Latest news with #DatoSeriSetia
The Star
11-07-2025
- General
- The Star
Brunei ramps up marine conservation efforts
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Dr Abdul Manaf Metussin sounding the air horn to officiate the deployment of 100 reef balls on July 10 in the waters of Pulau Pilong-Pilongan in conjunction with World Ocean Day 2025. - BB BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The Brunei government is taking various measures to support marine conservation and the sustainable use of ocean resources. The measures include designating over 20 per cent of the nation's fisheries management area – more than 1,200sq km – as a 'No Take Zone' through the establishment of Marine Protected Area (MPA) to prevent overfishing and safeguard marine biodiversity; enforcing a moratorium on new bottom trawl licences since 2001; and prohibiting shark fishing and trade of all shark products since 2015 to protect threatened marine species and preserve ecological These initiatives were mentioned by the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Dr Abdul Manaf Metussin in his remarks as guest of honour at the deployment of 100 reef balls of four different sizes in the waters of Pulau Pilong-Pilongan, held in conjunction with the celebration of World Ocean Day 2025 on Thursday (July 10). Other initiatives, he added, include 'combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing through the active enforcement of the National Plan of Action and optimising technology to track and monitor fisheries activities; conducting national fish stock assessments and developing a Fisheries Stock Database to enable informed and evidence-based decisions for sustainable fisheries management; as well as leveraging the use of artificial intelligence to enhance coral reef monitoring, enabling precise reef health evaluation and adaptation to the impacts of climate change'. The minister also highlighted restoration and propagation of seagrass ecosystems, with special focus on vulnerable species. 'Over 100 seagrass plots were successfully planted at Bedukang Island in May, as one of Brunei Darussalam's efforts to salvage and expand the species in its significant role in the ecosystem.' He further revealed, 'Over 1,400 artificial reefs were deployed between 2020 and 2023. We are committed to deploying an additional 1,000 artificial reefs by 2029, further supporting marine biodiversity and sustainable fisheries. We are proud to continue this journey with the deployment of an additional 100 units of artificial reefs at Pelong Rocks, contributing to our ongoing marine ecosystem restoration efforts.' Brunei Darussalam, the minister emphasised, 'will continue to invest time and effort in marine science for our younger generations, who will be the next key players in sustaining ocean governance in the future. At the same time, we call upon all stakeholders from industries nationwide to adopt environmentally conscious practices to achieve sustainable economic development.' The minister also raised concerns that the ocean is under growing threats across the globe, including in the region, where marine ecosystems are gradually degrading on a large scale as a result of human actions. He cited threats such as marine pollution – driven by the irresponsible disposal of plastic and industrial waste, as well as abandoned, lost or otherwise discarded fishing gear – continuing to harm marine habitats. 'Evidence of microplastic pollution and ghost nets in reef systems are some of the pressing issues identified, highlighting the urgent need for further research and effective solutions to address these threats,' he said. He added that unsustainable extraction of marine resources due to overfishing and destructive fishing practices, along with the destruction of mangroves and other coastal landscapes, have disrupted the balance of ecosystems. Beyond these immediate concerns, he said, 'the health of our marine ecosystems is also increasingly challenged by broader and more complex impacts of climate change. Rising ocean temperatures lead to more frequent and severe coral bleaching events, while ocean acidification weakens reef structures and inhibits the growth of shelled organisms'. 'These changes not only disrupt the delicate balance of the entire marine food web and ecosystems but also jeopardise the livelihoods of communities that depend on the ocean for food, income and cultural heritage,' he said. – Borneo Bulletin/ANN
The Star
07-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Brunei inaugurates South-East Asia's first net-zero shrimp aquaculture and AI integration hub
Dr Awang Mohd Amin and Dr Awang Abdul Manaf Metussin inaugurating South-East Asia's first net-zero emission shrimp aquaculture base and AI Integration hub in Brunei. - BB BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: South-East Asia's first net-zero emission shrimp aquaculture base and AI Integration hub has been jointly inaugurated in Brunei on Monday (July 7), marking a major milestone in the integration of sustainable aquaculture and intelligent agriculture, by a shrimp aquaculture company and its holding firm – Jets Sdn Bhd and DABANC Group, a leading digital asset provider. In attendance witnessing the event were Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance & Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah and Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Abdul Manaf Metussin. The project represents a pioneering convergence of solar-powered aquaculture, next-generation blue shrimp breeding, and AI-driven management, establishing a new benchmark for green and intelligent aquaculture in the Asean region. Powered by renewable energy, the facility integrates intelligent water quality monitoring, AI-based disease prediction, and production optimisation — all designed to operate with a zero-carbon footprint. The centre will also serve as a regional hub for technological innovation and talent development, open to collaboration across Asean. The inauguration ceremony drew attendees from government, academia, industry, and international organisations, and has been widely recognised as a landmark initiative in advancing green economy, food security and AI-driven development across the Asean region. Jets Sdn Bhd is the operating subsidiary of a joint venture company with the Ministry of Finance and Economy, through the Strategic Development Capital Fund (SDC Fund), under the Investment is an aquaculture company with a focus on cultivating the unique Rostris Blue Shrimp in multiple sites across Brunei Darussalam for domestic supply and export. DABANC is an investment company headquartered in Hong Kong with offices in China, Sarawak, Brunei and the United States. DABANC Group's current investments focus on four critical sectors: AI hyperscaler data centers, green energy, blockchain/crypto and digital banking. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
