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A week of inspiration and aspirations in Singapore_2
By Fei Phoon
Monday, December 17, 2007
Watcharakorn Choochart, 26 , SYC 1998, Thailand
I work at a private tutoring school for both supplementary classes and home-schooled kids in Bangkok, where I teach physics and math to secondary and pre-university students.
At the moment I have 10 students in my care. Most of my students are very good at their studies, only they want to maximise their chances of getting into the universities they want.
This is very common in Thailand, because university student enrolment is very competitive, and everyone wants to get into government universities, which are all very good.
I decided to become a tutor rather than teaching at a normal school, because the hours are better and more flexible, and I love teaching.
My parents are teachers, and I feel teaching is a very valuable career because we are making people; we produce good human resources for the country.
I participated in the SYC in '98. I learned a lot about other countries' cultures, and took home many good experiences and memories; it really opened up my world.
If I had just stayed in Bangkok, I would never have known that there are so many reasons why other countries do certain things, and I would have been dependent on what the media says for the rest of my life. I learned to be more understanding of other people, and also to respect how others have various reasons for doing the things they do.
This time round it was a good experience mixing with the younger participants.
Because I'm a teacher, I'm used to talking to people of similar age to those at the camp and it was fun!
These students come from different families, and they are different people; they cannot all be taught the same way. |
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A week of inspiration and aspirations in Singapore_3
Monday, December 17, 2007
Mohammad Fadhlan Hj Yakob, 16, SYC 2007, Brunei
I've just finished my 'A' Levels and I'm aiming to get a scholarship from the Ministry of Defence or Education, or Brunei Shell Petroleum. I want to study mechatronics, or any engineering-related subject.
This is not the first youth camp I've been to, but it definitely has been the best so far! The SYC really teaches you to be independent, to be yourself and make wise decisions.
Our education system concentrates on science subjects. We lack a system of support for art, which comes in so many different forms such as drawing, sculpting, web design. If we follow how Singapore treats education, meaning not just prioritising science, we can achieve a balance in education which I think will help greatly in diversifying our economy.
If we want to become a knowledge-based society, let's not be afraid of trying new things. The educational system should be broadened to cater for everything. We should not be so conservative with our ideas, but should rethink our culture and only preserve what is necessary. Also, I think the government should pamper Bruneians less!
Maybe they should start imposing taxes, and stop giving allowances to students for just going to school. There are lots of part-time jobs available, and they should be forced to take them up. It will be good for young people, because they can learn the bitter side of life, and so better learn how to enjoy it and appreciate what they have. |
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A week of inspiration and aspirations in Singapore_4
By: Fei Phoon
Monday, December 17, 2007
Muhd Ash-Shazly Ali, 18
SYC 2007, Brunei
I've just completed my 'A' Levels. I'm hoping to get good results to be eligible for a government scholarship. I want to study mechanical engineering.
At the SYC, I learned to be more supportive of others, like in teamwork. The Singaporean mindset and culture are very good; they are able to connect things very well, and think everything through thoroughly. They also really know how to speak up, and are not shy to say what they think!
I'd like to tell my Bruneian friends about my experiences, and highlight the differences between Singapore and Brunei. For example, Singaporeans are very hardworking and dedicated, while usually we Bruneians don't seem to take jobs seriously. Also, Bruneians study for the sake of studying, but not because they want to succeed in life.
I also want to change the attitude of the young Bruneian generation and teach them to appreciate what the government gives to them. The Singaporean government is very willing to spend money on youth development. |
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Bruneians feel new education system will bring positive changes
Nurkhayrul Salam
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Monday, December 17, 2007
MEMBERS of the public have hailed the new education system for the 21st century (SPN21), involving changes to the education structure, school curriculum, as well as vocational and technical education, as 'a step forward' in educating the younger generation.
With growing frequency, the public recognises the need to improve the education system so that all graduates and school leavers are adequately prepared for college and work.
The education minister in the 34th Unesco General Conference in Paris, France said that the new system would be broad-based and can provide multi-pathways for the nation's children to further and higher education.
Hj Samad, a retiree and a father of six said the education system plays a vital role in making education relevant to today's world and is critical to closing both the achievement gap and the global competition gap.
"From the information I gather, the new education system is showing many improvements. Students with high potential are given a chance to fast track their studies and with the world getting increasingly competitive, the sooner they are able to complete their studies, the better chance they have in getting a good job," he said.
