His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, as personal representative of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, bestowed medals to 636 recipients yesterday at Istana Nurul Iman.

Six hundred and thirty-six individuals including government officials and staff, uniformed personnel and members of the private sector were awarded with state honorary medals yesterday in a ceremony held at Istana Nurul Iman.

By command of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, represented the monarch in conferring the medals. Text by Azlan Othman of Borneo Bulletin. Images by Azrol Azmi of Borneo Bulletin and Zaim Kasmat of The Brunei Times.

Congratulations to all the recipients. A well deserved accolade and thank you for your contribution to Brunei.

The cabinet ministers in attendance

Faustina Woo Wai Sii, Lieutenant Ade Roddiane bin Haji Mohd Rosdi, Frankie Ngu and Vivi Rohkininissmah binti Hj Mahmud

 

The winners of the 2nd round lucky draw of Red Bull Boost & Win at SKH Airport Mall

25 winners were feted for the 2nd round of lucky draw for the Red Bull Boost and Win contest. The event took place at Sim Kim Huat Department Store at Airport Mall. The prizes given were identical to that of the first round – 3 shopping vouchers, 5 PowerKad value of BND 30 each, 7 Prepaid Card worth BND each and 10 consolation prizes of Red Bull gift packs.

Don’t worry, there are still on going draw where the final draw will be after end of May. So keep buying Red Bull until the 31st May and who knows you will be enlisted to participate in the draw.

Present were SKH director Hou Leh Hui, Valentine Hon, general manager of Kingston Beverage & Creamery, and Kevin Robin Jon, sales and marketing manager of Kingston.

To join, just purchase a can of Red Bull Energy drink (gold or less sugar), attach the pull ring tab to the contest form and drop it in contest boxes in participating outlets nationwide.

Participants can obtain the contest form at over 200 retail outlets in the sultanate, or download the form from its Facebook page at ‘Red Bull Brunei’ or you can get the form from the participating outlets. For more updates, check out its Instagram @redbullbn

Kevin Robin Jon, sales and marketing manager of Kingston Beverage & Creamery (left) with Hou Leh Hui (2nd from right), SKH Director and Valentine Hon, general manager of Kingston Beverage & Creamery (right) and the winner of the SKH shopping voucher

 

Luminox Spec Ops Challenge 3053.SOC.SET

44mm, carbon reinforced polycarbonate case and case back, tempered scratch resistant mineral crystal, water resistant to 200 meters, signature black PU strap, and Luminox self-powered illumination. Swiss Made. Retail price: BND 743.65

I know there are many fans of Luminox from Brune Darussalam. You can get them at Chang Ein Hong watch dealer at The Mall (Gadong) and Yayasan Complex. Last year, Luminox made its presence felt in the Sultanate by having a Luminox “Space and Time Converge” Exhibition at The Mall and it was a great timing to showcase to the public what’s great about the Luminox brand.

For you info, Luminox has a strong relationship with the Navy SEAL team for over 25 years for the reason being that SEALS discovered the unique self-powered illumination technology found in Luminox watches and the rest was history. Luminox continued to enhance the technology and specs to meet the demanding requirements of the Navy SEALS.

To make it more interesting, Luminox created a special event for the journalists called the Luminox Spec Ops Challenge, a programme developed by Luminox with retired Navy SEALS to give a chance to civilians to train like a SEAL for a day. The event took place in Langkawi in September last year.

I know my friend Aziz Idris had the opportunity to part of the programme which lasted 6 hours which was trimmed from the a 24-week programme, dealing with basic underwater demolition. From this programme, the journalists will understand the experience the Navy SEALS have to go through and get a glimpse of the mental and physical challenge throughout the procedure.

Aziz Idris (2nd from right) of Borneo Bulletin participating in the Luminox Specs Ops Challenge in Langkawi last year

The 6 hour intense training conducted by retired Navy SEALS person

Hence this is where Luminox introduce the Luminox Spec Ops Challenge (L.S.O.C) watches, sold in two different sets.

One featuring the traditional 3050 Navy SEAL Colormark (3053.SOC.SET) design with its trademark “Colormark” bold numerals on the dial and bezel on a PC carbon dial and PU strap, and the other, on the 4220 Authorised for Navy Use (A.N.U.) (4223.SOC.SET) model which was a direct collaboration with the SEALS, refined to specifically address the needs of maritime commandos, featuring a stainless steel case, with screw crown and case back, sapphire crystal, multi-jewel Swiss quartz movement and 10 year lithium battery.

Do check out other Luminox models at Chang Ein Hong outlets in Brunei. Images provided by Luminox.

 

Liyana Yus addressing the media on her role as ambassador for Jollibee

Liyana Yus with team Jollibee during the launch

I’m a huge fan of jollibee because of their chocolate sundae and not-anymore-available Nasi Lemak (due to low demand). Of course, their Chicken Joy is still one of their best sellers and I would it rate it my top 3 fast food chicken in Brunei.

Last Friday, Jollibee unveiled their latest project where the Philippines fast food franchise appointed its first local brand ambassador Liyana Yus famously known for her role in Brunei’s first featured film “Yasmine”.

The event took place at Times Square Shopping Centre and it was a press launch event to officially introduce Liyana as the face of Jollibee in Brunei.

Liyana has been a huge fan of Jollibee since she was a kid and her favourite is still ChickenJoy. Did you know that Jollibee in Brunei was the first ever international outlet outside the Philippines? And yes, the first outlet is at Utama Bowling back in 1987. Amazing!!!

The signing ceremony between Liyana Yus and Jhing Perais, Country Head of Jollibee Brunei.

Jhing was very delighted to share the special moment for Jollibee

The ceremonial bite from Jollibee

Present during the launch were Jhing Perais, Country Head of Jollibee Brunei, Leony Rodriguez, Jollibee Head of Marketing and Din Kamaluddin, producer at Origin Artistic.

Jhing was excited to announce the new partnership with Liyana and he believes that the young talent of Liyana embodies Jollibee’s excellence in the fast food franchise.

For Liyana, this is the first opportunity for her to be an ambassador of an international brand. I’m pretty sure this will open doors for more opportunities in the near future.

So far, there are 12 Jollibee outlets in Brunei and it will be growing from time to time.

I did highlight to Jhing on the defunct menu item, Nasi Lemak, but let’s see what happens. Let’s hope it might make a comeback even if it’s a just promotional offer. Don’t worry, we have our social media team + Liyana to push your product too 😀 Congratulations Liyana and Jollibee on the new milestone.

Now that’s a lot of Chickenjoy

Congratulations Liyana

Hi-tea-ing with the media

The Jollibee drive-thru at Kilanas

The new chocolate sundae with nuts. Apparently it’s the bomb!!

Thanks Lena for recommending the new sundae :p

As you know, Jollibee is all about product quality at an affordable price. What more can you ask for? It’s crispylicious, juicylicious inside out and anyone can afford it. The family oriented fast food chain has made it one of the most popular fast food chain in Brunei.

I wasn’t aware also of their latest drive thru at Kilanas which will be a big hit among the residents residing near Kilanas. For this commitment, you can see that Brunei remains a key market for Jollibee in its vision to become one of the biggest QSR brands globally.

I still remember the founder and chairman of Jollibee Foods Corporation (the Philippines), Tony Tan Caktiong, addressing a keynote speech at Asia Inc Forum event at The Empire Hotel & Country Club back in 2007. What an inspiring story and the legacy lives on!!

