|
|
Efforts Must Be Made To Preserve Old Manuscripts
By Nasroul Hizam
Bandar Seri Begawan - The Language and Literature Bureau's efforts to promote interests in Jawi scriptures by organising a seminar was greatly appreciated as old manuscripts were often forgotten and ignored, said a senior officer at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.
Speaking at the the Jawi Scriptures in the Era of Globalisation seminar, Hj Ahmad Hj Abd Rahman, the ministry's Deputy Permanent Secretary said, old manuscripts were only important for those who were looking for "recognition" or as an assignment.
"Hopefully the seminar will raise interest in this local cultural treasure," he said adding that lack of interest puts the nation at loss because much of the cultural value system, sociopolitics, economy and history of the Malay race can still be unearthed through old manuscripts.
However, the deputy permanent secretary pointed out that research on such material was not as easy as getting information from reports and statistic. It required high degree of determination, persistence and patience, he added.
He suggested that more efforts should be made to get the public to hand in or sell manuscripts which were in their possession.
Hj Ahmad also called upon local undergraduates to take up research works on old manuscripts since local researchers are more aware and knowledgeable of their own culture and traditions.
He cited as examples a couple of manuscripts already published in Malay, namely the Hukum Kanun and Hikayat Dang Suasa. While Hikayat Dang Amas, Hikayat Dang Rokam and Hikayat Si Mercu Gunung, he said were among those, still waiting to be published.
The deputy permanent secretary also cautioned relevant authorities to be wary of fraud and counterfeit manuscripts by irresponsible parties.
"Such individuals or groups seek to make a profit by using sophisticated technology," he said.
He pointed out that "by setting up of special section or committee, it will be less likely for the bureau to be tricked into buying faked manuscripts, and at the same time sparing them from wasting money on unauthentic materials."
He also suggested that the section or committee would also be responsible for seeking out and collecting manuscripts still held by individuals in the country.
"Whatever manuscripts we do have at the moment should be preserved so that they may last longer, as they can be something for future generations," he added.
"We don't have much, but it's better than nothing".
Its theme: "Jawi Scriptures as a Mirror to the Malay Identity", is particularly relevant in Brunei as a large number of old manuscripts contain a lot of information about the Malay culture and its literature.
Organised by the Research and Documentation Department of the Language and Literature Bureau, the seminar is a step towards highlighting knowledge related to such manuscripts that are made up of syair, hikayat, agreement letters, stone tablets and other artifacts written in Jawi that very clearly display the aesthetic value of the Malay race.
The seminar was also hoped would remind all Bruneians of the glory of the Jawi scriptures, especially with regard to the collection and documentation of old manuscripts in efforts to revive the prestige of the Malay language.
The seminar was not the first by the Language and Literature Bureau. Some years ago the bureau had held a seminar on researching Malay manuscripts with a theme "The Significance of Old Manuscripts in Acquiring Knowledge". The seminar brought together some20 working papers by experts from within and outside the country. -- Courtesy of The Brunei Times |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Conserve Today For Better Tomorrow
By Azlan Othman
Bandar Seri Begawan - His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince, Deputy Sultan and personal representative of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam urged all parties to be prudent in utilising the valuable natural resources which are non-renewable and always remember Allah and thank the Almighty for blessing the nation with oil and gas.
In his sabda during the launching of the Energy Week at the International Convention Centre yesterday, His Royal Highness said Allah has blessed the nation with natural resources - wealth from oil and gas. From such wealth, the nation enjoys peace, prosperity and stability.
The Deputy Sultan said to consolidate and widen the energy issue among the community and to create more awareness on the correct use of energy resources, with His Majesty's consent, May 24 has been declared as Energy Day in Brunei to coincide with the creation of the post of the Minister of Energy at the Prime Minister's Office.
"For a long time, the nation has been dependent on oil and gas resources to generate energy to activate economic and industrial activities. Over 88 per cent of the oil and gas revenue is spent on thecountry's development and progress.
"It must be noted that oil and gas are limited resources that are exhaustible and non-renewable. Over a period of time, efforts to explore and sustain the resources have become more challenging and the cost of exploration has soared drastically.
"Hence, it is the obligation of all parties to he prudent in utilising the valuable natural resources because without such resources, the nation would face a totally different lifestyle," the Deputy Sultan added.
HRH also said that efforts towards prudent use of the natural resources would likely pose tremendous objections and challenges, as many believe that such resources are their birthright, and everlasting. Such views are wrong.
HRH likened the call to save energy similar to inviting us to change our attitude. "If we fail to make changes, it means that we have not done any good. Hence, we have no choice but to change.
