Click image to see more of Netcom Computer House from their Facebook Page

 

New and bigger things at ICON Design Store. Click to enter

 

Grand Raya Package at Peugoet and promotion ends 15th September. Click image to enter website.

 

One of the popular places for breaking fast – Tasek Brasserie!!

 

Click image to enter website

 

Follow @pazzionbrunei on FB and IG. Do click on banner to see more more of the shoes from Pazzion

Hui Chiet eyeing on this fabric at YMRM Tungku Link and she ended getting one for herself *lol*

Hari Raya is just three weeks away. Time flies very fast indeed. We are already in the second week of Ramadhan and the crowd have been rising at Galleria YMRM. Since Hari Raya is just around the corner, I made my 2nd pitstop to Galleria YMRM (this time to both Batu Satu and Tungku Link).

Galleria YMRM have quite a selection of fabric for “cara melayu” and what impressed me the most is the IMA fabric which is the Japanese cotton material. The price is higher than the normal type but now they have a promotional price where it’s being slashed from $19.90 to $15.90 per meter. What’s great about this material is that it’s of high quality and it’s pretty cooling and soothing to the skin. Last year, they have 20 different colours and this year, they have 60 different colours with the IMA material. This really shows how good the material and the trust it has coming from customers.

They also have good quality ones for the ladies for Baju Kurung and they have different price range from the affordable ones to the high end and of course, the quality is guaranteed. It’s no surprise that most of the tailors in Brunei make their fabrics and textile according to the management. For the ladies, if you want something more elegant as in Kebaya type, then I recommend you go fo the laces and YMRM have tons of those in both branches.

Galleria YMRM are not only popular for selling fabrics for men and women but they are also selling in-house lights and also “cucul” lights for Hari Raya. So if you need some new lightings in your house, they have a wide selection to choose from. YMRM already have tents outside their premise selling deco lights (cucul) and this have been their trademark for a few years already.

Head down to Galleria YMRM where textiles and fabrics are the cheapest in town and of high quality too. With their intention to give value for money, this has created a good loyalty relationship with their customers. Do visit their branches – one in Tungku Link Spg 100 (you can’t miss this spot) and the other is at Batu Satu, near BIBD branch. You can call their number at Batu Satu 222 3343 or Tungku Link 245 2344.

For more pictures of YMRM, you can click here.

Tons of laces for the ladies to choose from at YMRM

Hui Chiet liking the laces here at YMRM

Now you can make your Kebaya with this material

How the interior looks like at YMRM Tungku Link

Different range of songkok available

Made in Brunei Songkok

The lightings ideal for Hari Raya

One of the reasons why people go to YMRM – Liiiiigghhhttts and cuculs 😀

Have you prepared for Hari Raya yet?

You can buy those mini trays ideal for Hari Raya

Galleria YMRM at Tungku Link

 

Westends Avenue is located at Batu Bersurat near Guardian and FA Sports Cafe

Have you heard of Westends Avenue? It has just been around for 6 months or so and I’m quite surprised with the selections they have with the brands that they carry. You will brands such as Polo, Espirit, Nike, EDC, Puma and many more all under one roof.

So how are they able to get these labels? Apparently they have great contacts from Sri Lanka which actually produced all these labels and brands as I have mentioned. So the quality you get is pretty genuiene and at an affordable price. I was actually eyeing for Adidas wear but they have commissioned them to a local retailer *lol*

I believe not many people are aware of Westends Avenue’s location and even existence. It’s located at Batu Bersurat, just opposite Taurean Too Kopitiam. Refer to the poster for details.

Another great point about Westends Avenue is that they carry women’s sportswear which is not common here in Brunei. They also carry a lot of zumba type kind of clothes. So for the ladies out there who are Zumba enthusiasts, this could be an ideal place to shop so they have tons of zumba pants.

They are having a midnight promotion on 19th July, then following on the 24th and 27th July from 9pm to 1am. Check out the poster below.

Information on Westends Avenue

Zumba clothings for the ladies

Zumba pants too

The mens’ column

All these attire available at Westends Avenue

Ladies clothes area

They have evening gown wear, sports attire and smart casual wear for the ladies

The men’s section

Westends Avenue is managed by one big happy family

 

RA says Let’s talk about relationship for this time round. Have you guys miss my segment on UG? Sorry for that. For the past few weeks, I have these burning thoughts in my head but I never really pour it down until those moments just drifted away and that blew my momentum for it to be posted as part of the UG. Anyway, let’s get back to the topic on relationships.

Now this is one interesting topic which I feel that I wanna share with my readers. Relationship can be in different forms but whenever we say the word relationship, we associate it with a couple being together and/or in love. For the past few years, I’m beginning to have a better understanding on such word. Technically whoever I meet or interact with, this is also a form of relationship (interpersonal) and I believe I have been operating in that manner ever since I was a kid. Perhaps the more active relationships I have is with my close friends but sadly not with my family.

I realised how my relationship with my mother has impacted me on how I have been showing up for the past twenty years (and even longer) around the people that I met and also with my past relationships with my exes. Sometimes we have to ask ourselves, what is the purpose of having this relationship being that with a family member, with a friend or with a potential partner (bf/gf) or with your spouse? And if we don’t have that kind of objective or intention, there is a high possibility that the relationship will be a roller coaster in a long run if each of the party had a different intention. Maybe because both parties hardly ever sit down and talk about their goals or intention to have this relationship and simply jump to the point such trusting the person quickly or fall into a relationship quickly or becoming best friends in a short period of time and there are many that I can possibly list down.

This is because our culture are brought up this way. This is how we perceive the notion of friendship/relationship with one another. And that’s why most of us fall into the trap of “first good impressions”. This is what I learned as the first stage of any relationship or friendship. We will portray what he or she sees fit. It’s like going on a first date and you do your best to give a perfect first impression and it will be one flawless experience at that moment of time. If you notice carefully or look deeper into the context, you are actually only showing the good/better side of you. The real test comes when you are in that “uncomfortable” zone where the cracks will start to show here and there and only then we realise how human we are and this is quite true that the more we know, the more cracks we become unfamiliar with and the judgment on each other will appear subconsciously.

