✰ Brunei Darussalam ~ NEWS & HILITES ✰

TheHawk

Flash Floods Hit Kampongs In Mukim Labi
By Hjh Saemah Zulkefli

Bandar Seri Begawan - Flash floods triggered by rains have affected Jalan Beluhur and Bukit Puan Labi in Mukim Labi and have made the roads inaccessible for residents since yesterday. The high tide has worsened the situation.

The Fire and Rescue Department Operation B Branch, Belait District, has begun a 24-hour watch beginning last night in two of the affected areas, namely Beluhur I and Beluhur 2. The operation is to provide assistance to the residents of the affected areas by transporting them via two boats.

The Royal Brunei Armed Forces 3rd Battalion, Lumut, has provided two trucks to transport residents from Jalan Beluhur to Kampong Sungai Maoh Labi.

According to the Fire and Rescue Department, the water level has reached a height of 0.62 metres (close to two feet) M the Beluhur area, while in the Bukit Puan area, it was 0.48 metres high at about 3pm yesterday.

Owing to the flooding, the Fire and

Rescue Department has also established their mobile command centre at the Sungai Liam; Fire Department, in addition to the 24-hour watch. Around 20 Fire and Rescue personnel were involved in the control operation to assist the residents. The team was headed by the Commanding Officer of the Operation B Branch, Senior Enforcement Officer Awang Abd Azis bin Haji Mohamad.

Also present to inspect the affected areas was the Assistant Director of Operations, Tuan Shabandi bin Haji Abd Halim and Acting Assistant Director of the National Disaster Management Centre, Tuan Abd Walid bin Haji Metassan.

Throughout the operation, personnel from the Department of Electrical Services were also on hand to assist them with generators and flashlights for night time operations. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Washing Cars To Boost Funds
By Finaz Daniel

Bandar Seri Begawan - The Residential College Organisation (Resco) of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) had their hands full with car washing on Sunday as part of efforts made by the orgaflisation to raise Resco's finances.
Resco members and a number of volunteers took part in the yearly activity as university students and lecturers. as well as members of the public took the opportunity to have their cars washed throughout the whole day on Sunday.
The event, held at the residential college grounds, was attended by Awg Hanafi Kasmat, assistant student affairs welfare officer, and Dr Hjh Fatimah Hj Chuchu, deputy dean of student affairs at the university, who was guest of honour.
The event began with physical exercise for those involved in the activity and a briefing on car wash supplies and materials to be used.
Dr Hjh Fatimah officiated the event and in her speech, she urged Resco members to make greater efforts to increase publicity on the organisation's activities in order to attract more customers and at the same time enrich the ambience of the residential college to develop closer ties with the campus residents.
Furthermore, she stated, these activities should be used as a platform to generate more group activities between the campus residents and Resco members in order to boost enthusiasm and morale among residents. The involvement of the campus residents in Resco activities should be increased to develop a sense of belonging among them, added Dr Hjh Fatimah.
The car wash activity was headed by Mohd Nor Hj Hassan and Noorhayate Mazne, members of the Resco Sports Bureau.
The fund-raising activity was sponsored by the Sports Bureau, Economic Bureau and Bureau of Publicity and Photography affiliated under Resco and was open to all.-- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

TheHawk

Thieves Targeting Road Tax Of New Cars
By Azlan Othman

Bandar Seri Begawan - There has been a number of car road tax thefts of late, the police said yesterday.

A few cars have been broken into by desperate and cash-starved-thieves looking for new road tax, said ASP Mohd Sahri Hj Ahmad, Assistant Head of Police Public Relations.

He advised car owners to safeguard against thieves looking for a chance to steal items found inside cars. The thieves also cart-off car batteries and sell them to recycling plants.

ASP Mohd Sahri also advised drivers to be smart by not leaving their bags inside their vehicles even though they don't contain valuable things.

Other valuable items like hand phones, cameras and audio systems should not be left behind in cars and are conspicuous to opportunistic criminals. Such items should be kept inside the car boot or compartments.

Every week we receive such car break-in and theft reports, said ASP Mohd Sahri.

He also advised the public not to let their guards down especially while withdrawing cash at ATM machines.

"Recently, a man asked for the direction from a person who had just withdrawn cash and while he tried to show him the direction he cash was stolen," he added. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Aseannapol To Enhance Database To Fight Crime
By Narissa Noor & Hj Minor Absah

Bandar Seri Begawan - The challenges faced by law enforcement agencies today and in the future remain a daunting task and these new developments come very timely as we witness the increasing trend of transgression of crimes beyond borders that are compounded by the advent of technology.

