OKEHAMPTON, UNITED KINGDOM, FRIDAY, 01/03/2024 – On Friday, March 1st, 2024, Kem Ibadah made its 15th annual appearance under the theme "Power Of Purpose” at YHA Okehampton in Devon. Organized by the Brunei Religious Officers Student Association (BruROSA), the camp involved a group of 32 students, including 19 participants and 13 committee members who travelled from various locations across the United Kingdom and Eire to partake in the event.

The evening of day one commenced with Maghrib and Isha congregational prayers, setting the spiritual tone for the weekend. The attendees were then introduced to the camp commandants and chairpersons, followed by an introduction to the camp's theme. As everyone made their way to the dining room, an inviting smell of a Bruneian dish called ‘Nasi Katok’ along with expressions of delight filled the space. It was the perfect supper needed after the long journey. Bonds were naturally forged when people sat together - strangers became friends and friends became closer as they exchanged stories over the scrumptious meal. 

For the first ice-breaking session, participants engaged in a lively challenge of recalling the names of individuals on the opposing team. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, while group members competed to say each other’s name first. Without further ado, they moved on to another team-building activity of creating a group cheer and flag design based on Bruneian Slangs or ‘Kurapak Brunei’. Each group presented their flags, providing insights behind each design choices and performed group cheers. Both activities served as an amazing kickstart, not only establishing connection between participants but also preparing them for further team-building endeavors. The first day concluded with a brief overview of the upcoming activities, informing participants of what to anticipate on the morning of day two.

The early hours of day two began as people gathered to perform Qiyamullail together. Prior to Tahajjud and Fajr prayer, a tazkirah was given on the benefits of these prayers. One of the interesting aspects of this camp was the thoughtful approach of delving into the virtues of practices like Tahajjud prayer and Al-Ma’thurat, striving to instill a profound understanding and admiration of the beauty within Islam. The morning session was followed by tilawah Al-Quran, tadabbur Al-Quran and Kuliah Subuh by Ustaz Muhd Yussof bin Haji Abdul Majid on 'Purposeful Living'. 

With the arrival of the guest of honor, the opening ceremony commenced. Marking the formal beginning of Kem Ibadah, Ahmad Zakwan Bin Haji Mohd Salleh led the recitation of Surah Al-Baqarah from verses 28 to 30, with the translation read by Ahmad Bukhari bin Abd Rahman. Continuing right after that was the opening speech from Cikgu Mohammad Danny bin Aimi, Director of Studies UPP and a short speech from the guest of honour, Laksamana Pertama (B) Pengiran Dato Seri Pahlawan Norazmi bin Pengiran Haji Muhammad, High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam at United Kingdom. Lastly, the recitation of doa selamat was led by Al-Danish, the camp commandant, to ensure the smoothness and safety throughout the event.  

The day unfolded with a variety of entertaining activities, and talks centered around the theme "Power of Purpose." One memorable activity of the day was an interactive forum by Ustaz Fahmi and Ustazah Dr. Widad. The discussion initially addressed the shared purpose among Bruneian students in the UK and the struggles that come together with it, gradually transitioning on the reason humans were created in the first place - reminding us of our sole purpose in this Dunya and the importance of aligning your intention with the purpose of life as to maximizing rewards for the Hereafter.

Overall, the forum went beyond being a mere informational session, it undoubtedly left participants with a lasting impression, moving listeners to tears and leaving them with a renewed sense of purpose. The dedication of each of our invited speakers in emphasizing the message within their talks reflects a genuine commitment to helping students deepen their knowledge and understanding of Islam, thereby enhancing the camp experience. The session concluded with the uplifting Marhaban Ya Ramadhan Qasidah, encouraging everyone to eagerly anticipate the sacred month of Ramadan. 

The night of day two was filled with self-reflection and feedback session. The highlight of the night was an enjoyable skit infused with humour, brimming with meaningful messages, featuring outstanding acting performances delivered by the participants. Following this, Al-Danish and Afiqah conducted a tear-jerker session, reminding everyone to maintain a good relationship with their parents despite the physical distance for the sake of Allah.

