Click image to enlarge. Breakfast at McDonald’s

 

Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah receiving certificate of participation from Datin Paduka Hjh Adina, the Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports. Her Royal Highness represented her netball team G-Force who came 4th in the Setia Motors Netball Tournament VIII 2013.

Her Royal Highness of G-Force against Red Butterfly

Her Royal Highness of G-Force against Red Butterfly

Her Royal Highness of G-Force against Red Butterfly

Her Royal Highness of G-Force in action

Her Royal Highness with her team-mates of G-Force

 

Guest of honour, the Minister of Communications cutting the cake to commemorate AITI’s 10 year annivesary with the board members of AITI

Established on 1 January 2003, the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) celebrated its 10th year with a one day carnival held at the AITI premises.

Besides commemorating its 10 years of establishment, the carnival aims to promote and create public awareness on the roles and functions of AITI as Brunei Darussalam’s telecommunications regulator and promoter of the ICT industry.

The Guest of Honour that launched the AITI Carnival was Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdullah bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, Minister of Communications. Also, present at the event was the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Communications and Chairman of AITI, Abdul Mutalib bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Yusof, ambassadors and high commissioners, previous and current AITI Members of Authority, senior officials from various government institutions, representatives from the ICT industry and media.

The launching ceremony today officiated with the cutting of the 10th anniversary cake by the Guest of Honour. In his welcoming remarks, the Chief Executive of AITI, Awang Hj Yahkup bin Hj Menudin, mentioned that his direction will be focusing on telecommunications regulation and growing the local ICT industry in the next three years.

At the same time, the Guest of Honour also launched AITI’s iCare program. The iCare initiative is to introduce a proactive and positive intervention culture in AITI. The objective is to instill proactive and positive intervention behavior among AITI staff to value life; to care for people around them; to care for Health, Safety, Security, the Environment and the organization.

The invited guests during the launch of AITI Carnival

Hj Yahkup, CE of AITI, delivering his welcoming remarks and the milestones achieved by AITI in the past 10 years

The Minister launched AITI’s iCare program

A special momento given to the guest of honour

The AITI Carnival was opened to public from 10.00am to 5.00pm. Also available are the AITI information booths to promote AITI’s functions and achievements. The Guest of Honour and invited guests also toured the AITI SMART Gallery showcasing the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and Fibre-To-The-Home (FTTH) technologies. AITI’s industry partners such as TelBru, DST, B-Mobile and NiAT Sdn Bhd supported the event with displays and promotion of their products and services. Other stakeholders that participated in the carnival were SMARTER, Pusat Ehsan, Persatuan Gemilang Daerah Tutong and Persekutuan Radio Amatur Negara Brunei Darussalam.

Visitors enjoyed a wide selection of carnival activities from popular vendors such as Cotton Candy Mobile, Enya Bijoux, Hayaa Musfirah, Beebo’s Bakers, KaPow burger, Naforrer boutique, Shiiz Candies, Sip N Tell, The Sandwich Club and Vanilla Kitchen. The public immersed themselves in fun filled activities, games and competitions specially arranged by AITI, including magic performance by SPADES, Xbox Kinect for kids, mini-golf “3-hole-in-1 in a row game” and AITI Quiz competition. For the gaming community there were game console competitions for FIFA and Street Fighter.

Other highlights of the carnival were Lego displays by Brunei Usergroup Lego And Technic (BULAT), fitness demonstration by Getfit Crossfit, face painting, bouncer and Yoda Obstacles Course and special meet and greet appearance by the “Ada Apa Dengan Rina” casts and Nina Iskandar, the first Bruneian to sign a contract with MIG, Malaysia. Star Wars fans had the opportunity to capture a photo moment with the Star Wars – Storm Troopers. AITI also took this opportunity to spread the road safety messages through Road Safety mascots.

In conjunction with the 10th year anniversary, AITI had organized a series of activities, these include a mass prayer held on 16 May 2013, at the Ash-Shaleehin mosque and an Instagram Competition held between 6 May and 20 May 2013 with the theme “Celebrating 10 years of AITI”. The most anticipated event of this carnival was the prize-presentation ceremony for the winners of the Girls in ICT Day “Clip-IT” video-making competition, which was held from 25 April and closed on 17 May 2013, as well as AITI Instagram, Quiz and Console Competitions. It is hoped that the carnival will further unite the AITI management and staff, ICT players, key stakeholders and members of the public towards a memorable celebration that will mark another chapter of AITI’s history.

Jasmine.. Why are you so tall? :p

The happy faces of AITI

The National Broadband Network & Services Group

 

 

From May 13-30 , HSBC Debit Card holders are able to enjoy exceptionally low fares with Singapore Airlines, on selected destinations. In addition, the card holders will also be rewarded with up to 5,000 KrisFlyer miles upon completion of each round trip.

Customers can choose from over 20 destinations, with the travelling period from May 13 until November 30. Destinations include Singapore, Perth, London, Paris, Taipei, Seoul, Tokyo and Mumbai. The special all in airfare starts from as low as B$250 to Singapore and return trip to Paris costs only B$1,966.

Great response on the HSBC deals with Singapore Airlines

For enquiries, HSBC Debit Card holders can call the Singapore Airlines hotline at 2227256 or 2225808. All tickets must be purchased at Singapore Airline Office using an HSBC Debit Card by May 30.

“This promotion has been well received by our customers,” shared Lyndsay Rajah, Head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management. “For those who are looking to take a break and enjoy their dream vacation, don’t miss out and take advantage of our exclusive deals!” she further added. With HSBC Debit Card, customers are able to make their purchase transactions at local and overseas merchants with electronic payment terminals that accept VISA card as a payment mode. Cardholders can also carry the HSBC Debit card with peace of mind because of its enhanced security. It assures protection of the data stored in the card and offers user authentication facilities which protects customers’ cards from being fraudulently copied, and reduces the potential of fraud.

The last day deal will be on 30th May 2013.. So hurry!!!

 

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This is another version of the LEAP grant by the Brunei Economic Development Board and it’s called Start Up Brunei. This was recently launched in March where it aimed at introducing funds to those who are in need of funds to progress especially those with innovatives ideas. LEAP is more of creating a prototype that hopefully can translate to a revenue streamline. As for SUB, it’s more on the business and innovative ideas that you want to pursue but it’s the funds that is holding you back!!

Hence, BEDB created this programme and their objective is straight forward –> To get the startups going and on their feet. This is Daniel Leong’s baby project and he is BEDB’s Senior Manager for innovation and New Initiatives. He shared that SUB applicants can get financial assistance up to BND 50,000 and there’s also an additional relocation incentive of BND 30,000 for overseas entrepreneur. So I believe this is a great programme that also acknowledges oversea entrepreneurs.

You want to know more then click here and view the details on their official website and you can also click here for the presentation slide. The application has just open today and the closing date has extended until 28th June. Start Up Brunei will also be showcasing in this year’s CommunicAsia in Singapore.

Daniel Leong, BEDB’s Senior Manager for innovation and New Initiatives, briefed about Start Up Brunei, during the launch of the program back in March. Click image to enter website for more details.