`We should be aware that oil and gas are treasures from Allah that have existed since the early-days as narrated in Allah's firman in Surah at-Takweer, Verse 6," HRH said.
Without doubt, oil and gas are the sources of energy, which drives us and the entire world, HRH added
"Based on the Prophet's Hadith, the discovery of oil and gas is considered as one of the major events to indicate that doomsday is approaching.
"Hence the Prophet, as narrated by Al-Bazzar and Al-Thabrani, has reminded us to always remember Allah by performing prayers and reciting 慫ikir |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Grand Sale From Friday
By Zasika Musdi
Bandar Seri Begawan - The Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE), Prime Minister's Office, has announced the much-awaited dates for the annual Brunei Grand Sale (BGS).
The 13th edition of its kind, BGS will be held throughout the country for 45 days, beginning this Friday, September 7 to Sunday, October 21. The theme for this year is "Bargain prices to boost sales and economic growth" or "Harga Murah, Jualan Meriah, Ekonomi Bertambah".
The launch will be held Friday, 2.30pm, at the Ground Floor of The Mall, Gadong. It will be officiated by Dato Paduka Awg Hj Kamis bin Hj Tamin, Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister's Office.
Throughout the sale, participating shops, supermarkets and department stores will be offering attractive discounts and special promotions for their goods.
The objectives of BGS 2007 art to encourage the public to spend locally; to provide opportunities for the public to shop at discounted prices; to encourage competitive pricing of goods; and to attract tourists to shop in Brunei Darussalam.
As a prelude to the BGS 2007, a month long pre-BGS Special Textile Sale has been ongoing since August 12. More than 50 outlets are currently participating and will continue to do so during the BGS 2007 period.
To date, 417 shops, supermarkets and department stores have registered to participate in the annual sale.
In conjunction with the launching of BGS 2007, a "Local Products Fair" will also be launched at the same venue with more than 30 local entrepreneurs participating.
For participating departmental stores, a minimum of 40 per cent of their entire stock will have to be offered for sale at discounted prices ranging from 20 per cent and above.
Shops will offer discounted prices of no less than 10 per cent for its entire stock. Supermarkets are also encouraged to offer discounted prices on food items.
BGS 2007 participants are required to display a BGS banner at their business premises commencing Friday. Furthermore, BGS Participation Certificates issued by JPKE are to be displayed conspicuously by participating shops, supermarkets and departmental stores to identify themselves as participants for the benefit of the shoppers and failure to do so will mean that they are non-BGS participants, and the public are advised to report to JPKE if they come across such incidents.
Each item on sale will have two price tags showing the price before and after discount.
All departmental stores are also encouraged to offer special sales or promotions such as "Lucky Draws" or "Happy Hour Sales" throughout the BGS period, particularly during the weekends, to attract shoppers.
The public has been reminded to support the BGS 2007 in order to stimulate and promote sale. However, they are advised to spend wisely and to check the prices carefully before purchasing any product.
For complaints with respect to the sale, call the JPKE hotline at 2230223 during office hours. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Golden Bomoh In The Net
By Azmerui Hari Haris
Bandar Seri Begawan - The Aqidah Control Unit last night raided a house belonging to a woman bomoh suspected of offering 'beauty' services that are against religious beliefs.
She was alleged to be offering 'susuk' for those seeking the fountain of youth.
Claimed to make one younger, these susuk'. or needles, are implanted at several points on the face and head. The needles are normally made of gold or other precious metals.
Each of these implants cost B$20 and a person need to have a minimum of seven implants, the Bulletin was told.
The bomoh in her 50s claimed that using this method can help preserve the youthful look of women or even men.
During the raid at her residence in Gadong, she tried to hide some these gold needles but were eventually found by the raiding officials. Several of these `susuk' were found inside-a small box.
Investigations by the Aqidah Control Unit found that the woman offered her services to implant these needles to anyone including locals as well as foreigners.
Religious officials also found and confiscated books considered deviant to the aqidah beliefs.
The raid was conducted by 20 personnel from the Aqidah Control Unit and Immigration Enforcement Section. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Apec Honour For Brunei's Fauziah
By Sonia K in Sydney
Bandar Seri Begawan - Brunei's very own Fauziah DSP Hj Talib (photo left), the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of IQ-Quest Company, a Brunei-based consulting firm, will be one of the panellists during the Apec (Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation) Business Summit.
She will be participating in the third session of the summit Friday at the Sydney Opera House.
The theme for the session will be `Human Capital and the Economic Future of the Asia Pacific: Education, Information and Innovation".
