Brunei Research Articles

Finding an Effectiveness of Teaching Methodology of Arabic Language Communication in Sultan Sherif Ali Islamic University (UNISSA): A Case Study of the Faculty of Usuluddinn UNISSA

This research aims to introducing the effectiveness of methodology of teaching Arabic language communication in the Faculty of Usuluddin, university of Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), Brunei Sultanate, Darussalam. The researchers have distributed the questionnaires to the students of Level one in the same faculty, the same university, who attended Arabic Language Communication class, 2024 session. They were 12 students among overall number of 30 students, (which sampled 40%). After these students arrived at the required data, they carried out quantitative and evaluative analysis to arrive at the required results. This research finds that the positive aspects of methods of teaching Arabic Language Communication in Sultan Sheriff Ali Islamic University is that teacher communicates in Arabic Language when he teaches Arabic Language communication in the University of Sultan Sheriff Ali with the percentage of (93.3%); that the teacher requires students to communicate within themselves with Arabic language on topics relating to daily conversation under (90%); that he records their voices during this exercise in the class; that he makes verbal corrections in the case of mistakes committed by students by listening to this voice record (86.7%); that he requires students to make written conversation within themselves(81.7%); that he presents the students’ written conversation on the screen in the class 88.3%; that he makes correction of errors committed by students on the screen through the use of projector in the class (80%); that he provides enough chance for students, for listening to Arabic voices on topics related to daily conversation(86.7%); that he provides chance for oral conversation within themselves (81.7%); that he uses attractive method in Arabic language communication course (88.3); that he drills the students on four language acquisition skills (86.7). on the negative part, it shows that the teacher does not speak Arabic language when he teaches Arabic Language Communication in the UNISSA (6.7%); that he does not require students to converse orally in Arabic language between themselves (10%); that he does not record the students’ voices during their oral conversation (25%); that he does not make correction on the oral mistakes committed by students (13.3 %); that he does not require students to make written conversation with Arabic language between themselves (18.3%); that he does not presenting students’ conversation on the screen in the class (11.7%); that he does not correct written mistakes of the students on the projector (20%); that he does not provide enough time to students for listening to Arabic voices relating to the topic on daily interaction (13.3%); that he does not give enough time to students for oral conversation relating to the topic on oral conversation between themselves (15%); that he does not provide enough time to students for writing the conversation relating to daily interaction (18.3%); that he does not use the attractive method in the Arabic language communication course (8.3%); that he does not use different types of teaching methodology in Arabic language communication course (11.7%); that he does not drill students on four language acquisition skills (13.3%).

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma incidence, mortality, and survival trends in Brunei Darussalam from 2011 to 2020

BackgroundNon-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) has been identified as a significant contributor to the cancer burden. This study investigates the incidence, mortality, and survival trends of NHL cancer in Brunei Darussalam from 2011 to 2020.MethodsThis is a registry-based retrospective study using de-identified data from the Brunei Darussalam Cancer Registry on patients diagnosed with NHL from 2011 to 2020 based on the ICD-10 codes C82-86. Statistical methods include descriptive statistics, age-specific and age-standardised incidence (ASIR) and mortality rates (ASMR), and joinpoint regression for trend analysis. Survival analysis was conducted using Kaplan-Meier plots, log-rank test, and Cox Proportional Hazards regression.ResultsFrom 2011 to 2020, 330 patients were diagnosed with NHL. The majority of patients were males (51.8%) and of Malay descent (82.7%). The age group most diagnosed was 55–74 years (42.3%), with a mean age at diagnosis being 55.1 years. The ASIRs were 12.12 for males and 10.39 per 100,000 for females; ASMRs were 6.11 for males and 4.76 per 100,000 for females. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was the most prevalent subtype, accounting for 39.1% of cases. The overall 5-year survival rate was 61.2%, with lower rates observed in older patients and those diagnosed at distant metastasis stage. Furthermore, older age and advanced stage diagnosis significantly increased mortality risk. NHL incidence and mortality rates in Brunei Darussalam remain stable over the period of 10 years, but highlights significant disparities in gender and age.ConclusionsThe findings emphasize the importance of early detection and tailored treatments, especially for high-risk groups, in managing NHL’s burden. These insights underline the need for focused healthcare strategies and continued research to address NHL’s challenges.