What makes Jollibee another success is the ability to localise the taste for Bruneians and now, with the Jollisavers, patrons can enjoy Spicy Chickenjoy and Crispy Chicken Burger with rice. You can follow @jollibeebrunei on Instagram for updates and competition.

 

Leicester City have just been crowned champions of the Premier League – and De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) staff and students are joining the celebrations.

The football club recently signed a new deal with De Montfort University (DMU) to become the Club’s Official Higher Education Partners.

The exciting new partnership, which builds on a fruitful four years of working together, will bring incredible opportunities for DMU students to get involved with a club whose name is known to millions around the world thanks to the success of Vardy, Mahrez, Ranieri and others.

It will include work placements for up to 100 students a year at the King Power Stadium covering all aspects of running a Premier League football club. DMU will also be looking at opportunities for students to work with King Power charities in Asia.

Brunei also enjoys a unique link with Leicester City Football Club which recently completed a transfer from Chelsea for winger Prince Faiq Jefri Bolkiah on a three-year professional deal that could see him making his way into the Foxes’ first team over the coming years.

De Montfort University student football trials will take place at the Club’s state-of-the-art facilities, while students will be treated to first team player appearances on campus during term time.


  
Academically, DMU offers expert English language support for the Club’s flourishing International Academy students. For example, Shinji Okazaki, the team’s Japanese international striker, recently completed an English course at the university.

Leicester City, the Premier League Champions

De Montfort University (DMU) has signed a new deal to become Leicester City FC’s Official Higher Education Partners. Click image to know more about DMU.

According to DMU’s press release, Leicester City Chief Executive Susan Whelan said: “We’re extremely proud of our growing partnership with DMU – a relationship that brings together two great Leicester institutions, proudly representing this city in front of a global audience.”



In the same release, Professor Dominic Shellard, Vice-Chancellor of DMU, said: “The benefits that this partnership will bring to DMU students are extraordinary, in terms of gaining vital industry experience, continuing DMU’s dedication to the public good with charitable and voluntary work, overseas travel through #DMUglobal, and cheering on Leicester City in the Premier League. I don’t think there will be another university in the country that can offer these sorts of opportunities in partnership with a Premier League football club.”

Findlay represents De Montfort University and provides students with free advice and guidance in all aspects of furthering their studies in the UK. For more information please telephone 2428658 or visit their office in Block E, Unit 2, 1st Floor, Abdul Razak Complex in Jalan Gadong.

 

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education as Deputy Chairman of AMBD’s Board of Directors (2nd from left), Yang Mulia Hajah Nurliati binti Haji Md Idris, Acting Managing Director of AMBD (center) with the associates from Baiduri Bank at the roadshow during the launch of National Savings Day 2016 at Lambak Kanan Primary School

Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the Employee Trust Fund (TAP) and related agencies, held the Launching Ceremony for National Savings Day 2016 at the Lambak Kanan Primary School on Thursday, 26th Rejab 1437H corresponding to 4th May 2016M.

The Guest of Honour for the event was Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education as Deputy Chairman of AMBD’s Board of Directors. Also present were Yang Arif Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Metussin bin Haji Baki, Syariah High​ Court Judge​; other members of AMBD Board of Directors; Permanent Secretaries; Senior Government Officers; Chief Executives of Financial Institutions in Brunei Darussalam and teachers and students of selected Primary Schools.

The launching ceremony began with the recital of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat, followed by Welcoming Remarks by Yang Mulia Hajah Nurliati binti Haji Md Idris, Acting Managing Director of AMBD. Yang Mulia Hajah Nurliati then proceeded to invite the Guest of Honour to launch the National Savings Day 2016.

Yang Berhormat Pehin had the opportunity to tour all booths by AMBD; TAP; and participating financial institutions, where these institutions showcased various interactive financial management games activities specially designed for primary school students.

AMBD in collaboration with MOE and TAP will continue with roadshows in all four districts namely Temburong District on Monday, 9th May 2016, followed by the Brunei-Muara District on Wednesday, 11th May 2016, then to the Belait District and Tutong District on the Monday, 16th May and Wednesday, 18th May respectively. In addition, other events planned for in conjunction with the National Savings Day 2016, are the Financial Planners’ Day organized by the Centre for Islamic Banking and Management (CIBFM), AMBD’s training arm, on Thursday, 26 May 2016, followed by a Financial Planners’ Showcase on Saturday, 28 May 2016.

For more information on National Savings Day 2016 please visit www.ambd.gov.bn or contact AMBD through email corpcomms@ambd.gov.bn Images courtesy of Baiduri Bank.

 

The clip that went viral on Facebook

Md A’aqiil Ahmad (L), Zainal Bostaman Hj Salleh Bostaman (C) and Md Faizul Faiq Mohemmad Ali, founders of Filterworks Production

The trios have been making waves. We have heard of @babusinur and @bruneivinesvideo and now a new and upcoming group, Filterworks Production. You can check out their work at their Facebook Page. Their videos are normally 3 to 4 minutes long hence it is not the whole deal when it comes to Instragram due to the time limit given.

It’s good that that our youth are taking initiatives in the creative industry. The trio – Md A’aqiil Ahmad, Zainal Bostaman Hj Salleh Bostaman and Md Faizul Faiq Mohemmad Ali – have been very active in creating humourous videos that are related to our society. You might be familiar with their faces from the recent musical production Belle.

I like their recent video on “Mau Indomie” which has been shared at least 1,000 times on Facebook. Because of their efforts, Syarikat Aliaa, the trading company that imports the Indomie brand, gave the founders of Filterworks Production some token of appreciation with Indomie boxes and hampers.

Filterworks Production feted by the management of Syarikat Aliaa

Zainal Bostaman won’t be hungry for at least 3 months 😀

The crew working on their latest video which is already up on their Facebook Page

 

Mothers Day celebration is just around the corner! What sweeter way to treat your mum than with cooking and designing your own beautiful pancakes for her!

Paddington House of Pancakes is hosting a cooking event to all. Our event is open to all who want to share their loves for mum and other loved ones through sweet and tasty pancakes.

“Unleash Your Baking Talent”!

They will provide and prepare all the necessary ingredients for you to make and decorate your own pancakes! Each design is $10 and you can be as creative as your heart desires with your designs. Bring friends, family, and loved ones to join our fun cooking and sharing activity!

They will have a cooking station prepared for you anytime from 9am to 9pm and you have today till Sunday, 8th of May! If you would like to book reservations or have any questions, please call our Berakas branch at 2331668.

 

Dayang Nur Syukrina binti Dato Mohd Roselan and Dayang Nurhuaida Fakhriah binti Damit, AMBD representatives during the media briefing.

Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD), following a press conference held on Monday, 2nd May 2015, announced that this year’s National Savings Day 2016 will be launched on today, Wednesday, 4 th May 2016.

The first National Savings Day was declared by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, as Chairman of AMBD on 28th May 2015.

The theme for this year’s National Savings Day- “Financially Literate Generation” was chosen to reflect the goal to raise a financially literate and independent generation. This will also contribute to the Wawasan Brunei 2035 objective towards a dynamic and sustainable economy, as well as highly-skilled population.

In collaboration with Tabung Amanah Perkerja (TAP) and the Ministry of Education (MOE) and other related agencies, AMBD will be organising a number of activities which include roadshows to primary schools at all four districts. The roadshows, amongst others, will include interactive games on financial management and introduction to currency by AMBD, TAP and relevant institutions and agencies, geared towards primary school students.

