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Archive for August, 2017

Mercedes-Benz Endurance Trip Day 2

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in travel, automative, lifestyle, Social News

 

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Day 2 – Group shot with the representatives from Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, Loas, the Philippines and Brunei. This was taken at entrance at the Ocean Wing, Shangrila’s Rasa Ria resort at Tuaran, Sabah.
 

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This was our car for the day – the Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG 250. So much to love about this model and it’s one of the most popular model in South East Asia.
 

 

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Some of the media representatives
 

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The jungle trekking at Sabah National Park which lasted roughly 2 kilometre
 

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The dry bag sponsored by Mercedes-Benz do come in handy
 

 

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One of the media had the opportunity to hug a tree. I should have done that. This was the 2nd round of trekking which was tougher than the first one. I survived but my sneakers were all dirty from the soft ground.
 

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We finally worked out the navigation for easier reference while driving. Hence we realised less on waze unless we want traffic update.
 

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Taken at the Kinabalu Pine Resort where we had our lunch pitstop before heading back to the hotel
 

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Group photo with representatives from Brunei Darussalam. We all had a good time.
 

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A shot with the mountain view. I love the background scenery.
 

 

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A situation where there is overcrowding of Mercedes-Benz SUVs at one spot
 

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This is a pretty sight with all the convoys of the SUVs
 

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On our way back from the mountain and the fog started to set in pretty early
 

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A true test when it rained and of course, the Mercedes-Benz SUVs had little trouble during the rain with some puddles along the way
 

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After trying out the GLC AMG 43 and the GLC AMG 250, I test drove the tamer version which will be launched in Brunei in November – The GLC 200. Again, a luxurious model of its own.
 

 

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I tested with the Sport+ and Eco mode and you can tell the difference. I even did the launch control on the long stretch at Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria. Love that adrenalin feeling.
 

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Apart from the test drive, I love the fact that our host accommodate the invitees to stay over at Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resot and I truly loved the experience. I made use of the humungous bath tub outside my room.
 

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The finale BBQ dinner to cap off the #ReadyForAdventure trip. Thanks once again!
 

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Representatives of Jati Transport and their customers from Brunei also joined the fun 🙂
 

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I wanted to pamper myself and indulged for a massage session at the hotel. I shall give this 4 stars for the overall experience. I even fell asleep at one stage. So good.
 

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Only 2 nights here and I made myself so comfortable at my room at Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria. This is one of the best hotels I have stayed in 2017. Maybe the best 😀
 

Mercedes-Benz Endurance Trip Day 1

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in automative, Social News

 

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Kenny Ng, General Manager of Emerging Markets, Daimler South East Asia and Ho Ley Hoon, Sales Manager of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd with selected owners of Mercedes-Benz SUVs before heading off on a road trip to Kota Kinabalu.
 

Jati Transport Sdn Bhd invited selected SUV owners of Mercedes-Benz and two members of the media for Mercedes-Benz SUV Endurance Road Trip to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

This was considered my fifth overseas assignment for automative in the past few years and this time it’s a road trip from Brunei to Kota Kinabalu. Yes, I’ve been on the road once but only from KK to Brunei and not back and forth. It’s an honour to have Jati Transport organizing the Mercedes-Benz SUV Endurance trip and also inviting me to be part of the media team. Thank you, thank you.

The flag off took place at 7am yesterday at the new Mercedes-Benz Autohaus at Beribi. There were a convey of 8 Mercedes-Benz and they were flagged off by Kenny Ng, General Manager of Emerging Markets, Daimler South East Asia and Ho Ley Hoon, Sales Manager of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd before the entourage departed to Kota Kinabalu.

The trip took roughly six and a half hours before arriving at Hap Seng Star showroom (Mercedes-Benz KK). The entourage is expected to drive back from Kota Kinabalu tomorrow lunch time.

 

 

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Kenny Ng doing the honours to flag off at Mercedes-Benz Autohaus
 

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Lo Hey Loon flagging off the endurance drive
 

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Catching the ferry at the half way point to Kota Kinabalu
 

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The ferry must have been worth a lot since it carried 8 Mercedes-Benz vehicle and one Kijang on the one minute ride
 

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Some parts were affected by the flood.
 

