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Archive for September, 2014

30
Sep

Grey Brown

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News

 

Another successful bazaar 
 


The Bokwa session last weekend during Pusat Ehsan Charity Bazaar at the Indoor Stadium
 


Great participation from the crowd too
 

Last weekend, Pusat Ehsan launched its annual charity bazaar at the Berakas Indoor Stadium to further provide support for those with special needs.

The charity bazaar, the non-profit and non-government organisation’s 9th installment for this year, carries the theme, “I Care, You Care, We Care” and is open to the public until tomorrow.
During the launching ceremony, Co-Chairman of the charity bazaar’s organising committee and Education Trustee of Pusat Ehsan, Dato Paduka Dr Hj Omar Hj Khalid aid that the strategy for helping those with special needs still requires a multi-pronged approach at all levels of society as worldwide figures for people with disabilities is expected to rise as the population increases.

“Currently around 10 per cent of the total world’s population, or roughly 650 million people, live with a disability; 80 million are children, 400 million live in developing countries and 80 million in Africa. Having a disability places you in the world’s largest minority group,” said Dato Paduka Dr Hj Omar.

He said that it has been reported that the situation of people with disabilities, at a global level, has not greatly improved since the adoption of the World Programme of Action Concerning Disabled Persons in 1982.

“At the national level, Pusat Ehsan joins other charitable organisations to strive and help its special people fulfill their full potential and become functional members of an inclusive society according to the capability of each individual,” he added.

He noted that everyone plays a role in making situations better such as recognising those with special needs as individuals with their unique requirements, recognising the role of parents, and that the public has a role in the welfare of each individual as they are as important and when given a chance they can contribute like other members of society.

“For us at Pusat Ehsan to carry out our tasks effectively, we rely on donations, ranging from individuals, groups or organisations, both government and non-governmental. We realise that help can come in many forms, from donations in the form of cash, volunteerism or material goods,” said Dato Paduka Dr Hj Omar as he expressed his gratitude for the amount of support the organisation has received.

The ceremony also saw a student representative of Pusat Ehsan, Winnie Koay, sharing her positive experience of joining a job attachment at the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf and of the volunteering she does once a week as a teaching assistant for kindergarten and a library assistant at the Jerudong International School. Additionally, she shared her experiences of winning two bronze medals at the 2nd China-ASEAN Wushu festival in China.

Present as the guest of honour was the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Hj Hazair Hj Abdullah. Text courtesy of Nabilah Haris of The Brunei Times.

 


British High Commissioner David Campbell with Maya Alwines from the British High Commission participating in the charity bazaar and raising funds for the organization.They also ran lucky draws where the public can win tons of interesting vouchers. Great initiative by the British High Commission.
 


Good participation from this year’s vendors
 


Chance to win fantastic prizes for every booklet voucher you purchase
 


Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf doing a great job in giving back to the community and even employing some of the students from Pusat Ehsan at the CBTL Kiosk last weekend
 


Fakhrul Razi is not just a singer and an entertainer but he has the entrepreneurial spirit inside him. Who needs an agent when you are already full of passion and fire inside you? All you need are good and supporting friends to help you to reach newer heights of success. Keep up the spirit, bro!!
 


Anne Masri of @bruneidetoxbar and Harold Raps of Project SAFE combining forces last weekend to educate about healthy fruits to the public
 


I have to say the fruits are pretty awesome and fresh and it’s being grown at Pusat Ehan garden area
 


I had one of those drinks from @bruneidetoxbar (instagram) and it was pretty good. Refreshing and rejuvenating at the same time.
 


Hanna
 


Pusat Ehsan members selling goods and products made by them
 


Another growing hobby in Brunei
 


More bazaar and carnival outside indoor stadium
 


Winnie playing some games too and won some prizes
 


A kid attempting to beat the record
 


She managed to get more than 30 balls in 30 seconds
 

  
 

29
Sep

The Taman Effect

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News

 

 

Get Connected through ICONIA

 

 

 

Citroën Brunei 
 


Click image to enter Citroën Brunei 
 

   
 

BIBD’s latest promotion


Top up tia. Click image to enter website.
 

  
 

 

ICON Design Store 
 


Click image to enter ICON Design Store website
 

  
 

PCSB FB competition 
 


Click image to enter Progresif Cellular Page and like the Page
 

 

  
 

 

BIBD Home Showcase 5 
 


 

  
 

 

HRH strikes Gold 



HRH Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah (C), the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, attended the Tutong District Pencak Silat Seni Championships held in conjunction with His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s 68th birthday celebration at the Tutong Sports Complex yesterday. He was accompanied by HRH Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah (R) and HRH Prince ‘Abdul Muntaqim, who was among the contestants at the tournament and won one gold and one bronze medal while competing for International School Brunei. Image courtesy of Hj Mohd Ali of The Brunei Times.


HRH Prince ‘Abdul Muntaqim in action. Image courtesy of Hj Mohd Ali of The Brunei Times.

HIS Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Muntaqim bagged one gold and one bronze medal at the Tutong district Pencak Silat Seni Championships held in conjunction with His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s 68th birthday celebration yesterday.

Gracing the event at the Tutong Sports Complex were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah.

Competing for International School Berakas (ISB), His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Muntaqim took the gold medal in the seni silat mixed freestyle category while the bronze medal came from individual event, the seni silat solo freestyle category.

Speaking to The Brunei Times, the Secretary General of the Brunei Darussalam National Silat Association (PERSIB) Pg Hj Jaluddin Pg Hj Md Salleh said that “His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Muntaqim has improved a lot over the past years.”

“His Royal Highness (also) displayed very good sharp movement and he did very well in every category he participated in.

“I think he has the potential to be a very good pesilat,” he added.

For more of the event, you can click here. Text courtesy of Ak Fauzi Pg Salleh of The Brunei Times and images courtesy of Hj Mohd Ali of The Brunei Times.

  

A great success!! 
 


RBAF Commander Pehin Major General Dato Mohd Tawih (R) presenting a medal to Azlina Rambli (L) for finishing first in the Women’s Open category at the RBAF Obstacle Course Challenge. Image courtesy of Yusri Adanan of The Brunei Times.

An event that I missed yesterday prior to other commitments but I knew it was gonna be a success. When I posted the promotional poster, it created a lot of hype because it’s something new as it involves obstacles and not just pure jogging or running. This event was organised by the Royal Brunei Armed Forces’ and it was the first of its kind. Nearly 500 participated in the inaugural event of the RBAF’s first Obstacle Course Challenge.

According to the press release in The Brunei Times, Azlina Rambli, a TOTAL employee, just took up jogging six months ago and she even struggled to run a kilometre back then. Now she’s fitter and even won the Female Open category of the said event. Now that is inspiring indeed for other athletes. She encourages everyone that it takes a lot of training and practice to overcome any obstacles and challenges.

Major Sopian has been integral in organising the event and he has a great team to help him and thanks Pg Farisan Pg Metassan for the updates on your Facebook. Hope to get more pictures from you. I believe there will be more similar events to give something back to the community and the feedback have positive as well. Congratulations to the participants and the organiser.

 


Major Sopian and his team in preparation for the event. Image courtesy from Major Sopian.
 


The mud pit obstacle. Looks awesome. Image courtesy of Pg Farisan.
 


The medals and t-shirt. Image courtesy of Mohammed Fathullah.
 


Great participation from civilian and military participants. Image courtesy of Yusri Adanan of The Brunei Times.
 


The mud pit obstacle. . Image courtesy of Yusri Adanan of The Brunei Times.
 

  
 

 

Huge Price Drop 
 


Check out Michelin great deals at Sin Hup Huat Co
 

  
 

 

FLEXA 2nd branch 
 

The Mabohai Shopping Complex Management welcomed their newest tenant, Flexa, to its lineup of international brands under its roof on Sunday, 28th September 2014.

FLEXA is an international children’s furniture brand whose products are not just beautiful to look at; but which all have a purpose. Flexa’s furniture creates a safe environment for child development and stimulates a child’s natural curiosity and creativity through their products.

Founded in Denmark in 1972, FLEXA specializes in design, manufacturing and sales of Scandinavian interior solutions for Kids. Today, FLEXA has more than 140 specialist stores located in Europe, Asia, North Africa and Hawaii.