This is pretty common in all types of relationship and I have been there a lot of times *lol* Now that I have become aware of the situation especially for my future or potential partners, I’m taking baby steps and I’m more focused on having that relationship with my inner self. Because I have to admit that my biggest flaw in most of my relationships with my exes is the sake for companionship. . Well, that’s part of a relationship but I fail to see the other components that also mattered. This is very common in most relationship that we depend so much on companionship and slowly we begin to lose part of ourselves.

For now, I have established only a handful of wonderful relationships (not romantically) with my close friends and that to me is amazing how it all turned out. There is so much that I wanna share about this but I will just leave it here for now as it might be a lot for many of you to digest. What’s important is to love yourself more and appreciate yourself and don’t change yourself just because you want to please others (very common in courtships).

Of course, I love you readers 😀

 

Just a quick recap on the hotel that I was staying at Veranda Resort, Chiang Mai, Thailand, last week and it was just an amazing stay. I was staying in a deluxe room with my friend Goh Yi Ren and I found out that we both have something in common – we know our movies well *lol*

The room was just nice and I won’t mind staying here again. The only problem is that it is quite a fair ride from the city. They do provide shuttle service twice a day though which is roughly 30 mins ride depending on traffic.

I didn’t get to try much of the facilities though. Food wise it’s not as great as Hua Hun Six Sense Resort Spa but it’s still good. Service is pretty good but I wasn’t impressed with Lebua State of Tower’s (in Bangkok).

The compound of the resort is quite big and lots of greenery which I like. The architecture of the resort was slightly confusing but modern. It took me a while to know my surroundings and there were many possible routes to get around the resort.

Below are some pictures of my room at Veranda Resort Chiang Mai.

The corridor at Veranda Resort

I like this corner area of the room

This is how the bathroom looks like

It uses the slide system to cover the bathroom/toilet

The translucent door that slides from the shower to the toilet

I didn’t get the chance to use the bathtub

You can tell they really take customer service to another level :p

Great brand for our shower needs

Another great idea to pack them back home *lol*

My room mate buddy then 😀

Ok, one minus point about the room is the location of the desk and TV which too close for me

If you can afford to upgrade, try out the villas

Again the infinity pool that I didn’t get to try out

Love the green nature of the resort

At the lobby area

Sabrina trying out the gym but it’s kinda small

Click image to see more of Netcom Computer House from their Facebook Page

 

New and bigger things at ICON Design Store. Click to enter

 

Grand Raya Package at Peugoet and promotion ends 15th September. Click image to enter website.

 

One of the popular places for breaking fast – Tasek Brasserie!!

 

Click image to enter website

 

Follow @pazzionbrunei on FB and IG. Do click on banner to see more more of the shoes from Pazzion

Nur Liyana Amalina Suhaili, Najihah Kamilah Hj Md Rosellan, Md Naqiuddin Ihsan Mat Japar, Abdul Rasyid Hj Osman, Ak Md Hardine Pg Hj Marali and Dk Siti Rasyidah Pg Hj Azis are heading to Singapore for their Internship Student goodProgram with the collaboration between AITI and MDA & IDA of Singapore. Good luck to you all in Singapore

I remember AITI talked about this a few months ago and now it’s a reality. The newly project initiated by AITI called “INSPIRE” (Internship Student Programme for ICT Related Education) and it’s supported by the Department of Economic, Planning and Development (JPKE) as part of the 10th National Development Plan for Human Capacity Development Programme.

Yesterday there was a signing ceremony between AITI and UBD and the second one with AITI and ITB for the MoU where selected students will be based in Singapore for a period of six months as part of their internship programme. Present during the MoU signing was the Minister of Communications Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Abdullah Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar who was the guest of honour.

The students for INSPIRE:

Nur Liyana Amalina Suhaili, UBD Undergraduate: Bachelors of Arts Degree in Professional Media and Communication, Majoring in Professional Communications and Media Studies. Attachment at the Production area in MediacorpEagleVision Singapore.
Najihah Kamilah Hj Md Rosellan, UBD Undergraduate: Bachelors of Arts Degree in Professional Media and Communication, Majoring in Professional Communications and Media Studies. Attachment at the Network Programming area in Mediacorp’s Suria Singapore
Ak Md Hardine Pg Hj Marali, HND at ITB: BDTVEC Higher National Diploma in Computing. Attachment at Cicada Cube Pte Ltd, Singapore.
Md Naqiuddin Ihsan Mat Japar, HND at ITB: BDTVEC Higher National Diploma in Computing. Attachment at Hello Technology Pte Ltd, Singapore
Abdul Rasyid Hj Osman, HND at ITB: BDTVEC Higher National Diploma in Internet and Multimedia Development. Attachment at TechSailor Singapore.
Dk Siti Rasyidah Pg Hj Azis, HND at ITB: BDTVEC Higher National Diploma in Information System. Attachment at XID Technologies Pte Ltd, Singapore.

The Minister of Communications with senior officials in the government sector and AITI and the students selected for INSPIRE

MoU between AITI and UBD

MoU between AITI and ITB

Acting Chief Executive of AITI, Hj Osman Hj Ladis hopes that the students will gain insightful knowledge and experience from the respective companies in Singapore and bring those experience back to Brunei and hopefully this can open more doors and they are the next generation of leaders.

AITI hopes to increase the number of students in the next batch and the INSPIRE project can also be extended to high educational institutions which includes colleges in Brunei.

AITI inked an MoU with UBD for cooperation in ICT, broadcasting and media at the AITI headquarters, while an MoU with ITB for cooperation in ICT and multimedia was also signed between the two parties.

Signing on behalf of AITI was Acting Chief Executive, Hj Osman Hj Ladis, while UBD was represented by Acting Vice Chancellor Associate Professor Dr Azman Ahmad.

