A win away from title  

Alberix Niigata vs DPMM FC highlights

 

Adi Said back in scoring form and scored the vital goal. Image courtesy of Halim Hakim of S•League 

Report by Redzwan Kamarudin from Singapore: They have one hand on the Great-Eastern Yeo’s S.League trophy, and only need one more win to lift it.

Brunei DPMM are only one win away from becoming S.League champions after they defeated Albirex Nigata 1-0 at the Jurong East Stadium last night.

Adi Said’s header just after the hour mark, his seventh goal this season, proved to be the only difference as DPMM fought hard and snapped their five games winless streak.

The result means that a win from their showdown against defending champions Tampines Rovers this Friday at the Jalan Besar Stadium will see the Bruneian outfit be declared champions.

Speaking after the match, DPMM head coach Steve Kean said: “It feels great to be back in control. I don’t think we’ve been playing badly recently, but we just haven’t been ruthless.

“We haven’t been getting clean sheets, and I’ve been giving my defenders a hard time because of it. They’re paid to defend, and we haven’t had any clean sheets.

“But tonight they threw their bodies on the line and I’m so proud of them, and I expect the same from the team on Friday.”

The first team line up from DPMM FC last night. Image courtesy of Halim Hakim of S•League 

Azwan Salleh taking the captain role for DPMM FC last night. Image courtesy of Halim Hakim of S•League 

Roy O’Donovan arguing with the referee last night. Image courtesy of Halim Hakim of S•League 

DPMM will also become only the second foreign team to win the league, after French outfit Etoile FC who were the winners in the 2010 season.

Kean’s men came into the match on the back of a draw with Balestier Khalsa (1-1), a loss against fellow title contenders Warriors FC (3-2), Home United (3-4) in the RHB Singapore Cup semi final, and nothing but a win would keep their title hopes alive and in their own hands.

Tampines and DPMM have met twice this season, with the Stags defeating their Bruneian counterparts 2-1 on both occasions. Yet Kean remains unfazed.

He said: “I don’t pay much attention to past games. When it’s the last game of the season, anything goes.

“We always want to create chances, no matter what kind of formation we’ll play. And against Tampines we don’t want to just hang on and play their kind of game, but we want to take the game right to them and score the goals.”

 

Roy O’Donovan shown the red card in the dying minutes. Image courtesy of Halim Hakim of S•League 

DPMM FC head coach Steve Kean talking to the press. Image courtesy of Halim Hakim of S•League 

Beating the defending champions is already a tall order, but DPMM’s task isn’t made easier after marquee signing Roy O’Donovan was sent off late into injury time for a disagreement with a referee.

The suspension means that the Irish hitman won’t be available for the crucial match against Tampines, and they will have to rely on the league’s top scorer Rodrigo Tosi (30 goals) to lead them up front.

DPMM and Warriors are both locked on 50 points atop the league table with Kean’s men leading just by goal difference (34 to DPMM, 17 to Warriors).

Even if DPMM fail to beat Tampines this Friday, they can still lift the title providing Albirex beat Warriors at Chua Chu Kang Stadium.

Kean though, isn’t expecting any favours at all from his counterparts.

He said: “We’re still in control of our own destiny.

“We’ve been working hard for the past 11 months. We want to show how much we’ve improved, and we’re going to go all out for a win.”

 

  

 

Preview: DPMM FC vs Balestier 

FREE ADMISSION tonight 

The final tier round hasn’t been smooth sailing for DPMM FC. Having a six point cushion at one stage and losing two home games, DPMM FC have themselves to blame for the major slip but they can bounce back and make their final home match count against Balestier Khalsa FC tonight at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.

The back-to-back home defeats have piled pressure on DPMM FC and the two week break was much needed for DPMM FC to get back on the drawing board and learn from their mistakes. I do hope that the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki Cup qualifiers won’t have a draining impact on the players as most of the DPMM FC players were being featured for the qualifiers and they only have two days rest before continuing the S•League match.

DPMM FC head coach Steve Kean felt that it won’t be a disadvantage for DPMM FC players (after returning from a taxing AFF Suzuki Cup qualifiers) who will go up against a crucial tie against Balestier Khalsa in the remaining fixtures of the S•League. He shared that most of the young players were being featured and it shouldn’t be a problem especially to the senior players when they play tonight at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.

The only player that might be doubtful is Shahrazen Said who nursing a slight hamstring strain but Kean is happy to have Rodrigo Tosi returned after serving his suspension which will give more attacking options for DPMM FC. The imports have been training on their own when the local players were in the AFF competition.

Kean felt that the points on board more important and if DPMM FC can win all their remaining fixtures, the S•League title will be DPMM FC’s first. Currently Warriors FC are leading by four points though DPMM FC have two games in hand. Hence it’s vital that DPMM FC get all three points tonight and put pressure on title contenders Warriors FC.