 


FLEXA opened its 2nd outlet at Mabohai Shopping Complex
 


The staff of FLEXA during the opening of the 2nd outlet
The owner of the Brunei Franchise, Mr. Patrick Kong remarked:

“We are delighted to choose the Mabohai Shopping Complex as the venue of our second store in Brunei Darussalam because our target market is families with babies and young children. Flexa’s mission is to design and distribute functional, playful and sustainable interior solutions at affordable prices. Our specialist knowledge about kids combined with our functional and playful designs, ensure we provide the best possible kids’ room interiors.

Our policy of allowing children to try the bed sets, tables and chairs have been very successful and popular, and we hope that families will come with their children to see and feel Flexa’s furniture for themselves. As part of our Official Opening, we are delighted to offer value packages to the public.”

As part of the opening activities, a children’s activity centre was set-up in front of Flexa. Children were treated to fun arts and crafts projects, face painting and surprises, while their parents shop. Balloons and a box of treats were also given to the children.

Ms Yee-Man Cheng, Manager of the Mabohai Shopping Complex said:

“We are delighted to welcome Flexa to the Mabohai Shopping Complex. Their arrival truly cements our repute as Brunei’s premier family shopping complex, and as a warm and family oriented place for families to shop in together. Flexa is an internationally recognized furniture brand which caters to young children and their wonderfully exciting designs will appeal to all.

 

  

27
Sep

The Rose

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News

 

Area K6 Contest 
 


 

This is it!!! The battle to represent Brunei, Area K6 in this year’s Humourous Speech and Evaluation Contests. We have passed the club level where three clubs in contested to be selected in this edition of the competition.

In Otters Club, they will be represented by Allen Ang and Shih Ching Yong. In Brunei Speakers’ Club, they will be represented by Zainal Bostaman and Reubin Chin. In Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club, they will be represented by Hazwan Kamarulzaman and Elizabeth Sim. All the six contestants will be vying for the Humourous Speech Contest title. I believe the winner of the each category will represent our Area K6 for the Division K level in Kota Kinabalu in mid-October 2014.

As for the Speech Evaluation Contest, Allen Ang, Melati Yussof (both Otters), Zainal Bostaman, Reuben Chin (Brunei Speakers’ Club) and Hazwan Kamarulzaman and Elizabeth Sim (Brunei Advanced Speakers Club) will be competing for the Area K6 title.

This event will take place for the first time ever at the iCentre at the auditorium and a big shout out to iCentre (BEDB) for lending the venue for toastmasters purposes. It take place tomorrow (Sunday) 28th September and I advise all of you who are interested to witness a spectacle to come by 1:15pm before the competition kicks off. There will be a $5 entrance fee and refreshments will be provided as well.

I will be the Contest Chair for the event (more like an emcee) and good luck to all the contestants and I can guarantee you that you will be entertained by their humourous speech.

 


Reuben Chin competing in both humourous and speech evaluation
 


Allen Ang competing in both humourous and speech evaluation
 


Shih Ching Yong competing in humourous contest
 


Melati Yussof competing in speech evaluation contest
 


Zainal Bostaman competing in both humourous and speech evaluation
 


Hazwan Kamarulzaman competing in both humourous and speech evaluation
 


Elizabeth Sim competing in both humourous and speech evaluation
 


Rano Iskandar (myself) as the Contest Chair which is more like the host/emcee for the event
 


Ruey Narcis the Area Governor (Brunei) for Toastmasters International
 

  
 

 

Abacus Holiday Travel Fair 
 

The event was officially opened this morning by Mr. Dermot Mannion, Chairman of Abacus. Yes, the fair is only for two days and it’s organised by Abacus Brunei and they have done a tremendous job in partnering with various airlines, National Tourist offices, hotels and of course, the biggest pie of all, the travel agents. This is always an important calendar especially for travelers even like myself and I managed to make three bookings this morning before the human traffic got higher.

It was definitely a crowded affair and Abacus Brunei have achieved their objective in stimulating the demand for travel with great packages offered by travel agents, airlines and hotels.

I could see that Mr. Dermot was pleased with what he saw earlier this morning and he thanked the organiser and the partners for making this event a possibility. He shared how the travel fair went far back as 2004 and this platform has proven to be a success in attracting the public to get special offers for their travels and vacation.

Of course, there is a lucky draw gimmick for passengers who booked their tickets during the travel fair. They can win attractive prizes such as return air tickets to London, Bali and Ho Chi Minh City (a route that will be added by 17th October) which are sponsored by Royal Brunei Airlines (RB), 1 return air ticket from Hong Kong to Beijing sponsored by Cathay Pacific and 1 return air ticket each to Bangkok and Krabi sponsored by Malaysia Airlines.

So drop down to the 11th Abacus Holiday Travel Fair, located at the Goldstone Ballroom, Centrepoint Hotel and tomorrow’s the final day. And for a little plug, I chose to buy my ticket at Darussalam Holdings because of their great incentive of double Royal Skies Miles for every transaction you make during the travel fair. I believe you need to spend at least BND 300 to entitled for the double Royal Skies Miles. Awesome, right? Thank you, Darussalam Holdings for that special incentive. As you know, I’m just a newbie for Royal Skies but I’ve been accumulating tons of points ever since Day 1. My target is to reach Silver in a few months’ time 😀

 


Mr. Dermot Mannion, Chairman of Abacus, officiating the event with Irene Soon, General Manager of Abacus Brunei at the 11th Abacus Holiday Travel Fair
 


Mr. Dermot Mannion visiting Royal Brunei Airlines booth
 


My preferred choice for bookings, thanks to their great incentives and service
 


At the Amazing Thailand booth
 


Mr. Dermot Mannion and management and associates of Royal Brunei Airlines
 


Pan Bright Travel is also aggressive in their marketing campaign and they are also having a special lucky draw which is a car
 


Tourism Malaysia has a separate hall so I do hope you guys don’t miss out their great offers from Malaysia
 


You can take a selfie with their instagram props 😀
 


Baiduri Bank is the official bank and I managed to get some deals from it too
 


 


 


Siaw Ling (in white) of Singapore Airlines (Brunei) with her colleagues
 


Another popular travel agent in Brunei and I like their queueing system
 


Guest of honour visiting the Taiwan Tourism Bureau booth
 


Mr. Dermot with Halim Abd Rahman, Sales and Marketing Manager of Abacus Brunei
 

  
 

Strongest Youth Challenge 2014 
 


Check them out in two weeks’ time
  
 

The Cap City 
 


The launch is tonight. Brace yourself!!

It’s always great to see retail shops bringing in genuine products and goods to Brunei and we need more of this. I remember buying my first Snapbacks cap back in the UK in 2006 and even until now the cap is still in good condition. Snapbacks have been very popular in the US and most baseball teams have their own prints of New Era Snapbacks versions and they were hot sellers, even to this present day.

So it’s good to have a genuine store that sells New Era caps that comes in fitted, snapback and strapback version and they will be available at the first store in Brunei called The Cap City, located 2nd floor (arcade area) of The Mall, Gadong. The shop has been opened for a month or two and it has been receiving positive responses from the public and not many people especially the youngsters are aware of the existence of The Cap City. They will also Malaysia’s brand apparel – Negative Clothing.

The Cap City is a popular store in Kuala Lumpur and it is great that the owners are willing to set up its store in Brunei for the first time. You can check out their instagram @thecapcity which updates regularly on their stores in KL and Brunei and of course, the latest focus on their updates are on Brunei’s newly opened store The Cap City.

Today will be a special one because the Brunei store will be closed for today but it will opened its door at 8pm to 10pm tonight for a grand launch. There will be a special gimmick where customers will get a 20% discount on ALL their caps only for that two hour window tonight. Another awesome gimmick is that the first 20 customers will get A CAP for FREE. Yea, it did mentioned on their IG and poster that it was only for the 1st 10 customers but the owners from KL are kind enough to sponsor a few more items for the Brunei grand launch.

Also in the country is Nigel Sparks @nigelsparks the man behind The Cap City and he is here with @tristweiliang to give support for the grand launch for the Brunei store.

So pen this down on your calendar to check out the grand launch for The Cap City at The Mall, Gadong, tonight. For more updates, check out on their hashtag #thecapcity_brunei on instagram 😀


The New Era caps now available in The Cap City, The Mall, Gadong
 


The New Era caps now available in The Cap City, The Mall, Gadong
 


NY Yankees Snapback caps
 


@nigelsparks and @tristweiliang at Brunei’s The Cap City store and they will be at the grand launch too
 


Purchase any 3 New Era caps & get the 2 pack cap carrier for FREE or purchase any 4 New Era caps & get the 6 pack for FREE!
 