ITB was represented by Associate Professor and Acting Vice Chancellor, Dr Hjh Zohrah Hj Sulaiman.

The students will be departing by 19th July 2013 and would that mean that they will be Hari Raya come August?

The signing ceremony

The signing ceremony

The Minister handing over a certificate to one of the recipients of INSPIRE

 

Epson Projector now available at Concepts Computer

His Majesty the Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam at the press coference for the 22nd ASEAN Summti 2013

Today’s an important day as we remember and honour His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam who turned 67th today. Due to observation of Ramadhan, the celebratory activties will be put on hold until August, September and October 2013 as announced bt the executive committee for the Sultan’s 67th Birhthday Celebrations.

National flags have been raised since early July to mark the occasion and they will remain raised unti the end of September. Most of the events will happen after Hari Raya period. The guard of honour and march parst, the audience and investiture Ceremony, and the birthday banquet will take place on September 15th meanwhile the banquet for uniformed organisations will take place on September 17th. The meet and greet (Bersama Rakyat) will take place sometime in September as well.

Today I would to give my deepest gratitude to our beloved Sultan and he has been our Sultan for the past 46 years and still going strong. I am always grateful of Brunei as being my home country and all these good seeds that have been planted in our country such as free education and health and high values on MIB was through the generousity and the leadership of our Sultan 😀 There have been many praises about Brunei from foreigners especially my friends and these good points do reflect the influence of our Sultan. So once again, my deepest gratitude to our Beloved Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

I love my country and I truly love our most popular icon of Brunei, His Majesty. May Allah bless Your Majesty and keep empowering the citizens of Brunei.

The most liked photo on my instagram when His Majesty was accompanied by two Brunei citizens. Photo by Dean Kassim of Borneo Bulleting

A great edition of Bornoe Bulletin today. Grab a copy!!

Click image to see more of Netcom Computer House from their Facebook Page

 

New and bigger things at ICON Design Store. Click to enter

 

Grand Raya Package at Peugoet and promotion ends 15th September. Click image to enter website.

 

One of the popular places for breaking fast – Tasek Brasserie!!

 

Click image to enter website

 

Congratulations on them representing Brunei. Good luck!!

This is it. The time is soon. Fakhrul Razi will be performing his heart out in the US. More specifically in San Diego for the World Championships of Performing Arts 2013 where he will be up against hundreds of competitors from all around the world. Well, to be exact, it is nearly 3,000 contestants. Tomorrow will be Maria Grace Koh aka Eia and Kevin Lo’s turn as three of them are representing Brunei in this international prestigious competition.

The trio will be given one minute only to perform. Fakrul and Eia will be singing 5 songs while Kevin will be performing in 5 actin categories. It’s similar to how competitors go for their audition in the American Idol. During the interview at the airport a week ago, all of them had the same feeling – they are there not to just perform but to win. Now that’s the self belief that we Bruneians can make a difference and we do have the talents and this is such a great platform for them to get more international exposure and experience.

Fakhrul Razi, Maria Grace Koh aka Eia and Kevin Lo departing for the US 9 days ago

The Brunei delegation with Prismworks Event Management

Fakhrul Razi is no stranger in our Brunei community. He is a rare talent who is able to multi-task as an emcee, a singer and an entertainer at once and hence he’s one of the top emcees here in Brunei and I can’t even find one that fits his role and furthermore, I love his voice whenever he sings.

I have to admire his work commitment as of late. Before flying off with the Brunei delegate, he had only had two hours of sleep due to emceeing the Royal Wedding the night before. For him, this is a such a great momentum heading for Hollywood on high note.

“It’s a good start. I think you know this yourself, if you love your job, you won’t stop working and it’s as if you are having a holiday. This is part of what I do and I’m not even complaining about it. I’m having the jitters and nightmares but I have been well prepared and thank you to the support of my fans. I’m definitely going for gold, ” said Fakrul Razi.

“This is a great opportunity not to just showcase my music but also my talent which will help to promote the creative industry in Brunei which is lacking in our country. We need to bring the soul of our creativity and talent outside of Brunei. Hollywood is just one of the platforms.”

Fakrul will be delivering five numbers (four English and one Malay song) – Open, Jazz, Pop, Broadway and Original. Two of the songs that he highlighted were One Moment in Time by the late Whitney Houston and “Senyuman Gelapmu”, his own original piece. He’s indebted to Ms Marietta, his vocal instructor for guiding and coaching him.

Fakhrul Razi with his close friends

Next up is Maria Grace Koh aka Eia. Eia is her stage name and she’s also no stranger in the Brunei music scene. I have always noticed her in JIS Music Showcase and she indeed has a very powerful voice. Eia is currently studying as an artist at LASALLE College of the Arts in Singapore. In her music journey, she has met many producers. She even has her own single released on iTunes, “Hello World”.

She had a previous dream, to become a national athlete (in swimming) and also an Olympian which the latter didn’t materialise during the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Because of the misfortune and frustration, she turned to music and discovered her passion for song writing too. Her music portrays a young girl’s perspective on life, love, hopes and dreams. She has come a long way and now she’s competing in one of the most prestigious events in the world.

“I really feel excited and it has been a while since I represented a country. I have the same feeling whenever I compete in international swimming competition for Brunei. Now I have a good feeling about Hollywood and I have been practising at least 3 hours a day and it has made a huge difference and during the run through, everything just went well, ” shared Eia during the interview.

“I have my lessons and practice in Singapore and Brunei. I’m also here to compete and we have many great local talents, it’s just that no many knows about them. Hopefully we will be opening doors for them in Hollywood.”

Eia will be singing five songs in broadway, R&B, Pop, Contemporary and Original category. She’s very excited with the original category because it’s her own composed song entitled “You”.

Maria Grace Koh with her family

Last but not least is another Brunei representative Kevin Lo. He is the only one competing in acting category. It also has been quite a busy few weeks for Kevin who have been practising over and over again. He has been training his pieces with Rachel Malai Ali and Sarah Talbot. This is not the first time that he has been representing Brunei. He represented in a debating competition before.

