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Archive for September, 2017

Brunei Travel Fair 2017 prize presentation

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

 

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Irene Soon, General Manager of Sabre Travel Network (Brunei) thanking all the supporters and partners of the recent travel fair before the prize presentation for the winners held at Emperor’s Court
 

Sabre Travel Network (Brunei) Sdn Bhd hosted the Brunei Travel Fair 2017 last month at the Banquet Hall, International Convention Centre and yesterday was the prizes presentation to honour the winners of the lucky draw campaign that took place during that weekend.

So how did it fare? Pretty good in fact. It attracted more than 13,500 visitors to the travel fair and the bookings received increased by 24% from last year’s. That’s pretty encouraging number considering the economic climate of Brunei Darussalam.

Irene Soon, General Manager of Sabre Travel Network (Brunei), appreciated all the partners and supporters involved in making the travel fair another success.

The prize presentation ceremony took place at Emperor’s Court and it was attended by Sabre Travel Network (Brunei), Baiduri Bank, Royal Brunei Airlines and travel agencies. The prizes were sponsored by Sabre Travel Network (Brunei), Baiduri Bank, Royal Brunei Airlines and Malaysia Airlines.

 

 

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Ms Lim Shar Lun won a 2 Returned Economy Class Tickets to any Royal Brunei Airlines long haul destination
 

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12 year old Md Shahirul Azuan Md Effendi won a two return economy class ticket to any Royal Brunei Airlines short haul destination for winning in Category A for the Fidget Spinner competition
 

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Wan Farhan Hj Ibrahim won a return economy class air ticket to any Royal Brunei Airlines short haul destination. He won in Category B for the Fidget Spinner competition.
 

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Ms Malinee Bumrungkit won a Mayer Healthy Fryer sponsored by Sabre Travel Network
 

The winners.

Malaysia Airlines sponsored returned tickets and the winners were Dk Majeedah Pg Hj Jeludin, a return flight ticket to Penang via Kuala Lumpur and Muna Atiqah Abdul Nadir, a return flight ticket to Langkawi via Kuala Lumpur.

Royal Brunei Airlines sponsored air tickets and Royal Skies Points and the winners were Lim Shar Lun, winning two return flight tickets to any Royal Brunei Airlines long haul destination, Mohd Saiffuddin Mohd Yusop, winning two return flight tickets to any Royal Brunei Airlines short haul destination annd Hj Shahri Hj Zainal, winning 50,000 Royal Skies points.

As for the Sabre Travel Network winners, they were Mahani Md Yussof (GoPro Hero 5), Norhayati Malai Abdullah (Matrix HD TV), Ms Chong Nyan Mee (Philips TV) and Malinee Bumrungkit (Mayer Healthy Fryer).

For the Fidget Spinner Competition organised by Royal Brunei Airlines, the winners were Md Shahirul Azuan Md Effendi for Category A and Wan Farhan Hj Ibrahim for Category B. Both of them won a return flight ticket to any Royal Brunei Airlines short haul destination.

For the Travel Agent category, all the destinations – Ho Chi Minh, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and London belonged to two travel consultants from Pan Bright Travel for their top selling destinations during the travel fair.

For the top Travel Agents award, Freme Travel Services came first while Pan Bright Travel Service came second and Darussalam Holdings finished third.

 

 

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Mahani Md Yussof won herself a GoPro Hero 5 sponsored by Sabre Travel Network
 

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Chong Nyan Mee won herself a Philips TV sponsored by Sabre Travel Network
 

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The winners sponsored by Malaysia Airlines. One is heading to Penang while the other to Langkawai
 

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Freme Travel Services won as the top selling travel agent during the Sabre Travel Fair
 

 

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An agent from Pan Bright Travel Service rewarded for her efforts for her top selling destinations – Singapore and London during the travel fair
 

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Representatives from Pan Bright Travel Services, coming 2nd place in the Top Travel Agents during the Brunei Travel Fair
 

The new Audi A5 – packed full with car tech

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in audi

 


Check out the new Audi A5
 


Check out the new Audi A5
 

The new generation of the A5 is athletic, sporty, elegant and intelligent. Its design goes hand in hand with sophisticated aerodynamics. Under the skin, the A5 impresses with an all-new chassis, powerful engine, as well as innovative infotainment features and driver assistance systems.

