Summer movies have been promising and some below expectations. Currently Del Goh and I are in the hunt for bragging rights for the Summer Wager (Box office summer hits). So what we did was ranking our prediction on 10 summer movies. Good movies doesn’t really translate to dollars and cents especially in Hollywood. It’s always fun to play around with predictions on summer movies.

Last year, I won the wager and looks like I might edge him again this time round. Our wager was that my pick of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 will fare better than Wonder Woman in the US Box Office. GOTG Vol 2 opened at USD 146 million and currently standing at USD 355 million after 6 weeks. Del Goh’s prediction for Wonder Woman, it opened at USD 100 million last weekend and slightly behind GOTG Vol 2. Unless it has stronger legs this week and the following week, Wonder Woman can stand a fair chance in toppling GOTG’s numbers. Right now I’m optimistic with my wager and you owe me another Blu-ray title, Del (for now).

Rano’s Prediction 

1) Guardians of the Galaxy. Vol. 2
2) Despicable Me 3
3) Spider-Man: Homecoming
4) War of the Planet of the Apes
5) Wonder Woman
6) Transformers: The Last Knight
7) Cars 3
8) The Mummy
9) Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales
10) Baywatch

Del Goh’s Prediction

1) Wonder Woman
2) Spider-man: Homecoming
3) War of the Planet of the Apes
4) Guardians of the Galaxy. Vol. 2
5) Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales
6) Despicable Me 3
7) Dunkirk
8) Alien: Convenant
9) Cars 3
10) The Mummy

Quick movie summary:

Gal Gadot shines as Wonder Woman

Our verdicts on Wonder Woman

Wonder Woman. Ah, the overhyped superhero movie. After many harsh reviews from Wonder Woman’s counterpart (Suicide Squad 25%, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice 29%), it’s such a surprise that Woman Woman scored over 90% on rotten tomatoes. Even higher than Guardians of the Galaxy Volume.2 (81%) *Impressive* So does it really translate to my overall experience? Definitely a resounding YES.. It was a run ride and I didn’t know it was running at 2 hours 20 mins. Well, it was definitely a better pay off than the same duration by Batman V Superman (too much cheese).

Many reasons why to catch Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman – her complexion, her charm, her physique (ok, ok, it’s fasting time). You get the whole gist. She does have flaws in her acting but the chemistry between Gal Gadot and her partner in crime Chris Pine (as Steve Trevor) really made up for it. This is what missing in other Superhero movies and it was a nice touch to have in Wonder Woman. Good job by Patty Jenkins, a female director who only has two films under her belt, the other being Monsters. The film delivers great action sequences and well executed humour. Wonder Woman casts many charm to the audience. Am I panting for more? Maybe not to that extent.

Verdict: 8/10

Resident Evil: Vendetta. I didn’t catch Resident Evil: The Final Chapter as I rather wait for the blu-ray edition. However, I contemplated to catch this animated version as I grew up playing RE games while being entertained by their in-game movies. The animation is just superb and crisp in detail. Sometimes it’s just feel so real. Was I entertained like playing RE on Playstation? Yes, I was. From start till the end. The acting was a little putting but I didn’t care as much since it’s an animation. I would say this is more of a value to catch than Milla Jovich’s RE. Makes me want to play my old RE games. Speaking of RE games, which is your favourite RE game on Playstation?

Verdict: 7.5/10

One of the summer box office flops

Baywatch. Eeeer, I came out watching this hit remake, feeling meeehh. What’s there to love about this? Hot chicks aren’t enough to gain my interest. I was more into the comedic side of Dwayne Johnson and Zach Efron. Their chemistry is a hit and miss but more of the latter. The jokes are flat at times and the only character that can pull off the charm is Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and maybe the Ronnie character. Sometimes I wished the producers just shelved this project. After the major flop in the US box office (and also my prediction), I doubt there will be a sequel for this mediocre remake. This is a no-brainer movie and I expected a lot. Even The Rock’s charm can’t save it. The score on Rotten Tomatoes is even harsher than my rating. Oh well. Let’s hope he redeems himself in Jumanji, his next movie. Well, he did superbly in Fate of the Furious.

Verdict: 6/10

Pen this date. Well, pen this month – August 2017. Why? Because a new shopping centre is coming to town.  You may have been familiar with my updates on social media that Aman Hills is near its completion in a few months’ time. Awesome, huh?

The new shopping area called the Aman Hills Shopping Centre offers a plenty of varieties, notably recreational facilities such as an ice-skating ring, bowling and premium cinemas. Of course, there are standard commercial shops to rent out.