Determination of clay minerals in Brunei's outcrops and spatial variability of the radioisotopes

Shale with the presence of clay minerals is one of the problematic formations to be encountered in the oil and gas industry. Drilling into these formations will be a challenge since shale sloughs and clay swells. Clay minerals impact hydrocarbon production and drilling operations due to clay hydration. Thus, the main objective of this paper is to identify the clay minerals from Brunei Darussalam outcrops based on the cross plot of thorium and potassium from the components of the radioisotopes of spectral gamma ray logging (SGRL). The majority of the outcrops in Brunei Darussalam contains montmorillonite which swell in contact with water. Geostatistical methods are implemented to gather spatial data over an area of interest. Variogram therefore is used to describe and characterize the variability of the radioisotopes by fitting a model to the experimental semi-variogram. The estimation of the measured values at any unknown location are then calculated by the kriging process. Semi variogram and corresponding kriging maps for thorium, uranium, and potassium components were prepared. The result indicated a good spatial similarity and areas with the highest number of the radioisotopes of spectral gamma ray logging presented the relationship of the radioisotopes in the surrounding area.

Hijab in the Public Sphere of Muslim Countries in Southeast Asia, Media, State Rules, and Society Opinion

This article aims to explain state regulations and media perspectives in Muslim-majority countries in Southeast Asia regarding the use of the hijab as a religious symbol in public spaces. The influence of globalization has increased diversity in the media landscape in the public sphere, going beyond traditional face-to-face interactions and encompassing the vast realm of the Internet. While Muslim women in secular Western countries face bans on wearing the hijab in public spaces, Muslim women in Muslim-majority countries in Southeast Asia face challenges regarding their style of wearing the hijab in public spaces. This research is qualitative research based on the study of public space and religion. The analysis was carried out in three Southeast Asian countries, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei Darussalam, which have Muslim populations with different characteristics. Indonesia and Malaysia are multicultural regions but are dominated by Muslims, and Brunei is a country with a Muslim majority. These three countries have different patterns of managing religion in public spaces. Religious symbols in public spaces reflect the relationship between public space phenomena, the state, and the social context in a region. Social media has expanded the public sphere, providing greater opportunities for religious groups to present their arguments or engage in da'wah (religious outreach).

Competency and recognition of the halal supervisor in Brunei Darussalam

Inefficient and inadequate qualification assessment for the requirements of halal supervisors has attracted more attention in the halal industry field, which led to the withdrawal of the halal certificate following the discovery that the restaurant violated halal certification requirements. Furthermore, there is a lack of research discussing the halal supervisor's credibility procedure in Brunei Darussalam. This research aims to identify the efficiency and adequacy of the current qualification assessment for the requirements for halal supervisors by Syariah principles and laws in Brunei. This research adopted a qualitative method, using a semi-structured interview and library research method. The finding reveals that a halal supervisor is qualified by passing a written and oral test prepared by the Halal Food Control Division (HFCD), with supplementary talks or briefings given. However, no specific halal training is offered to halal supervisors. This finding indicated the need to improve the qualification system. It can aid in suggesting the necessary ecosystem for the credibility of the competency and recognition of the qualification of a halal food supervisor. This study can benefit future research and industrial players and improve the qualification procedure for halal supervisor.

The importance of halal-labelled meat for Muslim consumers, producers and government in Brunei Darussalam: A preliminary results

The importance of halal-labelled meat for Muslim consumers, producers and government in Brunei Darussalam: A preliminary results

Systematic review of bovine and zoonotic tuberculosis in the Western Pacific and the Southeast Asia regions of the World Health Organization.

