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Archive for December, 2020

Brunei Darussalam from the Eyes of Foreign Diplomats and their Families

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

Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna binti Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, the Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, officiating “Brunei Darussalam from the Eyes of Foreign Diplomats and their Families” with His Excellency Sheikh Ahmed bin Hashil Al-Maskari, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Sultanate of Oman at the Royal Regalia Museum recently

On Wednesday, 16th December 2020, “Brunei Darussalam from the Eyes of Foreign Diplomats and their Families” exhibition was officially launched by Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna binti Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, the Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, at the Royal Regalia Museum in the Capital.

Upon arrival, Her Royal Highness and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, were greeted by The Honourable Major General (Retired) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Aminuddin Ihsan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports and the following heads of diplomatic missions who are also members of the exhibition organizing committee:

  • His Excellency Sheikh Ahmed bin Hashil Al-Maskari, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Sultanate of Oman.
  • His Excellency Suat Akgun, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey.
  • His Excellency Christian Ramage, Ambassador of the French Republic.
  • Her Excellency Yoon Hyun Bong, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea.
  • His Excellency Christopher Montero, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines. 
  • Her Excellency Tiffany Anne McDonald, Australian High Commissioner.  


Members of the diplomatic corps and families and invited guests during the launch
Her Excellency Tiffany Anne McDonald, Australian High Commissioner showing the contribution from the Australian High Commission
A photo by Her Excellency Tiffany Anne McDonald, Australian High Commissioner
His Excellency John Virgoe, British High Commissioner explaining his photo
A photo by His Excellency John Virgoe
Her Excellency Jeanette Stovel, Canadian High Commissioner showing the contribution from the Canada High Commission
A photo from Her Excellency Jeanette Stovel who is also an avid hiker
Her Excellency Yu Hong, Ambassador of People’s Republic of China showcasing their contribution
A photo taken by Her Excellency Yu Hong

The ceremony began with the recital of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa selamat led by Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Setia Raja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Haji Awang Suhaili bin Haji Mohiddin.

In his welcoming remarks, His Excellency Sheikh Ahmed bin Hashil Al-Maskari, among other things expressed gratefulness to His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah Ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam for consenting for the exhibition to be held at Royal Regalia Museum.

His Excellency the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, informed how the Diplomatic Corps was trying to organize the exhibition since the year 2018, by saying: 

“The idea of setting up this exhibition was initiated on the year 2018 and ever since many attempts were made to bring it to fruition, until we realized that having an exhibition of such caliber requires combined efforts from many partners. 

“Thus, the diplomatic corps thought to take on board two partners namely; the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD), who both played a vital role in ensuring this long-awaited event finally takes place”.

His Excellency the Dean then expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports for generously consenting to transfer and organize the exhibition in other districts, while emphasizing that this notable gesture form the Ministry greatly contributed to the exhibition success and continuity.

The Dean of the Diplomatic Corps also thanked Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) for sponsoring the event and reserved further praise for the participating diplomatic missions and the exhibition organizing committee. 

Sharon Chong from the Singapore High Commission showing her photo
Perhaps my favourite photo of the lot. Taken by Sharon Chong.
Rayya Al Maskari from the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman showing her photos
A photo by Rayya Al Maskari

Further enlivening the event was the screening of a short video showing selected photos on display at the exhibition. 

Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna then consented to cut the ribbon to signify the launching of the photo exhibition that features rare glimpses of the surreal beauty and lifestyle of the Abode of Peace.

Prior to touring the exhibition Her Royal Highness was presented with a bouquet of flowers by Her Excellency Yoon Hyun Bong, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea on behalf of the organizing committee.

Among those present were: 

  • The Honourable Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy.
  • The Honourable Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism.

The Honorable minister of Culture, Youth and Sports said at the sideline of the event:

“We are very pleased to have been closely involved with the Diplomatic Corps in Brunei Darussalam in organizing this extraordinary exhibition that displays for the first time, how foreign diplomats and their families see Brunei Darussalam through the camera lens.  I was very impressed with the photos on display, demonstrating wonderful expressions inspired by the way foreign diplomats and members of their families view Brunei Darussalam– our people, our scenery and our culture.” 