In a dialogue session held November last year, the education minister also said that in keeping up with globalisation, the new education system will enable all learners to reach their full potential with skills to survive in a highly evolving world.
Hj Damit Junaidi, a civil servant, said that the new education system which is also aimed at encouraging ICT in learning, is a step forward, especially with the introduction of ICT in primary one. This move means that the ICT proficiency of children can be promoted from an early stage.
"ICT has changed and is changing the lives of everyone. Through teaching ICT at such tender age, we equip our children to participate in a rapidly-changing world where work and leisure activities are increasingly transformed by technology," he said.
A few educators have mixed attitudes towards increased use of ICT in lessons, but overall they are generally positive about it and many are looking forward to developing their ICT skills and knowledge.
Naziah Sahat, a teacher from Berakas Secondary School, recognises the importance of ICT in teaching and learning. "It provides tremendous opportunities to make our education system more aligned with the needs of the 21st century workforce," she said. "ICT can also contribute to students' enjoyment and sense of achievement by providing powerful tools to support their creativity, initiative and independent thinking."
While a primary school teacher who declined to be named said although that she wholly supports the new educational system, she emphasised the need for good quality training and plenty of help and guidance for teachers to be able to deliver the new curriculum at its full potential.
But there are others voicing out their concern of the new education system.
Zaleha, a mother, thinks that the new education system will place a big gap between students and can result to those not able to get a place in the fast track system feeling demoralised and left out. "All we know is that the education system can benefit those who have the capabilities to go on the fast track system, but how about the students who can't?" she said.
Another parent who declined to be named said the end products of the segregation should be considered. "Not only will it place a gap among students in the coming years, as the far as the job market is concerned, it might affect employers' preferences in the future."
Even so, among the many interviewed, the overall views were positive and the public is united in supporting an education system that integrates 21st century skills into core academic subjects.
A lecturer from UBD's faculty of education said that the government can and should be doing more to prepare the younger generation to succeed in the 21st century.
"Skills such as problem solving, innovation and creativity have become critical in today's global economy, therefore integrating 21st century skills into the teaching of core academic subjects is a win-win proposition for everyone involved," he said.
The Brunei Times |
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SEA Games athletes return
Effort rewarded: Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Awang Mohammad Haji Daud (R), presents a mock cheque to Haji Naim Brahim for winning a gold medal at the SEA Games in Thailand at Brunei International airport, Berakas yesterday. Picture: Saifulizam
Asnawi Yakib
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Monday, December 17, 2007
THE 57 athletes who competed in the 2007 South East Asian (SEA) Games held in Korat, Thailand received a warm welcome by friends and family upon their arrival at the Brunei International Airport yesterday.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Awang Mohammad Haji Daud was also present to greet the contingents.
In his welcoming speech, he pointed out how Brunei athletes still have much to learn whereby they are still lacking in focus as well as technical and tactical skills.
With regards to this, he emphasised the need for improvement in this area in order to enhance their performance for the next SEA Games which will be scheduled to be held in Laos in 2010.
A total of six medals has been won by the athletes in this year's SEA Games for pencak silat, athletics, fencing, karatedo and most notably gold in lawn bowling which was won by Hj Naim Brahim.
As a token for their efforts, the minister presented the medal winners with cash prizes of $5000 for the gold medallist, $3000 for the silver medallist and $1000 for the bronze medallist.
The athletes who were awarded with the cash prizes were Hj Naim Brahim, for his gold medal in law bowling.
Meanwhile, Norieyermah Hj Raya and Mohd Yazid Yatami Yusof are silver medallist in pencak silat and athletics respectively.
Fencing team consisting Mohammad Yunus Hj Hamid, Huzaimi Hj Abdul Kassim, Ak Mohd Shah Al Mustain Pg Hj Azahari, Khairul Quddus Mohd Roalee also won silver medals.
Men's pair bronze medallists in lawn bowling Md Salleh Hitam and Mohd Israt Amiruddin Hj Abd Gani along with bronze medallist Masdiana Hj Tengah in karatedo were also recipients of the cash prizes.
According to the chef de mission, although cash prizes given have boosted the morale of the athletes, they must also learn from the additional training gained through exposure to foreign competitions in their respective sports field in order to succeed in the next SEA Games in Laos.
The Brunei Times |
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Why Brunei ended with just 6 medals?
Jason Thomas
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Monday, December 17, 2007
BEFORE leaving to the 24th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Korat, Thailand on December 2, the chef de mission of the Brunei contingent stated that he expected the 57 athletes competing in 12 sports to return from the biennial tournament with a medal in each of their respective event.
