HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Chairman of the ASEAN Ministerial Meetings with the ASEAN Ministers yesterday at the International Convention Centre

This is still an ongoing saga. It is also a sensitive issue to cover as well. For those who are not aware, there are territorial disputes in South China Sea. This issue was escalated for the past few years and there haven’t been any conclusion to it just yet. China has claimed the entire body of South China Sea as theirs and the claims overlap with almost all respective countries in ASEAN – Indonesia, The Philippines, Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia, Cambodia, Singapore and lastly Taiwan.

Hence yesterday’s meeting was another indication where the ASEAN countries will want to carry the momentum to have a dialogue with China on the code of conduct (CoC) on the South China Sea. For your knowledge, some of the territories are beneficial in terms of fishing and even oil and gas discovery.

ASEAN Chair Brunei has issued a statement after the conclusion of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, there is an urge for a peaceful resolution to territorial disputes between several Southeas Asian nations and China, in accordance with international law.

The final day of the preparatory meetings at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas yesterday was chaired by HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Chairman of the ASEAN Ministerial Meetings. Also present was Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-large.

The Indonesian Foreign Minister Dr Mary Natalegawa expressed that it is important that something needs to be worked out since it’s the 20th year of the ASEAN-China strategic partnership. He also advised that any parties to refrain from taking any action as it would complicate situation further.

Only time will tell when Code of Conduct will be concluded.

Other discussions were the progress made since 21st ASEAN summit last year including political and security cooperation; the widening acceptance of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia; ongoing work to the publication of the ASEAN Security Outlook.

ASEAN also also taken a united stance on North Korea’s aggression and their aim is to have peace and stability in the Korean peninsula. Philippine Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario hopes for a six-party talks involving North Korea, South Korea, the United States, China, Japan and Russia.

The Ministers’ Meeting concluded yesterday as its prime objective was to prepare for the April 24-25 summit of ASEAN countries and I believe the CoC issue will be brought up again. I just hope all of this can be resolved without any further tension.

HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Chairman of the ASEAN Ministerial Meetings (center) with Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-large and Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Lim Jock Seng, the Second Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Yang Amat Mulia Pg Anak Mansurah Izzul Bolkiah from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was also present

The final session took place hosted by Brunei

The final session took place hosted by Brunei

The Indonesian Foreign Minister Dr Mary Natalegawa speaking to the media. Image courtesy of INFOFOTO.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Brunei Darussalam HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah (R) and Indonesia’s Foreign Minister His Excellency Dr Marty Natalegawa (L) exchange documents after signing the Agreed Minutes of the Third Meeting of the Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation between Brunei and Indonesia at Muzakarah Hall, International Convention Centre in Berakas. Image courtesy of INFOFOTO.

HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah leading the delegations for the ASEAN Foreign Minister’s Retreat. Image courtesy of INFOFOTO.

The ASEAN Foreign Minister’s Retreat at ICC. Image courtesy of INFOFOTO.

The South China Sea dispute that has been ongoing

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His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah with the ASEAN Ministers last night at ICC. Image courtesy of INFOFOTO.

For your info, the ASEAN Foreign Ministers are here in Brunei and their agenda is to prepare for the 22nd ASEAN Summit which will be hosted by Brunei Darussalam. The ministerial meetings have been taken place since 10th April and today is the final day. Last night His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Chairman of the ASEAN Ministerial Meetings hosted dinner for the ASEAN ministers from 9 countries. The dinner took place at the new facelift of International Convention Centre.

His Royal Highness, during the dinner, briefed colleagues and the new ASEAN Secretary-General, Le Luong Minh, on preparations for the 22nd ASEAN Summit due to be held in Bandar Seri Begawan April 24 and 25, 2013.

The report of the two-day meetings will be presented to the ASEAN Leaders during the Summit itself.

His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah upon arrival at ICC. Image courtesy of INFOFOTO.

His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah talking to ASEAN Secretary-General, Le Luong Minh. Image courtesy of INFOFOTO.

 

He was the star of the moment. Too bad his co-star Ekin Cheng wasn’t able to make for the Saving General Yang Charity Movie Night. Wu Chun, one of the stars of Saving General Yang, brought cheers to the crowd. The Charity Movie night raised $14,000 for SMARTER Brunei and Pusat Ehsan. The event was held at Times Cineplex, Times Square Shopping Mall.

The Guest of Honour was Datin Paduka Hjh Adina binti Othman, the Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports. Also present was Sheikh Jamaluddin, the former CEO of Brunei Tourism Board.

Datin Hjh Adina was very pleased to have Wu Chun as a Brunei icon who has not only excel in Brunei but outside the country. Shiekh Jamaluddin validated how Wu Chun is the ambassador for Brunei Darussalam as he was able to bring awareness about Brunei from his overseas’ fans.

Four companies booked each cinemas for their customers and employees to enjoy the latest blockbuster movie. HSBC Brunei booked two cinemas for Pusat Ehsan and SMARTER Brunei while QQestore, Royal Brunei Airlines and GHK Sdn Bhd booked one cinema. These are the companies that raised the funds for the said charities.

Wu Chun was overwhelmed by the contribution of the companies that raised the funds and he conveyed his appreciation to the contributors. Did you know that he has been traveling to 12 cities to promote his latest movie? Brunei was his last pitstop and he will be preparing for his grand opening of the new facelift of Fitness Zone this Sunday.

According to Wu Chun, Saving General Yang was his biggest movie to date. It was also one of the most expensive movies were made (US 26 million). He shared that his toughest part of the movie was the horse riding scene where he had to carry another person. He had a month or so to practice horse riding and he had no experience on horse riding before.

