Mathien Malan Kasim and Ryan Nicholas Elicay winning second and first respectively at the ASEAN Universities International English Speech Competition that was held at Thepsatri Rajabhat University in Lopburi, Thailand

Two students from Universiti Brunei Darussalam battled out 34 other contestants to capture the first and second place at the ASEAN Universities International English Speech Competition that was held at Thepsatri Rajabhat University in Lopburi, Thailand two weeks ago.

Ryan Nicholas Elicay emerged as the champion of the competition and Mathien Malan Kasim finished as the first runner-up. Both the students are Professional Communications and the Media majors from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.

Ryan, whose speech was entitled ‘What single ASEAN country could you learn the most from’ quoted, “It was definitely one of the best moments in my life. I would like to thank Dr. Chris Woo, our coach, for his tremendous efforts in ensuring that we had winning speeches, spending so many hours perfecting our speeches and our delivery. And of course the University for giving us the opportunity to take part in the competition. We hope we have made the University and the country proud.”

With the experience that the two students have gained from the competition, they would wish to represent UBD in many other competitions that will be held in the future. Image courtesy of Dr. Chris Woo.

Ryan Nicholas Elicay receiving the first place for the competition

The representative finalists from ASEAN for the competition

 

From 30-31 January 9am to 5pm, you are eligible for a $100 service voucher for participating a customer feedback session at Volkswagen Brunei (Maju Motors Sdn Bhd)

 

Click image to register and find out more

For the first time ever, Bruneians will have a chance to get a ticket to Anfield (Liverpool’s home ground) and play against the best of the best in the world in the Standard Chartered Trophy 2015. It’s a futsal tournament format and it will be a 5 a-side format.

This is made possible by Standard Chartered Bank (Brunei) and this tournament opened to everyone even if you are not a Liverpool fan. For your info, SCB is the official sponsor for Liverpool FC club. The announcement was made yesterday at SCB’s Priority Banking Centre.

So do check out Brunei’s time line for the event below and the winners of the Brunei contingent will be sent to Kuala Lumpur for the regional competition in late March. If your team managed to beat both Malaysia and Thailand, your team will be given the green light to Anfield. By the way, all these trips will be all expenses paid by SCB.

The qualifiers are open to Brunei citizens and permanent residents (phew, I have a chance). They must be over 18 years old and are neither professional/semi-professional players. SCB Brunei has allocated 14 berths to their key stakeholders and 10 more slots are up for grabs.

Each team shall consist of seven players, and those selected will have to pay a registration fee of $100 – which will go to the Humanitarian Fund of the Malaysian Flood Disaster. So this means that if they are more than 24 slots, SCB Brunei organising team will go through the selection process and based the selection on the short essay on why you want to be part of this event. Once you are selected, the $100 registration will be come into play. So if you are registering online, you won’t be charged $100 straight away. Good luck in registering your team.

You can click here for the registration. The closing date is 10th February 2015.

This event is made possible by SCB Brunei and they are very grateful with the support by inistry of Culture, Youth and Sports and endorsed by the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) in assisting SCB Brunei with the upcoming event.

Ng Yick Wei, Head of Brand and Marketing at SCB Brunei, Marilyn Graeme, Head of Corporate Affairs at SCB, Hj Mohd Noor Hj Hamid, Department of Youth and Sports official, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and also a NFABD committee, Hj Aslan Hj Tengah, Supervisor Sport Organisation, Sports Department, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports during the announcement of Standard Chartered Trophy 2015 at SCB’s Priority Banking yesterday

Yay, we were given Liverpool goodies from SCB Brunei

 

Mr. Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank, giving his welcoming remarks

Guests during the relaunch of Baiduri Bank

Baiduri Bank recently officially re-launched its branch at The Mall, Gadong following recent major renovation and upgrading works. The opening ceremony was officiated by the Bank’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Pierre Imhof, who was joined by 11 of the Bank’s pioneer customers in the symbolic cutting of the ribbon.

In his welcome remarks, Mr. Imhof thanked the guests for their loyalty and confidence in Baiduri Bank, adding “It is an honour for us to have our pioneer customers who are still active with us here today. They have been a part of us throughout our 20 year journey, and we look forward to continuing our journey together with them into the future”.

The Bank’s Mall Branch first began operations in 2004, setting the record as the first bank in Brunei with an in-mall outlet as well as operating 7 days a week.

Elaborating on the branch upgrade, Mr. Imhof said, “Our branch network configuration project is a part of our initiatives to enhance customer experience. We constantly upgrade our branches to meet evolving customer needs. The investments we are making to this branch will make for a more welcoming environment for customers to carry out their banking transactions as well as a conducive working environment for our staff. This, we believe, is key to enhancing overall customer experience.”

The refurbished branch features modern and contemporary décor to reflect the dynamism and innovative spirit of Baiduri Bank and offers full banking services to individuals and businesses as well as complimentary personal financial planning consultation. The upgraded premises also have free Wi-Fi as well as more ATMs to cater to the growing number of customers transacting electronically.

Following the launch, guests were taken on a tour of the branch premises led by Ms. Alvina Chung, Regional Manager of Brunei-Muara District and Dayang Vivi Rudynanissmah Hj Mamud, Manager of the Mall Branch.

Also present at the ceremony were Mr. Ti Eng Hui, Deputy CEO of Baiduri Bank, Mr. Andrew Young, Deputy General Manager – Operations Management Division, Diversification & Strategic Development, Haji Haliluddin bin Dato Haji Talib, General Manager of Baiduri Finance, Pengiran Azaleen bin Pengiran Dato Haji Mustapha, Head of Retail Banking and Branch Network and a host of senior executives from the Bank. Images courtesy of Vincent Hong.

