✰ Brunei Darussalam ~ NEWS & HILITES ✰

holmes

Celebrations mark HRH's 34th birthday

Syed Rory Malai Hassan
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN


Monday, February 18, 2008

THE Royal Brunei Police Force yesterday hosted a lunch banquet to celebrate the 34th birthday of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, at the officers' mess at the Gadong headquarters.

Present at the banquet along with His Royal Highness, who is also the Deputy Inspector General Police, were Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah and HRH Prince 'Abdul Malik.

[size=0.9em]Royal presence: His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah (C), the Crown Prince, and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Deputy Inspector General Police, HRH Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah (2nd R), HRH Prince 'Abdul Malik (2nd L), Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, Dato Seri Paduka Eusoff Agaki Hj Ismail (L) and Pehin Datu Kerma Setia CP Dato Paduka Seri Zainuddin Jalani (R), the commissioner of police, at banquet hosted by the RBPF. (Below) HRH being welcomed at the banquet. Pictures: Helmyshah


The banquet was also attended by the Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, Dato Seri Paduka Eusoff Agaki Hj Ismail and his wife.

Upon arrival at the officers' mess, His Royal Highness was welcomed by Pehin Datu Kerma Setia CP Dato Paduka Seri Zainuddin Jalani, the commissioner of police.

The Crown Prince addressed the gathering which included the officers and their spouses and later consented to sign the guest book.

His Royal Highness then consented to take a group photo with officers and their wives before proceeding to cut the birthday cake prepared by the RBPF and receive a pesambah from the force.

On Saturday, the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) hosted a thanksgiving ceremony to celebrate the 34th birthday of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Princeand Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and General of the armed forces, at the Berakas Garison Surau.

The ceremony were attended by the Deputy Minister of Defence Pehin Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Paduka Hj Yasmin Hj Umar along with the Commander of the RBAF Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General Dato Paduka Seri Hj Awg Halbi Hj Md Yussof. Also present were the permanent secretary, deputy permanent secretaries as well as senior officers from the Ministry of Defence and RBAF.

The ceremony began with a recital of several passages from the al-Quran, followed by Maghrib prayers and a mass reading of the Surah Yassin. A dzikir Ratib Al-Atas and a doa kesyukuran was also read by the senior religious officer of the ministry of defence Ustaz Haji Roslan Hj Sulaiman.

About 500 RBAF officers and staff from all units of the force attended the event which ended with a mass Isya' prayers.

Similar events were also held at mosques throughout the country to commemorate the 34th birthday of His Royal Highness.

The Brunei Times

holmes

$75,000 more for flood victims



For a good cause: (3rd R) Dato Paduka Hj Ali Hashim Hj Daud , managing director of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation, handing over a mock cheque in the amount of $75,000 to the Minister of Home Affairs, Pehin Dato Paduka Awg Hj Adanan Begawan Pehin Dato Hj Awg Mohd Yusof (3rd L), who is also the patron of Temburong Flood Victims Relief Fund, during a ceremony held yesterday. Picture: Helmyshah


Anna Abu Bakar
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN


Tuesday, February 19, 2008

CONTRIBUTIONS to the Temburong Flood Relief Fund continue to pour in from various government and non-government agencies to help relief the sufferings of the flood victims. The latest contributions of $95,000 were received yesterday from two organisations in the country, making the total amount collected by the fund so far to $437,506.

The Minister of Home Affairs, Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Adanan Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Hj Awang Mohd Yusof, as Patron for the Flood Relief Fund was present to receive the $75,000 donation from the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah which was represented by its managing director, Dato Paduka Hj Ali Hashim Hj Daud.

On February 11, 2008, The Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation had presented an emergency donation to the fund that amounted to $25,000 in order to lessen the burden of the Temburong community who were affected by the disaster.

Also present at the donation ceremony were the Permanent Secretary and Deputy Permanent Secretary, Pg Abd Haris Pg Haji Shabudin and Dato Paduka Haji Adanan Haji Hanafiah respectively.

Another donation was made by private individuals from the Hokkien Association that amounted to almost $20,000 that was also received by the Temburong Flood Relief Fund.

Lim Seng Kok, the chairman of the Hokkien Association was present to hand over the donation to the Minister of Home Affairs.The Brunei Times

holmes

Equestrian getting popular among young Bruneians




Getting popular: Equestrian no longer an expensive sport just for the rich. Picture: BT file photo



Debbie Too
BRUNEI-MUARA


Tuesday, February 19, 2008

IN RECENT years, equestrian, one of the sports that has the most of the world's elite taking a keen interest in, is gaining popularity among many young Bruneians.

"Previously we had a handful of students, not a lot but it started increasing and now we have students from the Jerudong International School, as well as other members," said Lani Ocares, the Administrator for the BEQ Equestrian Centre, located in Jerudong.