He wants Bruneians to come and support the movie as it is based on a true story and he wants the audience to appreciate the family values that the director portrayed in the movie.

For your info, Saving General Yang is only showing at Times Cineplex. So far, it’s the second highest box office this week after G.I.Joe: Retaliation.

Datin Paduka Hjh Adina with Wu Chun and guests last night at the Charity Event

Datin Paduka Hjh Adina wants Bruneians to follow Wu Chun as a role model

Wu Chun answering some questions from the emcee

Behind the scene

Presenting the mock from HSBC and GHK Motors to SMART Brunei

Presenting the mock from QQeStore and Royal Brunei Airlines to SMART Brunei

Benny of Times Cineplex receiving a momento

A momento for the guest of honour

Group photo with the guest of honour, sponsors and NGOS

These are Wu Chuns for Brunei and abroad

Wu Chun having a moment with the press

It was pretty crowded at the corridor

Mr and Mrs. Pao also came for the event

You can tell who are the fanatics

Wu Chun visited each cinema for some Q&A session. His first pitstop was at GHK Motors audience.

Wu Chun and his aunt who came to support him

Wu Chun with his relatives

Wu Chun made another pitstop for QQeStore audience

Keeran Janin asked a question on when Wu Chun will make a movie in Brunei

Wu Chun and Nicky of QQeStore

Wu Chun at another pitstop where SMART Brunei is watching

Wu Chun with Pusat Ehsan attendees

The final pitstop was Royal Brunei audience

The group photo before the screening of Saving General Yang

My sister with her colleagues also went to watch the movie

Nadia Halim of RB gave a thumbs up

Ahhh them again.. Did you know that they kept following Wu Chun on every cinema pitstops? *lol*

Wu Chun with his overseas’ fans

Wu Chun with the management of Times Square

Wu Chun with the staff of Times Cineplex

Wu Chun signing on the poster

Wu Chun with the organisers Trinity Event Management

Despite being distracted, he was able to say goodbye to me *lol*

Fans of Wu Chun screamed when the figure fell down

Wendy and Devon of Trinity

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Group photo with the ASEAN Ministers

Yesterday the ASEAN Ministers highlighted their plans to integrate the region which will be in time for completion by 2015, a deadline set by the member of states. Under the chairmanship of Brunei Darussalam, this goal can be achieved and they are in progress as we speak.

Hatta Rajasa, the coordinating minister for Economic Affairs from Indonesia had an audience with the reporters after the 9th AEC Council Meeting held at ICC yesterday. Some of the challenges highlighted were the people to people, institutional and infrastructure connectivities.

The session was chaired by Brunei’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Lim Jock Seng.

To read more of the report, click here. Source: Debbie Too of The Brunei Times.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Lim Jock Seng chaired the session

His Excellency MR. Lim Hng Kiang, Minister of Trade and Industry, Singapore

Pehin Lim Jock Seng with Dato Lim Jock Hoi, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

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His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah and Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah at the launch of “Association” yesterday at the Balai Penghadapan, Bukit Kayangan. Their Royal Highnesses are accompanied by QAF CEO, Albert Lau (R) and Brunei Press Deputy General Manager, Hazizah Osman (L)

THE latest book authored by His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, titled ‘Association’ has been described as a film in the form of a book.

Association records the history of the Asean Ministerial Meeting (AMM) from the tentative meeting of its founding fathers in 1967 to its modern role under the Asean Charter of 2008, through His Royal Highness’ experience as the longest serving minister in the AMM and the only remaining minister who had worked directly with the Asean founding fathers.

The book also reflects on His Royal Highness’ personal memories and observations about the AMM, its role in Asean and His Royal Highness’ personal role in its development.

HRH noted that Association is not a traditional book. In many ways, it is a film in the form of a book with a director, a script writer, a cameraman, leading actors and a supporting cast of over six hundred million. That’s why there is so much visual content.

“The story is the AMM. The location is Southeast Asia and the setting is time… not the symbolic ‘t’ of scientific study but a short period of less than 50 years in real time.”

On His Royal Highness’ feelings about the publication of the book, His Royal Highness stated, “Great appreciation to my Asean ministerial colleagues down the years … to all my friends, colleagues and staff who have given me their personal and professional support. And, also to many of our own people who have contributed, especially some very talented young people.”

His Royal Highness has published several books before Association, namely, ‘Time and the River – a memoir,’ ‘Remember, Remember….the 8th of December,’ and ‘A Southeast Asian Community – more than a matter of Geography.’ All four books focus on two central themes, which is the universal and eternal meaning of ‘time’ and the specific moments that give time its reality for ordinary people; and the relationship between ordinary people and those who govern them.

HRH Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah officiating the launch of “Association”

The book upholds that the Asean Ministerial Meeting is far more than a matter of slogans, abstractions and symbols. Events, places and even time itself are real and measured in terms of human action, human friendship and cooperation and human understanding.

The title stresses the importance of the meaning of ‘association’ as opposed to ‘organisation,’ proposing that ‘association’ is the essence of Asean policy to build a “Regional Community”. The theme of the book is inspired by the ‘Games’ or “shared fellowship” which binds Southeast Asians in groups and societies which form a “community” of nations.

The narrative is structured around six Southeast Asian games symbolising the classic values of Southeast Asian societies played across the region and the inspirations they offer to the people who form the community of Southeast Asia.

These portrayal of symbolism in each game is as follows: teamwork in Tarik Kalat; the daring leap of Lumpat Gatah; the skill that spins the Gasing; the knowledge and strategy of Congkak; the perseverance of Sepak Takraw Bulatan; and the beauty, vision and excellence of Seni Silat.

“Association” is published by Brunei Press Sdn Bhd follows the launch of HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah’s second book “Remember, Remember… The 8th of December” in 2007.

The book will be available at bookstores nationwide starting April 9, 2013. It retails at $68 for hard cover copies and $48 for soft cover copies. Those who wish to purchase a copy can contact 8777656 or 8160055. Source: Nazirul Hakeem and Hakim Hayat. Images by Azrol Azmi and Bahiyah Bakir of Borneo Bulletin.

Association now goes on sale at bookstores

 

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What will happen today? hmmmm

 

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This was taken a few days ago that spread on social media

It was a case of a chicken hung out to dry on a mop that alerted local authorities to temporarily shut down a local Chinese restaurant in Kg Kiulap for a blatant violation of hygiene practices.

The picture of the hanging chicken circulated in no time via WhatsApp and other social media platforms, prompting the Law Enforcement Unit of BSB Municipal Board to close down the restaurant yesterday.

The cook had explained that the chicken would be crispier if it is hung out to dry in the open and that it was not meant for customers, but rather the restaurant staff.

An investigation found that the restaurant had failed in a hygiene test, obtaining only 46 per cent. It will only be allowed to reopen once it has scored a certain percentage in terms of hygiene.

The Law Enforcement Unit wished to convey its appreciation to the public for highlighting the matter, and welcomed their input on unhygienic restaurants.

Restaurant owners are urged to maintain the cleanliness of their premises, especially when handling food. Meanwhile, enforcement personnel will continue to conduct inspections under the jurisdiction of the BSB Municipal Board. Text by James Kon of Borneo Bulletin.

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An illustration drawn, taken from CK’s FB

Two years ago, I did the fun run so I could take more photos. Last year, I joined the 5k run. This year, I took a step better in running for the 10K. It has been a meaningful run nonetheless and of course, I wanted to better my personal best of 77 minutes. However, I failed to beat my time but I still had fun and finished the race.

Once again, it was another successful event organised by Standard Chartered Brunei and I’ve always been a great support for SCB Half-Marathon. This year more than 6,000 runners participated and there were four categories: 21km, 10km, 5km and 2.5km.

The theme was “Run For A Reason” and everyone had his or her reasons for participating and running. There was a special tribute from a group of runners who dedicated their run in honour of the late Captain Ismael Dato Seri Setia Hj Samid. It was also great to see participation from cancer patients and also a blade runner from Singapore.

I’ll just share some of the photos from last Sunday and enjoy!!! Thank you Nurul for some of the pictures.

Her Royal Highness Princess Sarah is always a great supporter for SCB’s Half-Marathon

The starting point for the 2.5 fun run

And off they go…

YAM Pg Anak Abdul Momim wore a Super Mario outfit and ran the 21km

A stronger cancer fighter Redzky Fadzillah who ignored doctors’ advice and finished the 10km run. What a great inspiration for others!!

The morning warm up before the run

The morning warm up before the run

The mascot for this year’s event with representatives from SCB and Great Eastern Life

I still managed to take photos on the 6km mark 😀

Now where did Shafiq get the apple?

The big event banner at the Hassanal Bolkiah stadium

The 10KM runners

The runners who dedicated the run in the memory of the late JJ

Some of the runners last Sunday

Representatives from AITI

Another 10KM finishers last Sunday

Rachy, Celia and Fakhrul were in energetic mood

The mascot for a reason

I parked my bag here. Thank you guys for taking care of it 😀

The sea of blue last Sunday

One of the cheering squads

First up were this cheering group

Runners waiting for the prize presentation

It was tough to emcee in that outfit

It was nice to see their passion duirng the cheering

The Mexican wave

My jogging buddies.. Well done, ladies!!

Great choice of music for their performance

For me, the best performance of the lot

They were totally entertained

Best costume for female

He won himself an iPad

She won an iPad Mini.. :p

Lucky winner of the MacBook Air

The grand lucky draw winner of the MacBook Pro

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Click image to enlarge. Courtesy of AITI.

The starting point for tomorrow’s run!!

Radisson is one of the partner’s of SCB Half Marathon Brunei 2013

A few exhibitors will be there tomorrow

Do check out the sign boards for directions

Now this is interesting.. A cheering squad and also a cheering competition 😀

This is where you store your bags if any. Ideal for those carrying bags or cameras

The information counter

The portable toilets work wonders especially for me

The huge event logo though covered by the tree

Suci water in stock for tomorrow’s event

The program for tomorrow. Click image to view.

See you at the finishing line

 

Zainol Amin Jaafar, Cards and Mobile Customers Management, E-Banking Channel of BIBD, Hj Minorhadi Hj Mirhassan, the Head of Institutional Banking of BIBD and Gyorgy Ladics, The Chief Operating Officer of BIBD at yesterday’s press conference for eTunai

17,000 downloads of the BIBD mobile apps and the numbers keep growing. Yesterday an announcement was made that eTunai is up and running where you are able to pay your goods and services through your smartphones with the BIBD mobile app under eTunai option. This announcement was made by Gyorgy Ladics, The Chief Operating Officer of BIBD. Also present were Hj Minorhadi Hj Mirhassan, the Head of Institutional Banking of BIBD, Zainol Amin Jaafar, Cards and Mobile Customers Management, E-Banking Channel of BIBD and Kamarul Ajamain, Multimedia Communications Officer of BIBD.

BIBD is the first to come up a mobile app that can do transactions and now they have gone a step further by making it possible to pay using your smartphone. Of course, you will need to download the BIBD app first and also to have a BIBD account.

