A strong quote by Mr. Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Group – “With you, we can do it better” – during the launch of Bilster Technologies

The cutting ribbon ceremony with the management of Concepts Group and Bilster Technologies

In times of economic downturn, it doesn’t give us the excuse not to grow or not to find alternative measures. I’ve seen some posting self pity and whining messages and hoping for a miracle during bad economic times. This is not the case for Mr. Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer. During his welcoming remarks of the launch of Bilster Technologies, he shared that we have to be extra creative and strategic in our business direction in times of economic downturn in Brunei Darussalam.

“Tough times are for us to get tougher and not use the current climate as a negative block but rather an energising spring board for fresh direction. Bilster Technologies is a testament to the progress we want to see in Concepts Group as well as in the IT industry. With the addition of Bilster Technologies to the Concepts Group, it is directly in line with the government’s focus on the development of local SMES.

Yes, for your information, the two year old company Bilster Technologies is now under the direction of Concepts Group and this is a good strategy for Concepts Group as now they are offer more products than the usual ones you see at Concepts Computer. You will notice other brands such as Dell, HP, Canon and others being sold at Bilster Technologies.

The launch took place yesterday at Bilster Technologies at Citis Square. It was attended by the management’s families and friends, members of Wushu community, IFB, Fuzhou Shiyyi Association, business partners and members of the media.

Now Bilster Technologies have different range of holiday hampers for consumers. There is also offer on Dell products such as desktops, laptops and other products. You can follow them on Bilster Technologies Facebook Page.

Vincent Pao and family with his close friends during the launch

Norlin M Rufo, general manager of KFC (Brunei) handing out food to the victims involved in the massive fire at Kg Lorong Dalam and Kg Pandai Besi. The handover took place at Sungai Kebun Menjalin Sports Complex

KFC Brunei has donated a total of 300 packs of food to the victims of the massive fire that broke out recently affecting families in 24 houses in Kampong Lorong Dalam and Kampong Pandai Besi,Kampong Ayer.

Staff and management of KFC Brunei made their way to Sungai Kebun Menjalin Sports Complex on the 8th and 9th December where the some of the victims were relocated. Victims and volunteers / helpers were treated to “finger lickin good” meals while KFC’s mascot also made a special appearance to entertain and bring joy to the children.

KFC Brunei is also active in other corporate social responsibility initiatives by running the add hope program, donating to charity homes annually and providing collection boxes at every KFC restaurant in the nation encouraging customers to play a part in contributing to those in need. Press release and images courtesy of KFC (Brunei).

DS 5 model. Check them out at The Mall

DS 5 model. Check them out at The Mall

You may have be familiar with the Citroën family with its comes to the DS models. Apparently DS Automobiles has officially separated from its parent company Citroën in 2014. So if you let that sink in your mind that now whenever you see these models roaming around the country, it’s a DS Automobiles and the exclusive distributor is Grand Motors Sdn Bhd.

True to its brand signature, DS Automobiles is the ‘Spirit of Avant-garde’. Now the brand is revealing its new logo, comprising the DS monogram sitting above the name “DS AUTOMOBILES”. The French language was deliberately chosen to recall the brand’s French roots and to reflect DS’s high-end positioning that rests on its best-in-class automotive know-how.

DS 5 model. The new DS 5 is a vehicle of avant-garde styling, associating dynamic behaviour, refinement and attention to detail with a selection of advanced technologies. It embodies all the attributes of present and future DS vehicles. This DS flagship model introduces the brand identity and gains the new front face along with other qualities that make it a true DS.

Alongside new features such as the sculpted, vertical grille with the DS logo in the centre, the Xenon Full LED headlamps, touchdrive interface and high-performance engine, the new DS 5 maintains all the qualities behind its renown, body lines defying conventional definition, an exceptional exterior and interior design with refinement visible in every detail, and a ‘cockpit’ driving position.

The interior of the New DS 5 brings to mind the world of aerospace design. The most symbolic feature is the cockpit roof. With its three light wells, the roof creates a unique ambience tailored to individual requirements, by day and by night.

Featuring the latest-generation six-speed automatic gearbox which offers faster gear changing, greater driveability, and reduced internal friction, the new DS 5 is also equipped with Turbo High Pressure (THP) 165 Stop-and-Start petrol engine. It consumes 5.9 litres per 100km over a combined cycle for CO2 emissions of 135g/km, an improvement of 30g/km or 18 per cent over a combined cycle.