Design and body
The new Audi A5 range sports a fresh, modern and honed look. It is nevertheless true to its DNA with the sporty and elegant character being passed down to the new generation. An example is the now three-dimensional shoulder line in the form of a wave, already prominent in the preceding model. The precise, sweeping line with pronounced bulges over the wheel arches emphasizes all four wheels – a hint at the quattro all-wheel drive, which is standard for Brunei models.

The balanced proportions with a long engine hood, the stretched wheelbase and short overhangs underscore the sportiness of the new A5 Coupé. The sculpted Singleframe grill is significantly flatter and wider than in the previous model. The standard LED rear lights and Matrix LED headlights with dynamic turn signals make high-end technology visible even after dark.

The Audi A5 range is significantly more efficient than its predecessor. This is due in large part to a reduction in weight as well as sophisticated aerodynamics. The engineers were able to trim the curb weight by up to 60 kilograms (132.3 lb). The body is the lightest in the competitive field thanks to an intelligent mix of materials and lightweight design. With a Cd value of 0.25, the A5 Coupé is the front runner in its segment when it comes to aerodynamics.

Interior
The interior benefits from the increased dimensions and longer wheelbase. The luggage compartment offers a volume of 465 liters (16.4 cu ft), 10 liters (0.4 cu ft) more than with the previous model. For the 4-door Sportback model its 480 liters (17.0 cu ft).

Space for driver and passengers is more generous. The ambient lighting with 30 selectable colours creates a fitting mood for the interior. The new A5 Coupé is also at the head of its class in aeroacoustics.

Drive system
The new Audi A5 Coupé and Sportback for Brunei will launch with a new 185 kW (252 hp) TFSI engine. Compared with the previous model, they offer up to 17 percent more performance while consuming as much as 22 percent less fuel.

seven-speed S tronic is used with the four-cylinder engine together with quattro all-wheel drive as a standard feature.

Suspension
The entirely newly developed chassis in the Audi A5 offers the driver optimal comfort and a simultaneously high level of agility. The A5 thus handles narrow, winding mountain roads and long trips on the freeway with equal aplomb. Audi offers a suspension with damper control as standard. It is integrated into the Audi drive select dynamic handling system, so that the driver can set the basic characteristics in several stages.

The electromechanical power steering is also a new development from Audi. It adapts to the vehicle’s current speed and provides highly precise road feedback.

 

 

 

 

Infotainment and Audi connect
The new A5 range for Brunei is now available for the first time with the Audi virtual cockpit, a 12.3-inch TFT display with a resolution of 1,440 x 540 pixels. Together with the MMI navigation plus including an 8.3-inch monitor on the center console, it forms the central information unit. The focal point of the MMI terminal is the round rotary/push-button control. Its surface is home to the touch-sensitive touchpad.
The whole MMI control logic is similar to that of a smartphone, including the intelligent free-text search function. The new voice control system can recognize input made using everyday language, such as: “I want to call Peter”.

With the Audi smartphone interface, Apple Car Play and Android Auto bring the familiar smartphone environment into the car, if desired. For especially discerning hi-fi fans, the Bang & Olufsen Sound System with its innovative 3D sound is available as standard.

Audi A5 Sportback
The 4-door Sportback version has grown significantly inside. Its interior length has gained 17 millimetres (0.7 in), the shoulder room for driver and front passenger up to 11 millimetres (0.4 in) and the rear knee room 24 millimetres (0.9 in).

With 480 liters (17.0 cu ft) of luggage capacity, the A5 Sportback rates among the best in its class.

The body of the new Audi A5 Sportback is the lightest in the segment. An intelligent mix of materials makes it 15 kilograms (33.1 lb) lighter than that of the predecessor. The overall weight of the new generation has fallen by as much as 85 kilograms (187.4 lb) to just 1,470 kilograms (3,240.8 lb), excluding the driver.

 

New facelift for CBTL

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

 


Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Mun’im bin Pengiran Anak Haji Tahiruddin, the Managing Director of The Coffee Bean® Brunei with His Excellency Craig Allen, the U.S. Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam at the relaunch of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Centrepoint
 


With invited guests to witness the 16th anniversary of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
 

The Coffee Bean® celebrates their 16th Anniversary of brewing in Brunei with the renovation of their first outlet that opened in 2001 located at the Centrepoint Hotel. The new concept embraces the Southern California roots of where the American coffee franchise was born.

