The newly appointed Speaker to the Legislative Council

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Lela Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Abdul Rahman Dato Setia Hj Mohamed Taib has been appointed as Speaker to the Legislative Council.

The appointment, effective today, was announced by the Prime Minister’s Office yesterday by command of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

With His Majesty’s consent, the appointment to the post of Speaker to the Legislative Council is to replace Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Bakti Diraja Dato Laila Utama Hj Awg Isa Pehin Datu Perdana Manteri Dato Laila Utama Hj Awg Ibrahim.

Pehin Dato Hj Abdul Rahman has served in three ministerial positions, twice as Minister of Education; first in 1986 to 1988, and again in 1995.

He was reported to have introduced the 21st Century National Education System (SPN21) to improve the quality of teaching and learning.

He also spearheaded preparations for the sultanate’s first National Master Plan during his tenure as Minister of Development from 1984 to 1986, and also served as the Minister of Primary Industry and Resources from 1989 to 2005.

 

I visited Flapjack House last year but never really got to their dishes. Two weeks ago, I had a mini feast with Winnie Sia, trying out a variety of dishes that Flapjack House offers. The one that caught my taste bud is the Black Pepper Chicken. It’s one of the newest dish and I highly recommend you to order that.

The cafe also serves breakfast and it starts from 7am and business closes at 10pm daily. So do try out the dishes they offer for breakfast. They offer “Crepe Kahwin” with kaya and peanut butter to localise the taste. Their pancakes are home made too.

Flapjack is managed by Eugene Seah who had the idea in opening a cafe after his experience in Australia.

So where is Flapjack house located? It’s located behind The Arch Taurean and you can call 245 0987 for reservation. You can follow them on social media – Flapjack House Facebook page or @flapjackhouse on instagram

The Bene Bene Nice for brekkie

My favourite Black Pepper Chicken

The beef steak

Another breakie dish to savor – Flapjack House Brekky Crepe and costs only $4.90

Burgers are also available

My dinner date Winnie Sia and she liked the food there too. She also recommended the Black Pepper Chicken.

Delicious Creme Brûlée

Another signature dish from Flapjack House

The interior of Flapjack House

 

The winners of the “Swipe to Fly” promotion

The winners of the “Swipe to Fly” promotion

BIBD today feted its first five monthly winners of its “Swipe to Fly” promotion at the BIBD Rimba Branch. All the winners were seen excited with smiles when arriving at the branch to collect their prizes of a pair of air tickets to Ho Chi Minh. Present to hand over the prizes was Mohammad Fadzli bin Md Said, the BIBD Rimba Branch Manager.

The “Swipe to Fly” promotion will continue until the 31st of March, 2015 with five pairs of air tickets up for grabs every month to destinations such as Bali, Dubai, and Melbourne.

Let BIBD reward you with sending you and a partner on your dream holiday. All you need to do is spend B$30 or above on a single purchase using any of your BIBD cards or BIBD eTunai service at any retail or online outlet to receive an entry into the monthly “Swipe to Win” lucky draw. What’s more, BIBD customers will be rewarded with an additional ten bonus lucky draw entries for accumulating a monthly minimum spending of B$1,000 for that month’s lucky draw.

Winning has never been easier as there are no hassles of filling entry forms for each qualifying purchase transaction, making that dream holiday one step easier and closer.

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

You can enjoy discounts through AGODA (traveling website) using BIBD. Click image to enter website.

 

Mark Glover Euphonium Recital happening this Saturday

It’s Brunei Music Society’s second recital of 2015 and it will be held this Saturday. Brunei Music Society is excited to have a Euphonium Recital- a brass instrument not (yet) often featured in solo recitals in the region. Mark Glover from the UK will be performing accompanied by Lim Pei Sean on the piano.

Tickets Price: $25 for adults, $20 for members and $10 for students.

Buy any 5 student tickets and get any 1 adult free.

Bookings can be made via text at 8820014 or you can make your bookings here.

Tickets will also be available at the door.

The Program of the Evening:

Napoli – Bellstedt

Andante and Rondo – Capuzzi, arr. Calinet

Bells Across the Meadow – Ketelby arr. Kendrick

Gypsy Rondo – Haydn, arr. Hoffman

Largo from Xerxes – Handel, arr. Frey

Largo Al Factotum – Rossini, arr. Childs

A taste of Mark Glover on Euphonium

 

Press release from Jerudong International School. At Jerudong International School (JIS), there are two programmes offered to Sixth form students; the Advanced Level General Certificate of Education (A-Levels) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB). Students in the A Level programme will either study three or four A-levels, plus Core Studies and PE. However students in the IB programme will study six subjects: three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level. They must choose one subject from each of Groups 1-5, thus ensuring breadth of experience in languages, social studies, the experimental sciences and mathematics. The sixth subject may be an arts subject chosen from Group 6, or the student may choose another subject from Groups 2, 3, or 4 (an elective).

One of the assessments for Group 4 is an internal assessment where practical work is carried out and recorded by the students. The Group 4 project is an integrated, collaborative task where students work with other students from different sciences. Below, Joseph Sleiman, a Year 12 IB Student at JIS describes what they recently did for this year’s Group 4 project.

“The International Baccalaureate (IB) Group 4 Project……..a collaborative activity where students work together on a scientific or technological topic……..’to encourage an understanding of the relationships between scientific disciplines and the overarching nature of the scientific method’……yeah, yeah, yeah…….that’s what the theory says, but, what did WE do here at Jerudong International School (JIS) in our Group 4 Project???

JIS Year 12 International Baccalaureate students on their Group 4 project

JIS Year 12 International Baccalaureate students on their Group 4 project

At the beginning of Term Two, all the Year Twelve IB students were sorted into four different groups, some ending up with friends and others with people they have never worked with in their life. In the first meeting, we were introduced to the project – produce an experiment that will measure a time period of between two and ten minutes accurately! (No watches allowed!!!). We were also informed that there would be a prize for the most accurate timing – my competitive nature kicked into gear! The teams then discussed, brainstormed, and shared ideas. Creativity was everywhere! Teachers also contributed opinions and encouraged ideas that could be translated into real life.