But today, I’m gonna focus just on Aman Hills Residence (apartments). This is the first ever integrated development which compromises of apartment and a shopping centre. The common one we have seen are hotels and shopping malls being integrated. Hence, it’s something different to have an apartment and a shopping centre next to each other.

Aman Hills Shopping Centre & Residence

Staying in apartments is relatively a new concept in Brunei but it’s a common practice in neighbouring countries. Aman Hills Residence gives a different experience to owners or renters. Everything is just at your finger tips – a cozy apartment, a shopping mall for grocery shopping needs and more, easier access to entertainment such as heading for the movies, heading for recreational activities such as ice skating and bowling and not to forget a wide variety of eatery places to dine. Yes, you will be definitely be spoilt for choices within walking distance from your apartment.

I have just shared you one of the perks of being an occupant at Aman Hills Residence. Well, actually there are a few plus points if you go beyond than renting a space at Aman Hills Residence. There are also options for investing in Aman Hills Residence.

In other countries, apartments have been a preferred choice than (renting) houses. This demand is notable among higher income group and it has become a trend, a lifestyle worldwide. Introducing this new concept in Brunei, investors who are interested in buying rental properties, this is the best time to invest to cater to the new trend and lifestyle for families and residents in Brunei Darussalam.

During my short visit during their showcase, I’ve noticed how young families are opened to the idea of investing in apartments due to the returns of investment. Investors can benefit 5% per annum rental income which is guaranteed for 5 years and furthermore, this plan is also available to foreigners. So basically you can be a landlord and earn a 5% guaranteed rental returns per year for 5 years and to add to that, you will get 5 years free maintenance fee.
The price range starts from BND 288,000 for a two bedroom apartment which I feel it’s a good deal to begin with. Aman Hills Residence have up to four bedroom apartment.

Apartment residents will enjoy a dedicated covered car park with security access, modern amenities such as a well equipped gym and swimming pool, maintenance and not forgetting the access to shops and dining places.

I believe the maintenance and cleaning needs are vital when it comes to rental. These are the major perks for residence of Aman Hills and these allow occupants to focus more on important matters and have a peace of mind.

Now for the month of June 2017, Aman Hills Residence is having a special promotion with a few units left. They are having a special deal that if you sign up for the three-bedroom package, it comes with a new Proton Saga or Proton Exora depending on the package. Check out the poster for more details. Contact +673-8827887 for more details.

The Aman Hills Properties Management, PROLAND, has been very active in promoting the apartments and shopping complex. For more information, you can contact 882 7887 for details and you can also follow them on instagram @amanhills_brunei for updates. They also have their official Facebook Page if you want to follow.

Aman Hills Residence

Aman Hills Shopping Centre should be ready by August

The progress so far

Tourism Malaysia has collaborated with Top 4 prominent local travel agents selling Malaysia namely Anthony Tours and Travel Agency Sdn. Bhd., Century Travel Centre Sdn. Bhd., Freme Travel Services Sdn. Bhd. and Pan Bright Travel Service to promote ‘Malaysia National Sales Campaign 2017’ holiday packages in conjunction with the Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival to be held from 15 June – 31 August 2017 and Malaysia Year End Sale (MYES) that will start from 1 November – 31 December 2017.

The ‘Malaysia National Sales Campaign 2017’ holiday packages was jointly launched by Director of Tourism Malaysia Brunei Darussalam, Haji Ibrahim Seddiqi bin Talib along with each representatives from Anthony Tours and Travel Agency Sdn. Bhd., Century Travel Centre Sdn. Bhd., Freme Travel Services Sdn. Bhd. and Pan Bright Travel Service. Also present at the launch were members of the media.

Malaysia’s shopping branding is centred on the “Experiential Shopping” concept that promotes Malaysia as a fun and wholesome shopping destination, complemented by entertainment and recreation activities, gastronomic adventures, luxury treatments and visits to popular spots. It is made possible by the support of more than 500 integrated shopping malls and retails outlets in the country whose numbers are increasing every year. New retail and lifestyles hubs coming up this year include KL Gateway Mall in Kuala Lumpur and Genting Premium Outlets in Genting Highlands, which will further stimulate Malaysia’s shopping scene.

“Shopping in Malaysia has always been the number one choice for Bruneian tourists, Hence, Tourism Malaysia is grateful for the continuous support extended by our local travel agents all these years and we look forward to welcome Bruneian shoppers to Malaysia” said Haji Ibrahim Seddiqi bin Talib, Director of Tourism Malaysia Brunei Darussalam.