Click image to enlarge

 

Great deals from Gloria Jean’s Coffee, Century Travel Centre, Fitness Zone, Savy’s Brasserie, Triple Star Enterprise and many more. Check out the special deals on the poster. All you need is an HSBC Credit Card 😀

 

Crazy about K – Pop and Korean Drama? Been told that you look like a Korean Artiste?  Then join KFC’s K-Pop Makeover contest, brought to you by KFC’s Spicy Korean Crunch. The grand winner will receive a return ticket for two to South Korea. There are also other great prizes from our event partners.

To join the contest, interested parties just need to purchase any Spicy Korean Crunch Combo meal where they will receive a registration form. All they need to do is to fill in the forms, attach their receipt of purchase and also a photo of them doing their best Korean star impression. Shortlisted participants will be notified via phone calls that they qualified to the next round and their next to do tasks.

Interested participants from the age of 13 and above can join the main category where the winning prize is the above mentioned tickets to Korea. Children from age 5 to 12 can join the Kid’s category.  

“Beside the K-Pop makeover contest, customers that purchase the 3 piece Spicy Korean Crunch combo meal will also receive extra goodies from our event partners,” says Jonathan Bong, Senior Marketing Manager, KFC B Sdn Bhd. These extra goodies range from discount vouchers from The FaceShop, IA Saloon and Fun Bee Park to Kimchi, from Seoul Garden. These extra goodies are on a while stock last basis.

Registration period for the Spicy Korean Crunch K-Pop Makeover Contest is from 20th May to 2nd June. For more information, customers can check out KFC Brunei on facebook and mobile phone apps.

I’m already suggesting one of my best friends to join since Korea is one of her destinations *lol* Anyway this is open to those with a valid Brunei IC (Yellow, Red and Green). You can check out more details on their KFC page. So good luck to the participants.

This is the KFC Korean Crunch.. It’s spicy and I love it 😀

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Two days ago I sent off my new reporter for RA off to Malaysia for her first oversea assignment under the Tourism Malaysia FAM trip which is also sponsored by AirAsia. Not many of you are aware that Aliya Zin is now helping me out in covering events which also gives me time for myself and also focus on the business aspect of my career.

I couldn’t make it for the Colours of 1 Malaysia MegaFam trip as it will clash with my upcoming itinerary which is the most anticipated race of my life so far – Sundown in Singapore. Three more reporters are also invited for the FAM trip (FAM btw means familiarisation). Nabilah Haris of The Brunei Times, Loh of United Daily and Emelda of Media Permata were invited to experience the Colours of 1 Malaysia in the next few days.

Jamilah Abdul Halim, the director of Tourism Malaysia (Brunei) sent the reporters off at the Brunei International Airport and thanked them for their support. As quoted by Mariani Hj Sabtu, the Acting director of Tourism Development Board (Brunei) that there are more than 1 million passengers that visit Malaysia and I believe it’s merely for shopping purposes. Now our role here is to spread the news that there are many places of interest in Malaysia apart from shopping 😀

So do check out RA for the updates on the happenings and places of interest in Malaysia and most of the report and pictures are courtesy of Aliya Zin.

Jamilah Abdul Halim the director of Tourism Malaysia (third from right) with Cindy of AirAsia Brunei (2nd from right) with the local media and representatives from Tourism Malaysia (Brunei)

Jamilah speaking to the media before sending them off to KL via AirAsia

Jamilah and Jessie having a conversation about Tourism Malaysia in general

Aliya Zin in KL & Pahang. Day One of Colours of 1 Malaysia MegaFam.

After arriving on AirAsia’s afternoon flight on Thursday, we were taken to the Royale Chulan Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.

It’s a public holiday today in KL, so the streets were strangely empty, as most people tend to leave the city during public holidays and long weekends, so traffic was non-existent and we sped towards Pahang, and arrived at Berjaya Hills in just over an hour. We were visiting the Colmar Tropicale, a charming is a unique and charming French-themed attraction resort. It’s located  about 2,700 feet above sea-level amidst 80 acres of ancient rain forests, the cool weather was just enormously refreshing from the pace of the city. The resort is inspired by the famous 16th century Colmar Village in Alsace, France.  

When we arrived, the resort was still relatively quiet, with few people walking around, and we were taken to see the rooms, which have incredible views of the surrounding rain forests, and the nearby golf course.

The resort has a total of 235 rooms and suites, offers 8 food & beverage outlets / lounges with excellent food variety ranging from local & international cuisine to an authentic French fine dining restaurant. It also offers meeting rooms and banqueting facilities, and the activities offered there are good for families who want a different experience, or for team building and leadership activities. One of the things I found quite amazing was that they had an organic farm nearby, which grew the vegetables for the resort, and also for the Prime Minister’s table. No chemicals are used on the farm, and even the food waste from the resort is recycled into compost which is then used as fertilizer. It’s a great example of going green, which was significant given the gorgeous green setting.

Animals also play a big role at Colmar Tropicale, as a couple of their attractions are a small animal park, where you can pet and feed animals such as deer and rabbits (I had a total Disney Princess moment where there were 5 deer trying to grab food out of my hands!), and see peacocks and guinea pigs running around. There’s also a horse-riding stable run by an equestrian professional, who happened to train one of the coaches at Jerudong Park not so long ago. All of the experiences are subject to fees, but if you’re staying at the resort, these will be refunded to you.

If you are more into action though, you NEED to check out the Adventure Park. Paintballers get a real jungle experience, as they have to trek a bit of the way in to get to the game grounds. Unfortunately we didn’t get to see it, but one of the best (AND SCARIEST!) experiences of my life was to ride South East Asia’s longest Flying Fox! A harrowing 900 meter ride above amazing rainforest views, and even though I was overwhelmed a couple of times while climbing up to the flying fox, the excellent team really assuaged my fears and were so encouraging. I wholeheartedly recommend it, and as someone who is totally terrified of heights, I can honestly say, that even though my legs were jelly for the rest of the day, it was so totally worth it! There is also an awesome canopy walk which we got to experience during the flying fox, and rock climbing.

If the adventure stuff is not your thing, there’s also an authentic Japanese Village just further up the way. Designed in a rustic style to address the rugged hills and mountains, the Japanese Village boasts a stone walkway, Zen garden, waterfall, koi pond, rock formations, beautifully carved stone lanterns and a delightful teahouse.

Colmar Tropicale is best experienced in a 3 day/2 night package. Bookings can be made online on their websitecolmartropicale.com.my. The staff can even tailor special packages for you. Currently there are shuttle services from Berjaya Times Square, but they can also provide transport direct from LCCT to the resort when you make your reservation.

That was only the first day, I can only imagine what’s going to happen next!

The entrance of the Colmar Tropicale

Doesn’t this place look unique?

Emelda gearing up for some flying fox action

Loh made to the other side

Nabilah capturing some moments while suspended in mid-air

 

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From the 24th to the 28th of May, BIBD will be organizing the BIBD Home Showcase 2 which is a follow up to last year’s event. It will be held at The Mall Gadong from 10am to 10pm and visitors will be able to :-

• find out about BIBD home financing and improvement products

• home interiors exhibition by companies like Ikon Designworks, Signature Kitchen, Luzzone, Happy Star and others

• view properties on sale locally and internationally by a number of property agencies

• receive assured gifts when signing up for BIBD financing services

• convert their ATM card to BIBD Debit Card and many more

So whether you’re improving your current home or getting a house, come and drop by for the right financing solution. For more information call BIBD’s Contact Centre at 2238181 or visit www.bibd.com.bn/homeshowcase

Guest of honour, the Ministry of Development, Permanent Secretary (Administration and Finance) Hj Muhammad Lufti and Acting Commissioner of Town and Country Planning Shahron Suhaimi officiating the BIBD Home Showcase 2 while BIBD Managing Director Javen Ahmed looked on

Hj Muhammad Lufti receiving token of appreciation from Javen Ahmed

 

It’s happening this Sunday

The programme for AITI Carnival

 

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The Management of the Mabohai Shopping Complex is pleased to announce that it will be hosting yet another exciting family event this weekend, Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May.