 

Rano’s take of 2014 movies with special guest @delgoh and Zul

 

Click image to see Consumer Fair 15 schedule for the weekend

 

12 Art toys bearing the Peugeot emblem – Léo’z Art toys. Now available at Peugeot Boutique in Kiarong showroom

Peugeot has unveiled at Peugeot Boutique in Kiarong showroom its first series of 12 Art toys bearing the Peugeot emblem: lions known as Léo’z. This series developed with PEUGEOT DESIGN LAB, in partnership with the company ARTOYZ, is available from Peugeot showroom starting January 28, 2015.

The series consists of 12 lions, 6 of which were designed by internationally renowned artists: Huck Gee (UK), 64 Colors (USA), Bunka (France), DGPH (Argentina), Tikka NG (Hong Kong), Koralie (France), and the other 6 by the PEUGEOT DESIGN LAB designers: Claire Panel (France), Thomas Josson (France), Damian O’ Hara (Ireland), Hossein Borojeni (France), Flora Tai & Guillaume Daniel (France). The adorable lions measure at 3 inches or 8 cm, and are perfect for Vinyl Figure enthusiasts or car memorabilia lovers.

Léo’z Art toys will be sold at Peugeot Kiarong showroom. Two additional versions, less common and in smaller quantity, have also found their way into this collection.

Each Art Toy on sale is the fruit of an artistic process, and involving lengthy and painstaking work, drawing inspiration from worlds as diverse as contemporary art, poetry, chemistry, origami, architecture, fashion…These unique objects form a link between the world of childhood, by adopting the design of the brand’s lion soft toy mascot created by Christophe Pialat (France), and the grown-up world.

Check out the vLéo’z Art toys

 

Laksamana College now offering degree programmes from the University of Chester

Finally after years of waiting, Laksamana College of Business (LCB) is able to provide a degree course under the programme from the University of Chester. Some of the courses included are such as BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance (3 years), BA (Hons) Business Management (3 years), BA (Hons) Marketing (3 years) and BSc (Hons) Computer Science (3 years).

Late last year, LCB Chief Operating Officer S Sivarajah said the college received the approval letter from the Brunei Darussalam National Accreditation Council.

This would mean that you won’t have to travel all the way to the UK to get a degree and still get certified by a university and endorsed by Brunei Darussalam National Accreditation Council.

LCB currently has more than a thousand active students. Sivarajah said that he expects a high demand from both parents and students as the course offers them an alternative route to receiving a British university education. Sivarajah said the annual cost of the degree programme in the UK is about £10,000 ( BND 20,369) on average, whereas the college is able to offer the courses at BND 9,500. Now that is an affordable fee (almost 50 percent off).

Now LCB is opening for registration for February 2015 intake. A good way to start your undergraduate programme at Laksamana College of Business. For more info, you can call 223 8816 or 223 8818.

 

Have you registered yourself at Snapfeed booth at Consumer Fair? Stand a chance to win these wonderful gadgets from Samsung

Recapped: Six months ago, Snapfeed launched their apps on IOS and Android. Six months later (now), they have totally revamped the mobile apps for the convenience of the users. Now you can browse with ease and the app looks more structured and easy to follow.

The new interface allows you to browse to content such as deals being offered, information such news and movie times (and even movie trailers). Other exciting stuff are such as their digital loyalty cards with the use of QR codes. For the moment, Snapfeed has dealt with their current merchants such as KFC, Freshco, Burgerking and I Love Yoo to name a few. Do download the Snapfeed app and see what’s on offer.

For those who registered at their Snapfeed booth at the Consumer Fair this week, you can stand a chance to win a Samsung Galaxy Note or a Samsung Galaxy S5. This is only applicable if you signed up at their booth this week till Sunday. They will also provide a free photo session featuring the me-in-a-box booth.

Snapfeed booth is easy to find and it’s located in front of the Plenary Hall at the Orange Zone. I guess that’s the best location as it’s the central part of the Consumer Fair. Have fun browsing through the app.

A huge crowd at Consumer Fair today

The Minister of Industry and Primary Resources visiting Snapfeed booth during the opening

Don’t forget to download Snapfeed app on your IOS and Android

 

Brought to you by Progresif Celluar Sdn Bhd

Terms and conditions:

1.       Open to all Postpaid and YES! Prepaid subscribers

2.       Promo rates only apply to the countries and cities listed throughout the Promotion period from 1st to 28th February 2015.

3.       East Malaysia cities include Lutong, Bintulu, Kapit, Kuala Baram, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Labuan, Lawas, Limbang, Miri, Sri Aman, Sandakan, Sibu and Tawau.

4.       Promo rates apply at any hour of the day during the promo period, regardless of weekends or reduced rate periods.

5.       *Australia excludes Christmas Island and Cocos island

 

You can view today (Saturday) and tomorrow (Sunday) from 10am to 5pm. It’s located at Spg 1202 Jalan Tutong, Tanjung Bunut.

The Residence made some great noise in the past week or so. The newly exclusive lifestyle apartments known as “The Residence” made an impact among potential buyers during the preview weekend. I had a privilege by Valor Property Agency to tour the apartment and I was quite impressed. Back then, there was one block still available but I’m pretty sure it has been snapped up by now.

It was developed by ISBI Development and Trading Sdn Bhd which was completed back in November 2014. The apartment itself has a classy feel with a great landscape and a swimming pool.

The size of the apartment is about 1,690 square foot and it has four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a kitchen which connects to a terrace outside.

The apartment is located at Jalan Tutong, near Tanjung Bunut and it’s quite an ideal location too.

Following the overwhelming success of the developer’s sales, Valor Property Agency has secured a further sales release of units from investment owners looking to capitalise on the demand.

You can view today (Saturday) and tomorrow (Sunday) from 10am to 5pm. It’s located at Spg 1202 Jalan Tutong, Tanjung Bunut. For interested tenants, buyers or investors, you can call 222 2288, 242 2511, 875 2263 and 877 2263 for details.

The view inside the Residence

How the living room looks like. Mind you this is just a model room so it doesn’t come with furniture and fittings

Nice view, innit?

The view at night

It’s quite a good deal actually for its quality and location.

 

Berluti, the bootmaker since 1895, branched out into clothes last season under the watchful eye of LVMH-owner Bernard Arnault’s powerful son, Antoine, who is CEO. There’s certainly a lot of money backing this fashion horse, but that’s not to say the project was destined to be a success.

So hats off to the designer, Alessandro Sartori, who pulled of a luxuriant coup, improving on the last collection to give this nascent house a voice in the fashion conversation. Berluti, it said, is the luxuriant dandy. Sartori’s 49-piece-strong collection displayed perfect mastery in color. According to Wu Chun, ” I am a fans of Berluti’s shoes but after attending their fashion show this time and meeting with the designer, Mr. Sartori,  I was totally impressed by the Fall/Winter collection.”

Hues such as terre verte, sienna brown, Venetian red, soft plum, ultramarine, dark blue and gray blue melted together in beautiful harmony, in loose leather trenches, double breasted jackets, tailored pants, classy mottled brogue shoes or bright Dandy-like cravates.

Wu Chun together with the British Formula One driver and 2014 Championship driver, Lewis Hamilton and British pop singer Brian Ferry are among the front row guests of the Berluti’s fall-winter 2015/2016 fashion collection presented in at Musee des Arts Decoratifs in Paris, France.

Besides Berluti’s show, Wu Chun was also invited to attend the Lanvin Menswear Fall/Winter 2015-2016 show. Lanvin owner Shaw-Lan Wang revealed she defied doctor’s orders to attend the luxury house’s men’s show in Paris on Sunday. “I have dizzy spells,” she confided.That did not prevent the sprightly seventy something from chatting up a storm with front-row guest Wu Chun. According to Wu Chun, “Lanvin Men’s Winter ’15/’16 Collection is still one of the strongest brand in menswear. They were the first re-introduce those wide legs trousers and that popular silhouette. I still love this raw edge. It’s a great collection! Good outerwear, good pants, good shoes.” The former member of Taiwanese boy band Fahrenheit said he would soon hit screens in “Dynasty Woman,” an epic Chinese romance starring Fan Bingbing as the 8th-century Tang Dynasty consort Yang Guifei.

Wu Chun Added, ” Attending the Lanvin show allowed me to meet Lanvins artistic director, one of the Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world, Alber Elbaz and Lanvin men fashion designer Lucas Ossendrijver. It was also super exciting to watch the men’s model at the runway because thats also one of the reasons why i started weight lifting when i was 16years old and i am glad those models had inspired me because if not, i might not have started Fitness Zone and create a fitness revolution in Brunei.”

Celebrity Wu Chun at Berluti Show

Wu Chun with Berluti Designer Alessandro Sartori at backstage

Wu Chun with Lanvin’s artistic director Alber Elbaz

Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton, Bryan Ferry and Wu Chun are among some of the guests at Front row seat of Berluti Show

Wu Chun touring the Arc de Triomphe Paris during his off day

 

 

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Hj Yahya Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar holding the Acer Iconia Tab 8W at the Concepts Computer booth at Consumer Fair

I lost track already on how many versions have been released by Acer on their Iconia Tab. This time, this is the Acer Iconia Tab 8W which is ideal for business and pleasure. Now it operates on a Windows 8.1 OS and the good thing is that it is bundled with a Microsoft Office 365 (where you can do your work offline and online.

It is powered by an Intel Atom Quad Core Processor and ideal for multitasking whether you are playing games or video browsing or even surfing. This is lighter and thinner as well and what’s impressive is the sound it emits from the dual stereo speakers.

According to Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer, the latest Acer Iconia Tab 8W, unveiled the device which uses low-voltage RAM and Intel Atom Processor. This allows to conserve power and makes the battery life longer (7 hours).

It’s good to see Concepts Computer keeping up to date with the trends and if you buy from them, you will enjoy premium after-sale service. If you haven’t own a tab or tablet, this could be an ice-breaker gadget.

The Acer Iconia Tab 8W is available at Concepts Computer for $218. For more information call 223 3551, 223 3552 or 223 553.

Check out the video of the Acer Iconia Tab W8

Acer Iconia Tab 8W is quite affordable for a tablet

Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer (right) holding the new gadget launch at Concepts Computer. You can get them also at Consumer Fair this weekend at ICC.

The new tab is also available as part of the CNY hamper package which comes with a memory card, pen drive and a battery pack. Awesome gift for CNY.

 

It’s back again. The time of the year, the time of the month. When Consumer Fair clashes with pay day, you will bound to have a hit event. Consumer Fair reached its 15th edition and it was already drawing crowds on the first day.

It was great to know that Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Hj Yahya Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar officially graced the opening ceremony yesterday at the International Convention Centre. There was a welcoming remarks by Dato Paduka Hj Danial bin Hj Hanafiah, Executive Director of D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd.

The Minister led the tour around the Consumer Fair which consists over 400 booths. The CF is like a one-stop centre for goods and services. There are also great participation from other countries such as Cambodia, Taipei, India, the Philippines, Singapore and the UAE, showcasing their items.

There are other activities as well – Kingston ice cream eating competition, Dairy Queen Hot Dog eating competition and Malar Setia pratta eating competition.

There will be a blood donation drive organised by the Mobile Blood Bank of the RIPAS it will be held on 31st January from 10-12pm and 2pm to 4pm.

 

For all Ranaodidas readers, you will get an exclusive 25% off Zalora and the final day is today. I posted this recently on my social media. You have a few hours left now 😀 Click image to enter website.

Below is the voucher terms and conditions:

Terms and Conditions:

1. Valid only at www.zalora.com.bn

2. Valid till 28th January 2015.

3. Brand and item exclusions apply. Not valid for Marketplace items, with other promo codes and promotions, unless otherwise stated.

4. Free delivery is only applicable on paid price BND 60 and above.

5. ZALORA Malaysia reserves the right to change the terms and conditions or cancel any promotion at any time without notice.

 

Team Snapfeed briefing the local media

Six months ago, Snapfeed launched their apps on IOS and Android. Six months later (now), they have totally revamped the mobile apps for the convenience of the users. Now you can browse with ease and the app looks more structured and easy to follow.

The new interface allows you to browse to content such as deals being offered, information such news and movie times (and even movie trailers). Other exciting stuff are such as their digital loyalty cards with the use of QR codes. For the moment, Snapfeed has dealt with their current merchants such as KFC, Freshco, Burgerking and I Love Yoo to name a few. Do download the Snapfeed app and see what’s on offer.

For those who registered at their Snapfeed booth at the Consumer Fair this week, you can stand a chance to win a Samsung Galaxy Note or a Samsung Galaxy S5. This is only applicable if you signed up at their booth this week till Sunday. They will also provide a free photo session featuring the me-in-a-box booth.

Snapfeed booth is easy to find and it’s located in front of the Plenary Hall at the Orange Zone. I guess that’s the best location as it’s the central part of the Consumer Fair. Have fun browsing through the app.

You can stand a chance to win this when you sign up at their booth

You can get their latest update now

News feed on events happening in Brunei

The ongoing deals ONLY exclusive to Snapfeed users

Movie updates on timings and venue. Quite handy.

Check out the Snapfeed booth at CF15

 

Check out Bruneihalal booth at Consumer Fair this week

Goodies to be won too at Consumer Fair. Do follow them on social media – Facebook and instagram @bruneihalal

Check out items from Bruneihalal booth at CF15

Check out items from Bruneihalal booth at CF15

Check out items from Bruneihalal booth at CF15

 

Their Pappa Char Kuey Teow is one of their best sellers among the patrons of Papparich located in Gadong. I recently “tapau-ed” a few dishes for a dinner function and let’s not forget one of my favourites now – the Pappa Deep Fried Crispy Chicken Skin.. Yummeehh….

Good thing now is Papparich is having their 1st anniversary promotion where you can enjoy 10% everything until 31st January. So you have a few more days to go. I will probably pop down this week to satisfy my craving for the Pappa Deep Fried Crispy Chicken Skin and their curry laksa..

Papparich is located at Block G of Abdul Razak Complex and you won’t miss it because their signage is the biggest one in Gadong if I’m not mistaken. You can check out more of their menus here but not all the new dishes are included just yet.

Pappa Deep Fried Crispy Chicken Skin, new dish

Try this too, another new dish, highly recommended

One of the drinks I kept on refilling. Herbal Tea with Citrus. Another one that hits the spot for me.

Try out their breakfast menu

My all time favourite from Papparich

 

It’s the 15th time that D’Sunlit has organised such event and it has become a Brunei household name ever since its inception since 2008. This time it will take place on January 31st (tomorrow) till Sunday, 1st February at the International Convention Centre from 10am to 10pm.

This time, there will plenty of activities for the public as compared to last time and many activity partners as well involved. Event partners include Kingston Beverage and Creamery Sdn Bhd, Oregon Systems, IBIC Sdn Bhd, RIPAS Hospital, Braun Sdn Bhd, Ho Tai Company Sdn Bhd and MagicLee Entertertainment.

During the five-day fair, various activities such as a unique theme park, lucky draws, and entertainment for children will be held as well as charitable activities such as a blood donation drive.

According to Ting Chui San, Marketing Executive of D’Sunlit, the consumer fair will help to promote SMEs in Brunei and of course, CF is always a good platform to expose businesses. The CF will boast at least 430 booths and you will also enjoy goods and services from ASEAN countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and The Philippines.

The event is also made possible with the help of the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources.

I shall be posting more news and stories, tying to the CF15 this week and you can also catch updates on my IG @ranoadidas. So where will the momentum of the crowd be this week? Definitely ICC.

Snapfeed is going pretty aggressive this week and relaunching their App. Do download the app at the booth and stand a chance to win a Samsung Note 4. Exciting things to come from Snapfeed in the next few months.

A wondrous selection of Cambodian precious gems and intricately-crafted jewellery featuring rubies, sapphires, and many more beautiful sparklers

Interesting educational stuff from Play N Learn Singapore booth

The recent Brunei Edutainment Wonderland is back to showcase the dinosaurs. The NBT Jurassic Journey tickets are priced at $10 for adults and $6 for children. You will be eligible for a 15% discount with a group of 4 or above.

The Android box is sure to be hit though it’s selling below BND 300. A direct rival to Astro but also those with limited bandwidth capacity on TelBru will struggle to cope with the content. The Android box is able stream many channels.

