Brunei Netball team before departing for Singapore for the SEA Games 2015. Image courtesy of BNA Facebook Page.

Brunei team and Singapore huddled up before the game. Image courtesy of Steve Lai.

Royal Bees, our Brunei national netball team, have been working tremendously hard and it’s never easy to climb up the ranks especially when it comes to sports. Sports is a dedicated activity and it usually starts at grass roots level if you want to excel to greater heights to compete internationally. Who said it was easy being an athlete or a sports person?

They have been training very hard leading to the tournament and they have been flying as well to gain more exposure to play against other teams to see the level they are at now. I would say that the Brunei netball team has improved tremendously under the guidance of their netball head coach Thilaka Jinadasa and she had made a difference to the team.

This afternoon they lost their opener to the host Singapore 72-21 and they have nothing to be ashamed of. The Royal Bees gave in their best despite being physically dominated and the Singaporeans were simply fast to begin with. Brunei had little answer to the superiority of the host but the Brunei team still gave their best shot as a team and that is the first step to success – determination.

This could be one reason why Brunei hasn’t been performing or close to grinding out results in the international level. One biggest reason for me is they are not a full time athlete or sports person. And of course, budget is another issue as sports is never seen as a priority for the development of the nation. Hence, just to see or witness how Brunei perform on the courts or fields, I’m glad to say that Brunei did their best at the level they are due to lack of resources.

Even the Brunei U-23 football team only has been gelling as a team for the past few months or so. Even You put an Arsene Wenger as a head coach for the past five months, Brunei team will definitely still struggle because of the lack of preparation and approvals. So to expect a bigger milestone for Brunei in the SEA Games will be a tall order. And the media seems to highlight one promising player Faiq Jefri Bolkiah, who signed up for the U-18 Chelsea club last year. Now the pressure is on him to deliver what he can do for Brunei and he was even given the task to lead the team as the Brunei captain.

Two days ago, Brunei performed below expectations in the football arena, losing to a better team Vietnam in the 6-0 rout. Many question marks have been put forth if Brunei is ready to take on the international stage. Yes, it’s true that in football, the ball is round meaning anything can happen and results can go either way. However, it didn’t seem to be the case for Brunei in the opening match. They didn’t even register a shot on target through the 95 minutes. Let’s hope for a better outing tonight against Laos and you can catch it live on youtube at 8:30pm

As for the Royal Bees, they will take on Myanmar tomorrow (Monday, 1st June) at 1:30pm but sadly no live telecast even on youtube.

During the opening ceremony today. Image courtesy of Netball Singapore Facebook Page.

The line up

Imagine this is the substitute GK for Singapore. Image courtesy of Steve Lai.

A huge crowd at the netball match. Image courtesy of Liew Wei Wei.

Nur Hafizah of Brunei aiming for a basket. Image courtesy of Netball Singapore Facebook Page.

Image courtesy of Netball Singapore Facebook Page

Singapore 72 Brunei 21. Image courtesy of Netball Singapore Facebook Page.

Siti Norsaihah being interviewed after the match. Image courtesy of Steve Lai.

 

It’s happening today until Saturday, 30th May. AMBD stands for Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam and to simply to all of you, AMBD is a governing body that looks at the financial institution in Brunei Darussalam. All banks in Brunei (local and international) will have to comply with the rules and regulations set by AMBD. Remember Brunei used to have huge cases of debts from personal spending? This is were AMBD comes in and help to ease the situation by setting appropriate guidelines for the banks and their customers for a win-win situation.

The financial institutions will have to go through AMBD should they want to propose changes in rates or even promoting their products and services. It’s a tedious process but it’s for the betterment of the community. Today marks a special day for AMBD, in hope that the community and the public are are aware of their existence and their mission. This year’s theme is “Facilitating your financial future”. The three day event will take place at International Convention Centre. Thurs 12pm to 6pm, Fri 9am-11:30 and 2pm to 9pm and Sat 9am to 9pm.

 

 

Dato Paduka Hj Bahrin bin Abdullah, Deputy Minister of Finance cum Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines (in blue) with Dermott Mannion, Deputy Chairman of RB, Wu Chun, RB’s brand ambassador with the 1st intake of RB’s cabin crew from 1975

Guest of honour viewing the RB’s gallery history

Yesterday Royal Brunei Airlines celebrated their 40th year of flight and it was celebrated at the Royal Brunei Recreation Club. The guest of honour was Dato Paduka Hj Bahrin bin Abdullah, Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines. He was accompanied by the Deputy Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines, Dermott Mannion and Hj Junaidi bin Masri, one of the board of directors of Royal Brunei Airlines and also Royal Brunei’s Brand Ambassador Wu Chun.

It was interesting to see the history gallery of Royal Brunei Airlines’ journey back dated from its inception in 1975. Dermot was very thankful in his speech especially of the first flight cabin crew members who flew to Singapore on May 14, 1975. It brings that nostalgic feeling to the former cabin crew members and it was quite nice to see their presence and also being acknowledged in yesterday’s event. I actually wanted to see if the first intake of the cabin crew would do a one-time off service on a short flight sector (Singapore or Kota Kinabalu) to serve the passengers. That would be an awesome feat!

The 40 years’ milestone also depicted how much Royal Brunei has changed throughout the years. The rapid change occurred during Royal Brunei’s rebranding period which began in 2012. Yesterday Dermot Mannion shared that even the current website flyroyalbrunei.com has some facelift for easier navigation and better customer experience.

The VIPs and guests were invited to walk down memory lane of the different milestones of RB’s journey. It has been amazing history for our national air carrier. Now what is in store for the 50th year? For now, let’s stay in the present moment and congratulations RB on the amazing feat for the past 40 years.

RB’s 40 years of flight

Dermot Mannion in his opening speech

Celebrating 40 years of flight

This is the first RB aircraft

The different models of carrier under RB

Viewing the gallery

Interesting timeline history

Royal Brunei management with Wu Chun and Siti Kamaluddin

Another earlier cabin crew intake of 1975

With Jali, the first intake of cabin crew 1975 and he is wearing the 2nd edition of the RBA uniform back then

 

In the paper’s yesterday

In the paper’s yesterday

I knew this is gonna draw a lot of mixed reactions. Actually it was even mixed at all. The comments were 95% negative when I posted this message on my social network. This was to do with the recent directives from the Municipal Board where businesses were to shut down by midnight. Many wanted answers and legitimate reasons to why on such ruling. The Ministry of Home Affairs didn’t hold any press conference but issued statement to the media and in the end of the day, there was a slight u-turn in the statement and now apparently some restaurants can still operate after midnight.

In today’s The Brunei Times, it was mentioned that restaurants are still confused about the guideline. This reminds me of last year’s confusion on the attire and clothing before the implementation of the Syariah Law. Now it’s about small businesses that are operating after midnight. Some have mentioned that they haven’t received any letter from the Municipal Board on the confirmation for the request of extended hours. Let’s hope this issue can be resolved for the benefit of the community and let’s not forget that Ramadhan is just around the corner and these businesses need to prep themselves.

At least, this is some leeway for restaurants and the public that there’s a high possibility for restaurants and convenient stores to operate past midnight.

Posted on @thebruneitimes social media before the actual full details

 

Faiq Jefri Bolkiah in the training session with the Brunei U-23 team. Image courtesy of Yee Chun Leong of The Brunei Times.

Faiq Jefri Bolkiah with the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam and the Brunei U-23 team before flying off to Singapore

A talent in the making. He had trials in Arsenal in the youth academy two years ago before signing a youth club deal with Chelsea early last year. Today he is representing Brunei in the upcoming SEA Games but I have yet to see on the field or in any football matches just yet. He plays upfront and his inclusion to the under-23 football team is a huge boost for the country. He naturally plays wide in attack.

He is no other than Faiq Jefri Bolkiah and he seems upbeat for the competition. According to his interview with The Brunei Times, he will focus on his physical presence and speed and he aimed to work hard both defensively and offensively. He is pleased to play along the ranks of the DPMM FC players such as Azwan Ali Rahman.

Brunei will take on Vietnam on 29th May in the Round Robin Group B, followed by Loas on 31st May. Their third match will be against Timor-Leste on 3rd June before they face Thailand on 6th June and on their final match will be against Malaysia on 8th June. Good luck to the Brunei u-23 team in the SEA Games.

Faiq Jefri Bolkiah was the Brunei Chelsea Supporters Club (BCSC) at Papa Chelsea Shed last weekend. Image courtesy of BCSC.

Group photo of the BCSC in celebration of Chelsea’s crowning of the Premier League. Image courtesy of BCSC.

