Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) hosted a Hari Raya gathering for participants of its BIBD Advocating Life-Long Learning for Aspiring Future (ALAF) and BIBD Special Entrepreneurial Empowerment and Development (SEED) programme celebrating tradition, education and community spirit.
The event held at the Munawarrah Hall, Setia Point in Berakas began with the graduation of 10 participants from the sixth cohort of the BIBD SEED programme, which aims to nurture entrepreneurship among underprivileged women and foster economic resilience.
This year’s sixth cohort includes 11 participants representing various agencies, including the Community Development Department under the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports; Rakan Seliaan under the Prisons Department, Ministry of Home Affairs; Usahawan Bakarih Yayasan under the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation; and members of the public
The participants were selected through interviews and product pitches before beginning a five-day Bootcamp – the first phase of the six-month programme.
As a token of appreciation, the Guest of Honour presented grants to the graduates to support the next stage of their ventures.
Since its launch in August 2020, the award-winning BIBD SEED programme has empowered participants with vital business skills to contribute meaningfully to Brunei’s economy.
The event continued with the BIBD ALAF Star Awards, where 52 students were recognised for academic excellence in 2024. BIBD ALAF students maintained a 100% pass rate in the BC GCE ‘A’ Levels, with most achieving three A Levels, while also performing well in the GCE ‘O’ Level and SPUB exams.
These achievements reflect BIBD’s commitment to educational development and youth empowerment. Since 2013, BIBD ALAF has supported over 330 underprivileged students with financial assistance, mentorship, and holistic support.
The programme aligns with BIBD’s commitment to Maqasid al Shariah, Brunei Vision 2035, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – particularly Goal 1 (No Poverty) and Goal 4 (Quality Education). To date, seven ALAF participants have joined the workforce.
This annual Hari Raya event not only strengthens BIBD’s bonds with the community but also highlights its commitment to empowering the next generation through education and entrepreneurship.
BIBD ALAF continues to serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity for families across Brunei, reflecting BIBD’s role as a key partner in nation-building and community empowerment.
Also present were Minister of Home Affairs and Chairman of BIBD’s Board of Directors Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Haji Ahmaddin Haji Abdul Rahman, BIBD’s Board Members, BIBD Shariah Advisory Body, senior government officers from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Ministry of Education, BIBD Senior Management, members of the BIBD ALAF Taskforce and other relevant stakeholders.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
