, showed their devotion towards His Majesty the Sultan during the monarch's first of four series of "Bersama Rakyat" (get-together) in Temburong District yesterday.

Behind the successful event was a string of stories.

Home to the country's many ethnic groups and natural environment, Temburong houses people from all walks of life. Despite their different background, they share one thing in common: their love for the Sultan.

Dressed in Murut traditional costume, Elizabeth Sunat, Ana Jumat, Selen Tako and Joshua took to the field for the first time. While they have their respective aspirations in life, they said performing for their beloved monarch was something they cherished as it was an opportunity few got to experience.

"What can be better than showing our love for His Majesty during the get-together?" they asked.

Others such as Mohd Zulhilmi and Norsaarini of Malay descent and Mas Juliet Gromical, who is an Iban, said taking part in the field performance exposed them to the diversity in the district.

Cikgu Saiful Bahri and Cikgu Abdul Hakim from Puni Primary School have been working in Temburong for only two weeks. So, taking part in "Bersama Rakyat" in Temburong was a new experience for them.

"We wish His Majesty a long life and wish him_ the best," they said.

Meanwhile, Jeffery Lim of Sultan Hassan Bangar Secondary School said the event was probably the most unique one held in Temburong so far this year.

"You got to see different faces of Temburong. It was also one of the few events when Temburong residents come together amid such joyous occasion," he added.

Cikgu Yahuda bin Gelawat of Puni Primary School has been attending His Majesty's birthday celebrations for eight consecutive years.

He also applauded the Sultan's announcement that government servants will receive their bonuses early this year.

"Sometimes students don't really get to have ail the necessary stationeries, especially books, because their parents can't afford them due to late bonuses," he said. The Bulletin also met award-winning photographer Don Gurewitz, who said, "The events I have been to so far in Brunei Darussalam are very colourful. I've never seen such wonderful events anywhere else in the world. The people here are very enthusiastic and happy."

Gurewitz is currently working for the Information Department, and has recently agreed to work with the Brunei Tourism. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin