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The guest of honour was HRH Prince Abdul Malik for the prize presentation of the Tour de Brunei 2012

Tabriz Petrochemical Cycling Team (TPT)

Hossein Nateghi won the Yellow jersey

The winner of the Red jersey

The winner of the Green jersey

The winner of the White jersey

Group photo with the winners

Tomorrow’s the deadline. Are you ready?

Click image to enter Facebook page

Looking for iPhone, iPad or Samsung accessories? There are plenty of choices at Asanty Collections where you can book through its Facebook page. Portable chargers are perhaps the most sought item as there is a high demand for such gadget. I myself have bought it numerous portable chargers for my iPhone alone to see which suits me best *lol* For your info, iPhone portable charters only have a few designs left but for Android phones, there are still plenty.

To check out their facebook page, click here and you can also contact the owner directly at 818 8478. The pick up point will be at a residence at Kg Sg Akar (nearby Hua Ho Manggis Mall).

iPad bags are also quite popular. Click image to see more

The portable chargers for Android phones. There’s also instructions on picture 14 to 18 at the Album 300. Click image to see more.

Samsung Galaxy Note covers. Click image to see more.

You can catch Asanty Collections on instagram @asanty8

HRH Prince Abdul Malik and members of the Royal Family were in jubilant mood after the winning goal. DPMM FC came back from 2-0 down and beat Home United 3-2 at Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium last night.

Patrick Da Silva scored the equalizer to make it 2-2 then

The crowd on their feet

Yeeeehaaaa!!!

Nice Adidas boots, Sai 😀

Patrick Da Silva’s family (next to Santos) is in town and gave a major boost to his performance last night. Santos, on the other hand, only lasted 20 minutes after being injured. He is now out for the rest of the season.

Osman in mid-air. He hasn’t found the net for quite some time.

Disappointing turn out at National Stadium. It was such a great match not to be missed.

Mendy (in white) is what DPMM FC need as the front line. To me, he’s almost a complete striker. He scored the opening goal for Home United.

Team Manager was told to leave the bench area by the referee

The crowd weren’t happy with the decision

The coach trying to put his act together

The most happening area of the stadium. The Drumline section.

It was again a goal created by Azwan Salleh where he floated the ball into the box and Adi Said pounced on the rebound for the winning goal. DPMM FC won 3-2.

It’s a rare to see this hugging moment between the two

Dance the Gangnam way

Coach Simunic already singing the song of being champions

Home United’s coach seemed to be upset with their lady physio/medic for some reason. I pity her. Maybe it was the injury that wan’t probably attended properly to the keeper who was limping with 10 minutes remaining.

It was a tough interview for Home United’s coach. He thanked his players and he was upset that one of his defenders was injured which allowed DPMM FC more room to attack. He looked as if he was almost in tears during the interview.

Huwaida, Alvin Cheong, Michelle Charlene Basir and Anggie Jong will represent Brunei in the upcoming climb for charity initiative at Mount Kilimanjaro this October. The press conference took place at RasaMas outlet yesterday.

From a team of three, now it has become four, thanks to Alvin Cheong who signed up last minute before the deadline to take up the challenge and to contribute as well for charity. Yesterday a press conference was held for the four climbers who will climb Mount Kilimanjaro to raise funds for those under privilege at Africa which will take place on 18th October 2012. They have been training very hard and meet up 3 times a week for training such as hiking and exercises.

It was good to know that RasaMas became involved in raising funds for the climbers who need at least 2,000 pounds per person for the climb as part of their expenses. RasaMas Area Manager Imran Abd Manaf said that this is part of RasaMas’ social corporate responsibility and they took the chance when he heard of it from their colleagues at KFC. RasaMas is not the only corporate companies that have been involved. There were others such as RBTS (from charity bakesale) and Netcom Computer House.

If you want to follow their updates, you can join their Facebook page. The four climbers are also represntatives of BARA. They also hinted that they will create an instagram account so people can view their daily updates or logs on their journey 😀

The new dishes available at Rasamas now. Yesterday until tomorrow (Monday), Rasamas will donate 70% of the sales from the new dishes to the climb for charity team. Awesome!!!

The Mee Reebus Singapore from Rasamas

Group photo with the management and the staff of Rasamas with the climbers from Brunei

The recent bakesale at RBTS last Friday

The Pajero Sports 4×4 demo brought to by GHK Motors Sdn Bhd

Want an adrenalin rush? Well, you have that opportunity to do so today as it’s the last day to be driven by a Japanese rally driver from Mitsubishi Motorsports Team, Hiroshi Masuoka who is also a two-time World Dakar Rally Champion. The event is located at Tanah Jambu 4×4 driving arean at the junction of Tanah Jambu and the Muara-Tutong highway.

The 4×4 demo is organised by GHK Motors Sdn Bhd and the public is welcome to register. First come, first serve basis and there are only limited slots available. From the demo, you will be able to see the power and the overall performance of the Pajero Sports.

Hiroshi Masuoka bringing the guests for the 4×4 experience

Hiroshi Masuoka bringing the guests for the 4×4 experience

The 4×4 by the hilly area

The 4×4 by the hilly area

I love this part

Getting close to the action

The muddy fog

Not advisable to be ridden after a heavy meal

Drifting on grass

Remember to put on your helmet and even buckle up when seated at the back too

Tanah Jambu 4×4 arena

Brunei Press reporters signing up for the experience

It was an embarassing moment when I talked to her *lol* She’s taking car of Mitsubishi in Brunei and Singapore market.

Refueling this monster

The public parking area is at the opposite side

Guess who was there too?? —> “Hulkie” 😀

Check out the B-Class at Jati Transport showroom

Tour de Brunei

Click image to enter official website. It’s bigger and better!!

Get 5KG Extra on RBA

Student Advance check-in get 5KG Extra. Click to enter website

The deadline for you to submit your executive summary.. Normally one page long 😀

An effective executive summary should be simple yet compelling if it needs to win over potential investors, said a consultant from Singapore’s Money Tree Asia Pacific Limited.

“You must be able to capture the interest and imagination of the investor with your executive summary. Often potential investors will continue reading the rest of the business plan only when they like your summary,” said Michael Reyes, who delivered the advice during a workshop on ‘How to Write an Executive Summary’ at the iCentre recently.

“You do not win by having the best English writing. You win by being simple and easy to understand by investors,” he said. “Businesses need to know how to answer, in 25 words or less, when you ask them what their business is,”

He suggest the audience to put Ignite and the iCentre as the investor looking at their business plans and the decider whether to ‘invest’ in their summaries by putting them into the next round.

Michael Reyes, Director of Money Trees Asia Pacific, has been giving numerous talks at iCentre on business plans

Reyes is currently the director of Money Trees Asia Pacific Limited, a company which offers and conducts programmes on improving financial, investment and entrepreneur skills among youths.

An initiative of the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB), Ignite 2012 is Brunei’s biggest business plan competition which is open to individuals with a strong desire to start their own businesses.

The grand prize for the ICT open category is $20,000, whereas $8,000 will be awarded to the winner in the international category and $4,000 for the student and university category. Participants with the most outstanding and creative business plans will also stand a chance to win the Most Innovative Award and $3,000. For more of Reyes’ input, click here. Source: The Brunei Times.

bFIT starting soon!! So who will be the Top 50 contestants?

3 more days to the start of b.fit! Since yesterday all registrants who have undergone their bmi test, health screening test and auditions are required to attend the 3 days workout preview as part of the last process to the selection of 50 contestants.

Please take note of following details:

Venue: Fitness Zone, Qlap – Multipurpose Hall
Time: 5.30pm
Dates: 27-29th September 2012

Selection of the top 50 for b.fit challenge 2012 will be on the 29th September 2012, Saturday. Who will be the chosen ones??