The Mabohai Shopping Complex Teddy Bears’ Tea Party will be a high-tea event with a teddy bear oriented theme. There will be a free flow of coffee and tea for parents, and hot chocolate with sprinkles for children, along with assorted sandwiches and cupcakes. Children and the young at heart are encouraged to join in the fun by bringing along their favourite teddy bear!

The Management of the Mabohai Shopping Complex said: “We are delighted to once again be hosting a family oriented event that our community can participate in. We are sure that parents and children alike will enjoy having high-tea with a teddy bear twist, and we hope to see many happy families and their teddy bears there.”

The event, to be held on the 1st floor of the Mabohai Shopping Complex from 2pm – 6pm on Sat, 25th & Sun, 26th May, aspires to create a unique quality family bonding experience and projects the Mabohai Shopping Complex as the place for families to shop in, with activities to enjoy together.

The Management adds, “The Teddy Bears’ Tea Party is just one of many family-friendly events that we have planned for the year. Look out for more fun and colourful events for the entire family at the Mabohai Shopping Complex soon!”

For more information on participating in this event and future events, please call MABOHAI SHOPPING COMPLEX Manager on 8111623 or 7250110 or Event Solutions on 8722249. Or find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

 

Are you ready??

 

Group photo with guest of honour Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Hj Mohd Rozan Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Yunos with the sponsors, NGOs and the cast and crew of Enchanted Forest. Click image to enlarge.

Relentless Entertainment Brunei will be continuing their efforts to improve performing arts in the Sultanate.

Following the success of its ‘Enchanted Forest’ musical recently, Managing director of Relentless Entertainment Brunei Amy Cheongyesterday presented selected charities with a sum of $3,000 collected from proceeds of the musical.

The donation and certificate presentation ceremony, held at the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports, was officiated by Permanent Secretary HjMohd Rozan Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Yunos.

The managing director of Relentless Entertainment Brunei, in her opening remarks, also announced another production in the works scheduled for the end of the year.

The donations were handed over by the guest of honour were President of SMARTER (Society for the Management of Autism Related Issues in Training, Education and Resources) Malai Hj Abdullah Hj Malai Othman, Assistant Director of Welfare Home Complex (Kompleks Rumah Kebajikan) Pg Mahdi Pg Salleh, Acting Head of Administration at Pusat Ehsan Nurul Huda Hj Muhin, Vice President of the Centre for Children for Special Needs (KACA) HjAbdul Alim Othman, Derek Wong of Learning Ladders and Children’s Cancer Foundations (YASKA) Treasurer Tsara Nawwarah Abdullah Chen receiving on behalf of their respective organisations.

Each organisation received $500 out of the total amount which consisted of the earnings from their musical performance which debuts on 4 May 2013 at the Jerudong Park Amphitheatre with a successful turnout of an almost full house.

Handover donation to Pusat Ehsan

Handover donation to Yaska

Handover donation to Learning Ladders

Handover donation to SMARTER Brunei

Handover donation to KACA

More than a quarter of the 4000 seats were allocated to the children from various children charities in the Sultanate who were fortunate enough the two hour musical for free.

Yesterday’s ceremony was attended by members of Relentless Entertainment Brunei as well as the musical cast members and volunteers of the production.

Among the list of sponsors and supporters for the musical include the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports, Jerudong Park Country Club, HSBC Brunei, Rai’atul Al-adawiyah Enterprise, Digimark, Adison Marketing Services, Ban Lee Hua Company Sdn Bhd, Fun Bee Park, Patisserie Cake Shop, Misato Japanese Restaurant, Brunei Gas Carriers, Aewon Brunei QAF Eurokars Sdn Bhd, TK Asco Enterprise, Atmosphere Music Production Studio, Ranoadidas, Brunei Buzz and Brunei Tweet. Text courtesy of The Brunei Times.

Appreciation token to Adison Marketing

Handover donation to Patisserie Cake Shop

Handover donation to KFC

Handover donation to TK Asco Enterprise

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The Fisheries Department under the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources (MIPR) officially launched the Local Shoot Out and International Shoot Out competitions last Friday, May 17.

The competitions, which were officially launched by Acting Deputy Director of the Fisheries Department Ranimah Hj Wahab, comprise of both local and overseas photographers, with a total of nine participants competing.

Photographers will be shooting in selected diving spots in Brunei: the Australian Wreck, Abana Rocks and Brunei Patches. The winners for the competitions will also known as the Most Influential Underwater Photographer, as their winning images will be used for education and conservation of the region.

Apart from the prestigious title, the winners of the Portfolio, Digital Portfolio and Best Marco categories will receive amazing prizes.The winner of the Portfolio category, which is the contestant to produce the 10 best images, will receive $2,500, as well as a medal and a certificate. Meanwhile, the winner of the Digital Portfolio of the best three images will win $800, along with a medal and a certificate, and the winner for the Best Macro category will also win $800, with a medal and certificate.

The International Brunei Shoot Out also carries the same three categories, however, the winner of the Portfolio category will receive US$3,000 (about $3,778), as well as a medal and a certificate, while the winners of the Digital Portfolio and Best Macro categories will each receive US$1,000 (about $1,259) and a medal and certificate.

Activities such as these hope to unearth new talent in underwater photography, while simultaneously promoting awareness of the beauty of the ocean floor and marine life, and the importance of keeping the waters clean and protecting the endangered species of the deep blue sea.

The competitions are held in conjunction with the Fisheries Department’s World Ocean Day 2013 event, which will be held from June 7 to 9, alongside the 12th “Celebrate the Sea” festival at The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong.

For more information, please visit www.facebook.com/asterabrunei or emailcontact@asteraconsultant.com. Text courtesy of Zatty Joanda of The Brunei Times.

 

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The Ministry of Health (MoH) yesterday issued a list of recalled products containing maleic acid, a type of additives that are not permitted for use in food, based on the information obtained from Taiwan Food and Drug Administration.

The list of products includes fish paste (oden), flat rice noodle, taro/yam balls and also tapioca balls under the Sunright brand which is often used in the making bubble tea.

Maleic acid is a crystalline material to make unsaturated polyester resin which are often used in fibre reinforced plastic used in making industrial boats, automobiles and construction. When incorporated in food, it will provide elasticity in the food but it is harmful to health.

The MoH has been conducting surveys and inspections as a result of this information. The importer and dealer in question is directed to recall the affected products from the marketplace and deliver it to the Quality Control and Food Safety Services Department to be destroyed.

Users are advised to return the affected products to the store where the product was purchased or surrender them to the Food Safety and Quality Control, Department of Health Services or Health Offices in each district.

Importers, traders and consumers in this country are reminded that under Brunei law, anyone who provides, sells or import food harmful to health can be jailed for five years or a fine or both. Source: The Brunei Times

Sunright tapioca balls

By the way peeps, don’t panic too much about the bubble tea phenomena in Brunei. From what I understand and feel from the comments after my posting on Instagram that bubble tea lovers are now skeptical or having doubts now about whether it’s safe to drink their favourite bubble tea out there. I can assure you that some of the franchisors are cleared from this issue as they don’t use Sunright brands to begin with.

Sunright products are most likely accessible through supermarkets and normally individuals and perhaps restaurant or cafe owners might buy these so called pearls for their home use or their establishments respectively.

It was also reported in the Singapore media that the Sunright brand tapioca balls might contain substance that might cause kidney damage in the long term. So don’t panic and jump straight to conclusion that all bubble teas are hazardous. Anyway, such panic just shows how mindful and alert you are when it comes to your health. That I find interesting 😀

 

The Setia Motors Netball VIII Tournament is set to tip off on Friday. A managers meeting for the competition was held at the Asma Hotel in Jerudong last night. The meeting started off with the confirmation of the teams competing in the tournament.

It was also announced that the first game of the tournament will be between Setia Motors and Netiquette in the women’s category. The men’s category introduced for the first time in the competition will follow the opener.

The rest of the women’s games will be played on Sunday. Setia Motors, G-Force, Nextz, Spitfire, Sonic, Netballisus, MMA and Netiquette will fight for top honours in the men’s competition.

They will be playing in a round-robin format of seven minutes per-half at the Multipurpose Hall of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex.

The eventual champions would be the team sitting on top of the table by day’s end.

In group A for the the women’s division are NY 13 (Under-21 national netball team), NB, Red Butterfly, BSRC and G-Force. The teams forming group B are Setia Motors, Ivy League, Netiquette, Strivers XOXO and last year’s winners NN Speed who boast national players.

The format of play will be 10-minute halves in the group stages, followed by 15 minute halves in the next round. They will play 10-minute quarters for the final.

NN Speed were crowned champions after winning four of their games last year. The main change of this year’s tournament is there will be only be one category played unlike the previous novice and advance groups. Text courtesy of Syarif Rasani of The Brunei Times.

 

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Iron Man 3. This movie has been out for two weeks already and it still doing great business. It has already raked in USD 1 billion worldwide in box office receipts. Isn’t that amazing? Iron Man 2 only earned below USD 700 million and that is already considered an overwhelming success. Now that we know how marketable Robert Downey Jr is whenever he is playing a role as man behind the iron. He even demanded a pay cheque of USD 100 million for the two sequels of “The Avengers”… Hmmmm…. That perhaps is the minus point from him.. Anyway, here’s the review.

What an awesome movie!! I watched it twice actually. This was way better than the disappointing Iron Man 2 which felt a bit clunky and I was trying to hard to like and appreciate it too. Gwen Paltrow was amazing too and she has a bit more screen presence than previous movies. I just thought the movie’s execution and pacing were just nice. I began to believe in Iron Man again but sadly this is the final trilogy of the Iron Man movie. If you haven’t caught it, I suggest you do. It’s still showing in the cinemas. Verdict: 8/10.

Identity Thief. It’s good to see Jason Bateman with another hit movie. However, I wasn’t impressed at all. It become to a point where it got too ridiculous my ratings generally was affected. I definitely had my laughing moments but it wasn’t enough to save me from feeling restless. There are some good lessons to be learned so at least that’s a good consolation for my review. You are looking for a no-brainer movie and some cheap laughs, I’m not sure if it’s still showing but I’m not caring too much for this movie *lol* Verdict: 6/10.

Star Trek: Into Darkness. Holy cow!!! I was blown away from the start till the end. I was already on a high for the first reboot of Star Trek and the sequel was even better than the first. The chemistry between Captain Kirk and Spock was still the highlight for me and not to worry, if you haven’t seen the first one, it won’t matter too much. Cheelin and Aziimah praised the movie without seeing the first. So there you go. Oh, I even caught the movie twice because I was so impressed. This was slightly better than Iron Man 3 and the best movie I’ve seen so far. I can’t wait for the summer movies and it’s good to know that Iron Man 3 and Star Trek have started the ball rolling and they are still satisfying movies as compared to last year’s summer movies. Verdict: 8.5/10.

The Great Gatsby. I’ve been hearing many rave reviews about this movie. Some even said it’s the most beautiful story ever told. I watched it for myself to see what’s the big fuss about it. I would say I don’t completely agree with my peers. It was still an enjoyable movie but I won’t rate it as highly. Reason being, the dialogue wasn’t that sharp to begin with. I wasn’t even emotionally driven which would have made my movie experience worthwhile. Maybe they caught me on a bad day *lol* The scenes and cinematography were amazing though and I quite enjoyed the soundtrack. It was also another great performance by Leonardo DiCaprio and I’m also a fan of Carey Mulligan. Don’t be influenced by my review. This is just my perspective and plus I have seen better stories than this. Verdict: 7/10.

 

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Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Abdullah graced the ceremony of Royal Brunei Airlines double daily flight to KL. Also in the picture are Jamilah Abdul Halim, Director of Tourism Malaysia (Brunei), Abd Mutalib, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications, Dato Paduka Hj Bahrin, Deputy Minister of Finance and Chairman of RB, Dermot Mannion, Deputy Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines and Mariani Hj Sabtu, Acting Director of Tourism Development Board (Brunei) yesterday held at the Muhibah room, Airport Restaurant

A moment for the guest of honour from RB. The event took place yesterday morning prior to our flight to KL where the program continued

Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) are in the process of rebranding and they have created some presence in the UK lately and also in the region and wow, I’m pretty impressed with their rebranded products and services. Tomorrow will be a milestone for RB as they will be flying to Kuala Lumpur twice daily from Brunei. This is good news because of the high traffic of Bruneians flying over to KL. It was noted by Dayang Mariani binti Hj Sabtu, Acting Director of Tourism Development Board, that there is a figure of over a million visits alone from Brunei to Malaysia. That’s like 3 times more than our population. Perhaps it’s also safe to say that most of the frequency takes place between Brunei and Miri.

Of yesterday’s multiple events, I have to salute Dermot Mannion, Deputy Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines, for his great leadership under RB ever since his appointment in 2009 and how he has turned the national carrier around step by step. Some of the new things introduced was the revamped online booking system and this year was the rebranding of Royal Brunei Airlines with their new logo and also a new theme carrying the message of “A Redefined Journey”.

I could feel the previous leaders or CEOs of the airline did their best but I honestly felt the stagnancy in the direction they were heading then. To tell you frankly, a few years ago, I had this feeling where I would make RB my second preference for flight bookings. It was more of a confidence thing and slowly after seeing the changes and the new direction it is heading, I began to believe in RB. Now with this being said, this shows how these small little steps can slowly change one’s mindset and made that difference.

After seeing Dermot’s presentation last night dinner event, I’m much more excited about the new things to come for RB. The rebranding process has slowly paid off and I truly agree that it’s not about the destination but the experience of the journey that makes a difference. Yes, there may still be complains here and there but RB has taken things more serious now and I could see the improvements over the past year or so.

RB’s presence of social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and instagram (@royalbruneiair) have also made communication easier and accessible and it also have played an important role in reaching to a bigger community especially through sharing information.