So far there are a few participating merchants and I won’t be surprise to see an increasing number in weeks to come. The merchants so far is Excapade Gadong, Charcoal BBQ and Grill (Bandar), Cheezbox, Gripps Cafe, QQeStore and Ohso (the Mall). All these merchants are applicable under the eTunai.

Zainol Amin Jaafar conducted a demo on how to use eTunai and it was pretty straight forward. You just need to scan the QR Code of the transaction with your smartphone and the payment will be made, deducted from your BIBD account.

Gyorgy Ladics was delighted with eTunai and he hopes to see an increase of users up to 50,000 at least in the near future. BIBD customers don’t need to worry about the cost associated with the service as it’s free. He said that BIBD is committed to bring smart, convenient and innovative products to further improve the user end experience with BIBD.

The cool part with BIBD eTunai is that you can make use of your “Hadiah Points” for transactions. In a way, it’s like redeeming your points. Want to know more how “Hadiah Points” work? Just click here to find out more.

So what are you waiting for especially those with BIBD apps? Try it out and you’ll be impressed. This might just open up more opportunities for other banks to follow suit. BIBD are for sure the trendsetters when it comes to technology and social media.

Demo was done for the media on how it works

Kamarul Ajamain, Multimedia Communications Officer of BIBD using the tablet to show how the transaction is done. Every participating merchant will be provided a tablet for the eTunai transaction. Awesome!!

Just scan away using the QR Code to make your transaction. The process takes less than 15 seconds or even lesser.

I was trying to transfer some $$$$ to my BIBD account. Yeah right!! *lol*

At the press conference

 

Great dishes from the Amazing ASEAN Food Festival at the Airport Restaurant. However, the promotion is only on weekends (Friday to Sunday) and only available for dinner 6:30pm to 10pm until the 28th of April 2013.

Do try their popular dishes from 10 ASEAN countries – Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Mynamar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. The menu will be cycled on different days of the weekend. There’s also the ambuyat stall which will be served throughout the whole weekend.

The price of the dinner buffet is BND 29.90 for adult and BND 15 for children. There will be a 10% discount if you use the RBC Privilege Card. For reservation, do call 233 1853 and yeah, you can also park at the new parking area of the Brunei International Airport. It’s humungous!!!

The two chefs behind the ASEAN dishes

The Vietnamese Lamb Stew

Laos Glass Noodle

Burmese Curry Chicken

Cambodian Amok Fish

Not sure what the label of the chicken is for this

You should try the chicken with the satay sauce

Ice kacang for dessert

You can request the chef to cook the veges to your liking

The noodle stall

 

Today’s the last day of collection for your Race Entry Pack which is at the Indoor Stadium. We just collected ours yesterday and I bumped into Lai Pei-Si, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank, and had a quick chat. She was quite excited about the event and tomorrow will see 6,000 participants running in SCB Half Marathon 2013 event.

The cut off time for Race Entry Pack collection is 5pm today. So make sure you bring yourself and the documents to collect your items.

For your info, there will be a few partial and full road closures from as early as 4.30am on the day until 8.30am. There will be 1,000 people consisting of volunteers, officials and uniform personnel tomorrow to assist the huge crowd. So it’s best that participants and volunteers arrive early tomorrow.

For more updates of the event, do visit scbruneihalfmarathon.com and good luck to all the participants 🙂

Pg Aki Ismasufian, Head Corporate Strategic Initiatives of SCB, Jennifer Kang, Head of Corporate Affairs and Marketing of SCB, Lai Pei-Si, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank and Danial Phua, one of the pacers for the 21km at the Indoor Stadium yesterday

The area to hand in your donation cards

This watch is pretty cool for runners

Today’s the final day of collection

Socks anyone?

The collection of the Race Entry Pack

Great Eastern is one of the sponsors of the event

My jogging partners for the past few months 😀

Are you ready? Cos I am

 

Geylang International FC coach Kanan Vedhamuthu admitted that his side were second best in their 4-2 loss to DPMM FC in the Singapore League (S-League) at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium on Wednesday.

“They were the better team and we were visibly second best. The boys will just have to work harder now,” he said.

Portuguese striker Joao Vitor Rocha De Carvalho Moreira scored a brace for DPMM FC with Helmi Zambin and substitute Ak Fakharazzi Pg Hj Hassan scoring a goal each to help push Brunei’s only professional football club into fourth place in the 12-team table with 11 points.

“They are a good team and moreover they are more experienced and we just couldn’t match them,” he told The Brunei Times following their loss.

“The average age of their team is 32, whereas ours is about 25.

“We defended better in the first half and managed to prevent some goals, but I think the first and second goals came too quickly and we lost our shape,” continued Kanan whose team remained ninth in the table following the defeat.

The 34-year-old coach also admitted that his side had struggled to maintain possession in the game.

“We didn’t have anyone to hold the ball and play… We definitely missed Stefan (Stefan Milojevic) and Shah Hirul (Shah Hirul Md Yussof), and will be waiting for these two to come back so we can have someone who will hold the ball,” said the coach.

Their absence was definitely a factor in the game as Geylang were completely outplayed in the midfield area with DPMM FC’s Mohd Hendra Azam Mohd Idris and skipper Rosmin Hj Khamis shutting down the Eagle’s movement in the middle of the pitch.

DPMM FC, meanwhile have already turned their attention to their next game against Tanjong Pagar United who currently sit third in the table. The match will be played tomorrow at Hassanal National Stadium at 8:15pm

“They (DPMM FC player) are really tired, but we have four days before our next game, and it should be enough to prepare for the game. I am sure for the Tanjong Pagar game we will have double the fans after tonight’s result,” said DPMM FC coach Vjeran Simunic. Text by Ak Fauzi Pg Salleh and images by Ahmad Ajeeb.

