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After flood nightmare, JKR barracks residents ask to move out
By James Kon
Residents of JKR and Electrical Services barracks in Jln Gadong cleaning up the mess left behind by the flash floods.
A resident showing how high the floodwater reached.
A resident in Kg Menglait trying to clear the floodwater.
Cars damaged in the flooding. - PHOTOS: JAMES KON & YUSRIN JUNAIDI
Family members of Dk Norhayati binti Pg Hj Mohammad trying to save their belongings from the floodwater.
The small community staying at the JKR and Electrical Services barracks in Jln Gadong suffered hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of property damage when the flash floods hit their neighbourhood, damaging most of their belongings and vehicles on Tuesday night.
The neighbourhood of public servants has had enough - most of the flood victims want to move out of the area.
One of the residents, Rosnah binti Ibrahim recalled the flash floods: "It happened so fast, we couldn't save anything. The water started rushing into the apartment at 10pm and rose to almost five feet in half an hour.
"Flooding has become a frequent misfortune for us but this time was the worst. We don't feel safe here. I would like to plead with the authorities to consider moving us to another apartment".
Another resident, Dk Norhayati binti Pg Hj Mohammad said, "I will have to move temporarily to my relative's house tonight. All our property is drenched and all of our electrical items are damaged."
The family of four, who includes a month-old baby, was fortunate to escape unharmed.
She said, "We were lucky that our baby is safe. Concerned about our safety, we will be moving to our relative's home tonight temporarily."
She also pleaded with the government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam to help move her family to another place.
Awang Marzuki bin Anak Gayau, who has stayed in a ground floor apartment for three years, also hopes that the authorities help find another place for his family.
"This is the worst flood that we have seen so far. My home is ruined and my car is damaged. Can we stay (here) now?" he asked. A neighbour on the second floor was generous enough to let his family stay with him for a few nights.
Meanwhile, another family staying across Awang Marzuki's home suffered property damage amounting to about $20,000.
Awang Mohd Helmi bin Sulaiman said, "Both our vehicles are drenched. We lost all our property in the flood. We were sleeping when suddenly the water came rushing into our home and within 30 minutes, it (floodwater) rose to five feet. We couldn't save anything."
"It's the worst flood that we have experienced. We hope the government could help us by providing a safer place to stay."
The Community Development Department has so far distributed 500 packed meals to flood victims who couldn't find the means to cook or are stranded.
The department is also providing temporarily shelter to badly affected flood victims at the Games Village.
Flood victims, who need a place to stay temporarily, can contact the Community Development Department. |
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Landslide tragedy at Jalan Pasir in Berakas
| By Ben Ng
The damage caused by the landslide. - BEN NGA landslide on Tuesday night claimed the life of a local Chinese woman after eroding debris destroyed parts of her house trapping her inside, according to reports from the Fire and Rescue Department. Located along Jalan Pasir in Berakas, the house was occupied by 20 people prior to the incident. All of them managed to escape except for the 46-year-old woman, who was reportedly in her bedroom before the walls caved in, trapping her inside. "The landslide hit the kitchen and several rooms where the lady was in. The walls collapsed on the victim," said a spokesperson from the Fire and Rescue Department. According to the spokesperson, the victim's relatives managed to free her after some time and rushed her to RIPAS Hospital where doctors pronounced her dead. The department has cordoned the area off for safety reasons as they are expecting more landslides from the recent surge in rainfall. The department was scrambling its resources Tuesday night after receiving a total of 197 distress calls from people who were affected by the flooding and landslides. Rainfall levels reached 66.7mm on Monday night, while Tuesday night's rainfall level reached a record-high of 167.7mm, flooding roads and low-lying buildings and houses.
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Farm destroyed in Lumut
| By Liza Mohd
Backyard of Awang Hj Rizal Fauzan's hillside house. - PHOTOS: LIZA MOHD | 
The floodwater completely wiped out Awang Hj Rizal Fauzan's farms. |
Several areas in Belait District were inundated by floodwater and landslides on Wednesday after a heavy downpour. Among the worst-hit areas were Kg Lumut and Sungai Liang, where some roads were impassable because of landslides and heavy flooding. In Kg Lumut, the compound of a hillside house belonging to Awang Hj Rizal Fauzan bin Hj Mohd Bahrin suffered from soil erosion after the area was pounded by incessant rains. The 45-year-old man told the Bulletin that personnel from the Fire & Rescue Department covered the slope with a piece of canvas after the surroundings of the two-storey house were badly damaged by a landslide last October. However, this has not been effective because loose soil continues to be washed down the slop after a heavy downpour. His wife, Pg Hjh Roselina binte Pg Hj Ismail, told the Bulletin that she woke up at around 10.30pm on Tuesday when she heard the thumping sound of rocks, mud and other debris sliding down the slopes. She soon realised that the dirt had completely buried the back compound. The Bulletin has also learnt that the floodwater had completely wiped out his maize and chilli farms. Awang Hj Rizal said that this would affect his family's income. Furthermore, the road leading to the couple's house was impassable as the water level was about four feet high. Awang Haji Rizal had to use a boat, which was paddled by firefighters, to get to his house. Awang Hj Rizal lamented that he has not been informed about the latest progress of assistance that various authorities had earlier promised to provide. He hoped that the relevant authorities would provide speedy assistance in helping his family get back on their own feet.