She said while most of the centre's members are made up of expatriates, there is a significant percentage of its members who are local.

"Recently, one of our students, a local, participated in the South East Asia (SEA) Games, and came in 6th place out of 30 competitors, and that is enough for us to be proud of," she said.

According to Lani, there are approximately 150 registered members to date, where 60 of them are very active in riding.

"The riders look to equestrian as a type of sport and a form of exercise," she said on the reasons that most of them take up the sport.

While the general notion that equestrian is an expensive sport glamorised by the rich, Lani sets that notion aside saying that the BEQ Equestrian Centre is offering $30 for beginner lessons.

Private lessons are also available for $40 per lesson. Interested riders can expect to learn a number of equestrian skills, such as dressage, show-jumping or leisure riding along the beach.

The Brunei Times

reddots

Fun Donuts Selling 4,000 Per Day
By Yusrin Junaidi & Sonia K

Bandar Seri Begawan - The newly opened Fun Donuts on the ground floor of Yayasan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex is taking Brunei by storm with sales of up to 4,000 donuts a day.

There are more than 20 different types of doughnuts available, including bestsellers like the Oreo, Dark Knight, Nutty, Chocolate Mango Float, Vanilla Choco, Banana Split, Choco Rice and Almond.

According to chief pastry chef Kok Tsin Sen, their offerings were the result of following a fresh new concept and for the past few weeks they have lost track of how many people a day visit Fun Donuts.

The chef, who has 10 years' experience in baking doughnuts, said, "We carried out long-term research for the various taste and flavours. With feedback, we came up with more than 20 varieties, and the list keeps on growing."

"The whole process of making the doughnuts takes about 45 minutes, and this is a tough job. We see lots of people waiting and queuing to buy from Fun Donuts. So far, we only have four chefs and four salespeople working without shifts," said one of the chefs.

Another chef, Choo Jhy Haou, added, "In two months' time, there will be another Fun Donut to open in Kiulap, as we have been receiving such an encouraging response from members of the public." -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

holmes

Wah! they are really making money ah...

Business is also good kat LA DONUT & Cafe.... kemarin hom p sana nak beli donuts for my anak2 buah... wahcustomers Q gak sama ngan kat FD...

hom tak sanggup tunggu lelama...

TheHawk

Garbage Woes In Sg Akar
By Yusrin Junaidiv & James Kon

Bandar Seri Begawan - Residents near the Sungai Akar rubbish dumpsite are up in arms over rubbish piling up in heaps at the entrance to the dumpsite every morning, which are unloaded by many private garbage collectors unable to gain access to the dumpsite.

This has led to an unbearable foul smell for residents around the vicinity and endangering frequent road users heading towards Jln Subok. The garbage is allegedly unloaded by some private garbage collectors who can't gain access to the dumpsite because the entrance is closed after working hours and remains shut until the next morning.

When the dumpsite opens its door every morning, heavy machinery would push the rubbish from the entrance into the dumping area.

Residents and frequent users of the road leading to Subok from Sungai Akar called the Borneo Bulletin to complain about the eyesore.

Many also voiced their concern on the overflowing rubbish at the dumping area.

According to one of the residents, "The smell is disgusting and the garbage is spread all over the road. It's an embarrassment to our community especially when tourists see the situation.

"During heavy rain the smell gets worse and the rubbish flows on to the road.

"I am also worried as an outbreak of diseases looks imminent if the area is left unchecked as it is becoming a breeding ground for rodents and pests," she added.

The Bulletin visited the dumpsite yesterday morning and saw private garbage trucks queuing up to get into the dumpsite to unload the rubbish.

According to one of the private garbage collectors in the queue, "The situation started in January this year when the entrance was closed. The authority should do something about this area, the garbage is overflowing and there should be another dumpsite for Brunei-Muara District.

"Sometimes we have to wait for hours to unload our rubbish and we don't have enough time to collect rubbish from houses and buildings, which results in overflowing of rubbish cans."

Another driver, waiting in line to clear his truck of the garbage, said, "We have to wait for a long time here just to dump our garbage especially when the road leading to the dump area is blocked by piles of rubbish discarded by other private garbage collectors when the gates are closed after office hours."

The Bulletin contacted the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation under the Ministry of Development, which is in charge of the dumpsite.

"The dumpsite is under a private contractor and these issues arose a number of times," an official from the department said.

"We are taking the matter seriously and will be rectifying the problem by opening the dumpsite until pm starting from today to smoothen the operation of private garbage collectors."

According to statistics, Brunei-Muara District generates more than 300 tonnes of waste per and most of it goes to the landfill in Sungai Akar. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

More Houses To Slash Waiting Period
By Azaraimy HH

Bandar Seri Begawan - Housing and other development issues headlined the afternoon session on the fifth day of Legislative Council deliberations yesterday.

