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Author Archive

18
Dec

L2P

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News

 
Festive season at Radisson

 



Icon Design Store

 

Click image to enter website

 

 

Extra 5KG* on RB

 

 
Supa Save Re-opens

The redevelopment of Supa Save Seria which started early February this year, will be bringing a whole new shopping experience with the convenience of a bank, cafe and other exciting retail outlets under one roof. With the help of local creative agency Mixmediaworx, this popular supermarket has also been working on a re-branding exercise that will be rolled out progressively, beginning with a logo refresh followed by some exciting campaigns lined up for the coming year.”

  
Bucida tree being planted

 


Pehin Yahya with Ivan Ballesteros, nephew of late legendary Spanish golfer Seve Ballesteros, planted a special tree, the Bucida

Too bad that I missed the biggest golf event in Brunei last weekend which was Royal Trophy which team Asia won against team Europe in this year’s edition which took took place at The Empire Hotel & Country Club.

Anyway there was a tree planting ceremony to commemorate the late legendary Spanish golfer Seve Ballesteros and the ceremony was graced by Pehin Dato Seri Setia Hj Yahya and Ivan Ballesteros where they planted a Bucida tree.

It was funny Ivan shared that his uncle Seve spent most of his golfing career hitting the trees and produced amazing recovery shots. Hence there was a lot of love and sentiments that Seve have for trees.

The spot where the tree was planted is also marked by a plaque, bearing the inscription ‘In memory of Seve Ballesteros (1957-2011) great golfing legend and founder of the Royal Trophy’. The plaque was also autographed by Ivan Ballesteros.

Also in attendance were Dato Paduka Awg Hj Ali bin Hj Apong, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Chairman of BEDB, and Datin Paduka Hajah Adina binti Othman, Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports. Images courtesy of Nazirul Hakeem of Borneo Bulletin.


Ivan Ballesteros with officers from Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources


The plaque signed by Ivan Ballesteros

 

Recap: Licence2Play

 


A popular gaming event

Now this what I call an awesome gaming event for Licence 2 Play at Marina Bay Sands Expo Hall, Singapore. I have previously staged Brunei Cyber Game and it was just good enough for the Brunei community and I kinda missed organising such events of that scale. Last weekend Brunei also had their version under the flagship of TFF EA CON which was another huge success. Of course, when comparing with neighbouring countries, they can produce more extravagant features.

The interesting bit about Licence 2 Play was that the event was orgnanised by Singapore Press Holding in association with SCOGA which is a non-profit organisation (a link between government and gamers). I only attended the 2nd day as I was in KL on the 1st day. It was a great crowd puller which drew in around 100,000 visitors and yes there was an entrance fee which is $5.

I hope to make another visit again next year. Thumbs up for the great event 😀


Hmmm they need your IC though during the registration as a visitor


The World of Tanks booth was pretty impressive


…. maybe because their booth had hot ladies


… and they also can play


Hello there…


Another creative booth at L2P


The young and the old enjoying their matches


Yay!!! I get to meet the model for Ghost in the Shell


I was sandwiched by Ion Ginga and Martha Asahi *gulp*


Ok, I love this cosplay costume


Hmmmm … Is this suppose to be the Merman from The Cabin in the Woods?


The ladies at the earphone booth


Have a break!!!


FIFA 13 tournament also featured at L2P

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A popular gaming event


One of the finalists of the cosplay competition and she said she won’t join next year because of her studies


I would have thought this costume would have got top 3 but didn’t


He was also a finalist but was voted Top 3


The judges presented the third place winner of the Cosplay competition


The winner of the Cosplay award and he promised to the Gangnam dance right after


Mortal Kombat vs DC looks freaking good

 

 

 

19
Dec

SLA now under BEDB

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News

 
Festive season at Radisson

 



Icon Design Store

 

Click image to enter website

 

 

Extra 5KG* on RB

 

 
Supa Save Re-opens

The redevelopment of Supa Save Seria which started early February this year, will be bringing a whole new shopping experience with the convenience of a bank, cafe and other exciting retail outlets under one roof. With the help of local creative agency Mixmediaworx, this popular supermarket has also been working on a re-branding exercise that will be rolled out progressively, beginning with a logo refresh followed by some exciting campaigns lined up for the coming year.”

 
Dato Ali Apong, now chairman of SLA

 


Now Dato Paduka Hj Ali Apong has three postings – as the Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, Chairman of Brunei Economic Development Board and now with the consent of His Majesty the Sultan, Dato Paduka Hj Ali Apong is the chairman of the Board of Directors of Sungai Liang Authority (SLA) which will be on an interim basis.

I was a bit shocked reading today’s newspaper because of the reshuffling that is taking place at Sungai Liang Authority (SLA). Now the duties and responsibilities of SLA have been transferred to the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB) and this would mean more responsibilities for BEDB and I believe they are the right driver for SLA’s initiative. The transfer was consented by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam through the Prime Minister’s Office.

For your info, the other appointed Board of Directors of SLA are Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister’s Office, Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Roselan Hj Mohd Daud; Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance Hjh Ning-Lela Dato Paduka Hj Mohamad; Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources Hjh Normah Suria Hayati PJDSMDSU Dr HjMohd Jamil Al-Sufri; Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Development Dato Paduka Hj Suhaimi Hj Gafar; Managing Director of PetroBru Dato Paduka Hj Matsatejo Sokiaw and Chief Executive Officer ofBEDB Vincent Cheong.

For those who are not aware, SLA is supposedly to function as a one-stop agency to supervise the progress of projects at the Sungai Liang Industrial Park and foster relations between Mukim Liang communities and SLA. The project started way back in 2007 and it was under the chairmanship of Pengiran Kerma Raja Pengiran Hj Kamarulzaman Pengiran Pekerma Setia Diraja Sahibul Bandar Pengiran Hj Ali from 2007 until 2012.

Let’s see what’s the plan here from BEDB on SLA’s project. Sometimes change is necessary to bring new energy to an organisation. A similar case happened a few years back where BEDB came under the supervision of the Prime Minister’s Office.

  

Happy 20th KFC Brunei

 


 

20th December 2012 marks the 20th year that KFC has been in Brunei and to celebrate it, KFC wants to do something special for their customers and friends that have helped them achieved this. As a way of saying thanks, on 20th December 2012, at 8:12pm KFC will be launching a 20th Anniversary music video on their facebook and will also be launching a special edition 20th Anniversary woven bags at their outlets. We chose this date and time (20:12,20.12.2012) because it’s quite special and we’ll always remember it as a day we give our customers a BIG thank you,” says Del Goh, General Manager.

KFC’s 20th Anniversary music video, titled “So Good” written and performed by Andy Suzuki & The Method, whose recent visit to Brunei received warm welcome from their fans. Aside from the music video, there will be a full studio version available at radio and a TV commercial of 30s will be available at the cinemas.

For the non-woven bags, customers can get it free at any KFC outlets in Brunei when they spend B$20 and above in a single purchase, while stock last. For the whole month of December, KFC is already giving away different gifts for any purchase worth B$20 and above in a single receipt.

 


A father son moment on stage where Nelky Goh, Managing Director of KFC, received his long service award his son Del Goh, General Manager of KFC at the 20th Anniversary of KFC Brunei last Monday
 

  

Promotion at Caliente

 


Caliente’s Xmas promotion. Call 2234549 / 7202985 for reservation

Made your plans yet on Christmas lunch? Caliente is having a promotion on 24th and 25th December.. On Monday it will be on dinner while Tuesday will be on lunch and dinner. There is the Santa package which is $45 per person or the Rudolph package which is $38 per person. Oh yea seats are limited as well so better make your bookings earlier – call 2234549 / 7202985 for reservation at Caliente, located at Regent Square.

Do visit their Fanpage for updates on Caliente Spanish Restaurant too.

Breakfast menu at Caliente

 


Egg’s Benedict – ala carte order


Salmon Alhumado – Ala carte order


Crepes Rellenas De Setas – ala carte order


Pancakes – ala carte order


Breakfast Set for only $5 with tea or coffee

Try Caliente’s Breakfast Set for only $5.00 inclusive of coffee or tea (picture above). Or you can also try ala carte dishes for breakfast – Egg’s Florentine, Egg’s Benedict, Pancakes, Omelette, Crepes Rellanas de Setas and Salmon Alhumado and prices vary.

We serve Breakfast only on Tuesday – Friday at 8:00am till 10:30 am. Visit us at Regent Square, Kiulap or call 2234549 / 7202985 for reservation.

