December 30, 2021

AIM 2022 Aims to Spur Growth in Foreign Direct Investments Worldwide

● Developed economies registered a threefold increase in FDIs in 1H21, reaching a total of $424 billion ● The UAE is one of the world’s top 20 economies, in terms of FDI ● AIM 2022’s FDI Pillar aims to explore pivotal themes, including mainstreaming ESG investments, GVCs Optimisation, IPAs as a favourable business environment, importance of SEZs, amongst other relevant topics

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi

DUBAI, Arab Emirates, Dec. 29, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Eyeing the augmentation of Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) flows worldwide, The Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) — an initiative by the UAE’s Ministry of Economy — expressed its keenness on continuing to create numerous investment opportunities and innovative economic and business strategies, whilst fully supporting the ensuing macro recovery and subsequent changes to the global economy.

AIM 29-31 March 2022 — global context and focus themes

The AIM’s next edition — to be held from 29 to 31 March 2022, with the theme of “Investments in Sustainable Innovation for a Thriving Future” — will focus mainly on endorsing and boosting investments towards sustainability and innovation through key activities under the FDI Pillar.

Thanks to rising investors’ confidence, FDI flows have rebounded, globally, in 1H21, as per the latest United Nations (UN) report. Developed economies’ FDIs increased more than threefold in the first half of this year, hitting $424 billion. Contrary to previous forecasts, global FDI prospects for the full year have improved, the UNCTAD report indicated. This has also been evident in FDIs into East and Southeast Asian countries, which saw a rise of 25%.

The UAE is one of the world’s top 20 economies, in terms of FDI, indicating the country’s strong economic performance. In response to the pandemic, it was one of the first countries in the world to launch stimulus packages and initiatives to provide the necessary support to the economy’s various sectors and adapt to pandemic-related challenges. The country’s resilience and relentless pursuit of successful economic transformation and sustainability are clearly manifested in the high global rankings it has achieved.

H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade of the UAE, said:

“With the world’s greatest show, Expo 2020 Dubai, we are now looking forward to collaborating with other organizations and partnering with the best ideas in the world to shape the future. To achieve our goal of attracting foreign direct investment, we offer a number of incentives to investors, such as zero personal income tax, 100% foreign ownership, and a 10-year golden visa. Currently, the UAE is ranked 11^th in the world for Ease of Doing Business and first in the region. Together, we will make the UAE the best investment destination in the world.”

AIM 2022 activities are designed to boost investment opportunities extensively in various sectors. Participants can explore lucrative investment prospects and ideas under the FDI Pillar as global markets offer new investment opportunities to spur economic growth.

H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi added that:

“For the past 10 years, the Annual Investment Meeting has played a crucial role in bringing in foreign investment to the UAE. Our focus is now on enhancing UAE’s international reputation as an investment hub and mobilizing concrete investments, along with bringing in solutions for sustainable economic growth. I believe the next edition of the Annual Investment Meeting will bring positive economic change achieving new milestones in the FDI world.”

AIM 2022 will recognize the best Investment Promotion Agencies across the globe through the AIM Awards, giving tribute to the best FDI projects in regions that have contributed significantly to their markets’ growth and expansion.

AIM’s FDI Pillar will present and discuss key topics. These include:

