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The Sultanate of Oman celebrates its 51st National Day

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in royal family, culture, travel

His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik the Sultan of Oman
Their Majesties Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah



Message from His Excellency Sheikh Ahmed Bin Hashil Al Maskari, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Brunei Darussalam.



On the 18th of November, the Sultanate of Oman marks its 51st National Day anniversary. With firm resolve, Omani citizens continue to make more achievements under the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik, the Sultan of Oman who vowed to upgrade the march of nation building and enhance the pace of progress, striking a high note in Omani people’s enthusiasm for an ambitious renaissance that covers all spheres of life.

At the onset of the message on the auspicious occasion of the 51st anniversary of the national day of the Sultanate of Oman, I am honored to seize this opportunity to congratulate 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 Brunei Darussalam on Brunei Darussalam’s successful ASEAN Chairmanship for the current year, in these challenging times, Brunei continued to admirably play an important role as the ASEAN Chair in helping the region bounce back from the global pandemic and deal with other challenges facing ASEAN. 

Furthermore, after registering its first locally transmitted covid-19 case in over a year, I am pleased to take this opportunity to commend the Government of Brunei Darussalam’s approach in containing the second wave of COVID-19 outbreak. Owing 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 Brunei Darussalam’s wise leadership, we are confident that Brunei will overcome this challenge.  

Furthermore, thanks to the government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam the vaccination drive has gained momentum and the country is destined to achieve a level which is needed to achieve herd immunity in the nearest future. 

Moreover, I would also like to take this opportunity to laude Bruneians and foreign nationals residing in Brunei Darussalam for supporting the measures implemented by the Bruneian authority and for acting responsibly to stem the spreading of the virus.  My sincerest gratitude goes to the competent medical professionals, doctors and nurses, law enforcement and border guards and others who are working tirelessly around the clock for the well-being and safety of everyone in this country. 



Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Omani fort
Aerial view of Muscat- the capital city of the Sultanate of Oman



Oman & Brunei: 37 years of outstanding bilateral relation: 

This year marks the 37h anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Sultanate of Oman and Brunei Darussalam. The two sultanates established diplomatic ties on 24th March 1984 and, ever since, the bilateral relations have always enjoyed stable, healthy and steady development, and has attained remarkable achievements. 

This process was greatly assisted by the official state visits paid by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassnal Bolkiah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam to the Sultanate of Oman on three separate occasions. The first being in the 1984, the second taking place in 1985, and the third and the most recent visit in 2009.  In addition, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, visited Oman in February 2014. 

Furthermore, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the Sultan of Oman, visited Brunei Darussalam in March 2014, in his capacity as Minister of Heritage and Culture during the reign of the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Bin Taimur. These royal visits strengthened the relationship between the two brotherly countries even further. 

Since establishing diplomatic relations, the Sultanate of Oman and Brunei Darussalam have concluded numerous agreements and Memorandums of Understanding in different fields of cooperation. 

Bilateral relations are discussed and reviewed on regular basis by the Foreign Ministry of the Sultanate of Oman and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brunei Darussalam through the “Bilateral Consultative Meeting”; mechanism that was established in 1992 to strengthen bilateral relations. So, far twenty meetings have taken place, alternating between the two capitals of Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei and Muscat in the Sultanate of Oman.

Despite the challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic our two brotherly countries bilateral relations continued to grow from strength to strength. On 11th January 2021, the Foreign Ministries of the Sultanate of Oman and Brunei Darussalam held the 20th Bilateral Consultative Meeting (20th BCM), via video-conferencing. 

During the 20th BCM, the two sides acknowledged and agreed to further strengthen the existing bilateral cooperation between the Sultanate of Oman and Brunei Darussalam in various areas, including trade and investment, energy, agriculture and fisheries, higher education, tourism, health, defense, and people-to-people exchanges.  

Cultural cooperation is one of the strong dimensions of Oman-Brunei bilateral relations. Oman has participated on regular basis in Brunei international book fairs. Brunei also took part in Muscat book fairs during the past few years. 

In this regard it worth mentioning that, on the year 2019, the Sultanate of Oman was privileged to be the first country ever to be invited as a country of honor at Brunei Book Fair, since it was inaugurated almost two decades ago.

Additionally, in line with the Embassy’s efforts to make the most of the Bruneians admiration for Arabic language, a fifth batch consisting of four teachers from the Ministry of Religious Affairs studied Arabic Language in the Sultan Qaboos College for Teaching Arabic Language to Non-Native Speakers, for duration of eight weeks during the year 2019, on a partial scholarship from the Government of the Sultanate of Oman. 

The first four batches consisted of students from Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) and the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB). 

So far, a total of twenty-four participants from Brunei had benefited from this program. Currently arrangements are underway for the sixth batch of Bruneian students to study Arabic Language in the Sultan Qaboos College for Teaching Arabic Language to Non-Native Speakers during the course of next year. 

Furthermore, recently the Ministry of Education of the Sultanate of Oman and Brunei’s Ministry of Religious Affairs established an impressive cooperation in the field of Arabic language teaching and learning, that has resulted in several promising initiatives that further strengthened the teaching and learning of Arabic language in Brunei Darussalam.  

