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Archive for July, 2017

Baiduri Bank – Domestic Retail Bank of the Year Award

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in community, bank

 


Pg Azaleen bin Pg Dato Hj Mustapha, Head of Retail Banking and Branch Network at Baiduri Bank receiving the award for “Domestic Retail Bank of the Year for Brunei 2017” from the Asian Banking & Finance Magazine on behalf of Baiduri Bank. With him is Tim Charlton, editor-in-chief of Asian Banking & Finance magazine.
 

For the fifth consecutive year, Baiduri Bank was awarded the “Domestic Retail Bank of the Year for Brunei 2017” from the Asian Banking & Finance Magazine.

Pg Azaleen bin Pg Dato Hj Mustapha, Head of Retail Banking and Branch Network at Baiduri Bank received the award on behalf of the bank during a ceremony at the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore on 13 July 2017.

“We are delighted to receive this award from the Asian Banking & Finance magazine. This would be the fifth consecutive year we’ve received the Domestic Retail Bank of the Year for Brunei.”

 

 


The previous edition of Asian Banking & Finance Magazine
 

Speaking on the efforts made by the Bank, Pg Azaleen further said that product innovation has been a key success factor in winning the award. “We strive to be at the forefront of [banking] innovation in Brunei. Among some of the highlights include the launch of MerchantSuite, an online payment platform for MSMEs; the launch of the Micro Account; and the introduction of Dragon Pass, the world’s first revolutionary all-in-one digital airport companion, for our Visa Inifinite and Platinum card programmes.”

He further elaborated that in providing opportunities for customers to diversify their investment portfolio, Baiduri Capital, a wholly-owned subsidiary, introduced the China A Shares late last year as well as adding Bonds and Exchange Traded Funds to its product range.

Since 2006, the Asian Banking & Finance (ABF) magazine has been honouring and recognising the best of the best in the Banking and Finance industry in Asia. It focuses on commercial and retail banking and on the securities market from a banking perspective.

 

His Majesty the Sultan at Yayasan’s Hari Raya celebration

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in community, Social News

 


His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade in a group photo. Click image to enlarge.
 


His Majesty viewing a huge portrait during a cycling event
 

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, together with other members of the royal family, graced the 14th Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations at the Plenary Hall of the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas recently.

Accompanying Their Majesties at the event were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah.

Also accompanying Their Majesties were His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah; Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah; and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Upon arrival, Their Majesties and members of the royal family were greeted by Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education and Chairman of the Yayasan Board of Directors.

 

 


His Majesty the Sultan and members of the Royal Family at Progresif pavilion
 


His Majesty the Sultan consented to sign the plaque from Progresif. Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd (Progresif) has pledged to continue with its efforts to stay progressive in support of the country’s Vision 2035 aspirations. One of the ways the company is helping to realise this ambitious vision is through employing more locals in its workforce and hinted in launching the 4G network from Progresif.
 

 

The event also featured an exhibition from the Prime Minister’s Office; the ministries of culture, youth and sports, finance, education, religious affairs, and health; as well as several private sector firms, namely the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI), Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd, Brunei Gas Carriers Sdn Bhd, and Brunei Methanol Company.

Also participating as exhibitors were Telekom Brunei Berhad, Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd, DST Communications Sdn Bhd, DARe (Darussalam Enterprise), Royal Brunei Airlines (RB), Institution of Surveyors, Engineers and Architects (PUJA), as well as several local banks namely BIBD, Baiduri Bank and Perbadanan TAIB.

With the consent of His Majesty, Yayasan invited over 1,000 of its top achievers – comprising those who have received awards or medals for their accomplishments and good services in relevant fields – to take part in the celebrations.

These individuals, mostly comprised of public figures, academicians, and Jasawan (religious figures), have gained success and received recognition in various fields such as education, religion and literature – both individually and as a group – at the national, regional and international levels.

The participants also include Qaris and Qariahs, including winners of Al-Quran memorising competitions; Youth Leadership Award recipients; award recipients in the medical, engineering, finance, community, and management and services fields; winners of sports events; and students who have been given recognition for being the top 10 in the world in certain subjects.

Such achievements fall in line with one of Brunei Vision 2035 objectives: that of making the country known internationally for its highly educated and skilful citizens.

The invitation of the 1,000 high achievers to this year’s ICC Hari Raya celebrations is a manifestation of His Majesty’s concern towards their success in their respective fields, and hoped to motivate them to increase their efforts further to achieve more success and excellence in the future.

It was also meant as a show of appreciation, support and recognition towards the invitees’ good services, achievement and success, which have brought honour to the nation and serve as a model example to the younger generation to work hard towards achieving success and excellence in their lives. Text courtesy of Lyna Mohd of Borneo Bulletin and images courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

 

 

 


His Majesty the Sultan with members of Royal Family at Brunei Gas Carrier pavilion. Also present was the new Managing Director of Brunei Gas Carriers, John Douglas Cook.
 


His Majesty the Sultan at DST pavilion
 


Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam viewing BIBD pavilion
 


His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah
 

 


His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah binti Pengiran Haji Bolkiah at PUJA booth
 

A major boost for BruWild

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in community, education, Social News

 


Marina Laker, the High Commission for Canada to Brunei Darussalam handed over donation to Liaw Lin Ji, President of BruWILD (Biodiversity and Natural History Society) last weekend. Image courtesy of the High Commission for Canada.
 

Last weekend, the High Commission for Canada presented a donation of B$1,250.00 to the Biodiversity and Natural History Society (BruWILD), demonstrating Canada’s commitment to environmental stewardship and the fight against climate change.

In recognition of BruWILD’s environmental initiatives and partnership with the High Commission for Canada, High Commissioner Her Excellency Marina Laker presented the donation – a gift to her by the diplomatic corps for her farewell – to the President of BruWILD Liaw Lin Ji. The funds will be used to support BruWILD’s biodiversity conservation efforts, wildlife rescue, and sustainable development education.

High Commissioner Laker said, “Brunei has a diverse ecosystem and is blessed with a rich biodiversity. It is home to over a thousand species of plants and animals, many of which are endemic to Borneo. BruWILD is playing an important role promoting the protection of Brunei’s wildlife through its rescue efforts, and by raising awareness through its educational programs of the importance of environmental sustainability.”

“When a species becomes extinct, the resulting ecological imbalance can create a cascading effect that threatens other species within its ecosystem”, she added. “That is why we must all find ways to contribute to global action to help conserve native species and habitats.”

As Canada celebrates its 150th anniversary of Confederation throughout 2017, the Government of Canada has committed to engage and inspire broad awareness of the importance of protecting wildlife and natural habitats, while providing leadership in the ongoing stewardship of a clean environment and sustainable economy. Canada is involved with at least seven United Nations environmental groups, and has aligned itself with 152 countries – including Brunei – by ratifying the Paris Agreement on climate change.

Last month, the High Commission for Canada partnered with BruWILD and The Collective to mark World Environment Day. The event provided students and environmental enthusiasts a chance to observe and learn about the various ecosystems that exist in Brunei. For more updates, you can follow BruWild Facebook Page and their IG @bruwildofficial

 

 


Last month, BruWild, High Commission for Canada and The Collective held a World Environment Day. Image courtesy of BruWild Facebook Page.
 


A student showcasing her project to Her Excellency Marina Laker. Image courtesy of BruWild Facebook Page.
 

 

Alma wins a semi-detached house

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in Social News

 


Miss Alma Salvaloza Tamayo, a Filipino and permanent resident, residing in Brunei Darussalam, won the Grand Draw, a semi-detach house at Kilanas, during the 4th Series of its Second Lucky Draw Campaign by Sentral Shopping Centre
 


The top 15 winners of the lucky prize
 

Sentral Shopping Centre (also known as KB Sentral by many) has just completed the 4th Series of its Second Lucky Draw Campaign on Sunday, 9th July 2017 by 4pm yesterday. It was efficient and smooth considering the estimated 1,800 short-listed coupon holders that showed up yesterday. Sentral Shopping Centre was filled with a huge crowd of hopeful winners. The prizes range from household appliances to meal voucher to even a huge indo mee hamper to a one night stay at Garden Sentral Hotel as well as semi-detach house as the grand prize.

The Guest of Honor for the Grand Lucky Draw was both the Vice President of Federation of Brunei Malay Entrepreneurs (PPPMB) Yang Mulia Dr Haji Jumat bin Haji Idris and, Yang Mulia Mr K Salim BA Karim (Salimo), President of the Indian Association Belait. A total of 15 prizes were given away yesterday including four prizes for quiz questions opened to the floor. The event commenced with a welcoming speech by their General Manager, Abby Lim. Soon after, KBSentral Marketing and Event Manager Ahmad Anwar Hj Rosly, proceeded to draw the first batch of winners. It was then followed by Abby Lim to draw another set of winners. Mr Salim drew another set of lucky winners. In between the draws, quiz questions were asked to the audience and the prizes to these quiz questions were sponsored by tenants under KBSentral Shopping Centre.

The Guest of Honour then proceeded to draw the top set of lucky winners including the grand prize. The third place winner went to Miss Chai Lee Ping and the winner have won a brand new LG Refrigerator and the second place winner went to Miss Nurul Eda Abdullah who won a brand new 32” LG LED TV. The Grand Prize Winner of Sentral Shopping Centre Grand Lucky Draw, the fourth series, and proud owner of a new semi-detached bungalow was Miss Alma Salvaloza Tamayo.

It was no surprised that no coupons were burnt or how we called it “hangus” when one doesn’t show up. However, it wasn’t a 100% success rate as the grand prize hit an anti-climax as the supposedly grand winner Hazizah didn’t showed up after her name was called three times. Hence the second announcement was made and lucky grand winner Alma Salvaloza Tamayo was surprised that her name was called out. Living in Panaga, she was over the moon that she won a place to stay as she was searching for a house in Brunei.

Prior to the lucky draw, the coupon holders were reminded to be present at the Grand Lucky Draw presentation, along with their Identity Cards (IC) as proof of identity and their Lucky Draw coupons. Representatives were allowed, but they must bring along their own ICs, as well as the photocopy IC of the winner along with the original coupon.

Do follow them on Facebook and Instagram @kbsentral for all the latest updates on our upcoming event activities!

 

 


Abby Lim, General Manager of KBSentral, giving her welcoming remarks
 


Miss Chai Lee Ping won a third prize of the LG Refrigerator
 


The second prize winner, Miss Nurul Eda Abdullah, won a brand new 32” LG LED TV
 

 


One of the quizzes winner
 


One night stay winner presented by Yang Mulia Mr K Salim BA Karim (Salimo), President of the Indian Association Belait (right)
 


Ahmad Anwar Hj Rosly, KBSentral Marketing and Event Manager of KB Sentral giving out consolation prizes
 


One of the consolation winners
 


This guy was so lucky to win a huge supply of indo mee
 

 


The massive crowd last night
 


The entertaining, engaging emcees
 


The winner consolation outfit matched the colour of the prize
 


The grand winner receiving from guest of honour, Vice President of Federation of Brunei Malay Entrepreneurs (PPPMB) Yang Mulia Dr Haji Jumat bin Haji Idris
 

 

Brunei and Singapore leaders celebrate 50th anniversary of currency agreement

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in community, bank, Social News

 

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His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar’Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and His Excellency Mr. Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister of Singapore jointly launched the new $50 commemorative notes issued by the two countries at the Instant Presidential Palace in Singapore this morning. Image taken by EPA.
 

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Officiating the ceremony to commemorate the milestone. Image taken by AFP.
 

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar’Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and His Excellency Mr. Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister of Singapore jointly launched the new $50 commemorative notes issued by the two countries in a ceremony held today at the Istana Presidential Palace, Singapore, to mark the 50th Anniversary of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore.

The Currency Interchangeability Agreement took effect on 12 June 1967 between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore to facilitate improved economic and trade relations between the parties, and is a key economic cooperation between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore. It was signed by the then Chairman of the Brunei Currency Board (now known as Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam) and the Chairman of the Board of Commissioners Currency, Singapore (which merged with the Monetary Authority of Singapore in 2002).

Under the Agreement, AMBD and MAS will accept the currency issued by the other, and to exchange it at par and without charge, into their own currency. Banks in both countries will accept for deposit from the general public and businesses, currency issued by the other country at par.

Through the years, the Agreement has brought about economic benefits and strengthened the financial links between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore. Today’s joint launch of the new $50 commemorative notes reaffirms to the public, retailers and financial institutions in both countries that Brunei Darussalam and Singapore currency notes are still interchangeable at par.