The new Californian look and layout engages customers with their surroundings by offering easier interactions with baristas and community message walls for patrons to localize. Frederick Milin, Brand Manager of PAR Food & Beverages Sdn. Bhd. shares, “It’s important for us to evolve and change with our customer’s needs. Based on the feedback of our regular customers, the present look is a fresher and lighter theme paying tribute to the Californian lifestyle element while the layout has increased customer seating and provides a better area for large groups that frequent our Centrepoint outlet.”

The official reopening was officiated by guest of honour Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Mun’im bin Pengiran Anak Haji Tahiruddin, the Managing Director of The Coffee Bean® Brunei with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Also present was His Excellency Craig Allen, the U.S. Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam. The ceremony began with the recitation of Doa selamat followed by welcoming remarks and was followed by a cheque presentation to three charitable organizations by public donations and contributions from The Coffee Bean®. The three organizations were namely Centre for Children with Special Needs, SMARTER Brunei and Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam with a total amount of $6,000.

The event also marked the launching of new merchandise namely the 16th Anniversary T-Shirt and the Ice Blended 16th Anniversary T-Shirt retailed at $23.00 each including the addition of two new permanent Ice Blended drinks – Berry’d Treasure, a blend of berry juice and vanilla and the ever popular Cookies & Cream which now comes in Mocha or Vanilla flavoured.

To find out more news or promotions follow The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® on Instagram at @coffeebean_brunei and like them on facebook at facebook.com/thecoffeebeanbrunei.

 

 


Guest of honour with his welcoming remarks
 


Handing over of donations to three charitable foundations in Brunei Darussalam
 


The new facelift inside Gadong outlet
 


Now they have an upper area. Cool 😀
 

Audi quattro Cup Brunei Charity Golf Tournament 2017

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in audi

 


Are you ready for the Audi quattro Cup Brunei Charity Golf Tournament 2017?
 

After a successful 7th edition last year, TCY Motors as the sole Audi dealer/importer is once again organizing its annual CSR activity the Audi quattro Cup Brunei Charity Golf Tournament 2017 from 29th September to 1st October at the Royal Brunei Golf and Country Club, Jerudong.

Since its launch in 2010, the Audi quattro Cup Brunei has donated over $100,000.00 to various local charities and NGOs. For this year’s event, golfers’ entry fees will be donated towards the National Welfare Body Fund under the Community Development Department JAPEM. All golfers are welcomed to participate.

Attractive ‘Hole-in-One’ prizes also await participating golfers: a Victory and Royal Enfield motorcycle, an Audi A4 Sedan and Audi Q3 SUV. Not bad at all 😀

A lucky draw will also be held for all participating golfers during the trophy presentation.

The tournament format is Greensome Stableford (best ball).

The World Final in Mexico with more than 47 countries participating will be held from December 1st until 5th, the winners of all national Audi quattro Cup qualifiers will meet at the Quivira Golf Club Los Cabos to compete for the final victory.

Forms are now available at the Audi Kiarong showroom. For more information, call 2442333 ext16 during office hours.

 

 

 

Media Day at Brunei International Airport

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

 


Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa, the Minister of Communications looking at a souvenir product at one of the souvenir shop at Brunei International Airport
 


The minister speaking to Vincent Hong of See Hua Daily News
 

It’s good to see how much Brunei International Airport has grown after the renovation back in 2012. The foundation stone laying ceremony for the Modernisation Project of the Brunei International Airport  took place back in October 2012 and it was graced by the former Minister of Communications, Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdullah. It was a project spearheaded by Brunei Economic Development Board and Department of Civil Aviation.

Fast forward now, the Brunei International Airport has total changed from what it was before – better access for passengers, better and efficient check-in counters, more spacious at departure hall area and many more.

It was a great to see Brunei International Airport hosted a media day with the presence of Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa, the Minister of Communications and he shared his insights of the newly renovated Brunei International Airport to the media.

Also present was Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications, Dr. Hj Supry bin Hj Awang Ladi, Mohammad Nazri Mohammad Yusof, Director for Department of Civil Aviation and other officials of DCA and stakeholders of Brunei International Airport.