The Honorable minister of Culture, Youth and Sports also congratulated the exhibition organizing committee on its success by saying: 

“Congratulations and thank you to all those who were involved in the project, especially His Excellency Sheikh Ahmed bin Hashil Al Maskari, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and all members of the organizing committee”.

Meanwhile, Mr. Mubashar H. Khokhar, the Managing Director and CEO of Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) said:

“As a bank that is Bruneian at Heart, we take great pride in supporting this exhibition. It’s true that a picture is worth a thousand words; the photos on display today give us all a unique view into how foreign diplomats and their families have been welcomed and made to feel like a part of the community, and I hope that everyone will take the opportunity to view and enjoy this exhibition”. 

Liliia Fadeeva from the Embassy of the Russian Federation showing her photos
A photo by Luliia Fadeeva

Baiduri Bank signs secondment agreement with RB employees

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in Social News

Mr Ti Eng Hui, Chief Executive Officer of Baiduri Bank, exchanging Memorandum of Understanding, with Captain Saiful Bahrin Awang Bahar, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Royal Brunei Airlines at Baiduri Community Space, Baiduri Bank Headquarters



Baiduri Bank and Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today for the secondment of up to fifteen RB employees to Baiduri Bank. The signing ceremony took place at Baiduri Community Space, Baiduri Bank Headquarters. Mr Ti Eng Hui, Chief Executive Officer of Baiduri Bank signed the agreement for the Bank. Signing as witness was Ms Veronica Chong, Head of GroupHuman Resources and Administration of Baiduri Bank.

Signing for Royal Brunei Airlines was Captain Saiful Bahrin Awang Bahar, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Royal Brunei Airlines while Shaarill Fred Teo, Manager Performance and Engagement signed as witness.During his opening remarks, Mr Ti Eng Hui said, “We are proud to be the first bank in

Brunei to seal this secondment agreement with Royal Brunei Airlines. I believe both organisations will benefit greatly from this collaboration.”

He further elaborated that the secondees will be deployed to customer-service related roles for a six-month period. “I am confident that their knowledge, international airline industry training and award-winning customer service will add tremendous value to our continuous efforts in enhancing customer experience.”

He went on to state that both Baiduri Bank and RB are successful and established Brunei brands. “Our organisations have done well in our respective industries, achieving success on a number of fronts and are synonymous with innovation and customer service.”

According to Ms Veronica Chong, “The RB secondees will gain exposure to a different industry which offers unique challenges and development opportunities. They will undergo training specific to the banking industry, thereby broadening their skill sets, opening up more career opportunities in the near future.”

Captain Saiful Bahrin Awang Bahar said, “RB and Baiduri Bank are two strong and proud Bruneian brands with a strong track record in product innovation and service excellence. Through this momentous partnership, both RB and Baiduri Bank have established a commitment to venture into building and expanding the scope of our people through this secondment programme.”

“As one of the brands in Brunei well-known for our award-winning services, we have continuously encouraged the learning and training of our people to help them achieve an even higher standard for their personal and professional development. It is hoped that through this secondment, it will improve their proficiency and level of skills while broadening their knowledge in a new industry,” added RB’s Acting CEO.

Also present at the signing ceremony were management and staff from Baiduri Bank and Royal Brunei Airlines. An ‘open day’ for selection of the secondment candidates will be held at the RB Campus on Jalan Kustin in January 2021. The secondment of RB employees to the Bank will begin on 1 February 2021 until 1 August 2021.

Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series – fastest series production

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in Social News

Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series

How close the new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series (fuel consumption combined: 12.8 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 292 g/km) actually is to motorsport has now been impressively demonstrated by GT3 racer Maro Engel on the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring. With an officially measured and notarized certified time of 6:43,616 min for the 20.6 kilometre-long track (measured without the straight at track section T13) and 6:48,047 min for the 20.832 kilometre-long total track (measured with the straight at track section T13), the new V8 meteor is placed in the top group of the street-legal “sports cars” category and number one among the fully standard, unmodified models.

