Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah, amongst 123 graduates and undergraduates, was awarded a Book Prize for her outstanding performances in the Bachelor of Arts (Public Policy and Administration), Year Three.

In conjunction with the 21st Convocation Ceremony of Universiti Brunei Darussalam, UBD organised the University Medals and Book Prizes Presentation Ceremony yesterday at the Jerudong Park Polo and Riding Club's Royal Berkshire Hall.

The event's guest of honour was Pehin Dato Seri Setia Hj Suyoi Hj Osman, the Minister of Health.

A total of 140 graduates and undergraduates of UBD have excelled in their studies and were rewarded, while 14 students received the University Silver Award - given to the best student in his or her respective study programme.

Also, 123 graduates and undergraduates were awarded with the Book Prize, three diploma graduates received the Award of Achievements and 10 graduates received the Award of Excellence from Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd.

The Silver Medal is awarded every year to graduates, while the Book Prize is awarded every semester to those who attain the best results in their examinations.

UBD's Vice Chancellor Dr Hj Zulkarnain Hj Hanafi delivered a speech in which he mentioned that the Medal and Book Prize are forms of appreciation from UBD to students who have achieved excellence in education.

He also highlighted that, with the appreciation presented to the graduates and undergraduates, they are now 'role models' and it is hoped that it would provide enthusiasm for the other students.

In an interview with Norlaila Hj Mohd Wali, Bachelor of Arts in Education (Malay Medium) and a recipient of the Award of Excellence from Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd, she advised those still pursuing their studies to "study smart and hard, use your available time with friends and hold discussions".

She is married with five children and said that she divided her time between her studies and home chores. She studied at night for not more than two hours but stayed very focussed.

In another interview with Serimah Hj Muhamad, Bachelor of Arts, she said that during classes she made sure that she understood every topic.

She also said that studying is her favourite thing to do and her future plans include pursuing her Masters Degree in Mass Communication.

She mentioned that at the same time as her examination neared, her daughter was also having her own school exams and that she had to set a good example. At the same time, while Serimah was preparing for her exams, she still had time to help her daughter with her revision.

Also present at yesterday's function were the Minister of Finance II, Pehin Dato Seri Setia Hj Abd Rahman Hj Ibrahim, and the Minister of Development, Pehin Dato Seri Setia Hj Abdullah Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar. - Borneo Bulletin (3rd November 2009)