The following two weeks were the ‘Action Stage’. Two sessions, each four hours long, to trial, test and refine our method(s) – as well as lots of informal chatting at break times and in the evenings. This part was where communication and patience was tested. Things would go wrong, timings made would be totally off, equipment would break and whole methods would be scrapped for better ones. Though problematic and stressful at times, all of us had fun working together on presenting and preparing the experiment.

The final ‘Evaluation Stage’ was soon upon us and each team was ready and very ambitious, everyone’s eyes set on the prize! All the students were visibly anxious, rushing to complete one last test trial and finish off Display boards to present our completed product. Once the trivialities were concluded, the teachers began the countdown… and Carl Orff’s “O Fortuna” blared through the speakers – an appropriately dramatic piece for the occasion. The tension in the atmosphere had peaked and ‘feisty’ remarks were exchanged between groups as the Head of Sixth Form, Mr Piper, collected the calculated times. In his characteristic bantering, he stretched out the suspense to its limit and after what felt like decades, revealed the JOINT winners: both recording the exact time of the piece! However, amazingly, the other two times were within two seconds of the actual time! The prizes were handed out and we all left the classroom reflecting on an enjoyable educational experience with teamwork and collaboration at the forefront of it all.

The main emphasis we take away as students is the importance of cooperation and the procedure of creating a scientific investigation – not necessarily the results/success of the experiment. And best of all we enjoyed the experience; it gave us a fun way to appreciate the wonders of scientific method!”

 

Click image to register and find out more

Just a reminder. Today is the final day of registration. For the first time ever, Bruneians will have a chance to get a ticket to Anfield (Liverpool’s home ground) and play against the best of the best in the world in the Standard Chartered Trophy 2015. It’s a futsal tournament format and it will be a 5 a-side format.

This is made possible by Standard Chartered Bank (Brunei) and this tournament opened to everyone even if you are not a Liverpool fan. For your info, SCB is the official sponsor for Liverpool FC club. The announcement was made yesterday at SCB’s Priority Banking Centre.

So do check out Brunei’s time line for the event below and the winners of the Brunei contingent will be sent to Kuala Lumpur for the regional competition in late March. If your team managed to beat both Malaysia and Thailand, your team will be given the green light to Anfield. By the way, all these trips will be all expenses paid by SCB.

The qualifiers are open to Brunei citizens and permanent residents (phew, I have a chance). They must be over 18 years old and are neither professional/semi-professional players. SCB Brunei has allocated 14 berths to their key stakeholders and 10 more slots are up for grabs.

Each team shall consist of seven players, and those selected will have to pay a registration fee of $100 – which will go to the Humanitarian Fund of the Malaysian Flood Disaster. So this means that if they are more than 24 slots, SCB Brunei organising team will go through the selection process and based the selection on the short essay on why you want to be part of this event. Once you are selected, the $100 registration will be come into play. So if you are registering online, you won’t be charged $100 straight away. Good luck in registering your team.

You can click here for the registration. The closing date is (today) 10th February 2015 and do it by midnight 😀

This event is made possible by SCB Brunei and they are very grateful with the support by Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and endorsed by the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) in assisting SCB Brunei with the upcoming event.

Ng Yick Wei, Head of Brand and Marketing at SCB Brunei, Marilyn Graeme, Head of Corporate Affairs at SCB, Hj Mohd Noor Hj Hamid, Department of Youth and Sports official, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and also a NFABD committee, Hj Aslan Hj Tengah, Supervisor Sport Organisation, Sports Department, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports during the announcement of Standard Chartered Trophy 2015 at SCB’s Priority Banking recently

Yay, we were given Liverpool goodies from SCB Brunei

 

Mr. Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank (left) at “Bruneian Art for Charity” at the JIS Arts Centre, Jerudong last week

Baiduri Bank successfully hosted their very first art auction, “Bruneian Art for Charity” at the JIS Arts Centre, Jerudong. The auction was attended by prominent Bruneians, ambassadors, embassy officials, art enthusiasts, charity supporters and Baiduri customers.

Mr. Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank, in his welcoming address said, “We hope that tonight’s event will help provide much needed exposure to our artists and the arts scene, to raise and grow interest in their market and provide encouragement and motivation for other artists to pursue their passion.”

He further went on to state that all the proceeds raised during the event goes straight to the artist and the charities. “At Baiduri Bank, giving back to our community, whether it is through our own resources or as a collective effort with our friends and loyal customers, is one of the key components of our social responsibility. 100% of the money collected will go to the charities that have been chosen by the bidders after deducting the amount to be paid to the artists for their art pieces.”

With the minimum bid amount ranging from B$500 to B$18,000, the special evening and silent auction of contemporary artwork by local visual artists such as Hj Osman Hj Mohammad, Lizzan Lingat (Ejan), Pg Khamarul Zaman Pg Hj Tajuddin, Suhaili Omar, Sam Siren and Pg Timbang Pg Hj Tuah.

An art piece that was successfully bid upon include Teraja by Pg Khamarul Zaman, a large monochromatic work of organic forms and energetic strokes where silhouettes of pitcher plants, plant stems, leaves, branches and calligraphic shapes can be identified. Another art piece that was sold during the auction was Water Taxi by Lizzan Lingat. A theme central to Lizzan’s work are everyday scenes in Brunei. Water Taxi depicts a scene of faceless men waiting for their water taxis on steps that disappear into the river.

The event began with a contemporary dance by Relentless Entertainment, a local dance troupe, who performed their interpretation of Alice in Wonderland. Throughout the night, guests were entertained with live performances by local singers and songstresses and a live art demo by Wilson Mc Lau.

At the end of the night, the art auction was able to raise more than B$36,000. The charities supported by the art auction were SMARTER Brunei, KACA Brunei, YASKA, Learning Ladders Society and the Child Development Centre.

The art auction will be followed by an art exhibition at Kaleidoscope Studio at Shaikirin Complex, Kiulap. Members of the public can view and purchase pieces still available after the auction at Kaleidoscope Studio starting today until the end of the month. Proceeds from the sales during the exhibition will also go towards the artist and the charities.

 

Wan Zainal Abidin Shazali, founder of SCION (4th from left), Pauline Chan, managing editor of SCION (5th from left) with the team behind SCION at Mutiara Ballroom, Radisson Hotel last week

Pauline Chan, managing editor of SCION, with her welcoming remarks

Ever heard of SCION magazine? It’s a premium luxury lifestyle magazine and you can’t simply find them at any cafe. The magazine has a niche targeted readers and SCION is distributed to Standard Chartered Priority Banking, Perdana Banking at BIBD and it is sold at Best Eastern, Nollybooks as well as newsstands at Malaysia.

For your info, the first magazine was published in July 2013 which was made available to guests at The Empire Hotel & Country Club, nine exquisite partner hotels in Singapore and Malaysia as well as first and business class lounges of Brunei International Airport.

Last week, I missed the celebration of SCION’s first anniversary as I was in Kota Kinalabu to cover Wu Chun’s meet the fan session.

Greeting the invited guests was Pauline Chan, managing editor of SCION. She was pleased how the magazine connects with the readers to the wonderful world of refined living by bringing them on an exploration of luxury possibilities. Just like BIG magazine, SCION is published quarterly and it is successful in reaching its targeted audience.

SCION is founded by Wan Zainal Abidin Shazali (CHMP Media as the publisher). Images courtesy of SCION.

 

A milestone for many of us to be part of a potentially big project in Brunei. Do find out more from Bruhaha Facebook page and do watch out for our Open Mic sessions in the near future. Thank you to Zainal Bostaman for the opportunity to further improve and nurture our creativity. This is why most of my Sundays have been packed 😀

 

Click image to find out more

Chinese New Year is just around the corner and Standard Chartered Bank is having a reward points promotion where you can get dining vouchers at a discounted rate! Click on on.sc.com/CNY2015-bn to find out more about this one-month only promotion! It ends 28th February.

 

Some of the sauces and dishes from Bruneihalal. Highly recommended. Try out the dinner buffet spread of Bruneihalal’s Flavours of Spices every Thursday and Saturday until 28th March 2015

Take a culinary journey to the heartland of authentic Indian cuisine with the Flavours of Spices dinner buffet at Seasons restaurant.

The promotion is the Royal Brunei Catering’s (RBC) latest collaboration with Bruneihalal with its sauces used in the buffet line.

Customers will be blown away by the plethora of dishes such as Roasted Lamb Raan to Lamb Korma, Balti Fish Head Curry with Ladies Fingers, Tandoori Chicken and Aloo Gobi.

An assortment of naan bread, chapatti and pratta are also available from the soup counter while a delicious rack of lamb can be found at the carving station.
For those prefering something sweet, authentic Indian mouthwatering desserts such as Jalabi sweets, Giulap Jamun, Semolina Cake and Green Bean Porridge with Sago will set to thrill the sweet-tooth.

Speaking to The Brunei Times, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Bruneihalal Feby Latip said that this promotion was a good collaboration between the company and RBC as the sauces used are suitable not only for use at home but for meals at the restaurant.

“Our products have proven to be very convenient for people looking to make quick and easy meals,” she added.

She also said that Bruneihalal has a simple idea of delivering nutritional and quality products to the world. Meanwhile, Sous Chef Rosli Che Aman, who is instrumental to the creation of the exciting Indian dishes, said that there are more than 50 dishes available which have been specifically made with Bruneihalal sauces. “We created these wonderful dishes with the (Bruneihalal) sauces. The spices in the sauces are sourced from India and we have adapted them according to local taste,” he explained.

He added that customers will also be treated to a demonstration at the bread and naan station.

The Flavours of Spices dinner buffet is available every Thursday and Saturday from 7pm to 10pm from now until March 28.

It is priced at $22.90 per adult and $13.90 per child (five to 11 years old), however, RBC privilege cardholders are entitle to a 10 per cent discount during the promotional period. Customers can also surf the Internet for free as WiFi connection is available at the restaurant. For more information or reservation, please call 242 2291 or 891 2470 for Oscar.

So make a date at Seasons Restaurant today to get a taste of incredible and authentic Indian food. Text courtesy of Rebecca Oi of The Brunei Times.

Using Flavour of Spices from Bruneihalal

Using Flavour of Spices from Bruneihalal

Using Flavour of Spices from Bruneihalal

Using Flavour of Spices from Bruneihalal

Try out Bruneihalal’s Flavour of Spices

 

Pooja (2nd from left) and Rahul (3rd from left) just recently joined as members of Brunei Speakers’ Club and they did their ice breaker speech. They were with their speech evaluators Ong Yin and Chris Woo who both work in the education sector. Click image to read the blog entry.

Chen Ling, one of the guests attempting Table Topics. Click image to read more.

Ever since I rejoined the Brunei Speakers’ Club back in July 2014, it has been an interesting journey and I’m really grateful that I am able to learn and let down my ego that there is still plenty room for growth in me as an individual. One thing I truly learnt is contribution and that has made me very committed in helping the club in any possible means. This is the platform that instills its vision on improving leadership skills and personal growth.

This won’t be possible with the energetic members and friends that have been supporting toastmasters. It has redefined the person I am and also cemented my true core values as an individual. I am here to contribute and I am here to learn.

You can click for our latest toastmasters meeting recap from Brunei Speakers’ Club and nicely written, Supatra, another dedicated toastmaster. It’s good that we have a blog entry weekly to keep up to date with the members and also for the benefit of the public on what we truly learn in toastmasters and it’s not just about public speaking.

