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LiHO official opening

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

 


Group photo with Syfulnizar Hamid, Political Secretary from the Singapore High Commission in Brunei Darussalam (3rd from left) as the guest of honour during the official launch of LiHO first outlet at Times Square Shopping Centre.
 


My favourite drink for now – Brown Sugar Pearl Milk Tea and the pearls are kinda chewy
 

LiHO is still a new player in the town, making its presence in Brunei back in October 2018 and the Singapore home-grown bubble tea brand by RTG Group only started in 2017 and already have 93 LiHO outlets across Singapore and Vietnam so far. The official launch happened last week at the first LiHO outlet located at Times Square Shopping Centre.

Gracing the ceremony was Syfulnizar Hamid, Political Secretary from the Singapore High Commission in Brunei Darussalam accompanied by LiHo founders Rodney Tang and Janice Chew. Also in attendance were the Appointed Master Franchisee of LiHO Brunei, Jeffery Chia and his spouse, Rachel Chew.

Jeffrey began with his opening remarks – “How are you?” Or “Apa Khabar?” which describes LiHO in the Hokkien Chinese dialect to show that regardless of the differences in language, culture and beliefs, a simple greeting for LiHO can bond people together.

Now the most popular drink at LiHO is the Brown Sugar Pearls and I love it too. What’s good about it? Firstly the brown sugar pearls are slowly cooked with pure brown sugar over a long period of time to achieve softer and chewier pearls. Some people like to drink the way it is to feel the warmth of the pearls or some would prefer to shake it to have a cooling effect. I prefer the latter.

Jeffrey also announced the Customer Loyalty Program via the Rewards Stamps allocation where all customers need to do is download the app, scan it at the outlet, spend and earn points. Awesome!!!

Jeffrey felt blessed that the response has been great since October 2018 and hope by having more marketing and presence, there is still more room for growth for LiHO to grow.

Rodney Tang spoked of the Brunei market, “We have been in operation for a while and from the response the customers really love our flavours. We are confident that we can further build our business here and open up to six to eight branches in Brunei.”

“Since we founded LiHO Tea in June 2017 (Singapore), we have been restless in our research and development and launched many new flavoured drinks such as the Avocado series, Salted Egg Milk Tea series to name a few.”

So peeps, do try the Brown Sugar Peals and also the Avocado series (using fresh avocado). Don’t forget to download the app too. You can also follow their update on Facebook.

 

 


Jeffery Chia, Appointed Master Franchisee of LiHO Brunei, giving his opening remarks
 

 


Members of the media and friends attended the opening
 

 


Cutting the ribbon ceremony. Congratulations LiHO Brunei.
 

 


The other drinks series available at LiHO
 


Trying out samples of other drinks
 


Ruby’s favourite drink – Brown Sugar Pearl with Avocado
 

 

All-New Nissa Terra making waves

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

 


Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Wadood Bolkiah Ibni Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz (center) as the guest of honour during the launch of the All-New Nissan Terra at the Indera Samudra, Hall 3, The Empire Hotel and Country Club last weekend
 

Boustead Sdn. Bhd., the sole distributor of Nissan automotive in Brunei, launched the All-New Nissan Terra last weekend.

The latest addition to the Nissan’s line is considered one of the greatest highlights for the brand’s history as it represents a huge milestone in its innovation. And for that, the exclusive event for such innovative model was held at Indera Samudra, Hall 3, The Empire Hotel and Country Club.

The reveal of the Nissan Terra was exclusively attended by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Wadood Bolkiah Ibni Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz as well as the management of banks and finance institutions, members of the media and the customers.

“Nissan has been involved in building SUVs for more than 60 years and has received its reputation in traversing challenging terrains around the world which has proved Nissan’s capability to build strong and tough SUV. Hence, based on that, it went into the development of the All-New Nissan Terra which means that you can always count on your Terra to take you anywhere.” said Mr Lim Jin Lee, The Executive Manager of Boustead Sdn Bhd.

Nissan Terra has been developed in Asia, build in Asia for Asian customers. The exterior offers the strength and ruggedness of a utility vehicle including the signature V-Motion grille and the boomerang headlamps which give it a more streamlined look. Available in eight colors; Dark Blue, Black Star, Burning Red, Gold Beige, Brilliant Silver, White Pearl, Earth Brown and Twilight Gray.

