\

\
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism (2nd from left) during the memorandum of Agreement between Royal Brunei and Sarawak Tourism Board held recently

Meeeowwww!!!! It’s back again!! After a 4 year hiatus, direct flight from Bandar Seri Begawan to Kuching is back!!! The previous connection was via MASwings which stopped its operation back in October 2014. Royal Brunei ever flew to Kuching and its first flight was back on 15th May 1975 while its last flight was 28th July 2011. So it’s good to see that Royal Brunei has finally re-commencement its flight services to Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, starting 28th December 2018.

A signing of memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between RB and the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) was held yesterday, aimed on offering bi-weekly flights between Bandar Seri Begawan to Kuching and vice versa.

Present was the guest of honour, Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism. Present during the MoA were Datuk Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports, Sharzede binti Datuk Haji Salleh Askor, CEO of Sarawak Tourism Board and Karam Chand, CEO of Royal Brunei.

“The signing of the MoA between the Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines bears great importance to both our capitals,” said Sharzede binti Datuk Haji Salleh Askor, CEO of Sarawak Tourism Board. “First, it symbolises the start of the many collaborative efforts between our two capitals which will bring about sustainable socio-economic growth for both Sarawak and Brunei with tourism as a significant contributor, as well as strengthening the friendship between our people.

“Secondly, the Sarawak-Brunei tourism collaboration, especially with the strengthened connectivity between the two destinations, will increase the competitiveness and attractiveness as twin tourism destinations to capture tourists around the regions and the world, especially making Kuching more accessible to our focus markets including Melbourne, Shanghai and London, which augurs well for the marketing of the destination.”

RB will fly to Kuching on December 28 using the RB A320, with the route operating twice weekly before increasing to four times a week by February 3, 2019.

\
The signing of the memorandum of agreement

\
Datuk Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports speaking during the press conference

\
Karam Chand, CEO of Royal Brunei, on a side note, mentioned there will be no changes in scheduling for BSB to KK with the arrival of their competitor this coming January

\

Azlina Tua, Senior Sales Executive of Concepts Computer, Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive at Concepts Computer, Firdaus bin Abdul Samad, Sales Manager for Schneider Electric in Brunei Darussalam and Chu Hui Chiet, Marketing Executive at Schneider Electric (Brunei) at the launch of the new APC UPS

In a modern IT-centric society, data loss due to power-outages is not only a business risk but also a risk for everyday home users. Globally, businesses have lost billions of dollar worth of data due to power outages, and most studies does not even take into account personal lost of priceless data like family pictures and videos. This is why Concepts Computer and Schneider Electric (manufacturer of APC products) will be providing three new, affordable models of UPS from APC – World Leader in Power Protection. The new models are the APC BV650, BV800 and APC BV1000 UPS.

Known for its quality, innovation and industry leading service and support, APC (American Power Conversion) is working diligently to improve the manageability, availability and performance of data-critical systems through innovative solutions, and Concepts Computer is also working hard to provide affordable power-outage solutions from APC for both commercial and, more importantly, personal home-use.

All three of the UPS models are the latest in APC’s line of affordable UPS for SOHO (small office/home office) and personal home-use, and are perfect for those in need of quick and easy solutions for multiple PCs or even just a single home PC. The three models are rated for 375 Watts at 650 VA, 450 Watts at 800VA, and 600Watts at 1100VA respectively, this means that all three models will be able to offer protection for your data and hardware from power-outages, power-surges, power-spikes and even lightning-strikes.

Made as user-friendly as possible, APC has provided them with single-step battery connections, hassle-free cold start function, and the ability to power low and high powered devices. And not to forget keyhole sockets which makes mounting possible for all nooks and crannies of most houses, making them the perfect solution at home. And with the 2 years warranty, Schneider with the help of Concepts will help to ease the minds of Bruneian users.

