Looking for something special this Raya Season? At the Peugeot Boutique in our Kiarong Showroom we have a special promotion on a wide range of exclusive and limited items! #Peugeot #Brunei #HariRaya2016 [Click image to enter Facebook Page]

Customers checking out the Peugeot merchandise last weekend

 

Operational hours during Hari Raya at petrol station [Click to enlarge]

 

Unveiling of the Acer Predator showroom at Concepts Computer by four Concepts Computer representatives, Mr. Vincent Pao, its General Manager, Alice Chan, its Financial Controller and with the presence of Richard Soo, Branch Manger for Acer Sales and Services, Miri.

The much anticipated Acer Predator series of gaming PCs, notebooks, monitors and tablets are about to WOW the IT consumers in Brunei Darussalam. Hard-core gamers will be queuing up to get their hands on the new no-compromise experience in performance and design, as they can react faster in-game and be immersed in true to life over the top visual display and audio performance.

Acer, with the support of Concepts Computer, is proud to show-case the Acer Predator series in their showroom with floor-space dedicated to these models, especially ready for users seeking an immersive sensory experience and powerful computing. These computers are built with cutting-edge graphics and speedy processing power, allowing them to tackle even the most demanding multimedia for realistic entertainment. The whole Acer Predator line-up are also stylish and sophisticatedly designed.

With the Predator line, Acer was the first to also release gaming-centric monitors which combines nVidia’s G-Sync technology and GeForce GTX GPUs in what is rapidly becoming the platform of choice as it delivers an ultra-smooth experience across multiple spectrums of gaming and multi-media. Part of the gaming monitors released will be curved, ultra wide monitors which gives a wraparound visual experience. Designed specifically for serious gamers, the curved 178-degree curved viewing angle of the ultra wide gaming monitors delivers an immersive experience.

Richard sharing on the advantages of powerful CPUs from the Predator line

Do you know that Predator tablet does vibrate depending on the games you play? Cool 😀

The powerful CPUs for gamers

The Predator line also boasts one of the first Android gaming tablet available in the market, the Predator 8 will feature top of the line Intel processor, Intel HD graphics, 8 inch FHD screen, and 4 powerful speakers; all combining to provide the best gaming experience in the palm of your hands. Gamers will appreciate the raw power found on the Predator 8 gaming tablet. The newest generation Intel processor with Intel HD Graphics deliver extraordinary graphics and performance, while 802.11a/b/g/n wireless with 2×2 MIMO supports fast connection speeds, processing data at up to twice the speed of traditional 1×1 solutions.

Predator TacSense provides tactile feedback which makes the gaming experience more engaging and enjoyable with a real sense of vibration. And with up to 64GB of on-board storage and expansion capabilities via a microSD card of up to 128GB, gamers have room to take their games, videos and music with them wherever they go.

Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer, speaking to the media, said, “Concepts Computer is proud to bring into the Bruneian market, the ACER Predator line-up, built for the future and combines power and vibrancy in a package that puts you in control of powerful computing performances on-the-go.” He continued, “Concepts Computer will always step-up to provide the perfect solutions from Acer, making sure that it is affordable and well-built, and we believe the ACER Predator series are an excellent addition to our portfolio of ACER computing devices.”

I’m liking this curvy monitor from the Predator line. Apparently the two different monitors at the showroom are quite popular.

The rugger Predator bag

Richard with the team from Concepts Computer

Spend on Concepts Computer, maybe on the Predator series and you can get yourself a carton of drink from Kingston. So far it has been a popular gimmick and Concepts have given out a few hundreds of this coupon. You will need to spend at least BND 200 to be eligible for this coupon.

Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive at Concepts Computer, also added, “With Acer’s cross-platform offering of Predator gaming products, it represents our relentless pursuit of the best for the Bruneian market. And with our outstanding team, we hope to bring passion and precious gamer insights into the PC gaming industry in Brunei Darussalam.”

The ACER Predator series will be available from Concepts Computer, where the Acer Predator 8 gaming tablet will be on offer for all Concepts member for only $488 (usual price $508) while stocks lasts. For more information call 2233551, 2233552 or 2233553 or visit your nearest Concepts Computer showroom.

 

Check out the Predator series at Concepts Computer

 

 

Are you Team Ironman or Team Cap? I’m definitely team yellow and red

Yea… A whole bunch of us are gonna catch this at The Mall Cineplex

Oh yes… Finally it’s here. The premiere of the final instalment of Captain America called Civil War. This is a prelude to The Avengers 3 and some even called it Avengers 2.5 as it involved all the characters except for The Hulk and Thor. I’ve watched the trailer many times and I have no doubt that this will be an awesome show. For many reasons. One being directed by the Russo brothers who were responsible for Captain America: The Winter Soldier which I love a lot. The second reason being is that it’s a Marvel universe where D.C has fallen flat in the wars of the superhero universe.

