BMOn
Skin Food Brunei launches the renewed Premium Lettuce & Cucumber Watery line. It is an upgraded version of the previous Lettuce & Cucumber line which had been in the market for the past 8 years..
The Premium Lettuce & Cucumber Watery Line has a higher percentage of the key ingredients and contains premium grade of sustainable lettuce and cucumber plants from one of Korea’s 100 stars farm , the Jang-an farm. In addition the line contains witch hazel extract and parsley extract which hydrates and prevents break outs.
The line has six products ranging from cream to toner and a skin mist spray which helps to cool and refresh the skin after a hot day.
Skin Food is one of the top skin and body care brands, that is well known for their plant and fruit based products that incorporate natural ingredients to “feed the skin”.
In conjunction with the upcoming 2015 Australian Open, Grand Motors Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of Kia vehicles in Brunei Darussalam conducted the Kia Lucky Drive to Australia promotion from 1st September to 30th November 2014.
Almost 650 customers who purchased Kia vehicles were qualified in this promotion. However, only 10 participants were shortlisted last 3 December to qualify for the grand draw. The grand draw was held as culmination of this promo at the Kia Showroom last 5th December. Present during the draw was Grand Motors Sdn Bhd’s Managing Director – Mr. Frankie Ho, Executive Director – Haji Shaiful Rizal Bin Pehin Dato DR Haji Ahmad, Baiduri Finance Berhad’s Sales Manager Sales Manager – Hj Muhammad Ali Bin BM Hj Metusin and from BIBD AT-Tamwil Berhad’s Operation Manager Hj Md Said Bin Hj Zania, Assistant Marketing & PR Manager – Asharul Bin Norshari Kamaluddin.
Maslina Bte Baha was the lucky winner who walked away with a trip for two to Australia while Budiman Bin Ambai won with a Macbook Air, while Md Ridaudin bin Ahmad Obaidah won a brand new iPhone 6.
Maslina Bte Baha won a trip for two to Australia, Budiman Bin Ambai won with a Macbook Air and Md Ridaudin bin Ahmad Obaidah won a brand new iPhone 6
The prizes as part of KIA lucky draw prizes
ZALORA, Asia’s Online Fashion Destination, launched its first ever digital pop-up store at the DST Carnival 2014.
The 300 square-feet pop-up store is equipped with iPads and tablets that will allow customers to browse through the ZALORA website with ease. Shoppers had the opportunity to try on the apparels in the store and at the same time experience online shopping with the cashless transaction offer at the digital pop-up store.
“We are excited to join the DST Carnival in Brunei. We are giving Brunei shoppers a chance to experience a new form of shopping,” said Marketing Director of ZALORA, Luca Barberis. “ZALORA is committed to delivering the latest fashion anywhere in South East Asia and now it’s the time for Brunei shoppers to enjoy the digital pop-up store experience,” he added.
During the carnival, shopaholics in Brunei had the chance to explore a new shopping experience exclusively from ZALORA, featuring ZALORA’s own private labels such as ZALORA and ZALIA. Items at the store ranged from between BND12 to BND76, the store displayed an assortment of shoes, bags, dresses and other ensembles and was open to walk-in customers for three days, with exclusive and exciting discounts available during the final hours of the DST Carnival.
Marketing Director of ZALORA, Luca Barberis, at ZALORA first ever digital pop-up store at DST Carnival 2014 last weekend
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I love Siem Reap
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Add fashion’s finishing touches to your outfit with statement jewelry from Malppy’s Elegant Short Necklace this weekend! Only $14.90 this weekend instead of its usual $25.90, beautifully designed to set the tone of your whole outfit, whether you are getting ready for that party or stepping out on the high street, this elegant vibrant necklace can complete your look.
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As the yearly happy holiday season is closing in, Malppy has selected a whole new range of beautiful and latest fashion accessories design from Korea with their Silver Series for this special month. Should it be a yearly self reward for yourself or a great seasonal gift of love for your loved ones, either way it is affordable yet looking all classy. So head up to http://www.malppy.com/index.php?route=product/latest now to browse through the varieties they have in store. Also keep your eyes on our facebook page as we are preparing something extra for those who celebrate Christmas & the upcoming New Year.
At the last note, for those who simply want to grab a BIG bargain particularly with our fashion accessories, you MUST NOT miss out on our latest launch, the 2nd Basket Program. 2nd Basket stands for purchase with purchase just like how it was practiced in departmental stores or supermarkets. Simply choose one main product and you can get up to 3 discounted item at a grab. The program had only been launched last week and we are already seeing massive savings done by some very fast shoppers. No joke! Have a browse at their 2nd Basket section at http://www.malppy.com/second-basket and if you want to know more on how to use it, you can also go to http://www.malppy.com/pavblog/blog&id=41 for further information.
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I haven’t been consistent in my updates on RA and the reason being is that I’m currently outstation and in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This is my third trip back to Siem Reap and it has been awesome apart from the slight showers. We were supposed to visit the temple with a bunch of friends but the weather wasn’t favourable. Today we will have another opportunity again to visit Angkor Wat during the day. Let’s hope for some good weather.
