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Al-Fatihah
I’m still shocked by the news. One of our clique (SuperFriends) passed away in Brisbane two days ago. Allahyarham Awang Muhammad Syahmi bin Hj Abdullah aka Kimi, 28, passed away while playing football with his friends in Brisbane. He was a student in QUT. My deepest condolences to Jeng and his family on the huge loss. He was such a funny and down to earth friend. I dedicated this post to Kimi and I won’t be posting any stories today. Al-Fatihah
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DPMM FC vs Woodlands Wellington tonight
Let’s not take the lead for granted. DPMM FC can increase the gap to four points should they bag all three points tonight against Woodlands Wellington. So far the visitors are ranked 10th in the 12 team league and on paper, DPMM FC must grab all three points.
There are only two more games left before they proceed to the third round. So it’s best that they avoid any slip ups and end of a high positive note in the second round of the S•League.
Tampines Rovers FC had the chance to overtake DPMM FC last night but only managed a 2-2 draw against Albirex Niigata FC. DPMM FC won’t be taking Woodlands very lightly.
Steve Kean shared that the team has been training vey hard and hope they won’t be any individual errors.
It’s good to know that Roy O’Donovan and captain Rosmin Kamis will be back from suspension though Joe Gamble will be missing due to suspense.
Adi Said who has been on hot scoring form will start again and he has been scoring for DPMM FC for the last three matches.
So do catch DPMM FC vs Woodlands Wellington FC tonight at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium. For your info, the grandstand seating area will not be available and all the tickets will be sold for $5.
DPMM FC training yesterday at Jerudong Mini Stadium. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.
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Unlock your potential
His Majesty the Sultan presenting the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy to Myanmar after they won the tournament, beating Vietnam 4-3 last weekend. The image courtesy of The Brunei Times.
They deserved it. In the group stage, they squashed almost every opponents in their sights but it was a tough road in the finals against Vietnam. The match ended in a 7 goal thriller that I didn’t disappoint the audience who came for the match. It was great to know that His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam was present during the finals of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy 2014 at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.
I wasn’t able to attend the finals of HBT due to my overseas assignment. It was a free entry for the spectators as it has always been for the past few tournaments. However, it was a tough task to get a full house stadium since Brunei was the biggest draw and they failed to reach the semi-finals by merely one goal difference. It was still a huge turnout nonetheless and this shows that football is a universal sport for all regardless of age and gender.
Myanmar were crowned champions of the 5th edition of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy competition following their 4-3 win over Vietnam. Myanmar’s striker Aung struck from 30 metres out to beat Vietnam goalkeeper Lee following a counter attack for the winning championship goal late in the game.
Overall, it was a great tournament and better managed as compared to the previous tournament. There wasn’t much hassle with the ticket issuance as they weren’t any tickets to be issued in the first place apart from the Brunei vs Indonesia match (due to previous experience). Now we will have to wait till 2016 for the next tournament.
Myanmar players in jubilant mood after winning. Image courtesy of Faiq Airudin of The Brunei Times.
The Myanmar supporters last weekend. Image courtesy of Faiq Airudin of The Brunei Times.
Myanmar the champions of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy 2014. Image courtesy of Faiq Airudin of The Brunei Times.
Times Square Wedding Fair lucky draw winners. Image courtesy of Times Square Shopping Centre.
TCY Motors, the sole dealer/importer of the Audi brand in Brunei is set to hold its inaugural Audi Urban Driving Experience which will feature road safety driving tuition and dynamic exercises where drivers will discover what an Audi can do under normal and extreme conditions. Models featured will include the all-new Audi A3 Sedan which was launched recently.
An international Audi Driving Instructor will be invited to conduct the event and ensure utmost safety for participants. Currently this event is only open to Audi owners in the sultanate on a ‘first come first serve’ registration as part of their privilege of owning/driving an Audi.
As part of Audi’s Land of quattro® brand campaign non-audi owners can now be a part of this unique ‘money can’t buy’ experience by simply purchasing movie tickets at the Empire Cinema from this week onwards to enter a lucky draw to win exclusive spots for the driving event in September. In co-operation with Times Cineplex, movie-goers at the Empire cinema in Jerudong will be entitled to a lucky draw form per ticket purchased at the counter.
The closing date of the lucky draw is on 22nd September and a draw to pick a winner will be held subsequently.
Associates of Concepts Computer holding the APACER On-The-Go Flash drives now available at Concepts Computer
With the importance of physical digital storage on the rise in our digital society, Concepts Computer is introducing the next evolution of data storage: On-The-Go Flash Drives. These mobile, reliable and simple storage solutions from APACER, an internationally recognised and multi-award winning data solutions provider, will revolutionize the way data is shared among mobile device users, making sharing easier and faster. 2 models of On-The-Go flash drives will be available from Apacer and Concepts Computer, the APACER AH170 and the APACER AH170. Both the APACER AH170 and AH175 offers great useful storage capacities in a small enclosure for great mobility and secure storage.