But one gold, one silver and four bronze medals is definitely not what DP Hj Jemat Hj Ampal, the Brunei's chef de mission was aiming for during the 10-day tournament.
So what went wrong with this year's medal tally?
Did Brunei really deserve to finish 10th in the field of 11 countries?
Lack of focus, technique and tactics were what the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports blamed it on in his speech upon the contingent's arrival at the Brunei International Airport last night.
However, things such as a relatively short period of intensive training, a deficit in competitive experience and exposure to such international tournaments also played a decisive role in their lack of success.
Most of the athletes who bagged medals in Korat have been training at world-class facilities with highly experienced coaches.
More importantly, the athletes are regularly sent to compete in tournaments and competitions by their respective National Olympic Councils or associations.
Training abroad would mean that the athletes would be able to train daily with competitors of a much higher standard and with coaches who have a wealth of experience in their respective sport.
It is only natural that the more they compete with stronger opponents, the more they can develop and improve in their game. Thus, if they perform well when in overseas training facilities, it is only natural that they will do well in competitions such as the SEA Games.
According to the Brunei fencing team, athletes from dominant countries in the sport during the SEA Games such as Thailand and the Philippines are only using the SEA Games as a stepping stone for bigger competitions such as the Commonwealth Games or the Olympics.
How many of our athletes are training abroad?
How many of them are regularly competing in tournaments in order to gain more competitive experience?
Once the relevant authorities realise that this is what we need to start finishing above 10th in a field of 11 competitors in a regional event, then Bruneian athletes will start raking in more medals.
The Brunei Times |
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Environment Walk-a-Hunt attracts 700 participants
Warm up session: The participants' warm up session before the start of the BSM Walk-a-Hunt at SOAS Field. Picture: HM Zailaney
For the environment
Enthusiastic response: Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (L) Dato Seri Pahlawan Awang Haji Mohammad bin Haji Daud Minister of Culture Youth And Sports flags off participants of the BSM Walk-a-Hunt at the SOAS Field in Bandar Seri Begawan. Picture: HM Zailaney
Yazdi Yahya
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Monday, December 17, 2007
MORE than 700 people gathered at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien in the capital to take part in the fourth BSM Walk-a-Hunt, which carried an environmental theme.
The event, organised by Brunei Shell Marketing Company Sdn Bhd, was officiated by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Hj Mohammad Hj Daud.
Themed, "We Care For The Environment", the race was joined by more than 700 participants, who were divided into two teams, who were required to search, on foot, for clues which were spread out all over the capital, as well as in Gadong.
Chairperson of the organising committee, Siti Kurshiah Hj Anuar, said: "This year's theme puts special emphasis on the environment as we feel that people need to know and understand further the importance of caring for the environment."
She added: "We feel that we also need to create awareness on the benefits of recycling and we have actually integrated that into the event as one of the tasks the teams must complete."
The day started with a light aerobic session led by the minister.
Before officiating the event, he received a cheque for $5,000 from the Managing Director of Brunei Shell Marketing Company Sdn Bhd, Pg Hj Yasmin Pg Hj Mohammad for the National Welfare Fund.
The cheque is part of the collected proceeds from the event, while the remaining amount will be donated to various other charitable organisations in the country.
The event was supported by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Municipal Board, Royal Brunei Police Force and recycling company DINA Brumetal Sdn Bhd.
The prize presentation will be held on Tuesday, December 18, 2007, where winners will be contacted via telephone. Names of winners will also be published on the Brunei Shell Marketing Company Sdn Bhd website.
The Brunei Times |
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Police warn public to be vigilant during festivities
Be careful: The Royal Brunei Police Force personnel cautioning the public to take extra precaution to avoid being robbed or victimised, during the coming festive season _ the busiest time of the year. Picture: BT file photo
Syed Rory Malai Hassan
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
THE Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF), in their continuous efforts to uphold the law and safeguard the nation, is once again reminding the public to practice proper safety measures and to take precautionary measures, especially during this festive season.
As a number of festivities are coming up Aidil Adha, Christmas and New Year's Eve the force is reminding the public to be careful and not get carried away with the celebrations as the festive season can also attract undesired attention.
Unattended and empty-looking homes provide an easy target for break-ins and theft, unless proper safety measures are taken to prevent the situation from happening.
