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Author Archive

04
Sep

4 points unlocked

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.
 

  

9th National Youth Day 
 

His Majesty attends the 9th National Youth Day

 

His Majesty the Sultan awarding to national athlete Lee Ying Shi the Excellent Youth Award for being part of the Wushu Team. She brought home the gold medal for wushu at the 27th Southeast Asian Games in Myanmar last year. All images courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday called upon the youth to understand and to know how to conduct themselves in a manner that safeguards the nation’s dignity especially in the face of challenges presented in this era of globalisation.

The call was made at the ninth National Youth Day celebration held yesterday at the Indoor Stadium where His Majesty advised youths to take heed of the challenges of the 21st century laid out before them in the form of opportunities for change.

His Majesty said that the youth, whose numbers make up almost 50 per cent of the population, are ‘Agents of Change’ and in fact they constitute the group having the most potential to shape the nation in any form they choose.

“On the subject of change, all of us, especially the youth, must be cautious and wise in evaluating and choosing our options. Because not all change is good, in fact there are even some that we need to avoid, such as those changes that bring about a negative impact or ones that contrast our national aspirations.”

Before bringing about or creating change, the character of our youth must be clear, solid and forthright with an excellent foundation which is filled (immersed) with religious and cultural values so that later on, the changes that are decided on will not be overwhelmed by undesirable elements, said His Majesty.
“If pretence is evident in a certain change, then this change is not welcomed, because its presence will not bring about any good but instead will invite harm.”

His Majesty pointed out that this is typical, in the name of change, “If it is destructive in nature, then the society that receives it will suffer because of it.”

“We in Brunei, need to be careful in this type of situation. Seek and plan for change that is constructive, not destructive. Do not study or take example from lessons that are counterproductive, but study from those and they that are worthy of being modeled.”

“This is the ideal way of conducting one self. It is important that the youth understand this. Conducting oneself also means having the ability to take command of a situation when needed.”

This is where the youth must not take lightly any challenge that is presented before them, but instead embrace the call of this year’s National Youth Day theme which is: Bersatu Menghadapi Cabaran Abad ke 21.

This century is filled with many challenges, pointed out His Majesty. “There can be no escaping from these challenges, whether constructive or destructive. If constructive, it is only right that we welcome it with passion, however, if it is destructive, then it is necessary that we successfully reject and avoid it.”

“If we are successful in rejecting this sort of challenge, then we are our own saviours; protecting ourselves; and guarding our people and our country.”

The youth must step up and rise to become this guardian. Transform the situation with the best of interests. Let it be forever peaceful and pleasant, entwined with unity, harmony and understanding.

His Majesty also expressed his heartiest congratulations to the Brunei Young Wasps for their performance during the recent Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy.

His Majesty revealed that, “this championship was also recognised by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) as the greatest youth football championship in the region. Undeniably this is a great achievement in the World’s Sports for Peace and Development agenda.” Text courtesy of Nadzri Zailani and Amanda Yap of The Brunei Times. Images courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

 


The Youth Day ceremony taking place at Indoor Stadium
 


His Majesty the Sultan touring the booths
 

His Majesty talking to a youth

Three individuals and a youth association were honoured with the annual youth awards during the Ninth National Youth Day celebrations yesterday.

This year’s awards included the “Youth Leader Award for Distinguished Service”, “Youth Service Award”, “Excellent Youth Award” and the “Youth Association Award”.

The “Youth Leader Award for Distinguished Service” was bagged by Mohd Zefri Ariff Mohd Zain Ariff.

The award is annually given to a candidate, contributing significantly to youth progress, and development. It is also awarded in recognition of efforts in shaping Bruneian youth to become competent, visionary and ethical.

According to his award citation, Md Zefri is actively involved in youth movements and has held senior positions with various associations in the country since 1996, including the post of Secretary-General of the Brunei Youth Council and group head of the Putra Seni Group (KPS).

He has also held positions outside the country, such as the Vice-President of the Asian Youth Council, and Treasurer of the Committee for ASEAN Youth Cooperation (CAYC). Md Zefri’s involvement in youth movements focuses mainly on arts, particularly in the field of theatre and drama, including writing scripts which see the participation of many youth. This year’s “Youth Service Award” went to Anwar Mohammad, founder and chairman of the Society for Community Outreach and Training (SCOT), a non-government organisation.

SCOT was first established in 2011, and while relatively new, the association has actively progressed through Anwar’s leadership, who has shown persistence, responsibility and commitment in promoting youth efforts in the country up to the international level. Based on his award citation, Anwar is also actively involved in the operation of community-based programmes which intend to create environmental awareness, and excels academically, having received numerous awards while studying at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD).

Speaking to The Brunei Times, the SCOT Chairman thanked the government of His Majesty for recognising the organisation’s contributions throughout these years.

“InsyaAllah, we will continue to contribute towards the nation-building, especially towards youth, through our projects at SCOT.

“Through our projects, we will help the underprivileged – any vulnerable groups within the community – so they can get out of the cycle of poverty,” Anwar said.The “Excellent Youth Award” went to national athlete Lee Ying Shi, well-known for being part of the wushu team, which brought home the country’s first gold medal for wushu at the 27th Southeast Asian Games in Myanmar last year.

This award is given to an active youth, contributing outstanding service as well as bringing honour to the country. It also recognises those who excel and put in hard work with determination.

Lee said that receiving the award was not a surprise to her. She said that she was a bit nervous and felt honoured while receiving the award from His Majesty, and intends to keep contributing to the country via wushu.

All the three recipients of the awards received plaques, certificates, woven fabric (kain tenunan) and $3,000 in cash.

Meanwhile, the “Youth Association Award” was given to the Putra Seni Group (KPS). KPS additionally received a plaque, a certificate and $5,000 in cash. Text courtesy of Nadzri Zailani and Amanda Yap of The Brunei Times. Images courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.


His Majesty at one of the booths
 


Good smart, Benny and Shavez
 


His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Malik Bolkiah
 


His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Mateen Bolkiah
  
 

ICON Design Store 
 


Click image to enter ICON Design Store website
 


New arrivals at ICON Design Store
 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 

  
 

VW mini roadshow 
 

Check out the Volkswagen Tiguan TSI, Vento and Beetle at the Mall Gadong until 7th September

Volkswagen Brunei is currently holding a roadshow which began yesterday and goes on until Sunday, September 7. The roadshow is held at The Mall, Atrium, in Gadong, featuring three of Volkswagen’s latest models; The new Tiguan TSI, the affordable German-engineered Vento and the iconic Beetle.

Each of these model cater to different walks of life. The Tiguan TSI is a compact SUV capable of going through almost all terrains. After its recent launch, it has proven to become a favourite among those who are shopping for a reliable and quality SUV, especially because the Tiguan TSI is packed with features that should make the car cost a lot more than what it costs now.

The German-engineered Vento on the other hand, is the cheapest Volkswagen model to date. Powered by a 1.6-litre engine putting out about 105 horsepowers, this car is the best choice for anyone that wants to own a Volkswagen at a cheaper than normal price. This car was introduced into the Brunei market a few months back to help cater to everyone and to prove that there truly is a Volkswagen for everyone.

The iconic Beetle needs no introduction. The redesigned Beetle just portrays so much more than just a new Beetle. It portrays what a Beetle should look like and it brings back memories to some. With its low roof-line, the Beetle is also no longer a girl’s car, it is now a much sportier and more masculine car that can be driven by anyone. The Beetle which is available in Brunei now comes with leather seats giving the icon a much more luxurious look and feel.

So if any of these cars are in your wishlist, head on down to the roadshow at The Mall in Gadong and ask any of the knowledgeable sales executives to give you a quote on your new Volkswagen.

Another reason why you should visit the roadshow is that Volkswagen is giving away two (2) CBTL vouchers each day to the winner of the selfie contest. How do you do it? Check out the Volkswagen social media sites; Instagram @volkswagenbrunei and Facebook.com/volkswagenbrunei. See you at the Volkswagen roadshow.

 


Check out the Volkswagen Vento
 


Check out the Volkswagen iconic Beetle
 


 

  
 

Buy genuine printer inks
 


Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer Zul Abdul Rahman with the staff of Concepts Computer showcasing the Epson L-Series promotion

The most trending printers in the country – the Epson L-series. Why? It’s economical and it fits just perfect especially for teachers and students when it comes to their assignments. So I’m not surprised that Concepts Computer are bringing in plenty of stocks due to great demand and recommendations from others. The L series, which come in four models — L210, L355, L550 and L1300 — utilise low cost consumables which in turn ensures low cost high volume printing. With two sets of bottled inks, a print yield of 8,000 pages A4 sized prints is expected.

Good thing about the Epson printers is their durability and the refillable inks. Of course, the most affordable one is the L210 series which is valued at $228 and you can print, scan and photocopy. The great deal if you buy from Concepts Computer, you will get another extra set of genuine Espon bottled inks (worth at least $40 while stock last). So every purchase of the selected models ( L210, L355, L550 and L1300), you will get two sets of bottled inks. Awesome deal!!

Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer Zul Abdul Rahman added that third party modifications of printers are one of the main concerns for printing solution providers as it affects print quality, machine durability and unfamiliar refillable inks can be toxic, therefore Epson is putting long term effort in its research and development to curb the problem. Hence, this is a great awareness program to spread the disadvantages of using third party inks. Concepts Computer will not honour the warranty should their customers resort to using third party inks. If you are uncertain about the third party or having doubts whether the bottled inks are legit, you can drop by the Concepts Computer showroom for clarification.

So do remember to claim your free set of original Epson bottled inks when you purchase the selected L-Series. This is definitely a great buy for teachers and students alike.


 


 


Buy any of the selected Epson L-Series and get an extra set of bottled inks
 

  

03
Sep

The Scent

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News

 

An increase from last year’s intake 



Head of student representatives Muhd Romulus bin Muhd Roland speaking on behalf of the scholars

Last year it was above 40. This year, Brunei Shell Joint Venture (BSJV) awarded 54 students for scholarship programs and it is also the first time that a few scholars will be sent to Germany in August to pursue Mechanical Engineering at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology.

The scholarship program has been one of the most sought program and they have been many applications as demands are increasing in these fields. In actual fact, around 234 people applied for this year’s program. Furthermore, there are many students who are taking such subjects and interests and it’s pretty evident on the increase numbers of intakes for this year’s edition. Forty students will be heading to the UK, two in the United States, two in Germany and ten in Brunei Darussalam.

Before being awarded, the scholars had to undergo a tough assessment set by BSJV. Did you know that BSJV have sent over 600 students and this is back dated from 1972. Amazing!! The scholars will also be given the opportunity to be placed for attachment during summer to gain more experience.

Present during the event were Azhar Hj Yahya, Commercial Director of Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) and the guest of honour Hjh Rosmawatty Hj Abd Mumin, Permanent Secretary (Upstream), Energy Department at the Prime Minister’s Office.


There was also tokens of appreciation to First Class Achievers and they are Lim Jong Hau, Han Wenxiu, Fiona Shim Siew Ying, Izzah Mardhiah Zulkipli and Farah Azyan binti Ali Umar Safri and they all received mini iPads :p

Congratulations to all the beneficiaries of the BSJV scholarship program and do make them proud and contribute back to the economy of Brunei 🙂

 


Azhar Hj Yahya, Commercial Director of Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) with the scholars


















Students pursuing Masters


Students pursuing Masters




Fiona Shim receiving a token as a First Class Achiever


Lim Jong Hau receiving a token as a First Class Achiever


Han Wenxiu receiving a token as a First Class Achiever
 


Farah Azyan binti Ali Umar Safri receiving a token as a First Class Achiever


Izzah Mardhiah Zulkipli receiving a token as a First Class Achiever


A year journey 
 


Elizabeth Sim and her co-host Kevin Lo interviewing Chris Woo at Timeout with Liz last weekend

I missed the first show of Timeout with Liz and I didn’t realise it has been a year already. Good job on Elizabeth Sim to keep the show going despite the challenges that she has to go through over the period. Venue has always been a problem and it looks she has found a proper setting for her show. Last weekend she had two special guests – Chris Woo and Bridgette Ang as well as Joanna Kwan. There was also a food demo by Hip and Healthy during the 3rd segment of the show.

Overall the energy was great and so was the turn out. Great to see Zainal Bostaman and Joanne Tan to be involved in the show as well as Liz’ co-host Kevin Lo.I would like to congratulate Elizabeth on her one year anniversary of her show and things can only get better from here. I’m looking forward to your future shows this year and let’s start the 2nd year with a bang.

 


Chris Woo sharing his experience as a toastmaster and his world championship final experience
 


All of them have something in common. There are all WCOPA Brunei representatives
 


Joanna Kwan doing the Asian thing
 


Joanne Tan helping out with the show. Good to see you again.
 


Bridgette Ang, another WCOPA participant and I love her vocals
 


Zainal setting the tone of the evening
 


The ever charismatic Zainal
 


Such a great turn out last weekend
 


The couple behind Hip and Healthy
 

 

Yasmine gets a DST treat 
 


Liyana Yus and Nadiah posed with a fan last week at the DST event

As part of DST’s “Ihsan Kasih” community program, over 30 orphans accompanied by their parents and guardians from the Tutong District between the ages of 8 and 17 were treated to movie outing to watch Brunei’s local film “Yasmine: The Movie” as well as have the opportunity to meet and greet the stars from the local Brunei film “Yasmine”.

The outing began with a welcoming reception at Dewan Kemasyarkatan in Tutong town by DST’s “Ihsan Kasih” volunteers where the children accompanied by their guardians were provided bus shuttle return transportation to the cinema in Empire Hotel & Country Club in Jerudong. At the cinema, the orphans were greeted by DST “Ihsan Kasih” volunteers.

DST also treated the children with a free popcorn and drink before they were ushered to their seats in the cinema joined by the stars themselves.

According to Elixsurian Hj Busu, Manager of Group Corporate Communications on the Ihsan Kasih initiative with Orphans, “DST have been proactive in arranging activities for orphans from fun futsal tournaments in Brunei-Muara district, educational trips to places like the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre (OGDC) in Seria, Belait District, and now a movie outing to the cinema. We are glad that we have the means and opportunity to give the orphans in Tutong a movie outing as currently Tutong does not have its own resident cineplex. At the same time, DST have the opportunity to share the enjoyable experience with the children and get to know them better”.