So peeps. I won’t be updating my blog for some time now so I can allow myself to enjoy the moments in Siem Reap which I have a few days left. Oh by the way, there will be a few Bruneians coming in to Siem Reap for the upcoming Angkor Wat Marathon. I do hope I have time to drop by and take some pictures. We shall see.
I would have thought my luggage would have been lower than 20K but no…. it hit the right spot 😀
For many years, we have been traveling buddies and truly appreciate the friendship that we have.
I’m actually quite impressed with the infrastructure of KLIA 2 (low cost terminal for AirAsia) because it seems to be more happening with tons of food & beverage outlets and shops around. It’s like millions way better than their older airport (LCCT).
This outlet, Hometown, is better than Old Town actually. Do try the steamed roti kawin.
Quite an affordable hotel at Tunes Hotel and I was skeptical in the beginning but the energy was quite welcoming and judging from the reception and the interior design at the lobby, I could tell the rooms would be just perfect for a short stay in KL.
Even the key slot for the room at Tunes Hotel look very savvy
The room is quite spacious and it costs below USD 60 per night
Arrived at Siem Reap last Monday and it seems the airport has not changed from the exterior bit. My last visit was back in 2011 and I was impressed that even my PR status passport didn’t require Visa unless you are staying more than 14 days.. Awesome!!! Thank you to the government of Cambodia for this.
Once you at the arrival hall, you will come across these kiosks and just look at the prices they offer. It’s quite competitive in Siem Reap where they have 5 telcos selling sim cards with data at very dirt cheap price. For USD 5, I could get a sim card and 3.5 GIGA data. Awesome!!! The line I chose was Cellcard (orange company)
A warm soothing welcome at Angkor Palace Resort & Spa. Actually, it doesn’t feel like a resort because there’s no beach around the hotel.
This is my current room and I will be staying here a few more nights. Pleasure to have Vincent Goh of Netcom Computer House as my roommate
We came to this desert place in city and wow, we were impressed with all the desserts. Highly recommended at L’Anexxe. Do google in and for those Bruneians coming down here for the Angkor Wat marathon, do try out this French cafe. There was also a small pool table for us to play.
Catching up with friends for dinner at Madam Butterfly.
One thing I like about Angkor Palace is the huge pool
Another amazing friend who I truly appreciate and thank you for believing, Pat!
The tuk-tuk ride to the city of Siem Reap and the riders are much more gentle compared to the ones in Bangkok. Make sure you don’t pay more than USD 3 per trip 😀
Few days ago this happened to my left eye and my eyes were pretty itchy too. I’m not sure if it’s the antibiotics that I have been taking because it stopped itchy after I stopped taking them.
The DST Carnival 2014 launches today, Friday 5th December 2014 at DST Headquarters in Tungku Link and will end on Sunday 7th December 2014. DST will also launch the new “Redemption Feature” as part of the Easi Loyalty Program along with Kristal Astro’s new MyKA account payment portal!
The official launch is set to take place today at 3.45PM and DST invites the public to witness the event and to enjoy the attractions offered at the DST Carnival this year which include exciting activities, games and special promotions on DST products and services exclusive for visitors!
Customers can take advantage on the various product and services promotions and offers by DST exclusively launched for visitors to the DST Carnival.
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DST’s Corporate Social Responsibility program, “Future Series”, is an initiative to create platforms to nurture promising Bruneian ICT companies through investing in the companies to generate business opportunities aimed to drive innovation and creativity in Brunei. DST also has a community program, “Ihsan Kasih” aimed to gather DSTians for voluntary work and to do beautiful things out of love, to help the less fortunate Bruneian, orphans and special needs community.
With both continuous commitments in our products and services and also to the Bruneian community, DST works to our main purpose of catalysing Brunei’s economic diversification via ICT, whilst investing in human capital development and nurturing domestic entrepreneurship.
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Catch Liyana Yus and Nadiah on stage on 6th December at DST Carnival. Image courtesy of @liyanaus
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IGNITE Awards 2014
After an intense journey through the annual iCentre IGNITE Entrepreneurship Challenge, winners of the challenge are now ready to embark on their entrepreneurship journey to contribute towards redefining the economic environment of Brunei Darussalam.
At the IGNITE Entrepreneurship Challenge Awards showcase yesterday, Berkshire Hall, Jerudong Royal Polo Club, Director of KR Consulting and NUS Enterprise Brian Koh said the challenge aims to provide a learning and experiential journey in developing a technology business venture.
The director highlighted the significant increase in submissions in the open category, with the challenge receiving a total of 159 submissions this year.
“The IGNITE Entrepreneurship Challenge is the starting point of the entrepreneurship journey, and at the iCentre, we will continue to assist founders with great passion to develop best of breed solutions for both the local and overseas markets” said the director adding that the iCentre would provide further assistance in developing ideas of participants that did not proceed to the final rounds.
The iCentre in the beginning of the participant’s entrepreneurship journey organised a series of workshops and forums, focusing on ‘Ideation’ and emerging trends in the ‘Internet of Things’. These were opportunities provided to participants to equip them with insights to better develop their ideas and products geared towards assisting in the development of a comprehensive business plans for submissions said the director.