The Embassy has also emphasized promoting people-to-people exchanges between Brunei and Oman. As part of this effort, six Omani publications corners were officially launched at the library of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) in February 2016 and at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD)’s library in May 2017, at the Library of the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) on 25th July 2018, at the library of Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) on October 2019 and the library of Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Défense Academy on October 2020, with the latest Omani publications corner launched at the Library of the Language and Literature Bureau on 27th July 2021. Thus, the total number of Omani publications contained in these six corners are more than two-thousands (2,000) publications. 

Additionally, as part of the Embassy’s effort to foster ties with the People of Brunei, within the framework of public diplomacy, which is considered an effective tool to help formulate people’s perception of each other’s countries and cultures. 

The Embassy continued its annual practice of inviting batches of students from local public schools to visit the Embassy’s premise. During these visits I personally presented on aspects of Oman’s cultural and tourism appeal such as its geographic location, natural beauty and diverse landscapes, in addition to its culture and heritage. My presentation also explored some of the similarities between the Sultanate of Oman and Brunei Darussalam including the form of governance practiced in both countries, and efforts to modernize while maintaining distinct cultural identities, as well as the strong bonds of friendship forged through shared historical, cultural and social ties between the two countries and their peoples. 

Moreover, our two brotherly countries enjoy productive cooperation in the field of education; the Sultanate of Oman continued to offer Bruneian students’ scholarships under the Omani program for Cultural and Information cooperation. At the same time, we are also grateful that over the past years the government of Brunei Darussalam has accepted many Omani students to pursue their studies in various local universities and institutions of higher learning on Brunei government scholarship. 

Speaking of students’ exchange, several Omani students from Sultan Qaboos University and University of Nizwa studied in UBD for one academic semester, during the past few years. 

Oman and Brunei also enjoy promising cooperation in the field of sports, only last April 2021, The National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Oman Football Association. The MOU entailed cooperation in vast areas including conducting more exchanges between the two Football Associations as well as the hosting of friendly matches.

Moreover, in a move that took trade and investment cooperation between the two sultanates to a higher level, Brunei inked a deal with Oman in April 2009, to establish a US$100 million investment fund, shared between the two sultanates and based in the Omani capital of Muscat. This deal resulted in the unveiling of Oman Brunei Investment Company (OBIC).

OBIC invests in private equity of high-growing sectors through acquisition, or by investing in existing companies or starting new projects.

OBIC continued to make the most of business opportunities available in the Sultanate of Oman and Brunei Darussalam local markets, in order to further boost the two countries economic development and contribute to their economic diversification plans.

OBIC has invested in many projects in the Sultanate of Oman since its establishment 12 years ago. Among the most important of these projects are Kempinski Hotel, located Al Mouj-Muscat; the European Hospital being built in Al Ghubra; and the desalination plant in Sohar. 

On the year 2019, OBIC has acquired (50 per cent) share of Golden Corporation Sdn Bhd (GC), a company that specializes in fish farming, in addition to providing high-quality seafood products, based in Brunei Darussalam. This was OBIC first investment in Brunei.

Furthermore, on 9th December 2019, Oman Investment Authority (OIA) of the Sultanate of Oman and Brunei Investment Agency (BIA) agreed to increase the capital of Oman Brunei Investment Company (OBIC) by another USD 100 million. Thus, bringing the total capital of the company to USD 200 million.

Additionally, both countries have identified and explored over the years during the Bilateral Consultative Meetings between the Sultanate of Oman Foreign Ministry and Brunei Darussalam, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a number of new investment opportunities in various industries including the upstream and downstream, oil and gas sectors, halal food, banking and finance, agriculture and fisheries. With the hope that these investments won’t be limited to either Oman or Brunei, but could also be extended to joint investment in third countries.

Moreover, the longstanding shared values and similar energy landscapes of Brunei Darussalam and the Sultanate of Oman have been key in nurturing close ties between the two countries, with the Brunei-Oman Joint Seminar – first held in 2014 in Brunei and the second held in Muscat, Oman in 2016 and third taking place in Brunei 2019– symbolizing this partnership. We are hopeful that the fourth session of the aforementioned seminar will take place next year 2022, at Muscat. 

The biennial seminar, hosted alternately between Brunei and Oman, was established as a platform to share best practices in areas of mutual interest between both countries and to foster joint opportunities, as well as to enhance understanding of the business and investment environments in both countries, especially in industry sectors.

Cooperation in the field of energy and related fields further fortified with the exchange of professionals through the staff cross-posting between Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP), Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) and Oman Liquefied Natural Gas (Oman LNG), an arrangement which has been ongoing for several years.

Défense cooperation is another dimension of Brunei-Oman bilateral relations that has also grown steadily over the past years, with both countries armed forces regularly participating in command and staff courses and other military events held in the Sultanate of Oman and Brunei Darussalam.