This was said by the guest of honour, Supt Haji Majid bin Haji Awg Daniel, at the opening of the 19th Aseanapol Database System Technical Committee meeting.

The Aseanapol Database System, also referred to as e-ADS, was launched at the 26th Asean Chief of Police meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in 2006 and began operations in all member countries the same year and leverages on the already developed 1-24/7 Interpol Communication System.

The Royal Brunei Police Force is currently hosting the ADSTC meeting, attended by delegates from member countries of Aseanapol, as well as two officers from the Interpol Secretary General Department in Lyon, France.

"The successful implementation of the project no doubt sign' fies the strong resolve and commitment orAseanapol as a regional police grouping in its effort to promote police cooperation, particularly in the fields of police information and intelligence exchange in Asean," said the guest of honour.

Supt Haji Majid bin Haji Awg. Daniel, the Director of Administration and Finance at the Royal Brunei Police Force, in his opening remarks, also touched on the nascent I-Link project, which will hopefully enhance and improve the current system.

He also hopes that these initiatives will provide value-added services to users, particularly in assisting and strengthening their ground operational capabilities in the region. But the system, he said, will lack bite and strength if there are no commitments from member countries to populate the database accordingly.

"After two years of its implementation, the time has come for the ADSTC to reflect and measure not only how much data is in the system but also how effective or how many hits we have had in relation to queries that were made by member countries from the system," he said.

This new system will replace its predecessor through the utilisation or the Internet to allow for a faster and cheaper means of sharing information regionally. In this meeting, they will deliberate ways of fully utilising and possibly improving the existing system, as well as the joint effort needed in updating the data found through both Interpol and Aseanapol. The outcome of this meeting will be put forward at the 28th Asean Chief of Police meeting, scheduled to be held in Brunei this May.

The three-day meeting, which began on Monday at the Rizqun International Hotel in Gadong, was chaired by Supt Amirrudin Haji Junaidi, the Head Secretariat at Commissioner of Police office and Secretary of Interpol Brunei. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Four Get Jail Terms And Lashes For Tutong Burglaries
By Malai FadleyRizal

Bandar Seri Begawan - Four locals were all imprisoned and some given strokes of the cane on charges of theft and mischief.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Christopher Ng preferred the charges against Mohammad Khairuddin bin Abdullah, 34, Johari bin Haji Jaya, 19, Rozin bin Mashurat, 16 and 21-year-old Ed Shahri bin Mohd Jaya, who all pleaded guilty at the first opportunity before the Bandar Magistrate's Court.

On the first count, Mohammad Khairuddin, Johari and Rozin stole a radio, a 21-inch television, a drill set and an emergency light from a house at Jalan Sebakit, Kg Tanjong Maya, Tutong between 3pm on January 13 and 2pm on January 15.

The second charge stated that Johari, Rozin and Ed Shahri stole a 32-inch television from a house at Kampong Sengkarai, Tutong on February 28.

Johari, Rozin and Ed Shahri committed mischief during the course of theft by damaging an aluminium window grille, the wooden door and the locks of the house as stated in the third charge.

The fourth charge against Mohammad Khairuddin, Johari and Rozin stated that the defendants stole a bicycle, a crystal necklace and three gold bracelets from a house at Kg Penulud in Tanjong Maya, Tutong on November 13, 2007.

The same three defendants struck again, stealing gold items worth about $30,000, a DVD player, a Playstation console, a Gameboy Advanced console and a magnetic bracelet at a house in Kg Penabai, Tutong between December 8 and 9, 2007.

During the course of theft, the three defendants committed mischief by causing wrongful damage to the aluminium window grille of the house, according to the sixth charge.

All three defendants again stole from a house at Jalan Kecil Bangungus, Tutong on December 26, 2007 where the owner lost a fan, a mobile phone, a Playstation 2 console, a pair of boots and a microphone.

The eighth charge stated that the defendants committed mischief by damaging the backdoor of the said house in order to commit the theft.

The last charge against the same three defendants stated that they stole a computer laptop and gold items worth $2,000 from a house at Kg Bukit Udal, Tutong on February 7, this year.

The court yesterday sentenced Mohammad Khairuddin to jail for three years and four months, Johari to three years' imprisonment and nine strokes of the cane, Rozin got two years' jail with three strokes of the cane and Ed Shahri got eight months' jail with three strokes of the cane. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Closer Brunei, Cambodia Ties
By Aemy Azlena

Bandar Seri Begawan - His Majesty the Sultan and Yang DiPertuan of Brunei Darussalam last night hosted a Royal Banquet in honour of the King of Cambodia, His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni at the lstana Nurul Iman.