It’s sad news for Tampines Rovers as their title defence came to an end two nights ago when they lost to Warriors FC. The result meant that there will be a new champion in the S•League and it will be a two horse race between Warriors FC and DPMM FC. Albirex Niigata FC (S) still have a mathematical chance of winning unless Warriors lose their last game of the season.

Do catch DPMM FC tonight against Balestier Khalsa FC and the match entrance is FREE. Do spread the news.

 

Steve Kean being interviewed by the press 

A customary part of training to work as a team 

The standing so far  

 

 

Another stalemate  

The first team line-up for DPMM FC against Balestier Khalsa FC last night
BALESTIER KHALSA FC 3 (Kim Min Ho 3, Goran Ljubojevic 21, 70)

BRUNEI DPMM FC 3 (Adi Said 50, Rodrigo Tosi 65, 73)

Report by REDZWAN KAMARUDIN (Correspondent for rano360.com)

DPMM FC returned to action by coming back from two goals down to snatch a point in a thrilling 3-3 draw with Balestier Khalsa at the Toa Payoh Stadium last night.

The league leaders were clearly missing their captain Rosmin Kamis and marquee signing Roy O’Donovan through suspensions, as the team clearly lacked the hunger and bite in front of goal.
After the match, head coach Steve Kean said he was impressed by how hard his team fought to come back from behind, but admitted his defense could have done better.

He said, “We put too much pressure on ourselves, if we have to score four goals away from home, that’s not good.

“We were slow in the first half, and we conceded poor goals. The back four were quiet and we let ourselves get bullied in the air and in the box.

“When you miss your most experienced player like Bobby it’s difficult because you look to him for guidance and we really missed him tonight.

“We normally score goals, but we’ve got to stop leaking the goals. We’ll need to work on our defensive showing for the future games.”

The Tigers were up 2-0 at half time courtesy of goals from Kim Min Ho and Goran Ljubojevic, but like they’ve done so many times before, they stormed in the second half, and managed to score three goals.

Right after the second half whistle, DPMM came out of the blocks with all guns blazing, with Adi Said, who replaced Awangku Fakhrulrazi at half time, opened the scoring in the 47th minute and Rodrigo Tosi’s looping header in the 65th minute leveled the scores. For Adi, he has bagged 8 goals in 6 games where the last five matches were from his heroic performances in the recent Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy 2014 tournament.

Ljubojevic thought he had sealed all three points for his side after scoring Balestier’s third goal in the 70th minute, but Tosi again denied the home side as he rifled in his second goal of the night, and DPMM’s equalizer just three minutes later.

It was a pity that the game ended with a sending off of Syed Taha of Balestier and Joe Gamble of DPMM FC. This would mean a suspension for Joe Gamble in the next game.

While the result strengthened DPMM’s lead atop the Great-Eastern Yeo’s S.League with 40 points, title rivals and defending champions Tampines Rovers are only two points behind and have a game in hand. They could take over Steve Kean’s charges if they beat Tanjong Pagar tonight.

“I’m pleased that we changed our game from the very first minute of the second half. We could have won the game, but we need to improve our defending. We need to get those clean sheets again.” Kean added.

Photos taken by Alfie Lee of S•League.

 

Balestier keeper in action 

A six goal thriller between Balestier and DPMM FC 

Rodrigo Tosi, once again, proving to be a threat upfront for DPMM FC

 

DPMM FC to extend lead  

DPMM FC will take on Hougang United FC tomorrow night at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium. Finally the S•League has commenced after a long break due to cup matches. Tampines Rovers and the rest have caught up with DPMM FC winning their respective matches and now the pressure is back on league leaders DPMM FC to maintain or even increase the lead.

Tampines Rovers are now level on points with DPMM FC though DPMM FC can restore their lead soon tomorrow night. So do come and support DPMM FC tomorrow at the stadium and you can also stand a chance to win a ticket to KL and Jakarta sponsored by Royal Brunei Airlines.

What Steve Kean has to say for tomorrow’s match.

RA: How’s the intensity between the Singapore League Cup and (now back to the) S•League?

Steve Kean: “It’s a different intensity (the S•League and the Cup matches) and it’s good that we are back in the league now. We have a positive experience from the Singapore League Cup and we are looking forward to the next four games. But we don’t want to look far ahead and make sure we get the results tomorrow and hope a great game.

RA: Tampines Rovers are now same points with DPMM FC. Your thoughts?

Steve Kean: “Yes, they are on the same points but we are ahead on goal difference. That’s gonna happen usually at the end of the season that teams are gonna play before us and put the pressure on us. It’s not really about them but it is about us maintaining the standards. If we keep the standards, we can beat anybody.”

RA: Will any of the loaned players to HBT be featured in Sunday’s game?

Steve Kean: “It is a possibility that they are made available and the U-21 are playing against Sabah later and we gonna see if we can borrow some of them. Of course, when the competition starts for real, we are not gonna get them.”

RA: I realised the training has vastly improved over the season.