I have only caught his performance once in the “The Boor” and “The Langsat” play directed by Abdul Zainidi early this year. So this is the real thing where he will be acting his heart out within a minute for the 5 categories that he is entering.

“The preparation has been intense and we have been doing the 5 categories and it’s tough. I have to make it entertaining and relevant and it’s so difficult to make it under one minute and it has been an amazing journey and we are just half way through. Right now, I just wanna do it,” said Kevin Lo.

“I have discovered emotions that I didn’t have during my training. I ended up choosing characters which totally the opposite of me. So that was a challenge but it taught me a whole different side of me where I could emphatise and show the emotional part of myself. I’m going for gold and we are doing our best regardless because this is going to be an amazing experience and it already is.”

Kevin Lo with his family and girl friend

Guess what??? My photo of the trio with the Brunei flag won the Best Photo for the World Championships of Performing Arts 2013 for its virality. Awesome, huh? I couldn’t believe it and this is a great way for the world to notice about our country Brunei Darussalam. Great job to you guys in making the photo full of life and energy too. I even had this silly idea where they will run with the flag opened together but the jumping shot would suffice.

That alone is already an amazing achievement and it doesn’t matter how small our nation is but we have a very compact community which makes social media more impactful than any other region. While Brunei won the Best Photo, Colombia won the Best Video.

Congratulations Brunei on the winning the Best Viral Photo

The award winning photo for the World Championships of Performing Arts 2013

The Brunei delegation conveyed their appreciation to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports; Brunei Tourism; Armtrix Enterprise; Laily’s Bridal; Ms Marietta; Rachel Malai Ali; Ms Sarah Talbot; Ak Muhd Syarif bin Pg Hj Baharudin for their support.

Accompanying the Brunei artistes to Hollywood are personnel from Prism Works Sdn Bhd, the licensed national director of the World Championships of Performing Arts in Brunei Darussalam.

Taken during the press conference end of May 2013

And two months later, they are off to Hollywood

A dream come true for the Bruneians

Taken during the opening ceremony and their attire is sponsored by Laily’s Bridal

Eia, you’re looking pretty awesome in that dress!!

Click image to see more of Netcom Computer House from their Facebook Page

 

New and bigger things at ICON Design Store. Click to enter

 

Grand Raya Package at Peugoet and promotion ends 15th September. Click image to enter website.

 

One of the popular places for breaking fast – Tasek Brasserie!!

 

Click image to enter website

 

Time flies vey quick and it’s almost the end of the week and I’m still in Thailand. When am I coming back? Pretty soon 😀 The cities that I have visited were Bangkok and Chiang Mai. My previous trip was back in 2012 for the CN Blue concert but I was mostly in Bangkok. Three years ago, I was in Bangkok/Hua Hin and that was pretty amazing!!

It’s sad that it will come to an end, my trip that is and soon I will back to the busy life of covering events and also being heavily involved in lovefoodhatewaste.org since it’s Ramadhan. So peeps, be patient as I won’t be fully updating my blog for a day or two, depending on my time and accessibility here. I shall post more about my Thailand trip and for now, enjoy the pictures 😀

 

 

Sri Lanka’s Thishala T Algama was still all smiles despite the defeat. She earned the best shooter award of the tournament

SRI Lanka’s netball Janakie Goonesekere coach admitted that her sides were second best in their 59-50 defeat to Malaysia in the final of the 8th edition of the Asian Youth Netball Championship 2013.

“It was simple.

“Malaysia played better than us during the game.

“We tried our best in the game,” said Goonesekere in an interview with The Brunei Times after the match at the Indoor Stadium of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas on Sunday.

Both teams were careful in their passes and movement earlier in the game and Sri Lanka were the first to find the basket.

However, Malaysia would find their way back into the game with Centre Pow Mei Foong played an important role leading with good passes to keep her team ahead.

Sri Lanka stuck to their own game plan of trying to slow down the game.

However, it did not work in their favour as Malaysia maintained their lead until the final whistle.

“We try to play with our own pace during the game, but the Malaysian team have their own style of play, and I think they are very strong this year.

“We will try to improve and train harder for future tournaments, added the coach, who is in her first year heading the Sri Lanka national under-21 squad.

The eight-day tournament which was hosted by the Brunei Darussalam Netball Association (BNA) featured teams from Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, Nepal, Maldives, Thailand, India, Hong Kong and Sri Lanka. Text courtesy of Ak Fauzi of The Brunei Times.

To read from Malaysia coach’s perspective, click here.

They were tons of Sri Lanka supporters during the finals

Great defence by Sri Lanka but it was a defensive foul

Good to see young patriotic fans

The bench were not happy with how their ladies performed

Another defensive foul from Sri Lanka

Aaron fell asleep during the finals?

Malaysia was simply too strong as they won their 5th consecutive youth netball title.. Amazing!!

Normally it’s in June or July. This time the Consumer Fair, in its 12th edition, will be held in August (21st to 25th) at the BRIDEX Hall in Jerudong. This edition has a special theme as it will known as the ASEAN Year Consumer Fair Part 12 with the them “Inspiring an Asian Lifestyle” in conjunction with Brunei’s role as host nation for the ASEAN Summit 2013. So do expect some great stuff that will be featured from different members of ASEAN during CF12.

The interesting part of the CF12 is the collaboration with the Brunei Breast Cancer Group (BBCG) and IA Salon where they will run a charitable activity “Go Bald for a Cause” and the intention of this activity is to raise funds for the support BBCG. I believe this will be great move and this have been very successful in Malaysia where they actually raised millions for the “Go Bald” charity. This activity will be a great motivator and also to raise awareness on breast cancer.

There are also activities from Fun Bee Park and Reebok Crossfit 673 who are both making their debuts in the popular Consumer Fair. For those who aren’t aware of Reebok Crossfit 673, it’s a venue where you can learn about cross fit which is a growing trend in Brunei and did you know Mike Mogard, who runs Reebok Crossfit 673, was crowned the “Fittest Man in Asia” in the recent CrossFit Games Asia Regional event in Seoul, Korea. So for the upcoming CF12, they will be running a cross fit competition as well as conducting several fitness demo for the public.