“Less than a decade away from SDGs 2030, where are we now, in terms of sustainable investments?” will explore the concerns and action plans to foster inclusive economic development and resilient societies.
“How FDIs must drive change towards mainstreaming ESG investments”: Experts from global investment agencies will provide their insights and engage in thought-provoking discussions.
“Global Value Chains (GVCs) Optimisation” is also especially relevant, as developed and emerging economies are urged to reposition and optimize their supply chain systems, not only in terms of cost-effectiveness but, more importantly, from the perspective of logistical expertise and long-term regional stability. As GVCs are revisited, redesigned and transformed, this will be reflected in investors’ preferences, in addition to all the complementary initiatives that are implemented by regulatory authorities.
Establishing a digital competitive investment infrastructure has now become mandatory for positioning Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) as favourable business environments, which was evident in the global economic recovery pattern. This issue will be explored in the session “Accommodating Virtual FDIs: No Longer a Far-Fetched Concept, but a Requisite.”
According to UNCTAD, only half of the IPAs worldwide acknowledge the impact of FDI attraction in their country zones. The Special Economic Zones (SEZs) session, “Walking the Talk Beyond Fiscal Incentives,” will discuss the rationality of establishing SEZs: what makes them mutually prosperous and sustainable in today’s business context; and how to best strategize their development through constructive partnerships.
When selecting an FDI location, countries with higher-skilled and better-educated workforces tend to attract more greenfield FDI projects (UNCTAD, WIF). In the wake of workforce flexibility, countries are increasingly promoting diverse and digitally adept talent pools to leverage FDIs. The session “Seizing the Opportunity to Attract & Retain the Talent Pool” will present an opportunity where policymakers and employers will gather to tackle the issue of the remotely functional and resilient workforce in today’s fragmented global economy.
Focused on three regional topics that examine the economic landscapes of Africa, Asia and Latin America, Day 3 of the FDI Pillar’s activities will explore the regions’ risks, challenges and opportunities for growth that call for increased regional cooperation.

Mr. Dawood Al Shezawi, President of the AIM’s Organising Committee, stated that:

“Since the global pandemic, the Annual Investment Meeting has undertaken several innovative and technologically driven initiatives to transform the economy towards an upward direction. The platform has continued to drive investments through smart solutions. It has also pushed for the development of several projects that add value to investors and the economy in general. AIM recognises the UAE’s continued success and will serve as an instrument to further establish future economic developments and boost FDI flows worldwide.”

The Annual Investment Meeting continues to gain support from several ministries and government departments, Special Economic Zones (SEZ), smart city solution providers, venture capitalists, angel investors and several financial institutions to provide SMEs and start-ups with an abundance of opportunities. Apart from AIM’s FDI Pillar, the Annual Investment Meeting consists of five more pillars: i) the 50 Initiatives Pillar; ii) The Small Medium Enterprises (SME’s) Pillar; iii) The Future Cities Pillar; iv) The Start-ups Pillar; and v) the FPI Pillar.

For more information on AIM 2022, please visit www.aimcongress.com.

About the Annual Investment Meeting

Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) is the world’s leading platform for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), aimed at facilitating strategic networking and promoting investments. It is the largest gathering of the international investment community, policymakers, business leaders, regional and international investors, entrepreneurs, leading academics and experts showcasing up-to-date information and strategies on attracting FDI.

It convenes key decision-makers from around the world, bringing together businesses and countries willing to engage in sustainable partnerships with investors. It offers a variety of features aimed at facilitating strategic networking and promoting investments while providing a worthwhile learning experience.

For press inquiries, please contact Angie.Mahran@aimcongress.com.

Minister of State for Foreign Trade and Minister in charge of Talent Attraction and Retention at Ministry Of Economy, UAE

This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com.

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Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi

December 30, 2021December 31, 2021

‘Ops Langis’ JIPK 104/2021

2 foreign men holding General Labourer positions were found to be in violation of the provisions under Rule 15(2), Immigration Regulations Chapter 17, that is, any foreign worker employed in the country must work with the original employer.

The findings are the result of an ‘Operasi Langis’ conducted at a Grocery Store in Seria Town. In this regard, both men who are General Labourers were ordered to report to the Kuala Belait Branch Law Enforcement Division for further investigation and action. The employers and grocery store owner involved were also issued a Summons Letter and ordered to go to the relevant division for further investigation and action.

For any information on Immigration offenders, contact the Department of Immigration and National Registration Hotline at 873 4888 or 875 3888 for Bandar Seri Begawan or 898 4111 for Kuala Belait. The information and name of the informant will be kept confidential.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

December 30, 2021December 31, 2021

Contributions to Curb COVID-19

The Ministry of Health received several donations in the form of essential goods aimed to help in addressing and curbing the spread of COVID-19 in the country.