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First Bruneian baby to undergo liver transplant in S'pore
By Yusrin Junaidi
Seven-month-old Bruniean baby, Muhamad Nur Haraz Firaz Md Salleh, is suffering from liver failure and is currently under the Intensive Care Unit at one of the hospitals in Singapore.
The baby's mother, Dk Nurul, told the Bulletin through a telephone interview from Singapore, that Muhamad Nur Haraz Firaz's stomach kept getting bigger after being infected with "Jaundice" and that's when he was diagnosed with liver failure.
"We had no choice but to send my baby to one of the hospitals in Singapore as our local hospitals are not equipped to do a liver transplant," Dk Nurul added.
"To date, we have received several calls from the general public wanting to donate blood. I really appreciated their help, but what my baby actually needs is a healthy liver to keep him alive."
The father, Md Salleh, also failed to help his baby because of his high blood pressure.
Dk Nurul told the Bulletin that her baby is the first and youngest in Brunei to undergo liver transplant.
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Crown Prince continues third day of S'pore visit
| By Sonia K.
Major General Neo Kian Hong the Chief of Army welcomes HRH upon his arrival. | 
HRH the Crown Prince and Prince Abdul Qawi in a group photo with senior officers at the Armour Training Institute. | 
Inspecting a guard of honour. - PHOTOS: INFOFOTO | 
HRH is presented a plague as Prince Abdul Qawi looks on. | 
HRH is invited to drive a Leopard 2 Main Battle Tank after a demonstration on the driving simulator. | 
HRH the Crown Prince speaks to an officer. | 
HRH visiting the Peranakan Museum. |
His Royal Highness Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office yesterday continued the third day of His Royal Highness' visit to Singapore. His Royal Highness Prince General is accompanied by Prince Abdul Qawi. Yesterday's visit started at the Armour Training Institute and upon arrival the Crown Prince was greeted by Major General Neo Kian Hong, the Chief of Army, and Brigadier General Philip Lim, Chief Armour Officer of Singapore Armed Forces. His Royal Highness inspected the Quarter Guard mounted by the Singapore Armed Forces Armour. His Royal Highness' visit began with a briefing on the Singapore Armed Forces Armour, followed by an overview of the Singapore Armed Forces 3G Armour development and the Leopard 2 Main Battle Tank. He had the opportunity to familiarise and personally experience the use of simulators as a means of training the Armour Unit personnel. Firstly, the Crown Prince was given a demonstration on the use of the Leopard 2 Main Battle Tank's Canon Simulator and was then invited to operate the Leopard 2 Driving Simulator before driving the actual Leopard 2 Main Battle Tank. Before ending the visit, HRH was presented with a plaque from the Armour Unit of the Singapore Armed Forces and a Leopard 2 driving licence. His Royal Highness also met with officials from the Royal Brunei Armed Forces who are currently training at Singapore Armed Forces Training Institute - Military Institute. After the visit to the Institute, His Royal Highness called on Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at the Istana. In the afternoon, HRH visited the Peranakan Museum. Upon arrival, he was greeted by Professor Tommy Koh, Chairman of the National Heritage Board. There, HRH was briefed on the history of Peranakans. In the evening, the Crown Prince attended a dinner hosted by Associate Professor Koo Tsai Kee, Minister of State at the Ministry of Defence of Singapore. The dinner took place at a leading hotel in the city.
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Published on The Brunei Times (http://www.bt.com.bn/en)
Father unable to save daughter who drowns in his arms
Source of muddy streets: One of the excavators seems to have flipped over into the stream after the soil under gave way due to heavy downpour along the Jalan Gadong area. Picture: BT/Zamri Zainal
Bahrum Ali and Faez Hani
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Thursday, January 22, 2009
THE rains late on Tuesday evening may have caused damage to property and vehicles, but none can imagined the loss felt by a father who saw his daughter's life swept away by a flash flood in Kg Katok.
Nuramanina Misir, 19, drowned that night when both her and her father were making their way home at the time.
Misir Hj Serudin said that at 10.30pm that fateful evening, he picked up his daughter from her workplace at Kg Tungku, a mere two kilometres away from their home.
However, the flood waters had reached waist-level and he was forced to park his car at an access road and carry on the rest of the way to his daughter's workplace on foot.
"On our way back home, the current (from the flood waters) was very strong and my daughter was holding on to my left arm in order not to be swept away," he told The Brunei Times yesterday.
When they reached the Sungai Belaban canal bridge, a strong wave from the swollen river pushed them to the roadside rails and forced them to the ground to a seating position, he said.
"The wave that night was very strong until I lost my grip on my daughter," he said. He added that he could not reach for her immediately as he had to save himself first from falling into the river. He went on to say that after a couple of minutes, he managed to secure his footing and quickly turned to save his daughter. However, her head was already underwater.
"I was struggling to pull my daughter up, but I could not lift her because at the same time, the current was continuously pushing me forward," he said.
He recollected that he tried to grab a hold of his daughter but her leg and belt were pinned to the railing, making it more difficult to pull her up.
"I knew that my daughter was already dying since the water was already flowing on top of her head for over 10 minutes. However, I could not let myself see my daughter drown in that river. I would rather try to save her," said the self-employed father, adding that it felt better to keep her in his arms even though she was dying.