Development Minister YB Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri SetiaAwang Haji Abdullah bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar addressed some of the pressing issues touching on the welfare of the public such as housing, land and road safety.

First on the agenda was the construction of a bridge connecting the capital with Temburong District, which would be a huge financial undertaking.

According to YB Pehin, the financial obligation will be equal to five years of national housing development programme. He said a study has already been carried out on this project and the government aspires to open the development for private or perhaps foreign investment.

On the issue of housing under the national housing development programme, the government hopes to build more than 1,000 houses per year for allocation from the current 400 plus houses to catch on with the ever-increasing number of applicants, YB Pehin said.

There are around 16,400 applicants in waiting and the number is increasing as the years go by.

YB said one of the reasons why it is slow is due to the process of land allocation. He said each time the scheme is implemented it requires allocation of new land. Preparation for construction such as the process of allocation, land development etc takes time.

He said some have suggested building more terrace houses, flats etc to increase the production volume and speed up the allocation process, and the government is taking all these into consideration.

Members also asked about the plan for a hydropower darn to power electricity in the rural areas. They wanted to know about its current status and when it would be carried out.

YB Pehin said the plan for a hydropower dam is a good idea, but after a thorough study it was found that the tide or energy from the water flow is not enough and thus the project is not viable.

He said existing dams are for storing water as a preparation to face drought, such as El-Nino. He said the Ulu Tutong dam is currently facing some problems and a new tender has been issued.

Regarding the issue of a water pump in Kuala Belait, a representative asked whether safety measures in force are enough, considering there are four water pumps in Kuala Belait, each under JKR, BSF, BLNG and another one in Lumut. BMC (Brunei Methanol Company) may establish its own water Dumb in the near future.

YB Pehin said as there are fishing boats lurking around and with the area being poorly lit, he suggested that security be intensified due to their importance, for example, by creating a safety zone.

Another issue that was raised by LegCo members was the problem of flood. There are still some areas in villages that get flooded frequently and urged the authority to carry a more thorough effort to overcome the problem.

One suggestion put forward by members was to create a large drainage system to solve the problem in those flood-prone areas.

A member also suggested that while speeding up the process of constructing the drainage, the government should compensate landowners whose land could be affected by the construction.

YB Pehin replied that the government would take the suggestion into consideration but reminded the members that what had happened earlier this year in some parts of the country was once in 50 years phenomenon, when a heavy downpour meets with high tide resulting in a flood.

YB Pehin also said some of the areas that used to hold the flood water before it is channelled into the rivers have now become residential areas. He said the water flow into these areas must be diverted and the suggestion put forward by the members will be taken into consideration.

Members also asked whether the government is aware that the current size of some of the houses under the national housing scheme is not only small but a little discomforting especially for the elderly.

One member also told the YB Pehin the difficulty a Muslim family could face in performing Fardbu Air (obligatory duties) of cleaning a dead body for-burial because the toilet is small. Another complained about the manoeuvrability due to the design of the staircase.

YB Pehin said the government has taken note of these and is reviewing them.

YB Pehin also clarified on the Bumiputra Guidance and Development Unit under the Ministry of Development, where the unit works to guide Bumiputra entrepreneurs who are in the construction industry to raise their skills by organising courses. It also acts as a registrar in the construction industry.

YB also reminded representatives that projects such as pedestrian bridges near schools are being carried out according to priority.

The minister also listened to an issue about the narrow Jalan Muara road compared to the size of houses along the road and said they are being studied and reviewed.

Under the Ministry of Development 2008/ 2009 budget allocation, the Ministry of Development Department gets $68,293,215, Housing Development Department gets $14,647,859, Public Works $167,399,377, Town and Country Planning $4,185,830, Land Department $11,933,985, Survey Department $14,917,545 and the Environment, Park and Recreation $13,995,820. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

178,000 Tourist Arrivals Last Year
By Azlan Othman

Bandar Seri Begawan - About $1.54 million was allocated for the tourism budget in the 2008-2009 financial years, which recorded a 12.8 per cent growth in 2007 with 178,000 tourists visiting the Sultanate last year.

This was revealed by Minister of Industry and Primary Resources (MIPR), YB Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Dr Awg Hj Ahmad, at the legislative council session which entered its sixth day yesterday.

However, YB Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Awg Goh King Chin said the budget is not enough to promote Brunei tourism, including sports, globally like advertising which he proposed, in the CNN, BBC, ESPN and Star Sports.

The issues raised by members

TheHawk

Keeping Quiet About Corruption Is A Crime
By Za'im Zaini

Bandar Seri Begawan - Some civil servants and members of the public are still reluctant to report cases of graft to the Anti-Corruption Bureau. However, those who do not report the matter to relevant authorities are in fact committing an offence themselves.