On Sunday, 22 May 2016, a Financial Fun Fair will be held at Jerudong Park Playground and will feature a host of family fun-filled interactive programs and activities also by AMBD, TAP and relevant institutions and agencies, geared towards the general public.

In addition, other events planned for in conjunction with the National Savings Day 2016, are the Financial Planners’ Day organized by the Centre for Islamic Banking and Management (CIBFM), AMBD’s training arm, on Thursday, 26 May 2016, followed by a Financial Planners’ Showcase on Saturday, 28 May 2016.

For more information on National Savings Day 2016 please visit www.ambd.gov.bn or email  at corpcomms@ambd.gov.bn

Nurhuaida briefing to the press

 

Awfa Nawawi, Heidi Rahman, Rahman Tarsat, Chris Woo, Jordan Yau, Gerald Goh, Rano Iskandar and Aziman Nasir

New Executive Committee members of the Brunei Speakers’ Club (BSC) for the term 2016-2017 were elected at the SEAMEO VOCTECH, Gadong last night.

The meeting saw the election of Jordan Yau as President of Brunei Speakers’ Club. Meanwhile, Gerald Goh, Rano Iskandar, Rahmat Tarsat, Heidi Rahman, Aziman Nasir and Awfa Nawawi were elected as Vice President Education, Vice President Membership, Vice President Public Relations, Secretary, Treasurer and Sergeant at arms of BSC, respectively.

Congratulations to the newly elected Executive Committee and their term will being on 1st July 2016. You can view more pictures on the Brunei Speakers’ Club website.

Newly elect President, Jordan Yau, giving his remarks

26 active members of BSC turned up last night for the Annual General Meeting

It was fun to listen to all the speeches by the nominees. The highlights of the night.

 

During the Berbedak ceremony

During the Berbedak ceremony

During the Berbedak ceremony

During the Bersanding event

During the Bersanding event. Click image to enlarge.

Late post. The images of the wedding between Haji Mohammed Nazlee bin Pehin Orang Kaya Lela Pahlawan Mejar Jeneral (B) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jaafar and Noor Cahaya. The event took place two weeks ago at three venues – Masjid Al Ameerah Al Hajah Mariam, Indera Samudra Hall at The Empire Hotel & Country Club and the groom’s residence.

Nazlee was born on 25th August 1983 while Cahaya was born on 19th August 1990 in Kelantan, Malaysia.

It was great to be part of the wedding team and I praised the SF team for making the wedding livelier as well as working as a solid team. Even the foreign photographers loved our energy during the wedding events. All the best to both of you, Nazlee and Cahaya and it was an honour to be part of the SF entourage. A big thank you also to Pehin Jaafar and Datin Salbiah on your hospitality and it always feel like our second home. You can check out more pictures on IG with the hashtag #nazleecahaya

Click image to enlarge

Click image to enlarge

Click image to enlarge

 

Podcast review of Captain America: Civil War with regular co-host Del Goh

 

Unleash your creativity. We have so many opportunities to showcase our talents and show the country what our youths are capable of. There have been creativity programs and competitions to spur individuals to take participate. Recently The Crown Prince CIPTA Award 2017 was launched at University Teknologi Brunei (UTB which was previously known as ITB) and this has been an ongoing competition with many local participation over the years.

A big thank you to UTB and also their core sponsor, Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd for making the CIPTA possible.

Gracing the event was Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education. Also present at the ceremony were Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, Deputy Minister of Education; Awang Mohamad bin Haji Awang Damit, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd, who is also the Co-Chairperson of CIPTA 2017 Executive Committee, Dr. Haji Junaidi bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) and Chairperson of the CIPTA 2017 Executive Committee, Associate Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman, the Vice-Chancellor of UTB.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education gracing the event

So what’s the theme for this year’s APICTA? It will be on “Innovation for Sustainable Economy”. The competition is open to all schools, technical and tertiary academic institutions, government and private organizations and the general public.

There are three main competitions: Category 1, 2 and 3 for local participants; the Smart Junior Competition; and the ASEAN Category. The prizes by Category are as follows:

CATEGORY 1, 2 AND 3 (LOCAL COMPETITION)

Category 1: Creating New Product, Process or Technology
1st Prize – B$ 6000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
2nd Prize – B$ 4000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
3rd Prize – B$ 2000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
2 Consolation Prizes – B$ 500.00 cash and certificates

Category 2: Modifying Existing Product, Process or Technology

1st Prize – B$ 6000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
2nd Prize – B$ 4000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
3rd Prize – B$ 2000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
2 Consolation Prizes – B$ 500.00 cash and certificates

Category 3: Creating New or Modifying Existing Product, Process or Technology by Young Inventors

1st  Prize  – B$ 3000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
2nd Prize      – B$ 2000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
3rd Prize      – B$ 1000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
2 Consolation Prizes – B$ 250.00 cash and certificates

THE SMART JUNIOR COMPETITION

1st  Prize     – B$ 1000.00 cash & certificate
2nd Prize     – B$ 800.00 cash & certificate
3rd Prize     – B$ 500.00 cash & certificate
2 Consolation Prizes – B$ 200.00 cash and certificates

ASEAN CATEGORY

New Invention & Innovation Category
Best Invention & Innovator – B$ 6000.00 cash & Trophy

Young Inventor Category

Best Young Inventor          – B$ 3000.00 cash & Trophy

Guest of honour touring the exhibition after the launch

Winner from the ASEAN New Invention & Innovation Category will be eligible to compete with winners from Categories 1 and 2 in the Local Competition for the Crown Prince Special Award to win the grand prize of B$ 8000 and the CIPTA Trophy. In CIPTA 2015, the coveted grand prize was awarded to a group of researchers from the Institute of Bio-Engineering and Nanotechnology Singapore for their winning project ‘Green Tea Nanocarriers to Fight Cancer’.

Each entry will be judged based on their novelty and creativity; deployment of end product; social, economic and sustainable design considerations; and the project report and presentation. Assessment of submitted projects will be conducted in two stages starting with the Preliminary Assessment. Only qualified entries will be allowed to proceed to the Final Assessment.

With the official launching of CIPTA 2017, participation into all the categories is now open. The deadline for participating in CIPTA 2017 is on 31 October 2016. More information can be obtained from www.utb.edu.bn/cipta.

 

The highly anticipated annual golf tournament, the Baiduri Masters Charity Golf Tournament is set to tee off in a month’s time spanning 2 weekends, 20 to 22 May and 27 to 29 May 2016. This year marks the 21st edition of the Baiduri Masters organized by Baiduri Bank Group.

Thanks to the support of strategic partner – the QAF Group of Companies, the much awaited hole-in-one prizes for Baiduri Masters 2015 was confirmed this morning at the Partnership Signing Ceremony held at the QAF Centre. Besides these three luxurious cars, players will also stand a chance to win two cash prizes plus numerous other tournament prizes at the Baiduri Masters 2016.

The hole-in-one prizes for this year are as follows: Porsche Cayenne for Hole 2; Mini Cooper for Hole 5; BMW 218 Active Tourer for Hole 14; and $20,000 cash prize for Holes 12 and 16.

You could be a winner of this awesome car 😀

The upcoming golf tournament is divided into four divisions: Men’s, Ladies, Juniors and Team. The Men’s division will be further divided into Men’s Open and Senior Golfers categories. The Junior Golfers category is open to golfers aged 13 to 18 years old.