Chelsea supporters taking photo with Faiq Jefri Bolkiah. Click image to enter BCSC Facebook Page. Image courtesy of BCSC.

Faiq Jefri Bolkiah signing the youth deal with Chelsea FC last year. Image courtesy of @RYO_cleverfish

Faiq Jefri Bolkiah in action for the U-18 Chelsea FC. Image courtesy of @fjbolkiah

 

UNISSA vs Politeknik Brunei

UNISSA vs Politeknik Brunei. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

UNISSA vs Politeknik Brunei. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

UNISSA vs Politeknik Brunei. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

UNISSA vs Politeknik Brunei. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

Laksamana College of Business vs Kollege IGS

The crowd during Laksamana College of Business vs Kollege IGS. Image courtesy of BIBD At-tamwil Unicup 2015 Facebook Page. Click image for updates.

Warming up. Image courtesy of BIBD At-tamwil Unicup 2015 Facebook Page. Click image for updates.

The crowd during Laksamana College of Business vs Kollege IGS. Image courtesy of BIBD At-tamwil Unicup 2015 Facebook Page. Click image for updates.

The volunteers at Laksamana College of Business vs Kollege IGS. Image courtesy of BIBD At-tamwil Unicup 2015 Facebook Page. Click image for updates.

The volunteers at Laksamana College of Business vs Kollege IGS. Image courtesy of BIBD At-tamwil Unicup 2015 Facebook Page. Click image for updates.

One of the lucky winners during one of the matches

CCCT (Cosmopolitan) vs Micronet

CCCT (Cosmopolitan) vs Micronet. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

CCCT (Cosmopolitan) vs Micronet. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

CCCT (Cosmopolitan) vs Micronet. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

CCCT (Cosmopolitan) vs Micronet. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

 

Annison, Sales Manager of SsangYong (T.C.Y. Motors) and Alvin Caro, PR and Advertising Executive of SsangYong (T.C.Y. Motors) unveiling the new SsangYong’s Tivoli at their Kiarong showroom

Check out the Tivoli on Youtube

When I saw the images sent by T.C.Y. Motors during the sneak preview of the Tivoli, I was like pretty impressed by the overall design. The first thing that came to my mind is that it doesn’t feel or look like a European car. This is the latest edition to the SsangYong family line, the Tivoli. Yes, even the name sounds European in a way. The official launch of this particular model will be in June 2015 but there have been many pre-bookings from the public already even before its release. The media had the privilege to have a close look at the Tivoli – the low spec and the high spec at the SsangYong Kiarong Showroom.

We had a quick test drive on the red colour Tivoli but we haven’t fully tested it. So far it was a good ride and I was even considering this for my next car because I’m more of an SUV person and though it’s smaller than an SUV, it has its sporty feel. There are so many things to love about the Tivoli and I assure you that the Tivoli will be a big hit in Brunei.

One of its strength is the D-cut Steering Wheel. It has a steering wheel with “sporty d-cut” design, highlighting a sporty look with its horizontal bottom line and this will enhance the driving experience with optimal grip. If you go for the hi spec, then you will get a premium leather finish on the steering wheel too.

The seats have been awarded for being “Ergonomic” in Korea. Consisting of dual density pads and Pullmaflex spring system, bonded together to create an award-winning seat. It has earned the Tivoli a reputation for optimal comfort and convenience.

There’s also a Multi Audio System with a 7” inch touchscreen display (hi-spec). You can sync your smartphones via Bluetooth or HDMI.

When it comes to safety, Tivoli ensures passengers’ safety by applying the latest technology and high strength material and it also provides outstanding inner equipment space for outdoor activities. The material of the Tivoli has AHSS (Advanced high strength steel). For your info, AHSS is used for about 40% on the body and “hot press forming” process is used on 10 major areas.

T.C.Y. Motors SsangYong is even giving one special prize – Samsung S6 Edge. All you have to do is register your interest for the Tivoli through their website tivoli.ssangyong-brunei.com or their Facebook Page.

The price tag for the Tivoli is reasonably competitive  and this is the reason why I’m confident this model, Tivoli, will be a big hit in Brunei. Thank you, Annison and Alvin for hosting us yesterday.

The nice leather finished steering wheel of the Tivoli (hi-spec)

The award winning ergonomic seats

The engine and other components inside the Tivoli

This is the hi-spec Tivoli. Awesome!!