This observation was made by Hj Abdullah bin Abd Rahman, the Senior Assistant Director at the Anti-Corruption Bureau, during a special talk for imams across the Brunei-Muara District yesterday at Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque.

It is an offence under Section 16 of the Corruption Prevention Act if members of the public fail to report cases of graft. if found guilty, they could be slapped with a $500 fine or jailed for up to six months.

Corruption does not only involve money it could also mean receiving "gifts" such as hampers in exchange for favours.

Meanwhile, Hj Abdullah pointed out civil servants who falsely claim mileage for reimbursements from the government could also get in trouble, as this is an offence under Section 6

TheHawk

Diversification Is The Key To Minimising Risks
By Narissa Noor

Bandar Seri Begawan - BICB Capital Sdn Bhd is a subsidiary of the Brunei Investment and Commercial Bank, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Brunei Investment Agency, registered under the BIFC.

BICB Capital is the answer to the many Bruneians looking for ways to invest their hard earned money but are not sure where or who they can turn to.

This was the view expressed by its Managing Director Fa'aizah Dato Abidin during a recent interview with the Bulletin.

Set up mainly, to provide opportunities for institutions and the public in Brunei to invest in global Shariah compliant products, BICB Capital has brought in a range of mutual Fund products managed by global fund managers.

"They are not many institutions in Brunei that offer Syariah investment products to the public," said the Managing Director.

"Because we are a subsidiary of BIA, we have the network and access to global fund managers so we have the opportunity to bring the global products to the Brunei public. This gives our people the opportunity to enhance the returns from their cash or savings," she added.

"Historically, the returns from savings, at best, marginally beat the inflation rate, whereas it has been shown that equities or stocks, for example, over a period of time may give returns on average between eight to 10 per cent per annum."

Specialising in investment planning, BICB Capital also provides Financial Planning, Retirement Fund Planning and also Education Fund Planning.

"We have started to conduct road shows on various topics of Financial Planning, giving tips on risk management, cash management and investment," said BICB Capital Head Chong Wan Ching.

"We have qualified Personal Wealth Planners who work with clients to customise solutions to meet their financial needs.

"Those who are interested in debt management can also come to discuss their needs and we will provide an independent view, free of charge," she added.

The company's objective, it was said, is not only to provide these services but also to educate the public on the needs and importance of proper financial planning.

The investment funds available include a number of open-ended Shariah Compliant Mutual Funds or Unit Trusts covering global, US, Europe, Asia Pacific markets as well as sectors, with an initial investment amount for as low as 13$1,000.

"As they are open-ended, they do not have a lock-in period, which means that you can buy and sell at any time and prices are provided several times a week," said the Managing Director.

"These are international funds with track records and are managed by global fund managers."

BICB Capital is different from existing financial institutions that offer financial planning and investment services as our focus is on building customer's wealth, asserted Chong Wan Ching.

"Thus, our Personal Wealth Planners' main concern is in helping our clients achieve their financial goals."

"For clients who are looking to manage their debts, as we do not offer debt services, we can provide an independent view," she added.

When asked on their opinion with regard to Bruneians' view on investments, they replied that Bruneians are generally uncomfortable with taking risks.

"Most are unfamiliar with products outside the deposits and savings," they said, asserting their belief in taking little risk in order to achieve potentially better returns.

"Having said that, diversification is one key to minimising risks," they added.

"A mutual fund is a good way to be exposed to the stock market and as a mutual fund consists of a portfolio of stocks, it provides diversification at a lower cost than say investing in a number of stocks."

On advice to potential investors, they encourage caution.

"Investment always comes with high risk," they said.

"Investigate thoroughly on the background of the companies offering investment schemes. They must be registered and licenced with the Brunei International Financial Centre for them to be allowed to offer investment to the public."

For more information on BICB Capital, their office is open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm. They can also be reached at 2233066 or emailed at [email protected]. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

React Calmly To Mockery Urge Imams
By Azaraimy HH

Bandar Seri Begawan - The Imams in their Friday sermon reminded the faithful to adhere to strong moral virtues as shown by the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) when facing the enemies of Islam, such as mockery through caricature.

The Imams said that this was one of the tactics of the enemies whose only desire was to harm or to destabilise the Muslims.

Referring to the recent Prophet Muhammad caricature published by the western media, the Imams reminded the faithful of the time Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), reacted calmly to scorns targeted at him by his enemies.

It is only natural the Imam said, that each struggle will be met with sacrifice, challenges and impediments, stating that this was what the Prophet faced while delivering his sermons, where he was threatened and ridiculed at, by infidels who were both rejecting to accept the truth and Islam as their religion.

What is more saddening today, the Imams said, is that these enemies of Islam were still working on the same ways and antics to anger and destabilise Muslims.