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide. We conducted this systematic review to understand the distribution of bovine and zoonotic tuberculosis in the World Health Organization (WHO)'s Southeast Asia Region (SEAR) and Western Pacific Region (WPR) to inform our understanding of the risk posed by this disease. A two-pronged strategy was used by evaluating data from peer-reviewed literature and official reports. A systematic search was conducted using a structured query in four databases (Web of Science, Scopus, Medline, and PubMed) to identify any reports of the occurrence of zoonotic TB. No language and time constraints were used during the search, but non-English language articles were later excluded. The official data were sourced from the World Organization for Animal Health's (WOAH) World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS) and WHO's global TB database. The retrieved records from SEAR and WPR (n = 113) were screened for eligibility, and data about disease occurrence were extracted and tabulated. In SEAR, all of the five studies that conducted Mycobacterium speciation (5/6) in humans were from India, and the reported Mycobacterium species included M. tuberculosis, M. bovis, M. scrofulacium, M. kansasii, M. phlei, M. smegmatis and M. orygis. In WPR, Mycobacterium speciation investigations in humans were conducted in Australia (8), China (2), Japan (2), NewZealand (2) and Malaysia (1), and the reported Mycobacterium species included M. bovis, M. africanum and M. tuberculosis. Seven countries in WHO's SEAR have officially reported the occurrence of Mycobacterium bovis in their animals: Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand. In WPR, the WAHIS information system includes reports of the identification of M. bovis from 11 countries - China, Fiji, Japan, Malaysia, Mongolia, New Zealand, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Tonga and Viet Nam. In contrast, human zoonotic TB cases in the WHO database were only listed from Australia, Brunei Darussalam and Palau countries. The available data suggests under-reporting of zoonotic TB in the regions. Efforts are required to strengthen zoonotic TB surveillance systems from both animal and human health sides to better understand the impact of zoonotic TB in order to take appropriate action to achieve the goal of ending the TB epidemic.

Descriptions of Four New Species of the Genus Peritropis Uhler (Miridae, Cylapinae) from Brunei Darussalam

Four new species of Peritropis Uhler, 1891 (P. ahmadsahae new species., P. gorczycai new species., P. ubdiber new species, and P. wolskii new species) are described from Brunei. Scanning electron micrographs of selected structures and images of the adults of the new species are provided. Illustrations of female genitalia of P. ahmadsahae new species and male genitalia of P. gorczycai new species, P. lugubris Poppius, 1909, P. ubdiber new species, and P. wolskii new species as well as dorsal habitus photographs of P. lugubris, P. poppiana Bergroth, 1918, and P. similis Poppius, 1909 are given.

AN ANALYSIS OF BUSINESS ZAKAT REPORTING IN ISLAMIC BANKING INSTITUTIONS: EVIDENCE FROM MALAYSIA, INDONESIA AND BRUNEI

The reporting requirements for business zakat accounting in Islamic banking institutions are still in their early stages, with only minimal zakat disclosure currently mandated. Consequently, the disclosure of zakat accounting is insufficient despite its crucial role in enhancing transparency and accountability, building the trust and confidence of the stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with Shariah principles. The primary objective of the study is to analyze zakat reporting requirements and compare them with current business zakat reporting practices in Islamic banking institutions in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. This study employs a qualitative research approach by examining the annual reports of three selected Islamic Banks, chosen based on the availability and accessibility of their audited financial statements and annual reports for the financial year ending 31 December 2023. A content analysis of the annual reports of Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad, Bank Muamalat Indonesia and Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Berhad was performed to evaluate the recognition of zakat expenses, the measurement of assets and liabilities for zakat, and the presentation and disclosure of business zakat. The findings are mixed yet interesting. In the absence of approved accounting standards for Islamic financial institutions, Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad has demonstrated full disclosure practices on its business zakat reporting. Whereas, Bank Muamalat Indonesia is still insufficient in reporting the business zakat despite having a proper accounting standard for zakat. For Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, the business zakat reporting is adequate even though Brunei has only one enactment related to zakat collection and distribution. The measurement, recognition, presentation, and disclosure criteria should be upheld, with additional requirements for full disclosure by zakat-paying business entities. This study proposes the proper establishment of zakat accounting standards to provide comparable and reliable financial information for various stakeholders.

