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Baiduri’s “Pay Smart & Win”

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in lifestyle

 


The 10 lucky winners from the “Pay Smart & Win” promotion feted last week at Baiduri’s HQ
 

As part of the ‘Pay Smart & Win’ promotion, active Baiduri Smart Executive Programme (SEP) members and Smart Executive Auto Direct Prepaid Card holders were automatically entered into a lucky draw to win amazing prizes. SEP members and Smart Executive Auto Direct Prepaid Card holders who purchased any top-ups or made any payments using Baiduri’s e-Channels, during the period of 1 September 2016 to 30 November 2016, were entitled to lucky draw chances.

10 lucky winners drew their own prizes during a prize presentation at Baiduri’s headquarters in Kiarong last Friday. The winners took turns to select an envelope from the draw bowl and simultaneously opened their envelopes revealing their prize.

Kong Yeung Yih walked away with the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H7 headphones. Lim Mei Fong drew a Sony Playstation 4 while Shahrin bin Hj Shamsudin won an Apple iPad Mini 4. Filzah Fatinah binti DP Hj Mohd Hamid received a return ticket to Bangkok, Thailand whilst Lim Eng Seng Rickie received an LG 360 Cam. The remaining winners received MasterCard CashCards valued at BND100 and BND50. The prizes were presented by Hjh Maripaz Abdullah, Manager of Business Development, Programs and Special Accounts; Hj Mohamad Rayme bin Hj Bakri, Marketing Manager of Baiduri Finance; and Jazline Rose binti Dolamit, Senior Officer of E-Banking Centre, Commercial Unit at Baiduri Bank.

According to Hjh Maripaz Abdullah, “Through the use of Baiduri’s e-Channels, our [Smart Executive Programme] members are able to do more in the same amount of time as a customer that is not utilizing the most of what the Bank and, subsequently, the Programme can offer. SEP aims to provide a variety of options through which their members can manage their finances at their convenience.”

 

 


Briefing the shortlisted winners before the event
 


Opening up the envelopes to check our prizes
 


I managed to draw a prize for Lim Mei Fong, a Sony PS4 and handing over was Hjh Maripaz Abdullah, Manager of Business Development, Programs and Special Accounts
 


She won a ticket to Bangkok
 


Lim Eng Seng Rickie won hims a LG 360 cam, receiving from Hj Mohamad Rayme bin Hj Bakri, Marketing Manager of Baiduri Finance
 


Free style pose
 

Baiduri Bank’s e-Channels include Baiduri Personal i-Banking, Baiduri Mobile Banking or ATM/Cash Deposit Machines. Payments using Baiduri Bank’s e-Channels include Real-time Hire Purchase payments, bill payments and/or Fund Transfers.

Baiduri’s Smart Executive Programme is a unique programme by Baiduri Bank which offers a multitude of benefits geared towards the busy, working professionals. The benefits include smart banking solutions plus invitations to investment and lifestyle events. Members stand to enjoy benefits such as exclusive Smart Executive Premium Debit Cards, access to Smart Executive Centres, and exclusive offers. More information on the Smart Executive Programme is available on www.baiduri.com or from the Baiduri Deals mobile app.

 

B&O’s Flexible Living Launch

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

 


Reuben Chin, Manager of Sejalin Living, speaking to the guests yesterday at Bang & Olufsen showroom
 

Yesterday, Sejalin Living unveiled their Flexible Living launch at their B&O store and also their new payment system, the “Flexible Payment”. The management also announced a special prize for their gimmick known as “Humblebrag” and you can win yourself a brand new B&O TV.

But first let share with you the latest products from Bang & Olufsen.

BeoSound 1 and 2 are the newest members of the Bang & Olufsen BeoLink Multiroom portfolio that connects your Bang & Olufsen products into one wireless music system across the home. Connect up to 8 BeoSound 1 and BeoSound 2 in a multiroom set-up.

BeoSound 1 and BeoSound 2 are wireless speakers designed for convenience, crafted for mobility and featuring an impressive 360 degrees of spherical sound magic. Both are Bang & Olufsen’s answer to an ever-changing everyday life; they are both ultra flexible in terms of usability, connectivity and placement options – and they deliver an unparalleled 360-degree sound experience no matter where the speakers or you are placed.

“We live in a time of cord cutting where everyone wants more freedom. No one wants to be hindered by technological restriction, says Marie Kristine Schmidt, Vice President Brand, Design & Marketing and continues, “BeoSound 1 & 2 is designed to cater for a flexible lifestyle where music blends naturally into the home. The design is unobtrusive yet powerful, underscoring the purpose of the speakers”.

Both are available at Sejalin Living showroom.

 

 


Malek Manan, Resident Audiophile of Sejalin Living, doing a product demo on the BeoSound
 


BeoSound 1 and 2 looked gorgeous
 


Guests getting up close and personal on the BeoSound 1 and 2
 

Now meet BeoVision Horizon TV. BeoVision Horizon is a screen for flexible living, crafted in sleek, black aluminium and built upon the Android TVTM platform. The new Bang & Olufsen 4K Ultra HD TV features powerful sound and crystal clear images that automatically adjusts to light conditions.

BeoVision Horizon is designed to meet the modern lifestyle demands of flexibility, connectivity and extraordinary quality. It is also a lifestyle where your home takes on different roles and adapts quickly to the changes in your daily routines. Enter BeoVision Horizon, a screen that literally fits in anywhere regardless of your way of living and decorating. It is also a less formal, more casual TV experience you get with today’s introduction, one that follows your rhythm – and one you actively can choose as the centre of entertainment.

This new 4K Ultra HD TV offers total freedom in terms of placement – with automatic image optimization for varying viewing conditions – and the ever evolving Android TV platform brings integrated access to all your favourite content and entertainment apps.

Much to love on the BeoVision Horizon – its minimalistic design (placed on wheels or mounted on the wall), its optimum picture and sound equipped with the Immaculate Wireless Sound, its smart access to online content and its BeoRemote One and Multiroom, ergonomically designed to seamlessly integrate with other Bang & Olufsen products.

BeoVision Horizon is available as 40” and 48” at Bang & Olufsen Showroom, Kiarong.

 

 


Check out the gorgeous TVs from B&O
 


A guest eyeing on the new BeoVision
 


Refreshments from The Food Brigade
 

 

Win a BeoVision Horizon 40″

 

Ok, now about the ultimate humblebragger competition. It’s kinda simple and you don’t need to post anything related to B&O or its products. So here goes.

So, all you have to do for a chance to win, is to share your best humblebrag on their Bang & Olufsen Facebook.
1. Find your best humblebrag.
2. Take a screenshot if it’s a post.
3. Post the picture in the comments below.
4. The entry with the most likes will win!

The postings are only applicable if you post them on Bang & Olufsen’s Facebook. Refer to the image below and just comment with your image and your humble brag.

You can also watch this youtube video below to get some idea of humble brag.

 

Humblebragging – This is how you do it

 


Click image to enter Bang & Olufsen’s Brunei Facebook Page
 

 


This could be yours (or mine) *big grin*
 

Flexible Payment

 

Easy monthly payment – Spread the cost with our flexible payment scheme.  For every purchase from our store, you have an option to make one time payment or regular recurring payment by ‘Direct Debit’ in 3/6/12 months*

No interest or fees – your purchase order will be split accordingly to the monthly payment of your choice, no extra fees, no interest or confusing fine print!

*For BIBD customers only.

 

How’s your 2017 so far?

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

Hello 2017.. I haven’t official post anything personally on 2017 or a shoutout. Well, most of you do follow on my social media platforms and it’s easy for me to neglect my once ever popular way to update which is through my blog. We are almost half way mark to January 2017 and I haven’t had the opportunity yet to hand write 2017 on any document just yet. I’m pretty sure that I will make those minor errors, penning down 2016 instead of 2017.

As for resolutions, I haven’t been making any for the past few years because my resolutions are always redefined and ongoing. So I had it with having resolutions to cap the year. I would say that some weren’t accomplished – like having my own studio area, eating lean food (which I did for two months) and also focus on speech writing (which I have no discipline). This year, I shall be continuing my routine – taking pictures, typing articles, continue to be a social media junkie, practice more tennis and build the toastmasters community in Brunei.

Below are some images that I want to share with that that had happened a couple of weeks in January 2017. Have a great weekend ahead.

 

 


The new chancery for Republic of Korea in Brunei Darussalam located at the Diplomatic Enclave. It was launched on the 10th January 2017 with the present of a few ministers and of course, Cho Won-Myung, the Korean Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam. Image courtesy of James Kon of Borneo Bulletin.
 