He also adds his positive views on the chosen film for the outing, “Feedback from many local viewers have recommended Yasmine as a movie that is universal for all ages as it also comes with various life lessons that can be learned. Also, as the movie is produced by our own local talents, it is also a means to inspiring the orphan children to believe that anything they dream of can be possible. We are fortunate that the director and actresses have taken their personal time to meet the children and to get to know them during this short time.”

After the movie the children were given the opportunity to an exclusive surprise meet and greet photo session with the stars from “Yasmine: The Movie”- Liyana Yus, Nadia Wahid, the movie director from Origin films, Siti Kamaluddin. The visit ended with DST providing DST “Ihsan Kasih” goodies to the children before their departure back to Tutong.

Also invited to the movie outing were DST’s corporate and premium clients as a token of appreciation for their loyalty and support to DST’s products and services throughout the years.

“Ihsan Kasih” is DST’s community program aimed to gather DSTians for voluntary work and to do beautiful things out of love, to help the less fortunate Bruneian, orphans and special needs community.

 


A great turn out from the DST event last Friday
 


Radin Sufri of DST with the crew of Origin Films and the stars of Yasmine
 


Photo opportunity with the stars
 


Siti Kamaluddin appreciating DST and the audience
 


The screening of Yasmine
 


A great turn out last Friday
 


Gotcha Liyana :p
 

  
 

02
Sep

Walking fingers

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News

 

 

Acer Liquid Smartphones

Check out Acer Liquid smartphones
 

 

Sales at Icon Design Store

 

 
Click to enter website
 
 

 

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.
 

  
 

ISB celebrates Hari Raya
 


His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel during the Hari Raya celebration at ISB. Image courtesy of Dean Kassim of Borneo Bulletin.
 


Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah during the Hari Raya celebration at ISB
Late post: International School Brunei (ISB) last week held special assemblies for its kindergarten and primary pupils to celebrate Hari Raya. That’s the great thing I like about ISB is that they have these activities to keep the atmosphere livelier in the said school.

In attendance were members of the Royal Family, His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel, Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah, His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Muntaqim, Her Royal Highness Princess Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah and YAM Pengiran Anak ‘Abdul Haseeb.

It was amazing to see kids performing while their parents attended to support the Hari Raya celebration and it was entertaining too. It’s never easy to be on stage to perform but they did quite well nonetheless.

The pupils were from Year 2 to Year 5 of ISB. The event conducted with a fashion show featuring primary students donned in “Malay costumes” and the distribution of Malay cookies to the pupils.

 


His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel and Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah during the Hari Raya celebration at ISB. Image courtesy of Dean Kassim of Borneo Bulletin.
 


His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Muntaqim. Image courtesy of ISB Facebook Page.
 


This performer was quite entertaining. Image courtesy of ISB Facebook Page.
 


 


 


 


 


 

 

Mariah Carey in KL 
 


After 10 years, Mariah Carey is back to Malaysia brings us more hit songs to share not only with her Malaysian fans but also fans from all over the world! Mariah Carey “The Elusive Chanteuse” Tour In Malaysia 2014 is organized by IME Productions and supported by Malaysia Major Events, an agency under the Ministry of Tourism & Culture, Malaysia will be kicking off on 22nd October 2014 at 8pm at Stadium Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur.

“We are excited to have Mariah Carey to perform here in Malaysia in October. Mariah’s live concert in Malaysia 2014 is a wonderful way to bring people together and we are very proud to be able to support it. Such event will further complement arrivals for Visit Malaysia Year, especially from the fans from the region and it also complements Malaysia’s position as a favourite destination for live entertainment in South East Asia. This event is expected to bring in approximately 3,000 fans from across the region with an estimated tourist spend of over RM15 million. Malaysia Major Events is glad to reward fans with this priceless opportunity to meet their favourite idol and hear to her sing their favourite songs.” said Tony Nagamaiah, General Manager, Malaysia Major Events.

 


It’s good to see her back in the music scene

Mariah’s concert in Kuala Lumpur is expected to draw a huge international attention. Wherever fans are, they are very welcome to catch her in Kuala Lumpur and grab an opportunity visiting attractions of Malaysia while staying in the country. The ticket prices are categorised into VVIP RM680 (number seat), RM580 (number seat), RM480 (number seat), RM380 (number seat), RM280 (free seating) and RM120 (free seating). Online tickets purchase are through official ticketing agency website www.ticketcharge.com.my or call for TicketCharge hotline +603 92228811 or IME Productions hotline +603 21666166 for ticket and concert information. I shall be running quizzes on my instagram @ranoadidas pretty soon so stay tune for that.

An iconic artiste that needs no introduction, Mariah Carey is the best-selling female artiste of all time with more than 250 million albums sold to date and eighteen Billboard #1 singles (seventeen self-penned) including ‘Fantasy’, ‘Always Be My Baby’, ‘Hero’, ‘Touch My Body’, ‘One Sweet Day’, ‘Without You’, ‘We Belong Together’ and the global smash hit Christmas single ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You’, more than any solo artiste in history. With her distinct five-octave vocal range, prolific song writing, and producing talent, Mariah has defined the modern pop performance. As a singer, songwriter and producer, she has been recognized with five Grammy Awards, nine American Music Awards, Billboard’s “Artist of the Decade” Award, the World Music Award for “World’s Best Selling Female Artiste of the Millennium,” and BMI’s “Icon Award” to name a few.

Fans can prepare themselves for some mesmerising great time as the unparalleled American songstress showers her love, greatest hits and remarkable new singles to millions of people who have adored her widely acclaimed songs. For more information, please log on to IME Facebook http://www.facebook.com/imepmy or TicketCharge website www.ticketcharge.com.my

 

  
 

STGCC 2014 
 


Click image to enter website

Oh yeah… The Singapore Toy, Game and Comic Convention is back again. This will be the third year running that I will be attending the event. However, this convention won’t be Marvel driven as compared to last year. There will be a dozen of pop culture personalities that will take the stage this weekend in Singapore. I shall be flying to Singapore for this trip and it will be a short one.

My co-host of The Popcorn Panel @delgoh will be flying as well and we shall be updating you guys on my website and do wait for our experience that we will be sharing on our podcast for The Popcorn Panel.

My focus probably will be more on the cosplay people and the exhibitors. I’m not quite familiar with the comic artists or writers as I’ve been so outdated when it comes to comics. Will STGCC be more interesting than last year? We shall wait and see. My bucket list one day is to attend the Comic-Con in the States. For now, the minor Asia version of Comic-Con will do.

You can check out the line up here for more details.

 


Let’s see if they are any interesting cosplay this year
 


Some of the pictures taken from last year’s edition
 


Let’s see if they are any interesting cosplay this year
 


Let’s see if they are any interesting cosplay this year
 

 

The new C-Class 
 


Taking the new C-Class for a test drive last Sunday. Verdict: I love it. Click image to read more of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The new C-Class is pretty awesome!!! I recently did a test drive and it’s one of the best cars I’ve driven this year *hands down* Even the royal blue colour that I test drove was excellent. My old car was a C180 back then but that was history. Fast forward 15 years later, the C180 now is much more transformed car.