Maro Engel made full use of all the possibilities offered by the new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series as standard: such as the most powerful AMG V8 series engine ever with 537 kW (730 hp), the sophisticated aerodynamics and extensive suspension adjustment options. For example, the front splitter made of visible carbon fibre was extended to the “Race” position, and the lower and upper wing blades of the rear spoiler were each adjusted in the middle position. The adjustable AMG coilover suspension with adaptive adjustment damping was lowered by five millimetres at the front and three millimetres at the rear to further enhance the venturi effect of the front diffuser. The camber was adjusted to the maximum possible values of negative 3.8 degrees at the front axle and negative 3.0 degrees at the rear. In the case of the adjustable anti-roll bars, racing professional Engel opted for the hardest of the three possible settings, and the 35-year-old adjusted the nine-stage AMG traction control between positions six and seven -depending on the section of the track. AMG GT Black Series customers can also take advantage of all these settings and variations. 

This also applies to the MICHELIN Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tyres with “soft compound,” which are completely standard equipment and were developed in collaboration with development partner Michelin especially for the top sports car in the AMG GT series. The highest possible level of safety was ensured not only by the standard AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system, but also by the Track Package with rollover protection system and four-point safety belts offered as standard equipment.

Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series

“That was a really impressive ride,” said Maro Engel after completing the record lap. “With speeds of up to almost 270 km/h in the Kesselchen section of the track or well over 300 km/h on the long Döttinger Höhe straight, the AMG GT Black Series is significantly faster than my GT3 race car. To finally drive around the Nordschleife in 6:48.047 minutes with a production road car in these track conditions is really awesome. Like my GT3 race car, the AMG GT Black Series offers a lot of adjustment possibilities, all of which enabled me to create a setup that was tailor-made for me.”

Also in terms of aerodynamic efficiency, the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series takes a great deal from the race car. A direct derivation from motorsport, for example, is the carbon-fibre hood with two large exhaust outlets. These specifically guide the warm air that flows from the slanted radiator setup out of the engine compartment. This increases overall downforce, as does the sophisticated rear wing concept and the largely enclosed underbody.

“It’s really impressive how much downforce the Black Series generates and how confident and reliable it can be driven, even at the absolute limit. My hat is off to the developers from Affalterbach for what they have put on wheels here. And I’m very pleased that I was able to demonstrate these fascinating engineering skills with this great lap time,” said Engel.

Just as they were for AMG development engineer Demian Schaffert, who set a new lap record with the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4MATIC+ (fuel consumption combined: 12.5 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 286 g/km)1 on the same day, the conditions were not quite ideal for Maro Engel either. Because when the GT3 professional drove through the light gate of the timing system on November 4, 2020 at 5:02 p.m., not only were 20.832 kilometres of Green Hell behind him in the dim light – the GT3 professional also set the fastest time at an outside temperature of seven degrees Celsius and ten degrees Celsius on the asphalt. In addition, some passages of the extremely demanding track were not yet totally dry.

The fast lap times were precisely measured by neutral experts from “wige SOLUTIONS”. An independent notary also certified the condition of the vehicle as well as the measurements.



Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series
Engine4.0L V8 biturbo
Displacement3,982 cm3
Power537 kW (730 PS) at 6,700-6,900/min
Max. torque800 Nm at 2,000-6,000/min
Drive systemRear-wheel drive
TransmissionAMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G 
Fuel consumption combined12.8 l/100 km*
CO2 emissions combined292 g/km
Efficiency classG
Acceleration 0-100 km/h 3.2 s
Top speed325 km/h

BV shaping Brunei with a World of Trust

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in Social News

Rizan Latif, the Country Chief Executive of Bureau Veritas Brunei, during the brief presentation of Bureau Veritas Brunei background and portfolio

Bureau Veritas, the leading and the largest third party inspection and certification company in Brunei Darussalam organized an event recently to highlight the importance and the benefit of Third Party Inspection and Certification towards an organisation.