The two-day Business Summit to be held September 6 and 7 will be the key event bringing together business and economic leaders under one roof.
During this session Ms Fauziah will be appearing together with other fellow panellists Professor Ian Frazer, Clinical Immunologists at the University of Queensland's Centre for Immunology, Mr Craig Mindie, Chief Research and Strategy Officer at Microsoft Corporation, and Datuk Sharifah Hapsah Syed Hassan Shahabudin, Vice Chancellor of Universiti Kebangsaan, Malaysia.
Moderating the session will be Professor Glyn Davis, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of University of Melbourne.
IQ-Quest Company provides expertise in a wide range of industries incluiling technology and communications, financial services, energy resources and materials, travel, tourism and transportation, supply chain and logistics.
In 1998, Ms Fauziah began her career with the Brunei Investment Agency where she undertook a challenging property asset management portfolio in the Real Estate, Gold and Oil Unit.
After a brief but rewarding span of work in the public service arena, Ms Fauziah pursued several entrepreneurial ventures that led to the formation of IQ-Quest in 2002.
She was a member of the E-Business Program Executive Committee, the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council and the committee responsible for the development of Brunei's national vision. She was also a founding member and treasurer on the executive committee of the Young Entrepreneurs Association Brunei. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
BLNG's Refreshing New Logo Launched
By Azlan Othman
Bandar Seri Begawan - In line with the Energy Week's theme of "Inculcating Energy Efficiency & Conservation" and the slogan of "Change Matters", Brunei LNG announced the launch of its re-branding and the new logo was launched by His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Deputy Sultan yesterday.
The re-branding exercise is part of BLNG's long-term plan. Committed to expanding its LNG business beyond 2013 when the current sales expire, BLNG's contractual extension strategy is comprehensive and wide ranging, embracing both plant and brand rejuvenation.
BLNG's explicit new logotype including its shape and colour scheme is specifically designed to denote its implicit values, reflecting its core business, corporate objectives and marketing communication.
Created with a dynamically modem, fresh and well-balanced concept, the new logotype also marks a renewed emphasis on Brunei, evident with the positioning of Jawi and romanised `Brunei'.
Enhanced with liquid waves in graphic form, the oval logotype is presented with a natural look epitomising the natural flow of water, gas, environment and the earth, all delicately intertwined to achieve stability and unity, reflecting an enhanced environmental image.
While some elements in the current logotype have been maintained to create visual relations and similarity in values, the green tone (from the current logotype) has been replaced with the newly created 'BLNG Green', which is stronger, bolder and more solid in look. The new BLNG logotype is strategically designed to add value, enhance competitive advantage to maximise revenue, provide identity solutions and differentiate brand identity in a positive way.
Easily and instantly recognisable across the globe, this synergistic image will successfully address the marketing elements of BLNG while enhancing its professional image that positions it for success in the future. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin
[ Last edited by holmes at 6-9-2007 02:55 AM ] |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Transportation Leads Steady Rise In Energy Consumption
By Azlan Othman
Bandar Seri Begawan - Brunei exports around 90 per cent of the oil and natural gas it produces, and the remaining is for domestic use.
In Brunei, the transportation sector consumes the most energy, while consumption in the residential and commercial sector has been rising steadily.
The Petroleum Unit and Department of Electrical Services revealed that the transportation sector's energy consumption rose to 426 ktoe last year (2006) compared to 340 ktoe in 2000.
Similar percentage increase was also recorded for the residential and commercial sector to 257 ktoe last year from 205 in the year 2000. The industry sector also grew up to 104 ktoe last year compared to 93 ktoe in 2000.
As for Brunei's fuel consumption pattern, diesel oil surged from 108 ktoe in the year 2(000 to 185 ktoe last year, while mogas was up from 205 ktoe in 2000 to 217 ktoe in 2006.
Households are full of electrical appliances such as air conditioners and lighting fixtures, which are electricity intensive. This electricity is generated at power plants fuelled by domestically-produced natural gas, and the consumption of electricity is constantly growing.
In fact, the amount of electricity consumed annually per person in Brunei is the third highest after Japan in the region. And among Asean countries, Brunei comes second after Singapore in electricity consumption last year.
The key points for saving energy in Brunei are efficient usage of household electrical appliances and energy-saving driving practices.
Energy conservation also helps to slow global warming. One of the main causes of global warming is carbon dioxide which is generated by many kinds of activities that require burning of urban-based fuel such as fossil fuel, including some of our daily routines, such as driving, air travel, power generation, manufacturing, purification of water and sewage and so forth.