Inside, the Nissan Terra can accommodate seven passengers and offers roominess with best-in-class cabin space and quiet interior which provide comfort for everyone on board. Additionally, it has a theater seating arrangement where the front seat and the front floor were arranged lower position to give better visibility for the second and third row seats.

Launched with three variants; Mid, High and Premium Grade, and they are all reasonably well equipped. The Mid Grade offers a 2WD system with a manual transmission and a 17-inch alloy wheel. The interior is equipped with a urethane to keep the car cool and comfortable. It also has a low-cost maintenance which is suitable for those looking for value for money.

The High Grade offers a 2WD system but with an automatic transmission and an 18-inch alloy wheel. The interior is also equipped with a urethane while featuring some premium conveniences which are also available in the Premium Grade including a 10.1-inch Android Player for onboard entertainment, hence, making every journey more pleasurable.

The 2WD High and the 4WD Premium Grade are further enhanced with a Power Liftgate to provide more convenience to the drivers and passengers in which the trunk door can be opened in various ways either by pressing the unlock button on the key three times, pressing the button on the trunk door or pressing the switch button at the vehicle’s centre console. The angle of the trunk door can also be adjusted according to the driver’s preference.

For those who prefer a vehicle with a superior and premium feeling, the 4WD Premium Grade, which is the finest grade among the three, has a luxurious interior furnished with leather and first-class comfort and features advanced Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies.

 

 


Check out the Nissan Terra
 


It comes in three different grades
 


Guest of honour handing over a key to one of the first customers, Thomas
 


Mr Lim Jin Lee, The Executive Manager of Boustead Sdn Bhd, handing over a key to one of the first customers
 

 

 

As part of Nissan’s plans to move towards its future direction, Nissan Intelligent Mobility, in which it aims to achieve a goal of zero emission vehicle and zero fatalities on the road by transforming the car into a more responsive partner by redefining how the car is driven, powered and integrated into society, the 4WD Premium Grade adds Intelligent technologies for a safer and confident drive.

One of the highlighted technologies equipped into the 4WD Premium Grade is Around View Monitor. It is a monitor that provides a virtual 360-degree scene of the car in bird’s-eye view. It assists the drivers by giving real-time information about the vehicle’s surroundings which makes parking much easier and safer. Another technology equipped into the 4WD Premium Grade is Lane Departure Warning in which it assists in maintaining safety by alerting the drivers when it detects that the car has strayed from its intended lane. It also recognizes the lane in which the car is travelling. Thus, when the driver unintentionally drifts out of the traveling lane, the system alerts the driver with a visual warning on the display and an audible signal. These technologies help in seeing and detecting any potential obstructions around the vehicle for better safety.

Furthermore, all models are equipped with a Zero Gravity Seat. This technology reduces fatigue for drivers and passengers when driving by pursuing the ideal posture to make long drives more pleasant and maintaining seating comfort, thus making the Nissan Terra suitable for long journeys.

Powered with 2.5-litre diesel engine providing best-in-class performance, it offers impressive 190Kw horsepower and 450Nm torque that ensures an exciting drive of speed and acceleration. It also has high ground clearance which can reduce the risk of damage from uneven roads, hence, suitable for both city drive and off-road drive. Moreover, Nissan Terra is equipped with ladder-frame chassis which provides greater rigidity to give comfort and convenience and further satisfy the outdoor adventure enthusiasts.

To kick off the memorable journey of the first batch of owners of the Nissan Terra, the official delivery of the latest versatile SUV from Nissan was conducted during the launch event. The handover of the keys was personally distributed by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Wadood Bolkiah Ibni Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz.

Members of the public who are interested to have a closer view of the Nissan Terra or to inquire further information are welcomed to visit Nissan’s showroom in Beribi and Kuala Belait and get assisted by the friendly sales representatives of Nissan.

 


Jeremy Lim, Product Manager of Boustead, Tan Teck Hock, Senior Sales & Marketing Operation Manager of Boustead , and Khairul Izzat, Product Executive of Boustead during the press conference
 

Bee Thing wins flight to Bangkok

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

 


Pong Bee Thing, represented by her daughter (2nd from right), won the grand prize, a return ticket to Bangkok as part of the “Test Drive & Fly” promotion. The prize presentation was held last Friday at Indera Motors Showroom.
 