Sitting down: Haji Minorhadi Haji Mirhassan, BIBD, Queh Ser Pheng, AITI, Dr Haji And Manaf Hji Metussin, BEDB, Dato Paduka Haji Ali Apong, Deputy Minister at Prime Minister’s Office, Chairman of BEDB, Brian Koh, NUS SIngapore, Muhammad Nurshafiee, EGNC and Daniel Leong, BEDB. Image courtesy of Raul Padernal
In a keynote address referring to the steady growth of Brunei’s upcoming entrepreneurs in the creative industry toward Brunei Darussalam’s Vision 2035, Yang Mulia Dato Paduka Awang Haji Ali Bin Haji Apong, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Chairman of the Brunei Economic Development Board in his keynote address said, “The growth of the ICT industry can contribute towards the achievement of Brunei’s Vision 2035 to create a dynamic and sustainable economy of highly skilled and well educated people”.
The Deputy Minister highlighted in a titah by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, in conjunction with the 26th Convocation at Universiti Brunei Darussalam, His Majesty encouraged students to change their mindsets and to be more proactive instead of waiting for jobs, and called upon the education sector to assist the development of research and innovation in the field of entrepreneurship that can contribute to economic growth. Earlier in the year, His Majesty in a Titah highlighted the need for economic growth at a rate of five to six percent per annum, which will increase the national income from $20 billion today to $80 billion by 2035.
The deputy minister further highlighted for youths to look into entrepreneurship as an alternative employment opportunity to contribute to the nation’s economic development.
In a briefing on the process of the final judging round of the challenge, Chief Adjudicator Md Norshafiee Bin Dato Paduka Hj Jalil, Director of the E-Government National Committee said the panel of judges had to deliberate extensively and identifying the winners was challenging because the quality of submissions were very high overall.
The chief adjudicator highlighted the growth of the business plan challenge over the years and praised the challenge as a great opportunity for youths to pursue their ideas and turn them into businesses.
Executive summaries in the earlier round of the challenge was carried out by a selection of judges from industry partners stakeholders. This included from AITI, BEDB and BIBD and many more. From a 159 executive summaries, a total of 41 entries were chosen to proceed to the semi-final round through submission of a full business plan and pitching to final judges. With twelve finalists, yesterday’s award showcase announced the top six participants.
Team YouBusk, Winner of International Award with Brian Koh, Director of KR Consulting.
In the college and university category the students from Institute Teknologi Brunei (ITB) with their project entitled ‘ITB Smart Shower’ claimed victory, with the first runner up went to Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) team NKB ‘Do Tour’ with the second runner up awarded to another ITB team ‘IntelCar Technology’.
In the Open Category, first place was awarded to the two member team Tyne Solutions with their project ‘Pillars’. First place runner up was awarded to a team with their project entitled ‘Uplife’. With so many great ideas, the final panel judges had a very difficult time in awarding the second runner up prize. Lastly, due to the passion and the market opportunity shown in all groups – two teams were awarded the second runner up spot.
The teams awarded for the joint prize with their products ‘Tasche’ and Lighthouse Ideasfarm.The international category was awarded to Singapore based startup ‘YouBusk’.
List of winners
With a tagline ‘Your journey begins now’, the IGNITE Entrepreneurship Challenge was launched on the August 26th this year. Ignite has entered into its seventh run and is an annual event organized by the iCentre and supported by the Brunei Economic Development Board which serves as a platform for identifying, nurturing and showcasing emerging entrepreneurs.
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Get squinty
Acer Aspire
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Free labour charge on repairs for Peugeot
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Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Hj Hazair Hj Abdullah, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports
After weeks of anticipation, Brunei Edutainment Wonderland finally opened to the public last night, with many flocking to the event’s main attraction, the NBT Jurassic Adventure.
The exciting yet educational NBT Jurassic Adventure features replicas of dinosaurs exhibited in an environment resembles their natural habitat.
Visitors to the attraction will feel as if they have been transported back in time to 65 million years ago, when dinosaurs still roamed the earth, while simultaneously learning more about the creatures.
To add to the excitement, visitors may spot some little dinosaurs — raptors — prowling around the park.
A total of 1,100 tickets to enter the NBT Jurassic Adventure was handed over to Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Hj Hazair Hj Abdullah at the launch of the three-week event last Sunday. The tickets — sponsored by Bayu Ilham Motors Sdn Bhd, Concepts Computer, EZY Printing Services & Trading Co Sdn Bhd, Kingston Beverage & Creamery Sdn Bhd and others — will be distributed to orphans in the country.
NGOs such as Pusat Ehsan and the Association for Children with Special Needs (KACA) also received tickets to the dinosaur adventure.
The Brunei Edutainment Wonderland was officially launched last night by YB Pehin Dato Hj Hazair, accompanied by D’Sunlit Sdn Bhd Advisor Pg Salleh Abdul Rahman and D’Sunlit Managing Director Jackson Ting.
The event is ongoing until December 21 at the Jerudong Park and Country Club Amphitheatre Open Court area, and is open from 2.30pm to 11pm on weekdays, and from 9.30am to 11pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Text courtesy of Hafiizah Maideen of The Brunei Times.
Launching the event
Outgoing Russian Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam and thank you for your kind help 🙂
Donations of tickets from PWM
Donations of tickets from Kingston Beverage & Creamery
At NBT Jussaric Adventure
Team BIBD At-tamwil at JKR Sports Complex
BIBD At-Tamwil Berhad and BAG Networks recently hosted a friendly futsal match at JKR Sports Complex on 25th November 2014.