The burden of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease among working-age people in the Western Pacific Region, 1990–2019: an age–period–cohort analysis of the Global Burden of Disease study

BackgroundThe growing prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in younger populations, particularly those of working age (15–64 years), has become a public health concern. Being diagnosed at a younger age implies a greater likelihood of accruing disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) later in life due to potential progression to conditions such as cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma. This study aims to analyze NAFLD prevalence trends over three decades globally, regionally, and nationally, with a focus on age, period, and birth cohort associations.MethodsGlobal, regional, and country time trends in the prevalence of NAFLD among working-age people from 1990 to 2019: Age-period-cohort analysis based on Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 estimates and 95% uncertainty interval (UI) of NAFLD prevalence in the working age population was extracted from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries and Risk Factors Study 2019. Age-period-cohort models were used to estimate the prevalence within each age group from 1990 to 2019 (local drift, % per year), fitted longitudinal age-specific rates adjusted for period bias (age effect), and period/cohort relative risk (period/cohort effect).ResultsThe global age-standardized prevalence (ASPR) of NAFLD increased significantly from 1990 (14,477.6 per 100 000) to 2019 (19,837.6 per 100 000). In the Western Pacific, there were 42,903.8 NAFLD cases in 2019, 54.15% higher than in 1990. The ASPR also increased significantly in the region over the past three decades. At the national level, Palau had the highest ASPR while Brunei Darussalam had the lowest. Age-period-cohort analysis showed that in the Western Pacific, unlike globally, the risk of NAFLD declined after age 60–64 years. Relative to 1980–1989, incidence and DALY risks decreased but prevalence increased in subsequent birth cohorts. Future predictions indicate an upward trend in NAFLD burden, especially among women and medium (SDI) regions like China.ConclusionNon-alcoholic fatty liver disease imparts an immense health burden that continues to grow globally and in the Asia Pacific region. Our work highlights working age adults as an at-risk group and calls attention to socioeconomic gradients within Western Pacific countries. Upward future projections demonstrate that NAFLD prevention is an urgent priority.

Metabolism and diabetes in Ramadan fasting: Exploring health trends and relationships through systematic literature network analysis.

Ramadan fasting is widely acknowledged for its positive impacts on health, yet it also presents inherent risks, prompting a need for comprehensive exploration into its metabolic implications and its effects on diabetes. This study introduces a novel methodology called systematic literature network analysis (SLNA), which merges bibliometric analysis with systematic literature review (SLR). The aim of this study was to examine the global research landscape concerning Ramadan fasting, metabolism, and diabetes. Through the systematic search strategy, 206 relevant documents were analyzed. Through co-occurrence analysis mapping, the study uncovered four distinct cluster groups, revealing intricate relationships and evolving trends within the field. Moreover, the trajectory of research publications on Ramadan fasting from 2001 to 2023 was tracked, highlighting a growing interest in this domain. The bibliometric analysis emphasized a consensus regarding the beneficial effects of Ramadan fasting on individual health, particularly in improving lipid profiles, managing body weight, regulating glucose levels, and nutrient intake. However, significant variations in research focus were observed across predominantly Muslim countries, with notable exceptions like Indonesia and Brunei Darussalam absent among the top contributors. Furthermore, the analysis shed light on the balanced selection of research subjects by authors, indicating a nuanced approach to exploring the multifaceted aspects of Ramadan fasting, metabolism, and diabetes. These findings offer significant perspectives for researchers aiming to contextualize their studies within the wider conversation on this subject, thereby aiding in a more profound comprehension of the intricate relationship between fasting, metabolic functions, and the management of diabetes.