The packages which are offered as below:-

Anthony Tours and Travel Agency Sdn. Bhd.

Package in conjunction with Malaysia Mega Sales Carnival 2017 (MMSC)

The 3 days 2 nights Kuala Lumpur Free & Easy package is priced from B$247.00 per person with minimum of two passengers travelling together. The package includes:-

i) 2 nights’ accommodation (twin share basis);
ii) Daily buffet breakfast; and
iii) Round trip private airport transfers.

The selling period is effective from 15 June 2017 until 31 August 2017.

The 3 days 2 nights Kota Kinabalu Free & Easy package is priced from B$168.00 per person with minimum of two passengers travelling together. The package includes:-

i) 2 nights’ accommodation (twin share basis);
ii) Daily buffet breakfast; and
iii) Round trip private airport transfers.

The selling period is effective from 15 June 2017 until 31 August 2017.

Package in conjunction with Malaysia Year End Sale 2017 (MYES)
The 4 days 3 nights Kuala Lumpur & Melaka package is priced from B$348.00 per person with minimum of two passengers travelling together. The package includes:-

i) 2 nights’ accommodation (twin share basis);
ii) Daily buffet breakfast; and
iii) Round trip private airport transfers.

The selling period is effective from 1 November 2017 until 31 December 2017.

The 3 days 2 nights Kuala Lumpur package is priced from B$247.00 per person with minimum of two passengers travelling together. The package includes:-

i) 2 nights’ accommodation (twin share basis);
ii) Daily buffet breakfast; and
iii) Round trip private airport transfers.

The selling period is effective from 1 November 2017 until 31 December 2017. For enquires, kindly contact Anthony Tours and Travel Agency Sdn. Bhd. at 2221747, 2341747 and 3331787 for package enquiries and bookings.

Century Travel Centre Sdn. Bhd.

Package in conjunction with Malaysia Mega Sales Carnival 2017 (MMSC)
The 3 days 2 nights Kuala Lumpur package is priced from B$113.00 per person with minimum of two passengers travelling together. The package includes:-
i) 2 nights’ accommodation (twin share basis);
ii) Daily buffet breakfast; and
iii) Round trip private airport transfers.

The selling period is effective from 15 June 2017 until 31 March 2018.

Package in conjunction with Malaysia Year End Sale 2017 (MYES)
The 3 days 2 nights Kuala Lumpur package is priced from B$99.00 per person with minimum of two passengers travelling together. The package includes:-
i) 2 nights’ accommodation (twin share basis);
ii) Daily buffet breakfast; and
iii) Round trip private airport transfers.

The selling period is effective from 1 November 2017 until 31 March 2018. For enquires, kindly contact Century Travel Centre Sdn. Bhd. at 2221747, 2341747 and 3331787 for package enquiries and bookings.

Freme Travel Services Sdn. Bhd.

Package in conjunction with Malaysia Mega Sales Carnival 2017 (MMSC)

The 3 days 2 nights Holiday package to Kuala Lumpur / Penang or Ipoh is priced from B$135.00 per person with minimum of two passengers travelling together. The package includes:-
i) 2 nights’ accommodation (twin share basis);
ii) Daily buffet breakfast; and
iii) Round trip private airport transfers.

The selling period is effective from 15 June 2017 until 31 March 2018. For enquires, kindly contact Freme Travel Services Sdn. Bhd. at 2234874 -76 for package enquiries and bookings

Pan Bright Travel Service

Package in conjunction with Malaysia Mega Sales Carnival 2017 (MMSC)
The 2 days 1 night Kuala Lumpur Free & Easy package is priced from B$209.00 per person with minimum of two passengers travelling together. The package includes:-
i) Return economy airfare on Royal Brunei Airlines;
ii) 1 nights’ accommodation (twin share basis);
iii) Daily buffet breakfast;

The selling period is effective from 13 March 2017 until 31 July 2017 for travel from 15 August – 30 August 2017.

Package in conjunction with Malaysia Mega Sales Carnival 2017 (MMSC) & Malaysia Year End Sale 2017 (MYES)
The 3 days 2 nights Kuala Lumpur Shopping package is priced from B$259.00 per person with minimum of two passengers travelling together. The package includes:-

i) 2 nights’ accommodation (twin share basis);
ii) Daily buffet breakfast;
iii) Shopping tour as per itinerary; and
iv) Return airport transfer.

The 4 days 3 nights Kuala Lumpur Shopping package is priced from B$351.00 per person with minimum of two passengers travelling together. The package includes:-
i) 3 nights’ accommodation (twin share basis);
ii) Daily buffet breakfast;
iii) Shopping tour as per itinerary; and
iv) Return airport transfer.