The match saw the participation of 4 teams, two teams from each Company. Both At-Tamwil and BAG saw this as an opportunity to promote a healthy work life balance as well a chance to foster friendly relationships between the two organisations.
The match was well played and concluded with BIBD At-Tamwil emerging as the winner with an impressive score of 6-2. Group photo sessions were then held with the winners, participating teams, as well as a prize presentation ceremony. The Best Player Medal went out to Mohd Farhan Iskandar Shah Ahmad Sah (BIBD At-Tamwil) and Best Goalie Medal went out to Muhammad Asnawy Md Hily (BIBD At-Tamwil) and Best Scorer of the night went out to Khairul Hazwan Hilmi Zulkofli (BAG Networks).
Team BIBD At-tamwil and team BAG Networks
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The final month
Acer Aspire
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Free labour charge on repairs for Peugeot
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Displaying the latest Mercedes-Benz GLA during Jati Transport Appreciation Day yesterday at the Beribi Showroom
Pg Anak Jaafar Ibni Almarhum Pg Pemancha Pg Anak Hj Mohd Alam, Executive Chairman of Jati Transport
There were tons of family games for the public
One of the games during the event yesterday
The entertaining clown showing some magic trick to the audience
Participation by one of the kids
Face painting and henna for the public especially the kids
Tons of food but I preferred London Kebab then. Yummy!!!
Finishing my meal with Mr. Softy’s ice-cream #score
I’ve tried this particular Satay Burger before back in Singapore months ago. So I’m quite glad that Sinofood Express, the franchisee of the Burger King franchise, officially launch this special flavoured burger which unfortunately will be available for a limited time only.
Why I recommend you the Satay Burger is simple. A real satay sauce rich in spices and peanuts with real quality meat that is juicy and flavourful. This will be available until 31st December 2014. So do hurry and grab yourself a Satay Burger.
The best part about this is that you have the choice – either a flame-grilled WHOPPER beef patty or a flame-grilled Tendergrill – sandwiched between a lightly toasted sesame seed bun topped with sliced onions and drizzle generously with satay sauce made using crunchy peanuts.
You can follow Burger King of their Facebook Page or instagram @burgerkingbrunei. Did you know that Burger King will be opening a few more outlets pretty soon. I shall keep you posted on that.
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Siam Reap revisited
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Dato Dr Isham Jaafar, Executive and Medical Director of JPMC presented cheque to Jamary Danggat, the President of Brunei Darussalam Association of the Blind. Also present in this image were Chris Carvalho, Hospital Administrator of JPMC and Ak Danny, Marketing Officer of JPMC
The cheque was presented by Dato Paduka Dr Hj Isham bin Hj Jaafar, Executive and Medical Director of JPMC to Jamary Danggat, BDNAB President. Also in attendance at the cheque presentation were sponsors as well as social media partner, Rano Iskandar of Rano Adidas.
The donation that amounted to BND 1106.20 was collected during the JPMC Charity Car Boot Sale that was held at the Jerudong Park and Country Club on the 9th of November in conjunction with the World Sight Day this year.
According to Ak Danny, Marketing Officer from JPMC, the contribution was collected from registration fees from vendors, activities at the charity car boot sale and donations that were collected at the event.
‘We believe that this donation will benefit greatly towards the Brunei Darussalam National Association of the Blind which is a non-profit organisation towards its objectives to raise awareness related to blindness in the country’, he added.
‘This project has further established a sense of community and strong support that exists between JPMC staff members that were involved. We hope to organise more similar events in the future’, said Ak Danny.
Ak Danny with the report of the JPMC Charity Car Boot Sale
Guest in attendance
Presentation of certificate of appreciation to Archmedia
Presentation of certificate of appreciation to KWAD
Presentation of certificate of appreciation to JPCC
Liyana Yus making an appearance during the JPMC Car Boot Sale
Face painting at JPMC Car Boot Sale
The charity project that was held on the 9th November received a very encouraging response where a total of 47 vendors registered for the Charity Car Booth.
It was held in conjunction with the ‘World Sight Day’ that was celebrated on the 12th October this year.
The recent Charity Car Boot Event was supported by Arch Media Advertising, DCON Facilities and Souvenirs and Kwang Wei Advertising and Displays Co as well as Ranoadidas.com as official media partner for the event.
The World sight Day 2014 which brings the theme “No More Avoidable Blindness” is a day that is dedicated to pledging perfect vision for every individual on earth. This event receives global attention every year.
JPMC has a strong focus on sustainability towards health, environment and corporate social responsibilities. It has been featured in countless community-driven activities and programmes from cleaning campaigns to recycling projects, and is constantly looking forward towards ‘what’s next’.
Event organiser Mas Mohammad Zulfadhly Haji Osman said Movember is celebrated around the world in November to raise awareness about men’s health issues especially prostate and testicular cancer which are rarely discussed in public.
Contestants were required to pledge growing their facial hair for the whole month of November to join the competition.
They were also encouraged to post up photos of their progress with #movemberbn on social media.
Fyad Ali was crowned champion based on the style and features of his moustache and received grooming products from Chaps & Rebels Barbershop.