With reference to what I have highlighted earlier it’s evident that relations between the two Sultanates have extended beyond the political spheres to include other important areas of cooperation and we firmly believe that with the joint efforts of both sides, more positive results will be yielded in the Sultanate of Oman-Brunei Darussalam excellent and mutual beneficial cooperation.

Therefore, based on these cooperative relations shaped by economic necessity and investment opportunities and incentives, there is ample reason to expect our two countries partnership to reach new heights and cover more sectors including industries, tourism, logistics, fisheries, as well as, technology, health care, water, environment, and renewable energy.

Furthermore, we hope that the friendship and cooperation between the Sultanate of Oman and Brunei Darussalam will grow from strength to strength and we are confident that with the outstanding leadership of their Majesties Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah Ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, the bonds of friendship between Oman and Brunei will be further cemented in the years ahead. 

I would therefore like to express my thanks and appreciation to the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam for their kindness, generosity support and cooperation in promoting the good relations between our friendly countries. 

I am, thus confident that our two friendly countries relations in the coming years will witness further enhancement of closer bonds of friendship and partnership. Ultimately, my heartfelt wishes to Brunei Darussalam to further success, progress, peace and for the Oman-Brunei relation further development and prosperity.





Celebrating Renewed Renaissance, Setting Further Milestones:


It is with great pride, immense happiness, deep love and gratitude to the Builder of Modern Oman, the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Bin Taimur and His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, that Omani people celebrate the 51st National Day on the 18th of November 2021.  

The achievements brought about over the past 51 years can be seen in all fields and on every yard of the Sultanate of Oman’s territory. The late His Majesty established the pillars of a modern state on solid grounds of justice, equality, responsible citizenship and rule of the law as part of His Majesty’s keenness on safeguarding the unity of the nation and the solidarity of citizens in every part of the country.


The main focus of the Sultanate of Oman’s Renaissance has been on the creation of a modern nation based upon a system of laws and institutions that reflect the development of its society and state. The Basic Law of the State embodies all aspects and helped establish ‘the state of institutions and rule of law’ and paved the way for wide-scale cooperation between executive and legislative institutions within a framework of equality, in earnest quest to facilitate citizens’ access to justice.

Oman National Day is an occasion in which citizens exhibit their joy over the achievements made, as well as their love and gratitude to their benevolent leader.

The celebration comes at a time the Sultanate of Oman is making progress in every field, inspired by the directives of His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik, who continued charting the roadmap of the renaissance.  That’s how modern Oman has emerged as a country admired by the whole world, because of its civilized contribution to human experience and its dignified presence in regional and international arenas. 

Audience with His Excellency Sheikh Ahmed Bin Hashil Al Maskari, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Brunei Darussalam
Thank you for the appreciation gift and the hospitality. Hope to visit Oman one day 😀



Royal directives to tackle coronavirus pandemic:



To contain coronavirus (Covid-19) that wreaked havoc in countries of the world, the Sultanate of Oman formed a Supreme Committee tasked with tackling developments resulting from coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. The Supreme Committee has been taking ‘moderate’ decisions and precautionary measures that ensure the safety of citizens and residents, while at the same time catering to social and economic implications on this benign land.

The Supreme Committee is responsible for cooperation with the departments concerned and regulating social response. It worked for the procurement of internationally approved vaccines and oversaw the implementation of a national immunization campaign. This was commended by His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik when he chaired the Supreme Committee’s meeting on 18 August 2021. His Majesty said that, “This improvement could not have happened had it not been for the appropriate decisions taken and the efforts exerted by the departments concerned in the Sultanate of Oman, albeit the health sector.” His Majesty the Sultan of Oman lauded the “high sense of responsibility shouldered by all members of society through abidance with the decisions and the measures set by the authorities concerned to safeguard public health—individuals and society at large”.

The decisions resulted in the improvement of Covid-19 indicators in the Sultanate of Oman, which, the reports said, registered great decline in mortality, infection and hospitalization rates, while recovery from the disease reached 98.5%.

Meanwhile, the government accorded special attention to the ensuing economic impacts of Covid-19. The decisions, which took into account the fallouts of the pandemic on establishments and companies, included exemption from fines of some services. Special exemptions were sanctioned to small and medium enterprises and holders of Riyada Card for Entrepreneurs. This is in addition to a package of incentives for borrowers, individuals, banking institutions, financing and leasing firms.

Thailand Grand Fair at CF

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in royal family, culture, travel, lifestyle, food, Social News

 

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Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs accompanied by H.E. Ms. Wanthanee Viputwongsakul, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Brunei Darussalam with other diplomatic corps at the grand opening of the Thailand Grand Fair at the 23rd Consumer Fair held at the International Convention Centre
 

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Her Royal Highness looked on the hand made design on the umbrella
 

The Royal Thai Embassy organised the ceremony of the “35th Anniversary of Thailand―Brunei Diplomatic Relations Grand Fair” at Bilik Sepakat 2 and 3 yesterday. On this special occasion, Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs graced the Opening ceremony of the Fair as part of the 23rd Consumer Fair.

The Embassy’s annual Thailand Grand Fair is celebrating its 11th edition this year and also coincides with the 35th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Thailand and Brunei Darussalam.