Exotic birds in Brunei

 


This a white-rumped Shama is “unprotected” and it is reported being sold at Jerudong Beach. Image by Adam Hanif of The Brunei Times.

For your info, there’s a new established government agency on Wildlife Division where they are sourcing on wild and exotic animals and birds in Brunei. Recently some of the exotic birds are being caught and sold in local markets and apparently this is considered illegal. So if you happened to come across exotic animals or birds being sold, do report to the Wildlife Division.

Both Dr Joseph Charles, a biologist and senior lecturer at UBD and Jungle Dave, a wildlife enthusiast, share a similar view that the exotic birds need to be protected or else it will lead to extinction. To read more of the article, do read here.

 

Andy Suzuki & the Method on “So Good”

 


Andy Suzuki & The Method were recently in Brunei to write and perform KFC’s 20th Anniversary Music Video titled “So Good”

The song used in KFC’s 20th Anniversary Music Video titled, So Good was written and performed by Andy Suzuki & The Method. “We wrote them a story, about our feelings towards our customers whom have given us 20 years of sogood and they turned it into a wonderful song capturing the main essence of what we want to say,” says Jonathan Bong, Senior Marketing Manager.

For example:
“When you feel the morning light, who would you like to see? and When the stars burn bright, won’t you think of me?”

 KFC looks forward to everyday where their customers are the first on their mind in the morning and last on their mind at the night.

“It’s been 20 years, since we first met. Do you remember that old feeling or did you forget?”

Many of us at KFC remember the expressions of customers when we first open the doors of our first outlet to this very day and we hope that this song can help those that were there to relive those memories too.

“Some things may have changed, we won’t ever be the same. You made us so much better, since that first day”

We may have changed since 20 years ago, but it’s to improve ourselves, to serve you better.

“We will be your shelter when it starts to rain. Everyday like Fry Day, Sundae again.”

We want to pamper you when you are feeling down, we want to make your everyday feels like a holiday. (Fryday and Sundae, a pun on Friday and Sunday).

  Aside from the music video, there will be a full studio version available at radio and a TV commercial of 30s will be available at the cinemas. This is the first time that KFC have produced a TV commercial and music video locally and they would like to credit Shazanas Production House for their help. KFC would like to take the chance to thank all the staff and their families, friends and especially Trinity advertising & event management and UBDFM for their help in casting.

 

  

 

16
Dec

What Mayan?!

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News

 
Movie reviews

 

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. Hmmmm Peter, Peter, Peter…. I totally love your Lord of the Rings trilogy and I have watched it over and over again because the cinematic experience was awesome on each series. The Hobbit’s first installment was another much anticipated movie in this festive season and I felt that I didn’t have that same experience as I had with LOTR. It reminded me so much of the Star Wars where the prequel kinda lack the mojo too. Don’t get me wrong. Visually The Hobbit was freaking amazing though I thought it was too “real” because of the new frame technique deployed by Peter Jackson. And yes, I caught this is an IMAX 3D and I have no complains on the visuals and the cinematography. However, I would still give the visual award to Ang Lee’s Life of Pi for now.

Movie wise, it has some good moments, some maybe draggy moments and a few flaws here and there. I know some movies have their flaws but when it comes to Peter Jackson, my expectations are higher. One big thing I felt was missing was the depth of the characters of the dwarves. I’ve actually read the Empire (film magazine) and it has descriptions of each of the dwarves personality. However, the movie failed to translate that knowledge I had on the screen. The direction could have been stronger and I felt the movie was kinda long. Well, LOTR movies had the same duration but it didn’t feel long for me. I think you get the gist what I’m trying to say. Needless to say, I still enjoyed the movie but it was surely not an epic. Now wonder The Hobbit only scored 65% on Rottentomatoes while LOTR movies averaged at 92%. Verdict: 7/10.

Bacherolette. I saw the poster at the cinema in Singapore and the first thing I saw was Kirsten Dunst. I used to adore her in Spider-man movies and ever since, she hasn’t been in many movies or maybe I have been ignorant.. Hmmm this movie was just an average romantic comedy movie. I won’t spare so much on writing this review. Frankly speaking I wish this was the first movie of the movie marathon I had yesterday with A Werewolf Boy which was one of my top movies of the year. There were tons of profanity though and one scene where Dunst was hmmmm ahem you know haha which is kind rare. Finally I realise how “green” Dunst is but me likey likey. Sadly, the movie was a letdown. Oh yea, Fat Amy is there as well. Verdict: 6/10.

