Podcast review of Star Wars: The Force Awakens with special guests Nur Iskandar and Pranika Lama

The Progresif Cellular management all geared up for Episode VII

Progresif team showing their force at Times Cineplex

The US Ambassador to Brunei Craig Allen (5th L) with his family in a group photo with the characters of Star Wars at the Fanboys Infinite movie screening of Star Wars Episode 7: The Force Awakens at Times Cineplex last Friday. Image courtesy of Khaliq Roziman of The Brunei Times.

It was good to see movie goers dressing up. Image courtesy of Khaliq Roziman of The Brunei Times.

I see familiar faces. Image courtesy of Khaliq Roziman of The Brunei Times.

Darth Vader taking a sip of the Red Velvet ice blended drink

The Managing Director of PAR Food & Beverages, YAM Pg Anak Abdul Mun’im (R), presents a mock cheque to a member of Pusat Ehsan Board of Trustee Hj Ahmad Hj Abd Rahman at The Coffee Bean’s outlet in Supasave Beribi yesterday. At the same time, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf also launched two new drinks in conjunction with the Star Wars movie – White Chocolate Peppermint Ice Blended and Double Chocolate Peppermint Ice Blended available until mid January. Image courtesy of Analisa Amu of The Brunei Times.

I recently saw many merchandise being sold at Mall of Asia, Manila.

I watched both movies and both are awesome and are in my 10 ten movies of 2015

 

Alan Inspiration Salon reopens and it is now located at Seri Q-Lap Mall

Alan, the man behind Alan Inspiration Salon and he will be available from 23rd to 25th December. Highly recommended 😀

Alan Inspiration Salon is relocated in Brunei and it’s located on the 1st floor at Seri Q-Lap Mall. They provide a one-stop service for men and women hair design/cut/wash and they just started operations quite recently. I met up with Alan the man behind the successful outlet & academy and he’s happy to be back, catering to the Brunei market.

The genius behind Inspiration Alan Salon, has been a hair champion of Malaysia and Singapore and he has trained in London, Europe, USA, Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Thailand. Along the way he has won numerous awards and accolades which makes him one of the sought hairstylists in the region.

Surprisingly he still has his regular customers from Brunei and alan will make himself available from time to time as he is based in Miri too.

This time round one of his hair stylist is in Brunei from 18th December to 23rd December and his name is Wilson Lee (7 years experience in Kota Kinabalu). Alan himself will be in Brunei from 23rd to 25th December and followed by Michelle from 26th December to 31st December. So do make your appointments at Alan Inspiration Salon at Seri Q-Lap Mall because they have a special promotion of 20% discount (wash & cut) for the first ever client of Alan Inspiration Salon.

For now, the hair wash services for wash and blow is only BND 10. Wash and treatment (using Korea crystal shine products) is only BND 25 and Wash and Treatment (using L’Oreal or Schwarzkopf product) is only BND 50. 

The comfy chairs for the patrons

The hair wash section – separately from men and women. For the time being, hair wash and blow is only BND 10.

Some solutions for your hair

Great promotion especially for first time customer.

The schedules of the hair stylists from Alan Inspiration Salon

Alan was the hair stylist during one of the fashion show. He has many accolades under his belt as a hair stylist

Another highly recommended hair stylist – available from 26th December to 31st December at Alan Inspiration Salon

 

Alvina Ching Sei Ing, the winner of the ‘Baiduri fabulous Promotion @ Mabohai Shopping Complex’ promotion, receiving the a mock key from Pierre Imho, the CEO of Baiduri Bank

Group photo with the winners and finalists with Baiduri Bank management

18 finalists but only one walked away with the Mini Cooper. The campaign lasted for six months at the Mabohai Shopping Complex where all you need to do is swipe ur Baiduri Credit Card and Debit Card while shopping at their premise. The responses have been overwhelming and it was a win-win situation for the retailers and the consumers.

Presenting the prizes was Pierre Imho, the CEO of Baiduri Bank and the grand winner belonged to Alvina Ching Sei Ing who won herself a brand new Mini car.

There were also top three consolation prizes with $300 gift hamper sponsored by L’Occitane and $300 Flexa voucher won by Goh Chee Ming and Victor Edgar Keasberry respectively.

For more updates, you can visit their social media IG at @baiduribank.

One of the consolation winners

During the draw process

Alvina in great joy after winning the Mini

PechaKucha Volume 6 is happening tonight. Not sure if the tickets are sold out but I’m looking forward to this event and I hope I managed to catch all of them as I have another event to attend. Amazing that the team have reached the 6th volume of the PechaKuchaNight BSB. Tonight it will take place at The Energy Kitchen.

Happening tonight at Energy Kitchen

All the seven speakers to share their personal experiences for your interest

Finah Yusof was supposed to travel for only about 2 months. But things got topsy turvy as that extended to a life-gripping adventure of 32 months. In 2012, Finah went to many different places on the face of the globe witnessing what most of us now might never ever be able to someday. She returned just this year to tell you all of that very journey.

Josephine On is also a business entrepreneur. Her entrepreneurship journey was full of doubts and even fears. She found comfort in discomfort. Without overcoming those doubts, she would never have found Hoko Creative.

Next up, he is the youngest of the bunch. Malik Som is 17 years old and will tell you his story of his nostalgic camping experience in Ulu-Ulu Temburong. He discovered more than just a great experience, he discovered a lifetime of valuable lessons.

The business world is more than just earning money as easy as you want. There are loads of hard work, struggles and behind the scenes that many might never witness. Fatin Arifin will give an insight on the challenges that the business world could throw at you.

