|
|
Bid to smuggle 35 sacks of rice foiled
By James Kon
Sacks of rice found in the car. - JAMES KON
The Royal Customs & Excise Department managed to foil an attempt to smuggle out subsidised rice yesterday afternoon.
Two local men allegedly tried to smuggle 35 sacks of rice across the control post of Kuala Lurah but were caught thanks to the diligent officers of the Customs Control Post, who suspected something amiss about the driver and passenger.
The vehicle was ordered to stop for a thorough inspection. During the search, sacks of rice were found hidden under the MPV's floor mats and in the rear compartment.
Both men were brought to the Intelligence & Enforcement Section of the Royal Customs & Excise Department for further investigation.
If found guilty, both suspects will be charged under the Excise Order 2006. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Death in police custody: Four defendants appear in court again
By Sahrol Daud
Four police officers charged with homicide and grievous hurt over the death of 45-year-old Abdul Rahim Abdullah @ Tan Tong Hock in police custody, appeared before the Bandar Seri Begawan Magistrate's Court again yesterday.
It was for further mention of the case. The case was set for March 16 for the next mention.
The four are currently out on court bail of $10,000 or two local sureties.
They are Inspector Hj Azwan Dato Paduka Seri Hj Abdul Rahman, L/Cpl Sofian Jumat, PC Andrew Anak Adin and PC Pg Asmanuddin Pg Hj Md Said.
The victim, Abdul Rahim, was being investigated for alleged theft offences when he died in police custody.
The suspects were first brought before Magistrate Lailatul Zubaidah Hussein, during which two charges each were read against them.
The first charge - that of manslaughter - alleges that sometime between 8.08pm and 9.05pm, January 22 this year, they allegedly committed culpable homicide not amounting to murder of Abdul Rahim bin Abdullah @ Tan Tong Hock. The offence carries a maximum jail term of 15 years.
They face a second charge of voluntarily causing grievous hurt for trying to extort a confession from Abdul Rahim. This charge carries the maximum penalty of 10 years jail and whipping.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Hj Nabil Daraina assisted by DPP Christopher Ng prosecuted while lawyer Yusof Halim assisted by Roy Prabhakaran represented all four defendants. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
'Chinese Culture & Science' at OGDC promotes calligraphy, music
By Hanni ABD
Winners of the Chinese calligraphy competition with OGDC officers in a group photo. - HANNI ABD
Mr Yu demonstrating the Chinese calligraphy. - HANNI ABD
Members playing the traditional Chinese music instruments. - HANNI ABD
Visitors at OGDC trying out Chinese calligraphy. - HANNI ABD
A Malay lady trying the Zither, a stringed musical instrument. - JAMES SIM
Twelve members from the Hua Ho Cultural Fund visited the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre (OGDC) for a demonstration of the Chinese Music and Calligraphy.
The event was organised in conjunction with the "Chinese Culture and Science" theme for this month, aimed at promoting science, art and the Chinese culture.
The event started off with a speech delivered by Mr Yu Chin Chai, the Head of Chinese Calligraphy organisation from Hua Ho Cultural Fund, who explained how the craft of Chinese Calligraphy has evolved through the years, followed by a Chinese calligraphy writing demonstrated by Mr Yu.
Meanwhile, the Chinese Music demonstration team performed several modern as well as classic songs using several traditional Chinese musical instruments including Er' hu, Yang-qin, Ocarina and Cucurbit Flute.
After several calligraphy demonstrations from the invited guests, a calligraphy competition was held to find the most talented writer in Chinese Calligraphy. The competition was divided into two categories, Chinese and Non-Chinese.
The first place for the Chinese Category was won by Chen Shiew Juen, from Chung Hwa Middle School; and the Non-Chinese Category was won by Yulie. The prizes were given courtesy of OGDC. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mouse trails pose security challenge
By Azlan Othman
Mouse trails along the border pose a challenge to Brunei's enforcement personnel as smuggling of contraband continues unabated. The trails are also being used by illegal immigrants to enter the country.