The Apacer AH170 comes in a “Striped Candy” motif, making it a fun and cute device to own but is inherently useful when the need to share videos, music and photos between friends and their mobile devices; simply connect the Apacer AH170 to any micro-USB capable Android mobile device, open up your File Manager app and in no time, files can be transferred successfully without the need to connect to computers. But don’t worry, the Apacer AH170 will come with a free USB adapter so data transfer between mobile devices and computers is still possible whenever necessary.
Next is the Apacer AH175, a much more professional storage device, with bi-directional connections, i.e., the availability of both the micro-USB and USB connection without the need for adapters means that the Apacer AH175 is much more directed for the fast-paced business world and its demands. It’s stylish metallic casing exudes a much more professional image and the three years warranty afforded for all Apacer device can make the ownership of an Apacer business ready since there are no worries when it comes to warranty issues. Bringing business up-to-date with data On-The-Go has never been easier and faster.
Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer added, “We know how important the idea of mobility in digital data storage is to our customers, especially with the rise of mobile devices in business environments, so we will work harder to provide a much larger range of great digital storage solutions at the best prices for the consumers of Brunei Darussalam.” Zul continued, “And with that in mind, this is another step for Concepts in providing exciting solutions for the local IT-market. And with the release of these APACER pen drives, customers do not have to choose between reliability, high performance and affordability, it is all available from APACER and Concepts Computer. ”
These APACER AH3170 On-The-Go flash drives will be available in 8GB capacity with 2 colours available in the “Striped Candy” motif at a price of $18. The Apacer AH175 On-The-Go flash drives will priced accordingly: $18 for 8GB, $28 for 16GB, and $38 for 32GB. These APACER pen drives also comes with 3 years limited warranty. Please note that these Apacer On-The-Go flash drives works with micro-USB capable Android 4.1 or Windows OS mobile devices.
For more information on the wide-selection and full-range of storage solutions available at Concepts Computer or to test the demo units for these On-The-Go flash drives on your mobile devices, please visit your nearest Concepts Computer showroom or call 2233551/2233552.
The new On-The-Go Flash drives
The new On-The-Go Flash drives
Times Square Wedding Fair lucky draw winners. Image courtesy of Times Square Shopping Centre.
Times Square Wedding Fair Lucky Draw took place yesterday on Sunday, 24th August 2014 at 4.00 pm. With 18 attractive prizes to be given away, Times Square was filled with a crowd of hopeful winners who participated and visited the booths since the launching of theWedding Exhibition.
Coupon holders were reminded to be present at the Lucky Draw presentation, along with their Identity Cards (IC) as proof of identity and their Coupons. Representatives were allowed, but they must bring along their own ICs, as well as the photocopy IC of the winner along with the original coupon.
The first 13 winners of the draw had to draw their own prizes after they had their name called. The prize presentation was done by the general manager of Times Square, Miss Amal Majidah.
5 dining vouchers worth $10 each from Starlodge, $70 vouchers from Memo Beauty Studio, $50 voucher from Deli France and $100 voucher from Bigfoot were won by Mohammad Arif Bin Awang, Dk Nur Aqilah Nadirah Binti PHM Askandar, Nurnadzirah binti Mohd Jailani, Shahidah Hj Saadi, Muhammad Ali Hanafiah Hj Kahar, Mohd Norhasri Bin Hj Abd Karim, Mahmoud Shiddieqy and Nursyakirah Bte Hj Maizin respectively. P.S. Aisyah bte Pg A. Rosleana, Nurnadzirah binti Mohd Jailani and Shaidatul Izwah Pg Hj Rosley won a Guestbook from Jadeworld. 2 set of hampers from Faceshop went to Lorene Fong and Nurnadzirah binti Mohd Jailani .
The first of the top 4 prizes went to Nurolizzah Hj Saadi and Zafeey Mohammad each won a night accommodation with breakfast from Parkview. Nurul Fahmiah Binti Hj Zanie and Shahnidah Hj Saadi each won a night accommodation with breakfast from Times Hotel with a Jade World Collection Guestbook. Finally, the grand prize of a night accommodation from Ba’diah Hotel, a OKKY white Gold Necklace and a voucher worth $500 from Freshco Banquet Hall was won by Nadia Hj Saadi.
Times Square is also glad to announce that the Wedding Fair was a success and look forward for next year’s wedding fair. Also, there will be several fun events in the near future where there will be an Alien Invasion in September, followed by Chocolate Weekend and Korean Festival in October. Customers may also find out about all upcoming events by visiting tsqbrunei.com or simply following Times Square Shopping Centre’s pages on Facebook and Instagram @timessquarebrunei
For further information, please call 2338208 or 2338006.
Nadia Hj Saadi won the grand prize from the lucky draw – a night accommodation from Ba’diah Hotel, a OKKY white Gold Necklace and a voucher worth $500 from Freshco Banquet Hall
A consolation winner
A consolation winner
A consolation winner
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On or Off?
Our podcast review of Yasmine the movie with my special guest Seng Yee. This podcast has reached more than 400 listeners in just 3 days. Do catch Yasmine at your local cinemas and it has been a great response from the public.
