✰ Brunei Darussalam ~ NEWS & HILITES ✰

TheHawk

His Majesty tours the 'Dirgahayu 60' monument
after officiating it during the get-together event.

Sultan Opens 'Dirgahayu 60' Monument
By Azlan Othman

Bandar Seri Begawan - His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday officiated the 'Dirgahayu 60' monument during the get-together ceremony with citizens and residents of the Brunei-Muara District.

Following the unveiling, His Majesty toured the exhibition showing the construction of the monument and the development of Bandar Seri Begawan, including the newly-unveiled expansion of the municipality of Bandar Seri Begawan and the proposed Bandar Seri Begawan waterfront.

Located in front of Kg Ayer and next to Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Dirgahayu 60' monument is a `pesambah' from the citizens and residents of the country to show their undivided loyalty to the caring monarch in conjunction with the Sultan's birthday last year.

The monument portrays the manifestation of heart and soul, as well as support from citizens and residents for the leadership of the benevolent ruler in establishing solidarity, peace, security, prosperity and development of the nation marching towards cxettllence.

The concept of the monument is based on the country's philosophy of Malay, Islamic, Monarchy. Elements that shape the structure of the monument dictate symbolism or meaning.

For example, the main structure, which is gold in colour and shaped like '60' in Arabic, depicts the Islamic identity and portrays the age of His Majesty.

By pointing upwards the structure depicts the credibility and charisma of His Majesty as the leader and head of state with his vision to develop the country towards excellence while upholding the sovereignty of the nation.

The gold-coloured cable that supports the number '60' reflects the close ties between His Majesty and the citizens/ residents. It shows that citizens and residents from all walks of life uphold and support the wise leadership of His Majesty in guiding the nation.

The five foundations/pillars, located at the base of the monument that is shaped like a pentagon, portray the five pillars of Islam and signify that Islamic values and teachings, based on Ahli Sunnah Waljamaah, will forever become the basis and guideline of His Majesty's rule.

The water fountain from the five foundations/pillars reflects the peace and prosperity of the nation, thanks to the commitment and determination of the citizens and residents in developing the nation.

The 60 tights floating in the water pool whose reflection moves in harmony with the ripple of the pool, depicts the prayer of the citizens and residents to Allah for longevity and continuous good health and prosperity of His Majesty under the protection of Allah.

Built at a cost of around $1.5 million, the monument has taken shape thanks to the sponsorship and generous contribution from the private sector, citizens and residents of the country. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

His Majesty at Kg Sabah booth

Healthy Lifestyle At Meet-&- Greet Show
By Huraizah Ahmad & P Marilyn

Bandar Seri Begawan - Over 2,000 participants from schools and colleges took part in the field performances at the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien field for the Brunei-Muara Get-Together yesterday.

From choir singers to field performers, they were choreographed to present the event's theme, "Cergas Ceria Dirgahayu 61

TheHawk

20-Year-Old Girl Fined $1,500 For Assault
By Malai FadleyRizal

Bandar Seri Begawan - A 20-year-old local girl was fined $1,500, or jailed two months in default, after she was found guilty before the Bandar Magistrate's Court for assaulting a 40-year-old woman.

Prosecuting Officer Ak Haji Yusra Pengiran Haft Mohammad produced witnesses to testify against the defendant in court, which found her guilty for pulling down the 40-year-old woman's headscarf, punching her face and kicking her.

The incident occurred during a meeting between the defendant and the victim on April 25. 2005.

A medical report on the victim was conducted on the following day. The woman sustained abrasion on the first side of her nose and redness on the right cheek and neck. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Schedule For His Majesty's 61st Birthday Celebration

Bandar Seri Begawan

• Cleanliness and Landscaping Competition & Living Habitat Display located at the International Convention Centre, Berakas ( 2.00pm ). For further information please contact Mr. Hj Md. Zakaria bin Hj Sarudin at 2382102 or 2383222
• Night Stall located at the Parking Area/opposite Royal Regalia Building ( 8.00 pm)
• Cultural Stage Performance at Parking Area/opposite Royal Regalia Building ( 8.00pm ). For more information please contact Mr Hj Mohd Amin at 8621588
• The Postal Services Department, Ministry of Communications recently launched a commemorative first day cover to mark His Majesty's 61st Birthday Celebrations and the 100th Celebration of 'Bumbungan Dua Belas'. Members of the public can purchase the first day cover, which will be available starting July 23, at all 24 post offices in the country
• Top Spinning Tournament Final Round held at Kampong Parit Recreational Park and Kampong Selayun (SETENAGA) (Morning)
  

Belait District

• Night Stall located at Tamu Tudong Saji, Jalan Setia Diraja, Kuala Belait ( 8.00 pm )
• Stage Performance located at Tamu Tudong Saji, Jalan Setia Diraja Kuala Belait ( 8.00 pm )
• Arch and Neon Light Competition for Offices and Schools ( 7.00 pm )
  

Tutong District

• Performance by Kampong Bukit Consultative Council will be held at Tutong Community Hall. ( 8.00 pm )
• Night Stall located at the Vacant Area, Tutong Community Hall ( 8.00 pm )
  

Temburong District

• Night Stall located at Temburong Celebration Park (6.00 pm)
• Bintang Remaja Singing Competition will be held at Temburong Celebration Park. The guest of honour is Temburong District Police OCPD ( 8.00 pm )
  

TheHawk

Dates Distribution Meeting

Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation holds Dates Distribution Meeting in Conjunction with the Upcoming Fasting Month 1428H/2007M on Monday, July 23 at 2.20 pm located at the Multipurpose Hall, 4th Floor, Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex, Bandar Seri Begawan.

TheHawk

Registration for Fund Sale Day

The Parents & Teachers Association of Sayyidina Abu Bakar Secondary School are organising Fund Sale Day on Sunday, September 2.
25 booths are open to members of PIBG, SMSAB for rent at $25 each. Bookings can be made through teachers on duty at the Student Affairs Room from Monday, July 23 to August 9.

TheHawk

Welcoming Ceremony for International Summer Medical School 2007 Inter-Institutional Summer Programme


Welcoming Ceremony International Summer Medical School 2007, Inter-Institutional Summer Programme between The Institute of Medicine, Universiti Brunei Darussalam and Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Japan will be held on Monday, July 23 at 2.30 pm located at the Lecture Hall, Chancellor Hall, Universiti Brunei Darussalam

TheHawk

Welcoming Ceremony & Orientation Week for the 23rd Intake 2007-2009


Institut Teknologi Brunei (ITB) is organising Welcoming Ceremony & Orientation Week for the 23rd Intake 2007-2009 on Monday, July 23 at 8 am located at the Chancellor Hall, Universiti Brunei Darussalam.
The guest of honour is Yang Mulia Haji Awang Mohd Mahdi bin Pehin Orang Kaya Digadong Seri Diraja Dato Laila Utama Awang Abdul Rahman, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs.

TheHawk

Certificate Awarding Ceremony for The 1st Dikir Brunei Workshop

Certificate Awarding Ceremony for The 1st Dikir Brunei Workshop (Ministry of Education Officers and Staffs) will be held on Monday, July 23 at 2 pm located at Mohamed Bolkiah Mosque, Kampong Serusop, Berakas.
The guest of honour is Yang Mulia Pengiran Dato Seri Dr Haji Mohammad bin Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahman, Deputy Minister of Education.

TheHawk

Storm Wreaks Havoc
By Aemy Azlena, Yusrin Junaidi & Za'im Zaini

Bandar Seri Begawan - Strong winds accompanied by blinding rain late yesterday evening brought the capital to a grinding halt as many structures and stalls at the gerai came crashing down.

The biggest of the structures that collapsed in the thunderstorm 憊as the arch at the centre of the three-lane Kiulap roundabout opposite the Jame Asr. Minister of Home Affairs, Pchin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Hj Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Strata Khatih Dato Seri Setia Awang Hj Mohd Yussof toured some of the affected areas last night.

The Fire and Rescue Department said that it was inundated with calls from the public seeking help. The department's hotline 995 handled calls complaining of flying roofs, fallen trees collapsed arches fallen signboards and others.

The collapse of the structure at the Kiulap roundabout also brought down the colourful neon lights surrounding it leaving the area in darkness.


The Gadong Night Market (Pasar Gadong) was also hit hard by the squally weather. According to a witness, strong winds started to blow around 6.30pm. Around an hour later, tents were blown across the night market. The Bulletin learnt that one person suffered minor injuries.

Electricity in the area was also cut off.

The Jubilee Park area also suffered the same fate as many stall vendors saw their tents collapse. Many signboards and buntings in the area also came down, unable to withstand nature's fury.

Meanwhile, along the Berakas Highway, a couple of trees were uprooted and fell on the road blocking traffic and causing a jam.

Fortunately, no one was injured at the time of the incident. The Royal Brunei Police Force was at the scene to help control the situation by guiding ding the motorists. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Brunei Capital

Expanding Brunei Capital Eyes City Status
By Azlan Othman

Bandar Seri Begawan - The expansion of the Bandar Seri Begawan municipal area will bring in more revenue while facilitating efforts to make the capital attain city status.

His Majesty Sunday consented for the expansion of the BSB municipal area effective August 1.

In revealing the project to the public during the exhibition Sunday during the get-together ceremony with the monarch in the Brunei/Muara District, the authority concerned outlined the reasons for the expansion.

One of them is the municipality of BSB is too limited to cope with the demand for new progress and physical development.

Due to this, developments are seen at the edge of the BSB municipality such as in Gadong, Kiulap, Kiarong, Banat and parts of Berakas.

Another reason is that there is no difference in terms of basic facilities in the municipal area of BSB and outside the municipal area of BSB. In addition, there is a rapid development (which meets the criteria of municipal area) of business and commercial centres outside BSB and a rise in population outside the BSB municipal area.

Among the benefits that can be obtained from the expansion of the municipal area are: to increase the country's revenue through the enforcement of act/regulation under the jurisdiction of BSB Municipal Department; to integrate areas that have rapidly developed at the edge of BSB with the present BSB municipal area to coordinate an efficient and proper development.

It is also to give balanced services, basic facilities and infrastructure at a higher level within the BSB municipal area and at the edge of BSB and to facilitate efforts to lift the status of BSB as a city in line with its position as the capital of Brunei Darussalam.

The expansion has been made while taking into account the move to uphold the integrity of Mukims and villages. to involve growth areas and main commercial areas, including areas that have historical values like museums in Kota Batu/Pelamhayan and Kg Ayer. It is also to turn the Brunei International Airport as the gateway to Brunei and a landmark so that the border could be identified which would facilitate efficient management and administration.

The last- declaration of the border of BSB municipal area was based on the government statement dated October 1, 1956. In August 1990, a proposed working paper to widen the BSB municipal area was agreed upon at the policy level by the BSB Municipal Dept and forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs a month later.

In the proposal, the ministry raised several doubts and overlap in administrative power on the proposal to divide a Mukim or a village. In reviewing the paper work to widen the municipal area of BSB, the ministry carried out the coordination of the expansion proposal.

An ad-hoc committee was established and met in January 1995, and agreed upon the new border map proposal. In December 1995, the ad-hoc committee met again and agreed that the border should be demarcated based on two criteria namely to identify the border area based on the capital city functions that cover higher hierarchical activities and that border delineation is carried out based on international standards such as physical landscape such as hills, mountains, rivers and so on.

The ad-hoc committee also agreed that the border identification would also use the local criteria such as bordering through land lots, Mukims and villages.

In March 2004, the ministry set up a special committee to review the proposal of the expansion. During -a special committee meeting in January 2005, they agreed that the municipal area of BSB should be expanded from 12.87 sq km to 100.36 sq km, the enforcement of tax payment and so on will be carried out in stages in accordance with the human resource capacity of the Municipal Department, and their preparation in providing the service.

In January 2006, the ministry set up a task force to review the proposal of the expansion by taking into account the suitability of the areas involved to be included in the new municipal area of BSB, the ability of the Municipal Department in establishing the municipal area in terms of development, law enforcement, regulations and services needed, revenues expected to be collected and in providing services in stages and to ensure the new border will not break any village. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

His Majesty Sultan Haji
Hassanal Bolkiah

Monarch To Grace Knowledge Convention 2007 Today
By Johnny Ong

Bandar Seri Begawan - The annual Majlis limo or Knowledge Convention which starts today will be graced by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam at the International Convention Centre.

The convention is one of the main events held in conjunction with the celebration of the monarch's 61st birthday. The convention will be held in the form of an exhibition, seminars as well as workshops.

International intellectuals and local policy-makers, community leaders, the private sector and members of the public will be brought together to see a mind-mix that will benefit the nation in areas of knowledge, experience, skills and commerce.

This year will be the fourth iteration the convention has brought together our community through many levels of society.

The theme for the convention is: Agidah Kukuh Membawa Berkat which translates to Blessings favour the Faithful.

There are five topics at the exhibition - Kepimpinan Raja Dalam Masyarakat Beraqidah (Monarch's leadership in community faith); Melayu Islam Beraja - Julangan Kedaulatan Raja dan Kekukuhan Negara (Upholding the sovereignty of the monarch and national stability); Masyarakat Beraqidah dan Penyelewengan Aqidah (community faith and deviations in faith); Astronomy and Fossils and Gerai Masyarakat (community stalls).

The convention will run from July 24 until 31 August, in which as many as 10 papers will be discussed at the forums. The exhibition is open to the public and admission is free.

There will also be community level knowledge convention that will visit each of the four districts.

The district level event will be in the format of morning seminar and afternoon workshops.

The Temburong seminar will take place on August 2 at Belalong Hall; Tutong on August 16 at the Seri Kenangan

Hall; Belait on August 16 at the SRC hall in Seria and BruneiMuara on August 21 at the Multipurpose hall of the Fire Rescue Department.

Other events that will take place with the convention are a novel writing competition, poetry writing, live quiz and a spontaneous quiz on stage at MajIEx 2007. -- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

TheHawk

Dates

More Dates For Fasting Month
By Za'im Zaini

Bandar Seri Begawan - Some 123.5 metric tonnes of Mabroom dates, a personal gift of His Majesty the Sultan during the fasting month of Ramadhan, will be distributed to all Muslims in the country.

Each will be given a 300 gramme-box of the dark-coloured, very sweet and strong-flavoured dried fruit to break the fast.

This year, there will be an additional seven tonnes of Mabroom dates, a staple food in the Middle East compared to last year's 116.5 metric tonnes imported from Saudi Arabia.

A meeting on the distribution of the dates during Ramadhan was held yesterday and chaired by Dato Paduka Haji Ali Hashim Bin Haji Daud, Managing Director of Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation.

Discussed were the management system and distribution of the dates and the appointment of a secretariat comprising of officers from government departments and officers of the foundation

The meeting also discussed the format of the proceedings of the launching ceremony of the distribution of dates, and the appointment of members of the working committee and the small committee for the event.

Present at the meeting were representatives of district officers from the four districts, the Royal Customs and Excise, Ports Department, Royal Brunei Armed Forces and Royal Brunei Police Force and officers of the foundation.

The distribution of the dates this year will begin with a launching ceremony when they will be handed over to village heads, who will distribute His Majesty's personal gift of dates to the villagers.

The dates will be handed to the commanders of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, and unit directors in the Ministry of Defence and to the commanding officers of the Royal Brunei Police.

The management of the distribution of the dates is organised by the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah foundation every year. The dates are supplied by Al Madinah al Munawarah Dates Company. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

His Majesty delivers the titah at the
opening of the Knowledge Convention

Religious Belief Brings Growth And Prosperity
By Za'im Zaini and Aemy Azlena

Bandar Seri Begawan - "Make it our guidance to make us work diligently and efficiently until it leads to a quality achievement and higher productivity.

This was the observation on "akidah" or religious belief made by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in a titah at the opening of the Knowledge Convention yesterday morning. His Majesty said that we must be aware that akidah is a lifelong issue. Activities that are against the akidah are commonplace and not many realise that these activities can bring major destruction and loss.

Some simple examples given by His Majesty included stealing, alcohol consumption and misuse of drugs. These, said His Majesty, are among the many activities that are against the belief.

"Can't we see the destruction and loss that awaits them?" asked the monarch.


The ruler said that those involved in such activities show that they are not fully committed to the belief else they would have avoided them (activities which are considered haram) in the first place. So, therein lies the nobleness and importance of akidah, His Majesty added.

Touching on the available mechanism to produce a generation with strong beliefs, His Majesty pointed to facilities, capabilities, agencies, schemes and programmes with complete infrastructure, all of which can bring prolonged security.

The monarch said what needs to be done is to re-view those mechanisms and master its implementation paradigm so that the objective of a society with strong religious belief in attaining prosperity, development and growth can be fully achieved.

His Majesty said a society with strong religious beliefs is a society that excels, its character fully developing and not destroying or disturbing the development of the country and nation.

Meanwhile, on the Knowledge Convention, His Majesty said that it continues to garner support and interest from many because of its unique presentation as well as fulfilling the characteristics of knowledge and civilisation. For this reason, the convention must come out with fresh agendas.

Reflecting on past themes of the convention, His Majesty said that it began by providing a proper perspective on the functions of a mosque, then on education and professionalism for quality and productivity and last year on sovereignty as the pillar for survival of the nation.

This year, the Knowledge Convention brings a theme related to akidah as hope and prayer for a society with strong beliefs that is blessed by Allah.

The monarch said the theme shows us the way of life as the akidah has stated, whether in the way we think, plan or implement any forms of programmes.

Also present at the event yesterday were His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's office, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, HRH Prince Abdul Azim and HRH Prince Abdul Malik. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Minister of Home Affairs
chairing an emergency meeting

192 Houses Damaged; Donations Pour In
By Sonia K

Bandar Seri Begawan - Nearly 200 houses were badly affected in a storm that hit the Brunei-Muara District Monday night. Almost 90 per cent of the houses damaged are in Kampong Ayer.

The late evening storm that wreaked havoc ended up damaging 192 houses, 34 of them extensively.

In just one day 5197,200 in donations poured in from more than 40 companies and individuals in the private sector to provide help to people whose homes were affected by the storm. A donation of $50,000 came from Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.

Among the areas that were affected included Mukim Peramu, Mukim Saba, Mukim Tamoi, Mukim Sungai Kedayan, Mukim Burong Pingai Aver, Mukim Sungai Kebun, Mukitn Kota Batu and Mukim Berakas B. Also bearing the brunt of the thunderstorm were a few schools and suraus in Kampong Ayer.

The unfortunate event grabbed the attention of authorities including several government agencies, as well as those in the private sector who have pledged to cooperate and take immediate action to help victims affected by the storm.

An emergency meeting was held yesterday at the Brunei-Muara District Office, Chaired by the Minister or Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Hj Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Awang Hj Mohd Yusof, the meeting received an overwhelming response from members in the government and private sector.

Others who attended included representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Brunei-Muara District Office, Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Royal Brunei Police Force, Fire and Rescue Department, National Disaster Management Centre, Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Brunei Islamic Council, Community Development Department, Electrical Department, Public Works Department (JKR ), Penghulu Mukim, village heads, senior government officers, as well as private companies.

The meeting discussed ways of immediate help that could be rendered, situation of the effected houses, safety issues and administrative actions according to respective responsibilities.

The minister said immediate actions must be carried out as soon as possible, especially for victims that are badly affected by the storm, so that they will be able to continue with their normal lives.

Among the parties that agreed to take immediate actions was the Community Development Department under the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. It promised to prepare basic necessities such as food, water, blankets, mattresses and most importantly canvases to he used temporarily for a week starting today.

The department will also erect temporary homes for those who are really in need of them.

Besides, the department will also send its officers to investigate the homes of the victims to provide immediate financial help to repair the damages.

The Brunei Islamic Council has agreed to provide financial help for victims to Purchase roofing materials such as wood, nails, zinc and so on.