The event, held at the Level 1 Auditorium, Design & Technology Building, Angerek Desa on the 17th December 2020 was catered to better establish a better foothold in various Brunei industries via a collaboration SHENA (Safety, Health, Environment National Authority). The aim of the event was to familiarize guests that are the industrial tenants of DARe: Construction with Bureau Veritas Services and the significance of what Bureau Veritas can offer in terms of HSE and to ensure that all equipment is compliant as required by SHENA.

With its global presence, Bureau Veritas aims to become the leader in the industry and a major player in each of the market segments and key geographical market it ventures into.

The organizational chart of Bureau Veritas Brunei
Some of the services provided by BV
Some of the services provided by BV
Yes, BV also touches on food industry
Interesting milestones for BV Brunei

Country Chief Executive Mr.Rizan Latif in his opening address said, “As a Business to Business to Society company, Bureau Veritas is dedicated to building trust between client companies, public authorities and consumers. Our mission, he said, “is to reduce our clients’ risks, improve their performance and help them innovate to meet the challenges of quality, health & safety, environmental protection and social responsibility.”  

Rizan Latif has been with the company for almost 9 years and started of as a Business Development Manager, then Head of Technical HSE and being appointed Country Chief Executive of Bureau Veritas Group (Brunei) since February 2020. He is also the youngest Chief Executive within the Southeast Asia Region. On a side note, Rizan Latif also heads the Beach Bunch Brunei as the President and Founder. 

Rizan added, “We acknowledge the challenges of growing urbanization, anticipating the need for safer, smarter cities. “We anticipate the expectations of an expanding global population, including the need for secure and reliable agricultural production.”

“We understand the impact of climate change, working to ensure people worldwide have access to cleaner energy, while supporting our clients in the efficient management  or conversion of their existing assets. We embrace digitalization, while mitigating the risks it brings and support the development of revolutionary materials and technologies.”

Services catered towards the construction industry also help to secure a brighter relationship with government and private sector industries where HSE plays a huge role in developing trust. These include Feasibility /risk analysis, Material testing, Site inspection, Periodical inspections that are crucial to the health and well-being of asset types Residential buildings, Commercial buildings, Equipment, Infrastructure (airport, rail) and so on.

A Bureau Veritas standard certification in any aspect of these fields is projected to greatly benefit both client and consumer as ISO standard certifications under Bureau Veritas are globally recognized and well trusted.

Some of the clienteles of BV Brunei
The Q&A session : Rizan Latif, Country Chief Executive of Bureau Veritas Brunei, Nurham Rappe, Industry Manager of Bureau Veritas Brunei, Lydia Lai, Business Development Manager of Bureau Veritas Brunei and Jenny Malai Ali as the moderator
The invited guests

I am always curious what Bureau Veritas offer as a company. All I could relate is that there are involved with oil and gas companies. Apparently, Bureau Veritas offers a wide range of services – Marine (their biggest portfolio), construction, in-service inspection & verification, certification, commodities (inspection, testing on oil, metals, minerals etc), consumer products (eg food) and even government services and international trading. 

I am also surprised by their growth in revenue where Bureau Veritas Group Brunei reached a high milestone of BND 2.4 million dollars in revenue in 2019. They have also seen a huge jump in employees from 8 to 85 as they have increased number of clienteles. This is a testament that Bureau Veritas Group is receiving more traction as a more trusted entity as a third party inspection and certification. 

The session was concluded with a Q&A session where invited guests, clients were given to opportunity to ask questions. Joining the panel discussion were Rizan Latif, Country Chief Executive of Bureau Veritas Brunei, Nurham Rappe, Industry Manager of Bureau Veritas Brunei and Lydia Lai, Business Development Manager of Bureau Veritas Brunei while the session was moderated by Jenny Malai Ali. 