The minister was quite happy with the progress made at BIA and it is ready to soar to newer heights. BIA is ready to handle at least 3 million travellers and currently BIA is handling an estimated number of 1.5 million. He believed that there is still more room for growth in terms of travellers.

The minister gave an extensive tour with the media, covering different aspects such as goods and services offered at BIA.

What I found interesting is the “Commercially Important Person (CIP) Area” – a newly introduced service offering a VIP holding area which is also available for public rental before aircraft boarding, ensuring optimum comfort and privacy for passengers who need it.

Another that caught my eye was Savy’s Hall which is located on the upper floor which is a few metres after you pass the immigration. They probably need a bigger sign so passengers are aware of their presence. I didn’t know there was one until I attended the media tour. It’s basically another eatery place apart from The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.

Mixmediaworx has also helped to provide revenue for BIA as the advertising agency and they will be involved in a five year plan which began last year. Azlan Ahmad, the Executive Director of Mixmediaworx shared the updates with the minister of their progress and involvement so far with BIA.

The minister is very aware of the progress of BIA as he shared updates such as transportation (taxi system and even bus system in the future) and their newly launched mobile app, iFlyBrunei Version 2.0

I’ve been traveling a lot lately and I have seen great changes at BIA ever since its renovation. Good job on BEBD on the renovations and DCA on maintaining the standards and improving whenever necessary.

 

 


The minister at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
 


The minister touring inside the departure hall of Brunei International Airpot
 


Something to look forward to very soon
 

 


The minister visiting a new eatery place called Savy’s Hall
 

 


I might just dine here one day during one of the future travels
 


The minister launching Junjung
 


The minister and the entourage at Junjung kiosk
 


I shall try this one day. Now available at Junjung. A good way to buy souvenirs for outgoing tourists.
 

Shrek the Musical, press conference

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

 


Good luck to Relentless Entertainment crew for next weekend’s event
 

Relentless Entertainment Brunei will be holding their fifth (5th ) musical production, ‘Shrek’ The Musical.

The musical will take place for two (2) days – Saturday, 16th September (7.30pm Premier Show) and Sunday, 17th September (1.30pm Matinee show and 7.30pm evening show) at the Jerudong International School (JIS) Arts Centre Theatre.

The exciting two and a half hour show is set in a mythical ‘once upon a time’ sort of land featuring Shrek, a hulking green ogre who, after being mocked and feared his entire life retreats to a swamp to exist in happy isolation. Suddenly, a gang of homeless fairy-tale creatures (Pinocchio, The Three Bears, Ugly Duckling, Big Bad Wolf, etc.) raid his sanctuary, saying they’ve been evicted by vertically challenged Lord Farquaad. Shrek goes on a journey to get his swamp back and is given a deal to rescue Princess Fiona for his swamp back.

The musical is supported by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, Brunei Tourism Board, Progresif Cellular Sdn. Bhd. , YippyTune Music School as official Vocal Coach, The Faceshop as the official make up sponsor, Dragons and Pixie Dust and Karen Then Make Up as Official Special Effects Make Up Artists, Offset Printing House as the official Print Partner and ticketing partners R&C Café and The Coffeebean & Tea Leaf.

Tickets are priced at $25 & $35 (Based on seating zones) and are available for purchase at Relentless Studios (B21, 2nd Floor, Gadong Central), R&C Café (UBD Library), The Coffeebean & Tea Leaf Times Square, Supa Save Mata Mata & Supa Save Seria outlets as well as YippyTune Music School (B19, 2nd Floor Gadong Central).

With a total of 50 talented local cast members of different age groups performing, Shrek The Musical promises to be a fun, entertaining and colourful family event.

For the past 10 years Relentless Entertainment, a local performing arts, education and events management company has worked closely with local talents and artists and hopes to develop as well as establish a vibrant creative industry for the vast amounts of talents in Brunei.

This will be the first time they are organizing two (2) musicals in a year. Earlier this they produced Musical Mania, which they also announced, will be a yearly event.

Producing and organizing theatre musicals is the company’s way of providing the many aspiring local actors, singers and dancers a platform to perform and showcase their talents, to give all stage crew members the experience of working behind the scenes on a musical production and to show that Brunei / Bruneians are capable of producing musical shows of high standard with local talents.

Relentless believes that a musical production is a positive event and will have a positive impact on the community and all involved. The cast and crew are excited about the opportunity to contribute to the growing performing arts industry in Brunei Darussalam.