Price ranges from BND 78 to BN 98 depending on the watts

\
It’s solid, durable and heavy because of the battery inside

Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive at Concepts Computer, speaking to the media, commented that, “Concepts Computer with APC UPS solutions is not only catering to corporations but also more importantly, for everyday home users. We understand the importance of our digital memories like family pictures and videos so this is why we focused on providing affordable solutions for them.” Zul also added, “Even if these UPS power solutions only provide an extra 5 minutes of up-time at home, this still means you will have 5 minutes to safely shut down your computers and save all your digital personal memories.”

Also at the press conference, Firdaus bin Abdul Samad, Sales Manager for Schneider Electric in Brunei Darussalam, also added, “As our society evolves and moves forward towards the digital platform for their personal data storage and becoming more open and vulnerable to data-loss due to power outages, this is where APC and Concepts Computer come in and provides affordable UPS solutions, perfect for homes.” He continued, “APC are also very committed to their products and this is reflected in the 2 years warranty we provide even for our most affordable solutions like the APC BV650 and all the way to our more expensive corporate UPS solutions.”

The APC BV650 will be available at Concepts Computer at $78, the APC BV800 will be available for $88, and the APC BBV1000 will be available for $98. Expected up-time for the APC BV650 with a basic PC of 120W will be 9 to 10 minutes, 14 to 15 minutes on the APC BV800, and for the APC BV1000 is 16 to 17 minutes. Please note these numbers are reliable estimates but can still be affected by many factors and conditions.

For more information on the full range of UPS solutions from APC and other IT products and solutions, please visit your nearest Concepts Computer showroom or call 2233551/2/3.

\
Different variance you can choose for the APC UPS at Concepts Computer. This is the APC BV800 selling at BND 98

\
This is the APC BBV1000 selling at BND 98 and it can hold for roughly 16-17 minutes when there is a power outage.

The newly relocated Baiduri Bank branch in Seria

Minister of Energy, Manpower and Industry, Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Hj Mat Suny bin Hj Mohd Hussein, was the guest of honour (centre) with the management of Baiduri Bank

Hello Serians (if there is such a word for Seria people). Because Baiduri Bank has now relocated their Seria Branch in Pekan Seria recently. Baiduri Bank took over HSCB previous location in Seria.

Minister of Energy, Manpower and Industry, Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Hj Mat Suny bin Hj Mohd Hussein, was the guest of honour during the official launch of Baiduri Bank Seria branch and he was welcomed by Pierre Imhof, the CEO of Baiduri Bank.

According to Pierre Imhof’s speech, the opening of the branch is a testament to their ongoing drive in providing the highest level of service to their customers in Seria. The area is the heart of commercial activity in Belait District and their presence is to cater to the increasing activity in the oil and gas industry as well as helping to grow and develop local micro, small and medium enterprises in the area.

The location represents not only the convenience but also enhance customer experience and comfort. It also have facilities to cater to Baiduri’s corporate clients and account holders which can help better serve to support both large companies and MSMEs.

The branch consists of a larger banking hall, offering full bank services to individuals and businesses and not forgetting the prestige area.

Pierre Imhof, the CEO of Baiduri Bank, in his welcoming remarks

Inside the Seria branch

Check out the promotion from DSTIncomm

Dreaming of a Winter Wonderland holiday?? It’s simple. Here’s your chance to win DSTIncomm Samsung Year End Bonanza with a grand prize of “2 return tickets to Seoul + BND 1,000 cash. All you have do is simply purchase any Samsung devices from DSTIncomm. Good thing is the promotion ends on 31st January 2019.

Please look out for the “Samsung Authorized” hologram sticker on the Samsung device packaging box and you are eligible. Lots of prizes to be won such as Samsung Galaxy Note9, Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 and many more! For more info, visit www.dstincomm.com or call their hotline 899 8086.