Steve Kean: “I said that on a number of occasions that you have the advantage to see them training live but the supporters will see the intensity, the technique, the passing. I think everyone has improved and this is a good thing as everyone wants to play and everyone is challenging for position.”

RA: Aiming for a big win or a clean sheet?

Steve Kean: “Just a win. At this stage, it’s all about getting wins, however it comes. It doesn’t matter if we just score one goal against any opposition. We always like to get a clean sheet but we will try to increase the intensity of the game really quick and control the game. In the cup competitions, we have at least 60% possession and we want to maintain that intensity and we will have a successful evening.

 

DPMM FC head coach Steve Kean’s training scheme has paid off over the months 

DPMM FC players have gelled immensely as a unit, physically fitter and mentally prepared for challenges. I’ve noticed the difference in their training yesterday at the Jerudong Mini Stadium. 

Both keepers of DPMM FC had a good training session. 

  

 

Almost there…  

Wardun Yussof the hero with his team mates after the victory. Image courtesy of Wardun

Both sides couldn’t defeat one another. Another two draws (home and away) in the S•League, this was more like a decider of who are the better of the two. Geylang International FC are not pushovers and they have improved from last season and they even made it to the semi-finals of the Singapore League Cup. But they can only be one winner since it’s a play-off tournament.

After a stalemate match that went on for 120 minutes, there was no other choice than the lottery of the penalty shootout. This then became the battle of the goalkeepers with Wardun Yussof the important key player for DPMM FC. He became the hero of the night thwarting two penalties from Geylang International FC, first from Leonel Felice and Hafiz Nor while Khairulnizam smashed his effort onto the crossbar.

Then Irish Joe Gamble had the less pressure of the lot as he scored the winning penalty to make it 3-0 on penalties. Roy O’Donovan and Alviz have earlier converted their penalties.

Here was what Wardun Yussof had to say during the interview with The Brunei Times.

“I’ve seen the first penalty taker before in a previous game,” he told The Brunei Times after the triumph. “I knew that the first save was important because it is a big confidence booster for the team. Overall I thought we played well. Geylang were very stubborn in defence and looked to go on counterattacks.”

Now DPMM FC will face Tanjong Pagar FC in the finals of the Singapore League Cup after they defeated Hougang United FC through penalties. The finals will be played some time this week at Jalan Besar Stadium.

 

Roy O’Donovan couldn’t find net in 120 minutes but he scored the first important penalty during the shoot-out. Image taken by Abel Khoo. 

Joe Gamble made it certain that DPMM FC reach the finals. Image taken by Abel Khoo 

Celebration in order. Image taken by Abel Khoo 

DPMM FC fans in jubilant mood. Image taken by Abel Khoo 

Can Steve Kean win his first silverware in his first season? Image taken by Abel Khoo

Highlights between DPMM FC and Geylang International FC

 

 

 

Kean staying put 

 

Steve Kean ain’t going anywhere and he is happy in Brunei

You may have heard about the ongoing rumours on goal.com where Steve Kean was rumoured to make a move to Thailand Premier League club but the news were all false and DPMM FC head coach has assured the management and fans of DPMM FC that he is staying put. In yesterday’s interview, he dismissed claim and he shared that these kinda of rumours or football news are pretty common during his reign in the English Premier League years.

Kean shared that he never been in contact with any other club and he believed that such news could be a deliberate act to disrupt the momentum of DPMM FC who are leading the pack with a 7 point cushion. However, that lead could be shortened to just four points as S•League chasers Warriors FC beat DPMM FC at Choa Chu Kang Stadium, Singapore. A win for DPMM FC will surge them 10 points ahead of the pack.

Steve Kean did mention that the four games (Albirex, Warriors, Home and Tampines) are the biggest matches within this two weeks. Victories in all these matches, according to Kean, will determine the course of their season. The return of Boris Raspudic is a major boost for DPMM FC but defender Aziz Tamit was ruled of tonight’s game through a minor ankle injury. The other worry for DPMM FC tonight is three of their import players Rodrigo Tosi, Roberto Alviz and Roy O’Donovan are one yellow card away from being suspended. So it’s important on the intensity of the match the players will play tonight.

Will the RT combo strike force of Roy and Tosi bring another crucial away points tonight and increase their winning streak to 8? We shall find out tonight when Warriors FC (2) takes on DPMM FC (1) at Choa Chu Kang Stadium, Singapore.

 

A Kean Start  

Another lucky draw for DPMM FC fans tomorrow

All eyes on Steve Kean as he caught everyone by surprise, leading DPMM FC to the summit and steamrolling past opponents, scoring 30 goals in just 11 games so far this season. Former Blackburn Rovers manager attributed the success of DPMM FC not just on the players but he was also truly grateful towards His Royal High the Crown Prince cum Chairman of DPMM FC and also DPMM FC’s management.