The last day of the camp commenced with another Qiyamullail session, followed by a Kuliah Subuh focusing on the topic ‘Ramadan with Purpose’ by Ustaz Ahmad Muzhafar bin Haji Marsidi. The two-day, two-night camp ended with a closing ceremony, during which the camp commandants, Muhd Al-Danish bin Muhd Al-Qusyairi from University of Highlands and Islands, Perth College, and Nur Afiqah Farahiyah binti Haji Muhsin from the Swansea University, delivered their closing remarks and announced the best groups and participants for Kem Ibadah 15.

The honours bestowed upon the Kem Ibadah 15 contestants were highly merited. Team MPB which stands for ‘Mun Paham Bisai’  was named the Best Male Team in the competition, demonstrating excellent and admirable teamwork on the camp's activities. On the female side, Team DANG earned the title of Best Female Group through their dynamic collaboration and mutual support. Their exceptional performance in various activities, particularly the skit, distinguished them as a standout group among the participants.

Acknowledging outstanding individual achievements, the title of Best Participant in the male category was rightfully awarded to Awang Mohammad Shamsul Bazli Bashreen bin Awang H.M.S Bahreen from University of Birmingham. His noteworthy contributions, leadership skills, and unwavering enthusiasm throughout the camp set an exemplary standard for others. On the other hand, Wan Siti Imanina Syazwani Suhaimi from University of Southampton won the honour of Best Female Participant. Her virtues of generosity and empathy outshone the most throughout the event. Both recipients consistently showcased exceptional dedication which served as positive influences on their fellow attendees.

Following the prize and certificate of appreciation presentation ceremony, the event wrapped up with a gift exchange, group photo-taking session and video exhibit featuring highlights of Kem Ibadah 15. We would like to express our gratitude to @upp.uk and TAIB for their sponsorship as well as to those who were involved in ensuring the success of this remarkable and beneficial event. 

Third venue: Greater London 
The last event of this programme was held at Brunei Hall, London Paddington, on the 18th of November 2023, Saturday. It began with the recitation of prayers by Mohamad Nur Raziqqien bin Abu Bakar, the BruROSA President, followed by the final inspirational talk of the programme. ‘3, 6, 9 Game’ was once again played by the attending students before the second part of the talk by Cikgu Hj Abd Rahman Nawi. The event finally concluded with a casual sharing session and certificate presentations from BruROSA to Cikgu Hj Abd Rahman Nawi and Md Haziq Hisyam Md Zaki as a gesture of appreciation for the success of the programme.​

WINDERMERE, UNITED KINGDOM, FRIDAY, 03/03/2023 – On Friday, March 3rd, 2023, Kem Ibadah made its 14th annual appearance, with the theme "Deen Over Dunya." Organized by the Brunei Religious Officers Student Association (BruROSA), this weekend getaway took place over two days and two nights at YHA Windermere in Cumbria. A group of 43 students, including 20 participants and 23 committee members, travelled from various locations throughout the United Kingdom and Eire to attend. 

​The evening of day 1 began with an introduction of the camp commandment and chairperson for both the male and female attendees followed by a short explanation about housekeeping rule. For the first ice-breaking activity, participants had to remember each persons' name on the opposing team to score a point. It was a very chaotic and loud night as participants struggled, laughed and screamed on top of their lungs to say the other person's name first. Without taking a break, they moved onto the next activity which was coming up with a group cheer and a flag design based on any water bottle brand sold in Brunei Darussalam. Each group presented their work and explained their design choices. Day 1 ended with a scrumptious meal that was cooked and prepared by the logistics team, they were truly talented in cooking.

