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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.

SONAX CUP, a huge success

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in royal family, community, charity, Social News, Sports

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Abdul Hakeem, the President of Brunei Darussalam Golf Association, during the prize presentation of the Sonax Cup
Mike Chua, Managing Director of Sonax Brunei Sdn Bhd, handed the gross open category champion, Suhaimi Ibrahim
Mike Chua delivering his welcoming remarks during the prize presentation

The Sonax Cup by Brunei Darussalam Golf Association (BDGA) was completed last Sunday. The tournament ran for three days from Friday 19/3/2021 and a total of 244 golfers participated in the competition in various categories namely: the open (gross and net), senior and ladies. The total cash prizes for this event was $4450 and the list of winners is as attached, including the champion in the gross open category which went to Suhaimi Ibrahim who shot 71 gross, one under par. Suhaimi Ibrahim also received the Sonax Challenge Trophy presented by Mr. Mike Chua, the Managing Director of Sonax Brunei Sdn. Bhd. The tournament took place at Mentiri Golf Club.

There was also a hole-in-one winner, Lim Shen Quan, on hole 13th, and he won the $5000 cash prize. 

This was the first BDGA golf tournament at the national level for the year 2021, with next one planned for 28 to 30 of May at the RBGCC. This tournament was a great success with participation of more than 200 golfers. BDGA thanked Sonax Brunei Sdn. Bhd., the tournament main sponsor, and expressed the hope that its partnership with Sonax Brunei Sdn. Bhd. would continue to grow. 

BDGA also gave $1000 donation to “Tabung Anak Anak Yatim” (Orphans Fund) and the representative from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Ms. Nurul Nazurah bte Jaya, was present to receive the sponsorship.

Since the new BDGA Governing Council was elected back since 5th January this year, it received feedbacks from golfers in Brunei that the most sought after deliverable is golf tournaments. Hence, BDGA decided to organize the first tournament (Sonax Cup) and a few more planned for this year. This will help to provide a competitive platform at the national level for golfers to showcase their skills. In the process, it was hoped that scout for new golfing talents could be spotted and to be further developed to represent the country in the near future. Images courtesy of Pg Azam Omar and Shahiruddin.

Overall Gross:
Suhaimi Ibrahim  71
Ak Syakir  74
Ahmad Yani  75

Overall Net:
Angphula Sharpa  67 OCB
Chong Chee Soon  67
Ak Rizam Faizal Pg Salleh  67

A – Division Category:
Kahar Bakar 70
Irwan Hj Hamid 71 OCB
Pg Zaki  71

B – Division Category:
Hj Rosmadee 69
Dullah Sitai 70
Hj Ramlie Damit  71

C – Division Category:
Mardhini Khan Ali 70
Ariff Dato Suhaimi 70
Pg Ibrahim 70

Senior +60 Category:
Lim Soon Bee  65
Hj Zamri   68
Dato Sheik Adnan  68

Ladies Category: 
Almas  Khamis 74
Salyahrinah Yahya  75
Hjh Rusni Hj Lamat 76

Pro – Category:
Pg Wira Salleh 72 OCB
Qazzri Aslimon 72
Qawim Aslimon 73

Hole in One on Hole no.13 on Friday 19/3/21: LIM SHEN QUAN 

Nearest to the Pin (NTP)
NTP No.7  Hj Shaiful
NTP No.9  Suhaimi 
NTP No.13  Pro John
NTP No.16  Pg Ibrahim

Hole-in-One winner Lim Shen Quan, winning himself BND 5,000
Way to go, Soon!!!

Jab Gym taken Brunei by storm

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in royal family, community, lifestyle, Sports

 

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His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen, the owner of Jab Gym, with his sisters, Her Royal Highness Princess Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah and Her Royal Highness Princess Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah, during the private invitation of Jab Gym at the Brunei capital.
 

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Congratulations @tmski on the awesome gym. One of his favorite role models is the legendary Muhammad Ali.
 

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Boxing trainer Lex Igwe (left) sparring with the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Yang Berhormat Dato Hj Aminuddin, to the delight of the crowd.
 

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Some of the cabinet ministers and ambassadors paid a visit to Jab Gym last weekend
 

 

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Check out the 10,000 sq feet premise at Pavo Point. The view is wonderful especially when you are running on the treadmill and you can see the view of Bandar.
 

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This is one of the studios at Jab Gym which focuses on “Boxercise” session. I just signed up for a class with Nadzri. Let’s see how that goes.
 

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Some of the VIPs that attended last weekend
 

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Soon Chong sparring with Lex Igwe
 

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Click image to see more price range
 

Pg Hj Matusin, newly elected President NFABD

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in royal family, Social News, Sports

 

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His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah chairing the 4th National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam Congress at NFABD House last weekend
 

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With the newly installed executive committee of NFABD with representatives from Asian Football Confederation, Asean Football Federation and FIFA 
 

In the recent turn of events, Pg Hj Matusin bin Pg Hj Matasan was elected as the President of the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) for the term 2019-2023 in the 4th NFABD Congress at NFABD House last weekend. Pg Hj Matusin was the former Secretary-General of the defunct Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (BAFA) which was banned by the International Federation of Association Football (Fifa) back in 2008.

Pg Hj Matusin is the 3rd President of NAFBD, replacing His Royal Highness Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah who ran the presidency from 2013 to 2019. The first president of NAFBD was Dato Paduka Abdul Rahman Mohiddin where NAFBD was formed back in 2011.

The other executive committees that have been elected are Haji Abdul Razak bin Haji Ibrahim, Bujang bin Haji Japar, Abdul Adib bin Haji Abdul Khani and Pengiran Haji Aliudin bin Pengiran Haji Tajudin.

In NFABD, there are 20 congress members which consists of those registered in the Brunei Super League Clubs. The 20 votes are from Brunei Muara clubs, Tutong football association, Kuala Belait clubs, Temburong clubs, MS PDBD, MS ABDB and referee. During the election process, 19 votes were casted with one spoilt vote and one absentee.

Pg Hj Matusin is no stranger in the football scene as he has vast experience and knowledge on the local football scene. I do hope he can carry the legacy of HRH Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah and lead his team for the betterment of football in Brunei Darussalam. And yes, he is a Chelsea fan too.

Brunei Darussalam is also making their presence felt in the international scene as HRH Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah was elected as a member of the organising committee for FIFA competitions, member to the Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) Social Responsibility Committee and Deputy President of AFF for 2019-2023 as well as Deputy Chairman of ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Financial Committee and Emergency Committee.

It was also interesting to see the official visit by Gianni Infantino, the President of FIFA recently to Brunei Darussalam. In all my life, I would have never thought a President of FIFA would pay a visit to our small country.

Let’s see what the new executive committees’ plans are for the next year or so. Change is the only constant and let’s hope for a brighter (football) future. All the best.

 

 

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During the 4th NFABD congress
 

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The newly elected NFABD executive members
 

 

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The annual report of NFABD
 

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A Congress member of NFABD from Brunei-Muara casting a vote

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Pg Hj Matusin bin Pg Hj Matasan (2nd from left), the newly elected President of NFABD with the management of Indera SC. He is also the advisor of Indera SC.
 

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Group photo after the 4th NFABD Congress
 

Dynamic Sports

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in royal family, community, fashion, lifestyle, Social News, Sports

 

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Her Royal Highness Princess Amal Rakiah on the first day of the opening of Dynamic Sports
 

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The ribbon cutting ceremony to officiate the opening of Dynamic Sports flagship store
 

Dynamic Sports recently drew waves of crowd after its launch of the flagship store two Sundays ago at The Walk (Beribi). It attracted different walks of life especially those in the sports community. Strategically located in Beribi, Dynamic Sports heralded a new era in providing a one stop sports shop furnished with reputable brands with the likes of Adidas, Nike, Reebok, Saucony, ASICS, Crocs and many more.

The company aims to create a platform that provides the most suitable products for the running/sports community of all ages and let’s not forget that they also provide professional advice and guidance, training and rehabilitation to anyone, be it casual or for running.

All present during the launch were number of national scheme runners, sports enthusiasts (like myself) and the members of the press. The ribbon cutting was officiated by Mr. Law Haw Wei, Mr. Lau How Teck and Mr. Lau How Kun accompanied by their sons.

Dynamic Sports has already garnered traction from online shoppers and they can already purchase the items online prior to the launch. This is made possible by www.dynamicsports.co where you will get a very comprehensive list of products to choose from.

Lau Soon Tiong, one of the shareholders of Dynamic Sports, said that the company’s vision is to assist local athletes and passionate sports enthusiasts to strive for greatness by providing a conducive environment for them to improve and grow.

Dynamic Sports will introduce its second phase where they will provide gym services and classes that will assist the community in rehabilitation and condition of the body.

Last weekend, Dynamic Sports had a special deal for selected shoes and it was well received as shoppers flocked in to grab the good deals.

You can follow them on instagram @dynamicsports.bn and if you are wondering of the location, it’s the white building with hints of red and it’s located right before Starbucks Beribi.

 

 

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Chang Ein Hong came to support the launch as well
 

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Orange is the new black
 

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Mr. Ti Eng Hui, CEO of Baiduri (far right) also came to support the launch
 

 

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Plenty of varieties at Dynamic Sports
 

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Soon Ai, one of the shareholders of Dynamic Sports
 

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With the athletes during the opening
 

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Hui Chiet also came to support
 

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Accessories also available at Dynamic Sports
 

 

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Friends and relatives
 

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Special corner deals which was quite popular among shoppers
 

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We did some shopping too
 

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Congratulations to Soon Lau for breaking his personal best in 10KM run at Melbourne Run last weekend
 

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
 

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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#AkmaliaSaifullahR1

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

 

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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, and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam with the newly weds, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammed Saifullah and Yang Mulia Dayang Nur Akmalia binti Retired Lieutenant Colonel Awang Iskandar at Baitun Na’aim yesterday. Image courtesy of Rahwani Zahari of Infofoto.
 

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His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab-Rahaman with the newly weds. Image courtesy of Rahwani Zahari of Infofoto.
 

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, and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, yesterday graced the Wedding Ceremony of Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammed Saifullah, the son of Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Setia Diraja Sahibul Karib Pengiran Anak Haji Idris.

Upon arrival at Baitun Na’aim in Kampung Jerudong, His Majesty and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri were greeted by Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Setia Diraja Sahibul Karib Pengiran Anak Haji Idris.

Also in attendance were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab-Rahaman;

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah and Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah;

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah; and Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah.

Also present were Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Nasibah; and other members of the Royal Family.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammed Saifullah is married to Yang Mulia Dayang Nur Akmalia binti Retired Lieutenant Colonel Awang Iskandar.

Doa selamat was read by Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Haji Awang Salim bin Haji Besar.

Their Majesties then received junjung ziarah from both the bride and bridegroom. His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri also received the junjung ziarah from the newly-wedded couple. Also receiving the junjung ziarah were Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Setia Diraja Sahibul Karib Pengiran Anak Haji Idris. New release by RTB.

 

 

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Members of the royal family during the Bersanding ceremony .Image courtesy of Rahwani Zahari of Infofoto.
 

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Members of the royal family during the Bersanding ceremony .Image courtesy of Rahwani Zahari of Infofoto.
 

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The berbedak ceremony. Image courtesy of @wtjz
 

 

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The newly weds with Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammed Saifullah’s family side. Taken from @akmaliaiskandar
 

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The newly weds with Nur Akmalia’s family side. Taken from @akmaliaiskandar
 

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The solemnization of YAM Pg Anak Hj Mohammed Saifullah and Nur Akmalia. Image taken by @wtjz
 

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During the bersanding ceremony.
 

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Both wearing Lady Jane design. Image from Nur Akmalia
 

 

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Nur Akmalia make up by @kfbongmakeup and hair by @ckayliow
 

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With Nur Akmalia’s sister Nina Iskandar and Carrie Chong
 

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Sisters – Nina and Akmalia
 

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With Akmalia’s cousins. Image courtesy of Carrie Chong.
 

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Apparently most of the ladies were wearing the songket at all the functions as it falls under the adat-istiadat customs. Image courtesy of Carrie Chong.
 

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Nur Akmalia’s berbedak ceremony.
 

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Pre-wedding shot by @janechingphotography
 

HBT opening ceremony

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in royal family, Social News, Sports

 

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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, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown prince and Senior Minister, His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah during the Brunei National Anthem at the opening of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy 2018 at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.
 

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His Majesty the Sultan officially launching HBT 2018
 

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 officially launched the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy, HBT, for ASEAN Youths Football Tournament 2018. The ceremony took place at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, Berakas.

Upon arrival, His Majesty was greeted by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, President of the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam as the Advisor of the Executive Committee of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy, HBT, for ASEAN Youths Football Tournament 2018. Also present to greet His Majesty’s arrival was Yang Berhormat Retired Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports as well as members of the Executive Committee.

Soon after arrival, His Majesty received junjung ziarah from the sponsors.

Also present were His Majesty’s sons and brothers, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah as well as members of the Royal family.

His Majesty then declared the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy for ASEAN Youths Football Tournament 2018 officially opened.

The opening ceremony was enlivened with firework display and Human LED performance.

His Majesty was then introduced to the team managers, coaches and team captains. Seven countries are taking part in the tournament. Group ‘A’ comprises teams from Brunei Darussalam, Timor Leste, Myanmar and Thailand; while Group ‘B’ are Lao PDR, Singapore and Cambodia. His Majesty also presented souvenirs to team managers of the participating nations.

His Majesty then received a pasambah from the HBT 2018 Organising Committee.

The Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy Football Tournament is jointly organised by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam, NFABD. The tournament aims to uphold the Titah of His Majesty to involve the best teams in the ASEAN Region to compete in the ASEAN or South East Asian Football league. Press release by RTB and image courtesy of Infofoto.

 

 

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His Majesty received junjung ziarah from the sponsors
 

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His Majesty receiving a token from Yang Berhormat Retired Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports
 

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Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman, Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim ibni Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Anak Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah binti Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah
 

 

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Members of the Royal Family and invited VIPs
 

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The marching ceremony
 

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The flag bearers
 

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Faiq Jefri Bolkiah, the national team captain of Brunei Darussalam
 

Brunei fell to Timor Lester in opener

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in royal family, Social News, Sports

 

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The Brunei Darussalam National team. Back – Ak Yura Yunos, Ammar Syafie Hassanuddin, Muhammad Abdul Syakir, Martin Haddy Khalilidden, Azim Izamuddin Hj Suhaimi, Faiq Jefri Bolkiah (Captain). Front row – Ishyra Asmin Babidi, Naziruddin Hj Ismail, Haziq Kasyful Azim, Amin Sisa, Hanif Aiman Adanan. Image courtesy of Infofoto.
 

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Team Timor Leste National team. Back row – Fagio Augusto Da Silva, Henrique Wilson Da Cruz, Osvaldo Lucas Baptista, Rufino Walter Gama, Gumario Augusto Fernandes, Jorge Sabas Victor (Captain). Front row – Indio Ricardo Ferreira Alves, Silverio Da Rusereicao, Jose Maria Dos Reis, Candido Monteiro, Nelson Sarmento Viegas. Image courtesy of Infofoto.
 

Not the start we wanted as a Brunei supporter and they were some mixed feelings about the performance last night at Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium. Our host nation took on Timor Leste in the opening match of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy and fell to a 1-0 narrow lost to the visitor on home turf.

Timor Leste benefited from a solitary goal from the penalty spot in the first half after a Timor Leste player was alleged to have brought down in the box. Jose Maria Dos Reis cooly converted the penalty and held on till the final whistle.

Brunei had great performances in their friendly matches leading to the first match against Timor Leste. However, the intensity and the cohesiveness of the team left more room for improvements. Sloppy passes and poor possession, Brunei struggled to hold the ball and hardly last after 4-5 passes whereas Timor Leste looked more controlled on and off the ball. This was apparent in the first half.

Nonetheless, there were some players that helped help to calm the team down whenever Timor Leste began to threaten in attack. Ak Yura Yunos (No.23) in defence and Naziruddin Hj Ismail (No.8) in midfield help to hold the fort for Brunei throughout the 90 minutes. Another player that brought more purpose to the game was Faiq Jefri Bolkaih (No.9), the team captain in attack. Brunei’s best chances came from Faiq whose both efforts were cleared off the line, one a well struck left footer while the other, a guided header off a corner.

The second half was a slightly better in terms of possession for Brunei though Timor Leste showed more confidence in all departments. The visitors were restricted to long shots and none of their efforts troubled Ishyra Asmin Jabidi in goal. Timor Leste was also good when countering and almost doubled their lead when substitute Muhammad Ramie Ramlli gave away a sloppy pass in midfield but Timor Leste failed to capitalize.

Fabio Augusto Da Silva (No.20), Timor Leste’s goalkeeper, had little workout in the second half as Brunei failed to muster any form of chance to trouble the keeper. A long ball strategy would have benefited the isolated Faiq upfront due to his physique and the ability to hold the ball. However, Timor Leste were so disciplined at the back and their larger body physique gave more advantage against our local players. Kudos to Timor Leste on a professional display on the pitch and deserved the narrow victory over the host nation.

Mario Riviera Campesino, head coach of Brunei Darussalam, commented that Brunei showed nervousness in the first half and this is due to the over excitement leading to the tournament and forgetting to be focused on the match. He is confident that Brunei will improve in the upcoming matches and win the remaining matches to qualify for the semi-finals.

Brunei now have a huge task in the group of death. They are up against two times defending champion Thailand and the defending champion Myanmar. Will this be difficult? Yes. But is it impossible? No. Brunei did show some promise and let’s put our trust in the players selected by the head coach in the upcoming matches. I believe we have the quality and the desire to be better than we were last night.

Myanmar will take on Thailand in a mouth watering match at Belapan Sports Complex tonight. Brunei will have two extra days before they face Thailand at Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium on Friday evening.

 

 

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Naziruddin Hj Ismail of Brunei Darussalam skipped a tackle during the match. Image courtesy of Infofoto.
 

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Hanif Aiman Adanan attempting to win a challenge. He gave away possession cheaply especially in the first half. I hope he can bounce back against Thailand this coming Friday.
 

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Faiq Jefri Bolkiah holding the ball against Nelson Sarmento Viegas. He had two great chances to equalize but his efforts were cleared off the line. A promising talent for the national team. . Image courtesy of Infofoto.
 

 

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Faiq Jefri Bolkiah had a subdued second half as his team mates weren’t able to supply him the ball in the final third. Kudos to Timor Leste for their discipline in defence and as a unit. . Image courtesy of Infofoto.
 

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Ak Yura Yunos helped Brunei’s defence and also calmed the storm from Timor Leste. It would have been a different story without the presence of Ak Yura Yunos. . Image courtesy of Infofoto.
 

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The HBT supporters sang and chanted during period of the match to boost the morale of the players. Timor Leste head coach Gelasio Da Silva Carvalho even said that his players couldn’t hear his instructions from the bench due to the overwhelming chants from the supporters.
 

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It wasn’t a full house but I could say almost 90% of the stadium was filled up. . Image courtesy of Infofoto.
 

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I can see my friends 😀 . Image courtesy of Infofoto.
 

Contact RA

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About RA

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

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