“Credit has to go way back to the management, the club and of course, the Crown Prince and the amazing foreign imports that have come in and obviously that I’ve given a lot of control and the players that I want to keep. But the organization behind in getting Rodrigo here and Boris and obviously I know Joe (Gamble) and Roy (O’Donovan), but credit has to go to management even from last season as soon as the last game was finished,” said Steve Kean.

Kean shared how the pre-season has made them a stronger team as well and the training schemes have been consistent from day one. The players have a good base fitness which can prove vital over the season and try to reduce the number of injuries over the course of the season.

“We have gotten stronger physically. Roberto was tackled badly in the last game but because his legs are so strong and we have done all the work (from the gym). The training sessions have been getting better and you can see the tempo and the intensity of the training have changed and the standard is really high and credit has to go to all the players as well.”

Kean is now very focus on the next four games (Albirex, Warriors, Home, Tampines) and he is aware that even though there is a gap, these next four games are massive. In between, DPMM FC will also have to talk on Global FC in the RHB Singapore Cup.

DPMM FC will take on Albirex Niigata FC tomorrow at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium and should they win, it will set a new benchmark of a 10 point gap at the summit. I have seen how Albirex fared against DPMM FC in the first game of the season and the Japanese club is pretty solid with great pace. They could have scored plenty of goals if it wasn’t for the heroics of Azman in goal. DPMM FC won the match through a Tosi penalty and I’m pretty sure Albirex will want some redemption for that defeat.

I can’t wait for the RT (Roy-Tosi) connection once more and they have 21 goals between team with Tosi leading the scoring charts with 11 goals. It’s also no surprise to why Shahrazen Said has been benched since the first game but it’s a healthy competition nonetheless and this shows the depth that DPMM FC squad has.

So peeps, mark your dates tomorrow and let’s wish for another win and another clean sheet.

 

I’ve never such a huge smile from Steve Kean. Taken from yesterday’s training. 

All players are back to full fitness though Boris Raspudic will sit out of the game through suspension 

The tempo of the training has been tremendous. So much improvement from the start of the season. 

Can Wardun hold for another clean sheet? DPMM FC have only conceded 5 goals in 11 games. Great defensive record indeed 

  

 

Acer Liquid Smartphones

 

Check out Acer Liquid smartphones 

 

Icon Design Store

 

 
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Royal Brunei Airlines

 

 
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The Popcorn Panel  

 

Check out our podcast review of The Amazing Spider-Man 2. Was it a hit or a miss?

 

  

#kickitbrazil  

Want to win a GoPro Hero 3+? Check out #kickItBrazil Peugeot Brunei competition. Competition starts 12th May. Click image to enter Facebook page for more details. 

DPMM FC merchandise  

Don’t forget tonight’s match between DPMM FC vs Albirex Niigata FC at Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium 

Steve Kean has turned the club around after a dismal outing last season under Vjeran Simunic. Kean shared that their opponents tonight, Albirex is a very technical side, more into possession and control as they are the team that passes the most in the league. He urges his players to be step up in this match or this could be a major slip up despite the 7 point lead. 

Check out DPMM FC merchandise on sale at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium tonight 

The DPMM FC supporters hat costs $10 

Captain “Bobby” Rosmin proudly sporting a DPMM FC supporter’s hat 

The DPMM FC management and the players with the merchandises 

  

I’m back… (I hope)  

Okay, it has been a while since I posted some personal thoughts on my blog and sorry, if my blog have been lacking substance (and some feel) over the last few days or so or even weeks. I just came back from my recent trips from Seoul (amaaaazzing) and Singapore for work and leisure. It has been a very busy month so far and I haven’t really spend time in taking care of myself in terms of rest. Yesterday I had a great afternoon nap just to recover this aging body of mine *lol* Yes, I ain’t getting younger any more and the big question mark has been (especially from my mom) – “When I’m gonna get married?” I only responded in silence 😀

Just to recap on my recent trips. Firstly, I was just from Seoul two weeks ago for my first coverage of Harley-Davidson and it was also my first ever trip to Seoul, Korea. Awesome city and I am definitely coming back to Seoul hopefully sometime again this year. A big shout out to Sri Sentosa Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of Harley-Davidson in Brunei and thank you to the Asia Emerging Markets of Harley-Davidson for choosing me to represent the social media from Brunei Darussalam. I had the privilege to meet other social medias from different countries and of course, to visit the Harley-Davidson of Korea HQ which has such an incredible facility.

As for Seoul, it was really worth the trip and I was fortunate enough to be hosted at Ritz-Carlton Seoul and it has one of the best services I’ve ever experienced. A big thanks to Alison, the exchange student from UBD, who is currently in Seoul until June and she thought me some tips and guidance and things to do in Seoul. I have to say even 5 days ain’t enough to be in Seoul but I managed to make the most of it.

One place that I didn’t miss out was the Adidas store outlet at Myeondong which has the biggest store in Seoul if I’m not mistaken. The collections are different to that in Singapore but sadly, I couldn’t find any FX FLUX edition there. I’m gonna post some more pictures from my Seoul trip.