Acer Liquid Smartphones
Sales at Icon Design Store
Click image to enter Peugeot Brunei’s website
Click image to enter Citroën Brunei
Chris Woo accepting the 1st place in the semi-finals of the Toastmasters International Speech contest at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. Chris will compete in the finals against 8 finalists tomorrow (Saturday).
In less than a year, he took our club to another level with his International Speech Contest. Victories after victories, he made it all the way to the semi-finals of the Toastmasters International Speech Contest where he was pitted against 90 contestants, vying for the championship. This year, the event is held for the first time ever outside North America and it is currently being held at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
The stakes were pretty high. As I mentioned before, I had listen to his speech before and he still have to deliver the same speech as that was part of the rules and regulations for every semi-finalists. Chris Woo had to win on the national level, then he went to KK to win on the same speech before heading to Surabaya to win the title of District 87 International Speech Champion which was the ticket for the entry of the Toastmasters International Speech Contest semi-finals stage.
Of course, the stakes were high. He was drawn into Speech 9 where he was pitted against 9 other awesome speakers. Chris was lucky no.7 and wow, I just amazed how he can still draw a stronger vibe than before despite being the same speech about his mother. I was slightly concerned because two or three of other speakers were just as entertaining and captivating. Of course, they must be. They are champions in their respective districts. Ok, for those who don’t understand the word district, well.. it’s just an area where the countries are being listed in that particular district. So in our case, Brunei shared the same district as East Malaysia and Indonesia.
Anyway, what an awesome delivery, Chris!! I knew you nailed it. My neighbours sitting next to me were talking about the speaker from Brunei and our prediction was right. Chris stole the show. The crowd loved it. Our Brunei supporters were equally vibrant and over-excited when Chris Woo’s name was mentioned as the winner of the semi-final contest for Speech 9. The victory meant that Chris will be competing in the finals against 8 other finalists this Saturday (tomorrow).
Honestly, I just so proud that our own member from Brunei Speakers’ Club has made to the finals and founder of Brunei Speakers’ Club, Clovis Lai was the over the moon with the result as he was hugging every one from Brunei and toastmasters from District 87. But wow, Clovis has so much energy that it made him look younger :p I am so glad that I made it on this trip and witnessed a world class performance from toastmaster Chris Woo. The other part that I’m glad was being back as a member of toastmasters in Brunei Speakers’ Club and it boils down to the vibrancy and the new energy that the executive committee and members have brought in into the club. I thanked Seng Yee for the push as well as the other members and of course, my dearest friends who came and supported my first speech ever two weeks ago.
The journey has begun and I’m proud to be on that path in inspiring myself and others.
Chris Woo with other semi-finalists on the stage. The 2nd and 3rd place won’t be competing in the finals
The other contestants were amazing and to see Chris excelled was just purely awesome!!
District K (Brunei, East Malaysia and Indonesia) toastmasters celebrating Chris’ achievement
District K (Brunei, East Malaysia and Indonesia) toastmasters celebrating Chris’ achievement
Chris became man of the hour(s)
Chris Woo with the toastmasters from Brunei who came to support him in KL
Selfies with Chris and Liz
Will this be me in 5 years’ time? *lol*
Click image to learn more about SCB Facebook Scanvenger Hunt 2014
Hey guys, it’s the moment to reveal what I teased you about! Standard Chartered Bank Brunei are launching their first Facebook Scavenger Hunt! It’s a chance for you to take on a virtual adventure and win Apple products and other fun prizes! All you have to do is click on the link and it will direct you to all the information you would need to find out how to win! Good luck hunters!
Happening today and tomorrow (Saturday) as Maju Motors hosting open house and do have a look at the new Volkswagen Tiguan TSI at the Maju Motors Showroom.
The management team of Bruniehalal during the open house recently
BruneiHalal held a Hari Raya open house event at its Jerudong office recently where it shared the joys and celebration of the festive month with its invited guests.
The event, which was the third of its kind organised by the company since its establishment in 2009, saw management and its associates in a laid back atmosphere outside the working environment.
“We have invited our stakeholders, officials from the government sector, Royal Brunei Catering, smaller vendors who have partnered to sell our products and even our neighbours Brunei Gas Carriers,” said Brand Marketing Executive Melline Jaini.
The BruneiHalal brand currently has more than 30 products under its belt, which includes a frozen range and Indian cuisine products.
BruneiHalal was established by the government to run commercial simply to provide halal food and drinks to the world.
“Lately we are reminding ourselves of our focus in Brunei to the local market as well. That’s why our product range has expanded we have over 30 products and in the UK, it is getting traction as well and that one is focusing on the meats,” said Melline.
For more information on BruneiHalal and its product, you can visit brunei-halal.com
Text courtesy of Zatty Joanda of The Brunei Times.
Invited guests during the open house
Goodies from BruneiHalal
Invited guests during the open house. Image courtesy of Cristalina.