At the emergency meeting, all parties have agreed to make the Fire and Rescue Station in Sungai Lampai as a Disaster Operation Centre, as its location is strategic and close to Kampung Ayer.

The Royal Brunei Armed Forces volunteered to set up several aid teams to help in areas such as manpower, logistics and technical assistance.

The teams will work together with Penghulu Mukim, village heads and members of the Mukim and Kampung Consultative Council to build, restore and repair damaged facilities.

The Royal Brunei Police Force with help from the Marine Police team will patrol and at the same time ensure the safety of the areas affected at all limes.

The Department of Electrical Services will also participate in the safety operation to ensure that electrical cables are installed in an orderly and safe manner so as not to cause any danger to the residents.

The Public Works Department has agreed to provide technical teams to ensure the repairs and restoration fulfil building sustainability.

The sustainability of the buildings is a very important aspect to make sure that if a similar storm were to occur, such damages will not happen again.

By noon, the private sector managed to collect a donation of $96,200 from companies and individuals. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Astro's Antenna

Kristal-Astro Rates Up From August 1
By M K Anwar

Bandar Seri Begawan - It's finally confirmed. Kristal-Astro viewers will soon have to cough up more to watch live football matches or movies.

The'news of the rise in subscription rates has been in the pipeline since new rates were introduced for Malaysian subscribers in June.

With the new subscription rates effective August 1, Kristal-Astro viewers will now have to pay B$40.95 for the World Package, which previously was B$35.95.

The Movie package will now cost B$41.95, up from the previous B$36.95.

The Movie World package will come at B$54.95 from B$49.95.

For subscribers who have paid in advance for the next three, six or 12 months, the new pricing will only take effect after their subscription payments expire.

Astro Malaysia recently said that programming costs last year_ hit more than RM600 million and the increase was necessary as content costs in particular Mr "live" sports events had increased by more than 20 per cent this year.

Kristal-Astro in a press statement yesterday said that it is always dedicated to bringing the most compelling programmes to all its valued customers.

Over the past five years, viewers have enjoyed exclusive live telecasts of world-class events including the FIFA World Cup, the Olympic Games and the Commonwealth Games through Astro's multiple channels.

And during that time, Kristal-Astro has added more than 30 new channels to expand its diversity and quality of service. Ten new channels there introduced last year 11 more were added this year.

According to the Kristal-Astro, the 11 new channels which include Discovery Science, Discovery Real Time, Discovery Home & Health, Astro Vellithirai, Golf Channel, History and Crime& Investigation Channel will be available to customers until the end of August 2007 and after that they will be placed in their respective subscription packages.

It is estimated that there are more than 20,000 Kristal-Astro subscribers in the country and this number is said to be growing over the years. Its popularity in the country has led to many households owning more that one Kristal-Astro set top box. A report in 2004 staled that more than 30 per cent of households in the country have Kristal-Astro services. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Pehin Dato Eusoff Agaki
delivering his speech

Knowledge Convention Enlivens Royal B'day
By Aemy Azlena and Za'im Zaini

Bandar Seri Begawan - Dato Seri Paduka Eusoff Agaki bin Hj Ismail, the Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, delivered the welcome speech during the launch of the Majlis Ilmu 2007 or Knowledge Convention 2007 of a faithful community at the International Convention Centre (ICC) yesterday.

Knowledge Convention 2007 is held to enliven His Majesty's 6P birthday celebration, he said. On behalf of the organising committee and working committee, he conveyed birthday greetings to His Majesty and wished him good health and Allah's blessings so that he could stay as the country's and people's ruler.

The current and previous Knowledge Conventions are a kind of marker indicating the celebration of His Majesty's birthday and a continuation of His Majesty's sovereignty of Brunei, a country determined to raise a knowledgeable and cultured community always receiving Allah's blessings.

The theme of this year's Knowledge Convention is `Agiclah Kukuh Membawa Berkat', which translates to a strong akidah brings blessings.

The objectives of the convention include providing knowledge and information useful in life and presenting people with varying events and activities appropriate for the celebration of His Majesty's birthday.