 

The Harley-Davidson of Korea where I had the privilege to cover the event of the Dark Custom event and also the sneaks of the Street 750  

The Adidas store at Myeondong which has four floors 

One of the gems that Alison introduced me to – a baseball drive pit and it only costs USD 1 for 20 hits and I was addicted to it and had another round 

Now this is something interesting. A fresh octopus that after being sliced into pieces, the tentacles were still moving here and there. So it’s meant to be chewed until it stop moving.  

Met new friends from Singapore – Yumiko, Shirley and Shalyn – who were in Seoul that time and they enjoyed the octopus experience 😀 

Of all places, I bumped into one of my followers on instagram at the Myeondong Station and we chit chat for a bit. They were in Seoul for a holiday and trying out different places of interest. It’s good to know that we can be adventurous people too. 

Now this is a whole new experience for cinema. Chairs vibrating, air mists blowing from seats, light strobes and many more. I watched The Amazing Spider-Man 2 and I kinda enjoyed the experience but maybe, just maybe it was too long for that experience alone. 

This was my worn out map that help me during my Seoul adventure. People were asking me to download the app for directions but I opted for the conventional type. 

Hello Anisah Han from the Brunei Embassy in Korea for the quick meet up two Sundays ago. Thank you for the hand book as well as your time to meet up 

Some areas of Seoul can be very crowded 

The friends I met along the way and it was a cool, chilly evening 

Such a beautiful atmosphere to see all the lanterns being lit

My Singapore trip is my 6th trip this year. This time, my trip is sponsored by Indera Motors Sdn Bhd, the official and sole agent of Jaguar and Land Rover (British Brand) in Brunei Darussalam and they invited myself, Hakim Hayat (Borneo Bulletin), Joana Tan (The Brunei Times) and Adibah (Bruneimotors) for the coverage on the recently launched Jaguar F-Type Coupé at the Red Dot Museum, Singapore. It was noted that Brunei will have be launching the Jaguar F-Type Coupé sometime in July or August 2014 and also in conjunction of their new showroom for Jaguar Land Rover.

The launch, last week, was pretty riveting to say the least. The overall atmosphere was just appropriate for such a prestigious luxury car. I love the fact Jaguar uses its DNA – innovation, Design and Performance – and Jaguar Singapore chose three of their iconic celebrities – Andre Chiang (chef), Eric Khoo (film producer) and Min Lee (violinist) as Jaguar brand friends. So perhaps, the Brunei launch will see a similar launch in a way as this is the requirement of Jaguar to have a similar set up and launching of Jaguar model. I do have to admit that the entrance while unveiling of the Jaguar F-Type Coupé made me feel some goosebumps. Amazing!! And a big shout out to Mercury Singapore for creating such a memorable event for Jaguar Singapore.

I shall be talking more of the specs of the Jaguar F-Type Coupé this week. All I can say now is that the car is super sexy. And so is the price 😀

 

Outside the Red Dot Museum for the launch of the Jaguar F-Type Coupé and it’s such a cool place to host the said event 

Joana Tan (The Brunei Times), Adibah (Bruneimotors). Hakim Hayat (Borneo Bulletin), Luqman Hakim (Sales Consultant, Indera Motors), YAM Pg Anak Ghaffar (General Manager, Indera Motors), Mr. Ong (After Sales Manager, Indera Motors), Yusra Abdullah (Marketing Manager, Indera Motors) and Amirol (Graphics Designer, Indera Motors) outside the Red Dot Museum 

The launch of the Jaguar F-Type Coupé  

Jaguar F-Type Coupé – this car look awesome indeed 

Andre Chiang (chef), Min Lee (violinist) and Eric Khoo (film producer) – the Jaguar brand friends during the launch 

The crowd last week during the launch 

Extended trip for Mother’s Day. Initially, I was scheduled to be back in Brunei from Singapore last Friday but extended to Monday so I could spend time with my mother on Mother’s Day in Singapore. I have never really organised or take my mom out for lunch or dinner to commemorate Mother’s Day so I thought why not now and she truly deserved this and it’s that level of gratitude that I do have for my mom who has been my influential role model ever since I was a teenager.

It wasn’t tough to arrange the flowers, cake and dinner but I was more worried about how my mom would take it since we hardly do any celebrations prior to this. The most I have given is a Mother’s Day card and that’s it. Funnily enough my mom thought that I won some big project or some sort since I wanted to treat her dinner with the rest of the entourage that followed my mom to Singapore. I believe it’s the gesture and the thoughts that count and my mom began to understand why we all did this in the first place.

The cake cutting scene was perhaps the highlight of them all. This was because I could see the level of happiness my mom was at and to me, that’s a priceless moment. Thank you, Mom, for everything, really. From the bottom of my heart, I love you and it was worth the extended trip to spend more time with you.

