Nineteen participants received certificates upon completing a basic tourist guide course at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism’s (MPRT) Setia Pahlawan Hall. Permanent Secretary at the MPRT Hajah Tutiaty binti Haji Abdul Wahab officiated the event. Course participant Norhidayah binti Yahaya emphasised the importance of the course for those without a tourism background, as it helps them structure information more clearly and effectively when guiding tourists. She also highlighted the value of knowledge sharing among participants, fostering learning and understanding. Adilah binti Pehin Dato Haji Ishak noted that the course is crucial for standardising information about popular attractions in Brunei, preventing tourist confusion. She further emphasised the importance of storytelling skills, which can make the tour experience more engaging and exciting for tourists. The course, first introduced in 2016, is a prerequisite for obtaining a tourist guide licence in Brunei. The course, conducted in collaboration with the Tourism Development Department and Laksamana College of Business (LCB), aims to improve tour guide skills, ensure quality service and open up job opportunities for locals, particularly youth. Since its inception, 216 tour guides have completed the course. The 15th Basic Tourist Guide Course, held from October 1 to 12, covered practical and

Mental health is not a choice but a necessity that needs to be prioritised, especially in ensuring the well-being of teachers, CureHeart founder Hajah Norajileen Uminatul Hafizan binti Haji Alimas said. She said this during the Brunei Darussalam World Mental Health Day 2024: Nurturing Heart Supporting Educator’s Well-Being, organised by CureHeart in conjunction with World Mental Health Day at the auditorium of Laksamana College of Business (LCB) in Batu Satu yesterday. “Just as we prioritise on the students’ academic achievements, equal attention needs to be made on mental health in the workplace, particularly at educational institutions. “Educators bear great responsibility in shaping future generations, so their well-being needs to be taken care of to allow them to deliver quality lessons. “We aim to find meaningful ways to provide educators with the resources, emotional support and work-life balance they need. We also hope to hear insights from experts on their best practices, and discuss initiatives that align with noble values, Islamic principles and global trends in teachers’ well-being,” she said. Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati binti Haji Tajuddin was the guest of honour. The event featured forums on topics such as the importance

The Tourism Development Department under the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism yesterday announced the launch of a comprehensive new course on ‘Basic Bird Watching Specialised Tourist Guide Course’ designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead bird-watching experiences. Starting in November at Laksamana College of Business (LCB), students will receive combining classroom instruction with hands-on field training. Participants will gain an array of skills including identification skills to recognise local bird species through both sight and sound, understanding local bird habitats and how environmental factors influence bird behaviour and migration patterns, field techniques such as the art of using binoculars and spotting scopes, as well as how to position oneself for the best vantage point to optimise viewing. The course also focuses on developing guiding skills, training participants to enhance their communication and leadership abilities and learning how to create engaging narratives and share their passion for birds with clients. Renowned local bird watching expert Daud Abdullah emphasised the multifaceted benefits of the hobby. “Beyond its therapeutic qualities, birdwatching enhances observational skills and patience,” he said. For Daud, the passion has also evolved into a fulfilling career, generating income through tours, workshops and speaking engagements.