Efforts to save energy also reduce carbon dioxide emissions, and this has a more positive effect on the global environment. The International Energy Association's energy statistics indicated that Brunei's total carbon dioxide emission is 5.12 million. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Student Steal Spotlight
By Lance Thoo & Azaraimy
Bandar Seri Begawan - This, year's Brunei Energy Week exhibition at the International Convention Centre is moving beyond raising awareness and into educating the public, particularly the younger generation, on alternate energy sources in the nation's drive towards energy efficiency and conservation.
Most of the students told the Bulletin yesterday that they strongly believe the exhibition will benefit the public in general. However, they admitted that it would be a difficult task to change the people's mindsets about energy conservation.
According to students manning one of the interactive booths at the exhibition, there are still lots of people in Brunei who prefer to use cheap filament bulbs instead of energy-saving fluorescent bulbs.
A study conducted by students of Pusat Tingkatan Enam Berakas suggests that Brunei can save up to $123 million in energy bills and reduce up to 548,160 tonnes of carbon dioxide (C02) emissions per year by changing all filament bulbs into fluorescent ones. Dk Nuratiqah, a student from Sayyidina Husain, hoped that more exhibitions such as this would be organised in the future.
"There are many ways to conserve energy such as not leaving air conditioners on 24 hours a day," she said, adding it is important for people to take steps to ensure that they are not contributing to global warming.
A teacher from PTE Berakas said that she was shocked to learn that Brunei was the third highest after Japan in the region in terms of the amount of electricity consumed annually per person. Among Asean countries, Brunei came second after Singapore in electricity consumption last year.
Visitors at the exhibition said most of the people in Brunei care less when it comes to energy consumption.
A student, who wished to remain anonymous, said that it was ironic that the exhibition meant to promote energy conservation was in fact wasting energy as he noticed that lights were switched on in areas at the exhibition hall that were not being used by the exhibitors.
Two undergraduates from Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Nurhafizah Abdullah and Mursidi, said that they were keen to visit the exhibition, as they are very passionate about green initiatives.
"We wish to do our part to save the environment," they said, adding that one way to do that was to encourage other people to look at alternative energy sources. Among the big organisations taking part in the exhibition is Schlumnerger. The multinational oil services giant brought selected students from across Malaysia to showcase their energy conservation ideas to the public.
According to 16-year-old Mihlaiel and 13-year-old Izzudin, exhibitions such as the one currently being held at the ICC gives the young, particularly students, the power to make changes by encouraging their relatives and friends to take steps to conserve energy.
Cikgu Noor Lenny, one of the supervising teachers manning the booth of Anggerek Desa Brunei II Primary School, said that kids are never too young to promote energy conservation.
"It is fantastic to see the younger generation educating others about the importance of conserving energy," said Hj Salehuddin, who was among the adults standing near the booth of Anggerek Desa Brunei II Primary School.
The five-day exhibition will end on September 8.
To enliven the event, Universiti Brunei Darussalam is organising a quiz, where 10 Eco-Drive Citizen watches are up for grabs, according to Rafizah, a representative of UBD.
Forms are available at their booth. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bosnian journalist on 'thank you' visit to Brunei
By Amin Hosni 
Adisa Ceso of Slobodna Bosna. - AMIN HOSNIAdisa Ceso, 28, a journalist of the Slobodna Bosna magazine, Sarajevo, Bosnia, is currently in BruneiDarussalam researching and writing a story about the Sultanate."During the war in my country 15 years ago, Brunei has helped a lot of my people by sending humanitarianaid, among others," she said.
"The Borneo Bulletin too published articles on what was happening in Bosnia on a daily basis back then,which was really impressive. Journalists from all over the world also helped a lot, so people knew what wasgoing on and that put a stop to the war.
"My country is not very rich, and we don't have many opportunities to thank all the people who have helped,but what we can do is use our media to thank you.
"And this is one of the ways - by coming here and writing a story about your beautiful country, it is a kind of apromotion or like a thank-you note.
"Maybe somebody will see the story, maybe somebody will wish to come visit Brunei and, at some point,maybe your country will benefit from it in the same way my country benefited from what Borneo Bulletin haddone in publishing the war stories that occurred years ago," added Adisa.
When asked about Bosnia in the past and the present, she said, "First of all, the fact that the war hasstopped has changed a lot of things. Life is safe again.
"We do still have many difficulties - we have very old infrastructure and our industry was ruined during thewar. We now need foreign investments. We need a different kind of help from other countries.
"But life now is much better and, most importantly, the people are safe. People don't get killed anymore. Ofcourse, we still do have troubles, but you have to be aware of the fact that every country in the first fewdecades after a war goes through some hard period."