Misir added that two men who spotted them quickly ran to their aid, but were unable to safely cross the bridge themselves, rendering their efforts fruitless. Neighbours then tried to use a rope, tied to their waists, to reach the father and daughter and managed to pull the daughter to higher ground.
"We already tried to give her CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation), while waiting for an ambulance, hoping that we could save her life," said the father of five. After a while, ambulance, police and the Fire and Rescue Department personnel arrived and rushed the daughter to Ripas Hospital. Unfortunately, it was already too late.
He added that he was grieving but as a Muslim, he had to accept that according to Islam, everything given and taken is God's will. "Even if I cry, I will never be able to bring my daughter's life back," said the father.
Timah Hj Mirasan, the mother, said that this was their second time losing a child after their first baby died 26 years ago due to premature birth. The mother who now has trouble walking due to a side effect of diabetes, said that she felt even more sad because of the loss.
According to the hospital's Accident and Emergency Department, numerous calls were received over the incident. They remarked that they had already tried their best to help the victim. However, due to traffic and inaccessibility of the roads from heavy floods that evening, their response was hindered greatly.
One resident commented that ever since the river had been turned into a canal, it has created more problems such as flash floods. She said that only the upper and middle part of the river bank were lined with concrete while the lower part of the river had no concrete lining its banks at all.
"We hope that the authorities would do something about this to ease the problem and prevent any more unforeseen incidents from happening," she said.
Another victim from the heavy downpour was 46-year-old Yong Tick Lin, who was buried alive under a pile of mud in her house in Kg Madang on Tuesday night.
According to the deceased's brother-in-law, who wished to be referred to as Ting, she was sleeping in the bedroom when the landslide occurred and crushed her bedroom.
"The walls collapsed and crushed her. Now the two rooms are filled with mud and so is the whole backyard. It is all covered in three feet of mudl," said the devastated brother-in-law.
The brother-in-law said that he does not live in the house so he was not there to witness what happened but he recounted how everything was happening so fast.
"I got a call in the middle of the night and rushed there immediately," he said.
"It's unreal, she usually doesn't go to bed early as she's always watching television in the living room late at night. Had she stayed in the living room everything could have been fine."
The house, his father-in-law's, was occupied by 16 people including grandchildren, who have all moved out and are currently staying with Ting.
"Now we are preparing for the funeral service and we also need to look for a house or an apartment where the family can stay."
Ting also wished to show their appreciation to the Minister of Development, Acting Minister of Home Affairs, and the permanent secretary of Ministry of Home Affairs and rescue personnel for their swift action and visit to pay their condolences.
The Brunei Times
Source URL:
http://www.bt.com.bn/en/en/home_news/2009/01/22/father_unable_to_save_daughter_who_drowns_in_his_arms |
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Stesen Utama Janakuasa Gadong turut tenggelam
| Oleh HasrulraizanBANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Rabu - Banjir kilat yang berlaku di negara ini akibat hujan yang turun dengan lebat tanpa hentinya semalam bukan saja menjejaskan jalan-jalan raya tetapi turut mengakibatkan gangguan bekalan tenaga elektrik di beberapa kawasan. Menurut kenyataan dari Jabatan Perkhidmatan Elektrik, banjir kilat yang berlaku di kawasan Gadong turut melibatkan peralatan elektrik di Stesen Utama 66,000 Volt, Janakuasa Gadong I apabila stesen berkenaan turut ditenggelami air. Gangguan bekalan tenaga elektrik yang menyebabkan sebahagian kawasan di Daerah Brunei Muara dan Daerah Tutong tidak menerima bekalan tenaga elektrik itu berlaku sejam pukul 11 malam semalam sehingga sekarang (setakat berita ini ditulis), jelas kenyataan itu lagi. Keputusan bekalan tenaga elektrik itu juga mengakibatkan banyak lampu isyarat di negara ini tidak berfungsi dan secara langsung menjejaskan kelancaran perjalanan kenderaan di jalan-jalan terbabit. Pada masa ini, Jabatan Perkhidmatan Elektrik sedang giat berusaha menjalankan kerja pemuliharaan dan pembaikan serta pengujian ke atas peralatan elektrik yang terlibat. Kenyataan itu turut meminta pengguna untuk sentiasa bersedia bagi sebarang kemungkinan gangguan bekalan tenaga elektrik yang berlarutan.