Stand a chance to win a Samsung S6 Edge

This is the low spec Tivoli and you can see how much difference exterior and interior compared to the hi-spec

The test drive Tivoli

Vincent Hong test drove the Tivoli around the area

The most sought two-toned colour Tivoli among Bruneians

 

Review of Disney’s Tomorrowland with co-host @delgoh

 

The overall winners of the Times Square Shopping Centre’s lucky draw competition and Shop, Dine and Snap Instagram competition. Image courtesy of Times Square Shopping Centre.

Dk Siti Nuramal Asyiqin Pg HM Sofiah who won herself a Samsung Galaxy S5 presented by Mr Lim Yee Liang, Marketing Manager of Times Square Shopping Centre. Image courtesy of Times Square Shopping Centre.

Times Square Shopping Centre completed their second lucky draw prize presentation for the fifth campaign on Sunday, 24th May 2015.

The event commenced with quizzes and games conducted by the management, followed by the mascot appearance to liven up the public. The winners of Shop, Dine and Snap Instagram competition were first announced prior to the lucky draw event. Five instagram posts were selected from all the entrees. Md Syahmi Hazim Bin Harjammey who bagged a necklace sponsored by OKKY Jewellery, followed by Zurainee Kiflee who walked home with a one night stay courtesy of Times Hotel,. Lastly the three winners of the Shop, Dine and Snap Instagram Competition, Norfazirah Binti Shremmi, Yumi and Danish Lim went home with a hamper from NHF Organics Sdn Bhd.

The event then continued with the prize presentation of the lucky draw. A total of 25 prizes were given away. The first 22 winners of the prize presentation had to draw their own prizes on stage. The first 7 prizes were presented by the Miss Mally Hadinim, General secretary of Times Square Property Management, followed by the Property Supervisor, Miss Norafizah Daud who presented 7 more prizes to the winners.

The remaining 11 prizes were then presented by the Marketing Manager, Mr Lim Yee Liang. Moreover, first prize of the lucky draw went to Dk Siti Nuramal Asyiqin Pg HM Sofiah who won herself a Samsung Galaxy S5. Second place went to Mohd Jasmerol Jazemen Bin Hj Md Jasry who won a SHARP fridge and third place went to Nurul Amalina Shaban who won a Xiaomi M1 Pad.

Times Square is also glad to announce that there will be several events in the near future. Such events include Ramadhan fair in July as well as Dip & Win on the last week of Ramadhan. ‘Shop, Dine & Snap’ Instagram Competition is still ongoing until August 2015. For more information and registration, kindly visit the Lucky Draw counter. You may also find out about all upcoming events by visiting tsqbrunei.com or simply following Times Square Shopping Centre’s pages on Facebook and Instagram.

Mohd Jasmerol Jazemen Bin Hj Md Jasry who won a SHARP fridge

Nurul Amalina Shaban who won a Xiaomi M1 Pad

The starting line

The Run was another successful event. Over 3,600 participants took part in the yearly charitable event to raise funds for Pusat Ehsan. The event was flagged off by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Hj Hazair bin Hj Abdullah. It was nice to see that 500 special needs participants took part in the event.

It was quite challenging for the organizers to up their numbers from last year’s due to the number of running events in the past weeks or so. Nevertheless, it was still a remarkable number to reach 3,600 participants and perhaps it’s the biggest run to date (in terms of numbers). The funds raised will be used to finance its operational programmes in learning, vocation and rehabilitation for the special needs people under the centre.

A belated shout out to Winnie Sia who ran yesterday on her birthday.

My toastmasters buddies – Supatra and Jason

The finishing line

Jayden Sia with his sister Winnie Sia

 

Mr. Soon Loo, the host for “Living with Passion” with founders of Relentless Entertainment

Mr. Soon Loo as the host

How many passionate Bruneians do you think are out there? The answer is… more than we think we know.

Hosted by Mr. Soon Loo, one of Brunei first venture capitalist and an executive coach. “Living with Passion” is an new TV series featuring passionate Bruneians and dive into what does it mean to live lives with passion.

The featured series showcases talents of Brunei to inspire its audience to pursue the things and goals they want in life. Amongst the guests that came onto the “Living with Passion” talk shows are Brunei’s Olympic representative, SEA Games’ Gold Medalists, one of Brunei’s first full featured film Directors, Bruneian starting business in Silicon Valley and abroad, aspiring award-winning Brunei musicians and entertainers, Brunei premier architect, Brunei professional marathon runner, Brunei socialite, fashion designer, dancers, business personalities, DJ, and other Bruneians that you may recognize making their mark in Brunei and the region pursuing what they love.