Adisa was 12 years old when the war broke out in Bosnia. She lived and grew up in Sarajevo, which at thattime was under siege. "It was a very difficult childhood as people died there everyday. You went intoclassrooms not knowing whether your classmates were going to be there or not."
It was a really hard time for Adisa, especially when she was in The Bulletin's library looking at pastpublications. She had flashbacks of the faces and places at the time of war.
"The war had a drastic effect on the community. It didn't matter if you were a child or an adult. Everybodywas really deeply influenced by the war. Everything somehow changed because of the war.
"During the war, we went to school almost every single day. Now I sometimes think that it was really stupidbecause it wasn't that safe.
"But from another point of view, it was also good, as we didn't miss anything. It was our way to fight, tosurvive and to stay normal. If we would just sit at home and wait to be killed, it wouldn't help at all.
"We would go to school and read a lot. We would write dozens of pages and it helped us. After the war, wewent to universities and got scholarships to study abroad. I think we did the right thing."
From time to time, Slobodna Bosna would send its reporters around the world. Recently, a colleague ofAdisa went to Barcelona, Spain - a country that also helped Bosnia enormously.
They offered humanitarian aid, reached out to refugees and helped with the construction of Bosnia after thewar. Many buildings were also constructed because of them.
Adisa will leave Brunei this Saturday. "Brunei is a surprise to me. I had many prejudices and expectations. Itried to look up Brunei on the Internet and at the library for many days.
"I also tried to talk to people who went to Brunei before me. But whatever I thought of Brunei at that time, itwas nothing compared to being here. Brunei is a very interesting place of beautiful architecture and nature,as well as very warm-hearted people," she said.
"Foreigners that come to Bosnia say that we are very open-minded, but it's nothing compared to what I seehere. Bruneians are very helpful and very professional."
Adisa has visited the Royal Regalia, Water Village, the Empire Hotel and Country Club and national parks.She plans to visit the historical museums next. Adisa is also doing a write-up on Bosnians who came toBrunei before her. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
University Technology MARA representatives visit TAIB
By Yusrin Junaidi 
TAIB officers with the visitors from Malaysia. - YUSRIN JUNAIDISeventeen graduates and three education officials from University Technology MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor,Malaysia, made a visit to Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei's (TAIB) main office in the capitalyesterday. During the visit, the delegates were shown a corporate presentation by one of the senior officersfrom Perbadanan TAIB.The objectives of the educational visit were to learn and obtain a deeper understanding on the roles of theIslamic financial institution and to explore financial Islamic market prospects in Brunei Darussalam. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exploring the Dusun dialect
By Rosli Abidin Yahya 
Group photo of students with the villagers of Kg Bukit. - ROSLI ABIDIN YAHYAEleven third year students of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), attending Linguistic MethodologyResearch subject, paid a visit to Kg Bukit in Tutong recently to do a research on Dusun's dialect, an ethnicpopulation in this country.Led by Associate Professor, Dr Hj Jaluddin bin Hj Awg Chuchu, the undergraduates were greeted by theHead Village of Kg Bukit, Awg Mohd Shadiqin bin Abdullah Jamjam, who also expressed his appreciation forselecting Kg Bukit as their place of research with respect to Dusun ethnic language.
In his welcoming speech, he said the research would enable the students to dig deep into the ethniclanguage so as to provide valuable references for the future generation.
"It is a pity that some Dusun descendents are not able to speak or master their own dialect.
"They should in fact be patriotic enough to be able to speak their own mother tongue," he said.
Meanwhile, Dr Hj Jaluddin also extended his gratitude to Awg Mohd Shadiqin for allowing the research,which shall become a golden reference for the ethnic language.
"Your valuable cooperation has facilitated the students to do their research," he said.
During the visit, the students had the opportunity to spend time researching the ethnic language byinterviewing the village's senior citizens, aged from 60 to 100.
The aim of the linguistic course was to enable the students to do their research by selecting the correctmethodology, ways to analyse data, summarise items and writing the research.
Throughout the course, it is hoped that the students will value the academic research, which is a goodpractice ground for researching at courses of higher tertiary level. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
His Majesty in Sydney for AELM
By Azrol Azmi 
His Majesty being greeted by HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah as HRH the Crown Prince looks on at the Brunei International Airport yesterday. | 
Their Royal Highnesses bidding farewell to His Majesty the Sultan. - PHOTOS BY AZROL AZMI |
His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam arrived in Sydney yesterday afternoon,and he will be joining other leaders from Chile, Canada, Vietnam, South Korea, Hong Kong, the Philippines,Singapore and Papua New Guinea at the Apec Economic Leaders Meeting (AELM).Earlier yesterday at the Brunei International Airport, present to bid farewell to His Majesty were His RoyalHighness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, HRH Prince HjSufri and HRH Prince Abdul Malik.