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Local workforce must meet needs of nation's development plan
| By Amin HosniThe current National Development Plan puts a strong focus on human resources development. It is generally recognised that in order for the nation to diversify its economy, it is critical for the local manpower skills to match the needs of the country's development plans. In light of this, HRD Services Global Education Link will be organising a career dialogue session as part of the 'Study in UK Education Fair' to be held on February 3. Key speakers from UK universities have been invited to hold presentations on specific career pathways - the careers covered are diverse, and address some of the most important areas where the sultanate requires the expertise. Courses and programmes are evaluated and modified continuously to meet the needs of the industry and business. Students are not often fully aware of certain studying requirements needed in particular programmes. The urgent need of skilled personnel in agriculture for example has been highlighted, but most students will lack the insight into different branches of agriculture. Knowledge and understanding in this matter would allow students to plan their careers appropriately. The career presentations will provide insight into programmes and careers that students might not have considered. Those who are excellent in mathematics, for instance, might not realise that studying for Actuarial Science is essentially studying for applied mathematics and that this degree has excellent career opportunities. The Career Dialogue will also cover the application process in the UK and what additional features universities are searching for besides academic qualifications. The talk on applying to selective universities by Ms Melissa Werrett from University of Bristol will highlight the main criteria that high-ranking universities use in selecting the successful candidates. Ms Natalie Cunningham from the University of Leicester will also provide guidelines on putting a PhD application together - this will include writing research proposal, identifying a suitable supervisor, and of course the philosophy of doing research. Students in Brunei do not fully appreciate the advantages of following a programme that allows industrial attachments. Employers are keen that students possess real working experience as part of their education. Ms Jo Power from the University of Bath, which offers a high proportion of programmes with industrial placements, will go through details of how these attachments work and how it contributes to the students' development. Other areas that will be covered during the Career Dialogue include Medicine/Dentistry (University of Glasgow), Pharmacy (University of Bath), Actuarial Studies (University of Kent), Agriculture Studies (University of Reading), Built Environment (Northumbria University), Art and Design (Nottingham Trent University) and Islamic Studies (SOAS, University of London). The career talks will be from 8.30am to 11.00am on February 3 at the Empire Hotel. Students can contact HRD Services to register.
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*** DK sure bz ni... |
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Govt distributes food aid to moreflood victims
By Achong Tanjong & James Kon
Seventy-eight people in Kampung Mulaut in the Brunei-Muara District whose houses were badly affected in the recent flash floods and landslides received welfare assistance comprising of daily basic necessities from the Department of Community Development (JAPEM).
The welfare assistance was handed over at the house of the village head of Kg Mulaut, Haji Mohamad Jait bin Hitam.
Chief guest Awg Haji Mohammad bin Hj Abd Rahman, Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, gave away the assistance to the recipients.
Also at the function were Deputy Director of JAPEM, Puan Hajah Misnah bte Hj Bolhassan, as well as officers from the department.
Each recipient received a bag of rice, cooking oil, canned food and other related daily necessities.
According to the village head, the village has 306 houses and has a population of 2,993. One of the recipients said it was the first time since 1974 the kampong has been hit by flash floods. The water level reached up to three feet high during the floods, she added.
She also said the rapid development without proper planning, especially on the drainage system, could be one of the reasons behind the flash floods.
It has truly been a busy month for emergency personnel in the country. Between January 20 and 25, the Fire and Rescue Department received a staggering 230 emergency calls.
On Monday, the department received another 34 emergency calls.
According to a press release by the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), 10 of the 34 calls received were to report landslides in Mukim Gadong A, Mukim Gadong, Mukim Kilanas, Mukim Sengkurong and Mukim Lumapas.
The department dispatched personnel to the affected locations to evaluate the situation. Canvases were placed over affected areas to reduce the impact of the landslides.
Three emergency calls were received to help clear floodwater in houses at Kg Mulaut, Kg Kilanas and Jln Tutong.
Another three calls were to drain water at Jalan Ban 3 of Kg Mulaut, Jln Ban 6 of Kg Kilanas and its vicinity. Twenty other calls were for other emergencies.
In terms of road cleaning and clearing of debris, the road section of the Public Works Department said that cleaning works on almost all the affected roads have been completed.
Meanwhile, work is still in progress in Jln Tutong (Kg Tasek Meradun) as more debris have been washed down by rain over the last few days.
In this regard, the department said it would continue to monitor for any re-occurrence of landslides at all the affected roads. |
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Met dept on climate, current weather affecting Brunei
Graph shows the mean monthly rainfall pattern for Brunei Darussalam taken from Brunei International Airport Meteorological Station. Photos courtesy: Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Service
A radar image showing the widespread and intense rainfall over Brunei on Jan 20 this year
The climate of Brunei Darussalam is governed by its location, on the Northwest coast of Borneo Island, within the equatorial tropics and by the wind systems of Southeast Asia which result from the atmospheric pressure distribution over the region as a whole.
The pressure distribution can be simply described as an area of low pressure at the Equator, with areas of high pressure over the subtropics in each hemisphere.
The low pressure, so-called "trough", at the equator is often termed the "Inter Tropical Convergence Zone" or "ITCZ", emphasising its importance as the area where air masses from the Northern and Southern Hemispheres converge.
Being a country with an equatorial climate, Brunei receives an abundance of moisture and heat as a source of energy which results in the active development of weather and hence the ample amount of rainfall throughout the year.
The Normal Annual Rainfall Pattern
The seasonal rainfall pattern over the country can be illustrated by the mean monthly rainfall record at the Meteorological Station of the Brunei International Airport as shown in the rainfall graph (top right).
An annual cycle characterised by two maxima and two minima is normally observed. The maximum rainfall occurs from November to January with December being the wettest month. The second peak of rainfall takes place from April to May with the latter month being the wettest.
The two minima are referred to as the "dry months" with February and March being the drier of two. It is, however, worth noting that the concept of "dry months" is relative and normally there is a significant amount of rainfall recorded.
These rainfall patterns correspond to changes in the wind systems affecting the region. During the months of November to January, the weather over Brunei is influenced by the Northeast monsoon season and June to August is the Southwest monsoon season.
The inter-monsoons or transition periods occur in April to May and September to October, during which the developments of active small-scale convection cells or thunderstorms occur.