Visitors can expect around 30 booths selling fresh and ready-to-eat food such as fresh spring rolls, Miang Kham and Som Tam (papaya salad), dried food, snacks and delicacies such as mango and durian sticky rice as well as dried, fresh and seasonal fruits.

Visitors can also find at the Fair,Thai silk and cotton clothing, handbags, handicrafts, jewelries and herbal products. So do visit the Thailand Grand Fair at the Consumer Fair which ends this Sunday.

 

 

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Her Royal Highness receiving a Thai delicacy from one of the vendors at the Thai Grand Fair
 

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Photo opportunity with the guest of honour
 

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Her Royal Highness visited Chatramue booth
 

Consumer Fair kicks off

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in technology, performing arts, culture, lifestyle, food, Business, Social News

 

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The VIPs during the launch of the 23rd Consumer Fair at the International Convention Centre
 

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Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr.) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs graced the 23rd Consumer Fair
 

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The Guest of Honour paid a visit to Cuckoo Pavilion
 

 

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Meet the sleek PRIME X2.  An outdoor water filter built for outdoor filtration, that is built with superior elasticity and high filtration effectiveness.  From your laundry to your garden, enjoy purified water in all that you do at home with an outdoor filter unlike any other in Brunei. Do check it out at Consumer Fair.
 

 

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One of the entrances for Consumer Fair
 

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Guest of Honour visiting Dare booth in promoting Bruneian Made products
 

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Toy Warehouse Sale
 

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A popular spot even on the first day
 

 

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Guest of Honour at BIBD Pavilion
 

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Hello Katherine. Her company has been a strong supporter of CF
 

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Kurapak launching his new product while Hitesh gave it a thumbs up. Check out Kurapak’s Latte at the food zone area of Consumer Fair
 

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Taiwan booth at Consumer Fair
 

 

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One of the reasons why this area is not being used for Consumer Fair because of the Yayasan event taking place today.
 

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Both coffee vendors complementing each other
 

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Malaysian vendors making their presence at Consumer Fair
 

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CF King, distributor for Asus, participating in this year’s Consumer Fair
 

FashionValet Pop-Up is back

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in royal family, fashion, culture, Business, Social News

 

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 FashionValet General Manager Nadia Norzuhdy and BIBD Head of Retail Banking Hajah Nurul Akmar binti Haji Md Jaafar. Photo by Bahyiah Bakir of Borneo Bulletin.
 

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Founder of @mukaku_comestics and @assalwaa.beauty.spa with HRH Princess Amal Rakiah
 

The annual event is back once more. Ladies will be spoilt for choices as they readied themselves for the upcoming festive of Hari Raya. The FashionValet pop-up event is currently being held at Indera Kayangan Ballroom and the first opening hours of the event was made exclusive to BIBD Perdana customers.

Now the event has been opened to public until 4th May (tomorrow) and it will be until 4pm.

Vivy Yusof made a one day appearance for her fans and of course, she’s the co-founder of FashionValet. Hajah Nurul Akmar binti Hj Md Jaafar, BIBD Head of Retail Banking, shared that BIBD’s partnership with FashionValet is more than just an annual pop-up event as it also showcases the local entrepreneurs at hand where they can be connected outside Brunei waters.

Some of the local vendors participating were Baitaal Hijab, Mumtaz Collections, Rozai Hijab, Mukaku Domestics and Mudaser. They were selected according to their ability to export and they will be trained by FashionValet on the know-how when it comes to being international. The said brands have already a proven track record locally and now it’s time for them to shine further. They also fall under the BIBD Catalyst program.

Good news for BIBD cardholders is that throughout the event, BIBD debit and credit cardholders will be entitled to exclusive discounts and earn double BIBD Hadiah Points which can be used to pay for utilities, donations, air miles and more.

So hurry yourself to FV pop up event before it’s over. Happy shopping and thanks to BIBD for making this possible yet again.

 

 

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BIBD Aspirasi

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

 


Check out BIBD Aspirasi. Click image to find out more.
 


AMBD Managing Director Yusof bin Haji Abdul Rahman being introduced to BIBD’s latest savings product – BIBD Aspirasi at last weekend’s event
 

BIBD Aspirasi is an awesome product introduced by BIBD (Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam). Launched last weekend during the AMBD National Savings Day Roadshow, it created a great hype and their limited BIBD Digital Coin Boxes have ran out of stock as they are only exclusive for BIBD Aspirasi customers.

So what’s so special about BIBD Aspirasi?

1) You can earn a lucky draw coupon for every BND 50 you deposit into BIBD Aspirasi. The more you invest, the better your chances.
2) The lucky draw prizes are awesome!! Monthly prize is BND 2,500, quarterly prize is BND 25,000 and the grand prize is BND 250,000. AWESOME!!!
3) You can earn 0.2% per annum if I’m not mistaken
4) You have better returns than the normal savings deposit
5) It has a flexible savings scheme allowing you to participate and withdraw anytime and no withdrawal fee imposed
6) You can open the Aspirasi account through your BIBD app and online. So easy!!! I got mine done on BIBD App.