The long awaited New Era Tropical Minimalism snapbacks finally arrived
 


Negative Clothing apparel also available
 


The look of The Cap City store in Brunei
 


My first Snapback New Era customized cap. Yea, it looks a bit dusty :p
 

  
 

 

Abacus Travel Fair 
 


Starting today and tomorrow only
 


The great thing about Darussalam Holdings is that for every transaction you make from them, you can earn double Royal Skies Miles regardless of different airlines you choose. This deal only applies during the Abacus Holiday Travel Fair. I’m making three bookings under Darussalam Holdings just to enjoy this special offer 😀
 


 


 


 

  
 

26
Sep

White black

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News

 

Concepts Combo Deals 
 


Back-to-School Combo Deals

With the advancement of computing and visual technologies, customers are now on the look-out for the best choices of what can fulfill their ICT needs, and with Affordablity being the key-word for current wise consumer spending, Concepts Computer, with the support of Acer, is unveiling a never before seen combo promotion; the Acer Aspire ES1-511-C24A notebook with the Acer P1173 projector, available at an affordable combo price of $788, which is a discount of $258 from the usual price $1,046. Now that’s a super great deal.

 


The Acer Aspire ES1-511-C24A

The Acer Aspire ES1-511-C24A

The Acer Aspire ES1-511-C24A is an affordable 15.6 inch screen laptop, with great starter specifications and a great size for entertainment and work combined. The Acer Aspire ES1-511-C24A can be a great first laptop for students moving up from secondary education to higher institutions like Universities or Colleges.

Capable
Whether you’re doing work or playing games, the Intel Quad Core Celeron and 4GB of RAM can handle it. The 4GB of RAM ensures the smooth operation and running of any work-related softwares, and the Intel Quad Core Celeron processor can work flawlessly with most non-graphic based games. Combine Work and Play in one machine

Mobile
Wireless connections abound, the Acer Aspire ES1-511-C24A can connect to any wireless network for easy access to the internet. Build-in Bluetooth connection also ensures wireless connevity for head-sets or speakers, and more importantly, for wireless transfer between devices, so data can be transferred from mobile devices to the safety of your laptop.


The Acer P1173 projector
 

The Acer P1173 projector

The Acer P1173 projector, an affordable starter Projector, is perfect for those looking to begin the next step in their Home-Entertainment needs, or for teachers looking to complement their teaching, or even for business looking to improve their sales-pitch. Easy to operate and set-up, it can be used in any environment, at home or for business.

Captivating
Whether you’re projecting business presentations, academic lectures or photographs, draw your audience in with immersive images. Colors remain balanced and images accurate with advanced Acer technologies. Everything looks sharp and real thanks to SVGA resolutions and 3,000 lumens of brightness with HDMI Port connectivity available on the Acer P1173 projector.

Ease-of-Use
The Acer P1173 projector is highly recommended as a starter projector because it is suited for beginners and also offers many useful features and connectivity. This means you can connect it to your Blu-Ray player or laptop or even cable-box directly and start using the Acer P1173 projector immediately.


Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer (center) holding the The Acer P1173 projector while the associates of Concepts Computer holding the Acer Aspire ES1-511-C24A
 


Zul showing a demo of the Acer notebook to Tigerlim
 

Both of these Acer products are available to be purchased individually, $478 for the Acer Aspire ES1-511-C24A laptop and $568 for the Acer P1173 projector, but both will be available at Concepts Computer with the promotional combo price of $788 only, usual price is $ 1,046 for both together. And with the purchase of the Acer P1173 projector, customers are also able to purchase a 70 inch by 70 inch projector screen for $100 only, usual price $128.

Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer said, “With the help of Acer, we will like to bring the latest technologies into the Bruneian IT market at very affordable prices, without sacrificing quality, which is why we are offering this promotion to our loyal customers and giving them the opportunity to purchase these great products at a Promotional Combo price, so that our loyal customers do not have to choose between reliability, high performance and affordability.” ”

Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer added, “Concepts Computer has always tried hard to be at the fore-front of the IT industry in Brunei Darussalam, and with affordability being an important issue for local shoppers, that is why we came up with the Combo Promotion. The latest technology at affordable prices.”

Also note that these Acer products will also be available at promotional prices for Concepts Computer members who has the Concepts membership pendrive, students, teachers or those 50 years old and above; $398 each for either the Acer Aspire ES1-511-C24A laptop or Acer P1173 projector. Please show proof of eligibility at time of purchase.

Not to forget about Concepts Computer’s month end promotion from 27th to 30th of every month where Concepts will be open from 9 am to 9pm. For more information, please visit your nearest Concepts Computer showroom or call 2233551/2/3

  

25
Sep

Cloud 10

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News

 

 

Get Connected through ICONIA

 

 

 

Citroën Brunei 
 


Click image to enter Citroën Brunei 
 

   
 

BIBD’s latest promotion


Top up tia. Click image to enter website.
 

  
 

 

ICON Design Store 
 


Click image to enter ICON Design Store website
 

  
 

PCSB FB competition 
 


Click image to enter Progresif Cellular Page and like the Page
 

 

  
 

 

BIBD Home Showcase 5 
 


BIBD today launched its 5th Home Showcase roadshow at the The Mall, Gadong. The showcase highlights BIBD’s financing packages such as its Home Financing, Home Improvement Financing, Education Financing and its Personal Financing along with other BIBD’s products, services and promotions such as the debit card conversion.

The Guest of Honor at the event was Yang Mulia Awang Yusof Hj Abd Rahman, Managing Director of Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam. Also in attendance were government officials from the Ministry of Development, AMBD, along with BIBD senior management and personnel.

The event started with a recital of the Al-Fatihah along with prayers to bless the occasion, which was followed by opening remarks from BIBD’s Managing Director, Yang Mulia Javed Ahmad. He touched on how excited he was to be launching the 5th edition of BIBD’s annual Home Showcase together with the presence of all of BIBD’s partners at the showcase, in their efforts to truly deliver a one-stop solution for everyone interested in enhancing or getting their dream house.

 


Yang Mulia Awang Yusof Hj Abd Rahman, Managing Director of Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam officiating the launch of the BIBD Home Showcase as Javed Ahmad, BIBD’s Managing Director looked on. Image courtesy of Hanisham Salleh.
 


Home deco by Dreamz Living and Fabrica. Check them out.
 


Sofa from Dreamz Living
 


The BIBD Home Showcase 5 will be at The Mall, Gadong, for a period of ten days from 25th September until the 4th October 2014, open every day from 10am to 10pm. The opening time for Fridays will be from 2pm to 10pm.

Successful applicants of BIBD products and services will stand the chance to win daily grand prizes comprising of a trip to Kota Kinabalu, 32-inch Samsung television, fruit-juicer, vacuum cleaner, $200 Thomson Voucher along with BIBD gifts.

Furthermore, every day, the first one hundred customers converting their BIBD ATM Card to the new BIBD Debit Card at the BIBD Home showcase will be given a $5 coffee voucher. BIBD will also be giving out a fee waiver promotion on the processing fee of B$ 200 during the showcase, whereby applicants of BIBD’s Home Improvement Financing and Education Financing packages will be entitled to a 100% waiver, while a 50% waiver is entitled to all Home Financing applicants.

 

Meanwhile, BIBD’s Home Financing Specialists will also be on hand throughout the roadshow to assist and provide advices on Home Financing solutions that is suitable for the customers, such as the BIBD’s Rumah Plus, which offers an attractive home financing package with higher financing entitlement, 50% processing fee waiver, tenor of up to 25 years, lower repayment schedule, and attractive profit rates. Customers may also choose to include the start-up costs of the financing such as Legal document fees, MRTA takaful and valuation fees into the overall financing entitlement.

The 5th BIBD Home showcase will also house BIBD’s Tijarah (Business Banking) which provides a special relationship management system for newly established SMEs and SMEs that have not already registered with BIBD via their other business segments. The Business Banking unit provides further convenience to its Tijarah customers by providing them with dedicated relationship managers to facilitate to their account openings, remittances, CIB, fee waivers, along with their other banking needs to help these SMEs to further excel and focus on their business.

Also present at BIBD’s Home Showcase were its stellar partners within the industry, with reputable real estate agents: Bess Perfect Property Agency, BSTC Real Estate, Say Koo Liew Sdn Bhd, J-Fa Realty Agency & Marketing, Precise Development along with Tchung Real Estate; and household names such as BIBD Ar-Rahnu, BIBD Tijarah, Fabrica, Max Track, Luzzone interior design, Flexa and Interline; Takaful coverage from Takaful Brunei Keluarga and Takaful Brunei Am, along with other members of the home building and renovation industries. Vendors such as Dbookhaus and Chlocits will also be present to provide visitors with their respective products.

This Showcase will also allow the customers to create any combination of design, concept, and house-setting instantly with these partners only a few feet away, on hand to help make that dream home one step closer.

 


Guest of honour touring around the BIBD Home Showcase at The Mall. Image courtesy of Hanisham Salleh.
 


 


Do ask around for BIBD’s Home Financing Specialists
 


A friend enquiring for a home? :p
 


Group photo with AMBD and management of BIBD. Image courtesy of Hanisham Salleh.

The Bank understands that home ownership is important; hence this showcase provides a platform for respective future homeowners to look at the exciting possibilities from real estate agents, as well as the opportunities to enhance their current homes.

BIBD also acknowledges the importance of owning a home at a younger age as they are able to take up the maximum repayment tenure of 25 years added with a lower monthly repayment, as opposed to owning a home at a later age with an increased monthly repayment. Home investment is also an important asset class investment where returns on investment can reach as high as 7 to 9%.

To find out more on any of BIBD’s products, services, and promotions, please visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bibdbrunei, log on to BIBD’s home page at www.bibd.com.bn, get in touch with the BIBD Contact Centre at 2238181 or visit your nearest BIBD branch.

 

  
 

Malppy.com 
 

If anyone of you might have noticed, Malppy.com has recently made some changes to their website. According to the Founder Simon Soo, Malppy’s goal has always been improving their customers’ shopping experience through continuous improvements on their products and customer service. Malppy has learned and taken customers’ feedback into great consideration on their new modification.

One of the new changes consist of the new product grouping categorization. This new fashion categories separation is said to be more friendly to shoppers from their survey. Another change also involves the enhancement of their search engine for quick searching. It was also learned that they have eliminated a good portion of their less popular products and are replacing them with even better quality and attractive ones. I was told to expect more major changes on their upcoming product line… So I guess we will have to keep an eye for that for awhile.

 


Click image to enter website
 

On the obvious side, we can tell they are featuring their whole new Smart & Formal selection for Men & Women. According to Marketing Manager Shenny Tang, this is specially selected for those graduating soon or who have just graduated and are preparing their first step into their working life. “We believe the way one looks will create a lasting impression on others” quoted Shenny. Of course, the range is also for those who are already working. Quality of this range of products is specifically and carefully hand-picked through numbers of supplier to ensure its a good wear everyday by our newly appointed Product Manager Anna Yong.

Lastly, due to their VISA payment that is currently undergoing an upgrade (which is expected to be back anytime soon), they are promoting PAYPAL payment (which is one of my personal preference) for their current purchase. Customers who pay by Paypal on Malppy’s product from now until end of the month will receive a 10% rebate off the amount they are going to spend for their next purchase. Sounds good enough for me. So online shoppers, check them out at www.malppy.com and lets have a online shopping weekend.

 

  
 

Shoutout to netballers 
 


 


Attention to all Netball enthusiasts:- You are welcome to join the selection for Brunei Netball National Team to represent Brunei for international tournaments.

For briefing:- Where: Meeting Room, Coaching Unit, Stadium Hassanal Bolkiah, Berakas

When: Today – Thursday 25th September 2014 at 10am

 

  
 

Hmmm Green Curry 
 


Do try out the KFC Bangkok Green Curry Chicken. Me likes 😀

Green Curry…. This has been one of my favourite dish in general – the Green Curry Chicken. Now it’s available at KFC Brunei for a limited time only and the launch of the Bangkok Green Curry Combo was also coinciding with KFC newly opened branch at Brunei International Airport at the arrival hall.

The green curry gravy is a blend of spices, chillies, garlic, onions, ginger, galangal and coconut milk as well as a handful of green peas. It is served with KFC’s all-time favourite Hot and Spicy Chicken, along with hot steamy white rice and signature side dishes originated from KFC Thailand.

The KFC Bangkok Green Curry Chicken Meals are available in several combo options.

Combo A includes two pieces of chicken, green curry, white rice, a regular-sized coleslaw and a carbonated drink, all for the price of $7.30.

Combo B includes three pieces of chicken, green curry, white rice, and a carbonated drink at $8.90.

Meanwhile, the Green Curry Feast A, which would feed a group of four to five people, includes nine pieces of chicken, three white rice, two green curries, three regular- sized coleslaw, and four carbonated drinks at an affordable price of $28.90.

The Green Curry Feast B, on the other hand, is priced at $42.90 and includes 15 pieces of chicken, four white rice, a large-sized whipped potato, a large-sized Cheezy Wedges, three green curries, and a bottle of Pepsi. The green curry is also available as an add-on for just $0.90.

I just had the KFC Bangkok Green Curry for lunch yesterday and it was just perfect for me. So do give this a go especially for those who appreciate green curry. You can follow their Facebook page or also on instagram @kfcbrunei

 


A perfect meal for me
 


Acting Director of Civil Aviation (DCA), Hj Abd Karim Hj Abd Wahab, Acting Airport Manager Hj Joharry Hj Abdul Karim, Managing Director of KFC (B) Sdn Bhd Nel Ky Goh, Vice President of KFC (B) Sdn Bhd Del Goh and DCA Acting Deputy Director Lim Kee Ann and KFC Brunei Marketing Executive Jonathan Bong during the reopening of KFC outlet at the arrival hall of Brunei International Airport
 


The staff on duty at Airport branch
 


 


 

  
 

Anniversary Promotion 
 


It has been ten years for IA Salon and now they are running a special celebration promotion for their customers. I believe this salon has done a lot for the community especially towards the charitable foundations. Recently they held an interesting night which was for the Blind Association where IA salon and Fun Bee Park collaborated with Sorriso Restaurant for a “Dining in the Dark”.

It’s good to see a passionate and visionary leader such as Cecilia Lee, the lady behind IA Salon and she’s always traveling abroad to gain more knowledge in hair fashion, make-up and so on. In life, to learn more about yourself and your surroundings, you need to take that leap of faith which comes with risk and Cecilia Lee is no stranger to this.

Do try out their special promotion which runs until end of the year. You can reach for bookings by calling 242 3232 and business hours is from 10am to 8:30pm. IA Salon is located at ground floor, The Mall, next to Guardian.

 


Cecilia Lee, the lady behind IA Salon
 


One of the charity drives we did to promote the awareness of Breast Cancer
 

10th Year Anniversary  
 

Special Package  
 

From 23rd Sept to 31st Dec 

Package 1

• Hair Spa Scalp Treatment (90mins) – $55 ONLY

• Hair Spa Trico Bio Hair Treatment (90mins) $80 ONLY

• Ice Rebonding ALL LENGTH $135 ONLY

• Express Digital Perm ALL LENGTH $135 ONLY

ADDT’ L $30 FOR HAIR TREATMENT

(AFTER CHEMICAL SERVICES ONLY)

• Make up + Hairdo $50 ONLY

Package 2 (Monday to Thursday only)

• Manicure + Pedicure + Foot scrub — $35 ONLY (Usual Price $44)

• Manicure + Pedicure — $20 ONLY (Usual Price $26


Hair Scalp Treatment at IA Salon
 


Some of the hairstyles done at IA Salon
 

  
 

24
Sep

The First Time

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News

 

Abacus Travel Fair is back!!  
 


 

The last time I was kinda confused with the Abacus Travel Fair and Travelmania event and of course, everyone is quite familiar with the Abacus brand since it has been around for many years in terms of travel fairs. So when the word Travelmania came into the picture with their partner Abacus, it was a bit tough to recognize who was actually running the show.

Yesterday I missed the press conference of the travel fair which will happen this Saturday and Sunday which will take place at Grandstone Ballroom, Centrepoint Hotel at Gadong. It’s good to know the travel fair is back and it will be called the 11th Abacus Holiday Travel Fair. This will give me another great opportunity to travel in a much cheaper and affordable fare and I know my traveling period starts again in October till December 😀

According to the press release, there will be seven travel agents under the Abacus Brunei such as Anthony Tours & Travel Agency, Century Travel Centre, Darussalam Holdings, Freme Travel Services, Pan Bright Travel Service, Southern Cross Travel Agencies and Straits Central Agencies.

Tourism Malaysia as well as Taiwan Visitors Association and Tourism Authority Thailand based in Kuala Lumpur will be participating again in this fair. Baiduri Bank Berhad, Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) and Singapore Airlines will be having their booths to extend support to the participating travel agents as well as provide assistance to the visitors.

 


Abd Halim Haji Abd Rahman, Sales & Marketing Manager, Abacus Brunei and Ms Irene Soon, General Manager, Abacus Brunei leading the press conference. Image courtesy of Ak Fairol.
 

“At Abacus Brunei, we have successfully organised ten previous travel fairs since 2004,” said Ms Irene Soon, General Manager, Abacus Brunei. Abacus Brunei thanks its partners as well as travelers for their support in the previous travel fairs. At this much anticipated event, we are looking forward to delivering fresh content and attracting thousands of people in search of their dream vacations.”

“With the support of our partners and travel agents we are confident that we will be able to see a positive growth again this year.” Irene added.

Abd Halim Haji Abd Rahman, Sales & Marketing Manager, Abacus Brunei explained “There will be seven Abacus Brunei based travel agents participating in this travel fair connected to more than 40 Abacus terminals. This will help travel agents efficiently service visitors.”

He continued “The travel fair provides an excellent opportunity for Brunei-based travelers to shop for both overseas and local packages making it an event on the travel calendar not to be missed.”

 


Something to look forward to for Baiduri Bank customers
 

So what’s the catch this time?

Every booking or purchase made during the fair, customer has a chance to win Go Pro HERO3 (1 set) and Momax iPower S2C Powerbank (2 sets). Additional 2 chances for Baiduri Bank cardholders who make payment using any Baiduri Bank debit/credit card.

Exclusive gift from Abacus and Baiduri for the 1st 100 customers who purchase and make payment using Baiduri Bank debit or credit cards with minimum purchase of B$1000.

Return Economy Class Air ticket sponsored by Royal Brunei Airlines:

1) Two air tickets to Saigon to be won by two winners (1 ticket each winner)

2) Two air tickets to Denpasar, Bali to be won by two winners (1 ticket each winner)

3) Grand draw – Two air tickets to London to be won by one winner

Return Economy Class Air ticket from Hong Kong to Beijing sponsored by Cathay Pacific

Sellers under Tourism Malaysia pavilion: Sarawak Tourism Board, Sanrio Hello Kitty Town & The Little Big Club, Mahkota Medical Centre, Imperial Hotel, Miri, Imperial Palace Hotel, Miri Marriott Resort & Spa, Grand Palace Hotel, Miri, Chanteek Borneo Gallery and PNB Darby Park Executive Suites.

  
 

Get them white again!! 
 


 

The Jerudong Park Medical Centre is offering an attractive promotion for professional teeth whitening treatment valued at BND799 (Usual price is BND1000) with free initial consultation. This promotion will run from 15 September to 15 November 2014 and can be redeemed till 30 December 2014.

This was announced at a press conference by Ak Danny Pg Tajuddin, the Marketing Officer, and Dr Ravi Pai, Consultant Endodontist and Head of Dental Department of JPMC. Also present was Dr Dharma Rai, Consultant Prosthodontist at JPMC.

“Oral health makes a huge presence in our lives especially in our simple daily activities. With our promotion, it can help to enhance the whiteness of your teeth in just a single visit to our Dental Clinic”, mentioned Ak Danny Pg Tajuddin, the Marketing Officer of JPMC.

“Professional In-office Teeth Whitening Procedure is the quickest way to whiten teeth under carefully monitored conditions which allow for the safe, controlled use of whitening gel – yielding results that are visible immediately”, stated Dr Ravi Pai, Consultant Endodontist and Head of Dental Department of JPMC.

Teeth discoloration is caused by natural darkening and yellowing as people age, drinking tea, coffee or fizzy drinks, natural and artificial food colorings, smoking and tobacco stains.

 


Ak Danny Pg Tajuddin, the Marketing Officer of JPMC, Dr Ravi Pai, Consultant Endodontist and Head of Dental Department of JPMC and Dr Dharma Rai, Consultant Prosthodontist at JPMC

An appointment is required for the treatment, where patients are advised to come 15 minutes earlier prior to the appointment time. Before deciding whether teeth whitening is suitable for the patient, the dentist will first conduct a comprehensive examination of their teeth and gums to ensure proper teeth healthcare which is free during the promotion period.

They will also consult on their oral hygiene and lifestyle habits to determine if they will benefit from the treatment. Patients with extensive dental work, expectant mothers and children below 16 years old are not recommended to go through the procedure.

The procedure takes up approximately 2 hours. Patient’s gums and mouth are first protected with isolation materials. The dentist will carefully apply the whitening gel to their teeth and uses a patented blue light to oxidize the gel during the procedure.

The procedure is normally painless; however a very small percentage of patients may experience a minor sensitivity during or after the procedure. A sensitivity relief gel will be used to tackle the sensitivity.

The teeth whitening treatment can last up to 2 years if the patient take care and maintain the brightness of their teeth.

JPMC’s Dental Clinic offers a comprehensive range of dental services such as orthodontics, prosthodontics, endodontics, implantology, oral surgery, general dental procedures and more. The clinic is open every Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm and on Saturday from 8am to 12noon. For more information, please visit their website at www.jpmc.com.bn. You can call 261 1433 ext 2229/2114.

  
 

The Bending Effect 
 

 

Bending the iPhone 6 Plus by Unbox Therapy

 

 

Bending the Galaxy Note 3 by Unbox Therapy

 

  
 

 

Time Out with Liz 
 

A Message from Liz: Hello Everyone, Liz here from “Time Out with Liz”

For this coming episode we have an amazing line up, as always, from lifestyle, food and the music facets of Brunei. I’m always working hard to find the trendy, current and inspiring people who are amongst us to share their stories with us. And believe me, they are everywhere! So hold on to your horses and be a part of the audience last Saturday of the month with me, yours truly, Liz.

Food

This time we have a mother and daughter trio who wanted to start something simply delicious, simply delectable and simply family. We bring you the owners of Ximply Chriz – meet Christina, Chee Lin and Jo Lin. Join me to find out more about the story behind Ximply Chriz and get front row seats to a food and coffee demonstration by the ladies.

Music

She was the youngest Brunei representative at the recent World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA) 2014 and she came back with 5 medals and an Overall Division plaque for her original work. I get a chance to sit down with the talented Eden Chiam

Lifestyle

What would you do if you found out you have cancer?

4 years ago Jacqueline Teo was told she had two tumours in her head. The news brought this ultra- marathoner Jacqueline into depression and to the brink of suicide before her mother dragged her to a running track and ordered her to run again.

Today, she stands strong and is proud to say that she’s completed her 12th Marathon as at August 2014. So come on down to hear her story of struggle and survival.
Time Out with Liz brings you all these inspiring individuals to the stage this 27 September 2014 at kaleidoscope (Saffron) from 7-8.30pm. All you have to do is step 1 -book your seats by sending in your name and how many seats you would like to timeoutwithliz@gmail.com or Facebook message us at www.facebook.com/timeoutwithliz. Step 2- pay at the door. Step 3 – Be Inspired!

Ticket details

At the door $15 per person

Special Tickets for Ranoadidas fans/readers will be at $10 if you email us between today until 26 September 2014 and quote “I’m a Time Out and Rano Fan”


Eden Chiam
 


The inspirational Jacqueline Teo
 


Chee, Chris and Jo of Ximply Chriz
 

  
 

22
Sep

Bojio?

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News

 

 

Get Connected through ICONIA

 

 

 

Peugeot Hari Raya Promotion 
 


Click image to enter Peugeot Brunei’s website
 

 

Citroën Brunei 
 


Click image to enter Citroën Brunei 
 

   
 

BIBD’s latest promotion


Top up tia. Click image to enter website.
 

  
 

 

ICON Design Store 
 


Click image to enter ICON Design Store website
 

  
 

PCSB FB competition 
 


Click image to enter Progresif Cellular Page and like the Page
 

 

  
 

WWE in KL soon 
 


Will you be catching WWE in KL? Because I am 😀 Click image to enter website.
 

I’m excited that WWE will be coming to Asia and to Kuala Lumpur for the first time since their last visit in year 2002. They will be having two shows in October 10th and 11th and you can grab them tickets through my ticketpro.com.my and I’m not sure if the tickets are sold out as yet.

I’m currently catching their latest Pay-Per-View Nights of Champions #wwenoc on Astro and so far the event is pretty good and this is a great hype leading to the event in Malaysia soon. Too bad we won’t be able to see Roman Reigns in KL because of his recent hernia operation. However, there will still be a handful of WWE stars that will make it to Kuala Lumpur and of course, the biggest draw of all is John Cena (though I don’t like his guts as much *lol*).

WWE LIVE is supported by Malaysia Major Events, a division of Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau, an agency under Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism and Culture.

So are you flying to KL to catch this once-in-a-life WWE experience? This should be a spectacle indeed.

 


Doing work this morning while catching WWE’s Night of Champions on Astro
 


A much satisfying affair between Brock Lesnar and John Cena but a question mark ending…
 

 

 

Beach Clean Up 
 


A washing machine, chest freezer, a Lazy Boy and a television set last weekend were among some of the waste that were collected during a beach cleaning campaign at Jerudong beach.

The event was organised by Brunei Shell Joint Ventures (BSJV) companies — Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP), Brunei LNG, Brunei Shell Marketing (BSM), Brunei Shell Tankers (BST) — and Brunei Gas Carriers Sdn Bhd (BGC).
It was conducted concurrently along the coastline of the Belait district — Billionth Barrel Monument and Lumut beach —and was held to commemorate 85 years of Shell’s presence in the nation.

A total 600 people comprising BSJV, BGC as well as volunteers and youths from various associations and schools from the two districts participated in the event, which was also aimed to support the International Coastal Cleanup 2014 (ICC 2014).

Coordinated by Ocean Conservancy, the event, in its 29th year, is world’s largest single day volunteer effort to clean up the earth’s beaches, lakes and rivers.

The event visibly raised environmental awareness among the volunteers and young students.


 


 


 


 


 


 

BSP Graduate Trainee Muhd Hisham Hj Zaini, who participated in the cleaning campaign for the first time expressed his wishes for the beach to always be clean and advised people to stop throwing non bio-degradable products.

“Reduce the use of bottles when going to beach, as this is the most common litter we found,” he said, and suggested the use of water flasks from home.

A group of St Margaret’s students and teacher agreed, as they were collecting mostly bottles, plastics and ropes. Ramesh Balram, a teacher from the school said that there were apparent changes before and after the cleanup.

“When we arrived, there were a lot of litter along the beach,” he told The Brunei Times, where they were told to cover a total of 500 metres from Billionth Barrel Monument. “Now going back, it’s more cleaner.”

Jerudong Beach Campaign Leader Md Suffian Hj Zainal Abidin said organising such campaigns are eye-openers.

“It is hoped that the participants here will take this experience to see what kind of waste that are being left on our beautiful beaches and consider if they are a contributor to the pollution or a volunteer to help save the environment,” he said. Text courtesy of Zatty Joanda and Hafiizah Maideen of The Brunei Times and images courtesy of BSP.


 


 


 


 


 


 

  
 

In remembrance of Mei Fong 
 

In remembrance of Chin Mei Fong, who was tragically murdered two weeks ago, around 60 friends and family members gathered at Bukit Shahbandar for a nine-hill hike last Saturday.

Flowers and messages from well-wishers could be seen at the area where the heinous crime took place.

Seeking justice, Mei Fong’s sister Debbie said, “We are appealing to anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward and help the police in their investigation.”

She conveyed her gratitude to witnesses who have already come forward and helped police fit together a photo fit of the two “persons of interest” they are currently looking for.

Debbie said copies of the photo fit would be put up at various public places such as hospitals and bus stops.

She also suggested that authorities place CCTVs at entrances of recreational parks to avoid similar incidents in the future.

A small police station and a logbook for registration could also be placed at the entrance of the park, she added.

 


Adrian Tan, husband of the late Chin Mei Fong, at one of the hills at Shahbandar. Image courtesy of James Kon of Borneo Bulletin.
 


Friends gathered to support the event in memory of the late Chin Mei Fong. Image courtesy of Eric Pui.
 


The fifth hill of Bukit Shahbandar. Image courtesy of Bobby.
 


Capturing the moment. Image courtesy of Bobby.
 


The special made t-shirt. Image courtesy of @shah_razali
 


She was a huge fan of Hello Kitty. Image courtesy of Bobby.
 


A message for the late Mei Fong. Image courtesy of @shah_razali
 


Rizan Latif paying his respect to Mei Fong. Image courtesy of @rizanlatif
 

Debbie described her sister as an avid hiker and a very fit person.

“Mei Fong would even skip lunch just to go to the gym.” she said, adding her sister had been planning on doing her Masters.

Mei Fong’s best friend and longtime colleague Liley Beritin remembered Mei Fong as a kind, lovely and loyal friend.

With a friendship spanning over 10 years, she expressed that “there is only one Mei Fong, no one can replace her. Losing her is like having a hole in my heart”.

She said Mei Fong had a deep passion for Hello Kitty and that her wish was to fly in a Hello Kitty airplane.

On Friday afternoon, the police gave a description of the two men who are believed to be foreigners and “persons of interest” to the case which may help to the investigation of the case.

They are aged between 30 and 40 and measure around 5’5 to 5’7 in height. Both men, who are of slim build, have short, black hair and very dark skin tone.

Those with information on the whereabouts of the duo can contact Assistant Superintendent Police (ASP) Pg Hj Abu Naba’a bin Pg Hj Yusof at 2322004, 2322005 or 2322006; hotline 993 or visit the nearest police station. Text courtesy of James Kon of Borneo Bulletin.

  
 

Good luck, Teah 
 


David Campbell, British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam, handed over the Chevening Scholarship Awardee certificate to Siti Nurfateha Abdullah

Late post: The British High Commission in Brunei Darussalam hosted a farewell reception for the departing Chevening Scholarship Awardee at  at the British High Commissioner’s residence in Jalan Kota Batu recently.

Siti Nurfateha Abdullah will soon be departing for the United Kingdom (UK) in pursuit of a Masters in Anthropology of Development and Rights at Goldsmiths, University of London.

Currently employed as a Research Officer at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), Nurfateha made the decision to undertake her post-graduate studies at Goldsmiths based on its status of having one of the best Anthropology Departments in the UK.

“Goldsmiths’ Anthropology Department takes a critical view of developed countries’ approach to development. Therefore, discussions and classes will be stimulating as it does not view any one philosophy as absolute but it takes into consideration of the societal differences,” said Nurfateha.

“Goldsmiths advocates an ethnographic approach to learning about society and basic human rights like education, women’s and children’s issues, and healthcare. This approach is useful to keep in mind as I will be able to apply what I’ll be learning in Brunei without forgetting its policies, culture and philosophy,” she added.

“Having previously taken my Bachelor’s Degree at the National University of Singapore, going to the UK will be my first direct exposure to the British education system. I hope to come back to Brunei bursting with ideas for work at the PMO as well as project I am a part of,” she concluded.

“I congratulate Siti Nurfateha Abdullah on joining our long list of prestigious Bruneian Chevening scholars,” said David Campbell, British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam, pointing out that the year 2014 is a milestone for the British Government’s Chevening Progamme as it reaches the 30-year mark.

“Thirty years of scholarships around the world have created an influential global network of more than 43,000 Chevening alumni in over 150 countries.”

Applicants for the 2015/2016 Chevening Scholarship should visit www.chevening.org/brunei

They can find more information on how to apply and register to receive alerts about their applications, as well as to see the priority subjects for Chevening Scholarships. The deadline is November 15.

 

 


Group photo with the previous Chevening Scholars
 


In attendance during the presentation
 


Click image to find out more on how to apply. Deadline is November 15. Should I? 😀
 

  
 

 

Blind Dining 
 


BND 5,000 was raised for the “Blind Dining” Experience at Fun Bee Park recently
 

Late Post: Fun Bee Park, with the cooperation of IA Salon and Sorriso Restaurant launched the very first “Blind dining” experience in the Brunei with the vision of reaching out to the community and create awareness for the daily struggles that the visually impaired go through every day.

Dining in the dark debuted in Brunei on at Fun Bee Park, a three hour fine dining experience where Fun Bee Park’s artistic directress Cecilia Lee had invited the public to have a wonderful experience of dining in total darkness.

The very first restaurant in dark originated in Zurich, Switzerland in 1999. The idea of dining in the dark originated in 1998 during the “Dialogue in the Dark” exhibition at the Zurich Museum of Design. The focus was to give the sighted people an insight into the experience of being blind. This idea emerged because of the great enthusiasm shown by visitors and the opportunity to create jobs for visually impaired people.

With the complete loss of vision — and the resulting heightening of the other four senses — an evening of Dining in the Dark is an extraordinary culinary adventure. The meal was a learning experience for the guests and servers. Before entering the dimly lit dining area, the guests were blindfolded and led through by their young caretakers for the evening, who guided them through the meal as well.