For more info on Bureau Veritas, you can click here for more information or you can also visit their instagram @bureauveritas 

Brunei Food Awards 2020

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in Social News

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Mun’im of PAR Food & Beverages Sdn Bhd receiving an award from Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Hj Ali bin Apong, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism. PAR Food & Beverages won award for Ice Blended Mocha (Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Charcoal Ribs and Sous Vibe Prime Rib from Charcoal BBQ & Grill.
Lifetime Achievement Award for Nasi Katok Mabohai
Lifetime Achievement Award for Chop Jing Chew

After many months of food tasting and judging, the award winning dishes were feted during the Brunei Food Awards 2020 ceremony held at Mulia Hotel. The event was also in conjunction with the Brunei December Festival 2020. 

The Brunei Food Awards 2020 or also known as BFA2020 is a new initiative to promote the local food and beverage industry. The award is the first of its kind and do expect local and international dishes. 

The guest of honour was Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Hj Ali bin Apong, the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism. Also in attendance were Hj Nasir bin Dato Paduka Latif, CEO of Brunei Food Awards, foreign dignitaries, representatives from the participating restaurants, guests and social influencers.

Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Sheikh Ahmed bin Hashil Al-Maskri, dean of the diplomatic corps and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Sultanate of Oman and other foreign diplomats were invited as special judges. 

The highlight of the night was the milestone awarded to two establishments – Chop Jing Chew and Nasi Katok Mabohai – receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award. 

Excapade Japanese Cuisine and Kaizen Sushi grabbed the most award winning dishes with six while Seri Damai Restaurant had five dishes being feted. 

Award for Jollibee for its Chicken Joy (Original) dish
Foodies at work
Satay Hj Ibrahim for its Satay
Receiving an award for its Shabu Shabu from Ice Bar Shabu Shabu Restaurant
The award winning dish of Sotong Bakar from Bali Pitstop
An award winning dish for Wajid from Miming Kedayan Stall N0.12 Bangar Temburong
Award winning dishes – Kaizen Maki, Mixed Carpaccio, Sake Spinach Ikura, Hamachi Miso Ceviche, Unagi Kabayaki and Yakitori – from Kaizen Sushi
Award winning dishes – Ayam Penyet and Steam Grouper Fish – from Pondok Sari Wangi Seafood

Restaurant

Hokkaido Baked Cheese Tart
Mykopitiam
Mykopitiam
Papparich Restaurant
Papparich Restaurant
Secret Recipe
Secret Recipe
Sugar Bun
Excapade Japanese Cuisine
Excapade Japanese Cuisine
Excapade Japanese Cuisine
Excapade Japanese Cuisine
Excapade Japanese Cuisine
Excapade Japanese Cuisine

Award

Original Baked Cheese Tart
Steamed Chicken Rice
Ice 3-Layered Tea
Char Kway Teow
Asam Laksa
Original Chicken Cornish
Red Velvet Cake
Sugar Bun Chicken Wings
Salmon Asparagus
Torikatsu Curry Udon
Harumaki Prawn and Cheese
Horenso Hotate
Three Kind Bluefin
Gindara with Miso

Seri Damai Restaurant
Seri Damai Restaurant
Seri Damai Restaurant
Seri Damai Restaurant
Seri Damai Restaurant
Express Fast Food
Anjung Saujana
Dynasty Restaurant
Buccaneer Restaurant
Buccaneer Restaurant
Buccaneer Restaurant

Little Audrey’s Cafe
Little Audrey’s Cafe
Little Audrey’s Cafe
Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
Charcoal BBQ & Grill
Charcoal BBQ & Grill
Seaworld Neptune
Seaworld Neptune
Seaworld Neptune
Aminah Arif Restaurant
Aminah Arif Restaurant