The Cambodian King arrived yesterday for a three-day State visit. Soon after Their Majesties arrived at the hall, the national anthems of Cambodia and Brunei Darussalam were played.

This was followed by a doa selamat read by Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Hj Awg Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti.

His Majesty then delivered a titah and expressed his hope that they can share the experiences that links Brunei and Cambodia as friends and partners in the modem Southeast Asia.

His Majesty said that in the heart of all the programmes of cooperation lies providing the opportunities for the people in member countries of Asean to meet the challenges of today's world with a confidence and hope that is based on their own knowledge, practical skills and talent. "Those are practical tasks, Your Majesty, and we are delighted to be sharing them with our friends and colleagues in the Kingdom of Cambodia. Many of them involve the future, however. But there are many other things that we already share and we are equally delighted to have the opportunity that Your Majesty's visit offers to express and reaffirm them.

"They are less tangible than formal programmes of cooperation. But in some ways they are even more important.

"They reflect the spirit of our modern region; the friendship we share; the desire we have to work together and help one another; the wish to learn more about each other and to understand each other well; and perhaps above all else the quality that underpins all others in a modern region, respect of each other," said His Majesty.

This respect (which includes the rich diversity of background, faiths, cultures and historical experience, as well as the respect for both countries' people's individual strengths, talents and abilities) exists in abundance between Brunei and the Kingdom of Cambodia, added His Majesty.

In reply, His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, the King of Cambodia expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome extended by His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei, the Brunei government and the Brunei people, as well as for the support in the national reconstruction and development of Cambodia in the fields of economy and social development.

He also brought greetings from his august parents, His Majesty the Heroic King Norodom Sihanouk, Father of the Cambodian Nation and Her Majesty Queen Norodom Monineath Sihanouk, Mother of the Cambodian Nation.

The King of Cambodia said, "The continuous exchanges of visits between the leaders of Cambodia and Brunei has strengthened the bonds of friendship and solidarity existing between our two countries in order to speed up the bilateral cooperation in all fields for the join benefit of our two peoples.

His Majesty the King of Cambodia then raised a toast to the good health, long life and happiness of His Majesty the Sultan and the royal family, invited guests and the people of Brunei, as well as to the enduring friendship between Brunei and the Kingdom of Cambodia.

Also present at the banquet were His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, HRH Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah and other members of the royal family.

Also present were senior government officials, ambassadors and special guests. Prior to the royal banquet, His Majesty the Sultan consented to a pre-dinner audience followed by an exchange of gifts between Their Majesties. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

A Just Society Makes No Room For Poverty
By Sri Anne Hj Masri
Bandar Seri Begawan - The Government of Brunei Darussalam is committed to eradicating poverty by year 2035 as contained in its National Development Plan. Poverty is one of the social ills of the economy, and it can lead to insecurity and acts of evil. This is a great challenge for all of us individuals and all the relevant institutions primarily the Ministry of Religious Affairs in achieving these objectives.
The Islamic institutions can certainly play a major role in achieving the zero poverty vision in line with the objectives of Islam - among others, the protection of religion and life. Surely, that will never be achieved without a plan of action and strategic planning through "Islamic Microfinance Project Enterprises

TheHawk

Cambodian King Visits BSP
By Azaraimy HH

Bandar Seri Begawan - His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia visited Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) Company Sdn Bhd yesterday morning.

Also in attendance was Her Royal Highness Princess Norodom Arunrasmy, His Majesty the King's sister.

His Majesty the King of Cambodia, who is in the Sultanate for a state visit, was accompanied by Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Lela Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd Rahman bin Dato Setia Haji Mohamed Taib, Brunei's Minister of Education.

Upon arrival at the Anduki Airfield, His Majesty the King of Cambodia was greeted by Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Hj Abdullah bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar, Minister of Development; Awg Hj Mohammad bin Abdul Rahman, Belait District Officer; and Awng Hj Zainai Abidin bin Hj Mohd Ali, the Acting Managing Director of Brunei Shell Petroleum.

From the airfield, the Cambodian entourage proceeded to the company's science and technology educational community outreach project, the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre in Seria.

The Cambodian royal entourage arrived at the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre and was greeted by David Purvis, Technical Director and Hj Kamaludin Hj Bungsu, the Darat Asset Manager of Brunei Shell Petroleum.

