Group photo of guests in Lolita outfit

There was a Lolita fashion gathering recently held at Kiulap. The word itself originated from Japan and it’s a combination of a particular street fashion with attitude. The event was initiated by Nio and Suok Jiuan and of course, the dress code for the event is “lolita”.

There were some games and photo session for the participants who came wearing their own Lolita outfits. Images are courtesy of Scary Soul.

This was what they had for hi-tea… yummm!!

They had some games too for entertaiment

Suok Jiuan (in pink) with the ladies in their Lolita outfit

Faeza with Nio, one of the co-host of the event

Suok Jiuan, the co-host, presenting prize to the winner

Another group photo

The exchanging of dcouments between Fitness Zone and Royal Brunei Airlines. Now you can earn 10 miles for every $1 spent at Fitness Zone. Starts from 1st June to 31st July 2012 only.

Are you are a Royal Skies member? Then you better get your work out outfit and work out at Fitness Zone.. Why? Because now you can earn an awesome 10 miles for every $1 spent at Fitness Zone and on top of that, you can also stand a chance to win a ticket to London too.

This was made possible after the joint venture between Royal Skies, Royal Brunei Airlines’ frequent flyer programe, and Fitness Zone. The agreement was signed by Maswadi Hj Mohsin, Chief Commercial and Planning Officer of Royal Brunei Airlines on behalf of the national flag carrier, witnessed by Yasmin Abdullah Chin, Manager of Loyalty Marketing, Royal Brunei Airlines. Fitness Zone was represented by its Managing Director, Wu Chun, whose signing was witnessed by its Chairman, Goh Kim Tian.

The guest of honour Ahmad Jefri Abd Rahman, a member of the Royal Brunei Airlines Board of Directors, witnessed the signing between the two strong local brands in Brunei Darussalam.

Maswadi Hj Mohsin described the deal in four words, “Burn fats, earn miles!” in encouraging the local community to be healthier and also earn miles at the same time.

So the deal is that from 1st June to 31st July (2 months) that Royal Skies member will be able to earn 10 miles for every $1 spent at Fitness Zone. You can also stand a chance to win a flight to London.

The deal was initiated by superstar icon Wu Chunas as he was browsing through bruneiair.com and checked out Royal Skies benefits. So from there, he sent an email to show interest in working together with Brunei’s national carrier.

According to Yasmin, there are an estimation of 60,000 local Royal Skies member from the 200,000 members worldwide. If you are interested to sign up, it’s pretty straight forward. You can sign up through http://www.bruneiair.com/

Wu Chun expressed his satisfaction to have RBA on board for a win-win situation for Royal Skies member and FItness Zone patrons

Wu Chun handed over a pair of boxing gloves to the guest of honour, Ahmad Jefri

The brief press conference after the signing ceremony

The work out session for associates of Royal Brunei Airlines

Group photo. Click image to enlarge image.

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The Ivy League Charity Netball Tournament 2012 draw was conducted yesterday at the Dewan Kuliah, Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium. The tournament is set to be held on May 31 for the Men’s Category and June 3 for the Women’s Category, at the Multipurpose Hall of the Hassanal Bolkiah Sports Complex.

Group A for the Men’s Category will consist of Strangers (Male), BMJ, Nad’s Stars, BSRC, Matrix B and JBCE Buttowski, whilst Group B will be made up of Emerald Ahiz, F19, Matrix A, Nextz, Nad’s V8 and Spitfire.

The Women’s Category has Angle Net A, MS ABDB B, Strangers (Female), NN Speed, MSSBBD Junior Team, JBCE KB, Netballisus, MS PDB and Comets in Group A. Fire Kittens, Setia Motors, MS ABDB A, JCMK Team, Revival NC, Net7, BKN and Angel Net B complete Group B.

In the preliminary matches, each team within the groups play each other once. The top four teams will proceed to the semi-final round. The winners of each semi-final match will face-off to claim the Ivy League Charity Netball Tournament 2012 trophy. The Men’s event will start at 7am on May 31, and will conclude by 6pm. The same schedule will be used for the Women’s event on June 3.

During the day-long competitions, there will be sales booths, showcases by the donation recipients, Pusat Ehsan and Persatuan KACA, and donation collections. During the two-day matches, spectators will also be able to buy lucky draw coupons for $5 each, with a maximum of five tickets per person. All proceeds are being donated to a charitable cause. Prizes like holiday packages to Bali and Kuala Lumpur, and various electrical goods, are up for grabs.

After the completion of the Women’s Final on June 3, there will be a prize presentation ceremony, followed by a donation presentation and the lucky draw winners presentation. Text by Jake Ten, Borneo Bulletin.

Mudshark will be holding a touch rugby tournament for Open Men and Women category and it will take place this Sunday 3rd June at UBD Sports Complex. This tournament is a great way to give more exposure on touch rugby to the public. There will be other activities as well as booths. Good luck to all the participants!! I do hope to drop by for a quick coverage.