Borneo Kopitiam Restaurant
Borneo Kopitiam Restaurant
Pondok Seri Wangi Seafood
Pondok Seri Wangi Seafood
Tien Sing Vegetarian
Tien Sing Vegetarian
Ya-Nur Restaurant
Ya-Nur Restaurant
Aqil Shafiee Restaurant
Bali Pitstop Restaurant
Cendol Hj Saban
Chop Jing Chew

Gwad Basha Restaurant
Hizdayani
Ice Bar Shabu-Shabu and Cafe
I Lotus Restaurant
I Luv Café Bistro
Jeruton Lounge
Jollibee
Kitaro Japanese Restaurant
Kitarasa Catering
MeetUALL Restaurant
Miming Kedayan Stall No.12
Bangar Restaurant
Nasi Katok Mabohai

Kaizen Sushi
Kaizen Sushi
Kaizen Sushi
Kaizen Sushi
Kaizen Sushi
Kaizen Sushi
Otto Takeaway
Pho Hoa
Pizza Hut
Satay Hj Ibrabim
Seri Kandi
Syarikat Faisal Fazdil
Tasek Brasserie

Special Naan
Pasha Boti
Chicken Dum Biryani
Afghani Pulao
Chicken Jotrani Handi
Express Fast Food
Nasi Lemak Sri Anjung
Pecking Duck
Buccaneer Beef Burger
Sous Vide Chicken
Garlic Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb

Churros Waffle
Chilli Soft Shell Crab Pasta
Crispy Eggs Benny
Mocha Ice Blended
Charcoal Ribs
Sous Vide Prime Rib
Salted Egg Crab
Lobster Salad
Crispy Shrimp Chix
Ambuyat Set
Nasi Goreng Belacan

Prawn Fritters
Egg Pie
Ayam Penyet
Steam Grouper Fish
Buttermilk Abalone Mushroom
Xiang Chun Homemade
Oxtail Soup
Beef Rendang
Tom Yum Seafood Soup
Sotong Bakar
Cendol
Roti Kuning

Family Mixed Grill
Udang Galah Masak Merah
Shabu Shabu
Coconut Prawn
Aglio Olio
Soto Gearbox
Chicken Joy (Original)
Sushi Boat
Roasted Whole Salmon
Coconut Bingsu
Wajid

Nasi Katok

Kaizen Maki
Mixed Carpaccio
Sake Spinach Ikura
Hamachi Miso Ceviche
Unagi Kabayaki
Yakitori
Pulled Beef Sandwich
Vietnamese Beef Noodle
Honey Garlic Chicken
Satay Ayam
Daging Masak Hitam
Soto Super Banjir
Roasted Wagyu Beef

Award winning dishes – Prawn Fritters and Egg Pie – from Borneo Kopitiam Restaurant
Award winning dishes – Buttermilk Abalone Mushroom and Xiang Chun Homemade Tofu – from Then Sing Vegetarian
Three award winning dishes – Churros Waffle, Chilli Soft Shell Crab Pasta and Crispy Eggs Benny – from Little Audrey’s Cafe
Award winning dish – Coconut Prawn – from I-Lotus Restaurant
Five award winning dishes – Salmon Asparagus, Torikatsu Curry Udon, Harumaki Prawn and Cheese, Horenso Hotate, Three Kind Bluefin and Gindara with miso – from Excapade Japanese Cuisine
5 award winning dishes – Special Naan, Pasha Boti, Chicken Dum Biryani, Afghani Pulao and Chicken Jotrani Handi – from Seri Damai Restaurant

My take: This is an interesting initiative by Brunei Food Award with full support from the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism. I am pretty sure a ton of work was involved, organising visits to restaurants and cafes and locking in appointments with foreign envoys, savouring the dishes and judging them accordingly and lastly to compile everything together before the grand finale within a space of a few months. 

Will this be a yearly thing? The event appeared to be a success for sure and many restaurants were featured. 

I do have my opinions on this award and here are some points, in my opinion, in order to raise the status of Brunei Food Awards. 

