Change is the only constant  

Being slow is the only constant too. That’s how I feel lately. Things are just heading at a slow pace. The only difference is when I travel. Being away in a short span of time gives me a sense of excitement and thrill. Now I’m back in Brunei, it’s back to square one. I can feel it. The worrying signs, perhaps, of what’s in store for the country (economically). The headlines in the local media hasn’t help either but it’s good thing that it’s being identified because we cannot simply ignore it. It’s about time we step and see what we can do for the country in times of troubles.

I have two mutual friends who sought for help to see if I could connect them to the relevant authorities with regards to their termination of contracts. In recent headlines, it was stated that a major company (government linked) are carrying out “redundancy exercise” to cut costs and reducing “non-essential staff”. Of course, what we read in headlines will spark that fear that haven’t been teased for a very long, long time. We were in the comfort zone and now we are slowly getting a taste of reality checks.

Now with the ongoing LegCo, it’s an indication where our country will be heading for the next year or so, in reaching the Vision 2035 (which is in 19 years’ time). It was noted that government spending will be reduced in times of lower revenues and we will still be running in a deficit.

I still see hope in this country and I trust in the Brunei Government in overcoming the challenges. The transitional period will take some time but it’s a good start. The relevant government agencies have been pro-active in creating new bodies to see how Brunei can diversify and get out of the mentality of heavily depending on oil and gas as our revenue stream for the Brunei economy.

I’ve seen new bodies with government support being created such as DARe (Darussalam Enterprise), a statutory body that will help to empower local entrepreneurs in contributing to the local economy. The newly established is recognized in the LegCo recently and it is spearheaded by the Minister of Energy and Industry Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Mohammad Yasmin Hj Umar. DARe recently held a dialogue with local e-vendors in terms of helping them to set up a physical store and also issues with labour quotas and so on. With this guidance, it will hope to see how the e-vendors grow and create a more business friendly environment for a win-win situation.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Mohammad Yasmin Hj Umar, Minister of Energy and Industry, chairman of the board for Darussalam Enterprise (DARe) with other committee having a conversation with the e-vendors held at Design & Technology Building (opposite iCentre) last week. You can even visit their Business Support centre every Monday to Friday or call/sms via 836 3442. Image courtesy of @govbn 

 

  

What happened lately?  

The winner of the Mitsubishi Lancer 1.6 Auto, Mah Wai Keun (left), as part of the “The Big Shopping Win”, a collaboration between Baiduri Bank and Hua Ho. Presenting the mock key were Michelle Lo (center), Manager of Card Brand Relationship & Business Banking Support and Lau Soon Lin, Director of Hua Ho. The event was held at Hua Ho Kiulap yesterday. You can website Baiduri website by clicking the image or you can download “Baiduri Deals” on your smartphone or follow their Facebook or IG @baiduribank. Image courtesy of Adib Noor of The Brunei Times. 

Costume party at a friend’s place for Himari and Takumi’s farewell gathering. Both are my tennis buddies whom we trained under coach Aiman. It was also great to see Mr. Okochi after such a very long time. Thanks for the hospitality and great food. 

My room mate for the past three nights at Taipei for our @mrbrownbrunei coverage trip with the winners of the Mr. Brown contest. We had this mini competition between us on making fun of each other on social media. It seems I’m dominating so far but we won’t have more opportunities until our next trip perhaps. Thank you, Aiking Sdn Bhd on giving us the opportunity to do coverage on the trip to Taiwan.  

The Francophonie Week 2016 kicked off last Saturday and it will be ongoing for another week. Many events and activities to look forward too. This image was taken during the screening of the French movie “Win Win” at Taman Jubilee. The event is organised by Alliance Française and The Collective Arts Event. Click image to know more what’s in store for Francophonie Week 2016 

The past week or so, I’ve been amazed with the stories that are being shared by my friends in their toastmasters journey. Many surprises in terms of content and I’m truly amazed by the growth of my friends. I’m still impressed with the ending of the “Helping Hand” story. Very impactful and witty. Congratulations to the winners of the UBD Toastmasters Club contest yesterday. Nice shot too, Sandy 😀 

Last week, Inspire Magazine launched a new website to provide a better access to their stories. Back then, there were only magazines and PDF formats. This is a great step to reach more readers globally as well. Shaun Hoon (2nd from left), founder of Inspire Magazine, with his team during the launch of the website. You can visit www.yesinpire.com to access Inspire or click on the image. Image courtesy of Shaun Hoon. 

