DPMM FC, perfect record  

DPMM FC celebrating their goal against Home United last night at Jalan Besar Stadium. DPMM FC won 3-0 and maintain a perfect record in the S•LeagueSteve Kean does live up to his word. He aimed for 3 points and nothing less than a draw. He was wary of the quality of their opponents last night but Kean had high hopes because of the strong partnership for DPMM FC’s attacking line. He was happy that Roy O’Donovan has settled and gelled in well with the players despite his late arrival and missing most of the pre-season training which lasted six weeks. Last night was a great testament of O’Donovan’s calibre as a marquee player as he scored a brace in DPMM FC’s 3-0 away victory Home United (Protectors).

DPMM FC had a comfortable half time lead with O’Donovan scoring in the 25th minute and Rodrigo Tosi in the 36th minute. DPMM FC had a few chances that they failed to convert. The Protectors also had scoring opportunities but their finishing failed to find the net. After the break, Tosi added the cushion lead to give a much comfortable lead and the win. After two away victories, the memories of last season was easily forgotten when DPMM FC finished 8th last season. DPMM FC were usually vulnerable away from home last season. It was more of different story now. They have scored four away goals and conceded none in two away matches and DPMM FC are also invincible at home.

Kean is definitely happy with the maximum 9 points and this will give more smiles to the DPMM FC management on the consecutive victories since the start of the season.

According to the interview by S•League, Kean were happy with his players but it is still a long journey ahead.

“When we don’t have possession of the ball, we worked very hard – not only the back four but the whole team,” he said after the match.

“There were periods in the game where after you score, you’re always a little bit open to conceding but we kept our concentration and worked our socks off the ball. It wasn’t the three goals but the clean sheet that pleased me most. I think they can [play better than what they did today] and we’ve evolved into a real good side but I still think there’s still more to come from us.”

I was a bit surprised that Home United failed to find the net, given that they have a high good scoring goal ratio. I believe that the fixtures that they are having might take a toll on them. Three days before, they had an AFCCup match against an Indonesian club and soon they are traveling to India for their next AFC Cup match.

DPMM FC’s next match will be on at Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium on Sunday 23rd March as they take on champions Tampines Rovers, the other undefeated team in the S•League. Pictures taken by Darren Ho from the S•League.

DPMM FC Roy O’Donovan finally opened his goal account with a brace. He even hit the woodwork earlier in the game. Good things to come for the former Sunderland player.  

Lee Kwan Woo of Home United had chances but failed to score and thanks to the towering defence of Boris Raspudic and Shahrulrizal Abd Rahman of DPMM FC. They have protected the keeper on three occasions and kept a clean sheet in the process. 

Left back Sairol Hj Sahari was magnificent outing and even clear the ball off the line. In this picture, Sirina Camara of Home United skipping a tackle by Sairol and he also had his shot saved by Wardun Yussof in goals 

Lee Kwan Woo of Home United sighed after missing a scoring opportunity against DPMM FC 

It was good to see Hendra playing some match time after subbing for Roberto. Shahrazen was also introduced late in the game and it was also his first match appearance in the S•League this season 

Wardun Yussof has kept two clean sheets and he was dominant in goal against Home United 

It was good to see some DPMM FC Brunei supporters at Jalan Besar Stadium 

Rodrigo Tosi has scored in all three games for DPMM FC. He’s definitely a key player for DPMM FC. 

The first team line up for DPMM FC against Home United 

The young DPMM FC fan supporters from Brunei at Jalan Besar Stadium 

  
Japan Festival at Times Square 

 

YAM Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Wadood Bolkiah and His Excellency Kenichi Suganuma, the Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam with their spouses and Amal Majidah, the General Manager of Times Square Property Management at the launch of the Japan Festival 2014

This is the second time that the Japan Festival is being held at Times Square Shopping Centre with the support of the Japanese Embassy last Thursday. The event will end on Sunday , 16th March 2014.

Present to launch the Japan Festival at the atrium of the shopping centre were YAM Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Wadood Bolkiah as the guest of honour and the Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Kenichi Suganuma, and both placed the replicas of sakuras (cherry blossoms) on a man-made sakura tree.

In his speech, Suganuma told the audience that this was a special year for Japan and the Sultanate as it marks 30 years of friendship between the two countries. The ambassador also added that patrons visiting the four-day fair will enjoy a variety of Japanese activities. These include Manga drawing contest, Karate-do and origami demonstrations as well as cooking demonstrations by the ambassador’s chef.

Meanwhile, Amal Majidah, the General Manager of Times Square Property Management, who was dressed in a traditional “Yukata”, thanked the organisers, sponsors, tenants and exhibitors who were involved in making this event a success.

At a side event, a ceremony for the Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation Award, which consisted of a certificate and gift presentation, was handed by the ambassador to the President of the Brunei Japan Friendship Association (BJFA) – Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Chapter.

The ceremony ended with Master Yamada Shihan and three members from Akido Federation of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia demonstrating the Japanese martial art.

The festival, is part of a series of events marking the 30th anniversary of friendship between Japan and Brunei. The event is also supported by the BJFA – UBD Chapter, the Japan Foundation and the council of Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR) Japan.

Some of the activities are such as Martial Art Demonstration (Aikido), Sushi eating competition, ongoing quizzes, Japanese Cooking Demonstration by Misato, Manga Drawing, Soran-bushi dance, cosplay, and Kawaii (cute) baby contest. So do drop by Times Square Shopping Centre this weekend.

The guest of honour placing the flower on the Sakura tree to officiate the opening

Shahbudin Musa, the President of the Brunei Japan Friendship Association (BJFA) – Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Chapter thanking the Japanese Foreign Minister on the Commendation Award

Handing over of the souvenir

The Aikido demonstration

The Aikido demonstration

One way to distract your opponents

The emcee from the Japanese Embassy

A van from Nissan

Touring around the booths and this is at Hana Soy & World booth, selling soya from HS. Healthy stuff!!

Trying out the Yukuda outfits

Trying out the Yukuda outfits

Want to learn more about Japanese culture and language? Check this booth out. I got some brochures from here 😀

Guest of honour visiting Malppy’s booth

Origami on display
 

In Need for Speed?  

Exclusive for Volkswagen Owners in Brunei

Maju Motors Sdn Bhd, the official dealer for Volkswagen vehicles in the Sultanate will be giving its owners an exclusive screening of the much awaited for blockbuster movie, Need for Speed. Owners were called and informed to pick up vouchers that will entitle them to two movie tickets for this Sunday’s 10.50am showtime (16th March).

This event is held to show gratitude towards the never ending support of its customers and also to strengthen ties with the customers as well as their families and friends. Need for Speed the movie is a film inspired by one of the most played car racing games also titled Need for Speed. The Mall Cineplex will have a number of showtimes for this movie in order to accommodate for the crowd that is expected to show up for this movie.

 

  

HSBC Personal Internet Banking

 
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BIBD – Let’s Go Mobile!

 
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KFC’S EGG TART AND 

MILK TEA DELIGHT  

With the KFC Portuguese egg tarts becoming a favourite among the customers especially during tea time and for dessert, KFC is now doing a special joint promotion with Aiking Trading Company Sdn Bhd to offer the Egg Tart and Milk Tea Delight. Aiking Trading carries Mr Brown coffee which is popular among the locals and it can be found in most major supermarkets and mini marts in Brunei. “A lot of people is familiar with Mr Brown Coffee, we have high hopes for Mr Brown Milk Tea especially working closely with one of KFC’s sellable product, the egg tart” says Mr Yeo Boon Khai, General Manager, Aiking Trading Co Sdn Bhd. Mr Brown Milk Tea is available exclusively only in KFC outlets in Brunei. “With cultural origins from Macau, Hong Kong, Portuguese Egg Tarts and Milk Tea go hand in hand and is often accompanied by a sweet story and by offering this combo, we hope that it gives our customers the ingredient they need for creating a memorable moment,” added Jonathan Bong, Senior Marketing Manager, KFC (B) Sdn Bhd.

“This sweet story in the making” is priced at only B$3.50 for 2 pieces of KFC Portuguese Egg Tart and a cup of hot Mr Brown Milk Tea and is available at any KFC outlets in Brunei.

Coey Loh, Marketing Executive of KFC (Brunei), Jonathan Bong, Senior Marketing Manager of KFC (Brunei) and Yeo Boon Khai, General Manager of Aiking Trading Co Sdn Bhd (Mr. Brown) presenting the new promotion from KFC. Image taken from The Brunei Times. 

Mr. Brown Mlik Tea to be hit seller at KFC’s outlet. Image taken from The Brunei Times. 

 

KFC’S COLONEL STACKER BURGER  

AND THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS  

In conjunction with the upcoming school holiday, KFC Brunei is introducing the Colonel Stacker Burger Combo to celebrate the occasion with their junior customers.

Priced at only B$3.50, The KFC Colonel Stacker Burger combo consist of two colonel chicken fillets, with lettuce and mayo served between two pieces of junior bun and a small cup of carbonated drink. Customers can choose to upsize their drink to large with an additional B$1.

The Colonel Stacker Burger Combo promotion is available in all KFC outlets in Brunei.

KFC Value Treats 

  

What a spectacle show!!  

Singing the National Anthem song to kick off the show

Last year was the bomb!! So was this year’s Jerudong International School Showcase Concert. They had three shows, the first being performed internally for the students and teachers of JIS while the remaining two shows were opened to public.