Do join our weekly meeting every Tuesday at 7:30pm at Seameo Voctech and I will presenting my fifth speech as part of my toastmasters manual (competent communicator) as I’m rushing for the Toastmasters International Speech competition. I have to complete my sixth speech in order to qualify. Wish me luck 😀

 

The management and associates of Concepts Computer with Richard Soo, from Acer Miri, at the launch of the Concepts Computer Supplier vans yesterday

Concepts Computer has been around 14 years and they still continue their branding presence in the Sultanate. Soon they will be celebrating their 15th year anniversary. They have been expanding their services from hardware (introducing top of the line Acer products) to software (tying up with Microsoft Brunei and Mars Enterprise) to after sales service to their newly introduced service – logistics (with their newly launched vehicles, two Nissan vans with Concepts Computer design).

This is just in time before the lunar year and Concepts Computer continue their presence with their brand awareness through advertising with their commercial vehicles. This is to stay ahead of the game and Concepts Computer is definitely the biggest IT retailer in Brunei, a vision by Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer that has become reality.

With the new vehicles, the company can provide better and faster delivery of goods from their stores to their customers. This will create more confidence to the customers that Concepts Computer can provide the best service.

Also present during the launch of the newly purchased vehicles were Alice Chan of Concepts Computer, Richard Soo, Acer Area Manager of Miri, Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer and the associates of Concepts Computer.

Giving blessing to the new transport from Concepts Computer

Giving blessing to the new transport from Concepts Computer

One has the Epson brand

The other Acer brand

 

Jerudong Park Medical Centre associates with the Japanese delegates from Kyuushuu-Brunei Club from Japan

The Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) received a group of visitors from the Kyuushuu-Brunei Club from Japan on 5 February 2015.

The Japanese delegates were welcomed by the Management of the Jerudong Park Medical Centre.
The objective of the club’s visit was to enhance and strengthen the relationship between Kyuushuu and Brunei Darussalam.

A total of 9 people were present from the Kyuushuu-Brunei club during the visit headed by Ms. Che Kyungmi.

During the visit, JPMC’s Marketing Officer, Ak Danny Pg Tajuddin gave a brief presentation about Jerudong Park Medical Centre accompanied with a question and answer session.

The delegates also toured around Jerudong Park Medical Centre, including The Brunei Cancer Centre (TBCC), led by JPMC’s Administrative Manager, Muhammad bin Haji Abd Ghani.

Kyuushuu is the third largest island of Japan and most south-westerly of its four main islands.

 

Foo Boon Seng, founder of MARS Enterprise, saying a few words to the media of the new collaboration last week. Image courtesy of Concepts Computer.

One is competent in software (MARS Enterprise) and the other is competent in hardware (Concepts Computer). When both combined, then it is a win-win situation. Last Friday, Concepts Computer and MARS Enterprise signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop software products targeting the SMEs.

If you have a problem in your business in terms of finance and stock taking, MARS Enterprise has a successful business software that has been proven successful internationally. MARS Finance System has a unique feature of multi-dimensional chart of account allowing any start-up company, small and medium enterprise to grow using the same system all along with options of upgrade, update, or plug-in of additional modules, whichever is suitable for their business needs.

Now they have partnered with an IT giant in Brunei, Concepts Computer and this will help to attribute to the national IT Development.

Signing the agreement was Foo Boon Seng, founder of MARS Enterprise and Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer.

Recently AITI had a special subsidy for SMEs where they can purchase the software from MARS Enterprise with a subsidy up to 80%. The application for the subsidy has already ended last week and this shows that our local product is quite commendable to SMEs in Brunei.

I believe the synergy between both companies will be fruitful and beneficial to our economy and our end users.

Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer exchanging document with Foo Boon Seng

 

Acer Aspire

Free labour charge on repairs for Peugeot. Click image to enter website to find out more.

Promotion from Pizza Hut

 

Travel with agoda

  

Click image to enter ICON Design Store

With Chinese New Year less than a month away, KFC is launching the Golden Egg Crunch to mark the auspicious occasion.

Juicy chicken marinated in a rich collection of oriental spices and coated with an indulgent taste of golden yolk sprinkles, The Golden Egg Crunch takes inspiration from salted egg yolk prawn, a popular Chinese New Year banquet table dish.

The Golden Egg Crunch combo comes with two pieces of freshly fried chicken with a choice of Regular fries or chicken rice and a Regular Sjora mango drink for only B$7.60. Burger fans can also opt for the Golden Burger combo which comes with a Golden burger, regular fries and a regular sized Sjora mango drink for only B$7.50.

For a big eat, the Golden Feast comes with 9 pieces of fried chicken, a bottle of 1.5L Pepsi, a large whipped potato and one large coleslaw for only B$28.10. Collector of KFC premiums can also opt for the Golden Bucket meal which comes with 15 pieces of Golden Egg Crunch chicken, one large coleslaw, two large whipped potato, a bottle of 1.5L Pepsi and a free fortune jar.

“Gold is an auspicious Chinese New Year representation, to bring “Ong” or prosperity. We at KFC would like to take the opportunity of the Golden Egg Crunch to wish all our customers and friends a golden and prosperous upcoming Chinese New Year”, says Jonathan Bong, Senior Marketing Manager, KFC B Sdn Bhd.

Golden Egg Crunch is now available at all KFC outlets in Brunei for a limited time only while stock last.

Golden Egg Crunch. Image courtesy of Norliha Din of The Brunei Times.

Golden Egg Crunch. Image courtesy of Norliha Din of The Brunei Times.

 

Review of Project Almanac with co-host Del Goh and special guest Zul

 

Wu Chun with team RB at Manukan Island yesterday

Beaches, islands and seafood. Those were the things that Wu Chun suggested to his fans if they were to pay Sabah a visit. The celebrity is no stranger to Kota Kinabalu and he frequents the city with his family.