Registration commences from 20 April 2016 and the registration fee remains at BND120 for adults and BND60 for juniors. The registration fee is inclusive of green fee, buggy, goodie bag as well as buffet breakfast and lunch. Players are invited to the prize presentation dinner at the end of the tournament.

Players may play more than once to improve their chances of winning. Adult players will enjoy a discount on the registration fee on their second and subsequent rounds. The best score of any round played will be taken.

For more information, please contact the Baiduri Call Centre at 244 9666 or log onto www.baiduri.com, where they can also download the registration form.

Kahar Hj Abu Bakar (2nd from R) is the fourth golfer ever to hit the hole-in-one at the Baiduri Masters in its 20 years’ history. This was taken last year and he won the BND 20,000 cash prize then.

Click image to download PDF registration form

 

19-year old Ahmad Ridhauddin Hj Suhaimin, winner of the Proton Satria Neo R3 1.6L Manual with his mother during the Second Lucky Draw campaign of Sentral Shopping Centre (KB Sentral) yesterday

Abby Lim, General Manager of Sentral Shopping Centre, with the winner

Sentral Shopping Centre has just completed the first series of its Second Lucky Draw Campaign on Sunday, 1st May 2016 at 2.00 pm yesterday. With about 1,900 short-listed coupon holders since the beginning of the campaign, November 2015, Sentral Shopping Centre was filled with a huge crowd of hopeful winners. The prizes range from household appliances to meal voucher to one night stay at Garden Sentral Hotel as well as a car for the grand prize.

The Guest of Honor for the Grand Lucky Draw was Madam Suraya Binti Hj Mohd Salleh. A total of 17 prizes were given away yesterday. The event commenced with a welcoming speech by the General Manager, Abby Lim. After that Ms. Norazizah Awang Damit, proceeded to draw the first 5 winners. It was then preceded by Penghulu of Mukim Kuala Belait, Mr. Haji Pungut Bin Ali, to draw another 5 winners. Ms Abby Lim proceeded to draw another 3 lucky winners. In between the draws, quiz questions were asked to the audience and the prizes to these quiz questions were sponsored by SugarBun Brunei and Ochado Brunei.

The Guest of Honor then proceeded to draw the top 4 lucky winners including the grand prize. The 4th prize, a 32” LED TV, went to Hjh Rohaya Hj Abu Bakar while Jufri Bin Hj Abd Hamid won a 2-door refrigerator as the 3rd prize winner. The 2nd prize of a fully automated washing machine was won by Sharon Chin Shiao Hui. The Grand Prize Winner of Sentral Shopping Centre Grand Lucky Draw, the first series, a white Proton Satria Neo R3 1.6L Manual, was 19-year old Ahmad Ridhauddin Hj Suhaimin.

Lucky Draw coupon holders were reminded to be present at the Grand Lucky Draw presentation, along with their Identity Cards (IC) as proof of identity and their Lucky Draw 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.

Do follow them on their Facebook and Instagram @kbsentral for all the latest updates on their upcoming event activities!

The top 17 winners feted yesterday. It was such a packed event.

Hjh Rohaya Hj Abu Bakar receiving the 32” LED TV

Jufri Bin Hj Abd Hamid won a 2-door refrigerator

Abby Lim running the draw

Sharon Chin Shiao Hui won a a fully automated washing machine

This lady won two prizes out of the 17 prizes drawn. A very lucky person indeed.

Almost 2,000 in attendance yesterday

The winner posing with his new car

Group photo with the guest of honour and general manager of KB sentral

Vendors of @KBsentral would be happy with the responses yesterday

Three more grand draws. So do spend at KB Sentral

 

Review of a DXRacer chair

DXRacer computer gaming accessories have now landed in Brunei and are available from Concepts Computer. DXRacer computer gaming chairs and tables are made with very exacting standards, and the level of comfort and refinement which they offer is unrivalled amongst other computer gaming chairs and tables. These accessories which were originally conceived to heighten computer gaming experience, will also be the equipment of choice for comfort and ease when working at the office, relaxing at home while a watching a movie or getting into a game, as you’ve never experienced in front of a computer before.

Unlike most computer chairs available in Brunei, the DXRacer chair has a much higher backrest, that allows it to support your entire spinal column from your pelvis right to the neck. DXRacer chairs offers a very stable metal star base that is adjustable via a gas spring that allows the user to adjust it for varying heights of office or computer desks. It also includes a tilt mechanism with lock function so the back can be lowered down from 135 degrees to 180 degrees and set to lock at any angle. In addition, functions include multi-position adjustable armrests covered with a soft pad for comfort, so the user is protected from a shoulder slant or kyphosis as a result of prolonged fatigue of the shoulder and wrist. And DXRacer chairs also comes with a headrest cushion as well as a lumbar cushion that is height adjustable as desired, for added spinal column support.

Jonathan Chong, Senior Manager with DXRacer Brunei, while speaking to media, said, “We’re very pleased to be working alongside Concepts Computer, especially with the large range of products they offer for Bruneian IT consumers. We are always looking to provide to customers top of the range and high quality computer gaming chairs and desks so with the help of Concepts Computer, we are now one important step closer.” He also added, “Now that computer gaming is also a big part of the Bruneian IT scene, Bruneian gamers who require long hours of practice in order to maintain their top tier skills will now have the ability to choose the proper chair that is crucial in helping them perform at their very best by using DXRacer computer gaming chairs and tables which are available from Concepts Computer. And not to worry for all the arden gamers out there, we will be expecting a new shipment of chairs and tables in early May, a large volume to cater to Bruneian gamers.”

Jonathan Chong, Senior Manager with DXRacer Brunei with Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive for Concepts Computer at Times Square Shopping Centre

The gamers during the counter strike tournament at Times Square Shopping Centre last weekend

Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive for Concepts Computer, also added, “We are extremely pleased to be working with DXRacer Brunei because they are providing a huge range of quality products at very diverse prices which can fit the purchasing power of different subsets of customers, from $475 to $799, each product will fulfill the specific needs of each customer.” Zul also added, “The support provided by DXRacer Brunei in terms of warranty issues are also top-notch, especially with the 2 years warranty coverage provided for each chair, which reassures both us as resellers and customers as end-users. We are looking forward to growing this section of the Bruneian IT market.”

DXRacer computer gaming chairs and desks will be available at Concepts Computer, where demo units are on stand-by for customers to try. Prices will range from $475 to $799, according to the model and needs of each costumer. For more information regarding DXRacer computer gaming chairs and desks, or any other enquiries regarding Concepts Computer and their range of products, please call 2233551, 2233552 or 2233553, or visit your nearest Concepts Computer retail outlet.

 

Irwan Lamit, General Manager of BIBD At-Tamwil with James Chin, General Manager of Setia Motors Sdn Bhd checking out the new Hyundai Elantra

The new Hyundai Elantra

Late post: Did you know that the Elantra is Hyundai Motor’s best-selling model and now it has evolved with innovative design. The award-winning compact sedan inspires driver’s confidence with enhanced performance and stable handling.

The new Elantra dubbed “Avante” in Korea is now available on Brunei road and you can visit Setia Motors showroom in Beribi to check it out. The Elantra model is in its 6th generation. So what’s the upgrade? It has a more dynamic and sleek appearance. The grille is also different parted with slim and sporty headlights for an energetic look. The body structure has been designed to boost durability and rigidity, incorporating 32% more advanced high-strength steel compared to the original Elantra.

The all-new Elantra’s premium-sound Harman audio system delivers delightful sound quality with eight speakers accompanying an amplifier. There is also a pair of door-mounted tweeters located in every door to give that acoustic ambience.

All in all, the new Elantra is a a 1.6 litre engine compact-size sedan with class defining interior and exterior features which refined style elements reflect Hyundai Motor’s evolving philosophy.

So do check out the new Elantra at Setia Motors showroom at Beribi.

James Chin addressing to the public

 

Podcast review of Captain America: Civil War with regular co-host Del Goh

 

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah handing over a mock cheque to Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini binti Pengiran Dipa Negara Laila Diraja Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin, Executive Trustee of Pusat Ehsan. Image courtesy of Dean Kassim of Borneo Bulletin.

Group photo. Image courtesy of Dean Kassim.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah yesterday graced the handover of funds amounting to $53,122, that were raised during the recent Charity Polo Day 2016.

The handover was held at Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam (Pusat Ehsan) in Bengkurong.

Upon arrival at Pusat Ehsan, Their Royal Highnesses were welcomed by the centre’s Board of Trustees, and given a briefing on the new rehabilitation centre, which is shortly due for construction.

After the briefing, Their Royal Highnesses were ushered to the Multipurpose Hall, where they presented the mock cheques to Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini binti Pengiran Dipa Negara Laila Diraja Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin, Executive Trustee of Pusat Ehsan who received the donations on behalf of the centre.

Charity Polo Day 2016 was recently organised by Cityneon Brunei to raise funds for the special needs students of Pusat Ehsan.

Currently, there are about 156 students registered at the centre’s Bengkurong branch, while another 53 special needs students are registered with the Kuala Belait branch.

Photo opportunity with members of the Royal Family

Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah lifting the Charity Polo Day 2016 trophy two Sundays ago

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah during the polo exhibition match

The project, which is under tender process and estimated to cost around three million dollars, will be built on a land plot opposite the current building that houses Pusat Ehsan.

The construction project will be carried out in stages as it is mostly dependent on the centre’s funding.

The new centre is expected to accommodate more students with special needs, as well as individuals requiring occupational therapy. Text courtesy of Rokiah Mahmud of Borneo Bulletin.

 

Today and tomorrow (Saturday) only

 

Too bad it was a short presence of the Audi Q7 but it definitely suits the theme for the action sequence. A pretty darn good car chase scene and Black Panther chase made cooler in the tunnel chase scene #TheGreatQ

 

Yang Berhormat Dato Paduka Awang Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah, BIBD Chariman and Minister of Development (Centre), handing over an award to Dayangku Noruldiana Shim binti Pengiran Hj Hashim (left), while BIBD Managing Director, Yang Mulia Mr Mubashar Khokhar (right) looks on

BIBD recently held an annual dinner to appreciate and acknowledge all the hard work and contribution of the BIBD family in the past year. These efforts have culminated into milestones and achievements, earmarked by Standard & Poor’s A- rating, its first ever Riba Symposium, chairmanship of the CAIBA (China-ASEAN Interbank Association), and the BIBD Headquarters re-launching. In 2015, the bank also managed to retain its international recognitions such as the Best Retail Bank in Brunei for the third year running (The Asian Banker), and the Best Bank in Brunei (Global Finance).

The event also saw the personal recognition of several bright BIBD talents as they have also contributed as ambassadors of BIBD and Brunei Darussalam. Dayangku Noruldiana Shim binti Pengiran Hj Hashim was commended for being conferred the Highest Achiever Award in the Islamic Financial Planner category in Kuala Lumpur. Also highlighted was Hjh Nurul Akmalina binti Hj Yahya’s recent achievement in the national finals of the Musabaqah Membaca Al-Quran competition.

The event started with a recitation of the Doa, which was then followed by welcoming remarks by BIBD Managing Director, Mr Mubashar Khokhar, where he shared significant milestones for the Bank, which included the fourth consecutive win in 2016’s Best Retail bank from The Asian Banker. “Alhamdulilah, all our efforts thus far have placed us on a solid foundation, prepared for the challenges and eager for the opportunities ahead”, said Mr Mubashar. He added that BIBD’s continued growth also increases its commitment to supporting Bruneian businesses through comprehensive banking solutions such as the BIBD SME 360, aligning the Bank closer towards His Majesty’s vision in developing a dynamic and sustainable economy.

Some of the BIBD associates in their costumes during the theme dinner annual event

The best female dress for the event

Mr Mubashar also highlighted BIBD’s successes also allows the Bank to raise its efforts to support the community, especially through its flagship CSR initiative, the ALAF (Advocating Life-long learning for an Aspiring Future) Programme. The programme, now in its third year with more than a hundred students, aims to Prepared by Corporate Communications, BIBD PRESS RELEASE MDO/PR/2015/016 bring more educational opportunities to underprivileged children, aligning BIBD further with another element of His Majesty’s vision, to develop well-educated and highly-skilled Bruneians.

Mr. Mubashar summed up his remarks with encouragement and inspiration for all BIBD staff to continue working together and delivering world-class banking products and services. “Ultimately, it is up to our unified efforts to ensure that BIBD cements its position as The First Choice for all our employees, customers and stakeholders”, concluded Mr. Mubashar. This was followed by presentations for Long Service Awards to employees.

The Guest of Honour at the event was Yang Berhormat Dato Paduka Awang Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah, Minister of Development and Chairman of the BIBD Board of Directors. Also in attendance was Yang Mulia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Yussof, Permanent Secretary at Ministry of Religious Affairs and Chairman of BIBD’s Shariah Advisory Body. Also present were members of the Board of Directors, members of the Shariah Advisory Body, along with some 800 BIBD personnel, and their spouses. The event was held at the Indera Samudra Grand Hall, The Empire Hotel and Country Club in Jerudong.

 

Interesting offers from Kia models

 

Louis Loo Kee Lee (left), founder of Plus+ Magazine and Kristy Lim (5th from left), founder of Piccolo Café with representatives from Jerudong Park Medical Centre and staff from Piccolo Café during the Save Life by Giving Blood campaign at Piccolo Café last week.

Late post. It was the fourth time that I have donated blood for a good cause. This was part of the Plus+ Magazine drive collaborating with Piccolo Café and Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC). There were a total of 36 donors though there were many that had to be rejected due to low blood pressure, cholesterol and low haemoglobin levels. Though I have to say kudos for their thoughts and efforts to show up at Piccolo Café to donate.

The event began at 10am and ended at 4pm. Kristy Lim, owner of Piccolo Café was quite overwhelmed with the responses from the public and it was also the first time such event was held at her establishment.

During the blood donation drive, donors were treated to light refreshments courtesy of Piccolo café.

They were also given three complimentary issues of Plus+ magazine as well as special goodies from JPMC. Perhaps another one next year, Kristy? 😀

By the way, Piccolo Café are treating their customers a free additional shot of espresso for all coffee beverages from today until 10 May! Such good news for those who love their extra shot in their cuppa.

The screening process to see if you are eligible to donate or not

Refreshments for the donors that day

Thank you, Kristy, for the opportunity 😀

 

Check out the Predator series at Concepts Computer

 

 

Are you Team Ironman or Team Cap? I’m definitely team yellow and red

Yea… A whole bunch of us are gonna catch this at The Mall Cineplex

Oh yes… Finally it’s here. The premiere of the final instalment of Captain America called Civil War. This is a prelude to The Avengers 3 and some even called it Avengers 2.5 as it involved all the characters except for The Hulk and Thor. I’ve watched the trailer many times and I have no doubt that this will be an awesome show. For many reasons. One being directed by the Russo brothers who were responsible for Captain America: The Winter Soldier which I love a lot. The second reason being is that it’s a Marvel universe where D.C has fallen flat in the wars of the superhero universe.