Influence of the El-Nino/La-Nina Phenomena
Apart from the annual climate cycle, Brunei is also influenced by the El-Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO). ENSO is a global event arising from the large-scale interaction between the ocean and the atmosphere.
An El-Nino event occurs when the sea surface temperature becomes abnormally warm over the Eastern Pacific and abnormally cold over the Western Pacific. Warm sea surface temperature drops the sea level pressure over the Eastern Pacific and vice versa at the Western Pacific.
This pressure anomaly changes the flow of wind over the Pacific. During the El-Nino event, the low-level easterly wind over the Pacific weakens and hence suppresses the development of weather activity over the Western Pacific.
In contrast, the opposite or reverse would occur in a La-Nina episode, the low-level Easterly wind strengthens and transports more moisture to the Western Pacific, resulting in more weather activity over the region, including Brunei.
It has been observed that the effect of ENSO varied from year to year. Studies have indicated that during the strong El-Nino events, Brunei had experienced prolonged dry period mostly peaking during the Northern Hemisphere winter.
On the other hand, during the strong cold phase (La-Nina) episodes, most of the rainfall amount received exceeded the monthly mean and in some events exceeded two to three times higher than the monthly average rainfall values.
The declared strong warm phase (El-Nino) events recorded over the last two decades are 1982/83, 1990/91, 1992/93 and 1997/98, while the strong cold phase years are 1973/74, 1975/76, 1988/89 and 1998/99.
Current Situation under La-Nina Influence
As announced by the National Centre for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the United States of America and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), the Pacific presently is in the cold phase (La-Nina) condition that has started from December 2008 and is expected to persist until March 2009.
Brunei is currently experiencing the Northeast monsoon season. Climatologically, the Northeast monsoon season starts from December and ends in March.
In a "normal year" weather situation, the first-half of the season (December to January) is associated with wet and windy condition and high sea state. While at the latter part of the season (February to March), the conditions would become drier. - Issued by The Brunei Darussalam Meteorological Service, Department of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Communications, Brunei Darussalam |
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Palestinian fund gets $50,000 boost
By James Kon
Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Krena Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong presenting a mock cheque of B$50,000 to Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Ahmad bin Haji Jumat, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports. - James Kon
Brunei Darussalam's Palestinian Humanitarian Fund has raised B$61,000 as of yesterday.
A big chunk of it came from Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah which donated B$50,000 to the Palestinian Humanitarian Fund yesterday in a ceremony at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.
The donation was handed over by Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Communications, in his capacity as the chairman of the board of Director of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.
The mock cheque was received by Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Ahmad bin Haji Jumat, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, in his capacity as the Chairman of the Palestinian Humanitarian Fund.
Also present were Haji Mohamad bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dayang Hjh Misnah Hj Bolhassan, Acting Director of Community Development, Dato Paduka Haji Ali Hashim bin Haji Daud, Managing Director of Yayasan, and other officials.
Meanwhile, Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah has placed Palestinian Humanitarian Fund donation boxes at strategic locations in the Yayasan shopping complex and the Yayasan School. The Department of Community Development as the secretariat of the Palestinian Humanitarian Fund has urged the public to send donations to the fund secretariat at the finance and administration section, second floor, Department of Community Development, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.
The public can also donate through the donation boxes at commercial areas, mosques and suraus nationwide. |
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E-Custom to comeinto force in Feb
By Hasrulraizan
Awg Sa Bali touring the exhibition
A section of those present at the event
The e-Custom, which will be in operation following its implementation in February, will be aimed at improving the effectiveness of the processing system, issuing of customs clearance and to further strengthen information and data gathering.
This was among the improvements highlighted by Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister's Office, Awang Sa Bali, in a speech during the World Customs Day celebration yesterday morning.
The Customs Department will be utilising several X-ray machines and CCTVs at several strategic points in the country in time for the launch of the system.
Awang Sa Bali said the Royal Customs and Excise Department will also be implementing its Integrity Programme by providing a book on the Code of Ethics and Discipline, which will be used by Customs personnel as a guideline towards instilling a clean, honest, responsible and professional work culture.
The World Customs Day 2009 was celebrated at the Kyoto Hall of the Royal Customs and Excise Headquarters.
The three improvements mentioned by the Permanent Secretary, among others, are being implemented by the Royal Customs and Excise Department in its efforts to enhance its services in facing global developments and changes, especially in facilitating the movement of trade.
Welcoming and congratulating these improvements, Awang Sa Bali said that he is confident that the Royal Customs and Excise Department is committed towards the efforts by the government in developing further the country's tourism and business sector, which undoubtedly will bring a positive effect towards the development of the nation's economy.
He called all officers and staff of the Customs Department to renew their efforts and motivation in increasing their work commitment and performance.
Besides, Customs personnel must also upgrade themselves with the understanding of the laws and regulations in ensuring that safety, prosperity and peace are maintained and upheld, he added.
Touching on the tasks and duties of the Customs Department, he acknowledged that they are very complex and challenging.
The duties not only concentrate on the collection of taxes but also to ensure the smooth movement of trade via the enforcement of security control, as well as cooperating with other enforcement agencies regionally or globally.