The donors comprised Guardian Health and Beauty Sendirian Berhad, SP SETIA and Kingsley. The public who wish to make donations can contact the MOH Emergency Operation Centre at 729 5712 during office hours.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

December 30, 2021December 31, 2021

Frozen Yogurt, a Healthy Desert Option

Frozen Yogurt is an ice cream made from yogurt. With a sour flavour, it is high in protein and calcium and has low sugar as well as calorie content. Frozen Yogurt is served with over 20 topping options ranging from fresh fruit; crunchy toppings like nuts and cereals as well as a variety of sauces like chocolate, honey and peanut butter.

With a sweet and sour flavour combination, frozen yogurt indirectly can contribute 46 per cent of the 100 grams daily calcium needed. Apart from that, this ice cream is said to be a healthy dessert option depending on the selection of toppings. Frozen yogurt fans do not have to worry about weight gain while enjoying it.

The benefits of frozen yogurt depends on its various topping options. For a healthier choice, frozen yogurt enthusiasts can choose fruits as a topping. Frozen yogurt can also encourage today’s society to adopt a healthier lifestyle with nutritious food choices.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

December 30, 2021December 31, 2021

Generate Income through Miniature Production

Looking at a miniature diorama for the first time while visiting a museum as a child, the experience prompted a housewife in Belait District to produce various small or miniature items to generate income. Interestingly, her artwork has become the choice of local collectors.

Dayang Mollyani binti Haji Ibrahim began creating various miniatures in 1998. At the age of 46, she described the activity of making miniatures as a training for the brain’s creativity and testing one’s potential. To date, she has produced over four hundred miniatures.

In the miniature production process, Dayang Mollyyani said the use of appropriate tools and materials are important. The use of clay, paper, wood and expired tea powder can trigger ideas for creative people.

Marketing through social media with a price range between $5 and $300, the miniatures she produced received good response from customers, and gets more than 10 orders a month. The mother of two intends to produce more miniatures based on everyday life.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

December 30, 2021December 31, 2021

i-Usahawan Contracts Signing Ceremony

Two local companies have the opportunity to expand their businesses and at the same time provide employment opportunities for locals, after signing i-Usahawan contracts with the Department of Electrical Services, DES, Ministry of Energy. Under the contract, Barokah Toiyibah Enterprise and Izouco Moto Services, will provide housekeeping services for a period of three years at the department’s various facilities. The signing ceremony took place yesterday morning at the Department of Electrical Services Headquarters, Old Airport, Berakas.

The signing was witnessed by Pengiran Haji Jamra Weira bin Pengiran Haji Petra, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Energy. Signing on behalf of the Department of Electrical Services was Awang Muhammad Amir Sharifuddin bin Haji Ali, Acting Director of DES. Meanwhile, Barokah Toiyibah Enterprise was represented by its Director, Awang Mohammad Wadood bin Haji Seruji; and signing on behalf of Izouco Moto Services was its Director, Awang Hairoman Izwan bin Haji Omar.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

December 30, 2021December 31, 2021

Handover of Funeral Management Room

The Kampung Sungai Teraban Mosque in Belait District now has a space or special room specifically for funeral management. The project, which started on 23rd March, is sponsored by Brunei Shell Petroleum and operated through the Titian Amal Project in conjunction with the Diamond Jubilee of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

The Titian Amal project plaque for the construction of Kampung Sungai Teraban Mosque’s funeral management room was presented by Awang Haji Jaafar bin Awang Haji Bakar, Corporate Manager of Brunei Shell Petroleum to Major General Udara Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat, Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and subsequently presented to Awang Haji Muhammad Serudin bin Haji Timbang, Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Also present at the ceremony were Yang Berhormat Awang Haji Hamid bin Haji Momin, Member of the Legislative Council and Brigadier General Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Muhammad Haszaimi bin Bol hassan, Commander of the Royal Brunei Land Force, RBLF.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

December 30, 2021December 31, 2021

Year 7 Students Learning Session

Students who have completed Year 6 can start their Year 7 studies as of the 4th of January 2022. During the question and answer session, the Acting Minister of Education explained that registration is opened from 16th December 2021 to 3rd January 2022.