What I’m truly looking forward to is the the Dreamliner Boeing 787 which will make its debut insyaAllah by September 2013. The Dreamliner will be flown from Seattle and I hope I’m able to experience the new livery in September. The other tentative dates for 2nd, 3rd and 4th Dreamliner are October 2013, February 2014 and March 2014. For the record, RB will be the first airline in ASEAN to own a Dreamliner. That really shows of RB’s vision of moving forward and taking that extra step. I remember such news of Dreamliner was even announced back in year 2007 and supposedly scheduled for delivery in 2009 which didn’t materialized. So this time, it’s for real.

So what’s impressive about the Boeing 787 Dreamliner? It’s fuel efficient by 20% and that will help to reduce cost in a long run. In fact, it’s the most fuel-efficient airline. They have bigger seats even in economy section and this also means more leg room. You also won’t feel as suffocated (not saying that you will *lol*) but because you will leave the airline feeling fresher because the cabin pressure allows more oxygen to be absorbed into your blood. Did you know also that the Dreamliner generate 60% less noise than the standard planes especially during take-off and landing? So just imagine once you are on air.. it will be quieter than usual.

Dato Sri Mohd Effendi Morwawi with his spouse Datin Seri Tiara Jacquelina looking at the RB’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner model at last night’s event

This is a planned appearance of how the interior of 787 Dreamliner looks like. Image taken from http://dreamliner.thomson.col.uk

Anyway, enough about the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Let’s focus on the main subject here and that is the RB’s moving forward in terms of the double daily flight to Kuala Lumpur. This is a good indication for Brunei Tourism Development as well as Tourism Malaysia to explore more opportunities and work on the synergies and each other’s strengths.

Last night event also made a significant impact on the journalists and the media in Malaysia. Some said it’s the first time they have seen Royal Brunei organizing such event or dinner for their milestones and rebranding phase. This shows that RB is not taking this campaign lightly and they want to create an impact and branding awareness of RB’s vision and objectives and make make one’s journey a “redefined” one.

After a slightly turbulent phase back in 2011 (where routes such as Brisbane, Perth, Kuching, Auckland and Ho Chi Minh City were cut off and also the restructuring of the company began), RB is gaining back its momentum, thanks to the direction of Dermot Mannion who has a solid track record of achievement in airline operations, characterized by strong cash flow, improved productivity, low unit costs, excellent customer service and high staff morale. So far, he has a planted new seeds and give it a few more years and you will probably see how much different and improved RB has been since its restructuring phase.

Hats off to Dermot Mannion and his team of their new era and keep it up!!! Oh thank you to Royal Brunei Airlines also for inviting me exclusively for the coverage of this important milestone in Kuala Lumpur.

Upon arrival at the KLIA where our flight was blessed. Thank you @emmagoodegg for the wonderful moment shot

The traditional dance performance for the special guests

Another cake cutting ceremony held at the boarding room at KLIA. Also present during the press conference were Syed Yahya Syed Othman, Director of Tourism Malaysia, Dato Paduka Hj Ishaaq, Brunei High Commissioner to Malaysia, Dato’ Azmi Murad, Senior General Manager of Operations Services Malaysia Airports, Dermot Mannion, Deputy Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines and Karam Chand, Chief Commercial and Planning Officer at Royal Brunei Airlines

Group photo with the guests

Karam Chand at the press conference yesterday upon arrival at KLIA

Members of the local media from KL

This is a special privilege –> To actually dine in inside a boarding room *lol*

Dermot took the KLIA Express train to KL Central. More on this service later on. It’s very ideal if you want to reach the city in less than an hour 😀

Muaz preparing for the evening’s event

On my right, Mr. David Hogan, founder of MalaysiaAsia and I love his job because he travels (more than me). Next to him is his Chinese editor of MalaysiaAsia, Janice Wong. Do check the website out!!!

This is to be launched by July in business class. Now you can watch movies or play games or listen to music through means of iPad. Of course, you won’t be able to access the internet. The experience alone using iPad Minis on a plane is just a first step.

Dermot appreciating the RB management team based in KL

Ok, this is the finale of the cake cutting ceremony which took place last night at Hotel Istana

Another press conference held last night and a lot of focus targeted on RB’s rebranding program. Dermot announced that RB invested USD 1 million in their rebranding journey.

Datin Seri Tiara Jacquilena who is famously known for her big role in Puteri Gunung Ledang had a photo opportunity with RB air steward and stewardess. Also in the picture is Jamilah Abd Rahman

Datin said service is the most important and she would like to fly RB one day.

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It’s happening this weekend. Click image to find out more.

 

Deputy Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) Dermot Mannion gave his remarks and he announced that all business class passengers will enjoy the luxury of the usage of iPad Mini as part of their inflight entertainment beginning July 2013

 

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, Chairman of BIBD, presented token to one of the longest serving employee of 20 years

Another long serving employee of BIBD for 20 years

Last week Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) held an “Awards Night”- themed annual dinner for all BIBD staff at the Grand Hall, Indera Samudra of The Empire Hotel and Country Club in Jerudong. The annual dinner was held to commemorate all the hard work the BIBD personnel has achieved over the past year.

The Guest of Honour of the event was the Minister of Industry and Primary Resources Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, who is the Chairman of BIBD.

Also present were the BIBD board members, its Shariah Advisory Body as well as the Managing Director of BIBD Javed Ahmad, amongst some 600 managers, officers and staff of BIBD and its subsidiaries; BIBD At-Tamwil and BIBD Securities.

The dinner started with a recitation of the Doa, which was then followed by a welcoming remark by Managing Director Javed Ahmad, which was continued with a speech by the Guest of Honour. The annual dinner caps off a wonderful year for BIBD, with BIBD winning several awards on the regional front such as being awarded the Best Retail Bank in Brunei from The Asian Banker, Global Finance’s “World’s Best Emerging Markets Banks 2013 in Asia-Pacific” for Brunei and Best Islamic Bank in Brunei from The Banker, Global Finance and Islamic Finance News, to name a few.

Along 2012, BIBD also managed to enhance its client-banking relationship, bringing them ever closer together via the launch of the dedicated BIBD Mobile app, upgrades to the BIBD Online and Contact Centre. All these activities and more were made in line with our ever-continuous efforts to serve our customers better.

BIBD, via its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, has also increased their efforts to further serve the community around. This is exemplified by the recent launching of their ALAF (Advocating Life-Long Learning for an Aspiring Future) programme, a programme to help bring more educational opportunities to underprivileged children, adding to their ever growing contributions to the growth of the society.

The dinner continued with an award ceremony for a total of 91 BIBD staff, who each received service awards as a token of appreciation for their years of loyalty and commitment to the bank. Press release courtesy of BIBD.

Javed Ahmad, Managing Director of BIBD, in his opening remarks

 

IA Salon is having a special Mother’s Day promotion until 30th June 2013. Any hair service spend $80 above with a single receipt and you will get a FREE Hair Treatment (L’Oreal product).

There is also a manicure + pedicure + foot scrub with 20% off from Monday to Thursday only. For Wash & Blow + Scalp treatment (L’Oreal product) – $30 for Men, $35 for Women.

So do come and make your appointment at IA Salon. Call 242 3232 or 8738232 and the business hours are from 10am to 8:30pm daily. IA Salon is located at the ground floor, The Mall.