The selling period is effective from 15 June 2017 until 31 August 2017 and 1 November to 21 December 2017.

Package in conjunction with Malaysia Mega Sales Carnival 2017 (MMSC) & Malaysia Year End Sale 2017 (MYES)
The 4 days 3 nights Penang Shopping package is priced from B$299.00 per person with minimum of two passengers travelling together. The package includes:-
v) 3 nights’ accommodation (twin share basis);
vi) Daily buffet breakfast;
vii) Shopping tour at Penang Design Village Outlet & Penang Half Day Tour; and
viii) Return airport transfer.

The selling period is effective from 15 June 2017 until 31 August 2017 and 1 November to 21 December 2017. For enquires, kindly contact Pan Bright Travel Services at 2240980, 3341154 and 3220078 for package enquiries and bookings.

It’s the time of the year again. Cakes, biscuits and cake rolls, you name it. It’s the time of the year for you to make your orders in time for Hari Raya.

The pictures below are just a few from the list available from RZ Lynz Bakery and they are ready to accept orders and the final order will be on 5th June 2017.

What can you expect from the list?

Cake Roll

1. Roll Bueno Marble (Kinder Beuno) Size 8” BND 8
2. Roll Durian Monthong Size 8” BND 8
3. Roll Choco Peppermint (Mint + Buttercream) Size 8” BND 7
4. Roll Nutella Delight (Nutella) Size 8”BND 7
5. Roll Lady Diana (coffee) Size 8”BND 7
6. Roll Purple Raspberry Size 8” BND 7
7. Roll Mumbo (Lemon + Buttercream) Size 8”BND 7
8. Tapak Kuda Ovomaltine Size 9” BND 8
9. Tapak Kuda Kit Kat Size 9”BND 8
10. Tapak Kuda Size 9” BND 6

Cake Lapis

1. Cake Lapis Durian Solo (Monthong) Size 6”x9” BND 36 or Half Size BND 18
2. Cake Lapis Favourite Nutella (Coklat Emulco + Nutella) Size 6”x 9” BND 36 or Half Size BND 18
3. Cake Lapis Balkis (Oren+Pandan+Coklat Chip) Size 6”x 9” BND 34 or Half Size BND 17
4. Cake Lapis Yasmin (Honey Gold Cornflake) Size 6”x 9” BND 34 or Half Size BND 17
5.Cake Lapis Citrawarna (Vanila) Size 6”x 9” BND 30 or Half Size BND 15
6. Cake Lapis Sisik Ikan (Hawflake) Size 6”x 9” BND 30 or Half Size BND 15
7. Cake Lapis Begawan Solo (Banana) Size 6”x 9” BND 28 or Half Size BND 14
8. Cake Lapis Coffee Princess (Coffee) Size 6”x 9” BND 28 or Half Size BND 14
9. Cake Lapis Kukus Cream Cheese Size 6”x 9” BND 25
10.Cake Lapis Cheese Size 8”x 8” BND 18
11. Cake Batik Empire Size 8”x 8” BND 28
12. Cake Batik Vico Size 8”x 8” BND 22
13. Cake Batik Size 8”x 8” BND 16

Ranges of cakes and biscuits from RZ Lynz Bakery

Cake Lapis Coffee Princess (Coffee)

Biscuit

1. Almond Nutella Thumbprint 50 pieces BND 13
2. Nutella White Choco 50 pieces BND 12
3. Crunchy Nutella 50 pieces BND 12
4. Mocha Hazelnut Cresent 50 pieces BND 10
5. Classy Dahlia Cookies 50 pieces BND 10
6. Sugee Almond Cookies 50 pieces BND 10
7. Cerelec 50 pieces BND 9
8. Tart Nanas 50 pieces BND 9
9. Rainbow Cookies 100 pieces BND 12
10. Biskut Sarang Semut 50 pieces BND 8
11. Bubblerice Cornflake Rainbow 50 pieces BND 9
12. Biskut Cornflake Madu 50 pieces BND 8
13, Kueh Mor Kacang 50 pieces BND 9
14. Kueh Mor Cornflake 50 pieces BND 9
15. Kueh Mor 50 pieces BND 8
16. Popia Gulung Seaweed 200gm BND 8
17. Popia Gulung Nestum 200 gm BND 7
18. Popia Simpul 500 gm BND 9
19. Popia 500 gm BND 10