“Cleanliness and extra supplement for the body is essential,” said Chaps & Rebels Barbershop owner Bung Jae, adding he fully supports the cause to shed more light on the lack of education on men’s health.
Customised T-shirts were also on sale at the event at The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, The Mall. Forty per cent of the profit from the sale will go to the movember.com fund. Text courtesy of Norliha Din of The Brunei Times.
One of the contestants posing for the camera
One of the finalists of the competition
Leiley came 2nd in the competition
The Top Six finalists
Winner Fyad Ali and 2nd place Leiley
The winners with the sponsors, Chaps & Rebels Barbershop and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and the organiser
Group photo
Delwin Keasberry of Bruneitweet with the organiser and the winners
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Think before you act
Satay Burger is out in Burger King
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This is one interesting case that I’ve been following for the past months because of the magnitude of the lawsuit and the involvement of the Indian community in Brunei Darussalam. Recently the Indian Chamber of Commerce lost an appeal by the Court of Appeal. It was regards to the libel action filed by businessmen Ramesh Jiwatram Bhawnani and Abdul Hamid Abas of YMRM Galleria.
As written on June 16, 2014 in The Brunei Times, the plaintiffs (Ramesh Jiwatram Bhawnani and Abdul Hamid Abas ) sued a registered society Indian Chamber of Commerce and the 25 defendants as members of the society for libel (refer to the names below at the illustration). Ok, libel means a published false statement that is damaging to a person’s reputation or in other words, a written defamation. So in this case, the Indian Chamber of Commerce has written a defamation on both Ramesh Jiwatram Bhawnani and Abdul Hamid Abas.
The society and 24 of its members, according to court documents, are being sued by plaintiffs Ramesh Jiwatram Bhawani and Abdul Hamid Abas for libel on grounds that between April 5, 2010 and November 29, 2010, the Indian Chamber of Commerce wrote letters allegedly containing libelous statements to the Indian High Commission.
The Indian Chamber of Commerce had applied to court to “strike out” the case against them because they said the letters having been sent to the Indian High Commission were subject to immunity. The court said no such immunity applied.
In the recent, publication of The Brunei Times, “The appeal is dismissed,” the Court of Appeal said. “There will be an order that the respondents’ costs of this appeal be taxed if not agreed and paid by the appellants.”
For previous news and updates of the case, you can click here, here and here from The Brunei Times.
Representing the Indian Chamber of Commerce is Siva Sankaran from Sankaran Halim & Associates while representing Ramesh Jiwatram Bhawani and Abdul Hamid Abas is Pengiran Izad of Pg Izad and Lee which won the case.
The names illustrated by The Brunei Times.
Let this be a learning lesson for all of us that “libel” is a serious offense. You can seriously land yourself into huge trouble and even at a very high cost. There was one case where a legal firm demanded $3 million compensation in the High Court against a local printing company for libel by calling the lawyers “piranhas, vultures and scavengers” back in 2002. In the end, the Brunei High Court in a landmark defamation suit awarded a prominent legal firm and the lawyers BND 673,488 in damages against the local printing company. Source: [Borneo Bulletin, 2002].
So do be careful what you type or write before posting and even I’m being careful in my blog posting as my intention is to help create awareness to the public especially matters like this.
The Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) in collaboration with Brunei Press Sdn Bhd will be organising a photo contest in conjunction with the World AIDS Day event that is celebrated globally every 1st December.
The theme of the World AIDS Day this year is “Getting To Zero” and the photo contest will also signify the theme and represent ‘Healthy Lifestyle’ images.The event is supported by Manning Jaya Trading (B) Sdn Bhd, Interhouse Company, Mc Quipp Technisell Marketing Sdn Bhd and Medicorp Sdn Bhd.
“The photo contest aims to boost participation from the members of the public and encourage them to present their creativity in the field of photography. We believe that in this age where social networking is at its peak, there are a lot of photography enthusiasts who are waiting for their time to flourish in this field. I believe this will be a great platform for them to present their skills to the world,” said AK Danny, JPMC Marketing Officer.
“We are delighted to partner with JPMC in conjunction with the World AIDS Day Photo contest 2014. Through this event, I believe it well help to create awareness of this global pandemic and at the same time educate people on its prevention,” said Hazizah Osman, Deputy General Manager of Brunei Press Sdn Bhd.
Ak Danny, JPMC Marketing Officer and Hazizah Osman, Deputy General Manager of Brunei Press Sdn Bhd.
Awesome prizes include a brand new Canon EOS 700D Kit (18-135mm), BND500 cash prize, one year JPMC gym membership as well as a Canon branded cap and power bank for the top prize. Second place will receive BND300 and six months JPMC Gym membership, while third place will receive BND200 and three months JPMC Gym membership.
The photo contest is open to all Brunei Residents except JPMC and Brunei Press staff. The contest runs from 26th November and the last day to submit entries if by 10th December 2014. Entries should be sent to marketing@jpmc.com.bn and all entries should be a minimum resolution of 300dpi.
Recently, JPMC also launched the sales of its commemorative Red Ribbon pins to collect funds for the Brunei Darussalam AIDS Council. The annual charity project is still ongoing and the Red Ribbon pins will be available at all JPMC counters at $3 each.