All these are good enough to make me open an BIBA Aspirasi account and I was one of the early subscribers and I’m happy to get a Digital Coin Box of my own 😀

The BIBD Aspirasi was launched by AMBD Managing Director Yusof bin Haji Abdul Rahman last weekend.

In a nutshell, BIBD accountholders can start their ‘BIBD Aspirasi’ journey to financial freedom by subscribing to an initial ‘BIBD Aspirasi’ e-certificate for as low as BND500 with a one-time subscription fee of BND5.

So what are you waiting for? I have signed up and hundred others. Do join the bandwagon and this is also great initiative to start saving.

As for the grand prize, the BIBD Aspirasi subscribers will have a cut of date on 31st August 2019 and the grand draw will be announced maybe in September 2019 or later.

Let’s start saving and it’s never too late 😀 Thank you, BIBD, for this awesome savings product. For more information, you can click here to read more.

 

 


Group photo with AMBD and BIBD management during the launch of BIBD Aspirasi
 


Hajah Nurul Akmar binti Haji Md Jaafar, BIBD Head of Retail Banking. during the press conference of BIBD Aspirasi
 


 Adinah binti Haji Janudin, BIBD Head of Product Management Department, explaining the mechanism of BIBD Aspirasi and its benefits
 

 

 


Seng Yee was also on the early subscribers of BIBD Aspirasi
 


You will also get a digital certificate of deposit once you register for BIBD Aspirasi
 

Youth empowerment is the key

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in Youth, community, culture, education, Social News

 

 


Yang Berhormat Awang Iswandy bin Ahmad who led the 1st Brunei Young Leaders Convention 2018
 

Brunei Young Leaders Convention 2018, organized by AlHuffaz Management and Generasi Bekarih, led by member of Legislative Council, Yang Berhormat Awang Iswandy bin Ahmad has started yesterday, 7 August at Goldstone Ballroom, Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong. Present as the guest of honour for the launching ceremony and presentation of appreciation certificates for the supporters and sponsors were the Minister of Prime Minister’s Office, Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohammad Daud.

Attending the launching ceremony were also Yang Berhormat Siti Rozaimeriyanty binti DSLJ Haji Abdul Rahman, Yang Berhormat Nik Hafimi binti Abdul Haadii and Managing Director of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Dato Paduka Awang Eddie bin Dato Paduka Haji Sunny. Recital of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat was led by the vice co-chairperson, Ustaz Haji Mohammad Loqman Al-Hakim bin Haji Hamdan.

He mentioned in his speech that in order to shape the future of the country, youth should grab any opportunities, explore and always look for any opportunities that were offered. Youth were encouraged to take a deeper understanding of ‘Belia Aset Negara’ because youth are the valuable future assets which would determine the strength and leadership of the future generation as well as the country.

“Kenali siapa kita dan jangan lupa asal usul diri kita. Negara Brunei Darussalam adalah negara yang memegang teguh falsafah dan konsep Melayu Islam Beraja, sebagai sebuah Negara Zikir dan ‘Baldatun Thayyibatun Warabbun Ghafur’. Kukuhkan dan kekalkan nilai-nilai keBruneian dan jati diri sebagai bangsa Brunei dalam diri para belia kerana ianya mampu memupuk dan menjiwai rasa kepunyaan atau sense of belonging, dan menanam semangat patriotism yang kukuh. Itulah calak Brunei, itulah purih Brunei. Dengan adanya sikap dan sifat semacam ini, maka sudah tentu para belia tidak akan mudah terkeluar dari ‘Acuan KeBruneian’ dan jangan mudah hanyut atau tergelincir dari ‘Landasan keBruneian’,” he added.

The ceremony proceeded with a keynote on Wawasan Brunei 2035 which was then delivered by Administrative Officer Special Grade of Sekretariat Tetap Wawasan Brunei 2035, Yang Mulia Muhammad Aziman bin Haji Awang Nasir.

Youth snapshot was then conducted by Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. In the afternoon, the convention continued with a session titled “Be The Change”, held by Centre for Strategic and Policy Studies (CSPS). The first day ended with a networking session for the mentors and all participants.

A total of 200 participants, aged between 18 to 40 years old are taking part in the convention which will continue for three days until 9 August 2018.

Brunei Young Leaders Convention 2018 is held for the first time and it aims to deliver accurate and updated information regarding Wawasan Brunei 2035, to unite relevant youth development agencies as well as to provide platform for youth to carry out projects or programs that might support and achieve Wawasan Brunei 2035.

In addition to attending forums, participants also have the opportunity to interact and build network with the mentors which comprised of experienced youth regarding their future plans prior to attending the convention.

For more information and updates regarding the convention, visit www.bylconvention.com or follow the BYLC 2018’s official social media accounts on Instagram/Twitter (@bylconvention) and Facebook (Brunei Young Leaders Convention 2018). Some of the images courtesy of their event Facebook page.

 

 


Dr. Sophiana Chua of CSPS sharing on adaptive and radical changes that can have an impact on your life and your future
 


Where do you see yourself in 10 years? A vision/a goal that many of us choose to ignore.
 


One of the exercises conducted by Hanis Osman, CEO of Generasi Bekarih
 

 


Another form of networking (literally)
 


There were around 200 participants who signed up for the convention. Amazing start!!
 


Participants were engaging from the beginning
 


Dr. Sophiana sharing the journey of his brother in the younger days
 

Spectacle 2018: Eminent Art

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in arts, culture, education, lifestyle, Social News

 

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Associate Professor Dr. Mohammad Ayub Sadiq, Assistant Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Universiti Brunei Darussalam in his welcoming remarks accompanied by Haji Ahmad Najib Haji Ali Hassan, the Director of Spectacle 2018 Committee during the launch of Spectacle 2018: Eminent Art, at the Art Gallery, Chancellor Hall, UBD earlier today
 

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One of the sponsors receiving a token from the Director of Spectacle 2018 Committee
 

Something to look forward to at Universiti Brunei Darussalam – Spectacle 2018: Eminent Art. It was launched this morning at the Chancellor Hall, UBD. It was officiated by Associate Professor Dr. Mohammad Ayub Sadiq, Assistant Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), UBD.

70 final year students are exhibiting their innovative art and design capstone projects and this will be part of their final assessments which will be evaluated by Dr. Martie Geiger-Ho, Senior Lecturer, Arts & Creative Technology, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences, UBD and Hj Osman bin Hj Mohammad, Adjunct Lecturer, Arts & Creative Technology, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences, UBD.

Spectacle 2018 gives the final year students the chance to showcase their artworks and installation and of course, their talents which are translated to the end product. Of course, the public are more than welcome to pay a visit and witness what our locals are able to produce in terms of their efforts and creativity, in hopes to elevate Brunei’s creative industries.

Most of the students I interviewed shared that their ideas of their installations are inspired from their personal experiences. One artist, Fikri Yunus, shared his personal story one how he was a shy person in nature and not being able to be expressive or showing signs of confidence. For his project, he created a cocoon installation, depicting a human being coming out of the cocoon. Yes, the person in the cocoon is Fikri himself where he has morphed into a more confident person and feeling more secured around people. One of the interesting installation to look at when you do visit the Spectacle 2018.

I also noticed more paper artwork being used in artwork displays. Check out the installations such as “Harmonized Disparity” by Nurbazilah binti Bahari, “Brief Insight of Women in Brunei” by Nursheila binti Idnin and “Quillosophy” by Ikmal Atifah binti Awang Mohamad. I really appreciate their efforts on presenting their artworks through paper cuts.

I was just impressed with the ideas that the students have presented in their final assessments. I could just carry on and talked more on it but it would defeat the purpose as I want to encourage you to pay a visit to Spectacle 2018. Furthermore, the entry is FREE for the public. You will be impressed with the talents we have.

 

 

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Some of the installations being showcased
 

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Installation by Ak Mahmud Ruzaini bin Pg Mohamad who used metal wires for sculpturing purposes. He was expressing the inner struggles within and it can be visible in a skinless form.
 

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An illustration installation by Ikmal Atifah binti Hj Awang Mohamad who used folded coloured papers in creating a portrait of her. This workmanship requires a lot of energy and you have to be meticulous in executing this installation to perfection. Good job!!
 

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Installation called “Heartstrings” by Ajeerah Firdausul Bolqiah. An interesting depiction of her life journey and her emotions are expressed by the chords and frets of a guitar illustrations. The different coloured hearts represent different situations that are either positive or negative.
 

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A papercut illustration which is not quite common in the previous Spectacle but it’s making a presence in this year’s edition. Created by Nurshiela binti Idnin, she carved out three iconic personalities of Brunei through means of papercut. Awesome!!! Who knows one day you will get commissioned for your new known talent. Oh yea, she only started to love paper cutting during her Discovery Year in Bandung, Indonesia.
 

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Last year I saw an illustration using lights and shadow. This year I saw a different perspective on how it can be used to express emotions. Nur Ezzati binti Morni with her project “Metanoia”, utilized wires and lights to create a shadow effect on people’s expression. With the power of the switch, these expressions can quickly change in an instant. Very creative indeed.
 

Also to share you some information that all the students had limited resources from UBD and hence, they are required to source their own materials in order to complete their end product. The students did fork out money to spend on the materials required to complete their artwork. Some of the displays required a lot of fabrication and that is never a cheap job. So you can see how dedicated the students are in investing their projects and made them possible for display at Spectacle 2018.

Haji Ahmad Najib Haji Ali Hassan, the Director of Spectacle 2018 Committee, was more than relieved after the successful launch of the event earlier this morning. The venue was only handed over in March and they were running against the time. He shared how they were meeting deadlines and completion of the decoration at the Art Gallery, Chancellor Hall. Finally, the whole team made it the event possible today which will continue until 14th May 2018.