The Imams were referring to the caricature of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) that had angered Muslims all over the world. The Imams said it was sad that an irresponsible caricature first published in one country was re-published by other media in other countries.

He said an irresponsible act of personal mockery targeting the Prophet by these people had affected the sensitivities of the faith. Imams said others should not have re-published the misleading caricature.

"The uncivilised act is a mockery that targeted our faith. It is of course an act that would sadden and anger us. But we should not resort to violent acts that are outside the Islamic law," Imams said.

The Imams asked the followers to encounter the mockery in a peaceful way, and not resort to violence or killings. Imams said Islam treasures peace and asked Muslims not to be easily influenced by the strategy of the enemies. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Laws To Curb Bogus Medical Products
By Narissa Noor

Bandar Seri Begawan - New laws are now in place to deal with the influx of bogus and hazardous medical products and services to the country.

The announcement made this week by the Attorney General, Dato Seri Paduka Haji Kifrawi bin Dato Paduka Haji Kifli, at the opening of the Legal Year 2008 on the Medicines Order 2007 is another important measure that could safeguard the country from the flood of unauthorised and counterfeit medicine. The Medicines Order, 2007, regulates the importation, registration, promotion, advertisement, clinical trial, transport, manufacture, storage, dispensing, and sale of medical and cosmetic products.

It is one of the 82 new laws that were introduced during the past one year.

According to Dato Paduka Hj Kifrawi, this Order states that no person shall manufacture, sell, supply or import any medicinal product unless that product is registered and that person holds a licence issued under this Order.

Furthermore, no person shall conduct any clinical trials without prior written approval from the Brunei Darussalam Medicines Control Authority and there is a prohibition on the sale of medicinal products from automatic machines.

It is understood that the new order aims to prevent any unauthorised medicine and in particular fake and dangerous ones from being sold to the public.

The World Health Organisation has already called for action to combat fake medicine, which they describe as a growing epidemic.

A report released by the Centre for Medicines projected counterfeit drug sales to reach US$75 billion in 2010, a 92 per cent increase from 2005. The presence of fake drugs, they say, is more prevalent in countries with weak drug regulation, control and enforcement.

With many companies pervasively advertising their health products with claims of curing many different ailments, the new order serves as a warning especially if the advertisements are false and misleading, which under the new order, is an offence.

Locals recently have been inundated with publicity for machines able to cure different ailments and illnesses. Though many have been widely accepted and used by the public, the full effect of these so called miracle cures are yet to be determined as many are using research claims from abroad.

In a call received by the Weekend Bulletin from a man wishing to remain anonymous, he complained that a majority of the machine sold in the market are somewhat dubious and that the psychological methods used by companies to lure people into buying their products and believing that it really cures the various ailments are the only thing that works.

Again as the order stipulates, no person shall publish or cause to be published any medical advertisement which claims, indicates or suggests that the article advertised will prevent, alleviate or cure any disease or condition specified in the Schedule such as diabetes and asthma or any advertisement referring to any skill or service relating to the treatment of any disease or condition affecting the human body.

Many claims on medicines to alleviate and cure the ailments mentioned above have been growing in recent times in the country. This ranges from slimming pills and many more cosmetic products that are said to do wonders to major parts of the body.

Undoubtedly, some medicines containing dangerous chemicals and substances do manage to sneak into the market, prompting the Ministry of Health to issue recalls. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Emphasising Importance Of Sanitation
By Azaraimy HH

Bandar Seri Begawan - In conjunction with the World Water Day 2008, the Public Works Department celebrated the worldwide occasion yesterday at the Rizqun International Hotel.

This year's World Water Day themed "Sanitation" was officiated by the Minister of Development, Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri .Setia Awang Hj Abdullah bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar.

The Public Works Department through the Department of Water Services and the Department of Drainage and Sewerage has emphasised on the importance of sanitation. This is in line with the United Nations General Assembly's decision to declare 2008 as the "International Year of Sanitation".

The decision was based on the realisation of the impacts of sanitation on public health, poverty education, economic and social development, as well as the environment. In relation to this, various issues on sanitation have been raised in recent years, including hygiene promotion, sanitary facilities and water quality.

One of the aims of World Water Day for the Public Works Department is to emphasise the role of the general public in issues of sanitation. It is believed that the general public can play a major role in reducing the risks of diseases being spread as a result o f human waste not being treated properly.

The department has outlined several standards and guidelines on how waste should be properly disposed of through publications such as "Design Manual Treatment" published by the Department of Drainage and Sewerage, Public Works Department. By following these guidelines and by abiding by these standards, risks of diseases being transmitted and spread can be reduced.

Some areas are still using the septic tank system, hence, it is the responsibility of the users to maintain their septic tanks regularly in order to avoid overflow which may contaminate the environment.