Group photo with the partners and supporters and event organizer Sunlit for the upcoming ASEAN Year CF12

Cecilia Lee of IA Salon with Dato Hj Danial, Executive Director of Sunlit Advertising

Mike Mogard of Reebok Crossfit 673 with Dato Hj Danial, Executive Director of Sunlit Advertising

I love the green theme t-shirts for CF12

Two weeks ago, the contract signing ceremony held between Sunlit Advertising Sdn Bhd and its event and activity partners at Wisma Suncity, Gadong.

Present during the ceremony was the Executive Director of Sunlit, Dato Hj Danial Hj Hanafiah to sign on behalf of Sunlit as well as the General Manager of Sunlit, Christopher Chee who was present to witness the signing. Also present were representatives of the numerous event and activity partners for the latest installment of the consumer fair. This includes Ranoadidas, Air Cat Forwarding, Oregon Systems, Aewon Garment & Embroidery, Reebok Crossfit 673, IA Salon, Fun Bee Park and the Brunei Breast Cancer Support Group just to name a few.

There is also the ever popular lucky draw where visitors gets to win a list of amazing prizes during the course of the fair.Not only that, the 12th consumer fair will also feature a photography competition in which prizes will be given to the best fair-related photographs.

Cecilia with her stamp of approval

Representing the Brunei Breast Support Group

Representing Fun Bee Parkp

Representing Bayu IIlham Motors

Adib checking out the press release

I don’t know why I was laughing then

Click image to see more of Netcom Computer House from their Facebook Page

 

New and bigger things at ICON Design Store. Click to enter

 

Grand Raya Package at Peugoet and promotion ends 15th September. Click image to enter website.

 

One of the popular places for breaking fast – Tasek Brasserie!!

 

Click image to enter website

 

Sorry for the late of updates, guys!! As some of you know from my social media update that I’m currently in Chiang Mai, Thailand and I shall be back pretty soon. So far a great trip and an amazing place to be here indeed in Chiang Mai. I haven’t really wandered around as our hotel, Veranda Resort Chiang Mai is pretty far away from the city (about half and hour to the city) but the good thing is that they provide shuttle buses.

And to my Muslim friends and supporters of RA, I would like to wish you all Selamat Berpuasa and may Allah bless all of you. It’s such a blessing to be fasting once again in the month of Ramadhan. It’s the most anticipated month of our calendar and it’s amazing that I’m away from Brunei and having my first fasting period in Thailand. I do miss the environment of Ramadhan back at home because for me, it’s the only time (I make) to spend time with family.

Currently I’m here typing away in this awesome room I’m staying at Veranda Resort Chiang Mai. I’ve seen the pictures from the website but the feeling is different when you are actually physically here. The greenery here is impressive though I still prefer the ones at Maya Ubud Resort (Bali). We will be staying here for a few more days before heading back to Bangkok.

So at the meantime, I won’t be posting much news on RA as I’m taking time off for a while. And yea, I do need my break too 😀 I shall be back to full force after 15th July 😀 Oh yea, don’t forget to log on to http://www.lovefoodhatewaste.org for updates on our Sungkai and it’s still a bit messy though since we still have to finalise the list of participating restaurants and cafes. If you guys are interested, do drop me and email at ranoadidas gmail.com and yes, we are having special package as we are introducing a new package for food e-vendors.

Below are some of the pictures of the Veranda Resort Chiang Mai 😀

We have arrived at Veranda Chiang Mai, High Resort and this is the entrance of the hotel

This is how the reception desk looks like.. A bit weird for the eyes *lol*

Guava juice with lime for our welcoming drink

So much green around the hotel.. Me likes!!!

More green in the area

It was quite a walk to our rooms though

Love the lightings at the lobby area

The corridor of the hotel

Great service from the hotel

Checking in to our rooms

Hari Raya is just three weeks away. Time flies very fast indeed. We are already in the second week of Ramadhan and the crowd have been rising at Galleria YMRM. Since Hari Raya is just around the corner, I made my 2nd pitstop to Galleria YMRM (this time to both Batu Satu and Tungku Link).

Galleria YMRM have quite a selection of fabric for “cara melayu” and what impressed me the most is the IMA fabric which is the Japanese cotton material. The price is higher than the normal type but now they have a promotional price where it’s being slashed from $19.90 to $15.90 per meter. What’s great about this material is that it’s of high quality and it’s pretty cooling and soothing to the skin. Last year, they have 20 different colours and this year, they have 60 different colours with the IMA material. This really shows how good the material and the trust it has coming from customers.

They also have good quality ones for the ladies for Baju Kurung and they have different price range from the affordable ones to the high end and of course, the quality is guaranteed. It’s no surprise that most of the tailors in Brunei make their fabrics and textile according to the management. For the ladies, if you want something more elegant as in Kebaya type, then I recommend you go fo the laces and YMRM have tons of those in both branches.

Galleria YMRM are not only popular for selling fabrics for men and women but they are also selling in-house lights and also “cucul” lights for Hari Raya. So if you need some new lightings in your house, they have a wide selection to choose from.  YMRM already have tents outside their premise selling deco lights (cucul) and this have been their trademark for a few years already.

Galleria YMRM are selling IMA quality textiles for Cara Melayu. Highly recommended.

The IMA fabric section and yes, there’s a promotional price and it’s not $19.90 as stated in the picture

They have around 60 colours to choose from for the IMA fabric.

Tons of laces for the ladies to choose from at YMRM

Hui Chiet liking the laces here at YMRM

Now you can make your Kebaya with this material

How the interior looks like at YMRM Tungku Link

Another hot seller at Galleria YMRM is the “Senjang”. Apparently quite a few VIPs buy their senjangs here because of the quality and the price. For a hand stitch one especially from Kelantan or Tregganu, the price can fetch at least $700 to $1,000 if you buy in Malaysia. However, for the same quality and material, the particular senjang from Trengganu only cost $300 and many have shopped in YMRM for the same reason.