Prior to departure, a 'Doa Selamat' was read by the State Mufti, Pehin Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz HajiAbdul Aziz.
Also present to bid His Majesty farewell yesterday were YAM Pengiran-Pengiran Cheteria, Cabinetministers, Members of Privy Council, deputy ministers as well as senior government officers and theAustralian High Commissioner to Brunei, Ms Ruth Adler. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Brunei pledges paradigm shift in civil service
Report from Sonia K. in Sydney With the Apec Economic Policy report just released, Brunei Darussalam is among the 18 economies thathave contributed a report on its Public Sector Governance.
"The Brunei government has and will continue to give high priority to the development of its human resourcewith the aim of producing skilled, disciplined, well educated, motivated and versatile civil servants who canadapt quickly to a changing environment," the report read.
Also in the report, Brunei Darussalam states that it aspires to improve the transparency of governmentpolicies and regulations and to improve public access to information. The implementation of e-governmentinitiatives such as "EG21 Governance and Services Online" is expected to increase the overall transparencyof the Brunei Civil Service.
On future governance, while Brunei aims to continuously improve itsgovernance to be on par with othercountries and to remain competitive, Brunei stated that it hopes tohave the institutional capacity toimplement strategic planning, respond rapidly and focus on achievingresults in order to transform its oil-and-gas-based economy into a morediversified and knowledge-based economy.
"To carry out this task, it is imperative that Brunei Darussalam modernises the public service and make itmore efficient in carrying out its functions, roles and responsibilities in a way that will facilitate nationaldevelopment," the report states.
To attain this, it requires a commitment to bring about a paradigm shift in civil service roles andresponsibilities as well as the system of management and work culture to create a more transparent,dynamic, responsive, accountable, effective and efficient civil service.
"To ensure this transformation, Brunei Darussalam recognizes that strong and effective leadership isrequired to initiate and maintain the momentum of reform and steer the country toward sustainable economicdevelopment.
"The Prime Minister's Office will continue to play an important role in providing effective administrativeleadership to all ministers and departments. Civil service reforms and the various initiatives to modernise thecivil service will continue to be led by the permanent secretary in the Prime Minister's Office as chairman ofthe Public Service Committee and Civil Service Review Committee," the report added.
Brunei also feels that maintaining commitment from stakeholders in the reform process will be a majorchallenge. It added, consultation, dialogue process, coordination and facilitation with relevant stakeholders inthe public, private and the community will need to be heightened to ensure relevant inputs are madeavailable for the government to make informed decisions and promote shared ownership in the reformprocess.
"The government also recognises the need to establish an appropriate body to ensure policies are wellplanned and properly implemented amongst the key government agencies," it said. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Special-edition Payless card launched for good cause
By Azrol Azmi 
Pg Sazalee Pg Zohari handing over the mock special-edition Payless card to the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications. - AZROL AZMIIn support of the Road Safety Council of Brunei Darussalam (RSC), Telekom Brunei Berhad (TelBru)launched a special edition of the Payless Card yesterday to help promote awareness on road safety amongthe public.The launching ceremony was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, DatoPaduka Awang Haji Md Yusof bin Haji Md Hassan, who was the guest of honour and is also the Chairman ofRoad Safety Council.
The ceremony, which was held at TelBru Headquarters at the Old Airport, was attended by members of theRSC, senior officers from TelBru and senior officers from the Ministry of Communications.
The highlight of yesterday's event was the handover of a mock special-edition Payless card from Pg SazaleePg Zohari, the Acting Managing Director of TelBru, to the Chairman of the Road Safety Council.
The special card is a joint effort by TelBru and RSC to help raise awareness of all road users in the country.
The card depicts a unique design with road-safety messages, placing a high emphasis on improving roadsafety in the country and encouraging road users to understand and adhere to the rules and regulations.
It plays a part in reminding the public that road safety is everyone's responsibility.
The card design illustrates several fundamental traffic regulations, and the tagline of "Keselamatan JalanRaya Tanggungjawab Bersama" essentially portrays the essence of the card in urging the public to worktogether to keep the roads safe.
The special-edition Payless Card, which comes in a denomination of $5, is available starting today at allauthorised TelBru resellers in the country.