I like this year’s theme which was “Movies and Musicals”. According to Principal Andrew Fowler-Watt, he expressed that how music influences us and by listening together we connect, no matter our nationality or culture.

Overall, I was super impressed with the quality from the vocals to the performers to the the musicians and let’s not forget the sound technicians and those people back stage and mostly the music coordinator who set the pace from start to finish. Sophia and I really had a great time and I can’t wait for next year’s edition.

The JIS Orchestra playing the theme song from Superman movie “Superman March” 

The JIS Orchestra and combined Choirs performing Zadok (the most famous of George Friderik Handel’s four Coronation Anthems) and they also belted out the popular Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen 

The musical director, Paul Edgeler (in white), led the JIS Orchestra 

The JIS musicians as part of the JIS Orchestra who have worked tirelessly for the past eight weeks 

Cristeen Park and Maitie Trias on vocals for “You’ve Got A Friend In Me”. This song is popularly known in Toy Story series. It’s an empowering song about friendship. 

The showcase dancers at the JIS Showcase Concert 

Great vocals from JIS 

The Vocal Group belting out Radioactive, a song by Imagine Dragons. It was a nominated in the Grammy Award for Record of the Year and Best Rock Performance 

The showcase dancers did add more colour to the spectacle 

Ruby Chong has such great vocal. I love her performance for “You Exist in my Song” written by Wanting Qu, a songwriter based in Vancoucer, Canada 

Another performer that brought to an eruption of applause was Shian Li who belted out “Winter – 1st Movement”  

When it comes to music and performance, you need great energy and both Hanny Yussof and Bazilah Ali were magnificent from the beginning when they sang a popular song by Najwa Latif entitled “Sahabat”  

The performance of The Polar Express 

Beauty and The Beast musical after the interval. The beast performer is played by Mr. Adrain Thacker 

A colour performance from the Beauty and the Beast 

Qawi Kamri had a dual role – playing the Prince/Beast as well as the vocal. Impressive! 

The Beast and the Beauty 

The Prince and the Belle (Nurlyana Adi Shamsul) 

The finale of the concert 

Well done to the young performers 

The musicians being appreciated by the audience 

Paul Edgeler the Musical Director appreciating the musicians and the performers and the audience

 

Wu Chun & Co donate blood  

Wu Chun donating blood at Fitness Zone last weekend

Every year Fitness Zone organizes 2 to 3 blood donations per year and they encourage their members to take part as well because it doesn’t only saves their lives but it’s also good for their health! Each time you donate blood, you get a basic check up where you will find out if your pulse, blood pressure and other vital signs are healthy or not.

Every time you give blood, you also lower your iron levels, which according to CNN can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. According to the Miller-Keystone Blood Center (a non-profit organization that supplies blood products across the U.S.), regular blood donation can also reduce the risk of cancer in the liver, lungs, throat, colon, and stomach.  By being a regular donor, you help to replenish body by itself and this will allow your body to work more efficiently.

Fitness Zone gave out 2 weeks membership passes to all donors last Saturday. The next blood donation event is scheduled for October 2014.

Special thanks to Mr Baker and FZ Live Band for their support and of course, the RIPAS Hospital team who did a great job and they were willing to come over to FZ, making it more convenient for the 60 staffs of FZ and members to donate blood today.

According to Wu Chun, at Fitness Zone, it’s not only about Fitness and getting healthy. It’s about living it RIGHT! It’s about feeling good about your own life. When you exercise, its all about loving life because you are taking steps to improve your quality of life and you are making your loved ones less worried about your health condition.

The event had a tremendous response of 63 donors in the four hour window. For more information on your free trial session at Fitness Zone, please call 2448488 or log on to their website www.fitnesszone.com.bn or at Facebook FitnessZoneBrunei.

More than 60 volunteered to donate blood 

Wu Chun having his blood pressure checked 

The heart beat of Jonathan Bong of KFC Brunei 

Dj Izan and Aliya supporting each other 

Nasroul giving some support to Aliya 

The media taking photos of Wu Chun  

 Wu Chun and his Fitness Zone members 

  

Malppy at Times Square 

 

Malppy having an appearance at Times Square till Sunday

Malppy.com will once again be making a public appearance at the Japan Festival hosted by Times Square from the 13th to 16th March 2014. There are a number of activities planned for this event. A special announcement will be made as part of Malppy.com’s continuous effort to provide the best customer service.

The public can experience online shopping first hand at the booth with an added incentive of 10% discount if you purchase on the day itself. In addition to that, there are a number of attractive prizes to be won daily by the public. One of which is a Misato dining voucher worth up to B$50. Additionally, the public is invited to Malppy.com’s booth for an exclusive look at Malppy.com’s newest fashion range, Mayuki Tokyo Fashion online.

Drop by Malppy.com’s booth at Times Square Shopping Centre from 13th – 16th March 2014 for a chance to win amazing prizes. Tune in to Malppy.com’s Facebook and Instagram page @malppybn for information updates on their event campaigns coverage.