The administration of Customs around the world always faces the challenges of globalisation and the liberalisation of trade, besides the threat from groups connected with terrorism, organised crimes, arms smuggling, illegal drugs trade, the dumping of toxic chemicals and the smuggling of endangered species.
Awang Sa Bali said that the trend and modus operandi of smuggling and illegal activities continues to change and move at a fast pace, which makes enforcement more difficult.
The smuggling activities and illegal trade, said the permanent secretary, no longer concentrate only at main official entry points but also utilises other routes such as mouse trails and the vast open waters.
He said carelessness of enforcement agencies including the Customs Department will bring a negative impact to the nation.
One example, he said, is the failure to control the smuggling of controlled items out of the country, especially those which are subsidised by the government like fuel and rice.
The failure to control the smuggling of live animals and plants at a time of threat from bird flu runs the risk of spreading the epidemic in the country.
Meanwhile, the failure to stop the smuggling of controlled drugs will nullify the efforts of the government in ensuring that the danger of drug abuse does not spread in the country, especially among the youths.
Awang Sa Bali said efforts in assisting enforcement agencies in monitoring and controlling the movement of controlled and prohibited items have become the basic duty for Customs Enforcement personnel.
The theme chosen for this year's celebration is 'Customs and the Environment : Protecting our Natural Heritage'.
Touching on the theme, the permanent secretary said that it is appropriate at a time when the environmental issues and problems and the threat to the flora and fauna are being taken seriously since they have a negative implication not only for the current but future generation as well.
According to him, the World Customs Organisation is an Inter-Governmental Agency, which is also responsible in fighting environment criminals to ensure the health and safety of the people.
Although the environmental issues and problems in the country are not very serious compared to other nations, Awang Sa Bali said that he is confident that the Royal Customs and Excise Department will continue to play an active role in providing cooperation to the respective government agencies.
One example, he said, is the success of the Customs Department in capturing those involved in the smuggling of endangered species. |
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Expanding seafood processing industry
By Lyna Mohamad
The MIPR minister delivering his speech at the opening of the Fisheries Carnival yesterday. - Lyna Mohamad
Minister of Industry and Primary Resources Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Yahya bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar said there are still opportunities and potentials to expand the seafood processing industry and increase the production of processed seafood products.
In 2007, the fisheries industry was valued at B$97.94 million, where $83.29 million came from the fishing sector, $6.26 million from the aquaculture sector and $8.29 million from the seafood processing sector.
Local fish revenues have achieved 88 per cent of the living cost on the needs of fresh fish.
This means the country still imports fish, particularly those that cannot be produced locally such as salmon, and processes canned seafood products.
Officiating the opening ceremony of the Fisheries Carnival 2009 yesterday, the minister touched on fresh fish import activities, safety of imported seafood and the fishing industry's development.
It is the responsibility of all to ensure that imported fish and seafood are free from diseases, safe and hygienic to be consumed, he said.
The country must enforce procedures and regulations for the importation of fish and seafood products to ensure the safety of food products and the advancement of the fisheries industry.
In the ministry's responsibilities to diversify the country's economy, MIPR faces several challenges that vitally need the resource management from all parties, private sector in particular, he said.
At the same time, the ministry acts as the convenient tool in establishing the cooperation synergy between the private and the government.
On the nation's food security, he touched on the implementation of actions needed to increase local production capabilities, secure stock resources management and follow regulations through the Food Commodity Trade Cooperation agreement and manage reserves or food products stock resources to balance the supplies brought through importation.
The fisheries industry very much relies on the fisheries resources available in the Brunei waters, the minister said.
Besides advancing and developing the fisheries industry to grow faster, there is a need to be sensitive to the continuity of the resources and productive areas where the growing and breeding of fishes take place.
In 2007, there were 1650 full time fishermen who relied on their catch as their main source of income at coastal areas particularly those operating in Zone 1.
There were 3,891 part-timers whose fishing activities provided them with a side income.
It is vital for these areas to be looked after and controlled in ensuring that these sources of fisheries will not be extinct and continue to be enjoyed by the future generation.
This is also one reason for the Department of Fisheries to implement the Fisheries Output Moratorium in Zone 1 effective Jan 1, 2008. |
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Police to probe death in custody
By Amie PDH Ishak
The Royal Brunei Police Force yesterday announced that a thorough investigation is being done into the death in police custody of a suspect as exclusively reported in the Borneo Bulletin yesterday.
At a press briefing yesterday, the police confirmed that a report has been lodged pertaining to the death of Awg Rahim bin Abdullah @ Tan Tong Hock, who was 45 years old.
A press release issued at the briefing stated: "On January 25th the deceased was found unconscious inside the police cell by officers making their rounds in the detention cell. The medical services were immediately alerted to give assistance but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
"Prior to this unfortunate incident, the deceased was investigated for various cases and other suspects had also been apprehended.
"The death of the deceased while in police custody will be thoroughly investigated by the Serious Crime Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department.
"We assure the family that the police will be carrying out an impartial investigation into the case and upon completion, the investigation file will be referred to the Attorney General's Chambers."
To assist in their investigation, the police have also enlisted the help of a forensic pathologist from Singapore apart from the local medical experts.
So far there is no indication of any foul play. The police are waiting to confirm the cause of death from the pathologist.