The event included a presentation of certificates of appreciation to the supportive vendors that have sold anaverage of 10,000 to 15,000 dollars worth of TelBru cards per month. Dato Paduka Awang Haji Md Yusof binHaji Md Hassan presented the certificates to nine vendors who attended the launching ceremony yesterday. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Talented students to continue studies abroad
By Yusrin Junaidi 
Guest of honour speaking with one of the recipients and her parents. - PHOTOS: YUSRIN JUNAIDI | 
Nur Ayuni bin Hj Ali Amat being interviewed. | 
Dayang Noraini binti Hj Ahmad. |
A thanksgiving and get-together ceremony for the recipients of the Ministry of Religious Affairs' OverseasScholarship 2007/2008, was held yesterday morning at the Hassanal Bolkiah Boys Arabic Secondary SchoolHall in Jalan Tutong.Present as the guest of honour at the ceremony was the Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry ofReligious Affairs, Dato Paduka Awang Hj Ishaaq bin Hj Abdullah.
Also in attendance was Dayang Hjh Kasmah binti Hj Siput, Director of Islamic Education, senior officers fromthe Ministry of Religious Affairs, principals, teachers, recipients of awards and parents.
26 students from the Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic Secondary School for Boysand 10 from Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah(ITQSHHB) were selected to receive the Ministry of Religious AffairsScholarships for 2007/2008.
Five students will take a Master's course (Peringkat Ijazah Sarjana). One of them will study in theInternational Islamic University of Malaysia, while two will study in University of Manchester, United Kingdom.The other two will study in the University of Nottingham, United Kingdom.
26 students will study the "Peringkat Ijazah Sarjana Muda" course: six of them will attend courses atInternational Islamic University Malaysia, one will study in the University of Bath, United Kingdom, sixteenwill travel to the University of Al-Azhar Mesir, and two will study in Ma'had Qirat Al-Azhar Shoubra Mesir.
The event also feted the recipients who received the "Skim Khas Tenaga Akademik" award. Five of them willstudy 'A'-Levels in the United Kingdom. One will be in Headington School, Oxford, three are to continue theirstudies in Owestry School, and one will study in Bedford School. These recipients achieved the best resultsin their 'O'-Level examinations.
During an interview with the Bulletin, one of the awardees, Dayang Noraini binti Hj Ahmad, said, "I am soglad that the Ministry of Religious Affairs has chosen me to do my Master's in the UK. I will do my best andnot waste any effort. The course that I plan to study is a Master's in Economic Development and PolicyAnalysis, and I know that it will not be easy for me.
"It's hard to get this scholarship; you have to be the best in your class, and I thank the Ministry of ReligiousAffairs once again for choosing me as one of the best students. I hope to contribute my efforts to thegovernment after my graduation next year," added Dayang Noraini.
Nur Ayuni bin Hj Ali Amat, who received a scholarship to study in Headington School for two years, said,"This is the first time I will study overseas. While I know that it will be a tough experience for me, I am alsohappy and proud to get this scholarship."
Nur Ayuni also said that after her graduation, she wishes to continue her studies in the United Kingdom ifshe is given the chance.
In his speech, Dato Paduka Awang Hj Ishaaq bin Hj Abdullah said, "I wish the students who are selected toreceive the scholarship good luck. Studying in a foreign country is very different from studying in our owncountry. The students must know how to adapt themselves, especially as they will be far away from theirparents, friends and loved ones. It is also an opportunity for them to gain experience in life and seek bettereducation."
He highlighted that the government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalamwould always provide opportunities to deserving students for continuing their studies. Dato Paduka Awang HjIshaaq bin Hj Abdullah also advised the students to discipline themselves during their studies and tomaintain their good work.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the Hassanal Bolkiah Arabic SecondarySchool for Boys has produced many experienced and well-educated Islamic scholars for the country. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Donation for fire victim
By Achong Tanjong 
Pg Hj Bahrum presenting the cheque to Datin Hjh Adina. - ACHONG TANJONGThe Brunei Islamic Religious Council Department, Ministry of Religious Affairs, yesterday contributed $5,000to help rebuild the house of Awg Mainin bin Timbang, 65.The resident of Kg Sungai Matan, who lived alone, lost his house in a recent fire.
The donation was channelled to the Community Development Department, which will later use the money torepair and rebuild the house for him.
Awg Mainin was warded at RIPAS hospital to undergo rehabilitation. Now in a good condition, he is fit toreturn home. After his house was burned, he stayed in a cabin built by the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.
The Secretary of Brunei Islamic Religious Council, Pg Hj Bahrum bin Pg Hj Bahar, presented the donation toDirector of Community Development Department, Datin Hjh Adina bte Othman, who thanked the BruneiIslamic Religious Council for the contribution.