Cecilia Lee of IA Salon, a very passionate hairstylist and make-up artist, always learning new trends

You can get your scalp check which reminds me I better get mine re-checked again

Hair and make-up done by IA Salon

 

Guess what peeps? Another instagram competition is being organised and this time it is by AITI who partnered with Brunika and it’s known as “AITI Instagram Competition”. This is also in conjunction with AITI 10 Years Anniversary. The first prize is an iPad Mini while second prize is a Sony Xperia.

The closing date is on 20th May 2013 by midnight and you will have to take photos that portray AITI. Example AITI buildings or anything ICT related or even activities or events related to AITI. Then make sure that you include their official hashtags #insta_a_i_t_i and #brunika to be eligible for the competition. Oh, do make sure your instagram is not priviatised, otherwise it will be hard for the judges to view your photos via hashtags.

So what are you waiting for? The deadline is by midnight tonight 😀 So this is something to keep you busy as well during the weekends. I will put up my own shots too (since I don’t mind an iPad Mini :p). Anyway, Happy 10th Year AITI.

Want to win an iPad Mini?

Please take note of the following rules:

1.    The opening date of the AITI Instagram Competition is on 6 May 2013 and the closing date will be on 20 May 2013, midnight.

2.    This competition is open to local and permanent residents in Brunei Darussalam.

3.    Participants can submit as many photos as they wish to (either old or new photos) and include both hashtags #insta_a_i_t_i and #brunika. AITI employees are disqualified to enter this competition.

4.    The selected Top 10 participants will be contacted via their Instagram account. And they must attend to the AITI 10 years anniversary carnival on 26 May 2013 to collect their prize.

5.    The Top 3 participants will be announced on the day of the carnival.

6.    Images must portray on AITI (such as AITI’s office buildings, ICT technology, any activities/events related to AITI, etc).

7.    Images must NOT express any forms of profanity, sexual and/or racist elements. Image must NOT incite religious hatred and/or phrases that may be deemed inappropriate to other races.

8.    AITI and BRUNIKA reserve the right to reuse any photo that are submitted to the official hash tag of the AITI Instagram Competition #insta_a_i_t_i

9.    Upon submission, the owner of the photo will no longer have rights to use the photos upon submission and after the competition for personal or professional use, giving AITI sole rights of the photographs in an unrestricted, irrevocable, worldwide, royalty-free license to use, reproduce, display, publicly perform, transmit and distribute such photographs.

10.    AITI and BRUNIKA shall determine winner eligibility in its sole and absolute discretion. Decisions made by the judges are final and no forms of communications will be entertained at any time.

 

Mohammad Hasrol bin Bagol receiving the grand prize for winning the 2013 Brunei Telephone Directory Cover Design Competition from Lim Ming Doon, Chief Marketing Officer of Telekom Brunei Berhad and Dyg Mariani binti Hj Sabtu, Acting Director of Brunei Tourism Board

Mohammad Hasrol bin Bagol’s artwork made him the first-prize winner of the “2013 Brunei Telephone Directory Cover Design Competition”, winning him a cash prize of B$1,500, after it was announced last Friday at a prize presentation ceremony held at the TelBru Headquarters.

Handing over the prizes were Lim Ming Soon, Chief Marketing Officer of Telekom Brunei Berhad; James Lee, Managing Director of Tele Directories (B) Sdn Bhd; and Dayang Mariani binti Haji Sabtu, Acting Director of Brunei Tourism.

The entries for the competition which were collected since early March were recently judged by the managers from TelBru, Brunei Tourism and Tele Directories. Among the participants were customers, subscribers and students, as well as artists who were keen on displaying their talents, expressing awareness based on the theme “Kenali Negara Kitani” (KNK) to promote Brunei Tourism in their drawings.

Judging criteria were based on the most visually expressed drawing on the essence of KNK, portraying tourist attractions and activities available in the country.

Mohammad Hasrol, an Art teacher from PAP Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Secondary School in Lumut, during an interview explained that the inspiration behind his drawing originated from his family’s trip to Brunei from oversea, who then asked to see the attractions in the country.

“The reason why it is shaped in a circular form is because it represents how easy it is to reach these landmarks in Brunei and that it is also easy for tourists to find these places in all four districts,” he said.

His artwork was chosen as the winner as it showcased the most creative piece of work that had achieved the depth of understandings of the concept.

Certificates and tokens of appreciation were also given out to 10 consolation prize winners during the prize presentation ceremony. Text courtesy of Izah Azahari of Borneo Bulletin.

One of the consolation prize recipients

Well done, Winnie, for making the top 10 😀

Merrick Chin was also a consolation winner

Another consolation winner

Mohammad Hasrol bin Bagol the grand winner

Winnie’s design entry 😀

One of the top 10 entries

Group photo with the Top 10 entries

 

In an effort to bring together young adults for a chance to meet new friends and socialize with old friends in a casual setting, Fun Bee Park invited the talents of an Improv Group to put up their version of ‘Who’s Line Is It Anyway?’ and conduct a short workshop to introduce the spectators to the fun world of Improv recently.

The group of Improv loving folks were pulled together by Joshua and the show was hosted by Liz.The night was filled with good laughter and also good eats. Set in a casual theme, spectators sat on cushions, munched on finger food and sipped on spritzers created by the Chef Will, the newly appointed head chef of Fun Bee Park.

Following the success of Improv Night, next in plan would be a Movie Night along with movie charades and themed dress up fun. For more info regarding the movie night, contact Fun Bee Park at 245 7729. Images below courtesy of Fun Bee Park.

 

Yugo BBQ lunch promotion from Monday to Thurs

Have you tried Yugo BBQ yet? I have made a few visits there already and the food is great.. Now they have a new lunch promotion for the Shabu-Shabu lunch whic is only $6.90.. You can choose either beef or chicken lunch set with a soup base selection of either chicken, beef, milk or curry. You can also have a choice of noodle or rice and you will be served with either cold or hot tea.

Now isn’t that a great deal for only BND 6.90 and the lunch promotion is only available from Monday to Thursday, from 11am to 2pm. For reservation, you can call 242 7790 or 878 5398 at Yugo BBQ. You can also follow updates on instagram @yugobbq

We tried the lunch set and we were kinda full but then again we ordered a few more side dishes

The lunch set comes with this

So you can either choose the chicken or beef

Do try out their home made spices

Fina loved the combo of the soup with the Kampung sauce

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Wu Chun picked this up upon cleaning the Muarha beach yesterday. He was pretty sad why mothers or caretakers would simply dump diapers on the beach. He pledged to the public not to simply throw any types of rubbish to our beautiful beaches.

 

Deputy Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) Dermot Mannion (center) was the guest of honour for the RB’s Agent Appreciation Night 2012/2013 held last night at the Royal Berkshire Hall at Royal Brunei Polo and Riding Club last night

This is the replica model of the Dreamliner which is expected to be unveiled this August or September. I’m excited 😀

 

Registration is open and the last day will be 22nd May (Wednesday). This is limited ot only 16 players for either FIFA 13 and Super Street Fighter. Registration fee is only $5 and the cash prizes are pretty good too – BND 200 for first place for FIFA 13 and Super Street Fighter IV.

You have to register at AITI office at Spg 32-5 Kg Anggrek Desa, Jln Berakas during office hours. The contact person will be Mr. Faizullah or Ms. Hui Nee. The event is organised by AITI and managed by ITS and Counter Attack. The console competition is in conjunction with AITI’s 10th year anniversary.