Invited guests during the open house
Invited guests during the open house
Well, Brunei might be out of the picture but I believe this will be a great final between Vietnam and Myanmar in the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy 2014. Fantastic prizes to be won as well as the first prize will be EPL tickets for two to catch Arsenal vs Manchester United.
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DPMM FC fought back for a point
The first team line-up for DPMM FC against Balestier Khalsa FC last night
BALESTIER KHALSA FC 3 (Kim Min Ho 3, Goran Ljubojevic 21, 70)
BRUNEI DPMM FC 3 (Adi Said 50, Rodrigo Tosi 65, 73)
Report by REDZWAN KAMARUDIN (Correspondent for rano360.com)
DPMM FC returned to action by coming back from two goals down to snatch a point in a thrilling 3-3 draw with Balestier Khalsa at the Toa Payoh Stadium last night.
The league leaders were clearly missing their captain Rosmin Kamis and marquee signing Roy O’Donovan through suspensions, as the team clearly lacked the hunger and bite in front of goal.
After the match, head coach Steve Kean said he was impressed by how hard his team fought to come back from behind, but admitted his defense could have done better.
He said, “We put too much pressure on ourselves, if we have to score four goals away from home, that’s not good.
“We were slow in the first half, and we conceded poor goals. The back four were quiet and we let ourselves get bullied in the air and in the box.
“When you miss your most experienced player like Bobby it’s difficult because you look to him for guidance and we really missed him tonight.
“We normally score goals, but we’ve got to stop leaking the goals. We’ll need to work on our defensive showing for the future games.”
The Tigers were up 2-0 at half time courtesy of goals from Kim Min Ho and Goran Ljubojevic, but like they’ve done so many times before, they stormed in the second half, and managed to score three goals.
Right after the second half whistle, DPMM came out of the blocks with all guns blazing, with Adi Said, who replaced Awangku Fakhrulrazi at half time, opened the scoring in the 47th minute and Rodrigo Tosi’s looping header in the 65th minute leveled the scores. For Adi, he has bagged 8 goals in 6 games where the last five matches were from his heroic performances in the recent Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy 2014 tournament.
Ljubojevic thought he had sealed all three points for his side after scoring Balestier’s third goal in the 70th minute, but Tosi again denied the home side as he rifled in his second goal of the night, and DPMM’s equalizer just three minutes later.
It was a pity that the game ended with a sending off of Syed Taha of Balestier and Joe Gamble of DPMM FC. This would mean a suspension for Joe Gamble in the next game.
While the result strengthened DPMM’s lead atop the Great-Eastern Yeo’s S.League with 40 points, title rivals and defending champions Tampines Rovers are only two points behind and have a game in hand. They could take over Steve Kean’s charges if they beat Tanjong Pagar tonight.
“I’m pleased that we changed our game from the very first minute of the second half. We could have won the game, but we need to improve our defending. We need to get those clean sheets again.” Kean added.
Photos taken by Alfie Lee of S•League.
Balestier keeper in action
A six goal thriller between Balestier and DPMM FC
Rodrigo Tosi, once again, proving to be a threat upfront for DPMM FC
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Go team Brunei
Our podcast review of Yasmine the movie with my special guest Seng Yee. Find out what is my best scene of the movie. Yasmine will be officially be released on 21st August 2014.
Register now!! Click image to enter.
In conjunction with Royal Brunei Airlines’ 40th Annivesary, Royal Brunei (RB) will be organizing a charity race for the public called the Great Race. The Great Race will take place on Sunday 19th October 2014.
RB has appointed Green Brunei and Brunei Paralympics to be the beneficiaries for the Great Race 2014. The proceeds from The Great Race 2014 will assist Green Brunei to move forward with the Mangrove Rehabilitation Project along the Sungai Damuna at Kg Bengkurong and likewise, Brunei Paralympics with their activities.
In a statement from Aji Puteh, RB Head of Corporate Services cum Chairman of RB: The Great Race, “RB is very pleased to organized the Great Race as an anchor event for RB’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. The appointment of Green Brunei and Brunei Paralympic as the beneficiaries from the proceeds of the Great Race is a way for the airline to give back to the community in terms of support for green and health sports initiatives. It is hoped that The Great Race will be a different experience from other marathons as it is a marathon that challenges and is tailored with an aviation concept.”
RB has appointed Armtrix Enterprise as the Event Manager for the Great Race. Interested participants are able to register RB: The Great Race at thegreatrace.com.bn from today onwards until 19th September 2014 at 11pm. Good luck, peeps and well done for RB for this initiative. This is something different coming from aviation.
Have you got your tickets?
Team Brunei achieved a higher medal count compared to last year with 38 medals overall. They collected 12 gold medals, 13 silver medals and 13 bronze medals. The biggest winner was Shian Li Esther Chiam who is just 15 years old. She won the Junior Grand World Champion Instrumental Award and also collecting 6 six gold medals along the way.
