The monster Lexus Sport Coupe RC F

The Lexus RC 350

Sorry for the late post. I recently test drove the latest Lexus sports coupes – RC F and the RC 350. I hardly driven a sport coupe and the new Lexus gave me a good impression especially the RC F. We were hosted by Muhammad Clovien Abdullah Timpoh, Marketing Manager of NBT.

Yes, the Lexus RC F is a beast machine. If you are hungry for power and speed, RC F delivers nothing short of it. The five-litre V8 engine delivers 470hp/7100 rpm of torque and I test drove at least 75% of its power capabilities behind the exit route from the Indera Samudra Grand Hall of The Empire Hotel & Country Club. It’s not just a fast car but also quite stable. There are many things to boast about the Lexus RC F but of course, the end of the day will be the money that you will need to fork out as it’s quite an expensive car.

The Lexus RC 350 is another Lexus luxury car and it’s the tamer version of the RC F. It is still powerful in the sense that it is powered by a 3.5 litre V6 Four Cam 24-valve engine. What I love about the Lexus RC 350 is the classy interior. I kinda like the wooden surface design on some of the interiors to give it a premium experience for the driver and passengers.

For more information on the latest RC models or to book for a test drive, head to the Lexus Showroom at KM4, Jalan Gadong or call 2448688.

The interior of the RC 350

The interior of the RC 350

The interior of the RC 350

The interior of the RC 350

The interior of the RC 350

The interior of the RC 350

The interior of the RC 350

 

Del Goh of The Reel Show interviewing Zainal Bostaman, founder of Bruhaha Comedy. Catch another Bruhaha show this Saturday. Tickets are already available and I shall be posting on my IG for details pretty soon.

 

As part of the Royal Wedding celebration, the organising committee organised a series of cultural performances in the capital – parking area opposite of Royal Regalia Building and the Royal Wharf. I was fortunate enough to catch Brunei Shell Joint Venture Wedding Cultural performance and also bits of the Temburong district cultural performers. I believe tonight (Tuesday) is the final day of the so-called Perayaan in Bandar.

I won’t ramble much but here are some of the pictures I took last week.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Mohd Yasmin Hj Umar, Energy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, with Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Hj Halbi Hj Md Yussof, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs and the performers from BSP during the Brunei Shell Joint Venture Wedding Cultural performance

 

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam (right) with His Royal Highness Prince Hj ‘Abdul ‘Azim, His Royal Highness ‘Abdul Mateen and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel during the Majlis Istiadat Akad Nikah Diraja or the solemnisation ceremony at Masjid Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik read his marriage vows during the Majlis Istiadat Akad Nikah Diraja or the solemnisation ceremony at Masjid Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien last Thursday.

A 17-gun salute from the royal cannons echoed in the capital, marking the prince’s successful solemnisation of marriage vows.

According to Islamic law, the royal couple HRH Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Dk Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah Pg Hj Bolkiah are now legally and fully recognised as husband and wife.

Present to witness the solemnisation ceremony was the groom’s father, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

The ceremony is a royal tradition where the royal groom reads his marriage vows in accordance with Islamic law and with the presence of male witnesses consisting family members from both the bride and the groom.

Also at the ceremony were HRH Crown Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, HRH Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah, HRH Prince Hj Jefri Bolkiah, HRH Prince Hj ‘Abdul ‘Azim, HRH ‘Abdul Mateen and HRH Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel.
The ceremony began with the customary royal regalia including Kasur Namat, Dian Empat and a Gangsa(brass receptacle) on which the solemnisation of royal marriage vows form was placed on.

Kasur Namat is a two-piece item that complements each other and is placed in the middle of the Dian Empat or four Ceremonial Candles usually carried to mark royal ceremonies including the royal wedding.

The Kasur is a cushion usually made from yellow cloth covering and the Namat is a mat decorated with beautiful Air Muleh designs (flora and fauna motif representing the essence of livelihood) embroidered along the edges of the yellow silk cover placed over the Kasur.
Four senior government religious officials including Imam of Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Pehin Khatib Hj Suhaili Hj Metali Al-Hafiz and Imam of Masjid Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Begawan Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Hj Hamidon Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Hj Abd Hamid then took their places of honour as witnesses for the royal ceremony.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik acknowledging his understanding after Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Hj Salim Hj Besar read the solemnisation sermon

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik signing the solemnisation form

The Doa Selamat

Invited guests during the Majlis Istiadat Akad Nikah Diraja

Pg Hj Bolkiah, the father of the bride

Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Hj Salim Hj Besar served as the Chief Qadi of the event, overseeing the solemnisation of the royal marriage vows.

The Chief Qadi plays an integral role in the ceremony as he is a judge ruling in accordance with Islamic religious law and have jurisdiction over all legal matters involving Muslims.

Greeting His Majesty and the royal entourage upon arrival at the mosque was YAM Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, the chief of Adat Istiadat, and other senior government officials.
Accompanying the groom, HRH Prince ‘Abdul Malik, as he entered the mosque were Awang-Awang carrying 40 Sinipit (spear), a Hulubalang Diraja carrying Pemuras (gun) and Karga (case to carry the bullets) as well as Hulubalang Asgar carrying Kalasak (shield) and Kampilan (long blade).