"Understanding knowledge and attitudes regarding hypertensive disorders of pregnancy among expectant women in Brunei Darussalam: A nationwide study"

BackgroundThe primary cause of maternal and fetal mortality due to hypertensive disorders in pregnancy is delays in accessing healthcare services. These delays are often attributed to insufficient knowledge, attitudes at the time of diagnosis, and a lack of awareness regarding the condition, including its critical warning signs and symptoms. AimTo evaluate pregnant women's initial knowledge and attitudes upon receiving their first diagnosis of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. MethodsA cross-sectional quantitative design was used to assess the knowledge and views of 216 expectant mothers on hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) across three high-risk clinics in Brunei Darussalam. Participants were selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a bilingual self-administered questionnaire, adapted from a validated instrument. Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses, including t-tests, One-Way ANOVA, and multiple regression, were conducted using SPSS (Version 23). ResultsAmong 216 participants, 69 % demonstrated good knowledge of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy (p < 0.001). Despite positive attitudes towards seeking medical help (p < 0.001), 69 % initially opted for home remedies, and 50 % avoided hospitals unless necessary, leading to delays in healthcare-seeking behaviour. The findings highlight the need for targeted health campaigns to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice, ensuring timely medical intervention for hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. ConclusionThe study reveals significant knowledge gaps and attitudes contributing to delayed healthcare-seeking behaviours. Targeted health campaigns and culturally sensitive educational programs are essential to improve timely medical interventions and maternal outcomes in Brunei Darussalam.

Exploring the knowledge and awareness of emulsifiers in food and non-food products among the community in Brunei Darussalam

The demand for halal products in both food and non-food sectors is directly correlated with the growth of the Muslim population. Hence, it encompasses the prerequisite for utilising halal ingredients in producing the final product. Furthermore, there is a growing trend in the use of emulsifiers as a key ingredient in food and non-food products, which raises concerns about their prevalence, origin and impact on consumers' health. This research aims to investigate the level of knowledge and awareness among the community in Brunei Darussalam about the presence, source and health consequence of emulsifiers in food and non-food items. A quantitative approach was executed in this study. A questionnaire was developed and made available online for distribution to the general public of Brunei Darussalam via social media platforms. The data obtained from participants was recorded and analysed using SPSS Statistics version 23. Overall, the sample population was predominantly comprised of females, youths of aged 18-24 years old, students, individuals with a Bachelor's degree and Muslims. The results showed that the participants, particularly females and current students were significantly more knowledgeable of emulsifiers in food than non-food products. However, the overall knowledge degree of the ingredient among the participants was moderate. Furthermore, most responses exhibited a poor awareness level regarding the sources of emulsifiers and an uncertainty of their effects on human health. In conclusion, the findings of the present study will benefit consumers, particularly Muslims in Brunei Darussalam, to make informed decision on their purchasing of products as the information provided in the research enables them to distinguish between halal and non-halal products.

Estimation of above-ground biomass using machine learning approaches with InSAR and LiDAR data in tropical peat swamp forest of Brunei Darussalam

Estimation of above-ground biomass using machine learning approaches with InSAR and LiDAR data in tropical peat swamp forest of Brunei Darussalam

Clinical Outcomes of Intrauterine Insemination for Male Infertility in Brunei Darussalam

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the factors influencing the success of Intrauterine insemination (IUI) in infertile patients due to male causes in Brunei Darussalam.Methodology: Pre-diagnosed male infertility patients of all ages were included in this retrospective cohort analysis from the “Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital's” Brunei Darussalam between January 2015 and December 2020. South Asian criteria were used for BMI categorization. Statistical evaluation of the data was conducted utilizing R-studio.Results: Out of 240 research participants, 92.1% were Malay. IUI resulted as a successful pregnancy for 18 males (7.5%), while 222 subjects (92.5%) had unsuccessful conception. The semen parameters were correlated with age and BMI. Although the difference was statistically insignificant, the male subjects with successful outcomes after IUI were young, BMI was less, and the semen quality variables were better than the male subjects who had unsuccessful outcomes.Conclusion: The male study subjects with the outcome of successful IUI resulting in pregnancy were younger, and had lower BMI and better semen parameters than the group in which IUI failed to result in pregnancy.