There’s even a critic who wrote “Packed to bursting with the one ingredient “Batman V Superman” lacked: Joy”. I’m quite surprised that many critics gave this flick a thumbs up and so far it has scored 97% on Rotten Tomatoes as compared to Batman V Superman’s 28%. Judging from the critics, this could be the biggest superhero movie of 2016. Period. Now the question is, will it top Batman V Superman’s box office earnings of USD 860 million worldwide. I’m pretty sure that it will be able to since it garnered USD 715 million for Winter Soldier worldwide.

I’ll be catching Captain America: Civil War with my buddies tonight at The Mall Cineplex so do watch out for my reviews soon on my podcast.

The trailer TV Spot for The Jungle Book

Check out the reviews. Click to read more

 

Times Square Shopping Centre will be organizing its first-ever Counter Strike Global Offensive Gaming Tournament on the 29th April, Friday until 1st of May 2016, Sunday from 10:00am to 10:00pm. It is open to all ages with only 5 team members allowed in a team, with one substitute.

The event, which is co-organized by Netcom, will provide interested participants the opportunity to experience the battle of the Counter Strike Global Offensive live, and for the public to witness it at the atrium of Times Square. The competition will be a single-elimination tournament where only winners of the first round will be eligible to proceed to the next round. There will also be amazing prizes sponsored by Netcom to be won. Interested participants will need to attach a receipt of any amount from any branches of Netcom in Brunei Darussalam, along with the registration form which can be retrieved from the lucky draw counter at Times Square Shopping Centre.

Throughout this Counter Strike Global Offensive Gaming Tournament, there will also be a Razer Roadshow by Netcom where there will be amazing Razer products and Gaming equipment. Moreover, DxRacer chairs will also be used during the tournament to allow gamers to “Sit better. Work harder. Game longer.”

Times Square is also glad to announce that we will be holding our annual Ramadhan Fair on the 21st June until 5th July 2016. Interested vendors may contact Times Square Management Office at 2338208 or 2338006 during office hours. You may also find out about all the upcoming events by visiting tsqbrunei.com or simply following Times Square Shopping Centre’s pages on Facebook and Instagram.

 

Eric Tang, Epson Malaysia’s Sales Manager Retail Division (2nd from left) and Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer (2nd from right) with Concepts Computer associates during the launch of the new Epson printers, the Work Force edition.

Eric Tang giving a quick presentation on the strengths of the new Epson printers ideal for businesses

You have heard of the L series of Epson printers (popular among teachers and students), suitable for home use. Now comes the business segment from the latest edition of Epson inkjet printers.

So if you are looking for efficiency, speed and quality, then I highly recommend you the Epson Workforce models – Epson WF-5111 or the Epson WF-5261 or the Epson WF-100 (mobile printer).

The said printers were launched at Brilliance Hall at Concepts Computer with Eric Tang, Epson Malaysia’s Sales Manager Retail Division, giving a quick presentation on the new Epson printers.

What caught my eye is the Epson WF-100 model. Why? It’s very portable and plus it’s wifi ready too. Perhaps the most interesting thing is that it can be power up using your power bank.. Awesome!!! I like the light weight of the printer and weighs 1.6 kg so you can actually bring it around for emergency purposes. Surprisingly this printer givers the best print out resolution as compared to the bigger printers. It can produce up to 5,670 x 1,440 dpi on a photo paper. Impressive!!

The bigger models are the WF-5111 and WF-5261, both coming with wide range of connectivity and mobile printing solutions. You can make use of your smartphone and download the app for printing purposes too. The other plus signs for these models are that it will give you significant savings through minimal usage of electricity, unlike laser printers which relies a lot on heat.

The Epson WF-5111

The Epson WF-5261

The awesome portable Epson WorkForce WF-100

Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive shared that Concepts Computers will always move forward and strive to add the latest and best for our customers to choose from, which is why we’re bringing these 3 models into the Bruneian market.” Zul continued, “As can be expected from Epson and Concepts, these 3 models will be cost-effective and high in quality, printers that businesses can depend on day-in day-out.

Eric Tang said that “We at Epson believe that the Bruneian market is at a great position for expansion and with the growth of SMEs in Brunei Darussalam, these Epson WorkForce printers are perfect for that as well.“ Eric also added, “And with Concepts being our techinical service provider in Brunei, we are confident that Bruneians can put their trust in our products, building a solid foundation of ‘Peace of Mind’ to grow their productivity and businesses.”

Now for the price: The Epson WorkForce WF-5621 will be available at Concepts Computer for $468, the Epson WorkForce WF-5111 will be available for $268, while the mobile Epson WorkForce WF-100 will be available for only $218. Also note that Concepts Computer will be running trade-in offers for certain products and models.

Concepts will also have a month-end promo where every purchase of $30 and above will entitle a free $10 Concepts voucher. For more information regarding the month-end celebrations (on-going from 27th to 30th of every month) and the eligibility of receiving the give-away $10 vouchers, or the trade-in offers, or any other enquiries regarding Concepts Computer and their range of products, please call 2233551, 2233552 or 2233553, or visit your nearest Concepts Computer retail outlet.

Any purchase above $30 and you will be entitled to $10 voucher which is valid from 27th to 30th of every month). A better reason to buy the Epson printers

I got myself Easi cards from the $10 voucher 😀

 

BIBD and Tourism Malaysia announced Hj Muhd Mazran Haji Suhut as the lucky winner of the 1Malaysia Year-end Sale during the BIBD Home Showcase at The Mall, Gadong. The collaboration between BIBD and Tourism Malaysia automatically registered BIBD cardholders who made card transactions in Malaysia during the 1Malaysia GP Sale, which ended early this year, into a lucky draw.

The winner was entitled to an all-expenses includes a five-day and 4-night paid holiday in Kuala Lumpur and Johor inclusive of airfare, accommodation, return airport transfers and a twelve-hour chartered car exclusively for them to go shopping. To add to their great bundle, the winner is also entitled to 100,000 Hadiah Points, which can be used to pay for bills, make donations, among others.

Presenting on behalf of BIBD was Siti Rafeah Hj Jakir, Head of Card Products, and for Malaysia Tourism, was its Director, Zurina Abd Samad.

Hj Muhd Mazran Haji Suhut was the lucky 1Malaysia Year-End Sale. The prize was presented by Zurina Abd Samad, Director of Malaysia Tourism (Brunei) and Siti Rafael Hj Jakir, Head of Card Products.

On the other hand, the BIBD showcase highlights BIBD’s financing packages such as its Home Financing, Home Improvement Financing, Education Financing and its Personal Financing along with other BIBD’s products and services. The showcase will also include financial health checks performed by qualified BIBD certified Islamic financial planners. The showcase also provides a comprehensive platform for respective future homeowners to look at the exciting property and home improvement opportunities through BIBD’s collaboration with the stellar partners present.

Successful applicants will also stand the chance to win prizes such as iPad minis, shopping vouchers at Supasave and Hua Ho, BIBD Hadiah Points, among others. The eighth BIBD Home Showcase will be running for a period of ten days until May the 1st, open every day from 10am to 10pm. The opening time for Fridays will be from 2pm to 10pm.

For more information on any BIBD products, services and promotions, please follow the BIBD Instagram account at @BIBDBRUNEI; Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bibdbrunei; get in touch with BIBD Contact Centre at Prepared by Corporate Communications, BIBD PRESS RELEASE MDO/PR/2016/013 2238181 or visit the nearest BIBD Branch. Also, don’t forget to download the popular BIBD Mobile App to get the latest BIBD offers and promotions under “What’s New” feature.

 

Late post: Kids as young as 6 years old as well as under 18 youths recently took part in School Holiday Basketball Camps during the March break. The twice run 3-day camps were organized by Shooting Stars Brunei Basketball.

Ken Han, the founder of Shooting Stars Brunei Basketball and Head Coach Ryan Yusof, held the basketball camps to engage kids to provide an opportunity for them to spend their school holidays productively.

The 3-days camps took place on March 23-25 and 28-30 saw specially invited basketball Coach Tan Chee Wan from Malaysia tasking more than 70 Brunei’s aspiring basketballer through a comprehensive training regimen designed to challenge and train them.



Coach Tan was a player in the Malaysian team who took gold during the 1989 SEA Games. Coach Tan’s many years of experience in coaching kids and youth basketball, especially basic fundamentals drills and activities, had a great impact not only for the campers but also to the coaches in Shooting Stars Brunei.

The camp focuses on three themes – Serious Fun, Discipline and Safety.

During the 2 camps, we saw new teammates forge lasting friendships that endure beyond the court. We saw kids, who are new to basketball, at the camp join in with joy with regular kids and youths at SSBN.

This event would not have been possible without the support of  ‎our sponsors and volunteers. Special appreciation goes to Hua Ho, Rano Iskandar, EasyWay Bubble Tea, Ref Station, International School Berakas, ISB catering and canteen team, Baan Nucha Thai Restaurant and especially our SSBN coaches and volunteers.

For more information regarding regular basketball sessions for 4-17 years old at Shooting Stars Brunei, contact 7290011 or shootingstarsbn@gmail.com.

 

Check out the special promotion offer from Loft & Co at the BIBD Home Showcase at The Mall. Image by Adib Noor of The Brunei Times.

You can turn your dream home into a reality with Loft & Co, more so now as the furniture store is offering exclusive discounts on its high quality furniture and home related accessories.

The offer is available for a limited time and only for visitors to its booth at the 8th BIBD Home Showcase at The Mall, Gadong.

“All items that we have at our booth are offered at an exclusive discounted price and is only exclusive during the course of the showcase,” said Sales Manager of Loft & Co Janet L Parpa.

On display at its booth is the latest collection from Hong Kong-based Red Apple Furniture Co Ltd brand. The highlight is an innovative queen size bed, which is fitted with a special hinge that allows it to be lifted in order to access a compartment for storage. The unique bed is currently on offer at $799 and it has been a good response so far.

“Other items such as the Red Apple night stand, dresser with mirror, armchair, bedding and even table lamp are all offered at an attractive price,” the sales manager added.
The home showcase by BIBD is ongoing until May 1. It features the bank’s promotions on home financing such as waivers and discounts on fees and chances to win prizes for successful applicants.

To take a look at more furniture selections, head to Loft & Co’s main branch located at Unit 6 to 9, Ground Floor, Little Soho at Batu Bersurat.

For enquiries, please contact or WhatsApp 8908778. You can also check for updates on its Instagram,@loftandcobsb. Text courtesy of Adib Noor of The Brunei Times.

You can storage under the bed

Some of the furniture from the Red Apple line at Loft & Co at Batu Bersurat

 

Dr Hjh May Faezah Hj Ahmad Ariffin, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Economy and Finance) at the Prime Minister’s Office launching the BIBD Home Showcase

Mr Mubashar Khokhar, Managing Director of BIBD delivering his welcoming remark

BIBD launched its eighth Home Showcase at The Mall, Gadong. The showcase, themed Lifestyle, highlights BIBD financing packages such as its Home Financing, Home Improvement Financing, Education Financing and Personal Financing along with other BIBD products and services. The showcase also includes financial health checks performed by BIBD certified Islamic financial planners.

Throughout the event, customers can benefit from full fee waivers on processing fees for BIBD’s Home Improvement Financing and Consolidated Financing Scheme; discounts on processing fees for financing as well as fee waivers on services. There are also prizes to be won for successful applicants.

The event also includes showcases by BIBD’s partners such as real estate companies and household products retailers.

Present as the guest of honour was Dr Hjh May Faezah Hj Ahmad Ariffin, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Economy and Finance) at the Prime Minister’s Office. The showcase runs until May 1st, from 10am until 10pm except on Fridays when it is from 2pm until 10pm.

 

The first 25 lucky winners with Manager of Hua Ho Department Store, Manggis, Lau Soon Tiong; the General Manager of Kingston Beverage & Creamery Sdn Bhd, Valentine Hon; and Sales and Marketing Manager of Kingston, Kevin Robin Jon at basement of Hua Ho Manggis

Finally the first 25 lucky winners of Red Bull Boost and Win contest were feted at Hua Ho Manggis last Friday.

The final three winners won themselves a Hua Ho shopping voucher worth of $50 each, while five received a power card worth of $30 each. The first seven won themselves Prepaid Top Up card worth of $20 Consolation prizes in the form of Red Bull bottle gift packets were also given to 10 participants.

Present during the draw were Manager of Hua Ho Department Store, Manggis, Lau Soon Tiong; the General Manager of Kingston Beverage & Creamery Sdn Bhd, Valentine Hon; and Sales and Marketing Manager of Kingston, Kevin Robin Jon. They also draw the 25 winners last Friday.

Members of the public still have a chance to take home prizes in the second Red Bull Boost and Win draw as the contest is still ongoing until May 31.

To join, just purchase any one can of Red Bull Energy drink (gold or less sugar), attach the pull ring tab for each contest form and drop the form into the contest boxes which are placed in participating outlets nationwide.

Participants can obtain the contest form at over 200 retail outlets in the sultanate, or download the form from its Facebook page at ‘Red Bull Brunei’. For more updates, check out its Instagram @redbullbrunei

 

Mr Joel Loo, a licensed Senior Dealer at Baiduri Capital, delivering his presentation on the prospects from Baiduri Capital

The attendees during the presentation

The Baiduri Smart Executive Programme hosted an introduction to securities trading today for their members. The event, a collaboration with Baiduri Bank’s subsidiary, Baiduri Capital, was held at Starbucks Beribi.

According to Ng Yick Wei, the Head of Group Marketing in Baiduri Bank, “The Smart Executive Programme, or SEP, is a unique programme that is specifically designed for busy working professionals who are well educated, and always looking for smart banking and saving solutions to diversify their portfolios.

“By leveraging on the capabilities of Baiduri Capital, our subsidiary company, we hope to offer insights and information to help our SEP members plan their wealth journey as they advance in their professional lives.”

Baiduri Capital has received a lot of interest from the public, especially among young professionals eager to try their hands in securities trading. Baiduri Capital offers an online securities trading portal which is a secure, web based securities trading platform that can be accessed from an internet browser, on any laptop, tablet, or even smart phone, depending on the customer’s preference. The investor-focused design is feature-rich, allowing customers to research prices, as well as look up market information to assist decision making when trading online.

Smart Executive members were shown an introduction to securities trading by Mr Joel Loo, a licensed Senior Dealer at Baiduri Capital. Since their official launch in 2015, customers are able to trade in Singapore (SGX), Hong Kong (HKEx) and Malaysia (BURSA) stock markets. Recently, US stock markets were introduced, allowing customers to trade in the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), NASDAQ Stock Exchange as well as the NYSE MKT LLC (AMEX).

Also present at the event were Smart Executive Relationship Officers and staff of Baiduri Bank, as well as licensed dealers and financial planners from Baiduri Capital.

More information on the Smart Executive Programme is available on www.baiduri.com or from the Baiduri Deals mobile app.

 

His Majesty the Sultan graced ISB Campus at Sungai Haching last week.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam consented to officially open the recently completed new International School Brunei (ISB) 22 acre campus in Sungai Hanching last week. His Majesty attended as Guest of Honour, consented to perform the ribbon cutting ceremony and toured the school and the new 180 bed International Boarding facility. Among the pupils were His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel, Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah, and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim.

For ISB, the momentous occasion was a source of much pride, and was the culmination of decades of hard work and perseverance. The school, which started with three students in 1964, has developed to become the longest established international school in Brunei and one of the premier international schools in Asia, now educating 1450 students from 39 different countries. Its academic credentials were highlighted to His Majesty; with 90% of all ‘O’ Level and IGCSE examination results at higher level grades A* to C. His Majesty was also introduced to its International Baccalaureate students, most of whom spoke of their enthusiasm for the new teaching, learning and living facilities.

The history of the institution began in 1964 when it was founded as a home school by Datin Glass, wife of a senior government official. The school grew rapidly, and by 1970 had moved to a bigger site provided by government at Tapak Kuda. Even more student growth necessitated a relocation to a bigger campus, and government provided the land at Jalan Dato Haji Ahmad, Berakas in 1985. The school was officially opened by Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Puteri Hajah Masna binti Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien on 9th March 1986, eight years after securing the lease. Over the next 30 years, ISB would become a household name, renowned for the provision of excellent academic, cultural and sporting achievements, while maintaining its inclusive academic philosophy. However, having outgrown the Berakas campus, plans for a move were formulated in 2002, culminating to the move to the Sungai Hanching campus in 2016.

Upon arrival at the new ISB campus, his majesty was met by ISB Board Chairman Mr Ahmad Isa and Executive Principal Dr Steven Geraghty, as well as Minister of Education Yang Behormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Development Yang Mulia Dato Paduka Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah, Minister of Home Affairs Yang Behormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong and other representatives from ministry. His Majesty then attended a reception in the school’s 350 seater theatre where the ISB primary school choir and ISB band played the Brunei National Anthem. ISB Board Chairman, Ahmad bin Isa, gave a welcome speech, thanking His Majesty for gracing the opening and expressing his joy and thanks to all those involved in bringing the idea of the new campus to life. Ahmad Isa also thanked the “students, parents and teachers whose support has been an integral part to the school’s longevity”.

In closing, he expressed his belief that ISB will be able to face the future confidently, strengthening its world class teaching and learning through new and flexible 21st Century learning spaces, which will continue to provide the future generations of Bruneian and international students with outstanding education for many years to come.

His Majesty undertook a tour of the school grounds, taking time out to watch a drama performance by some year 10 students, then seeing the 25m FINA international competition swimming pool and multipurpose sports hall. Following the sports complex, His Majesty the Sultan consented to tour new international residence, where he met some of the boarders who proudly showed him their rooms and living areas. His Majesty affirmed the merits of ISB seeking to attract international boarding students from around Asia, both as a way to attract foreign investment in Brunei, but also as a means to raise the profile of Brunei as an educational destination internationally.

Subsequently, the His Majesty visited the outdoor social area, where he consented to take a picture with the primary school students. He was joined in the photo by HRH Prince Wakeel, HRH Princess Ameerah, and HRH Prince Muntaqim. After the photo, Dr Steven Geraghty gave a speech thanking his Majesty for gracing the ceremony, and stated how having seen and worked in international schools all over the world, ISB was easily his favourite, in terms of the student and staff personnel, the spirit of the school, as well as the actual campus.

His Majesty signed a plaque commemorating his visit to ISB, before cutting the ribbon to declare ISB officially opened.

 

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah (R), the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha (L) during the Majlis Bersanding of Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hajah Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah binti Almarhum Pengiran Sura Negara Pengiran Anak Haji Bey Muntassir and Mohammad Bazli Azhar Hj Md Yussof at Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Jefriah’s residence, Baitul Athirah in Kg Beribi

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah (L), the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha (R) in a group photo with the newlyweds Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hajah Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah binti Almarhum Pengiran Sura Negara Pengiran Anak Haji Bey Muntassir (2nd R) and Mohammad Bazli Azhar Hj Md Yussof (2nd L) at Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Jefriah’s residence, Baitul Athirah in Kg Beribi.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hjh Saleha recently attended the Majlis Bersanding (sitting-in-state ceremony) of their niece, Yang Amat Mulia Pg Anak Hjh Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah.

The bride, who is the eldest daughter of HRH Princess Hjh Amal Jefriah, married Mohamad Bazli Azhar Hj Mohd Yussof.

YAM Pg Anak Hjh Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah works at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade while Mohd Bazli Azhar is with the Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE).

The couple had their solemnisation ceremony last Friday. Also present at the sitting-in-state ceremony were HRH Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, HRH Pg Anak Isteri Pg Anak Sarah and other members of the Royal Family.
The ceremony started with the lighting of the dian empat, or four ceremonial candles by ‘Awang-Awang’, followed by the placing of a two-piece cushion, kasur namat, between the candles. The bride, dressed in a green songket (brocade) bridal gown, first entered the hall for the sitting-in-state ceremony.

YAM Pg Anak Hjh Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah bowed to Their Majesties before taking her seat at the dais. She was accompanied by an entourage of 25 ‘Dayang-Dayang’, with nine carrying royal ornaments and 16 carried the dian enam belas or sixteen ceremonial candles.
The groom then entered the hall accompanied by Imam of Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Hj Mustafa Hj Murat and proceeded to the dais.

Pehin Dato Hj Mustafa then placed the groom’s right hand on the head of YAM Pg Anak Hjh Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah for a menapak tangan ceremony to signify their matrimony before leading the groom to his seat on the dais.

State Mufti Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Hj Awang Abdul Aziz Juned then recited the doa (supplication) to bless the couple. The ceremony took place at HRH Princess Hjh Amal Jefriah’s residence, Baitul Athirah, in Kg Beribi. Text courtesy of Rasidah HAB and images courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah (seated L), the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah (2nd L), His Royal Highness Prince Jefri Bolkiah (3rd L) and other members of the Royal Family during the Majlis Bersanding

HRH Princess Hajah Amal Jefriah(3rd R), YAM Pengiran Anak Hajah Nurul Amal Munjiatul Athirah (2nd R), YAM Pengiran Anak Muhammad Abdul Razaaq (R), YAM Pengiran Anak Muhammad Abdul Haffiz (2nd L), YAM Pengiran Anak Muhammad Abdul Qayyum (L) in a group photo with the newlyweds, YAM Pengiran Anak Hajah Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah binti Almarhum Pengiran Sura Negara Pengiran Anak Haji Bey Muntassir (4th R) and Mohammad Bazli Azhar Hj Md Yussof (3rd L)

The bride with her husband and her in-laws

YAM Pengiran Anak Hajah Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah binti Almarhum Pengiran Sura Negara Pengiran Anak Haji Bey Muntassir

Mohammad Bazli Azhar Hj Md Yussof

The newly weds. Click image to zoom.

 

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