There’s even a critic who wrote “Packed to bursting with the one ingredient “Batman V Superman” lacked: Joy”. I’m quite surprised that many critics gave this flick a thumbs up and so far it has scored 97% on Rotten Tomatoes as compared to Batman V Superman’s 28%. Judging from the critics, this could be the biggest superhero movie of 2016. Period. Now the question is, will it top Batman V Superman’s box office earnings of USD 860 million worldwide. I’m pretty sure that it will be able to since it garnered USD 715 million for Winter Soldier worldwide.

I’ll be catching Captain America: Civil War with my buddies tonight at The Mall Cineplex so do watch out for my reviews soon on my podcast.

The trailer TV Spot for The Jungle Book

Check out the reviews. Click to read more

 

Times Square Shopping Centre will be organizing its first-ever Counter Strike Global Offensive Gaming Tournament on the 29th April, Friday until 1st of May 2016, Sunday from 10:00am to 10:00pm. It is open to all ages with only 5 team members allowed in a team, with one substitute.

The event, which is co-organized by Netcom, will provide interested participants the opportunity to experience the battle of the Counter Strike Global Offensive live, and for the public to witness it at the atrium of Times Square. The competition will be a single-elimination tournament where only winners of the first round will be eligible to proceed to the next round. There will also be amazing prizes sponsored by Netcom to be won. Interested participants will need to attach a receipt of any amount from any branches of Netcom in Brunei Darussalam, along with the registration form which can be retrieved from the lucky draw counter at Times Square Shopping Centre.

Throughout this Counter Strike Global Offensive Gaming Tournament, there will also be a Razer Roadshow by Netcom where there will be amazing Razer products and Gaming equipment. Moreover, DxRacer chairs will also be used during the tournament to allow gamers to “Sit better. Work harder. Game longer.”

Times Square is also glad to announce that we will be holding our annual Ramadhan Fair on the 21st June until 5th July 2016. Interested vendors may contact Times Square Management Office at 2338208 or 2338006 during office hours. You may also find out about all the upcoming events by visiting tsqbrunei.com or simply following Times Square Shopping Centre’s pages on Facebook and Instagram.

 

Eric Tang, Epson Malaysia’s Sales Manager Retail Division (2nd from left) and Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer (2nd from right) with Concepts Computer associates during the launch of the new Epson printers, the Work Force edition.

Eric Tang giving a quick presentation on the strengths of the new Epson printers ideal for businesses

You have heard of the L series of Epson printers (popular among teachers and students), suitable for home use. Now comes the business segment from the latest edition of Epson inkjet printers.

So if you are looking for efficiency, speed and quality, then I highly recommend you the Epson Workforce models – Epson WF-5111 or the Epson WF-5261 or the Epson WF-100 (mobile printer).

The said printers were launched at Brilliance Hall at Concepts Computer with Eric Tang, Epson Malaysia’s Sales Manager Retail Division, giving a quick presentation on the new Epson printers.

What caught my eye is the Epson WF-100 model. Why? It’s very portable and plus it’s wifi ready too. Perhaps the most interesting thing is that it can be power up using your power bank.. Awesome!!! I like the light weight of the printer and weighs 1.6 kg so you can actually bring it around for emergency purposes. Surprisingly this printer givers the best print out resolution as compared to the bigger printers. It can produce up to 5,670 x 1,440 dpi on a photo paper. Impressive!!

The bigger models are the WF-5111 and WF-5261, both coming with wide range of connectivity and mobile printing solutions. You can make use of your smartphone and download the app for printing purposes too. The other plus signs for these models are that it will give you significant savings through minimal usage of electricity, unlike laser printers which relies a lot on heat.

The Epson WF-5111

The Epson WF-5261

The awesome portable Epson WorkForce WF-100

Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive shared that Concepts Computers will always move forward and strive to add the latest and best for our customers to choose from, which is why we’re bringing these 3 models into the Bruneian market.” Zul continued, “As can be expected from Epson and Concepts, these 3 models will be cost-effective and high in quality, printers that businesses can depend on day-in day-out.

Eric Tang said that “We at Epson believe that the Bruneian market is at a great position for expansion and with the growth of SMEs in Brunei Darussalam, these Epson WorkForce printers are perfect for that as well.“ Eric also added, “And with Concepts being our techinical service provider in Brunei, we are confident that Bruneians can put their trust in our products, building a solid foundation of ‘Peace of Mind’ to grow their productivity and businesses.”