 


I’ve been quite addicted to FIFA mobile now. Sometimes I overspent on buying coins just to get the players. It’s not as easy as it seems. Lots of patience required.
 


Pehin Lau presented donations to those affected from the fire of the Kg. Ayer last year. He is such a cool guy indeed. Lets hope more private companies come in and help to support for a good cause.
 


Kia motors is having a grand draw for this Friday and the winner will win a new Kia carnival and even the shortlisted winners will walk away with something. Good luck to all the shortlisted ones.
 


My first hike of 2017 and also Jaymee’s. We hiked a total of maybe 4-5 km.
 

 


A movie that I enjoyed and yes, it’s a slow burn indeed. Not many would enjoy this type of film. It has a deeper feel and I love the music score. Also a great performance by Amy Adams. This is my rating for Arrival which is now screening in our local cinemas.
 


The Pokka Bonanza Third Weekly Draw at Freshco last weekend. The winner won himself a Go Hero Session 5. The final draw will be during the Consumer Fair (18th to 22nd January).
 


We had a mini pot luck to cap off the year of 2016. Thanks for all the wonderful food.
 


Full moon for baby Caylan during 1st January 2017. I can’t imagine Hui Chiet being a mother and wow, here she is. Enjoy parenthood 😀
 


Apart from tennis, I do have my badminton sessions with my buddies. It’s good to see they sweat it out and appreciate their health.
 

 


Our birthday are pretty close to one another. So there’s no reason for us to forget each other’s birthday. We surprised her with a cake at Bali Pitstop on the struck of midnight.
 


I had my fair share too after a few days. This time during our badminton session. My actual surprise was to see my old time friend Seng Yee. Made by day. Thank you everyone for the surprise gesture.
 


Congratulations to Hjh Rohaidah bte Hj Jumat for winning the grand draw of Charcoal BBQ & Grill and she won herself an Umrah package for two, inclusive return air tickets and ground arrangements. She received the mock prize from Operation Manager Sinar Abdul and Executive Chef Liska Tumbelaka.
 


Check out the lunch promo set from Charcoal for only BND 9.90 and it comes with a free flow of beverage. Great deal indeed.
 


Bandar experienced a small tremor after the earthquake that hit off near the Philippines. It forced many to evacuate the buildings in town for precaution measures.
 

 


The launch of the Mitsubishi ASX MY17 last weekend at The Mall
 


Now this is quite interesting. Hoco Creative just launched a new platform to promote musicians, composers from Brunei through Rewind.Asia So do check them out on their Facebook Page (or click this image to follow their updates. I’m quite impressed with their branding and their short music videos, showcasing our local talents with popular cover songs. The mini launch took place at Sejalin Living showroom.
 


Something for you all to look forward to this Sunday at Sejalin Living. Stand a chance to win a brand new Beovision Horizon TV.
 


Congratulations Edy Zurina for your first speech in toastmasters. We all look forward to your future speeches 😀 And I didn’t know you like public speaking
 


Brendan Ti is one friend that I’m gonna miss. A very hard working friend whenever I need him and always been a strong player in any events that we created. Fly high, bro, and I hope you will fly us in three years’ time 😀 This image was taken during his final role as the Toastmaster of the Evening last Monday. He will fly off to New Zealand for his pilot course.
 

 


Congratulations to Sweet as Sara for opening their new cafe which is located at Setia Kenang II
 


I finally had the chance to try out drinks from Beskeet (located at KB Sentral). I quite like it and thanks Sandy for the drink 😉
 


An event I missed last week. The launch of the new logo for RBTS Paintball and also night paintball. Team AnakBrunei defended their title while Borneo Bulletin came second. My RA team finished 3rd together with DST.
 

Chang Ein Hong expands its store

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

 


The new concept store from Chang Ein Hong at The Mall (ground floor)
 

The longest watch dealer in Brunei, Chang Ein Hong, held a soft opening of its expansion at The Mall yesterday. I truly like the concept watch store and it’s pretty refreshing to shop around or even window shop for the selected brands that Chang Ein Hong carries such as Tudor, Cartier, Tag Heuer, Seiko and Luminox to name a few. The extended range that the dealer brought in is the Mont Blanc brand ranging from pens to watches to wallets. The fabrications are very specific according to the brands and they were flown in before being fixed to their designated area.