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So Nice
Shoppers, on your mark: It’s the Weekend again and Malppy has been coming up with different knock out deals each week. This weekend is no exception and this time it’s even better! Introducing their latest promotion program which they called it the 2ndBasket, otherwise commonly known as Purchase with Purchase in the departmental stores or supermarkets. Their second basket items vary from accessories like earrings to necklaces and bracelets which you can get it at a fraction of the original price. You will be entitled to purchase 3 of their price saving 2nd Basket item if you buy any one of their main item.
To find out more about their 2nd Basket Promotion program, please click here
LAST REMINDER: We have come to the last weekend of Movember in a blink of an eye. Don’t miss out the chance to grab your FREE Movember String Bag which worth $23.90 in their malppy store now. You just need to purchase $50 above in one transaction and the Movember String Bag is yours for FREE. 2 more days till the end of November. Head on to Malppy.com now!
Review of Penguins of Madagascar with co-host Del Goh. Was it a hit or miss? Do find out!!
The Energy Kitchen, Brunei’s first truly healthy restaurant is proud to present Jason Lew as its new Executive Chef. The addition of Chef Jason to our international team of both local and international chefs will further improve what is already one of Brunei’s Best Healthy Restaurants. Chef Jason has been in the food industry since he was 19, with professional training and very inspiring work experience in Australia. On top of that, he has previously worked for 5 star international hotel chain where he has the opportunity to pick up fine dining skills in the kitchen. Prior to joining The Energy Kitchen, he also made a name for himself as a home-based caterer under his brand The Fat Chef, cooking up creative feasts and hosting dinners for a wide variety of events and functions.
Inspired by The Energy Kitchen’s healthy vision and His Majesty’s titah, which is to build a healthier nation in the country, Chef Jason decided to embark on a transformational journey from “Fat Chef” to “Fit Chef”. He took up the challenge to do something truly different with food, that is to continue to create delicious food, but with a twist to make it truly healthy and exciting.
According to Wu Chun, “In addition to his new, healthier approach to food, Chef Jason’s newfound commitment to his health also involves undergoing rigorous fitness training and frequent brainstorming with the certified dietician at Fitness Zone. Together with The Energy Kitchen, Chef Jason is keen to show Brunei what ‘REAL FOOD’ is all about – fresh food, made from scratch with minimal processing, high nutritional value (Superfoods!) and lighter cooking methods (no deep frying!).”
Chef Jason added, “Their mission is to show Brunei that healthy food does not have to be bland, boring or plain. In fact, it is entirely possible to enjoy tasty, wholesome food daily, and continue to lead a healthy lifestyle.”
Wu Chun of Energy Kitchen, holding a new inspired dish, Grilled Chicken Satay Beehon, with Chef Jason of Energy Kitchen
In conjunction with the announcement, The Energy Kitchen is introducing a number of new healthy dishes that owner Wu Chun and Chef Jason have been working on. The new Grilled Chicken Satay Beehoon is a delicious combination of brown rice vermicelli tossed in signature Almond Satay Sauce, egg, blanched kangkong, and succulent cumin grilled lean chicken breast. The Beef Stew is slow cooked with root vegetables, served with refreshing herbed quinoa tossed with raisins and cucumber. The Energy Kitchen’s version of Gado-Gado, their Nihon Gyu (Japanese inspired) burger and few other new dishes will also be added to the menu.
The Energy Kitchen held its grand opening last month and it has been in operation for 6 months now. The response has been great, as the market for healthy food is growing fast and The Energy Kitchen couldn’t be more proud in helping to spearhead this trend. The Energy Kitchen will continue its quest to prove that you can go for a healthy makan that is good for your body and can be simple, innovative and always great tasting.
So why don’t you pop in and give The Energy Kitchen a try? Your body won’t regret it.
To know more, do visit The Energy Kitchen’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/theenergykitchen, follow them on Instagram @theenergykitchen. The Energy Kitchen’s operation hours are 7.30am til 10.30pm. Reservations can be made by calling 2233323. Text and image courtesy of Energy Kitchen.
Synopsis of Amas
A local drama education organisation – SEEDS – is ready to perform its own original production titled “Amas” for their annual year-end activity.
SEEDS have been producing their own versions of some of the famous musicals such as Oliver!, Willy Wonka, Into the Woods, Wicked and Lion King for the past five years. This year, the team took an exciting challenge of writing their own original show set in Brunei.
The original production features “Amas” who is a 115 year old lady dreaming of the past. The audience will be taken back in time to her childhood years in Kampong Ayer, when exciting and challenging developments were afoot in Brunei.
With the background of life on the water village and relationships with her parents and family friends, Amas recalls a time when she was a mischievous 10-year-old during the beginning of schools and formal education, as well as later when she was 20 and training to be a teacher, and a discovery of oil that promised prosperity for all.
The play will surely take the audience on a memorable journey back in time, reminiscing the sights and sounds, traditions and music of old Kampong Ayer. Text courtesy of Hafiizah Maideen of The Brunei Times.
Tickets are still available at a priced of $15 each selling outside the Multi-Purpose Hall, Universiti Brunei Darussalan (UBD) and are available from 2-5pm and 7-10pm (excluding Thursday) until show time!. For more information and changes on time, don’t hesitate to contact SEEDS at their social media accounts Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/seedsbrunei or Twitter @seedsbrunei.