The Cambodian King's programme at the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre commenced with a presentation comprising an overview of Brunei Shell Petroleum. It was followed by a question and answer session.

The royal visit continued with a tour of the exhibition hall at the centre, which showcases over 300 science interactive exhibits detailing the development of the oil and gas industry. The exhibits also provide an out-of-the-classroom experience for visitors and especially youngsters to understand and enjoy learning science and technology related to the oil and gas industry.

While in the exhibition hall, His Majesty the King of Cambodia also viewed a couple of science demonstrations.

Prior to leaving the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre, the Cambodian royal entourage proceeded to the viewing gallery to experience a panoramic sweep of the oil and gas installations overlooking the South China Sea.

The visit then culminated with the presentation of a souvenir to His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni by Awg Haji Zainal Abidin. To commemorate His Majesty the King of Cambodia's visit, a photo session between His Majesty's entourage and his Bruneian hosts was also arranged. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Local Drug Abuser Fined $3,200
By Malai FadleyRizal

Bandar Seri Begawan - The Bandar Magistrate's Court yesterday slapped a local woman with a $3,200 fine or four months' jail in default after she pleaded guilty to charges under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

Narcotics Control Bureau Prosecuting Officer Norizanullah told the court that the defendant. Siti Sarwana binte Adanan, was arrested on February 2, 2005 at a hotel in Jerudong, where she was found with 0.077 grammes of inethylamphetamines and drug utensils. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Move To Raise Local Rice Output To 10pc Of Domestic Needs
By Sobrina Rosli

Bandar Seri Begawan - The Agriculture Department is considering raising the volume of local rice production as a percentage to total domestic consumption to 10 per cent.

Brunei's current self-sufficiency rate in rice stands at 2.88 per cent. The bulk, or 97 per cent, of rice consumed in the sultanate is imported from Thailand, said Sufri Abdullah, assistant director of the department.

He did not specify when this target, once it is decided on by department officials, will be achieved.

In 2006, rice imports totalled 32,109 metric tonnes, according to rice industry statistics.

"Even the 2.88 per cent of our local production is not to cater to locals where some farmers opt to produce for selfconsumption instead," he said in an interview.

Local rice is also considered of higher value, said Sufri. Ten kilogrammes of Thai rice can cost a Bruneian between $11.90 and $12.00 whilst three kilogrammes of local rice can cost up to $10.

A self-sufficiency rate of 10 per cent in rice is the maximum rate to achieve taking into account factors, such as infrastructure and land availability, he said.

"That is the maximum rate because when you talk about rice plantations you need low-lying areas, good infrastructure and most importantly good irrigation systems as well as the right manpower. We have still a long way to go."

The land area for rice cultivation is limited and rolling topography is usually not suitable for this agricultural activity.

"In some areas it is low lying land, in other areas it is hilly land area," Sufri added.

According to 2006 statistics from the department, Brunei's rice consumption was 31,082 metric tonnes. Local production was 895.3 metric tonnes.

"Our local production has been on a steady increase from year to year, it is encouraging, he added.

Sufri said that lately some locals have developed a keen interest in rice production and the department will make sure it is there to facilitate and support this trend.

'We will try to provide them with infrastructure and support those who want to open land for rice production, help to ... (assess) the availability and suitability of land," he said.

Moreover, the department plans to open a big area for rice production with proper infrastructure and utilities.

Brunei currently has 100 per cent food self-sufficiency in eggs and broilers.

In 2006, the agriculture sector contributed US$58.4 million to the nation's gross domestic products (GDP), with a total production output worth almost US$172 million. By the first quarter last year, the sultanate recorded an 85 per cent self-sufficiency in local vegetables, and 33 per cent in tropical fruits.

Meanwhile, government officials concerned have yet to state whether current problems facing some neighbouring countries over tight supplies and rising prices of rice would adversely affect the local market.

In the case of local rice farmers, however, Sufri said their production is not likely to be affected by the global concern over supply and prices. -- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

TheHawk

Red Tape Breeds Corruption
By Azlan Othman

Bandar Seri Begawan - Government procedures and practices that are too bureaucratic may lead to people offering bribes to public servants in the department to ensure their applications are speeded up.

Senior Assistant Director of Anti Corruption Bureau, Hj Abdullah bin Abd Rahman said this yesterday in a briefing to officers and staff of the Ministry of Communications on corruption. To put it simply, bureaucracy and red tape breed corruption.