Now for the price: The Epson WorkForce WF-5621 will be available at Concepts Computer for $468, the Epson WorkForce WF-5111 will be available for $268, while the mobile Epson WorkForce WF-100 will be available for only $218. Also note that Concepts Computer will be running trade-in offers for certain products and models.

Concepts will also have a month-end promo where every purchase of $30 and above will entitle a free $10 Concepts voucher. For more information regarding the month-end celebrations (on-going from 27th to 30th of every month) and the eligibility of receiving the give-away $10 vouchers, or the trade-in offers, or any other enquiries regarding Concepts Computer and their range of products, please call 2233551, 2233552 or 2233553, or visit your nearest Concepts Computer retail outlet.

Any purchase above $30 and you will be entitled to $10 voucher which is valid from 27th to 30th of every month). A better reason to buy the Epson printers

I got myself Easi cards from the $10 voucher 😀

 

Check out the new series of Acer Predator now available at Concepts Computer

Richard Soo, Acer Branch Manager of Acer Sales & Service, Miri and Vincent Pao, the General Manager of Concepts Computer

Group photo with the Concepts Computer team and Richard Soo. Image courtesy of Vincent Hong.

The much anticipated gaming machine line, Predator, from Acer was officially launched at the Brilliance Hall of Concepts Computer last night. Present during the launch were Vincent Pao, the General Manager of Concepts Computer, Alice Chan, Financial Controller of Concepts Group of Companies, Pao Jia Wan, Business Development Executive of Concepts Group of Companies and Richard Soo, Acer Branch Manager of Acer Sales & Service, Miri.

So much to blog about the Acer Predator. I was already amazed when I saw the brochures a few weeks ago and last night, the Acer Predator line was launched to the media.

Definitely those into gaming and using heavy duty softwares, Acer Predator will tailor to your needs and satisfaction. The computers are also Windows 10 ready for end users.

Vincent Pao has a vision for his company, to bring the best IT products to the country especially from the Acer brand and he has kept his promise. He hopes the end users will be impressed with the Acer Predator as it will give “out-of-this-world” gaming experience to gamers. He applauded the team behind Acer Predator, the Predator Tribe, especially the Research and Development team in turning the machines into the best in its class.

Do check out the 15” and 17” laptops, sporting the bespoke design of red accents and a black chassis with geometric lines and soft texture coating. Not only are they of high performance but it also provides the Predator FrostCore, keeping the computers to operate at low temperatures so it won’t overheat. The other plus point is the PredatorSense gaming control panel so gamers can customise and control the gaming feature. The other term I learnt was the Killer DoubleShot, meaning you can enhance your gaming with the combination of wireless networking and Ethernet (cable). Hmmm interesting indeed.

When it comes to audio, the Predator SoundPound offers a combination of stellar audio features including up to four built-in speakers, two subwoofers and Dolby Audio surround to give the crisp sound on your gaming experience.

Special prizes for the members of the media

The Acer Predator 15

The Acer Predator G6

Let’s not forget the monitors they offer. The monitors are such as the Acer Predator Z35 (35” inch curve), Acer Predator Z34 (34” inch curve) and Acer Predator XB1 monitor (27” inch flat). I’m already impressed with the curved monitors because it will give you a panoramic view while you play your games or for me, watching movies 😀 The curved monitors sport futuristic aluminium based design with underflow lighting and mate finish look killer.

Now let’s talk about the desktops. Totally superb when I just looked at the specs. The Predator G6 is simply a monster of its own and it’s labeled as the Unstoppable War Machine. It’s powered with a 6th-gen Intel Core Processor and up to 64GB of DDR4 system memory. Interesting bit of the G6 is the Turbo button. Well, for instant overclocking, just press the button, and you will be in for a ride for some intense gaming experience. The overall design just look so wicked and cool. Time for gamers to show off their stuff to their friends. Of course, there is a tamer version which is the Acer Predator G3.

Do check out Concepts Computer branch at Kiulap or even at the Consumer Fair at their booth at ICC today till Sunday.

The Acer Predator 17

The Acer Predator G6 has a blu-ray drive too…mmmmm 😀

Acer Predator G6, Acer Predator 8 (tablet) and Acer Predator G3. Image courtesy of Vincent Hong.

Pao Jia Wan, Business Development Executive of Concepts Group of Companies passing a souvenir to Bahyiah Bakar of Borneo Bulletin. Image courtesy of Vincent Hong.