Her younger sister Eden Chiam earned an Industry Award and also earned one gold medal, two silver medals and two bronze medals and she only had weeks to prepare for the event. So that’s not pretty bad for an achievement. I have mentioned previously in my post how team Brunei has made it big at WCOPA finals in Los Angeles, considering they only sent 9 representatives as compared to the aplenty from different countries. Having 5 semi-finalists and 3 finalists are considered “over-achievements” as they are plenty of talents out there worldwide.
Maria Grace Koh and Joanna Kwan will also be the highlights of the night. Both were the finalists of the WCOPA event. Maria also known as Eia is no stranger in the music scene and she has vastly improved and it was no doubt she made to the finals where millions witnessed her performance. Joanna, a first timer in WCOPA, also impressed with her 1 minute performance in the finals and I’ve seen her acting before in local drama plays. Just even received a scholarship for acting in the States.
Another vocalist that caught my attention is Ruby Chong who earned herself two medals and an Industry Award. I have seen her singing at JIS Music Showcase and she’s just amazing!!! Another performer for this Saturday’s event is Bridget Ang who earned two medals. The other performers this weekend are Norhidayat Hj Ahim, a P2F winner, who earned 5 medals and Adi Daini who bagged 3 medals.
This is an impressive line up but sadly Elizabeth won’t be performing since she’s currently in KL for the Toastmasters International Convention 2014. Do follow @officialwcopabrunei on instagram for updates.
Brunei team brought it some medals from this year’s competition and the highest tally so far. Amazing!!!
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Toastmasters Convention today
Our podcast review of Yasmine the movie with my special guest Seng Yee. Find out what is my best scene of the movie. Yasmine will be officially be released on 21st August 2014.
Chris W.H. Woo, a member of Brunei Speakers’ Club, will represent Brunei in the World Championship of Public Speaking. Good luck, buddy!
Chris W.H. Woo, a Senior Lecturer at Universiti Brunei Darussalam will represent the Toastmaster’s District 87 (Brunei, Indonesia and East Malaysia) in the World Championship of Public Speaking. The competition will be held from 20th to 23rd August at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Chris Woo snatched the coveted trophy and title of District 87 International Speech Champion in Surabaya on the 11th May 2014.
When asked how he feels about the upcoming competition, Woo says, “It’s been a psychologically grueling few months for me. Never a week goes by that I don’t think about the competition. But I am very lucky to have so many supportive Toastmaster friends and, honestly, the Brunei Speaker’s Club has become a family to me. I don’t know what will happen at the World Championship. There are so many variables to the judging and success of a speech. But what I do know with certainty is that I will give it my absolute best.”
After emerging as Champion from The Brunei Speakers’ Club, and subsequently Area K6 (Brunei), Woo went on to defeat some of the best speakers in Brunei, East Malaysia and Indonesia. As a representative for District 87, Woo will be pitting his skills against the best speakers in the world.
“Chris is dedicated, he is committed, and he has now achieved so much. He inspires all our members in Brunei to realize our potential,” says Hazwan Kamarulzaman, President of The Brunei Speakers’ Club. His sentiments are shared by Ruey Chong-Narcis, the Area Governor of Area K6 (Brunei), “‘Since it’s inception by the grace of His Majesty 16 years ago, this is the first time that Brunei is representing the district in the World Championship of Public Speaking. We are extremely proud as it shows the quality and support that each Toastmaster gives their fellow members. Together with 14 other Toastmasters from Brunei, we will be there to proudly represent Brunei and cheering Chris as he takes his rightful place up on centre-stage.’
Some of the toastmasters from Brunei Speakers’ Club are currently in Kuala Lumpur for the convention and also to support Chris Woo. Last night we had the privilege to attend one of the toastmasters club in KL and we were at Maxis Toastmasters Club and met a number of toastmasters around the world. Awesome!!
We registered our names so we can get ourselves some goodies from the club
I volunteered myself to be the Timer for last evening’s meeting at Maxis Toastmaster Club. Great experience!
Distinguished Toastmaster Richard Cummins from Houston, Texas, Seng Yee, Zul (from Labuan) and our area-governor Ruey Narcis
Having a few words with the most passionate toastmaster from Brunei and an awesome role model for Brunei Speakers’ Club. His passion never dies.
Proud that Ling Ling won best table topics of the evening
Some of the books for sale at Toastmasters Convention at KLCC
The Word of the Day
It rained yesterday at Kuala Lumpur. It’s great to be back. I have been there since Sunday.
It’s that time of the year again as students will be scouting and sourcing for their respective courses and university of choice for their future studies in the UK. Twenty-eight universities and colleges from the United Kingdom will be participating in the third UK Education Fair on August 20 (today) at Members Grill & Lounge, The Empire Hotel and Country Club.
The event, which is organised by the British Universities Brunei Association (BUBA) and coordinated by the universities, will be held from 2pm to 7pm.
The institutions participating in the event include University of Aberdeen, University of Bradford, Cardiff University, University College London, University of East Anglia, University of Essex, University of Hull, University of Kent and Writtle College.
”The fair is aimed at students who are considering studying in the UK in September 2015 but also presents a final opportunity for any students still looking for a place for September 2014 entry to speak with university representatives,” said a statement issued by the British High Commission.