As many as 111 arrests have been made by the Ranger Police since 2000 in the thick and dense Brunei jungle for various offences ranging from smuggling and encroachment in areas bordering Brunei and the neighbouring states.
Smugglers continue to use the mouse trails to smuggle livestock, dubious chicken and beef and gallons of petrol and diesel. Illegal immigrants too use the route to enter the Sultanate, violating immigration rules and regulations.
The cheaper price of subsidised petrol in Brunei has encouraged such unscrupulous activities. The modus operandi includes hiding tanks in the bush before someone from the other side takes them. There have been instances where even drugs have been smuggled, statistics from the Ranger Police revealed.
The smugglers either made it on foot or via motorbikes. Illegal logging and encroachment into the Brunei jungle in search of the valuable 'Kayu Gaharu', or scented wood, used to make perfume, have also been recorded in the past years.
In 2007, ten arrests for various offences were made compared to 17 in 2006.
Mouse trails came under the scrutiny by the relevant enforcement agencies recently as their committee members conducted a visit. The police said they are monitoring the trails 24 hours a day. Such trails, which number in dozens, are monitored by the Ranger Police, Limau Manis Police Station. The Preventive Section of the Customs and Excise Department is also involved in monitoring smuggling activities. Some of the trails now are reportedly not in use. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital transforms for Silver Jubilee National Celebrations
By Arif Syafiq
Decorative arches have adorned strategic locations throughout the capital.
National Day banners can also be seen fluttering on flagpoles. - PHOTOS: ARIF SYAFIQ
In the run-up to the nation's 25th Silver Jubilee National Day, the capital has been transformed for the upcoming celebrations that will begin on February 23.
Preparations such as arches, banners and national flags have been put up along the main roads of the capital and along the route to the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, where the main ceremony will be held. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Developing multi-disciplinary graduates
By Syafiq Affendy
HRH Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah (C) in a group photo with lecturers, coordinators and members of the Army Cadet. Photos: Syafiq Affendy
HRH with other members of the Army Cadet
HRH participating in the march-past
Among the cadets was Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah, who is currently an undergraduate at UBD
Dr Zohrah (C) at the ceremony with lecturers and other officials
UBD's Army Cadet was formed in August last year
Co-curricular activities are implemented continuously up until the higher education level in Brunei in order to raise a well-developed model student with leadership qualities, confident and equipped with the skills needed in the 21st century.
This was said by the Universiti of Brunei Darussalam's Acting Vice-Chancellor, Dr Zohrah Hj Sulaiman, at the launching of the university's Army Cadet yesterday at the premises of the Chancellor Hall.
Among the cadets was Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah, who is currently an undergraduate at the university.
Dr Zohrah said that the change towards the Generation Next Degree is in line with the university's wish to develop holistic graduates to become innovative, flexible, broad based, multi-disciplinary and also aware of current issues.
"Co-curriculum integration like the Army Cadet will produce graduates that are global citizens who will not only have the leadership and confidence, but also possess qualities based on the Malay Islamic Monarchy concept, love and care towards the community here and abroad," she added.
The university's Army Cadet consists of 16 male and 18 female members, under the guidance of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Army Cadet Head Coordinator, Awg Aliamat Omarali, lecturers of the university and a few others.
The university's Army Cadet was formed in August last year, being the first Army Cadet to be formed in a higher education institution, as well as the first to have a female platoon. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Marine Fisheries Complex to be completed in May 2010
By Malek Hashim
Awang Haji Ajamain bin Haji Sawal, the project-coordinating officer speaking at the event
Guest of honour laying foundation of the new Fisheries complex. Photos: Malek Hashim
Director of Fisheries laying the foundation
The courses and trainings for entrepreneurs involved in the 'capture fisheries industry' will be held in a new venue, the Marine Fisheries Complex, in the future.