The all-new C-Class is 100 kilos lighter and provides better aerodynamic and new economical engine. Of course, safety has been the priority of Mercedes-Benz and they are of high standard.

I kinda enjoyed the suspension while giving it a quick drive along the bump stretched road and the car does speak for itself. It’s also one of the most innovative luxury car to date.

In terms of appearance the new C-Class adopts a progressive approach with its clear yet emotional design and its high-class interior.

To me, it’s the best C-Class design from previous models. It’s very striking with a dynamic design Those who own this car will have an emotional feel to it and you will be impressed with the technology and its engineering.

It’s quite spacious as well and the interior feels luxurious and sporty at the same time. There have been quite a few interested parties as well for this car and I won’t be surprised that this model will sell quite well in Brunei.

You want to read the new C-Class in full details, you can click here. You can also drop by Jati Transport in Beribi to find out more about the C-Class (standard, AMG and the 250).

 


Driving like a bawse
 


A great ride indeed.. I can’t wait to further test drive the car
 


Love the colour of the C-Class
 


This is the C-Class 250 which was sold already. My brother was too late :p
 


Public viewing at Jati Transport
 


The public getting a sneak peak of the new C-Class
 


Taking a photo opportunity with the new General Manager of Jati Transport, Alfred So and of course, my brother who is eyeing on the Mercedes-Benz GLA
 

  
 

01
Sep

Chris puts Brunei on the map

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News

 

Wooed by Chris 
 


Chris Woo being interviewed after the finals of Toastmasters International Speech in Kuala Lumpur two Saturdays ago

Recently, close to two thousand Toastmasters from around the world met at the prestigious Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. For the first time in its history, Toastmasters International had organised its annual International Convention outside North America. Toastmasters International is a non-profit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through practical hands-on experiences.

More than 30,000 people from 126 countries compete each year in the prestigious and soul-stirring World Championship of Public Speaking. Chris Woo has reached this milestone by reaching the finals of the World Championship of Public Speaking. He is the first Toastmaster from Brunei Darussalam as well as from Toastmasters’ district 87 (which consists of Brunei Darussalam, East Malaysia and Indonesia) to reach the semi-finals of the contest. His speech entitled, ‘Listen’ took the stage and Chris Woo prevailed in one of nine semi-final rounds and competed as a finalist in the World Championship of Public Speaking. Criteria used in judging includes speech content, originality, organization, voice quality and body language.

Chris Woo, representing Brunei Darussalam and Toastmasters’ district 87 received standing ovations for his heart-felt speech in the finals. After several months of elimination process through club, area, district and semi-final competitions, Chris Woo is the first Toastmaster in Brunei Darussalam and District 87 to compete in the World Championship of Public Speaking.

Toastmasters from Brunei Darussalam have also participated in the convention to learn from world class public speakers, and network with like-minded people. One of the keynote speakers, Robin Sieger, a former Head of Development at BBC Television and the author of the best-selling book ‘Natural Born Winners’, shared with everyone how people can create true success in life. Other prestigious international speakers were Jana Barnhill, Mark Brown, Douglas Kruger, Lance Miller, Florian Mueck and Rory Vaden, who have all established well-renowned careers in leading and inspiring people.

The annual Toastmasters International Convention in Kuala Lumpur have inspired all who attended to become better public speakers and leaders in today’s world. For further information on Toastmasters in Brunei Darussalam, please visit www.bruneispeakersclub.com. Press courtesy of Brunei Speakers Club.

My experience: It was such a great exposure for me even as a spectator, to see people expressing their thoughts and sharing meaningful stories with conviction and enthusiasm. I’ve learnt so much about public speaking and we just don’t simply say it, we have to deliver in an impactful way to get the message across. I always thought that I can speak quite well in public but I realised that there is so much to learn and I’m still far behind on being a proficient speaker. This can be learned and it takes practice, practice and more practice.

The Toastmasters International Convention 2014 meet in KL was definitely worth the trip and I doubt it will make to Asia again as it is usually held in North America. And of course, most of the toastmasters from Brunei came to support our very own toastmaster Chris Woo whom I look up to as a role model for public speaking. His spontaneity and vocal variety, to me, are his strength and whenever he speaks, he is able to to draw the audience to his attention.

Of course, the other great part about the trip was the closer bond that we had among Brunei toastmasters from Brunei Speakers’ Club, Otters Club (Seria) and Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club. Around 17 of us traveled to Kuala Lumpur to attend the convention. Thank you, peeps, for everything and this experience lists in my top ten of 2014. Awesome!!!

 


District 87 where our country Brunei is part of it. Other countries sharing the same district are Indonesia and East Malaysia.
 


Ladies represent
 


I’m proud of you dude for making to the semi-finals but for you to win the semi-finals was simply amazing!!
 


Seng Yee and I supporting Chris Woo during the finals of the International Speech Contest
 


Will I be up here one day? *lol* Keep dreaming, Rano
 


One of the speakers, Rory Vadan that made a huge impact with three words – Take the Stairs
 


Representing District 87 and it was nice to see you again, Fern
 


Zainal, Hazwan and I had fun during the Toastmasters International Convention 2014
 


I was honoured to play the timer role at Maxis Toastmasters Club
 


Tons of Toastmasters International goodies and merchandise on sale at Kuala Lumpur
 


Hmmmm… I realised how easy it was to buy the pin badges of Toastmasters
 


Girl bonding in Kuala Lumpur
 


The backbone of Toastmasters from Brunei and Brunei Speakers’ Club
 


Chris Woo as a special guest at Elizabeth’s Timeout with Liz 1st anniversary show last Saturday
 

Brunei Speakers’ Club 

Now you might be wondering how to be part of toastmasters – an avenue where you enrich your speaking skills and building up the confidence in you. I was a former member of Brunei Speakers’ Club back in 2011 and I only lasted a few months before disappearing and this year, I have made a comeback and one reason is to contribute, to contribute my knowledge and experience to other members and guests and also to learn from the members and guests during our weekly meetings at Seameo Voctech (Tuesday evenings).

Brunei Speakers’ Club is a great avenue to learn all these tools of being a public speaker and it’s the best place to start because the community is quite allowing and welcoming. There are no judgment (only positive criticism) and we are able to grow faster through encouragement and experience. I have always have concerned about showing my weaknesses as a speaker because I don’t like to be analysed or being advised on what I should improve. Well, that was my ego speaking for a long time and it’s never easy to break that wall. Now I’ve embraced my weakness and I can only go upwards from here. A big thanks for Seng Yee for that minor push and also to the other members of BSC. My vision is here to contribute in any possible means (doesn’t have to be monetary) to make a difference and this is one channel where I believe you can benefit as well.