Workout preview taken yesterday at Fitness Zone

Workout preview taken yesterday at Fitness Zone

Workout preview taken yesterday at Fitness Zone

Netcom 5th Branch is located at Hua Ho Mulaut Branch

Netcom is enchanting its service to its customers in Brunei by opening a 5th Branch at Hua-Ho Mulaut. Netcom is established for nearly 17 Years in Brunei Local Market and becomes one of the largest IT Retail shop in Brunei. Netcom keeps expanding and growing into a powerful team by building more team leaders in order to provide the excellence services, quality products and competitive prices to Netcom valued customers. Netcom’s 5 branches are strategically located in the 3 main districts of Brunei; Netcom HQ in Kiulap commercial area, Netcom Mall in the Most popular Mall Gadong, Netcom KB in Kuala Beliat District, Netcom Tutong in Tutong District and the 5th Branch, Netcom Muluat at Brunei Muara.

Currently, Netcom is the Authorised Distributor of some leading global brands like Dell, Prolink, Kingston (RAM Modules), Trendnet and QNAP. Besides, Netcom is the Authorised Dealer of Acer, the Business Partner of HP, the Authorised Reseller of Canon and the Master Dealer of Kaspersky products.

Other highlights of the opening includes a FREE inspection of Notebook/Desktop, Student Offer for selected DELL Notebooks, Buy 1 FREE 1 for Prolink Mouse, 50% OFF for Kingston DDR3 1333Mhz RAM for Notebook, FREE Dell 18.5” LCD Monitor with LED for selected Dell notebook and many more which is available exclusively at the new Mulaut branch only, from 28 – 30th September only. Also, for customers who purchase a minimum of $100 (in a single receipt) at any of our 5 branches is entitled to redeem a mystery gift at Mulaut branch with the receipt during this three-day promotion period only.

TigerLim and Anwar Rosly checking out what to buy at Netcom

Hassan of Netcom showing a gadget

A cooler for the notebook

The management of Netcom Computer House

Congratulations to Netcom on their grand opening at Mulaut. Click image to enlarge.

Three enterprising group participants were presented with prizes at the iCentre yesterday, as they emerged triumphant in the first-ever entrepreneurship ‘hackathon’ in Brunei, the Entrepreneurship@Campus Accelerator Bootcamp.

First place went to Bajutik, a one-stop online store that allows customers to design their own ‘baju kurong’. Customers can select their own fabric, design it online and have it tailored within days of order.

Phoenix Getaway came second, with their ‘bootcamp’ designed for married couples. The ‘bootcamp’ is catered for couples who wish to enhance and strengthen various aspects of their relationship.

In third place was DirectMe, with their mobile application that provides information and suggestions of places of interest in Brunei. Deals and coupons are also built into the app that generates a steady stream of revenue as well as providing the benefits of savings to the user.

Prizes were presented to the winners by the guest of honour, Dato Paduka Awg Hj Ali bin Hj Apong, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office who is also Chairman of the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB).

Elena Lim of Bajutik receiving the prize from Dato Paduka Hj Ali Apong, Deputy Minister at Prime Minister’s Office

Group photo with the top three winners and judges

The Entrepreneurship@Campus Accelerator Bootcamp was held on September 14 and 15, organised by the iCentre and supported by BEBD and Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD). It was an intensive two-day hands-on course that allowed students to craft their business plans in an exciting way through idea generation, interaction and teamwork.

The students were tasked with identifying everyday issues and were challenged to provide solutions that can potentially be turned into viable businesses.

They were also supported by experienced mentors and speakers, who helped by sharing their valuable experiences as well as extensive guidance to the students. Text courtesy of Ishan Ibrahim of Borneo Bulletin.

Three cars (2 Sirion and 1 Vios) badly burnt

Investigations still on going to find clues

Bizarre indeed!!! The incident of the pictures above took place between 4:30am to 5am today (27th Sept) and apparently six cars were involved but only three cars were seriously burnt (2 Sirion and 1 Vios) and the owners of the three burnt cars are sisters. As for the other cars, they had minor burns only.

According to the Royal Brunei Police Force, they are investigating into this matter and they are working hand in hand with “Bomba” to find the cause of the fire. There might be a suspicion of arson. The victims are seeking the help of public to find the culprits. As of now, no motive can be found.

This is definitely a strange case and one of its kind that happened in Brunei soil. Normally a car would burnt down due to faulty devices. However, it seemed coincidental that all three cars were badly burnt at the same time.

Such acts have made me reconsider about Brunei’s tag line of “Abode of Peace”. There have been many thefts, break-ins and even causing physical confrontation on innocent people as of late. I’ve been extra careful with my car and where I park my car too. I do hope the investigation can bring more clues to whose involved in the arson case.

Below are images of cars that also caught the public by surprise. Now with “Whatsapp”, news spread like crazy even before it reaches the relevant authorities.

This happened this morning Seria-Lumut bypass. Image courtesy of Lisa.

Another drive-thru incident

….and followed by another.. This image made me think how did two cars get involved… hmmm

Simply Woww!!!! Last Monday I attended a gig hosted by Andy Suzuki & The Method with the support of some local artistes. The 3 hour show was very entertaining from the local artistes to the emcees to Andy Suzuki & the Method. I missed some few local gigs where they performed but I guess they saved the best for last and it was a full show as compared to the previous gigs.

For your info, they are a three-men band and they are no stranger now to the Brunei scene as they have been here for the past two weeks or so. Andy Suzuki, 26, whose birthday was just last Tuesday is the lead singer who can play both the keyboard and the guitar. Kozza Babumba who is well known as Kozza is the hand percussionist (on the box drum) and he’s a funny lad I must say. Jason Gorelick is the other trio who plays the violin and he could strum as well. So last Monday, I was blown away by their performances from start to finish and of course a big shout out to UBD FM the organisers and the main sponsors KFC (Brunei) for making this possible.

They had a few gigs around the Sultanate – UBD, Brunei Hotel and The Empire Hotel to name a few and the final two gigs at The Core, UBD, were the best of the lot and the responses were pretty overwhelming to say the least.

It was amazing to know that Andy Suzuki sang a song made popular by Fakhrul Razi, “Salahkah Aku” in Malay and it was the best duet with the local artist himself. The same goes for Jason who also sang a hit from Jazz Hayat’s “I Stalk Your Profile” and both songs had the biggest cheers of the night. Even Fakhrul Razi was so impressed that Andy knew the lyrics in Malay and the sang in tune as well.

There were other local acts from Aziz Harun and Juju and I was also impressed by the emcees Jaz and Safwan the made the night so seamless and I even lost track of time. Thumbs up to UBD FM for delivering another great show. I shall be interviewing the trio soon before they depart Brunei.

For those interested to get copies of Andy Suzki and The Method t-shirts, they are still available at UBD FM’s office at The Core, UBD and it’s selling for $25 a piece.

Aziz Harun opened up the night to the crowd delight

Say to Jason, one of the trio

The vocalist, the man behind the keyboard, Andy Suzuki himself

This is one cool guy, Kozza

…and he’s good with the hands too

The audience was engaged from start to finish

Juju was amazing as well. Respect for you, mate

Bazi with his acoustic guitar

It was the interval, just in time for the lucky draw and these were the hosts – Jaz and Safwan

Mira won herself a t-shirt. Lucky lady!!

Fifah had herself a birthday gift

Seng Yee won a family bucket from KFC and the next night she “belanja-ed” her friends and I at KFC *woohoo*

Angie of Ref Station is one of the sponsors

The CD for Andy Suzuki and The Method

It was the Jazz Hayat segment

Jason and Jazz (Double J) belted out Jazz’ popular song

Kozza snapped some pictures to be posted on instagram (crowd was screaming their heads off then)

I was very moved by this duet on the song “Salahkah Aku”. Three thumbs up!!