The winner of the “Best Costume” for individual category

The E-Government National Centre, Prime Minister’s Office, introduced a new program for the Youth Development Program and the objective is to provide an alternative education platform especially those who didn’t performed well in their “O” levels (from 0 to 3 “Os”) and they will have this privilege to be part of the ICT Program and this can provide future opportunities in terms of employment in the private sector.

It will be a 3 month training after the applicants successfully pass the selection process and there will be an orientation program to make familiar with their classmates and the program. However, only 30 applicants will be selected in the first batch accordind to the representatives of E-GNC.

There will be allowances provided as well of $150 to the students and they will be trained at TechOne Global at Knowledge Hub, Anggrek Desa where they have local professional and certified trainers. The students will not only learn the basic field of IT but also other values such as MIB, costumer service, public speaking and so on.

The online registration will open on the 2nd June until 12th June or you can visit the various roadshows for more info.

Grand Bowling Atrium, Seria
2nd June 2012 9am to 9pm
3rd June 2012 9am to 7pm

Second Floor, The Mall, Gadong
9th June 2012 & 10th June 2012
9am to 9pm

Petani Mall, Tutong
11th June 2012 9am to 7pm

Complex Utama Bumiputra, Temburong
12th June 2012 9am to 3:15pm

Dk Syaza Nabilah bte Hj Haris, System Analyst, E-GNC, Dk Mashirrynaty bte Pg Hj Matahir, System Analyst, E-GNC and Hj Kamarul Azam bin Hj Muhammad, Head of Corporate Division, E-GNC at the press briefing yesterday

The process of the successful applicants for the Youth ICT program conducted by E-GNC

Check you their webpage for more info. Click image to find out more.

Today 28 May 2012 at 12:30, the Australian High Commission will host a panel discussion on building Creative Cities at Bridex. This event will be held in conjunction with the National Policy Forum on Creative Industries, which will also be at Bridex from 28 to 30 May.

In 2011, the Australian High Commission sponsored a visit to Brunei by Professor Phil Graham, a Creative Industries specialist from Queensland University of Technology (QUT). Phil Graham’s visit helped to create strong interest in the concept of creative industries in Brunei. According to Australian High Commissioner, Mark Sawers, ‘the response to the QUT visit in 2010 was brilliant. Bruneians with an interest in these industries have been very dynamic since that time. For example, UBD created a Creative Industries Cluster and policy makers started to focus on this new opportunity for the economic diversification of Brunei.’

An important milestone in this effort is the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports (MCYS) organising the National Policy Forum on Creative Industries, and again, the Australian High Commission, in collaboration with iBudaya, Austrade and MCYS, wants to share Australian experience with Bruneian professionals. According to Sawers ‘The Forum is a great way to take all this activity forward in a cooperative and coordinated way and the Australian High Commission again wants to help inspire Bruneians through the Australian experience.’

During the Panel discussion five Australian speakers will present the theme of “Creative industries in creative cities: the Australian experience”. David Throsby Professor in the Department of Economics at Macquarie University and play-write will talk about “Culture in sustainable development’, Marek Kozlowski, Urban Designer, Urban Researcher and Lecturer will present the “Creative Industries in South-east Queensland: The role of urban planning and design”, then Greg Hearn, Research Professor in the Creative Industries Faculty at QUT and Program Leader Creative Workforce at the ARC Centre of Excellence for Creative industries and Innovation will focus on “The example of the Kelvin Grove urban village in Brisbane’. Finally, Sasha Lennon, Principal with SGS Economics and Planning will discuss “Creative Industries and the importance of place for prosperity” and this will be followed by an open discussion.

Professional and interested people can join the panel discussion and have some casual lunch from 12:30 on Monday 28 May at Syndicate Room 5 of BRIDEX. It is free of charge and open to creative practitioners, architects, creative entrepreneurs, policy makers, venue managers, sponsors, education professionals, students and all interested members of the public.

19th May 2012 marks KFC’s official opening of their Gadong Central outlet. This is the 13th KFC outlet in Brunei. To officiate their event, 4 KFC customers were invited for the ribbon cutting ceremony. Customers were then invited inside where they were greeted by guling tangan performances. KFC’s mascots were also present to grace the event. First 130 customers get a KFC 20th Anniversary Calendar free for any purchases. Customers that spends B$20 and above in a single receipt can also get some Luminarc plates for free.

It is KFC’s tradition to invite customers for their ribbon cutting ceremony as they owe their success to them. There are few more outlets coming out this year, among them a Driv Thru. What makes outlet number 13th special is that it is below their Head Office and currently, it also have the biggest Colonel Sanders signage in Brunei.

Gadong Central itself is a center of activities supplementing customers of varying background to KFC Gadong Central. Besides offering a wide menu such as KFC a.m. breakfast and Krushers to name a few, Gadong Central will also be the first KFC outlet in Brunei where customers can enjoy watching their favourite Astro Channels. Business hours are from 7am until 11pm daily.