The Royal Brunei Police Force said it also mourns with the family of the deceased as a member of his family is also in the force. Acting Deputy Superintendent Hjh Nur Haidah bte Hj Abd Hallim, Acting Head of the Royal Brunei Police Public Relations Unit and Public Relations Officer, Chief Inspector Burhan bin Abang were present at the press conference. |
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'A', 'O' level results show improvement
By P Marilyn & Syafiq Affendy
Examination results for the Brunei Cambridge GCE 'A', 'AS' and 'O' Level for November 2008 are out now, said a press release from the Department of Examination, Ministry of Education.
Out of the 2,955 candidates who sat for the GCE 'A' level exams, 2,353 or 79.63 per cent have achieved at least one 'A' Level.
This achievement has increased by 1.64 per cent as compared to the 2007 results.
Overall, 61.46 per cent of the candidates have achieved at least two 'A' levels and this has increased by 2.62 per cent.
The achievement of school candidates stands at 78.52 per cent, which has increased by 1.54 per cent from 2007.
The performance of private candidates has also increased by 5.28 per cent compared to 2007.
The press release also said that a total of 73 candidates have obtained at least four 'A' levels. Two students from Maktab Duli Pengiran Muda Al Muhtadee Billah (MDPMAMB) have achieved five 'A' levels.
Out of this figure, 19 candidates have produced excellent results by attaining Grade A in at least four 'A' level subjects.
Nine of the candidates are from MDPMAMB, three from PTE Berakas, and seven from SM Sayyidina Ali.
Forty-one candidates have obtained Grade A in three 'A' level subjects - 19 of them are from MDPMAMB, seven from Maktab Sains Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan (MSPSBS), three from PTE Berakas and seven from SM Sayyidina Ali.
On the other hand, a total of 76 candidates have obtained Grade A in two 'A' Level subjects - 37 are from MDPMAMB, seven from MSPSBS, one from ITAQSHHB, 17 from PTE Berakas, one from SM Sayyidina Othman, eight from SM Sayyidina Ali and four private candidates.
On the whole, the performance level has increased in 10 subjects (Malay, Mathematics, Art and Design, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, History, Syariah, Business Studies and Sociology) between 0.55 per cent and 5.74 per cent in comparison with candidates' achievements in 2007.
The performance in Further Mathematics has remained unchanged compared to 2007, which is a 100 per cent pass.
Meanwhile, for the Brunei Cambridge GCE 'AS' Level, 885 students out of the total 1,133 candidates or 78.11 per cent have successfully achieved at least one 'A' level.
Five hundred and six candidates or 44.66 per cent have obtained in at least two subjects "AS' level standard.
Overall, 44 candidates have achieved Grade A in at least two subjects, said the press release.
A total of 7,252 candidates sat for the Brunei Cambridge GCE 'O' Level exams in 2008 and of that 3,796 (52.34 per cent) students have successfully obtained at least three 'O' levels.
In terms of quality, the number of students who have achieved eight to 10 'O' levels has increased by 59 candidates (0.46 per cent) and 65 candidates (0.68 per cent) in government schools.
Four schools achieved 100 per cent results in obtaining at least three 'O' levels and 12 schools showed progress between 0.86 per cent and 64.71 per cent as compared to 2007, while only two schools achieved similar results in 2007.
The number of students obtaining three 'O' levels amongst the candidates from government schools reached 53.43 per cent.
A total of 221 candidates (3.33 per cent) obtained Grade A in five to nine subjects and 153 candidates (2.31 per cent) are from government schools.
One candidate from Chung Ching Middle School has obtained grades A1 in eight subjects while six candidates have obtained seven A1s - two from St Andrew's, two from Science College, one from St John's and one from SMJA.
Meanwhile, 24 candidates have obtained six grade A1s - eight from Science College, four from St Andrew's, four from SM PJN Pg Hj Abu Bakar (A), three from PDS, two from Chung Ching Middle School, two from Chung Hwa Middle School BSB and one from SM PAP Hajah Masna.
Other results showed 221 candidates have achieved grade A in five to nine subjects comprising students from nine private and government schools nationwide.
Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College topped the rate of schools achieving grade A in five to nine subjects with 71 candidates.
For candidates achieving three 'O' Levels and above, four schools managed to achieve 100 per cent while 12 schools showed an increase of between 0.86 per cent and 64.71 per cent compared to the previous year.
Candidates achieving at least three 'O' Levels come from five schools - Science College, St Andrew's, Chung Ching Middle School, St Angela and Chung Hwa Middle School.
Results from last year's examination saw an increase in candidates achieving grades A to C in English Language, Mathematics D, Physics, Biology and Human & Social Biology at a rate of between 1.13 per cent and 33.33 per cent compared to 2007.
Students are advised to obtain their result slips from their respective schools while private candidates can obtain theirs at the Examination Department, Ministry of Education during office hours.
Those who wish to sit for the Brunei-Cambridge GGE 'A' Level in June this year are encouraged to register immediately at their respective schools.
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Congrats! to our very own CARI poremer gak.. hakemm for achiving 7 "O" :pompom::pompom: |
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Boost to Brunei, Philippine ties
By M K Anwar in Manila
His Majesty, piloting the 747 aircraft, touches down and taxies to the 250th Presidential Airlift Wing at Villamor Airbase. - M K Anwar
His Majesty is escorted by Philippine Air Force Commander Major General Oscar Rabena at the airport. Following His Majesty are Her Majesty and Her Royal Highness. AFP
His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam arrived in the Republic of the Philippines yesterday for a three-day state visit to further bolster relations with the country, which has entered its 25th year.