The new complex, which is a project of the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources, is currently being constructed and is scheduled to be completed in May 2010.
The foundation laying ceremony for the new complex was held yesterday at the construction site.
The guest of honour was Dato Paduka Awg Haji Mohd Hamid bin Haji Mohd Jaafar, Permanent Secretary at Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources.
Also present were Dayang Hajah Hasnah binti Ibrahim, Director of Fisheries and directors and senior officers of various departments under the ministry.
The new complex will have lecture and training rooms for the fishermen to conduct practical trainings and usage of several simulated capture fisheries equipments such as Global Positioning System and Echo Sounder to transfer technological equipment advancement knowledge to the fishermen.
The laboratories will also be built in the new complex to support research works in red tide, oceanography and water quality as well as the research and development of fisheries resources that will be further explored and utilised in sustainable fashion and contribute to the country's economy diversification efforts.
The complex will have a place for surveillance and research boats for the monitoring of Brunei's water territory.
The complex will also be an office for the two divisions of the Fisheries Department and become a centre for the issuances of fisheries equipment licence for Brunei-Muara District.
The Marine Fisheries Complex is a project under the National Development Planning 2007-2012. The construction of the complex began on July 10, 2008, under the supervision of the Public Works Department, Ministry of Development. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ministers attend Brunei Shell Emblem Night
By Yusrin Junaidi
The Minister of Energy mingling with the long service awardees
Group picture with the long-service recipients. Photos: Yusrin Junaidi
Second Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Brunei Shell Petroleum, Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Awang Lim Jock Seng and Minister of Energy at the Prime Minister's Office, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Awang Hj Mohammad bin Hj Daud, attended the Brunei Shell Joint Venture Companies' Emblem Night 2009 yesterday.
During the get-together session, the two ministers mingled with long service recipients.
The two ministers talked about the four Brunei Shell joint venture companies which successfully delivered on their performance targets in 2008, and also achieved world-class results in a number of areas.
Brunei Shell Petroleum, for the fourth year in a row, surpassed its safety target and is now the very best safety performer in the Shell Exploration and Production Group of Companies worldwide. The ceremony commenced with a welcoming speech by Grahaeme Henderson, Managing Director of BSP. A speech was delivered by Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Awang Lim Jock Seng.
Some 189 BSP, BLNG and BSM employees received the Long Service Emblem for 35 years and 30 years and the 25 long service of the MD-BLNG, from the Minister of Energy and Second Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The presentation of Long Service Emblems for 25 years to BSP employees was made by Grahaeme Henderson, BSP Managing Director. The presentation of Long Service Emblems for 25 years to BLNG employees was made by Haji Salleh Bostaman Hj Zainal Abidin, BLNG Managing Director of BLNG. The presentation of Long Service Emblem for 25 years to BSM employees was made by Hj Mohd Said Hj Ahmad, BSM Managing Director.
he ceremony also represented 80 years of existence of Brunei Shell Petroleum, 40 years of Brunei LNG and 25 years of the Brunei Refinery, significant milestones that underline the very special relationships between the shareholders and the great success of the companies.
The ceremony was enlivened with stage performances followed by a lucky draw. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cancer Screening Drive at JPMC
By Edwin Eng
Dr Hj Mohd Amin observing the CT scan machine. - Edwin Eng
Cancer is the leading cause of death in Brunei followed closely by heart disease, prompting the Jerudong Park Medical Centre Sdn Bhd (JPMC) to launch a campaign 'Prevention is Better Than Cure' to address this issue.
According to Mr Tan Seang Tek, general manager JPMC, yesterday morning, the theme is appropriate because of the increasing incident of lifestyle diseases in Brunei.
The campaign promotes screening for breast cancer with digital mammogram and screening for heart disease by calcium scoring.