Some preventive measures the public can employ, as suggested by the RBPF, include: making sure that their homes and gates are properly locked and secured, not opening doors to strangers, installing viewing-holes in their doors and using these to see who is outside before opening the door, making sure the door is chained properly before opening it or talking to strangers outside, and informing family members before having visitors over to the house.
Residents are also advised to inform their neighbours if they are going on holiday, and to make arrangements for the lights to be turned on at night and the mail to be picked up, to avoid being targetted by burglars.
According to police reports of criminal cases this month, eight cases involving theft of private property have been reported in the Brunei-Muara and Belait districts over three days (December 12 to 14).
Of the eight cases, two men in their early twenties have been detained and are under investigation.
The police reports also listed 10 cases of thefts in residential and commercial areas or buildings throughout the four districts over the same period.
Areas affected include Kg Pintu Malim in Jln Kota Batu, Kg Pancha Delima, Kg Jangsak, a shophouse in Delima Satu, the Muara Industrial Site, a government office, a bank and Kg Sg Kebun in the capital, a recreational park in Bangar, Temburong, and Kg Sg Liang in the Belait district.
Three men aged between 20 to 30 have been arrested and are under investigation with regard to these cases.
Another cause of concern is that this time of the year means early bonus and salary payments, coupled with the school holidays.
RBPF pointed out that overspending, withdrawing of large amounts of cash at ATM machines, carelessly flashing money or expensive items in public, leaving unattended bags or purses left in shopping carts and baskets, are all open invitations to snatch thieves and pick pockets to strike.
Fortunately, they said, there has been no instances of this type of criminal behaviour reported recently.
However, the public is still advised to take precautionary measures when they visit busy shopping centres or secluded ATM locations.
Several precautionary measures can be taken to avoid being robbed.
For instance, they can avoid bringing large amounts of cash in the open, and should always keep their valuables where they can see them. They should also not leave their handbags or purses in shopping carts or baskets unattended and regularly check their belongings every time they get accidentally bumped. Strangers who approach them in a friendly manner, to ask for sympathy or to be helpful should be treated warily and not be easily trusted.
While parking their cars in public places or underground parking lots, avoid leaving belongings or any valuables lying around in plain sight, the RBPF warned, to avoid having their cars broken into.
RBPF also reminded the public to call 993 or to report to the nearest police station any illegal activities, or if they have been victimised or know of anyone that has been victimised for immediate assistance. They should also alert the police force if they see any suspicious characters or if any suspicious activity is being carried out around their area.
The Brunei Times |
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Chinese visitors seek economic opportunities
Reception: The Brunei-China Friendship Association hosts a dinner for visitors from Shenyang, China. Picture: HM Zailaney
Shareen Han
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
FIVE government representatives from the Chinese city of Shenyang are currently in the country to explore possible areas of economic and trade cooperation with Brunei.
Our main purpose to visit Brunei is to promote an exchange of information and discuss what are the business and investment opportunities that are available in the country, said Shen Wen Bo, vice chairman of the Shenyang Municipal Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference.
"I was informed that Brunei is a beautiful country where the citizens enjoy peace and prosperity," he said during a dinner reception hosted by the Brunei-China Friendship Association (BCFA) last night.
He said that Shenyang is the capital city of Liaoning province, and is the economic, cultural, communication, trade and commercial hub of the northeastern region of China.
Many of the investment projects in the city involve agriculture, construction, transportation, services, and other industries.
Shenyang has the fastest growing industrial development in China, he said, and also also extended an invitation to members of the Brunei-China Friendship Association to make a visit to the Chinese city in the near future.
Dr Hj Kamaruddin Dato Talib, president of Brunei-China Friendship Association, said he is pleased with the relations of Brunei and China, and hoped that there would be more interaction and networking opportunities for future collaboration.
This bilateral cooperation can be in the fields of culture, education, as well as economic and trade cooperation, he told the Chinese delegation who are on a three-day visit to Brunei.
With a gross domestic product of 248.2 billion yuan last year, Shenyang was listed as one of the 53 most competitive cities in the world by the World Bank, together with Beijing, Tianjin and Shanghai, according to the website of Shenyang Municipal Bureau of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation.With a population of 7.2 million, Shenyang is the capital city of the Liaoning province and is the most industrialised province in northeast China, with the port city of Dalian.
The Brunei-China Friendship Association was established in 2005 to provide a forum for discussion and the promotion of cultural, economic and trade relations between Brunei and China.