It is also aimed at executing the vision of the nation's leadership towards a national development based on knowledge and information steered by Allah's teachings and Prophet Muhammad's (SAW) examples and raising knowledge and information for empowering the nation and the sovereignty with akidah (faith) by focusing on a secure community development, blessed economic progress and religious-based education.

The Knowledge Convention, according to the Minister, is filled with activities revolving around akidah (faith). The Seminar on Motivating Faithful People on July 25 and 26 will see working papers from local writers and four working papers from abroad to he presented.

About 1200 representatives from institutions and communities are expected to attend.

The Knowledge Convention will hold seminars and workshops to be' presented by international lecturers to expand knowledge and for participants to delve deeper into understanding the seminar topics.

The MajlEx2007 is an exhibition that will run from July 24 to Aug 19. There will be an exhibition in memory of Al Marhum Sultan Hj Omar 'Ali Saifuddien, a retrospective exhibition of the Sultan's leadership in an akidah (faith) community, exhibitions from neighbouring countries and an astronomy and fossil exhibition.

The Knowledge Convention at districts will have seminars and workshops related to a faithful community. The talks will be held in Temburong on Aug 2, Tutong on Aug 14, Belait on Aug 16 and Brunei-Muara on Aug 21. A novel writing competition will be held relating to the Knowledge Convention themes held in previous years, and judging will be done in 2009. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Sotong Tutuk Sells Like Hot Cakes During Festivities
By Mohammad Abdullah

Bandar Seri Begawan - One of the most sought after food items during the ongoing celebrations is the `sotong tutuk,' which is a squid snack accompanied by a sweet and spicy sauce.
The squid is dried over an open fire, then tenderised with a hammer. Once the squid is tenderised, it is sold.
The sauce is homemade, meaning each stall will have a different version of the l sweet and spicy sauce.
The 'sotong tutuk' is only sold during the festivities. Perhaps, that is why some customers would brave the heavy traffic in Bandar just to get their hands on some `sotong tutuk'.
In the past, there were only a handful of stalls selling this food item during the festivities.
However, given its growing popularity, more and more stall operators are making available the highly irresistible squid snack.
The snack is best when the squid is properly tenderised, making it chewy. The sauce plays an equally important role.
"It抯 nice and chewy! It抯 always best if it is freshly made. I always make my way down to the festivities just to buy the sotong tutuk. I do that every year... it's kind of an annual ritual for me," said one sotong tutuk patron.  -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Fire and Rescue Department personnel
conducting restoration works

Kg Ayer Restoration Works In Full Swing
By Za'im Zaini & Azaraimy HH

Bandar Seri Begawan - The Minister of Home Affairs, Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awg Haji Adanan and Minister of Energy, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Yahya, made separate visits to Kg Ayer to oversee restoration works after Monday night's thunderstorm damaged nearly 200 houses.

Prior to the visit, the Minister of Home Affairs toured the operations centre at the fire station of Kg Sg Lampai and was briefed on the restoration works being jointly conducted by personnel from the Fire and Rescue Department Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Brunei-Muara District Office Public Works Department and Department of Electrical Services. Meanwhile, the Acting Director of Fire and Rescue Department, who is also the Acting Director of the National Disaster Management Centre, Yahya Hj Abd Rahman, said there wasn't any prior 'yarning on the storm.

"We didn't receive warning from our local weather radar and it hit fast. Things like this seldom show on the radar and it happened very quickly,- he said.

The skies opened last evening again as the capital was hit by another huge downpour leaving many areas flooded.

The National Disaster Management Centre continues to monitor the current situation as it receives weather updates through a network of Asean countries, Hawaii and Japan.

"Due to the geographical location of the country, we rely on the regional warning system. The regional warning system did not indicate any cyclone or typhoon. Thus, in relation to the current situation, we relied on the local weather radar," said Yahya Hj Abd Rahman.

The Fire and Rescue Department and National Disaster Management Centre will monitor the situation as they are on a 24-hour watch. They will be ready at all times whether there is a warning or not, he added.

The Minister of Home Affairs visited Kg Pekilong Muara and was greeted by Awg Haji Maraji bin Panglima Raja Dato Paduka Haji Mohiddin, who briefed the minister on the badly affected houses in the village.