Cake Batik

1. Kek Batik Padang Golf Size 8”x 8” BND 30 or Half Size BND 15
2. Kek Batik Red Velvet 8”x 8” BND 34 or Half Size BND 17
3. Kek Batik :- Yam (Keladi) / Lemon / Lychee / Strawberry / Permata Biru / Green Tea / Chocolate / Pandan / Mocha. 8”x 8” BND 28 or Half Size BND 14
4. Plain Brownies Size 9”x 9” BND 17
5. Nutella Gunung Berapi Size 9”x 9” BND 20
6. Frambozen Kenari Size 10”x 10” BND 20
7. Kek Velvet Klasik Size 8”x 8” BND 14

Kek Lapis Kukus Cream Cheese

Almond Nutella Thumbprint

Kek Lapis Begawan Solo (Banana)

Or even better you can for different packages if you tend to buy in bulk. Below are the list as follows.

Package A [BND 50]
Kek Lapis Sisik Ikan Size 3” x 4.5”
Kek Lapis Coffee Princess Size 3” x 4.5”
Roll Purple Rasberry
Tapak Kuda
Popia Simpul

Package B [BND 75]
Kek Lapis Yasmin Size 3” x 4.5”
Kek Lapis Citrawarna Size 3” x 4.5”
Kek Lapis Cheese Roll Mumbo Size 4” x 4”
Tapak Kuda Kit Kat
Kueh Mor Cornflake 50 pieces
Popia Gulung Nestum

Package C [BND 100]
Kek Lapis Fav. Nutella Size 3” x 4.5”
Kek Lapis Balkis Size 3” x 4.5”
Kek Batik Roll Choco Peppermint
Kek Roll Lady Diana
Tapak Kuda Ovomaltine
Kueh Mor Kacang 50 pieces
Rainbow Cookies 100 pieces
Popia

Package D [BND 20]
Biskut Sarang Semut 50 pieces
Kueh Mor 50 pieces
Bubblerice Cornflake Rainbow 50 pieces

Package E [BND 25]
Crunchy Nutella 50 pieces
Biskut Cornflake Madu 50 pieces
Sugee Almond Cookies 50 pieces

Package F [BND 35]
Nutella White Choco 50 pieces
Mocha Hazelnut Cresent 50 pieces
Tart Nanas 50 pieces
Cerelec 50 pieces

Whatsapp your orders – Lyna 825 4001 or Yana 837 0100

Final order – 5th June 2017.

Kek Roll Choco Peppermint (Mint + buttercream)

Kek Roll Purple Raspberry

Patrons last night at Star Lodge’s Asian-American Barbeque

This Ramadan, Star Lodge Jerudong will be captivating Asian cuisines with American flair of barbeque, offering the widest buffet spread in Jerudong. Diners can enjoy a large variety of traditional Ramadan delicacies inspired by our signature dish Lamb Ouzi, Kitaro’s Sushi & Maki and Slow Roast Whole Lamb along with delectable gourmet desserts.

The choices are definitely more than last year’s. The main course dishes are plentiful, more than 10. I commended the chill counter where cold salads and desserts are being served. It was quite rare that I would target for appetisers but I did because I am now have to be mindful of my salt intake.

For the opening Sungkai, Star Lodge had quite a number of patrons last night and the feedback has been pretty good.

It was also the first time Star Lodge introducing vouchers for a group of 10, 20 and even 40. The bigger the numbers, the better the deal for sure. Definitely worth the value for patrons.

Decorated in warm and relaxed atmosphere, Star Lodge also features private areas for VIP gatherings or group celebrations as well as private caterings with customize menus for minimum 30 persons. The fully replenished buffet is available every day from 6.00pm to 9.30pm, please call 261 1618 ext. 8870 | 8865.

Follow @starz.lounge and @starlodgebrunei for updates.

Range of sushis

Dessert corner

Cold salad and appetizer

Some choices from the buffet line

Some choices from the buffet line

The popular garlic rice

Slow Roast Whole Lamb

Roti Jala

Tempura section

Lamb Leg yuummmmm

My recent trip to Kota Kinabalu and the dinner theme was colourful cultural

The Brunei contingent was very united as usual

Another short hiatus from me as I was away from Brunei. If you have been following me on social media, I was away in Kota Kinabalu to support my friends who were competing in speech contest in English and in Mandarin. Even though I brought my notebook with me, it wasn’t easy for me to update my blog. The schedules were packed but I had still a great and fruitful time nonetheless.

