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IBER Newsletter: Volume 1, Issue 2

IBER Newsletter: Volume 1, Issue 2

Post author:iber
Post published:27/05/2019
Post category:Newsletter

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Address:Institute For Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Universiti, BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
Email:office.iber@ubd.edu.bnOpens in your application

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🌳 Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, UBD
🌱 Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre
🌱 UBD Botanical Research Centre
#iber #kbfsc #brc

We are pleased to share a perspective publication,

We are pleased to share a perspective publication, published in the journal, Cell Genomics, offering guidelines for individuals and organizations dedicated to biodiversity conservation and global health. This comprehensive resource provides step-by-step advice on establishing a genomic garden—from selecting appropriate plant species to implementing sequencing pipelines and translating genomic data into meaningful population health benefits.

This publication is a collaborative effort between Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and key organizations in Singapore, highlighting the strength and importance of international partnerships in advancing scientific research. The work also emphasizes the value of collaboration with academic institutions and commercial partners to broaden the scope and enhance the impact of genomic gardens. Together, through informed practices and strategic partnerships, we can advance biodiversity conservation and promote global health on a larger scale.

UBD has established the country’s first botanic garden, the UBD Botanical Research Centre, which was officially launched by His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei Darussalam in 2018. This centre serves as a vital hub for biodiversity conservation and botanical research.

Rombongan UBD yang diketuai oleh YM Dr Hazri Haji

Rombongan UBD yang diketuai oleh YM Dr Hazri Haji Kifle, Naib Canselor UBD, menghadiri Sesi Berselawat dan Bacaan Doa Peliharakan Sultan dan Negara Brunei Darussalam di Balai Khazanah Islam Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.

The ASEAN Bioethics Seminar 2025, a two-day event

The ASEAN Bioethics Seminar 2025, a two-day event organized by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Malaysia (MOSTI), was held in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, from 9-10 September 2025.

The seminar brought together academics, policymakers, ethicists, and experts to discuss emerging and critical issues in biotechnology.

Dr. Norhayati Ahmad represented Brunei Darussalam as a panel speaker in the session titled "Bioethics in Traditional Medicine: Balancing Cultural Heritage and Scientific Innovation", leading a discussion on the ethical challenges and diverse bioethical dimensions of traditional healing systems in the ASEAN region. As traditional medicine gains global recognition, the seminar also addressed important ethical approaches to intellectual property rights, protection of indigenous knowledge, benefit sharing, and the prevention of biopiracy.

Other panel sessions covered a range of topics, including ethical considerations for navigating AI and big data, clinical bioethics, the ethics of biotechnology related to lab-grown meat in ASEAN and bioethics in ASEAN's transition to clean energy.

The seminar concluded with a visit to Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), where participants toured the Biotechnology Instrumentation laboratory, the Aquarium and Marine Museum, and the Borneensis Gallery.

We thank MOSTI for this opportunity.

IBER Seminar Series: From Remote to Connected: Un

IBER Seminar Series:

From Remote to Connected: Unlocking Global Impact through Satellite loT

Presented by:
Siti Nur Aazzah binti Pehin Dato Haji Abdul Aziz (SPI BN Company)
Dr Norilmi Amilia Ismail (Universiti Sains Malaysia)

#iber #iberseminar #ubd #ubd #UBDSDG #IoT #SatelliteIoT

We are excited to share a new publication authored

We are excited to share a new publication authored by UBD alumna, Ms Nur Khalish Hafizhah Ideris, and co-authored by Assoc Prof Dr Rahayu Sukri and Dr Salwana Md. Jaafar from IBER.

This study, conducted in Andulau Forest Reserve, Brunei Darussalam, examined the impact of road construction on tree diversity and forest structure in an intact Bornean Mixed Dipterocarp Forest. Nine study plots were established at varying distances from the Telisai–Lumut Highway to assess tree species composition, abundance, and structural traits.

Key findings revealed significant differences in forest structure near the road, including stem diameter, basal area, and crown characteristics. Plots closest to the road recorded the highest tree species richness, comprising both pioneer and interior forest species, while no pioneer species were observed in the interior plots. Importantly, the study documented the presence of high conservation value species, including three critically endangered trees, Gonystylus bancanus, Hopea micrantha, and Vatica venulosa.

These findings underscore the ecological impacts of road construction on forest dynamics and highlight the urgent need for further research to guide sustainable land-use planning in Borneo’s tropical forests.

#UBDResearch #IBERResearch #ForestEcology #TreeDiversity #BruneiForests #MixedDipterocarpForest #TropicalBiodiversity #ForestConservation #RoadEcology #AndulauForestReserve

Congratulations to our UBD's MSc student, Ms Afiqa

Congratulations to our UBD's MSc student, Ms Afiqah Baharudin and her supervisors, Associate Professor Dr Stefan Gödeke, Associate Professor Dr Rahayu Sukri and Dr Salwana Jaafar on receiving the Best Paper Award at the International Conference on Civil and Environmental Engineering 2025 (CENVIRON 2025) in Hat Yai, Thailand on 19–20 August 2025.

Their paper, “Geospatial, statistical, and subsurface geological analysis of different forest types in Badas Peatland, Brunei Darussalam”, was recognized for its contribution to understanding forest ecosystems and peatland research.

Ms Afiqah’s MSc research is currently focused on how topography and subsurface conditions shape forest types at Badas Peatland, Brunei. It found that elevation and soil layers (peat vs. sand) significantly influence whether heath or peat swamp forests form, while slope and aspect play little role.

#CENVIRON2025 #UBDResearch #BestPaperAward #Peatlands #ForestEcology #Biodiversity #BruneiResearch

We are excited to share the latest publication in

We are excited to share the latest publication in Fishes on the reproductive ecology of the Java Rabbitfish, Siganus javus. The study was conducted by our graduate student, Ms Iy Vonne Tan, and was led by Senior Professor Takaomi Arai from the UBD's Faculty of Science in collaboration with Dr Norhayati Ahmad (UBD's Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research) and Associate Professor Dr. Fui Fui Ching (Universiti Malaysia Sabah).

This study is the first to examine the reproductive traits of this fish species in the southern South China Sea. Rabbitfish (genus Siganus) are important to coastal fishing communities and are essential components of coral reef fish populations.

Understanding their reproductive biology and ecology is vital for providing insights into population changes, thereby improving our knowledge of coral reef fish biology and ecology, as well as contributing to fisheries management and aquaculture development.

IBER had the pleasure of engaging with key colleag

IBER had the pleasure of engaging with key colleagues from the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, under the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, led by Ms. Khairunnisa binti Haji Omar Ali, Head of the Paddy Industry Division. We're grateful for the insightful discussions and look forward to continued collaboration.

@agriculture.gov.bn

We’re excited to share that our postgraduate stu

We’re excited to share that our postgraduate student, Mr Abdul Zul’Adly Mohaimin, a PhD candidate from the Faculty of Science, UBD, has published his research findings in the esteemed journal Aerobiologia.

His research focused on rice diseases in Brunei Darussalam. Using state-of-the-art techniques, the young researcher identified multiple pathogens in bioaerosol samples—shedding light on how airborne particles may contribute to the spread of crop diseases, marking a significant step forward in understanding plant disease dynamics in the region.

Huge congratulations, Mr Abdul Zul’Adly! Your hard work and dedication continue to inspire!

We also extend our sincere thanks to the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood @agriculture.gov.bn, and the Department of Forestry @forestry.brunei, for their invaluable support in this research.

From 26–28 August 2025, Dr Salwa Khalid and Dr S

From 26–28 August 2025, Dr Salwa Khalid and Dr Salwana Jaafar from IBER, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, attended the National Workshop on the Biodiversity Policy and Strategic Plan of Action (NBPSPA) 2024–2030 at Dewan Setia Pahlawan, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism.

The workshop, organised by the Forestry Department, gathered key stakeholders to strengthen the implementation of the newly endorsed NBPSPA by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. Discussions focused on ensuring clear actions, measurable indicators, effective coordination, and sustainable strategies for the nation’s biodiversity management.

@forestry.brunei

#IBER #Biodiversity #Brunei #NBPSPA #SustainableFuture #LifeOnLand

Wildlife of Brunei Darussalam: Sunda Clouded Leopa

Wildlife of Brunei Darussalam: Sunda Clouded Leopard (Neofelis diardi)

The Sunda Clouded Leopard (Neofelis diardi) is a rare and elusive big cat native to the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra. With its cloud-like markings on its fur, it is a master of camouflage. This leopard has a long, muscular body and a long tail that helps it balance as it moves swiftly through the trees where it hunts birds, primates, and other small mammals. Its solitary nature makes it a challenge to spot in the wild.

Due to habitat loss and degradation, the Sunda Clouded Leopard is listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.

Video credits: Salwa Khalid and Ulmar Grafe

28th August 2025 – Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sult

28th August 2025 – Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah hosted a special programme, Discovering the Scientific Miracles in the Quran.

Dr. Norhayati Hj Ahmad from the UBD's Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER) delivered an insightful talk, “A Reflection of Plants Mentioned in the Al-Quran & Hadith”, highlighting the rich diversity of plants in the Quran and their deep connection to nature and ecosystems.

During the event, students from Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah also showcased their projects related to the various scientific phenomenon and how these have been mentioned in the Quran across several verses.

The event was attended by the teachers and students of the institute together with members from IBER including UBD Botanical Research Centre (UBD BRC).

As part of the event, IBER also showcased their research, education, and outreach initiatives through an interactive exhibition booth.

We thank Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah for inviting IBER to this inspiring event.

@itqshhb.official

As our UBD students conclude their final week at t

As our UBD students conclude their final week at the University of Osaka, we bid farewell to a research placement that has been both meaningful and enriching. Their time at the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Natural Products for Drug Discovery (Chemistry) has provided invaluable academic and cultural experiences.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Universiti Brunei Darussalam and University of Osaka for the guidance and support extended throughout this placement.

The Office of Assistant Vice-Chancellor Research,

The Office of Assistant Vice-Chancellor Research, Innovation and Sustainability (OAVCRIS) and the Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER), Universiti Brunei Darussalam hosted a seminar titled “Beyond the Horizon: Building a Future in the New Space Economy” presented by Ms Lynette Tan, Chief Executive Officer of Space Faculty Pte. Ltd. Singapore.

The seminar was held as part of UBD’s 40th anniversary celebrations, at the Senate Room, Chancellor Hall, Universiti Brunei Darussalam.
Present as Guest of Honour at the event was Dr Hazri bin Haji Kifle, Vice Chancellor Universiti Brunei Darussalam.

During the talk Ms Lynette Tan shared on the evolution of the global space industry and the growing role that Asia is expected to play. Ms Lynette Tan also shared her insights on the nurturing of talent and developing these further for the space industry.

@spacefacultyasia

We’re proud to share that two of our outstanding

We’re proud to share that two of our outstanding postgraduate students from Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) are participating in the 3rd International Conference on Biodiversity, Ecology, and Conservation of Marine Ecosystems (BECoME) at City University of Hong Kong!

Ms Nurul Syakirah Azmey delivered an oral presentation on her PhD research, while Ms Huan Chiao Lee showcased both an oral presentation and a poster on her MSc research.

Congratulations to both on this achievement and for showcasing their research on an international stage!

@ubdfos

Congratulations to our former student, Ak Junaidi

Congratulations to our former student, Ak Junaidi bin Pg Haji Samat, on successfully completing his Master of Science in Chemistry (by Research) at Faculty of Science, Universiti Brunei Darussalam.

His research was carried out under the supervision of Associate Professor Dr Anwar Usman and Dr Hussein Taha. This accomplishment reflects his dedication and hard work, and we extend our best wishes for his future endeavours.

IBER was delighted to welcome delegates from Hibis

IBER was delighted to welcome delegates from Hibiscus EP (Brunei) B.V., led by Ms. Salawati Kassim and Mr. Yusrein Hady Abd Ghani. The visit opened exciting discussions on potential collaborations between our organisations. We look forward to the journey ahead together!

@hibiscuspetroleum_bn

IBER Seminar Series: Beyond the Horizon: Building

IBER Seminar Series:

Beyond the Horizon: Building a Future in the New Space Economy

Presented by:
Ms. Lynette Tan
Chief Executive Officer
Space Faculty Pte. Ltd., Singapore

#iber #iberseminar #ubd #ubd #UBDSDG #spaceeconomy

We’re delighted to welcome Mr. Sufyaan Mohammad

We’re delighted to welcome Mr. Sufyaan Mohammad Syed (far right in the photo) to Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD)!

Mr. Sufyaan joins us as a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Student Program scholarship. As a Fulbrighter, he will be spending the next few months at UBD’s Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER), where he will conduct exciting scientific research.

To celebrate his arrival in Brunei Darussalam, we introduced him to ambuyat — Brunei’s iconic national dish — enjoyed with its famous fermented durian sauce (tempoyak).

Welcome to IBER, Mr. Sufyaan — we look forward to the journey ahead!

@usembassybsb

Over the past 14 weeks, Nur Izznie Fikriyah Awg Ad

Over the past 14 weeks, Nur Izznie Fikriyah Awg Adnan has been part of the Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, where she gained valuable insights into both fauna and plant collections at the UBD Botanical Research Centre. 🌿🐾

During her internship, Izznie had the opportunity to care for plants, work in the laboratory, participate in workshop, and contribute to office-based tasks, an experience that broadened her understanding of biodiversity research.

We extend our best wishes to Izznie as she moves forward, and we hope her journey will inspire more students to explore the learning opportunities available at IBER. 💚

#IBER #UBDBRC #UBD #UBDSustainability #SDGs #flora #nature #biodiversity #internship #Brunei

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