The latest KFC outlet at Gadong Central

The boys from Brunei Press having a good laugh at KFC Gadong Central

BIG fans of Upin and Ipin are in for a treat; KFC Brunei is offering figurines of the popular twins for a limited time only.

Four figures are available, each with its own unique design, and will be available to customers on a weekly basis.

The first to be made available is the Playful Upin figurine, which is available now; the second figurine is the Happy Ipin, which will be available starting May 24; the Defender Upin will be available from June 3; and the last figurine; Striker Ipin will be available from June 12.

The Upin and Ipin figurines will come for free with any Chicky combo meal priced at $6 for Chicky Club members and $6.50 for non members. Chicky club members can also purchase the figurines with any other chicken product purchase for only $3, whereas for non-members they are available at $3.50.

Collect these limited edition Upin and Ipin figurines

Check out their Family Special deal and save 40%

Chelsea fans making a pitstop during the NBT Car-toon Hunt to celebrate Chelsea’s success in Europe

Pg Hj Matusin Pg Hj Matasan (right) is one hardcore Chelsea fan. “I have waited 42 long, long years for this moment.. As in all things, patience and perseverance and faith in supporting your team through thick and thin, will be rewarded.”

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Benedict Allen, Dermot Mannion, Deputy Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines and Sheikh Jamaluddin, CEO of Brunei Tourism Board launched the event last Friday

Cultural dance performance to launch the Royal Brunei Airlines roadshow at Westfield Shopping Centre, London

Face painting also happening at the roadshow

Dermot Mannion, Deputy Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines posing with a London taxi with Royal Brunei Airlines advertisment. This is a move from RBA to boost more exposure of Brunei’s national carrier in the UK

Guess what? Royal Brunei Airlines will be having its first roadshow in the UK and their main intention is to further have more exposure in the UK market. The 3 day roadshow will take place at Westfield, Sheperd Bush from 25th May to 27th May 2012 and the theme of the roadshow is “Dream a Little Dream”.

During the roadshow, they will invite a presenter who is a renowned explorer, Benedict Allen and there will also be Capital FM Street Stars and also some cultural performances from the Brunei cultural dancers. Visitors can enjoy special packages and holiday fares. Apart from that there will be activities such as Face Painting, “Spot the Cabin Crew” and video questionnaire.

You can also win prizes such as air tickets, Royal Skies Air Miles and RBA merchandise. This is a great opportunity for the students in the UK who can benefit from the RBA roadshow. Do spread the news among your friends in the UK and make Westfield a place to visit on the wekeend 😀 Images below courtesy of Royal Brunei Airlines.

For those in the UK, you can check out the Royal Brunei Airlines roadshow at Westfiend Shopping Centre, London until 27th May

Muaz posing with the cabin crew from Royal Brunei Airlines

Brunei Tourism is also making their presence at the roadshow

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So far 273 golfers participated in the first two days of The Baiduri Masters 2012 tournament and the standings for the top 3 positions in the ranking haven’t changed 1) Majid Ahmad 2) Suhaimi Ibrahim 3) Pg Adam Pg Atan. Seruji former Baiduri Masters champion slid to 6th place and he is still eligible for the cut for the final round of The Baiduri Masters 2012. Another former champion Wan Man Wan Hil scored a 74 and he is ranked 4th in the leader board.

With two more rounds left before the final cut, anything can happen in the leader board standing. Today (Sunday), more golfers will be vying for the Top 12 spot of The Baiduri Masters 2012.The tournament is held over this weekend and will continue over next weekend. A total of five prizes are up for grabs as hole-in-one prizes.

Besides the Porsche Boxster, BMW 520, and Mini Cooper, golfers also stand a chance to win two cash prizes of $20,000 each. In addition, there will be novelty prizes for nearest to pin at all Par 3 over the six-day event, as well as attractive charity draw prizes.

Proceeds from the Baiduri Masters will be channeled to a number of local charities and welfare bodies that provide help and support for individuals with special needs.

The public, which includes non-Baiduri customers, can still register to take part in any of the days still remaining, on a first-come first-served basis. They can also play more than once to increase their chances of winning.

Gross Leader Board: Top 12 Players (Day 2)

1) Gross 72 – Majid Ahmad
2) Gross 73 – Suhaimi Ibrahim
3) Gross 73 – Pg Adam Pg Atan
4) Gross 74 – Wan Man Wan Hil
5) Gross 76 – Lim Chai Hock
6) Gross 76 – Seruji Hj Setia
7) Gross 76 – Pg Darul Ehsan
8) Gross 76 – Khairul Kamis
9) Gross 78 – Hj Momin Sawal
10) Gross 78 – Simon Newn
11) Gross 78 – Azaman Mohd Daud
12) Gross 78 – Mohd Ali Tuah

Wan Man Wan Hil, former champion of The Baiduri Masters, shot a 74 and ranked 4th in the standings

Khairul Khamis also squeezed in the Top 12 but it remains to be seen if his 8th place won’t be overtaken by the next session

A contract signing ceremony took place yesterday between Consumer Fair event manager Sunlit Advertising Sdn Bhd and its event and activity partners for the 10th edition of Brunei’s largest and most highly anticipated consumer event. The contract signing ceremony took place at Sunlit Advertising Sdn Bhd’s main office in Beribi last Friday.