Minister of Communications, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kema Dato Seri Setia Hj Awg Abu Bakar, and his deputy, Dato Paduka Hj Yusof, were also present.

Hj Abdullah reminded government officers and staff on the dangers of seeking "sponsorships" for lucky draws for their functions, as well as accepting hampers, prizes, red packets or `ang pows' and vouchers.

"In asking for sponsorship, the department likes to choose companies or

businesses which they regulate like in processing permits. A company may not be brave enough to reject such a request, thinking that it would jeopardise its business in the future," he said. As for hampers, it would be better to reject as they could lead to corrupt practices especially during official dealings. Officers should avoid accepting prizes in accordance to the civil servant 'General Order'.

He also cautioned that prizes are more powerful and effective than taking bribes. Once you accept such prizes, the officer would owe kindness in return.

Hj Abdullah said people in the Sultanate are fortunate as corrupt practices in Brunei seldom occur and corruption among civil servants constitutes only a smaller percentage due to the political will of the leaders under the leadership of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, who are committed in combating corruption.

He added that the law on corruption too is comprehensive and provides adequate penalties to deter corruption. The Anti Corruption Bureau, entrusted to investigate corrupt practices, has been given powers to act against any corrupt official, regardless of his/her social status and position in the government.

Hj Abdullah also outlined three core strategies in ACB's fight against corruption, namely investigation, prevention (whereby ACB analyses the government department procedures and practices to lessen opportunities for corruption), as well as community networking and education on corruption prevention, which is part of the school curriculum.

The chairman of the ceremony, Hj Amir Azman, earlier said the briefing was aimed at enhancing awareness for officers and staff responsible in executing tasks that are entrusted to them.

It is also the aspiration of the ministry to see competitive and competent officers and staff implementing their tasks without accepting bribes. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Check With LTD Before Making Modifications
By Azlan Othman

Bandar Seri Begawan - The Land Transport Enforcement Chief is urging motorists to check with the Land Transport Department (LTD) Technical Section before fitting accessories to their vehicles to ensure they do not violate the Road Traffic Act and comply with the manufacturing standards.

The call was made following another round of joint spotchecks conducted yesterday morning by personnel from both the LTD and Tutong Police Station, in which several vehicles were found to have illegal modifications.

"They have been using the roads in Brunei for so long yet they are not familiar with the modification standards and procedures," said Land Transport Department Legal and Enforcement Chief Hj Suaib.

The operation carried out along Jalan Serambangun in the Tutong District resulted in the nabbing of 43 commercial vehicles and issuing of 51 compounds. Eighteen Speed Warning Device (SWD) violations were also detected. The police also issued 58 compounds and several summons.

The operation involved 11 LTD officers led by Development and Planning Assistant Director Hj Joharry bin Hj Abd Karim, while the 18 police personnel were headed by Tutong Police District Duty Traffic Officer (DTO) ASP Hj Othman bin Hj Ahmad.

On top of excessive modifications and faulty SWD, the officers also nabbed motorists with expired road tax, tinted windows and one vehicle with bald tyres at the rear and front.

Road traffic offenders paid their fines and scribbled down their particulars at a mobile stand erected by the personnel.

The nearly three-hour morning operation was held to enhance awareness on the traffic rules and regulations. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Royal Farewell To Cambodian King
By Yusrin Junaidi

Bandar Seri Begawan - His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday bid farewell to His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia in a royal audience at the istana Nurul Iman.

The Cambodian King was accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office from istana Edinburgh.

Also present to bid farewell to the King of Cambodia and his delegation were His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, His Royal Highness Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah and other members of the royal family.

Also in attendance were cabinet ministers, deputy ministers, permanent secretaries at the Prime Minister's Office and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, members of the Legislative Council, heads of foreign missions, Commissioner of Police, Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces, and members of the Privy Council. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Brunei To Create Niche In Global Market For Halal Products
By Sobrina Rosli

Bandar Seri Begawan - The Brunei Government has tapped the services of a UK-based consultancy in drawing up the master plan for an agro-technology park that is deemed critical for the sultanate to create a niche in the global market for halal products.

The Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources' Department of Agriculture recently drew up an agreement with SQW Consulting to assist the department in developing the Brunei Agro Technology Park.

SQW Consulting will help the government conduct studies on the agro-technology park - and give recommendations for its establishment.

Its work is expected to be completed between six and nine months.

Under the Brunei's halal brand initiative, the development of the agro-technology park will facilitate local and foreign businesses who want to build their products with the Brunei Halal Brand.