Follow the steps and you are a step away from being one of the lucky winners

You can even win a battery pack by sharing

The new CLS 350 😀

The new CLS pioneers the new design idiom of Mercedes-Benz, which is recognisable by its clear contours and reduced lines. Its character is marked by a grille contour that widens towards the base and a forward-slanting front section. Other features include wide, low-set headlamps and two-section tail lights. At the same time the design reflects the timeless aura of the first CLS, which founded a new segment and quickly became a design icon. All CLS models are equipped with new engines: in-line six-cylinder and in-line four-cylinder units as diesel and petrol versions. Like its predecessors, the new CLS exudes self-assured sportiness in exemplary style: a highly emotive vehicle offering impressive long-distance and acoustic comfort coupled with thrilling, unrivalled technology.

The standard AMG Line makes for added sportiness of the exterior and interior. External features are dynamic AMG styling (consisting of AMG front apron with chrome trim, sportily distinctive air curtains, AMG side sill panels and AMG rear apron in diffuser look with chrome trim strip), a diamond radiator grille with chrome pins and 48.3 cm (19-inch) 5-twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted in tremolite grey with a high-sheen finish. In the interior, the AMG Line comprises specially designed seats in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre in black, an AMG multifunction sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section as well as AMG sports pedals and AMG floor mats.

Interior: comfort and versatility

A high-resolution Widescreen cockpit is standard for the new CLS, with two 12.3-inch displays arranged beneath a shared, continuous glass cover.

In the fully digital cockpit, the driver is able to feely configure the information content according to need and the driving situation. Three different styles can be selected depending on preference, mood or to suit the interior appointments. The Classic and Sport styles have a basic structure with two tubes, while the Progressive style surprises and polarises with a structure having a central, tube-shaped instrument.

The ambience lighting is individually adjustable in 64 colours, and also includes the air vents. When the temperature setting of the air conditioning system is changed, it briefly changes colour to show whether the temperature is being made warmer (red) or cooler (blue).

For the first time, the CLS Coupé is a five-seater. The EASY-PACK Quickfold allows the backrests to be folded down in a 40/20/40 split to versatilely expand the large 520-litre luggage compartment.

Intelligent Drive: safety systems from the SClass

The new CLS comes with the latest driving assistance systems with route-based support for the driver. The standard equipment includes Active Brake Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, Speed Limit Assist and the occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®.

The optional Driving Assistance Package consists of Active Distance Control DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Active Speed Limit Assist, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and PRESAFE® PLUS. The Driving Assistance package Plus includes PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side. This system can brace the front occupants for a side impact by nudging them sideways to reduce the risk of injury.

MULTIBEAM LED headlamps with ULTRA RANGE high beam are also standard. These allow extremely quick and precise, electronically controlled adjustment of the headlamps to suit the current traffic conditions. ULTRA RANGE Highbeam generates the maximum light intensity permitted by law.

New range of engines: With EQ Boost and 48 volt onboard electrical system

The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz CLS is powered by completely new engines, in-line six-cylinder and four-cylinder petrol units. Also characteristic of the four-door coupé is the extensive range of 4MATIC models.

The new, systematically electrified four-cylinder and in-line six-cylinder with EQ Boost (integrated starter/generator) and a 48 volt onboard electrical system powers the CLS 350, CLS 450 4MATIC and CLS 53 4MATIC+. The integrated electric motor known as EQ Boost assists the combustion engine e.g. when accelerating, makes driving without the combustion engine possible (“sailing”) and supplies the battery with power by means of high-efficiency recuperation. By doing so it makes fuel savings possible that were previously the exclusive domain of high-voltage hybrid technology. All in all, the new in-line six-cylinder engine delivers the performance of an eight-cylinder engine with significantly lower consumption. The CLS 450 4MATIC is equipped with a particulate filter as standard.