Hilman Omar had an unexpected reaction from his circle of friends when he drew illustrations of them. They loved it! It was gratifying to see that. And it was the first time ever showing his art towards his group of friends. *Hint* an artwork on the event/venue will be drawn by him. Wonder where that will be drawn?

Another presenter Nitisha Kashyap has lived in Brunei for about 3 years. It was challenging for her at first to adapt. Where to find friends? What activities were there to do to fill time?

Lastly, one of the speakers, Amir Noor who is rocking that Star Wars shirt. Amir is a geek at heart and loves, and we mean LOVES longboarding. Will he talk about longboarding? We shall see.

Today Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Abdullah Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar Minister of Communications graced the Brunei Travel Fair. This morning was totally packed and I’m beginning to wonder if RBRC was enough to cater the hundreds that throng into the venue today. It was jam packed like a can of sardines.

Today’s the final day of the Brunei Travel Fair and let’s hope there are still special fares up for grabs. I managed to get some good fares today. So peeps. Just bring yourself to the Royal Brunei Recreational Club and make you sure that you come as early as possible.

I won’t saying much because I’ve mentioned it in my previous post. Let the pictures tell you the story.

The Minister with one of the icons from Republic of Indonesia

The Minister at Baiduri Bank booth

Want a massage?

At the Tourism Malaysia booth

Presence of BIBD

Strong crowd here at Darussalam Holdings. They will give you double points on Royal Skies during the Travel Fair

Hello Gek (of Darussalam Holdings)

Long queue at Pan Bright

Chance to win a car from Pan Bright

The Minister with Richard from Tourism Authority of Thailand

Check out the new Vento

Another colour to look at

You have heard of the Vento before and it’s from Volkswagen. Surprisingly it was the top 10 selling car in Brunei last year. Now the Vento has an upgrade – it has a combination of high performance, low fuel consumption and class-leading safety as well. The difference with the older model is that it looks slightly longer and stronger appeal definitely.

Let’s quickly go with the exterior features. It has redesigned front end with fog lamps and even the tail lamps have a 3D effect. The side mirrors now have a signal indicator. The other new feature is the Park Distance control (using censor) and it sports a 15” alloy wheels.

The interior has a revamped feel with trim materials and colours and new look of the arm rest. It is powered by a 1.6L petrol engine as well.

The Vento also has an anti-lock braking system and four airbags to protect the occupants during side-on impacts along with the three-point seat belts.

What’s not to like about the car? This is another good contender against the Japanese brand that’s also a hot seller but losing a little steam. Maybe because of the introduction of the the affordable Vento last year. The price this time starts at $21,800 and for the early bird bookings, you will get a $1,000 discount. Awesome. So do check the new Vento at the Maju Motors Showroom. Images courtesy of Vincent Hong.

Bernd Siffling, General Manager of Maju Motors Sdn Bhd during the launch of the Vento at Maju Motors showroom

Chan Key Hong, Managing Director of Maju Motors

Unveiling the new Vento

I guess many of you have heard about the recent scandal that rocked Volkswagen worldwide. Despite the major setback, the brand has to rebuilt the trust with the customers and it’s a plus that Volkswagen owners in Brunei needn’t to worry as the Volkswagen cars supplied to Brunei Darussalam are originated from a completely different production line as addressed by Bernd Siffling, General Manager of Maju Motors Sdn Bhd.

Now with the new direction of the CEO of Volkswagen, Matthias Mueller, let’s hope for better things in the world of Volkswagen. As you know that Volkswagen is a world leader in car making and the scandal will cost them billions. It’s good to know that local customers said that their trust in their Volkswagens has not changed, making the launch of new Vento a much-anticipated event.

A great turn out last night

The winners with the organizers and judges at the Adult Colouring contest last weekend

Alisa Denis the grand winner last weekend

I did it. I officially entered my first ever colour contest at the Mabohai Shopping Complex last weekend. Well, it was for adults too and it was the first of its kind (in a colouring competition). It was organised by Mabohai Shopping Complex and Best Eastern. I have to say that I really had fun that time though I was one of the 5 men among the 78 contestants as the rest were female participants.

So why did I finally get involved with colouring? It was because of the management of Best Eastern as they showed me one of the colouring books meant for adults and from that moment, I was telling myself that maybe.. just maybe, I should get one for myself. A few days later, I officially bought my first colouring book 😀 I guess it’s true that they say such book can make you feel calm when you get the groove of colouring. And yes, it can be therapeutic. Meaning if you have stressful day at work (or even at home), start colouring away.

So if you are wondering which book I am referring to, it’s either Johanna Bamford or Millie Marotta colouring book. It’s selling for $19.90 now at Best Eastern bookstores.

Anyway, back to the contest I was talking about. It was a pretty long judging session to say the least. It took almost two hours to determine the winners of the contest. I never knew judging can be challenging task and furthermore, the organisers didn’t expect a high entry of contestants. The judging process was based on the participants’ creativity in using the colours, shading, tone and presentation.

Nina Zainal coming strong in 2nd place

Robert John with his 3rd place effort

Beautiful penciled by Alisa Denis

Loving the colours toned by Nina Zainal

The winners with the judges

It was quite a great turn out last Sunday

One of the consolation winners with Yolly

It was good to see my cousin (right) participating

The winner of the contest was Alisa Denis with her beautiful colourful effect and she brought home $200 worth of prizes. Second place went to Nina Zainal who’s no stranger in the art scene. She won $150 worth while Robert John won $100 after coming third. There were five other consolation prizes – Jennie, Hilyati, Hannie, Fen Yee and Irene.

According to Yolly Celeridad, Operations Manager of Best Eastern, that the colouring competition aims at bringing creativity from the adults and the most important thing is that this activity is actually fun, fun, fun. I certainly had fun. She hinted that there will be another Adult colouring competition in October but it has yet to be confirmed.

Don’t forget to get a copy of the colouring books by for adults by Johanna Basford and Millie Marotta – The Secret Garden, Enchanted Forest and Animal Kingdom. The new ones that just arrived are 1) Tropical Wonderful (Millie Marotta) and Mindfulness (Holly McDonald). For enquiries or more information, please call 2337196 or 7137839. You can also check out its Facebook page at ‘Best Eastern’ and Instagram @besteastern_bookstore

Look at me.. At full concentration. Thanks Ridwan for the shot and thanks for the support.

Another supporter who came down surprisingly was SY and yes, she had this sinister look too :p Thanks for coming though it was momentary.

You can buy the adult colouring books at Best Eastern outlets and also the colour pencils

I bought myself the Enchanted Forest two weeks ago

I even invested in the Derwent colour pencils. Pretty good.

Even my toastmaster friends are into colouring

Ok, Iskandar is a good in shading with pencils

The latest book I bought off Best Eastern

Review of The Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials with special guest Seng Yee

Summer prediction results and Top summer movies of 2015 with co-host Del Goh

 

Click image to enter website

 

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

 

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam (3rd R) speaking with Captain Sharifah Czarena Surainy Syed Hashim (L), as Deputy Chairman of Royal Brunei Dermot Mannion (2nd L) and Deputy Chief Operating Officer Captain Khalidkhan Hj Asmakhan (2nd R) look. His Majesty visited the newly renovated Brunei International Airport yesterday. He also took one of Royal Brunei Airlines’ Dreamliners for a spin. Image courtesy of Zaim Kasmat of The Brunei Times.

Minister of Communications Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Abdullah Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar (L) hands over the cash prize of $7,000 to Institut Teknologi Brunei student Nurulhidayati Hj Mohd Sani (C) for winning the Tertiary Project Category of the Brunei ICT Awards (BICTA) 2015. Well done, ITB!! As for the ICT Industry Category, the first place went to D5 Innovation with BND 10,000 cash prize. Image courtesy of Abdul Aziz Ismail of The Brunei Times.

For the first time ever, there is a chance I will be joining this competition. Just for fun. Never knew they will have one for adults. This will be interesting indeed. Any takers (adults)? *lol*

Cooking competition coming up at Hua Ho Manggis Mall in conjunction with Hua Ho Health Awareness Month

The King Burger from Peppermint Cafe. I love the home made beef patties.

Congratulations to Progresif Cellular on the opening of their Seria Branch at Panaga. Image courtesy of @progresif_cellular

Now you can pre-order a copy of Yasmine. Too bad there won’t be a blu-ray copy.

I am so proud of my mentee, Heidi Rahman, who stole the show as the Toastmaster of the Evening last Tuesday. My biggest milestone to date as a toastmaster – to see other members grow especially my mentees. Keep it up, lady!!

@baiduribank updates breaks the ritual by getting out of the box. Something different coming from a bank.

Lunch treat by Winnie Sia and it was the first time I dined at Seafood Palace at Tanjung Bunut. Not bad the portion. Couldn’t finish my spaghetti.

Happening this Sunday at Fun Bee Park.

Dilys Chai and Denise Chai, co-owners of Rack & Brew

One word: Impressive. Congratulations to Dilys Chai and Denise Chai on the opening of your new cafe, Rack & Brew. Love the deco, love the atmosphere and most of all, love the food too. The cakes are amazing too – my personal favourite is the Red Velvet Cake.

The cafe is located above Paddington House of Pancake (Gadong) and the area used to be a boutique store (Deseo) and now the boutique store is located on the 2nd floor, just above Rack & Brew. You can follow @rackandbrew on instagram for updates.

According to Borneo Bulletin, Dilys Chai revealed that Rack & Brew was part of her dissertation project back in the UK. Dilys had some sampling of her desserts at Hua Ho Manggis Mall and the responses were pretty good.

Rack & Brew operates from 11am to 10pm daily at Abdul Razak Complex in Gadong. I’m definitely dining there next time.

Liking the atmosphere here at Rack & Brew

Soft shell crab florentine

Roulette Wings

I love their home made kolo mer

Hui Chiet love his dish. Not sure what it’s called.

My companions for lunch

Caramel latte

Jolene’s first time and she likes the cakes

My personal favourite – Red Velvet Cake

They have munchies such as nachos

Group photo with the media and the co-owners. Image courtesy of Kazimah (2nd from right)

Thank Denise for hosting the other day

Curry Pasta is not bad as well

Cakes, cakes and more cakes

I have yet to try the curry puff

This area is always busy as more customers trying out.

Associates from Concepts Computer and Boustead Sdn Bhd (Suzuki) holding an ACER Iconia Tab 8W. For those interested to buy a Suzuki Celerio A+, it now comes with the Acer tablet but for a limited time only.

The MoU signing last Wednesday at Concepts Computer conference room

This is the first time that Concepts Computer collaborated with Boustead Sdn Bhd in a joint promotion. For those interested in purchasing a Suzuki Celerio A+ from Boustead, then you will be entitled to receive a brand new Acer Iconia Tab 8W (from Concepts Computer).

This is another way to reward their loyal customers by giving an instant gift and also boost the image of both Boustead and Concepts Computer.

Just like the Acer Iconia Tab 8W, the Suzuki Celerio A+ has quality, reliability, durability and most important, affordability.

To the Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer, this is a win-win situation for both companies and the joint promotion will be able also to attract new customers.

So what can you expect from a Suzuki Celerio A+? It has a 1.0 litre engine, comes in either MT or CVT, good storage space and also fuel efficient.