Officers who witnessed the presentation ceremony came from Brunei Islamic Religious Council andCommunity Development Department, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. It was held at the CommunityDevelopment Department. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Malaysian fined for smuggling rice
By Rol EzamA Malaysian was fined $269 or in default one-month jail by the Bandar Magistrate's Court yesterday after hepleaded guilty to having 16 bags of glutinous rice without paying customs duties.Sim Ek Seng, 58, who works as a mechanic and resides in Miri, was found to have 13 bags of whiteglutinous rice and three bags of white fragrant rice inside a car he drove.
According to the Royal Customs and Excise Department prosecutor, the defendant was stopped by theCustoms Preventive personnel and the Customs officer at the outward section at Sungai Tujoh check point.
The defendant claimed that he brought the rice from Brunei, and it was brought back to his place for his ownconsumption.
Rice is classified under schedule 4 of the Customs (Prohibition and Restriction on imports and exports)(Amendment) Order, 1955.
The defendant did not have any written permission from the Controller of Customs.
The defendant paid the fine. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
BEDB appoints new board member
His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to appoint Mr LouisHeuze, the General Manager of Total's Brunei operations, as a board member of the Brunei EconomicDevelopment Board (BEDB), a press release from BEDB stated yesterday.Louis, a French national, is a senior executive with the Total Group, the largest listed company in Franceand the world's fourth largest listed oil and gas company with operations in more than 130 countries. Besidesbeing a major upstream oil and gas producer, Total is a global leader in the production of petrochemicalsand fertilisers.
Other members of the BEDB board are: Dato Paduka Timothy Ong, Acting Chairman; Dato Paduka HjMetassan bin Momin, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance; Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Hamid bin HjMohd Jaafar, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Industry & Primary Resources; and, Mr VincentCheong, CEO designate, effective October 15, 2007.
Other board members include: Pg Kerma Raja Pg Hj Kamarulzaman bin PPSDSB Pg Hj Ali, Chairman ofSungai Liang Authority; Dato Paduka Hj Kamis bin Hj Tamin, Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister'sOffice; Dato Paduka Lim Beng Thai, Chairman of Bee Seng Shipping Company; and, Mr Pierre Imhof,General Manager of Baiduri Bank. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Remand extended for murder suspect
By Rol EzamThe Magistrate's Court yesterday granted another two weeks remand for a 20-year-old local man whoallegedly killed a couple in Tutong two months ago.Applying for an extension to the remand, the Deputy Public Prosecutor yesterday said the prosecution is stillwaiting for an analysis report from Singapore.
The defendant will be remanded at the Jerudong Prison pending the next hearing. The case will be heardagain on September 20 at 9 am.
The defendant, Mohd Hazri bin Besar was charged with murdering 41-year-old Joffri bin Ahmad Juni/AhmadJuriah and Derosna binti Jumat, 35, sometime between 8pm on June 24, 2007 and 5am on June 25, 2007 inthe vicinity of a house in Kampong Telamba.
He faces the death penalty if convicted. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Yayasan contributions for mosques' Puasa events
By Lyna Mohamad 
Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Hj Awg Yahya Hj Ibrahim presenting a contribution to a mosque/surau representative. - LYNA MOHAMADThe Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation (YSHHB) yesterday handed over contributions totalling$34,300 to mosques, suraus and prayer halls for conducting their religious activities during the month ofRamadhan.Out of the 42 recipients, 11 are in Brunei-Muara District receiving a total of $9,250, 19 in Tutong Districtreceived a total of $14,300, seven in Belait District received total of $5,750 and five in Temburong Districtreceived a total of $5,000.
Also carried out at the event, held at Yayasan Complex, was the presentation of donations to fire victims.
On hand to present the donations totaling $3,200 to the fire victims was Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato PadukaSeri Setia Ustaz Hj Awg Yahya Hj Ibrahim, member of the Board of Directors of the foundation or yayasan.
The recipients were three families comprising 12 members who were fire victims at two separate locations:Kg Serusop (Awg Bakir Gafar) and the Sultan Saiful Rizal Technical College Barracks (Dyg Fatimah Hj Jaisand Awg Noorsham Matarsat).
Also making a donation presentation yesterday was the Department of Community Development, Ministry ofCulture, Youth and Sports who donated a total of $1,600 to the fire victims.
Presenting these donations was Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa MajorGeneral (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Awg Hj Mohammad Hj Daud.
The six-member family of Dyg Fatimah Hj Jais received a donation of $1,200 while Awg NoorshamMatarsat's family of two received $400. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
Category: Negeri & Negara
|
Author