DPMM FC vs Geylang last Wednesday

DPMM FC’s Joao scorer tripped during a challenge

DPMM FC substitute Ak Fakharazzi Pg Hj Hassan scored a goal too last Wednesday

Click image to enter website

Click image to enter website 

 

With the full support of Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Berhad (BIBD), Brunei’s first ever Marathon Des Sables (MDS) runners, Hamsul Sulaiman and Ahmad Fathi Junaidi, left today for their attempt to conquer the MDS, held in the Sahara Desert.

By strongly supporting the duo, BIBD, via its Corporate Social Responsibility, aspires to create and raise awareness on having a global community that cares, ultimately becoming an integral and strong partner of the community. This partnership is developed to encourage a positive influence and inspiration to the nation besides supporting both BIBD’s and CSR’s future initiative plans, which includes the Advocating Life-Long Learning for an Aspiring Future (ALAF) programme. The ALAF programme is specifically designed to provide educational progression for the underprivileged children through a systematic sponsorship scheme.

The MDS, touted as the toughest footrace on earth, held over seven days and six stages, where the participants in the Marathon des Sables will have to survive across 155 miles (250 km) equivalent to running 5 1/2 marathons. With them, carrying all their essential equipment such as gear, food, obey a laundry list of safety rules; sleep in communal tents and so on, as only water is rationed and handed out at each checkpoint.

Both Hamsul and Fathi hope that this high endurance expedition will inspire others to achieve their own personal milestones as they believe that with passion, determination and discipline, anything is possible. Press release from BIBD.

Brunei’s first ever Marathon Des Sables (MDS) runners, Hamsul Sulaiman and Ahmad Fathi Junaidi, at the Brunei International Airport, before heading off. Their dreams were made possible with the support of BIBD.

Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) as one of the main providers of financial products and services in the market would like to share with the public and particularly its customers that the offering of all products and services including financing facilities are bounded by terms and conditions and regulatory requirements under the Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD).

In the offerings of all these products and services, only BIBD employees that are assigned as Personal Bankers, Sales Executive and Senior Sales Executive shall be the authorised personnel to offer the products and process the applications. These personnel will be bearing a pictured Staff Identification Card and will have their respective Name Cards with the official Bank logo.

And in this regard, we wish to advise the public that BIBD does not appoint any agent or broker to sell the financing products and charge a fee. Anyone who deals directly with Non-BIBD Staff will do so at their own risks. If there are claims of non-staff individuals purporting to be the Bank’s agents or brokers, BIBD would urge the public to report the matter to BIBD by calling our Contact Centre at 223-8181.

Members of the public who wish to apply or know more about any of BIBD’s products & services are advised to contact our BIBD Contact Centre at 2238181.

 

Hjh Ardinah, Vice President of BELTA, Patricia Li, Marketing Manager of LANEIGE Brunei and Mr. Cheong Huat Joo, Senior Special Duty Officer, Department of School at the Ministry of Education during the press conference of the 3rd LANEIGE Broadway Musical Competition

It’s good to know Laneige is bringing back the fun which was missing last year. The LANEIGE Broadway Musical Charity Competition is back once more and it’s brought to you by LANEIGE and Department of Schools, Ministry of Education. What I love about this event is that the students are able to showcase their talents but it’s also not about their showmanship but also it brings out other values in them such as leadership, confidence, appreciation, creative and many more.

For your info, there will 250 secondary students participating in this year’s competition with 10 schools involved. The theme for the musical broadway competition is “Bruneian Life”.

During the press conference, Patricia Li, Marketing Manager of LANEIGE Brunei, shared why she initiated this competition in the first place. The objectives are multi-dimensional. One major objective is to raise awareness on those who are less fortunate. This year the ticket sales will be donated to YASKA Children Cancer Fund and BELTA. The other objectives of this competition is to encourage the youth in Brunei to contribute to the youth development via charity events and also to expose their talents through understanding the Brunei culture and enhancing the English language.

Mr. Cheong Huat Joo, Senior Special Duty Officer, Department of School at the Ministry of Education, shared that this competition will foster better relations and awareness among the community on contribution to society. He said the 10 schools involved is part of the students’ learning curve and also part of their curriculum activity from their respective schools.

Hjh Ardinah, Vice President of BELTA, said she’s thankful for the support. She also announced that there will be prizes for the Most Creative Adaptation ($100) and Best Stage Management ($100) which will be sponsored by BELTA. This competition will allow the students to express their confidence and talent.

With the continuous generous support of Ministry of Education, HSBC, CFBT, Royal Brunei Catering Sdn Bhd, Syarikat Shalim (B) Sdn Bhd, Ranoadidas, Hua Ho Department Store, Red Dot Studio, JPMC Fitness Centre, Great Eastern Life Assurance and Brunei English Language Teacher Association. 

LANEIGE Broadway Musical Charity Competition 2013 to be held at the Hua Ho Manggis Hall on 28 April 2013 at 9am until 4:30pm.  Tickets are now available on sales at all LANEIGE branches (the mall 2428222, Kiulap 2232282, K.B. 3347217, Hua Ho Yayasan 2231122) and also CFBT. For you rinfo, there are only 700+ seats to be sold during the event. 100% of ticket sales would be donated to YASKA Children Cancer Fund and BELTA (Brunei English Language Teachers Association). To enjoy a meaningful afternoon of Broadway musical with good cause, get your tickets now for a wonderful afternoon with family and friends.