A lucky draw event was held at Indera Motors Showroom yesterday for the “Test Drive & Fly” Promotion. The Campaign was held in conjunction of 2018 Year End celebration which was held from November to December 31st.

Pong Bee Thing, emerged as the grand prize winner and took home a return flight ticket to Bangkok. Muhd Nurul Hafiz, announced as the first runner up and won a return flight ticket to Bali and Hisyamuddin Hamzah, the second-runner up won a return trip to Manila, while the rest all went home with Jaguar and Land Rover merchandise.

There to draw the 10 lucky winners were Ms Anisahatiajar Zaini, Marketing Officer of BIBD At-Tamwil and Mr Eugene Tan, Business Support Assistant Manager of Baiduri Finance. The grand prize was presented by Mr Pierce Lim, The Marketing Manager of Indera Motors Sdn Bhd.

 


Drawing the finalists during the lucky draw
 


Mr Eugene Tan, Business Support Assistant Manager of Baiduri Finance drawing a name
 

Audi turns the car into a virtual reality experience platform at CES

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

Audi turns the car into a virtual reality experience platform at CES

·         Audi e-tron takes backseat passengers on adventure through outer space
·         Technology combines VR content with vehicle movements in real time
·         Debuts “Marvel’s Avengers: Rocket’s Rescue Run” futuristic prototype created with Disney Games and Interactive Experiences for CES showcase
·         Start-up company, holoride, to establish new entertainment category via open platform

 


Audi e-tron takes backseat passengers on adventure through outer space

 

Audi is redefining in-car entertainment at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. In the future, backseat passengers will be able to experience movies, video games, and interactive content even more realistically using virtual reality glasses. The premium brand is presenting a technology that adopts virtual content to the movements of a vehicle in real time: If the car drives through a right turn, the spaceship in the experience does the same, for example. Through a subsidiary, Audi Electronics Venture GmbH, Audi has co-founded a start-up company, holoride GmbH, which will commercialize this new form of entertainment via an open platform that will be made available to all carmakers and content developers in the future.

Audi is demonstrating the immersive futuristic technology with “Marvel’s Avengers: Rocket’s Rescue Run,” an in-car VR experience for backseat passengers being brought to life by Disney Games and Interactive Experiences. Wearing VR glasses, the passenger in an Audi e-tron is transported into a fantastical depiction of outer space: The Audi e-tron now functions as the ship manned by the Guardians of the Galaxy, as the passenger makes their way through an asteroid field together with Rocket, a character that will appear in Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Endgame in spring 2019. Every movement of the car is reflected in the experience in real time. If the car turns a tight corner, the player curves around an opposing spaceship in virtual reality. If the Audi e-tron accelerates, the ship in the experience does the same.

In order to establish this new category of entertainment on the market as quickly and comprehensively as possible, Audi is taking a new approach: The premium brand has co-founded a start-up named holoride, in which it holds a minority interest through the subsidiary Audi Electronics Venture GmbH, which developed the technology. Furthermore, Audi will license the technology to holoride. The start-up will use an open platform to allow carmakers and content developers to create and offer additional extended reality formats. “Creative minds will use our platform to come up with fascinating worlds that turn the journey from A to B into a real adventure,” said Nils Wollny, Head of Digital Business at Audi, and future CEO of holoride. “We can only develop this new entertainment segment by adopting a cooperative, open approach for vehicle, device and content producers.”

 
 


Debuts “Marvel’s Avengers: Rocket’s Rescue Run” futuristic prototype created with Disney Games and Interactive Experiences for CES showcase

 
 


 
 


 

From arcade games, underwater adventures and space exploration to educational trips through historical cities or the human bloodstream, there are almost no limits to what is possible. Holoride will provide a software development kit that serves as the interface to the vehicle data and transfers those into virtual realities, allowing developers to create worlds that can be experienced in-car with all of the senses. Since the visual experience and the user’s actual perception are synchronized, conventional movies, series or presentations can also be viewed with a significantly reduced chance of motion sickness.