Do drop by their booth at the ground level of Times Square

 

DPMM FC takes on Home United away 

 

DPMM FC management and some of the players at the Brunei International Airport this morning
DPMM FC are wary of Home United as both are fighting for 3 full points. Home United lost their opening match against defending champions Tampines Rovers 1-0 but they have improved immensely with a 4-1 victory over Geylang International FC. The Singapore club also competed in the AFC against Persipura 1-1 last Tuesday.

DPMM FC, on the other hand, have two victories out of two games so far with a perfect record and yet to concede a goal in the S•League. However, Steve Kean, DPMM FC head coach, is wary of the the Protectors but the Scotsman is gunning for all three points tomorrow evening at Jalan Besar Stadium, Singapore.

“Yes, we all going for three points and we have not set to go for a draw. We have to be positive and the attacking players that we have (Rodrigo, Donovan, Gamble) and we have Bobby who wants to go in the box. So we are very offensive. The other good thing is we have a stable unit at the back and solid behind the ball, “ said Steve Kean.

“Home United is a strong team and they scored 4 goals in the last game. They are gonna be a bit tough. But the way we play, we are gonna be tough for them too. So we all can go and get three points. Home United also have a few injuries so it might be difficult to field their strongest team.”

When asked about the first line up, he hinted that he’s gonna field the same players and hope to gain all three points.

DPMM FC just flew off to Singapore this morning and they will be training later this afternoon at Jalan Besar Stadium. Their next competitive match will be tomorrow evening Thursday 14th March 2014 at 7:30pm kick off. For your info, the match will have a live telecast on RTB 2 for DPMM FC fans.

 

 

Apartment, cafe launched  

The Palazzo de Qaseh Service Apartment at Plaza Athirah

Late post: Last weekend was the official launch of The Palazzo de Qaseh Service Apartment and Qasehmaisara Cafe House by Her Royal Highness Princess Hjh Amal Jefriah. Apparently the business has been ongoing since last year but only started full operation after the launch.

Also in attendance was Datin Paduka Hajah Adina Othman, Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, YAM Pg Anak Haffiz, YAM Pg Anak Qayyum and YAM Pg Anak Razaaq.

I was quite impressed with the apartment and it boasts a total of 34 fully furnished units – 26 of them are two bedroom apartments while the remaining 8 are three bedroom apartments. The kitchen area is quite spacious, newly furnished sofas and spacious living room and of course, WIFI ready.

There will be a weekend promotional price in conjunction with their opening. It applies on Friday, Saturday and Sunday and the promotional price will be ongoing every weekend until 30th April 2014. The rates for the units are $128 for the two-bedroom apartment and $228 for the three-bedroom apartment.

For more information on Palazzo de Qaseh Service Apartment, contact them at 2459898 or 2469898 or 2479898. The service apartments are located at 4th and 5th floor of Plaza Athirah, Jalan Kubah Makam Diraja, Mile 1, Jalan Tutong. The reception area is on the 2nd floor.

The do a selamat before cutting the ribbon to officiate the launch 

HRH Princess Hjh Amal Jefriah with Datin Paduka Hjh Adina and YAM Pg Anak Qayyum 

Her Royal Highness with her sons 

Her Royal Highness with her children  

The rooms at the apartments 

The living area at the apartment 

Qasehmaisara Cafe House 

Datin Paduka Hjh Adina signing the plaque 

Celebrity Keith Foo signing the plaque 

Another celebrity Nabilah Suhaimi receiving token from Her Royal Highness 

Group photo outside the cafe 

The interior of Qasehmaisara Cafe House< 

Nadz pulling some magic tricks for the kids 

With celebrity Keith Foo 

  

Texas Crown Pizza  

Group photo before the motorcade rally. Click image to enlarge

Last Saturday, Pizza Hut Brunei made an interesting excursion when they organised a motorcade rally led by the outlet’s team of 70 staff in delivery bikes and cars and this is to launch their new pizza flavour – “Texas Crown Pizza”. So the journey took place early morning Saturday from Gadong to Sengkurong and Kiulap. The latest innovative product from Pizza Hut Brunei, it is an indulgent crust pizza filled with delicious sausages topped with 100 per cent Mozzarella cheese and perfectly seasoned corned beef topping.

For pizza lovers out there , there will be a photo contest being held in conjunction with the launch. Until March 31, interested members of the public can join the contest and stand a chance to win the grand prize of a 16GB iPad Mini. The top 10 pictures, on the other hand, will receive consolation prizes.

To join, just visit to any Pizza Hut Brunei’s branches at Airport Mall, The Mall, Gadong or Kuala Belait and look for the Texas Crown Pizza Fun Booth and take a snap shot.