If you want to know more about toastmasters, you can drop me a message here or you can email me directly if you shy to ask them ranoadidas(8)gmail and of course, you can check out their Facebook Page and also their main website which have updates on weekly meetings so you will be able to get that feel. I can guarantee you that you will have a great time during the meetings and I have also invited a few of my friends to show up for the meeting. You are more than welcome to come as a guest and it starts every Tuesday from 7:30pm to 9:30pm at Seameo Voctech (Gadong). I shall be there tomorrow evening too 😀

 


Last Tuesday’s meeting at Seameo Voctech for Brunei Speakers’ Club. You are more than welcomed to be part as a guest to learn observe and learn 😀
 


Chris Woo and Shawn Narcis having a laugh
 


I finally did my second prepared speech and it was about my journey as a toastmasters 😀
 


Ching is a great supporter of our club and he is an executive committee for Otters Club
 


It’s not just about learning but we also can have some fun along the way
 


Gary (in blue) given a task during Table Topics
 


A great environment to be at
 


Clovis Lai, the man that made it possible for Brunei Speakers’ Club
 


Stuart Lee, the President of Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club, contributing continuously to BSC
 


Seng Yee playing the role as General Evaluator
 


Standing ovation for Chris from the members and guests on his achievements at Toastmasters International Speech Contest in Kuala Lumpur recently

31
Aug

DPMM FC beat Tanjong Pagar

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in DPMM FC, News

 

Tosi steals all 3 points 
 


Tosi scoring the winner in the 90th minute through a penalty. Image courtesy of S•League
DPMM FC go five points clear at the top of the Singapore League (S-League) heading into the third round after a 2-1 comeback victory over Tanjong Pagar United FC last night.

Rodrigo Tosi converted a penalty four minutes into injury time to claim all three points for the Brunei side.

The Brazilian bagged a brace for DPMM FC in the victory, bringing his tally to a league-leading 20 goals, one up on Kazuki Sakamoto of Albirex Niigata (S) FC.

The triumph puts DPMM FC on 46 points from 22 matches, followed by Warriors FC with 41 points.

According to updates on the S-League facebook page, Tanjong Pagar took the lead in the 22nd minute after Kamel Ramdadi fired the ball into the bottom corner at the Queenstown Stadium in Singapore. Roy O’Donovan was brought down in the penalty box four minutes later but the offence was waved off by the referee.

DPMM FC almost equalised in the 33rd minute but Tanjong Pagar goalkeeper Aurelien Herisson managed to tipped the ball over the bar.

O’Donovan was taken off at halftime to make way for Shahrazen Said.

DPMM FC were putting plenty of pressure on offence but Herisson replied with impressive saves.

Brunei’s only professional team finally equalised in the 61st minute after Tosi rose the highest to head home a corner.

Adi Said almost gave DPMM FC the lead five minutes later but saw his header go over the crossbar.

Herrison was kept busy and once again came to the rescue of Tanjong Pagar in the 86th minute but he ultimately failed to keep his team level in the dying moments of the match. The other game saw Harimau Muda B (Malaysia national under-21 football team) steal a 1-1 draw against Woodlands Wellington FC at the Woodlands Stadium in Singapore. Andy Ahmad broke the deadlock for Woodlands in the 54th minute after tapping in the ball.

It looked like they were heading home with all three points before Syafwan Sahlan netted for Harimau Muda in the 88th minute.

The competition continues on Tuesday with Hougang United FC hosting Harimau Muda at the Hougang Stadium in Singapore. Hougang United are on 33 points and require only a point out of the match to be in the top half heading into the split round. Balestier Khalsa FC, who are on 30 points but with a better goal difference, will need the Malaysians to win to keep their hopes alive. They will also need to beat Harimau Muda at the Pasir Gudang Stadium in Johor on Friday to seal their berth.

Three-time defending champions Tampines Rovers, Warriors FC, Home United FC and Albirex Niigata (S) FC are all joining DPMM FC in the top half for the next round. Text courtesy of Yee Chun Leong of The Brunei Times.

 

The highlights between Tanjong Pagar United FC and DPMM FC. The video quality is poor by the way.

DPMM FC visit IGS 

 


DPMM FC management and players with IGS management and teachers during DPMM FC’s visit to IGS College last Thursday


Steve Kean, head coach of DPMM FC






 

30
Aug

Disconnect to connect

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News

 

New C-Class 
 


Visit the Jati Transport (Mercedes-Benz) showroom from 10am to 6pm to view the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class
 

  
 

The Popcorn Panel 
 

Our podcast review of Yasmine the movie with my special guest Seng Yee. This podcast has reached more than 700 listeners. Do catch Yasmine at your local cinemas and it has been a great response from the public.

 

  
 

BIBD’s latest promo 
 


Top up tia. Click image to enter website.
 

  
 

Fitflop available in Hua Ho 
 


The closing date is soon!! Hurry!!!

Awesome. To know that Fitflop is now available in Brunei Darussalam. You can purchase them at Hua Ho Manggis and Hua Ho Yayasan. Two days ago, the Fitflop brand was launched at the Emperor’s Court. Present during the launch were British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam David Campbell, Fitflop General Manager for APAC (Asia-Pacific) Juergen Strafe, Director McGill and Fitflop distributor in Brunei Darussalam and Manager of Hua Ho Manggis, Soon Tiong Lau.

I know my mom loves to buy Fitflop and also buying for her family and friends especially from Singapore. So what’s good about Fitflop? It has style and it has comfort. Every pair biomechanically engineered with their legendary, pressure-diffusing, shock-absorbing MICROWOBBLEBOARD midsole technology which makes a lot of difference. Their previous SS14 collection have been doing marvelous with sales increased over 50% and now with the new collection, it’s bound to do better.

So peeps, do visit Hua Ho Manggis and Hua Ho Yayasan for the latest collection pairs of Fitflop. By the way, Fitflop only carries women’s line for now.

 


Juergen Strafe, Fitflop General Manager for APAC (Asia-Pacific) posing with a Fitflop sandal
 


British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam David Campbell with invited guests during the launch
 


McGill and Juergen Strafe
 


Group photo with the Hua Ho Manggis management
 


 


Get a pair of Fitflop 😀
 


Soon Tiong mingling with the guests
 


 


 


 


 

 

Iconia Tab 7 
 


Now available at Concepts Computer
 

  
 

BIBD financial talk 
 


BIBD’s Wealth Management Unit Officer, Rozielawati bti Hj Jamil, conducting the financial talk to civil servants

Early this week, BIBD’s Wealth Management Unit (WMU) today, as part of its goal to help the public understand their finances and manage it wisely, held a briefing to around 50 new officers and staff of the departments under the Ministry of Development.

The talk was held at the Indera Pahlawan Hall of the Ministry, and was delivered by BIBD’s WMU Officer, Rozielawati bti Hj Jamil. She began by giving a brief introduction of what Financial Planning is and asked the audiences about their monthly spending pattern. After sharing a few tips and personal experiences, she emphasized the importance of understanding the difference between ‘wants’ and ‘needs’. An example of ‘needs’, is giving priority to purchasing groceries and household necessities while shopping; as a result, it may help us to save money from buying items that are not urgently required.

She also introduced another tool in financial planning i.e investment and advises the audience not to invest without understanding and analyzing the investment products first, or putting ‘all eggs in one basket’, meaning not diversifying the investment into different portfolios; which can help generate different returns depending on their future plans such as for retirement, financing children education and getting a dream home.

She also highlighted not to be a victim of the Ponzi scheme, an investment of unknown source, or any investment products from companies that are not registered with Brunei’s central bank regulatory, the Authority Monetary of Brunei Darussalam.