 

B-Mobile will be giving their YES! Prepaid subscribers $50 free credit reward on 17th May 2013. All YES! Prepaid users are requested to keep their line on active status on or before the 17th May 2013 in order to receive the reward. Well, today’s the 18th, so let’s hope you have already activated it.

 

Thank you DST for yesterday’s event in hosting the media and social media people at yesterday’s hi-tea at Tarindak D’Cafe. The event was graced by Deputy CEO of DST, Hj Marsad Hj Ismail who gave his appreciation to the media and hope for a well-balance reporting of news and coverage. He hoped for a better relationship with DST and media and bloggers in future events.

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Click banner to enter ALAF website

Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah with the Minister of Industry and Primary Resources and BIBD management team

Remember ALAF programme that had a big impact last year? It was initially introduced during Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam’s Charity Expedition for ALAF back in October 2012. Now it has become an official programme as part of BIBD’s programme and this is one awesome initiative created by BIBD. I believe everyone children in the world must have access to education and we all deserve it 😀

So last Saturday, BIBD officially launched their flagship Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative, ALAF (Advocating Life-Long Learning for an Aspiring Future) Programme. The ALAF programme is aimed at providing education sponsorship, focusing on underpriviled and orphaned children in Brunei Darussalam. This is the first of its kind I believe and this is totally different from scholarship programmes.

The event was graced by Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah, who officially launched the programme at a ceremony held at the Indera Samudra Grand Hall at the Empire Hotel and Country Club. The launch ceremony for this goodwill programme was attended by some 400 supporters of the initiative.

The opening remarks were delivered by Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, Minister of Industry and Primary Resources cum BIBD Chairman. In his remarks, the Chairman shared on the success of organising the Charity Expedition held last October, the first fund-raising event for BIBD ALAF. The event, which received tremendous support from the public, collected more than B$300,000 in donations, along with the involvement of more than 6,000 participants and 800 volunteers from government and non-government agencies, as well as members of public.

Her Royal Highness Princess Sarah delivering her sabda

Signing ceremony between the Ministry of Education and BIBD

The exchange of documents between the Ministry of Education and BIBD

So now ALAF is officially open, you can be part of this contribution. How? You can make donations through BIBD Online, BIBD Mobile, Standing Instruction, Cash Deposit Machines, Hadiah Points or through BIBD counters. The ALAF Account is 01-001-01-818181-1 and you can give a minimum of BND 1. Even that one dollar can make a difference and imagine if everyone of us contribute a dollar, you are able to give a priceless and meaningful gift to every child that wants to learn and they are our future of Brunei and they will also play an important role by the time of Brunei Vision of 2035.

Hjh Nurul Akmar Hj Mohd Jaafar, BIBD’s Deputy Head of Consumer Banking and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, commented on her aspirations on the success of ALAF as she hopes the fund-raising initiative will gain momentum, hoping to see other corporates,NGOs and the public in general to come forward to show their support towards this noble cause in the investment of the development and future of these underprivileged and orphaned children.

You can view their website here or you can call 223 8181 for more details and you can also email csr@bibd.com.bn Once again, thank you to BIBD for making this program a reality and you definitely have my full support. So guys, let’s make a difference to our younger generation.

Her Royal Highness Princess Sarah with the Ministers

Choir performance from the children

Choir performance from the children

Students with their parents attending the launch of ALAF

Guess what peeps? Another instagram competition is being organised and this time it is by AITI who partnered with Brunika and it’s known as “AITI Instagram Competition”. This is also in conjunction with AITI 10 Years Anniversary. The first prize is an iPad Mini while second prize is a Sony Xperia.

The closing date is on 20th May 2013 by midnight and you will have to take photos that portray AITI. Example AITI buildings or anything ICT related or even activities or events related to AITI. Then make sure that you include their official hashtags #insta_a_i_t_i and #brunika to be eligible for the competition. Oh, do make sure your instagram is not priviatised, otherwise it will be hard for the judges to view your photos via hashtags.

So what are you waiting for? The deadline is my next Monday and you have five more days left 😀 So this is something to keep you busy as well during the weekends. I will put up my own shots too (since I don’t mind an iPad Mini :p). Anyway, Happy 10th Year AITI.

Want to win an iPad Mini?

Please take note of the following rules:

1.    The opening date of the AITI Instagram Competition is on 6 May 2013 and the closing date will be on 20 May 2013, midnight.

2.    This competition is open to local and permanent residents in Brunei Darussalam.

3.    Participants can submit as many photos as they wish to (either old or new photos) and include both hashtags #insta_a_i_t_i and #brunika. AITI employees are disqualified to enter this competition.

4.    The selected Top 10 participants will be contacted via their Instagram account. And they must attend to the AITI 10 years anniversary carnival on 26 May 2013 to collect their prize.

5.    The Top 3 participants will be announced on the day of the carnival.

6.    Images must portray on AITI (such as AITI’s office buildings, ICT technology, any activities/events related to AITI, etc).

7.    Images must NOT express any forms of profanity, sexual and/or racist elements. Image must NOT incite religious hatred and/or phrases that may be deemed inappropriate to other races.

8.    AITI and BRUNIKA reserve the right to reuse any photo that are submitted to the official hash tag of the AITI Instagram Competition #insta_a_i_t_i

9.    Upon submission, the owner of the photo will no longer have rights to use the photos upon submission and after the competition for personal or professional use, giving AITI sole rights of the photographs in an unrestricted, irrevocable, worldwide, royalty-free license to use, reproduce, display, publicly perform, transmit and distribute such photographs.

10.    AITI and BRUNIKA shall determine winner eligibility in its sole and absolute discretion. Decisions made by the judges are final and no forms of communications will be entertained at any time.

 

Click image to enter website

This is another version of the LEAP grant by the Brunei Economic Development Board and it’s called Start Up Brunei. This was recently launched in March where it aimed at introducing funds to those who are in need of funds to progress especially those with innovatives ideas. LEAP is more of creating a prototype that hopefully can translate to a revenue streamline. As for SUB, it’s more on the business and innovative ideas that you want to pursue but it’s the funds that is holding you back!!

Hence, BEDB created this programme and their objective is straight forward –> To get the startups going and on their feet. This is Daniel Leong’s baby project and he is BEDB’s Senior Manager for innovation and New Initiatives. He shared that SUB applicants can get financial assistance up to BND 50,000 and there’s also an additional relocation incentive of BND 30,000 for overseas entrepreneur. So I believe this is a great programme that also acknowledges oversea entrepreneurs.

You want to know more then click here and view the details on their official website. The application has just open today and will close on the 15th June 2013.

Daniel Leong, BEDB’s Senior Manager for innovation and New Initiatives, briefed about Start Up Brunei, during the launch of the program back in March. Click image to enter website for more details.

Crafts and activities took over Mabohai Shopping Complex last weekend, as Event Solutions organised a Mothers’ Day event for families to participate in. Throughout the weekend, participants got to explore their creativity by trying their hands on decorating cookies, scrapbook frame-making, and t-shirt designing. Younger children also got to enjoy free face-painting sessions.

“We wanted to organise an event where families would actually sit down and do things together,” said Event Solutions Manager Aziemah Abdullah.

Each activity cost $1 and participants could bring their proud creations home.