Anyway, Galleria YMRM also have different price range of senjang. There is even senjang that costs $14.90 for budget customers. They also have prices from $19.90, $39.90, $44.90 and many more that will suit to the budget of the customers. So if you are in need for a quick fix on Senjang, I highly recommend you Galleria YMRM.

This specially hand stitched senjang from Trengganu is around $300 and it’s way cheaper than buying it from Malaysia itself.

Lots of selections to choose from and different price range too

The cheapest Senjang selling at $14.90. They have different designs too.

Galleria YMRM are not only popular for selling fabrics for men and women but they are also selling in-house lights and also “cucul” lights for Hari Raya. So if you need some new lightings in your house, they have a wide selection to choose from. This week, YMRM will be having a tent outside to sell deco lights (cucul) and this have been their trademark for a few years already.

This is what makes the Galleria YMRM shop lit up so bright at night

They have many nice lights to choose from

This is normally located on the 1st floor of the outlets

Head down to Galleria YMRM where textiles and fabrics are the cheapest in town and of high quality too. With their intention to give value for money, this has created a good loyalty relationship with their customers. Do visit their branches – one in Tungku Link Spg 100 (you can’t miss this spot) and the other is at Batu Satu, near BIBD branch. You can call their number at Batu Satu 222 3343 or Tungku Link 245 2344.

They also sell trays and serving dishes ideal for Hari Raya

Reminder to the guys… Don’t forget to get yourself a Songkok

Galleria YMRM at Batu Satu

Different range of songkok available

Made in Brunei Songkok

The lightings ideal for Hari Raya

One of the reasons why people go to YMRM – Liiiiigghhhttts and cuculs 😀

Have you prepared for Hari Raya yet?

You can buy those mini trays ideal for Hari Raya

Galleria YMRM at Tungku Link

Click image to see more of Netcom Computer House from their Facebook Page

 

 

New and bigger things at ICON Design Store. Click to enter

Grand Raya Package at Peugoet and promotion ends 15th September. Click image to enter website.

 

One of the popular places for breaking fast – Tasek Brasserie!!

 

Click image to enter website

 

Hari Raya is just four weeks away. Time flies very fast indeed. It’s already the 2nd half of the year and insyaAllah tomorrow could be the beginning of Ramadhan and this depends on the sighting of the new moon later in the afternoon. Since Hari Raya is just around the corner, I made a pitstop to Galleria YMRM to see if there’s anything interesting that I can find for my “cara melayu”. Good thing about cara melayu is that they are just based on colours and not design wise.

Galleria YMRM have quite a selection of fabric for “cara melayu” and what impressed me the most is the IMA fabric which is the Japanese cotton material. The price is higher than the normal type but now they have a promotional price where it’s being slashed from $19.90 to $15.90 per meter. What’s great about this material is that it’s of high quality and it’s pretty cooling and soothing to the skin. Last year, they have 20 different colours and this year, they have 60 different colours with the IMA material. This really shows how good the material and the trust it has coming from customers.

Galleria YMRM are selling IMA quality textiles for Cara Melayu. Highly recommended.

The IMA fabric section and yes, there’s a promotional price and it’s not $19.90 as stated in the picture

They have around 60 colours to choose from for the IMA fabric.

Another hot seller at Galleria YMRM is the “Senjang”. Apparently quite a few VIPs buy their senjangs here because of the quality and the price. For a hand stitch one especially from Kelantan or Tregganu, the price can fetch at least $700 to $1,000 if you buy in Malaysia. However, for the same quality and material, the particular senjang from Trengganu only cost $300 and many have shopped in YMRM for the same reason.

Anyway, Galleria YMRM also have different price range of senjang. There is even senjang that costs $14.90 for budget customers. They also have prices from $19.90, $39.90, $44.90 and many more that will suit to the budget of the customers. So if you are in need for a quick fix on Senjang, I highly recommend you Galleria YMRM.

This specially hand stitched senjang from Trengganu is around $300 and it’s way cheaper than buying it from Malaysia itself.

Lots of selections to choose from and different price range too

The cheapest Senjang selling at $14.90. They have different designs too.

Galleria YMRM are not only popular for selling fabrics for men and women but they are also selling in-house lights and also “cucul” lights for Hari Raya. So if you need some new lightings in your house, they have a wide selection to choose from. This week, YMRM will be having a tent outside to sell deco lights (cucul) and this have been their trademark for a few years already.

This is what makes the Galleria YMRM shop lit up so bright at night

They have many nice lights to choose from

This is normally located on the 1st floor of the outlets

Head down to Galleria YMRM where textiles and fabrics are the cheapest in town and of high quality too. With their intention to give value for money, this has created a good loyalty relationship with their customers. Do visit their branches – one in Tungku Link Spg 100 (you can’t miss this spot) and the other is at Batu Satu, near BIBD branch. You can call their number at Batu Satu 222 3343 or Tungku Link 245 2344.

They also sell trays and serving dishes ideal for Hari Raya

Reminder to the guys… Don’t forget to get yourself a Songkok

Galleria YMRM at Batu Satu

BIBD was awarded in six categories by The Asset Triple A Islamic Finance Awards 2013 at an award ceremony that was held at the InterContinental Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

BIBD was presented with awards for “Best Islamic Bank, Brunei”; “Best Islamic Retail Bank, Brunei”; “Best Islamic Trade Finance Bank, Brunei”; “Best Islamic Loan Syndication” and “Best Islamic Deal, Turkey” for Albaraka Turk US$450 million syndicated trade finance in which BIBD acted as one of the joint arrangers and bookrunners. The Bank also received the “Best Islamic Deal, Brunei” for its part as one of the mandated lead arrangers for Brunei Gas Carriers Sdn Bhd (BGC) US$170 million limited-recourse Islamic Financing facility.