Students are also advised to bring copies of qualifications and transcript when they come to the fair, it added.
So do drop by the Members Grlll & Lounge from 2pm to 7pm later. Good luck in hunting for your future education. For more info, you can click here.
Butra Home Concept (BHC) Magazine is now under a new direction handled by Mixmediaworx
Butra Home Concept Magazine will now turn its pages under Mixmediaworx – the local based creative agency, retaining its focus on home improvement and lifestyle for Brunei. I remember this magazine being under the direction of Catalyst and now the creativity and publishing duties were given to Mixmediaworx.
Mixmediaworx promises to continue the magazine’s monthly tradition as part of Butra HeidelbergCement’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) in promoting local home lifestyle and industries.
Mixmediaworx’s executive director Azlan Ahmad shared that the magazine will still continue its current direction in line with Butra HeidelbergCement’s CSR aims with a few improvements and additions to the content and design of the two year old publication.
“We are very happy to continue this great initiative by Butra HeidelbergCement and will improve whatever needed for the magazine to stay relevant to the nation. We have outlined a few fresh ideas in promoting the magazine and created sustainable strategy to make sure it remains a preferred platform for the related industries.”
The BHC is part of Butra HeidelbergCement’s Building a Nation campaign, emphasizing on the contributions made towards the development of the nation. It invokes collaboration and cooperation amongst the Sultanate to inspire change, challenge convention and to make a difference: their unique approach towards nationwide progress while encouraging the sense of forward thinking to the community.
The next BHC issue will continue to be distributed soon with the theme “A New Hope” highlighing some of the CSR initiatives carried out by Butra HeidelbergCement as well as contributions by the new editorial team by the magazines.
Mixmediaworx also announced that BHC will be available as digital copies on iOS via the App store , and android users can expect their integration for the magazine soon.
Stuart Lee, Project Director of BHC Magazine with Amir Noor, editor of BHC Magazine during the press conference at Radisson Hotel
Hamdi Metussin, Creative Director of Mixmediaworx
Amir Noor sharing a few things about BHC’s new direction
Mei asking some questions from the floor
So close yet so far. Brunei Darussalam just missed out by one goal to reach the semi-finals. Today is the line-up for today’s matches in the semi-finals of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy 2014. No tickets required and it’s free as well.
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Brunei miss the cut
Our podcast review of Yasmine the movie with my special guest Seng Yee. Find out what is my best scene of the movie.
The media and bloggers heading to Singapore for the test drive organised by Volkswagen Singapore earlier this month
That’s the beauty of driving Volkswagen. You will be spoilt for choices on what model to buy. A few months ago, I test drove the Volkswagen GTI and it is an awesome car indeed. Recently I test drive other models of Volkswagen (Golf Polo 1.2 and 1.4, Tiguan TSI and Golf R) in Singapore. Maybe the right word for that is “sakai” because it was my first experience driving on Singapore roads 😀 It seemed like an unexpected bucket list and I thank you Volkswagen Singapore for making that opportunity a reality.
Today I’m gonna share my experience of driving the new Volkswagen Tiguan TSI. If you know of the Touareg series, then Tiguan has similar design and features. Actually when I drove this particular car, I already have thoughts on replacing my 11-year old car 😀 The Tiguan TSI is almost a perfect SUV car for my liking and it’s also one practical car which is also ideal for my profession. I currently drive an SUV so it would make sense if my next car will be an SUV.
So what are the impressive factors about the Volkswagen Tiguan?
Firstly, the drawing factor for me is that the fact that it is an SUV. I actually don’t mind driving a saloon car but it’s always a bonus if I drive an SUV. Hence, among all the cars that I drove from Volkswagen, the new Tiguan caught my eye. The size is not as big as the Touareg and that’s how I preferred it to be. If you are opting for a mid-size range SUV, this is my recommendation.
Secondly, I’m always concerned about safety measures when it comes to driving. I know my close friends will find me annoying because I drive with caution sometimes. I’m not a fast driver per se but I still make sure that my car is in fine condition on the road. The plus points about the Tiguan is that safety level of this particular model. This Tiguan series have been named the SUV as its “Top Safety Pick” by New Car Assessment Program. For the record, this evaluation covers extensive measures in the areas of active and passive safety. There is so much that I can blabber on especially the multiple airbags and the seatbelt force limiters but I think you will get the gist of my hints about the safety.
Thirdly, the drive factor. Of course, I didn’t really drive full force like I did with the Golf R *lol* The latest Tiguan driving experience was simply worth the drive. It makes my current SUV feel so inferior but then again, it’s an 11-year old car. I drove this among the hills of Singapore and it was just amazing the power it has for the size of the car. It makes me want to test drive the Tiguan TSI once more in Brunei. The handling was also great during the curves of the hills and it felt that I was bonded with the Tiguan for such a long time, considering it was my first drive on the Tiguan.
