Brunei: Temporary Water Supply Disruption - G15, G16, H16, J16 and H19

Please be advised that there will be a temporary water supply disruption due to a maintenance activity at the BSP Water Treatment Plant.

The water interruption is scheduled from 1800hrs on Saturday, 6th July 2024 to 1400hrs on Sunday, 7th July 2024.

The affected areas are G15, G16, H16, J16 and H19.

BSP will provide blue water tanks for the impacted communities at the Seria Bowling Centre, Panaga Club, and Brunei Shell Recreation Club.

Please use water sensibly during this period.

For any queries, please call BSP at 877 -7449.

Places where kids eat free during summer holiday 2024

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Brunei: NAAFI - Euro 2024 Quarter Final - England vs Switzerland - Sunday, 07th July 2024 @ Patio Bar & Chautari

Get ready to watch EURO 2024 Quarter Final - England vs Switzerland!

Kick off - Midnight, 7th July 2024. 

This will be screened in both Chautari and the Patio Bar.

Brunei: DIO(B) - Closure of DIO(B) Helpdesk on Monday, 8th July 2024

Helpdesk Opening Hours

Monday to Thursday         07:30hrs to 12:30hrs; 13:00hrs to 16:30hrs

Friday                                07:30hrs to 12:30hrs; 13:00hrs to 14:00hrs

DIO Fault Priority Matrix

Click here to view DIO Fault Priority Matrix.

Announcement

Closure of DIO(B) Helpdesk on 8th July 2024

The DIO (B) Helpdesk will be closed on Monday 8th July due to the 1st Day of Hijrah 1445 public holiday.

Normal operating hours will resume on Tuesday 9th July. Please continue to report all emergency faults to your respective Duty Officers during that period.

DIO Scheduled Work for July

Gas Safety Works – Phase 2 Natural Gas Decommissioning Programme Schedule

1. DIO (B) will undertake an estate wide Natural Gas (NG) Decommissioning by following work below:

a. Replace gas cooker to electric cooker.

b. Replace gas water heater to electric water heater.

c. Construct concrete plinth for installation of electric cooker.

2. Temporary electric cooker will be provided to minimise the disruption while works are ongoing.

3. Works to carry out for 2 days for each quarter. Occupant to cooperate and provide access for works to execute.

4. Utilities may be affected during the work, but DIO contractors will try to minimise disruption.

5. To reschedule, please kindly contact DIO(B) Helpdesk by using one of the following means:

a. Phone number: 3224130 or military ext 3375

b. Email: BRUNEIGAR-DIO-HelpDesk@mod.gov.uk or DIORDOSTrg-BruHelpdesk@mod.uk during office hours.

Brunei: Farewell Programme for Dr Kate Emary Stanford-Tuck – Friday, 12th July 2024, 0930 hrs @ CCCC

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CO 1 RGR / COMMANDER BFB TOW OUT PROGRAMME – FRIDAY 12 JULY 2024

The Comd BFB / CO 1RGR Farewell Programme.

BLUF: CO’s tow out will take place on Friday 12th July 2024, in Tuker Lines. 

All BFB personnel (less those on essential duties), including families and Hornbill school staff, are invited to attend.

Situation. A traditional farewell programme will be held to bid farewell to Lt Col H P S Stanford-Tuck, the Commanding Officer 1 RGR / Commander British Forces Brunei (BFB), and Dr Kate Stanford-Tuck on Friday 12th July 2024. This is a scale ‘A’ parade for 1 RGR service personnel and their spouses. Garrison Support Troops (GST) personnel are most welcome to attend the bespoke event.

Brunei: BFB Garrison Splash Party - Friday, 5th July 2024, 09:30 - 10:30 hrs @ Garrison Swimming Pool

BFB Garrison Splash Party

Please click HERE to register.

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Brunei: South Korea Travel Guide

South Korea boasts a wealth of historical sites, ancient palaces, and traditional villages, providing visitors with a glimpse into the country's fascinating past.

Here are some of the top attractions in South Korea:

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace. Gyeongbokgung Palace, was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. Built in 1395, it is located in northern Seoul, South Korea. The largest of the Five Grand Palaces built by the Joseon dynasty, Gyeongbokgung served as the home of the royal family and the seat of government.