Argo. Woww!!!! One thing I have to salute about Ben Affleck is his ability to direct and also being part of the movie. He did it with The Town and I really enjoyed that movie. Now he came up with Argo which is based on a true story that happened in Iran and it was superb from beginning to the end. I’m not a big fan of political movies but I have to give this an exception. It’s one of the movies that will keep you to the edge of your seat and the experience is much more rewarding after every obstacle they went through each scene. It was a bit weird to see Affleck sporting a hairy beard *lol* and he pulled off a great performance too. I doubt this will be showing in Brunei and I was glad it was still showing in Singapore. Keep it up, Ben. Looking forward to your other upcoming movies. Verdict: 8/10.

A Werewolf Boy. Gosh… I went to this movie with no expectations and I didn’t see any preview or even read the summary of the movie. Of course the title suggests that it’s gonna be a thriller horror perhaps and if it was a Werewolf movie by Hollywood, I would think twice about catching it. Yes, this is a Korean movie and I’m a big fan of Korean movies for the past few years. Boy oh Boy… this movie was surprisingly good from start to the end.. I never thought such movie would make me intrigue all the way.. It was humorous, touching, edgy and most of all, I ended up crying.. I meant weeping in the final third of the movie. Wow!!! I was invested in the two main characters that I was emotionally drawn. A great score too for the movie that also made the difference. This is one of the best movies of 2012 and after googling it, A Werewolf Boy is the 3rd biggest box office in Korea. I highly recommend you to catch this and I don’t know if this will be shown in Brunei. It’s been a while since I really enjoyed a Korean movie. Oh yeah, there’s a good message about commitment and compassion and it’ quite powerful. Verdict: 9/10.

Life of Pi. There were so much expectations on this movie as people were drawn to the spectacle trailer months before it was released. Ang Lee has been quite in the Hollywood scene but he was well known his hits such as Hulk and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and even Brokeback Mountain. Now with Life of Pi, he attempts to create that emotional value with the audience. So did he succeed? For me, it was a yes and no situation. The ending was also an open ended situation which was doable for Life of Pi. I was hoping for more an adventure rather than spending more time of the main character Pi connecting with Richard Parker the Bengal tiger.

Visually I have to admit it was amazing though I thought the best parts were already shown in the trailer so no surprise or wow element moment there for me. One thing that kept me wondering why wasn’t Coldplay’s Paradise song included in the actual movie but it was a good score in the end of the preview trailer. I was hoping for that song to appear but it didn’t. I have to salute Ang Lee though for turning this challenging novel into a movie and if anyone can do, he’s the right man for it. Yes, I expected more in terms of the “fun” factor and lack of emotional drive. Well done on being nominated as the Best Picture and Best Director in Golden Globes Award. Verdict: 7/10.

Wreck-it Ralph. I also came into the movie with high expectations though I didn’t see the trailer for this. The feel I had for this movie was similar to that of Pitch Perfect. I was simply amazed how creative this animation was and I believe Wreck-it Ralph was a saviour for Walt Disney Pictures which has been struggling to produce enjoyable films. Well, it was a huge success for The Avengers also under Disney but other than that, they are recovering from a slide.

This movie is equally entertaining for adults and kids and it was probably more rewarding for adults since it reminded us of the gaming industry back in the 80s and 90s. The translation of a video game into reality was witty and creative and alone has earned a point or two for me. Plot wise it was good and lessons can be learnt from it which is good for the kids and even adults 😀 I suggest parents bring their kids to watch Wreck-it Ralph and you will definitely enjoy the ride. I don’t mind watching this again really and there are still tons of screens showing this at The Mall Cineplex. Verdict: 8.5/10.

 

Purchase with a Purpose

 

 

Yugo soft launch

 


I lost track of how many shabu-shabu restaurants are they in Brunei. I heard a lot of good reviews about Yugo BBQ. Located at Gadong Central. Image taken from Yogu BBQ Facebook page


Image taken from Yogu BBQ Facebook page


Sharon and Dayah having their meal at Yugo. I shall try this out soon.

15
Dec

Happy weekend peeps!!!

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News

This week’s update

 


Heads of police getting new cars – Toyota Camry – Click image for more of the story.