For more information on Shrek the Musical or upcoming Relentless Entertainment Events, please contact 8243222 / 7186225 and follow @Relentlessbrunei on Instagram

 

 

 


The co-founders of Relentless Entertainment – Sumardi Hedus and Amy Cheong – during the press conference last Tuesday
 


Some of the main cast for Shrek the Musical – the princess, the donkey and Shrek himself
 

 

Interview with Mark Raine

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

Mark Raine, Mercedes-Benz Cars vice-president of sales and marketing (Malaysia), has been active in the car scene lately, leading record sales for Mercedes last year with almost 12,000 units sold in 2016. There are many interesting factors that contributed to the growth of Mercedes-Benz in Malaysia and also in South East Asia.

What has made the premium brand a success as of late? What are their recipes to success and sustainability? I have the privilege to interview Mark Raine during my short visit to Kota Kinabalu last week. Mark is a very easy going lad and very approachable. Thank you for hosting the media and customers last week and arranging a great three day event in showcasing how Mercedes-Benz is not just a product but a lifestyle.

 

 


Interviewing Mark Raine at Shangrila’s Rasa Ria
 

Rano Iskandar: Can you share the growth of Mercedes-Benz and its growing presence in South East Asia?

Mark Raine: I believe we have a holistic approach in our brand, Mercedes-Benz and this has been a huge factor in our growth and being a brand leader in the premium category. We don’t only have the best car but also focusing on customer centric in a way of doing our business, to give a more positive customer experience before and after sales. Even the process of buying a Mercedes is taken into account such as having a competent website, digital approach and also the consultation process. All these are essential in the buying process so in the end, the customers are happy with their choices. This is already half the victory in catering to what the customers want.

The real deal starts after the sales and we at Mercedes emphasizes deeply in this area as this will determine our loyalty of our customers. It has proven a success and it is no doubt that the growth of Mercedes in the premium sector has increased despite the downturn in the economy in SEA.

The extension of the models from Mercedes-Benz has helped to elevate the growth of the brand in the premium sector. These are such as the SUV models – the GLEs, GLCs and GLAs being introduced in the market.

Rano Iskandar: Speaking of the trend, is this segment a huge trend in the region for Mercedes and how it came about?

Mark Raine: Yes, this is more of a global trend that SUVs have impacting the trend. However, there was little choices in the premium segment. We have a gut feeling and took a gamble in this segment and we believed that SUV is the thing of the future. This was also the key element of positioning of the Mercedes brand (in the SUV segment), focusing on lifestyle and affluent customers. This has helped to rejuvenate the brand while improving on innovation and technology.

Rano Iskandar: Why Kota Kinabalu as the prime destination for the #hungryforadventure ?

Mark Raine: The destination speaks for itself and we want to associate the mindset of our customers that our brand offers endurance, great positioning for different walks of life such as taking your children to school or on the weekend, bring your bike for a spin or going for a round of golf and lastly Kota Kinabalu gives a sense of adrenalin which resonates with our brand. We were fortunate that we have different weather conditions during our hill drive this morning at Sabah National Park and it showed what our SUVs are capable of.

We at Mercedes tend to organize events like this twice a year. We will invite our stakeholders along such as the media, the customers to showcase what SUVs are about and also being a premium brand, we want to be approachable to our customers by having a touch and feel on what Mercedes have to offer.

Rano Iskandar: Which model in Malaysia has been a top seller?

Mark Raine: It will be the C class and it targets all walks of life. However, it’s not the only model that has been popular but the compact cars and other models such as the E Class that was launched last year in Malaysia. Pretty soon we will be launching the new E 350E the latest hybrid brand. In terms of growth, it will be the SUVs and the GLC is the best selling in Malaysia and we sold over 3,000 units since its launch.

 

 


Mark Raine, Mercedes-Benz Cars vice-president of sales and marketing (Malaysia), posing with the latest Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 at Hap Seng Star showroom at Kota Kinabalu recently
 

Rano Iskandar: Why introducing the GLC 200 if you already have the GLC 250?

Mark Raine: We have the GLC 250 which is a brilliant product. It’s an SUV 4WD and offers great speed and comfort, positioning it as a very sporty, luxury model.

