December 28, 2021

JETEX TRIUMPHS AT WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Dec. 28, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Jetex has received three prestigious recognitions at the World Travel Awards Grand Final:

• World’s Leading Private Jet Experience;

• World’s Leading FBO Brand; and

• World’s Leading Private Jet Terminal for Jetex Paris.

Jetex, an award-winning global leader in executive aviation, triumphed at the 28th annual World Travel Awards. Established in 1993, World Travel Awards acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry. Today, they are recognized globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire. The voting process is online and engages qualified executives working within travel and tourism and the consumer travel buyer.

Jetex private terminals were voted the world’s number one, which isn’t the first time they won the top accolade since the first Jetex FBO opened in 2009. Paris Le Bourget is the busiest private jet airport in Europe and Jetex Paris has set a gold standard for the highest levels of comfort and efficiency both for passengers and crews. In August, it enjoyed global media limelight when hundreds of football fans cheered the arrival of Lionel Messi at Jetex Paris to join Paris Saint-Germain. Today, it has been voted the World’s Leading Private Jet Terminal.

In 2021, Jetex has further improved the entire travel journey to let travelers enjoy a safer and more seamless experience across all 34 international locations. It all contributed to Jetex being recognized for having implemented the World’s Leading Private Jet Experience, from departure to arrival. From the superior comfort of luxurious lounges and exceptional hospitality to the highest levels of aircraft handing expertise and on-time performance, Jetex FBOs around the globe continue leading the industry.

“At Jetex, we strive to enhance our products and guest experience to ensure we are delivering the industry’s highest standards and leading the way when it comes to innovation. We are honored that these awards have been voted for by travel and tourism professionals and consumers worldwide, and on behalf of the entire Jetex family, we extend our sincerest thanks to our partners and passengers worldwide,” said Adel Mardini, Founder and CEO of Jetex.

Graham Cooke, Founder, World Travel Awards, commented: “Jetex represents the very best of the private aviation universe and I congratulate them on these achievements. It plays a leading role in spearheading the executive aviation sector, facilitating seamless cross-border travel during the most trying times.”

Best known for the dramatic transformation of the FBO model, Jetex works closely with leading designers to create bright and airy terminals with luxury amenities ranging from entertainment lounges to lush outdoor gardens and state-of-the-art flight support centers. The company witnessed a substantial increase in private jet movements this year across its entire network and continued to benefit from the momentum to reinforce its brand recognition and awareness, which has now been cemented as the World’s Leading FBO Brand.

About Jetex:

An award-winning global leader in executive aviation, Jetex is recognized for delivering flexible, best-in-class trip support solutions to customers worldwide. Jetex provides exceptional private terminals (FBOs), aircraft fueling, ground handling and global trip planning. The company caters to both owners and operators of business jets for corporate, commercial and personal air travel. To find out more about Jetex, visit www.jetex.com and follow us on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Attachments

Oleg Kafarov - Director of Portfolio Development & Corporate Communications
Jetex
+971 4 212 4900
teamorange@jetex.com

December 28, 2021

JETEX CHRISTMAS IN THE SKY

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Dec. 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — For the wealthiest of the wealthy, only the most extravagant and expensive gifts are acceptable during the holiday giving season. This inspired Jetex to design the ultimate ‘Christmas in the Sky’ private jet experience, priced USD 27,000 for up to 10 passengers.

Jetex, an award-winning global leader in executive aviation, invites the lucky few to celebrate style, taste and disposable income with one brilliant idea: a glamorous Christmas onboard a private jet soaring high in the festive skies.

The magical journey will commence with the passengers picked-up by a chauffeur limousine from their residence or hotel and driven in style to Dubai’s iconic Jetex VIP Terminal. Upon arrival, they will be welcomed by not one, but 28 spectacular Christmas trees lined up in front of the terminal dressed in more than 15,000 lights as well as Jetex ambassadors who will take care of seamless departure formalities.

This season, the flagship Jetex terminal is a festive wonderland in its own right: from exquisite decorations and live musicians to carefully selected Dom Pérignon vintages paired with caviar and gourmet refreshments to delight the senses. Kids will be welcomed by Santa Klaus who will look after them and let them discover the magnificently decorated Christmas trees and Insta-worthy entertainment facilities of the world’s most luxurious private jet terminal. As soon as the passengers are in the mood to board, they will be driven to their private aircraft in timeless elegance in one of the Jetex Rolls-Royces.

The special flight will take two hours and the crew will select the most optimal altitude and cruising speed to ensure passengers enjoy sensational window views, including Dubai’s world-famous skyline, iconic landmarks, Arabian Gulf and the rolling dunes of the desert.

To take experience personalization further, a Jetex in-flight culinary expert will contact passengers in advance to discuss their dining preferences and design a bespoke menu which will complement many delectable festive treats offered onboard.