The casts and crew of Amas during their preview night a few nights ago. Sorry, I couldn’t make it.
Images courtesy of SEEDS Brunei
One of the scenes from Amas
Grab your tickets now and support our local talents
The APICTA is an international awards program which aims to increase ICT awareness in the community and bridge the digital divide. By providing networking and product benchmarking opportunities to ICT innovators and entrepreneurs in the region, the program is designed to stimulate ICT innovation and creativity, promote economic and trade relations, facilitate technology transfer, and offer business matching opportunities through exposure to venture capitalists and investors.
Participants of the awards program comprise of members of the APICTA Alliance. APICTA’s 17 member-economies include Australia, Brunei, China, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Korea, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam.
The delegation is led by Hj Yahkup bin Haji Menudin, Chief Executive of the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI), who is also the Chairman of the BICTA 2014 working committee.
Brunei’s executive member representatives at APICTA committee are Hj Yahkup bin Hj Menudin, Chief Executive of AITI and Wallace Koh, Advisor of AITI, who will be attending the APICTA 2014 event and annual APICTA General Meeting.
Brunei also sends 5 representatives as APICTA 2014 Judges who will be judging the competition in different categories. These judges are Hj Osman bin Hj Ladis and Wallace Koh Hoe Aik from AITI, Pg Sarimah bte Pg Abd Latiff from IFB, Jennifer Voon from Institut Teknologi Brunei (ITB) and Jeremy Chua from iCentre.
Brunei delegation led by Hj Yahkup bin Haji Menudin, Chief Executive of the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) with the Brunei teams competing for this year’s APICTA 2014 in Jakarta. Taken at Brunei International Airport.
These six teams competing are:
Chung Hwa Middle School, BSB with “Heritage of South East Asia”;
Kolej International Graduate Studies (IGS) with “Virtual Watch Fitting”;
Sekolah Vokasional Nakhoda Ragam with the product “SVNR Staff Network”;
Institut Teknologi Brunei (ITB) with “The Sulu Princess”;
Teleconsult Sdn Bhd with “Teleconsult SkyEye”; and
PHMD Publishing Company with the project “Salam Halal”.
Participation in APICTA is a continuous initiative by the Ministry of Communications to develop the country’s ICT industry by allowing ICT product developers to compete on an international level. Brunei Darussalam teams who win at APICTA will be given a grant of $50,000 by AITI to further develop and enhance their product to become a marketable product. The 2nd prize or Merit Award winners will be given a grant of $25,000.
At APICTA 2013, Brunei Darussalam won two Merit awards by Chung Hwa Middle School, KB with the product “Higher Education Guidance System (Hedges)“ and Institut Teknologi of Brunei (ITB) with the product “AutiSay”. Press release and image courtesy of AITI.
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The Russian Experience
Things I learnt about Russia during my short visit. I still can’t believe that I made it to Russia despite holding an ICI document (my passport as a PR of Brunei). Knowing that countries like Dubai and Vietnam don’t recognize our ICI document, I was worried if I would trouble in Russia. It’s a great thing that there’s a Brunei Embassy in Moscow which helped us in a lot of ways. My only regret is not staying a few days longer in Moscow after my work duty. I would have stayed longer if it wasn’t for my upcoming Cambodia trip this weekend.
Anyway, below are just some short pointers during my 5 days experience in Sochi and Moscow but more in Sochi, Russia. I shall be updating and editing this content from time to time.
The Brunei delegates representing at the World Robot Olympiad 2014 led by Satinah binti Hj Abang, Student Officer of Science Technology and Environment Partnership (STEP) Centre. This photo was taken at Domodedovo International Airport, Moscow, Russia.
• It’s a freaking huge country that you will need to take nine hours to fly from Moscow to Vladivostok (furthest end of Russia) according to His Excellency Haji Haini bin Haji Hashim, the Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to the Russian Federation. It has a population of 144 million and it is the largest country in the world though China still holds the biggest population in the world.
• Moscow, the capital city of Russia but I spent more of my time in Sochi which is two hours away by flight. Moscow is way more happening than Sochi.
• The area we stayed in near Olympic Park is where the Sochi Winter Olympics 2014 took place as well as the Russian F1 Grand Prix. However, after the big events, the Olympic Park area is like a ghost town which reminds me of BSB after business working hours.
• Not many of them speak the English language so communication can be very difficult. We were lucky that the Brunei Embassy has Natasha/Natalia who is the Embassy’s translator and she does help a lot especially when it comes to checking in the hotel as well as at the airport.
• Do watch for fraudulent taxis and we tourists are already being warned with signages at the baggage claim area of the Domodedovo International Airport, Moscow. For instance, the taxi driver will give you a flat rate then upon arrival of your destination (hotel), you will be charged extra because of the number of luggages you bring or the type of taxi you used or the distanced traveled. Just do look out for the official taxi driver tags that they wear.
• You are not allowed to sit down on the floor at the airport. That’s understandable. But I was told off even when I was just sitting down on my luggage. The security told me to find a proper seating area to sit down.