What was being showcase? The media from Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia and Cambodia and selected Mercedes-Benz owners from Brunei Darussalam were invited for the exclusive launch of the Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 at Hap Seng Star showroom at Kota Kinabalu.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 was unveiled by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia sales and marketing, passenger cars vice president, Mark Raine, who flew in from Kuala Lumpur for the 3 day event.

Another edition has been added to the Mecedes-Benz SUV family – the GLC 200. This is to cater to the unique lifestyle and demands of its customers with the launch of the new GLC variant: the GLC 200. It is equipped with numerous high-end features including the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, an Off-road exterior package, 19 inch 5-spoke allow wheels and LED High Performance headlamps. The interior has a luxurious appeal with a high value perception. The interior colors ranging from black, espresso brown to silk beige in combination with the exclusive brown open-pore ash wood trim and the ARTICO man-made leather dashboard underline the exclusive appearance of the premium SUV.

Malaysians had the privileged of the locally-assembled GLC 250 4MATIC and now they have brought it a new variant to underline its claim as the leader in the premium SUV segment in Malaysia and this also provide a wider avenue for their customers to choose from.

According to Mark Raine, “The introduction of Mercedes-Benz’s premium SUB range has establish this segment to the luxury market. As the No.1 premium brand, we combine ultimate driving comfort, dynamic handling and great ability, as our SUVs define new benchmarks, break conventions and provide our customers with their ultimate choice of vehicle for their unique and active lifestyle. As the locally produced GLC a crowd favourite, we are excited to bring the GLC 200 as an additional choice for those who desire and exclusive SUV.”

The GLC 200 is powered by a 2.0 liter 4 in-line engine, which produces an output of 135kW (184hp) and 300 Nm of torque. The nee-stage 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission also comes as standard on the GLC 200. Depending on the mode selected for the DYNAMIC SELECT dynamic handling control, the automatic transmission with a torque converter boasts great agility and responsiveness.

Its interior features Exclusive line, including upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/fabric, ARTICO-covered dashboard with contrasting topstitching in three colors, seats featuring an exclusively upholstery layout, wood trim in high-gloss brown line structure lime and the 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel.

 

 

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Hap Seng Star showroom at Kota Kinabalu. Nice, nice!!
 

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Mark Raine posing with the newly launched GLC 200
 

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Members of the media from other countries came in to witness the launch
 

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Now this OrangeArt Edition caught my eye. Very limited too.
 

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The Mercedes-Benz that was given for me to drive – the GLC AMG 43… Wooohooo
 

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The interior of the AMG 43
 

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Our hotel room at Shangrila’s Rasa Ria which was quite far from the city. Love the hotel and thank you, Mercedes-Benz, for hosting us
 

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Let’s have fun during our endurance trip
 

Sabre Brunei Travel Fair 2017

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in community, travel, Social News

 

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Dato Seri Paduka Dr Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah as the guest of honour during the Sabre Brunei Travel Fair 2017 at the Banquet Hall, International Convention Centre with the associates from Sabre Travel Network (Brunei)
 

 

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Muaz of Royal Brunei Airlines demo-ing the guest of honour of the fidget spinning contest
 

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At-Taqwa has been making a huge name for themselves and is back again during the travel fair
 

 

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Baiduri Bank is the official bank for the said event
 

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Baiduri cardholders enjoy an instant lucky dip with every holiday purchased at the Brunei Travel Fair. Prizes range from travel and dining vouchers worth up to BND100, various travel accessories and more. To qualify, no minimum spending is required and prizes are available on a first come, first serve basis.
 

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Exciting fares from Darussalam Holdings. Click image to enlarge.
 