Comparison of the Legal Regulation of Adultery as Social Control in Society: A Comparison Between Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, and Turkey

Introduction: Differences in adultery regulations in various countries in the world can be different, one of which is due to the ideology adopted by each country. Regulations related to adultery actually have relevance to state ideology and the values held and lived by society, including religious values.Purpose of the Research: This research aims to analyze and compare adultery regulations based on the values and ideology that apply in a country by comparing adultery regulations between Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, and Turkey.Method of Research: This research is normative legal research by prioritizing historical, conceptual, legislative and comparative approaches.Results of Research: The results of the research confirm that the development of adultery regulations in Indonesia has not been substantively facilitated since it was regulated in the WvSNI and even passed into the Criminal Code in 1946. This is because what is regulated in the Criminal Code as an official translation of Dutch criminal law is only an overspel that if translated into Indonesian is closer to the act of infidelity and not adultery. The regulation of adultery in the new national criminal law is officially regulated in the New Criminal Code, especially in Article 411 of the New Criminal Code, which is actually in accordance with the meaning of the offense of adultery in accordance with the values and culture of Indonesian society. Differences in the regulation of adultery in each country, especially countries with a majority Muslim population. This is a necessity because differences in adultery regulations in each country depend on the ideology adopted by each country. However, in general, in societies where the majority are Muslim, adultery is classified as a disgraceful act that deserves criminal sanctions as applied in Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam, whereas Turkey, even though the majority of the population is Muslim, is based on a secularist view, only regulating adultery within the realm of law. private.

Probing the Nexus Effect of CO2 Emissions, Fossil Fuels, Energy Imports and Economic Growth on Renewable Energy Consumption in OIC Member Countries in Southeast Asia: Evidence from Panel Data Estimations

In recent years, the role of renewable energy sources has increased in the amount of energy consumed worldwide. Much remains unknown about the components that influence renewable energy consumption. This article addresses this issue for the Southeast Asian countries that are members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC): Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam. Besides having major energy resources, the region is well suited for renewable energy development as it can measure the effects of carbon dioxide emissions, fossil fuels, energy imports, and economic growth. In this study, we found that there is no statistically significant difference in renewable energy consumption in previous years; economic growth and concurrent increases in carbon dioxide and fossil fuel emissions do not have a positive impact on renewable energy use in the OIC region of Southeast Asia; and the impact of energy imports has a significant impact on the consumption of renewable energy. In addition, how the findings of this study impact policy is discussed.

Governance through Translation: Policies and Practices in Brunei Darussalam

Governance through Translation: Policies and Practices in Brunei Darussalam

A Comparative Analysis of the Interpretation of Maturity Under the Law of Marriage across ASEAN Countries

Annually, child marriage endangers the lives and prospects of millions of youngsters. Despite regulations regulating the minimum age for marriage, this practice is prevalent and troublesome in several nations. Child marriage persists in several regions worldwide despite being disapproved upon in some civilizations. The present work aims to analyze the idea of maturity within the context of marital law. This study involves normative legal research utilizing philosophical, statutory, and conceptual approaches. The methods employed for analyzing legal materials are surveying, questioning, reading, reciting/recalling, and reviewing using logical reasoning. The investigation reveals that the idea of maturity in marriage legislation in countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, and Vietnam is mostly based on setting a minimum age for marriage, despite the fact that age may not accurately reflect a person’s maturity level.

Sentiment Analysis of Urban Opinions on COVID-19 Handling in Brunei Darussalam Using Lexicon Weighting and Machine Learning Algorithms

Sentiment Analysis of Urban Opinions on COVID-19 Handling in Brunei Darussalam Using Lexicon Weighting and Machine Learning Algorithms