The project will be located on a 263-hectare land in Tungku, Gadong. The park's development will be in two phases. The first will involve the completion of 50 hectares of land, available with full basic infrastructure and facilities for investor.

The area can house up to 50 companies. Phase One is expected to be completed in 18 months.

The park will offer potential tenants the flexibility to choose from a range of property specifications. There will be choices of small to large sized property units including laboratory and office buildings. There is also the option for custom-made buildings to be developed on allocated areas.

Local and foreign investors can look forward to using research and innovative technology applications that focuses on science-based activities such as agriculture, fisheries and forestry.

The approach will involve the development of Brunei's New Halal Science Centre, a research institute aiming to become a pivotal global ground for halal related activities.

Another venue is also allocated for the Food Development Centre value-added processing of agriculture products as well as incubator programmes. The Agribusiness Incubator will facilitate the setting up of agriculture-based companies allowing them to tap into the scientific and managerial resources and develop them into viable ventures.

The Brunei Agro Technology Park aims to become a globally renowned park for halal food products as well as providing access for local and foreign businesses to exploit the knowledge and technology offered within the park.-- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

TheHawk

SMEs Are Our Future
By Amin Hosni & Azaraimy HH

Bandar Seri Begawan - His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, officially launched Brunei's first Info-Communications incubator, iCentre, at Anggerek Desa, yesterday.

Speaking at the launch, HRH Prince Mohamed remarked, "... I see nothing small or medium about SMEs. They are an important part of our country's future and I very much admire their determination and hard work." Speaking about the iCentre, the Prince said, "Basically, it is all about helping our people: helping them look for opportunities; helping them set things up; helping them get more knowledge; improve their skills and talents; and above all, helping them to make sure their businesses and companies work well.

"In other words, giving them the chance to take on the modern world with confidence.

"It's a very special project and it's for a very special group of people

TheHawk

Failure Necessary For Success: US Expert
By Finaz Daniel

Bandar Seri Begawan - Local technopreneurs were given the opportunity to learn best practices from an expert on how Brunei can use the success factors of America's Silicon Valley to build a vibrant technopreneurship culture in the country.
During a Think Big seminar at the iCentre yesterday, Tom Kosnik, a consulting professor at Stanford School of Engineering, gave insights into how the Silicon Valley has developed a relatively small geography and population into one of the most productive- economies in the world.
According to Professor Kosnik, creating an environment which allows for failure and stimulates new initiatives is one of the most important factors in building a successful technology entrepreneurship culture.
He stated that out of 10 entrepreneurs, only two or three are extraordinary successes.
"Almost everybody fails. If you haven't failed once or twice then you haven't been working very hard," he said.
The mentality of Silicon Valley is conducive for innovation and entrepreneurship with the environment of constant encouragement, trying ideas and not being beaten by failure.
He further stated that it is acceptable to talk and partner across company boundaries about common issues and challenges.
The talk entitled 'High-Tech Start-ups: Lessons from Silicon Valley', saw Professor Kosnik beginning with an explanation on how Silicon Valley became a successful technology entrepreneurship hub in the world.
Talent pool and social networks, which involve loyalty to the technology with a unique openness, skills and motivation and a highly multicultural community, were some of the factors listed in Silicon Valley's success.
Other factors stated for contributing to the success were its service infrastructure with many suppliers for outsourcing and its venture capital industry that provides more than just financing.
Role models that demonstrate both confidence and paranoia, flat organisational structures and meritocracy that embody its entrepreneurial spirit were also important factors, stated the professor.
The professor then demonstrated a Circle of influence model to the participants which involved three circles: players, stakes and code.
Players, such as venture capital firms, consulting firms or government agencies, help entrepreneurs get stakes to play the game. The stakes include money, time, customer relationships and talent, to name a few.
However, to get players to put up the stakes, one has to know the code, he explained. The code includes knowing facts such as the rules of the game and the rule of thumb.
"Applying the Circles of Influence model to Brunei can help achieve your goals for sustainable economic development," he said.
The professor also stressed that understanding the needs and perceived risks of the different types of adopters are critical for companies.
At the same time he added that it is essential for customers to adopt the innovation as well as for government and religious and cultural leaders in the country that are nurturing the innovation and guarding against any undesirable unintended consequences of the innovation.
Blessed with abundant natural resources and a unique society, Brunei leaders and citizens have the opportunity to develop a unique form of entrepreneurship that honours the country's values and principles as an Islamic country, protects its natural resources, develops the talent of its citizens, and ensures that future generations will inherit the beautiful and bounteous land, said Professor Kosnik.
Professor Tom Kosnik has designed and led a variety of executive education programmes and has co-authored two marketing text books, several articles and more than 60 case studies about companies in imagination-intensive markets.
The consulting professor is also a managing director with TCG Advisors and has also taught at Harvard Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business and National University of Singapore in the past.-- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

TheHawk

TelBru, B.Mobile Lower Broadband Service Charger
By Narissa Noor & Azaraimy HH

Bandar Seri Begawan - TelBru and b.mobile, the country's broadband providers, through their respective e-speed and Zoom! services, have lowered their prices in response to call from customers to reconsider their price rates.