His Majesty, piloting the 747 aircraft, touched down at 3.35pm and taxied to the 250th Presidential Airlift Wing at Villamor Airbase for a planeside welcoming.
Accompanying His Majesty are Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha and Her Royal Highness Pengiran Isteri Azrinaz Mazhar.
His Majesty was welcomed at the airbase by Vice President of the Philippines, Noli De Castor.
Also in the welcoming party were Hermones Esperon, Cabinet-in-Attendance; Lt General Oscar Rabena, Commanding General of the Philippines Air Force; Malai Hajah Halimah Malai Hj Yussof, Brunei Ambassador to the Philippines; and Virginia Benavidez, Philippine Ambassador to Brunei.
His Majesty's entourage includes His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Malik, Her Royal Highness Princess Hjh Rashidah, HRH Princess Hjh Hafizah and HRH Princess Hjh Masna.
His Majesty's last state visit to the Philippines was in January 2003. The latest visit is on the invitation of the Philippines President Macapagal Arroyo.
Philippines Press Secretary Jesus Dureza on Tuesday said that the visit will see bilateral talks touching on employment, the BIMP-EAGA, connectivity between Brunei Darussalam and the Philippines, specifically Mindanao and economic cooperation.
He highlighted that the visit by His Majesty is a very important and significant event.
Preparations for the visit kicked off early this week as Philippines sees Brunei as one of its "strongest allies in Asean". Streets leading to the airbase have been lined with Brunei flags and pictures of His Majesty, as well as welcoming posters greeting the visiting head of state.
His Majesty's visit takes an added significance as this year marks the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations between the two nations after formal diplomatic ties between Brunei and the Philippines were established in 1984.
The Manila Bulletin in its editorial carried a welcoming message for His Majesty, Her Majesty and Her Royal Highness. It described His Majesty as one "who gives top priority to the promotion and strengthening of relations of Brunei Darussalam with the outside world".
"He visited many countries around the world and worked in collaborating with other world leaders in addressing regional and global concerns," the editorial said.
The visit will today continue with a packed schedule starting off with a welcoming ceremony at Malacanang Park. It will be followed by a courtesy call on President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo at Bahay Pengarap and an expanded bilateral meeting.
Her Majesty and Her Royal Highness will have separate engagements.
In the evening, Their Majesties and Her Royal Highness will be attending a State Dinner hosted by President Arroyo at Malacanang Palace. |
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Published on The Brunei Times (http://www.bt.com.bn/en)
Floods wreak havoc in Sungai Liang
Wet, wet, wet: Most of the areas in Kg Sungai Liang were inundated as a result of downpour which began at 3.30am yesterday.Picture: BT/Zamri Zainal
Junaidi Bahrum
BELAIT
Sunday, February 1, 2009
SUNGAI Liang residents in the Belait district have been hit by heavy floods, causing havoc to roads, homes and businesses, more than a week after the worst floods in 40 years affected Brunei-Muara district.
The intensity of the storm started at about 3am yesterday and lasted for nearly four hours, with many residents describing it as a rare occurrence.
The most affected places, which were nearly submerged by fast flowing water were the Mukim Sg Liang area, the Kuala Balai housing area, Seria and some other parts of Kuala Belait.
The Sg Liang residents bore the brunt of the storm due to its low lying areas, but even high grounds were inundated with fast flowing waters.
One Sg Liang resident, Hjh Hapsah, who had to be assisted by the Fire and Rescue Department described the whole situation as chaotic and alarming.
"Water was everywhere and it was flowing really fast. My car had to be pushed back by the police and firemen, who were there the whole period, as it started to drift along with the torrent of water."
"It looked as if Sg Liang was a town built into a white water river," she added.
She also praised the speedy response of the Fire and Rescue Department as well as the Royal Brunei Police Force, who helped throughout the whole ordeal, consoling and assisting the affected residents.
Some places previously safe from floods were engulfed with water almost knee deep. In Seria alone, almost 100 families were displaced by the floods.
The Community Development Department (Japem) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, handed out food and blankets to the victims of Seria and Kuala Belait yesterday afternoon.
According to eyewitnesses , the Sg Liang bypass which is the only route heading towards the Kuala Belait, was cordoned off during the early hours to ensure the safety of motorists passing by. The road was only opened at 6am when the torrent of gushing water subsided.
Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Adanan Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Hj Md Yusof, together with officials from the National Disaster Management Centre and the Belait District Office also visited the affected areas yesterday to ensure the well-being of the affected residents.
The thunderstorm which is caused by the merging of the La-Nina effect and the current monsoon season is expected to last throughout January to February.
The Brunei Times
Source URL:
http://www.bt.com.bn/en/en/home_news/2009/02/01/floods_wreak_havoc_in_sungai_liang |
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Category: Negeri & Negara
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Author
Post time 24-1-2009 09:14 AM
![[KUIZ PERUBATAN MINGGUAN VOL. 7]: Mudah aje, ilmu harian! VOL.7](https://uf.cari.com.my/forumx/mforum/block/ca/cafa22106bf87ee6a0ff6b0584fea8d8.jpg)