It was half past three in the morning and a sudden knock was heard in all rooms. People were grunting but eventually was woken up by the sound of alarm. One by one, people gathered in the common area to pray Tahajjud and Fajr, and to reflect on Surah Al-Mulk. One of the standout aspects of this camp was the thoughtful approach of the camp commandment. They took the time to delve into the virtues of practices like Tahajjud and Nafl prayer, aiming to instill a deeper understanding of the beauty within Islam. It's truly remarkable to witness such dedication in fostering a genuine appreciation for our faith. The dedication in teaching and emphasizing the virtues demonstrates a genuine commitment to helping participants deepen their understanding and appreciation of Islam. This level of care and effort is commendable and adds a special dimension to the camp experience.

The story continues to the second day of Kem Ibadah as participants head outside to the wide slanted field to play Captain’s Ball for the male, where the assigned groups compete against each other for the first place. While the female participants played a different activity called Queen’s Dodgeball. Activities named above would require great teamwork and coordination. With the arrival of the guest of honor, participants headed back inside and gathered around in the common area. Awang Md Aqiel Hidayat bin Hj Zulfa Hidayat led the recitation of Surah Hadid from verses 20 to 24, while Awang Muhammad Al-Danish bin Muhammad Al-Qusyairi read the tafsir. This marked the formal beginning of Kem Ibadah. Continuing right after that is the opening speech from BruROSA’s and BSU’s President. Followed by a speech from the guest of honor, UPP. While the recitation of doa was led by Fikri, the camp commandment, to ensure the smoothness and safety throughout the event.  

After Kem Ibadah officially started, the event went on as planned throughout the whole day. One memorable activity during the day was a talk by Ustaz Fahmi and Ustazah Widad on ‘Keeping your Deen in Check’. Participants were subjected to activities one after another, which obviously would lead to fatigue and burnout. But this sharing session in particular, healed and rejuvenated the participants. The topic addressed a common concern among participants, as many individuals face challenges in maintaining their faith while juggling the demands of daily life. It resonated deeply with their own experiences. Overall, the discussion on 'Keeping your Deen in Check' undoubtedly left participants with a sense of understanding, support, and practical tools to lead a more balanced and meaningful religious life.

The night of day 2 was filled with self-reflection and ​feedback session. Sketsa was performed by the participants as they discussed throughout the whole of day 2 since the briefing early in the morning​. After that session, a tear-jerker session was conducted by Yadiy and Shahirah. ​Thus, the day ended with a reminder to do good to our parents for the sake of Allah​ and debriefing on what to expect the morning of day 3.

The last day of the camp kicked off with the Qiyamullail activity, where both committee members and participants came together to perform Tasbih and Tahajjud prayer. The morning session concluded with the Fajr prayer, followed by the kuliah Subuh, which centered on the topic ‘Loving our Prophet’ as Haziq shared his islamic journey on loving Prophet Muhammad SAW. 

​​The two-day, two-night camp ended with a closing ceremony, during which the camp commandants, Fikri Ali from University of Edinburgh, and Shahirah Bakar also from the University of Edinburgh, delivered their closing remarks and announced the best groups and participants for Kem Ibadah 14 for male and female. 

​The honours bestowed upon the Kem Ibadah 14 contestants were highly merited. Team BIRU was named the Best Male Team in the competition, demonstrating excellent coordination and determination. Their teamwork and dedication to the camp's activities were genuinely admirable. On the female side, Team SPA won the title of Best Female Group. Their cohesiveness, mutual support, and exceptional performance in many activities distinguished them as a standout group among the participants.

Recognizing individual excellence, the award for Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the male category went to Awang Muhammad Al-Danish bin Muhammad Al-Qusyairi. His remarkable contributions, leadership, and enthusiasm throughout the camp were truly exemplary. Whereas in the female category, the honor of Best MVP was bestowed upon Dk Irdina Hannani binti Pg Md Hasnan. Both participants consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, initiative, and a positive influence on their fellow attendees.

​​Following the prize presentation ceremony, the event wrapped up with a video exhibit featuring highlights of Kem Ibadah 14, as well as a group photo-taking session.​ We would like to thank @upp.uk once again for sponsoring this event and those who were involved in making this event successful.