It’s bonus time in Singapore and there was so much of human traffic lately in Orchard. This picture taken at Epic Centre, ION.


Compact cameras selling pretty cheap at Challenger’s mini expo at ION


My siblings enjoying their shopping and bought some super heroes stuff


Special deals at Concepts Computer


Have you been to the new Supa Save in Seria? It’s totally revamped and rebranded 😀 Thanks to Mixmediaworx


My lil brother Wahab stole the show with his Starship dance on Kinect at ION. A few video-ed moments from the public.


Mohd, our butler, lining up at H&M at ION.. Now this place was super packed!!


I love the MRT.. One reason why I prefer Singapore than being in KL, the convenience factor.


TigerLim craving for the Quarter Pounder.. It’s back in Brunei McDonald’s


Ok, this was taken at McDonald’s Singapore. Cool promo!!


Ok, I have to admit I spent quite a bit on zombies.. It was way cheaper than the ones I bought in Brunei. Thanks to Toy Hunt at Novena Sq.


Sooo…. Wreck-it Ralph is only released next week in Singapore. Highly recommended if you haven’t caught it in Brunei.


Joanne and I caught The Hobbit and it was entertaining but definitely not as epic as LOTR.


Ok, new licence and blue card for motorists beginning next year. Click image for more of the story.

 

14
Dec

LEGOLAND

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News

 
 
LEGOLAND was awesome!!!

 


Click on the banner to enter

It was another great outing with the family and after months and months of waiting, the wait is finally over. Supposed I was to suppose to head over there with CR but she beat me to it *lol* Legoland Malaysia has been the talk of the town in terms of places of interest especially during the holidays. Quite a lot of Bruneians have stepped foot on Legoland located at Johor.

For your info, LEGOLAND Malaysia is the sixth LEGOLAND built around the world and also being the first in Asia. If you happened to be in Singapore, then you can go across the border over to Johor Baru and pay a visit to LEGOLAND.

Mind you there are still other phases that are yet to be completed. There are tons of visit around LEGOLAND and I had a good time though the weather was challenging. My siblings didn’t have enough experience and wanting more. Well, there’s always a next time 😀

Just check out the pictures I posted.. Sorry for the lack of captions!!

 

 

13
Dec

131212

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News

 

The story this week!!!


I caught up with Joanne who’s currently spending her December in Singapore. Yay, she’s gonna be my movie partner for The Hobbit later.


It seems the birthday celebrant Amalina had a good 12.12.12 yesterday on her birthday. Sorry I couldn’t be there to share the joy and the celebrations.. Catch you next week 😀


The ladies suited up for the Licence2Play event at Marina Bay Sands. I kinda like the event and reminds me of the BCG days. If you are looking for something similar, do visit Brunei’s TFF EACON this Saturday/Sunday at Kiulap Plaza Hotel. More pictures of Licence2Play soon.


Holy cow…. Keeran Janin has done it again!!! He’s not just an app developer but he’s also creative in the mind. He was the chosen winner of the 29th Brunei Darussalam National Day Logo Design competition. The theme for next year Brunei Darussalam’s National Day is “My Country Brunei Darussalam”. Click the image for more and the interview with The Brunei Times.


Congratulations to Herman and Liana on their solemnization yesterday on 12•12•12 and may Allah bless both of you on the new journey. Image courtesy of Jackie.


Our trip to Legoland (Malaysia) was slightly short lived due to the moderate showers. The kids loved it but wanted more. Perhaps round II is calling soon 😀 By the way, I love Legoland and this is very ideal for families though the prices of Lego are slightly more expensive.


The intake for the PKBN has increased to 200 participants. Yesterday was the oath ceremony for the launch of the third pilot project at the indoor stadium. Click image to read more. Image courtesy of Sabrina Mahmud.


Yay… I’m gonna catch the Hobbit in an hour’s time.. And it will be my first time in IMAX 3D.. This should be awesome…. though the movie scored in the 70% region in Rottentomatoes


Yes, it has been a rainy week in Singapore. So it’s advisable to bring an umbrella if you will spending most of the time walking outdoors.

 

12
Dec

TFF EACON this weekend

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News

Seasons’ $10 breakie

 

Royal Brunei Catering (RBC) brings back the famous $10 buffet breakfast at Seasons Restaurant located on the second floor of Centrepoint Gadong. The buffet promotion started from December 1 and is ongoing until December 31, 2012. Breakfast starts from 6.30am until 10.30am daily.

