Bandar Seri Begawan - A book entitled 'Kampong Ayer Kenangan Abadi' and written by Dato Paduka Dr Haji Latif bin Haji Ibrahim; and 'Baku Amalan Rahsia dan Kehebatan Ayat Al-Quran' written by Ustaz Hj Mohammad Shari bin Hj Sulaiman, received prizes at the recent opening ceremony for the Book Fair organised by the Language and Literature Bureau, and officiated by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hazair bin Hj Abdullah.

'Kampong Ayer Kenangan Abadi' is a book that recalls the nostalgic moments of Kampong Ayer residents in the past. The book also includes photos of the Water Village in the past and today.

'Amalan Rahsia dan Kehebatan Ayat Al-Quran' depicts the secrets and magnificence of the Quran and some view it as having the potential to benefit the Muslim Ummah in modern day times and in the future. The book has been re-printed nine times since 2006.

The presentation of prizes for best-selling books is meant to encourage and show recognition of published literary works by local writers.

It is hoped that this will serve to encourage a new generation of writers to contribute to the development of a book industry in the Sultanate; encourage writers to embrace their art at a more competitive level; to upgrade the quality of writing and publishing; and ultimately contribute to creating and promoting a proper reading culture in Brunei.