"Coronary artery calcium scoring is a screening test that uses a CT scan to identify coronary artery disease at an early, preclinical stage, years before the occurrence of symptoms.
"Statistically, heart disease and stroke are the world's largest killer, claiming 17.5 million lives worldwide each year. In Brunei, cancer is the number one killer followed by heart diseases.
"And as for mammography, the screening for breast cancer among women aged 50 to 69 years, early detection could reduce mortality from breast cancer by 15 to 25 per cent". he added.
In conjunction with the 25th National Day, JPMC offers a special rate for heart disease and breast cancer screenings where married couples are encouraged to come together.
Families with history of breast cancer are ideal candidates for screening mammogram and female over the age of 40.
Dr Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Permanent Secretary of Ministry at Finance and Chairman of JPMC Board of Directors, officially inaugurated the campaign. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commemorative stamps out marking N-Day
By Lyna Mohamad
Various commemorative products available at all post office branches. - PHOTOS: LYNA MOHAMAD
The Department of Postal Services with the cooperation of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports began to sell its commemorative stamps and first day covers to mark the Silver Jubilee celebration of the National Day 2009 yesterday.
Eight stamp designs comprising of 25cents for each design and two designs of first day covers at 45cents a piece, a Mini Issue at $2 and Special Mini Issue at $25, as well as souvenir packs containing a sheet of stamps, a sheet of Mini Issue and two sets of stamped first day covers sold at $10 were available for purchase.
Meanwhile, a complete set containing a sheet of stamps, a piece of Mini Issue, a piece of Special Mini Issue and pack, as well as two sets of first day cover stamps are being sold at $35.
Other items sold include mugs at $10, notepads at $1.50, Maximum Card (eight cards) at $5.60, Framed Stamps at $40, Framed Mini Issue at $40 and Framed Special Mini Issue at $70.
The items are being sold at all post offices branches.
Additionally, the commemorative stamps and first day covers were also being sold at the Giant Hypermart in Rimba, Gadong from 9am to 4pm yesterday. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Proud citizens reflect on nation's development on N-Day
By Aziz Idris
Hj Kiprawi bin Hj Omar Ali participating in the N-Day celebrations. - PHOTOS: AZIZ IDRIS
Cikgu Norlina, Deputy Principal and teachers from Maktab Duli in a group photo.
The celebration of the 25th National Day to mark the nation's silver jubilee at the national stadium yesterday turned out to be a successful event.
The special occasion carried the theme 'Kedewasan Bernegara' or 'Maturity of a Nation', which was highly appropriate for the celebration.
"Our nation has been recognised by the world through its endless contributions and support for international tragedies in the past years, including natural disasters in the region and beyond thus, improving our country's name," said PWI (B) Awang Haji Jaya Bin Haji Mahad.
Awang Haji Jaya joined the army on December 6, 1961 and was one of the participants from the Ex-Soldiers Association of Brunei Darussalam (ESABD), who joined the march past of around 250 proud veterans led by a drum-beat marching band.
"As one of the many Non-Government Organisations (NGOs), in this country, we are proud that our presence has not gone unnoticed by the society and His Majesty's Government," he added.
Hj Md Yusof bin Saman, a 77-year-old veteran athlete who joined the World Masters Australia in 2004 and won a gold medal in the 100m hurdles said, "I can see improvements in the school's education system specifically in the development of sports."
He too, joined the march with 224 other ecstatic veteran athletes.
A schoolteacher of a sports school also commented that he has observed the same improvements made in the education system.
"Students are now more equipped with sports gears and training facilities. This will surely help in the development of young athletes.
"One can achieve their maximum potential through proper training and by utilising the facilities provided by His Majesty's Government," he said.
His school won 41 gold medals in the recent Inter-Secondary Meet compared to the past years, which was dominated by mostly mission schools.
Dayang Siti Hajar, a senior education officer at Maktab Duli, is very impressed with the new introduction to the education system, SPN21.