The Director General, Dato Paduka Haji Awang Abdul Rashid, also emphasised on the importance of sanitation, personal hygiene and cleanliness of the environment. He said, "The general public's concern and understanding on the importance of sanitation, hygiene and clean environment is needed in order to avoid the spread of diseases such as diarrhoea, malaria and cholera."

There was also a presentation delivered by Mr Jack Sim, the founder of World Toilet Organisation and the president of Restroom Association of Singapore (RAS).

This was followed by a prize presentation to the winners of both the "World Water Day Photography and Exhibition" and "World Water Day Art Competition", which were organised in conjunction with the World Water Day 2008.

The art competition, which attracted 1,599 participants, was divided into four categories, Category 'A' (special children) was won by AkMohd Faisal Ariffin bin Pg Hj Damit, while Milanarushdiana binti Mohammad Masruh from Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Primary School collected the first prize for Category 'B' (primary school).

Meanwhile, Lim Fen Yee from Chung Flwa Middle School won in Category 慍

TheHawk

His Majesty Names New Grandson

Bandar Seri Begawan - By command of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the Grand Chamberlain Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Penggawa Laila Bentara Istiadat Diraja Dalam Istana Pengiran Hj Alauddin Pengiran Paduka Tuan Pengiran Hj Abu Bakar announced yesterday that His Majesty hereby has named the newly-born grandson of the monarch, the son of Her Royal Highness Princess Hjh Majeedah Nuurul Bulqiah and YAM Pengiran Anak Khairul Khalil bin Pengiran Syed Hj Jaafari.

His Majesty's grandson, named Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Hafeez bin Pengiran Anak Khairul Khalil, was born on March 18, 2008, at 10.26am.

The Sultan and other members of the royal family expressed their gratitude to all involved during the delivery of His Majesty's grandson, and messages of congratulations received following the birth.

Following the birth on Tuesday, a 17-cannon blast was fired at the compound of the Istana Nurul Iman. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Colour-Coded Warning On Met Weather Website
By James Kon

Bandar Seri Begawan - The public can be better prepared for severe weather conditions at sea and land, following the launch of the Meteorological Services new-look website that contains a colour-coded warning system.

Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Awang Abu Bakar bin Hj Apong, the Minister of Communication launched the website (www.bruneiweather.com.bn) during the World Meteorological Day celebration at the Hua Ho Manggis Mall yesterday.

In addition to the facelift, the website contains a warning system based on the criteria for severe weather and rough sea warning with possible impact using four colour codes (yellow, orange, red and black) which will be released from April 1.

In severe weather, a 'yellow' alert means the possibility of a monsoonal surge in the next 24 to 48 hours, low pressure system is causing unsettled weather and has potential to develop further, trough over North West Borneo, intrusion of a significant tropical wave or presence of a large scale convergence. Possible impact is flash floods in low-lying areas and areas by the riverbanks.

A red warning means a moderate monsoon rain currently occurring or expected to occur in the next 24 hours. Tropical depression in the vicinity with sustained wind speed of 50-60 kmh accompanied by moderate to heavy rain.

Strong wind with sustained wind speed of 50-60 kmh (whole tree in motion, inconvenience felt when walking against wind), the incessant slight to moderate rain and lasting for 2 hours. The possible impacts are flash flooding in low-lying areas and those by the river banks.

The more severe warning is in red signifying heavy widespread monsoon rain which occurs or expected to occur in the next 2-3 hours, tropical storm with sustained wind of 60-90 kmph accompanied by moderate to heavy rain. Strong wind with sustained wind speed of 60-90 kmph with moderate to heavy rain has lasted for the last 2 hours.

Thos possible impacts are flooding over laying areas and areas by the riverbanks. Landslide/slip over hilly residential areas and toppling of signboards, trees and poorly constructed house may be expected.

The most severe weather condition is marked in black, a severe tropical storm with sustained wind speed of 80120 kmph or a typhoon with sustained wind speed exceeding 120 kmph accompanied by torrential rain currently or expected within the next 24-48 hours to pass through Brunei, The impact expected is damage of catastrophic proportion.

For the Rough Sea Warning System, 'yellow' means strong wind with speed from 40-50 kmph and rough sea with significant wave height of greater than 2.0 metres up to 3.5m, an intensifying tropical depression detected over North West Borneo and spawning strong winds and rough seas.

This condition will be dangerous to small crafts and also to recreational sea activities and seaports.

If it is orange, it will indicate that there will be strong wind with speed from 50-60 kmph and rough sea with significant wave height greater than 3.5 metre and up to 4 metres.

Tropical depression with maximum sustained wind of up to 60 kmph may be detected over Bruneian waters and increasing in intensity. The impact would be dangerous to all shipping activities including fishing and ferry services and to all coastal activities.