Other royal regalia carried during the Majlis Istiadat Akad Nikah Diraja were the Pedang and Perisai,Tumbak Benderangan, Kabok and Panastan.

There were 16 Pedang and Perisai, or sword with golden or silver bands at the hilt carried against the right shoulder by Awang-Awang and round gold shield carried on the left hand.

Tumbak Benderangan is a royal ceremonial spear with golden and silver bands carried by Awang-Awang wearing ceremonial attires, held against the right shoulder. Sixteen of such regalia were carried.

Kabok and Panastan are vessels for storing water and the silver base are called the Panastan. There are 16 Kabok Panastan in the royal regalia and are usually carried by 16 Pengirans. However, only eight were carried.

Pehin Dato Paduka Hj Salim read the solemnisation sermon to the groom and explained the vows that he would be undertaking in this royal union of lifelong companionship and care.

The groom acknowledged his understanding and then read his vows in a clear and loud voice, flawlessly for all present yesterday to bear witness to. The recital of marriage vows continued with the groom reciting the Lafaz Ta’alik and the signing of the solemnisation form witnessed by the monarch. The ceremony was then blessed with a doa selamat read by State Mufti YB Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Datu Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Hj Awang Abdul Aziz Juned. Text by Waqiuddin Rajak and Billah Hasan of The Brunei Times and images taken by Fazizul Haqimie.

 

Dk Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah Pg Hj Bolkiah during the Royal Powdering Ceremony at Indera Buana Throne Hall at Istana Nurul Iman last Wednesday

This is the second part of the Royal Powdering ceremony. My earlier post was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik’s powdering ceremony. Hence this post entry is for the bride, Dk Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah Pg Hj Bolkiah’s powdering ceremony. She was dressed in a traditional red dress and she looked magnificent in red. She was escorted by the spouses of selected cabinet ministers with a grand entourage.

His Majesty the Sultan applied the powder paste and sprinkled scented oil onto her palms. The ordeal was carried by the members of the Royal Family followed by the bride’s parents.

Yesterday was the Royal Solemnization ceremony which I shall post up tomorrow. Congratulations to the Royal couple. Images taken by Haqimie Fazizul of rano360.com

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah applying the colour paste on Dk Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah Pg Hj Bolkiah’s palms

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah applying the colour paste on Dk Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah Pg Hj Bolkiah’s palms

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen applying the colour paste on Dk Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah Pg Hj Bolkiah’s palms

Her Royal Highness princess Azeemah Ni’matul Bolkiah applying the colour paste on Dk Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah Pg Hj Bolkiah’s palms

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel applying the colour paste on Dk Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah Pg Hj Bolkiah’s palms

Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah applying the colour paste on Dk Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah Pg Hj Bolkiah’s palms

Pg Hj Bolkiah, the father of the bride, applying the colour paste on Dk Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah Pg Hj Bolkiah’s palms

Pg Hjh Noor’aismah binti Pg Hj Ismail bin Pg Hj Tengah, the mother of the bride applying the colour paste on Dk Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah Pg Hj Bolkiah’s palms

The Royal entourage

 

Finally new information that they have canceled the Under 18 for men and replaced it with Women’s Doubles Open.

The deadline to register for the badminton tournament organised by the Korean Embassy in the Sultanate has been extended. The initial deadline was 10th April which is actually today.

Bruneian and Permanent Resident men and women who are interested in joining the tournament should submit their registration forms for the “Korean Ambassador’s Cup 2015” — which are available at the Korean Embassy or online at http://brn.mofa.go.kr — not later than April 13 to the embassy.

The tournament, in conjunction with Brunei’s 31st National Day, will be held from April 17 to 19 at Pusat Belia in the capital and is divided into two categories: Men’s Double Open and Women’s Double Open. Yay!! Good news for the ladies as this is the latest information given to me by the Korean Embassy.

Prizes for the winners include return tickets to Korea, cash prize and a winner’s cup. Now that’s a good prize right? Just find the right partner and fly away to Korea. Just a note: Only the Men’s Double Champions will fly to Korea.

For further details, please contact Korean Embassy (Feroz) at 2330250 or 7188166.

 

David Atthowe, founder of Nomadic Lion, making a special appearance last Sunday

He has been in the country for a week now or more. This is second official visit to Brunei and his aim is to share their documentary on their 5 month journey in “Walking Borneo”. The premier screening of the documentary “Berjalai: Walking Borneo” was held at i-Lotus last Sunday. The video presentation described their 2,250 KM journey across Borneo.

Nomadic Lion is no stranger to Brunei after making an impact in Brunei last year. The video was 35 minute adventure by Nomadic Lion and they share the discoveries along their journey. The documentary also wants to give the audience and viewers a similar experience on what they went through. Just imagine this documentary as the google of Nomadic Lion’s journey as all the questions are being answered.