On the road, the new DS 5 delivers a dynamic but relaxed drive. The running gear has been upgraded from launch for improved comfort. The shock absorbers gain PLV (preloaded linear valve) technology, which limits sudden changes in damping force, in order to produce a more linear damping curve. At the same time, the compression stroke is longer. As a result, the new DS 5 soaks up bumps and dips in the road more effectively. Vibration comfort is also significantly improved by the reduction in impact noise.

I have yet to test drive the DS 5. Perhaps one day when time permits.

DS 4 Crossback. Check them out at The Mall

DS 4 Crossback. Check them out at The Mall

The DS 4 Crossback model. It’s a crossback model and it’s meant to be versatile, expressive and adventurous by nature.

Versatile in concept and design, DS 4 Crossback is aimed at customers looking for ‘urban and extra-urban adventure’. The vehicle displays its go-anywhere credentials with strong styling features including wheel arch trims, a black front end and spoiler, large black wheels, special grey roof bars, upward vision of 45° thanks to the panoramic windscreen, black exterior rear-view mirrors, door sill and carpet mats. Its status is further underlined by a ride height that is 30mm higher than on the hatchback version.

With its shimmering, expressive colors and high driving position, it offers an alternative to conventional hatchbacks in this segment, with a more cheerful touch.

DS 4 Crossback’s strongly marked lines and features embody all the styling attributes of DS. Viewed from the side, its body styles feature a chrome belt running around the dark-tinted side windows with a tautly drawn roofline ending in a spoiler. The compact, muscular rear styling maintains its refined, distinctive design. To enhance this unique styling, the horizontal light guides showcase the rear lights.

Mated to the new six-speed automatic gearbox, which features faster gear changing, greater drivability, and reduced internal friction. DS 4 Crossback is available in Turbo High Pressure (THP) 165 Stop and Start petrol engine. It is an impressive performer with fuel consumption of 5.5 litres per 100km, a 29 per cent improvement on the THP 160, CO2 emissions of under 130g/km, and 240Nm of torque.

The watchwords for DS are refinement and attention to detail, both on the outside and the inside. This is very much evident on the new DS 5 and DS 4 Crossback. The ‘Spirit Of Avant-Garde’ expresses DS’ international ambitions. It reflects the philosophy that guides the brand towards an offer of remarkably stylish and resolutely technological cars that are extremely refined down to the smallest detail, and offer an exceptionally comfortable ride.

So now, you can catch the two models DS 4 Crossback and DS 5 at the atrium of The Mall, Gadong until Sunday, 11th December. You can also follow them on their Facebook page. The SPIRIT OF AVANT-GARDE expresses DS’ international ambitions. So do check them out.

Something unfamiliar territory that I’m gonna post about air-conditioner. Well, we normally take it for granted and I actually do too until my 20 year old air-con broke down on me. That’s when I started to scout for different brands of air-con for the convenience of my sleep 😀

One company that made me realised and more knowledgeable about air-con is AEC Sdn Bhd (supplier of Panasonic). They have been in Brunei Darussalam for decades and I will pass by their office as it’s located at the Beribi Industrial Area.

Today I’m gonna explain to you about Panasonic Single Split Air Conditioner that are being sold at certain shops. It has a function that will give you 15% faster cooling comfort with a touch of a button (iAuto). It also has a 2 star energy rating.

Once the room cools down, the iAuto function will provide constant cool air flow until it reaches a comfortable humidity. Hence, this model is very ideal for your room or living room.

It comes in different horse power from 1 HP to 3 HP. The price fro the 1.0 HP will be BND 324 while the biggest HP (3.0) will be priced at BND 927. The good thing is that Panasonic has Parts and Service Centre should anything go wrong with your air-con.

So if you are searching for one, check out the Panasonic Single Split Air Conditioner as there is a special promotion that ends on the 31st December 2016. You can refer the poster on the places to locate the said model.