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#DiscoverBrunei
 

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Something exciting happening this September
 

 

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BIBD is also involved in the Travel Fair
 

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Sign up for BIBD Credit Card at the Brunei Travel Fair and get 3 years fee waiver and we’ll throw in a bonus of 100,000 Hadiah Points too – enough for a return flight to Malaysia! And for our existing card holders, we’ve got Royal Skies Miles to be won too
 

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Pan Bright Travel is back with their car and Birkin promotion
 

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Deals from Pan Bright Travel Services
 

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Guest of honour trying out the VR at Standard Chartered booth
 

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Standard Chartered Credit and Debit Cardmembers will be eligible to claim exciting gifts with an accumulative spend of BND1,000 at the fair. 10 American Tourister Luggage bags, 50 American Tourister Puzzle Cube Bags and 40 Targus Roller Backpacks can be claimed by the first 100 Credit and Debit Cardmembers to present their accumulated receipts and card sales slips at the Standard Chartered booth. Find out more at their booth
 

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Visit Perak promotion at Tourism Malaysia booth
 

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It’s time for a new adventure

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in bank, travel, Social News

 

 

The Brunei Travel Fair will be held over 2 days this weekend from 26th to 27th August 2017 at the International Convention Center (ICC) in Berakas. At the travel fair, Baiduri Bank will be offering their cardholders exclusive benefits.

“We are excited to be collaborating with Sabre, a leading travel technology company for this highly anticipated event. Our key objective is to provide seamless and secure payment solutions for visitors at the Brunei Travel Fair where every booth has been set up with our latest POS (Point of Sale) card terminals. Having the widest card brand acceptance and accept card payments from four major card brands – Visa, MasterCard, American Express and UnionPay, our customers’ convenience is paramount.”, commented Pg Azaleen Pg Dato Hj Mustapha, Head of Retail Banking & Branch Network at Baiduri Bank.

Baiduri cardholders enjoy an instant lucky dip with every holiday purchased at the Brunei Travel Fair. Prizes range from travel and dining vouchers worth up to BND100, various travel accessories and more. To qualify, no minimum spending is required and prizes are available on a first come, first serve basis.

Customers who hold a Baiduri Visa, MasterCard and American Express credit card can apply for the 0% Instalment Plan where they can convert their purchases to easy interest-free monthly instalments of up to 24 months. Meanwhile, customers Royal Brunei Airlines American Express credit cards issued by Baiduri Bank can apply for the Fly Now, Pay Later financing program and convert their purchase into monthly affordable instalments.

Furthermore, those who do not have a Baiduri Card yet can apply for either a new Baiduri Infinite, Platinum or Classic Visa Credit Card and stand a chance to win and experience a curated trip to Paris and other exciting destinations. Successful applicants also receive of up to 10,000 complimentary Royal Skies miles if they sign up for a Baiduri Visa Credit Card at the Brunei Travel Fair.

Terms and conditions and more information about Baiduri Bank’s current promotions can be obtained from the Bank’s website at www.baiduri.com, ‘Baiduri Deals’ mobile app or the 24-hour Baiduri Bank Customer Helpline at 244 9666. The public can also follow Baiduri Bank Group on Facebook or @baiduribank on Instagram and Twitter.

Acer’s Trade-In promo

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in gadget, Social News

 

 

Electronic and IT waste is a norm for the modern age, many homes and offices are moving away from older technology towards better and faster tech at a higher rate than before. This means that those older tech has to go somewhere, so why not trade them in and get something newer and better in return, plus those older tech will be taken care of and disposed professionally. Which is why Concepts Computer is offering a Trade-In Extravaganza which inludes products from Acer, APC and many other promos for other brands.

First up, we have the Acer K202HQL-Ab, a 19.5” LCD monitor, with 1368×768 dpi resolution and 200cd/m2 brightness and VGA connectivity, which makes the monitor perfect for use in a corporate setting or even in a home office setting. The Acer K202HQL-Ab comes with free standard VGA cable and the convenience of 3 years warranty coverage. Available for $88 with trade-in, usually priced at $118, which means a savings of $30 through trade-in. With such a huge saving and also the convenience of trade-in, this is the perfect time for corporate customers to replace their ageing monitors and get a newer and slimmer replacement.

Also available during this Trade-In Extravaganza will be the APC BX650 UPS, available for a trade-in price of $68 (usual price $88), and the APC B1100, avaialable for trade-in at $138 (usual price $158). Both the APC BX650 and BX1100 UPS are the latest in APC’s line of affordable UPS for SOHO (small office/home office) and personal use, is perfect for those in need for quick and easy solutions for multiple PCs or even just a single home PC. Rated for 325 Watts at 650 VA and 1100VA respectively, both will be able to offer protection for your data and hardwares from power-outages, power-surges, power-spikes and even lightning-strikes. And as a bonus, every purchase of APC UPS will also be eligible for $10 off the purchase of APC Surge Protectors, one of the best power protection solutions available in the Bruneian market, eligibility includes the APC UPS trade-ins as well. There are 2 models of APC Surge Protectors available, the APC PM5U available for $48 and the APC PM6U will be available for $58.