One particular thing that they found of Brunei culture that we don’t take notice is the story of “Kecapi”. It is actually a traditional Sape from the Dusun tribe of Brunei, a uniquely Bruneian instrument with its distinct musical note. Did you know there are only 2 Kecapi players left in Brunei?

David Atthowe, founder of Nomadic Lion, was honoured to premiere the documentary in Brunei because of the love and the support that he has been getting. Brunei is one of the countries he felt connected with.

During the premiere of the documentary, the guests were also entertained by Irama Bahtera, Brunei’s finest traditional music group. During Walking Borneo Nomadic Lion fell in love with the sound of the Sape, a traditional lute instrument originally from the Kayan and Kenyah tribes. Faddie Tokching completed the musical journey by performing a solo Sape performance followed by a pioneering experiment combining Sape with a Gambus.

David is here in Brunei for the week or so visiting schools and colleges across the country for a series of motivational talks and to share their experiences with the youth of Brunei.

Nomadic Lion have named their documentary “Berjalai – Walking Borneo” in honour of the Iban tradition of Berjalai. Berjalai is a traditional part of Iban culture; a journey in search of knowledge, wealth and experience. In the olden days a young Iban man would leave the longhouse and make a Berjalai, travelling long distances often on foot, just like the journey of Nomadic Lion.

Berjalai: Walking Borneo the full story, an 8GB USB Flashdrive is available now exclusively in Brunei for $20. The USB includes the full documentary, out takes, music videos, 14 track music and a digital photo album.

Anyone wishing to purchase the USB can get in contact with Nomadic Lion Facebook www.facebook.com/nomadiclion or whatsapp at +60109343114

Group photo with the musicians

The green, the yellow and the red

Catch Nomadic Lion at OGDC (Saturday) and KB Sentral (Sunday)

 

Roasted Lamb

Do try out the Oriental Buffet Dinner at Seasons Restaurant and it’s held every Thursday and Saturday (dinner 7pm to 10pm) until 30th May 2015. You will get a taste of some oriental dishes regionally from Thailand and Vietnam.

The Oriental Buffet Dinner — which is held every Thursday and Saturday from 7pm to 10pm starting April 2 until May 30 — features popular dishes from the region such as Thailand and Vietnam. The variety is always great the Seasons buffet and you can expect dishes such as Thai Glass noodles, Jelly Fish Salad, Nyonya Laksa Noodle, fried rice in lotus leaf and Chinese Beef stew to name a few. Guess what? The menu was created by the local chefs Hj Mohammad Khairul Anuar Abdullah and Md Sharoni Hj Hosani.

The dish that impressed me is the roasted lamb, hands down 😀 Perhaps is the way they have marinated the lamb and the meat itself is tender. Highly recommended.

The buffet is priced at $25.90 for adults and $15.90 per child (five to eleven years old). Royal Brunei Catering (RBC) Dining Privilege Cardholders, on the other hand, are entitled to 10 per cent discount off the total bill during the promotional period.

Seasons Restaurant is located at the Second Floor of the Centrepoint, Gadong. For more information or reservations, please call Oscar at 8912470 or the eatery at 2422291.

Fried rice on lotus leaf

Butter milk prawn

Chicken

Egg tarts

Nyonya laksa

 

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam (R) with Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha during the Royal Powdering ceremony (Majlis Istiadat Berbedak Pengantin Diraja) at Istana Nurul Iman.

Their Majesties at the Royal Powdering ceremony

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam pouring colour paste on His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik

The royal wedding festivities for His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Dk Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah Pg Hj Bolkiah continued with the Majlis Istiadat Berbedak Pengantin Diraja at the Istana Nurul Iman last night.

Immersed in culture and tradition, the Majlis Istiadat Berbedak or Royal Powdering Ceremony saw members of the royal family and the bride’s family take turns applying coloured powder and scented oil onto the palms of the couple.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, arrived at the Balai Singgahsana Indera Buana together with Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha and other members of the royal family.

The ceremony began with four Awang-Awang lighting the Dian Empat, a set of candles, before another pair of Awang-Awang placed the two-piece Kasur Namat consisting of a yellow mattress and silk mat at the centre of the candles.

In an exchange of formalities, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Hj Mohammad informed Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz about the ceremony’s commencement.

YAM Pengiran Lela Cheteria then duly conveyed the message to His Majesty. Following the consent of the monarch, the royal groom was escorted into the hall by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik was also accompanied by a grand entourage made up of 40 sinipitbearers or spearmen, along with Yang Mulia Juru Bini Dayang Hajah Rokiah, two Hulubang Diraja carryingpemuras or gun and karga, which is used to carry the bullets.

Smiles from Their Majesties

(From R) Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah and HRH Pg Anak Isteri Pg Anak Hjh Zariah Al-Marhum Pg Pemancha Pg Anak Hj Mohamed Alam

Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha pouring colour paste on His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik

His Royal Highness Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah pouring colour paste on His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik

Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pg Anak Isteri Pg Anak Sarah pouring colour paste on His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik

HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah pouring colour paste on His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik

HRH Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah pouring colour paste on His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik

The Hulubalang Asgar clutched the kalasak or shield and kampilan, a long blade, while the Dian Tunggalwas carried by Awang-Awang. There were also seven Pahawai Lelaki or chosen men bearing a puan, atarian, a kabok and panastan, a Kiap, a chupu, a pasigupan, and a kaskol.

The Dian 16 was carried by 16 Awang-Awang, while other Awang-Awang held Alat-Alat Kebesaran Diraja consisting of 16 Pedang and Perisai, 16 Tumbak Benderangan as well as eight Kabok and Panastan.

Sounds of Dikir Marhaban filled the hall, prompting all attendees to stand up. Outside the Balai Singgahsana Indera Buana, a 17-gun salute went off to signal the start of the ceremony.
His Majesty then initiated the ceremony by placing coloured paste and scented oil onto the palms of His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik. This was followed by Her Majesty, other members of the royal family and parents of the bride.

A doa selamat was recited by State Mufti Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Hj Awang Abdul Aziz to conclude the end of the royal groom’s powdering ceremony. Text courtesy of Rabiatul Kamit and Rafidah Hamit of The Brunei Times and images by Haqimie Fazizul (@haqimie267) of rano360.com

HRH Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah pouring colour paste on His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik

HRH Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel pouring colour paste on His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik

HRH Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah pouring colour paste on His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik

(From R) HRH Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah, HRH Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah and HRH Princess Hjh Majeedah Nuurul Bulqiah

(From R) Her royal highness princess Azeemah Ni’matul Bolkiah, HRH Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah and HRH Princess Hjh Masna

The four Awang-Awang lighting the Dian Empat, a set of candles

The invited guests at the Royal Powdering Ceremony

 

HRH Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah during the Istiadat Menghantar Tanda Diraja dan Pertunangan Diraja ceremony for His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik who was engaged to Dk Raabi’atul Adawiyyah Pg Hj Bolkiah yesterday

HRH Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah upon arrival at the Royal Engagement

The Royal Engagement reported from The Brunei Times. His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik is officially engaged to Dk Raabi’atul Adawiyah Pg Hj Bolkiah after she accepted the pre-engagement gifts presented to her family’s representative during the Majlis Istiadat Menghantar Tanda Diraja and Pertunangan Diraja.

The royal engagement ceremony took place on the third day of the royal wedding festivities at Istana Nurul Iman, which was attended by HRH Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah, head of the ceremony.

The Tanda Diraja ceremony, steeped in royal customs, saw an underaged girl dressed like a bride in red, who was led into the Royal Banquet Hall by a royal court official.

Meanwhile, the Pertunangan Diraja, which is held in tandem with the Tanda Diraja, included an underaged boy and girl dressed like a groom and a bride in yellow led into the Royal Banquet Hall together with gift-bearers.

Gifts for the bride-to-be included a complete set of clothing, a pair of bangles and earstuds, pairs of shoes, a strand of necklace, and a silver vessel used to store four betel nut silver boxes named kaskol langguai.

Other gifts were a letter, surat mahar, describing the groom’s agreement to marry the bride and a list of all the gifts. The mahar or dowry was worth $1,000.

The gift-bearers were accompanied by 16 underaged Awang-awang carrying royal ceremonial candles called the dian enam belas.
Also part of the delegation was a group of 40 male youth walking in pairs and carrying royal regalia items including the sinipit (spear), pedang (sword), perisai (shield) and tombak (shield embellished with gold and silver bands).

The gifts and three underaged children were then brought to Baitur Rahmah, where the bride-to-be’s family representative waited to accept them.

Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Hj Abdul Aziz, Chief of Adat Istiadat

The arrival of the delegation bearing the royal engagement gifts was marked with a 17-cannon salute at the Istana Nurul Iman compound.

A verbal exchange then ensued between YAM Pengiran Indera Setia Diraja Sahibul Karib Pengiran Anak Hj Idris Pengiran Maharaja Lela Pengiran Muda Abdul Kahar, head of the gifts delegation, and Pengiran Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pengiran Anak Hj Abdul Rahim Pengiran Indera Mahkota Pengiran Anak (Dr) Kemaludin Al-Haj, who accepted the pre-engagement gifts on behalf of the bride-to-be’s father.

Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Maharaja Kerna Dato Paduka Seri Hj Yaakub Pehin Orang Kaya Maharaja Diraja Dato Paduka Hj Zainal was then appointed to deliver the gifts to Pehin Manteri Bini Hjh Aminah Hj Md Yassin and Pehin Jawatan Bini Hjh Siti Hj Mohd Yusof Khan at the Balai Singgahsana Indra Kenchana.

Pehin Manteri Bini Hjh Aminah and Pehin Jawatan Bini Hjh Siti were responsible for inspecting the gifts.

While YB Pehin Dato Hj Yaakub waited outside with the 16 Awang-Awang carrying the 16 royal ceremonial candles, 16 Dayang-dayang entered Balai Singgahsana Indera Kenchana carrying the same royal regalia.