The Brunei Times |
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LCD TV the popular choice among locals
Next-generation TVs: Better picture quality, and the launch of RTB's digital television service next year are among the reasons why LCD TVs are expected to be in high demand. Picture: Saifulizam
Shareen Han
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
DEMAND for flat panel televisions (TVs) is expected to continue growing next year, with sales of liquid crystal display (LCD) panels increasing nearly 100 per cent for the past two years, a local industry practitioner said.
Sales have doubled for the past two years, even though prices are still relatively high, said Ling Tian Siong, sales executive for Masros Electrical Group.
One of the reasons that Bruneians are shifting to LCD TVs is because they promise better picture quality, he told The Brunei Times.
In addition, most consumers believe that good quality would also mean that it would last longer.
As such, he said, they do not mind paying a high price.
"Consumers also perceive China-made TVs as lower in image quality," he added.
Ling said that forecasts for sales of flat screen TVs will be higher next year because Radio Television Brunei (RTB) will be launching its digital television in August.
Widescreen will yield better results for digital television, so more Bruneians may turn towards this new technology of flat screen TVs, he added.
He said that Sony is still the most popular brand when it comes to flat screen TVs because the brand itself is associated with better quality.
The 32-inch and 42-inch LCD TVs are the most popular sizes among consumers in Brunei, said the local distributor of Sony and Toshiba products.
"Prices of flat screen TVs will continue to be stable next year," he said.
Masros Electrical Group is currently working with RTB at the Home and Electronics Fair to promote its digital television, which provides higher picture resolution, better audio quality and reception, as well as new features to enhance the audience's viewing experience.
Katherine Tan, marketing manager of Prime Media and organiser of the fair said that LCD TVs are all the rage in Brunei, thus the decision to organise the fair.
Over 20 booths are exhibiting at the fair in The Mall, ranging from products of computers, televisions and electronic exercise machines, she said.
"The response has been very good," she said, adding that other side events of the fair include a colouring and karaoke singing competition.
"Usually it's just a computer fair, but we were planning to have something for the children during the school holidays."
Over 50 per cent of global sales in TVs will be LCD models, according to a Korean market survey institute.
Global TV sales are estimated to reach 200 million units in 2008, Displaybank projected in a recent report.
Another report from research firm DisplaySearch finds that LCD revenues increased as shipments shot up 86 per cent this year.
The Brunei Times |
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Intracorp's latest store a big hit
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
INTRACORP (B) Sdn Bhd's latest one-stop electrical store received hordes of visitors during its three-day Grand Opening Sale from December 15 to 17.
The sale, held in conjunction with the ongoing Year End Sale and Back to School Sale, saw the store offering discount prices.
The store, located at Kiulap Plaza Hotel, offered extremely low prices for electrical goods such as steam iron ($5), rice cooker ($15), 29" TV ($199), DVD player ($29).
As these products were of limited stock and customers were served on a first come first serve basis, several came to the store as early as 7.30am to make a purchase.
Visitors to the store can expect a wide range of items to choose from and from about 16 brands. The store even boasts that its offer of a 26" LCD TV at $680, with a free table fan to boot, to be the best one in town.
Intracorp is committed to deliver superior and efficient services to customers. According to a press release, customers always get value for money here at Intracorp as it combines top brands and the best deals.
"This is one way to show our greatest appreciation and thanks to all our customers who support Intracorp since we started our operation in Brunei," stated the release.
The Brunei Times |
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'Brunei can be tourist haven without losing Islam values'
Frangialli: Tourists must respect local culture. Picture: BT File Photo
Wani Abdul Gapar
BRUNEI-MUARA
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
BRUNEI can still be a tourist hotspot without sacrificing religious norms some perceive to be a turn-off to holidaymakers, the head of a United Nations tourism body said.
Francesco Frangialli, secretary general of World Tourism Organisation, said Brunei is not unique in wanting to open its doors to tourists while still maintaining religious values and traditions.
"It is not only the case for Brunei. Tourism is booming in the Maldives and it's a traditional Muslim country," said the official who was recently in Brunei for a visit.
Speaking on the correlation between attracting visitors and the ban of alcohol in Brunei, Frangialli said while it could be frustrating for "something which is forbidden to be in demand", tourists would not come to the country to drink when it is readily available in their own countries. He said religious nations are able to earn revenue in preserving monuments and cultural heritage from tourist visits.
Reaching a mutually beneficial arrangement is possible as long as "every side has to understand that the way of life is different", he said.
Tourists must respect the local culture and the host country has to "know that people can have different expectations", he added.
The secretary general said a "reasonable compromise" is the answer.