Once back on the ground, passengers will be invited to enjoy the rest of the evening in one of the lounges with elegant service and amenities at their leisure, as well as receive signature Jetex Christmas presents.

Adel Mardini, Founder & CEO of Jetex, commented: “Once again, Jetex redefines private jet travel experience as we celebrate the season of togetherness. ‘Christmas in the Sky’ is the epitome of luxury and festive celebrations above the clouds. Dubai is a city of superlatives and this extraordinary package is taking it to new heights. It is a perfect gift, an excellent way to discover the world of private aviation, and to create a treasured memory to cherish for years to come.”

By inviting passengers to share a delightful holiday-themed pursuit among friends and family, Jetex provides a safe, relaxed, and joyful haven of kinship and good cheer.

“Christmas in the Sky” private jet package is priced from USD 27,000 (AED 100,000) for up to 10 passengers and will be available between 24 December 2021 and 7 January 2022.

For reservations, please contact Jetex Premier Experience at experience@jetex.com.

– END –

About Jetex:

Attachment

JETEX CHRISTMAS IN THE SKY

Oleg Kafarov - Director of Portfolio Development & Corporate Communications
Jetex
+971 4 212 4900
teamorange@jetex.com

December 28, 2021

Correct Ablution Way for OKP

The encouraging response towards the importance of Sign Language as a communication medium, shows the acceptance of the country’s communities of the Hearing Impaired or OKP. In contributing towards the country’s religious development, the National Association for the Hearing Impaired has produced a video showing the correct way of performing ablution for the OKP.

The 42 minute video was produced by 3 members of the National Association for the Hearing Impaired. It is hoped to help the hearing impaired to better understand ablution procedures by including the use of Sign Language.

The video can be obtained for twenty dollars by contacting 7280568.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

December 28, 2021

Anniversary Celebration of Diplomatic Relations

Brunei Darussalam and the People’s Republic of China work closely together in further strengthening long-standing friendly relations, especially on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Doctor Siti Norkhalbi binti Haji Wahsalfelah, Acting Permanent Secretary (Policy and Strategy Management), Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports shared the matter in a speech during the 30th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations and Exchange between the People’s Republic of China and Brunei Darussalam last evening. She added that since the beginning of the establishment of bilateral cooperation, various initiatives and activities have been carried out in the cooperation platform at the regional and international levels.

Earlier, Her Excellency Madam Yu Hong, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to Brunei Darussalam, stated that from January to October this year, bilateral trade had increased again to 2.37 billion US dollars, exceeding the total trade volume in 2020 recording the highest record.

The event was organized by the Brunei-China Friendship Association in collaboration with the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries. During the event, several people from various backgrounds which includes arts, business and industry from Brunei Darussalam and the People’s Republic of China shared their experiences through video recordings. Joining the virtual ceremony was His Excellency Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Pahlawan Retired Colonel Dato Paduka Haji Abdu’r Rahmani bin Dato Paduka Haji Basir, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Brunei Darussalam to the People’s Republic of China.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

December 28, 2021

Presentation of House Completion Certificates

2 families are now able to live more comfortably with the completion of houses under the Poor and Destitute Housing Aid Project through the Prime Minister’s Office and the related agencies as the secretariat.

The House Completion Certificates were handed over by Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, Minister of Religious Affairs as the Yang Di-Pertua of the Islamic Religious Council. Dayang Sihar binti Sidop, received the house completion certificate for a three bedroom house which cost over $77,000 while Dayang Fatimah received a four bedroom house which cost more than $85,000.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

December 28, 2021

World Bank Support for the Impacts of Typhoon Rai in the Philippines (“Odette”)

Typhoon Rai (locally known as “Odette”) hit the Philippines a week before Christmas, affecting close to 2 million people in 400 municipalities and cities, causing injuries and deaths, extensive damage to properties, public infrastructure (roads, bridges, seaports, airports), and the farming sector. On December 28, 2021, the World Bank released US$80 million to support the Philippine government’s recovery and reconstruction efforts.

These funds are coming from the US$500 million Fourth Disaster Risk Management Development Policy Loan with a Catastrophe-Deferred Drawdown Option (CAT-DDO 4) approved by the World Bank’s Board of Executive Director on November 17, 2021 to help strengthen the Philippines’ institutional and financial capacity to manage risks from climate change, natural disasters, and disease outbreaks. It is a contingent credit line that the Philippines can immediately tap to manage financial impacts brought about by these shocks without undertaking disruptive budget reallocations or cutting implementation of ongoing programs. The Government may access additional resources from the CAT-DDO4 in response to Typhoon Rai in January 2022.