Present on hand to receive the prestigious awards on behalf of BIBD were Haji Minorhadi Haji Mirhassan, Head of Institutional Banking and Sabri Ulus, Head of Treasury and Markets.

Hj Minorhadi commented “This represents another momentous milestone for BIBD and these accolades commemorate all the strides BIBD has been pursuing at the international level, making a mark in the international Islamic finance arena”.

Haji Minorhadi Haji Mirhassan, Head of Institutional Banking of BIBD and Sabri Ulus, Head of Treasury and Markets of BIBD received the prestigious awards – “Best Islamic Bank, Brunei”; “Best Islamic Retail Bank, Brunei”; “Best Islamic Trade Finance Bank, Brunei”; “Best Islamic Loan Syndication” and “Best Islamic Deal, Turkey” by The Asset Triple A Islamic Finance Awards 2013 held at InterContinental Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The BGC transaction, for which BIBD was awarded the “Best Islamic Deal, Brunei ” was the largest financing transaction in Brunei Darussalam in 2012, which also attracted participation from other leading international banks in Asia. It involved the refinancing of a previously owned vessel, along with the financing of a new vessel. This innovative Shariah compliant facility has a sound financing structure with a comprehensive security package reflecting the importance of the project-driven nature of the financing. This transaction increases the capabilities of BGC and is an add-on to its existing fleet of vessels, which plays a fundamental part in supporting the LNG supply chain from Brunei to Japan and Korea. This, in turn, is paramount to the long-term economic future of Brunei Darussalam.

The Asset Triple A Awards is Asia’s defining recognition for excellence in the industry. Now into its second decade, the perception and appreciation of The Triple A’s continues to strengthen. This reputation has been built upon the stringent methodology, combined with the rigorous approach to the selection of the winners of the coveted Triple A. The awards are adjudicated by The Asset’s Board of Editors who collectively have broad and profound experience, stretching over two decades in evaluating industry awards in Asia. Press release and image courtesy of BIBD.

 

Protect your desktop computers at home or at the office with the Prolink Pro Series line of Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), available at Netcom Computer House.

“If you’re worried about losing your documents or data due to unforseen circumstances, such as sudden blackouts or a dangerous thunderstorm, then this is the perfect device for you,” said Product Manager (Consumer) at Netcom Hj Mohd Hassan Hj Md Gafar.

One of the many UPS that comes under the Pro series line is the PTO850VU/SU, which the Product Manager explained is able to provide five to 10 minutes of power to run a desktop computer, giving users an ample amount of time to save important data and documents, as well as properly shutting down their computers.

“Most damages that occur to computers is when it is not properly shut down, resulting in either a damaged motherboard, which costs about $200 to $400 to fix, or even a corrupted operating system,” he shared.

He added that the Pro series UPS can prevent all of these problems, as it not only acts as a back-up power device that charges automatically when connected to a desktop computer, it also provides power surge protection.

“When connected, the unit is able to produce a balanced current output and prevents undervoltage brownouts and overvoltage,” he added.

“So, rather than spending $300 or more to fix damages to your desktop computer, simply spend $108 on one unit like the PTO850VU/SU and keep your computer protected.”

To learn more about the Prolink Pro Series UPS line, visit any of the Netcom branches in the Sultanate or call its main branch in Kiulap at 2231563. Text courtesy of Adib Noor.

 

The participation for the second PSI Charity Run drew huge numbers as compared to the first one that happened back in June. The first charity run drew over 500 runners whereas yesterday’s run drew more almost close to 2,000 participants. Proceeds of the donation will be donated to the Kg Saba Darat “A” fire victims. The organisers hinted that their next run could be sometime in August. Well done on the recent run and it was nice to see families also taking part in the 5km fun run category.

 

BIBD through its Corporate Social Responsibility intiative, last weekend wrapped up the 2013 edition of the “Program Sirah Amal BIBD”, which was organised in collaboration with Society for Community Outreach and Training (SCOT) of Universiti Brunei Darussalam.

This heart-warming BIBD’s initiative accomplished to visit more homes than previous years as they seek to fully maximise the efforts to help improve the lives of 100 families in all four districts during the month of Syaaban.

The event closed with representatives from BIBD and SCOT visiting the homes of families in the Brunei-Muara District led by the bank’s CSR team.

“Alhamdulilah, we are able to complete another year of our Sirah Amal initiatives, and we are looking forward to continually contributing to society in the years to come,” said Hjh Nurul Akmar Hj Mohd Jaafar, Head of BIBD’s CSR.

She also added, “It brings us great joy to be able to brighten up the lives of these people, especially ahead of the festive month, and to see all the smiles on their faces, telling us that we have actually done a very good deed.”

BIBD made a total of four trips to the homes of the unfortunate in all four districts. The families were selected through a list compiled by a few NGOs, and were presented with boxes of food hampers and donations, aimed to ease their burdens during the fasting month. BIBD and SCOT personnel were seen not only contributing daily necessities for the less fortunate but also their time and effort to visit the homes of these families.

BIBD and SCOT representatives at one of the houses of the recipient for the “Program Sirah Amal BIBD”. Image courtesy of BIBD.

One BIBD employee highlighted on how the initiative has opened his mind to remember those who are less fortunate and to be thankful for the opportunities that he gets in his life. He also shared his happiness at the chance to contribute in reducing the burden of the people the initiative affects.

The programme along with BIBD’s other initiatives such as BIBD ALAF, displayes the bank’s role and commitment in constantly listening and caring for the needs of the community, continuously underscoring the values of caring for the society.

“Program Sirah Amal BIBD” was initiated four years ago, by the bank’s CSR team with the combined efforts and resources by generous BIBD employees through internal fund raising.

To find out more on BIBD’s CSR initiatives, get in touch with the BIBD Contact Centre at 2238181 or email the CSR initiative at csr@bibd.com.bn Press release from BIBD.

Cecilia Lee, Fun Bee Park’s Activity Consultant announced that Pearly Kee is coming to town to do a Nyonya cooking demo this weekend at Fun Bee Park. Check out details below!!