"This has been the most significant progress in the educational system by the Ministry of Education.
"The introduction of e-Learning also helps to improve the knowledge of students," she commented.
According to Madam Joanna, the Deputy Principal of Maktab Duli, there has been a lot of progress in the students' development in terms of attitude and accomplishments. They are more exposed to current issues and can explore their options with the wider selection of subjects available.
"Apart from that, students now possess more hands-on skills and knowledge in information technology compared to 25 years ago," she added.
A lecturer from the Department of Hospitality at Sultan Saiful Rijal College said, "As we all know we can't depend on oil and gas. The government is diversifying the economy through the tourism industry and the newly established Brunei Methanol Company (BMC)."
Haji Kiprawi bin Haji Omar Ali from the Brunei Paddy Farmers Association said, "A lot of progress has been seen in the agricultural development over the past 25 years of independence and with astonishing response from the public.
"The development is evident from the production itself, instead of producing one type of crop annually, we are now developing two types every year. This would bring in more revenues for the country.
With this we can relate to His Majesty's titah, "Based on the maturity we have achieved, it is vital to possess determination and are prepared to implement changes based on observation or action." |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Big strides in Brunei's development
By P Marilyn & Sonia K
Sheikh Jamaluddin bin Sheikh Mohammad, the Director of Brunei Tourism Development Department. - AZIM GHANI
Dr Chan Sui Kiat, the President of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce (BSB). - SONIA K
General Manager of Total E& Borneo BV, Mr Louis Hueze. - SONIA K
Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Awang Goh King Chin. - JASON LEONG
Brunei Darussalam yesterday celebrated its 25th year of independence. Since gaining its independence in 1984, the Sultanate has experienced growth in a number of fields.
In an exclusive interview with the Borneo Bulletin, Pengiran Kasmirhan bin Pengiran Haji Tahir, the Director of Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), said that over the past 25 years, Brunei has continued to enjoy peace and prosperity.
"This did not happen by chance," he said. In fact, this could not have been possible without the leadership of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the ACB director added.
Pg Kasmirhan reminisced the day when the late father of His Majesty, Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien, called out "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is Great) three times when Brunei gained its independence in 1984. Pg Kasmirhan, who was 14 years old in 1984, said that he witnessed this historic event with his father at the 'padang'.
"Despite the slight drizzle, I stood there eagerly waiting for that moment when Brunei was declared a fully independent state," he recalled.
Commenting on the significance of Brunei's Silver Jubilee National Day celebration, Pg Kasmirhan said that 25 years of independence means being able to "stand on two feet as a self-reliant state without external control and dependence on others".
"Independence means we shouldn't be dependent on others. We should continue to work hard and be self-reliant," he said, adding that there are still many countries, despite their independence, are still relying on foreign donors.
In terms of development in his field, Pg Kasmirhan said: "We have been ranked number two by the World Bank as a country that has managed to control corruption in Southeast Asia just behind Singapore. We will continue to ensure that corruption remains in check in this country, especially in the public sector.
"Over the past years, I have seen many positive developments where it is the public servants who come to us reporting on incidences of corruption. This is a good sign, as it shows that they are aware (that) corruption is wrong."
Pg Kasmirhan highlighted that corruption is not just about "bad people".
"It can also be about bad systems and procedures. I would probably see it a failure if we see fighting corruption by simply catching corrupt public officials without fixing the system," the ACB director said.
Pg Kasmirhan noted that "too much discretion in the hands of few, little accountability, monopoly of power without checks and balances, no transparency or lack of clear rules and regulations" were all recipes for corruption and fraud to occur.
These, he said, would probably be our failures. "When I say 'our' failures, we mean everyone. The newspaper, too, has a role in improving governance as they can highlight bad processes or excesses of public officials," the ACB director added.