The new CLS pioneers the new design idiom of Mercedes-Benz, which is recognisable by its clear contours and reduced lines. Its character is marked by a grille contour that widens towards the base and a forward-slanting front section. Other features include wide, low-set headlamps and two-section tail lights. At the same time the design reflects the timeless aura of the first CLS, which founded a new segment and quickly became a design icon. All CLS models are equipped with new engines: in-line six-cylinder and in-line four-cylinder units as diesel and petrol versions. Like its predecessors, the new CLS exudes self-assured sportiness in exemplary style: a highly emotive vehicle offering impressive long-distance and acoustic comfort coupled with thrilling, unrivalled technology.

So check out the new CLS today at Mercedes-Benz Autohaus from 10am to 5pm. Refreshments will be provided too.

Check out the Jimny, the 4th generation after 14 years. Now available for viewing at Suzuki Showroom at Gadong.

With the Jin Lee Lim, Executive Manager, Boustead Sdn Bhd

14 years. Yes, 14 years it has been before Suzuki unveiled their 4th generation of their Suzuki line-up which is the Jimny. It was launched earlier today at Suzuki Showroom at Gadong.

The revamped 4th generation Jimny has an overall different feel as compared to the 3rd generation. You can already tell from the exterior feel how the latest Jimny is much more rugged and furthermore, it is ALLGRIP car meaning it’s a 4×4 which will give the drivers the off-road experience.

What caught my eye the most is the look and feel. It doesn’t deviate too much from its corporate identity as you can still tell it’s a Jimny but the facelift makes me more relevant to the current trends globally.

The Suzuki Jimny is suitable for many purposes including outdoor adventure concept. I’m pretty sure this model will be a hit among the young and the not-so young because it appeals to all walks of life.

There’s ample legroom and headroom for the comfort of the passengers and the driver. Back space for luggage is bigger than previous model.

The upgraded Jimny is the first Suzuki’s model in Brunei to be equipped with a newly developed 1.5 liter engine, hence, creates strong torque for powerful off-road performance and delivers high fuel efficiency due to a lightweight compact design.

The safety features are quite enhanced in a way. There is the Hill Hold Control which makes hill starts easier by preventing the car from rolling backward (uuuuu me likes that feature), Hill Descent Control which automatically applies the brake when traveling downhill and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) which detects spillage to give the drivers a peace of mind when driving off-road. Furthermore, the body frame centres on Suzuki’s Total Effective Control Technology (TECT) concept, resulting in a structure that efficiently absorbs and disperse energy in the event of a collision.

The prices are quite competitive and reasonable. Maybe even entice you to get one. The units so far are fully booked but members of the public are welcome to view the showroom models until 9th November 2018. There will be refreshments and also limited edition door gifts for those who come today and tomorrow.

Congratulations once again to Boustead Sdn Bhd on the launch of the 4th generation of Jimny. The wait was definitely worth it.

Still maintaining the old look but now with a better facelift and bigger

How the inside looks like

The engine look

The staff of Boustead during the launching event

Head to Gadong showroom to check out the new Jimny

Yellow colour looks striking enough

I like this model. The tyres are up-sized compared to the other models

The 3rd generation of the Jimny, 14 years ago

Baiduri Bank, in collaboration with Mastercard, has rolled out an amazing promotion for their Baiduri Mastercard cardholders.

Between 20 October 2018 to 31 December 2018, Baiduri Mastercard cardholders stand a chance to win a trip for two to Resorts World Sentosa. The package includes a 2-night stay at a 5-star hotel, a VIP tour of Universal Studios Singapore and a priceless dining experience for 2.

To be eligible, Baiduri Mastercard cardholders simply need to use their Baiduri Mastercard Credit Card to make their purchases during the promotion period. Cardholders who spend a cumulative amount of at least BND1,000, receive 1x lucky draw chance.

Furthermore, successful new applicants of Baiduri Mastercard Credit Card will enjoy a 5-year annual fee waiver.