Signing on behalf of Sunlit Advertising Sdn Bhd was Dato Hj Danial bin Hj Hanafiah, Executive Director of Sunlit Advertising, while the event and activity partners were represented by their respective staff. The contract signing ceremony was witnessed by Sherly Tan, Marketing Manager for Sunlit Advertising Sdn Bhd. Signing the contract agreement as official transporter was Roland Ti, the General Manager of Bayu Ilham Motors Sdn Bhd. Witnessing the signing was Raymond Thian, Manager. Signing the contract as the exclusive media print media supporter was James Kon, the Deputy Editor of Borneo Bulletin on behalf of Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, parent company of Borneo Bulletin and Media Permata.

As the official telecommunication company, Telekom Brunei Berhad (TelBru) was represented by Ms Rusydina Hj Juhaidi, Corporate Communications Officer for Corporate Affairs, witnessed by Rulizan Mohammad Daud.

BT Forwarding Sdn Bhd as the official forwarder was signed by Ms Angel Liew Ing Kiat (Marketing Executive), witnessed by Ms Ang Yueh Sha. Committed in providing security as the official CCTV service provider, Oregon Systems Sdn Bhd was signed by Ms Grace Liana Lipang, witnessed by Ms Erniwati Shamri.

The activity partners include Fitness Zone, Brunei Nerfers Association, New Motors Sdn Bhd and Adsports Event Management. Signing on behalf of Fitness Zone was Ali Sahrin Ahmad, Operations Manager, while Brunei Nerfers Association was represented by Pg Mohd Shahrunezam bin Pg Hj Rani. Meanwhile, Ms Saiedah Syafiah Abdul Razak, Sales Manager, inked the agreement on behalf of New Motors Sdn Bhd, witnessed by Siti Khairunnisa Aji.

AnakBrunei.org is the official social media partner, Aewon Garment & Embroidery Sdn Bhd as the official apparel and AdSports Event Management as the official activity partner.

The signing between Bayu Ilham Motors Sdn Bhd (for the shuttle buses) and Sunlit Advertising

The signing between Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, official media partner and Sunlit Advertising

The signing between Fitness Zone as an activity partner and Sunlit Advertising

The signing between TelBru (official Telco) and Sunlit Advertising

Billed as the grandest and most popular consumer expo in the country, the 10th edition of Consumer Fair will make a return at the BRIDEX International Conference Centre from June 27 to July 1 (Wednesday to Sunday).

With the ever-increasing attendance of visitors in past fairs largely attributed to its exclusive shopping and entertainment opportunities from both local and foreign exhibitors, Consumer Fair Part 10 looks set to attract even more public interest with a host of exciting outdoor activities including a fun-packed family carnival, the chance for a joy ride on an ATV, fitness activities and a meet-greet with SYM bikers. The theme for Consumer Fair Part 10 focuses on preserving a healthy lifestyle. According to a press release, this was in response to His Majesty’s titah on the occasion of the 100 Years Anniversary of the Health Services and Launching of the Health Convention on November 15, 2007.

The Consumer Fair 10 will be open to the public from 10am to 10pm daily for five consecutive days. Free shuttle bus services will be available for the convenience of the public.

The Consumer Fair 10 is supported by the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources. More information could be found at www.bruneiconsumerfair.com. Text courtesy of Fadhil Yunus, Borneo Bulletin.

The signing between Brunei Nerfers Association (Nerf tournament) and Sunlit Advertising

Group photo with the event partners of Consumer Fair 10

The local press hanging out before the signing ceremony

The participants at NBT Car-Toon Hunt

The participants enjoyed the games on the stage

Gary also celebrated his birthday

Team 168 had the funniest answers during the NBT hunt

This team won the Best Participation award

Consolations prizes for the Top 20 team

This team won an Android gadget

Another consolation prize for the Top 20 team

It’s happening now until 4th June

For those who wants to experience a different concept of fine dining, then you should try their current theme “EPICURE” which is hosted at Spaghettini at The Empire Hotel & Country Club. The exclusive dining promotion will be ongoing until the 4th June.

Chef Torsten and Chef Ajoy have paired together to create a rare opportunity for epicureans what can be described as a great “harmony of flavours”. They have worked for a few months to create the dishes exclusively for “EPICURE”. The ingredients are imported hence you will be able to experience a unique taste without compromising the traditional feel and they also have added some innovative touches by creating an 8 course menu.

