Laos Premiere Visits Brunei’s Research Centre In Temburong

Temburong District - The Kuala Belalong Rainforest Research Centre is captivating the hearts of not only researchers and study groups but also of visiting foreign dignitaries as well.

Regarded as the best of its type, it has been visited by, among others, the King and Queen of Sweden, RTB reported.

Yesterday, the visiting Prune Minister of Lao People's Democratic Republic, Mr Bounnhang Vorachith and Mrs Khammeung Vorachith began their second day official visit programme by enjoying the uniqueness of the lush rainforests in the Temburong District.

The tour included the Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre and the Ulu Temburong National Park that are located in the Batu Apoi Forest Reserve.

The Prime Minister of Laos and delegation rode on a dugboat known as temuai to reach the Kuala Belalong Field Research Centre. Mr Bounnhang Vorachith and spouse were accompanied by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Pehin Dato Seri Paduka Doctor Awang Haji Hussein as the minister-inattendance and wife.

On arrival at the Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre, the Laotian premier and spouse were welcomed by the Vice Chancellor of Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Doctor Haj i Ismail bin Haji Duraman, as well as staff of the faculty of UBD.

The entourage then proceeded to the Ulu Temburong National Park. On arrival, the group was welcomed by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources, Awang Haji Mohd Hamid bin Haji Mohd Jaafar.

The Prime Minister and spouse were briefed on the history and background as well as current activities of the park. Established as a research centre, deep in some of the world's last remaining tropical rainforest, it is run by the Forestry Department, and offers many opportunities for research to local and foreign academicians.

Meanwhile, yesterday afternoon, Mr Bounnhang Vorachith and spouse also visited the site where the republic's new embassy building is being constructed.

On arrival at the site in Jalan Kebangsaan, the premier and spouse were welcomed by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Development, Awang Haji Metassan bin Mohammad Daud and wife.

The Laotian Prime Minister and spouse were again accompanied by the Minister-inattendance, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Pehin Dato Seri Paduka Doctor Awang Haji Hussein and wife.

Prior to the stone laying ceremony, the premier and spouse were briefed on the prospect of the project.

The placing of fish trap made of bamboo during the stone laying ceremony is a Laotian tradition to ward off evil spirits prior to the commencement of construction of any buildings. The bamboo fish trap also symbolises "Victory" for the Laotians.

The Lao's People Democratic Republic Chancery is being built on a point 47 hectare piece of land.

The construction of the building that began in January is expected to be completed on November 19. Consisting of three blocks, the building will house the Ambassador's residence, the main office and accommodation for staff. -- Courtesy of Radio Television Brunei

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