Living with Passion is hosted by Soon Loo, Managing Director of Seri Venture Capital that works with Brunei Economic Development Board to invest and grow companies in Brunei to expand overseas. Soon is also an executive and life coach that works with people and professions to forward their goals in their life. He was recently honored by the Junior Chamber International in Rio as One of Ten Outstanding Young People of the World.

“It is inspiring to see that there are so many inspiring Bruneians from all walks of life, of all ages, courageously pursuing their passion and that’s why we created this series with RTB. I think we Bruneians need to recognize and celebrate what they are capable of doing — and more often than not we are more capable than we think.” said Soon Loo.

Currently, the TV series is in it’s 10th week. If you still have not had a chance to catch an episode, you still have 5 more times to do so. Living with Passion is broadcasted every Friday at 930pm (and replay every Saturday around 1130am) on RTB 1.

Do you have the courage to pursue what you love? Then maybe in the future, you too can be featured on this new TV show — so that Bruneians can work together to ignite passion of life.

Living with Passion is broadcasted every Friday at 930pm (and replay every Saturday around 1130am) on RTB 1

 

Review of Mad Max: Road Fury. Oh What a Day. What a Lovely Day 😀

Review of Pitch Perfect 2 with co-host @delgoh

 

Creatives Against Cruelty interviewed by The Reel Show

 

It’s back once again.. This time, the title has slightly changed and I think it will stick for a little while – ASEAN Consumer Fair. It was used to be called Consumer Fair but because there are many international vendors from ASEAN, hence it would be appropriate to label it ASEAN Consumer Fair.

The signing ceremony took place today at D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd office and present during the signing ceremony were Dato Paduka Hj Danial Hj Hanafiah, Executive Director of D’Sunlit and Mr. Christopher Chee, General Manager of D’Sunlit and the representatives of the event partners and activity partners.

This is a bi-annual event that will take place from 10th June to 14th June at the International Convention Centre (ICC). This time, the theme will be “Celebrate Diversity” and the event is promised to cater over 400 booths, offering wide range of products and services.

Thailand will have more presence with its Thailand Grand Fair. Do expect to see some craftsmanship such as umbrella painting, fruits and vegetable carvings and not forgetting their Thai cuisine.

For your info, this will be the 16th fair held by D’Sunlit and it’s in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources. For more info, you can visit their website at bruneiconsumerfair.com or you can call their marketing department at 245 3666.

Representatives from The Brunei Times, Pua Hsiu Chin and Siti Ewa Selamat

Representatives from Lexus (NBT), Ron Pecson and Roland Ti

Representatives from DST Communications, Hj Ameer Iskandar and Dina Eldeyana Johan

Representatives from Katakijau Rozan Hj Kaderi and Muhammad Shafie

Representatives from Oregon System, Siti Nurmuhassanah Mustafa and Noor Haslinda

Representatives from IBIC Sdn Bhd

Representatives from ranoadidas.com, Rano Iskandar and Terence Han

Representatives from Kingston Creamery and Beverage, Edwin Eng and Chu Hui Chiet

Chui San, Gavin Chai and Roland Ti during the refreshments

 

Belait District Officer, Yang Mulia Hj Haris Othman, who was accompanied by BIBD Managing Director, Javed Ahmad during the launch of the BIBD Belait Showcase at Pusat Insani, Seria yesterday

Javer Ahmad in his opening speech yesterday

BIBD yesterday launched its first ever Belait Showcase at the Pusat Insani community centre in Seria to provide a one-stop avenue for the public to start with their preparations for the festive period. The showcase will run until 23rd May and is open from 9am to 7pm. All this while, the BIBD home showcase has always been in the Brunei-Muara District. So it’s about time they explore other districts.

Launching the showcase was Belait District Officer, Yang Mulia Hj Haris Othman, who was accompanied by BIBD Managing Director, Javed Ahmad. Also in attendance were BIBD personnel, members of the media and exhibitors at the showcase.

BIBD Personal Bankers will be on hand to offer advice on home financing solutions, and any customers who sign up for any of BIBD’s Personal and Home Improvement Financing will stand a chance to win prizes such as a 42″ television, a trip to Kota Kinabalu, as well as household appliances, while early birds who sign up for BIBD’s Home Financing will be also entitled to receive furniture vouchers worth $300 to get a head start on their dream home.

Customers who sign up for any of BIBD’s services such as BIBD Debit Card, BIBD Online, BIBD Mobile or e-statements will also stand a chance to win Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf voucher. As part of the promotion, BIBD will also be giving out a 50% fee waiver on the financing products on offer.

Vendors at the showcase include household names such as Thomson, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, Eco Bumi architect. The showcase also highlights several local e-vendors such as Hush Cakes, GkLam and Nurnaela Kitchen. Among the activities at the showcase, are a hijab demonstration by Ju’niehk, daily quizzes, a cupcake frosting competition by Hush Cakes, and an opportunity to test drive the latest Volkswagen cars on offer.

Guest of honour during the tour of the showcase

One of the e-vendors that uses BIBD’s Virtual Mastercard (VMC)

Check out the Volkswagen cars and go for a test drive. Which Volkswagen are you?

Some accessories for you to browse at

A popular e-vendor – Hushcakes

The BIBD associates for the showcase

 

In conjunction with World Nurses Day, celebrated globally every 12th May, The Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) celebrated their nurses to appreciate their efforts and contribution towards the community.

The event took place at Pantai Seri Kenagan Beach and this year’s theme, ‘Nurses: A Force for Change – Care Effective & Cost Effective’, is a meaningful one, encouraging the nurses to deliver their skills, stay professionally engaged and become more knowledgeable on health financing through the efficient use of resources. Jerudong Park Medical Centre conveyed that the value of nurses is vital in achieving high quality care of patients.

“I am delighted to continue supporting the tremendous work you do every day in our hospitals, clinics and project areas. Not only does this work shape how well we care for our patients and their families, visitors, it also continues to define our organization’s culture and advances the professional practice of nursing for our community and society”, said Chung Yea Fui Director of Nursing at Jerudong Park Medical Center.

Chung Yea Fui mentioned that this worldwide celebration came at a pivotal time for nursing. “There is a nationwide rallying call to action that can unite the nursing profession, mobilize support from all stakeholders in health, and catalyze meaningful advances in health-care delivery and ultimately, improvements in the health of individuals, families and communities.” Text and images courtesy of JPMC.

 

It’s that 22nd of the month again TODAY! So come down to @pizzahutbrunei Dine-in stores for our All You Can Eat Buffet from 6:00pm -10:00pm!! So every 22nd of the month you will enjoy awesome deals from Pizza Hut 😀

– $22 for 2 people

– $15 for 1 person

– Terms & Conditions Apply

Just let you know, Pizza Hut also launched their Cheesy Pockets pizza upon requests on all the 26 toppings available. More cheese is good 😀

The Cheesy Pocket Pizza 😀

 

Universiti Brunei Darussalam will take on Curtin University (Sawarak) tonight at the Police HQ football field. It will be their second match of the tournament in the At-tamwil University Cup 2015. Curtin University will have to claw their way back if they want to have a chance to qualify for the semi-finals of the tournament. UBD are currently the defending champions of the tournament and they dominated their opening match where they defeated Politeknik Brunei 3-0.

In the other match later afternoon, it will be between UNISSA against Politeknik. Both teams haven’t won and it will be great to get at least some points to remain contention for the semi-finals spot.

Good luck to all the players and it’s good to see the tournament back once again! You can follow their regular updates on social media here.

Politeknik Brunei prepping for their match. Image taken by Fazizul Haqimie.

UBD player in action. Image taken by Fazizul Haqimie.

UBD celebrating their goal against Politeknik Brunei. Image taken by Fazizul Haqimie.

Fans at the match. Image courtesy of At-tamwil Unicup 2015 Facebook page.

Top scorer as of 21st May.

The schedules for today’s matches

17th May. Cosmopolitan College 2 KUPU SB 1. Image taken by Fazizul Haqimie.

17th May. Cosmopolitan College 2 KUPU SB 1. Image taken by Fazizul Haqimie.

17th May. Cosmopolitan College 2 KUPU SB 1. Image taken by Fazizul Haqimie.

17th May. Cosmopolitan College 2 KUPU SB 1. Image taken by Fazizul Haqimie.

17th May. Cosmopolitan College 2 KUPU SB 1. Image taken by Fazizul Haqimie.

 

New milestones for Brunei toastmasters – Rano Iskandar, Organizing Chair for Semi-Annual Conference 2016, Allen Ang, Area K6 Director for Brunei Darussalam, Reuben Chin, Division K Director and Shawn Cassidy-Narcis, District Club Growth Director and organizing chair for Semi-Annual Conference 2015, Bali

We were recently in Kuching for the recent Toastmasters Annual Conference 2015 and it was an awesome conference which carries the theme “Conference with a difference”. I’ve learnt so many things and wow, I’m glad that I went for the annual conference in Kuching, Sarawak. Not just learning as an individual or as a leader but I had a great time bonding with my toastmaster buddies.

Toastmasters Brunei is perhaps the most connected family among the District Level (Brunei, East Malaysia and Indonesia). We have four toastmasters clubs in Brunei but we don’t actually compete against one another. Instead we help one another and that’s how Brunei toastmasters grow from time to time. I would say that the momentum is quite high and vibrant and it’s no accident that Brunei toastmasters have high tier leaders, namely Shawn Cassidy-Narcis (Club Director Growth for District), Reuben Chin (Division K Director) and Allen Ang (Area Director for Brunei).

My biggest feat was when I successfully pitched for the Semi-Annual Conference 2016 to be held in Brunei Darussalam and yes, we will be hosting a big one next year in Brunei and I will be your organizing chair for the event. So to the sponsors, I shall be approaching you some time this year 😀 A big shout out to Shawn, our beloved toastmasters ambassador, for believing and guiding me to greater heights. I know I have a purpose. The purpose to grow and to help others. I shall remind to help myself first before I can help others. Have a great week ahead!!

Group photo with the Brunei toastmasters and this is to acknowledged that Brunei Speakers’ Club had achieved President’s Distinguished Club for 2014-2015. Awesome!! Two years in a row!!!

 

The co-host ITB showed once again why they are the dominant force in BIBD At-tamwil University Cup 2015. They won their opening match 6-1 in the opening match last weekend. Last night ITB scored another big win and they are close to reaching the semi-finals of the tournament. They beat Curtin University 5-2 with goals coming from Mui’zuddin, AK Md Amirul and a hat trick from Naasiruddeen Abd Wahab. In the other match, Kolej IGS beat KUPU 1-0.

Today will be a rest day for the tournament and it will continue tomorrow (Friday). The matches for tomorrow ill be Unissa vs Politeknek Brunei (4pm at RBRC Football Field) and UBD vs Curtin University (8pm at RBRC Football Field). The big match will be between ITB and defending champion UBD which is dated on 2nd June 2015 at the RBRC Football Field.

The crowd attendance have been excellence and the organizers are also running lucky draws for the attendees. There is no entrance fee for your info. All are welcome to catch the tournament. Do look at the schedules here. Images below are courtesy of At-tamwil University Cup Facebook page.

Some of the winners of the lucky draw last night

Some section of the crowd last night between ITB and Curtin University

ITB getting ready for the match last night

A huge victory for ITB last night

 

Her Royal Highness Princess Hjh Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Wu Chun, the managing Director of Fitness Zone, Lim Ming Soon, TelBru’s Chief Marketing Officer and Datin Paduka Hjh Adina Othman, Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports at the launch of She Runs event and Fitness Zone Serusop. Image courtesy of Asdeny Yakub of The Brunei Times.

Image taken from Fitness Zone Facebook Page

I wasn’t able to cover this event since I was outstation. The first time that a running event consists of only women apart from Wu Chun, the managing director of Fitness Zone (the organiser for She Runs) and Lim Ming Soon, TelBru’s Chief Marketing Officer (TelBru being the title sponsor for the said event). The guest of honour to officiate the launch of the Fitness Zone Serusop, which is exclusively for women and the first in the country, was Her Royal Highness Princess Hjh Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Also present was Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Datin Paduka Hjh Adina Othman.

Organised by Fitness Zone together with the Council of Women of Brunei Darussalam for the sole benefit of the Children’s Cancer Foundation (YASKA), participants not just from Brunei but various other countries such as Japan and China ran either the 3.7km or 5km categories, starting from the Fitness Zone in Serusop. This running event as you can see had many purposes – to raise awareness on cancer on children, to raise awareness on the capabilities of the women and also to officially relaunch the ladies’ Fitness Zone Serusop branch.

Here are some words from Wu Chun (as printed on The Brunei Times) – “I’m really happy to see so many good post-run feedbacks on social media. Without passion, ‘She Runs’ wouldn’t have been a success and I’m glad all the volunteers, my team and all my proud sponsors have been working day and night to make this event a meaningful one, not only for the runners but the women and the children diagnosed with cancer.”

Well done on organsing such a wonderful event, Fitness Zone.

Image taken from Fitness Zone Facebook Page

Image taken from Fitness Zone Facebook Page

Image taken from Fitness Zone Facebook Page

 

Minister of Education Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Awang Abu Bakar Hj Apong (L) receives a memorabilia from Managing Director of BIBD Javed Ahmad during the launch of the BIBD At-Tamwil University Cup. Image courtesy of Abdul Azim Kassim of The Brunei Times.

The tournament is back!!! Two years ago, BIBD At-Tamwil University Cup took the country by surprise because of its huge interest. It even had more crowd than the local league club competition. This time round there are new entrants to the tournament, namely colleges and even an invitation to Curtin University (Miri). The other new entrants are Laksamana College of Business (LCB), International Graduates Studies College (IGS), Comsopolitan College of Commerce & Technology and Micronet International College.

The event was launched by Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Education, during the opening ceremony yesterday at Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

The matches will be held at Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, Berakas Sports Complex and Royal Brunei Recreation Club (RBRC). So do look at the schedules at the poster (below). The final is slated for 13th June at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium, a few days before Ramadhan.

The great thing about this tournament is that the public will stand a chance to win amazing prizes throughout the tournament and yes, the tournament is FREE. I shall be posting some pictures of the matches later on.

Click image to enlarge

The result during the opening ceremony

 

Review of Mad Max: Road Fury. Oh What a Day. What a Lovely Day 😀

Review of Pitch Perfect 2 with co-host @delgoh

 

Congratulations to my friends, Major Pengiran Mohammad Shamsul Reza bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Hj Tengah and Tara Abdullah Teo @ Tracey Teo Lee Ying on their wedding function last weekend. My friendship with Reza began during our student life in St. Andrew’s School. We were big fans of figurines such as M•A•S•K and He-Man to name a few. We kinda lost track after we headed off to different countries for future studies and I totally lost contact with him. So after two decades of knowing you, you are now a married man 😀 All the best in your new chapter with Tara and may Allah bless your new journey.

 

I’m currently in Kuching with buddies from Brunei toastmasters (Brunei Speakers’ Club, OTTERS and UBD Toastmasters) and we are all attending the 5th Annual District Convention. I shall be here until the weekend and I hope to learn something valuable from the trip apart from bonding with my friends. It’s good to be back in Kuching.

Rediscover the true taste of home..bruneihalal’s latest home range is perfect for gifts on your special occasion. They have got a wide range of selections for you and its available for pre-order now! For orders and further inquiries, contact bruneihalal at +6732384533 or drop an email at information@brunei-halal.com

Royal Brunei Airline’s first batch of female cabin crew; Puan Hjh Zainoon DP Hj Elias, Nadirah Irene Abdullah Tan, Roslyn Teo, Hjh Latifah Hj Tudin, Rosnani Hj Hamid, Hjh Jemilah Hj Md Ja’afar, Dk Susilawati DP Pg Damit and Hjh Aisah Hj Abd Rahman, were all smiles earlier this morning as they recreate their group photo from 1975, when they came back home to Brunei after finishing their training, ready for RB’s first ever commercial flight. Congratulations RB for reaching the 40th year milestone. Image courtesy of RB.

A new gym in town located at Lumut (Unit 11, Spg 72, Jln Kg Lumut) called JC Muscle Building and Fitness gym. The gym opens from 8.30am to 8:30pm and you can follow them on Facebook “JCMB & Fitness – Gym” and also on instagram @jcmbfitness. Image courtesy of Hafiizah Maideen of The Brunei Times.

A new notice that has been given to food and beverage vendors and businesses. Wonder what the reaction will be from the businesses and the public.

The best movie for me this year, hands down. Though it’s a not a perfect ten, this movie excels in many areas and do listen to my podcast review for now. You can click on the image to listen. Verdict: 9/10

DPMM FC lost their second match of the season and their import player McLead was sent off as Albirex Niigata benefited from the foul and sending off and they scored from the penalty for the winning goal. Albirex is back on the summit of the S•League. Albirex Niigata 2 DPMM FC 1.