Baiduri Mastercard Credit Cards comes with an array of benefits, such as exclusive rewards and offers, easy instalment plans as well as ability to accumulate Bonus Points for the Baiduri Instant Rewards programme. With every purchase, customers enjoy Bonus Points, which in turn gets converted into Baiduri Dollars stored in the Instant Rewards card for instant redemption at any Baiduri merchant.

Currently, Baiduri Bank has over 2000 merchants all over Brunei who participate to give Baiduri cardholders special offers, privileges as well as exclusive shopping discounts. Overseas, Baiduri Mastercard Credit Cardholders not only enjoy access to a wide variety of offers and deals for travel, dining, shopping, sports and entertainment, but also 24-hour global emergency assistance, and depending on the card tier, complimentary travel insurance, and access to over 900+ VIP airport lounges around the world.

Terms and conditions of the promotion can be viewed on Baiduri Bank website at www.baiduri.com under the Promotions section, or on the Baiduri Bank mobile app – Baiduri Deals. For more information, customers may also contact the Baiduri Bank Customer Helpline at 2449666.

To be in the know of Baiduri Bank current promotions and events, the public can also like the official Baiduri Bank Group Facebook page or follow @baiduribank on Instagram and Twitter.

Grand winner also win a VIP tour of Universal Studios Singapore

Radin Sufri Radin Basiuni the new Acting Chief Executive Officer as well as Acting Chief Operating Officer of DST effective from 24th October 2018

DST announces the appointment of Radin Sufri Radin Basiuni as the new Acting Chief Executive Officer as well as Acting Chief Operating Officer of DST effective from 24th October 2018.

Radin has been working in DST since 2006. He began as a Group Company Secretary and also held a dual role as Assistant General Manager, Group Corporate Communications since 2007.

Radin Sufri Radin Basiuni supercedes Suhaimi Hussain, DST’s former CEO who officially retired on 23rd October 2018.

Woohooo… How can anyone not be excited for the new Mercedes-Benz A250?

Mr. Ho Ley Hoon, Sales Manager of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd mingling with the guests

Jati Transport Sdn Bhd knows how to throw a sneak preview of a model in a luxurious manner. They collaborated with a new eatery called Hook•ed, a subsidiary I believe from Golden Corporation, and provided the set up (ambience), service and the most important the food with detailed food presentation.

The event was hosted for the likes of the local press and social influencers of Brunei Darussalam for the press preview of the latest Mercedes-Benz model, the new A200 and the A250, which have already caught many buzzes when I posted a short video a month ago on social media. The dinner + press preview took place at Mercedes Autohaus at Beribi.

In attendance were Mr. Ho Ley Hoon, Sales Manager of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd, Daniel Loo, Marketing Executive at Jati Transport Sdn Bhd and other sales team of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd.

I have to say that the dinner event has a very personal touch and the representatives of the media and social influencers were in awe with what the new A250 and A200 can deliver. Though the exterior may have similar look with previous models, the main stealer of the show is the features of the A250 and A200 and of course, the interior.

I shall share all the specs and features in my next post or show. You will be amazed how smart the Mercedes-Benz can be and yes, you can command by using your voice. The magic word is “Hey Mercedes” and it will attend to you. Awesome!!!

All the current stock have been taken up by customers even before the official launch. But not to worry, more are being shipped as we speak. If you want to buy a Mercedes-Benz, this is definitely the right window and it could be just the best investment for the year 2018 😉

My deep appreciation for Jati Transport for the invite and delivering such a classy dinner event which really suited the theme with the new Mercedes-Benz A250 and A200. Stay tuned for the upcoming post on the A250 and the A200.

Members of the media attending the event

Ak Fairol of Media Permata speaking to a colleague

Hello Izzah :p

Nicely set up and I love the concept. Thank you, Hook•ed

Some of the starters for the night

The head chef preparing for the guests

A very detailed chef when it comes to food styling and presentation

The food ready to be served

I was feeling excited for dinner and it paid off

Me on the job and do check out my IG stories too

Thank you, Jati Transport, for hosting the media and social influencers