The Star
25-06-2025
- Health
- The Star
Open Day spotlights nurses' role in shaping healthcare
Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Mohd Isham Jaafar and Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Romaizah Mohd Salleh during the tour. - BB BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Mohd Isham Jaafar and Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Romaizah Mohd Salleh toured the facilities of JPMC College of Health Sciences (JCHS) at Ong Sum Ping Condominium during the annual Open Day event on Tuesday (June 24). The duo commenced the event by inscribing an inspiring message on the college's wall of hope, dedicated to encouraging and uplifting JCHS students. The delegation toured the college's training facilities – including the Body Interact Lab, Simulation Ward, Delivery Simulation Ward, and Operating Theatre – offering a firsthand look at JCHS's innovative, real-world approach to healthcare education. Each stop along the tour showcased the college's commitment to immersive, skill-based learning that equips future healthcare professionals with confidence and competence. The Open Day also raised awareness about the vital role nurses play in shaping the future of healthcare in Brunei Darussalam. The event served as a gateway for aspiring healthcare professionals to explore career paths in nursing and understand the critical impact they can have on the nation's well-being. – Borneo Bulletin/ANN
The Star
14-06-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Russia reaffirms commitment to strengthen ties with Brunei and Asean, says ambassador to Brunei
Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Brunei Mikhail Baranov and Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Mohd Isham Jaafar cutting a cake to mark Russian National Day. -- PHOTO: MUIZ MATDANI-Borneo Bulletin/Asia News Network BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (Borneo Bulletin/ANN): Russia places strong emphasis on cooperation within Asean-centric forums and regards Asean as a key pillar of regional security and development, with Brunei playing an important role in promoting inclusive dialogue in this sphere. This was highlighted by Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Brunei Darussalam Mikhail Baranov in his remarks at the Russian National Day reception held at the Songket Ballroom Wednesday night. 'Our bilateral relations with Brunei Darussalam are developing in a spirit of mutual respect and constructive engagement,' said the ambassador. 'In July 2024, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with Brunei's Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Erywan Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Mohd Yusof, on the sidelines of Asean-related events, reaffirming our shared interest in strengthening political dialogue.' Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Mohd Isham Jaafar was present as the guest of honour, representing the Brunei Government. Also in attendance were members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials, and invited guests from various sectors. The event commenced with the national anthems of Brunei Darussalam and the Russian Federation, followed by welcoming remarks from Ambassador Baranov. He noted that a recent visit by a Deputy Minister from the Prime Minister's Office to Moscow for the 13th Meeting of Senior Security Officials included a series of productive bilateral discussions, further strengthening cooperation in the field of security. 'Russia and Brunei also maintain close coordination within international institutions, where both countries often share similar views on global challenges and the principles that should govern international relations,' said the ambassador. 'I am confident that our partnership will continue to expand across many areas — from energy and education to cultural exchange and regional security — for the benefit of our peoples and in the interest of peace and development in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.' The evening concluded with a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony by the ambassador and the guest of honour to mark the celebration of Russia Day. The reception reflected the strong spirit of friendship between Brunei Darussalam and Russia and Russia's commitment to further deepening cooperation across multiple sectors for mutual benefit and global peace. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
The Star
26-05-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Brunei King, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, arrives in Malaysia for 46th Asean Summit
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (Borneo Bulletin/ANN): Brunei King, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah has arrived in Kuala Lumpur to the 46th Asean Summit and related summits which will be held at the KLCC from Monday (May 26). Prior to leaving Istana Nurul Iman in Bandar Seri Begawan, the Doa Selamat was recited by State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz Juned. Present at His Majesty the Sultan's Flight Hangar in Rimba to bid farewell to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam were members of the Royal Family. Also present were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran-pengiran Cheteria; the Speaker of the Legislative Council; Cabinet Ministers; Members of the Privy Council; Deputy Ministers; the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces; and Acting Commissioner of Police of the Royal Brunei Police Force as well as the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Brunei Darussalam. Upon arrival at the Subang Air Base, His Majesty was welcomed by Minister of Home Affairs of Malaysia Senator Datuk Seri Nasution Ismail and Chief of Ceremony of Malaysia Datuk Rozainor Ramli. Also present were Brunei's Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah; Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Mohd Yusof; and High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to Malaysia Brigadier General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Mahmud Saidin, as well as Senior Officers from the Malaysian Royal Air Force. Sultan Hassanal then proceeded to walk past the Static Guard of Honour mounted by 1st Battalion, Royal Rangers Regiment (Ceremonial Infantry). Malaysia, as Chair of Asean this year, is carrying the theme 'Inclusivity and Sustainability', which demonstrates Asean's commitment to ensure regional resilience and prosperity, as well as to strengthen collaboration in the face of emerging global challenges and external pressures. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