Frangialli was in Brunei Darussalam to discuss the country's recent membership in the UN body with top government officials.
The tourism body is expected to send a mission to assist Brunei in tourism education and training early next year.
Frangialli mentioned in the interview that he was also in Brunei to inform the authorities on the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, which aims to ensure that member countries, tourist destinations and businesses capitalise on the positive effects of the industry, while playing down the negative social and cultural impact.
The Brunei Times |
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Offshore firms bring in $5.22m to Brunei coffers
Sobrina Rosli
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
OFFSHORE companies registered in Brunei bring in about $5.22 million every year to the sultanate's coffers in the form of licensing and registration fees, according to a provider of international corporate and trust services.
Ocra (Brunei) Limited said there are over 8,000 foreign firms, or so-called, Brunei International Business Companies, currently set up here by registering agents licensed by the Brunei International Financial Centre, bringing in national income yearly while benefiting local professional services.
The firms are charged by the government about $725.75 (US$500) in their first year of operations and then an annual fee of $580.60 (US$400). To date, there are around 10 registered agents who help such offshore firms set up in Brunei.
One of these agents is Ocra (Brunei) Limited, which provides a full set of corporate services for incorporation and administration of offshore and international companies.
"In one way it promotes Brunei, putting it on the map as a foreign destination where international companies or high network individuals can see Brunei as a tax haven," said Weui Chua, Ocra business development manager.
Brunei's time zone, he said, also attracts companies because it's the same as the growing economies of Taiwan, Hong Kong and China.
"Being tax free is a big advantage for businesses, while being widely known for its rich and stable economy as well as possessing a respectable, good routine financial record," he said.
With a zero-tax regime, the sultanate has become one of the fastest growing offshore destinations in Asia, also offering advantages such as client confidentiality laws and low tax system, according to OcraWorldwide.
The company said offshore firms in Brunei do not pay income tax, capital gains tax, stamp duty or other direct tax.
Ocra's Brunei clients include professional intermediaries, expatriates, entrepreneurs and high net worth individuals.
"Part of these company's investments here is that they would need to apply for professional services such as lawyers or auditors; this is more or less the only times the offshore company would do business with onshore ones," said Weui.
Ocra (Brunei) helps clients with the local registration procedures, company formation and company management accounting, corporate structuring in all major jurisdictions and provision of professional directors and nominee shareholders.
The Brunei Times |
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Brunei lacks information security: RBPF
Law enforcers: In a report to the UN Secretary General, RBPF stated that despite its status as the leading law enforcement agency in Brunei, it has not been called on or become involved in any e-government initiatives so far. Picture: BT file photo
Syed Rory Malai Hassan
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
THE Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) has expressed concern over the lack of its involvement in national preparations to move into the information age and absence of security preparations in the context of national development of e-government initiatives.
In its report to the United Nations (UN) Secretary General at the UN General Assembly regarding UN Secretary General regarding information communications technology (ICT) in the context of international security, it was noted that as the leading law enforcement agency in Brunei, RBPF so far has not been called on or become involved in any e-government initiatives, even though over the last three years much legislation has been adopted to prepare the country and many governmental and regulatory bodies have been or are being set up to spearhead these initiatives.
In the report, information security is pointed out as an essential component of information technology and that the potential security threats and risks involved have to be carefully assessed in every situation, especially if a government is to be dependent on the safety and reliability of that technology.
This is because ICT has come to play a vital role in all sectors of society, bringing with it a world of advancement and accomplishments. However, as is the norm with any major development, the opportunity for abuse of that technology is ever present.
To ensure a full understanding and application of the appropriate security procedures, it is absolutely vital that all those concerned are made aware of the threats and risks that affect them and over which they have control of.
The report stated that Brunei's focus on the general issues of information security will be mainly on safeguarding unclassified information in networks, on the security and survivability of networks and on the reliability of network services to ensure information access.
The three main areas that RBPF will be looking into are: cryptography policy (which includes governmental information processing standards and controls), guidance on safeguarding unclassified information in governmental agencies, and legal issues and information security which includes electronic commerce, privacy and intellectual property.
The report also pointed out that security in terms of law enforcement preparations has been neither actively pursued nor given the same priority as other items on the national agenda, and its crucial role in the information age has yet to be realised.
RBPF's initiatives in the efforts taken to strengthen information security and promote international cooperation in the field at the national level demonstrate their interest in spearheading the security aspects required to enter fully into the information age.