Last weekend was one of the highlights of the year. Almost 30 from Brunei toastmasters (Area K6) left for Kota Kinabalu to support our representatives from Brunei – Allen Ang, Pooja Shivanand, Sandy Tan and Theressa Chong and featuring our humour master Jidun Dollah. Though we only brought one trophy back, it was still a surreal feeling to witness the closeness and the family nature of the Brunei contingent whenever we travel as a pack. Nothing can top how we are in the district. Now I’m back in Brunei and nursing a runny nose (I wonder who gave it to me mmmm) and a tummy bug where I frequented the toilet. It’s time for me to get into second gear and soon it will be the fasting month.

I have been missing a few events also during the weekend in Brunei and it could just be the final weekend before Ramadhan kicks in. I was contemplating back then if I want to continue and do food reviews and collaborate with Filterworks once again for Sungkai promotion but I finally come to a decision that I will take a break for this time round. Nonetheless, I will still help to promote eateries her and there but not in depth. I still have my existing clients so there will be some coverage on their sungkai buffets. You can follow @bruneifoodies @kurapak @thanislim @marul69 who will be quite active during Ramadhan promotion.

Before my trip to KK, I had the privilege to attend a few car launches and test drives. Awesome, awesome!! This is definitely the best time to try out new cars in time for the Hari Raya season – the Audi Q2, the Mini Country Man and the Mazda CX-5 to name a few and Jati Transport also had their Hari Raya Special Event where they will be giving BND 1,000 gift certificate to new buyers for the ex-stock vehicles and the offer is valid until 30th June. There are also pre-owned Mercedes-Benz models such as the S 350L, E 300, E 200 and CLA 200 on offer.

I’ve been out of the movie scene because normally I catch a movie at least once a week. A few movies to be caught this week – Pirates of the Caribbean (not expecting much) and maybe, just maybe the Tagalog movie but definitely giving The Circle a miss and also Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Looks like Baywatch will be showing soon in Brunei and it will be showing next week along with Wonder Woman. Something to look forward to.

Of course, another to look forward to is Ramadhan. The fasting season is just around the corner and it could fall this Saturday or Sunday depending on the moon sighting. Nonetheless, it’s one of the better months in 2017.

I will posting some late news by tomorrow and hopefully I’ll be in better shape (thanks runny) by this week or before Ramadhan.

Test driving the Mini Countryman. Reviews soon.

I also had a test drive of the Audi Q2. Reviews soon.

During the roadshow of the Mazda CX-5 at The Mall last week. I can’t wait to test drive the MX-5 soon.

Representatives from Honey Carsmart Sdn Bhd with Malai Hj Abdullah Bin Malai Hj Othman, President of the Society for Management of Autism Related Issues (SMARTER Brunei), Hj Ahmad Bin Hj Abd Rahman, Head of Policy & Planning, Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam and Awg Samsudin Bin Hj Puasa, Secretariat of DANA Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah during the press conference yesterday at Honey Carsmart Sdn Bhd main office

Next weekend Honey Carsmart Sdn Bhd is inviting its valued customers and the public to visit its 3rd Grand Sale for 3 days only on 19th May 2017 – 21st May 2017 from 8.30AM to 4.30PM.

The agency is organizing its 3rd Hari Raya Grand Sale event as gratitude of appreciation to the continuous support, loyalty and trust from the customers over the years. Light refreshments will be served and goodie bags will be given to every visitor who register themselves at the event. On these limited three days, the company will also be giving out a 3 months free installment and 3 times free general servicing to customers who register themselves and also purchase a used car during this weekend only.

As part of giving back to community, the management has agreed that for every car that is sold between these 3 days, a contribution of $300 will be distributed into a charity pool that will be equally distributed for donation purposes to Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam, SMARTER Brunei & DANA Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah. The heads of department that were present were Hj Ahmad Bin Hj Abd Rahman, Head of Policy & Planning, Malai Hj Abdullah Bin Malai Hj Othman, President of the Society for Management of Autism Related Issues and Awg Samsudin Bin Hj Puasa, Secretariat respectively.

The total proceeds donated to Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam and SMARTER Brunei last year was $7,500. With the support of its loyal customers, the company is looking forward for a higher sales target this year to be contributing to the 3 charity bodies.

Representatives from one of the financing institutions to be on duty for the convenience for customers should they need to apply for financing on the spot. A motor insurance agency will also be available to customers, who wish to renew their motor insurance.

Due to customers’ demand and positive response, this year the company has extended the promotion duration to 3 days and has confirmed to display over 80 selected units and these selection also include makes such as, Audi, BMW, Mercedes Benz, Jeep, Lexus and other popular Japanese and Korean makes. However, these units shall be based on a first come first serve basis in order to be fair to all customers.