Send the pictures to https://www.facebook.com/PizzaHutBrunei/inbox, together with personal details such as name, IC numbers, contact numbers and email address. The picture with the most likes, wins. There are already a few entries so the earlier, the better so you can get your friends to vote for you.

The new Texas Crown Pizza is now available nationwide and can be ordered through 2226111 for delivery or visit any Pizza Hut Brunei’s store for dine in or take-away.

Getting ready to ride 

All set to go 😀 

..and off they went… 70 of them 

The riders were full of energy even early in the morning 

This looked pretty cool on the road 

Check out the competition Pizza Hut Brunei is organising

 

  

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d’ Arcy, an inspiration for volunteers  

You will be surprised that volunteering doesn’t really equate to a good thing unless you are aware if it leads to a good outcome. I do agree of d’ Arcy Lunn’s sharing about volunteering and he gives us a different perspective about volunteering and I would like to share with you guys.

But first, I would like to thank the Australian High Commission to Brunei Darussalam for the invitation yesterday at their residence where I had the opportunity to catch and understand d’ Arcy Lunn’s vision which is to see the world without extreme property “for everyone, everywhere and forever”. He is a teacher by profession from Australia. The best gift I’ve see in him is his passion to volunteer and he has been traveling to different countries (more than 60 countries) – including Krygyzstan, Arctic Canada and Africa.

So it’s good to him making his presence felt in Brunei especially to educational institution such as International School of Brunei where he had talks there yesterday. One of the reasons for his presence in Brunei is the current project initiated by ISB on Polio Points project. In a nutshell, this is a student rewards system supported by Standard Chartered Bank which translates effort and achievement into Polio vaccines for Pakistan.

The project was launched and patronized by Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Salleh Ab Rahaman in October 2012. ISB’s house points system encourages staff and students to be caring global citizens: every good deed and positive contribution by ISB primary and secondary students during lessons, sports competitions and various school events go towards vaccinating children in Lahore, Pakistan against contracting the polio virus in their lifetime.

This project is also not possible without the support of Global Poverty Project, the partnership between ISB, SCB and UNICEF Pakistan, UNICEF HQ in New York, the Gates Foundation, High Commissions of Pakistan, the United Kingdom and Australia in Brunei Darussalam and of course, the endorsement of Her Royal Highness.

As of now, ISB Polio Project has collected enough points which will be redeemed by Standard Chartered Bank (Brunei) equivalent to BND 10,000 which will then translated to Polio points for the benefit of the children in Pakistan. The project has been ongoing since last year and I really want to applaud ISB and SCB for making this possible and it’s good to see a school like ISB to get involved in Social Responsibility programs because this kind of education is important especially if it’s coming from the younger generation and this kind of contribution programs will raise more awareness among their age group which will be more effective.

d’ Arcy Lunn speaks to the audience at the Australian High Commission’s residence yesterday 

His Excellency Todd Mercer, High Commissioner of Australia to Brunei Darussalam welcoming the invited speaker 

NGOs, volunteers and representatives from SCB attended the session 

The heads of the ISB student councils sharing updates on the ISB Polio Project

I could just go on and on about this project but I shall talked more in depth about ISB’s Polio Project on another day. For now, I want to focus on Mr. Lunn who is an iconic figure for volunteerism. Like I have said mentioned before, not all volunteerism can translate to a good outcome. So we have to take into accounts of a few things before getting excited to volunteer.

Mr. Lunn shared some interesting good pointers that will lead to “good aid and volunteering”. We have to be aware that when we show the passion to volunteer, it doesn’t mean that we are the expert if we are dealing with something unfamiliar. It’s important to speak to the relevant agencies and see what role you will be able to play as a volunteer.

The other habit which I feel that I have some weakness when it comes to volunteering is “Listening and Learning”. Sometimes we fail to pay attention to what is required. For instance, we keep donating clothes only to know that they needed more school bags for the under privilege students.

We have to make sure if we volunteer that it’s appropriate and collaborated with relevant agencies or organizations or non-government organisations. We also have to make sure that we volunteer, it is empowering for the country, community and the people.

Lastly, it’s also important to make the volunteerism programs have sustainable. It doesn’t just happens just once or twice. It has to be ongoing with great support from the sponsors and the community involvement to keep the momentum going and going. A good example here is Beach Bunch Brunei and they have been running volunteering campaigns on clean beaches for many years and they have bigger plans because their campaigns have been successful.

Mr. Lunn did leave some inspiring impression on me on what volunteering is. Volunteering is a rich thing to do and you don’t have to be rich in fortune. He also highlighted that you may have the best intention for volunteering but make sure the outcome is good and relevant to the receiving end. Yes, I also do agree with Mr. Lunn that volunteering is the best entry to achieve your dreams and of course, you will have to take a leap of faith and the inner courage to begin with. I believe there are many Bruneians who have those dreams.

