Brunei to host CONSAL XII

The conference will provide the basis for the development and progress of the information system related to the library, underlined Dato Paduka Hj Dani bin Haji Ibrahim, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports cum guest of honour at the opening ceremony of the 5th Executive Committee Meeting of the CONSAL XII . The meeting was held yesterday morning at the Orchid Garden Hotel, Berakas.

The exchange of the information through CONSAL will benefit member countries in obtaining as much useful information as possible for the development and progress of libraries in Asean countries. In this respect, though Brunei Darussalam has not yet established its own National Library, Dato Paduka Hj Dani said he believed that the Language and Literature's Library is capable of playing its role as a National Library in establishing linkages with other Asean countries in providing and exchanging information resources.

CONSAL was jointly established to enhance mutual relations in the field of information as well as in enhancing the quality of librarianship in Asean countries to a high level of professionalism, in tally with their international counterparts, Dato Paduka Hj Dani added.

The guest of honour concluded by wishing all delegates of CONSAL XII all the best in their deliberation and hoped that they will achieve their objectives in the meeting concerning librarians and librarianship in Asean countries, especially on matters pertaining to the preparation and implementation of the upcoming 12th CONSAL Conference which will promote a greater sense of appreciation and professionalism among the librarians in Asean countries.

Earlier, Haji Abdul Bakar bin Haji Zainal, the Chairman of the Organising Committee of the fifth meeting of the CONSAL Executive Board Members said the meeting was to discuss several preparatory measures of the CONSAL XII general conference this coming May 4 to 8, at the International Convention Centre, Berakas. The meeting is also aimed at reviewing previous projects, its ongoing and future projects organised by CONSAL member countries. The fourth meeting was held last year in Singapore.

"As contained in the CONSAL Constitution, the meeting of CONSAL Executive Board members will be held at least twice a year or more based on the outcome of the upcoming conference held in the respective country," added Haji Abdul Bakar.

Haji Abdul Bakar also thanked Mr R. Ramachandran, the Secretary general of the CONSAL Secretariat for his determined effort and support for the smooth running of the CONSAL project. He also thanked all Asean delegates for their firm support in making the meeting a great success.