Category A: Top three submissions from (Left to Right) 

BruROSA would like to express appreciation to all of the students who partake in this competition. A massive congratulations to the winners who have shown their hard work and effort in this competition. In the future, BruROSA hopes to continue this photography and writing competition to encourage students studying abroad to showcase their talents and creativity. 

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UNITED KINGDOM, SUNDAY, 20/03/2022 - The Brunei Religious Officers Student Association (BruROSA) has organised the virtual Open Mic Competition (OMC) once again for the second time this year on the 20th of March 2022 in conjunction with the celebration of Nisfu Sya'ban 1443H/2022M. The event commences from 10.00 am until 11.45 am GMT, online through Zoom, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Open Mic Competition is a competition that provides a platform for students to attain more knowledge and boost their confidence in sharing their knowledge, thoughts and opinions with the audience. The theme for this year's competition: "The Obligatory Search of Knowledge", encourages the participants to present a topic related to the students' lives in educating themselves and the Islamic way of life as this is obligatory for every Muslim. This competition serves as a good chance for students to brush up on their public speaking skills and showcase their talents and potential.

There was a total of 5 participants competing this year: Ak Izz Khan Fayyadh bin Pg Hj Mohd Nasreen from the University of Manchester, Md Aqiel Hidayat bin Haji Zulfa Hidayat from Coventry University, Nur Arina Binti Haji Hamidun from Cardiff Metropolitan University, Mohd Azizan bin Haji Mohammad Anas from the University of Lancaster and lastly, Mohd Hamizan bin Hj Abd Rahman from the University of Nottingham. Furthermore, the guest of honour was Cikgu Mohammad Danny bin Aimi, the Director of Studies of Brunei Students Unit (UPP), and the panel of judges also comprises of the UPP officers: Ustaz Haji Muhammad Fahmi bin Haji Abas, the Religious Officer who is responsible for judging the content, Cikgu Erna Sumarne Binti Haji Sumardi, the Academic Coordinator, responsible for evaluating the delivery style and Ustazah Dr Widad Binti Abdul Aziz, judging for the writing style. Apart from that, 15  spectators were present to watch and support the online event. 

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The first speaker was Ak Izz Khan Fayyadh bin Pg Hj Mohd Hasreen, from the University of Manchester, enthusiastically presenting his talk about "The Continuous Need to Learn and Grow". He explained the critical role of knowledge and experience related to the world and hereafter in attaining two qualities of life. He also mentions the importance of having the curiosity to learn as it gives meaning to life, which makes us closer to Allah. Lastly, he also emphasised that Allah SWT would never burden a soul if He knew that they couldn't bear it. 

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The second speaker was Md Aqiel Hidayat bin Haji Zulfa Hidayat, from Coventry University, passionately presented his talk with the topic of ‘Kepentingan Menuntut Ilmu Duniawi dan Ukhrawi”. In his speech, he demanded knowledge is obligatory for a Muslim. Seeking knowledge is required because it is one of the ways to enter paradise. Allah Ta'ala will grant Jannah, for people who are willing to go through challenges, to seek knowledge as it will benefit others. He also emphasised balancing the knowledge about the world (duniawi) and the hereafter (ukhrawi). 

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The third speaker was Nur Arina Binti Haji Hamidun, from Cardiff Metropolitan University, calmly presented her talk with confidence, "Knowledge from the Eyes of a Muslim". She reminded us that we should seek knowledge from the eyes of a Muslim, which is to strive for knowledge to attain pleasure and get closer to Allah. Moreover, she also mentions that the road to Jannah would be easier if we seek knowledge. The best individual is to give help and benefits to others. It is part of the Muslim's obligation in spreading knowledge, especially about Islam. 