Prior to this, the committee also organised fund raising events to help fund the Spectacle 2018 such as hosting the Spectacle Eminent Art Bazaar (February 2018) and Painting workshops (December 2017) to name a few. I kinda like how they have a good branding in promoting their event on social media. So keep it up 😀

Do follow them on @spectacle2018 on Instagram and also pay them a visit at the Gallery Art, Chancellor Hall, UBD. If you’re lucky enough, you might catch the artists there and learn more about their artworks and installations.

 

 

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If you are thinking of reflection, as in reflecting on yourself, do try this mixed media installation called “Peculiar Reflection” by Dk Siti Syuhaidah binti Pg Baharuddin. When was the last time you look yourself in the mirror and appreciate yourself?
 

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She must be one lucky lady. I wanna have what she has. Nur Lia Anira binti Johar created a 3D animation video called “Lucid Dreaming”. Apparently, she experiences lucid dreams on a yearly basis, meaning that you are conscious while dreaming. I only experienced it twice in my life and it was such an awesome feeling.
 

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The guest of honour paying a visit to Nur Raidah’s installation, “Embossed: New Bruneian Floral”.
 

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This is a mixed media installation by Haji Ahmad Najib who spoke of cerebral palsy among children and the message is to spread the awareness especially for parents and the public that through the right education, children with cerebral palsy can make strides towards a healthier and happier life.
 

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Nurhanisah binti Hj Sabli shared about how that we lose the cultural identity of our country. She depicts using our traditional textile, kain tenunan, to create more awareness on our cultural identity. Hope is not lost indeed.
 

 

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Japanese Film Festival 2018

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in culture, movies, Social News

 


His Excellency, Mr. Motohiko Kato, Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam (3rd from left) and Mr. Masafumi, Senior Project Manager, Film and Broadcast Media of Japan Foundation (2nd from left) and Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Putera Maharaja Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Ghani binPehin Datu Pekerma Dewa Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Rahim, a Legislative council member (4th from left) during the official launch of the Japanese Film Festival 2018
 


His Excellency, Mr. Motohiko Kato, Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam giving his welcoming remarks to the audience
 

The Japanese Film Festival 2018 kicked off in Brunei Darussalam last night at The Arena Cineplex, Kiulap. Attending the opening ceremony were His Excellency, Mr. Motohiko Kato, Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam and Mr. Masafumi, Senior Project Manager, Film and Broadcast Media of Japan Foundation, other members of the Diplomatic Missions in Brunei, media influencers, clubs and associations related to Japan.

The Japanese Film Festival is organised by the Japan Foundation and Embassy of Japan to Brunei Darussalam. This is a platform used to raise interest in Japanese films among audiences in the ASEAN region. It aims to provide opportunities for people to gather offline and online, under the vision of building a system for an extensive bridge between the Asia-Pacific film market and the Japanese film industry as mentioned by Mr. Masafumi.

There will be seven films being screened daily until the 28th of February 2018. The genres include drama, animation, manga adaptation and mystery. Do refer to the posters for details and you can google them for more in-depth review.

The cool thing about Japanese Film Festival 2018 is that the ticket admission is FREE and the way to claim your ticket is to collect your tickets from 5pm onwards at Arena Cineplex at Seri Q-Lap Mall. Each of the screening begins at 7:30pm.

For more information, you can contact them at 863 6488 or visit their Facebook Page or instagram @jffbrunei

What Rano thinks: I’m so pleased that there’s finally a Japanese Film Festival, showcasing more than 5 Japanese films. I’m a movie junkie and furthermore, I love Japanese movie for some reason. There are a few titles that I love rematching such as Zatoichi, Your Name (animation) and Battle Royale to name a few.

Good job to the Japan Foundation and the Embassy of Japan to Brunei Darussalam of making this possible because I normally see this kind of events in Singapore when I traveled. So this is a good start in creating more interest in Japanese films. I’m hoping to catch another one tonight if I can get hold of the tickets 🙂

 


His Excellency speaking to the management of Times Square Shopping Centre
 


Hello Ms. Junko Kurihara 😀
 


We caught the first film, Chihayafuru Part I
 

 


A’aqiil of Filterworks Production was also present
 


The screen times for the selected movies at Arena Cineplex
 

Japanese Language and Culture Week 2018

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

 

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The Embassy of Japan in Brunei, together with the Japan Foundation and Times Square, will be co-organising “Japanese Language and Culture Week” from Friday 2 to Sunday 4 February 2018 at Times Square.

The event aims to introduce traditional Japanese culture and promote the Japanese language, whilst also highlighting opportunities for studying in Japan. There will be exhibition booths and on-stage demonstrations including a live showcase of new Japanese music, graffiti-art workshops, Japanese Martial Arts demonstrations, exhibitions of traditional Japanese toys, Japanese cooking, a Yoyo and Kendama showcase and Yukata (Japanese casual summer kimonos) dressing up with a commemorative photo service.

The new Japanese music showcases will be led by the musician group, named the” Ryoma Quartet “ from Japan.The band is a fusion of west meets east and old meets new. They will conduct a live performance with a violin and three traditional Japanese musical instruments; three-stringed shamisen, shinobue flute and tsuzumi hand drum. The musicians have been performing together as well as undertaken solo projects, developing music as a band and as individuals. The band is known for the members’ professional performance skills and stage presence, as well as their uniform, Montsuki Hakama (a traditional Japanese costume for men) which represents their determination to perform professionally.