As for the Acer Iconia Tab 8W, it’s the top-selling tablet powered by Windows 8.1 and comes with Office 365 (one year subscription) and has a long battery life and one year warranty.

This promotion will start with immediate effect and is valid until December 31. Information about the latest joint promotion can be obtained at any Suzuki showroom or Concepts Computer showroom.

Suzuki will also be holding a roadshow at Citis Square from September 24 to 26, welcoming the public to stop by and try their luck with their ‘lucky dip’ activity.

Pao Jia Wan, Marketing Advisor of Concepts Computer, Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer, James Wong, Branch Manager of Boustead Sdn Bhd and Alvin Kho, Marketing Manager of Boustead Sdn Bhd

The group photo shot with the Suzuki Celerio A+ and the Acer Iconia Tab 8W

Members of the media

Check out the Suzuki Celerio A+

 

Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah the Royal Patron for International School Brunie’s Borneo Global Issues Conference with the deputy ministers from Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and Education, the management, the Executive Principal of ISB, the Secretaries-General for BGIC and representatives from the local participating schools of BGIC 2015

After two years of hiatus, the ISB’s Borneo Global Issues Conference is back but sadly there were no international school involved as compared to previous years. Nonetheless this will give more opportunities for the local students to be involved with the current issues facing around the world.

the 11th Borneo Global Issues Conference (BGIC) at the International Convenction Centre (ICC) was graced by Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah the Royal Patron for BGIC. The theme for this year is to “Combat World Diseases” and Her Royal Highness urged our Brunei youth to take a healthier lifestyle and hopefully it will reduce the demands on the healthcare system. Her Royal Highness also stated how information has become more accessible to the youth through internet for them to learn of diseases such as Avian Influenza, HIV/AIDS, Malaria, Tuberculosis and the newly known Ebola.

Her Royal Highness presented a mock cheque on behalf of ISB to the JUMP! Foundation, a non-profit youth empowerment organization and it was received by Tara Yip-Bannicq of UNICEF Haiti and the JUMP! Foundation.

The event ran for four days and today is the final day of BGIC. The only surprise was the non appearance from the Ministry of Health as this theme relates to health.

Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah in the group photo

Her Royal Highness handing out certificate of participation to a student representative

Her Royal Highness speaking to Beatrice, one of the Secretaries-General of BGIC

Her Royal Highness handing out certificate of participation to a student representative

Her Royal Highness attending the opening of BGIC

Her Royal Highness handing out a mock cheque to Tara Yip-Bannicq of UNICEF Haiti and the JUMP! Foundation

Tara’s presentation

The regular invited guests of BGIC

The welcoming party

It was a pleasure to have met Tara and apparently she was a classmate of my friend from Brunei. What a small world!

 

Happening later 9am, 9th March at Mabobai Shopping Complex

 

Reuben Chin to carry the torch for Brunei Area K6 in Labuan end of March. His journey begins here after winning both International Speech Contest and Table Topics Contest last night. He won’t be limiting his challenges and bro, you have control. Congratulations yesterday. More pictures to follow

 

Acer Aspire

 Click image to enter website to find out more.

Travel with agoda

  

Click image to enter ICON Design Store

Raihana Hj Ramlee receiving a mock key to her new home from GHK Motors Managing Director Yang Berhormat Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin yesterday

It was really surreal to be honest. I arrived the event slightly late and I missed the draw for the two cars but managed to catch the main draw where the winner will win a Semi-D house. As I was making my way through the crowd, I bumped into Raihana and asked if she was part of the GHK Mega Draw and she responded yes and I wished her good luck. Who knows after less than five minutes, her name was the last to be called as the top 5 finalists eligible to win a home.

So congratulations too Raihana Hj Ramlee and she said that she will moving to her new Semi-D home at Lumapas. Present to give away the grand prize was GHK Motors Managing Director Yang Berhormat Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Goh King Chin.

GHK Motors Sdn Bhd ran a Mega-Draw promotion where customers who purchased Chevrolet, Mitsubishi, Daihatsu, Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge from 1st June 2014 to 31st January 2015 are eligible for the Mega Draw (chance to win a home or a Chevrolet Cruze or a Mitsubishi Mirage).

More than 2,000 family turned up for the draw event and it’s amazing numbers to know that a total of 1,190 were successfully registered.

Also present during the draw were Pg Halaludin Pg Dato Shariffuddin, sales manager of Mitsubishi Division, Director of GHK Motors and Pg Dato Shariffuddin Pg Hj Matali, the Chairman of GHK Motors who presented the prizes of the Mitsubishi Mirage and Chevrolet Cruze respectively to Razami and Md Surdahri Hj Tahamid.

Pehin giving away consolation prizes

Another consolation prize

Group photo with the winners

Such a huge crowd yesterday

The shortlisted finalists yesterday

Razami Hj Sapar @ Hj Safar with his new car Chevrolet Cruze with his trust GHK sales agent Disdy

Surdahri Hj Tahamid with his family and his new car Mitsubishi Mirage

GHK Motors associates who worked hard to make this car company a reputable one

 

The awesome Audi Sedan S3

Oh my… this car is The Beast. Wait until you test drive this car (well, for serious buyers only) and you will know what I mean. I test drove the Audi S3 a few weeks ago and it was during a wet rainy day. No problem at all because the traction of the Audi S3 is superb. Furthermore, Audi S3 is a quattro® which means that it’s an all wheel permanent drive, giving you more control and power while on the wheel.

The Audi S3 Sedan almost tops the scale of superior performance and it is still a very efficient car. So what are the specs? It’s powered by a 2.0 TFSI Engine; it ha a high-performance four cylinder unit combined with cutting edge technology. You will be impressed with the six-speed transmission and guess what? it’s able to hit the 100 km/h mark in just 4.9 seconds. Now that is power.