According to the Acting Minister of Education, the 4th to 6th of January will be the start of the orientation session. Home based learning will begin on the 7th to 15th January, while the second stage on the 17th of January will begin with physical learning. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education through the Education Attache as well as the representatives of Brunei Darussalam is constantly monitoring the situation and safety of Brunei students abroad. In this regard, from 1st January prior to departure, students are required to register with the Ministry of Education through the Scholarship Management Department so that their whereabouts can be monitored by the Ministry of Education.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

December 30, 2021December 31, 2021

Students need to get vaccinated

The Ministry of Education, meanwhile, called on the parents and guardians of students, who have yet to receive the vaccine, to bring them to get the vaccine to ensure the physical learning process of students as well as the continuity and smoothness of schooling can be carried out in a more orderly manner.

Apart from ensuring the safety of students in Brunei Darussalam, the Ministry of Education also ensures the safety and welfare of the students abroad are taken care of. In this regard, students who will be going abroad for study purposes starting 1st January, 2022 are required to complete the registration at the Ministry of Education through the Scholarship Management Department before travelling abroad.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

December 30, 2021December 31, 2021

First Stage of Teaching and Learning Session Begins 3 January 2022

The teaching and learning session of the first stage of the endemic phase will begin this Monday, 3rd of January, 2022 for Year 10 to Year 13 students, physically for 5 times a week, while the second stage of the endemic phase for Year 7 to Year 9 students will begin on the 17th of January, 2022.

For both stages, the attendance priority at schools for face-to-face is only for students who have completed their vaccinations. Meanwhile, for students aged 12 to 17, as well as Year 7 students, who have not reached the age of 12, and have not received vaccinations, teaching and learning will continue through online methods, or will be given home learning packs, HLPs, so that students are not left behind in their studies.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

December 30, 2021December 31, 2021

5 New Cases, 7 Recovered

5 new COVID-19 cases were confirmed, bringing the total number of cases to 15,470. 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. Joining the media conference was Datin Seri Paduka Doctor Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohamad Salleh, Acting Minister of Education.

Of the number, 3 were local cases while 2 were import cases. The number of new cases is the result of 2,681 lab tests carried out in the past 24 hours. Therefore, the rate of positive cases is 0.2 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.

7 cases have recovered, bringing the total number of recovered cases in Brunei Darussalam to 15,272 cases, with total active cases at 98. Meanwhile, the bed occupancy rate in isolation centres nationwide is 2.6 percent.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

December 30, 2021December 31, 2021

Entry and Exit-Country Travel Approvals for Countries in South Africa

In reference to the Media Statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office on 27th of November 2021 regarding the ‘Temporary Suspension on Travelling To and From eight countries in South Africa namely South Africa, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia and Zimbabwe’, with the consent of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, and based on the Ministry of Health’s risk assessment on the COVID-19 pandemic regionally and globally from time to time, the COVID-19 Steering Committee informed that considerations for essential travel entry into and exit from Brunei Darussalam for the above-mentioned countries are now allowed, effective from Saturday, 1st January 2022 for the following:

Entry and exit-country approvals for travels to and from South Africa, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia and Zimbabwe. For foreign nationals who have been granted pre-approval to enter Brunei Darussalam from the above-mentioned countries and were then suspended due to previous announcements, they are required to re-submit their entry travel applications prior to entry into Brunei Darussalam.

For further information on categories of essential inbound or outbound travel, can refer to guidelines on the Prime Minister’s Office website at ‘www.pmo.gov.bn/travelportal’.

The conditions for the consideration of entry and exit travels mentioned above are subject to review by the COVID-19 Steering Committee and Cross-Border Affairs Task Force from time to time in accordance with the Ministry of Health’s

Standard Operating Procedures, SOPs.

For further information and details, please visit ‘www.pmo.gov.bn/travelportal’ or contact the travel hotline 120 during working hours or via e-mail at ‘travelapplication@jpm.gov.bn’.

Source: Radio Television Brunei