Another group of Dayang-Dayang also entered the balai to exchange a set of gangsa (brass receptacle), signifying that the bride-to-be has accepted the gifts and is now officially engaged to the groom-to-be.

The delegation led by YAM Pengiran Indera Setia Diraja Sahibul Karib Pengiran Anak Hj Idris returned to the Royal Banquet Hall and delivered the news to HRH Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah that the bride-to-be has accepted the gifts.

A doa selamat was then read out by State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Dr Ustaz Hj Abdul Aziz Juned to bless the ceremony before HRH Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah gave his approval for the ceremony to conclude. Text courtesy of Waqiuddin Rajak and Ak Khairuddin Pg Harun of The Brunei Times and images by Fazizul Haqimie (@haqimie267) of rano360.com

 

Check out our latest review of Furious 7 featuring Rano and his co-host Del Goh on The Popcorn Panel

 

Click image to enter website

 

Download SnapFeed app on your smartphones and check out the latest deals in Brunei and also get rewarded from respective merchants such as BurgerKing, KFC and Sushi Tei to name a few.

 

Click image to enter website

 

BIBD held its annual dinner for staff under the Islamic bank’s group of companies at the Grand Hall, Indera Samudra of The Empire Hotel and Country Club in Jerudong last Friday.

Themed ‘Nostalgia’, the dinner honoured the hard work of the bank’s employees that had contributed to numerous achievements in the past year.

The dinner started with a recitation of the Doa, which was then followed by welcoming remarks by BIBD Managing Director Javed Ahmad. This then proceeded with presentations for Long Service Awards to around 70 employees from the BIBD group.

Among those present to witness the special occasion was the guest of honour, Deputy Minister of Finance Dato Paduka Hj Bahrin Abdullah, who is also the Chairman of the BIBD Board of Directors. Also present were other BIBD board directors and members of the Shariah Advisory Body amongst some 700 personnel from the bank along with its subsidiaries; BIBD At-Tamwil and BIBD Securities.

The annual dinner caps off another milestone year in BIBD’s rich history in Islamic finance, earmarked by notable efforts such as the launch of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, BIBD Advocating Life-Long Learning for an Aspiring Future (ALAF) Programme, along with its first batch of students receiving the programme’s support, among other charitable activities. The programme, now in its second year, aims to help bring more educational opportunities to underprivileged children.

The guest of honour, Deputy Minister of Finance and Chairman of the BIBD Board of Directors Dato Paduka Hj Bahrin Abdullah (L), hands a certificate to a BIBD employee while BIBD Managing Director Javed Ahmad (C), looks on

Last year also saw the bank’s involvment in several key projects such as the relaunch and rebranding of its Perdana Privilege Banking arm with a new lounge and image, which is located on the first floor of the Kompleks Setia Kenangan, and the organising and chairing of the 4th China-ASEAN Interbank Association (CAIBA) Executive Meetings, held for the first time outside China.

The bank also managed to retain its international recognitions such as the Best Retail Bank in Brunei (The Asian Banker), and the Best Bank in Brunei (Global Finance), and Bank of the Year in Brunei (The Banker).

Also in the year, BIBD has been ranked 42nd in terms of Soundness (Capital Asset Ratio) and 697th overall in the top 1,000 World Banks by “The Banker” in 2014, and 14th Strongest Bank among 500 Banks from Asia pacific by balance sheet by The Asian Banker. Image and text courtesy of BIBD.

 

Photo opportunity with the owner of L’Orient, Sabrina Wong

Late post. A friend of mine Sabrina Wong has finally found a more permanent place for her boutique. Ironically all the different locations that she has tried are all in Kiulap. I kinda prefer her new location of L’Orient and it’s located near Regent Square (newest building) and from the looks of it, her boutique is the first tenant officially operating business in that new building.

So what to expect from L’Orient? If you are into fashion especially the female, you will enjoy the stylish collection designed by Sabrina Wong the owner herself. Now she has upped her game by collaborating with Wilson MC Lau by designing new art fashion collection called the “reach in and stretch out”.

Her shop also sells accessories and bags apart from the interesting range of clothes. The prices may be too high for some but you will know where the dollars are spent. Sabrina has really built her reputation as one of the top designers in Brunei and she has traveled across the world to share her passion and creativity in terms of clothes design.

If you are into a stylish and modern feel look, do consult with Sabrina because she’s really good at it. Do check out her ‘Sab Five Five’ label too. That has been a big hit for her.

Also, keep up to date with the store by visiting its Facebook at www.facebook.com/sabfivefive or its Instagram @sabfivefive. For any enquiries, please contact 2239988 or 8989132.

Quite a good turn out during the official launch

Keeran Janin among the invited guest

Refreshments outside Sabrina’s shop

Josie Abdullah with Sabrina

Sabrina and her friends

 

Hj Azhar bin Hj Ahmad, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence as the guest of honour during the recent dinner meeting of the Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club.

Normally the meeting for Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club happens on the final week of the month. So recently it was held at the usual place – Mutiara Ballroom at Radisson Hotel. The meeting is different to that of Brunei Speakers’ Club, OTTERS Club and UBD Toastmasters Club. It is done in a formal dinner setting but with the inclusion of toastmasters meeting.

The dinner meeting from Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club is always open to guests and it’s good to see different guests every now and then. The guest of honour then was Hj Azhar bin Hj Ahmad, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence. He was very impressed with the toastmasters meeting and he gave one a good advice that fear will always be there but it’s how we see fear as opportunity.

This month of April, another dinner session will be held but I’m not currently sure of the dates. If you are interested, you can email me at ranoadidas (a) gmail

Fatin won Best Table Topics that evening

Anyati sharing a laugh with the audience

Deno Goh talked about finance during his table topics session

Group photo with the attendees

Delwin Keasberry playing the role as the Timer

Noting relating to the dinner but click image to see last week’s Brunei Speakers’ Club session. Image taken by Reuben Chin.

 

The Brunei Music Society is presenting the 6th biennial Young Musicians recital on April 10 at 7.30pm at the Arts Centre of the Jerudong International School.

A total of 24 items will be presented by aspiring musicians between the ages of eight and 25, all of whom were selected from over 70 entries.

According to a press release, the final selection includes an exciting array of instruments from violin, cello and piano to saxophone, trumpet and clarinet. In addition, there are three string ensembles.

Applicants, who were required to play at a Grade 6 level or above, submitted an audio recording which was reviewed by a panel of judges from the committee of the Brunei Music Society.
Students who will be performing on April 10 learn music at several local music schools and at the international schools. They are all students who know the importance of persistence and hard work and have spent hours practicing to reach their current level of skill.

Tickets can be booked via SMS (no calls) to 8820014 and via email at bruneims.tickets@gmail.com.

Or via this online booking form http://goo.gl/forms/ERdATcH7cC

 

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Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark driving the new Audi R8

Check out the video on Audi in Avengers

The Next chapter of the successful cinema collaboration between Audi and Marvel Studios: The heroes of the new Marvel film “Avengers: Age of Ultron” drives Audi – especially Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark. The film releases on 23 April in Brunei.

In this comic book movie, the most powerful superheroes in the world fight for the survival of humanity. Among them is the tech-savvy billionaire Tony Stark – known to cinema audiences as Iron Man from the successful film franchise.

“This is a strategic partnership. The cinema is a perfect stage for Audi, for rapid high-tech cars play a large role in many films, “says Loren Angelo, director of marketing, Audi of America. The brand has been working with Marvel together for eight years; in the Iron Man movies Stark drove an Audi R8.

“Tony Stark embodies a modern mix of entrepreneurs, engineers and especially technology trendsetters,” says Giovanni Perosino, Director of Marketing Communications at AUDI AG. “The Audi R8 is thus exactly the right car for him.” In addition to the super sports car in “Avengers: Age of Ultron” the Audi TTS Coupe and the A3 Cabriolet will have significant screen time.

The film will be released locally on 23 April. For Fans who don’t want to wait that long, they can go to the website (www.audi.de/marvelsavengers) to view a previously unreleased trailer of the movie and a video of the Audi Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Check out the video on Audi in Avengers

 

Suhaimi Hussain, CEO of DST cutting the anniversary cake

Claps and cheers can be heard during a jovial cake cutting ceremony the DST booth at the Yayasan branch in the capital, last Wednesday.

The merry ceremony was part of DST’s 20th anniversary celebration, which was officiated by the guest of honour, Chief Executive Officer of the company, Suhaimi Hussain, who was witnessed by the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of DST, Marsad Hj Ismail, along with other employees of the telecommunications company.

Aside from the celebration, DST also marked its anniversary with a recitation of Surah Yassin and Thanksgiving Prayer ceremony at its headquarters in Tungku Link the previous day.

Among those present at the event were the guest of honour, a member of DST’s Board of Directors, Abdul Lattif Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Hj Md Yusof, Suhaimi and the company’s management and staff.

The ceremony ended with the Asar Prayer led by Imam Hj Shari Awang Murad. Also held as part of the ceremony was a Khatam Al-Quran by management and staff who have participated in the ‘One Day One Page Al-Quran’ programme for DST staff after their completition of reciting 30 juz of Al-Quran 20 since August 2014.

For this year, DST has launched a variety of attractive promotions on its products and services as a token of appreciation to loyal customers in line with this year’s theme objective, “The Year of Giving”. Customers can look forward to great deals in the new broadband promotion, “Data Bill Cap” — which caters to GO! Broadband 68 and GO! Broadband 88 customers — allowing customers to continue their broadband experience at no charge after they have exceeded their free monthly data entitlement, however, with a reduced speed based on Fair Usage Policy. Apart from that, Easi subscribers can now try the ‘Easi Refresh’ promotion, which is aimed at better savings and convenience. The promotion extends the validity period of Easi recharge amount of $100 from 180 days to 300 days. Subscribers will also get an extended grace period of 30 to 60 days to recharge their expired Easi account before termination.

More information and updates regarding its promotion and events are available through DST Care 151 as well at its official website http://www.dst-group.com or through its Facebook and Instagram @dstbn. Text courtesy of Norliha Din of The Brunei Times.

 

Joanna Kwan playing the lead role as Mary Poppins. Awesome!!

Awesome dance choreography

Though I was still tired from the short Labuan trip, I managed to catch the Mary Poppins on the final night. The previous musical broadway performance from @relentlessbrunei (Relentless Entertainment) was two years ago and it was entitled Enchanted Forest if I’m not mistaken. Last weekend, @relentlessbrunei upped their game with a rendition of Mary Poppins in Poppins the Musical.

Well done to the cast of Relentless especially Joanna Kwan and Zainal Bostaman. It was the first time I saw Zainal acting on stage and Joanna is no stranger in the acting scene as she carried the show with her role as Mary Poppins. The dance choreography was impressive as well and my best scene of the play was the “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”.

To be honest, I know of Mary Poppins’ movie existence but I never really take notice of the plot until that night. The only problem I noticed for their show was the microphone issue though this is a huge improvement from the first night from the word of mouth. This is because not all microphones had the same audio level. I couldn’t hear Aaqiil’s voice properly and some of the voices from the cast weren’t really articulated.

Other than that, the show exceeded my expectations and I applaud Relentless Entertainment to bring this musical show once again to the public. Keep up the great work!! I’ve flooded with tons of pictures. Enjoy!!

Aaqiil being suspended in mid-air

Kevin Cheong and Joanna Kwan

Zainal Bostaman (right) was pretty awesome

Friends giving support for the cast of Mary Poppins

 

Check out our latest review of Furious 7 featuring Rano and his co-host Del Goh on The Popcorn Panel

 

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The monthly winners of the Multi Tier Savings Account – Get Rewarded from Your Savings promotion at Baiduri Bank. Image courtesy of Baiduri Bank.

To encourage customers to save more, Baiduri Finance launched a savings promotion in January with attractive cash prizes to be won monthly.

At a prize presentation event held at the company’s head office in Sumbangsih Bahagia, Beribi this afternoon, four lucky customers were elated after being picked as winners in the second monthly draw.

The Multi Tier Savings Account – Get Rewarded from Your Savings promotion offers customers who deposited fresh funds of B$5,000 into their new or existing Multi Tier Savings Account (MTSA) a chance to win monthly cash prizes and be in the running to win the grand prize of B$50,000.

Md Shahidullah bin Md Mafizuddin, Jong Boon Nee, Cheong Huat Joo and Wu Siew Poh were rewarded with B$4,000, B$3,000, B$2,000 and B$1,000 respectively. These amounts will be credited into the winners’ existing MTSA as part of the promotion’s objective to further grow customers’ savings. They are the second batch of winners to receive cash savings from the Multi Tier Savings Account Deposit Promotion.

On hand to present the prizes to the winners was Hj Mohd Rayme bin Hj Bakri, Marketing Manager at Baiduri Finance Berhad. “We are now in the third month of the promotion,” he said, adding, “This promo will end in June, so there’s still time to get lucky and win big in our upcoming draws”.

Baiduri Finance’s MTSA is intended to provide accountholders with worthy interest gains within a short period of time. Requiring only B$50 for account creation, savers can earn interest rates of up to 0.65% flat rate per annum, and ease of managing their accounts through Baiduri Personal i-Banking, and all Baiduri Bank branches. MTSA customers will receive Baiduri VISA Debit cards upon account opening and can perform banking transactions via all Baiduri ATMs and CDMs nationwide.

Information on the MTSA promotion is available on www.baiduri.com or customers can contact the Baiduri Call Centre at 2449666.

 

Pre game photo of Matahari FC against TOT United. Image courtesy of Standard Chartered Brunei.

TOT United of Malaysia emerged as the winners of the Standard Chartered Trophy Regional Tournament held in Kuala Lumpur held last Saturday 28 March 2015. The winners managed to best their counterparts, PTT GC of Thailand and Matahari FC of Brunei Darussalam and will go on to compete in the Standard Chartered Trophy Finals Tournament, held in Liverpool Football Club’s Homeground, Anfield this coming May.

Marilyn Graeme, Head of Corporate Affairs said:

“We’re extremely delighted to have been able to leverage on our partnership with Liverpool FC to give our local talents and rising futsal stars an opportunity like this to gain exposure outside of Brunei to push themselves and test their skills on a regional amateur level. Well done to Matahari FC and we hope they will continue to shine on in their future futsal challenges.”

The Standard Chartered Trophy Brunei Local Tournament was held on 16, 17, 20 and 21 of February. The tournament saw 24 teams compete for the chance to represent Brunei in the upcoming regional tournament. During the closing ceremony of the tournament, a mock cheque of BND2400 was handed over to JAPEM on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports for the Humanitarian Fund of the Malaysian Flood Disaster. The funds were raised from registration fees collected from the participating teams, 100% of which was donated.

19 countries have been globally selected to run the local qualifying tournaments and select winning teams. The winning teams will then advance to the regional stages to compete against other countries. The winning teams from the regional stage of the SC Trophy will then go on to the finals, held at Anfield Stadium in the United Kingdom. This is the fourth year that the Standard Chartered Trophy tournament has been organised and this season sees Vietnam defending their title from last season.

The Standard Chartered Trophy Brunei 2015 was supported by The Ministry of Culture Youth & Sports and endorsed by the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam.

To find out more about the Standard Chartered Trophy follow the bank’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/StandardCharteredBN.

Pre game photo of Matahari FC against PTT GC. Image courtesy of Standard Chartered Brunei.

CEO Standard Chartered Malaysia giving out tokens to the players. Image courtesy of Standard Chartered Brunei.

Group photo of the Bruneian, Thai and Malaysian Teams at the post-tournament dinner. Image courtesy of Standard Chartered Brunei.

 

I can’t find a proper mask. But not to worry, the air quality is still considered good according to today’s paper.

This is one of the hottest times in Brunei and it’s no surprise that forest fire will happen. However, I didn’t expect it to create such a nuisance because of the haze factor. We all keep hoping for rain to reduce the density of the haze. I also would like to salute our brave fire fighters who are doing their best to get rid of the fire. It’s never an easy task especially in the forest as it is difficult for the fire brigades to access the source of the fire in the middle of the forest.

So do take extra measures or even wear a mask if possible. Frankly speaking, I hardly see people wearing mask. Maybe the level of haze is still considered low (the PSI reading has ok so far) but sometimes precaution is much better approach. I can still smell the scent of smoke once I stepped out of my home. I live in Beribi but the source of the fire that I know is either near UBD area and Jerudong. So you can tell how damaging a forest fire can do.

Keep up the good work especially those in the Fire and Rescue Department.

Keep up the good job, firefighters. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.

The smoke last week around KB area. Image courtesy of @marul69

 

Burger King – Buy 1 Free 1. Limited time only 😀

 

When will the time I carry this solid trophy legitimately as a gold winner?

Brenda Chang, Financial Controller of RBA Golf Club, Asmadi bin Haji Alimustapha, General Manager of RBA Golf Club, Mr. Andrew Young, Deputy General Manager, Operations Management Division of Baiduri Bank cum President of the Organizing Committee of Baiduri Masters 2015, Mr. Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank, Mr. Albert Lau, CEO of QAF Group, Mr. Roger Fletcher, General Manager of QAF Motor Group, Reggie See, General Manager of Brunei Press and Hazizah Osman, Deputy General Manager of Brunei Press

Consecutive run of 20 years is a milestone on its own. Baiduri Bank Group has been running their Corporate Social Responsibility programme for a very long time and the biggest avenue is the Baiduri Masters. This year it will be a bigger edition with a few interesting mix in terms of categories. The Hole-in-One prizes are amazing too as usual.

There will be a team category and very ideal for Corporate teams to be involved in the Baiduri Masters while swinging for a good cause. A new car introduced by QAF Motors will also be featured in one of the holes – BMW 218i Active Tourer and it’s not officially launched yet in Brunei. So it’s pretty cool for the new BMW model being one of the hole-in-one prizes. Awesome!!!

The golf tournament will take place on May 1-3 and May 8-10 at the usual venue, Royal Brunei Airlines Golf Club (RBAGC). The 20th Baiduri Masters Charity Golf Tournament, it will be played on format system 36 (stroke play) and the challenge trophy will be decided on gross. So who will be the person to be wearing the Green Jacket in this year’s edition of Baiduri Masters?

Baiduri Bank Group gave their deepest appreciation to their strategic partners – the QAF Group of Companies notably QAF Motor Group and Brunei Press who have been their longest strategic partners. This morning witnessed a signing ceremony among partners for the upcoming event at QAF Centre.

The three luxurious cars will be the Porsche Panemera (Hole 2), BMW 218 Active Tourer (Hole 14) and MINI One (Hole 5) and all of these can be won at the 20th edition of the Baiduri Masters. The registration forms will be available pretty soon (hopefully by this week).

Wanna win a Porsche Panemera? Just get a hole in one effort on Hole 2 at Baiduri Masters 2015 LD

The new BMW 218 Active Tourer will be one of the prizes for hole in one. Awesome!!!

During the press conference for Baiduri Masters 2015

The media taking questions to the organizers and partners

What is Baiduri Bank’s intention for the Baiduri Masters? The intention has never change and it’s to raise funds where it will be channelled to a number of charities and welfare bodies. They believe in supporting programmes that offer educational opportunities and assistance to children with special needs. Registration fee is BND 120 for adults and BND 60 for juniors. For team, it will be additional BND 25 per person (x4). The fee is inclusive of green fees, buggy, buffet breakfast and lunch.

So who are qualified to be in the Team? It is open to all amateur golfers in a team of 4 players with a valid handicap or club verified handicap (which ever is lower) of 18 and below for men, and 24 and below for ladies.

The charitable bodies will be Pusat Ehsan, Child Development Center, Yayasan Kanak Kanak Kanser (YASKA), SMARTER Brunei, Learning Ladders Society, Paediatric Department, RIPAS and Special Education Unit, Ministry of Education.