The spread is a combination of Continental and Local breakfast such as Nasi Lemak and porridge for its local delicacies and vegetable pie and baked beans for its continental dishes.

A live stall or Egg Station will prepare eggs of your own liking such as Sunny Side-Up, Omelette, Scrambled Eggs and many more. Other individual stalls serve chicken noodle soup and Nasi Lemak with all its condiments.

Seasons Restaurant Breakfast Buffet serves about 10 main dishes such as Pineapple Fried Rice, Fried Mee Hoon, Pancakes and Spring Rolls.

For those who like to start their day with porridge, it will not be a disappointment as the porridge station comes with all the necessary condiments to make it their own.

Delectable fresh pastries such as Chocolate Filled Croissant, similar to the ones served on Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) flights, are ready to tantalize your morning taste buds complimented with hot coffee or tea. Also available to help quench your thirst is a free-flow of orange and apple juice.

The Breakfast Buffet is priced at $10 per adult and $6 for children aged six to 12 and children under six years old can join the buffet for free. For reservation and further inquiries, Seasons Restaurant can be contacted at 2422291 or 2422292. For more information about RBC visit their website at www.rbccatering.com or like them on Facebook/royalbruneicatering for the latest updates and promotions.

All the dishes served at Seasons Restaurant are free of MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) and are only cooked with natural products. Text by Ammirul Adnan of The Brunei Times.

 

Tff Eacon event this weekend

 

For the past few years, I have yet to attend one of their events because I’m always outstation and this year, I’m gonna miss it again *boohoo* This year’s TFF EACON 2012 looks impressive with many activities going to take place.

There will be a cosplay competition as usual and there will be a gaming competition organised by Counter Attack. The games competed are Super Street Fighter 4 Arcade Edition 2012, Tekken Tag Tournament 2, Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3, Persona 4 Arena and Mortal Kombat 9. Also part of the event is FIFA 13 and the slots are almost fully booked from the looks of it. Do check out their Facebook page for updates on the activities at TFF EACON.

There will be also a variety of anime figures on sale at TFF EACON by YESZONE too. So peeps, I think it’s better you visit their Facebook page event as all the details are there. Good luck to all the participants and the tickets are available. Not sure how much the tickets are though. Kudos to the organizers involved. Something to look forward to in December.

 

Water Park at Lumut

 

 

11
Dec

Enjoying my time out

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News

 

The Wagyu Deal

 


Try out their wagyu platter at Deals

Sorry for the late post on this awesome platter from Deals. Hui Chiet and I went to Deals to try out the latest food promotion and this time, it’s the wagyu deal. The wagyu will be served on a platter where there will be six portions from the different parts of wagyu. You can see clearly from the image above on the parts that are being served.

I love the wagyu Cheek and Armidillo. The portion is just nice for one or you can have it as a share entree for two. Well, we had as our entree before our main course. By the way, Deals also have new menu for the lunch and you should try them out too. For reservations at Deals, you can call 2244272.


BBQ Wagyu Sirloin with Onion Marmalade


Shot of Vietnamese style wagyu beef soup with ginger flower


Pickled Wagyu Topside with sweet cabbage and mustard


Seared Wagyu beef shine with horseradish cream


Hui Chiet getting her ready for her lunch


Slow cooked wagyu cheek


Fried Wagyu Armidillo stuffed with swiss cheese


The wagyu platter


Wagyu beef burger


Grilled black cod with clam risotto

 

Recap: APICTA 2012

 


HRH Crown Prince with the committee members of APICTA 2012

It was a great week for the Brunei contingent as they received a winner award and four merits. One of the winners was Chung Hwa Middle School for the Secondary category which I’ve posted recently on their mobile app “Brunei Treasure”. It was an award dedicated to His Majesty the Sultan as it was his kind words and motivation that inspired the students to put more effort into their project and the efforts paid off.

Among the 59 merit winners, Brunei had four in the Asia Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) Awards 2012 and the all the merits and awards were presented by His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office.

So who won the Merit Awards? The first was ZimacSilicon Technologies (ZST) for their Merit Award for “iCLID” in the e-Government category. Mas Idris of ZST was very proud of the achievement and he thanked this team (Tay and Khern) for investing a lot of effort for the APICTA presentation.