Firstly, do keep the concept of having foreign envoys as special judges as it has a nice touch to the BFA. What I felt missing was the inclusion of a renown resident chef and perhaps a local foodie blogger (not me) to make the award more sound and justifiable.  The only setback in Brunei is that we don’t really have a real food critic like how other countries do and to be one, it’s never an overnight feat.

Secondly, I believe not all restaurants are accounted for. With Brunei being a food haven, there were many familiar names that were missing. Just imagine that there are at least 400 restaurants/cafes within Brunei-Muara area alone but less than 100 restaurants are being judged . The organisers of the BFA would then need a very resourceful team to execute their tasks should they target more restaurants in their portfolio.

Thirdly, it’s probably more ideal to feature or judge only a few dishes. For instance, have the awards dedicated to dishes that are quite popular within Brunei context. So, in this case, we can have categories such as the Best Nasi Lemak, the Best Ayam Penyet, the Best Kolo Mee etc and also featured the list of nominees (rather than just acknowledging the winner) in that category. 

So if it’s a Kolo Mee category, the list of nominees (Chop Jing Chew, Ricebowl, Lamee Restaurant, 101 Cafe etc) can be featured and recognised on the projector during the awards and the host then reveals the winner in that category. That would give more essence towards the award ceremony and I am pretty sure the other nominees would appreciate the gesture. This was just a random idea that came when I was browsing through the photos I took and saw the Oscar statues on the stage at the Brunei Food Awards *lol* 

I am sure with new measures in place, who knows we might discover newer or unrated restaurants that really serve worthy of an award or least being nominated.

All in all, this is still a great initiative and I do hope the BFA will happen again in 2021. Thank you for the invitation and the food selection was super good, with some of the award winning dishes being served during the event.

By the way, allow me to share my favourite dishes of 2020

  1. Curry Chicken Rice – Teazone 
  2. Hearty Bolognese Spaghetti – Ximply Chris
  3. Double Hamburg – Pepperlunch
  4. Ayam Bakar – Bali Pitstop
  5. Meshwi Chicken Platter – Amsarra Restaurant
  6. Chicken Aubergine – Ricebowl Restaurant
  7. Kolo Mee – 101 Cafe
  8. Ayam Penyet – Pondok Sari Wangi
  9. Beef Keema – Seri Damai Restaurant
  10. Lamb Mandi – Tandoor Restaurant
  11. Curry Chicken – A.Ayam
  12. Chicken Rice – Kedai Kopi D’Harith 
  13. Kimchi Stew – Brukori
  14. Chicken Chop – Flour & Butter
  15. Premium Chicken Rice – Eats.bn
  16. Red Curry Chicken with long beans – KNY Kitchen 
  17. Sambal Petai – Sawwadee Restaurant
  18. Telur Belado – Pondok Sari Wangi
  19. Curry Chicken – Tuckshop Kopitiam
  20. Hotate To Shimeji Mentaiyaki – Kaizen Sushi

An empowering speech for the youths

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in Social News

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen delivering his Sabda at BIBD Youth Empowerment Summit 2020 (BIBD YES) at JIS Arts Centre yesterday.

Sabda from His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen during the launch of BIBD Youth Empowerment Summit 2020 (BIBD YES) yesterday at the JIS Art Centre. 

“Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim.
Assalamualaikum wafahmatullahi wabarakatuh. 

Distinguished ministers, speakers, fellow youth, ladies and gentlemen. A very good morning to you all. 

I would first like to commend everyone involved in organizing this summit; to give young people a platform to share their ideas and learn from the leaders in the public and private sector, as well as NGOs. It is indeed my honor to be speaking here today to share my views on youth development in Brunei Darussalam.

We have before us the Covid-19 pandemic, wit its devastating impact on the global community, and our community here in Brunei. Businesses, jobs, and our personal well-beings have all been affected by this crisis. 

With 71 million coronavirus cases and 1.6 million deaths around the world, we must all be grateful to the Government for containing the virus effectively and at the same time address the wider consequences of this pandemic. Businesses have had to shut down and schools suspended, leading to socio-economic disruptions of current structures and demanding us to consider how best to operate in this new normal. 