The crowd was electric after the end of the song

Fakhrul Razi is not just a great singer but hell yes, he knows how to entertain the crowd

Jason really rocked on the violin. Can you play Secrets from One Republic? 😀

Andy did the guitar too

Stomp-clap-stomp moment brought more energy to the room

Kozza dictating the tempo

Right after the gig at The Core

Right after the gig at The Core

Right after the gig at The Core

Destination Dash on Sunday 7th October

For residents of #BRUNEI – Stand a chance to win 100,000 Royal Skies Miles in our DESTINATION DASH on SUNDAY 7th OCTOBER 2012 @ 9am at the Abacus Travel Fair next week!

If you’re good at solving puzzles, face challenges and love holidays, this may be for YOU 🙂

For terms and conditions please head over to the link below:

http://www.bruneiair.com/blog/2012/09/26/destination-dash/

Tour de Brunei

Click image to enter official website. It’s bigger and better!!

Get 5KG Extra on RBA

Student Advance check-in get 5KG Extra. Click to enter website

Irfan Haarys Bachdim scored the final goal while Brunei’s Team Manager Hj Feisal looked on. Brunei lost 5-0 in their warm-up match against Indonesia. It was a forgettable performance from Brunei from a fan’s point of view.

Stage 1

Winner: Mohd Nor Umardi Rosdi of Terengganu Cycling Team
2nd place: Amir Kolahdoz Hagh of Tabriz Petrochemical Cycling Team
3rd place: Lee Rodgers of CCN (Brunei)

Overall

Overall leader (yellow jersey): Mohd Nor Umardi Rosdi of Terengganu Cycling Team
Sprint leader (green jersey): Mohd Nor Umardi Rosdi of Terengganu Cycling Team
Kom leader (red jersey): Maxime Francois Sylvian Martin
Best Young Rider (white jersey): Amir Kolahdoz Hagh

The first stage kicked off at ButraHeidelberg Cement Plant at Serasa and the finishing point was at the Waterfront. Thursday route will be from the Waterfront to Tutong District Office which will be a distance of 120 KM. So do take notice of the route as roads will be closed to allow the cyclists to go through. Refer to the map route below. Images below are courtesy of Gavin Chai.

The starting point was at ButraHeidelberg Cement Plant at Serasa

Cyclists getting ready for Stage 1

Team OCBC Singapore Continental Team

Team Lof Bakery

The route for Thursday (Bandar to Tutong)

I’m not sure what will be the headlines in today’s papers. A defeat is acceptable considering the level of preparation and the availability of their squad. However, the performance was very much in question as the inexperience factor was the obvious reason for the drubbing by the visitors, Indonesia, with a 5-0 score line.

Expectations were high from what I could sense. Yes, Brunei won the HBT 2012 Trophy. Yes, they beat Indonesia in the finals. Yes, they were some players from the HBT team that played last night. Yes, they are planning at their home ground.

However, the cons seemed to outweigh all those advantages stated. First of all, I was disappointed of the turnout from last night’s match. The ratio of Indonesia fans/supporters to Brunei was 1:1 and it was the visiting fans that made it more happening throughout the match. Indonesia simply had the 12th man which was the amazing passionate crowd.

Given all these, they should not be used as excuses. Brunei hardly threatened Indonesia’s goal area and they seemed to have lost imagination plus possession especially after the final third. Indonesia, on the other hand, could have netted more goals which would be a tougher wound to heal.

I was actually impressed with Indonesia’s No.10 Irfan Bachdim who scored a hat-trick and he could have scored more. I have to say that Brunei’s defence just couldn’t handle the prowess of Indonesia’s attacking line.

Let’s hope last night’s match is not an indicator of Brunei’s actual potential. The squad they fielded are most experimental and they are missing 8 players (from DPMM FC) who didn’t play last night as they are focusing on their crucial match against Home FC United this coming Saturday.

There is still a lot of catch up to do for Brunei and it’s back to basics. The only major complain I have is the low number of Bruneian supporters that showed last night. We definitely missed the 12th man. Well done, Indonesians for the comprehensive victory.

The officials for last night’s match

Brunei team anxious to get on the field

The Royal family shook hands with the players from Brunei Darussalam and Indonesia

Team Brunei though this is not a finalised squad

Team Indoneisa looked pretty tough

The fans paying respect to the National Anthem

The fans paying respect to the National Anthem

Hendra didn’t seem to have the answers against a rampant Indonesia

I honestly have to say that it felt as if Indonesia was the home team based on the ratio of fans and the endless chants. The Brunei crowd was pretty subdued.

This tackle led to a penalty for Irfan who converted for the opening goal and he was simply outstanding in this match

Both captains on the pitch but it was the visitor that enjoyed a better display on the pitch

Perhaps the best goal of the match. He turned around and scored a dipping shot from 35 yards, giving Brunei’s keeper no chance

Normally water bottles are used as weight. Now the Indonesians used something more innovative.

Superfriends showing their support for the match and stayed till the end

Irfan scrambled the ball into the net and scored his hat-trick against a helpless Brunei

This was the scene with 15 minutes left to play

One of my friend works for the paramedic

…. and they were called for an injury on Reduan Hj Petara. I hope it’s not that serious.

The busiest man on the pitch – Md Fakhrul – was substituted late in the second half

Mohammad Azri felt some cramp with 10 minutes left to play. Some signs of fitness problems for Brunei team.

The unused subs for Brunei team

ETA @ Mall Cineplex has brought in extra copies so grab a copy now.. This is more popular than PES 2013 btw. Click image to enter ETA Facebook page

Some will see this as an experimental match especially for the Brunei’s team management point of view since most of their players are not finalised for the upcoming Suzuki Cup in October. Some will see this as a competitive or to an extent, a revenge match, from Indonesia point of view, as they were the beaten finalist in the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy 2012.

Mind you these aren’t the Under 23 team anymore and this is the real deal though it’s only a friendly international match. Brunei team is under going a few minor challenges especially to the availability of the players from DPMM FC players. Around 8 players are called up for national duty but they haven’t been training with the national team due to the commitment with the S•League. Hence only a handful of DPMM FC players will be playing for Brunei notably Adi Said.

The other challenge that Brunei team is facing is that they are only limited to 5 + 1 goalie substitutes during the match. Mohd Noor of Natioanal Football Association of Brunei Darussalam said that they are following FIFA rules in terms of number of substitutions allowed and rejected Brunei team manager Hj Feisal’s request for additional substitution. This is because this will be Brunei’s first international match with his experimental squad which has yet to be finalised. Hence selection process will be challenging given that they are only allowed 5 substitutes with 20 players to choose from. This would mean that not all Brunei players will be given the chance to play on the pitch.

The organisers advised the public not to bring cans, bottles, banners, flags, poles, umbrellas, fireworks, airhorns, drums, musical instruments and believe it or not, pets *lol* which are printed at the tickets. The security will be beefed up tomorrow night in anticipation of this international friendly match.

The match tickets will be available at all sport complexes at all four districts starting at 8am to 12pm today (Wednesday, 26th September). The other venue is the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium from 8am to match time. The ticket prices are $5 and $8.

Good luck to all the players and let’s hope for a good harmonious match tonight.

Representatives from Indonesia thanking NFABD for inviting them

There was a briefing for both Indonesia and Brunei

Hj Taha taking a photo opportunity

Team Captain for Indonesia Elie Aiboy was happy to be back and he’s no stranger to Brunei as he ever played for Selangor during the Malaysian League and faced Brunei before

Hj Feisal said that the Brunei team has been preparing for a month

The match officials for tomorrow. The referee will be from Malaysia.

A handshake between Indonesia’s head coach Hil Maizar and Brunei’s head coach Kwon Oh Son

People were already buying tickets this afternoon

Let’s hope there are more “yellows” tomorrow. This Indonesian guy bought a few already

So get your tickets tomorrow at the Sport Complex at all four districts from 8am to 12pm or just go down to the National Stadium

Brunei team will be wearing yellow so don’t forget to wear yellow too

Will Adi Said score again against Indonesia? He scored one in the finals of Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy

Are you ready for Tour de Brunei 2012?