Touching on the development of the financial industry in Brunei, Mr Pierre Imhof, the General Manager of Baiduri Bank, and Mr Ti Eng Hui, the Deputy General Manager of Retail Banking and Branch Network of Baiduri Bank, said:
"In our specific field of the financial industry, we observe that huge progresses have been made to strengthen the banking system. Banks in Brunei are financially getting stronger and stronger. The regulatory environment is inspired from the best international banking practices.
"Over the years, it has been a long time practice for banks to show their strong contribution through the Brunei Association of Banks (BAB) by participating in the (National Day) parade.
"Baiduri Bank Group's contribution comes in the form of sending out a contingent of staff to augment the BAB presence at the parade. Baiduri Bank Group has also contributed a financial sponsorship to 'Tarindak Jubli Perak Hari Kebangsaan 2009'.
"The main purpose of the event is to raise funds to alleviate the financial burden of several senior citizens who are in arrears of their housing loans.
"Our contribution to national development through project financing makes a significant impact on addressing our role in the infrastructure and growth of the economy; in which we have a major presence.
"We also help Bruneians achieve their dreams by offering credit facilities such as Hire Purchase, Education Loan and Residential Home Ownership.
"We also note that Bruneians have more initiative in managing their finances. Bruneians are starting to do their own financial planning; saving for their future and for their loved ones and planning for retirement.
"In this respect, Baiduri Bank Group is proud to help Bruneians in achieving all these through financial planning offered by our professionally trained financial planners."
However, Mr Imhof and Mr Ti strongly believe that there is always room for improvement in the banking sector.
"Baiduri Bank Group works towards understanding its customers' needs, whilst improving its service quality and products. It is also investing a lot in electronic channels with the objective of offering its clients a complete range of distribution and payment channels.
"We are fortunate that Brunei is not as affected as other countries by the financial crisis. To improve and strengthen further the financial environment is important in the time of a global meltdown. Banks must be prepared to respond to market changes and to be aware of the latest changes in technology both in terms of security and product offerings.
"Over the years, Baiduri Bank Group has gone from strength to strength as proven by the number of achievements made and awards received making us a truly award winning bank in Brunei."
The Bulletin also spoke to Sheikh Jamaluddin bin Sheikh Mohammad, the Director of Brunei Tourism Development Department, who shared his views on the development of the Sultanate's tourism industry over the past 25 years.
In his opinion, there has been a big leap in the development of Brunei's tourism industry.
"When we started tourism back in 1995, more than ten years ago, there was no Orchid Garden Hotel, Empire Hotel & Country Club or Holiday Lodge.
"Now, you can see the holiday industry blooming in Brunei. I also remember during those days when there were no moneychangers, people would have to go to the bank to change money. Now there are more moneychangers, and transportation has improved.
"I am very proud to see these improvements."
Sheikh Jamaluddin told the Bulletin that he was very impressed to learn that the number of locals working in the hotel industry has increased over the years. This could not have been possible without the support from the Ministry of Education, which incorporated 'hospitality' into the curriculum.
Dr Chan Sui Kiat, the President of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce (BSB), said that he was very happy to be a Bruneian.
"This year, Brunei achieved its 25th year of independence, and this was no easy feat. We want to do what we can for the country and we believe it is important to abide by government policies, rules and regulations," he said.
Speaking on behalf of the association, Dr Chan said: "We try to heed His Majesty's advice in promoting local products and to focus on the localisation of staff, particularly among the 1,000 members of the BSB's Chinese Chamber of Commerce."
The first local Bruneian who was appointed as a CEO of an international bank, Ms Tiew Siew Chuen of Standard Chartered Bank Brunei, said that the Sultanate has come a long way since gaining its independence in 1984.
"As a Bruneian, I am very proud of our many achievements," she said, adding that the Sultanate is indeed an abode of peace, and that its people live in harmony and enjoy political and economic stability.