“Today we saw one parent wearing a t-shirt that her child had designed for her yesterday,” added Aziemah. “We have had many families come through since Saturday, to take part in the many activities we have lined up.”

With this event, Event Solutions hope to let families know that the Mabohai Shopping Complex is a place for the whole family, with many retail stores available, including Supasave on the ground floor, as well as children’s toy centre ToysRUs. Text courtesy of Adib Noor of The Brunei TImes.

The committee that helped out during the weekend

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Last night AITI held a Doa Kesyukuran Ceremony and a mass prayer at the Ash-Shaleehin Mosque, Prime Minister’s Office. The ceremony was held in conjunction with the World Telecommunication & Information Society Day (WTISD) and also celebrating AITI’s 10th year anniversary. Did you know that every 17th May of the year is World Telecommunication Day? and the theme for this year is “ICTs and Improving Road Safety”.

The guest of honour was the Minister of Communications, YB Pehin Hj Abdullah with the presence of Abdul Mutalib, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications and Chairman of AITI and also Hj Yahkup Hj Menudin, the Chief Executive of AITI.

For your info, there will be a public exhibition from 1pm to 6pm at Sutra Hall, Level 4, at Rizqun Hotel and there will be essay writing and drawing competition as well. AITI will also celebrate their 10th year on the 26th May at the AITI premise.

 

Physically I’m not there yet but mentally it’s almost there. This is one of my bucket lists for 2013.

 

Shamsul Bahrin, General Manager of OGH and Jamilah Abdul Halim, Director of Tourism Malaysia with the representative of Liz Kamarudin, her mother.

The Orchid Garden Hotel had a prize presentation ceremony for the winners of the OGH Penang Food Promotion. The recent food festival was also supported by Tourism Malaysia.


The winner, Ms. Liz Kamarudin, won herself a trip to Penang for 3 Days 2 Nights Holiday Package inclusive of return air ticket BWN-KUL-PEN-KUL-BWN, an accommodation in Penang and return hotel airport transfer for 1 person. Prize was presented by Puan Jamilah Abdul Halim, Director of Tourism Malaysia and Mr. Shamsul Bahrin Pehin Hj Ahmad the General Manager of Orchid Garden Hotel.

Throughout the entire period of Penang Food Promotion, all diners were entitled to the lucky draw. It was good to see Penang food promotion coming back to OGH as it’s one of the most popular food promotion at OGH.

 

Mardi Hedus and Amy Cheong of Relentless Entertaiment before the start of the event

Hats off to Relentless Entertainment on their tireless effort in producing an enchanting performance at the Jerudong Amphithreater a few weeks ago. We, Bruneians, definitely have talent. I’ve stressed lately on the abundance of growing talent especially from our youth. It’s a matter of giving them the opportunity and being exposed to realise their potentials and Relentless Entertainment has given some opportunities to our local talent.

About 40 of them participated in the performance and they have been invested their time for a few weeks or so. The musical drama performance was themed “The Enchanted Forest” and doing it for the first time, this is a great effort from Relentless Entertainment.

Datin Paduka Hjh Adina was the guest of honour and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports is one of the supporters for the eent. The event was also sponsored by Jerudong Park Country Club, HSBC Brunei, Adison Marketing Services, Fun Bee Park, IA Salon, Patisserie Cake Shop, Misato Japanese Restaurant, Brunei Gas Carriers, Digimark, Aewon Garments, QAF Autokars Sdn Bhd, TK Asco Enterprise, KFC Brunei and Atmosphere Music Production Studio.

Of the total audience, about 1,000 seats were allocated to children from various charities in Brunei Darussalam – Pusat Ehsan, KACA, Smarter Brunei, YASKA, Learning Ladders and Children’s Welfare Home – and enjoyed the musical for free.

According to The Brunei Times’ article, The musical presents a tale inspired by classic children’s stories. It began with the introduction of Hansen and Greta, a brother and sister who had been placed under a hypnotising spell by Wilhelmina the Evil Witch. Wilhelmina kidnapped them and transported them to the Enchanted Forest, but Hansen and Greta managed to escape. They ran into the forest where they met characters such as Straws the Scarecrow, Eugene and Alicia, who showed them the way to Willow the Good Witch, who can send them home.

Thumbs up to the cast and crew and a big shout out to Mardi Hedus and Amy Cheong the co-producers of the Enchanted Forest. Will this be a yearly thing? I do hope so.

It was such a great crowd that night and this shows how caring the public in support for charity

Wilhelmina the Evil Witch

The two main cast – Hansen and Greta

Mardi checking to make sure everything run smoothly

I see you, Lily :p

The introduction of Straws

 

The 1,500 jobs up for grabs at the mini job fair, which began yesterday, will be in the retail, hospitality and tourism, to accommodate a big number of job applicants who are looking for jobs in these three sectors, according to an officer from the Local Work Agency and Workforce Development (APTK) yesterday.

The Brunei Mini Job Fair 2013 will be launched today at the Chancellor Hall at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) to boost the number of locals in the workforce.

“Based on our studies, a lot of jobseekers are looking for jobs as sales representatives and hoteliers. They are looking for jobs in these sectors,” said the officer who preferred anonymity.

Organised by APTK in collaboration with the Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE), the Brunei Mini Job Fair 2013 includes a career exhibition, walk-in interviews and workshops, said the officer.

The mini job fair is also held to help reduce unemployment and speed up job employment procedures as well as encourage more locals to work in the private sector.

The APTK officer, who is a member of the organising committee, said that walk-in interviews at the job fair will be opened to jobseekers beginning May 17.

He added that this was the first in a series of three mini job fairs to be held this year.

“The remaining two job fairs will identify other industries as the focus industries, including automobile and construction.”

Held at UBD, the fair will be open from 9am to 12pm, and from 2pm to 5pm today, May 16 and Saturday, May 18, according to a previous report.

On Friday, the fair will be open from 9am to 11.30am and 2.30pm to 4.30pm, the report added. The job fair is one of the initiatives carried out by APTK to boost local workforce in the private sector.

The agency is also actively implementing its Training and Employment Scheme (SLP), where participants of the SLP are eligible to receive financial incentives of up to $2,500 in stages according to their job attendance and performance.

In a previous report, an official from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) said that out of over 1,000 who have participated in the scheme since it started in 2011, nearly half have resulted in the signing of employment contracts.

The SLP is aimed at providing locals with suitable job skills and experiences in a bid to make them more employable and interested to work for the private sector as well as for employers to be less reliant on foreign workers.

The call to evaluate work performance between locals and foreigners was previously made during the sixth day of the Ninth Legislative Council (LegCo) in March, during which a LegCo member suggested for a benchmark assessment of the locals against foreign workers to see where the locals have fallen short.

In response, LegCo ex-officio member and MoHA Minister Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib DatoPaduka Seri Setia Ustaz Hj Badaruddin Pengarah Dato Paduka Hj Othman advised against early judgment of the local workforce against foreign workers.

He called on businesses to be patient and committed to the government’s cause, as changes among the local workforce will not take place overnight and claimed that the SLP has achieved 80 per cent success rate.

“We have to see them (local workers) as our local entity and it is our responsibility to continue giving them jobs so that they will be able to enjoy a good quality of life as it should be in the country,” the minister said. Text courtesy of Fitri Shahminan of The Brunei Times.