The commemorative notes will be made available to the general public both in Brunei Darussalam and Singapore from 2pm today, 5 th July 2017, while the circulation notes will be available from 2pm Friday, 7th July 2017 across all banks and their branches in both countries.

For more information on the 50th Anniversary of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement between Brunei Darussalam and Singapore, please visit AMBD’s website at www.ambd.gov.bn or download the AMBD App through the Appstore or Google Playstore.

There has been so much buzz on the commemorative notes from AMBD as many were interested in them. I won’t be surprised if the stocks they have currently will run out in a few days time. I’m hoping to get hold of them once I get back from my short trip.

 

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The new Brunei BND50 note
 

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The new Singapore SGD 50 note
 

Interesting fact: The special bills, which were jointly designed by Brunei’s Abdul Ajihis Haji Terawih, and Singapore artists Eng Siak Loy and Weng Ziyan, pay tribute to the ties between the two countries.

The front of the B$50 and S$50 notes remain unique to each sovereign nation – Brunei’s features a portrait of the Sultan, and Singapore one of its first president Yusof Ishak – the shared design on the back of these notes reflects “our common values, as well as key areas of our close cooperation, including in defence education and tourism.

The designs on the back include sketches of students, among other items.

The flowers in full bloom on the front symbolise “the flourishing friendship between the two countries”, a joint statement by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and its Brunei counterpart said.

The front also includes the 50th anniversary logo of the Currency Interchangeability Agreement, which came into effect on June 12, 1967.

 

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The Identical Numbered Notes Set and Brunei 3-in-1 Uncut Sheet. Limited stocks. Click image to enlarge.
 

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Brunei 8-in-1 Uncut Sheet and Brunei 40-in-1 Uncut Sheet. Limited stocks. Click image to enlarge.
 

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Coffee Table Book
 

Rano in Seoul – Part I

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in community, culture, travel, lifestyle, Social News

 


Thank you, Daniel, for picking me up at the Incheon Airport upon my arrival last weekend
 


Our first Open Talk session where each country given an opportunity to share about their latest trends of social media and internet of things in their respective countries
 

So how have your Hari Raya (Eid Mubarak) celebration been? It has been almost a week and I can’t wait to get back home after spending almost a week in Republic of Korea. A big thanks to the Republic of Korea Embassy in Brunei Darussalam for selecting me to be part of the recent Asian Cultural Youth Leaders’ Camp 2017 in Seoul, Korea.

The ACYLC 2017 was organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Korean Foundation. The 5 day program was attended by other representatives from 20 other countries in Asia Pacific. I even made acquaintance with a friend from Papa New Guinea and Fiji. The most important outcome were the friendship and the diplomacy that was created (or re-created) among other different nationalities. I just don’t know where to begin. All I can say for now is that #2017ACYLC program has achieved its objective in forming strategic cultural diplomacy among other nationalities. Even in a short period of time, the hardest part was the goodbyes and the see-you-next-time gestures.

The event started with an orientation or what we call the ice-breaker session with all the delegates. Each of us were given a min or two to introduce ourselves and I was selected to be in Group B (with Indonesia, Korea, Papa New Guinea, Mongolia) during the first evening. We weren’t warm up until the next day when we started to do our presentation during the “Open Talk” session. It was the most interesting part as we learnt the culture of how internet and technology play a part in their respective countries.

While Brunei has a higher internet penetration which also equates to higher social media penetration, other countries have different levels of penetration and social media presence. Did you know that Brunei has more than 100% of mobile penetration in the region? This means at least one of us have dual sim cards. As for Brunei, Instagram and Facebook have been the main source of updating statuses while Youtube remains the most popular for pleasure viewing.

In Korea, Facebook is widely popular with Instagram on the rise. Around 70% of the Koreans I met recently own an IG account while all of them have a Facebook account. Kakao Talk is Korea’s leading messaging app and not many of them communicate like how Bruneians do – WhatsApp. I downloaded the app to give a shot since I have more than two Korean friends. I would say that it’s similar to Line but cleaner and efficient. I like it but I won’t be using it as much since it’s not a frequent app being used in Brunei.

 


Around 20 representatives from different countries in the Asian Cultural Youth Leaders’ Camp 2017. Thank you, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Korea and Korean Foundation.
 


Shooting with a fish eye lens
 


We had a brief appearance at Arirang TV news. Awesome!!!
 


Seung-Hye Sun, Director of Cultural Cooperation Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, sharing an interesting insight on Korea’s Digital Diplomacy and New Media. It really gave me a different perspective on MOFA’s initiative and I wish other countries can do the same to strengthen the diplomacy between countries.
 


I shared the trends in Brunei and how internet penetration is quite high in Brunei Darussalam
 


With the beautiful ladies from Mongolia, Uzi and Khulan
 

We spent one and a half day in Seoul before heading of the PyeongChang, the official city for the upcoming Winter Olympics in Republic of Korea. We have a small preview at one of the sporting venues at PyeongChang, the Alpensia where the ski jump will be held. Now it’s the summer period so basically there isn’t any snow or ice for the matter. All we could see was a massive long slide for ski jump and a football size field and I believe the surface looks like artificial grass. It’s like seeing the ski jump venue but butt naked *lol*

Now here comes to the awesome thing – there were doing practice ski drills literally on the carpeted grass surface. It was as if I was watching a defying stunt in real life. I was worried that one of them would miscue a move and start rolling down the steep slope. However, all the attempts they performed were successful. Watching them practice was definitely some cheap thrill to watch them practice. The Ski Jumping event at Alpensia will be one of the biggest draw for the PyeongChang Games 2018.

I learnt something interesting about PyeongChang. Did you know that they lost first two bids for 2010 and 2014? And Pyeongchang ain’t giving up the fight to win the bid for 2018. According to one of the spokesperson of the PyeongChang Games Organizing Committee, it’s their facilities and capabilities that stood out and they are well prepared with contingency plans should there be unseen circumstances related to the weather conditions. In this case, it could be the lack of snow or ice due to the climate change. But not to worry as PyeongChang is ready for contingency plans.

PyeongChang Games will also introduce the first ever 5G telecommunications services. I was told that the 5G network is 20 times faster than our current 4G. Wow!! That’s simply fast… I can’t wait for that technology to come to Brunei but Korea will be the first to test its 5G capabilities during the Winter Games. You will be able to experience things such as 5G bus connection, 360 Virtual Reality and get this, an omni view from the athlete’s point of view (Awesome!!) in real-time and also holograms. Other than that, the area will be wifi ready around PyeongChang and you will be updated with traffic information and even parking information. The organisers have planned this ahead to make it more convenient for Olympic fans/goers. Kudos to them 😀

All these bits and pieces are just the attractions that I myself am keen to fly and check out the Winter Games at PyeongChang. It’s a wonderful city in Gangwon Province, South Korea. A mountainous area and also place home to several Buddhist temples including Woljeongsa Temple.

In the latest news, South Korean President Moon Jae-In on Monday urged the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to help North Korea participate in next year’s Winter Games, saying it would contribute to regional and world peace. We could see that Moon renewed his push for “sports diplomacy,” urging IOC’s help to enable the North to take part. We shall see how this will unfold in the coming weeks or months.

Nonetheless, PyeongChang will be the biggest attraction for Korea in 2018. I have faith that the Winter Olympics will be a huge success and help to boost the economy of the country.

I shall share my other visits of my trip in Korea in my latter posts. Images taken by delegates of the #2017AYCLC

 


Posing with the official mascots for PyeongChang Games 2018
 


Taken at the Alpensia Ski Jump Centre. Behind the beautiful ladies is the actual ski jump hill. It looks weird without the snow/ice. And the athletes were still practising their jumps.. Amazing but risky!!
 


The view from the top of the Alpensia Ski Jump Centre. Can you see the inclination of the slope for the ski jump? Scary… I can feel the magnet pulling from my groin area HAHA
 


Group photo with the delegates at Alpensia Ski Jump Centre.
 

#Untaggable yet checks every box- the all new Audi Q2

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in audi, lifestyle, Social News

 


The latest Audi Q2 now available at the Audi Showroom at Kiarong
 


The latest Audi Q2 now available at the Audi Showroom at Kiarong
 

Leading a new premium vehicle segment with an unmatched entry level pricing!

The new Audi Q2 is an urban-type vehicle for everyday driving and recreation, bundling a progressive design and great driving pleasure with a high level of functionality. Connectivity, infotainment and assistance systems are on par with the full-size category vehicles.

Design character
At the front, a strong image is created by the unique Singleframe grill in octagonal design that is positioned up high as well as by the large air inlets. Especially eye-catching is the low roof that descends and merges into the C-pillars with colour offset blades (optional)-this contrast accentuates the sportiness of the Audi Q2. The rear body terminates in a dynamic way with a long roof edge spoiler and a diffuser that has an underbody-protection look. In a side view, the high shoulder line is especially eye-catching as are the concave flanks in the door area. The vehicle measures 1.51 meters (5.0 ft) tall and 1.79 meters (5.9 ft) wide. The overhangs are short with a vehicle length of 4.19 meters (13.7 ft) and a wheelbase of 2.60 meters (8.5 ft).

Interior
The new Audi Q2 is as individualistic as its drivers. A variety of equipment packages as well as expressive colours for interior trim and seat upholstery allow plenty of creative space for personal configuration. One premium standard is the LED lighting package, in which the interior is staged in a particularly attractive way with illuminated trim elements available in 10 different colours.

The Q2 resembles a typical SUV, with high door sills, good visibility and a large luggage compartment (355 to 1,050 liters (12.5 – 37.1 cu ft) of capacity). The highlight is that the driver’s seat position is sporty and low in relation to the steering wheel, like in an Audi sedan.

Drive system
The Brunei launch of the Q2 comes with a brand new TFSI powerplant which outputs 116hp and a healthy 200Nm of torque. 7-speed S tronic dual clutch transmission and progressive steering (standard) makes tough cornering a thing of the past. It varies the steering gear ratio as a function of the steering input; the ratio is made more direct with large steering movements.

The chassis with damper control is optionally available, as is the Audi drive select system (for high spec only) with which the driver can set an individual characteristic for their Q2. Installed at the rear on the Brunei front-wheel drive spec is a semi-independent suspension.

Infotainment and Audi connect
Standard in the Q2 is a 5.8-inch MMI screen that is positioned high up on the instrument panel. The infotainment system can be operated by a rotary/push-button control and two buttons on the center tunnel. In addition, the system can be conveniently controlled by natural language operation and the integrated MMI search.

High spec additional equipment
• 4-mode Audi Drive Select
• Comfort key including auto luggage door
• Parking system plus including rear-view camera
• B&O sound system
• Alcantara leather
• 5-spoke Y-design 18” wheels (17” wheels on standard spec model)
• S line sports package (including Sports suspension 10mm lowered)

The Audi Q2 is already available in the market and you can have closer view of the car at the Audi Showroom in Kiarong. You can have a look at their website for more details.

 

 


The rear view of the Audi Q2
 


The interior feel of the Audi Q2
 

My take for the Audi Q2: The first look already caught my eye when I was it on @audibrunei’s Instagram account. As I saw it with my own eyes, I was even more impressed with its design. It’s like a SUB but it’s not. All I can sense is that it looks pretty slick and rugged. I love the edgy feel and look and it stands out as its own character.

I took the Audi Q2 for a spin and it’s a pretty good ride and I was used to it even after a few minutes of driving. It has good acceleration and power, not forgetting the smooth ride on the highway as we headed to Roasted Sip for a cup of nice latte.

The one test drove was the standard model of the Audi Q2 which is still good enough for me. The interesting part is if you just fork out a few thousands, you will get so much more benefits in the high spec version of the Q2.

Now two things that I was amazed by what Audi Q2 offers – 1) it’s powered by 1 litre engine but when I drove it, it felt more than just a 1 litre engine. Impressive!!! Which means any owner will enjoy the economical value of driving the Audi Q2. The thing is the value in price. Just imagine for the high spec (refer above) of the Audi Q2, you can get for less than BND 50,000. Now isn’t that very affordable, considering it’s a Q version of the Audi series.

An hour of test drive has given me more reasons for potential buyers to give the Audi Q2 a shot. Do test drive it and you will get what I mean. The Audi Q2 could be just the best deal of the season with the price and the quality that Audi has to offer. A big two thumbs up for me.

Audi Brunei Facebook page is also running the #untaggable contest relating to the Audi Q2 and it will end Tuesday, 4th July 4pm tomorrow. Have fun!!

 

 

 

Contact RA

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Contact: +6738677773

About RA

A blogger since 2002, using platforms from blogspot, joomla and now currently wordpress. A readership that stands on average of 20,000 visits per month. Also on active on social media platform on IG, Facebook and Snapchat (@ranoadidas)

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