Get a taste of what the Philippines has to offer. Fruits, fruits and vegetables

Sign up for any of BIBD’s financing products such as Home, Home Financing, Home Improvement, and Education Financing can stand a chance to win lucky draw prizes such as LED TVs, iPhone 6, iPhone 6+, Thomson vouchers, air tickets to KK, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf coffee machines, fruit juicers and many more

I was stuck playing the “Flying Coupon Machine” organised by @redbullbn

Aziz did a mini test

All are welcomed to visit the CF15 at the ICC.

Brunei Halal also participating in the CF15

 

BIBD customers who sign up for any of BIBD’s financing products such as Home, Home Financing, Home Improvement, and Education Financing can stand a chance to win lucky draw prizes such as LED TVs, iPhone 6, iPhone 6+, Thomson vouchers, air tickets to KK, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf coffee machines, fruit juicers and many more.

Also as part of its promotion, BIBD will also be giving out a 50% fee waiver on its financing products such as the BIBD Rumah Plus Home Financing, Home Improvement Financing, and Education Financing.

This great BIBD promotion is available at the 15th edition of the Consumer Fair, from the 28th January until the 1st of February, where BIBD service ambassadors at booth C7 will be on hand to personally assist with, and answer any queries regarding any of BIBD’s products and services.

BIBD’s Home Financing Specialists will also be on hand to assist and provide advice on Home Financing solutions that best suit the customers. For those interested in purchasing their first or next dream home, BIBD will be offering its attractive Home Financing Rumah Plus package, which has a financing entitlement of up to 100% of the OMV(Open Market Value) or Property Purchase Price, a repayment period of up to 25 years along with a lower repayment schedule and attractive profit rates from as low as 4.5% (subject to terms and conditions). 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, allowing complete control of their budget, and providing them a sense of security, knowing that their dream home is one step closer to becoming a reality.

Drop by BIBD booth at Consumer Fair and check out their financing products available

Drop by BIBD booth at Consumer Fair

Drop by BIBD booth at Consumer Fair

This also represents an ideal opportunity for home owners to start considering options on how best to enhance their homes, especially as with the festive time period only a few months away. Also, as an additional benefit, BIBD’s Home Improvement Financing also allows for a flexible repayment period of up to ten years, with up to 100% of renovation costs.

The BIBD team will also be available to talk about their Education Financing package whereby interested parties can obtain a financing of up to BND 200,000 with a maximum financing period of up to 10 years. The package can be used for students undergoing their education at either local or overseas institutions. The financing package includes a wide range of coverage such as registration fees, education or tuition fees, cost of living, accommodation and travel expenses along with educational needs such as clothing, books and stationery.

All these promotions on BIBD’s products and services highlights BIBD’s “Bruneian at Heart” commitment to always understand and be intuitive to the needs of its customers, by providing suitable solutions that can help them to achieve their dreams. For more information on any of BIBD’s products or services, please log on to the BIBD website at www.bibd.com.bn, visit your nearest BIBD branch or get in touch with the BIBD Contact Centre at 2238181.

 

Richard Soo, Acer Branch Manager at Miri, holding the Acer Aspire Switch 12 while Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer, holding the Acer Aspire R13

Aspire Switch 12. Something to tickle your fancy. This will give Microssoft Surface Pro 3 a run for their money. This is what we call a hybrid model where it can have multipurpose functions as a notebook, a tablet, a tent, a display or even a desktop by using the keyboard wirelessly. Awesome, innit?

The latest model just arrived at Concepts Computer and it was demoed last weekend by Richard Soo, Acer Branch Manager at Miri. Acer will always come up with a better, sharper and powerful device in its category and the Switch 12 is definitely better than the Switch 10 and Switch 11.

It sports a 12.5 inch Gorilla Glass screen with a full HD resolution 1920 x 1080. As usual, the notebook has a detachable magnetic keyboard but the great thing about the Switch 12 is that even you detach the keyboard, the screen turns into a desktop with a rear kickstand. Awesome!! This is definitely ideal for travelers.

The Switch 12 is powered by Intel’s new Core M processor, which complements the notebook’s fanless design by reducing power consumption. Input-wise, the laptop packs microUSB 3.0 and microHDMI ports.

The Aspire Switch 12 comes with a 128 GB Solid State Drive (SSD) and has an internal memory of $GB. It’s quite a light weight device (only 1.4kg). Despite it’s compact feature, this model has multiple ports – USB 3.0, USB 2.0 port, HDMI port and Micro SD Card reader. The battery life expectancy is roughly up to 8 hours (depending on usage).

If you buy at Concepts Computer, you will be given an Acer Active Stylus and an Acer designed sleeve bag. The purchase also includes a one year warranty even for travelers.

If you are not convinced enough by this new model, you can look for the Aspire R13 which has a more solid appeal whereas the Aspire Switch is more into portability and mobility.

The selling price of the Aspire Switch 12 is BND 1,048.

Check out the video of the Acer Aspire Switch 12

The Aspire Switch 12

It can be split and work as a desktop too

Acer Aspire R13. There are so many things to brag about the Acer Aspire R13. If I was given the choice, I would have pick this model instead because it’s more solid appeal and it’s quiet convenient as well. Did you know that the Aspire R13 was awarded the best of IFA 2014 in the Best Hybrid category by Laptop Magazine and it recently also won the Good Design Awards in Japan.

The size of the notebook is 13.3” and it weighs at 1.5 kg. The cool part about the notebook is that the screen can rotate 180 degrees and it can turn into tablet. This notebook has a convertible element indeed and yet it is stable. It can even put into an easel position. The Acer Aspire R13 has a high spec and it feels like a premium notebook.

It has a Core i5 processor, 128 GB Solid State Drive with 8GB RAM memory (power). It has Dolby Digital Plus Home Theatre for cinematic surround sound and Acer Purified Voice.

The selling price of the Acer Aspire R13 is BND 1,438 but you will know where your money is spent.

Check out the video of the Acer Aspire R13

TigerLim cleaning the Acer Aspire R13

Aspire R13 able to flip the monitor and let it have multiple functions

 

Ali Suhif posing with his father after winning a semi-detached house at Tanjung Bunut last weekend during the 30th anniversary dinner of Grand Motors

The last time I remember someone won a home was during Times Square Shopping Centre’s lucky draw. Last weekend, another winner was feted from a lucky draw as part of Grand Motors’ 30th Anniversary which took place at Orchid Garden Hotel. Ali Suhif won the grand prize of semi-detached house worth an estimated BND 300,000 located at Tanjung Bunut. It came at a timely manner where his family was planning for a new home after having their third child late last year. He currently works for the Brunei army and staying at Penanjong Camp.

Alif Suhif is a proud owner of his KIA Rio and never had any problem with the car when he bought it before Hari Raya last year.

The KIA Optima was the 2nd prize and the winner was Korean Aei Kim Cho. The KIA Cerato (the latest gen) was the third place and it went to Nurul Norhazwani binti Saini. To me, having all these top three prizes are amazing and the prizes worth are maybe almost BND 400,000. Even the top 100 shortlisted finalists were given consolation prizes. He or she will at least walk away with a BND 100 cash voucher. The draw was carried out during dinner to also commemorate Grand Motors’ 30th Anniversary.

Did you know KIA is one of the top selling brands in Brunei? They have sold 2,640 KIA units and it’s just behind the popular Japanese brand Toyota.

Present during the dinner were Frankie Ho, Managing Director of Grand Motors, Cho Won-myung, Korean Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, Teng Chin Ying, Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Hj Ahmad bin Hj Jumat, Pengiran Sanggamara Diraja Major General (Rtd) Pengiran Hj Ibnu Ba’asith bin Pengiran Datu Penghulu, Hj Shaiful Rizal Bin Pehin Dato Dr. Hj Ahmad, Executive Director of Grand Motors and Pg Hj Abdul Qahar Bin PSD Maj Gen (R) Pg Hj Ibnu Basith, Executive Director of Grand Motors.

More than 200 people attended the anniversary dinner of Grand Motors and the established company thanked all the customers for their continuous support all these years. For more updates, you can follow @kiabrunei on instagram and follow them on their official Facebook page.

Cho Won-myung, Korean Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam drawing for the winner of the new home

The Top three winners – Ali Suhif, Aei Kim Cho and Nurul Norhazwani binti Saini

Peter Moon, Manager, KIA motors Corporation Regional Headquarters, handing over mock key of the KIA optima to Aei Kim Cho

KIA Optima

Peter Moon handing over mock key of KIA Cerato to Nurul Norhazwani binti Saini

KIA Cerato

The management of Grand Motors having a discussion

One of the consolation winners

Another consolation winner

 Ali Suhif at his brand new home with the management of Grand motors yesterday. Image courtesy of Mantuka.com

 

Ketua Kampung Pg Hj Abd Rahman Pg Hj Zainal with his family while posing with his brand new car Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 AMG at last Friday’s mega draw organised by Jati Transport Sdn Bhd

It was that time of the year especially the beginning of the year where Jati Transport fetted all the consolation winners and the grand winner for the company’s yearly promotion. In 2014, over 250 customers bought a Mecedes-Benz from Jati Transport and they were eligible for the lucky draw. The customers who purchased a Mercedes-Benz passenger car, Vito or Viano from January 1st to December 31st 2014 were entitled for the draw.

Last Friday, 21 shortlisted customers witnessed the special occasion where the mega draw took place at Jati Transport Gadong showroom. A few familiar faces were among the shortlisted but only managed to get consolation prizes. The grand winner of the draw was Pg Hj Abd Rahman Pg Hj Zainal who was the second person to attempt to ignite the brand new Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 AMG. He is also the “Ketua Kampung

Also present during the draw were Pg Ak Hj Jaafar ibni Al Marhum Pg Pemancha Pg Anak Hj Md Alam, Executive Chairman of Jati Transport, the management of Jati Transport and Shazali Sulaiman, KPMG Partner.

Pg Ak Hj Jaafar ibni Al Marhum Pg Pemancha Pg Anak Hj Md Alam, Executive Chairman of Jati Transport handing over the a mock key to the grand winner

Consolation winner

Consolation winner

Consolation winner

Consolation winner

Consolation winner

Group photo with the winner and consolation winners

Mercedes-Benz E-Class at the Jati Transport Showroom. You can pay them a visit to view other models.

 

Stephen Reid, Service Manager of Jati Transport handed out consolation prize in this morning’s draw for the Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 AMG

Mr. Yong, Jati Transport’s Parts Manager, handed out another consolation prize

Another consolation winner. There were 20 consolation winners.

Shazali Sulaiman, Partner, KPMG, tested the key to the grand prize

The invited guests during the draw

Pg Anak Hj Jaafar ibni Al Marhum Pg Pemancha Pg Anak Hj Mohd Alam, Executive Chairman of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd handing a token of appreciation to Shazali Sulaiman. More of the pictures tomorrow.

 

Best top ten movies of 2014 with my regular co-host @delgoh and special guest Zul

 

Acer Aspire

Click image to enter ICON Design Store website

 

Free labour charge on repairs for Peugeot. Click image to enter website to find out more.

Promotion from Pizza Hut

 

Travel with agoda

  

The new KIA Sorento 2015 (3rd generation) now available at Grand Motors Showroom

Azrol Azmi recently tested the new KIA Sorento in Jordan and he was already impressed with the performance even on the 2wd drive on the hilly terrains of Jordan. A few days ago, I had the opportunity to test drive the KIA Sorento which is now in its 3rd generation and I quite like the ride as well. I test drove the KIA Sorento 2WD Petrol 2.4 litre that time but didn’t get the chance to try out the 4WD Diesel 2.2.

This was actually my first experience in a Sorento but the latest model definitely has a better much upgrade and facelift from previous Sorento generation. Yes, it has a sleeker look and it’s ideal for SUV lovers, just like me.

I’m not much of a car person when it comes to specs but I had a good 10 minute experience driving new Sorento around. Cornering wise, the car didn’t feel off balance even on an accelerating speed and it’s precise as well. This shows the KIA Sorento has good traction especially on our local roundabouts.

The KIA Sorento 3rd generation is also the official car for the ongoing Australian Open. This will be a much talked about SUV with great stability, suspension (progressive response on bumps) and packs with great safety feature functions. You can’t go wrong with the KIA Sorento. The only thing that I might not favour is the shape of the rear end of the Sorento. It seems slightly longer than the current SUV I’m driving but then again, the means the new KIA has bigger space at the back, ideal for long journeys.

Grand Motors Sdn Bhd, brought in three versions of the new KIA Sorento. The only 4WD is the 2.2 litre CRDi (turbo diesel) in automatic transmission. The 2WD version comes with a 2.4 litre engine, one in manual and one in auto transmission. You can view the latest KIA at Grand Motor Showroom in Beribi.

Check out the review of the KIA Sorento 2015 model

This is the 2WD 2.4 litre version

The interior look of the Sorento

Emelda with the registration number

 

Newborn photography promotion for February and March 2015

Babies in flower pots resting sleepy faces on tiny palms, a little hero about to set off on a boat into parts unknown – newborn photography is the cutest. Tiny Blessings Photography wants to help parents capture the very start of their child’s journey through life with newborn photography packages taken in the comfort of your own home.

The newborn photography packages start from just $200. Mom, just sit back and relax, while Tiny Blessings takes care of the rest. With an abundance of blankets and props to keep you baby relaxed and at peace while they star in their first photoshoot, and are captured in beautiful images of them that will last until they grow up and have children of their own..

Individuals can call to arrange an appointment ahead of time, even before their child is due.

Affordable packages make newborn and family portraiture obtainable for families and future generations to enjoy. All packages come with digital files.

Tiny Blessings Photography will be having a promotion for all sessions taken in February and March 2015. Just mention RANOADIDAS to enjoy 10% off any of their photography packages.

For more information, please visit www.tinyblessingsphotobn.com

Images courtesy of Tiny Blessings Photography

 

The trailer for Bahlol. Well done to team Adam Groves! Can’t wait for the featured film!

Be Proud Of Your Style! Join Malppy’s IG video & slogan contest now and stand a chance to win Malppy’s shopping spree. There are 3 categories where you could walk away with the attractive prizes.

Categories:

• Best slogan $300

• Most like male video $200

• Most like female video $200

Details:

• The best slogan category will be judged by Malppy.com

• The other categories will be judged based on the most likes.

• Judges decision is final.

Requirements:

• Record yourself with your most stylish outfit

• Come up with a short slogan that best describes Malppy. ‘Slogan must not be more than 7 words’.

• End the video by saying “Malppy.com”

• Post it and tag @MALPPYBN with the hashtag #ILOVEMALPPY #OOTDBN

• Follow us on IG & you have to open your account to public.

Video Upload: 21st January – 7th February 2015

The WINNER will be announced on 8th February 2015

 

5 lucky winners monthly and you can enjoy exciting holidays when you swipe with BIBD cards

 

Maroon jacket mode on with inspirational speaker Robin Sieger

I’m always pleased when we have guests coming in and they learnt of a toastmasters through means of my social media updates and blog post. And to see them turning up to our meetings (every Tuesday) show thats that we are doing something right for the community. We have broken the stigma that toastmasters is just about being a great speaker or just being a leader of your own but it’s the synergy and the positive conducive environment that allows an individual to lower down his/her shield, ego and fear. It’s not just about public speaking and hence I’m not surprised by the increase of new members notably Derby Teo, Rahul and Pooja.

Last weekend, we had a great time at Kota Kinabalu as we embarked in a training session conducted by toastmasters club in KK. Though I can’t comment much about the training session but the evening session with Robin Sieger paid off our dues and what a fantastic character he is. I saw him spoke last year at the Toastmasters International Convention in Kuala Lumpur and I was amazed then. The recent session was more intimate and I managed to catch up with him and talked about life. I do hope he does come to Brunei or perhaps we can invite him to speak to schools and our younger generation because he is a great testament and role model for success.

A big thank you to all my friends in toastmasters and especially to Shawn Cassidy Narcis and Ruey Narcis, the pillars of toastmasters in Brunei Darussalam, for their continuous support and guiding the young team to greater heights. 2015 will be an awesome year for Brunei toastmasters members and I’m very privileged and honoured to be part of the team and contribute back to the community.

If you want to know more about toastmasters, you can reach me at ranoadidas gmail.com and I can guarantee you is that toastmasters is a fun, enjoying learning experience. Below are pictures from our recent trip in KK.

The Brunei team with the inspirational Robin Sieger

Our superhero Amran at Manukan Island

Giving a toast to Agong and toastmasters international

This was our first joint meeting with KePKAS Toastmaster Club and Toihaan Toastmasters Club from KK at Manukan Island

The President of KePKAS Toastmasters Club, Dr. Maklarin Lakim, given a badge as a birthday gift from District Governor Sukarno

I had the privilege to be the Table Topics Evaluator that day

Group shot after the meeting at Manukan Island

Shawn, Pius and Chloe

Chloe, another blogger from Sabah, who also works on the tourism side for Sabah

Trying out Derby’s sunnies

But it suits her best despite looking huge on her face

The natural pose

Craving for chicks.. food wise 😀

 

Mohd Riza Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Yunos, Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications (2nd from left) with Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank sharing a light moment at “It’s A Grind” coffeehouse after the launch of the Baiduri Bank Muara branch yesterday. Image courtesy of Azli Azney of The Brunei Times.

Delicious aroma of coffee permeated the air as Baiduri Bank’s CEO Pierre Imhof and Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications, Mohd Riza Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Yunos toured the newly opened, relocated Muara Branch of Baiduri Bank yesterday morning.

Mohd Riza was there as the guest of honour at the official opening of the branch, which was previously located at Bangunan Tiga Tingkat, at the ground floor of Al-Warasah Commercial Centre in Muara Town.

The relocation was due to the increasing number of customers and with it the demand for products and services from Baiduri. The new branch is twice as large and has twice the number of staff, and is now able to provide a full range of banking products and services to cater to individuals as well as businesses, and this includes complimentary financial planning consultation.

“The upgrading of this branch is part of Baiduri Bank’s branch network configuration project where we redesign each branch to suit the market segment and its surrounding area and demographics. The modern layout is designed to allow customers to carry out their banking transactions in a relaxed and comfortable setting. In addition, the bank seeks to craft a workplace that promotes work efficiency and employee wellbeing,” said Pierre Imhof in his speech at the opening.

He added that Baiduri made significant investments to the new branch — greater customer experience and accessibility — and he was proud to add that the Muara Branch is the first of its kind to offer the café banking experience with the adjoined “It’s A Grind” coffeehouse.

After the speech, the guest of honour toured the premises, lead by the Regional Manager of the Brunei-Muara District Alvina Chung, and the Branch Manager Alice Lee before retiring to the adjoining coffeehouse to enjoy a cup of “It’s A Grind” coffee and some brunch. Text by Azli Azney of The Brunei Times.

The officiating the launch. Image courtesy of Azli Azney of The Brunei Times.

Pierre Imhof delivering his welcoming remarks and happy belated sir 😀 Image courtesy of Azli Azney of The Brunei Times.

The Temburong Adventure

Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, officiating the opening of the Rainforest Lodge.

Freme Travel’s new Adventure Course and refurbished Rainforest Lodge are set to welcome more visitors to Temburong National Park. Both these new facilities promise exciting activities and all the modern comforts of home in a pristine rainforest environment for both overseas tourists and local residents to enjoy while also creating more job opportunities and playing a part in boosting the local economy.

Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, officiated the launch.

Freme Travel’s Chairman, Pg Dato Sharifuddin Bin Pg Metali asserted that safety and environmental issues were uppermost on the agenda of making Temburong National Park a ‘must visit’ tourist destination, and that special attention will be paid to sanitation, waste disposal, risks of water pollution and safety.

Built in 2002, Rainforest Lodge has seen a surge of tourists from China, Hong Kong, and Japan, and was upgraded and refurbished recently in response to the growing demand of tourists. The lodge now accommodates 40+ tourists in new wooden bunk beds and a further 15+ in tents. It also has new terrace dining area and kitchen.

The lodge now employs 10 full time local Temburong staff, including guides, boatmen and a local caterer.

The Adventure Course highlights include a 15 meter flying fox, the high rope bridge, the hanging bridge across the river and a canopy tower for birdwatching.

This will give more vibrant and healthy competition with Ulu-Ulu Resort which has been around for many years and I love that place too. With many things developing in Temburong such as the Games Village and the much talked about bridge, there are many potential opportunities with the district.

The Executive Chairman of Freme PM Dato Shariffuddin (right) donating $20,000 to District Officer Hj Abd Hamid Dato Paduka Hj Abdullah on behalf of Tabung anak-anak yatim dearah Temburong.

The means of transport to reach the Rainforest Lodge

The rooms at Freme Travel’s Rainforest Lodge

Flying Fox available too

Group photo with the Minister

Good to see the former Director of Tourism Board Development being invited for this occasion

Reworking needed to be done after the flash flood caused the bridge to collapse a few days ago

 

Hj Hidop Hj Salleh the winner of the brand new Mazda 3 during the grand draw at Grand Motors last weekend

A winning luck for Hj Hidop Hj Salleh who managed to unlock his brand new Mazda 3 1.5 (A) Sedan. This was part of the ‘Purchase a Mazda to Win a Mazda’ grand draw last weekend. In attendance was Japanese Ambassador Noriko Iki who came as in the capacity as the guest of honour and she presented the mock key to the grand winner.

Meanwhile, second prize winner Hj Reduan Hj Rosman met with thunderous claps as he opened the door of a Mazda 2 1.5 (A) Sedan while Hj Muhaimin Hj Mohamed walked away with a cash prize of $5,000.

The consolation prizes were also attractive. 10 of them received returned tickets to Bali for two while the other ten walked away with an Apple iPhone 5C. Furthermore, a cash prize of $300 were given to 40 lucky participants.

For your info, the draw was part of the promotion by Grand Motors as part of their 30th anniversary.

Teng Chin Ying, Chairman of Grand Motors, Hj Hidop the grand winner and Japanese Ambassador Noriko Iki

Consolation prize to another winner winning the iPhone 5C

Hj Hidop with his brand new car

 

Best top ten movies of 2014 with my regular co-host @delgoh and special guest Zul

The Reel Show – [A Year in Review] The best, the worst and the most disappointing movies of 2014