Ms Siew Chuen said that the theme of this year's National Day celebration, "Kedewasaan Bernegara', was relevant as we need to continue to progress. "We must all work together to make the National Development Plan a reality," she added. Ms Siew Chuen, meanwhile, noted that while the banking industry in Brunei is mature, there is still room to grow in many areas such as Wealth Management and Islamic Banking.
The Ministry of Finance has achieved many milestones in the recent years and the banking sector's achievements include the introduction of the Banking Order, Banking Regulation, Insurance Order, Hire Purchase Order, Finance Companies Act (Amendment) Order, the issuance of sukuk, the recent Islamic Banking Order and Islamic Banking Regulations.
Standard Chartered Bank, she said, has been in operation in Brunei for over 50 years and the bank has grown from a "Mobile Bank" to now a leading bank in many retail services and extending beyond brick and mortar, investing in Internet services for both retail and corporate customers.
Ms Siew Chuen also noted that competition in the banking sector is intense. In her opinion, this is great for customers, as they will be able to enjoy innovative products at competitive terms.
The General Manager of Total E& Borneo BV, Mr Louis Hueze, is optimistic that Brunei's future will continue to be bright, particularly in terms of enjoying revenue from the oil and gas industry.
Total is intending to keep the pace, despite the crisis on 'Block J' and they have plans to keep investing in Brunei. On the other hand, Total needs to be ensured that the government of Brunei will welcome Total after 2019.
"This is because we are engaged in long-term development," Mr Hueze said.
He also highlighted that Total has developed an education programme with support from Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD).
"One of the objectives is to be able to recruit properly educated and trained young Bruneians," he said. "We would also like to increase what we call the local content and we are doing our best to achieve this objective."
Mr Hueze encouraged the young generation not to be "too complacent" thinking that Brunei gets it revenues from the oil and gas industry. He hopes that alternative sources of revenues would be developed as well.
Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Awang Goh King Chin, meanwhile, reminisced how life was like in Brunei before it gained its independence.
"Before independence, the late Sultan, Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, had already set up different footsteps in terms of education, welfare and healthcare.
"This was something that was already implemented and now, under the current Sultan's rule, there have been improvements. His Majesty has made Brunei a better country for everyone to live in.
"During the last 25 years, there has been growth in infrastructure and introductions of financial institutions, Islamic banking, Takaful insurance and universities.
"We didn't have these 25 years ago," the prominent Chinese businessman said.
Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Awang Goh King Chin is also proud to note that His Majesty's subjects are well taken care off. "We have a good welfare system and no matter who you are - a Chinese, Indian, Malay or from any indigenous group - everyone's treated the same," he said. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Largest serving grilled satay in the world
By Ben Ng & Syafiq Affendy
Photo: Syafiq Affendy
His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Malik yesterday witnessed "The Largest Serving Grilled Satay in the World" at the Jerudong Polo Club (JPCC) and was chronicled by the Guinness Book of World Records officials.
Fifteen people volunteered to skewer the 75,000 pieces of satay, which took them a total of 1,200 hours to complete.
The satay grills were manned by 205 students from MTSSR, who were all dressed in black.
Talal Omar, Executive Adjudicator of the Guinness World Records presented the certificate of approval for 'The Largest Serving Grilled Satay in the World' to His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Malik. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
MM LEE BERI CERAMAH DI BRUNEI
Oleh
Hisham Hasim
MENTERI Pembimbing, Encik Lee Kuan Yew, kini berada di Negara Brunei Darussalam menghadiri Program Syarahan Umum bagi memperingati Almarhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien (SOAS Memorial Lecture).
Ketibaan beliau disambut mesra Menteri Perhubungan Brunei, Pehin Dato Awang Abu Bakar Apong; Naib Canselor Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Dr Dzulkarnain Hanafi; serta Pesuruhjaya Tinggi Singapura ke Brunei, Encik Joseph Koh; setelah Encik Lee tiba sekitar 5.30 petang semalam di Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Brunei.