Yesterday though was a different matter. He visited Manukan Island in the capacity for the meet-the-fan session and over two hundred fans showed up yesterday. Wu Chun had the opportunity to address his fans and also interact with some of them.

He also presented prizes to the winners of the sand castle competition. The fans mostly come from parts of China, Taiwan and Hong Kong who bought packages using Royal Brunei Airlines. For the record, Wu Chun is Royal Brunei Airlines Brand Ambassador and he is currently enjoying his journey as the Brand Ambassador and thankful towards Brunei’s national air carrier for their support.

The meet-the-fan session was organised by Sabah Tourism and Royal Brunei Airlines with collaboration with the Sutera Harbour Resort.

Wu Chun hinted that the next scheduled trip could be to Singapore and Hong Kong. I also would like to thank Royal Brunei Airlines for making my coverage of Wu Chun possible. Till next time, KK!

Wu Chun being interviewed by media from Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, Sabah and Brunei yesterday

The fans building sand castle for the competition

The fans posing for the camera

It was such a hot day yesterday

The crowd was less rowdy than the ones at Burger King

Wu Chun addressing his fans

Wu Chun presenting goodies to a fan

Wu Chun with the winners of the sand castle competition

Fanatics appearing on the stage out of nowhere

Autographed poster for the fans

The Wu Chun poster

The jellyfish at Manukan Island

 

Happening this Sunday

Have you guys already heard about Malppy’s first ever Fashion Pop Up Festival? It is happening this coming Sunday, 8th February 2015. Mark the calendar down now and bring your families and friends along to iCentre at Anggerek Desa from 9am to 6pm.

It will be a happening day as they will be displaying some of their latest fashion line from Corporate Wear to Date Night and Street Style. They will also be introducing some of their new Muslimah Fashion Collection.

To the last minute shoppers for this upcoming Chinese New Year Celebration, they will also be selling some of the new trendy dresses and shirts as well as the traditional dresses such as cheongsam for the ladies. As for the happy couples, they will also be selling some couple shirts for you to match with each other.

The highlight of that day will be announcing the winners for their IG Video & Slogan contest. There will be 3 winners for this contest. The winners will walk away with B$300, B$200 and B$200 for Best Slogan Award and the Most Liked Video for Men and Women.

Some of the famous food vendors will also join them for this event such as “The Slush Zone”, “AjwaKitchen”, “Pvintagecupcake”, and “Wing It” to please your hunger. So See you there.

Click image to find out more

By the way, let’s not forget the Malppy IG Video & Slogan competition which is still ongoing and the deadline is by 7th February. Best slogan will win BND 300 shopping voucher from Malppy vouchers while the “Most like male” will win BND 200 shopping voucher and the “Most like female” will win BND 200 shopping voucher from Malppy.com

For more of the rules you can click here. Good luck to all Malppy-ers 😀

 

Meet Craig Allen, U.S. Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam. Looking forward to meet you

 

Henrik Meltesen, the regional sales manager of Scandinavian Business Seating Asia Pte Ltd from Singapore (left) with the team from Catalyst and Sejalin Enterprises Sdn Bhd during the press conference for HAG brand chairs

Who would have thought that all chairs served a general function and that is only to sit? Well, I just learnt some thing refreshing yesterday at Catalyst office. The way we sit does make a difference to our body posture and it brings a different level of energy and comfort without you realizing it. I have an office chair in the comfort of my work station and I just take for granted that any office chair that has great cushioning with arm rest and wheels is simply good enough for me to do my work on my desk. In comes a Scandinavian who educated me on how sitting can make use more efficient, inspiring and creative without compromising comfort and stability.

Henrik Meltesen, the regional sales manager of Scandinavian Business Seating Asia Pte Ltd from Singapore, is in the Sultanate to brief the local media on their line of office chairs from HAG. The press conference was organised by Inspire Living Magazine and also present was the distributor for HAG brand, Sejalin Enterprises Sdn Bhd.

The chair that caught my eye was the HAG Capisco line. The overall look feels as if there isn’t much material or surface area to support my body or weight but once you sit on it, you won’t feel any form of discomfort and Capisco allows you to sit in an appropriate manner without you having to think too much. It’s like the chair has a mind of its own. This line is actually the best selling product and I was surprised to know that it has existed since 1984. Interesting…

The HAG Capisco line reminds me of sitting on a saddle (on a horse). The idea of this concept is to allow an open hip angle when you sit down in a position as if you are half standing, half sitting if the chair is lifted in a higher position. It’s like sitting on a stool but in a more relaxed, comfortable stance. I tested the chair yesterday and while sitting down, listening to Henrik’s presentation, I didn’t feel anything was lacking even though the chair looked really simplified than a normal office chair. The open hip stance allow the spine to naturally create that S-shape curve and the leg area will have less pressure to support your lower back which is good for blood circulation especially when you are sitting.

You see, even chairs have a lot of talking points and thanks to the presentation by Henrik, I’m beginning to be aware on how I’ve been sitting all these years.

If you wish to purchase or have a look on these chairs, I suggest you drop by Catalyst Office at Jalan Muara (one simpang after Gongcha Serusop) at Simpang 94. You can reach them at 223 3630 and you can have your chairs customized as well to your preference. They have many types of HAG chairs and who know I might get one myself in a long run. You can also go direct to Sejalin Enterprises at Muluat Industrail area or call 279 0376.

Henrik Meltesen explaining the different types of HAG chairs

HAG Capisco line, I kinda like this chair actually

You can have different types of fabrications for your chair

This chair can adjust in motion according to the momentum of your posture

The durable chair from HAG

Henrik try to show how durable this particular chair is

Dean Kassim and Danial Norjidi trying out the HAG chairs

 

Abd Latif bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Hj Md Yusof, a member from Board of Directors of Jerudong Park Medical Centre. Also present were Dato Dr Isham Jaafar, the Executive and Medical Director of JPMC, Vivian Suk Kee Tie, Physiotherapist and Head of Rehabilitation Department of JPMC and Dr. Burc Bassa, Deputy Head and Head Consultant of the Brunei Neuroscience Rehabilitation Centre (BNSRC)

Last year, the Rehabilitation Department of Jerudong Park Medical Centre organised a 5 week programme for stroke and cancer patients in conjunction with Hari Raya last year. The programme allowed them to improve their physical beings and also kept them inspired and motivated that their body movements and coordinations can still function through proper therapy.