You can check out d’ Arcy Lunn’s blog for updates and you can also follow him on twitter @darcylunn and you also can reach at darcy(a)global povertyproject.com

Pg Aki Ismasufian Pg Hj Ibrahim, SCB Head of Corporate Strategic Initiatives and Iswandy Ahmad, President of Brunei Darussalam Aids Council also attended the talk 

JIS students talking about volunteerism with d’ Arcy 

Pg Aki Ismasufian sharing with Adam of ISB on SCB’s involvement with ISB Polio Project 

Students from Maktab Sains with the Australian High Commissioner and d’ Arcy 

Photo opportunity with representatives from HEART  

The stakeholders involved in the ISB Polio Project. Click image to enter website. 

A great way to increase awareness on Polio. This is called the Purple Pinkie. When a child is vaccinated, they have a purple stamp put on their little finger. This is an ideal way to raise awareness. Image courtesy of Pulitzer Center. 

  

Fashion and stylist ambassadors impressed 

As the largest and most influential hair salon in Brunei Darussalam, the IA Salon creates a much needed arena for professionals and consumers to come together to learn and exchange information about natural hair care, health and beauty products, and techniques.

IA Salon Brunei had launched series of workshops for both hair and makeup with the support of MAC cosmetics and L’Oreal hair industry. Cecilia Lee, director of IA Salon invited the ambassadors of both line to conduct in-house trainings for salon hair stylists and makeup artists, photo filming of fresh models, customer services, and makeup tutorial classes.

L’Oreal artistic ambassador Simon Koh from Malaysia has been consistently nominated to its title since 2000. He had hosted numberless hair seminars, hair talks, workshops, demonstrations, hair shows, and so forth, both within Malaysia and overseas. Established in 1986, ELLE Hair salon and academy was founded by him. With his 30 years of hairdressing experiences, Simon is leading a troop of experience leading stylists all over Malaysia. Koh is bringing his lady assistant who has been working with him for the past 7 years and graduated at Elle Academy.

MAC cosmetics leading makeup creative artist Lim Kok Leong from Malaysia has been 9 years in makeup industry. He had tied up to work with famous magazines such as Herworld, Female, Cittabella, Malaysia Tatler, Men’s UNO, Sister, and more. Lim graduated makeup art course in Tokyo Designer Gakuin, a technical school in Tokyo, Japan. He is a leading artist for Salabianca & Philosophy fashion show such as @increafible India 2007, @ China Champ 2008, @360* Melbourne 2009 and forth. He has been the personal makeup artist of Pussycat Dolls in MTV Asian awards. He has various distinctions not only in Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and even in New Zealand.

Anna from FunBeePark, Simon Koh , L’Oreal artistic ambassador in KL, Ramlah Binti Laipu, owner and creative designer of ELLA Botique in Sabah and Lim Kok Leong, MAC cosmetics leading makeup creative artist from KL 

Simon Koh , L’Oreal artistic ambassador in KL, showing the disconnect cuts and the new fashion 

The before and after 

Lim Kok Leong, MAC cosmetics leading makeup creative artist from KL explaining the different types of make up application

Ramlah Binti Laipu, owner and creative designer of ELLA Boutique in Sabah has been developing an image of beauty and fashion. She created her own conceptual designs and she called it “EL TUDUNG PESTA”. Mostly of her designs have the concept of tudung exclusive that is suitable to any occasions. She has been invited to do fashion shows in Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore.

Cecilia Lee of IA Salon is inviting the public of Brunei Darussalam to experience this once in a lifetime chance to explore the world of beauty and furthermore gain much confidence and outshine. Makeup classes for Mr Lim will be conducted at IA Salon, The Mall, Gadong, on (today) 12th March 2014. Morning and afternoon classes will be available for registration. For reservation and more inquiries, call IA Salon customer service at 2423232 or 8738232.

There will be customer services conducted by Mr Koh to interested clients and hair enthusiasts on 12th March 2014 at IA Salon, The Mall, Gadong. Services such as hair cutting, hair design, hair colouring, perming, or rebonding are available for booking now. Appointments are limited to six customers only. Have a chance to beautify yourself with internationally distinguished L’Oreal ambassador. There will be free of charge consultation on Tudong designs and fashion with Ramlah. Special handmade tudong scarves for sale too. For reservation and more inquiries, call IA Salon customer service at 2423232 or 8738232.

New and artistic MAC cosmetics and L’Oreal Hair care products will be available for purchase at IA Salon, The Mall, Gadong with proper consultation by hair and makeup specialists.