The evening was a perfect combination of fine food, inspiring music and extra ordinary stories that tie everything together.

The dinner in total darkness, had guests fumbling to do simple tasks such as pour water, locate utensils, and even the food on their plates.

The guests enjoyed delicious food specially designed by Sorriso Restaurant Owner / Head Chef and his team. Joining the Fun Bee staff for the evening were a few young volunteers.  Dishes were served with perfection to taste to encourage diners to test their motor and sensory skills.

 


The guests in attendance
 


Blindfolded

Let the dine in begin (in the dark)

Food prepared by Sorriso Restaurant
 

Present at the event were representatives from the Brunei Darussalam National Association of the Blind, and NorAli Yusop, an officer with the special education unit, Ministry of Education, and a well known advocate for the visually impaired.

Cecilia Lee generously donated $5000 to Brunei Darussalam National Association of the Blind. Certain proceeds of the tickets sale will be donated to the association. Dining in the dark not only aim to provide sighted people an insight of being blind but moreover to spread awareness of the causes of blindness and the essential prevention practices.

After the dinner, many guests came on the floor to share their personal insights of the experience, and all walked away with a great sense of respect and appreciation for their sight. And even more admiration for the people who live without it daily.
Due to the very warm response, Fun Bee Park IA Salon, and Sorriso Restaurant will repeat the experience in October. Tickets will be available on purchase at Fun Bee Park (A6/A7 Ground Floor, Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat), IA Salon (The Mall Gadong), and Sorriso Restaurant (Kiulap). For more inquiries, call Fun Bee Park at 2457729 / 7178232.

 

  
 

21
Sep

Recovery mode

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News

 

Sultan’s Scholar 
 


His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik with this year’s Sultan’s Scholar at Istana Nurul Iman yesterday. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday awarded five students with the prestigious Sultan’s Scholar at Istana Nurul Iman.

During a presentation ceremony, the monarch handed out this year’s scholarships to Izyan Nayli Hj Abd ‘Aziz, Muhammad Nasruddin Hj Sulaiman, Nurul Syadirah Awang Sayang, Rozana Awang Mustafa and Ak Ahmad Faris Ramadhani Pg Hj Sella-huddin.

Also attending the event were His Royal Highness Crown Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik.

Four of the awardees will be furthering their studies in the United Kingdom (UK), while one will pur-sue his studies in Egypt.

Izyan Nayli, who recently completed her A Levels at Cardiff Sixth Form College in Wales, will be pursuing a course in Physical Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge.

Muhammad Nasruddin, who recently completed his A Levels at Tutong Sixth Form Centre, will pursue his education in Chemistry at the University of Oxford.

Nurul Syadirah, who completed her A Levels at the Harrogate Ladies’ College under the Special Scholarship Scheme for Human Resource Development Fund, will now be undertaking a course in Mathematics, Operational Research, Statistics and Economics (MORSE) at the University of Warwick.

Meanwhile, Rozana who recently completed her studies at Sayyidina Ali Secondary School, will continue her studies in Phy-sics at Imperial College London.

Ak Ahmad Faris Ramadhani will take a course in Takhassus Al-Quran Wal Qiraat at the Mahad Qirat, Al Azhar, Shoubra in Egypt after completing his studies at Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Hj Hassanal Bolkiah.

More stories and pictures, you can click here. Text and images courtesy of The Brunei Times.

 


His Majesty the Sultan speaking to one of the Sultan’s Scholar recipient. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.
 


His Majesty the Sultan speaking to one of the Sultan’s Scholar recipient. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.
 

  
 

Western Digital 
 


Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer (center) with the associates of Concepts Computer during the presentation of the Western Digital storage
 

Western Digital is well-known in the IT industry as a long time innovator and storage industry leader, and as a storage technology pacesetter, the company produces reliable, high-performance hard disk drives. Which is why Concepts Computer is further expanding it’s Western Digital product range available for consumers which will help them in managing their data and documents by introducing storage solutions that includes Hardware with Cloud Capabilities, like the Western Digital My Cloud and the Western Digital My Cloud Mirror storage solutions.

First on offer is the Western Digital My Cloud, available in 2TB, 3TB and 4TB storage sizes. The Western Digital My Cloud is the ideal companion for anyone with lots of videos, photos, music and files that they want to protect and have constant access to from everywhere in the world. It offers you the ability to keep all your important data in one safe place at home, without any additional cost. It also offers the ability for you to expand the storage of your smart devices by giving you the ability to upload data to your own personal cloud from anywhere and free up essential space on your smart devices.

The Western Digital My Cloud will also offer flexible back-up options through Western Digital’s own softwares which comes free with all purchases of Western Digital My Cloud storage solutions. And set-up of your My Cloud storage solutions will be easy as one, two, three especially with Western Digital’s rich web-based user interface and seamless web-guided set-up experience. The Western Digital My Cloud will be available from Concepts Computer for $238 for the 2TB capacity, $318 for 2TB capacity and $378 for 3TB capacity. Did you know these product are faster than Seagate and Lacie brands? (unless you are using FireWire or Thunderbolt).

Next on offer is the Western Digital My Cloud Mirror, available in 4TB and 6TB storage sizes. The Western Digital My Passport Ultra will be one of the ultimate solutions to storage at home and on your personal cloud. With the ability to duplicate files through RAID 1 for additional storage protection, the Western Digital My Cloud Mirror combines all the best features of what personal storage solutions should be with the anywhere access of cloud storage.

With the inclusion of RAID 1 or Mirror Mode, the Western Digital My Cloud Mirror will let you have the freedom of having duplicate files under your control, making personal Data Loss as close to impossible as possible, that is, when one hard-disk fail, you need not worry, as your data is protected by having another copy on the Mirror drive. The Western Digital My Cloud Mirror will be available from Concepts Computers for $498 for the 4TB capacity, and $698 for the 6TB capacity.

 


The Western Digital My Cloud – available in 2TB, 3TB and 4TB storage sizes
 


Highly recommended for photographers 😀

Also not to forget, back on offer is the Western Digital My Passport Ultra Metal edition, available in 1TB and 2TB storage sizes. With it’s ultra-sleek design and metal exterior, the Western Digital My Passport Ultra will use durable metal enclosures to protect the hard disk drive inside and will be build to the demanding requirements of durability, shock tolerance, and long-term reliability. With the inclusion of the Western Digital SmartWare Pro automatic backup software, the Western Digital My Passport Ultra will also let you chose when and where you back up your files. It will be available from Concepts Computers for $138 for the 1TB capacity, and $218 for the 2TB capacity.

The non-Metal edition of the Western Digital Ultra will still be available at Concepts Computer at much more affordable pricing; $98 for 500GB, $128 for 1TB and $198 for 2TB storage sizes.

 


Western Digital My Passport Ultra Metal edition
 


Western Digital My Passport Ultra Metal edition
 


Easy to use. Taken from westerndigital.com

Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer said, “This launch is the continuation of Concepts Computer great expansion into storage solutions with Western Digital. Concepts have noticed that Western Digital storage solutions have been well-received by our customers so we will continue to work hard to provide a larger range of better and more affordable digital storage solutions for the IT consumers of Brunei Darussalam.”

Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer added, ”We know how valuable digital data is to the modern world and this is our first step in providing exciting solutions for the local IT-market. And with the release of the latest in storage solutions from Western Digital and Concepts Computer, customers do not have to choose between reliability, high performance and affordability, it is all available right here.” Zul continued, ”And in terms of realiability, consumers will be glad to note that all Western Digital storage solutions will be provided with 3 years limited warranty.”

And for more information on the wide-selection and full-range of storage solutions available at Concepts Computer, please visit your nearest Concepts Computer showroom or call 2233551/2233552/2233553.

 

  
 

 

ISB Alumni 
 


It’s happening in one’s month time.
 


ISB back in 1988-1989 Year 1 Sports Day. Click image to see more of classic pictures of ISB.
 


ISB back in 1990/1991 for Year 3 class. Click image to see more of classic pictures of ISB.
 

  
 

18
Sep

70 days

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News

 

 

Acer Liquid Smartphones

Check out Acer Liquid smartphones
 

 

Peugeot Hari Raya Promotion 
 


Click image to enter Peugeot Brunei’s website
 

 

Citroën Brunei 
 


Click image to enter Citroën Brunei 
 

   
 

BIBD’s latest promotion


Top up tia. Click image to enter website.
 

  
 

 

ICON Design Store 
 


Click image to enter ICON Design Store website
 

  
 

PCSB FB competition 
 


Click image to enter Progresif Cellular Page and like the Page
 

 

  
 

KL Converge! 
 

The Ministry of Communications and Multimedia Malaysia with the support of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) invited Brunei Darussalam to attend KL Converge! to showcase our nation’s creative industry on a platform which provides maximum exposure to global content buyers and digital lifestyle businesses. The opening ceremony today was graced by the presence of the Guest of Honour, Deputy Prime Minister, Yang Amat Berhormat, Tan Sri Dato Hj Muhyiddin bin Hj Mohd Yassin and was followed by a Ministerial tour of the exhibition.

After the opening ceremony and Ministerial tour of the exhibition, Yang Mulia Awg Haji Riza bin Haji Yunos, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Communications and officials from the Ministry of Communications was introduced to the showcase participants in the Brunei Darussalam Pavilion by Hj Yahkup bin Hj Menudin, Chief Executive of AITI.

The Brunei Darussalam Pavilion organised by the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) plays host to showcases by Origin Films Sdn Bhd, Regal Blue Productions, Itsybytes Company, Ambuyart Animations and MegaBond Productions together with trade visitors from the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB), Kristal Media Sdn Bhd, Progressif Cellular Sdn Bhd, Institut Teknologi Brunei (ITB) and Shazana’s Production House. This furthers AITI’s mandate of growing the local creative industry through exposure at global platforms.


Yang Mulia Awg Haji Riza bin Haji Yunos, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Communications and officials from the Ministry of Communications (center) with Hj Yahkup bin Hj Menudin, Chief Executive of AITI
 


The Brunei representatives at the Brunei Pavilion at KL Converge!
 

The Ministerial program for KL Converge! also saw the Ministers and Ministerial representatives attending a GSMA Asia Policy Forum this morning themed “A more connected and vibrant mobile ecosystem in Asia”. The Forum recognised that mobile broadband networks and applications forms the backbone of the internet economy and discussed challenges related to deployment of mobile broadband networks, strategies to creating an open competitive environment as a basis for innovation. Speakers and panelists at the Forum observed that collaboration between Governments, the private sector and citizens is key to the success of these strategies.

KL Converge! is the result of Malaysia’s commitment under the ASEAN ICT Master Plan 2015 where an ASEAN Digital Content Exchange was envisioned to be a key platform to promote and facilitate the exchange of content for ASEAN and other regional players. KL Converge! is being held from 17-19 September 2014 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center (KLCC), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Text and images courtesy of AITI.

 

  
 

The second in 7 months 
 


US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, Daniel Shields, (4th from the left) with Elías Díaz Sesé, the President of BK AsiaPac Pte. Ltd (4th from the left) and Director of Transport under the Ministry of Communications Hjh Airah Hj Abdullah (3rd from the right) at the Burger King outlet at Brunei International Airport

It took BURGER KING® a decade or so to enter the Brunei market. Rumours kept on escalating on when will BURGER KING® come to the Sultanate and I know of a few mutual friends who have shown interest in bringing the U.S franchise to Brunei because of its ever growing popularity. Fast forward to 2014, now Brunei has two outlets in a space of seven months with the third on the way in the Belait District. This is made possible by Sinofood Express with the guidance and support of BK AsiaPac Pte. Ltd.

Elías Díaz Sesé, the President of BK AsiaPac Pte. Ltd, was present during the official launch and he was impressed with Brunei’s business growth, considering it’s still new in the market and he ranked Brunei Darussalam as one of the most successful market entrants in the region. He shared that it was not easy to choose the right partner and with the different approach by BURGER KING® in the past years, this vision opened doors for the Brunei market and I’m happy that BURGER KING® will be having its third outlet by end of the year.

The second outlet is located at the arrival hall of the Brunei International Airport. The first outlet is located at the heart of town at Wisma Raya, Jalan Sultan. Its competitor have yet to make an impact in terms of presence as it still relies on one outlet for the past two decades.

Sesé revealed that they haven’t been doing a great job in BURGER KING® Asia Pacific the past few years. In 2012, BK restructured their system with a different direction – ownership growth mentality. That approach seemed to pay off and it made the entry to Brunei market more possible as the BURGER KING® Asia Pacific was looking new markets and Brunei was identified as one. Sesé enjoys a good business relationship with Nelky Goh and Pg Hashim, the directors of Sinofood Express, which brought the BURGER KING® brand to Brunei.

US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, Daniel Shields, also shared the same sentiments and he was happy to know more American brands are making an impact in the Brunei economy and this also strengthening the relationship ties and trade between Brunei Darussalam and USA. The other point Shields shared was the job opportunity it can create for the Brunei economy. Shields’ favourite is the WHOPPER® when asked.

The second outlet’s opening also saw an introduction of their new item in the menu – Rock It Fries and it’s only a promotional item (for a limited time only). The new product is a playful take on the regular French Fries where customers mix in Burger King’s Spicy Honey and Piquante Spice to their fries and shake it up to get an explosion of flavours when they take the first bite. The order will come with Burger King’s signature Rock It dome-cup to make the experience more unique.

For more updates, you can follow their instagram @burgerkingbrunei or Facebook page www.facebook.com/bkbrunei

 


 


Cutting ribbon to officiate the opening of the second outlet
 


Nelky Goh, Kai Wei, Pg Hashim, Elías Díaz Sesé, Daniel Shields and Hjh Airah
 


A souvenir to the guest of honour
 


A souvenir for Hjh Airah
 


The young blood at the front line
 


Daniel Shields introduced to the BK employees
 


Daniel Shields spoke to the media and pleased with US ties with Brunei in economic terms
 


Elías Díaz Sesé emphasized more on the ownership mentality of the franchisor to move forward and penetrate into existing and new markets
 


Check out the new outlet of Burger King
 

  
 

 

Another award for Baiduri Bank 
 


 

Baiduri Bank Group has taken home its unprecedented sixth consecutive Best Banking Group Award win since 2009, as awarded by the World Finance Magazine in London. World Finance is a leading financial magazine, produced every two months by World News Media from its Headquarters in London.

Chief Executive Officer of Baiduri Bank, Mr Pierre Imhof received the award in the form of a crystal obelisk from Jenny Hammond, producer/presenter at the London Stock Exchange Media Centre. The award presentation was followed by an interview on the challenges faced by Baiduri Bank Group and its developments throughout the year.

Mr Imhof had quoted, “The Group’s strategy is built on being the best bank for our customers and creating value by investing where we can make a real difference for them. Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, be it in our branches, our brand or our staff. Our strategy reflects our customers’ needs for product simplicity, access through multiple channels, value for money in our products and services and the importance of managing customer relationships.”

Additionally, in July 2014, Baiduri Bank was also awarded the Domestic Retail Bank of the Year Brunei 2014 by The Asian Banking & Finance Magazine at an awards ceremony held at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.

Excerpts of the award presentation and interview can be viewed on www.worldfinance.com and Baiduri Bank’s website www.baiduri.com

 


Chief Executive Officer of Baiduri Bank, Mr Pierre Imhof received the award in the form of a crystal obelisk from Jenny Hammond, producer/presenter at the London Stock Exchange Media Centre
 

  

19
Sep

DPMM FC 1 Home United 2

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in DPMM FC, News

 

DPMM FC took a bump at home 
 


DPMM FC in action against Home United at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium. Image courtesy of Ridhwan Kamarulzaman of The Brunei Times.

It didn’t go as planned. DPMM FC couldn’t convert their impressive training performance to a competitive match against Home United last Wednesday and they paid dearly for their miss chances. Home United scored two late goals to sink DPMM FC to their first defeat in the 3rd round of the S•League competition.

However, it was Rodrigo Tosi who drew first blood as he tapped in from close range, off an Azwan Salleh cross down the left in the 76th minute. The lead didn’t last long as the visitors scored three minutes later through a corner kick. The winner came in the 88th minute and it was a little too late for DPMM FC to salvage at least a point.

DPMM FC were better in the second half despite the defeat but it was the two identical goals they conceded cheaply that made the difference. DPMM FC could have scored more goals but hats off to the defence of Home United for holding DPMM FC at bay. Even the keeper of Home United had one or two crucial saves and that made a difference.

DPMM FC still lead the league but their gap can be trimmed down to two points if Warriors FC win their next game (1st October). DPMM FC have two more home games to redeem themselves and it could be the most crucial games to date before their final two matches which will be played in Singapore. It was a bit disappointed to see a low turnout at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.

 

  

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