Signifying a more severe sea condition, the colour red will be issued indicating strong winds with speed from 6090 kmph and rough seas with waves of over 4 metres and up to 4.5m. Tropical storm is expected with maximum sustained wind of 60-90 kmph heading towards the coastal areas of North West Borneo.

The condition is dangerous to all shipping activities, all workers on oil platform and all coastal activities.

The worst sea condition will be indicated by the colour black where strong wind with sustained speed greater than 80 kmph and rough seas with significant wave height exceeding 4.5 metres is expected.

Severe tropical storm with sustained wind speed of 80 to 120 kmph or a typhoon with maximum wind speed exceeding 120 kmph is expected heading towards the coastal areas of North West Borneo. The impact would be catastrophic due to record-breaking wind and waves of storm surges. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Clean Water Works
By Azaraimy HH

Bandar Seri Begawan - The Minister of Development Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahiawan Dato Seri Sena Awang Hj Abdullah bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar urged the people use water wisely to ensure a sustainable supply for generations to come and also to make safe to use of the existing sanitary system.

He noted that looking after personal hygiene and the environment will also ensure our health. Nearly 100 per cent of the populace in the sultanate have access to WHO standard clean water, where as 95 per cent in those living in urban area and 65 per cent for those living in the rural, have access to basic sanitary amenities. Speaking at this year's World Water Day, the Minister of Development said that in 2004, 700 million residents in the Asia Pacific did not have access to clean water and 1.9 billion people were without sanitation system, making it the worst region in this matter.

This year's theme being "Sanitation" aimed to highlight the issue and bring together people across continents to come up with ideas to solve the dilemma.


He pointed out that 2.6 billion people including 980 million children live without proper sewage system, especially, in third world countries. The United Nation has also declared this year as the International Sanitation Year, setting a target to speed up the Millenium Development Goal of reducing the number of people who live without sanitation to half by 2015.

"As was stated by His Majesty the Sultan in his titah at the United Nation Assembly in September 2005, where His Majesty said that we will be more and more affected by what happens outside our borders and we will be more and more dependent on that outside world. Hence, we are all partners no matter what our background, cultures, faiths and histories."

He said, looking at this importance, Brunei will always stand ready to work together with UN member countries in whatever it is able to ensure that the MDG can be achieved.

He said the government efforts in providing good planning and its attentiveness goes to prove this commitment.

He said in facing up with the rapid development, all sectors should be equally responsible in ensuring that the planning is made accordingly to avoid negative side effects to the water source and the surrounding,

As it takes all to make a difference, he also urged for review and any necessary amendment on the acts, regulations and guidelines to improve or enhance the access and quality of sanitation services, as well as to increase the efforts to enhance the educational awareness and public hygiene especially in schools, and the use of cost-effective and environmentally freely technology. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

New Appointments

Bandar Seri Begawan - By command of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the Prime Minister's Office has announced that the monarch has consented to the appointment of Deputy Permanent Secretary (Policy and Planning) at the Ministry of Education Awang Haji Mohd Daud bin Haji Mahmud as Permanent Secretary (Higher Studies) at the Ministry of Education, and Deputy Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education Dayang Apsah binti Haji Abdul Majid as Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education, according to a press release.
The appointment of the officers took effect on March 23. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Border Enforcement To Fight Piracy In Intellectual Properties
By Hadi DP Mahmud

Bandar Seri Begawan - Border enforcement measures maybe used by intellectual property right holders in Brunei to deter imports on infringing materials, but to solely rely on such measures to combat piracy is insufficient, an IT professional said.

During the opening of the Legal Year 2008 last week, the Attorney General encouraged right holders in the sultanate to use border enforcement measures to deter imports on infringing materials, saying that despite being considered effective, such measures are not being utilised by most right holders or appropriate representatives.

"Continuous support and dedication from rights holders or appropriate representatives would be required to stamp our piracy effectively and not merely just a short visit or two," said Dato Seri Paduka Hj Kifrawi Dato Paduka Hj Kifli.

In truly combating piracy, however, Arjuna Ranasinghe, the General Manager of Tech Distribution, believes that the public should be educated on why they need to take the concept of intellectual property seriously.

"Enforcement (of intellectual property laws in Brunei) is still in its early stage. Before we can even talk about enforcement there should be some sort of awareness programmes out there. With regards to intellectual property the awareness amongst the public is there, but it is not taken seriously yet," the general manager of Brunei's authorised distributor of Microsoft products told The Brunei Times yesterday.

"For example, if you buy a book, you own the pages of the book, but you don't own the content, the text. Say you buy an album, you get the right to listen to the song, but you don't own the songs," he explained.