Cecilia Lee of IA Salon explaining the “EL Tudung Pesta” while Ramlah demos on how to apply them  

“EL Tudung Pesta” being demoed by the models 

Ramlah with the models wearing “EL Tudung Pesta”  

Group photo

 

Acer projectors at your home 

 

If you want to enjoy maximum impact visually, you should check out the newly launched Acer home projectors and the best thing is that the Acer projectors are quite affordable. I introduce to you the Acer P1173 projector which only cost $398 instead of the usual price $568.

This affordable Acer projector has a sharp projection due to the SVGA resolutions and 3,000 lumens of brightness with HDMI Port Connectivity. This is also very ideal for presentation when you do your business presentation or sales-pitch where you can start with a customised set up screen with your corporate logo.

It’s also an eco-smart device which reduces power consumption in standby mode. Earth-friendly elements include long lamp life for lower replacement cost.

It’s also easy to use as it’s suited for beginners and also offers many useful features and connectivity.

Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer (center), Richard Soo, Miri Branch Manager of Acer (2nd from left) and Zul Abd Rahman, Marketing Manager of Concepts Computer (2nd from right) unveiling the new Acer P1173 projector

Richard Soo recommends the public to get hold of this affordable projector

The portable and eco-smart Acer P1173

Get the Purchase-with-Purchase deals so you can get the projector screen for a much cheaper price

This is Concepts Computer membership dongle and show this to enjoy the special discount for the Purchase-with-Purchase deal

Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer and Richard Soo, Miri Branch Manager of Acer unveiled the newly launched Acer P1173. It is now available at the Concepts Computer with the promotional of $398, usual price $568. Concurrently, Concepts Computer will also have a Purchase-with-Purchase promotion for 70” by 70” projector screen with tripod stand. You can get the projector screen for $100 only when you buy with the Acer P1173 projector. The price alone for the screen is $128.

Oh furthermore, if you have the Concepts Computer membership pen drive, just show it and you can get the projector screens (70” by 70”) for only $88 for the Purchase-with-Purchase promotion. Teachers will also be able to enjoy this special deal and you just need to show your teacher’s ID or confirmation letter.

For more information, you can go to the nearest Concepts Computer showroom or call 223 3551/2 for more details.

You get a casing bag for the purchase of the projector

The affordable projector is also ideal for the upcoming World Cup 2014

The media getting snippets of the projectors

So what are you waiting for? This is a great deal from Concepts Computer
 

 

 

HSBC Personal Internet Banking

 
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BIBD – Let’s Go Mobile!

 
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Icon Design Store

 
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Netcom celebrates annual dinner  

With a Hollywood theme, Netcom Computer House celebrated their annual dinner at Mutiara Ballroom, Radisson Hotel. The event was welcomed by Vincent Goh, Managing Director of Netcom Computer House and he shared about the vision of the company to his employees. There were lucky draws and performances by the staff.

The event also honoured long serving staff – Mary F. Yanez, Grace Q. Lamela, Jean G. Vasquez and a special mention to Jackie Lim for her 10 years service to Netcom Computer House.

For you info, Netcom Computer House have five outlets – Kiulap, The Mall (Gadong), Mulaut, Tutong and Kuala Belait. They are the largest IT retail chain store in Brunei Darussalam.

Jackie Lim receiving her 10 years service award for Netcom Computer House 

Jean G. Vasquez, Mary F. Yanez and Grace Q. Lamela receiving their 5 years service award 

Vincent Goh, Managing Director of Netcom Computer House giving away lucky draw prizes 

Vincent Goh picking some of the lucky draw 

Vincent Goh giving away lucky draw prizes 

Wady posing for the camera 

Group photo of Netcom Computer House 

 

 

 

  

 

Driving Audi R8 at Nürburgring for 24 Hours  

Following his stratosphere jump in 2012, extreme athlete Felix Baumgartner is tackling his next big challenge on the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring. The Austrian will obtain a racing license and become a race driver with the Audi race experience team on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife.


The Audi race experience makes it possible for Audi’s customers with sporting ambitions to enter racing. But never before has the program, which the Audi driving experience has been running since 2010, had as prominent a driver as this one. “It’s fantastic that we’re cooperating with Felix Baumgartner this year,” says Klaus Demel, the head of the Audi driving experience. “As an extreme athlete, Felix Baumgartner has been thrilling millions of fans around the world with his daring actions that combine ingenuity and exceptional technical demands. Now we’re familiarizing him with our sport, offer him a professional environment with our team, and are very excited about this new, joint challenge.”

As a guest entrant, Baumgartner has been gathering some racing experience in recent years during occasional runs in the one-make cups of the Volkswagen Group. The big difference in the 2014 season: the Audi R8 LMS ultra provides him with a 419 kW (570 hp) ‘pure-bred’ GT3 race car. The 44-year-old is completing an extensive preparation program before competing in the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring on June 21/22, 2014. His team-mates are equally prominent: The five- time Le Mans winner Frank Biela (D), the three-time Le Mans winner Marco Werner (D) as well as the GT and sports car pro Pierre Kaffer (D) will be his colleagues in the cockpit.