And still ongoing is the 50 years Golden Generation promotion for Acer laptops and desktops. For laptops, models available are the Acer Aspire ES1-432, available for $398, usual price $478; the Acer Aspire E5-575G will be available for $688 only, usual price $948; and also the Aspire S5-371 available for $968, usual price $1,238. All laptops on offer can be used for school or office work, while also be used for social media and general internet surfing. And desktops from Acer under the 50 years Golden Generation promoton includes the Acer Aspire XC780-6400W10, available for $588, usual price $748, at $1,238. Next is the Acer Aspire TC-780- 6400W10, another work-station available that can satisfy any office needs, cost is $668, usual cost $788. And lastly, the Acer Aspire XC-780-6400W10D, available for $688, usual price is $818. All 3 models will have an i5 Intel processor, enough power to keep-up with any workload in the office. To be eligible for these great 50 years Golden Generation promotions, please provide doucments that shows the milestone.

Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer said, “We try to make convenience and ease as the major factor for our customers to buy from us, which is why we are offering the trade-in extravaganza, to make it easier for our customers to bring in their older equipment, to trade-in for something newer and more suited to their current needs.”

Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer added, “Other than the trade-in extravagnaza, we are also still offering out 50 Years Golden Generation promotions for our customer.” Zul aslo added, “And with these co-running promotions, we hope that our customers can find and purchase what they need.”

For more information on the Trade-In Extravaganza and the 50 Years Golden Generation promorions, please call 2233551, 2233552 or 2233553; or visiti your nearest Concepts Computer showroom.

 

 


Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer with the associates of Concepts Computer holding the $88 promotion
 


Check out the new Acer K202HQL-Ab, a 19.5” LCD monitor, with 1368×768 dpi resolution and 200cd/m2 brightness and VGA connectivity
 

Sabre Brunei Travel Fair 2017

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in community, travel, Social News

 

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The press conference yesterday held at Mc Donald’s. Image courtesy of At-Taqwa Travel Tours.
 

Sabre Travel Network (Brunei) Sdn Bhd will host the annual Travel Fair on Saturday, 26 August 2017 at Banquet Hall, International Convention Centre, Berakas.

This two-day event organised by Sabre Travel Network Brunei provides travel partners including airlines, national tourist offices, hotels and travel agents with a unique platform to promote and showcase their products and services. The fair is open to all travellers, providing them with the convenience of shopping for a wide range of travel deals under a single roof.

“Brunei Travel Fair is an important event for the nation and Sabre Travel Network Brunei is proud to be once again organising this event for the benefit of Bruneians, the expat community, airlines, travel trade partners, national tourist offices and our other business partners,” said Ms. Irene Soon, General Manager, Sabre TN Brunei. “We thank our partners and travellers for their participation throughout the years and look forward to their continued support for the Brunei Travel Fair 2017, the fourteenth edition of the event.”

“With support of our partners, we will deliver new and unique content to travellers in search of their dream vacations. Over 12,600 attendees visited the Brunei Travel Fair last year and we are confident the numbers will increase at this year’s fair.” Sabre will provide more than 50 terminals to the ten participating Sabre-connected travel agencies at the fair to ensure the very best service for travellers. Mr. Abd Halim Haji Abd Rahman, Senior Manager, Sales & Marketing, Sabre TN Brunei said, “The fair provides an excellent opportunity for Brunei-based travellers to shop for both overseas and domestic travel packages, making it an event on the travel calendar not to be missed.”

Participating travel agents are: Anthony Tours & Travel Agency, At-Taqwa Travel Tours, Century Travel Centre, Darussalam Holdings, Freme Travel Services, Grace Travel, J J Tour Service, Pan Bright Travel Service, Southern Cross Travel Agencies and Straits Central Agencies.