Coupled with the inception of 3G and Wi-Fi access as well as the availability of affordable computers, the general consensus among current and prospective broadband subscribers remains positive.

One subscriber described the new rates as a long-awaited move.

"The new rates from e-speed and new plans from other broadband providers are more attractive than those previously."

Similarly, a local businesswoman said everyone can have the same affordable broadband at home, instead of relying on access from cafes and offices.

A government officer lamented that previous tariff for broadband was ridiculous, adding that the newly-revised plan of $128 for one mbps is reasonable, though it is still relatively expensive in the region.

"I applaud the move to revise rates as it was too expensive. We have one of the highest rates of Internet users in the region, and this (newly-revised prices) will encourage growth in Internet users," said an observer.

He also said, "Consumers will also benefit from the competitive prices broadband service providers charge. Furthermore, it's affordable for students, which enable them easier access to the Internet to gather information for research purposes."

However, these new rates have also been received with scepticism.

According to a customer, "instead of only lowering prices, the broadband service providers should have put more efforts into ensuring the speeds offered are comparable with those from other parts of the region".

TelBru and b.mobile will officially introduce their newly-lowered price rates today at the Brunei PC Fair 2008, Atrium Hall of The Mall in Gadong. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Ministry Warns Against 3 Traditional Medicines
By Aemy Azlena

Bandar Seri Begawan - Three traditional medicines, Power 1 Walnut Tablets, Bionex Capsules and Ju Purt Jen Chin Yen (Cap Fuu Cheng), have been found by the Ministry of Health to be adulterated with controlled poisons.

This was stated in a press release by the ministry based on a report from Drug Control authorities in neighbouring countries.

Power 1 Walnut Tablets was found to contain Glibenclamide and Sildenafil. Sibutramine was found in Bionex Capsules, while Ju Purt Jen Chin Yen (Cap Fuu Cheng) was found to contain Ephedrine.

Glibenclamide is an anti-diabetic agent and unsupervised ingestion of it may lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and low blood sugar level, which could lead to unconsciousness.

Sildenafil is a drug used in the treatment of male impotency and the drug can interact with other medicines resulting in serious adverse effects such as the lowering of blood pressure if used together with some anti-hypertensive drugs.

Unsurpervised ingestion of Sibutramine may lead to high blood pressure, heart palpitation and insomnia, while long-term consumption of Ephedrine may lead to nausea and vomiting, dizziness, palpitations, nervousness or convulsions.

Following an inspection conducted by the Ministry of Health through the Pharmacy Enforcement Section, Department of Pharmaceutical Services, the ministry has informed the public that although the products could not be found in shops, they may be available through direct selling and members of the public should refrain from buying or using any of the affected products.

The ministry also reminded the public that under the Poison Act 1956, it is an offence to sell any product containing any substance controlled under the Poisons Act and the penalty for such an offence, upon conviction, is a fine of $8,000 or imprisonment of six months.

Members of the public who have the affected products are advised to destroy or surrender them to the Pharmacy Enforcement Section, Block 2G, 8th Floor, BSB Health Centre in Jalan Ong Sum Ping, Bandar Seri Begawan. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

TheHawk

Bruneians Unfazed By Global Food Supply, Inflation Woes
By Sobrina Rosh and Debbie Too

Bandar Seri Begawan - Nothing has changed significantly about how Bruneians view food security despite global food supply concerns hogging headlines and the fact that Brunei depends heavily on imports to keep grocery shelves packed with basic goods.

An informal poll by The Brunei Times shows that most Bruneians acknowledge they are lucky they do not have to contend with food supply woes affecting other countries.

Some, however, are not even aware that basic staples such as rice have increasingly become a potent source of social unrest in countries whose domestic production is diminishing.

It doesn't help that weeks since the global supply of rice, a common staple food in Asia, triggered frenzied transactions between net importers and those with excess supply, government agencies concerned in Brunei have yet to speak up on the issue.

