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TIBBB, Youths & Sports Dept sign deal for Project Brunei Gold team
By P Marilyn
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed yesterday between Takaful IBB Berhad (TIBBB) and the Youth and Sports Department at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports at Takaful IBB Berhad's headquarters, Dar Takaful IBB Utama in the capital.
Under the agreement, TIBBB will be providing the Group Personal Accident Takaful Scheme coverage package for Project Brunei Gold athletes and coaches for 12 months, throughout the duration of the 2009 Project Brunei Gold.
The insurance covers a total of 34 athletes and coaches/assistant coaches in three sports: karatedo (11 athletes and two coaches/assistant coaches), pencak silat (11 athletes and four coaches/assistant coaches), and cycling (four athletes and two coaches/assistant coaches).
The coverage will protect all athletes in the event of death and permanent total disablement due to accident or illness occurred within 12 months following the accident or illness.
It will also be extended to temporary disablement, where weekly benefits will be payable.
The tailor-made scheme is designed to provide 24-hour coverage worldwide during or after tournaments and trainings, including daily risk exposure.
Meanwhile, signing on behalf of TIBBB was its acting managing director, Hjh Lily binti Haji Kula, while the Youth and Sports Department was represented by its acting director, Hajah Norlah binti Haji Yaakob.
On hand to witness the signing were Syariah High Court judge and Takaful IBB Berhad Director Dato Seri Setia Ustaz Awang Haji Metussin bin Haji Baki and Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Paduka Awang Haji Jemat bin Ampal.
Hjh Lily, in her welcoming address, said the development of the scheme was made possible by technical underwriting expertise and vast experience of TIBBB being 15 years in operation, as well as being the first takaful service provider in the country. |
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'V-Trak' puts Brunei on track
By Sonia K & Azim Ghani
The Deputy Minister of Communications lauded Mimit e-Technology and Group 4 Securicor Security Services Sdn Bhd (G4S) who yesterday launched a state-of-the-art 'Tracking Solutions' software product called "V-Trak".
V-Trak, which utilises GPS technology, is a web-based system that provides real-time information about customers' vehicles on a digital map. It also keeps customers (drivers) informed about their driving behaviour and helping them keep track of their vehicle maintenance, as well as road tax and insurance.
Dato Paduka Awang Haji Yusof bin Haji Abdul Hamid, who was the guest of honour at the product launching event at the iCentre in Anggerek Desa, said that this development is "something that we can be pleased about", as the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam is making its best effort to ensure that e-business and e-commerce flourish in tandem with the development of the e-Government initiative.
"We should be proud that many local Bruneians are now becoming more innovative, proving their talent and creativity in platforms such as the Think Big Business Plan Competition, Livewire and Brunei ICT Awards (BICTA)," the deputy minister said.
"We are in the right track moving towards the right direction of having a knowledge-based economy where innovation and creativity is gaining significance and at the forefront," he added. "Several e-Government projects, which could further facilitate and transform our interaction with the government, are on the way."
Dato Paduka Awang Hj Yusof also expressed his delight that this development was running in parallel with the vision of the Ministry of Communications in moving towards a "Sophisticated Society and Excellence in Communications for Enhancing National Competitiveness".
However, he conceded that the development of e-business was "still lagging behind".
"There is yet much room for improvement where e-business is concerned," the deputy minister said, adding that he hoped to see more spin-offs from the e-Government initiative, as this would encourage creativity among local ICT companies such as Mimit e-Technology.
The CEO of Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB), Mr Vincent Cheong, pointed out that this was the first time that an iCentre incubatee has successfully worked with an MNC.
Through G4S's international networks and presence, Mr Cheong is confident that this partnership has the potential to be a commercial success not only in Brunei but also in the region.
In light of this, the CEO of BEDB said that the iCentre will continue to seek more partnerships for its incubatees.
"More than just providing office spaces and entrepreneurial workshops, iCentre's mission is to be a launching pad for bright, innovative ideas by providing real opportunities through its partnership with both the public and private sector," Mr Cheong said.
He called for greater collaboration from the government and private sector to play a role in developing Brunei's SMEs.
"We need to be more proactive, bolder and faster when it comes to creating a more vibrant and conducive environment that will benefit and sustain our entrepreneurs," the CEO of BEDB said.
The Managing Director of Mimit e-Technology, Haji Rushdi El-Hakim bin Dato Ibrahim, meanwhile, said that entrepreneurs face challenges everyday.
"(However) from these challenges, we gain knowledge.... (and) from knowledge, we learn to be more productive and more innovative," he said, adding that ideas and good teamwork were necessary to ensure the success of any product.
On this note, the General Manager of G4S, Mr Ambrose Nathan, pointed out that Mimit e-Technology is responsible for the maintenance and upgrade of the V-Trak software and hardware, while DST is the connectivity provider.
"The management reports are designed according to customers' requirements. This service is a total outsourced solution for the monitoring and the reporting," he said.
This means that there is no capital outlay for the customer and there is no additional manpower required by the customer neither is there a need of hardware or software purchase, upgrades or maintenance.
Recently, Mimit e-Technology spread its wings in a neighbouring country. Crestar Communications Incorporated will be supporting Mimit e-Technology in the Philippine market for V-Trak and 'ILMu' Islamic mobile content. |
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New KB housing project timely
By Liza Mohd
The speedy construction of 2,000 homes in Kuala Belait, overseen by Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB), will shorten the list of 5,000 housing applicants in Belait District still waiting in line for their homes since they submitted their applications from the mid 80's to 1992.
The number does not include new applicants and those on waiting lists, said a Housing Development Officer.
Not only would the new housing development shorten the waiting period for the housing applicants, but it will also provide the citizens with more cost-effective homes as the houses are expected to cost cheaper than the previous houses offered under the National Housing Schemes.
Nanda Kumar, BEDB Manager Infrastructure Development, said the costs of the house would include infrastructure and major ground works which include site clearance and earthworks.
Yesterday, the BEDB announced that the project has been awarded to a Malaysian publicly-listed company, Bina Puri Holdings Bhd, which is entrusted to execute the new project within two years.
Kumar added that through this development project, it would implement the effective management contracting system in Brunei to ensure the efficient flow of the project works and the awarded company will utilise a technology called 'tunnel foam system' for the swift and safe construction of the new houses
The system is adapted by Bina Puri Holdings from the previous construction of homes overseas, he noted.
He assured that the senior engineers will be closely looking into the quality, planning and implementation of the project under observation by BEDB.
Kumar highlighted this would further boost the local economy as tenders for supply of building materials and services will be made available to local companies.
A kick-start meeting will take place this Monday to set up the project team and decide on the appropriate design of the houses. He said that site clearance works are expected to begin in two to three weeks.
Under the new scheme, 60 per cent of the development will comprise terrace houses and 40 per cent will be semi-detached houses. The new houses will be built on a 180-hectare site of Area 10 which is located behind the BSP Canadian Housing area, close to the Mumong roundabout. |
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US Human Rights Report positive on Brunei
By M K Anwar
The US State Department annual Human Rights Report for 2008 was released yesterday.
In the report for Brunei Darussalam, there were several positive points concerning the conditions of the prisons and the government's zero tolerance policy on corruption.
Touching on the conditions of prison and detention centres in Brunei, the report noted that conditions generally met international standards. There were no reports of mistreatment and that the law prohibits the mistreatment of these prisoners.
In terms of the freedom of speech and press, it noted the nation's daily newspapers, which include the Borneo Bulletin, as practising self-censorship.
The letters to the editor, which appears in the Borneo Bulletin Opinion page, often includes comments critical of government handling of certain social, economic, and environmental issues.
On occasions, the government responds to public opinion on topics concerning social or environmental problems and the delay of public services, the report said.
The Legislative Council, which convenes annually, has allowed members to "speak their opinions freely", but they are prohibited from using language or exhibiting behaviour deemed "irresponsible, derogatory, scandalous, or injurious", and may be disqualified for service on the basis of various offences including disloyalty.
The report stated that the village consultative councils communicated constituents' wishes through a variety of channels, including periodic meetings chaired by the Minister of Home Affairs.
The government also meets with mukim representatives to allow for airing of local grievances and concerns.
The Brunei National Development Party (NDP) was also mentioned and that it is the country's only registered political party and pledges its support to the Sultan and the government.
On corruption, the zero tolerance policy practised by the government has successfully led to the prosecution of a number of low-level officials. There were no reports of prosecution or conviction of police or military personnel for corruption.
In relation to crimes, in particular rape and domestic violence, the report mentioned that according to police statistics, there were 46 reported rape cases in 2008 and 21 were under investigation. Police were said to be generally responsive in the investigation of such cases, the report said.
Although there is no specific domestic violence law, but arrests have been made in domestic violence cases under the Women and Girls Protection Act.
In 2008 alone, there were 225 reported cases of domestic violence against women, and all cases were still under investigation at year's end. The criminal penalty for a minor domestic assault is one to two weeks in jail and a fine. An assault resulting in serious injury is punishable by caning and a longer jail sentence.
A special unit staffed by female officers exists in the police department to investigate domestic abuse and child abuse complaints, while a hotline is available for persons to report domestic violence.
The Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports' Department of Community Development provides counselling for women and their spouses. Based on individual circumstances, some female and minor victims are placed in protective custody in the Community Development Department's Taman Noor Hidayah shelter while waiting for their cases to be brought to court.
There are various laws that prohibit the employment of children under the age of 16. Parental consent and approval by the Commissioner of Labour is required for those under 18.
The Labour Department, which is part of the Ministry of Home Affairs, effectively enforces laws related to the employment of children and that there are no reports of violations of child labour laws, the report said.
On the health and welfare aspect, the report states that occupational health and safety standards are established by government regulations.
The Labour Department inspects working conditions on a routine basis and in response to complaints and the department generally enforces labour regulations effectively.
However, enforcement in the unskilled labour sector was seen as lax, especially for foreign workers at construction sites, where pay arrearage and inadequate safety and living conditions were reported.
The Labour Department on the other hand may close a workplace where health, safety, or working conditions are unsatisfactory. The law permits a worker to leave a hazardous job site without jeopardising his employment, but generally, this did not occur.
The government's protective measures for foreign workers have included arrival briefings for workers, inspections of facilities, and a telephone hotline for worker complaints.
The report noted that government mediation continues to be the most common means used to resolve labour disputes.
Abusive employers face criminal and civil penalties. When grievances could not be resolved, repatriation of foreign workers is at the expense of the employer, and all outstanding wages are ordered paid.
The majority of abuse cases have been settled out of court by the employer paying financial compensation to the worker.
No 2008 statistics on workers' complaints were provided but the report stated that in 2007 the Labour Department recorded 26 complaints by domestic helpers and 108 complaints by corporate/garment workers against employers who failed to pay workers' salaries.
Sixteen of the complaints by domestic workers and 60 of the complaints by corporate/garment workers were resolved, largely by employer compensation payments.
