The Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) continues to implement strategic measures to preserve and regulate the country’s biodiversity, with the enforcement of the Forest Act, Chapter 46 to control forest harvesting activities. This was highlighted by Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin during the fifth day of the 21st Legislative Council (LegCo) session in response to a question from LegCo member Yang Berhormat Haji Mohd Salleh bin Haji Othman.
The minister emphasised that harvesting forest products without permission is an offence, subject to severe legal action. Additionally, the Wild Animal Protection Act Chapter 102 regulates the hunting, possession and trade of wildlife species. The enforcement of flora and fauna protection laws involves collaboration with agencies such as the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and the Royal Brunei Police Force.
To further regulate trade in protected species, the Forestry Department enforces the Wild Flora and Fauna Order, 2007, in line with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Offenders found taking forest productswithout permission face legal penalties, including a BND1,000 compound fine for unauthorised possession and up to BND 500,000 in fines or five years’ imprisonment, or both, for harvesting in a forest reserve.
Meanwhile, in response to LegCo member Yang Berhormat Chong Chin Yee’s inquiry about mosque visiting hours, the minister stated that the Mosque Affairs Department, Ministry of Religious Affairs, has prepared a visiting schedule, etiquette guidelines and rules for mosques such as Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah and Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque. Guide services are available, but must be booked in advance, and travel agencies are advised to provide their own guides.
To enhance visitor awareness, the Tourism Development Department has made mosque etiquette and procedures available on its website, www.bruneitourism.com, and plans to disseminate information via social media. The department is also working with the Mosque Affairs Department to improve signage at mosques for better guidance to visitors.
(News & pic source: Borneo Bulletin)