However to a certain extent, we are only capturing a lot of market but there are customers who want different qualities and traits and their mindsets are different from other customers. Hence the GLC 200 repositions itself in more exclusive luxury segment. It comes standard in on-road package or off-road package. The interior package also makes the value perception of this vehicle very, very high. The GLC 200 is just a notch below the GLC 250, hence makes it more affordable for most customers in the market. The unique selling point of the GLC 200 will be the exclusive luxurious appeal with high value perception and many features at a very competitive price.

Rano Iskandar: The GLC 200 is locally assembled in Malaysia. Is there any difference from the ones being imported?

Mark Raine: No difference at all. Same car, same quality, same quality checks. In essence, the same car. In South East Asia, we have a local production because we have tax exemptions and it makes the pricing more attractive.

Rano Iskandar: The GLE 43 Coupe OrangeArt Limited Edition. Share me more about it.

Mark Raine: It’s already available through order. It’s very limited and exclusive order. It’s very eccentric and flashy feel. It has a 21 inch AMG wheels with the OrangeArt Edition exterior package. We even have the Night Package. The eccentric and unique edition features extravagant design highlights including striking expressive decals in the orange on the front apron and the AMG wheels painted in high-gloss black and rim flange painted in orange.

The GLE 43 Coupe Orange Art Edition making it a high end personalised edition giving that special, individualized character and it’s definitely a striking appeal.

 

 


I had the privilege to test drive the GLC 200 and it will available in Brunei market hopefully by November 2017
 


Loving the feel and the drive. Of course, I love the AMG GLC 250 but this model is still good enough to keep me satisfied
 


A nice touch when I opened the door of the GLC 200
 

Impressive show from Yippy Tune

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

 


Students and the music instructors from Yippy Tune at the 24th KK Music and Dance Festival in the Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort last weekend
 


It was quite a memorable moment for the children and parents
 

A total of 52 students from Yippy Tune Music School participated in the 24th KK Music and Dance Festival in the Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort on the 1st & 2nd September in Kota Kinabalu. This year, the event saw a record participation of 1,600 musicians from Brunei, Singapore and Malaysia. The participants from Yippy Tune competed in the category of piano, vocal, violin and drums and pocketed a total of 90 medals, which consists of 26 Gold, 41 Silver and 23 Bronze.

Some of the students who attained outstanding results include Siena Hoon, 5 Medals (2 Gold, 2 Silver and 1 Bronze), Freda Ngu (2 Gold, 1 Silver), Ethan Officer and Jonathan Foo (2 Gold each).

This is the second year that Yippy Tune has sent students to compete in the KK Music Festival, following an initial win of 13 medals win during their first visit two years ago. “While the students came here after months of preparations and hard work, one of the main reasons for this participation was for the spirit of communion and exchange with other musicians. Deon Ong, Yippy Tune’s principal remarked, “Completing a performance is like winning a sport event! It helps to create awareness of live music performance and reflects the music school’s practice of providing a balanced and outgoing programs for students.” She added, “Coming to the event required tremendous commitment, time and effort not only from the students alone, but the undivided support from the teachers and parents whom we pay our utmost thanks and gratitude to.”

According to a parent, “The KK Music Festival created an incredibly inspiring and unique experience where my child can perform in front of an international crowd. It really humbles you to see so many talented individuals and at the same time lift everyone’s standard because of the friendly competition.” Said Delon Hon, whose daughter, Natalie received a Gold Medal in her Piano Performance.

Comparing to the previous years, the judges have elevated their expectations, tightened the number of medals they released, while assessing the contestants’ every strength and weaknesses in much greater details. “This is a welcoming change, because it lifts the standard for everyone and motivates the students to work harder in their preparation for the next year’s event. It also makes the award extra more precious for those who have won.” Said Teacher Marcel from Yippy Tune. “All our teachers are extremely proud of our students’ effort and result. Their tenacity and attitude towards music has really encouraged each of us.”

The music gathering this year was a much-anticipated event especially because the organisers stepped up the game by inviting world-class performers and judges to take part in the judging panel and conducted special group classes for the students. Renown participants included Pianist, Yen-Lin Goh whose work appeared in Vera Ivanova’s soundtrack, Wesley Johnson, a senior lecturer from UPSI, Dr. Tham Horng Kent, the recipients of Asia Yamaha Music Scholarship graduated from Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and Japanese pianist Misa Yamamoto. Press release and images courtesy of Yippy Tune.