 

The body can take it. I’m always worried about my health status as I’m not getting any younger. The monkey mind always have its way. Sometimes I just think too much unnecessarily. But all is good. I just recovered from a fever and cough, battling them for a week at least (Thanks Singapore for that). I feel I’m in the mood to blog once more and get the ball rolling.

Thank you once again to my friends and readers for the wishes a few days ago. I tend not to celebrate it and just treat it like any other day. A good surprise lunch and an evening cake surprise were my highlights of the day (thank you, Sandy, Pranika and Ciara). I had an interesting gift from Aron Tan’s Studio – a picture frame of Darth Vader. Awesome!!! Thanks JT for the nice gesture. I spent my day in a relaxed manner, playing tennis and heading to OGDC for an OTTERS meeting.

A special gift from JT and Aron Tan’s Studio. Love it to bits. Thank you very much.

My evening cake surprise at OTTERS. Thank you, Ciara, for the thoughtful gesture!

Another sneaky plan from my buddies (Sandy, Pranika and friends) as my simple lunch turned out to be slightly crowded

We had lunch at Pastamania the other day

Thanks guys for the treat

Wrap in a Box. For your info, Wrap in a Box has relocated to Setia Kenangan II. They sell pretty interesting items especially for the children and newborns. So do pay them a visit. I kinda like how the new shops are popping here and there especially at Setia Kenangan II. Exact location is Unit E7. They sell items like baby strollers, bags, umbrellas, items and many more. So don’t forget to drop by the newly re-opened @wrapinabox (instagram)

Wrap in a Box now relocated at Setia Kenangan II (near Regent Square)


Day of Action. It’s gonna be a special day coming Sunday, 10th January 2016. Why? Brunei will celebrate the International Volunteer Day (IVD) through the campaign called “Day of Action”. This campaign is initiated by the Department of Youth and Sports, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports in collaboration with the local NGOs and this campaign will help to promote the spirit of volunteerism through community development activities. The event will be held at Pusat Belia in the capital.

Among the activities that will take place include soup kitchen, cleaning campaigns of public spaces including mosques, housing areas and beaches, renovation projects and so on. The public is also invited to make their donations on this day. Donations can come in the form of diapers, household necessities, school necessities, sandals, hand washing soap, recyclable items and also a blood donation drive, which will all take place in Pusat Belia. The public can still register before 9 January (tomorrow). For more information about the Day of Action, visit bit.do/DayofActionBN and for any enquiries, email dayofactionbn@gmail.com or call 8626588 (Khairunnisa). You can also check out their updates on IG with #dayofactionBN hashtag.

The meeting with all the NGOs chaired by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports recently. Image courtesy of Iqbal Damit.

Netflix. Woohooo.. Finally Netflix is available in Brunei Darussalam. I used to stream on Netflix using a VNP accessory which is an additional cost. For those who are unfamiliar of Netflix, it is a like media and TV provider, streaming TV shows and movies with a flat fee rate on a monthly basis. Now I can watch my favourite TV shows and movies online. Of course, it won’t stop me to collect blu-rays but with Netflix, I will be able to watch my shows anytime, anyplace. This would be a direct competition to Astro, the only TV cable provider in Brunei Darussalam.

The availability of Netflix would mean more usage of the internet in a long run. TelBru will definitely benefit from this and this will also generate more TelBru subscribers to take advantage of Netflix offers. Am I gonna subscribe for Netflix? Definitely. Starting at US$7.99 ($11.48) for the basic package or opt for the standard and premium packages which are US$9.99 ($14.35) and US$11.99 ($17.22) respectively. So enjoy Netflix, peeps!! It’s definitely a game changer in how we appreciate TV shows and movies.

One of my favourite shows currently. Highly recommended and now available on Netflix.

CNY deals at Concepts Computer. It’s the time of the year where Concepts Computer offers bundle packages in conjunction with the Chinese New Year for the Year of the Monkey. The promotion deal is the “2 is better than 1” promotion which was a big hit recently. What can you expect from the packages? Well, there are some accessories from Logitech (speakers and handheld laser presenters), Acer smart devices, Microsoft Office software, power banks, HDD portable storage, Epson printing solution and many more.

For me, I can’t wait for the official launch of Predator Acer series, a game changer to bring the best in the gaming world. Concepts Computer will be bringing 11 Predator models ranging from desktops to notebooks to tablets. I’ve seen the specs and they are just “Wowww”. The official launch is slated near the end of January.

Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer (4th from left) with the associates of Concepts Computer holding the “2 is better than 1” hampers available for customers. Do drop by their showroom

The new range of Acer Predator series to be launched this month. The reviews have been strong in this one.

Hybrid Movement. Caption taken from their @hybrid_movement IG. Announcing our official hybrid movement grand opening happening this Sunday 10.01.2016 from 12pm – 7pm || This is your chance to drop in, say hello and see what we have to offer to all future hybrids ???????? Hybrid Movement Gym address:

Jalan Menglait, Simpang 51
One Menglait Industrial Park
Unit B26, Menglait

Congratulations also to Darren Chai (owner of Hybrid Movement) and Vanessa on their wedding last weekend. Oh, there will be early bird promotion as well for the first 30 registrants during their grand opening.

Opening this Sunday

The map to Hybrid Movement

Shooting Stars. They have been making a name for themselves – to bring the basics and the love of the sports of basketball in Brunei Darussalam. The man behind the scene, Ken Han (happy belated bro), has been working tirelessly to promote the sport to young kids especially and the organisation has been involved with a lot of charity work by providing workshops for the Special Olympics team last year. Ken’s philosophy of “one kid at a time” had made a difference to the youths and gaining positive feedback from parents. He couldn’t have achieved it with his team, consisting of mentors and coaches.

Now they are back to training again opening slots for “Social beginners” of all ages this January every Saturday starting 9th January at Fitness Zone Kiulap from 3:30pm to 5:30pm. Please do not hesitate to welcome any of your interested friends or family members into SSB basketball family with our friendly coaches who will take you through the basics of basketball week by week! It is also a good time to perhaps, to bond with your family and friends! Contact ???? 7290011 for more information regarding our basketball programmes! You can follow them on @shootingstarsbn IG for updates too.

Ken Han (2nd from left sitting down) with the team from Shooting Stars BN

Any takers?

Breakfast at BK. Now Burger King (Brunei) is serving breakfast from 7am to 11:30am. You can choose from the Breakfast Platter and Croissan’wiches from the menu. The breakfast starts tomorrow onwards at all the Burger King branches.

Recently Burger King also feted awards for the staff of Burger King in the “Coca Cola Upsize Challenge”. This was organised with Burger King (Brunei) and Coca-Cola Brunei in the hope of improving the productivity as well as the enthusiasm of the staff. Siti Hajar Ishak from KB branch was the top winner, winning $500 worth of cash prizes and a certificate. Gladys B Ang Poh came second with $300 worth of cash prize and a certificate while Nuramal Zahidah Roslan came third with $200 worth of cash prize and a certificate. Keep up the great work, guys!! And I miss my taro dosage…

Breakfast now available at Burger King outlets

Siti Hajar Ishak (left) receiving her prize and certificate from Ryan Law, Regional Sales Manger of Coca-Cola. Image taken by Raghadah Agus of The Brunei Times.

Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer (4th from left) with the associates of Concepts Computer holding the “2 is better than 1” hampers available for customers. Do drop by their showroom

 

Check out the different range of hampers (2 in 1) ideal for CNY corporate gifts.

Press release. To celebrate Chinese New Year for the Year of the Monkey, Concepts Computer will be extending their “2 is Better than 1” promo, where a purchase of 2 separate, selected products can qualify customers for better prices. Also, the good response from our customers regarding the “2 is Better than 1” promo and also our other promos like “Back to School” and “Year End” is also one of the main reason we are extending “2 is Better than 1”. The products under the “2 is Better than 1” promo includes computer accessories from Logitech like speakers and handheld laser presenters, Acer smart devices, Microsft Office software, Epson printing solutions, powerbanks, external storage, and much, much more.

When asked regarding the future of Concepts Computer in the local IT Retail industry in Brunei Darussalam for 2016 and for the Year of the Monkey, Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer, said, “In my point of view, the IT Retail business in Brunei Darussalam is more challenging nowadays, with savvy consumers using the internet and other sources to keep up-to-date regarding IT technological advances, retailers need to focus more on providing better services for customers.” He continued, “Retailers will need to be more creative and more innovative to respond to the ever changing needs of consumers in the Year of the Monkey, to help them grow, not only in terms of physical size but also in terms of their capabilities.” When asked regarding how Concepts Computer as a whole would welcome customers in the Year of the Monkey, “When it comes to Concepts Computer, I always lead with a simple statement, ‘We must always do a good job.’”

Also present during the event, Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive at Concepts Computer added, “We are extending the “2 is Better than 1” promo as a nod to our large customer base in the Bruneian Chinese community for supporting Concepts Computer through-out the years and to wish them a great and prosperous Chinese New Year for 2016.”

For more information regarding the “2 is Better than 1” promo or any other enquiries regarding Concepts Computer and their range of products, please call 2233551, 2233552 or 2233553, or visit your nearest Concepts Computer retail outlet.