Time table:
–          8.00pm on Friday, 2nd February
–          4.45pm – 5.30pm on Sunday, 4th February
–          8.00pm – 9.00pm on Sunday, 4th February

 

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A musician group, named the” Ryoma Quartet “ from Japan
 

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Click image to enlarge
 

Roti Culture woos Brunei

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

 


Yang Berhormat Dato Paduka Ali Apong as the guest of honour with Pehin Goh King Chin, Managing Director of GHK Sdn Bhd and Wu Chun, founder of Roti Culture and his two children officially launching Roti Culture last Friday. Image courtesy of Roti Culture Facebook Page.
 


The invited guests enjoying the culture performances during the grand opening

Roti Culture, the recently opened family oriented and kids friendly restaurant is based in Batu Bersurat serving scrumptious and most loved roti and an array of savoury dishes, tantalizing local taste buds with an international touch. During the grand opening, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, Yang Berhormat Dato Paduka Ali Apong was invited as the guest of honour to officiate the opening. Along the VIP guest lists were Managing Director of GHK Sdn Bhd, Pehin Goh King Chin, the Russian Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, Vladlen Semivolos, former CEO of the Brunei Tourism Board, Sheikh Jamaluddin and Marketing Manager of Royal Brunei Airlines, Alirahim Hj Abdul Rani.

The owner is our Brunei’s very own international artiste and philanthropist, Wu Chun who recently just finished the shooting of the very popular TV show “ Daddy, where are you going?” with an online viewers of more than 5 billion in China alone. Looking at his weibo account, we know he is just back from his 11 days trip, which he traveled to 11 cities for his commercial events and international endorsements. Including a recent award in Beijing where he was awarded the 2017 NetEase Most Influential Artiste Award. Wu Chun was known for his endeavours making Brunei known to the world and vice versa, him bringing the outside world experience to the country.

This is why, in Roti Culture, one can find what they are looking for, on the menu to satisfy one’s hunger ranging from the Indian-inspired signature roti kosong, roti bomb, dosai, nasi briyani to Malay cuisines such as our pandan nasi lemak, laksa, and otak-otak, as the founder would describe it as a one-stop place to eat and kid friendly atmosphere equipping a kid’s corner.

 

 


Guest of honour signing on the plaque. Image courtesy of Roti Culture Facebook Page.
 


A token of appreciation to the guest of honour and group photo with the associates of Roti Culture. Image courtesy of Roti Culture Facebook Page.
 


That’s some grand cake there. Image courtesy of Roti Culture Facebook Page.
 

 

 


You can see behind the scenes on how they make roti.
 

“My whole family loves roti, my overseas friends love roti to the max. Our menu comprises mainly of famous roti made by our very own chef and each dish is carefully infused with culture and are Bruneians’ favourite like the nasi ayam penyet and Temburong Cendol which you can get every day and we hope Roti Culture can be a ‘must-stop restaurant for the tourists in Brunei” said the owner and founder of Roti Culture, Wu Chun.

“We have tourists from Singapore, Taiwan and China who are crazy for Brunei’s roti and martabak as they claimed that ours (Brunei’s) has a different richer taste. Tourists craziness for roti is one of the things that inspired me to open Roti Culture,” he said. “I want to bring the Asian and Outside Culture together through what people commonly love, food.”

Moreover, what makes our menu special is that some of the dishes are signature recipes contributed by Wu Chun’s family members, which recipes go back to the 1980’s.

“I come from a big family and all of my aunties love to cook. So, we picked some of the best recipes to be included in our menu like the Kolo Mee, Nasi lemak, sup tulang, otak-otak and curry. It’s a fusion of culture here.” added Wu Chun.

Meanwhile, Wu Chun is keen to incorporate bits and pieces of Brunei’s own landmark Kampong Ayer in the restaurant by putting a large wall sticker showing the water village’s view and recycling colourful wooden planks from remnants of demolished water village houses. “They represent Brunei as Kampong Ayer is known as the Venice of Asia so when tourists come and dine in here, they have the feel and take pictures as memories,” said Wu Chun.

If you have not visited Roti Culture just yet, we are located at Block H, Unit 8 & 9, Ground Floor, Kg Pengkalan Gadong. So, come by, have a bite and feel the welcoming ambiance by the aromatic smell of the roti. For more information or booking, please call 242 1000 or follow their Facebook page or instagram @ROTICULTUREBRUNEI.

 

 


Wu Chun posing for the media a few days before the grand opening
 


Wu Chun speaking to the media
 


That looks appetizing
 

 


I love this dish. The rendang.. Slightly spicy and to my liking
 


Wu Chun with the members of media and social influencers
 


Wu Chun with his staff of Roti Culture
 


Located at Batu Bersurat
 

Contact RA

ranoadidas (a) gmail.com
Instagram & Snapchat @ranoadidas
Contact: +6738677773

About RA

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

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