*“In times of calamities like typhoons and floods, poor families suffer disproportionately,” saidNdiamé Diop, World Bank Country Director for Brunei, Malaysia, Philippines, and Thailand*. “*The World Bank stands with the country during this difficult time. We are committed to help hasten the country’s recovery and reconstruction efforts, restore social services, and strengthen the country’s defenses against future disaster risks.”*

This financing supports on-going government efforts to strengthen disaster response and recovery policies and interventions. It comes with technical assistance to support preparations of pre-approved Disaster Rehabilitation and Recovery Plans to speed up access to funding from the national government for post-disaster recovery and reconstruction.

According to Lesley Jeanne Cordero, **Senior Disaster Risk Management Specialist, **the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and the World Bank have been implementing the Ready to Rebuild (R2R) Program since March 2021, training more than 500 disaster managers in 150 local governments to develop flexible science-based local recovery plans and responsive financing strategies for various types of disasters.

*“The R2R Program provides the “how” — how to prepare the people, communities, and local governments to be more resilient and ready to respond and recover from disasters better and faster. It provides simple tools, ready templates, and practical solutions to address disaster recovery issues and bottlenecks,” *said Cordero*. *

Cordero added that the Ready to Rebuild Program could be tapped to assist the provinces, cities and municipalities affected by Super typhoon Odette as they develop their local recovery plans, implement reconstruction projects, and leverage funding support. This will help devastated communities build back better and pursue a green, resilient, and inclusive recovery.

The release of Cat-DDO funds followed President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration of a State of National Calamity on December 21 and a request from the Philippine Government to access the liquidity facility on December 23, 2021. Under the State of Calamity are regions Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan), Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Caraga.

The Cat-DDO is one of many forms of assistance available from the World Bank Group to help countries plan efficient responses to natural disasters. It provides immediate access to funds after a major natural disaster, a time when available funds are often not adequate to meet the needs for reconstruction and recovery.

The full loan amount is available for disbursement within three years upon effectivity. It has a revolving feature; amounts repaid during the drawdown period are available for subsequent withdrawal. The three-year drawdown period may be renewed up to four times, for a total maximum period of 15 years.

Source: World Bank

December 28, 2021

Brunei, China Tourism Cooperation Continues To Strengthen Despite COVID-19

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism cooperation between Brunei and China continues to strengthen, Haji Ali, Brunei’s Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, said yesterday.

During the closing ceremony of Brunei-China Year of Tourism 2020, held virtually, the minister said, in a pre-recorded remarks that, as the two countries embarked into the “new normal,” tourism activities were organised via online platforms, including a virtual training programme held in Nov, 2020, for Brunei’s local tour guides and tourism professionals to further improve their Chinese and communication skills.

He said, the country is also grateful to the support extended by the Chinese government, for Brunei’s national carrier, Royal Brunei Airlines, to operate in China’s Beijing, Changsha, Haikou, Hangzhou, Hong Kong, Nanning and Shanghai.

“These connections have further led to increased economic activities and opportunities in the areas of tourism, agriculture, construction, maritime and others,” the minister said.

“With over 74,000 tourist arrivals in 2019, China has always been regarded as one of the top three source markets for Brunei. We hope to welcome more tourist arrivals once travel resumes in the near future,” the minister added.

Yu Hong, Chinese ambassador to Brunei, said at the ceremony that, the event would bring a successful conclusion to this year’s series of celebrations for the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, as well as, the China-Brunei Year of Tourism 2020.

“Although the pandemic has hindered us from celebrating face-to-face, it cannot stop the kind wishes of both peoples to deepen mutual understanding,” the ambassador said.

According to a press release from Brunei’s Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, the Brunei-China Year of Tourism 2020, which had been postponed due to the pandemic, provided a unique platform to increase tourism cooperation through people-to-people exchange, enhance bilateral cooperations, capacity building and furthering collaboration and partnership between both countries.

The joint initiative has proven successful in improving understanding between both countries, encouraging more Bruneian and Chinese people to discover and appreciate each other’s cultures and traditions, and stimulating new business and investment opportunities between the two countries,” the ministry said.–

Source: NAM NEWS NETWORK

December 28, 2021

3 New Cases, 4 Recovered

3 new COVID-19 cases were confirmed yesterday bringing the total number of cases to 15,461. Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Doctor Haji Awang Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar, Minister of Health stated the matter during the Media Conference on the Latest COVID-19 Situation at Dewan Al-Afiah, Ministry of Health.

Of the number, 1 was a local case while 2 were imported cases. The number of new cases is the result of 3,018 total lab tests carried out in the past 24 hours. Therefore, the rate of positive cases today is 0.1 percent.

Among the cases being treated at the National Isolation Centre, there is one case in Category 5, requiring assistance of artificial ventilation and an additional heart/lung machine, ECMO at the Intensive Care Unit.

4 cases have recovered, bringing the total number of recovered cases in Brunei Darussalam to 15,264 cases, with total active cases at 97. Meanwhile, the bed occupancy rate in isolation centres nationwide is 2.6 percent.

Source: Radio Television Brunei