Holoride intends to launch the new form of entertainment on the market within the next three years using standard VR glasses for backseat passengers. In the long term, the continued expansion of car-to-X infrastructure could also see traffic events becoming a part of the experience: Stopping at traffic lights could introduce unexpected obstacles to a game or interrupt a learning program with a quick quiz.

Audi and Marvel Studios have been teaming up since the inception of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, beginning with the appearance of the Audi R8 in Iron Man (2008). Drawing upon this longstanding relationship, Audi and Disney Games and Interactive Experiences together created “Marvel’s Avengers: Rocket’s Rescue Run,” to demonstrate how a backseat passenger can enjoy their journey even more using the most innovative VR technology. “Audi, Marvel and Disney Games and Interactive Experiences are celebrating Marvel Studios’ 10th anniversary with an Avengers experience that combines world class content and innovative technology,” said Mike Goslin, Vice President, Disney Games and Interactive Experiences. “While this CES demo was developed purely in the spirit of exploration and experimentation, we are constantly evaluating emerging technologies to enhance our stories and experiences.”

 

Day 12. Social Media Purge. The end is near.

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in Social News

 

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Jaymee realized how good iMessage is and it’s one of the ways I’ve been contacting my friends and clients. Well, this one works with those on IOS.
 

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One of my favourite dishes of 2018. A gem I found and thanks to Ruby for introducing it. The Kimchi Stew from Brukori at Little Soho food court. One of the reasons why the food court is always busy, busy, busy!!
 

The final day. It’s like very anti-climatic that the end is near. The feelings is simply mixed. I don’t know how to explain. I am looking forward to revisit the world of social media but at the same time, I still want to continue my purge. Overall, it has been one of the most refreshing experiences as long as I can remember because I know how immersed I am when it comes to social media. It’s part of my DNA and to detach that addiction and separate it from my being. We’ll see how it goes after I’m back on social media.

I’m still slightly down because Liverpool finally lost in the Premier League after a great run of 20 games unbeaten, their best form since the formation of the English Premier League. Their loss came at the expense of a four point gap against 2nd placed Manchester City who beat them 2-1. It could have been a 10 point gap or 7 point gap or 4 point gap. Now the race is even closer than before and both Liverpool and Man City can’t afford to lose. It will be an interesting horse race between the two and will Liverpool slip up for the third time? We shall wait and see.

Before I signed off, I would like to thank everyone who has been supporting me in this “Social Media Purge” journey. Thank you for the SMSes, the emails and the face-to-face greets as they do build my immune system to distant myself from social media and slowing down that distraction.

 

 

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I chilled at T-Lounge at Little Soho and I was more productive updating my blog. An under- rated cafe that I don’t mind spending time there again.
 

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A beautiful sunset taken at Manggis Mall top floor.
 

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Hello Eugene. Have a good married life and it was nice bumping into you by the sunset haha
 

 

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It was the first time that I attended a wedding at Emperor’s Court and it was quite an intimate wedding.
 

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Another excellent performance from The Sequence who sang at the wedding last weekend
 

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Had supper at TK and I did like the chicken vege soup 😀
 

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An alarming sign when students from high school are aware of this problem. An interesting survey conducted by a teacher.
 

Euro NCAP awards Mercedes-Benz A-Class the safest car, overall best performer in 2018

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

 

 

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The new A-Class
 

Löwen/Stuttgart.  Best vehicle tested in 2018 and best in class in the small family vehicle segment: The European safety organisation Euro NCAP has presented the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class with an award for best performing car in safety.

 

The new A-Class from Mercedes-Benz has undergone European NCAP crash tests, and achieved outstanding results in them. As a result, it was awarded the top rating of five stars. “This Euro NCAP award, which we are delighted about, is recognition of the excellent standards of safety in our vehicles,” explained Prof. Dr. Rodolfo Schöneburg, Head of Passive Safety and Vehicle Functions at Mercedes-Benz Cars. “However, the standardised crash tests only represent a small sample of the real-life accidents that may be encountered on the street. For that reason, Mercedes-Benz designs all its model series using around 40 different accident constellations.”

Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) is an organisation of European transport ministries, automobile clubs and insurance associations. It carries out crash tests and assesses vehicle safety based on the safety systems available. The General Secretary of Euro NCAP, Michiel van Ratingen, says:

“In 2018 we introduced new, tougher tests, with a particular focus on protecting particularly vulnerable road users. The winners of the “Best in Class” awards clearly show that the vehicle manufacturers are striving for the highest levels of safety and that the Euro NCAP ratings act as a catalyst for significant progress where safety is concerned.”

 

The new A-Class: exemplary active and passive safety

The new A-Class is also the first Mercedes-Benz model to have been developed in part at the new Technology Centre for Vehicle Safety (TFS). The design of the vehicle structures incorporates findings from research into real accidents. The centrepiece of the body’s safety concept is the highly rigid passenger compartment. Its great rigidity in accident conditions, e.g. in frontal, lateral or rear-end collisions and roll-overs, is above all due to the greater use of high-strength, ultra-high-strength and press-hardened sheet steel.

The driver and front passenger each have a three-point seat belt with belt force limiter and belt tensioner. In conjunction with the PRE-SAFE® system (optional equipment), the front seats are equipped with reversible belt reel tensioners. Both of the outer rear seats are fitted with a seat belt with reel tensioner and belt force limiter.

The new A-Class is equipped with driver and front passenger airbags, a driver’s kneebag and windowbags as standard. Unlike in many competitor models, the windowbag also covers the A-pillar for more complete passenger protection. Thorax-pelvis sidebags are also fitted as standard in the front. Rear sidebags are optionally available.

The new A-Class has the very latest driving assistance systems with cooperative driver support, giving it the highest level of active safety in this segment, with functions adopted from the S-Class. For the first time, the A-Class is able to drive semi-autonomously in certain situations. It keeps a very close eye on the traffic situation: improved camera and radar systems allow it to see far ahead. The A-Class also uses map and navigation data for assistance functions. For example, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC as part of the Driving Assistance package is able to support the driver in numerous route-specific situations, and predictively and conveniently adjust the speed e.g. when approaching bends, junctions or roundabouts.

The new A-Class comes with expanded Active Brake Assist as standard. Depending on the situation, it can effectively help to mitigate the consequences of rear-end collisions with slower-moving, stopping or stationary vehicles ahead, and even with crossing pedestrians and cyclists, or prevent them altogether.

Day 11. Social Media Purge. The end is near.

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in Social News

 

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It’s time of the year again where Bruneians look forward to. The only event that can easily attract thousands over the span of five days. This was the signing ceremony with the partners of the upcoming 22nd Consumer Fair at D’Sunlit office yesterday.
 

Day 11. 48 hours more to go. I still feel that I haven’t achieved much in terms of my productivity level. I blame netflixing and my mobile games for sure. I have to be productive or maybe that could be another challenge of its own. Yea, maybe that could be a new challenge – doing something different each day for two weeks. Maybe I can take up ballet or dancing. Ok, maybe not the former but yea, it would be nice to do something that I have never tried before. I mean, cooking was fun and I have been doing some cooking of my own during the social media purge.

I am also thinking if I will be blogging again full time like I used to. It’s kinda fun when you can express and pour your thoughts and share it with people. That was what Ranoadidas was built for when it started – to share the fun and the joy of my everyday life and that’s what made what it is today. You know what, maybe I will still continue to blog in this manner even after the social media purge. This year will be my 18 years of blogging. My blog is an adult.. Woohoo…

Yesterday, I attended the signing ceremony of the 22nd Consumer Fair and I am very fortunate to always partner with D’Sunlit with the Consumer Fair since Day 1. This time the theme will relate to family – there will be four characters, Babah, Babu, Boboi and Alai, and it’s basically a story of them shopping wisely during the Consumer Fair. There will be a RUSH HOUR shopping spree where customers can enjoy huge discounts for only ONE hour at a specific time. It reminds me of how Singapore conducted their IT fairs where they have crazy sales for an 1 hour to entice buyers.

I want to jog but my jogging partner had last minute changes. Then again, I shouldn’t make that as an excuse. I should be more motivated to do it for myself. Soon, Rano, soon. Well, at least, the night ended up quite productive as we had a toastmasters dinner at Rizqun International Hotel. It was great to kick off the year with the Brunei Advanced Speakers Club meeting as the rest of the toastmasters clubs will only be back next week.