Last weekend, the Rehabilitation Department organised another activity for the stroke patients of JPMC where they sang and perform short skits to the delight of the guests who attended the event at JPMC. This is a great way to contribute back to the community and also giving the patients a sense of hope and community among themselves. This time there are more stroke patients that took part in singing and performing and these have given them more joy and fun in their life even after suffering from stroke.

Looking for the video presentation, I have to applaud the wonders of the therapists from the Rehabilitation Department – Hasleezan binti Arifin (physiotherapist), Mohd Asri bin Mohd Shah (Occupational therapist), Prasanna Venkataraman (Speech and language therapist) and Abdul Samadh Shabeer (Speech and language therapist) who is also the therapeutic group activity coordinator.

Vivian Suk Kee Tie, the Head of Rehabilitation Department of JPMC, gave an inspiring account of the stroke patients of JPMC and how such programmes have made a difference in their lives and they will continue to do more programmes to better the lives of their patients physically, mentally and emotionally. It was also nice to see the department also welcomed a patient from JPMC Gleneagles, Mumtazali Muhd Abd Aziz, who is the first left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implant patient in Brunei Darussalam. He was very curious of the development of the program, requested to be part of the program and he has been loving it ever since he joined the program.

The guest of honour of the event was Abd Latif bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Hj Md Yusof, a member from Board of Directors of Jerudong Park Medical Centre. Also present were Dato Dr Isham Jaafar, the Executive and Medical Director of JPMC, Dr. Burc Bassa, Deputy Head and Head Consultant of the Brunei Neuroscience Rehabilitation Centre (BNSRC), JPMC and Vivian Suk Kee Tie, Physiotherapist and Head of Rehabilitation Department of JPMC.

After the event, certificates of participation were given to the stroke patients by the guest of honour. Keep it up, JPMC!! It’s always nice to have a heart warming activity especially from a hospital.

Vivien Suk Kee Tie, Physiotherapist and Head of Rehabilitation Department of JPMC, in her welcoming remarks

Some of the performances from the patients and therapists

A short skit performance

Group singing by the stroke patients

The opening act by the therapists and the rehabilitation assistants

The traditional dance

Certificate presentation

Certificate presentation

Certificate presentation

Certificate presentation

Certificate presentation

Group photo with Mumtazali Muhd Abd Aziz, Brunei’s first left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implant patient

Group photo. Click to enlarge.

 

Acer Aspire

Travel with agoda

  

Click image to enter ICON Design Store

Wu Chun with some VIPs during the official launch of Centrepoint’s Burger King last night at Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Wu Chun will also be Wu Chun. People always say how popular I am just because I’m a social blogger. But if you are an entertainer or a celebrity, it’s a different ball game. I caught a flight through Royal Brunei to Kota Kinabalu and wow, the flight was packed with Wu Chun’s fan. This is no surprise that Wu Chun is the Royal Brunei Airlines Brand Ambassador, able to draw fans from all around the world with his presence. If I was not mistaken, some of the passengers were Wu Chun’s fans. Amazing!!

Anyway, my trip to Kota Kinabalu was by invitation to cover Wu Chun’s event and one of them is the opening of the Burger King outlet at Centrepoint, Kota Kinabalu. He was one of the special guest to officiate the opening of Burger King’s outlet at Centrepoint. To update you, the centrepoint outlet is owned by Brunei shareholders. Congratulations on the milestone and this is such a great opportunity to expand their business outside Brunei and furthermore, it’s in KK market which is bigger than Brunei definitely.

As for Wu Chun’s fans who came over for the opening night, wow, wow and wow… I have never seen such a huge crowd and I remembered the crowd in Brunei for Wu Chun’s movie Saving General Yang and that was already considered hectic. But last night at Burger King’s opening, it was very tricky to handle the crowd. Perhaps there weren’t enough security available and even Burger King’s staff had to help control the young crowd. I was surprised there were also male fans.

Before I end this post, thank you Royal Brunei for making this coverage possible and thank you Burger King for the hospitality.

Wu Chun took out his phone to take a picture of his fans

I was pretending to be a big fan of Wu Chun but actually I was asking for help to get away from the crowd

Wu Chun taking a selfie with me and his fans.. Woohoo #winall

Members of the media preparing for the arrival of the superstar

Deno Goh ushering Wu Chun

I took a selfie but no one noticed *Sad* LOL

Wu Chun posing with a burger on his hand

What a crowd last night at Centrepoint

 

Now a permanent menu on Burger King

To celebrate the success of BK Mushroom Swiss Burgers as well as reminding everyone our signature product has grown to become one of Brunei’s favourite burger, Sinofood Express, the franchisee of the BURGER KING ® franchise will officially launch the new BK Mushroom Swiss Tendergrill Chicken Burger under its permanent menu.

What makes the Mushroom Swiss Tendergrill Chicken Burger? The succulent and tender 100% flame-grilled premium chicken thigh meat patty is enveloped in the full-bodied flavor of melted Swiss cheese; the all-time favourite silky mushroom sauce unique only to BK with fresh lettuce and a generous spread of creamy mayonnaise. Succumb to the seduction of Mushroom Swiss Tendergrill Chicken Burger… you will surely come back for more!

The BK Mushroom Swiss Tendergrill Chicken Burger is available at only $8.00 for the Meal and $6.50 for the sandwich only.

To complete your meal with a tasty treat, we are also offering a buy 1 free 1 soft serve promo for a limited time only for our guest to share with a loved one.

As for all our guests who are curious about the opening for our upcoming branches, we just opened our fourth branch in Belait Town,

For further updates on Burger King® Brunei, visits our Instagram page @burgerkingbrunei and Facebook at www.facebook.com/bkbrunei.

BK Mushroom Swiss Tendergrill Chicken Burger

Had mine during the break of a toastmasters meeting 😀

 

The Brunei talents for this year’s WCOPA 2015

Can Brunei top what they did last year in the World Championships of Performing Acts (WCOPA)? Then again, it’s not about reaching or raising the benchmark. Last year, Brunei have proven what it takes to be on top with the rest of the talents worldwide after winning several medals. This year, there will be new fresh faces and this is the third time that Bruneians will be featuring at WCOPA event to be held from July 10th-19th in Long Beach, California.

They will be competing in the Senior Acting category, Senior Vocal category, Senior Dance Group category, Senior Vocal with Instrument (Duo/Group) category, Senior Dance Solo category and Senior Vocal with Instrument (Solo) category.

Now it’s boiled down to training for the Brunei delegates until the actual day. Perhaps the biggest hurdle for the delegates is financial resources as it will take at least BND 10,000 per delegate to part of the WCOPA 2015 edition. The said price will include the registration for WCOPA which is about 2/5 of the budget, the flight and accommodation for the 10 day trip trip. The organizer and the delegates will do what it takes to raise funds for their cause and they will not let this opportunity slip away easily.

All the participants are first timers and this will also be the first time that Brunei will be participating in the Senior Vocal with Instrument (Duo/Group) category, Senior Dance Group category and Senior Dance Solo category.

So who are the representatives? Zainal Bostaman, my friend and the founder of Bruhaha Comedy (Senior Acting category), Nadia Halim aka Yaya (Senior Vocal category), Ak Muhd Yazakka (Senior Vocal Category), Hill Zaini (Senior Vocal category), Amy Cheong, Ainul Marzuki, Sarah Jane Ward and Shannon Osman representatives from Relentless Entertainment (Senior Dance Group category), Erwan Mugit and Michelle Tan the singing duo The Ellewan (Senior Vocal with instrument for duo or group), Mardi Hedus (Senior Dance Solo category) and Kala Karwanamurthi (Senior Vocal with instrument category).

Present during the event were Jeffrey E. Cadayong, National Director of WCOPA Brunei Darussalam, Maria Grace Koh (Eia), the official hostess for this year’s WCOPA 2015 and Joanna Kwan, finalists for last year’s WCOPA 2015.

For the public, who are willing to help and assist the delegates to achieve their dreams, you can contact the organiser at brunei(a)wcopa.tv

Hill Zaini

Mardi Hedus of Relentless Entertainment

Michelle Tan and Erwan Mugit, The Ellewan

Ainul Marzuki, Shannon Osman, Amy Cheong and Sarah Jane Ward of Relentless Entertainment

Kala Karwanamurthi

Ak Muhd Yazakka

Nadia Halim aka Yaya

Zainal Bostaman

Maria Grace Koh (Eia), the official hostess for this year’s WCOPA 2015

Jeffrey E. Cadayong, National Director of WCOPA Brunei Darussalam

The Brunei delegates with Eia, Joanna and Jeffrey during the preview showcase of Brunei delegates of WCOPA 2015

 

Mathien Malan Kasim and Ryan Nicholas Elicay winning second and first respectively at the ASEAN Universities International English Speech Competition that was held at Thepsatri Rajabhat University in Lopburi, Thailand

Two students from Universiti Brunei Darussalam battled out 34 other contestants to capture the first and second place at the ASEAN Universities International English Speech Competition that was held at Thepsatri Rajabhat University in Lopburi, Thailand two weeks ago.

Ryan Nicholas Elicay emerged as the champion of the competition and Mathien Malan Kasim finished as the first runner-up. Both the students are Professional Communications and the Media majors from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.

Ryan, whose speech was entitled ‘What single ASEAN country could you learn the most from’ quoted, “It was definitely one of the best moments in my life. I would like to thank Dr. Chris Woo, our coach, for his tremendous efforts in ensuring that we had winning speeches, spending so many hours perfecting our speeches and our delivery. And of course the University for giving us the opportunity to take part in the competition. We hope we have made the University and the country proud.”

With the experience that the two students have gained from the competition, they would wish to represent UBD in many other competitions that will be held in the future. Image courtesy of Dr. Chris Woo.

Ryan Nicholas Elicay receiving the first place for the competition

The representative finalists from ASEAN for the competition

 

From 30-31 January 9am to 5pm, you are eligible for a $100 service voucher for participating a customer feedback session at Volkswagen Brunei (Maju Motors Sdn Bhd)

 

Click image to register and find out more

For the first time ever, Bruneians will have a chance to get a ticket to Anfield (Liverpool’s home ground) and play against the best of the best in the world in the Standard Chartered Trophy 2015. It’s a futsal tournament format and it will be a 5 a-side format.

This is made possible by Standard Chartered Bank (Brunei) and this tournament opened to everyone even if you are not a Liverpool fan. For your info, SCB is the official sponsor for Liverpool FC club. The announcement was made yesterday at SCB’s Priority Banking Centre.

So do check out Brunei’s time line for the event below and the winners of the Brunei contingent will be sent to Kuala Lumpur for the regional competition in late March. If your team managed to beat both Malaysia and Thailand, your team will be given the green light to Anfield. By the way, all these trips will be all expenses paid by SCB.

The qualifiers are open to Brunei citizens and permanent residents (phew, I have a chance). They must be over 18 years old and are neither professional/semi-professional players. SCB Brunei has allocated 14 berths to their key stakeholders and 10 more slots are up for grabs.

Each team shall consist of seven players, and those selected will have to pay a registration fee of $100 – which will go to the Humanitarian Fund of the Malaysian Flood Disaster. So this means that if they are more than 24 slots, SCB Brunei organising team will go through the selection process and based the selection on the short essay on why you want to be part of this event. Once you are selected, the $100 registration will be come into play. So if you are registering online, you won’t be charged $100 straight away. Good luck in registering your team.

You can click here for the registration. The closing date is 10th February 2015.

This event is made possible by SCB Brunei and they are very grateful with the support by inistry of Culture, Youth and Sports and endorsed by the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) in assisting SCB Brunei with the upcoming event.

Ng Yick Wei, Head of Brand and Marketing at SCB Brunei, Marilyn Graeme, Head of Corporate Affairs at SCB, Hj Mohd Noor Hj Hamid, Department of Youth and Sports official, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and also a NFABD committee, Hj Aslan Hj Tengah, Supervisor Sport Organisation, Sports Department, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports during the announcement of Standard Chartered Trophy 2015 at SCB’s Priority Banking yesterday

Yay, we were given Liverpool goodies from SCB Brunei

 

Mr. Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank, giving his welcoming remarks

Guests during the relaunch of Baiduri Bank

Baiduri Bank recently officially re-launched its branch at The Mall, Gadong following recent major renovation and upgrading works. The opening ceremony was officiated by the Bank’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Pierre Imhof, who was joined by 11 of the Bank’s pioneer customers in the symbolic cutting of the ribbon.

In his welcome remarks, Mr. Imhof thanked the guests for their loyalty and confidence in Baiduri Bank, adding “It is an honour for us to have our pioneer customers who are still active with us here today. They have been a part of us throughout our 20 year journey, and we look forward to continuing our journey together with them into the future”.

The Bank’s Mall Branch first began operations in 2004, setting the record as the first bank in Brunei with an in-mall outlet as well as operating 7 days a week.

Elaborating on the branch upgrade, Mr. Imhof said, “Our branch network configuration project is a part of our initiatives to enhance customer experience. We constantly upgrade our branches to meet evolving customer needs. The investments we are making to this branch will make for a more welcoming environment for customers to carry out their banking transactions as well as a conducive working environment for our staff. This, we believe, is key to enhancing overall customer experience.”

The refurbished branch features modern and contemporary décor to reflect the dynamism and innovative spirit of Baiduri Bank and offers full banking services to individuals and businesses as well as complimentary personal financial planning consultation. The upgraded premises also have free Wi-Fi as well as more ATMs to cater to the growing number of customers transacting electronically.

Following the launch, guests were taken on a tour of the branch premises led by Ms. Alvina Chung, Regional Manager of Brunei-Muara District and Dayang Vivi Rudynanissmah Hj Mamud, Manager of the Mall Branch.

Also present at the ceremony were Mr. Ti Eng Hui, Deputy CEO of Baiduri Bank, Mr. Andrew Young, Deputy General Manager – Operations Management Division, Diversification & Strategic Development, Haji Haliluddin bin Dato Haji Talib, General Manager of Baiduri Finance, Pengiran Azaleen bin Pengiran Dato Haji Mustapha, Head of Retail Banking and Branch Network and a host of senior executives from the Bank. Images courtesy of Vincent Hong.

 

Rano’s take of 2014 movies with special guest @delgoh and Zul

 

Click image to see Consumer Fair 15 schedule for the weekend

 

12 Art toys bearing the Peugeot emblem – Léo’z Art toys. Now available at Peugeot Boutique in Kiarong showroom

Peugeot has unveiled at Peugeot Boutique in Kiarong showroom its first series of 12 Art toys bearing the Peugeot emblem: lions known as Léo’z. This series developed with PEUGEOT DESIGN LAB, in partnership with the company ARTOYZ, is available from Peugeot showroom starting January 28, 2015.

The series consists of 12 lions, 6 of which were designed by internationally renowned artists: Huck Gee (UK), 64 Colors (USA), Bunka (France), DGPH (Argentina), Tikka NG (Hong Kong), Koralie (France), and the other 6 by the PEUGEOT DESIGN LAB designers: Claire Panel (France), Thomas Josson (France), Damian O’ Hara (Ireland), Hossein Borojeni (France), Flora Tai & Guillaume Daniel (France). The adorable lions measure at 3 inches or 8 cm, and are perfect for Vinyl Figure enthusiasts or car memorabilia lovers.

Léo’z Art toys will be sold at Peugeot Kiarong showroom. Two additional versions, less common and in smaller quantity, have also found their way into this collection.

Each Art Toy on sale is the fruit of an artistic process, and involving lengthy and painstaking work, drawing inspiration from worlds as diverse as contemporary art, poetry, chemistry, origami, architecture, fashion…These unique objects form a link between the world of childhood, by adopting the design of the brand’s lion soft toy mascot created by Christophe Pialat (France), and the grown-up world.

Check out the vLéo’z Art toys

 

Laksamana College now offering degree programmes from the University of Chester

Finally after years of waiting, Laksamana College of Business (LCB) is able to provide a degree course under the programme from the University of Chester. Some of the courses included are such as BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance (3 years), BA (Hons) Business Management (3 years), BA (Hons) Marketing (3 years) and BSc (Hons) Computer Science (3 years).

Late last year, LCB Chief Operating Officer S Sivarajah said the college received the approval letter from the Brunei Darussalam National Accreditation Council.

This would mean that you won’t have to travel all the way to the UK to get a degree and still get certified by a university and endorsed by Brunei Darussalam National Accreditation Council.

LCB currently has more than a thousand active students. Sivarajah said that he expects a high demand from both parents and students as the course offers them an alternative route to receiving a British university education. Sivarajah said the annual cost of the degree programme in the UK is about £10,000 ( BND 20,369) on average, whereas the college is able to offer the courses at BND 9,500. Now that is an affordable fee (almost 50 percent off).

Now LCB is opening for registration for February 2015 intake. A good way to start your undergraduate programme at Laksamana College of Business. For more info, you can call 223 8816 or 223 8818.