Click image to enlarge

The huge blaze that took place yesterday noon at Kampong Ayer

24 houses being affected. Let’s give a helping hand

According to the reported news in Borneo Bulletin, 24 houses were affected by the fire blaze as a massive fire broke out at Kampong Lorong Dalam. Pictures and videos were being circulated through social media. A total of 13 houses in Kampong Lorong Dalam and 11 houses from Kampong Pandai Besi were affected due to the strong winds yesterday which escalated the fire.

The good news is that there were no casualties. It was good to see Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, to assess the situation.

The Fire and Rescue team had difficulty in accessing the fire affected area due to the low tide at that time. They had to use a long hose and the strong winds made the situation difficult. With the combined efforts of Pengkalan Batu Fire Station, Berakas Fire Station and Beribi Fire Station, they managed the contain the situation within two hours.

The ministry will help the victim relocate to suitable places where they will be provided with early emergency assistance in the form of food and sleeping equipment. Some of the identified temporary places for the fire victims are Sg Kebun Menjalin Sports Complex, Youth Centre in Bandar and the Sports Village.

Other agencies involved in helping out were Community Development Department (JAPEM) and the Brunei-Muara Office.

Starting tomorrow for donation collection

Greetings all.

Humanitarian Aid Fire Victims

Join with us on a mission to help fire victims in Brunei Darussalam.

ILHAM Association, WeCare Association, Youth Group from Masjid Ash-Shaliheen and Remember Charity Team with the supported of the Department of Youth and Sports will continue to deliver your donation to the fire victims. Your contribution is highly needed and appreciated!

🌟Date: 8 to 10 December  2016
⭐Time: 9 am – 10 pm
⭐Venue: Parking Down Staircase, Stadium Hassanal Bolkiah, Berakas

Items that are needed.

1. 3 in 1 drinks
2. Assorted biscuits
3. Toiletries
4. Canned foods
5. Sanitary pads
6. Milk bottles
7. Slippers
8. Assorted Dry foods
9. Mineral water
10. Pampers

For more information, you can contact
📱7184719
📱8998852

Beoplay A6 now available at Bang & Olufsen showroom at Sejalin Living (Kiarong)

The fabric cloth feel for the sleeve of theBeoplay A6. It can be changed and it will be additional cost

I’ve mentioned of the Bang & Olufsen A1 speaker before. Today I’m gonna do a shout out another Bang & Olufsen speaker and that is the A6. Yes, it’s a premium one point music system with a well balanced sound Profile designed to fill the entire room with a wide-staged sound. I really like the intuitive of the functions of the A6. A gentle touch on the key panels and you are ready to go. The design shapes like a boomerang and slim enough to carry under your arm. Even the sleeves are interchangeable (you have customised sleeves or other designs).

The ease of connectivity is a huge plus especially to your mobile devices. I tested it out the other day at Bang & Olufsen showroom at at Sejalin Living (near Kiarong Complex) and the connection was seamless. You can place it at anywhere in the room and still enjoy the impact of the speaker. It did fill up all corners of the rooms. Awesome!

If you are searching online for portable, wireless speakers and you have the budget, then the wise choice will be the beoplay A6. I can guarantee you that you will be fully satisfied with this purchase. The richness of the sound will tease you and it will make you appreciate more how good the beoplay A6 is.

In a nutshell, the beoplay A6 packs a punch with clear, expressive sound and it has vast functionality. And of course, it has a style and elegance.

You can visit the B&O showroom at Sejalin Living (near Kiarong Complex). You can check out their Facebook Page or you can call them at 242 0166

The touch control panel of the Beoplay A6

A gentle touch is all you need

This is how the inside looks like

The A6 with the Beoplay A9

Group photo of the partners and vendors with Pg Salleh Ab Rahman Pg Hj Damit, the Advisor of D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd and Ngu Tiing Siang, Operations Manager of D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd during the Partners’ Signing Ceremony

Press release from D’ Sunlit. On the 22nd of January 2017 at the International Convention Center (ICC), Berakas has conducted its Partners’ Signing Ceremony yesterday at D’Sunlit premises.

Pg Salleh Ab Rahman Pg Hj Damit, the Advisor of D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd and Ngu Tiing Siang, Operations Manager of D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd were present as the signees representing D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd. Numerous Event and Activity partners were also in attendance to work hand in hand with the organiser of the 19th Consumer Fair to deliver another successful event.

Visiting the 19th Consumer Fair is a great kick start for the first month of the year; it is a time for all to shop in over 400 booths and prep for the arrival of the New Year. All kinds of products and activities can be found within the halls to keep you occupied for hours. Watch out for several new comers in the fair such as Pets Arena, TechBru Solution (B) Sdn Bhd, Kaslinda, Taiwanese Bridal Co, First Brew, Meriwell, and many more.
The 19th Consumer Fair carries the theme “The Year is Yours”, 19 New Year resolutions will be featured in our bi-annual In-Fair Magazine now at its fourth edition, for you to pick and choose which will be your top new year resolutions to achieve for the upcoming year. Consumers will get to challenge one of the New Year resolutions which is “Face Your Fear” in the fair, stay tuned to the soon to be showcased activity from the organiser of the 19th Consumer Fair.

Other than that, the fair is loaded with activities from exhibitors and new faces of the popular fair. New faces such as WayBack Burger will be conducting, a “Triple Challenge Eating Competition” and “Can You Take the Hotness?” from Pelicana Chicken. Other than that, Lof Bakery will be having “Cupcakes Decorations” for cupcake lovers and those who love to bake. Many more activities from POKKA (Cataleya Trading Company), Better Brunei, YASKA, DST Group, Kingston Beverage and Creamery Sdn Bhd, Red Bull, Syarikat Teeyam Majeed, KindyKare International are to be seen in the fair.

The 19th Consumer Fair is organised by D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd and is open for public from 10am to 10pm daily except for Friday when it closes temporarily from 12pm to 2pm for Friday prayers. For more information and updates, follow D’Sunlit on social media, Facebook page D’sunlit Sdn Bhd and @dsunlit on Instagram or reach the D’Sunlit Marketing Department at 2453666. Please also visit www.bruneiconsumerfair.com for more updates.

POKKA the leading food and beverage group that manufactures and markets a wide range of beverages under the reputed brand name ‘POKKA’ has launched “POKKA Bonanza Lucky Draw” on 1st December 2016 until 14 January 2017 by Cataleya Trading Company, the Distributor in Brunei Darussalam.

POKKA Bonanza Lucky Draw can be seen in any superstores where POKKA drinks are present and it is open to all of the public to join the fun. Simply purchase 1 bottle (0.5L or 1.5L) of Pokka Green Tea with a choice of any Pokka Ice Fruit Tea (0.5L or 1.5L) at grocery stores, remove both bottle labels and fill in the registration form. Watch out for Lucky Draw box around the promotion and drop the labels together with the registration form in and anticipate for the weekly draw.

Go Hero 5 will be the prize for four of POKKA Bonanza’s weekly draw. First prize being iMAC 27” WITH RETINA 5K DISPLAY – MK462ZP, second prize as iPHONE 7PLUS 128GB & APPLE WATCH A1802 SERIES 1, SAMSUNG 43” UHD SMART TV WITH WALL BRACKET for third prize and many more to celebrate the soon to come New Year.

POKKA Bonanza Lucky Draw appears around superstores in Brunei, it will be conducting its first draw on 17th December 2016 and the Grand Draw to be in the 19th Consumer Fair.

It’s a December to remember for beauty addicts and lovers of luxury beauty brand L’Occitane. From 1st until 31st December 2016, Baiduri Bank is offering great rewards and savings for customers who use their Baiduri Credit and Debit Card for their purchases in their Mabohai outlet.

With a storewide minimum purchase of BND80 nett, customers enjoy a 15% off from the total bill. On top of this fabulous discount, customers receive a free gift as well as a complimentary L’Occitane VIP membership.

The L’Occitane VIP membership avails members to special benefits and privileges such as birthday vouchers, reward points as well as exclusive VIP days, offers and promotions.

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

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

The group photo. Click image to enlarge.

Last week, more than 50 HEP teachers involved in Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam’s (BIBD) Advocating Life-Long Learning for An Aspiring Future (ALAF) programme recently attended an appreciation night event organised by the Bank. The event was held to recognise the contributions of ALAF Student Welfare Teachers in supporting the primary and secondary education of young underprivileged Bruneians.

Also present at the event was the Director General of Education, Yang Mulia Hj Abd Rahim bin Derus, and Director of Islamic Studies, Yang Mulia Ustazah Hajah Hajijah binti Haji Moktal, and senior leaders from the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Religious Affairs and BIBD.

Speaking after the Doa recital to bless the event, BIBD Head of Government Relations and Special Projects, who was also guest of honour, Hj Minorhadi bin Hj Mirhassan said, “Behind the success of each ALAF student is the dedication of ALAF Student Welfare teachers.”

“Together with the unwavering commitment of our teachers, BIBD will continue to support the expansion of the ALAF programme, in line with His Majesty’s Vision 2035 to develop a holistic society that is highly educated and skilled.” Hj Minorhadi presented awards, including commemorative plaques and cash rewards, to recognise the contributions of teachers who have gone above and beyond their current responsibilities in support of ALAF students.

The ALAF Excellence Award 2016 was presented to Cikgu Yahuda Bin Gelawat, Cikgu Siti Muti’ah Bte Ali Umar, Ustazah Yasmin Hannani Bte Hj Abd Majid and Ustazah Dk Siti Nurul Ihsan Bte Pg Mohd Sahar. Cikgu Hjh Nur Humaira Qistina Maisarah Bte Hj Abd Rahman and Ustazah Hajah Shukrinah Bte Haji Ibrahim received the Special Mention ALAF Excellence Award 2016, while four retired ALAF Taskforce members were presented with the Special Mention ALAF Service Award 2016. In addition, all invited HEP teachers received a certificate of appreciation, in recognition of their dedication.

With the support of dedicated teachers, 7 ALAF students have scored 5A’s in their PSR examinations in 2015, and the Bank looks forward to supporting more deserving students in the future.

To find out more about BIBD’s ALAF programme and how you can make a difference, visit http://www.bibdalaf.com

Hj Minorhadi bin Hj Mirhassan, BIBD Head of Government Relations and Special Projects, in his welcoming remarks

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Rashid bin Pengiran Kerma Raja Pengiran Haji Kamarulzaman (2nd from left) with Che Soon Chong, Danial Isa Kalebic, the partner and manager of The Potato Habit and Benny Lau at the soft launch of The Potato Habit yesterday

YB Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Diraja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa bin Pehin Datu Perdana Manteri Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Ibrahim (far right side) with family members and friends came for the launch and blessed the ceremony with a prayer.

At first I thought it was an international franchise. But their family side is known for creating local brands when it comes to food & beverage. You all may be familiar with household names such as Fratini’s and Mr. Softy and they have been around to make their strong presence in Brunei Darussalam. Now comes a new F&B brand called The Potato Habit.

Led by a young dynamic team came up with the concept and the idea came when they were flying abroad. After some sampling, they came up with 6 flavours as their first phase of the menu. The flavours are Original Cheese, Cheese and Butter, Spicy BBQ, Seaweed, Sour Cream & Onion and Sweet corn. Apparently according to Danial, the most popular one off the menu is Seaweed.

My favourite is the BBQ flavour. The portions are quite generous too even for a Baby Size ($2). They have 5 sizes from Baby Size to Family Size ($6). So if you ask me, it’s a real steal.

Daniel shared how they are also planning for expansion in the near future (sometime in March/April 2017). As of today, he was happy with the responses even with the lack of promotion. The business has been operating for a week and yesterday was the official opening of The Potato Habit.

Present during the launch were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Abdul Rashid bin Pengiran Kerma Raja Pengiran Haji Kamarulzaman and YB Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Diraja Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Isa bin Pehin Datu Perdana Manteri Dato Laila Utama Haji Awang Ibrahim, the grandfather of Danial Isa-Kalebic.

The Potato Habit is located at the ground floor of Times Square Shopping Centre, near Killiney Road. You can follow them on instagram @thepotatohabit or just search #flavouringyourworld to check them out. I highly recommend their fries as they are pretty addictive for some reason. Happy devouring 😀

The seaweed flavour is the most popular among the lot

My favourite among the lot – BBQ flavour

Aziz Idris of Borneo Bulletin wanted to leave but got addicted to the flavoured fries and ended up taking away some

Same went to Dean Kassim of Borneo Bulletin and he couldn’t get enough of them

We had two rounds of them 😀

I had to learn how to carry all six with two hands.. It is possible

Danial being interviewed by Aziz. Check the story out tomorrow in Borneo Bulletin.

A strong crowd yesterday at The Potato Habit.