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The fourth speaker was Mohd Azizan bin Haji Mohammad Anas from the University of Lancaster; with his good sense of humour, he presented his talk with the topic of "Bermusyawarah dalam Kehidupan". In his speech, he emphasised that discussing and sharing opinions with others could be beneficial. This could lead to an efficient solution and discard the thought of us thinking that we are better than others.

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The final speaker was Mohd Hamizan Hj Abd Rahman, from the University of Nottingham, "Overcoming Mental Health Issues". He assuredly discussed mental health issues being a norm, especially being stressed and anxious. It is normal to be anxious, as was mentioned in the Al-Quran. He states that to find peace within our hearts, we should have a good relationship with Allah by communicating and seeking forgiveness from Him.  

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At the end of the event, Fikri Ali, President of BruROSA delivered the closing remarks and announced the results. Nur Arina emerged victorious in the first place with her winning speech. Mohd Aqiel Hidayat won second place, and Ak Izz Khan was awarded third place. The prizes they would receive would be a cash price of 150 pounds, 125 pounds and 100 pounds respectively. 
On the other hand, Mohd Hamizan won fourth place, and lastly, Mohd Azizan attained fifth place. All participants will be given certificates of participation and merchandise from BruROSA as a token of appreciation for putting their time and energy to participate in this event.  
Finally, the event concluded with a group photo-taking session and recitation of Surah Al-'Asr by the Financial Secretary of BruROSA, Arif Ibrahim.  

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BruROSA would like to thank the judges who were able to come to judge the speakers and the spectators for attending the event to show their support. 

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UNITED KINGDOM, SATURDAY, 26/02/2022 - The annual regional Majlis Khatam Al-Quran, in conjunction with our country’s 38th National Day, was once again conducted virtually through Zoom due to the unforeseeable circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, BruROSA has collaborated with Brunei-Manchester Society (BruManch), Brunei-Edinburgh Society (EdinBru), Brunei-Nottingham Society (BruNotts) and Brunei-Southampton Society (BruSton) to organise the event over the weekend which was on Saturday, 26th of February 2022.  
 
The yearly tradition of organising Majlis Khatam Al-Qur’an has been maintained to realise His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei’s dream to make Brunei ‘Negara Dzikir’. Participating in this event would allow students to practice Al-Quran recitation as one of their regular routines and have a deep understanding of Islam. Furthermore, this event also plays a pivotal role in strengthening the network between Bruneian students across the UK and Eire. 

The live event was also joined by the Brunei Students’ Unit. In total, 67 students, from various societies from four different regions; Scotland, Midlands, Northern and Southern UK, have participated the event.

The event commenced with the recitation of opening prayers, Surah Al-Fatihah led by Muhammad Faiq’Arif bin Haji Ibrahim, the Financial Secretary of BruROSA. This is then followed by a welcoming speech from the guest of honour, Yang Mulia Ustaz Haji Muhammad Fahmi bin Haji Abbas, the Religious Officer of Brunei Students’ Unit.

After the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, the event proceeded with the recitation of Surah-Surah Lazim which was led by the Religious Officer of BruSton, Muhammad Fikri bin Haji Ali. Afterwards, the event continued with the recitation of Takhtim and Dikir Marhaban, which was led by Danial Izwan bin Haji Norariffinihazalin and Awangku Izz Khan Fayyadh Bin Pengiran Haji Mohd Hasreen, from BruManch. Later on Muhammad Fikri bin Haji Ali had led the Doa Khatam. 
 
The event concluded with the a closing speech delivered by Muhammad Fikri bin Haji Ali, the President of BruROSA, and  recitation of tasbih kifarah and surah Al-Asr led by Mohammad Rizwandy bin Ramli, the Head of the BruROSA media team.  

BruROSA would like to express our sincere appreciation to the collaborating student societies for contributing their effort and time in organising this event, and to all students for participating the event and made the event a success.
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Around 10 a.m., the opening ceremony of Kem Ibadah officially started. The opening speech was given by the President of BruROSA, Mohammad Fikri bin Haji Ali who is also the Chairperson of the camp, and the Director of Studies of UPP, Cikgu Mohammad Danny bin Aimi. Among those who were present was the Religious Officer of UPP, Ustaz Haji Muhammad Fahmi bin Haji Abas. After the ceremony, Kem Ibadah continued with a sharing session about the companion of Rasulullah SAW, Bilal bin Rabah. BruROSA's Vice President and female Chairperson of the camp, Shahirah Bakar led the female's session, whereas the male's session was led by a committee member, Ahsan Abd Rahman. During this activity, the session leads shared the struggles, sacrifices and life story of Prophet Muhammad's close friend, Bilal bin Rabah. 
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​In the afternoon, participants played an outdoor activity called 'Capture the Flag'. This activity aimed to assess teamwork, cooperation, perseverance, and building trust within teammates. Despite the cold winds, committee members and participants managed to carry out this activity with commitment and determination. After a short break from the outdoor activity, another Tazkirah session was conducted indoors, which was about the benefits of reciting Mathurat. Ahsan Abd Rahman from Queen's University of Belfast led the males' session and Irdhina Muhd Roslan from University of Reading led the females' session.
 
In the evening, participants engaged in another indoor activity which was a treasure hunt. In this activity, participants are required to find items with the Kem Ibadah sticker, take a picture of them and show them to one of the committee members. Committee members will ask a specific question, and participants will incorporate that item to answer the question. Therefore, this activity aims to assess their critical thinking, creativity and argumentation skills. The night resumed with a forum on Istiqomah, which was led by the two Guests of Honour, Ustaz Fahmi and Ustazah Dr. Widad, followed by a reflection session on the forum. After Isya' prayer, participants in their respective groups performed a short 'sketsa' circulating the theme, 'Bravery'. Participants successfully showcased their talents through their passionate acting performance. To end the night on a special note, both Chairpersons of Kem Ibadah, Shahirah Bakar and Fikri Ali led an emotional and tear-jerking Tafakkur session in which committee members and participants get to reflect upon their relationship with their parents.

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, THURSDAY, 9/9/2021-  BruROSA had organized a ceremony of Bacaan Ratib Al-Attas dan Doa Tolak Bala to pray for the well-being of the students who are going to the United Kingdom and Eire via Zoom.
 
The event starts at 12.45 p.m. until 2 p.m. (UK local time) whereas it starts at 7.45 p.m. until 9 p.m (Brunei local time). The event encouraged the parents and students to attend the ceremony, including the public itself. Also present was the Director of Studies of the Students' Unit, Cikgu Mohammad Danny bin Aimi. As well as the Students' Unit Religious Officials, Ustaz Haji Muhammad Fahmi bin Haji Abas. The ceremony began with a welcoming speech by the President of BruROSA, Fikri Ali. He then led the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, Doa Ratib Al-Attas, Doa Tolak Bala as well as Doa Peliharakan Sultan. After that, the Vice-President of BruROSA, Shahirah Bakar, conducted a sharing session on the benefits of practising the recitation of Ratib Al-Attas. As a servant of Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta 'ala, reciting Ratib Al-attas is one of the many ways to ask forgiveness of sins from Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala. Apart from that, the benefits of reciting Ratib Al-Attas are it puts our heart at ease, and we will get blessings from Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala in shaa Allah. Afterwards, Cikgu Muhammad Danny bin Aimi gave a welcoming speech and congratulated the new students for getting the scholarship. He also advises the students to always be grateful and diligent in carving their path to success. Last but not least, Fikri had recited the Al-Asr prayer to end the ceremony.
 
With that, BruROSA would like to thank the parents and students who had come to ensure the event flow smoothly.
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​About 26 participants had come to enliven the event

The President of BruROSA, Fikri Ali, as he led the Bacaan Ratib Al-Attas
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Director of Studies of the Students' Unit, Cikgu Muhammad Danny bin Aimi, in giving his welcoming speech

Group photo-taking session at the end of the event