This is Rano Iskandar, signing off and have a great weekend, peeps!!!

 

Day 10. Social Media Purge.

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in Social News

 

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I woke up and read a text from my friend and she was cornered, watching More than Blue. So have you?
 

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Kudos to the RB crew for handling a dangerous situation calmly and making sure safety is the number one priority.
 

Day 10. Two more days and the feeling is just mutual. Nothing high, nothing low. Just like any other day. I’m referring to the day when I am back on social media this Sunday. I felt like catching a movie today but ended up chilling at home, netflixing and playing mobile games. I did say that I wanna do something productive such as clearing my junk emails, clean my room before the renovation, read my unread books before they collect more dusks and do more exercise.

Speaking of exercise, I plan to do more of it this year. To be more active and even pro-active in burning calories. Oh yea, typing doesn’t count as burning calories. I really need to sweat. I have gained a few kilos and my medical check up also shows that my cholesterol is still above borderline even though it’s lower than before. Now I have to be careful with my diet and I know I am big fan of curry especially curry chicken from Teazone and I really love fried chicken. This one, I won’t put it as a challenge but more like a discipline and I know I can do without curry chicken or if I do, have them in moderation. My goal now is to improve my cholesterol and make it below the borderline by August 2019.

Today’s my friend’s birthday Pranika and I hope you had a wonderful day today. Hope you enjoyed the lunch treat with your buddies. Thanks for being an awesome friend and coping with my lameness.

In other news, there is always a reason why power banks are always a no-no in luggages when checking-in. One of the passengers flying on RB had a power bank blown off in mid-flight and good thing the RB steward managed to handle the situation with great care and all the passengers and crew were safe on flight BI636 (Hong Kong to BSB). So there you go. Always important not to store your power banks in the luggage, instead carry them with you on the plane.

I also heard a shocking, good news. Well, that’s a wrap for January the 3rd.

 

 

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My routine medical check up every six months. Even though, I’m a Permanent Resident, I’m still feel privilege for able to experience good medical check up at government clinic. We have to pay like BND 3 fee which can costs more in private clinics. I will definitely do an extensive one soon. It’s about time the Gen X should be checking out their health status.
 

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Lunch with birthday celebrant at Flour & Butter. I don’t know why it’s my go-to-place for birthday treats. Just love the environment and especially the food.
 

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Happy birthday Pranika 😀 and she must have been happy to receive two bouquet of flowers.
 

 

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It’s paying bill time. I realised why don’t I simply pay my bills online rather than wasting my energy visiting counters which I have been doing for the past year or so.
 

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A quick visit to YMRM to see this tauke #herefortesh and he was hyped up for the new YMRM signature store, opening soon in January. It will be the first of its kind in Brunei. Can’t wait.
 

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Guess who sent me this pic? Amirul Adli…. He is now in midst of taking driving lessons and soon enough, he will be driving here and there. Just make sure, I will be one of your passenger list once you’re a legit driver
 

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My go-to-place for dinner at times. Even after two months of opening, the queue is still there. Not many healthy joints have the same hype as Fuel’d. If you ask me, it’s more about affordability and healthy and still tasty.
 

Day 9. Social Media Purge. Almost there.

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in Social News

 


Headlines in yesterday’s paper. Seems that the bonus month is a good time to conduct roadblocks. 500 offences in just a week is quite high. Another headline is the tragedy at the beach where two persons were reported missing after being swept away by the strong currents. I’ve seen this situation with my own eyes two years ago and it was terrifying. We need more proper signage to make it explicit to beach goers on the dangers swimming at the beach.

 
 

Angela accompanying her dad while we had a quick meeting at Papparich. I am quite amazed how she caught up with speaking as she was a late bloomer. A smart kid indeed 😀

 

Day 9. Can you imagine if I were to simply stop social media for good, how would I take it? It’s something I couldn’t imagine for now. It’s easier to give up on Maggi Curry (or instant noodles) but social media is a different league. It’s the root of all addiction and I have to admit that I am of them. 20% of the usage of social media is attributed to my work for my clienteles but the remaining 80% usage involves viewing personal stories, being updated of other people’s life, stalking, liking, sharing “interesting” stories through WhatsApp and the list just goes on and on. It’s embedded in every one of us and because it has become a culture and a lifestyle, it becomes a norm and we don’t see anything negative about it unless one crosses the line.