The menu features first class ingredients such as Osietra Caviar, Foie Gras, Fresh Morels, Maine Lobster, Blackmore Wagyu Beef and Black Summer Truffle.

So make your bookings at Spaghettini and the promotion will end on 4th June. Just to let you know that “EPICURE” is limited to 40 seats per night and it’s BND 99 per person. For reservations, please call 241 7700.

Chef Ajoy and Chef Torsten during the interview for the “EPICURE”

Majid Ahmad topped Friday’s lead in the 1st Day of The Baiduri Masters 2012 event while former champion Seruji Hj Setia scored 4 strokes behind with a 76 while leader Majid Ahmad scored a 72. Suhaimi Ibrahim and Pg Adam socred a 73 each. A junior player Young Ren Wee hit a 79.

The standings will change every session of The Baiduri Masters 2012 but it’s safe to say that Majid Ahmad, Suhaimi and Pg Adam secured berth in the final round of golf tournament unless the next four days produced some miracle results from other players. Brunei’s top player Seruji Hj Setia might miss that cut depending on other results.

Majid Ahmad finished top spot in the 1st day of the Gross Leader Board. He is most likely to secure the cut off for the Green Jacket of The Baiduri Masters 2012.

Pg Adam finished Top 3 and his place in the final cut will depend on other players on the different sessions of The Baiduri Masters 2012

The helpers of The Baiduri Masters 2012 and making sure the tournament runs smoothly. A big appreciation towards them.

Gross Leader Board: Top 12 Players (Day 1)

1) Gross 72 – Majid Ahmad
2) Gross 73 – Suhaimi Ibrahim
3) Gross 73 – Pg Adam Pg Atan
4) Gross 76 – Lim Chai Hock
5) Gross 76 – Seruji Hj Setia
6) Gross 78 – Hj Momim Sawal
7) Gross 79 – Yunos Abdullah
8) Gross 79 – Young Ren Wee
9) Gross 80 – Suhaimei Besar
10) Gross 80 – Hj Yussop Daud
11) Gross 80 – Pg Hj Ali Hj Samsudin
12) Gross 80 – Lt Col Hj Abd Rahman

The tournament is held over this weekend and will continue over next weekend. A total of five prizes are up for grabs as hole-in-one prizes.

Besides the Porsche Boxster, BMW 520, and Mini Cooper, golfers also stand a chance to win two cash prizes of $20,000 each. In addition, there will be novelty prizes for nearest to pin at all Par 3 over the six-day event, as well as attractive charity draw prizes.

Proceeds from the Baiduri Masters will be channeled to a number of local charities and welfare bodies that provide help and support for individuals with special needs.

The public, which includes non-Baiduri customers, can still register to take part in any of the days still remaining, on a first-come first-served basis. They can also play more than once to increase their chances of winning.

The hole-in-one prizes for The Baiduri Masters 2012. No one has won it on the 1st day of The Baiduri Masters 2012.

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Simon Newn in action this afternoon for The Baiduri Masters 2012

QPR’s Barry Barton is banned for 12 games and fined 75,000 pounds by Football Association for two counts of violent conduct

John Cena lost to the People’s Power at Over the Limit Pay-Per-View after Big Show interrupted. The PPV was not bad. I quite enjoyed the Fatal-Four Way match.

Hmmm.. This ain’t good news for Chong Wei, World’s No.1 Badminton player. He was recently injured in the Thomas Cup and now his journey to the Olympics suffered a setback due to this injury.

Nurul recently participated in the netball tournament as she played for Ivy League. She flew in to Brunei last weekend just to compete in the tournament. Ivy League came 2nd in the competition.

Dwayne Wade and LeBron James guided Miami Heat to the Eastern Conference Finals of the NBA. They edged Indiana Pacers 4-2 in the semi-finals of the Eastern Conference.

I played tennis once more after a year of hiatus. Terence Han thrashed me in the friendly match 6-0 6-0 yesterday *lol*

NN SPEED ran out winners in all four of their matches to seal the 7th Setia Motors Netball Championship Advanced Category title yesterday.

Meanwhile, in the Novice Category, Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah and her G-Force teammates lost out for a place in the semi-finals after falling 20-10 to eventual champions Strivers XOXO at the Multipurpose Hall of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex in Berakas.

Strivers XOXO beat Institut Teknologi Brunei (ITB) 21-10 to clinch the Novice Category crown.

Ivy League led by Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah finished second behind NN Speed in the Advanced Category which was played in a single round-robin league format.

The netball tournament organised by Brunei Netball Association

The showdown between NN Speed and Ivy League where NN Speed won 17-14.

NN Speed (in red) had a tall defensive player from Sri Lanka

Speaking to The Brunei Times after receiving their trophy, NN Speed’s manager Kumalasari Hj Abd Latiff said that her players only had one thing on their minds when the competition started.

“Our team are made up of national players and our aim was always to win the tournament … Show Bruneians we can do it!,” declared the proud manager.

“We hope to compete in the 2012 Asian Championships in Sri Lanka in August so this tournament has helped us in our preparation,” added Kumalasari.

NN Speed’s (pic) only real test of the five-team competition came in their match against Ivy League, which they won 17-14.

Their other matches proved to be less of a challenge, beating Revival 27-9, the Royal Brunei Armed Forces’ Sports Council A (MS ABDB A) 25-14 and E-Gal Netters 40-10.

Ivy League won all of their other three games, prevailing 30-18 over both MS ABDB A and Revival and going past E-Gal Netters 33-12.

Revival claimed third after beating MS ABDB A 26-15 and E-Gal Netters 32-17. MS ABDB A’s only win came against E-Gal Netters, a 30-21 result which was enough for them to finish above their opponents who were the only team not to have won a match.

Kim Kyung-soo, the wife of South Korean Ambassador to Brunei, presented prizes to the winners. Text courtesy of Jason Thomas, The Brunei Times.

Red Bull Rookies Racing Team has added a new dimension this year. An all-male team will be introduced together with the 5th edition of the all-female team in the Battle of Sexes. The teams are to race at Sepang 1000km Race on 8th December. Initiated in 2008, it was an all female team until last year whereby they introduced a youth team led by Malaysian Mark Darwin with compatriots Siti Shakirah and Singaporean Amirah making up the rest of the Red Bull Under 21 Racing Team.

Ironically this year Mark was given the honour to lead the debutant all-male team this year due to his commitment, leadership quality and never say die attitude that he has portrayed during his last outing during Sepang 1000km Race at Sepang Internaional Circuit. Melissa Huang of Singapore has earned the armband to lead the female team. An audition was held at a local shopping mall from 18th till 20th May to search the 3 male and female icons respectively to represent Brunei Darussalam to partake in the first elimination round in KL together with 50 plus candidates from Malaysia and Singapore.

The Top 3 ladies last weekend. Image courtesy of Hanisham.

The Top 3 men last weekend. Image courtesy of Hanisham.

A total of 102 hopefuls from both sexes came for the multi-tier audition process including interview, eye test and reaction test. “The response was very encouraging”, said Wong Chin Toon, the event manager, when asked about the attendance. “This year we received many responses from the male hopefuls, as racing is still predominantly a male sport”, continued Wong. “As Brunei Darussalam is not guaranteed a spot in the teams like previous years as the elimination round will be an open affair. Despite the stiff competition, I am hopeful and reasonable confident that at least one of the 7 selected (including one candidate who earned his wildcard through Facebook) will be make it to the team”. Liana and Mel (2010) and Ogy (2011) from the previous Rookies teams have proven that Bruneians can always deliver when under pressure.

The candidates are required to qualify through a few elimination rounds with trainings provided at the same time. The finalists will slog out for the ultimate seat in the racing team during the Red Bull Rookies Track Day on 10th July at Sepang International Circuit. The names will be revealed for both teams on that day. All drivers are under the age of 25 years old. Red Bull Rookies Racing teams are fully sponsored and organized by Allswell Trading Pte Ltd and managed by GreenCity Concept Sdn Bhd locally. Kingston Beverage and Creamery Sdn Bhd is the local distributed of Red Bull drinks and Sunsnack.

Group photo with the winners and the representatives from Kingston Beverage and Creamery

Johnny Liew (center) with Evelyn Liew with the VIPs launching the opening of Pizza Hut Airport Mall

This is the 11th store of Pizza Hut and it features a new dining experience compared to the other Pizza Hut outlets in Brunei. The new branch is at The Airport Mall and the place was already packed right after its official launch yesterday.

The interior reminds of my dining experience at KL and Singapore at Pizza Hut outlets. They even have extended new menus that are only available at the Airport Mall branch.

Present during the launch were Ambassador of the Philippines to Brunei Nestor Z Ochoa and Deputy Chief of Mission of the US Embassy Alex Barraso and Director of Pizza Hut (Olive Tree Corporation) Ahmad Tarmizi Dato Paduka Hj Yussof, Chairman of Pizza Hut (Olive Tree Corporation) Johnny Liew and CEO of Pizza Hut (Olive Tree Corporation) Evelyn Liew.

Perhaps one of the cool gimmick at the Airport Mall branch is the unlimited Salad Bar is definitely value for money and this is only valid if you order a regular/large pizza or pasta.

Some of the new dishes they have on the menu are Melted Mozzarella and Provolone Cheese, Rogatoni Pasta and Portobello’s Mushrooms.

The new look of Pizza Hut and it definitely looks more refreshing

One of the first diners after the launch of the new outlet

Are you craving for Pizza or Pasta?

It has an artistic feel too

You can enjoy unlimited servings of the Salad Bar if you order a regular/large pizza or pasta, only at the Pizza Hut Airport Mall outlet

You can relax here while waiting to be seated or waiting for your take away order

One of the new dishes at Pizza Hut Airport Mall

Oh hello…..

Guess what? Royal Brunei Airlines will be having its first roadshow in the UK and their main intention is to further have more exposure in the UK market. The 3 day roadshow will take place at Westfield, Sheperd Bush from 25th May to 27th May 2012 and the theme of the roadshow is “Dream a Little Dream”.

During the roadshow, they will invite a presenter who is a renowned explorer, Benedict Allen and there will also be Capital FM Street Stars and also some cultural performances from the Brunei cultural dancers. Visitors can enjoy special packages and holiday fares. Apart from that there will be activities such as Face Painting, “Spot the Cabin Crew” and video questionnaire.

You can also win prizes such as air tickets, Royal Skies Air Miles and RBA merchandise. This is a great opportunity for the students in the UK who can benefit from the RBA roadshow. Do spread the news among your friends in the UK and make Westfield a place to visit on the wekeend 😀

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This is to highlight that the petrol stations will be closed as early as 6pm this Wednesday 23rd May. For any enquiries, call 8722 985 or 7178 807

Sairol and Nabilah sending off Rodrigo Gral (center) at the Brunei International Airport. Image courtesy of Sairol.

The Brazilian star has been released by DPMM FC due to his knee ligament injury that forced him out of the season for the S.League. He was a slow starter for DPMM FC and he was finding time to adjust his game play.

He did manage to get on the score sheet and now Adi Said has a new burden in filling the shoes of Rodrigo Gral in attack and at the same time, DPMM FC are having trials on several import players. Rodrigo recently left Brunei and we all wish you the best and thank you for the contribution for DPMM FC’s recent success in the league.

Rodrigo arguing with the referee. Image courtesy of S.League Facebook page

Perhaps the best shot of Rodrigo in DPMM FC colours. Image courtesy of S.League Facebook page

T.C.Y. Motors Sdn Bhd the local Audi dealer/importer is set to introduce the refreshed Audi A5 Sportback 5-door coupé at its new Kiarong showroom.

Another addition into the A5 family which saw the introduction of the new A5 Coupé last month, the Sportback version will give coupé fans an alternative in this exciting segment. With the practicality of a 5-door sedan yet maintaining the sleek designs of a coupé, the new A5 Sportback defines a class of its own.

The 2011 Auto Trophy winner in the “mid-size” category voted by nearly 100,000 readers of “Auto Zeitung” motoring magazine will be offered for Brunei with an entry-level engine 1.8 TFSI which produces 125 kW (170hp) output, it will also be ‘spec-ed’ with Audi Drive Select, B&O Sound System and sporty 18” alloy wheels.

The new Audi showroom in Kiarong which will start operations soon marks a culmination of the dealership’s 10-years continuous effort as the brand’s sole importer.

For further details on the new A5 Sportback 1.8 TFSI call 2390725 during office hours.

Audi A5 Sportback

Yes, do visit their new showroom at Kiarong

Try out the Crown Delight Meal or Crown Fiesta Meal

Managing Director of GHK, Pehin Dato Goh King Chin (2nd from left) and Director of ASEAN Regional Distribution Operation, Thailand, Akshay Jaising (3rd from left) posing on the latest Chevrolet Spark

THE Chevrolet Spark was officially introduced to the local market recently at its official launching ceremony held at DAHA Chevrolet Showroom, Sumbangsih Bahagia.

Present to officiate the launching was the Managing Director of GHK Group of Companies, Pehin Dato Goh King Chin, as well as the Director of ASEAN Regional Distribution Operation, Thailand, Akshay Jaising and Manager of Regional Distribution Operation, GMODC, Singapore, Sam Ong. Welcoming members of the public to the showroom was John Too, GHK Motors general manager.

In his opening speech, the general manager stated that the Spark is General Motors’ latest entry into the compact vehicle market.

“It is powered by a 1000cc 4 cylinder engine, and though it is a small engine, it makes up by giving big savings in fuel consumption,” he said. He further stated that the Spark is able to travel 100km with just 4.8 litres of fuel.

“In dollars and cents,that means a driver can make a round trip from Bandar Seri Begawan to Kuala Belait for less than $5.”

The engine combines competitive performance with sophisticated technologies such as dual continuous variable cam phasing, electronically controlled thermostat and low friction engine oil to give customers an engine that is low maintenance, with reduced emissions and outstanding fuel economy.

“There are eight different exciting colours to choose from,” he continued, as he pointed at the various units of the Spark spread across the showroom.

Other features of the Spark highlighted during the launch is its touch-screen multimedia player interface, complete with DVD player and Bluetooth functionality.

On the outside, the Spark has an innovative design designers of the vehicle have cleverly disguised the rear doors of the Spark by integrating the handles into the c-pillar area. This in turn gives Spark a sporty appearance without sacrificing four door comfort and utility. It also has an integrated spoiler over the rear hatch door which enhances its dynamic appearance, while also improving the car’s aerodynamics for fuel efficiency.

Getting ready for the Chevrolet Spark launch

Managing Director of GHK, Pehin Dato Goh King Chin (right) and Director of ASEAN Regional Distribution Operation, Thailand, Akshay Jaising (left) unveiling the Chevrolet Spark

Pehin Goh trying out the Chevrolet Spark

One of the most important features of a vehicle is its safety. The Spark was designed with high levels of passive safety inbuilt from the outset, enough to earn it a creditable four-star Euro NCAP crash test rating.

Close to 60 per cent of the car’s structure consists of advanced steels, with varying levels of stiffness and built in crush zones to absorb crash impacts. The front engine bay rails and subframe are designed to absorb energy with the highest loads possible as they collapse, while a transition zone around the base of the A-pillars and front bulkhead effectively distributes crash energy around rather than into the passenger compartment.

All Spark seatbelts are fitted with pre-tensioners; in the back there are three, three-point belts and standard ISOFIX child-seat fixings on the outer two seats.

The four-speed auto transmission and five-speed manual transmission models of the Spark are now available at DAHA Auto Sdn Bhd, Chevrolet Showroom in Beribi.

Members of the public are welcome to visit the showroom to take a closer look at the all-new Chevrolet Spark. Text by Adib Noor, The Brunei Times.

There are a few colours that you can choose from

The launch took place last Friday

This was the latest promotion posted outside a DVD store last night. Prices of DVD was as low as $1.

This is the usual pattern that we normally come across this incident where DVS shop retailers will be on the alert if any raids would be carried out. This time the Municipal Board is taking stern action against DVD retailers should they fail to comply with the regulations.

I remember how they would shut their business down temporarily before opening up again and the authorities won’t take any action and business goes as usual. I have to admit that I’m a sucker to pirated stuff when it comes to TV series and Korean movies. It’s either we watch TV series using streamline or download the epiosodes or what for the 4-episode compilation of the series at DVD store. It came to a point where consumers are not at fault because the laws are only focusing on retailers, not consumer ends.

Few weeks ago, the retailers were given a time frame before the authorities can take stern action. Hence you will notice how cheap the DVDs have become though the downside is that they hardly bring in new movie titles. TV series that used to cost as high as $4 per disc, now selling at $1.

Today was interesting as I saw a few familiar DVD outlets closed for business but without any notice on their roller shutters. This could be a temporary thing. We shall see.

The popular stores weren’t open for business today

Another popular gaming DVD store was closed

Ok, this popular retailer is still open for business

Click image to find out more

There is still time to register for the biggest golfing charity event in Brunei – Baiduri Masters Charity Golf Tournament. As usual, it will be held for two weekends – May 25th to 27th and June 1st to 3rd – and it will be held at RBA Golf Club. This charity event has already drawn many support from the local community and this year won’t be any different.

All participants have a chance to win either a Porsche Boxster, a BMW 520 and a Mini Cooper, altogether worth around 300.000 as the hole in one prizes for the upcoming Baiduri Masters Charity Golf Tournament.

Besides the luxury cars, this year’s participants will also stand a chance to win two cash prizes of 20,000 each with other attractive tournament prizes.

The registration fee for the Baiduri Masters 2012 will be $120 for adults and $60 for juniors. The registration fee is inclusive of green fee, buggy buffet breakfast and lunch.

Participating golfers can play more than one game to improve their chances of winning. For the second and subsequent game, adult player will enjoy a 10 percent discount on the registration fee. The best score of any round played will be taken.

Registration deadline for the first weekend’s tournament is May 23 while for the second weekend’s tournament is May 30. The tournament’s registration details and schedule can be obtained at RBA Golf Club, Berakas. The public can also log onto www.baiduri.com for full details where they can also download the registration form.

The signing ceremony between Baiduri Bank and their event partners, QAF Group, Brunei Press Sdn Bhd and RBA Gofl Club

One of the cars that can be won through a hole-in-one

Defending champion Miguel Eleazer Ochoa will be back to defend his title and he will be flying from the Philippines. He scored a gross of 71 last year.

Last Friday, the Baiduri Bank Group is organising a career day roadshow, which will be held at the VIP Room, Level 4, the Rizqun International Hotel.

“We at Baiduri Bank Group are on the lookout for locals who share the same vision and goals as us; Bruneians who are looking for dynamic opportunities to develop and have a rewarding career,” said Veronica Chong, senior manager of the Human Resources and Finance Division.

“We want to show that Baiduri Bank is a first-class bank with an invigorating atmosphere in which to work,” she added.

The roadshow showcased the many activities that Baiduri Bank Group is involved in, including staff development, social and sports activities, as well as corporate social responsibility initiatives.

The roadshow aimed to increase awareness of the various functions in the banking services industry and to attract and identify potential candidates. Staff from different departments were present to discuss career opportunities and answer any questions. Images courtesy of Baiduri Bank.