National tourism organisations including Brunei Tourism Board, Sabah Tourism Board, Sarawak Tourism Board, Taiwan Tourist Bureau, Tourism Authority Thailand and Tourism Perak Management Berhad will again be participating at Brunei Travel Fair. Baiduri Bank Berhad, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, Standard Chartered Bank and Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) will showcase their own booths to extend support to participating travel agents and provide assistance to visitors.

 

 

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Due to popular demand, Pan Bright Travel Service has announced the comeback of their “Travel & Win a Hyundai OR Birkin” lucky draw promotion to be launched this weekend at the upcoming Brunei Travel Fair 2017 at the Banquet Hall of the International Convention Centre, Berakas.

One lucky winner will once again have an option of driving away a brand new Hyundai Car or bring home an exclusive Hermès Birkin Bag.

For the period between September 2017 to February 2018, one monthly ticket will be given out and the lucky customer will stand a chance to win one return ticket to any short haul destination of their choice on Royal Brunei Airlines or a return ticket to Singapore on Singapore Airlines.

The Grand Prize to be drawn in April 2018 will be a Hyundai Accent Car or a Hermès Birkin Bag, sponsored by Pan Bright Travel Service. Other prizes for the Grand Draw will include 2 return air tickets to any long haul destination of their choice sponsored by Royal Brunei Airlines, a return ticket to Brisbane sponsored by Singapore Airlines and return tickets to Kuala Lumpur for two person sponsored by Malaysia Airlines.

Last year’s Grand Draw winner of this promotion went to Awang Md. Taha Bin Ladin who opted for the Car. The winner of the “Travel and Win Car” 2015/2016 was Awang Wasli Hj. Hamid, whilst the winner for 2014/2015 was Dayang Zuriana Bte Abdul Latif.

As per previous years, for every BND200 spent on any travel related products and services from Pan Bright Travel Service, customers will be entitled to one lucky draw coupon.

For more enquiries regarding the promotion, please contact Pan Bright Travel’s offices at 2240980 for Bandar Seri Begawan, 3341154 for Kuala Belait or 3220078 for Seria or follow our Facebook @panbright or Instagram @panbrighttravel for the latest updates.

The lucky draw promotion will start from 26 August 2017 to the 31 March 2018.

 

Audi A5 the sports car for grown ups

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in audi, automative

 

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The new A5 range will boost 252hp with quattro all-wheel-drive
 

Some cars are in your face – I’m looking at you, Ford Mustang – while others prefer elegance to ostentation.

The Audi A5 certainly falls into this latter category. It isn’t covered in scoops and bulges. It doesn’t turn heads everywhere it goes. But it is smooth, elegant and beautifully proportioned.

It is, essentially, a sleeker looking albeit less practical version of the A4 saloon. Prices start around the £31,500 mark, pitching it slightly higher than its saloon sibling but that’s the price you pay for style.

There’s the usual choice of 2.0 litre petrol and diesel engines with varying power outputs and a creamy-smooth 3.0 litre diesel. If you have deeper pockets there is also the very fast S5 and even faster RS5.

As usual with Audi, you can have front or quattro four-wheel drive. Given the deluges we’ve been subjected to this summer I was pleased Audi sent me a four-wheel drive version.

Mine had a 252bhp petrol engine, was in high spec S Line trim and had the S tronic semi-automatic seven-speed transmission. That all adds up to an asking price over £40,000 – and Audi whacked £8,000 of optional extras on its press demonstrator, including head up display (£900), Light and Vision pack (£975) and Driver Assistance Pack (£1,250).

The A5 is aimed at those who might like a TT but need some practicality. Whereas the TT’s rear seats are all but useless for people, the A5 can fit adults in the back, albeit small ones. At 45 litres, the boot is capacious – although Audi could easily make the A5 a practical hatchback without changing its svelte shape.

If you think the exterior looks good you should see the inside. Audi quite simply does the most beautiful and most user friendly interiors in the mainstream car market. Every switch and dial feels top quality and the Virtual Cockpit – a screen behind the steering wheel where dials would be – is tremendous.

The A5 has a nice balance between handling and comfort. Ride quality is firm enough to enjoy sharp cornering but not harsh enough to be uncomfortable on long journeys. In fact, it’s a beautiful long distance cruiser.