More teams, more cyclists. Good signs are coming and so is the pressure to deliver the best. Title sponsors ButraHeidelbergCement (Brunei Cement) are the main reason why Tour de Brunei is made possible with the organisers of the event Brunei Darussalam Cycling Federation and also the assistance from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and Brunei Tourism. This is a good avenue for the local cyclists to improve their standards as they also compete with international cyclists.

Yesterday was the team presentation and the opening ceremony before the 1st leg race this morning which kicks off at the ButraHeidelbergCement Plant at Seresa at 10am later and ends at the Waterfront. So guys, do bear the traffic or the routes that should be avoided while the cyclists are competing.

The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports graced the opening ceremony though there was a long delay as he had an official commitment which coincidently clashed with the event. He delivered his welcoming remarks before acknowledging the participants of this year’s Tour de Brunei.

Richard Neo of Lof Bakery Cycling Team said that his team is well prepared and they hope to improve last year’s standings. Lof team has also brought in international cyclists to be part of their team.

Terengganu Cycling Team are favourites to win the UCI Asia Tour Title and they are leading by 92 points. Other teams vying for the title are Tabriz Petrochemical Cycling Team, CCN Cycling Team, China 361 Cycling Team, Uzbekistan Suren Team and OCBC Singapore Continental Cycling Team.

Tour de Brunei is an UCI 2.2 sanctioned cycling championship with a total of five stages around the Sultanate. It is jointly organised by the Brunei Darussalam Cycling Federation in collaboration with the Department of Youth and Sports. It is supported by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports as well as the Department of Tourism Development.

It’s good to see an international event happening here in Brunei. Now the challenging part is to create more interest in our local community of this event. It has to start somewhere and the journey has begun. With more exposure and interest, this annual international event can be bigger than it already was year by year. For more information, you can click here (facebook page) or here (their official website).

Cyclists resting before the event

Yes, it was a pretty hot day too

Stuart Lee of ButraHeidelberg Cement and Hj Rosli Hj Mohiddin, President of Brunei Darussalam Cycling Federation

Some cultural entertainment for the audience before the arrival of guest of honour

The media taking a break

I think they are Japanese cyclists

The emcee Allen Shim being brief by Dato Paduka Hamid Jaafar on any changes for the programme

The guest of honour, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports

A speech delivered by Hj Rosli

The Minister giving his welcoming remarks

Terengganu Cycling Team

Tabriz Petrochemical Cycling Team

Ain’t his glasses pretty cool?

Richard Neo of Lof Bakery cycling team

Lof Bakery Cycling Team

CNN Cycling Team representing Brunei

OCBC Singapore Continental Cycling Team

Brunei Darussalam National Team with their new bikes Cannondale Professional bicycles sponsored by Youth and Sports Department.

A hungry affair right after the ceremony

Some of the LOs for the event

You can catch them on instagram too

To all IOS users, you can download Chatworthy for free on Apple Store

Mobile app developer MeSixty is announcing the release of Chatworthy, a free iPhone app full of features that gives its users a variety of new ways to discover interesting Instagrams. The app allows users to select any location in the world and view Instagram posts geo-tagged there with the most relevant posts shown first. With a full featured instant messaging platform built-in, users can share multiple posts that they find chat-worthy with their friends and chat privately about them.

“Chatworthy is a way to discover content that surrounds any location, ranked by its ‘Chatworthiness’, i.e. how likely you are to comment or talk about it. All calculated by our proprietary algorithms, it’s pretty nifty stuff!” said Keeran Janin, co-founder of MeSixty. “Most app news feeds are sorted by time, so unless you’re online 24/7, content is easily missed. Content you discover with Chatworthy on the other hand is about a place you choose and how closely it’s related to you, it could be many months old, but will be relevant to you, that’s the magic of the app.”

More Social Networks Being Added

Support for Twitter, Facebook, Flickr and Foursquare is also being developed making the already feature rich chat even more powerful with the ability to share posts from multiple social networks in the same conversation with friends from different networks.

Always the Most Relevant Results Available

Posts are ranked using an algorithm that makes sure you are seeing only the most relevant and chat-worthy. The algorithm takes into account a number of factors such as relationship with the author of the post, mutual friends and the popularity of that post.

Extra Functionality Beyond Browsing and Chatting

As well as being able to follow users and like posts, Chatworthy presents the comments like a public chat room letting you easily comment and read comments from others. The app includes a bookmark feature that not only lets you save and check back on posts you have found but also allows you to bookmark locations to see any new Instagrams posted there in future. Start a chat on the iPad and switch seamlessly to the iPhone.

The info once you search for Chatworthy on Apps Store

There’s an updated version already for Chatworthy

The first home page for all new users and subscribers

So far they have it integrated with instagram and soon for Twitter and Facebook and the rest…

Authorise your instagram account on Chatworthy

You can watch the tutorial too if you want a more interactive information. Awesome feat!!

TapScape.com: 9 out of 10! – “Chatworthy for Instagram makes an already great service even better.”

DailyAppShow.com: “A really neat application that’s going to bring a more social aspect to Instagram”

Feature Summary

• Discover Instagram posts based on their location from anywhere in the world
• Private Chat (DM) with your Instagram friends and share posts with them
• Offline messaging, seamlessly transition from iPad to iPhone
• View Instagram posts in full screen with support for the new iPad in retina resolution
• Like, Follow, Comment on Instagram posts and view your friends latest photos
• Bookmark posts to see them later and bookmark locations to check back for new posts
• Chatworthy generates your contact list based on your Instagram friends

So for instance, I choose a location on Jln Beribi

Then thumbnails will appear of the instagram pictures I’ve posted at the time of location and the pictures I posted on instagram are mostly from home (Jln Beribi)

A simplified display with usernames for instagram posters

So just click an image and you will see this and you can either post a comment on it or even chat with someone about it

This is the next page should you want to share or chat with your friends about the said picture

This would be how the list of friends on chat looks like

The chat format and you can create a conversation for more information or simply a social chat

The guys behind Chatworthy – Liam Janin and Keeran Janin

One of the most sought smartphone this September

Well, it might not be as innovative but the impressive features were good selling points for iPhone users to upgrade. Apple just had a record breaking sales on their latest iPhone 5 and yes, the phone is virtually sold out especially those who pre-order them online. Recently Singapore had a super long queue on 21st September the day of its official launch. As for Brunei, there’s no official release but more relying on local mobile vendors such as Deejay Home Video, QQestore and Incomm to name a few.

Because of the high demand, pricing can be a huge factor here. When supply gets low and demand gets high, prices can go nuts!!!! The highest price I’ve heard right now is $1650 for a 16gig or $1850 for a 64gig. Now that’s like more than $700 more than the actual price if you were to order online through Singapore’s Apple store. Then again, with deeper pockets and the eagerness, such ridiculous high price tag won’t mean much, right? iPhone 5 will definitely be a seller.

For me, I’m just going with the flow and I won’t be investing in one just yet. There’s no need for the rush but it’s still on my wishlist. For those who wants to get their nano sim card done, I believe Deejay and Incomm have those service for now.

The huge long queue at Singapore last Friday

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hjh Saleha with the newly Royal wedding couple, Her Royal Highness Princess Hjh Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah and Yang Amat Mulia Pg Anak Hj Muhammad Ruzaini. Image courtesy of REUTERS.

The Royal wedding of HRH Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hj Muhammad Ruzaini Pg Dr HjMuhammad Yakub reached its glittering climax yesterday as the couple were feted during the Majlis Istiadat Bersanding Pengantin Diraja atIstana Nurul Iman.