Group photo with the organisers, sponsors and volunteers of the event

Who will be the first to buy the No.0001 ticket?

Promotional poster of the event

Comedy Night Part 1 is organized by 1stopbrunei.com and the main partners are UBDFM and Ranoadidas.com

This comedy night will contain different mini comedic plays as well as a few singing acts by youths.The performers are Shavez, A’aqiil, Mathien and Kevin.They have had experience with SEEDs, BADs and their respective school clubs.

The aim of the comedy night is to provide entertainment to Brunei and make it affordable for everyone to view local acts and drama. And it is also to serve as a platform for Bruneians to show case their talents.

The show will be on April 6th, Saturday, 7:45 pm, at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, KKBS, Ground floor. 

The tickets are only $5 for students and $10 for adults. You can purchase the ticket at Lazeeza Restaurant at Hj Daud Complex, Gadong (same row with CA Mohd, the old branch at Gadong).

More information on the event and venue information can be found here.

RA says First Brunei Problems. Or in hastag term #FirstBruneiProblems. I haven’t been ranting or following up to the Ugly Truth for the past weeks or so. But now I feel the urge to do because this is the one of those days that I need to voice out my concern with my disagreement with the relevant authorities. Yesterday was the premiere or so called debut of the traffic light operation at the major roundabout at Kiulap. I did post my concern a month ago on my instagram and FB and I’ve predicted that this can be chaotic and many also gave feedback to the idea of traffic lights at the popular roundabout.

Yesterday was the first time I avoided the roundabout upon returning home. Well, that was only one out of four times yesterday alone *lol* My first attempt was noon time and it caught me by surprise because I wasn’t aware of it until I was driving towards the roundabout from Beribi. Ok fine, there is a timer set for the green and EVEN for the red (so that gives you the chance to rev your car if you feel like it) but the timing sometimes doesn’t offer much help either due to the short time duration for the green when coming from Beribi.. I believe it was only given 10 seconds or so and mind you, on peak hours, coming from Beribi can get quite a few even without traffic lights alone.

My second attempt was at 3:40pm and also attempting the same route, thinking that the traffic lights won’t be operation since it’s not peak hours. Believe or not, it was still on operation. But the great thing was it was a peak hour so exiting from Beribi was an easier task. My third attempt was almost midnight coming from highway (airport) but the lights were out so it was all good. Then again, I was the only car at that time *lol*

Now here’s the tricky part… Traffic lights on two lanes was a tricky in the beginning but it was easier to educate because of the minor complexity when it comes to switch lanes. Now bring that concept to a 3-lane roundabout. This equates to CHAOS… Trust me… and I predicted this will happe this morning and it did. More on that later. I’m a third inner lane user when I’m heading for the 2nd or 3rd entry point. Now it’s merely impossible to do so because of the momentum to switch lane from 3rd lane to the 2nd lane (middle one). I’m hardly a first laner unless the entry point is my next one. This is what’s causing the jam and plus the time duration of the traffic light is not making it any better. I still believe if the timer was calibrate to its optimum, it won’t be a successful task on a three-lane roundabout. I know that most 3rd lane users share the same sentiments as I do.

So Public Works Department (JKR), this is one serious matter that you have to look and put this on high priority because the pictures and the comments below are enough to open your eyes and see the real situation. Too bad P.A.R. won’t be stating his points of view on Opinion Page or Letters to the Editor but the comments here I post is enough to justify that a traffic light at a 3-lane roundabout doesn’t work.

Pictures below are screenshots from Instagram and also from Waze. Sorry peeps for using some of the screenshots 😀

The traffic situation taken at 8am today. Screen shot from Waze.

Ok, here’s the cause and effect of having traffic lights on a big roundabout.

1) The focal point (roundabout itself) is the nucleus of the other incoming routes (Kiulap, Ripas, Gadong, Beribi and Highway from airport). If that gets stuck even for 5 minutes, it will affect other routes. This has happened before because of a road accident inside the roundabout.

2) People are late for work. I saw one or two pictures of Instagram from my peers that their mates/colleagues are late because they are caught in traffic this morning.

3) There are even students dropping off at the Kiulap roundabout. My thinking would be because parents need to go to work after sending their children. So to cut time short and not entering the roundabout again, they are left with little choice but let their children off by the road. Not safe either.

4) Accident prone? Well, there was already one accident that I heard yesterday but I can’t confirmed that but it was commented on my instagram. I remembered being stuck at the middle land of the roundabout while waiting for the green light. The cars behind me squeezed through just to head out of the exits. This would be mean that I have to be alert of the cars in front of me and the traffic light as well as the cars behind me too. This really means I have to be extra, extra present that I’m usually am.

5) The final effect I hope to see predict is “Just Turn Off the Lights”, guys!! 😀

I’m sorry for my huge rant on this issue but whoever the consultant was for this project, they didn’t deliver the right formula.

For those who wants to give feedback, do email to pro@pwd.gov.bn and they welcome positive and negative feedback. For now, it seems there have been negative ones and I can’t even seem to see a positive one for now. Even those who were positive about it might turn tables 🙂 This is RA signing out.

Well, at least there’s something to cheer up among the locals. As usual, whenever some hot issues pop up, people will start doing memes to crack a laugh or two. I’m still searching for catchy ones but below are some of the ones I found on social networks. I’m hoping for more later during the day.

For a start, it’s good that the lights are finally switched off around 8ish or 9ish this morning after they have learnt that the congestion got worse instead of smooth sailing. It is now back to the drawing board and with more than a 1/4 of a million spent on this project, the pressure will be on the relevant agencies to come up with a better solution. They could have used policemen at the traffic light points to do trial run and see the impact and implications and work from there.