With 252bhp on tap, my petrol model absolutely flew. Diesels are a bit slower but offer better economy.

The A5 is not a car that likes to shout about its abilities. Calm, refined and understated, it’s happy to look good without drawing undue attention.

 

 

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Matrix LED Headlights will be standard
 

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Born of pure imagination. Built with innovative reality. The all-new Audi A5.
 

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A 4-door Sportback version will also be available with the same engine output and transmission
 

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The new A5 range for Brunei will be packed with tech goodies such as the digital 12.3 inch Virtual Cockpit, navigation and B&O sound system
 

The new Mercedes-Benz Autohaus

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in automative, Social News

 

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Mr Andrew Chiam, Jati Transport Executive Director, YM Pg Anak Hj Ja’afar Ibni Almarhum Pg Pemancha Pg Anak Hj Mohd ‘Alam, Jati Transport Sdn Bhd Executive Chairman, Dr Claus Weidner, Head of Marketing & Sales Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars South East Asia 2 and President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Sdn Bhd and Mr Wolfgang Huppenbauer, President & CEO of Daimler South East Asia Pte Ltd, Singapore officiating the new Mercedes-Benz Autohaus at Beribi last Friday. Image courtesy of Nurul.
 

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The new Mercedes-Benz Autohaus. It’s bigger and spacious indeed!
 

Jati Transport Sdn Bhd celebrated the 30th anniversary of their appointment as the Mercedes-Benz General Distributor in Brunei with the official opening of the new Mercedes-Benz Autohaus in Beribi last Friday.

With an investment of $5 million, the new Mercedes-Benz Autohaus incorporates the latest Mercedes-Benz concept by Daimler AG, Germany, occupying a build-up area of 28,000 square feet that features a 13 vehicles display area. The bright open tiled showroom with floor-to-ceiling glass walls includes a luxurious customer lounge with complimentary refreshments, LED television, wifi, a new car delivery area and a Mercedes-Benz Merchandise shop. The state-of-the-art workshop features 15 service bays as well as a warehouse for spare parts, and is equipped with world-leading diagnostic and repair equipment.

The new facility also boasts a professional sales and after-sales team, providing the best-in-class global standards of service for every Mercedes-Benz customer.

On hand to officiate at the launch of the new facility were Jati Transport Sdn Bhd Executive Chairman, YM Pg Anak Hj Ja’afar Ibni Almarhum Pg Pemancha Pg Anak Hj Mohd ‘Alam, Jati Transport Executive Director, Mr Andrew Chiam, Head of Marketing & Sales Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars South East Asia 2 and President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Dr Claus Weidner, and President & CEO of Daimler South East Asia Pte Ltd, Singapore, Mr Wolfgang Huppenbauer.

In celebration of their 30th anniversary, Jati Transport Sdn Bhd presented donations of $5,000 each to six charities, namely:
1) Dana Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Fund for Orphans
2) Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam
3) Tabung Orang-orang Cacat
4) Persatuan Kanak-Kanak Cacat (KACA)
5) Tabung Anak-Anak Yatim Daerah Brunei dan Muara
6) SMARTER Brunei

 

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The lovely cake for Jati Transport’s milestone
 

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It has been unveiled
 

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Quite a crowd witnessing the new Autohaus
 

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Ok, this one caught my eye 😀
 

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Hello Tiger :p
 

Meet the Mercedes-AMG 43 family

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in community, automative, Social News

A LINEUP OF SUPERSTARS. A FAMILY OF THOROUGHBREDS.

 

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Happening today
 

From the creators of the 45, 63 and 65 model lines comes MercedesAMG 43, eight high performance vehicles with AMG pedigree were introduced at Mercedes-Benz Autohaus, Beribi, yesterday. Fitted with numerous AMG enhancements, every vehicle screams “Drive me,” because in the AMG family, performance is king. From coupes and sedans to SUVs and roadsters, the power and handling of the 43 lineup beckon to the world’s most passionate drivers. All that’s left to do is grip the wheel and press the accelerator.