The report states that many of its officers have undergone overseas training on internet-related crimes, especially cybercrimes, and transnational crimes. However, due to lack of funding, no further advances in procuring the required IT equipment and software for investigating breaches in computer systems have been realised. Presently, Brunei has the capability to initiate investigations into cybercrime cases.
RBPF also listed down in the report the steps they have taken to further international cooperation in this field.
This includes their active participation in forums on enhancing law enforcement capabilities held throughout the world, and establishing connections to regional and international law enforcement computer networks, which furthers its capabilities to pursue fugitives.
In the report, RBPF also submitted proposals and recommendations to the UN Secretary General as to their starting points for facilitating and improving security in the context of information security.
The points mentioned in their proposal are based on the possible measures that could be taken by the international community to strengthen the information community and information security at the global level.
RBPF's recommendations lists down the areas that need to be focused on, such as reporting and monitoring threats and vulnerabilities, education and security mechanisms for safe computing and a more specific based research and development programme and facilities.
The need to establish and encourage acceptance of software security standards as a short term method to jumpstart the process of improving security in internet products and to create a government policy that requires government-purchased computer equipment and software that meet specified security standards (which include having security alert service that notifies the customer of vulnerabilities and repairs) was also listed as one of the points that need to be highlighted.
Under the laws and law enforcement criteria, RBPF suggested the support of cybercops by allocating appropriate funding to law enforcement agencies for their training, physical resources and staff necessary to handle cybercrimes reported as an initial start towards better information security.
The Brunei Times |
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Oil industry faces task of replacing ageing skilled staff
Hadi DP Mahmud
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
AMONGST the numerous things that could stall Brunei's oil industry in the coming years |
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Around Brunei
Festival of lights: The incandescent lights and music at the dancing water fountain at Jerudong Park Gardens is attracting locals and tourists to treat their senses during the holiday season. Picture: HM Zailaney |
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Is Brunei's offshore Block J area really ours, or Malaysia's?
Hadi DP Mahmud
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
ACCORDING to Brunei Shell Petroleum, every one in five lightbulbs in Tokyo is powered by Brunei's gas. This may seem impressive, but with hydrocarbon reserves declining over the last several decades and our country's struggle to diversify its economy away from oil and gas, the need may arise for the country to address one thorny issue: the ongoing territorial dispute with Malaysia for offshore Block J.
In 2000, the sultanate awarded offshore Blocks J and K to consortia led by Shell and Total. However, these companies suspended exploration work following an incident in April 2003 when several Malaysian patrol boats chased away a Total exploration vessel after claiming that it has extended its territorial claims into seas Brunei says are in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
So far, Brunei has lived up to its image as the 'Abode of Peace', by demonstrating that anything, including critical offshore exploration issues, can be settled peacefully and without confrontation with its closest neighbour. However, recent developments in Malaysia suggest that the sultanate may need to press ahead with a solution very soon.
In 2003, Malaysia's Petronas and partner Murphy Oil logged a significant oil find in the Kikeh Block (estimated to hold 700 million barrels of recoverable oil reserves), which may extend into Block J. This year in August, Murphy Oil announced that it had started oil production from the field with an initial rate of 40,000 barrels per day. It expected additional wells to follow next year, further increasing its output to 120,000 barrels per day.
Total Brunei General Manager Louis Heuze has voiced out concerns, as cited in the Oxford Business Group (OBG)'s 2007 country report on Brunei, that as production starts on the Malaysian side, it could lead to losses on the Bruneian side. "Once Murphy starts exploiting its field, the pressure will drop and any molecule of oil coming out of the Malaysian side will be replaced by a molecule from Brunei," said Louis.
Yet, Brunei continues to languish in inaction. According to the OBG report, Brunei's oil reserves are decreasing by three per cent annually, while Malaysia's are going down at 15 per cent.
"Neither relishes the prospect of having to eventually import oil, particularly if international prices stay at their current levels," stated the report.
If Brunei is counting on blocks J and K to sustain its oil and natural gas output levels and if it does not acquire them the country would be faced with the formidable challenge of rapidly diversifying its economy away from hydrocarbons. Efforts have been made by the government in diversifying the economy, but with lacklustre results.
Internationally-published economic and political studies continue to state that Brunei's development is hampered by its heavy dependence on oil revenues, an over-centralisation of power, a bloated bureaucracy, a weak private sector and a small domestic market of only 370,000 people.