 

 


One of the gold medal recipient from Yippy Tune
 


Aubrey Lee receiving a medal too
 


Siena Hoon was one of the biggest winners with 2 gold, 2 silver and 1 bronze
 

 


Siena with her mother Deon Ong
 


Freda Ngu and Audrey Koh were also recipients during the event
 


Ethan Officer with his gold medal
 

 


Siena with the music instructors from Yippy Tune
 

Cuckoo Brunei turns one

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in community, healthy, lifestyle

 


Congratulations to the Cuckoo team for reaching their milestone during their 1 year anniversary held at V-Plaza Hotel
 


The management and the driver behind Cuckoo Brunei
 

Korean leading home appliance brand Cuckoo celebrated their first-year anniversary. The event was attended by Counselor Lee, Embassy of the Republic of Korea as well as overseas partners from Cuckoo International Malaysia.

“Thanks to the company’s strong and dedicated team as well as customers’ trust, we managed to achieve this milestone of over 2,500 customers,” said Wong Kim Guan, Managing Director of Cuckoo International (B) Sdn Bhd.

Despite being a young company, Cuckoo has been very bold in its bid to become an even more competent company, he added.

In celebration of this achievement and also to continue its commitment in providing the best products to all Bruneians, the company is rolling out its latest product, Cuckoo C Model Air Purifier with Plasma Ioniser.

The new product, C Model Air Purifier, worth $990 is equipped with built-in air cleanliness indicator and Room Care Air Purifier Technology. From as low as $49 a month, as well as to enjoy the full range of Cuckoo’s signature services.

With the new rental plan for air purifier – including a C Model air purifier, filters, periodical maintenance service performed by Cuckoo Natural Doctors every four months, and warranty – subscribers will have the freedom to choose a package with a rental contract period that is best tailored to their individual needs.

“The new C Model rental plan is another step forward in Cuckoo’s mission to ensure that every Bruneian household would have access to air purifiers”, said Cuckoo International (B) Sdn Bhd, Managing Director Wong Kim Guan.

“We will continue to provide better products and plans with even greater affordability and flexibility that will cater to the needs of every consumer, and help them create a healthy home for their family.”

Cuckoo also took the opportunity at the event to unveil the launch of Natural Doctresses, which will be responsible for servicing the water purifiers and changing the filters after every four months. During service, Cuckoo Natural Doctresses are required to perform the 15-point check, which includes sterilizing the water tank and faucet with a high-pressure steamer, and changing of the filter. Customers can keep track of the procedures by using the Cuckoo Natural Care Service 15-point check card.

Cuckoo is the first company in Brunei that uses high-pressure steamer to clean the water tank, and on top of servicing the water purifier, Cuckoo Natural Doctresses are also more than happy to sterlise the kitchen sink and chopping board for free. This is because Cuckoo believes that servicing staff should always be focused on the task at hand to ensure that only the best service is given to the customers.

Cuckoo is the leading home appliance brand in South Korea, specialising in water purifiers, air purifiers and pressure multi-cookers.

Learn more about Cuckoo by calling its careline 2333330/2333331, visiting www.cuckoobrunei.com or following its Facebook page ‘Cuckoo Brunei’ or their instagram account @cuckoobn

 

 


Wong Kim Guan, Managing Director of Cuckoo International (B) Sdn Bhd, Counselor Lee, Embassy of the Republic of Korea to Brunei Darussalam, Wong Yong Lin, Chairman of Cuckoo International Brunei and Mr. KC Hoe, CEO of Cuckoo International Malaysia
 

 

 

 


Sheryl Tong Sing Mei, Natural Manager of Cuckoo Stallions has reached a milestone with 1030 units sold in the first year
 


Hajah Haslinda Binti Hj Hasni, the Top Alliance Recruiter
 


Well done Hj Mod Zulikram bin Hj Awang Damit
 


The highest number of installation of Cuckoo in Brunei Darussalam
 


Hui Ting Wong, Head of Educations Department and Marketing Director of Cuckoo International Brunei
 

 

 


The C Model Air Purifier which is already available. This is not the actual size :p
 


Hui Ting Wong with Cuckoo friends – Gzul and I 😀
 

Rano’s thoughts: I have a Cuckoo Icon at my pantry so far and I’m loving it so far after 5 months of usage. It provides me both hot and cold water and yes, it’s a water purifier. I’m not too driven on alkaline water like other companies are doing and all Cuckoo provide is a mild alkaline, clean water. Nothing more, nothing less.