The acceleration itself is amazing. This really helps if you need to get out of junction or our congested roundabouts and you won’t even have to think twice about making decisions when you exit a junction because the S3 will give you that confidence.

The interior of the Audi S3 gives you that sporty and luxurious feel and you will know what you are paying for. I love the fact that the sound system is powered by B & O (Bang & Olufsen).

The Audi S3 targets a niche set of customers because of its power, class and it’s simply a sexy, beast of a car. You can visit the Audi Showroom at Kiarong and enquire more about the Audi S3. If you have driven an Audi A3, just imagine a super charged A3 with a sporty look.

2015 Audi S3. Check out the review by The Fast Lane Car

Drove this beast and I love it

It was a rainy day and the S3 still have great traction

The interior of S3

Nice workmanship for the seats

 

Dressing up in red attire

The students of ISB Brunei celebrated an important local event recently with plenty of enthusiasm and noise. The proceedings opened with Mr Darren Sibley, Primary Principal, reminding the students of how significant the tradition of celebrating New Year is to our Chinese community.

The children watched a short video on the ‘magic of the New Year celebrations’ and were then entertained by the Year three students performing the song ‘Gong xi fa chi’ and joined in with chorus which their music teacher Mrs Bishop had taught them in preparation. Year 2 then performed a song of their own entitled ‘Celebration’ .

As the younger children got their breath back, it was the turn of the Year 4 dancers to perform ‘The Umbrella Dance’ to the drumming of Jacob Kurian in Year 5 to be followed by a combined Year three, five and six group performance of the New Year Celebration song and dance.

Next it was the turn of the teachers to overcome their inhibitions in a very loud balloon bursting game. These were the ‘fireworks’ provided for this Chinese New Year and the children clearly enjoyed themselves.

Mr Sibley thanked teachers Yang Pen and Siti Maria for all their hard work preparing the event for the school before the children returned to their classes excitedly discussing the events of the morning. It was an excellent opportunity for the children to encounter a community tradition of Brunei as they have learned about the cultures of other peoples and places around the world. Press release by ISB, images courtesy of ISB.

The teachers in charge during the event

 

Mabohai Shopping Complex’s family event – PANDA SUNDA’! on Sunday, 15th February 2015 proved a great hit with families.

The event kicked off with the opening of the Panda themed photo booth with several children being part of the activity. The photo booth is composed of real bamboo plants as a backdrop and several handcrafted pandas with stuffed toy pandas for families to pose with.

In the afternoon, Chef Agus, the new Executive Chef of Misato Teppanyaki Restaurant, and his crew showed their acrobatic food skills preparation on the event stage. They charmed the crowd with their performance involving salt & pepper shakers, eggs and various cooking utensils. A mini sushi making contest was held and 3 lucky children brought home a box of especially prepared Panda shaped sushi each.

The highlight of the day was an action packed twenty minute Wushu Presentation by the athletes of the Brunei Wushu Federation who performed through special permission from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. Eighteen young athletes from age 6 upwards showcased the art, beauty and strength of the sport.

The wushu performance was followed by a special intermission performance by senior students of En Pointe Academy of Dance led by Regina Malabayabas, Director of the Academy.

Global Art were on hand throughout the day giving free origami and craft lessons to children who made panda masks and book marks.

The Management of Mabohai Shopping Complex said:

“ We were delighted with the enthusiastic response from families who came in droves throughout the day to have a family fun day at Mabohai Shopping Complex. We enjoyed watching children interacting with parents while enjoying the different activities lined up for them. We thank the children for bringing their pandas to the complex and sharing their love for these rare animals. Look out for more fun family oriented events held at the Mabohai Shopping Complex from our Facebook, website and Instagram.“

Should you wish to book the Event Stage of the Mabohai Shopping Complex for your events and activities, please call us on 8111623 or 8653762.Or find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Images and press release by Mabohai Shopping Complex.

 

In conjunction with the 31st Brunei Darussalam’s National Day, Jerudong Park and Country Club (JPCC) is delighted to offer special deals on entry tickets to Jerudong Park Playground.

Entrance tickets for this promotion will be available at a rate of $31 for a family package for 3 adults and 3 children and a free entrance for children below 2 years old. This promotion is applicable to all visitors, residents and non-residents.

The special deals started off from Wednesday, 11 February until the Sunday on 1 March 2015.

The National Day Specials is aimed to attract more visitors to try out the latest rides and facilities available. By lowering the price of the ticket, more people can enjoy the attraction and spend their time with their family at Jerudong Park Playground.

Special deals until Sunday 1st March 2015

Among the rides available at Jerudong Park Playground are the 25-metre tall Ferris Wheel, Laser Maze, Rollercoasters, 21-hole Mini-golf Course, Merry-Go-Round, Bumper Car and a lot more.

The ticket can be purchased at the ticket counter of Jerudong Park Playground. However, if people do not want to wait in line for long hours, online booking can be use. To booked a ticket online, please log on to http://www.jerudongpark.com.bn.

The Jerudong Park was revamped and was opened last May 2014. More updates and information regarding the parks rides and entry tickets can be found at JPCC’s Instagram and Facebook account, Jerudong Park and Jerudong Park Country Club respectively.

 

Own the Audi A3 Sedan 1.8 TFSI during CNY with the first 5-months at zero cost. Valid until March 2015. To add on that, 60 months or 150,000km warranty. Check them out at T•C•Y Motors (Audi) Showroom at Kiarong.

 

The newly revamped Dining Privilege Card. Read more below on how you can get it.

