06-05-2025
Collaborative library initiative aims to enhance ‘Bruneiana' collection
Head of Brunei History Centre Dr Muhammad Hadi Muhammad Melayong delivers a speech. - Photo: Borneo Bulletin/ANN
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The Forum of Chief Librarians (Focal) collaborative project was launched at the Brunei History Centre (PSB) on Monday (May 5) to improve and strengthen the Bruneiana collection in the library for ease of preservation and access.
Head of PSB Dr Muhammad Hadi Muhammad Melayong, the guest of honour, said, 'The Focal collaborative project is a pure initiative that unites expertise and power from various parties in an effort to preserve and expand collection of local materials and resources that are available in the country through Bruneiana Collection.'
Bruneiana Collection, he explained, 'is not only a compilation of materials in historical, culture and the country's heritage, but also a high value treasure that reflects the identity and values of the nation as 'Anak Brunei'. Therefore, efforts to upgrade, strengthen and further expand such collection are a wise and relevant strategic measure for the use of current generation in general.'
He hoped that the collaborative efforts will help the development of a Bruneiana database system that is more stable and user friendly as well as establishing guidelines in preserving local materials in line with international standard.
Organised by the Brunei Darussalam Library Association and represented by 14 members of Focal with the cooperation of the PSB, the event also saw a forum on 'Apa yang difahamkan sebagai koleksi Bruneiana' featuring panellists of three Focal members senior librarian from Universiti Brunei Darussalam's library Ahmad Safwan Jalil, senior history officer from PSB's library Muhammad Syahmi Halimshah and Assistant Library Officer I from the Language and Literature Bureau's library Fatin Nuramalina Muhd Syafie.
The forum was moderated by Nellie Sunny. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