The sitting-in-state ceremony, as it is known in English, represents the climax of the 10 days of Royal wedding festivities, where the newlyweds are presented to the nobility and the public for the first time.

The gilded hall of Balai Singahasana Indera Buana the royal throne room welcomed over 3,000 guests from near and far. The impressive guest list included heads of state, royalty, the cheteria (state dignitaries) and senior government officials.

Among those seated near the royal dais as special guests of His Majesty, were Thai Premier Yingl uck Shinawatra, Philippines President Benigno Aquino, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, HRH Prince Faisal bin Saud bin Abdul Mohsen bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia, Chief Minister of Sarawak Pehin Sri DrHj Abdul Taib Mahmud, Chief Minister of Sabah Dato Seri Paduka Hj Musa Hj Aman and Datin PadukaSeri Rosmah Mansor, wife of Malaysian Prime Minister Najb Razak.

His Majesty guided both the bride and the groom to their seats. Image courtesy of AFP.

The doa selamat to bless the royal couple. Image courtesy of AFP.

The doa selamat to bless the royal couple. Image courtesy of AFP.

HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen escorted the royal couple. Image courtesy of Infofoto.

The royal couple exiting the Balai Singahasana Indera Buana Hall. Image by Asri Hj Abas.

The lighting of the Dian Empat, or four ceremonial candles, signalled the start of the ceremony, with Yang Berhormat Pehin Jawatan Luar Pekerma Raja Dato Seri Utama Dr Ustaz Hj Mohd Zain Hj Serudininforming the head of Adat Istiadat, YAM Pg Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pg Anak Hj Abdul Aziz, that he would invite the princess bride to enter the throne room.

His Majesty then gave his consent for the ceremony to proceed and instructed the bride’s aunts, HRH Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hjh Zariah and HRH Princess Hjh Masna to fetch the princess.

Befitting the wedding of a royal bride, an entourage of 40 spear-and-shield bearing Awang-awang of the royal court ushered the princess into the throne room.

The crowd fell silent as HRH made her way down the red-carpeted aisle, dressed in a shimmering beige and silver gown, complete with diamond tiara and a small bouquet of diamond-encrusted flowers.

The bride took her seat under the gold leaf canopy, guided by her father, His Majesty, and her mother, Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hjh Saleha.

Now came the groom’s turn to make his entrance, but before doing so, court customs dictated that he be sprinkled with bunga rampai, or scented flowers, and water poured over his feet.

Accompanied by 12 spearman, YAM Pg Anak Hj Muhammad Ruzaini walked cautiously down the aisle dressed in the same gold and beige tones as his wife.

His Majesty then took the groom’s hand and placed it gently on the bride’s forehead to bless her and signify the official union of the royal couple. Canons fired the 17-gun salute which reverberated through the Indera Buana Hall.

The State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz (Dr) Hj Abdul Aziz Juned then read the salawat to the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) followed by a thanksgiving prayer.

The monarch also bestowed the royal title upon the groom who will now be known as Yang Amat MuliaPengiran Anak Hj Muhammad Ruzaini.

The royal couple with the Their Majesties and members of the Royal Family. Image courtesy of REUTERS.

HRH Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah. Image courtesy of REUTERS.

The bride beamed a smile as her brother, HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen escorted the royal couple to pay respects to senior members of the royal family, including His Majesty and the Raja Isteri, before exiting the throne room concluding the ceremony.

The newlyweds and the royal family then held court with His Majesty’s special guests in a separate room of the palace.

HRH Princess Hjh Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah, 32, is the fifth child of the His Majesty, the Sultan and Her Majesty, the Raja Isteri. She holds a degree in business administration and works at the Ministry of Finance.

The groom, YAM Pg Anak Hj Muhammad Ruzaini, 29, is the second child of Pg Dr Hj Mohd Yakub Pg HjOthman and Hjh Zainon Dato Paduka Hj Elias. He holds the post of Special Duties Officer at the Prime Minister’s Office. Text by Quratul-Ain Bandial of The Brunei Times.

The awesome souvenir from the royal wedding

Red Herring announced MeSixty as winner of its Top 100 award in recognition of the leading private companies from Asia, celebrating these startups’ innovations and technologies across their respective industries.

Recently mobile app developer MeSixty travelled to Hong Kong to present its app “Chatworthy” at the annual Red Herring Asia Forum. Hundreds of companies from each region are reviewed in a rigorous 3-step process that looks at all aspects of the company (financials, innovation, customers, Intellectual Property, etc.). Companies that make it past step 1 and 2 are invited to be part of the final step, the regional Top 100 Forum, where they compete for a Top 100 spot. MeSixty is the only Bruneian company to make it in to the finals, and the only one to win the Red Herring Top 100 Award.

Alex Vieux, publisher and CEO of Red Herring giving his speech

“Choosing the companies with the strongest potential was by no means a small feat,” said Alex Vieux, publisher and CEO of Red Herring. “After rigorous contemplation and discussion, we narrowed our list down from hundreds of candidates from across Asia to the Top 100 Winners. We believe MeSixty embodies the vision, drive and innovation that define a successful entrepreneurial venture. MeSixty should be proud of its accomplishment, as the competition was the strongest it has ever been.”

Red Herring’s Top 100 Asia list has become a mark of distinction for identifying promising new companies and entrepreneurs. Red Herring editors were among the first to recognize that companies such as Facebook, Twitter, Google, Yahoo, Skype, Salesforce.com, YouTube, and eBay would change the way we live and work.

Liam Janin, Social Cartographer of MeSixty holding the award with Keeran Janin, CEO of MeSixty

“We are very proud to receive this award.” said Keeran Janin, CEO of MeSixty. “As a small startup, being ranked alongside some of the most well-known and established names in the industry is a wonderful achievement for the team at MeSixty and recognition for the hard work, effort, and innovative ideas that have been poured into our products. Hopefully this is just the start of bigger and better things to come!”

MeSixty presented its app “Chatworthy” which is now available on the iPhone, iPad and an Android version will be released in October. The app lets people search any location on the planet for interesting Instagram posts and chat about them with their friends. The app received tremendous praise from competing companies, investors and Red Herring judges.

Red Herring’s editorial staff evaluated the companies on both quantitative and qualitative criteria, such as financial performance, technology innovation, management quality, strategy, and market penetration. This assessment of potential is complemented by a review of the track record and standing of startups relative to their peers, allowing Red Herring to see past the “buzz” and make the list a valuable instrument of discovery and advocacy for the most promising new business models in Asia.

So who says we Bruneians aren’t as creative in the tech world? Well done to the Janins on their achievements and I hope more technopreneurs are inspired by their journey.

Ivan Jerkovic scored twice in DPMM FC’s 3-0 victory over Tanjong Pagar United FC last night. Shahrazen was also in the score sheet as he netted his 11th goal of the season. Tampines Rovers FC is still top on the league with one game in hand.

It seems that DPMM FC’s coach was slightly having a challenge with the the release of 12 players for the national team for next month’s ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki Cup qualifiers in Myanmar.

According to The Brunei Times interview with Simunic, “I think it was our hardest game in six months. Tanjong Pagar played a fantastic game, just like the one in Brunei. They were very motivated and very good. They gave 200 per cent but we gave 300! It was a very big fight and I’m very proud of the team.”

DPMM FC face Home on Sunday the last S-League match until the competition takes a break for the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki Cup qualifiers in Myanmar.

DPMM FC’s first 11 last night agains Tanjong Pagar

The standings so far with only 5 games remaining

THE National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) announced that the national team will be playing Indonesia in a friendly match at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas on Sept 26.

“The aim for organising this friendly match is to help the national squad prepare for the AFF Suzuki Cup qualifiers and also to give football fans in the Sultanate, including the Indonesian fans, the opportunity to come and watch their national football teams in action,” said NFABD general secretary Mohd Noor Hj Abdullah.