Fourthly, the price of Volkswagen Tiguan TSI. I won’t reveal the price as yet but wow, I’m amazed how a quality European brand can make produce such an affordable price and I can guarantee you that this model will be a big hit in Brunei considering that it kinda caters to different markets such as the young crowd and also families. Of course, my category is the young one for sure :p
The Volkswagen Tiguan TSI will be launched this Friday so stay tune for updates on that. I highly recommend you to drop by Maju Motors showroom at Telanai this Friday and guess what? They will be having an open house also for the public on that day.
A few Volkswagen cars that I managed to test drive
The Tiguan TSI that I test drove in Singapore
My companions – Dionne of Volkswagen Singapore and Nasroul of The Brunei Times
This is an awesome car – Volkswagen Tiguan TSI
The other models that we had to test drive
Now available at Sin Hup Huat Company
Chairman and Co-Partner of the TEDxGadong team Abd Malik Omar (C), Shavez Cheema (L) one of the inspiring speakers and the rest of the team posing for a picture after the press conference recently. Image taken by Nadzri Zailani of The Brunei Times.
A group of youths have banded together to bring in the first TEDx conference in Brunei titled ‘TEDxGadong’ to help inspire youths of the nation in making a difference.
During a press conference at a Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf branch in the capital, the TEDxGadong team spoke to The Brunei Times about hosting the first ever TEDx in Brunei at the SEAMEO VOCTECH Building in Gadong on August 24, 2014.
With a team comprising mostly volunteer youths between ages 18 and 22, the chairman and co-partner of the group Abd Malik Omar said that they hope when other youths see them bring in the TEDx brand, they would be inspired.
“TEDx is about unearthing and exploring new ideas so it’s about time that we had our own TEDx conference. Despite us having the lack of resource and most of us being students, we still managed to do it. Showing that where there is a will there is a way,” said Abd Malik.
TED means Technology, Entertainment and Design, which is a non-profit organisation devoted to ideas worth spreading. TED has encompassed the corners of the world spreading ideas and bringing innovation leaders together to inspire the young and old, according to a statement by TEDxGadong.
TEDx is a programme for local and self-organised events, where the x stands for the independently organised TED events.
For the first TEDx conference in Brunei, there will only be 100 tickets for the event ranging from $5 to $20 which will be available for the public on Thursday August 21 at the Core, Universiti Brunei Darussalam Residential College.
Eight local speakers which includes Delwin Keasberry, Denny Ambuyart and Keeran Janin will be speaking about separate topics, and there will also be mystery speakers which will only be announced during the event itself.
“The speakers we chose have the ideas, energy and passion to be able to share their story with the audience. Their passionate about what they do and their contribution to the economy. For us it’s not a matter of age, it’s a matter of ideas,” added the Chairman.
According to the Chairman, helping to inspire the youth is a way for them to actively contribute to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s aim for Vision 2035 as they believe that the youths are the future.
The Chairman added that “through the TEDx event, we may not be able to change the world, but if we can make a one per cent difference to the society we live in, then we have to.” Text courtesy of Nadzri Zailani of The Brunei Times.
The official poster of TEDxGadong
Apparently the tickets are fully booked
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BMO
Our podcast review of Yasmine the movie with my special guest Seng Yee. Find out what is my best scene of the movie.
Acer Liquid Smartphones
Sales at Icon Design Store
Click image to enter Peugeot Brunei’s website
Click image to enter Citroën Brunei
Click image to learn more about SCB Facebook Scanvenger Hunt 2014
Hey guys, it’s the moment to reveal what I teased you about! Standard Chartered Bank Brunei are launching their first Facebook Scavenger Hunt! It’s a chance for you to take on a virtual adventure and win Apple products and other fun prizes! All you have to do is click on the link and it will direct you to all the information you would need to find out how to win! Good luck hunters!
Catch Brunei tonight against Malaysia and it looks like Brunei must win by 2 goals to go through to the semi-finals
It’s a tall order but I believe Brunei can do it. Adi Said and Hendra will be so important for this match against Malaysia tonight in the group stage of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy 2014. It’s the final game of the group stage and Brunei need at least to win by two goals to guarantee themselves in the semi-finals.
Adi Said and Hendra are both familiar with Malaysia as most of them represent Harimau Muda in the S•League and they know what it is like to face the Malaysia U-21 team. Brunei recently drew with Vietnam 2-2 last Friday and it could have been worst for Brunei if they didn’t earn any points at all against Vietnam. The hero that game was Adi Said who clawed Brunei back twice with two excellent goals.
It seems that Brunei will have to work their game play around Adi who is the game changer. It will be tough if Adi won’t be playing for Brunei and the head coach will have to come up with Plan B to gain maximum points against Malaysia tonight.
It’s a free entrance match with no tickets involved. So do come early to get the best seats in town. I’m pretty sure it will be a packed house because we want as many supporters as possible to give that needed much support for Brunei to beat Malaysia. To beat Malaysia is a tall order because they are undefeated and not only Brunei has to beat them but with a 2 goal cushion.
Brunei needs you – the 12th man
Want to catch another Mexican wave?
A familiar face among the fans during Brunei vs Vietnam match
A sea of yellow 😀
Merchandise from Arin’s Enterprise
HBT merchandise from Aewon
HBT merchandise from Armtrix Enterprise
Brunei toastmasters representatives from Brunei Speakers Club, Oil Town Talkers and Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club recently at a Toastmasters Leadership training at Kota Kinabalu. Image courtesy of Brunei Speakers Club.
Organised for Toastmasters clubs of District 87 which consists of Brunei Darussalam, East Malaysia, and Indonesia, the Bruneian delegates, comprising members from Brunei Speakers’ Club, Oil Town Talkers, and the Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club along with their Malaysian and Indonesian counterparts gained knowledge in leadership skills, and in identifying and achieving goals.
Toastmasters clubs are non-profit, educational organisations that provide opportunities for members to learn, develop, and enhance leadership and public speaking skills in encouraging and supportive environment.
Every club wants to offer the best quality environment for their members, so that everyone can learn and thrive. Through this session, members learned how to implement effective key performance indicators to enhance an organization’s performance. In addition, executive member from each club also shared experiences and perspectives on their organisation success plan.
Allen Ang, president of Oil Town Talkers said in the session, “We do not focus on membership growth in terms of numbers, we are more concerned with helping individual member grow and achieve their personal goals. That is why we cater tour individual members’ needs.”
He included nurturing successful individuals through productive mentor and mentee relationships are characteristics of a successful leader. Successful Toastmasters know that mentoring is a crucial element in developing skills through the Toastmasters program. In Brunei, different clubs work together to help each other to grow.
Last year, Stuart Lee from the Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club made history when he won the Toastmasters humorous speech contest in District 87. This year, Chris Woo from Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club, after winning the International Speech category in the division and district level, will also be the first to represent Brunei and District 87 to compete against the best speakers in the world at Toastmasters International Convention which will take place in August in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Today, members of the public can continue to learn and develop leadership and public speaking skills in Brunei Darussalam’s Toastmasters clubs. Further information can be found at www.bruneispeakersclub.com
Allen Ang, the President of Oil Town Talkers (Otters), at the Leadership Training
The faces of our own toastmasters from Brunei
Get your Logitech peripherals at Concepts Computer. Call 223 3551/2/3
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Be like Water
Nadiah Wahid, Siti Kamaluddin and Liyana Yus at the Gala Night Premiere of Yasmine at The Times Cineplex @ The Empire last night
What an interesting night!! For the first time in Brunei, I experienced what it is like to be in a movie premiere. Well, this is the Brunei version and I hope there will be more when we have more locally produced featured film from Brunei Darussalam. Of course, with the right sponsors and support, such gala night premiere will be easier to pull off. This is just the closest thing that we can experience to how other regional countries would do and even so more in Hollywood.
Origin Films the producers of Yasmine the movie have been creating major waves in Brunei Darussalam and outside Brunei. Yasmine recently won an award in Switzerland as it won the Best Asian Film in the Neuchatel International Fantastic Film Festival 2014. The crew have been busy promoting the movie through the local schools and also being featured in talk shows and on radio. Perhaps the viral effect of Yasmine the movie was the actual Yasmine Pose on social media which gave more branding awareness on Yasmine to the public.
I believe the marketing campaign struck the right chord and it was evident last night on the impact it created during the Gala Night or what we call the Premiere of Yasmine. Hundreds of people showed up during the event and it was a very much engaging crowd who showed much enthusiasm on our locally produced movie. The preview screenings for Yasmine today in both The Mall Cineplex and Times Cineplex are almost filled up and I’m pretty sure once it opens this Thursday, it will be a box office hit in Brunei.
I’m quite happy that Yasmine will also be screening in Indonesia and Singapore starting on the 21st of August. I’m not too sure about the other international release dates for now but whatever it is, the three markets mentioned show how much impact Yasmine has made, coming from Brunei alone. Indonesia is a huge market and that could potentially draw more box office revenue alone and hopefully recover the costs of the movie alone.
It was great to see other international celebrities who attended the Gala Night but the show belonged to the trio ladies – Siti Kamaluddin the director, Liyana Yus the main lead actor and Nadiah Wadih the supporting actress in Yasmine. Congratulations to Origin Films on making this into a reality and with the positive buzz that it has been receiving, Yasmine is a sure hit among the locals. More review on Yasmine the movie next week and of course, an episode of The Popcorn Panel (podcast).
The official trailer for Yasmine
Liyana looking gorgeous in her dress done by IKAT Indonesia @ikat_ind
Siti Kamaluddin expressed her thanks to the sponsors and supporters who believed in this project
Such a crowd last night
Waiting the arrival of the trio of the main event 😀
With the associates of BEDB and also those behind the BEDB LEAP grant which helped to fund some of Yasmine’s movie
Representing Kristal FM, the official radio for Yasmine
Coey, Ben and Wendy at the Gala Night
My regular special guest of The Popcorn Panel, Seng Yee
Happy to see my social media buddies at the Gala Night too
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