Eighteen complainants withdrew their complaints while the remaining cases were still under investigation.
The government also prosecuted employers who employed illegal immigrants or did not process workers' documents, rendering them illegal status. While the majority of prosecutions were for long-term overstayers, many workers stayed on illegally due to their former employers' negligence.
The 2008 Human Rights Report is the 32nd edition of the Country Reports. It includes more than 190 countries worldwide and it is said that these reports help foster discussion, promote advocacy, measures country's progress and improvements that can be made. |
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$4.98 billion budget to spur GDP growth
By Narissa Noor
Against the backdrop of global economic uncertainty, Brunei Darussalam is preparing to face a multitude of challenges in 2009, one of which is increasing GDP to help finance the annual budget and ultimately reduce the country's dependency on oil and gas.
Despite these challenges, the Department of Economic Planning and Development is optimistic and has already predicted Brunei's 2009 national GDP growth to fall between 1.2 per cent and 3.1 per cent, a considerable upturn from the negative growth between -1 per cent and -3 per cent reported last year.
During the convening of the fifth session of the Legislative Council, yesterday, the Minister of Finance II, Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Hj Awg Abdul Rahman Hj Ibrahim, stood before the council and outlined the annual budget for the fiscal year of 2009/2010 which amounted to B$4,985,785,600.
In detailing the objectives, strategies and the focus of the budget, the minister referred to the progress seen in 2008 which has much contributed to the country's economic growth.
A few of these advancements were the emergence of two new universities as well as the introduction of SPN 21 or the 21st Century Education System.
"The implementation of SPN 21 hopes to empower the people with the knowledge and the skills to compete and succeed in every arena," explained the minister.
He also cited the many major projects that have been implemented such as the development projects associated with the Sungai Liang Industrial Park and those under the National Development Programme.
Other developments that the minister cited included the government's added incentives for SMEs and a reduction of corporate income tax from 30 per cent to 25.5 per cent.
"Under the Enterprise Facilitation Scheme, the maximum credit amount given to SMEs has been increased from $1.5 million to 5 million and is repayable in 10 instead of seven years," he elaborated.
Meanwhile, the Micro-credit Scheme has also increased to $50,000 from the minimum $30,000 and repayment, too, has been extended to four years. "In line with regional and global development in the face of the financial crisis, our government has issued guarantees on deposits made in local banks until December 31, 2010 to protect them from the crisis," he further stated. |
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Brunei to run into $1.65B budget deficit
By M K Anwar & Narissa Noor
The 2009-2010 budget will see the government running into a deficit of $1.65 billion after the revenue for the fiscal year is projected to drop significantly to $4,000,367,000 compared $5.602 billion projected for the 2008/2009 fiscal year.
This was revealed by the Minister of Finance II, Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Hj Awg Abdul Rahman Hj Ibrahim at the Legislative Council Meeting yesterday.
The projection, however, also takes into account the expected increase in government services revenue and Corporate Income Tax at $766 million compared to $704 million last year.
It was revealed that revenue from the non-oil and gas sector as well as government services can only support about 19 per cent of the total Predicted Government Expenditure.
Meanwhile, a sum of $4,985,785,600 has been proposed for the 2009-2010 budget which is an increase of $200 million compared to the 2008/2009 financial year. It was outlined yesterday during the Legislative Council session.
According to the Minister of Finance II, the strengthening of the fiscal policy to achieve a sustainable fiscal position continues to be the main priority for the new budget.
This is aimed at generating sustainable development and economic growth.
Towards achieving a long-term strategic goal, the objective of the 2009/2010 budget will concentrate on several factors such as ensuring that the nation's fiscal position continues to strengthen and be sustainable. It also aims to increase the effectiveness of plans in eradicating poverty in the country.
Increasing government revenue by strengthening collection and reduce arrears, which on March 2008 stood at $475.8 million, and also to research on the level of payments for services given to the low income group so as not to burden them will be looked into.
Moves will be made to increase the competitiveness of the nation's investment and economic environment to attract Foreign Direct Investment, especially by multinational corporations, into the country.
To achieve this, the minister stated that several strategies, procedures and processes would be adopted in preparing the budget allocation for every government ministries and agencies.
This involves maintaining a fiscal discipline by ensuring that the budget follows the finance allocated, giving priority to projects and in general ensuring value for money through efficient and effective use of the budget, ensure the abilities and capabilities of project implementations and make ministries and departments accountable in using the allocation.
The 2009-2010 budget will see the government face a deficit with the projected revenue set at around $4 billion, but the minister was confident that with concerted efforts, the government can still afford to finance all the planned expenditure using the nation's income.
For defence and public security, a total of $1.04 billion or 18.5 per cent of the budget has been allocated. The government has also earmarked $10 million for contingency, for any unplanned expenditure. And in line with the titah made by His Majesty at the opening the Legislative Council, $30 million will also be allocated for the improvement, upgrading and maintenance of public infrastructure and facilities such as drainage, water supply, electricity supply and communication system.
With regards to the eradication of poverty, the Minister of Finance II said that $10 million has been allocated for the collection and gathering of relevant data and information so that the effort to achieve zero poverty can be made efficiently and implemented comprehensively.
Meanwhile, $340.95 million has been allocated in increasing the level of medical and health services in the country and this includes for the provision of medicines, ambulances and equipment for hospitals and health centres.
Towards improving the welfare of the people, $680 million has been provided for the construction of basic public facilities and infrastructure. Towards making the nation more self-sufficient in food, $30 million has been provided specifically to implement strategies and plan effectively. The emphasis will be on increasing the yield per hectare of padi using high yield varieties, 2 to 3 harvests per year, use of latest padi farming technology and provision of infrastructures.
In developing and consolidating the private sector, Pehin Dato Seri Setia Hj Awg Abdul Rahman said that steps would be taken to increase the competitiveness of the nation's economy and attract foreign investment.
To realise the government's efforts in developing the private sector, $178.17 million has been earmarked for the relevant agencies to plan and implement programmes.
The minister also said that His Majesty has consented for the amendment relating to the Income Tax Act (Chapter 35) where the corporate tax from 2010 will be reduced to 23.5 per cent. The employers' contribution to the Employees Provident Fund or TAP will also be considered as further deductions in corporate tax.
In realising the importance of human resource development in helping the growth of the economy, the Minister of Finance II said a large amount of allocation has been made in providing education infrastructures in the country. The minister added that this also includes providing scholarships for students and civil servants to upgrade their educational qualifications locally or abroad.
This effort is in line with the nation's Vision 2035 to have an educated, highly skilled and successful citizens.
Overall, a total of $1,060.9 million (18.76 per cent of the budget) has been provided for agencies involved in human resources and capacity development. Besides this, $120.89 million has been allocated for the management, operation and implementation of ICT in the country.
Deliberations over budget allocations for each government ministries and departments will continue today. |
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Joint statement after Brunei-Malaysia Exchange of Letters
By Sonia K. & Azlan Othman
His Majesty and the Malaysian premier exchange signed letters as HRH the Crown Prince and HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah look on. - JASON LEONG
His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Seri Abdullah Haji Ahmad Badawi held a four-eye meeting at the Istana Nurul Iman yesterday and signed an Exchange of Letters to mark the successful conclusion of negotiations.
The negotiations have been ongoing for many years on outstanding bilateral issues between the two countries with regard to historical, legal and other relevant criteria involving both sides.
A joint press statement by the leaders stated that both noted the agreement of their respective governments on the key elements contained in the Exchange of Letters, which included the final delimitation of maritime boundaries between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia, the establishment of Commercial Agreement Area (CAA) on oil and gas, the modalities for the final demarcation of the land boundary between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia and unsuspendable rights of maritime access for nationals and residents of Malaysia across Brunei's maritime zones en route to and from their destination in Sarawak, Malaysia provided that Brunei's laws and regulations are observed.
"The solution of the maritime delimitation issue ensures certainly with regard to the delimitation of the territorial seas, the continental shelf and the Exclusive Economic Zone of both countries," it added.
The two countries would be able to enforce their rules and regulations and embark on new developments in their respective maritime zones.
The statement added that the demarcation of the land boundaries between the two countries will be resolved on the basis of five existing historical agreements between the Government of Brunei and the State of Sarawak, and, as appropriate, the watershed principle. Hereafter, all issues pertaining to land boundaries of the two states shall be accordingly resolved.
The Exchange of Letters marked a historic and momentous occasion for Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia, the leaders said in the joint statement.
"It reflected the two countries' ability to reach a comprehensive, fair and equitable package solution in the larger interest of Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia."
His Majesty and Dato' Seri Abdullah instructed relevant officials/representatives of Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia to expeditiously follow up and monitor the full implementation of the provision contained in the Exchange of Letters.
Both leaders believe that the signing will pave the way for the development of a strategic partnership and closer collaboration between the two countries in all fields, especially trade and investment, energy and hydrocarbon resources, tourism, education, agriculture, infrastructure, banking, Halal industry and people-to-people contacts with special focus on the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak.
The leaders also believe that brotherly relations between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia will contribute to the promotion of peace and prosperity in the region. |
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New era in Brunei, M'sia bilateral ties
By Waleed PD Mahdini
The six-year territorial dispute between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia has finally been resolved with the historic signing of Exchange of Letters yesterday between His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Prime Minister of Malaysia.
The formalisation towards the milestone settlement was held at the Istana Nurul Iman and was witnessed by His Royal Highness Prince Haji 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, Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Awg Lim Jock Seng, Second Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Lela Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Abdul Rahman bin Dato Setia Hj Mohamed Taib, Minister of Education.
Malaysian Foreign Minister, Datuk Seri Utama Dr Rais Yatim, as well as the negotiating teams from both sides also witnessed the signing.
According to a press release from the Prime Minister's Office, "the Exchange of Letters marked a historic and momentous occasion for Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia. It included the final delimitation of maritime boundaries between the two countries; the establishment of Commercial Agreement Areas (CAA) in oil and gas; and the modalities for the final demarcation of land boundaries between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia".
His Majesty and the Malaysian Prime Minister further "believed that the signing has paved the way for the development of a strategic partnership and collaboration between the Sultanate and Malaysia, especially in the fields of trade and investment, energy and hydrocarbon resources, tourism, education, agriculture, infrastructure, banking, Halal industry and people-to-people contacts with special focus on the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak".
The Malaysian premier in a news conference with Malaysian journalists claimed that Brunei has officially dropped its long-standing territorial claim over Limbang, a northern division in Sarawak, marking a new era in the bilateral relations between both countries.
The prime minister added that the matter was part of the historic Exchange of Letters inked between him and His Majesty, Bernama reported.
Limbang, located on the banks of Sungai Limbang between the two halves of Brunei and covers an area of 3,978 sq km with a population of more than 40,000, was annexed by James Brooke, the first Rajah of Sarawak, in 1890 to become the fifth division of Sarawak.
Abdullah thanked His Majesty and his government for the positive action in making the solution a reality and said the border issues would now cease to haunt the relations between both countries.
"With the issue solved, Brunei and Malaysia can now enter a new era of bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields and there is no more unhappiness over the issue," he said.
Meanwhile, describing the Exchange of Letters between both countries as a "happy ending" and a win-win situation for both parties, Malaysia's Foreign Minister said that the result was a compromise between both governments in the spirit of neighbourliness.
"The resolution of this matter between the Sultan of Brunei and the Prime Minister has very high value in the context of intra-Asean cooperation and between both countries.
"The letters contain several principles of cooperation to be implemented in the surveying and demarcation of the land and maritime borders," Datuk Seri Utama Dr Rais Yatim told foreign reporters.
The dispute occurred in 2003 when Brunei and Malaysia awarded petroleum production-sharing contracts for four overlapping deepwater exploration blocks in the South China Sea, close to where a 440 million-barrel discovery was made the year before.
Brunei awarded one of its exploratory blocks to France's Total, BHP Billiton and Hess Corp and the other to Shell, Mitsubishi and ConocoPhillips whilst Malaysia's Petronas awarded its two blocks to US firm Murphy Oil.
Datuk Seri Utama Dr Rais Yatim said, "A joint Brunei-Malaysia technical committee will be set up to translate to the ground today's territorial dispute settlement between the two countries."
The minister further elaborated that the responsibility of the committee is to settle technical issues related to surveying, delimiting and demarcating both the land and maritime boundaries between the two countries.
"It may take time for the working groups to settle the technical issues," he told the Malaysian journalists, adding that petroleum exploration and exploitation activities in the area would have to wait until all the technical details have been settled.
It was understood that as a means in reaching the historic agreement both countries had used five old treaties regarding the demarcation of the borders, which started since 1920 that will serve as the guide for all future dealings.
Furthermore, the "watershed principle" would be used to determine the land boundary while the United Nation's Convention on the Law of the Sea will guide both countries in dealing with the remaining issues over their overlapping maritime claims.
The 'watershed principle' is based around the notion that if the preservation of natural features depend upon the preservation of topography and if the fundamental topographic unit is the watershed, then the preservation of natural features depend upon the watershed.
Issues involving the welfare of the entire watershed also become tractable under such an alignment. However, current technology, such as the Geographic Information Systems, makes it possible to alter the inventory of lands to create suitable, substantial changes, in legal definitions. But the use of technological capability to make legal definitions corresponding more closely to natural definitions can lead to the resolution of territorial disputes whereby, the closer the fit between natural and man-made boundaries the fewer the disagreements will be.
The UN's Convention on the Law of the Sea takes into account due regard for a legal order for the seas and oceans as a means to facilitate international communication, and to promote the peaceful uses of the seas and oceans, the equitable and efficient utilisation of their resources and the conservation of their living resources in order to contribute to the realisation of a just and equitable international economic order, which takes into account the interests and needs of mankind as a whole and, in particular, the special interests and needs of developing countries. |
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Local media not privy to Limbang spat
By M K Anwar
The issue about Brunei dropping its territorial claim on Limbang has caused a stir among members of the public as questions are being asked over the veracity about this claim.
Malaysian media have widely reported Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi as saying that Brunei has dropped its claim on Limbang.
This statement was made at a press conference on Monday at the Malaysian High Commission exclusively for the Malaysian media.
Local media representatives were earlier barred from attending the press conference. The visit itinerary didn't state it was an exclusive affair.??? :@
The exclusive press briefing held for the Malaysian media in Brunei on Monday following the signing of Letters of Exchange (LOE) apparently generated the latest controversy over Limbang.
Though no official copies of the LOE were made available, the five main points that were highlighted mostly involved the demarcation of boundaries between the two countries.
Malaysian media quoting their Prime Minister reported that Brunei has decided to give up all claims on Limbang.
Brunei's Second Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Pehin Dato Lim Jock Seng yesterday at the Legislative Council session set the record straight by denying that there was any discussion on Limbang during Monday's deliberations. 
Responding to a question by a member of the Legislative Council, Pehin Lim said that the claims on Limbang were never discussed.
What is rather puzzling in hindsight is about why the Brunei media was not permitted to cover the press briefing. !!!! :@
When Borneo Bulletin as well as state media persons went to cover the press conference, they were politely shunted out saying that it was 'exclusive' for the Malaysian media. what the heck???
Now this purported statement by the Malaysian media is quickly knitting controversy, the local reporters wonder why they were kept out when Limbang, which is a matter that concerns Brunei, was spoken about.
For now members of the public in general are posing questions over comments made regarding Brunei dropping its territorial claim on Limbang. Malaysian media meanwhile are still publicising the story with extensive updates. |
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Brunei denies Limbang story
By Azlan Othman
YB Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Awg Lim Jock Seng, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II, yesterday said claims on Limbang were never discussed during Monday's deliberations between Brunei and Malaysia.
He was responding to YB Dato Paduka Hj Puasa bin Orang Kaya Seri Pahlawan Tudin's query on the contents of the "Letter of Exchange" signed between Brunei and Malaysia, which also touched on Brunei's claims over Limbang at the Legislative Council meeting yesterday.
Pehin Lim said there were certain press reports yesterday claiming that Brunei has dropped claims over Limbang.
"In actual fact, the claim on Limbang was never discussed. What was discussed was the demarcation of land boundaries on the whole," he said.
"The joint press statement issued yesterday mentioned that the demarcation of the land boundaries between the two countries will be resolved on the basis of five existing historical agreements between the Government of Brunei and the State of Sarawak, and, as appropriate, the watershed principle.
"After that a working group comprising general surveyors of the two countries will follow with the technical aspect to solve the land border issue," Pehin Lim added.
His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Seri Abdullah Haji Ahmad Badawi held a four-eye meeting at the Istana Nurul Iman on Monday and signed the Exchange of Letters to mark the successful conclusion of negotiations.
The negotiations have been ongoing for many years on outstanding bilateral issues between the two countries with regard to historical, legal and other relevant criteria involving both sides.
Both noted the agreement of their respective governments on the key elements contained in the Exchange of Letters, which included the final delimitation of maritime boundaries between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia, the establishment of Commercial Agreement Area (CAA) on oil and gas, the modalities for the final demarcation of the land boundary between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia and unsuspendable rights of maritime access for nationals and residents of Malaysia across Brunei's maritime zones en route to and from their destination in Sarawak, Malaysia provided that Brunei's laws and regulations are observed.
Meanwhile, YB Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Adanan, the Minister of Home Affairs, said an allocation has been made in the budget to upgrade the Kuala Lurah Control Post.
After the border issue between Brunei and Malaysia is resolved, work will be carried out to identify the site.
He was responding to a query by YB Dato Paduka Hj Puasa on the long queues that border hoppers normally experience during school holidays, Hari Raya and other public holidays and the need to upgrade Pandaruan ferry services and Puni Control Post in Temburong.
YB Dato Paduka Hj Puasa added that the opening of a new bridge soon in Trusan, Lawas will further aggravate the situation should these control post projects are not carried out.
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apesal media Msia ni twisted the story????  |
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Millions of dollars invested in dodgy schemes
By Sonia K. & P. Marilyn
Deliberations continued among the ministers and council members yesterday at the 5th Legislative Council session.
Questions that were raised during the meeting touched on illegal investment schemes or 'get-rich-quick' scams, energy research projects, unemployment and improvement in electricity supply.
Orang Kaya Jaya Putera Dato Paduka Awang Haji Muhammad Taha bin Abd Rauf, a council member, brought up the issue of get-rich-quick scams and unlicensed investment schemes. He asked how serious the problem is and how many Bruneians have been caught involved in these schemes.
He asked how much money was involved in these cases and what the authorities are doing to curb the problem.
Minister of Finance II, Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Ibrahim, answering the query, said he cannot give specific information on the matter but the ministry is aware that millions of dollars are known to be involved in these schemes.
That is why the Ministry of Finance, from time to time, issues press releases or holds forums and briefings to educate the public on such money-making schemes.
The ministry tries its best to ensure that the public do not get "pulled into" unlicensed deposit-taking schemes, he said.
He said it is important for the public to be wary of such schemes because what is usually promised to investors - higher returns - usually involves higher risks.
He advised people, who want to invest in these schemes, to first consult the Ministry of Finance or financial institutions regarding the status of the companies offering the investment schemes.
Meanwhile, council member Dato Paduka Awg Haji Yunos bin Mohd Noh, asked several questions to the Minister of Energy at the Prime Minister's Office, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Awg Haji Mohammad bin Haji Daud, on vacancies in the government sector and the country's unemployment figures.
He said there are about 7,000 vacant positions in various ministries in the government sector but the country still has an unemployment figure of more than 7,000.
He also commented on the long wait for applicants to be called for interviews for jobs in the government sector.
The Minister of Energy, in his response, said the Civil Service Commission or Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Awam (SPA) is currently taking the initiative to fill the vacancies by appointing "rapidly".
The reason for the delay in interviews involves a number of factors, which are not under the jurisdiction of the SPA. This is because before an appointment is made, it has to undergo various processes and information has to be checked properly to ensure that the applicant is appropriate for the post and has the relevant qualifications. This takes time because it is not done by SPA alone but involves various government agencies, said the minister.
On electrical services, council member Dato Paduka Awang Haji Idris bin Haji Abas raised the issue of energy conservation as energy is needed in daily activities.
He said Brunei should make an effort to conduct research on energy conservation and management, and renewable energy.
Dato Paduka Awang Haji Idris said, from his understanding, UBD is currently applying for funding for six energy research projects. The projects are estimated to cost a total of B$14 million.
The council member said he supported these science and technology research projects and hoped that the budget for the projects will be approved.
Council member Haji Mohd Shafiee bin Ahmad too supported the idea of research on alternative energy.
He said alternative energy such as solar power is something that Brunei can adopt or look in to.
He also asked when the Electrical Services Department in Kuala Belait will be able to curb electricity interruptions experienced in the area.
He said that Seria also experienced electricity interruptions.
He asked if more electricity capacity will be added to strengthen the energy supply in Kuala Belait.
In response, the Minister of Energy said several plans have been carried out to improve the electricity supply, especially in Seria.
The Electrical Services Department has also picked a new consultant and the advertisement for tenders for the project will be out in May this year.
Hopefully this project will begin in July this year, the minister said, so that the situation can improve soon.
Another significant issue raised by council member Haji Mohd Shafiee bin Ahmad to the Minister of Energy relates to the employment of foreigners in high positions with the local oil industry.
He urged the Petroleum Unit to investigate why fewer locals are employed in such posts and to not just settle for the reason that locals are less capable and less experienced in filling these positions.
The Minister of Energy said that the Petroleum Unit has always carried out investigations on this matter.
The outcome is reflected in the increase in locals holding senior positions in the oil industry. The minister cited an example whereby as of March 2009, 57.7 per cent locals filled senior positions at Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd compared to in the year 2000 when only 17 out of 43 locals held senior positions.
During the deliberations, the Minister of Finance was asked by a representative to give a brief overview of the budget allocation for the Ministry of Defence this year.
Just like the previous years, the budget allocated for defence takes into account the responsibilities of the defence force and the duties that have been entrusted to the Ministry of Defence that can be seen as more challenging year after year. |
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hi hom ..
lama tak borak dgn hom ..
pasal limbang kan
sebenarnya apa kepentingan pada brunei
selain terjumpanya 450 juta tong minyak di perairan limbang
adakah brunei memerlukan limbang untuk menghubungkan Temburong yg terpisah itu ?
rasanya ... rakyat limbang suka jadi brunei atau malaysia
Bisaya pun ramai di sana tu kan ? |
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Reply #1511 budakjawa's post
salam bj... wah dah duk 2 bulan kat Brunei ropenya..
secara peribadi.. seumur hidup hom memang dah tau le Limbang tu part of Msia..
kalo nak ikut sejarah..most part of Sarawak/Sabah di bawah empayar Brunei kan...termasuk Limbang
tapi tu semua Sejarah... semustinya ramai org Limbang berasal dari Brunei..
kalo nak ikutkan citer org tua2 le... dolu2 masuk Limbang Lawas tu tak perlu paspot..and vice versa..
kepentingan... bagi hom mungkeng disegi kemudahan kot..khasnya penduduk kat Temburong..pasal
skrg ni nak masuk.kuar Temburong kena chop paspot kan..pasal Temburong terpisah dari the rest of Brunei
tapi takde le penting sgt... kita still wokey...with or without Limbang... |
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Total Support For Brunei's Iron Lady
By Azaraimy HH
Bandar Seri Begawan - Total E&P Borneo BY (TEPB) yesterday contributed $10,000 to Brunei Darussalam's "Iron Lady" Norhayati Abu Bakar, who will once again go on a four-wheel-drive expedition to promote the Sultanate around the world in conjunction with the country's 25th Independence Day.
The General Manager of TEPB, Mr Louis lieuze, said that the company was impressed with Norhayati's "boldness", as she has set a great example to others, especially the youth, to not be complacent in life.
"To be bold is what it takes to get ahead in life," he said, add ing that Brunei's younger generation needs to develop this positive attitude.
Aside from the $10,000 contribution, TEPB also promised to provide worldwide logistics support
during her expedition, as TOTAL has operations in more than 130 countries.
Mr Fleuze reassured Norhayati that he would be just "one phone call away" to provide her with assistance. He added that TOTAL wants to make her feel like home when she is "in the middle of nowhere" so to speak.
"Even though we are tightening our operating expenses this year, we are happy to increase our contribution (for Norhayati's expedition)," the general manager said.
Brunei's Tourism Chief, Sheikh Jamaluddin, said that the generous contribution from TEPB would certainly make it easier for Norhayati to complete her "perfect adventure that would help market Brunei" to the world.
Sheikh Jamaluddin said that adventurous people like Norhayati can market Brunei to the far reaches of the world.
"This is why I am also sponsoring the Brunei logo on the top front of her 4WD," the tourism chief added. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin |
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Grocery Products Discounted
By $1 This Week By Azlan Othman
Bandar Seri Begawan - Figures from JPKE indicated that several supermarkets continue to slash and cut their prices by up to $1 this week compared to the previous week.
At Sin Kiew Hin departmental store, one kg of red onions costs $1.90 since March 14 while, the five-kg Labour brand cooking oil was reduced by 90 cents to $10.30 and white onions (down by 70 cents) to 80 cents.
One kg of chicken wings at the First Emporium & Supermarket was reduced by 70 cents to $6.80 effective from March 21.
At Liang Toon, 510g Nona brand oyster sauce was reduced 55 cents, while at Jaya Hypermarket, five kg Labour brand cooking oil was down by 35 cents to $11.50. The price of cooking oils was also reduced. A five-kg Labour brand cooking oil was slashed 35 cents to $11.50, while three-kg Naturel Sunflower was down by 30 cents to $12.90. At First Emporium & Supermarket, one kg of whole chicken was slashed 35 cents to $3.85, while one kg of chicken drumsticks and breasts were also slashed 30 cents to $5.20 and $6.50 respectively.
The five-litre Sunco brand was down by 30 cents to $9.20 at First Emporium & Supermarket while 1.5 kg Nestle Milo was slashed 30 cents to $10.50 effective from March 21 at Sin Kiew Hin.
Instant noodles, curry and chicken flavours were also reduced 20 cents to $1.75 since March 14 at Sin Kiew Hin, while one-kg Nestle Milo was reduced 20 cents to $6 and 645m1 Cap Kipas Udang sauce was also discounted by 20 cents to $2.20 at Jaya Hypermarket.
Other items reduced this week include condensed milk, evaporated milk, Indo Mie noodle, various flour brands and margarine at Seri Q lap superstore, Teguh Raya in Serusop and Hua Ho departmental stores.
JPKE is commited to inform the public on price cuts. More information can be obtained at www.depd.gov.bn.-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin
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'Brunei not a contributor to effects of global warming'
Melvin Jong
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Saturday, March 21, 2009
THE Sultanate's strong conservation policy to continue the development and management of the country's forest resources in a sustainable manner ensures that the country is not a contributor to the effects of global warming and climate change.
"We currently have more than enough forest cover in Brunei," said directory of forestry, Hj Saidin Salleh.
In an interview yesterday, the director informed The Brunei Times that approximately 78 per cent of Brunei's land area is still currently under forest cover.
"This percentage is very high especially when compared to some of the other more industrialised countries."
When asked about the recent irregular weather occurrences which resulted in floods and landslides experienced by the country, Hj Saidin reminded us that climate change is a global issue.
"The contributor is not Brunei but (other countries) as they cut down the forests without proper management and conservation plans."
"Brunei is on the right track, there is nothing to worry about. This is due to the country having a very strong conservation policy," said Hj Saidin, who added that Brunei should be regarded as a role model by other countries.
"We have to invite other countries to do the same, we try to persuade them to participate in some of our conservation projects such as Heart of Borneo."
The director also spoke of the Forestry Department's mission of managing the country's forest resources in a sustainable manner through continued efforts to increase the percentage of forest cover and forest reserves.
"We also enrich the logged over areas for replantation so that the second rotation of logging will still be productive," said Hj Saidin.
He went on to speak of Brunei's "Cut one, plant four" policy where sawmills are required to subsidise the planting of four trees for every tree felled, an initiative which might increase the productivity of the land area by over 1,000 per cent.
"There are only 14 matured trees per hectare in a virgin forest and this is already considered to be very rich, but with enrichment planting the stock of the logged over area can produce up to 142 mature trees per hectare."
"Here in Brunei, we also practice a selective tree felling system to make sure that only mature trees are logged," he added before clarifying that all trees in Brunei has to be inspected and marked by Forestry Department before they can be logged.
"If not chopped, these matured trees will die standing. This is also not a correct way of managing the forests as well," he added.
With this in mind, Hj Saidin elaborated on the necessity for the industries to utilise these forest resources efficiently to minimise wastage.
"Do not chop the whole tree down, leaving parts of it to die in the forest, only to convert its branches into souvenirs," he said
He said that another way to minimise wastage was to substitute the use of timber products with other materials.
"An example of this would be the use of concrete piling which is better and stronger when compared to bakau (mangrove) poles."
"In addition to this we also work with the other ministries to alleviate and reduce land use conflict," he said.
Hj Saidin pointed out that by conducting ongoing awareness programmes such as the World Forestry Day and excursions to saw mills and forestry plantations by the Forestry Department help in getting the public involve in forest conservation.
Brunei's 27th celebration of World Forestry Day will be launched this morning at Bukit Shahbandar Recreation Park.
Themed Forest: Averting Climate Change, this year's celebration will serve to raise the public's awareness on the importance of preserving the Sultanate's forests. (MJH1)
The Brunei Times
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Source URL:
http://www.bt.com.bn/en/en/home_news/2009/03/21/brunei_not_a_contributor_to_effects_of_global_warming |
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New system to curb fake driving licences
By Azlan Othman
The Minister of Communications said yesterday the Land Transport Information System (SPD) of the Land Transport Department is expected to change, if not wipe out completely, all the negative and unhealthy elements in administration and service.
Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia Awg (Dr) Hj Abu Bakar bin Hj Apong said this at the launching of the SPD yesterday.
He said the SPD system, which is based on front end and online system, will also produce new products that are hard to copy compared to the present system.
"This can prevent or lessen forgery cases or issuance of forged documents like driving licences, vehicle licences and vehicle registration books."
The minister added that the SPD is expected to bring about changes in guideline and procedure of the processing of applications. The SPD system allows procedures to be conducted automatically and updated.
"We hope that the Land Transport Department will soon be able to process driving licences and road taxes wholly online. Such changes will give benefits in terms of time-saving and facilitate service to the public."
Costing $8 million to develop, the SPD consolidates the current disparate systems into a single platform, providing centralised information for accurate and updated vehicle records.
The new system improves efficiency in the processing of applications and permits.
With the launching of the SPD, queuing at LTD counters to rush vehicle related submissions such as vehicle type approval or vehicle registration before the end of a working day promises to be a thing of the past.
By logging onto www.pengangkutan-darat.gov.bn, the applicants can now submit their applications electronically through the internet anywhere, anytime.
The SPD system is one of the several e-government projects of the Ministry of Communications and shows the determination of the government in providing efficient services.
The SPD system will link agencies and enhance the quality of services of the Land Transport Department, the minister added.
However, in the excitement to utilise the SPD system, the hi-tech ICT system alone does not guarantee efficient and good services. Many matters should be taken into account, especially by LTD in providing effective services, he said.
This is because the SPD is just a system, he said. The system demands changes, be it in consumers or government. The preparedness for a change is also crucial such as a change in the way to execute tasks, the preparedness of consumers is also crucial and that the department-customer relation is also paramount which can't be replaced by technology, he said.
"We are all aware that the use of ICT system in giving effective, efficient and quality services that meet the customers' target is the main priority. In introducing new process and work guidelines, the socialising process is crucial for such changes to be easily accepted.
"For SPD, I was made to understand that such socialising process towards changes and new process has begun. Such process will not only involve officers and staff at LTD, but also stakeholders like auto distributors and insurance firms."
Acting Director of Land Transport Department, Mohd Riza bin Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Yunos revealed that last year, there was an increase of 21,224 vehicles registered, the highest ever recorded for many years.
He also disclosed that based on its system, the department also found that 37,091 private vehicles, 5,064 commercial vehicles or under company's name did not renew their road taxes since three years ago.
Since 1990 till today, the department recorded 325,872 car registrations, of which only 173,606 were active. |
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Category: Negeri & Negara
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Author
Post time 20-3-2009 10:59 PM