For further information relating to the Wealth Management Unit, interested members of the public may contact them directly at wmu@bibd.com.bn or call the BIBD Contact Centre at +6732 2238 181.

 


Group photo after the seminar
 

  
 

30
Aug

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in Events & Promotions

Sheer attraction

The all-new C-Class heralds a new chapter in the Mercedes-Benz success story and sets new standards in the premium medium-size category. Thanks to an intelligent lightweight-design concept boasting weight savings of up to 100 kilograms, excellent aerodynamics and new economical engines, the C-Class establishes new efficiency benchmarks in its segment. A host of new assistance systems offers safety of the highest standard, while a new optional air-sprung suspension provides for exemplary ride and driving comfort as well as nimble and agile handling. In terms of appearance the new C-Class adopts a progressive approach with its clear yet emotional design and its high-class interior. Many other innovations and equipment features underscore the Saloon’s energising comfort and refined sportiness. In all, the high-class appeal of the new C-Class feels like an “upgrade to a higher class of vehicle”.

 


The new C-Class offers sensuous and clear design and a host of technical innovations as well as a comprehensive scope of standard equipment and exemplary emissions and fuel consumption figures. This all adds up to substantial added value and long-term savings on motor vehicle tax and at the filling station. . .

The C-Class has grown to take account of people’s increasing average height. With an 80-millimetre increase in the wheelbase (2840 millimetres) compared with the previous model, the vehicle is 95 millimetres longer (4686 milli­metres) and 40 millimetres wider (1810 millimetres). The result is a more spacious interior. At 480 litres the new C-Class also surpasses its predecessor in terms of boot capacity (in accordance with ISO 3832).

The C-Class has grown to take account of people’s increasing average height. With an 80-millimetre increase in the wheelbase (2840 millimetres) compared with the previous model, the vehicle is 95 millimetres longer (4686 milli­metres) and 40 millimetres wider (1810 millimetres). The result is a more spacious interior. At 480 litres the new C-Class also surpasses its predecessor in terms of boot capacity (in accordance with ISO 3832).

Sensuous clarity and purist forms

On a visual level, the new C-Class represents a bold departure from its predecessor. Its striking, dynamic design exudes sensuous clarity and arouses emotions. Modern aesthetics were the source of inspiration for the new Saloon’s sensuous lines and surfaces, whose harmony and dynamism directly touch everyone. The designers have created minimalist, purist forms for the C-Class which emphasise its intelligent technology and engineering. The clearly defined surfaces also deliberately display a degree of tension, lending them a modern and at the same time emotional character. Precise lines and sculptural surfaces create progressive light and shadow effects.

In the side view a long bonnet, a passenger compartment set well back and short overhangs define the C-Class’s classic, well-balanced Mercedes-Benz Saloon proportions.

There is a choice of two different fronts: sporty with a central star or – reserved solely for the EXCLUSIVE line – the classic Saloon radiator grille with the Mercedes star on the bonnet. This grille can close the louvres completely to optimise the Cd value, and with its overall appearance superbly emphasises the status of the refined Saloon.

The new C-Class comes with the “LED Intelligent Light System”. The characteristic of the headlights design lends the new C-Class its very own distinctive look in the dark, too. The rear lamp and brake light in the tail lamps feature LED technology with all headlamp versions.

 


High-class interior with fine details

The Mercedes-Benz designers have styled the interior on a level which is rarely encountered even in higher vehicle categories. This applies to the carefully chosen high-class materials and their pleasant touch and feel as well as to the precision of the finely crafted details. But also equally to a new design idiom which perfectly combines sensuousness and clarity with dynamic sportiness, and thus contributes to the high-class appeal of the interior.

The driver and front passenger enjoy a great deal of space and luxury in an unobtrusive, modern style on board the new C-Class. This gives rise to a feel-good atmosphere which is new to this category of vehicle – settling into your seat in the C-Class is akin to the uplifting feeling of being upgraded from economy to business class on an airliner.

The interior design demonstrates a bold new approach by Mercedes-Benz. Here the designers combine in accomplished style the architecture of the Mercedes-Benz sports cars with a totally new centre console featuring sporty flowing lines. In vehicles with automatic transmission, a large one-piece centre console panel performs an elegant sweep from the centre air vents to the armrest. These seamless, clear-cut lines create a sense of open space and convey a thrillingly purist and modern feel.

On vehicles with manual transmission, the centre console is slightly steeper and features two separate trim elements in order to create ample space for ergonomic operation of the shift lever.

A centrally positioned free-standing central display is the main eye-catching feature across the centre console – with a screen diagonal of 17.78 centimetres (7 inches), or 21.33 centimetres (8.4 inches) if COMAND Online is specified.

Five round air vents lend the instrument panel a sporty touch. With their metallic cool-touch effect they create a tangible contrast to the warm look of the other materials – such as the wood in the centre console or the ARTICO man-made leather on the instrument panel. The “upgrade” feel duly continues with the controls. All switches have a high-quality, three-dimensional design befitting a luxury vehicle and benefit from a clear layout.

The innovative touchpad developed by Mercedes-Benz in the handrest above the controller on the centre tunnel marks a further evolutionary step. As on a smartphone, this provides for very simple and intuitive operation of all the head-unit functions using finger gestures.

The touchpad also permits letters, numbers and special characters to be entered in handwriting – in any language supported by Audio 20 or COMAND Online. The user receives clear tactile feedback when operating the touchpad’s control surface, which is highly conducive to genuine intuitive use.

A head-up display is also new to the C-Class. Like in a fighter jet, it displays important information directly in the driver’s field of vision on the front windscreen, thus providing for clear legibility and less distraction from the road ahead. The system provides information on speed, posted speed limits, navigation instructions and messages from the DISTRONIC system.

Three different design and equipment lines for the exterior and interior each offer further scope for individualisation in addition to the standard equipment and appointments. The AVANTGARDE line showcases the C-Class as a sporty Saloon, the EXCLUSIVE line places the emphasis on an elevated status and modern luxury while the AMG Line lends the C-Class a decidedly sporty appearance.



Rigid body – lightly done

The body-in-white of the new C-Class provides an innovative basis for reduced weight, outstanding rigidity, including load introduction rigidity for excellent handling, combined with optimum noise and vibration characteristics and a high level of crash safety. Thanks to intelligent and innovative lightweight construction, the aluminium hybrid body is around 70 kg lighter than a conventional steel body. The vehicle’s overall weight is even reduced by up to 100 kilograms. As such, the new C-Class leads the “lightweight rankings” in its segment. This spawns numerous benefits: the lightweight construction of the new C-Class cuts fuel consumption by up to 20 percent without any loss of performance, while at the same time enabling a lower centre of gravity, which in turn gives rise to the vehicle’s noticeably sporty and agile handling.

Mercedes-Benz achieves this technological leap in lightweight construction by various measures, including a completely new design and an unusually high aluminium content for a vehicle built in large-scale series production. Compared with the successful predecessor, the aluminium content has increased from less than 10 percent to almost 50 percent.

In keeping with Mercedes-Benz traditions, the body shell is designed for exemplary crash safety. The Saloon not only meets all current national and international laws, but also all rating requirements as well as the more stringent internal Mercedes-Benz safety requirements, which are based on what actually happens in real-life accidents.