My brother and I spent Mother’s Day with Mom in Singapore last Sunday 

My brother and I spent Mother’s Day with Mom in Singapore last Sunday 

Flowers for Mom 

Our Mother’s Day dinner treat at Bali Thai, Novena Square. I love the Tom Yum soup here and yes, I recommend you to dine here as well 

Our Mother’s Day dinner treat at Bali Thai, Novena Square  

Recharge on the Go!  

Power banks now sale at Concepts Computers. Recharge on the Go!  

  

Blood donation 
The Second Blood Donation Drive organized by Mabohai Shopping Complex with the Blood Donation Centre of RIPAS held on 13th May 2014 received a very good response from the public.

The program, which began at 9:00 am received 17 donors from members of the public as well as staff working in the Mabohai Shopping Complex. 11 first time donors participated and expressed the wish to donate again in the future.

The blood donation drive is part of Mabohai Shopping Complex community service projects which it organizes with the valuable help of the Blood Donation Centre of RIPAS.

The Management of Mabohai Shopping Complex said:

“We are delighted to work alongside the RIPAS blood donation centre to organise this activity to increase stock in their blood bank. We are honoured that the blood donated today can help save lives. For those who have been pondering on donating, please take heart in the fact that there were 11 new blood donors today. Some were slightly hesitant at first, but overcame their apprehension with the idea of being able to help others. We aim to organise another donation in 3 months’ time.“

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 them on Facebook, Instagram @mabohaibrunei and Twitter.

Images taken from Mabohai Shopping Complex Facebook.

 

Representatives from the Blood Donation Centre of RIPAS 

 

 

 

 

 

PROLink Foto Onyx  

PROLiNK has officially released its first new smartphone accessory – the PROLiNK Foto Onyx (Model: PCR1001) to Brunei market through Netcom Computer House, the Exclusive Distributor in Brunei.

The coin-sized device is a smartphone camera remote that connects to your smartphone or tablets via Bluetooth 4.0 technology, and allows the user to take pictures from a distance of up to 30m away and with up to 8 devices at the same time.

This means a group of friends can now put their smartphones on a table or tripod, and pose for all their smartphones and tablets together without having to go through the hassle of taking turns to take pictures, or having to take a single shot at a time. Battery life can last up to 5 years. This also means that landscape or scenery shots with the user in the photos is now made possible without having to lug around a large camera or setting a timer.

The best thing about the device is how simple it is to use. The user only needs to download the free application “mFotoGem” from the Google Playstore or App Store, and once you turn on the application, it prompts you to pair your smartphones or tablets with the Foto Onyx device. Once paired, you can go ahead to take your photos easily, just by pressing the button on the top of the Foto Onyx device.

The Foto Onyx (PCR1001) is extremely portable, and comes with a free audio jack lanyard that makes it easy for you to attach it to your smartphone as an accessory, or to wear it as a pendant.

This new device is available today at all the Netcom 6 retail outlets nationwide with a selling price of B$29 only.

 

Associates from Netcom Computer House holding PROLink Foto Onyx 

PROLink Foto Onyx 

PROLink Foto Onyx now available at Netcom Computer House

Skechers now opens 

at Seria  

Catching up with the owner of GL Extra Enterprise, the sole distributor of Skechers, over dinner at iLotus. Thanks for hosting us 😀 Image courtesy of Ikhwan Salleh of The Brunei Times. 

The management of Skechers Brunei with the local mediaThank you to Mr. Lim Kwee, the owner of Skechers Brunei for hosting us media for dinner the other night. He’s also the owner of GL Extra Enterprise that handles the leading outdoor camping store in Brunei Darussalam. Our dinner was held at a iLotus Restaurant and Mr. Lim’s intention was to simply appreciate the media for their contribution in spreading awareness on Skechers shoes and products.

Mr. Lim was happy to unveil the second outlet of Skechers at Plaza Seria in Seria which was opened to business since yesterday. The third branch will be somewhere in Kuala Belait.

The new store in Seria aims to target the niche market for the occupational industry shoes, owing to the large population of oil and gas workers living in Belait. This is a strategic area since many customers are from KB and Seria.

Since its opening in the final quarter of 2013, Skechers Brunei have been doing exceptional well because it’s a well known brand and also people have been commenting on its comfort.

Skechers ranges from casual to sports type so do check their GOwalk, GOrun and GObionic range. It’s good to see Skechers spreading its foothold in Brunei and the response has been favourable.

Skechers has a new outlet at Plaza Seria 

The wide range of Skechers available 

Hui Chiet trying out a pair at Skechers Kiulap branch last year 

Love the colours of Skechers 

Nice casual wear for the ladies 

Glow in the dark Skechers 

  

RB flies to Bali 😀  

The news that caught people’s attention 

Flying four times a week. Not bad, not bad 😀

Wow, after a long, long hiatus, this is very good news for Brunei travelers. Royal Brunei Airlines, Brunei’s national air carrier, will resume its direct flights to Bali, Indonesia, by 26th July 2014. This is indeed a very positive move and the comments on social media have been favourable. Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) has been going through major changes ever since its rebranding programme and I remember the Dermot Mannion, Deputy Chairman of RB, hinted of more routes as part of their strategic expansion as well as meeting demands of customers.

So how many times they will fly? I believe it stated that it will fly four times a week. The flights will operate by an Airbus A319.

The flights from BSB to Bali, BI757 departs at 8.55 pm and will arrive at 11.20 pm on Tuesday,Wednesday,Saturday and Sunday. Flights from Bali to BSB, BI758 departs at 7.10 am and arrives 9.40 am on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. For now, you can’t book on flybruneiair.com but you can inquire on your preferred travel agents. I’m pretty sure RB will have special promotions for this new route.

Royal Brunei Airlines was established in 1974 and is wholly owned by the government of Brunei. RB started with an initial fleet of two aircraft, serving Singapore, Hong Kong, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching. Royal Brunei Airlines now operates a fleet of 10 aircraft to 14 destinations in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Australia. RB is the Boeing 787 Dreamliner’s launch airline in Southeast Asia and with the recent deliveries of Dreamliners, Royal Brunei will have the distinction of operating the youngest long haul fleet in the world.

Royal Brunei Airlines won ‘Best Foreign Airline’ award in the category “Award For Best Airlines” at the Sabah Tourism Awards 2011. Last year, Brunei’s flag carrier won the Metro Time Shanghai Award for their Reader’s Airline of Choice and The Best Airline Provider from The European Asia.

Thank you RB for making this possible and it’s perhaps the best highlight moment after yesterday’s derailing topic that went viral (not RB related but I think you guys know what I mean). Below are just some of the images from my previous Bali trip back in 2012 and 2013. I will be heading again to Bali scheduled for November 2014. Who knows I might make another early trip before then.

 

My last trip last year August 2013 with my #superfriends buddies 

This was at Potato Head. Highly recommended place to chill. 

This was taken at the temple area. This was back in November 2012. 

One of the activities I enjoyed was water rafting. Pure fun but it was quite a fair ride. 

I managed to borrow this sign 

I didn’t give a good impression since I thought it was easy to ride a scooter. I was struggling indeed and it’s super darn cheap to rent a bike there too. It was like $5 for 3 days but I only needed half an hour just to get a feel of it. Scary but scary fun 😀 

My buddies whom I flew with back in 2012. We stayed at Maya Ubud and I truly love the place there. Quite remote and loads of green. 

The villa rooms are quite common in Bali and the prices are quite reasonable as well.  

  

Malppy Turns 1  

Click image to enter websiteIn the month of April, Malppy.com turned ONE! Malppy.com is very grateful to all their customers who have been supporting them thus far. As a thank you, Malppy.com is holding a few events online.

In celebration, Malppy.com is having a sale! In addition, as a thank you for your support, any purchase B$50 and above will receive a free gift from Malppy.com. The gift is a phone casing for iPhone 4/4S and iPhone 5/5S. Offer is valid while stock lasts.

  

3 in a trot  

 

 

The highlights of last night’s game between Hougang United FC and DPMM FC

 

 

Hougang United FC 0 

DPMM FC 3 

Steve Kean wasn’t happy with the performance despite the three points. He felt DPMM FC didn’t play well in the first half and judging from the video I watched, DPMM FC could have been down by at least two goals if it wasn’t for the poor finishing of Hougang United FC. The home side were putting crosses and causing DPMM FC problems in the first half and Kean admitted that they were quite fortunate to go into the break with a clean sheet.

He did give a good point that championship team sometimes don’t play to their maximum but they still get the three points and last night’s game was a great example.

DPMM FC had a better second half and they could have scored a few more too. It was good to see new faces from the bench getting time on the pitch especially Najib Tarif and Helmi Zambin. Perhaps the highlight of the game was Azwan Ali’s rare header that brought all the three points courtesy of a wonderful cross by substitute Najib in the 77th minute.

The match was already delayed at Hougang United FC due to heavy rain prior to the match and it would be a nightmare for defenders especially goalkeepers due to the wet conditions. A big shout out again to DPMM FC defence and Wardun in goal for salvaging the important clean sheet.

DPMM FC’s top scorer Rodrigo Tosi was unfortunate not to score late in the first half with a cheeky lob but his effort just missed wide of the open goal. Roy O’Donovan’s effort were being saved by Nazri Sabri in goal.

The home side Hougang United FC have themselves to blame for not taking their chances. DPMM FC now have leapfrogged Tampines Rovers FC by a point though the defending champions have one game in hand.

DPMM FC were missing two key players – Captain Rosmin Kamis who is being rested for calf injury while Sairol Sahari had to rest after a hip strain and both should be back in next week’s home game. It is not a good run for Hougang United FC who just came off a loss against Geylang International FC after conceding three late goals. Hougang United FC have proved to be a threat in the league with their new signings and I won’t be surprised if Hougang United end up in the top three this season.

Great job to the lads as well as the head coach and the team management in rebuilding DPMM FC from last season. It’s always a great feeling to be on top. Keep it up!! Some of the images below are courtesy of Alson Ong.

 

DPMM FC first team line up last night 

Azwan Ali scored the winning goal with a great header in the 77th minute 

Tosi lobbed an effort but it went just wide of the goal, late in the first half 

Wardun Yussof holding off a challenge from Hougang’s Geison Moura 

Students from Sekolah Menengah Rimba II supporting DPMM FC last night. They are in Singapore until Saturday for a student exchange program. 

Free curry puffs for spectators last night (while stock lasts) 

It was heavy pouring a few hours before the match. Good thing the match wasn’t called off. 

  

 

DPMM FC vs Harimau Muda  

Catch the match between DPMM FC and Harimau Muda at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium this Friday 

  

Acer Liquid Smartphones

 

Check out Acer Liquid smartphones 

 

  

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

 

 
Click to enter website  

Heels at Malppy.com  

If you do not know about Malppy.com, it is an online fashion and lifestyle store providing you with a variety of quality products. From womenswear, menswear to novelty items, you will definitely be spoilt for choice.

For each weekend, Malppy.com will be featuring products at special promotional prices. This weekend, Malppy is featuring Women’s Fashion Heeled Shoes.

Women’s Fashion Heeled Shoes. Click image to enter website.The special feature will begin Friday noon and will end at Midnight this Saturday. The shoe is available in Black, Red, Blue and White for only $39.90 this weekend.

Visit Malppy.com for all your online shopping needs!

 

 

Can DPMM FC repeat 

the same performance?  

This is it. After a fresh win from Courts Young Lions with a 6-1 score line, DPMM FC is in high mood and they won’t be taking Harimau Muda very lightly indeed despite the visitors being on the basement of the S•League.

DPMM FC can be back on top should they win tonight against Harimau Muda but league leaders Tampines Rovers will have a game in hand.

DPMM FC coach Steve Kean is gunning for all three points and also a clean sheet. Kean was disappointed on how DPMM FC were unlucky to concede against Courts Young Lions through a deflection but he feels defiant that DPMM FC will step up a gear and aim for a clean sheet tonight at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.

He won’t be taking any team for granted even Harimau Muda. “If we don’t start properly like in our last match, the other team can score and make it difficult for us. I’m confident that we will get all three points after the way we finished last Sunday,” shared Kean during the interview.

“We need to get a clean sheet. We need to get back to where we were the first three games. We already know we can create chances and score goals. It is not just Wardun (keeper) and the back four, everybody needs to think like a defender once we lose possession and put pressure.”

Fans will be delighted to see the return of Subhi Abdillah who was missing from the last game due to a minor injury. Rodrigo Tosi was doubtful earlier this week but he managed to shake off the injury and he will be fit for tonight’s match as well. Tosi has instrumental in DPMM FC’s surge to the top with a few goals under his belt.

 

Will any of them be featured in the match tonight? I believe so 😀

Harimau Muda B coach Razip Ismail hopes his team won’t suffer the same fate as Courts Young Lions. He urged his team to double the efforts and just simply avoid any embarrassment and do not show fear to their opponents.

Did you know that Harimau Muda has conceded 17 goals in 6 games as compared to DPMM FC’s 4 goals? Many fans have predicted a comprehensive victory but this kind of games can be very tricky indeed. A point for the visitors will definitely put a smile on their faces. Harimau Muda has yet to earn a single point after six matches.

Tonight DPMM FC will take on Harimau Muda at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium and there will be another lucky draw for the supporters who will watch the match tonight especially those with $5 and $8 ticket. The first prizes will be an air fare for one to Kuala Lumpur and Indonesia and 8 consolation prizes. The winners will be announced at half-time of the match tonight.

 

  

bruneihalal debuts at MIHAS  

Associates of bruniehalal at the 11th Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Image courtesy of bruneihalalBrunei Halal is currently at the 11th Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 9-12 April 2014. This is simultaneous with the brand’s entry in the Malaysia market.

Brunei Halal is showcasing its latest product ranges at the prestigious showcase. Representatives from Ghanim International Food Corporation, the marketing and trading arm of the brand, are also present to receive any queries or comments from buyers and trade visitors.

Ghanim International Food Corporation sees MIHAS as the best entry point for Brunei Halal to make its presence known in the global Muslim and ASEAN markets in particular. The company is currently in talks with parties for retail penetration of Brunei Halal products soon.

Today, MIHAS is the premier event that is not limited to the ASEAN region alone but is also supported internationally by the participation of over 400 International Pavilions in various industries from countries across the globe.

The Brunei Halal booth is located in Hall 5, Booth numbers 27, 28, 29 and 30. MIHAS is open to registered trade exhibitors from 10.00am to 7.00pm for the 4 days of the exhibition.

Some of the products being showcased 

Some of the products being showcased