 

  

 

Shoppers get vouchers 

Baiduri cardholders lucky dip winners of the Hua Ho vouchers

Baiduri cardholders were in for a rewarding shopping experience when they paid for their purchases at participating Hua Ho Department Stores at Kiulap, Delima, Gadong 2, Mulaut and Tutong in the “Baiduri Bank & Hua Ho H2 Hari Raya Shopping Treats” promotion last weekend.

With a minimum spending requirement of B$100 in a single receipt, Baiduri cardholders can participate in an instant dip where they get to win Hua Ho H2 shopping vouchers. Depending on the amount on the receipt, they can earn up to 3 chances per receipt. The vouchers are in the values of B$5, B$10, B$20 or B$50 each.

The promotion will continue this weekend from 10 July to (tomorrow) 14 July 2015, to give Baiduri cardholders more opportunity to take part.

“We are very happy to reward our customers for their loyalty and we want our cardholders to benefit from our ongoing promotions. Giving a little extra support through shopping vouchers or discounts for the upcoming festivities is just one of the benefits we provide to our credit and debit cardholders,” explained Pg Azaleen Pg Dato Hj Mustapha, Head of Retail Banking and Branch Network Division at Baiduri Bank.

More promotional information can be obtained at Baiduri website www.baiduri.com or by calling Baiduri Call Centre at 244 9666. To be in the know of Baiduri Bank promotions, Baiduri cardholders can follow BaiduriBank on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to get the latest updates.

 

 

The Monday Greens 

Less than a week, then Hari Raya will take place and it could be either be on Friday or Saturday. How have you Ramadhan been so far? Mine has been has hectic for the past three weeks due to coverage of the endless of Sungkai buffets. Now recently it has been quite relaxing because I’m off duty on food coverage 😀

I’m wondering how is the spending power lately in Brunei. I have heard that some of the Sungkai buffet sales at some places have dropped by 20-30%. One of the reasons could be attributed to the growing number of new restaurants and also more buffer options for the consumers end. Hence the market share of the restaurant will be reduced as our population has yet to increase relatively.

The biggest draw for Sungkai outings will be the BIBD 30% promotion (by swiping their credit cards) on selected restaurants on specific dates.

Last week, I had to forgo two travel trips – one to Denmark and one to Malaysia. The Denmark trip is one of the trips that I was looking forward to because it’s Denmark and I haven’t been there. It was part of a Bang & Olufsen trip for the media. I had no choice but to let it go due to my upcoming sister’s wedding in August. The KL trip was alright to miss but I will missing all the great access to catch Big Bang live concert in KL this coming August. Despite all that, I believe that I will get new opportunities to travel somewhere in the 2nd half of 2015 😀

I caught While You’re Young flick last night and it was a better experience than that last three movies I caught. Ben Stiller and Naomi Watts starred in this movie playing a married couple that wants to revive their younger days. Interesting movie and a humourous one too. A much better outing for Ben as compared to Night of the Museum sequel. I kinda like it but won’t watch it on cinema. Definitely a list for my blu-ray collection. Verdict: 7/10

Speaking of movies, Minions ruled the box office with a mammoth USD 115 million in the opening weekend. I predicted that Minions would be a top 3 movies of the summer in box office returns. At the moment, there is a good chance of that happening but no summer movies can come close to the surprise package Jurassic World followed by Avengers: Age of Ultron. The other potential movie is Inside Out which is doing very well indeed. I wasn’t a big fan of Minions and the movie was so so, catering more to kids. The disappointments of the summer movies so far are Tomorrowland and all the sequels of Magic Mike, Ted and Terminator.

I’m off to Bangkok today for another assignment. I won’t reveal much but you will know once you follow my IG and Snapchat feeds. I should be back in time for the Hari Raya festivity. Have a great week, my readers and thank you for all your support all these years.

 

My super friends buddies are quite addicted to the werewolf game indeed 

I know it’s not healthy but this is occasional fix for Sahur 😀 

Ok, I highly recommend you the Banana Peanut Butter Smoothie at Star Box Cafe (Kiulap). Amazing!!! I let my friends tried it and they love it too. 

So this particular coffee table is my pick for the competition. Check out my IG on how to win the coffee table sponsored by Loft & Co, a new modern furniture shop located at Little Soho at Batu Bersurat. This coffee table comes in wooden texture, black and white. 

Thank you Vincent Goh of Netcom House Computer for hosting Sungkai for the media at Excapade Sushi last week. I’m honoured for your humble invitation. 

Now among all the gadgets of Apple, this is one over-rated gadget. Would I get one? I would perhaps wait for an updated version. 

This watch so far has been very appealing and suits my needs. Loving the alerts but one problem – I’m not used to wearing a watch. Thanks @aj68 for the gift 😀 

Lately I’ve been helping my friends’ wedding gifts which means longer nights 

I had these three times… The Lamb Mandhi from Tandoor restaurant. A must from their Sungkai buffet. I would just go for this alone and not worried about the other dishes 😀 

Now this is one exclusive magazine to own. Well done to the editor 😀 

Congratulations to Vincent Pao, GM of Concepts Computer who defeated the Lizards yesterday to qualify for the Concepts Computer Veteran Basketball Cup 2015 

Another successful event with the collaboration of Royal Brunei Airlines and the Collective Arts Event at the Royal Brunei Recreational Club. The event was called RBRC Syawal Donation. More stories on next post  

Are copies making a comeback again? The enforcers must be pretty tired, recycling their efforts 

 

 

Double awards, Baiduri 

 

Pengiran Azaleen bin Pengiran Dato Haji Mustapha, Head of Retail Banking and Branch Network receiving both awards on behalf of Baiduri Bank in Singapore recently 

Baiduri Bank has received two awards from the Asian Banking and Finance Magazine – The “Domestic Retail Bank of the Year for Brunei 2015” for the third consecutive year and “Mobile Banking Initiative of the Year for Brunei 2015” for the first time.

The awards ceremony was hosted by the publication company at the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore on 8 July 2015. Receiving the awards on behalf of the Bank was Pengiran Azaleen bin Pengiran Dato Haji Mustapha, Head of Retail Banking and Branch Network.

Commenting on the ‘Domestic Retail Bank’ award, Pg Azaleen said, “We are delighted to receive these latest awards. I take this opportunity to thank our loyal customers for their strong support which has placed us among the top 60 Asian banks who were present at the award ceremony.”

He further elaborated that despite a challenging economic environment and competitive market, the Bank has been able to sustain growth by introducing new products and services to meet the needs and demands of different customer segments. The Bank is also constantly enhancing its existing product and service offerings to serve their customers better.

 

Pg Azaleen addressing his award acceptance speech 

On winning the ‘Mobile Banking Initiative’ award, Pg Azaleen said, “Baiduri Bank recognized that mobile technology was fast becoming the preferred method of communication and accommodated these areas of customer needs by launching two apps, namely Baiduri Personal i-Banking in June 2013 followed by Baiduri Deals in August 2013 which was later enhanced in December 2014. The Baiduri Personal i-Banking app complements the Bank’s current web-based i-Banking application which gives customers a sense of familiarity, comfort and assurance. The Baiduri Deals app is a lifestyle app and is the first marketing app in Brunei that dispenses e-coupons which are redeemable for good and services or discounts at selected merchant outlets.

Since 2007, Asian Banking and Finance (ABF) magazine have been honouring and recognizing the best of the best in the Banking and Finance industry in Asia. It focuses on commercial and retail banking and on securities market from a banking perspective.

 

 

Snapchatting  

Have you been Snapchatting? Catch me on my username @ranoadidas 

Are you new to Snapchat? I had this social media platform for quite some time but I wasn’t active for quite a long time. So what sparked it? Two things 1) new updates made it more appealing 2) one of my favourite fashion blogger from the Philippines @itscamilleco who uses the story video effectively. Only then, I gave it another go as I know Snapchat can be another good avenue to reach my followers. I know how Snapchat is very popular among teenagers in Brunei but that could soon change once the locals get the hang of it.

I feel the interface can do a little more tweaking so it would be easier to navigate for users. The best feature for me is the “story” section where you can upload unlimited photos and videos. However, there’s a timeline for all the data you post on Snapchat and once it reaches the 24 hour mark, Snapchat will delete them. Hence this gives you the urgency to catch what your friends have posted before it disappears.

So do come on Snapchat and look for me (username: ranoadidas) and so far I have coming to 100 followers after my continuous plug on IG. I’m not too sure if Snapchat will pick up the same wave like IG and Facebook did. As for Twitter, it’s barely surviving in terms of getting the news across. I only come to Twitter once every two days. When compared to IG, Facebook and now the addictive Snapchat, Twitter is way behind the pack of the most used social media platform in Brunei.

Don’t forget to add me on Snapchat 😀

  

BIBD gets closer to community  

 

BIBD recently extended their support to some seventy residents and caretakers of the Kampong Belimbing welfare home complex, under the Community Development Department, at an Iftar event at the Emperor’s Court Restaurant in Manggis.

The ceremony began with the recitation of the Surah Al-Fatihah which was then followed by the handing over of donations by the guest of honor, BIBD Managing Director Yang Mulia Javed Ahmad to forty-five residents of the welfare home along with certificates of appreciation to the ALMAS volunteer group for their cooperation in the success of the recent BIBD annual charity drive “Sirah Amal”.

Also in attendance was Yang Mulia Haji Minorhadi bin Haji Mirhassan, BIBD’s Head of Institutional Banking Division along with Yang Mulia Hajah Nurul Akmar binti Haji Mohd Ja’afar, Deputy Head of Consumer Banking Division in her capacity as Head of BIBD’s Corporate Social Responsibility.

Hjh Nurul mentioned that, “Alhamdulilah, the support in donations today are an extension of BIBD’s Sirah Amal initiatives as part of being an active community partner. At the same time, these donations are hoped to contribute to the development and progress of the residents to becoming productive members of the community”.

 

  

DeStress Bodyworks 

Hari Raya promotion until 31st July 2015 

  

 

Selfies stole the show 

 

Get a copy now available at Best Eastern or you can read Inspire at the local cafes in Brunei

Yesterday was a historic moment and a milestone for the 50 listed influential women residing in Brunei Darussalam. I believe there are more out there to date and of course, the editor need to pull the right resources in a given amount of time before finalizing the 50 influential women in Brunei. The second issue of Inspire is now available at Newsstand such as Best Eastern at a price of $5 or you can drop by and read them at most of the coffee shops in Brunei.

Yesterday was another launch of the Inspire edition. The guest of honour was Datin Paduka Hjh Adina Othman, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and she inspired the audience about being sincere and truthful especially at workplace. She’s also a proud grandmother and emphasize the importance of family.

It was great to see Lee Yingshi, the gold medalist at the SEA Games for Wushu. Only 20, she shared to the audience that to keep doing sports to keep yourself healthy and also study smart in your studies.

Shaun Hoon made a great speech and dedicated it to his daughter who has been inspiring him. Well done on the special edition and I know how much work you have invest in this magazine.

For me, the women who have influenced or inspired me these past few years are as follows – My mom, my best friend Sophia Siu, Linda Chandler, Lily Chiam and my late godmother.

Hj Abdul Rahman Hj Metassim; Director of Aewon Garment and Embroidery giving a souvenir to the guest of honour, Datin Paduka Hjh Adina Othman

Unveiling the second edition of Inspire

Some of the 50 Influential Women attended the launch event

More 50 listed women from Brunei

I can’t wait for Cecilia’s book on the 20 women she wrote about. To released by early July.

Datin Adina values sincerity and family during her speech

Shaun Hoon the man of the moment

Mother and daughter 🙂

Lee Yingshi, the Wushu gold medalist answering some questions

Jane Keasberry, Principal of St. Andrew’s School

Group photo with the Deputy Minister

What follow next are the common rituals – selfies

…. and another selfie…

…. and another selfie…

…. and another selfie…

…. and another selfie…

…. and another selfie won’t hurt…

…. and what ever happened to the word usie? …

Mother and daughter

The social media lady power
 

Wu Chun & Calvin   

visit Burger King   

Wu Chun and Calvin Chen making their own burgers at Burger King Brunei 

Calvin Chen is currently in Brunei. I should have taken a photo with him. He was recently featured in 3 Peas in a Pod movie which I have watched twice  

Some sauce on Wu Chun’s customized burger 

Two celebrities at Burger King… Hmmm what are they up to? 

  

 

Film Festival UBD 2014
 

Our take on the ongoing Film Festival UBD 2014 with my co-host Del Goh. Click play to listen to our enlightening review.

The set up at The Core. Nicely done, guys!! Check them out this weekend at The Core, UBD 

Some of the props for the Film Festival UBD 2014
’

The timings for today (Saturday 19th April 2014) 

Catch the production crew of Yasmine tomorrow at The Core, UBD 

They are also selling merchandise for $10 

Efah Mahrub of Film Festival UBD 2014, Siti Kamaluddin of Origins Film and Elizabeth Sim of Timeout with Liz 

  

Sukan Ria 2014  

Sukan Ria Goldmyne Badminton Tournament. Click image to download form. 

Sukan Ria Bowling Tournament. Click image to download form. 

  

Inspire Issue No.2   

This edition of Inspire is a good read and learning about our influential women in Brunei.  

@thehellopanda is also featured in this edition. The magazine will be available next week at newsstand for BND 5 

  

The Social Media for EPL Masters  

Representatives from the social media sphere – Brunei FM, Social Deal, Ranoadidas and TigerLim

As the EPL Masters Brunei makes its return this year with a bigger twist, top social media sites and local bloggers expressed their support for this year’s much anticipated event as they agreed to become official social media partners of EPL Masters Football 2014. They signed an agreement with S-Team Solutions, the official event organizer on 18 April 2014, at the premises of S-Team at BT Complex at Jalan Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa.