The 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo engine provides impressive performance with its 270 kW (367 hp) maximum power and peak torque of 520 newton metres: sprinting from rest to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, its speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h. The newly developed front axle, the taut elastokinematics and the highly precise steering make a substantial contribution to the agile driving experience.

The highlights
• 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo engine with modified engine control unit, increased boost pressure and far higher dynamics and high-revving
• 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with double-declutching function when shifting down and exhilaratingly short response times in “Sport Plus” mode
• AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive with rear-biased torque distribution of 31 to 69 percent (front axle to rear axle)
• AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with adaptive variable damping in three stages, mode can be selected via button, adopted from MercedesAMG 63 series
• AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch for dynamic, individually selectable driving experience with five drive modes and AMG-specific parameterisation
• Three-stage Electronic Stability Program ESP®
• Front axle with newly developed steering knuckles and load-bearing joints on the spring link. Elastokinematic adjustments to the links have been adopted from the Mercedes-AMG 63 series
• Rear axle with elastokinematics tailored to higher driving dynamics
Large braking system with internally ventilated compound brake discs, perforated at the front with a diameter of 360 mm, and with a diameter of 320 mm at the rear

AMG-specific: the 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo engine
The new 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo engine is part of the BlueDIRECT engine family from Mercedes-Benz. Technical advances including a modified boost pressure allowed the AMG engineers to increase the engine’s power output and torque as well as its dynamism and flexibility to typical AMG levels. With 270 kW (367 hp) and 520 Nm, the V6 engine sets new standards in its segment. The NANOSLIDE® coating of the cylinder liners is also used in the Formula One engines of MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS. Especially tough and, therefore, wear-resistant, this coating also reduces friction, thereby contributing to higher efficiency. The AMG powerplant can be identified by the red aluminium insert in the engine cover.

Short shift times, high efficiency: 9G-TRONIC
The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission is especially matched to the demands of the Mercedes-AMG 43. Thanks to the model-specific software application, the AMG developers managed to reduce substantially the shift times of the 9-speed transmission. The multiple downshift allows even faster short bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function in the “Sport” and “Sport Plus” transmission modes makes for an even more emotive driving experience. Defined ignition adjustments also provide faster gearshifts in the “Eco” and “Comfort” modes.

“Manual” mode can be enabled by pressing a button on the centre console. The gear changes are based on the selected transmission mode, and the driver can now change gear using the paddles on the steering wheel. Moreover, the transmission stays in the selected gear and does not automatically shift up when the engine speed reaches the limit.

Rear-biased and agile: AMG Performance 4MATIC
The standard-fit AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive combines optimum traction, hallmark AMG vehicle dynamics and maximum driving pleasure. The system features a rear-biased torque distribution of 31 percent to the front axle and 69 percent to the rear axle. This arrangement ensures greater vehicle dynamics and higher lateral acceleration on the road as well as improved traction as it uses the dynamic shift in the axle load toward the rear axle that occurs during acceleration to deliver more drive torque to the rear. A multi-disc clutch with a locking effect of 50 Nm guarantees that the frictional connection potential of all four wheels is exploited to the full. On road surfaces with different levels of grip, the all-wheel drive responds with targeted brake application on one wheel in order to also guarantee optimum traction in such instances.

 

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The new Mercedes-Benz Autohas at Beribi
 

Vietnamese wins AirAsia Runway Ready Designer Search 2017

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in fashion, lifestyle, Social News

 

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Aireen Omar, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia Berhad, speaking to the media while grand winner, Tran Thi Tu from Vietnam (2nd from left), felt excited being the crowned the winner of AirAsia Runway Ready Designer Search yesterday at Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur.
 

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An emotional Andrew Tan, Founder of Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week Ready To Wear, hopes that the collaboration with AirAsia will continue after a huge success with 10 countries competing this year alone and Air Asia made it possible.

Rano Iskandar in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. AirAsia’s annual designer search, AirAsia Runway Ready Designer Search, held its 2017 Grand Finale today at Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week Ready To Wear 2017 (KLFW RTW 2017).

The finale saw a total of twenty young talents from all 10 Asean countries showcase their Asean-themed creations on the runway.

Two top aspiring designers were selected to represent each country after a regionwide audition tour across Asean. The search kicked off in April in Manila before moving on to Bandar Seri Begawan, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City, Yangon, Jakarta, Bangkok, Vientiane and ended in Phnom Penh in June.