This should be interesting… What’s great about Cecilia Lee is that she likes to try to new things especially when she travels abroad. This time round she wants to share the Nyonya culture to the residents of Brunei and the activity that will take place this weekend is the Nyonya cooking workshop and the seats are limited (8 pax per session).

Did you know that the Baba Nyonya culture signifies the unity and inter-community of races in Brunei and Malaysia? I did learn some history of the Baba Nyonya culture in my trip to Malacca a few years back. I’ve always enjoyed the nyonya style cuisine and it’s good to know that Fun Bee Park will be hosting this Nyonya cuisine workshop this weekend.

They will be inviting Chef Pearly Kee, a fifth generation in the art of Nyonya cuisine, and she is a descendant of Kee Lai Huat the founder of Sungai Bakap, a small town in Sebarang Perai Selantan, Malaysia.

Want to learn more about Nyonya culture?

Cecilia Lee briefing to the local media for this weekend’s event

You still can sign up for Nyonya cuisine workshops

Tonight Saturday, 6th July 7pm to 10pm. Nyonya night. Maximum of 50 pax. 5 course sit down dinner and Nyonya cultural showcase. Menu – 1) Curry Kapitan 2) 5 spice chicken roll with chilli sauce 3) Kerabu Kay 4) Sambal Goreng 5) Bee Koe Moy BND 80 only

Tomorrow Sunday, 7th July 8am to 11am. Demo by Pearly with tasting session. Maximum of 50 pax. Menu – 1) Assam Laksa 2) Nasi Ulam. Tasting portions of demo dishes. Demo recipes and 2 bonus recipes given. Additional nyonya kueh and drinks provided for. BND 40 only.

Tomorrow Sunday, 7th July 2pm to 6pm. Maximum of 8 pax. Menu – 1) Stuffed ladies fingers 2) Assam Prawn 3) Curry Chicken with potatoes. Dinner included. Go home pack with 3 hands on recipes and 1 bonus recipe. BND 80 only.

To register or purchase tickets or for any enquires, call Fun Bee Park at 2457729 or visit the centre at Unit 6&7 Ground Floor, Sempurna Complex, Jalan Batu Bersurat.

Pearly (center) is in Brunei for the weekend

Pearly conducting a workshop yesterday at Fun Bee Park

Pearly conducting a workshop yesterday at Fun Bee Park

 

Lisha Rahman playing central role for Brunei and she has the most minutes on court in all the matches. I don’t remember her being subbed out. Brunei U-21 beat Maldives 82-18 in the 8th Asian Youth Netball Championship.

The Brunei coach expected that they were gonna win against Maldives yesterday and she knew it was gonna be a tough game against Thailand. Her biggest worry was the new injury to one of their attacking player Nur Syuhaidah who fell awkwardly in the 2nd half of the match. With injuries to Farul and now Syu, Brunei U-21 will have to make use of their reserve players as they take on Thailand for the 5th spot in the competition. Their star player Marhayati Ahmad is not fully fit but she will definitely be featured and play an important role against Thailand today. Another worry is Siti Nuratikah (Eika) who is nursing some blisters on her feet.

However, coach Thilaka Jinadasa was very happy with how her players played yesterday. She was proud how the girls have gone so far in the tournament and she felt that they need more games like this for exposure and experience if they were to improve. The players will benefit from this experience and this tournament is already a good eye opener for them. She said that they have never played so many games consecutively in a competition and hence fitness plays an important role. One player that she highlighted was Lisha Rahman who is the only player to play full time in all the matches and she’s one of the fittest player on court.

Brunei will take on Thailand later at 11:00am after a comprehensive victory over Maldives 82-18, their biggest victory in their competitive match. Come and support our national players and I hope they will achieve 5th spot in the tournament.

Maldvies played their best and I hope they will improve in years to come

Brunei rotated their players to give all of them a chance on court

A bad injury to Syu and it’s very unlikely that she will play later

Fifi of Brunei U-21 playing GK and she did pretty well

A tactical move that is legit in netball. It was the first time I’ve seen such defensive move in netball. Great attempt 🙂

I would have expected a Malaysia-Singapore final but I just learnt how freaking good Sri Lanka team is. Even coach Thilaka said that netball is a national sport for Sri Lanka. Anyway, I thought this match was quite interesting because it was a pretty close match in the first three quarters though Singapore was trailing most of the time.

The Malaysians were technically better than their opponents and they marked their players all the time, making it difficult for the Singaporeans to retain possession. The turnaround came in the final quarter where Malaysia just raised the bar and kept scoring at will.

Malaysia beat Singapore 52-32 in the first semi-finals of the tournament. Malaysia will face Sri Lanka in the finals while Singapore will take on Hong Kong for 3rd/4th place tomorrow at the Indoor Stadium.

Singapore attempting a shot against Malaysia

Shikin of Malaysia is one tough player to steal the ball from and her success rate of receiving passes is pretty high

Singapore’s GK was pretty vocal on the court

And she still kept the momentum despite being on a stretcher. Definitely one passionate netball player I’ve come across.

A tearful player as Singapore lost to Malaysia in the semi-finals

I was telling my friends how I admire Kriesel of Hong Kong as GK because of her defensive capabilities. I knew she was gonna have a tough time against Sri Lanka and she did. Sri Lanka were simply unstoppable and their physique and strength gave them the competitive advantage against Hong Kong as they beat HK 70-28.

I expected a win for Sri Lanka and they steamrolled past Hong Kong in the first quarter 23-8. Hong Kong were forced to shoot from a distance while Sri Lanka had easy shots from the basket. The great thing about Sri Lanka is their depth in the squad as they were able to rotate their players and still give the same energy.

Of course, in the back of Sri Lanka’s mind is the finals against Malaysia. Sri Lanka have been losing finalists for the last three tournaments and they will want to better themselves by beating Malaysia tomorrow (1:30pm) in the finals.

Justine of Hong Kong trying to pass to her team mate against Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka proved too strong for Hong Kong