Below are also suggestions and feedback from my peers on IG and Facebook. And most of them aren’t positive either. It’s not too late to fix things but the $310,000 project might be money not well spent. I still believe even with the right timer for the indicators, it won’t solve the problem because of the three-lane concept. A lesson learnt to the relevant parties involved especially the consultants. No hard feelings but this needs to be addressed. We are still grateful that the congestion is way better than our regional neighbours but we also need to think ahead too and not be complacent. I’m pretty sure MOD/JKR are on this matter as I blog and let’s trust that they will solve this issue :))

The biggest irony in today’s headline in The Brunei Times

Money well spent?

Desperate time comes with desperate measures..

Comments and feedback from my instagram

Comments and feedback from my instagram

Comments and feedback from my instagram

It’s happening soon this Sunday. Are you ready?? 6,000 of you that is 😀

The clock is ticking and the anticipation is high. The first major run of the year is gonna take place soon in Brunei and I’m glad the Standard Chartered Bank (Brunei) is hosting the SCB Half-Marathon Brunei event. I’ve always love how they organised the marathon and the participation have always been great and the operations of the event have improved over the years.

I’ll participating in the 10k run this time round. My previous long distance run was the “Walk, Run, Cycle” which was 12km. The 10K run will be a warm-up for my 21K attempt in May in Singapore (one of my bucket lists). I’ve been doing my regular short jogs around the vicinity of the National Stadium. Yesterday I saw an increase number of joggers and this is always the case a week before the event. Sometimes it doesn’t make a difference but it’s better than nothing for sure.

This time round the SCB Half-Marathon Brunei run kicks off at 5:30am for the half marathon runners. I believe this is the earliest flag off and this is also good news for runners. Currently with a very hot, humid climate in Brunei, the earlier the run, the better. I tried jogging from 7:30am and it was already tough. The 10K runners will flag off at 6:00am which is also an earlier start compared to last year. Thumbs up to SCB for making this allowance which will also make the prize presentation as early as 8:45am.

Good luck to all the runners and you can collect your Race Entry Pack at Indoor Stadium from 5th April (8am to 12pm, 2pm to 9pm) and 6th April (8am to 5pm). I cant wait 😀

The new SCB runners t-shirt for the event from New Balance

The 10k route that I’m running.. Click image to view other routes

The programme for the day… click image to view

What I love about this event is the inclusion of pacers. One of my friend is a pacer and he will be pacing for a 3 hour race for 21km runners

Another pacer running at 2 hrs 40 mins for 21km. Click on image to view more pacers.

My jogging partner for the past few months. She’s actually faster than me 😀

We attempted the 10km route with success. Timing was just nice – 77 mins

Though it’s a New Balance top, we will be running in our trusted sneakers and they are in SCB colours too 😀

 

Tonight DPMM FC will take on Geylang United FC at Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium. Pic inset is Wardun, DPMM FC’s No.1 keeper. Hoping for all three points in the bag!!! Image taken from Wardun’s instagram 😀

 

B•Mobile is currently conducting a campaign for its Loyalty customers which is “Loyalty Club Know Your Merchant” Campaign.

They will run the campaign on Instagram and it’s a photo competition where contestants will upload their self portrait with their B-Club Card / SMS Rewards 38383 together with any of B•Mobile merchants outlet / product and you must write the best caption on your own photo with a hash tag #bmobilekym and tag @bmobile_brunei too.

Process flow:

• Contestant will take a self portrait with any of our merchants outlet or product together with CLUB CARD / SMS REWARDS
•   Contestant need to follow @bmobile_brunei on instagram to be eligible on the competition.
• Contestant need to upload their photo with any of our participating merchant’s outlet or product on instagram and write their best caption for their photo together with the merchant’s offer and hash tag it to #bmobilekym  and tag@bmobile_brunei
• Contestants shall submit their details via email to b.clubloyalty@bmobile.com.bn(once the contestants upload the pictures and hash tag it to #bmobilekym and tag@bmobile_brunei)
•    Judges will judge based on the creativity of their picture and best caption and will select the TOP 5 of the best for the Final photo.
• The Top 5 will be re post back by B-Mobile and will base on how many likes to become the winner.
• The best & most “likes” picture & caption will win the prizes. 

Terms & Conditions are as follow:

• Submission starts 1st – 30th April 2013
•  Re post picture for the top 5 will starts 1st – 5th May 2013 and its base on most “Likes”
• Competition is open to all B-Mobile subscribers ONLY
•  Contestant must follow @bmobile_brunei on instagram to be eligible on the competition
• Contestants shall submit their full details such as full name, i.c no, Contact no. (b-Mobile no.) & their instagram username via email tob.clubloyalty@bmobile.com.bn (once the contestants upload the pictures and hash tag it to #bmobilekym and tag @bmobile_brunei)
•  Photo entries per participant are unlimited
• Judges will judge based on creativeness of the picture & caption
•  Winners will be announce on B-Mobile Facebook, Twitter and Instagram & press release during prize presentation.
•   B-Mobile Staff are not allowed to join this competition

 

Another online buying portal will be unveiled this Friday and malppy.com will officially launched. According to the owner of Mapply, this portal will give you a real sense of real online shopping experience. Currently in Brunei, some online store vendors still deliver the products but cash on delivery rather than paying their items online through means of credit cards. Another feature is that you won’t have to collect the goods you buy at the customs or the store; instead the products you ordered will be sent to your doorsteps.