Or perhaps it's because Brunei's food supply chain has been so that locals are shielded from the adverse effects of market forces.

Take the view of Yasmin, a land management instructor and a mother of one: "The way I see it, it has to do with the thoughts and what you focus on thinking. In Brunei we don't really feel the pinch of the problems in global food supplies, so we do not really think about it and I do not expect that we would experience it also in the future."

She added: "They always say if you think that it is going to happen, then it will. We still have it easy and there is not much to complain about, it is hard to see and imagine people who suffer this problem in other countries."

Some maintain a positive view to the future.

"I'm not sure how it will impact Brunei," said Tan Mui Lan, mother of three.

If the supply crisis does impact Brunei, it would not be felt much "unless the supply is' cut, down and the food prices are really increased by a lot," said Ng Mei Hwa, mother of two.

Many other mothers share the observation that many Bruneians tend to waste food.

"In Brunei everyone takes for granted how much food is available," said Kavita Kaur, mother of two.

"Some of my friends buy more than five boxes of cereal at one time and the children never finish them, and (they) end up buying more and throwing half-empty boxes."

"When Giant (Brunei) opened you see these families buying food in abundance just because the price is cheap," said Hjh Wadihah Hj Moksin, mother of three who are all employed now.

"I think it's crazy to buy a trolley full of instant noodles just because it saves you a few cents per packet... it's just being greedy! I heard from a friend that... these families are buying five to 10 sacks of rice! It's like Brunei is running out of food.

Some, however, suspect that there is quite a number of households that do feel what little impact global food prices have on price tags in Brunei.

"I do have some sense that some are finding it financially tight to stretch their monthly income," said Shima, manager of a restaurant and a mother.

Seri Aini, a schoolteacher and a mother, said she is aware of the severity of the food problem in other countries.

"We have to educate ourselves to be more aware of what's happening outside Brunei," she said.

"We don't get taxed, staples are subsidised. Life is actually good in Brunei, we just need to be careful with our own spending - waste not, want not."

Some others are more concerned about food quality.

"For me, what is important is as long as it is Halal and in Brunei with good food control I do not have any problems with (food supply)" said, Rohani Osman, a mother.-- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

TheHawk

His Majesty Checks On Soldiers' Welfare
By James Kon & Haji Minor Absah

Bandar Seri Begawan - His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday consented to visit the Royal Brunei Land Forces Third Battalion camp in Lumut, which showed the monarch's concern on the welfare of military personnel.

His Majesty, who is also the Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, arrived by helicopter and landed at the newly-constructed Third battalion Camp. His Majesty was greeted upon arrival by Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Paduka Awg Hj Mohammad Yasmin bin Haji Umar, Deputy Minister of Defence; Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Hj Md Yussof, Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces; and Dato Paduka Awg Hj Abd Majid bin Haji Mangarshah, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence.

His Majesty's visit began with the inspection of a guard of honour comprising 96 personnel of the Third Battalion of the Royal Brunei Land Forces under the command of Major Saiful Rizal

bin Abdul Latif. Before touring the new Third Battalion Camp headquarter, His Majesty heard a briefing delivered by Lt Colonel Haji Abdul Aziz bin Hj Abdul Rahman, Commanding Officer of the Third Battalion.

The monarch then took a closer look at the Company C barrack, which houses the administration office and living quarters of soldiers.

This was followed by a tour of the cookhouse, surau of the Lumut Camp and Quartermaster office. The RBLF Third Battalion was formed during the Royal Brunei Armed Forces' (RBAF) 33rd Anniversary on May 31, 1994.

The RBLF Third Battalion, stationed at Penanjong Garrison in Tutong District since its formation, was relocated to Lumut Camp on June 21, 2007.

The Supreme Commander also visited the sports complex that is equipped with facilities like a gym, swimming pool, hockey field, track and field with a grandstand, badminton courts among others.

His Majesty then went to the Married Quarters, which is still being built, Medical Health Centre and Officers' Mess.

During the visit to the Officers' Mess, His Majesty signed a royal parchment and went on to inspect the Battalion's parade consisting of 225 personnel, led by Major Haji Haszaimi bin Hj Bolhassan.

The equipment and gear carried by the soldiers came under the close scrutiny of His Majesty.

Five soldiers in the line-up were asked to unpack their gear to check their standard.

His Majesty consented to have light refreshments and mingled with senior officials of the Ministry of Defence and Royal Brunei Armed Forces before concluding the visit. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin