Press Release

American Alumni of Brunei Darussalam to be launched next week.

February 19, 2008

The Embassy of the United States of America in Brunei is pleased to announce that the newly registered American Alumni of Brunei Darussalam will be officially launched next week on Tuesday February 26, 2008.  Interim President of the American Alumni Association, Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdullah bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar (Minister of Development) will be officiating the launch.

Membership is open to all Bruneian citizens and residents who have attended a course of study (minimum of 3 months) at a U.S. higher education institution.  Members who wish to attend the launch event should contact Ms. Megan Porter at 222-9670 ext 2132 or by email at PorterML@State.Gov, latest by 3p.m on Friday, February 22nd.

There has been a steady and growing interest in U.S. higher education, which led the Embassy over the past year to work closely with a group of local alumni in the formation of the Association. Goals and objectives of the Association include:
• To promote and maintain friendship and cooperation among its members who are graduates of American universities or institutes of higher education and residing in Brunei Darussalam.
• To promote social, cultural, educational and business links with other American Alumni in other countries.
• To provide advice and guidance to members and friends of members who intend to pursue Bachelor or postgraduate degrees in American universities.
• To promote cultural, recreational and intellectual activities among its members.

The American Alumni Association strives to provide a social and educational outlet for graduates of American universities through regular activities and gatherings.  The members will provide student outreach to citizens and residents of Brunei who are interested in attending an American university and maintain a link with students while away at school.  Upon returning to Brunei, students will have the opportunity to meet business contacts and become active members in the Association.