Program syarahan SOAS tersebut julung-julung kalinya diadakan bersempena Sambutan Jubli Perak Hari Kebangsaan Negara Brunei Darussalam ke-25 tahun.
Ia dianjurkan Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah dengan kerjasama Universiti Brunei Darussalam dan akan diadakan di Pusat Persidangan Antarabangsa Brunei.
Acara kemuncak majlis adalah ceramah Encik Lee, yang dijangka menyentuh tentang persahabatannya dengan Allahyarham Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien, yang merupakan tokoh pembangunan Brunei moden.
Antara lain Encik Lee juga akan menyentuh hubungan Singapura-Brunei dan juga perkembangan Singapura.
Sekitar 3,000 hadirin dijangka menghadiri majlis ceramah tersebut, termasuk Putera Mahkota Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, para pegawai kerajaan, tokoh-tokoh asing serta para akademia. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Originally posted by fatz2 at 25-2-2009 11:31 AM 
http://cyberita.asia1.com.sg/mnt/media/image/launched/2009-02-24/BH_DALAM_NEGERI_MMLEE.jpg
MM LEE BERI CERAMAH DI BRUNEI
Oleh
Hisham Hasim
MENTERI Pembimbing, Encik Lee Kuan Yew, kini b ...
LKW... delivering his speech..
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,000 cupcakes sold. It was the first time that the Orchid Garden Hotel held their first 25-tier cupcake display in conjunction with 25th National Day and the cupcakes were selling like hot cupcakes. It was also a charity drive for the Brunei Flash Flood & Landslide victims. Well done to the team involved in baking 2,000 cupcakes and mind you, they are jumbo sized-cupcakes.
The 25-tier cupcake display at OGH
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
credit to : Ranoadidas.com
Al-Marhum SOAS a national hero. It was a memorable moment to have His Excellency Lee Kuan Yew, the former Prime Minister of Singapore, to deliver the 揝ultan Omar 慉li Saifuddien Memorial Lecture |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Airport Express officially rebranded
By P Marilyn
Royal Brunei Catering (RBC) Express fast food restaurant has been officially rebranded, carrying a new concept as a "family restaurant", following a launch at its outlet at the Brunei International Airport yesterday.
The change was part of RBC's initiative to create greater public awareness on its status as the pioneer local fast food outlet.
The refurbishment of the outlet has also prompted RBC management to introduce additional menus, such as curly fries, Asian delight burgers and 22-ounce soft drinks.
The rebranding of Airport Express was officially launched by RBC Chairman Haji Alaihuddin bin Pehin Orang Kaya Di Gadong Seri Lela Dato Seri Utama Awang Haji Mohd Taha.
Acting General Manager of RBC Haji Omar Ali bin Haji Mohd Daud, in his welcoming speech, said RBC pioneered the fast food industry in Brunei with the opening of its first Express outlet at Brunei International Airport in October 1988.
This was followed by an outlet in Tutong in 1991, Muara in 1994, Jerudong in 1996, and Kiulap in 2001.
"Following the number of years of fast food business operations in Brunei, RBC strives hard in increasing its market share by relocating its various fast food outlets to more strategic locations to cater to the needs of our customers," said Haji Omar Ali.
The Jerudong Express was relocated to Sungai Tilong in July 2003, Tutong Express to Tutong Central Mall in February 2004 and Muara Express to Batu Besurat in May 2004.
Meanwhile, RBC Express, with cooperation from Standard Chartered Bank, will be accepting payment from SCB Visa card for purchase of $10 and above.
These customers will also be entitled to a 10-per cent discount from yesterday until March 11.
In addition, the outlet will be offering complementary drinks until March 1, to passengers who present their boarding passes.
-------------------
luv the pie and burger&fries.. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
Category: Negeri & Negara
|
Author
tapi tunggu another 4 tahun lagi...
Post time 25-2-2009 11:31 AM