DPC stands for Dining Privilege Card. The card has been around for many years but the abbreviation DPC has not really caught in the minds of many. It’s such a great privilege (no pun intended) that the DPC is worth to have especially if you are dining at the Royal Brunei Catering outlets. You can patron at Anjung Saujana (Brunei International Airport), Seasons Restaurant, Dynasty, Emperor’s Court and Fish & Co and enjoy discounts or earn points using DPC. This also applies to RBC laundry and dry cleaning services.

Few days ago, the DPC was relaunched and it was launched by Acting General Manager of Royal Brunei Catering Pg Hj Abd Rahman Pg Hj Mat Salleh who has been in charged for the past few weeks. Concurrently, it was also launching of the DPC website which was designed by Syensai Design. You can click here to see what DPC has to offer and it’s a very comprehensive and easy to navigate portal.

The DPC also has a facelift where instead of the classic blue card, it is now the gold coloured card. For existing customers with DPC, you can renew your cards at the five mentioned restaurants. As for new ones, all you have to do is spend $88 at any RBC outlets or you can accumulate your receipts up to $88 and you will be eligible for the DPC.

The event was also to commemorate the local media from TV to radio to newspapers and social media for their continuous support in spreading information on RBC’s promotion. It was nice to acknowledge and receiving certificates of appreciation from RBC.

Thank you once again and we all look forward to cover more of RBC events for the benefits of our readers.

Guest of honour, Acting General Manager of Royal Brunei Catering Pg Hj Abd Rahman Pg Hj Mat Salleh, launching the DPC website

Members of the media

DJ Daffy of Kristal FM receiving certificate of appreciation

Rokiah of Borneo Bulletin receiving certificate of appreciation

A representative from a Chinese print media receiving certificate of appreciation

The management of RBC

With the members of the media

Sofian of Syensai Design winning a voucher from RBC

 

Click image to enter website

One of the most popular models that’s doing well in Maju Motors, the sole distributor for Volkswagen in Brunei, is the Volkswagen Scirocco. The exterior looks sporty with awesome performance. The latest version has narrow headlights and striking air inlet at the front end design. The rear itself is pretty eye catching, sporting a twin exhaust pipe, striking lights and beefy bumpers characterise the rear.

Did you know the Scirocco model has been around for many years? But the makers have taken an evolutionary approach with its style and make it more appealing to the eyes of the younger generation.

You can visit the showroom at Maju Motors or call 265 5111 for inquiries. Or you can visit them at the Love Bug Carnival from 13th to 14th February at Maju Motors. Bring your family for some sweet treats and check out the VW models at their showroom. Do check out their Facebook for updates.

A proud owner of the Volkswagen Scirocco

Another proud owner of the Volkswagen Scirocco, my brother

Happening today and tomorrow

 

Happy birthday Jason

 

Mabohai Shopping Complex successfully kicked off its first car boot sale at their new parking lot located at the complex last Sunday, 8 February 2015. The activity started at 6:00 am and lasted till 12 noon.

This event brought members of the community together as friends and family members helped each other sell pre-loved items. Car boot sale lovers and enthusiasts came as early as 6:00 am to browse for great bargains. Participants sold used and pre-loved toys, books, clothes, magazines, kitchenware, electrical goods and more from their own household. Other items included Gundam action figures, vintage Archie comics, baby strollers and car seats and branded clothes.

Participants came in as early as 5:00 am to set up and the whole car park area was bustling with activity by 6:00 am. This carried on till late morning despite the threat of rain.

To join in the festivities of the car boot sale, Savy’s Brasserie, Mabohai Branch, offered a 10% all day discount to all diners on Sunday, 8th Feb 2015.

The Complex Manager said:

“We are delighted with the outcome of our first car boot sale. The turnout was great from sellers and buyers alike and all the sellers sold most of their wares by the end of the sale. It was a warm community activity which saw friends and families come and help each other set up and sell their pre loved belongings. With the success of this event, the public can look forward to another Car Boot Sale organized in the near future, which will be announced on our website, facebook and IG @mabohaibrunei”.

 

Catch DPMM FC this Sunday as they take on Tampines Rovers. Both have perfect records but DPMM FC has yet to concede a goal.

  

Acer Liquid Smartphones

 

Check out Acer Liquid smartphones 

 

HSBC Personal Internet Banking

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BIBD – Let’s Go Mobile!

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Icon Design Store

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Media briefing yesterday at the Energy Division at the Prime Minister’s Office

It’s happening on starting Monday at the BRIDEX Exhibition Centre and it is organized by the Energy Department at the Prime Minister’s Office. The theme for this year is ‘Sustainable Energy for Brunei Darussalam Prosperity’, Energy Week 2014 which aims to promote awareness among the community about the importance of energy sources, and the need to conserve them. Yesterday I attended the media briefing on what to expect for Energy Week 2014.

The organizer urged the public especially job seekers to attend the event as it will be a total of 5 days (the longest exhibition event being hosted so far) and there are many job opportunities up for grabs as well in the oil & gas industry. The interesting new opportunity is the Brunei Maritime Academy and they are also looking for new intakes. Hence this will be the best time to be part of the team and they will have a booth and exhibition for the youths to find out more about maritime opportunities. I can assure you that it will be a great experience.

I shall spare more details about Energy Week later today. For now, you can surf their official website here and mark your dates of Energy Week 2014 (24th March to 29th March 2014).

 

Mabohai Shopping Complex, in partnership with Brunei Usergroup Lego and Technique (BULAT), will be holding the Brunei Lego Meet 2014, from Friday, 21st March till Sunday, 23rd March 2014.

The Brunei Lego Meet 2014 will feature special activities which are geared to encourage more people to participate by bringing their own Lego sets and minifigures. Among the activities will include a community speed build, where members and those who are willing to participate can register on FB to bring their unbuilt sets and build them on the spot with other collectors which will then be exhibited. There will also be an Instagram game called “Find the Mini Fig”. On Sunday, 23rd March, everyone with Lego minifigurines is encouraged to bring them to Mabohai to help establish a record for the most minifigs in one location.