An Asian diplomat, based in Bandar Seri Begawan, summed it acutely in 2004, when he spoke to AFP. "Brunei cannot live in fairyland forever. Today, globalisation is the reality and Brunei will be swept aside if it does not wake up."
The recommended reforms in the studies include allowing the private sector to be the main growth engine, decentralisation of power, economic diversification, better management of state finances and more transparency |
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Price hike for US visa by 2008
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
APPLICATION fees for a United States non-immigrant visa will increase to $196.50, due to rising security costs and other enhancements of the visa application process.
The increase of application fees will start in January, 2008.
Non-immigrant visas are for travellers with permanent residence outside the United States, but this increase does not apply for Brunei citizens under the visa waiver programme, where Bruneians holding passports issued before October 26, 2006, may travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa.
According to a press release from the American Embassy in Brunei, travellers who are required to apply for visas include students, specialty workers, and citizens of countries not eligible for the visa waiver programme.
America's Department of State announced that visa fees will increase due to rising costs in visa processing on December 13, 2007.
"Because of new security-related costs, new information technology systems and inflation, the current fee is lower than the actual cost of processing non-immigrant visas," the press statement added.
The Department of State is required by law to recover the cost of non-immigrant visas through the collection of the machine-readable application fee.
The last application fee increase for non-immigrant visas was in 2002.
The Brunei Times |
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Financial planning roadshows for civil servants
Rapt attention: Officers and staff of the Public Works Department listening intently to the talks on financial planning for their future. Picture: Courtesy of TAP
Anna Abu Bakar
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
TABUNG Amanah Pekerja (TAP) or the Employees Trust Fund successfully held two financial planning roadshows in one week.
Two different briefings were presented to the officers and staff of the Public Works Department and the Department of Economic Planning and Development.
One talk was presented by Sri Nazrina Hj Johari, the assistant manager of Corporate Communications of TAP and another was presented by Hjh Suhaila Kani, the assistant manager from The Royal Bank of Canada who is also a certified professional financial planner.
Prior to the talks, the participants were shown a corporate video to further help with their understanding of the the importance of financial planning.
Sri Nazrina spoke about the role of TAP as a body that is responsible in helping its members in making the necessary preparations for a better and stable financial future after retirement.
Meanwhile, Hjh Suhaila provided an explanation regarding the concept of financial planning and how important it is in achieving an objective or dream in the short term run as well as long term run.Various tips were also offered by Hjh Suhaila on how to properly control debts, expenditure and savings in a more disciplined way.
In addition to that, she also provided some steps to do before making any investments as well as protecting one's finance.
The financial planning roadshow is a continuous effort made by TAP since 2005 as a way to create more awareness on financial planning to public institutions, the private sector as well as various educational institutions.
For interested institutions who would like to invite TAP to conduct their financial planning roadshow may contact the Corporate Communications Department of TAP at 2382929.
TAP is an important institution for Brunei as it was introduced as a retirement saving scheme that enables citizens and permanent residents of Brunei to save for their retirement benefits.
TAP's main function and responsibilities are to receive members' monthly contributions, to invest and save them until a certain time whereby the members are entitled to make their contributory withdrawals subject to Section 17 of the TAP Act Chapter 167.
The withdrawal schemes that are currently being offered by TAP are based on the withdrawal terms specified in Section 17 of the Tabung Amanah Pekerja Act Chapter 167.
The schemes are the pre-retirement at 50, retirement at 55, housing, loss of ability, emigration and next of kin.
The Brunei Times |
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Award-winning bank pulls out treat for clients
Stephanie Liew
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
IN CONJUNCTION with winning the prestigious Bank of the Year Award for 2007, Baiduri Bank will be hosting a quiz competition for all its existing customers.
Pierre Imhof, General Manager of Baiduri Bank stated, "This easy-to-join contest is our way of sharing our success with our customers, with whose support we have progressed to become an award-winning bank."
The contest will be held from December 19, 2007 to January 18, 2008.
Contest forms can now be obtained from all branches of Baiduri Bank and its subsidiary, Baiduri Finance, throughout Brunei.
Completed forms are to be submitted to any of these branches by 3pm on January 18, 2008.
Along with the completed questionnaire, contestants are also obligated to describe in 30 words or less why they chose to bank with Baiduri Bank.
Existing customers are encouraged to take part as there are 100 prizes to be won ranging from holiday packages and mobile phones to iPods and dining and shopping vouchers.
The bank had won the award five times out of the past six years.
The Brunei Times
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huhuhuuuu... hom one of the cutomer  |
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Category: Negeri & Negara
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