According to NFABD assistant general secretary Hj Mohd Taha Hj Mohd Tahir, the tickets for the friendly will be available at the NFABD House along Jalan Pusat Persidangan in Berakas, Mumong JBS Sports Complex in Kuala Belait, Batu Apoi JBS Sports Complex in Temburong and Tutong JBS Sports Complex.

Pricing for the tickets will be $5 and $8.

It’s happening this Wednesday evening

“Spectators are advised that cans, bottles, banners, flags, poles, umbrellas, fireworks, air horns, whistles, drums and musical instruments are prohibited from being brought into the stadium,” said Hj Mohd Taha.

“All the personal bags and parcels are subjected to be checked at the gates. We are expecting 25 000 fans to attend the game,” added the assistant general secretary.

Brunei failed to advance past the qualifying rounds in the 2008 edition of the competition and will be eyeing a berth into this year’s group stages when they play Myanmar on Oct 5, Cambodia on Oct 9, Laos on Oct 11 and Timor Leste on Oct 13. Source: The Brunei Times.

Carol manning the booth for MINT at Marina Bay Sands last July

Happy birthday dearest Carol who celebrates her birthday today and it was good to know that you had a great day too. Too bad I am not there to celebrate your milestone but not to worry as I will be seeing you in two months’ time. And I can’t believe you forgot how young I am too *haha* Have an awesome year ahead and thank you for your friendship, love and compassion ever since we knew each other. Enjoy your trip to Kuching next week 😀

Possession

Possession. Hmmmmm based on a true story?? The idea of such movie is to give you to the creeps and I could tell what the director intended to do with the suspense moments. Does it pay off? I would say I wasn’t as scared and I thought the direction of the plot could have been more refined. I was reluctant to catch this movie at the beginning because it had a poor rating on Rottentomatoes but what the heck… I still love catch movies *lol* You are seeking for some cheap thrill horror, then by all means, catch Possession. Verdict: 6/10

Resident Evil: Retribution

Resident Evil: Retribution. I love Jovovich as Alice in Resident Evil movies. Yes, the RE movies are always below par and I’ve never had higher expectations either especially it is produced by Paul Anderson who happens to be her husband. It’s not one of the best RE movies to date either but I did enjoy the opening scene which was kinda unique. Ada Wong played by Bingbing Li was a total disappointment. What’s with the straight facial expression with that horrible monotonous voice? In all fairness, Jovovich somehow saved the show but there were too many flaws and as usual, OTT action scenes. Verdict: 6/10.

Dredd 2012

Urban as Judge Dredd was way better

Dredd. Ok, I’m pretty surprised how good this version of Judge Dredd was. Normally when you have a remake of a movie, it’s always a huge risk. Then again, Judge Dredd (1995) was a total bomb because it was Sylvester Stallone leading the role. This time, it is Karl Urban who played the role of Judge Dredd and wow, he was pretty impressive and put Stallone’s performance to further shame.

The second best thing I like was the plot though I might put some question mark because it did carry a similar feel to The Raid: Redemption movie. Do watch this movie if you enjoy violence, visual effects and some good sense of (dark) humour. This is a violent movie, peeps and a few profanity here and there so it’s not good for the kids. I might catch the movie again in 3D because of the spectacular visuals some were talking about especially during the slow-motion effects. Well done, Urban, for pulling off a Judge Dredd. I was sold. Verdict: 8/10.

One of my favourite movies of the year – The Raid: Redemption

The Raid: Redemption. I can’t believe it… The Mall Cineplex is finally showing this spectacular show in Brunei. I caught this in Singapore back in June, thinking it won’t be showing in Brunei because of its limited release. But wowww, I’m impressed that the management has made this possible *thank you, thank you*. I will be catching this movie again because this is the top two movies of the year for me (along with Cabin in the Woods).

If you have seen Dredd, then you will see some similarities but I still prefer The Raid for so many reasons. One for sure is the insane, awesome stunts during the fighting scenes and it’s a totally different league in terms of action flicks. It brought back the memories of Hard Boiled on that level of satisfaction. You will be amazed but do take note of the high level of violence. I would have to be honest though that the plot ain’t that original and predictable at times but the adrenalin rush will keep you gasping for more. It’s not the best movie of the year but definitely a top favourite so far this year. Verdict: 9/10.

Butra Home Concept Magazine announced the top 3 winners yesterday, after a 3 months’ quest to look for the ‘Coolest’ Kids’ and Babies’ rooms in Brunei.

Crowned as the champion was the room of a one and a half year old, Hana Raihana from Kuala Belait. Hana also pocketed the grand prize of BND 1,000 sponsored by Butra HeidelbergCement, with her room’s photo being chosen as the cover feature for the October 2012 issue of BHC Magazine.

According to the editor of BHC Magazine, Shaun Hoon, “The judging process was particularly tough, as the photos received from the contestants were of very high caliber.” The BHC team shortlisted 14 finalists, with each of them demonstrating their unique strength and style.

The editor said he wouldn’t have been surprised shall anyone of the 14 finalist been chosen as the winner. To the panel of judges, the real test came in whether or not a child would get excited and have fun living in the room.

Shaun went on to add that he was very satisfied with the result, as the top 3 winners not only passed the test, they also epitomized the very essence of “coolness” in their own right. You can have a preview of the rest of the final nominees from www.FaceBook.com/ButraHome.

Hana Raihana from Kuala Belait was the grand winner of the competition

Hana Raihana’s room

Hana Raihana’s room

Kris Phang came 2nd with cash prize of $800 from Insurans Islam TAIB

Kris Phang’s bedroom

Kris Phang’s study area

The second prize winner was 6 year old Kris Phang, who received the cash prize of BND 800.00 from Insurans Islam TAIB and the third prize winner was 4 year old Aedan Md Walee who won a toy house from Triple Star Enterprise valued at BND 695.00.

The coolest kid’s room contest was a first of it’s kind competition ever to be organized in Brunei, supported by Butra HeidelbergCement, Insurans Islam Taib, Triple Stars Enterprise, My Small World and Catalyst. Following the success of the first competition, the magazine is considering rolling out a a contest with the same theme every year.

Aedan Md Walee came third with toy house voucher from Triple Star Enterprise valued at $695.00

Aedan busy with his toys

Aedan’s bedroom

Group photo with the winners and the sponsors

Get yourself a copy!!

Click image to enter official website. It’s bigger and better!!

Student Advance check-in get 5KG Extra. Click to enter website

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah (back 2nd R), the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, HRH Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah (back R), the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, HRH Prince ‘Abdul ‘Azim (back C), HRH Prince ‘Abdul Malik (back 2nd L) and HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen (back L) witnessing YM Pg Hj Muhammad Ruzaini Pg Dr Hj Mohd Yakub (Front L) perfoming the ‘Akad Nikah’. Picture by Yusri Adanan of The Brunei Times.

The sound of royal canons, echoing throughout the capital marked the successful solemnisation of YangMulia Pg Hj Muhd Ruzaini Pg Dr Hj Mohd Yakub’s royal marriage vows during a Majlis Istiadat AkadNikah Diraja at the Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien mosque yesterday.

Majlis Istiadat Akad Nikah Diraja is a traditional ceremony where the groom reads his marriage vows in accordance with Islamic Law in the presence of male witnesses consisting of family members from both the bride and the groom.

The ceremony began with the groom’s arrival at the mosque, donning the traditional wedding attire and paraphernalia, as he was escorted inside while awaiting His Majesty’s arrival.

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s presence at the Sultan Omar ‘AliSaifuddien Mosque was to witness the groom solemnise his wedding vows as part of the Malay Muslim ritual in asking for the royal bride’s hand in marriage.

The monarch was accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah, His Royal Highness Prince Haji ‘Abdul ‘Azim, His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malek and His Royal Highness ‘Abdul Mateen.

On arrival, the royal entourage was welcomed by State Mufti Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Seri MaharajaDato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Hj Awang Abdul Aziz Juned and Minister of Religious Affairs YangBerhormat Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Pg Hj Abd Rahman prior to conducting their Solat Tahiyatul Masjid prayers, an obligation for Muslims upon entering a mosque.

After His Majesty and members of the royal family performed their prayers, the spotlight returned to the groom sporting a yellow royal wedding attire, as an audience of black Cara Melayu guests waited for the ceremony to begin.

It was a gloomy day indeed but lucky it didn’t rain

The respective diplomats attended the Royal Nikah function as well

There were two tents to cater the other guests from the groom side

The bearers stood from the beginning until the departure of the royal entourage

The arrival of His Majesty and the Royal Family at the SOAS Mosque. The police bikes remind me of Judge Dredd.

The Panglimas (in red) if I’m not mistaken

His Majesty upon arrival at the mosque

The bearers from the bride side

The bearers from the bride side

I don’t mind being part of this one day

Yang Berhormat Pehin Jawatan Luar Pekerma Raja Dato Seri Utama Dr Ustaz Hj Mohd Zain Hj Serudinapproached Yang Amat Mulia Pg Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pg Anak Hj Abdul Aziz to inform His Majesty that the Majlis Istiadat Akad Nikah Diraja ceremony was ready to begin.

Carrying out the Majlis Istiadat Akad Nikah Diraja was Syariah High Court Judge Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Hj Salim who read the solemnisation sermon and elaborated on the vows as well as the groom’s undertaking of royal union in lifelong companionship and care. The groom understood and acknowledged the vows and then projected his voice in reciting his vows for all to hear and witness.

The ceremony reached its pinnacle with the groom’s recital as it was accompanied by 17 gun salutes from six royal cannons located just outside the mosque.

The groom then recited the Lafaz Ta’liq and signed the solemnisation form witnessed by the monarch and four imam witnesses before concluding with a Doa Selamat read by the State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Datu Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Hj Abdul Aziz. With the conclusion of the ceremony and the solemnisation of the royal marriage vows, Yang Mulia Pg Hj Muhammad Ruzaini Pg Dr Hj Muhammad Yakub and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah are now legally recognised as husband and wife according to Syariah law. Text by Amir Noor of The Brunei Times.

Yang Mulia Pg Hj Muhammad Ruzaini Pg Dr Hj Muhammad Yakub seated and facing the Royal Entourage led by His Majesty

It was full house indeed yesterday and congratulations also to my friend Zaki (pic inset) who also had a successful nikah event this morning

Adat Istiadat checking with the flow of the event to make sure everything ran smoothly and in order

For your info, if a royalty event happens during the day, then the dress code is black

Syariah High Court Judge Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Hj Salim read the solemnisation sermon to the groom

Also in attendance were the cabinet ministers

The photographers in action

The vital part of the solemnisation where the groom recited his vows and he successfully did it one go

The groom signing the solemnisation form witnessed by His Majesty and four imam

The four imam also signed as witnesses

The prayers to bless the solemnisation

The groom getting signal or cue before standing up

The groom walked to towards His Majesty

The groom then “salam-ed” His Majesty and the rest of the Royal entourage

He “salam-ed” HRH Prince Jefri then proceeded to salam his father

His Majesty and the Crown Prince about to leave the mosque

The Royal Family who attended and witnessed the solemnisation

The departure of the Royal entourage

….. and finally the bearers made their way out

The public view the event from outside

Marking the end of the event as guests heading back to their cars

A day later, after Friday prayers this afternoon, I saw drinks being distributed away. A good move but they will need to beef up security if they want to avoid scuffles and chaos.

An industry sharing session was recently held on Wednesday, 19th September 2012, at Seri Kerna Hall, AITI Building in Anggerek Desa to launch AITI’s public consultation paper on “Domain Name Management Framework”. The industry sharing brought together officers from Government sector and industry, whereby AITI and its appointed consultants from IDA International briefed the attendees on the content of the public consultation paper which was launched on Friday, 14th September 2012 made available on the AITI website.

This is the third public consultation paper published by AITI. This first public consultation paper was regarding Proposed Unified Licencing framework launched on 18th April 2012. AITI received a total of seven (7) feedbacks from licensees and relevant stakeholders. The second public consultation paper was on telecommunication and broadcasting competition code launched on 4th June 2012. AITI have received 3 feedbacks from licensees.

The industry sharing kicked off with an opening speech by Awang Queh Ser Pheng, Deputy Chief Executive of AITI. Mr Queh highlighted that AITI is pleased to say that we have completed Phase 1 of the project in terms of information gathering and views from relevant stakeholders.

Awang Queh Ser Pheng, Deputy Chief Executive of AITI with the appointed consultants from IDA International.

Awang Queh Ser Pheng added that AITI are very keen to play a more active role in governing the registration of .bn address in order to ensure that the domains registration process and the dispute mechanism are in line with international best practices. AITI also want to see that the uptake of .bn address is on par with other country code Top Level Domains. AITI intends to follow a model based on Registry-Registrar framework, where it rely on the participation and partnership of the industry to work together in process chain of .bn domain name registration.

After the opening speech, IDA International consultants presented the details of the public consultation paper which comprises sections on the project background, proposed new Domain Name Management Framework. The industry sharing ended with a Question and Answers session.

AITI would like to urge its licensees and relevant stakeholders to submit feedbacks and comments on the public consultation paper. The paper is available for download from AITI website (www.aiti.gov.bn) since 14th September 2012. The closing date for submission of comment is 8th October 2012, 3:30pm. For any queries on the public consultation paper, please contact the following AITI officers: Norshahrul Nizam 232 3232 ext 1218 nizam.othman @aiti.gov.bn or Mohammad Norelham bin Hj Zaini 232 3232 ext 1246 norelham.zaini @aiti.gov.bn

Student Advance check-in get 5KG Extra. Click to enter website

Click image to enter the official Royal Wedding website

Rich culture and tradition continue to shower the royal wedding ceremonials at the Majlis Istiadat Berbedak Pengantin Diraja of Her Royal Highness Princess Hjh Hafizah Sururul Bulqiah and Yang Mulia PgHj Muhd Ruzaini Pg Dr Hj Mohd. Yakub in the Indera Buana Throne Hall of Istana Nurul Iman yesterday evening.

Majlis Istiadat Berbedak, or Royal Powdering Ceremony, is a ceremonial function where members of the royal family and family members of the groom “bless” the royal couple by applying seven-coloured powdered paste and scented oils onto the palms of the couple.

Upon the arrival of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam at the InderaBuana Throne Hall with Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha, four candles or DianEmpat were lit followed by the placing of the two-piece yellow cushion known as Kasur Namat between the Dian Empat.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah (L), the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, just after applying the paste onto the palms of HRH Princess Hjh Hafizah Sururul Bulqiah (R) during the Majlis Istiadat Berbedak Pengantin Diraja at Istana Nurul Iman. Picture: BT/Saifulizam

The ceremony began with Pehin Jawatan Luar Pekerma Raja Dato Seri Utama Dr Ustaz Hj Mohd Zaininforming Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Hj Abdul Aziz that the Istiadat Berbedak Pengantin Diraja ceremony was set to begin. YAM Pengiran Lela Cheteria SahibunNajabah Pengiran Anak Hj Abdul Aziz then duly conveyed the message to His Majesty.

Following the consent of the monarch, the royal bride was escorted into the Throne Hall by Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hjh Zariah and Her Royal Highness Princess Hjh Masnawith the wives of appointed state dignitaries.

The anticipated arrival of the royal bride was accompanied by a grand entourage made up of 40 Sinipitbearers, or spearmen, along with three Dayang-Dayang holding Payung or umbrella, Kaskol or royal betel caddy wrapped with cloth embroidered with golden thread and Kain Pendukungan.

In the entourage were also seven Pahawai Perempuan or chosen ladies bearing a Puan, a Tarian, aKabok and Panastan, a Kiap, a Chupun, a Pasigupan and a Kaskol.

On His Majesty’s approval to begin the ceremony, a Dikir Marhaban was performed to cue the start of the ceremony and prompting all attendees to stand up.

The ceremony was initiated by His Majesty placing the powdered paste and scented oil onto the palm of the bride. This was followed by Her Majesty and other members of the royal family as well as the parents of the groom.

Outside the Indera Buana Throne Hall, a 17-gun salute went off to signal the start of the ceremony.

After the royal bride’s exit from the hall, it was the groom, Pg Hj Muhd Ruzaini’s turn to take the court to begin the Istiadat Berbedak for the groom.

The groom was escorted by his younger brother, Ak Muhd Tarmizi Pg Dr Hj Mohd Yakub, along with a grand entourage into the Throne Hall.

Pg Hj Muhd Ruzaini was dressed immaculately in traditional Malay wedding attire comprising a gilded two-piece baju Melayu.

Seated on the royal wedding dais, Pg Hj Muhd Ruzaini received “blessings” from His Majesty, followed by Her Majesty with the application of the powdered paste and sprinkling of scented oil onto his palm.

The rest of the royal family followed suit in hierarchical order, with the groom’s parents having the lasthonour.

Following the Majlis Istiadat Berbedak, the royal family and invited guests proceeded to the IstiadatBerjaga-Jaga and religious-orientated performances.

The Istiadat Berjaga-Jaga is an event that calls for the finer observances of royal protocol where guests are treated to a range of traditional games and Malay poetry reading. Text by Low Leng May and Rabiatul Kamit of The Brunei Times.

bFIT audition continues today

A great turn out yesterday as 30 contestants had to go through audition where they had to go through a series of questions by the judges (from Health Promotion Centre, b•mobile and Fitness Zone). The audition took place at Health Promotion Centre. 50 more contestants will be going for the audition today. Only then the judges will select 50 contestants for the actual bFIT program.

For your info, bFIT is similar to the Biggest Loser program. For more info, you can click here. You can follow their updates on instagram @bfitchallenge 

The audition took place at Health Promotion Centre

The registrants getting ready to be screened

The screening area

Audition in progress

Setting up before the next person being interviewed

Judges posing for the camera

Mic test 1, 2, 3…..

Judges from HPC, b•mobile and Fitness Zone

One of the contestants being interviewed

A quick demo was done as well

Recharging for Magic’s 5D Mark III

This was my first coverage of the Royal Wedding and I have skipped a few actually because I was still recovering from fatigue and I had an irritating dry cough which has been itching my throat for the past two days. Anyway, back to the Royal Wedding – last night was the Royal Powdering ceremony that took place at Indera Buana Throne Hall of Istana Nurul Iman.

The Royal Powdering Ceremony lasted an hour or so for both the bride and the groom. I saw tons of familiar faces inside the hall and all I could do is gave a small wave and take photos of them *lol* Today will be the Nikah ceremony which will take place at the Masjid Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien at noon. I shall be there again for coverage.

As for now, enjoy the pictures taken from last night Royal Berbedak ceremony. The images are in chronogolical order 😀

The traditional music being played after the entrance of the Istana

Invited guests need to register themselves before entering the hall

The Royal Family entering the hall to be seated

The Adat Istiadat officials will double check on the sitting arrangements for the Royal Family members

Normally if there’s an empty seat, the chair will be removed

After the arrival of the Royal entourage, they will bring this to the front

The grand entourage was accompanied by 40 Sinipit bearers or spearmen

The guests waiting for the arrival of Her Royal Highness Princess Hafizah

HRH Princess Hafizah was escorted by both her aunties – Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hjh Zariah and Her Royal Highness Princess Hjh Masna

It was great to see smiles from the princess

Brothers hand in hand

HRH Princess Hafizah leaving the Indera Buana Throne Hall

Salute to the bearers for their efforts and being present for the ceremony

Afizan, brother to the groom, on his way to escort the groom into the hall. Afizan and I were housemates back in Brisbane in year 2000.

Smartphones were everywhere to capture the best moments

I see a few tablets too.. This shows how technological savvy we have been regardless of age.

Pengiran Haji Muhammad Ruzaini being escorted before the powder ceremony starts

The prayers after the successful powdering ceremony

The groom leaving the hall to mark the end of the Powdering ceremony

Representatives from the private sector were aplenty

It’s picture time

These are the Head of Kampungs in Brunei

Hellooooo … Fiona 😀

Hello Fina 😀

Yves Grosjean, General Manager of Total, was present too

Who knows one day I might one of my own too

Pehin Jawatan Luar Pekerma Raja Dato Seri Utama Dr Ustaz Hj Mohd Zain

Royal family exiting the hall

The Ministers and their spouses exiting the hall

Representatives from Sunlit Advertising

Photographers and cameramen at work

My first coverage of the Royal Wedding and I had tricky time reaching there but it was all good in the end.

Click image to enter GHK fanpage

There’s always a first time for everything and this will be the first time that GHK Motors will be organising a rally demo where they will be inviting a famous Japanese Rally Driver, Hiroshi Masuoka to Brunei. If you are lucky enough, you will not just see him in action on the road but also be his passenger and experience his driving skills on/off road. Now, isn’t that exciting??

4×4 car owners of Mitsubishi will also be able catch the rally superstar when he comes to Brunei next week. There’s also a possibility that all Mitsubishi owners will get a chance to ride with the Japanese ace. The event is slated for next Friday 28th September at GHK Motors showroom where a press conference will be held followed by meet-the-fan session for autograph purposes.

The event will be opened to public on Saturday and Sunday at Tanah Jambu track where you will get a chance to experience his driving skills. In order to join, you will need to register yourself at the registration counter at Tanah Jambu or you can send your interest on email marketing @ghkmotors.com or call 245 1459. Mind you the slots are limited so do register to avoid disappointment. You can also join their Facebook page for more updates.

Hiroshi (left) during one of the rallies

Hiroshi in action

The Mitsubishi 4×4

Call GHK for registration

New dates for interviews – 28th and 30 September. Looking for positions such as RM, Mortgage specialist, Personal Financial Consultant and many more at Standard Chartered (Brunei)

Psy famously known for his “horsey ride” dance when viral since July. Image by Mike Coppola.

It’s never easy to be a YouTube sensation. A few hours ago, South Korean pop star Park Jae-Sang also known as Psy hit a huge milestone where his “Gangnam Style” video hit 200 million views on YouTube and that’s with the help of topping the US iTunes chart. Amazing!!!

You can also follow him on Twitter @psy_oppa and did you know that he has already signed a contract with Justin Bieber’s management agency. For you info, Justin Bieber’s Baby video is closing in on 800 million views so it’s still far off but man, 200 million views in just a span of three months is an amazing feat.

Here you go – Oppan Brunei Style. Click image to view video.

Speaking of Gangnam, there have been tons of parodies ever since Gangnamania is still running fever hot!! I saw the Malaysian version so far and believe it or not, Brunei has also joined the bandwagon and it was pretty hilarious too to say the least. It has raked in more than 45,000 views in just a few days which is probably the biggest gainer in terms of views within a short span of time. I can’t recall the number of hits for the famous video which featured ZekZek on his apology as it was removed. Another popular video “Budi” also garnered pretty solid views but it looks like the next king of views for Brunei is “Oppan Brunei Style” video.

If you have not seen it, click here to view and there have been tons of comments praising the said video. Sometimes I do wonder if Psy can create another hilarious move to match his “horsey move” for future music videos. For now, let him enjoy his fame.

Gangnam Style topped the US iTunes chart.. Amazing!!

Batman and Bane performing Gangnam too!

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