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen delivered an inspiring remark to the youth

As latest figures from the Government show that the national unemployment rate stands at 6.8 percent, and youth unemployment at 21.3 percent, there is no doubt our youths face a future marked by greater sense of uncertainty. Yet I am heartened to see that the youth were at the forefront of volunteering to help people during these times of need — from distributing food supplies to healthcare workers to raising funds for our communities. 

However, this spirit of identifying the needs in the community is only the beginning, working hard to fill the gap is what will set you apart when you leave school or graduate from college. The results you obtain and the certificates you received will not be as significant as working for a greater purpose that you are passionate about. 

I, myself was not a brilliant student but I found my passion in in the Military, serving my country. We need to realise that the challenges of our generation face will not be the same as before. Therefore, we also need to be adaptable and resilient. 

When I was 18 years old, I was sent to the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the UK, where I was I was pushed to my limits time and time again. Often, I thought I could not take it anymore – but I learned not to give up in trying times. I recall one very formative experience where I had to complete a 73 kilometre group race in the black mountains of Wales, all while carrying a 20kg backpack. 

Generally, this takes between 24 and 35 hours to complete, with hardly any rest. The terrain was so unforgiving that I developed a cramp within the first hour, and I didn’t know how much longer I could go on. But despite the intense pain, I just focused on putting one foot in front of the other. 

And in the end, after a gruelling 23 hours and 11 minutes, my group and I finished in first place. This showed me how powerful the mind is, even when the body feels like giving up. 

What this experience, and what being the Military has taught me, is that we need to constantly push ourselves and not be afraid of challenges. Because pressing on and fighting through hardships will only build our resilience and character. 

This pandemic and its lingering effects will put our youth’s resilience to the test. Jobs that you may have wanted when you were younger may not be there in the future. 

A fan taking a video of the guest of honour
Speakers, moderators and sponsors were also in attendance
Teachers and students in attendance

I would like to applaud the Government for implementing programmes to re-train and up-skill the youth, such as the i-Ready apprenticeships and SkillsPlus. I encourage you to explore these initiatives, to expose yourselves to new industries and build new skill sets, constantly improving yourselves. 

I challenge you to create a different set of opportunities for you and your peers, beyond what is currently available, rather than just waiting for a comfortable job, or a corporate ladder to climb. 

I strongly believe that our youth can build new corporations which will be future engines of our society. The youth, with their vibrant energy and fresh perspectives can contribute vitality and creativity to emerging social and economic challenges that Brunei face. 

We are seeing youth-led organisations come up with ideas and solutions to tackle issues such as public transport, food security, sustainable energy, and more. These young people should be recognised for the work they are doing to create real change in our society – change that will make an impact not just today, but also to help us deal with the challenges of the future. 

We want to develop new industries that will future-proof our economy. One example is investing into our creative industries. This was an issue close to my late brother’s heart. 

Globally, creative industries employ more people aged 15 to 29 than any other sector. There are a lot of young people in Brunei who are passionate about the arts, who have started their own creative agencies, production companies and more. They have moved beyond the usual path and out of their comfort zone to make a change. 

I want to encourage the youth to approach the stakeholders in this room with your ideas, in the creative industries or beyond. And together, create an ecosystem that is sustainable; one that creates quality job opportunities – and achieves social and economic progress. 

With that, I wish for you all to have a productive and successful summit, and that there will be outcomes that pave the way for the youth to become pioneers in the continued development of Brunei Darussalam. 

Wabillahit Taufiq Walhidayah, Wassalamu ‘Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh. 

Thank you”. 

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen touring the exhibition
Students from the BIBD ALAF program
A group photo opportunity with Cosmopolitan College students and teachers
A demo of Wushu from a representative from Sports School
His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen with the honourable Ministers and stakeholders of BIBD Youth Empowerment Summit 2020

Contact RA

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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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