The company would also like to take this event to inform the public that any customer who bought cars from them between 19th May 2017 – 30th September 2017, are eligible to participate in their Lucky Draw promotion, which will be held on 13th October 2017. Prizes will include popular smart phones, house equipment, flat screen television set and many others.

Honey Carsmart Sdn Bhd encourages its customers and followers to check out their social activities at their Facebook page and Instagram @honeycarsmartbrunei for weekly updates on their announcements and promotions.

Fitness Zone Managing Director Wu Chun led his team to give back to the community in celebration of Mother’s Day. Read more below for the full story.

Once a year, Fitness Zone Managing Director Wu Chun, embarks on a charity project specifically in commemoration of Mother’s Day, and as a great tribute and gift to his mother on mother’s day.

This year Wu Chun with his Fitness Zone team, turned an agent of change for a family of a single mother and Nurhidayat Jafardam, her 13 years old child, who is suffering from Spina Bifida, a permanently disabling birth defect. This medical condition occurs when a baby is in the womb and the spina column does not close all the way so the child has to be on wheelchair since birth.

The Team will spend 3 days fixing the very run down one bedroom house situated near Kuala Lurah. Problems such as leaking roofs, broken windows and doors and defective plumbing are all fixed within these 3 days. On top of that, Wu Chun also ensure the single mother and her 2 children aged 16 and 13 can live more comfortable so sufficient lighting throughout the house was added, and also to repaint the whole house with their children favorite colors and also an additional air conditioned bedroom was created for his 16 years old son who has been staying with her mother and sister in a small bedroom since birth. With this, Wu Chun wishes that this family will have a more comfortable place to live with, and a happier Hari Raya in the upcoming month.

After the 3 days changeover, Fitness Zone team also celebrate Mother’s day with the single mother. According to Nurhidayat Jafardam’s mother, “ Wu Chun was sweating all over to make sure everything was taken care of. He painted the house, clean the floors and keep asking me what I needed to make sure we can live comfortably and safely. This is the best mother’s day gift for me and we are truly grateful for this arrangement that really helps change our life.”

Fitness Zone Managing Director Wu Chun led his team to give back to the community in celebration of Mother’s Day. Read more below for the full story.

Fitness Zone Managing Director Wu Chun led his team to give back to the community in celebration of Mother’s Day. Read more below for the full story.

Doing charity works, and reaching out to those who need help, is one way of giving flesh to Fitness Zone vision and mission, and that is to give back to the community, to give care and compassion to those who need it. Fitness Zone, who won the APEA Corporate Social Responsibility award is constantly encouraging its staffs and members to care for our communities.

It is through these social and charitable activities, that we are able to fundamentally grow and be better physically and spiritually and learn, value, and cherish life. In addition, Wu Chun said, “It is my intention to raise awareness so the public, who is keen to help out those who are in need will reach out to institutions such as JAPEM, Yaska, and others, to support to those who greatly need the assistance. A small act or gesture of goodwill can really create a big impact on lives of those that is really in need.”

In closing, Wu Chun imparted “ Since young, my mother always involved me in charitable project. Caring and changing people’s life is always a great part in my life, and i hope that with a little act of kindness, we can all make this world a better place.

Prestige customers registering before entering the venue

Prestige customers browsing through the collections

Baiduri Bank Group, the main sponsor of J Boxing by Jovian, organised a preview of the collection this morning at the Empire Hotel and Country Club. The closed-door event was organised exclusively for their Baiduri Prestige members.

During the event, the invited guests were able to browse through the wide variety of the latest collections of Jovian Apparel which include Jovian Borsa (handbags), JLuxe Raya 2017, Jovian Men 2017, Savannah, JBasic Raya 2017, Lisa Surihani for Jovian, Jovian Hijab and Jovian Kids.

Hjh Maripaz Abdullah, Head of Prestige Programme in Baiduri Bank said, “The Baiduri Prestige programme is based on five principles, Privileges being one of them. Invitations to exclusive events like this are among the many benefits that our Prestige members enjoy.”

She further elaborated, “Baiduri Prestige first held a similar event in September last year with Bait Al-Hijab showcasing locally designed modest wear.  We received very positive feedback from our customers, and encouraged by that, we decided to bring more such events to our customers.  In today’s event, we are collaborating with leading local fashion retailer ‘Bajoo’, to bring to your doorstep, this exclusive collection in anticipation of your needs for the coming Hari Raya festive season. We felt that the Jovian collection currently being offered would be ideal not only for the ladies, but the whole family.”

