Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah taking a closer look at the Wakaf Mushaf UTB. - BB
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) on Monday (Jan 19) officially launched its 40th Anniversary Celebrations, marking four decades of institutional growth, transformation and contribution to Brunei Darussalam’s higher education and technological development.
Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah Bolkiah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, in his capacity as Pro-Chancellor of UTB, officiated the launch at the Balai Khazanah Islam Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.
Established in 1986, UTB was founded as part of the nation’s post-independence efforts to develop a self-sustaining education system aligned with national priorities.
Over the years, the institution has evolved from a technical institute into a leading technological university, producing industry-ready graduates and supporting Brunei’s aspiration towards a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy.
UTB Vice-Chancellor and chairperson of the organising committee, Datin Paduka Professor Dr Dayang Zohrah Sulaiman, in her address highlighted UTB’s development over the past four decades, including the expansion of academic programmes, research capacity and strategic partnerships with government agencies, industry players and international institutions.
She reaffirmed the university’s commitment to producing graduates equipped with strong technical expertise, ethical values and global perspectives.
The Prince then delivered a sabda to officially mark the commencement of UTB’s 40th anniversary celebrations.
A commemorative video featuring reflections from past and present ministers and vice-chancellors was screened, tracing UTB’s milestones and institutional journey. This was followed by the presentation of Special 40th Anniversary Awards, recognising individuals for their dedication and contributions to the university’s growth and legacy.
The awards included Anugerah Jasawan, Anugerah Kerja Lama and Anugerah Extraordinary Staff, as well as the award for the winner of the UTB 40th Anniversary logo design.
In conjunction with the celebrations, UTB also launched the Wakaf Mushaf UTB, reflecting the university’s holistic approach to education that integrates academic excellence with spiritual values and social responsibility.
The event further featured the “4 Dekad Exhibition”, showcasing UTB’s transformation and key achievements over 40 years, and the launch of a commemorative book titled The First 40 Years, themed “Enlivening Legacy, Empowering Innovation”, which documents the university’s contributions to national development through education, research and innovation.
The launch marks the beginning of a year-long series of commemorative, academic and community-focused initiatives as UTB continues to strengthen its role as Brunei Darussalam’s national institution of technology committed to excellence in higher education, research and innovation. – Borneo Bulletin/ANN