Globalart, the newest shop to open at the complex, will hold their Grand Opening on Sunday, 23rd March, 2104 as part of the festivities, and will hold a Lego themed colouring competition.

Lego Mindstorms will also be participating in the event with their “Mindstorms Camp”, a series of hands on activities that will teach participants to create robots out of Lego and program them with various commands. Lego Mindstorms will start their activity from Friday till Sunday.

Happening tomorrow at Mabohai Shopping Complex

The Management of Mabohai Shopping Complex said:

“The Brunei Lego Meet 2014 is one of our major activities to help the community, in this case the Lego enthusiasts and collectors. We are very happy to support the group by being the official venue partner for this prestigious event. We invite the public to be part of this event, either as participant or spectator and enjoy the passion of Lego building and collecting.”

For members of the public who would like to participate, please visit the Brunei Usergroup Lego and Technique FB page to register. Visit our website at Mabohai Shopping Complex for upcoming activities or visit our FB page and like us to get more updates.

Should you wish to book the Event Stage of the Mabohai Shopping Complex for your events and activities, please call us on 8111623 or 8653762.Or find us on Facebook, Instagram @mabohaibrunei and Twitter.

HSBC Personal Internet Banking

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BIBD – Let’s Go Mobile!

Let’s go mobile? Click more to find out!!

Icon Design Store

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>

Manage your account online with HSBC’s Personal Internet Banking (PIB) service and stand a chance to be rewarded.

From now until April 30, HSBC customers who perform selected online transactions such as international transfers, bill payments and opening foreign currency time deposit accounts will earn Transaction Points ranging from 10 to 100 points.

Every month, the first 150 HSBC customers to collect 200 Transaction Points will be rewarded with attractive vouchers: $30 Starbucks Gift Certificate for the month of February, $30 Hua Ho Shopping Voucher for the month of March and $30 RBC Dining Voucher for the month of April. In addition, HSBC PIB customers will also have a chance of winning one of five PlayStation® 4 consoles in the Grand Lucky Draw.

Earning Transaction Points is easy: for example the purchase of prepaid electricity recharge pins (PowerKad) and prepaid mobile phone (Easi) top-ups will earn customers 30 Transaction Points (minimum $50 for PowerKad and $40 for Easi Top-up) and customers who register to receive their credit card statements via encrypted emails will earn 40 Transaction Points during the campaign period. Customers who perform account openings of Foreign Currency Time Deposits, internal transfers, telegraphic transfers, cashier’s orders or demand drafts via the HSBC Personal Internet Banking platform will also earn Transaction Points, subject to its terms and conditions.

For the month of February, successful customers will receive a Starbucks Gift Certificate worth $30 via appointed courier service in conjunction with the American coffeehouse chain’s opening in the Sultanate back on February 16 at Mabohai Shopping Complex. For more details on the HSBC Online campaign and earning Transaction Points, contact the bank’s Call Centre at 2252252 or log on to www.hsbc.com.bn.

The great thing for the monthly treat’s prizes is that they will be delivered to customers through an appointed courier service within 5 working days after end of every month, for the respective monthly treat.

Click image to enlarge poster

 

Politeknik Brunei will be holding a two-day Open Day – “Road to Politeknik Brunei” on March 6 and 8 from 8.30am to 12pm and 1.30pm to 4pm at One Stop Center, Level 2, Block 2E, Politeknik Brunei, Jalan Ong Sum Ping. The purpose of the Open Day is to provide opportunities for the public, especially the students that have graduated from the ‘A’ level to proceed to the next level by entering the Advanced Diploma courses (which is equivalent to HND) available in Politeknik Brunei for the 2014/2015 intake.

Among the activities that will be held at the Open Day is a consultation and interaction session between the public especially students and Politeknik Brunei’s lecturers on the entry requirements and the Advanced Diploma programmes offered in 2014; briefings on learning and teaching in the Schools / Departments of Politeknik Brunei; briefings on job opportunities in the government and private sectors; and tours around the Politeknik Brunei building for a look at the campus.

Acting Director of Politeknik Brunei, Denis Ho Mun Tai, delivering his speech last Thursday at Politeknik Brunei Open Day. Image courtesy of Sally Pri of The Brunei Times.

Students who have graduated with A Level and wish to continue their studies to Advanced Diploma at Politeknik Brunei may visit the school at Jalan Ong Sum Ping on Saturday from 8.30am to noon and 1.30pm to 4pm.
The school started its Open Day for the 2014-2015 intake yesterday after an opening ceremony was launched by its Acting Director Denis Ho Mun Tai.

Under the title “Road to Politeknik Brunei” the event provides consultation and interaction between prospective students and the school’s lecturers on the entry requirements and the Advanced Diploma programmes offered this year.

It also provides briefings on learning and teaching available at Politeknik Brunei, briefings on job opportunities in the government and private sector as well as tours around the school building to allow students to take a closer look at the campus.

Advanced Diploma qualifications from Politeknik Brunei is accredited by the National Accreditation Council (MKPK) as equivalent to the qualification of the BDTVEC Higher National Diploma (HND).

A total of 12 Programmes are offered by Politeknik Brunei for the 2014-2015 intake.

The School of Business offers five programmes namely Advanced Diplomas in Business Entrepreneurship, Business Accounting, Business Finance, Business Marketing and Business Management.

Under the School of Information and Communication Technology the programmes offered include Advanced Diplomas in Web Computing, Information Systems and Technology, Computer Network, Information Science and Digital Media. Meanwhile, the School of Science and Engineering offers two programmes namely Advanced Diplomas in Interior Design and Well Engineering.