The minister took a closer look at one of the houses affected by the gale storm and ongoing restoration works being done by personnel from various agencies.

One of the villagers, Awg Ariffin bin Haji Isa, a 39-year-old resident of Kg Pekilong Muara said, "The minister's visit showed his concern on situation of the villagers and we appreciate the joint efforts of the agencies in helping those affected by restoring their houses."

On the restoration works, Yahya Hj Abd Rahman said, "It is conducted by a joint workforce but when it will be finished depends on the workforce and (supply of) materials.

Around 500 people including 100 Fire and Rescue Department personnel arc working round the clock, he said.

The Department of Electrical services has restored 95 per cent of electrical supply in the vicinity of Kg Ayer. The challenges they are facing include broken electrical posts and the continuing wet weather.

Brunei Meteorological Services are not well equipped to provide early warnings on sudden outbreaks of thunderstorms such as the one experienced Monday.

In fact, Brunei relies solely on the Meteorological section of the Civil Aviation Department for its local weather forecast, whose primary responsibility is to provide weather data for aviation purposes, an officer at the section said.

However, due to public demand, the section has extended its services to provide local weather forecasts.

"We do not have an early warning system to predict such storms," she said, adding, with the prevailing weather pattern, such a storm looked imminent under right conditions such as temperature and humidity.

"Storms may happen during this time of the year but we are not in a position to forewarn when it will happen as we do not have the necessary equipment to do so," she added.

She said if a major weather pattern such as a typhoon develops near Brunei, the section would be able to tell. "If it was a typhoon, it would have been much worse," she said adding," if it was a typhoon, Brunei would have experienced bad weather conditions one or two days before it made landfall." -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

His Majesty cuts the birthday cake as
envoys sing "Happy Birthday"

Envoys Host Banquet For His Majesty
By Sonia K

Bandar Seri Begawan - A banquet in honour of His Majesty's 61st birthday was organised by the resident Heads of Diplomatic Missions in Brunei Darussalam at the Royal Berkshire Hall, Jerudong Park Country Club last night.

His Majesty was accompanied by Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah 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 Minster 's Office, Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-At-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and YAM Pg Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Hj Abdul Aziz.

Welcoming His Majesty and the royal entourage were a group of Ambassadors, High Commissioners and their spouses led by Acting Dean of Diplomatic Corps Mrs Virginia H Benavidez, the Ambassador of the Philippines.

Following the arrival of their Majesties and Their Royal Highnesses to the Berkshire Hall, the National Anthem of Brunei was played and the Acting Dean of Diplomatic Corps made a welcoming address.

In her address, Ambassador Mrs Benavidez expressed the gratitude of the diplomatic community for the opportunity to extend their birthday greetings to His Majesty in person.

As this year marks the 40"' anniversary of His Majesty's ascension to the throne, she said ambassadors and high commissioners admire the progress of Brunei Darussalam under His Majesty's leadership. She also lauded the efforts taken by His Majesty's Government on many international issues such as the Heart of Borneo environmental initiative, contributions to the reconstruction of Lebanon and Aceh, the fight against global terrorism and His Majesty's participation in Asean, East Asia, BIMPEAGA, Apec, Asem and OIC Summit Meetings over the past year.

"Brunei Darussalam has also hosted important international meetings, such as the recent Asean Economic Ministers Meeting, which was followed by the launching of trade negotiations with major international partners. We welcome the holding of the highly successful first-ever defence exhibition and forum, BRIDEX 2007, held in May and the International Halal Products Expo last August," the Philippines Ambassador said.

Following the Dean's speech, the Heads of Diplomatic Missions gathered for a birthday song. His Majesty then consented to cut the birthday cake and received a gift, presented by the Acting Dean on behalf of all Heads of Missions.

A light music performance during the dinner was provided by two talented children, a local singer and Filipino pianist

Before leaving, His Majesty and the royal entourage consented for a group photo with the Heads of Diplomatic Missions and their spouses.

Also present at the dinner last night were Cabinet Ministers and senior government officials. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin