The two Bruneian students had the privilege to be part of the Total Summer School

The Total Summer School (TSS) recently concluded in France. It was participated by 124 international students (52 female and 74 male) coming from 27 countries, with 32 different nationalities, and with a variety of academic backgrounds.

Brunei Darussalam was represented for the second consecutive year, this time with two students selected by Total E&P Borneo B.V. (TEPB).

Muhammad Nur Syafi’ie bin Haji Md Idris was a second year student currently pursuing his Bachelor of Science (Applied Physics) at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD). On the other hand, Institut Teknologi Brunei (ITB) was represented by Muhammad Syu’aib bin Othman, who was a third year student pursuing his Bachelor in Engineering (Mechanical Engineering).

This year marks the 7th edition of the Total Summer School program. It reflects the Total Group’s continuous commitment towards education.

Last year, Total E&P Borneo B.V. (TEPB) sent one student to the Total Summer School. Today, he is working as a Field Engineer based at the Total Onshore Processing Plant in Lumut, Belait District. The Total Summer School is one of Total’s Corporate Social Responsibility program in the education sector. Another example is the recent signing of five Bruneian scholars to pursue the Total Education Scholarship Scheme (TESS) in France starting this September 2012.

What did you learn from TSS 2012?

“Initially, I understood that Total in Brunei was only involved in Exploration & Production activities. Apparently, the Total Summer School program informed us that Total Group is also involved in downstream and petrochemical activities employing over 96,000 employees worldwide.” (Syafi’ie)
“Before TSS, I was not that aware of Total’s activities in Brunei. Today, I have a better understanding about the oil and gas industry in general (and Total in particular), our nation’s main source of income.” (Syu’aib)

What did you learn about Total projects worldwide?

“I learned that Total is actually more than just an oil and gas company. It is an energy company. Example, Total is one of the leaders in solar technology with its new acquisition of Sun Power. In fact, it was interesting to know that Total has the highest output efficiency technology for solar cells with 23% efficiency rate.” (Syafi’ie)
“I was surprised to know that Total had committed a lot towards environmental initiatives. For example, I did not know Total is investing in the carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology and for some exploration campaigns, they even preserve coral reefs so that they are not affected by their operations.” (Syu’aib)
“Total brands itself as an energy company. So, they are not just into oil and gas. Example, the Total Access to Energy is a program where they reach out to the remote population with low-income to provide access to basic energy. One example is that Total sells portable solar torch lights, where the residents can charge them in the morning and use them at night at a discounted and very cheap rate.” (Syu’aib)

Share your most memorable experience in TSS 2012?

“One of the best activities was ‘Discover Paris Together’, which was like the Amazing Race competition. In teams of 6-7 pax, we roamed around the city of Paris searching for clues and using the public transportation to get everywhere.” (Syafi’ie)
“I had the initial impression that it can be awkward to meet students from diverse background and having to stick together listening to lectures. On the contrary, I find that the Total Summer School did an awesome job to line up various interactive activities that help us to bond together and understand more about Total and French culture.” (Syu’aib)
“Don’t be shy when you meet other international students. After all, you only have very limited time to learn from each other. Working in groups with students from all over the world (that you have just met) was an interesting experience. As we come from diverse backgrounds, we get to share different real life and current examples from different continents.” (Syafi’ie)
“Make the most out of the program. And make as much new friends possible. International contacts may proof to be useful in the future, especially as a student, you can keep in touch to share different knowledge.” (Syu’aib)

Last Saturday DPMM FC defied the odds by winning the S•League Starhub League Cup after defeating Geylang Untied 2-0. It’s a great result for DPMM FC and another milestone for DPMM FC. Now their focus is on the S•League for a top 5 finish.

Yea, yea, yea… I could have flew to Singapore to catch the final match between DPMM FC and Geylang United in the finals of the StarHub League Cup Final at Jalan Besar Stadium. I missed most of the first half of the match and even Shahrazen’s opening goal. However, don’t be fooled by the result that DPMM FC dominated the match because Geylang United did have their fair share of dominance especially in the second half.

Wardun in goal and the bar helped DPMM FC in many occasions. Azwan’s awesome goal from a freekick settled the nerves late in the game to give a two goal cushion. Judging from the replay on the TV, Sairol was fortunate enough that his challenge on Mun Seung Man was not punished which could have been a penalty for Geylang.

For your info, Geylang is a much different side now due to the introduction of new import players. The only problem they have is in the finishing department. I’m quite impressed with Geylang’s display in the second half.

The 2-0 victory for DPMM FC lifted them to higher grounds and yesterday, they brought back the trophy to the delight of the fans who waited at the airport upon their arrival. Now with S•League matches to resume in two weeks’ time, DPMM FC coach’s focus will be on the league for a top 5 finish.

Shahrazen who had a drought spell scored the opening goal and he said the goal really boosted his confidence and made him more involved in the game. He said the 2012 victory was better than 2009 because of the level of difficulty especially playing with Geylang.

A great welcoming party for the winners of the StarHub League Cup

Captain Rosmin and Sairol holding the cup

At the airport yesterday

Is this pose inspired by Usain Bolt?

Well done lads on the victory. Another reason to shout out for Brunei’s success.

DPMM FC coach Vjeran Simunic was totally overwhelmed by the result. “I promised my boss six months ago that I will bring back one trophy. My boys deserved the victory and the tournament itself feels like a “Champions League” S•League.”

“This victory was better than 2009’s because we all worked hard. We faced Geylang United, a bogey team, in the finals and we deserved to win because of our previous performances in the S•League. We have a good scoring and defensive record.”

“We deserve this trophy and this is the biggest comback for DPMM FC. We did this after three years of absence and we play against clubs that have many import players. No club (in the world) has acheieved this after years of absence. We have fantastic local talents and we can compete with the likes of Indonesia and Malaysia.

“I promised that I will lose my moustache if we win the Cup. It’s the first time in my life that I will shave off my moustache.

Simunic is gonna shave off his moustache tomorrow after the League Cup success

These guys brought some music to welcome the players home

Wardun (right) with his biggest fan, holding the winner’s medal

Click poster to find out more of the Audi Q3

Unveiling the latest compact car from Peugeot and more units coming soon

I had a peek of the car last week – Peugeot 107. I can foresee that this model will be a huge hit in Brunei because of its price and economical features. I believe the price tag is in the region of BND 16,000 and that’s considered an affordable value.

The Peugeot 107 is a collaboration of Japanese and French car makers – Toyota, Citroen and Peugeot. Hence, you don’t need to worry about the parts as they are pretty accessible locally and regionally. The sales person also mentioned that there will be a 3-year warranty for new purchasers of the Peugeot 107 which is a pretty good offer from TCY Motors Sdn Bhd.

The interior of the Peugeot 107

Call TCY Motors at 2425521/5522 or 2426868/6969

Two-tronic gearbox fitted with paddles behind the leather-trimmed steering wheels is a new feature for the 107 line which makes the car more maneuverable and agile.

The Peugeot 107 also lowered its levels of CO2 emissions and running the car is cheaper. The new 107 runs at 4.5litres per 100km compared to the 4.3litres figure the previous one gives.

Compact, modern, daring and easy to handle, this vehicle is designed for the town as it enjoys zipping away in traffic with safety in mind. With a redesigned front end and improved features, it will be easy to fall in love with.

Any other question or enquiry can be forwarded to TCY Motor’s Peugeot Showroom at, Bangunan Kiarong Sentral, Kg Kiarong by calling 2425521/5522 or 2426868/6969.

Last week, we did a surprise gathering for our good friend Yap Boon Hui who recently celebrated his birthday. So since he always had it simple, we decided to give it something of a surprise and it was totally a fun evening. Thank you, dude, for your contribution to the community and how you have continuously supported us unconditionally and your strong commitment to your cause have inspired myself and others. Keep showing up with your vibrant energy!!!

A group shot of YBH and his buddies

Adela Han wanted to get involved in the games too

Crowd went nuts after the signal on the balloon game

It was until the last man standing

The idea of this game is to suck the pingpong ball in mid-air

On the same night, it was also a milestone for the four of us as our friendship began exactly three years ago and how things have changed ever since. Thanks ladies for your love, support and care.

Good deals just before Hari Raya. Grab that chance!!