This is a first in & out Electrolysis Sterlisation System and a touch panel with mood light. It has four filters with 6 stage of filtration. You can be rest assured that the water is being purified to its best.

The best part of being a Cuckoo customer is the after sales service they provide. They would pay a visit every four months to change the filters and service my Icon machine to tip top condition. This quarterly service alone has brought confidence to the customers and newer ones and this is a big reason why Cuckoo is doing quite well in Brunei, considering it’s only been one year old.

So what are you waiting for? Get yourself a Cuckoo 😀

 

Jollibee No.15

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

 


The Chickenjoy toasts in opening the 15th outlet of Jollilbee in Brunei Darussalam earlier this morning
 


Dennis Flores, Vice-President, International Operations (Europe, Middle East & Australia) Jollibee Foods Corporation delivering his welcoming remarks and the milestone of Brunei Darussalam for Jollibee’s success
 

Finally the 15th store is officially opened in Brunei Darussalam. I am referring to Jollibee in Brunei Darussalam. You will be surprised that Jollibee in Brunei is more popular than other regional countries other than their home country, the Phillipines. Imagine this, Indonesia only has one outlet, Singapore has only 4 outlets, Hong Kong has only two while Malaysia has no more Jollibee outlets. The other SEA country that loved Jollibee is Vietnam with 80 outlets and counting.

So it’s safe to say that Jollibee hits the Brunei’s taste and it has been an ongoing success since it’s inception in 1987. My favourite meal from Jollibee then was the nasi lemak.. yummy… and also Jollibee’s chunky chicken burger 😀 Now both items are not available anymore in our Brunei market.. Boohoo. Hence, my favourite meal now is the spicy chicken with rice and my all time favourite Chocolate Sundae.

Enough of my ramblings about the past on Jollibee. I’m impressed that the popular franchise has been sustaining its presence for 30 years in Brunei. That’s longer than any other franchise that I know of. None of the competitors come close to the longevity of Jollibee in Brunei.

This morning the 15th outlet, perhaps the best design of the lot in Brunei, opened its door to the public and it’s located at Brunei International Airport.

The official opening was done gracefully with the presence of many – His Excellency Meynardo LB Montealegrer, Ambassador of The Philippines to Brunei Darussalam, Dennis Flores, Vice-President, International Operations (Europe, Middle East & Australia) Jollibee Foods Corporation., Abdul Razak bin Mohammad Hassan, grandson of Pehin Orang Kaya Ratna Setia Dato Setia Hj Awang Abdul Hapidz, Jollibee Franchisee Brunei, Muhammad Emmy Shamdy Khairul Kadir, Acting Deputy Director of Civil Aviation.

Also gracing the presence were Mr. Rodel Alcantara, AVP & Market Head for Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia & Europe, Jollibee Foods Corporation, Christina Ward, Operations Head of Jollibee (Brunei), Roilan Alvarez, Group Manager and Hj Md Shukry bin Hj Md Yusuf, first local restaurant manager in Jollibee (Brunei).

The airport outlet was unveiled by noon today and as usual, there was a long queue prior to the opening of the 15th outlet.

Congratulations once again to Jollibee Brunei for their milestone. Let’s spread more JOY to Brunei after 30 years and running. Thank you 😀

 

 


Jollibee mascot and his four friends at Jollibee’s Brunei International Airport outlet
 


With the awesome team of Jollibee Brunei
 


His Excellency Meynardo LB Montealegrer, Ambassador of The Philippines to Brunei Darussalam with Abdul Razak bin Mohammad Hassan and Muhammad Emmy Shamdy Khairul Kadir, Acting Deputy Director of Civil Aviation sharing a light moment
 

 


It’s quite spacious at Jollibee outlet. This will definitely be a huge hit among Bruneians
 


My beautiful friends – Hasmin and Pranika, attending the event today
 


Liyana Yus the Jollibee Ambassador
 


I love the interior concept of Jollibee Brunei
 


A long queue waiting to enter the Jollibee outlet
 

Contact RA

ranoadidas (a) gmail.com
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Contact: +6738677773

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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