• It’s encouraged to pay with their local currency, Rubles, and not in Euro or USD. Unless you are at the airport area, they accept both Euro and USD. Apparently, there is an ATM machine that helps to change your Euro or USD notes to Rubles. If you look out for the green coloured machines, that’s the one and it has English instructions.
• The drivers are pretty aggressive in terms of speed. I came across a few ones that would simply drive fast in the hotel area and brake promptly at the entrance of the hotel.
• Though I didn’t get to venture out at Moscow, the traffic congestion is one of the worst according to Hanafi. The peak hours starts from 7am to ……. 10pm *lol* Apparently, for the Russians, the traffic flow currently is considered a huge improvement from many years. So I can’t imagine how it was like back then.
• The magazines and books are all in Russian language. I couldn’t find anything written in English.
• Sochi Town is slightly backwards compared to Moscow. I ventured around and most of the shops reminds me of the early 90s era in terms of clothing and infrastructure of the shops. Yes, they are slightly old school stuff. I couldn’t even find an international brand and closest one I came across is the McDonald’s brand.
• My train experience was interesting. I caught the train from Olympic Park (Sochi) to Sochi City which was an hour’s ride. The train doesn’t go as fast as SMRT (Singapore). I’m surprised the train is pretty well maintained and clean too surprisingly. In the train, there was this person pushing a drinking trolley where you can buy canned drinks or hot ones. Interesting. Oh, at each stop of the journey, there will have announcements of the particular stop in English which I truly appreciate.
• They have many roundabouts at Olympic Park area (Sochi). Apparently, instead of having junctions, they use roundabouts. I remembered, during one of our bus trips, the driver didn’t go across the road to enter our destination but instead making one big round just to go to the other side of the road because that particular road has a double line.
• The roadblocks are carried out at the exit of the roadblocks. The policemen don’t use cones or signs like we do in Brunei. The policemen will use their batons to signal the drivers to pull over. I just find it weird they carry out their duties at the roundabout.
• I mentioned before that the drivers are aggressive. Well, that’s one reason why accidents are quite a norm in Moscow and plus they can claim their insurance within a week. This is also another reason why the roads are congested causing long traffic jams.
• The immigration does take a long time sometimes. If you are lucky, it won’t have to wait. The immigration officers will check your passport thoroughly. I’m always the worried type since I’m holding an ICI document (like a passport) since I’m a PR of Brunei Darussalam. So if you bumped into a rookie or newbie immigration officer, do have some patience. We are fortunate that we have a Brunei Embassy in Russia and the Russian Federation does recognized our ICI document as means of passport.
• The time difference between Moscow/Sochi and Brunei is 5 hours. I would have thought it will be similar to the UK (8 hours). So Moscow is 5 hours behind Brunei.
• You can get a simcard for Data which I did – Megafon. It costs about 300 Rubles ($10) which comes together with the sim card and 5 gig of data. The only set back is that when I bought my sim card at Sochi, it doesn’t seem to work universally when I reached Moscow. Maybe it’s the settings. I’m not pretty sure.
• The airports in Moscow and Sochi provide free Wifi unlike the ones in Dubai International Airport unless you go to McDonald’s to get free Wifi.
• The popular souvenirs are the doll known as Matryoshka and also Sochi Winter Olympics merchandises.
• I never tried bargaining because 1) the language barrier 2) the Russians have this uninviting presence that you will think twice about bargaining *lol*
• Their trademark car is Lada, a local car in Russia which is like their Proton version. I still saw some Japanese and Korean cars too on the road. I even come across a silver Santa Fe, just like mine 😀
• The Russians use more iPhones as compared to Samsung.
• Though Whatsapp is common everywhere else in the world but not for the Russians. Instead they use Viber to text and they only check Whatsapp once in a while.
• In terms of social networking, Russia have two popular local ones – Odnoklassniki and VK (originally known as VKontakte). Facebook is still huge but it’s losing traction against VK as of late. Instagram is also huge in Russia and thanks to the fashion bloggers, and public personalities. The only difficulty for me is understanding the Russian written language on their social network.
Zaitun binti Mohidin, spouse to the Haji Haini bin Haji Hashim, Brunei Ambassador to the Russian Federation, receiving a memento from Sayyidina Umar Al-Khattab Secondary School as a token of appreciation to the Ambassador for the hospitality provided during our stay in Moscow and Sochi, Russia. She’s a former geography teacher in STPRI and also had a short teaching stint in SMJA. She welcomes any Bruneian to pay a visit in Moscow and she will show you all the places of interest too. Thank you for hosting us breakfast and you are down-to-earth person.
I was told off not to sit on the luggage by the airport personnel on duty. Interesting.
This was the furthest I set my foot in Moscow…. outside the Domodedovo International Airport… boohoo.. Maybe on my next trip to Russia.
This is the Burger King in Russia. Too bad they don’t serve taro pie at all.
Their flagship car is Lada. This is the older model and it is still prominent in Russia. Of course, they have much more modern types but still have that classic feel.
The road blocks are conducted at the roundabout area
This is a typical Russian souvenir, a Matryoshka doll
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Zombified
Review of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part I
Big Hero 6 podcast review with co-host @delgoh and special guest @sengyeeciara
Interstellar podcast review with co-host @delgoh
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