2. Changdeokgung Palace. The Palace of Prospering Virtue, also known as Changdeokgung Palace is set within a large park in Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea. It is one of the "Five Grand Palaces" built by the kings of the Joseon dynasty.

3. N Seoul Tower. is a communication and observation tower located on Namsan Mountain in central Seoul, South Korea. The 236-meter (774 ft)-tall tower marks the second highest point in Seoul and is considered a local landmark.

4. Nami Island. Nami island is a half-moon shaped river island located in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, South Korea, formed as the land around it was inundated by the rising water of the North Han River as the result of the construction of Cheongpyeong Dam in 1944.

5. Myeongdong. This popular district features street food carts, major shopping malls, and entertainment. The dense grid of streets found in this bustling neighborhood are packed with people at all hours of the day looking to enjoy some of the best shopping, street food, and nightlife in all of Korea.

6. The War Memorial of Korea. Poignant exhibits, war memorabilia, art works, and military equipment make this a perfect place to learn about Korea’s history of war, most notably with North Korea. Kids will enjoy the display of actual tanks and airplanes.

7. Everland. Everland offers a suite of interesting sights, from theme park attractions and animals in Zootopia to Lost Valley, the largest ecological safari in Korea; and Plantopia, a garden of nature.

8. Lotteworld Adventure. Lotteworld is a major recreation complex in Seoul, South Korea. It consists of a large indoor theme park, an outdoor amusement park called "Magic Island", an artificial island on a lake linked by monorail, shopping malls, a luxury hotel, an observation tower, a Korean folk museum, sports facilities, and movie theaters.

For more information, please visit:

Korea Tourism Information

South Korea Travel Advice - Gov.UK

Visa Information

Check HERE if you need a visa.

Nationals of countries/regions eligible for visa-free entry are required Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) approval to board the flight or ship bound for the Republic of Korea.

Brunei: Japan Travel Guide

Japan is truly timeless. From the majestic Mt. Fuji to the stunning temples in Kyoto, every corner is a postcard waiting to be explored.

Here are the some of the top tourist attractions in Japan:

1. Mount Fuji 

2. Tokyo Disneyland & Tokyo DisneySea

3. Shibuya Crossing

4. Arayishama Bamboo Grove Kyoto

5. Imperial Palace Tokyo

6. Meiji-jingu Shrine

7. Itsukushima Shinto Shrine

8. Tokyo Tower

9. Osaka Castle

10. Universal Studios Osaka

For more information, please visit:

Japan Tourism Official Website | Visit Japan - Japan National Tourism Organization

Japan travel guide - Lonely Planet | Asia

Japan Travel Advice - Gov.UK

Visa Information.

Check HERE if you need a visa or an eVisa (electronic visa).

GamCare

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Open Morning at Queen Victoria School, Dunblane on Saturday 21 September 2024

Please click HERE for more information.

Get set for summer with Defence holiday discounts!

Summer finally appears to be here (well almost), and it's the perfect time to plan a getaway with friends and family or enjoy some well-deserved 'me time.

'Whether you're looking for days out, a staycation in the UK, or an adventure abroad, Defence Discount Service, Blue Light Card, and the Civil Service Sports Council (CSSC) offer savings to help you have a great summer.

There are other discount services to explore too – including MyDiscounts and Boundless for civilian staff, and Tickets for Troops for the Armed Forces.

From 5 to 8 July, stock up on summer essentials, saving up to 40% during this year’s Big Blue Weekend – think Black Friday exclusively for the Blue Light Card community.

We know that not everyone will be taking time off during the summer or going away, but here’s a flavour of how you can make the most of the benefits available, to save money and enjoy your summer holiday – or in fact any holiday time, whatever the season (or weather)!

Going Forward into Employment (GFiE): Latest Civil Service (HMRC) Job Vacancies for Service Leavers, Veterans and Spouses/Partners

The following roles are now open for applications under the GFiE scheme, with a closing date of 31 Jul.

GFIE - 318 - HO Infrastructure Engineer
Higher Executive Officer

1 x Gillingham (Kent)
1 x Manchester
2 x Stratford

'If you flourish dealing with diverse challenges, enjoy delivering exceptional support to users, expanding your knowledge and want to work with a like-minded and supportive team then this may be the role for you.

As an IT Infrastructure Engineer, you will ensure robust, reliable high-performance systems and services meet business needs. You'll be responsible for hands-on administration, maintenance, and monitoring of diverse systems.'

Security Check (SC) with a potential requirement for Developed Vetting (DV)

Full details can be found in the attached job description (including all key details - salary, location etc).

These roles are available specifically to people who served in the Armed Forces, or be in your resettlement period and due to leave the Armed Forces within a reasonable time frame or a Military Spouse/Partner (your current partner must still be serving or was discharged within the last 12 months).

To apply, please submit a completed expression of interest form and an up to date CV to GFIE@cabinetoffice.gov.uk

For more information on the GFiE scheme please go to: A complete guide to GFiE – Veterans, Military Partners/Spouses and Service Leavers – Life Chances – Going Forward into Employment (GFiE) (blog.gov.uk)

HQ Brigade of Gurkhas: Cradle to Grave Guide

HQ Brigade of Gurkhas has launched a 'Cradle to Grave' publication. The aim of this booklet is to:

• ​Inform potential recruits (PR) joining the Brigade of Gurkhas.
• Guide to officers in the Brigade to support their leadership, command, and management.
• Provide awareness for personnel involved in supporting roles, welfare, management of facilities and on temporary attachment.
• Provide awareness for Regional Point of Command (RPoC) and Formation HQs with Gurkhas under command.
• Provide awareness for local authorities, external supporting agencies, schools, and local councils.​

​To access the guide, please go to this link: Gurkha Life Skills - Cradle to Grave - Gurkha Brigade Association (gurkhabde.com)

Brunei: Closure of Regimental Accountant's Office (RAO)

CLOSURE OF REGIMENTAL ACCOUNTANT’S OFFICE

1. The Regimental Accountant’s Office will be CLOSED from 27 June to 05 July 2024 for Service Charitable Funds monthly closedown procedures and Audit Report preparation for the financial year 23/24.

2. Normal operating hours will RESUME on Monday 08 July 2024 from 0800 to 1230 hrs.

3. The Regimental Accountant’s Office will be Closed from Wednesday 17 to Friday 19 July 2024 for Service Charitable Funds monthly closedown procedure.

4. No cash or bank transaction will be made during summer leave stand down for the period from 22 July to 18 Aug 2024.

Brunei: *Next* Pre - Departure Clinic - Wednesday, 04th September 2024, 1000 - 1100 hrs @ Mumong HIVE Office

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COME ALONG! HIVE can offer support through your relocation

This session will cover the Good Conduct Certificate process, how to claim National Insurance Contribution credits, support whilst moving schools, plus much more - and a one stop checklist of things to add to your to do list before leaving British Forces Brunei!

 This is a drop in clinic, no appointment required

For further information: www.bruneihive.blogspot.com

Simply search the labels: Unit Move, Arms Plot Move to Kent or Relocation

Brunei: General Officer Commanding (GOC) Regional Command (RC) Maj Gen James Senior Visit - Wednesday, 03rd July 2024 @ CCCC

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Please scan the QR Code or Click HERE for register.

Recruit For Spouses Career Academy - Free Courses

Have you been out of work for a while, taken a career break due to postings and/or children, or are you looking to get started in a career or pivot into a new career field?

These courses are ideal for you; from writing a CV, to interview techniques to identifying your transferable skills and building your confidence.

We have written these courses with you in mind so head on in to get started today!

Please click on the image to take the course.

The Career Academy will be with you every step of the way!

The RFS Career Academy was launched in 2017 with one simple mission: to support military spouses and the Armed Forces Community in to work, wherever you are in the world.

Through our FREE programmes and services, we provide support, up-skilling, training and coaching & mentoring opportunities.

We work in collaboration with progressive, supportive industry sector experts and organisations to give you the tools to develop, grow and gain confidence in the workplace or to secure employment.

View ALL courses HERE.

For more information, please click HERE.

Forces Employment Charity: Help into employment for Service Personnel, Veterans and their Families

If you’re looking for support with your CV, returning to work after a break or need advice on transferring skills and qualifications from the military, we can help!

Our expert employment advisors offer advice and guidance and work one-to-one with you providing tailored support to help you uncover strengths and aspirations and find a career to suit you.

Sign up HERE.

Facebook: Forces Employment Charity
Instagram: @forcesemploymentcharity
X (formerly Twitter): @ForcesEmploy

Forces Families Jobs - Training & Career Support

Forces Families Jobs is the go-to place for training, employment and volunteer roles for family members of currently serving UK military personnel.

Apply for jobs and access employment and training opportunities with companies and organisations who are Forces family friendly.

You can use this website with confidence, knowing that employers have signed the Armed Forces Covenant or are able to demonstrate their commitment to the Armed Forces.

This is your gateway to accessing information about acquiring new skills, upgrading your existing skills or applying directly to employers who are understanding of the unique challenges that come with being a family member of a serving person.

To find out more about Training & Career support from Forces Families Jobs CLICK HERE

Brunei: Pre-March Out Preparation Checklist

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Ex-Military Working Dogs Re-homing Opportunity

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The Defence Animal Training Regiment are actively seeking forever homes for both young and old Military Working Dogs, especially Shepherd-cross breeds, who are retiring due to end-of-service, training, or veterinary reasons. To apply, please use the QR Code or complete the online form at this LINK

Brunei: Non-UK Ask The Experts Session - Monday, 01st July 2024, 2030 - 2200 hrs Brunei Time via Teams

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After the success of last year’s Ask The Experts session, we will be holding another session on 1 July from 1330-1500 hrs UK Time (2030 - 2200 hrs Brunei Time).

Whether you are a non-UK Serviceperson, have family members not from the UK or are part of the Chain of Command with a responsibility for non-UK personnel or families, this is your chance to raise questions of those who deal with policy and casework questions on a regular basis.

The experts include the MOD lead for immigration matters, Regional Command Non-UK Support, the Non-UK lead for Army HIVE and a representative from the F&C Team at the Army Families Federation.

You can join us on Teams.

Brunei: BFPO - General Accounting Rate (GAR) for July 2024

Opening Hours:

Mon - Thurs: 0900 - 1130 & 1200 - 1430 

Fri: 0900 - 1130 & 1200 - 1330

Exchange Rate:

July £1.00 = $1.7196

Post Office Notices

Post Office Closure 

Monday, 22nd – Friday, 26th Jul 2024 - Closed

Post Office Ration Card 2024/25

QR Code for Post Office Ration Card 2024/25 Renewal

Please be advised, the issuance of the 2024/25 cash transaction cards is through a request system.

The link below or QR code is the mode of requesting new cards.

Upon submission a message will be displayed, indicating the date for collection.

https://forms.office.com/e/Nu0R7VhNSc

Revised Post Office Opening Times with effect from Monday, 15th April 2024.

International Driving Permits (IDPs)

From 8 April 2024, International Driving Permits (IDPs) can be issued from the Post office at no cost to authorised BFB personnel and families.

Please note the following:

The validity periods of IDPs remain extant, only request, as required.

A passport sized photo and valid driving license is required for IDP issuance.

More information about IDPs can be found at https://www.gov.uk/driving-abroad/get-an-idp, https://internationaldrivingpermit.org/what-is-an-idp/ or on the Royal Mail website.

British Forces Post Office (BFPO) 11

British Forces Brunei post office is located in the Chit Chat Community Centre.

The BFPO system can be used to send and receive post from the UK.

All mails are distributed to work addresses only.

Authorised personnel

All BFPO services are available to entitled personnel only, which includes:

- Service Personnel & Families

- UKBC / Teachers & Families

Relatives and other UK or foreign civilians are to use local banking and postal services as they are not classed as authorised, under the MoD provision.

Forces Post Office (FPO) chip & pin service

Customers are reminded of the upper limit when withdrawing or depositing cash at the PO is the local equivalent of £250 per day, and a maximum limit of £1000.00 per month respectively. This cash limit also applies to MoneyGram services.

Please do not approach the counter staff requesting more than the afore stated amounts. If you require a larger withdrawal, you must first seek permission from SO3 Log Sp or the DCOS, through your CoC if appropriate, in the first instance. Also, a 5 days’ notice must be given in order to ensure enough cash is available at the counter.

Postal Service

British Forces Brunei post office is located in the Chit Chat Community Centre. The BFPO system can be used to send and receive post from the UK. All of your mails will go through your work address with the exception of bills from local companies.

1. Addressing

Address Format for Service Personnel/ Garrison Support Personnel:

Service/Staff number, Title/Rank, Full Name
Unit (1 or 2 RGR, HQ Brunei Garrison, BFB)
Sub Unit (HQ, A, B, C Coy/Department)
Tuker/Medicina Lines
BFPO 11 or BF1 3AG

Address Format for Families:

Title, Full Name
(C/O) Service/Staff number, Title/Rank, Full Name
Unit (1 or 2 RGR, HQ Brunei Garrison, BFB)
Sub Unit (HQ, A, B, C Coy/Department)
Tuker/Medicina Lines
BFPO 11 or BF1 3AG

2. BFPO Price/Size Guide

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Mail Regulations

3. Postage requirements

When customers come to the Post Office with parcels to send, please make sure the items are already correctly addressed and securely sealed.

When Posting Parcels please ensure they are clearly addressed properly and within the dimensions of Depth (460mm) x Length (610mm) x Width (460mm) and no heavier than 20Kg.

4. Prohibited items

The Following items are not to be sent via the BFPO mail system, for further advice, please contact the Post Office located in the Chit Chat Community Centre.

Compressed gases – butane, oxygen, propane, camping gas cylinders, gas lighter refills, aqua lungs, aerosol (including medicinal and toilet articles including aerosols such as hairsprays, perfumes, shaving foams, medicines, drugs and nail varnish.

Corrosive – acids, alkaline, wet-cell batteries, Bluetooth speakers, power banks and remote controllers vinegar, photographic chemicals, mercury or any items containing mercury.

Infectious substances – bacteria, viruses, medical and pathological specimens, except under the IPBS rules

Oxidising materials – bleaching agent, peroxides and chlorate

Poison – Arsenic, Cyanides, insecticides and weed killers.

Explosives - fireworks, sparklers, flares, toy caps and ammunition

Weapons - knives, Khukuris

For more information visit: www.gov.uk/bfpo

5. Use of BFPO to Operate a Business

‘Customers who are operating a business overseas for personal gain, are not authorised to use the BFPO facilities to forward or receive mail items connected with that business. The MOD pays for the transportation of mail to and from overseas by air or surface means. To allow customers to use the BFPO to operate a business for personal gain would constitute an abuse of public funds.

Individuals, who are authorised or choose to operate businesses overseas, are advised to use local civilian post offices to receive or send goods connected with their business, whereby full international rates of postage will be paid.

Should a violation of this Guidance & Direction be suspected, the Chain of Command will be notified and disciplinary action may be taken against offenders’.

Post Office Opening Times

The Post Office opening times is as follows:

Counter Service

Mon – Thu

0900 – 1130 and 1200 – 1430

Fri

0900 – 1130 and 1200 – 1330

Units’ Post Orderly Mail collection and drop off

Mon – Thu

1230 – 1430

Fri

1200 – 1330

Contact information:

For general BFPO enquiries please use the following information

Email: bfpoenquiries@gmail.com

For BFPO mail tracking/ issues, please contact service desk

Email : desbfpo-enquiries@mod.gov.uk
Tel Military: 94676 3450

Tel Civil: +44 (0)345 769 7978 (calls are charged at local rate in the UK)
Alternative: +44 (0)20 8589 3450

Post Office, Chit Chat Community Centre:

Email: BruneiGar-HQ-Post-SNCO

Phone – (+673) 3224101 ext. 3218

Duty mobile – (+673) 9330239

Action for Happiness Calendars - July 2024

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Our monthly calendars are packed with actions you can take to help create a happier and kinder world. 

Click here to access the Action for Happiness Calendar.

Brunei: AWS Community Support - Summer Programme 2024

Please click here for Booking Form Summer Programme 2024.

Please Click Here Family Consent Form for the Family Activities.

Please click here for Summer Programme 2024. 

Please click here for Annual Registration: 2024 Annual Registration Form.

To join AWS BFB Community Facebook group - Join BFB Facebook group

View PowerPoints of all sessions - All AWS CS Activities/Sessions