Signified to show support for the event using their own social media platforms to disseminate information to the public, the event’s media partners include : Brunei FM, RanoAdidas, SocialDeal.com.bn and Tiger Lim.

During the occasion S-Team announced that his year’s tournament is set to take place at the National Stadium, which seats over 20,000 people, and the scene for many proud events for Brunei.

EPL Masters Brunei 2014 is an intense action packed indoor one-day tournament, where teams from the legendary stars from the EPL and Brunei battle it out for glory to be crowned champion. Previously, the teams were 6-a-side, but with announcement of a larger venue, the teams have also gotten bigger, as they now will be playing 11-a-side.

This year, the events will consist of a four day tour and activities, which include but are not limited to a golf and a youth football camp, meet the fans and corporate appearances.

EPL Masters Brunei 2014 features football heroes players from the 4 big teams namely : Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal forming the EPL All-Stars team.

Previously, fans were able to rub shoulders with the likes of Liverpool FC’s Robbie Fowler, Steve McManaman,and Patrik Berger rekindle old rivalries against Manchester United’s top goal scorer Andy Cole, Ronnie Johnsen and Lee Sharpe.

As the Manchester United Fans Club and the Arsenal Fans club have offered to help as volunteers and liason officers, S-Team would like to extend an invitation to the Liverpool and Chelsea fan clubs to volunteer and have the chance to meet players from their favourite club. For further details please contact : 8899998.

To help The EPL Masters Brunei 2014, is not just a football event for local football fans, but is a prime opportunity for sports tourism to Brunei. It is hoped that travel agents can offer fans in neighbouring countries packages to bring in groups to watch a once-in-a-lifetime game that is set to thrill and amaze.

Representing TigerLim 

Representing Brunei FM 

  

The Big 60  

A surprise birthday gig for Mr. James Lee last evening. Thanks for the invitation 😀 

  

KIA roadshow  

Happening today and tomorrowIn celebration of the upcoming 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, Grand Motors Sdn Bhd, local distributor of Kia vehicles, is hosting an exciting roadshow today and tomorrow at The Mall, Gadong and a test drive activity tomorrow at SEAMEO VOCTECH Regional Centre.

Participants in the test drive tomorrow will be given an original KIA-FIFA World Cup T-shirt and raffle form for an opportunity to win a trip for two to watch the 2014 FIFA World Cup Semi-Finals live in Brazil.

As a major sponsor of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Kia is organising a nation-wide tour until May.

Kia on Tour 2014 is part of a larger global roadshow project initiated by Kia Motors Corporation in Korea.

It is part of Kia’s global commitment to surpass customer expectations through continuous automotive innovation. Text by Mei Fung Lee of The Brunei Times.

Test drive a KIA tomorrow at SEAMEO VOCTECH Regional Centre and stand a chance to win a trip for two to watch the semi-finals of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil 

A successful test drive done last month near Times Square Shopping Centre.  

  

Dugong carcass rotting  

The dugong carcass at Tungku Beach. Image taken by Rafidah Hamit of The Brunei Times

The carcass of an unidentified sea animal believed to be that of a dugong is still at Tungku Beach, six days after it was reported to the Wildlife Division.

When The Brunei Times visited the site yesterday, there was already a foul smell emitting from the remains of the carcass. On closer inspection, it was found that most of the flesh was destroyed. More maggots and flies were seen to be devouring the carcass. Curious onlookers also stopped to look at it.

Hj Faisal Hj Nordin, an officer from the Wildlife Division told The Brunei Times that they had sent a team down to the beach to investigate the remains but could not ascertain the cause of death.

They were also unable to determine whether it was a dugong or a seal. “This is because we do not have a mammal expert. After the investigation, we just left the carcass there to naturally decompose,” Hj Faisal said. He declined to provide further details on the matter. Leaving carcasses that have been washed up ashore to decompose naturally is not uncommon.

In December 2012, a young whale measuring 40 feet long was found on a beach in Malibu — the carcass had disintegrated to such an extent that it was no longer feasible to tow it out to sea. According to an article by The Guardian, authorities had said that the condition of the whale’s carcass made it physically difficult to be moved. “It’s so embedded in sand that they won’t be able to get it out. The body will be pulled apart,” the authorities were reported as saying. The carcass of the sea animal at Tungku Beach measured at about six feet in length. The wildlife authority in Brunei urges the public to report any findings related to wildlife animals to them by calling 2774258, or emailing info-wildlife@industry.gov.bn or by contacting them through the Facebook. Text by Rafidah Hamit of The Brunei Times.