During the three-day J Boxing by Jovian event, Baiduri Prestige members can enjoy a 10% discount when they shop using their Visa Infinite Credit Card or their Baiduri Prestige Mastercard Platinum Debit Card, while all other Baiduri cardholders will receive a 5% discount.

Baiduri Prestige is a programme for Baiduri’s high net-worth customers designed to provide a range of personalised services and offers. The Prestige programme is built around 5 principles: Personal Touch, Progression in Wealth, Privileges, Priority Recognition and Platinum Status. Baiduri Prestige members have exclusive access to our Baiduri Prestige Centres located at the Kiarong Branch, the Kiulap Branch, the Kuala Belait Branch and the Seria Branch.

For more information about Baiduri Bank’s products and promotions, visit our website at www.baiduri.com or call our Baiduri Bank Customer Helpline at 244 9666.

Dato Paduka Hj Jamain bin Hj Julaihi, Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister’s Office with members of the French Bruneian Business Association and invited speakers yesterday

The man of the hour, Brandon Ng, co-founder of AMPD Energy

Thank you for the invitation, French Bruneian Business Association, for the interesting dialogue and forum on “Energy Transition & Innovation”. The event was held at Radisson Hotel and the guest of honour was Dato Paduka Hj Jamain bin Hj Julaihi, Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister’s Office.

Of course, the main highlight of the event was the invited speaker, Brandon Ng, a Bruneian born who is based in Hong Kong. Now why is he the highlight of the show? Because of his amazing credentials this year alone. His company Ampd Energy exhibited their product at the CES 2017 earlier this January. CES is one of the biggest innovative showcase that I know of and it stands for Consumer Technology Association where you will see giants like Apple, Playstation and many more. This is also a great platform for start-ups to showcase their prototype or products to consumer ends.

Secondly, Brandon Ng is listed as “Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 list under the Industry, Manufacturing and Energy sector. Now that’s an amazing accolade or resume to have in the year 2017 alone. That says a lot about Brandon’s brighter future. Ok, let’s not get carried away. Let’s talk more about the forum that took place yesterday.

The guest of honour mentioned something interesting that will hopefully change the landscape when it comes to energy consumption. He said that the Energy Industry Department at the Prime Minister’s Office and Brunei National Energy Research Institute (BNERI) have completed a draft on Renewable Energy Act which will hopefully be implemented by 2018. Dato Paduka Hj Jamain also shared how Brunei ranks one of the worst in terms of energy consumption per capita. So it’s important on how newer frameworks and policies will help to reduce energy consumption that can benefit the country.

We are definitely in the transition period after the launched of the Energy White Paper back in 2014 where Brunei has set a target of 10% of electricity generation from renewable resources by 2035. That’s 18 years away from now and let’s not get complacent.

I like the presentation by Vincent Dutel, the CEO of Total E&P Borneo BV who shared on climate change being affected by energy efficiency. We might be thinking things like pollution and such in contributing climate change but even energy consumption especially in the oil and gas industry can play a huge role.

He also shared some tips on how turn the oil and gas industry sustainable for stakeholders in a long run. Firstly is to have cost effective measures such as cost reduction. For instance, Total’s latest project, the Maharaja Lela South Project, performed some cost cutting measures and saved at least BND 400 million in cost alone. The previous estimated project costs BND 1.3 billion.

Secondly is to implement integration by using renewable resources. For instance, turning gas into electricity or even using solar energy to create electricity. Thirdly, simply be innovative by creating cutting edge technology to make a project or the company more sustainable.

Brandon Ng shared his ready-to-be-marketed product the AMPD Silo, an energy storage for solar, that will change the landscape of energy consumption, replacing current diesel generators and even high powered UPS.

The AMPD Silo uses advanced, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries to store electricity. They will come to good effect when the main source of electricity fails and the AMPD Silo will restore electricity in a matter of a second. I believe this product is so ideal in places such as hospitals or places that has huge servers and such.

I shall talk more on Brandon Ng on my future post and I can understand why he sees a better future being based in Hong Kong as he will be able to grow faster in getting his product out in the global market. Being in Brunei may bring new opportunities but should he wants to grow bigger in a faster rate, places like Hong Kong would be ideal for his business venture and plus it makes more economic sense.

Thank you once again for FBBA for the invitation and thank you for making this event possible.

Pierre Imhof, the President of FBBA in his welcoming remarks

Panel discussion with guest of honour, Brandon Ng and Vincent Dutel.

Vincent Dutel giving a presentation on sustaining the oil and gas industry

Token of appreciation to the speakers