Malppy.com has quite a wide range of clothes and apparels online with over 600 products. So far, they are only into these products as the other products such as electronics and gadgets are already saturated in the online scene in Brunei. Furthermore, the clothes (mostly for ladies) and apparels that they are bringing in are not common in Brunei.

The founder of Malppy.com is very particular about the qualities that are brought into Brunei. Each of the products will go through a process of quality control assessment to ensure that “what you see is what you get”. This will avoid such defected goods delivered to the consumers.

The official opening will be on Friday and all is invited to Au Lait Cafe in the evening to witness the event. There will be refreshments served as well. The event begins at 6:30pm onwards.

For your info, Malppy.com is an online project founded by The Rumbian Nation and supported by Brunei Economic Development Board LEAP Grant initiative. Congratulations on the online shopping portal. All the best!!

Click image to enter website

 

Click image to enter website 

 

Every Thursday 2pm to 4pm for “Ask Program”

 

Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzillah played for Ivy Ballers A which came 2nd Runner-up in the ladies category. Image courtesy of Bruneibasketball.com

Open Category
Champion Score – Ambaphil (19 points)
1st Runner Up Score – KFC Double Down (17 points)
2nd Runner Up Score – Uni Decor Coating (21 points)
3rd Runner Up Score – Davis Lighting (12 points)
 
Students Category
Champion Score – Shark B (20 points)
1st Runner Up Score – Spartans (19 points)
2nd Runner Up Score – Shark A (25 points – include overtime)
3rd Runner Up Score – Shark C (22 points – include overtime)

Ladies Category
Champion Score – Ivy Ballers B (10 points)
1st Runner Up Score – Hemaviton Hu Huang (8 points)
2nd Runner Up Score – Ivy Ballers A ( 12 points)
3rd Runner Up Score – AL Professional (8 points)

Ivy Ballers B the winners in the ladies category. Image courtesy of Bruneibasketball.com

Shark B the winners in the students category. Image courtesy of Bruneibasketball.com

The winners of the 3-on-3 Streetball Challenge. Click image to enlarge. Image courtesy of Bruneibasketball.com

One of the matches during the quarter finals last Friday

 

I can’t wait for this spectacle

 

Debbie was nervous before the finals of the Mobile One’s Amazing Quest. She came 7th overall.

Devon was busy emceeing the whole event of Amazing Quest

Birdy (in maroon) won the Amazing Quest

There were 20 tasks to be completed. This was one of them.

Some of the puzzles

Fizah (in white) chasing after Wendy. She came 2nd place/

It’s all about teamwork too

Kath briefing some of the tasks to the participants

Wendy was pretty tired running here and there

 

Chairman of TCY Motors Sdn Bhd, Teng Chin Ying and Managing Director Teng Chee Khiong unveiling the Peugeot 208

Finally debuting at the Peugeot Kiarong Showroom on Friday, the new three-door Peugeot 208 is a stunner that sets a benchmark in the B segment category of Brunei’s automobile industry. Present to unveil the new 208 was the Chairman of TCY Motors Sdn Bhd, Teng Chin Ying and Managing Director Teng Chee Khiong.

After a short powerpoint presentation delivered by the emcee, DJ Daffy, both Teng Chin Ying and Teng Chee Khiong lifted the cover to unveil the all-new Peugeot 208.

The presentation covered many of the special features packed into the vehicle awarded by Auto Express UK as “Best Supermini”, as well as TCY Motors’ improved after-sales service.

The Peugeot 208 has also won “Best Car of the Year 2013” in Spain, thanks to its dynamic look, clever technology, excellent safety and quality comfort.

A Cielo Panoramic glass roof is made optional, and a 208 equipped with this feature is on display at the Peugeot showroom. The Cielo roof is equipped with ambient lighting which enhances the spacious feeling and fills the interior with enough light to give the driver and passengers great visibility.

It was also announced that the five-door variant of the Peugeot 208 will be launched in the second quarter of this year.

A prize presentation was also held during the launch for the winners of TCY Motors’ daily “Like, Answer & Win” contest on its Facebook fan page. Robin Leong, Nur Sakinah Ayunie Abdullah Dahan, Maimunah Kassim, Elli Goh Mei Tieng, Syaahidah Hj Md Daud, Chooi Ay Chung, Nurul Husniyah Ismail and Rashidah Hj Md Taufik each received limited edition macarons specially created by MADbites Cafe for the Peugeot 208.

A draw was also held for visitors present at the launch of the Peugeot 208, which saw Hj Mahlil Hj Mat Salleh win the prize of an Apple iPad Mini.

During the launch, it was announced that there will be a dance competition in conjunction with the introduction of the Peugeot 208 called “Let Your Body Drive”. Interested parties are asked to register at the Peugeot showroom or through online forms (which will be available soon at www.peugeot-brunei.com).

The “Let Your Body Drive” dance competition will be adjudicated by Patricia Siva of StudioScene and Adrian of Groove Studio.The final round of the dancing competition will be held some time in April.

For more information on the Peugeot 208 and the “Let Your Body Drive” dance competition, drop by Peugeot’s Kiarong showroom and talk to the staff or call 2426969.

Alternatively, like Peugeot Brunei on Facebook to get updates on its promotions and its dance competition, or follow them on Instagram at PeugeotBrunei. Ammirul Adnan of The Brunei Times.

The local press taking photos of the car

Chairman of TCY Motors giving it a thumbs up!!

The lucky draw of the iPad

Winners of TCY Motors’ daily “Like, Answer & Win” contest on its Facebook fan page

The winner of the iPad

Peugeot 208 Let Your Body Drive 2013 competition. Win $500 cash prize. Click image to findo out more!!