MediaHikmah which won the BICTA 2012 trophy also received the Merit Award for their “Let’s Pray” app in the e-learning category. Hadi of MediaHikmah said winning the Merit Award is bigger than this award at BICTA because this is an international event and this will motivate him further to shine.

Liam Janin of MeSixty also bagged the Merit Award for their product “Chatworthy” under the Tourism and Hospitality category. It was also his first time presenting to the APICTA judges while his brother, the founder of MeSixty was away. John Harith Technology also won the Merit AWard in e-Logistics and Supply Chain Management category for their EPCIS Halal Food Traceability system.

So well done to the Brunei participants and there were also other participants from Brunei and great job to them too.


Pei-pei was awesome!!!


The winners lining up to receive their awards


Liam Janin receiving the Merit Award for “Chatworthy”


The winner for the Tourism and Hospitality category


MediaHikmah receiving the Merit Award


ZST receiving their Merit Award


The winner of the e-Government category


John Harith Technology receiving the Merit Award


Some of the committee of APICTA 2012


Brunei represent yooo!!!

 

iPad Mini now available

 


Check it out at AV Electronics

 

Newly launch of Cityhair Studio

 


Love your hair, Love Cityhair. Located at Gadong Central.


The vouchers at Cityhair Studio


The lucky draw dip during the opening ceremony

 

10
Dec

GS moment kicks in

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News

 

RVP, Messi grab headlines

 


RVP scored the winner though he had a quiet night against Manchester City. Now Manchester United have 6 points lead over Manchester City.


Messi beat Gerd Muller’s goal by scoring his 86th goal in a year calendar. The last record was back in 1972. He is definitely a phenomenal player and how I wish he plays for an English club before he retires.

 

ZO rocked the weekend!!

 

RA saysWhat a weekend!!! I managed to cover the Red Bull Rookies event last Saturday, caught a bit of Thirst at Sepang then flew back to Singapore in time for Zoukout event at Siloso beach and it was a spectacle. Now I’m having my sweet time and not worrying about coverage this week as I will be in Singapore till the weekend and taking time off. So if you want to reach me on my Brunei line, tough luck mates.. You can reach me via email if you want to get hold of me or those who have my contact, you can still whatsapp me.

Yesterday I covered a gaming event at Marina Bay Sands and it was similar to my version of Brunei Cyber Games but this one which was called Licence 2 Play was 10 times better than the one I normally organised. Judging from the props and set ups, they must have fork out a fortune and plus they have tons of sponsors to fund the event. I did have a good time and I got whipped in FIFA 13 by a Malay guy in a friendly game.

By evening, I was contemplating whether to catch Argo (the movie) or nap in time to catch the pulsating derby match between Manchester United and Manchester City. I opted for the latter and wow, someone realized that I had dark circles around my eyes. It must have been the lack of sleep for the past few days and even last night’s sleep wasn’t enough because my body clock normally is 7-8am.

I’m planning to catch Jersey Boys and maybe.. just maybe The Jackson’s Unity Tour this weekend. Oh yeah, I will be heading to Legoland with the family this week. So something to look forward to 😀 With a week left, I can still take my sweet time and just enjoy my time in Singapore. I have yet to catch anyone in Singapore though I bumped into some friends here and there at Zoukout. Last year, I failed to bumped into any familiar faces. However, it was a different case last weekend and the crowd was just massive (40,000 people at least) at Siloso Beach.

So do bear with me with my relatively moderate to slow updates on RA. Have an awesome Monday and of course, throughout the week!!!

Pictures from Siloso Beach

 


Security check at the entrance. I was pretty sneaky because I cut the queue which was at least 500 metres long.. Shhh…


The DJ lined up at ZO


I loved the lightings


Calvin Harris in the house. Definitely the highlightt of ZoukOut 2012


They have upgraded the lighting effects and it looks wicked


The crowd and the atmosphere were pretty crazy


Meet the drum guys!!


Glow sticks were selling like hot cakes. I didn’t get one for myself though.


Everyone going nuts when it was time for Calvin Harris


Loads of human lifting too


I bought some merchandise from ZO


High demands for recharging your smartphones. However, signal is very poor because of network congestions


I kinda like Nina Kraviz


The mini fireworks by 2am


ZoukOut 2012 was a blast indeed!!


I love DJ Porter Robinson


The scene at Siloso Beach


There were some games for the public to play


Such a bad idea to have this game, don’t you think?


A-Trak was not bad.. Apparently the Star Stage didn’t have as much of a crowd compared to the Moon Stage


The great thing about carrying an SLR, they keep asking me to take photos of them 😀


So did these ladies…


Brunei represent yo….


The ushers killing time as the queue died down.. Well, it was almost 4am that time


My final pitstop before heading back to the hotel. My cab charge was $50 then.. but I was just wanna get home without the waiting for so long

 

07
Dec

A stunt blogger?

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News

 

Zira to burn the track today

 


Melissa Huang of Singapore and Zira (Siti Zirwatul) of Brunei will be representing the female Red Bull Rookies Racing team today in the Sepang 1,000 endurance race at the Sepang International Circuit

Last year was Ogy. The previous year were Liana and Mel. This year, Zira grabbed the headlines for representing Brunei for the Red Bull Rookies Racing Team. According to her friend, she came across the Red Bull Rookies application through my blog and now her dream came true in racing against the big guns and more importantly, representing a strong brand Red Bull.

Yesterday during the qualifying, Zira clocked 2 minutes 55 seconds which is her personal best and it was also an improvement of three seconds. However, the real deal will be on the race day which is happening as I’m typing this entry. At the moment, Melissa and Zira’s car is in 22nd place among 32 cars.

Perhaps the main aim is to finish the race and not to worry about finishing on the podium. However, there’s a new twist to this as Red Bull has created a new incentive for both male and female drivers of Red Bull Rookies. The winner between the two gender will win a grand prize of RM 10,000 so there’s a lot of stake here within the Red Bull rookies.

I’m quite happy to see Melissa Huang representing the female and she’s also the female anchor driver for the duo. Apparently two other drivers missed the cut due to unforeseen circumstances. Though it’s a numerical advantage for the guys (4 drivers), there is still some pros and cons with having more team members driving the car and mind you, it’s a 1,000km endurance race. So anything can happen.

For me, I just hope Melissa and Zira can finish the race and to win the battle of the sexes will be an added bonus. Good luck to two 😀


The female drivers with Malcolm Lim, Managing Director of Kingston Beverage & Creamery Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of Red Bull in Brunei


Melissa Huang getting ready for her drive on the track


Don’t play-play ah.. Zira is also a traffic police officer


Cool sticker 🙂


Zira and other Red Bull crew monitoring Melissa’s progress on the track

 

 I’m back!!! in Singapore

 

RA says I’m back in Singapore after a 3 month absence and I’m here for a 10 day break to cap off a fulfilling year for me. And yes, I needed the break as well. I realized that I tend to be a workaholic back at home because I would feel restless if I don’t do anything at all. I would be at different places throughout the day, meeting clients or friends or covering events. I’ve been ignoring my books at home because by the time I have my free time (again my choice), it was time to snooze. So yea, it’s great to be away from Brunei and just take my sweet time and don’t focus too much on work.. And plus it’s December….

Good thing my family is here in Singapore as well so it gives a good chance to spend time with them especially my little siblings. I know they are already in their own world and maybe just think that I’m their elder brother but we hardly connect or carry a conversation. Maybe it’s me judging myself that I can’t be a good communicator as a bigger brother. Well, I’m getting there and I won’t force myself. My siblings really have grown up and I feel like I have to catch for loss time. Hence, being in Singapore will give me that opportunity once again to spend time with my family.

I’m currently at Terminal 1, Changi Airport waiting for my departure to KL for the coverage of the Sepang 1,000km endurance race. Why I’m there is because I will be doing a coverage on our Brunei racer Zira who will be racing under the flagship of Red Bull Rookies. She will be partnering with another racer from Singapore, Melissa. So yea, I’m pretty exhausted because of the early morning flight and I had to leave the hotel by 5am and I’m barely 24 hours in Singapore *lol*

Another thing that I have put myself into is accepting a 12 hour trip to KL before heading back to Singapore, just in time for my other coverage and the most anticipated event in Singapore’s calendar – Zoukout 2012. I was there last year and it was also my first time too. This would mean that I will be heading straight to Sentosa right after my arrival from KL later tonight. I shall be posting later.. Time to catch my flight and have a nice weekend peeps!!


My siblings trying out their new bed for their room last night at Park Mall
 

 

Announcement to BIBD customers

 

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