I don’t how I am gonna take it once I enter the social media life this Sunday by 12pm. Will I view it differently than before? Will I be less proactive than before? Will I be concerned about my drop in ratings and impressions? I mean, will these numbers or figures matter to me? It is hard to say until it really happens and only from my own experience, I am able to feel and think after a 12 day hiatus. I am very happy and honoured that a few of my friends did their own 3-day purge in supporting my good cause. Thank you, Reuben, Amran, Pranika, Nabil, Brendan and Ruby to name a few.

Now, how was my 2nd day of 2019? I feel more recharged after a good long rest. My thoughts became lighter and I feel blessed to still be in a healthy condition though I have to wait what the doctor will say about my recent blood sample (Wish me luck tomorrow). I know for sure my blood pressure is still borderline because I haven’t been taking care of my diet. I still eat healthy stuff but it is still being outweighed by the unhealthy ones.

I have also received an email for an invitation to Taiwan. It does clash with the upcoming Consumer Fair. The former seems to entice me more since it’s a travel/working trip. I have turned down a few flying trips last year due to work commitments. Maybe this time round it will be tougher to turn especially to a country that I don’t mind traveling to. So far, it’s an 80/20 likelihood I will accept the offer.

So how was your first two days of 2019? Let’s hope it’s a good start to an amazing year.

 

 


Lewis showed me his new gadget he bought from Singapore – Hypervolt. It’s a portable device that vibrates and helps to massage your muscles. It’s pretty heavy and it costs around 500ish. This might be ideal for those who works out a lot.

 
 

I managed to finally complete an hour recording of our Favourite Movies of 2018. My special guest this time is Del Goh. Do check out Progresif Radio next week for our Podcast recording. You’ll be surprised what’s my number one movie of 2018.

 
 

Ruby trying to remember how to set up the balls and she did it. A much improved player than she was weeks ago. You’re one fast learner, my friend. Safwan, beware!!!

 

 


A card game that I was getting to be familiar with – Monopoly Deal. However, Ruby is unbeatable in this one.

 
 

My first time trying out the cendol at M-Strike and one of the best sellers too.

 
 

We saw this mixer at Wise Generation outlet at Setia Kenangan II and it costs more than $15,000 if I’m not mistaken. A few nice kitchen ware here and tons of choices to look at. I’m definitely check this store out again for my cooking materials.

 
 

We had a pitstop at Potters too. They have discounts from 20% to 40% until 13th February. A few items also caught my eyes.

 
 

Ruby finally catching up on my blog entries and she was shocked with the statistics I shared about my social media usage per week.

 

 


Before midnight, we were preparing for a surprise for our birthday friend. It was 90% success.

 
 

Happy birthday, Pranika and I hope you enjoy the rest of the day!!!

 

Day 8. Social Media Purge. Happy New Year.

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in Social News

 


It was such an anti-climatic to the beginning of the year. I slept at 6am and woke up a midday. Had my home made lunch and slept more for almost the entire afternoon. I was pretty damn exhausted, mentally. Best way was just to sleep it off and rest my mind. It was a good time to be with myself and rest my body and mind. Ironically, a good way to start the year.
 

 


This was the headlines in today’s paper for January 1st, 2019. I do hope a better growth this year can help to counter the rising unemployment rate which is a pressing issue to me.
 

 


I was browsing The Scoop and they had their Top 10 most read news of 2018. It happened to be this news of the passing of the legendary Pehin Lau.
 

 


I had my dinner at a Vietnamese restaurant at Kiulap. I highly recommended the Pho with Beef 😀
 

 


It was raining pretty heavy that night but only lasted two hours. It’s gonna be a wet week perhaps.
 

 


Resting time means either playing my Football Manager or catching things on Netflix.
 

 


I caught Annihilation and it was an interesting sci-fi movie with deep themes. I prefer this than Bird Box and it’s available on Netflix. Verdict: 8/10
 

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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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