Tran Thi Tu from Vietnam was announced as the Grand Winner and walked away with prizes including a confirmed show segment to showcase their full collection at KLFW RTW 2018, a year-long mentorship from the KLFW RTW team, MYR25,000 sponsored by FashionValet to produce a capsule collection to be sold on fashionvalet.com, 150,000 AirAsia BIG Points, a six-page fashion spread in AirAsia’s Travel3Sixty inflight magazine, a special feature in Female Malaysia magazine and a pair of AirAsia return flights.

 

 

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The winning design from Vietnam. Congratulations.
 

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Another funky design from one of the participating countries
 

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This was one of my favourites design on stage
 

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Featuring local designer from Brunei, Kava by Nazy Sam
 

Aireen Omar, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia Berhad said, “As a truly Asean airline, we are proud to continue our initiative through this platform and expand the designer search to a regional level with talents from all 10 Asean countries. We are very impressed with what we’ve witnessed on the runway today. Asean has great potential and we believe that, with continuous support and guidance from fashion industry leaders, business owners as well as members of the media, the fashion industry can flourish across the region.”

Andrew Tan, Founder of Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week Ready To Wear said, “Having AirAsia as a Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week partner for the past three years has undeniably been an incredible privilege. This partnership allowed us to not only access regional media and influencers but to forge stronger multilateral relationships with opinion leaders, fashion schools, designers and fashion industry activators in neighboring countries. The growth of AirAsia Runway Ready Designer Search from five countries last year to 10 countries this year will be instrumental in paving the way for Kuala Lumpur to be the fashion hub of Asean in the near future, a future made possible with the strength of the collaboration between AirAsia and Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week”.

Vivy Yusof, Co-Founder of FashionValet said, “This year has been nothing short of spectacular. From talented local designers to experiencing the best of what Asean has to offer, it has been a whirlwind adventure. FashionValet is honoured to carry the debut line of last year’s winner from Thailand, Anuruk Jaidee, and we hope this will be the start of more exciting Asean brands on our platform. I am thankful to Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week and AirAsia for collaborating with us at FashionValet and look forward to discovering even more talent in 2018.”

AirAsia Runway Ready Designer Search was established with the aim of empowering youth and developing young talents in the fashion industry across the region. This year’s panel of judges for the Grand Finale included judges from all Asean countries, as well as Aireen Omar, CEO of AirAsia Berhad; Andrew Tan, Founder of KLFW RTW; and Vivy Yusof, Co-Founder of FashionValet. Rides for the regional judges for the grand finale were sponsored by Uber.

Last year’s AirAsia Runway Ready Designer Search winner, Anuruk Jaidee from Thailand, also made a special appearance and showcased his full collection on the KLFW RTW 2017 runway.

AirAsia is also KLFW RTW 2017’s Preferred Travel Partner and is proud to have flown in international fashion designers from across AirAsia’s extensive route network, including Ka-Sha (India), Reclothing Bank (China), Resurrection (South Korea), TAKK (Japan), Yousef Akbar (Australia) and Anthony Ramirez (Philippines).

AirAsia BIG Loyalty Programme and FashionValet are proud sponsors of AirAsia Runway Ready Designer Search 2017.

Follow AirAsia on Youtube (youtube.com/user/AirAsia) for webisodes featuring the participants’ journey to the AirAsia Runway Ready Designer Search 2017 Grand Finale, or follow the hashtag #AirAsiaRunway on other social media channels such as Facebook (facebook.com/AirAsia) and Twitter (twitter.com/AirAsia).

 

 

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Another Brunei designer, Humaira Zakaria
 

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This show is one of the few packed itineraries that lasts for 6 days as part of KL Fashion Week
 

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Actress @bow_benjasiri from Thailand made an appearance at yesterday’s show
 

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Representing Air Asia flight attendants
 

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The local fashion bloggers in Malaysia
 

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About RA

A blogger since 2002, using platforms from blogspot, joomla and now currently wordpress. A readership that stands on average of 20,000 visits per month. Also on active on social media platform on IG, Facebook and Snapchat (@ranoadidas)

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