Of course, the most iconic brand that Chang Ein Hong brings is Rolex and you will be surprised that there are many Bruneians who prefer to buy from them rather than overseas because of its competitive pricing and after sales service. Before, many would have the assumption that oversea market will sell slightly cheaper than Chang Ein Hong but with the competitive pricing and service centre, customers will have a peace of mind when they buy any watch from Chang Ein Hong. Established and registered since 1956, it’s no surprise that they know the market really well and the expansion is a sign for better things to come.

The current regular store at The Mall is closed for renovations and once it’s opened, it will be for higher range collections. Congratulations once again to Chang Ein Hong on their new concept store.

 

 


Congratulations on the opening
 


Seiko watches
 


Cartier. I love their watches.
 


Tissot, another popular brand in Brunei
 


Luminox also another popular item
 


Tudor
 


Quite a crowd yesterday at Chang Ein Hong
 

CNY Promo

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in gadget, lifestyle

 


Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer (centre) with representatives from Epson Malaysia posing with the business models of Epson printers last year
 

Epson has been very popular here in Brunei Darussalam’s market. Epson printers are known for its great print speeds and effortless high-volume printing. Last year, Epson collaborated with Concepts Computer to launch a series business inkjet printers. The other Epson printers have been a hit among students and teachers because of its economical usage.

Though Brunei is a small market, it is still an important market in the region and it’s no surprise that Epson printers have reached 15 million units and still counting. Do check out the L-Series Epson printers and they have a comprehensive range too. For more information, do contact Concepts Computer at 223 3551/2/3.

 

 

 

 

 

Nafiah drives home the Iriz

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

 


The top winners for the January Grand Lucky Draw at Sentral Shopping Centre (KB) yesterday
 


The winner Nafiah Abdullah testing out her new car she won a Red Proton Iriz
 

Sentral Shopping Centre held its January Grand Lucky Draw on Sunday, 8th January 2017 yesterday. With about 1,000 short-listed coupon holders since the last series of the Grand Lucky Draw, Sentral Shopping Centre was filled with a huge crowd of hopeful winners. The prizes range from household appliances to meal voucher to one night stay at Garden Sentral Hotel as well as a car for the grand prize.

The Guest of Honor for the Grand Lucky Draw was Yang Mulia Awang Haji Haris Bin Othman, who is the Belait District Officer. A total of 17 prizes were given away yesterday. The event commenced with a welcoming speech by the General Manager, Ms Abby Lim. After that the Marketing & Event Manager Mr Ahmad Anwar Rosly, proceeded to draw the first 5 winners. It was then preceded by Miss Abby Lim, General Manger of KBSentral Shopping Centre, to draw another 5 winners. Dr Haji Jumat Bin Haji Idris, Vice President of PPPMB (Perseketuan Peniaga-Peniaga Melayu Brunei proceeded to draw another 4 lucky winners. In between the draws, quiz questions were asked to the audience and the prizes to these quizzes were Cash Vouchers from Sentral Shoppers such as Beesket and Ochado to name a few..

The Guest of Honor then proceeded to draw the top 4 lucky winners including the grand prize. The 4th prize, a brand new LG 32” LED TV went to Hjh Halidah while Ruswati Ahmad won a brand new LG refrigerator as the 3rd prize winner. The 2nd prize, a brand new LG Washing Machine was won by Nusalina bte Abdullah Ide. The Grand Prize Winner of Sentral Shopping Centre Grand Lucky Draw, the Third series, a Red Proton Iriz, was Nafiah Abdullah .

Lucky Draw 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. Sentral Grand Lucky Draw the third series will be on 8th January 2017.

Abby Lim, General Manager of Sentral Shopping Centre, thanked the Event Management Team for their awesome work yesterday and also commending them on their efforts for the past few months in running various activities to bring more crowd and shoppers to Sentral Shopping Centre. The place has become an ideal place to showcase talents too and not forgetting to aspire local entrepreneurs in venturing into business. She reminded the public on the final Grand Lucky Draw is on the 9th July 2017, with a semi-detached bungalow house as the grand prize. For upcoming event, there will be a Chinese New Year’s Chinese Cultural Week which is set from 1st – 10th February 2017.