A high-strength passenger safety cell forms the core of this concept. It is surrounded by specifically computed and field-tested deformation zones, which ensure maximum safety for the occupants by virtue of optimised force paths and a combination of die-cast aluminium components and ultra-high-strength materials. An outer skin consisting almost completely of aluminium provides a protective shell for the body structure.

 

BlueDIRECT petrol engines with third-generation direct injection

Four-cylinder petrol engines with power outputs ranging from 115 to 180 kW (156 to 245 hp) will also be available. These include the C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Edition special model, which qualifies for efficiency class A. A six-cylinder petrol engine rated at 245 kW (333 hp) will follow in due course.

The BlueDIRECT four-cylinder petrol engines of the C-Class combine spontaneous response and exemplary power delivery with high efficiency and best-in-class emissions. To this end, Mercedes-Benz has transferred the BlueDIRECT technology from the V6 and V8 engines to the four-cylinder engine. The direct injection system with spray-guided combustion, first introduced into passenger-car series production by Mercedes-Benz, employs an electronically controlled precision multiple injection process. The third-generation direct injection technology is complemented by “fast multiple ignition”.

Suspension – sporty yet comfortable

The suspension on the new C-Class is a totally new development. It provides for nimble and agile handling that makes driving a great pleasure on winding roads while also offering the highest standard of ride comfort in the segment.

A newly designed 4-link front axle plays a major part in the agile handling characteristics. Thanks to the 4-link principle, the wheel suspension is fully decoupled from the spring strut. The resultant favourable axle kinematics allow more grip and higher cornering forces. As a result, the suspension responds more sensitively to steering movements and allows a sporty, agile driving style. An optimised multi-link independent rear suspension with 5links ensures unsurpassed wheel location qualities and supreme straight-line stability.

The new C-Class Saloon is fitted as standard with a steel suspension. Three DIRECT CONTROL suspensions with selective damping system are available in conjunction with this suspension:

• a comfort suspension

• a comfortable Avantgarde suspension lowered by 15 millimetres

• a sports suspension lowered by 15 millimetres


 

Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive: the intelligent car

It is the declared aim of Mercedes-Benz to make the highest standard of safety available to everyone. To this end, the new C-Class incorporates almost all of the new assistance systems with a host of enhanced functions which celebrated their world premiere in the S-Class and E-Class. The assistance systems enhance both comfort and safety. Mercedes-Benz calls this Intelligent Drive.

The new C-Class offers numerous innovative safety and assistance systems. It is equipped as standard with ATTENTION ASSIST, which can warn the driver of inattentiveness and fatigue. On motorways the COMAND Online navigation function offers nearby break options as stopovers, providing the system has been specified in the vehicle. The ATTENTION ASSIST function offers an adjustable level of sensitivity and can inform drivers in a separate view in the instrument cluster about their level of drowsiness and how long they have been driving since their last break.

In addition to Adaptive Brake Assist, which offers protection from collisions from speeds as low as 7 km/h, standard-fit COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS also features an additional function: when the risk of collision persists and the driver fails to respond, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 200 km/h, thereby reducing the severity of collisions with slower or stopping vehicles. The system also brakes in response to stationary vehicles at a speed of up to 50 km/h, and is able to prevent rear-end collisions at up to 40 km/h.

In addition, new assistance systems and existing assistance systems with significantly enhanced functions from the new S-Class and E-Class are also optionally available, combining data from various sensor technologies as part of the Intelligent Drive concept to substantially enhance comfort and safety:

DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist and integrated Stop&Go Pilot is a semi-autonomous Stop-and-Go assist system, which in addition to using the lane markings is able to follow the vehicle ahead at speeds below 60 km/h, thus providing a safe and convenient means of following the flow of traffic.

BAS PLUS Brake Assist can now also detect crossing traffic and boost the braking force if the driver fails to apply the brakes sufficiently; the PRE-SAFE® Brake can detect stationary vehicles and even pedestrians, brake autonomously if the driver fails to react and thus prevent accidents at speeds of up 50 km/h and mitigate the severity of collisions at speeds of up to 72 km/h. In flowing traffic the PRE-SAFE® Brake provides assistance according to the same mode of operation throughout the speed range from 7 to 200 km/h.

Enhanced Active Lane Keeping Assist can now also prevent the vehicle from unintentionally drifting out of lane by applying the brakes on one side when the lane markings are broken and there is a risk of collision, e.g. as a result of vehicles overtaking at high speed, parallel traffic or even oncoming traffic.

The numerous assistance systems also include

• Active Parking Assist, which enables automated parking with active steering and brake intervention in both parallel and end-on parking spaces,

• a 360° camera, which is able to show the vehicle and its surroundings from various perspectives, including a virtual bird’s-eye view,

• Traffic Sign Assist with wrong-way warning function, which warns of speed limits and alerts the driver to no-overtaking zones and no-entry signs, as well as

• Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, which allows the high-beam headlamps to be kept on permanently without dazzling traffic by masking out other vehicles in the light cone of the high-beam headlamps.


 

 

Air conditioning: signals from space

Mercedes-Benz has systematically advanced and substantially improved the air conditioning system in the new C-Class. This applies in particular to the control quality, performance, efficiency and air quality. The new C-Class is also the only vehicle in the segment to offer tunnel detection via satellite navigation. It uses map data from the navigation system and the GPS location data to close the air-recirculation flap automatically when the vehicle enters a tunnel, subsequently re-opening it when the vehicle emerges from the tunnel.

Another highlight contributing to a feel-good atmosphere is the AIR-BALANCE package with active fragrancing, air ionisation and more efficient filtration than is available on the base model.

28
Aug

Ignite your ideas

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News

 

Ignite your ideas 

 


Click image to find out more

Been there, done that. And yes, it was a great experience and you can only get better and better when you participate in this kind of competition. Sometimes it’s not about winning the competition but to fully test your capabilities, your resounding ideas, your vision, your marketing plan and so on. It has been two years since I joined the competition and I don’t intend to this time round. But this is the best way to spearhead your dream or your venture into the business world with your creative ideas.

So it’s good to see the competition is back year after year and the standard gets a big tougher too. The great thing about iCentre’s 2014 IGNITE Entrepreneurship Challenge is that they provide bootcamps, workshops and mentoring sessions which was highlighted by Brian Koh, Director of NUS Enterprise & KR Consulting. I mean, where else can you get all these benefits that can guide you and it’s free *lol*

The launch of the 2014 IGNITE Entrepreneurship Challenge took place last Tuesday and the guest of honour was Dr. Haji Abdul Manaf Hj Metussin, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister’s Office and CEO of Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB).

It seems like a long time indeed as this competition was first introduced back in 2008 under the name of THiNKBIG Business Plan. You will see that some of the winners of the past competition have used this platform to make their ideas into reality namely Malppy, Social Deal and DotRoot Technologies. Sometimes the winning ideas may not translate into success but it will spur on other ideas and Keeran the founder of Expansys and MeSixty showed that success doesn’t really mean on just building one idea. He is now on a great journey as a “technopreneur” where his latest project Chrends is now based in the Silicon Valley (my kinda of dream that has faded years ago).


Dr. Haji Abdul Manaf Hj Metussin, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister’s Office and CEO of Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB). Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.


Dr. Haji Abdul Manaf Hj Metussin receiving memento from Brian Koh


Asri Razak, Corporate Communication of iCentre briefed through the guidelines of IGNITE

Ladies and gentlemen, don’t wait. Do take this opportunity and you will have nothing to lose. I don’t mind to mentor if you need some help especially when it comes to presentation. Content wise, I might be a bit weak especially on the financial side.

Anyway, below are some of the guidelines that you might need to be aware of if you plan to join the competition.

1) Submit your EXECUTIVE SUMMARY by 28th September through ignite.icentre.biz website

2) Bootcamps on 10th and 11th of October and 17th and 18th of October (teaches you on team make up, financial soundness, investment and quality of presentation.

3) Final submission of business plan – 9th November 2014.

4) Award presentation will be 26th November 2014.

 


So that’s just a brief run down of what to expect from this year’s competition. As for the prizes, refer to the categories available.

ICT Open Business Plan Category

• 1st Prize will be awarded BND$20,000

• 2nd Prize will be awarded BND$10,000

• 3rd Prize will be awarded BND$5,000

College and University Category

• 1st Prize College category will be awarded BND$4,000

• 2nd Prize College category will be awarded BND$2,000

• 3rd Prize College category will be awarded BND$1,000

International Category

• 1st Prize International category will be awarded BND$8,000

• 2 Consolation winners will be awarded BND$1,000

Most Innovative Award

• Special Price will be awarded up to BND$5,000


Ambrose Nathan and Pg Aki were among the invited guests during the launch and later on, iCentre hosted open house


iCentre open house last Tuesday


Representing the associates of iCentre


Kebab was sold out

  

29
Aug

7 weeks

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in News, Uncategorized

 

Registration ends this Sunday 
 


The closing date is soon!! Hurry!!! click image to check out Facebook page.

It’s good to see such sporting events done by educational institution. I’ve seen Business School coming up with one last year if I’m not mistaken. Previous years, I remember UBD had a small run event as well. The event that I’m gonna blog about now is a running event done in a bigger scale and championed by Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD).

A few days ago, a “Green Pledge” was conducted at the UBD Campus as a curtain raiser for the UBD Green Run 2014 happening on 14th September 2014. The idea of the pledge is to raise awareness on UBD’s green initiative.

There was a short welcoming remarks by Dr Mohd Ayub Sadiq, UBD Assistant Vice Chancellor, who pledged to two things to raise awareness on green. Firstly, he will walk around the campus of UBD instead of driving back and forth and secondly, he will set his air condition to 28 degrees in his room. Both pledges he made will be carried out until the 14th September. He thanked all the sponsors and supporters involved – Armtrix Enterprise, Fitness Zone, Plus Magazine, Rentokil, Maju LSK Sdn Bhd, Greencity Concept Sdn Bhd and Goh Hock Kee Motors.

He praised the likes of Persatuan Mahasiswa UBD (PMUBD) and Alumni Guild for their close collaboration and support in organising the UBD Green Run and also not forgetting the all committee members and the 120 volunteers of the UBD Green Run 2014 for their unwavering support to host the UBD Campus Green Pledge.

The closing date for the UBD Green Run 2014 is Sunday 31st August 2014.

For more updates, do check out their instagram handle @ubdgreenrun or hashtag #ubdgreenrun or also their Facebook page.

 


Dr Mohd Ayub Sadiq, UBD Assistant Vice Chancellor with the organising committee and sponsors during the UBD Green Pledge last Wednesday
 


Dr Mohd Ayub Sadiq pledged to walk around the campus and also set his air-condition to 29 degrees
 


Students and the public signing pledges
 


Dr Mohd Ayub Sadiq signing his pledge
 


 


 


 


 


 


 


Have you signed yours?
 


Payment for the registration of the UBD Green Run. Do take note!!
 

  
Obstacle Challenge in Sept 
 


RBAF Obstacle Course Challenge 2014

The Royal Brunei Armed Forces will be organising RBAF Obstacle Course Challenge 2014 which will be happening on 28th September 2014. This is the first of its kind and I was wondering myself when will Brunei come up with an obstacle race just like how Singapore has been conducting for the past few years. So it’s really good to see that such sporting event is being held in Brunei and I’m pretty sure the interest will be high. Furthermore, after posting the image on my instagram, there have been tons of tags and mentions to spread the awareness among their friends. So that’s a good sign to see the high level of interest on obstacle challenge race.

The venue of the event will be at Royal Brunei Air Force, Rimba from 0630 hours to 1200 hours. The distance for men will be 10km with 9 obstacles and the distance for women will be 5km with 4 obstacles. The registration fee will be $50 for public and $30 for RBAF personnel.

The registration form can be retrieved at all RBAF gyms or you can contact Major Sufian bin Hj Mohammad Yassin 8982 066 for more details. This is the information that I have for now. I shall keep you posted on other materials soon.

 


RBAF Obstacle Course Challenge 2014
 

  
 

28
Aug

The landslide victory

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in DPMM FC, News

 

DPMM FC set the benchmark 
 

 

Highlights of DPMM FC vs Woodlands Wellington FC

 

All they needed was three points. A two or three goal victory would have suffice. I didn’t expect DPMM FC to steamroll pass Woodlands Wellington with such ease. I’m not too sure if this is the biggest score line for DPMM FC or the S•League this season as they humiliated the visitors with a 8-1 score line last Tuesday.

The result meant that DPMM FC are confirmed to be playing in the 3rd round of the S•League which I still think is kinda of a weird format. They could have just let it be for two rounds (home and away) like any other league. So regardless whether DPMM FC top the league, it doesn’t mean that they won the championship. They will still have to face the top clubs in the third round to determine the champions of the S•League.

Adi Said was again on the score sheet as he grabbed a brace. That makes it 5 goals as in many games for Adi Said and it was good to see Steve Kean fielding all top forwards – Roy O’Donovan, Rodrigo Tosi and Adi Said. They all scored five goals among them and now Tosi has leading the scoring charts with Albirex Niigata’s Kazuki Sakamoto.

Now DPMM FC have one match remaining this Saturday as they take on Tanjong Pagar in Singapore. Regardless of the outcome for the last match of the second round, DPMM FC will remain in the summit of the S•League which accounts for nothing as the top six teams will be vying for the championship.

Steve Kean shared that DPMM FC were quite ruthless upfront and it’s a message to the rest of the title contenders. He was happy with the goals and it could have been more if it wasn’t for the heroics of Woodlands’ Ahmadulhaq (in goal). However, Kean was slightly disappointed that DPMM FC didn’t walk away with a clean sheet. He also praised that back line as they played as a unit compared to previous matches.

Will DPMM FC carry their momentum this Saturday against Tanjong Pagar in Singapore? We shall wait and see. Images courtesy of Sapyri.

 


Adi Said scored twice last Tuesday. Will he ever stop scoring?
 


It was nice to see DPMM FC striking a Yasmine pose after scoring a goal
 


Another Yasmine pose during the goal celebration
 


Boris scoring from a corner. It’s nice to see goals coming from different players.
 


The fans that turned up last Tuesday and it wasn’t such a big turn out after the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy event
 


Roy O’Donovan was back from suspension and scored twice
 

  
 

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