Also in attendance during the opening ceremony were Acting Assistant Director of Politeknik Brunei Alias Hj Abu Bakar, heads of departments, heads of schools as well as lecturers, officers and staff of Politeknik Brunei. Text courtesy of Sally Pri of The Brunei Times.

 

Jeff Dunham to perform live in May in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

LOL Events is proud to present worldwide comedy sensation, Jeff Dunham, live in Malaysia on 20th May 2014 at 8.30pm. The show will be held at Sunway Convention Centre, Level CP3, Sunway Pyramid Shopping Centre.

Have you heard of Jeff Dunham? Well, I have and I’m pretty sure some of you have. He will be touring in Asia and one of the stops will be in Kuala Lumpur. Jeff Dunham is a popularly known for his stand up comedy with his puppets and yes, he will be bringing a truck load of puppets with him. Even Time Magazine wrote that he is “the most popular comedian in the United States” and Forbes named him to its Celebrity 100 list of most powerful entertainers three years running. Jeff Dunham is a phenomenally successful global entertainment brand.

He will be in Asia for the “Disorderly Conduct tour”. He will perform live on 20th May at the Sunway Convention Centre and he will be performing for 90 minutes.

“We are proud to bring to Malaysia another global comedy sensation. Jeff Dunham’s talent has taken the art of ventriloquism to a whole new level. He will dazzle you with his amazing ventriloquist skills and deliver cutting edge comedy whilst still remain warm and humane. This will be a mind-blowing comedy experience for everyone.” – Rizal Kamal, CEO, LOL Events.

It’s also good to know that this is also supported by Tourism Malaysia and Malaysia Major Events.

Jeff Dunham, live in Malaysia takes place at the Sunway Convention Centre on 20th May 2014 at 8.30pm. Ticket prices are RM420 (VIP), RM340 (Cat 1), RM270 (Cat 2), RM200 (Cat 3), RM130 (Cat 4) and ticket sales will be available from 25th Feb, 10am through TicketPro.

I will also be running instagram competition and one of you will walk away with a pair of tickets to catch Jeff Dunham (well, air ticket and accommodation not included). So do check out @ranoadidas instagram soon.

The seating arrangements for Jeff Dunham’s gig at Sunway Convention Centre. Click image to enter TicketPro to buy seats.

The ticket pricing for the gig. Click image to enter TicketPro to buy seats.

 

Ridzuan and his family with the management of Maju Motors Sdn Bhd, posing with the grand prize, Volkswagen Jetta

Finally a winner for the grand draw of the DPMM FC lucky draw has been awarded. 38 shortlisted fans of DPMM FC were invited for the final grand draw. The grand draw prize was the Volkswagen Jetta sponsored by Maju Motors Sdn Bhd. They are also one of the major sponsors for DPMM FC team last season and it’s no surprise that Maju Motors Sdn Bhd has continued the tradition of being major sponsor for DPMM FC this season in the S•League campaign.

Dr. Chan Sui Kiat, Managing Director of Maju Motors and Chan Key Hong, Executive Director of Maju Motors, were present to host the grand draw. From the 38 shortlisted participants, they drew the top 5 participants for the final grand draw. Ridzuan bin Ali emerged as the lucky winner as his son picked the right key to unlock a brand new Volkswagen Jetta.

The Jetta 1.4TSI is a comfortable car as it has a long wheelbase and German engineered suspensions. The 122-horsepower engine is mated with a smooth shifting 6-speed DSG transmission, allowing the car to get from 0-100km/h in just a few seconds.

The finalists choosing their keys for the draw

Others waiting in anticipation for the winner

The first participant couldn’t unlock the door

The lil boy tried his luck with the key

Guess what? He managed to unlock it

Ridzuan was so appreciative of his son’s effort

Will he remember this moment when he grows up? 😀

Like father, like son

Finally a winner was crowned with a Volkswagen Jetta

Consolation prizes where they get a pair of season tickets

Consolation prizes where they get a pair of season tickets

 

Are you a “Food Fan” who loves to sample different kinds of delicacies, especially home baked savouries or sweet delights? Do you love to share your creations with other enthusiasts? Or do you love home made products that you can display or use either in your office, home or give as a gift to your loved ones? Or simply want to meet fellow enthusiasts to while away a day of craft or food?

The Mabohai Shopping Complex, in support of local SME’s, will be holding the Mabohai Shopping Complex “Craft and Foodies’ Weekend” at the Event stage of the Complex on Saturday, 8th March and Sunday, 9th March 2014 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

The event will start on Saturday, 8th Feb with La Vida Crafts Group offering handmade baskets, cards, quilts and many other decorative items for sale to the general public. In addition, Jo’s Art Gallery will be demonstrating craft activities using recycled materials such as plastic bottles and egg trays. There will also be free face painting for children.

On Sunday, 9th March on Foodies’ Day, different delicacies such as cookies, cakes and pies prepared by local online sellers will be available for sale to the public. The public is invited to sample and buy these delicious concoctions and savour the taste of home made products.

According to the management of Mabohai Shopping Complex, “We are very happy to be able to help groups like La Vida and the local sme’s to share their love for crafts and cooking. Both are works of art expressed in different forms, one is through visual art with the home made jewellery, quilts, baskets and bags, and the other is culinary arts, with the different cupcakes, pastries, desserts that will delight the public. This is a celebration of creativity, and the public is invited to join in the fun.”

Should you wish to book the Event Stage of the Mabohai Shopping Complex for your events and activities, please call us on 8111623 or 8653762. Or find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @mabohaibrunei

Happening this weekend