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

 

 


Abby Lim, General Manager of Sentral Shopping Centre, in her welcoming remarks
 


The crowd on the upper level
 


A new smartphone for a lucky winner
 

 


She won herself a voucher for answering a quiz
 


Spin the wheel introduced in yesterday’s lucky draw. Nice one!
 


One lucky winner walks away with grocery items
 


A friend observing the lucky draw. Thanks for the drink at Beskeet 😀
 


His emceeing is pretty good
 

 


Almost 1,000 people showed up yesterday
 


Congratulations 😀
 

RA’s Top 10 films of 2016

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in movies, lifestyle

So how did the movies I watched in 2016 fared? Frankly speaking there was no clear cut winner for my No.1 like previous years. The Top two movies could have been my favourite movies of the year but as usual, there must be one winner. Overall, the movies I’ve watched were above average and of course, there were many disappointments (where I have high expectations) and also movies that really stank. 2015 movies had better feel in my opinion.

There are some movies that I’ve planned to watch in 2016 but didn’t have the chance. Below are some movies that missed my radar last year :-

1) Arrival (so many praises)
2) La La Land
3) The Edge of Seventeen
4) The Witch
5) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows (Ok, I was kidding)
6) Hacksaw Ridge
7) Hell or High Water

So there are my lists that I’ve yet to catch in 2016 and well, there are more but these are the ones that I am more anticipating.

 

 


Amy Adams in her role in Arrival. It should be coming out in local cinemas next week. Can’t wait
 

Honourable mentions. Ok, before I head off and list my Top 10 movies of 2016, let me share with you my honourable mentions. These are the list that missed out my top 10 of 2016 and I still want to highlight them. Here goes.

1) Deepwater Horizon
2) Me Before You
3) The Handmaiden (Korean)
4) 10 Cloverfield Lane
5) Your Name (Japanese)
6) Rogue One: A Star Wars story
7) Kubo & the Two Strings
8) Sully
9) Central Intelligence

 


I highly recommend you catch The Handmaiden, the same director who did Old Boy. Twisted and sensual and I love the story and the cinematography. A fine piece of film making.
 

Disappointments. These movies that I have so much expectations based on the hype and the trailers but didn’t translate well on the big screen. Why oh why? Here are the list.

1) Suicide Squad
2) The Secret Life of Pets
3) Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice
4) Jason Bourne
5) Passengers
6) Jack Reacher: Never Go Back
7) Independence Day: Resurgence
8) X-Men: Apocalypse

 


I love the trailers and the hype but the movie was a let down though I watched it twice. There are some good part but the negatives were heavier.
 

The Bombs. Movies that I had to suffer in front of the big screen. Sometimes I have no choice but to catch some stinkers. Mind you I won’t watch movies that are predictably bad such as Jackie Chan movies (Skip trace and Railroad Tigers), Assassin’s Creed and Zoolander 2 to name a few. But here are the list that I regretted watching.

1) Gods of Egypt
2) Ben-Hur
3) The 5th Wave
4) Mechanic: Resurrection
5) Nine Lives
6) Warcraft
7) Underworld: Blood Wars

 

 


Why oh why…. Totally bad from start to finish.
 

 

RA’s Top 10 movies 
 

10. Dr. Strange. It was no strange surprise that I have a few superhero movies in my top list. Consistency is the word when it comes to Marvel Cinematic Universe. The trailer already blew me away and I already have high expectations on Dr. Strange and the full movie delivered more than that. With the emergence of DC movies, it was a gamble for Dr. Strange to be released in November and people will tend to lose interest in a never ending superhero movie in 2016. Strangely enough, this wasn’t the case for Dr. Strange and it turned out to be very entertaining and many would even compared this flick with Inception. Scott Derrickson the director found a way to simplify the sophisticated premise and entertained the audience at the same time. I watched this movie twice and I thought this would have easily been my Top 5 of 2016. It does really live up to its title. I can’t wait to add to my Blu-ray collection.

 

 

 

9. Bad Moms. 2016 has been very mediocre when it comes to comedy. The closest to Bad Moms that I enjoyed were Central Intelligence and The Nice Guys, both in my honourable mentions. I watched this in Ipoh of all places and I had a blast. A real blast. Even my friend Sophia loved it. The title itself was funny enough and I never really took notice of the trailer. It also became a sleeper hit in the States as it raked it more than USD 100 million. Many would also agree how hilarious this movie was. It was also a stand out performance (comedy sense) by Kathryn Hahn who kept cracking me up every time she makes a fool of herself. The trio chemistry of Mila Kunis, Kristen Bell and Kathryn Hahn truly made this comedy an enjoyable one and also leaving us with a good message in the end. A sequel, perhaps? And yes, I caught this twice in the cinema.

 

 

 

8. Moana. Holy Molly. Was I amazed by Disney’s latest offering Moana.. A few years ago Frozen stole the show among kids and even adults. Now we have Moana and frankly speaking, this is more rewarding and enjoyable than Frozen. There are so many things to love about Moana. The two main characters – Moana voiced by Auli’i Cravalho and Maui by Dwayne Johnson – were perhaps the most engaging duo I’ve come across this year on the big screen. The original songs were even catchy and suited the theme of Moana. This animation has charm and beauty. I have hardly heard any bad comments about Moana and that itself is a good testament on how awesome Moana is. The final act was one of the best, if not the best, to cap off a stunning masterpiece from Disney. I almost caught it for the third time and it’s still showing in our local cinemas. Catch it if you haven’t. No regrets 😀

 

 

 

7. Zootopia. This was a close call between Moana and Zootopia. Imagine an animation released back in January and some how many would have forgotten about it. Well, not me. This was the surprise package among all the animation. Not much publicity or marketing like other animations (Dory, Moana) given for Zootopia but that didn’t matter at all. I love every single thing about Zootopia and the only letdown is the lack of variety in original songs. Nonetheless, this shows that an animation can still be pull off to be a magnificent movie even without music scores or songs. What I really love about Zootopia is the richness of the characters and thoughtful message that still lingers in my head. Not to forget how entertaining and humourous Zootopia was. A very subversive storytelling delivery that you would appreciate.

 

 

 

6. Captain America: Civil War. Surprise, surprise. This is not even in my Top 5 list and I thought it would be. Captain America’s final trilogy was perhaps the best among the lot, even among The Avengers. The Russo brothers have risen the bar for the Marvel Cinematic Universe and this is one reason why DC Universe is trailing so behind despite their presence this year which failed to live up to the audiences’ and my expectations. The introduction of the new Spider-man and Black Panther were spot on and effective on screen. Even with multiple characters, the Russo brothers have this gift to create such a compelling story line and this is a superhero movie mind you. One thing that I didn’t expect from this genre where it tests your conscience who is right and who is wrong. This was more than just a superhero movie as it touched on friendships and conflicts. I loved the feud and the rivalry within the Avengers which showed the imperfections that superheroes experienced from time to time. Sadly it just missed my Top 5 of 2016.

 

 

 

5. Our Times. It has been years since I enjoyed a flick from Taiwan, the last being You’re the Apple of My Eye. (2010). It wasn’t until my friend Sandy recommended me to catch Our Times, apparently a bigger hit than You’re the Apple of My Eye. Oh yes, this was very enjoyable indeed. It has a similar theme but a slightly different angle. It did remind me of my childhood and school days but I felt more resonated with the previous movie. Then again, I’m a sucker for this type of movies and I was hooked from the beginning to the end. Frankie Chen Yu-shan, the director of Our Times, created one of the best romantic teenage movies in a long time. I loved the main casts and their chemistry from start to finish. The only missing were my tears *lol* and this was the difference between Our Times and You’re The Apple of My Eye (which I cried). It’s hard to have romance higher up in my list and it made my Top 5 for 2016.

 

 

 

4. Don’t Breathe. The trailer looked amazing and I knew that this is destined to be an awesome thriller. It delivered beyond my expectations and boy, was I on the edge of my seat on certain occasions. It reminded me on my childhood days watching Jurassic Park for the first time – the intensity and the suspense, all in one. This is one clever piece of storytelling and it all happens within the premise of a house. The synopsis looked simple indeed but the direction by Fede Alvarez made the cinematic experience so fulfilling and rewarding. How I wished I watched this in the best equipped cinema to bring the most out of Don’t Breathe. Another example how silence can deliver an impact on a horror/thriller movie. This movie alone has high replay value. I can’t ask for more but I hope there is no sequel. Let’s end of a high note.

 

 

 

3 (A Tie). Deadpool. My Oh My. This movie was literally banned in Brunei and only showing in Miri, the closest any Brunei could watch. I caught this in Ho Chi Minh City and boy, I loved everything about Deadpool. Sometimes I wonder if Marvel Cinematic Universe bought the rights from Fox for Deadpool, can they deliver the same feel? I doubt so. Deadpool surprised me on many different levels. It was able to breach the R-rated level for a comic icon and still make it entertaining for the audiences. By right, this is the real character of Deadpool in comics – violent and mouthful. If Civil War is the best film in MCU, then Deadpool is the best Marvel movie to date. It’s packed with action, comedy with tons of puns and this is one movie where you can simply just have FUN!!! A good comeback for Ryan Reynolds after his flop stunt as the Green Lantern, ironically a DC character. Please catch this if you haven’t.

 

 

 

3 (A Tie). Mermaid. Ahaaa!! You might be wondering why I have two movies on my third spot. Well, I was reminded by my friend Pranika of the Mermaid movie as I was browsing through my list and she remembered how I responded to Stephen Chow’s blockbuster hit. I would say that this is one of the best comedy movies (slapstick) that I’ve enjoyed in a long, long time. I was disappointed with Journey to the West and CJ7 but Mermaid was a good comeback from Stephen Chow. Of course, the hilarious scene was still the human octopus at the restaurant scene. For those wondering, this is the only senseless movie that I can give an excuse for its implausible plot and getting a kick out of it and leaving the theatre feeling satisfied and rewarded. A movie I could watch countless time without being bored. Stephen Chow, you have won back my faith in you (in making lame ass movies).

 

 

 

2. The Revenant. Technically this is a 2015 movie. However, this was release in February 2016. I was hooked from the beginning to the end and this movie is 2 and a half hours long mind you. I love Alejandro González Ińárritu’s work and I was so looking forward to The Revenant. This is a masterpiece in film making and every shot and scene was executed to almost perfection. I was glad that Leonardo Di Caprio got his dues when he bagged the Oscars for his role in The Revenant. He was the star of the show (and bits from the bear too). This movie is definitely not for everyone as some of my peers didn’t enjoyed it as much as I did. If you are into film making, there are so many things to learn from here. Great acting from all the cast and superb cinematography. I also enjoyed the music score. This is a slow burn flick that almost made it to summit of my favourite movies of 2016. Almost.

 

 

 

1.Train to Busan. Woohoo!!! Yes, I’m a sucker for zombie movies and my expectations are always high on this. What an awesome movie to begin with!! I heard about this Korean flick online, I was hoping that it will make it Brunei screens. Two months later, it was screened and it was the most talked about movie during that time. Even my instagram post had many engagements and comments on Train to Busan. The premise itself looked simple – zombies in a train but I love the creativity by the director Sang-ho Yeon. Some would say he stole materials from World War Z. I would say the director improvised it to a different level which I appreciated. The chemistry between the son and the daughter was enough to create tear jerky moments. Expect a lot of actions, suspense, drama and frustration along the ride. The direction itself was ambitious and the formula paid off handsomely. Kudos also to the supporting cast for making us care about them too and who will not forget the antagonist who stole the show half way through the movie. I’m ready for another train ride but this time on blu-ray. It was between the Revenant and Train to Busan for the No.1 spot. It boiled down to emotions and the final scene of TTB stole my heart and hence, TTB is my number one pick for 2016.

 

 

 

Mr. D.I.Y. is here

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

 

 

MR.D.I.Y. is officially opened now at Freshco, 1st Floor at Plaza Abdul Razak. If you heard of Supersave Concept Store, then MR.D.I.Y. is their rival and offering pretty wide range of products at super affordable price.

With their motto, Always Low Prices, it has been a popular hit in Malaysia with 250 stores and this is the first store in Brunei Darussalam.

MR. D.I.Y. strives to always put customers’ first by operating an innovative business that is flexible when it comes to a wide range of product variety, good quality and value-for-money prices; holding true to our company motto “ALWAYS LOW PRICES”.

What can you expect? Definitely hardware, household, electrical, stationery, sports, gifts, car accessories, toys and cosmetics.

MR.D.I.Y. will be giving out FREE umbrella until 1st January 2017 if you spend a minimum spend of BND $10 in a single receipt. The umbrella is limited so while stock lasts, let’s hope you are one of the lucky ones 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sentral’s monthly winner

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in lifestyle

 


15 lucky customers walked away with prizes from the Monthly Lucky Draw for the month of December as part of the Sentral Shopping Centre with Yang Mulia Awang Hj Mozni bin Hj Anuar, RTB Kuala Belait Station Manager as the guest of honour
 

Sentral Shopping Centre has just completed its Monthly Lucky Draw for the month of December last Satuday, 24th December 2016. With about 500 short-listed, Sentral Shopping Centre was filled with a huge crowd of hopeful winners but only 15 lucky ones were picked. The prizes range from household appliances to meal voucher to one night stay at Garden Sentral Hotel as well as a LG DVD Home Theatre System for the first winner prize.

The Guest of Honor for the Grand Lucky Draw was Yang Mulia Awang Hj Mozni bin Hj Anuar who is the RTB Kuala Belait Station Manager. A total of 15 prizes were given away. The event commenced with a welcoming speech by the Marketing & Events Manager, Ahmad Anwar Rosly, who proceeded to draw the first 5 winners. It was then preceded by the PEMBELA President Atikah Rumaizah Dr Hj Harun, to draw another 5 winners. The guest of honour Awang Haji Mozni then proceeded to draw the other 5 top lucky winners. In between the draws, quiz questions were asked to the audience and the prizes to these quizzes were Cash Vouchers from various outlets under KBSentral.

The first prize winner was won by DAYANG NOOR KHAIRIYAH who won the LG DVD Home Theatre System.
The other top three winners won themselves prizes which include hampers, vouchers, one night stays at Garden Sentral Hotel and electrical kitchen appliances worth nearly $1,500.00

Lucky Draw 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. Sentral Grand Lucky Draw the third series will be on 8th January 2017 and the final series on 9th July 2017.

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

 

 


The December winner Dyg Noor Khairiyah who won LG DVD Home Theatre System
 

 


Something to look forward to before 2017 hits
 

Zhuan Ji – Turn for the Better

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in gadget, lifestyle

 


Vincent Pao and Alice Chan with associates of Concepts Computer holding a popular plush toy of ZHUAN Ji which means “Turn for the Better”
 

To celebrate Chinese New Year for the upcoming Year of the Rooster, Concepts Computer will be giving away a plush toy of ZHUAN JI for every purchase of $388 and above on a single receipt. ZHUAN JI is a cartoon baby chicken that is one of the first fictional character to make waves in social media for the South East Asian Chinese community for the coming Chinese new year.

The cute and cuddly ZHUAN JI is currently making waves on social media with the hashtag, “#ZhuanJi2017”, where the Chinese characters for ZHUAN JI’s name personifies the need to make a “Turn for the Better” in 2017; be it for better health, better wealth or anything that is beneficial for the incoming Chinese new year. When asked regarding the current Bruneian market in general, and specifically the future of the IT Retail industry in Brunei Darussalam, Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer, said, “It is in my opinion that we are currently in a slow turn for the better in terms of business, which is why I am looking forward to the year of the Rooster as it will signify a faster and better change.” He continued, “And as always, the IT Retail business in Brunei Darussalam gets more and more challenging every year, especially with savvy consumers using the internet and other sources to keep up-to-date regarding IT technological advances, which is why retailers need to focus more on providing better services for customers.”

When asked regarding how Concepts Computer as a whole would welcome customers in the Year of the Rooster, “When it comes to Concepts Computer, I always lead with a simple statement, ‘We must always do a good job’ so we will make a ‘Turn for the Better’ in 2017 when it comes to our customers.”

Also present during the launch event, Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive at Concepts Computer added, “We never miss an opportunity to better serve specific sectors of our customers, and this time around we are celebrating together with the Bruneian Chinese community by welcoming the year of the Rooster with ZHUAN JI who is currently a social media phenomenon with the hashtag ‘#ZhuanJi2017’.”

The ZHUAN JI plush toy will be available in limited quantity and will be given away FREE, while stocks lasts, for all Concepts customers who have purchased $388 and above on a single receipt. For more information, please call 2233551, 2233552 or 2233553, or visit your nearest Concepts Computer retail outlet. Images courtesy of Concepts Computer.

 

 


Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer holding a popular plush toy from China
 


Unboxing the stocks of ZHUAN JI
 


Concepts Computer prepping for the Year of the Rooster
 


All set and done
 

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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