"For example, I could ask you, what does Microsoft sell? Your obvious answer would be software, but it is not the correct answer. What Microsoft sells, is the right to use their software. If you buy a software pack, you don't own it. Instead you will get the right to use the software."

Brunei's nascent software industry could grow with the enforcement of intellectual property laws as well as the implementation of the legal framework, said Ranasinghe.

"Then only will the local people, as well as the young locals, get more opportunities to do their own developments, not only software, but for other things as well. For the local software industry to grow, the country should have a proper intellectual property legal framework," he said.

There are a few individuals and a few companies in Brunei who are into software development, but "not in a bigger way", he said.

"What we are trying to do here, is to help the IT companies to get in to the Microsoft Partner Program and develop their skills and competencies," he explained.

"What we have seen, most of the time, are bigger projects or bigger solutions for the government or corporate customers. These projects are being undertaken by local companies, but most of the time they don't do the actual solution developments. The actual solutions usually come from a foreign company from a neighbouring country or somewhere else."

"We want the local IT companies to grow their capabilities, so that they are able to create their own solutions locally. We are here to assist them," he said.

Currently, there are more than 100 IT companies in Brunei, according to Ranasinghe, out of which about 20 to 30 are actively participating in the "bigger projects."

Such companies mainly use the Microsoft's infrastructure products. The uses of Developer Technologies amongst IT companies in Brunei are still in the early stages, although there are a few companies trying to use the developer technologies, he said.

Educating the public on the significance of intellectual property is no easy feat, and it cannot be done by the private companies, said a foreign IT professional.

"The government support is very much needed, as the authority, in running intellectual property campaigns. From the legal framework with the legal authorities to enforcement with the police, to classroom education with teachers, the local authorities should take initiatives to ensure that Brunei is respected on a higher level, from the viewpoint of other countries, as a country that respects intellectual property rights." said the IT professional who declined to be named. -- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

TheHawk

Walking Towards A Healthier Lifestyle
By Azaraimy HH

Bandar Seri Begawan - The Ministry of Communications kicked off its sports calendar this year with a walkathon yesterday, organised by the Marine Department, at the ministry's building in Jalan Menteri Besar.

The annual event was aimed at encouraging a healthier lifestyle among participants at the ministry while forging closer ties between them.

Present as the guest of honour was Minister of Communications Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong.

Also in attendance were Deputy Minister of Communications Dato Paduka Awang Haji Yusof bin Haji Abdul Hamid and Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications Awang Haji Ibrahim bin Hassan, as well as directors, heads of departments, officers and staff at the ministry.

Male participants covered a distance of 3.8 kilometres, while female counterparts did 2.8 kilometres. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Brunei-Pakistan Ties Hailed
By Narissa Noor &Yusrin Junaidi

Bandar Seri Begawan - The Pakistani High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam hosted a reception last night to mark Pakistan's 68th National Day. Major General (Rtd) Syed Haidar Jawed and his wife welcomed the Minister of Development, Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdullah bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, and wife, along with other guests including ambassadors, high commissioners to Brunei and government officials.

In his address, the High Commissioner emphasised Pakistan's role in the fight against terrorism.

"We are at the crossroads of historic changes and civilisational challenges that call for greater demonstration of national unity, inter-faith harmony and immaculate self discipline," he said as he highlighted the importance of addressing the root cause of terrorism.

"The conditions of poverty, deprivation, under development and long standing disputes resulting in desperation and hopelessness need to be resolved for sustainable success."

The High Commission also recognised the warm and brotherly relations that Pakistan and Brunei share especially in peace and economic growth. "The basis of our relationship lies in the similarity of global vision, religious and cultural bonds and mutual trust," he said.

He emphasised the bright prospects for friendship and partnership as the leadership of the two countries are determined to consolidate and diversify the scope of cooperation.

He went on to cite several instances of bilateral cooperation between the two countries that have seen much progress.

In 2006, the Pakistan-Brunei Joint Commission was established to institutionalize bilateral economic and trade relations. Also in that year, the Pakistan-Brunei Joint Investment Company was established to give impetus to bilateral commercial cooperation in industrial manufacturing and non-manufacturing sectors, financial services and marketing products in Pakistan and abroad.

In exploring Free Trade Agreement, a Joint Study Group has been set up, the second meeting of which was held in Brunei in August, 2007. The next will be held in Islamabad.

There are currently nine MoUs in the socio economic fields, said the High Commissioner, and recently a MoU was signed during the visit by the Health Minister in August 2007. Royal Brunei Airlines has also been allowed to operate three weekly flights to Pakistan to facilitate tourism and trade.

He invited the corporate sector of both countries to take initiatives and further explore the possibility of enhancing business cooperation.

The highlight of the reception, held at the International Convention Centre in Berakas, was the cutting of the National Day cake by the guest of honour and the high commissioner. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin