APEA Brunei award to recognise contribution of local entrepreneurs

THE
Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB) and Enterprise Asia yesterday
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of an
award to recognise business leaders for outstanding entrepreneurship,
responsible entrepreneurship and their investment in people.

The
main organiser of the Asia Pacific Entrepreneurship Awards (APEA)
Brunei 2008, Enterprise Asia, is a non-governmental think-tank for the
development of entrepreneurship across the region and in the promotion
of opportunities and fair ground rules for emerging entrepreneurs.

It
works alongside governments, NGOs and other organisations to promote
competitiveness and entrepreneurial development, uplift the economic
status of people across Asia and ensure a legacy of hope, innovation
and courage for the entrepreneurs.

Enterprise Asia’s Executive Director said the award is a prestigious recognition of outstanding businessmen.

“APEA
2008 is the most prestigious award for entrepreneurs in Asia Pacific,”
said Ooi Tong Chien. “The winners have to undergo a very rigorous
nomination and judging process, spanning four months and involving over
50 on-ground audit and verification officials.”

Meanwhile, Dr.
Abdul Manaf Metussin, BEDB’s Assistant Chief Executive Officer said
that APEA 2008 is good for entrepreneurship in Brunei.

“In the
current economic climate, it is essential that we continue to develop
our entrepreneurial talents as a means to distinguish ourselves from
global dynamics,” he said. “I believe we must embrace and not shy away
from the world at large so that we can compete and be amongst the
champions out there.”

The signing ceremony took place at the Rizqun International Hotel in Gadong.

Dr Abdul Manaf signed the MoU on behalf of BEDB while Enterprise Asia was represented by Ooi Tong Chien.

Also
present during the signing ceremony were representatives and
participants from BEDB, Gold Pages, Royal Brunei Airlines, Radio
Television Brunei (RTB), Rizqun International Hotel, Brunei Insider’s
Guide (BIG) and The Brunei Times, who are also partners in the APEA
2008.

Recently in July, 44 Malaysian entrepreneurs were presented awards under APEA 2008.

The
awards will continue to be held in 13 other countries throughout the
region. The winners of each nation will then join their counterparts
from Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, China, India and 10 other
countries in Hangzhou, China in 2009 for the largest forum on
entrepreneurship in the region. A total of 166 nominees have been
shortlisted for the inaugural APEA Brunei 2008, which will take place
on August 29, 2008. The Brunei Times