“This task is totally exciting and I’m looking forward to driving races in an Audi,” says Felix Baumgartner. “During initial tests in the road-going Audi R8 I got to know the Nürburgring, and in the Audi R8 LMS ultra I’ve clocked a few kilometers on various tracks as well. I regard this task as one of the major projects in my life. The environment is perfect, the atmosphere is fantastic, and I feel really well taken care of by the Audi race experience. But it’s also clear that I’m basically starting from scratch because this sport is new for me.”

Felix Baumgartner to drive the Audi R8 at Nürburgring for 24 Hours

Former professional rally driver Josef ‘Sepp’ Haider, now the Audi race experience’s sporting director, is one of the instructors of his Austrian compatriot. “Felix is approaching his new task in exactly the manner that is the hallmark of a pro,” says Haider. “He’s eager to learn, has good judgment of the physical conditions, and is totally motivated. All team members have come to respect him in the initial tests. I’m very much looking forward to our joint journey.”

The team will be fielding another R8 LMS ultra in the 24-hour race. The drivers of this car have already been confirmed. Already last year, Dominique Bastien (USA), Rahel Frey (CH) and Christian Bollrath (D) formed a team. Christiaan Frankenhout (NL) will be supporting the Audi race experience as a driver for the first time.
Felix Baumgartner’s 2014 Nürburgring program:

• March 21–22 VLN, test and setup runs

• April 05–06 Qualification race, Nürburgring 24 Hours

• April 26 VLN, 56th ADAC ACAS H&R Cup
•May 17 VLN, Adenauer ADAC Simfy-Trophy

• June 21–22 Nürburgring 24 Hours

  

Hiring at McDonald’s  

Interested to work at McDonald’s? Check out the details on poster

Meet the fans session 

 

DPMM FC players and the management team with the team from Maju Motors at Maju Motors showroom yesterday. Click image to enlarge.

It was great to DPMM FC fans turning up yesterday at Maju Motors new showroom at Telanai to show their support and taking photos and signing autographs on the DPMM FC poster sponsored by Maju Motors. The management team of DPMM FC and all the DPMM FC players turned up for the special occasion. Today they will have a friendly match against ABDB at the Jerudong mini stadium and this is to keep up the match practice for all the players. Steve Kean hinted that all the players will have a chance to be on the field as he intended to swap all the players in the second half.

DPMM FC’s next match will be away to Home United on the 13th March and rumoured that RTB will be airing the game live on TV for the benefit of DPMM FC fans. So far DPMM FC have won two matches and the team to have a perfect record in the S•League.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Click image to enlarge. 

  

Setia Motors feted in Europe  

Pengiran Haji Mohd Suhaimi bin Pengiran Penggawa Laila Bentara Istiadat Diraja Dalam Istana Pengiran Haji Alauddin, General Manager of Setia Motors holding the International Century Quality ERA Award at the International Century Quality ERA Awards, Geneva, Switzerland 

Brunei company stood out in Geneva competing among the global players. Business Initiatives Directions (BID) Group One International Convention took place in Geneva, Switzerland last weekend. The event included the presentation of the International Century Quality ERA Awards (CQE and this year, the award was held at the InterContinental Convention Center, Geneva, Switzerland. Leaders of companies and institutions from 73 countries made the journey to Geneva to receive this distinction. The Award honors an organization’s merits in Total Quality Management (TQM) which includes leadership, innovation, quality, excellence,processes and good practices.

Jose E. Prieto, Executive President of BID (Business Initiative Directions) presented the award and certificate to Pengiran Haji Mohd Suhaimi bin Pengiran Penggawa Laila Bentara Istiadat Diraja Dalam Istana Pengiran Haji Alauddin on behalf of Setia Motors Sdn Bhd in recognition of outstanding commitment to Quality and Excellence wIth merits. The International Century Quality ERA Award was evaluated in the realm of Leadership, Strategic Planning, Business Excellence, TQM implementation, Training, Quality, Profitability, Growth and Benchmarking as established in the QC100 TQM system.

Since 1986, companies in 178 countries around the world have implemented the technology of B.I.D QC100 Model in order to manage total quality. The symbol of B.I.D. adorns the corporate image of their companies as a seal of commitment to quality before their clients and the rest of their constituents.

The members of the international committee for selection of candidates are responsible for the selection of companies nominated for the BID CQE Award. The committee is made up of successful corporate leaders from more than 90 countries who meet annually in London, Paris, New York, Frankfurt, Moscow and Geneva.

Amongst the most outstanding companies from around the world that have received the award in the BID Convention since 1986 are:

•  Turner Construction, the company which managed construction of the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa Tower in Dubai;

•  Alcoa Howmet Gennevilliers, the aeronautics division of France, belonging to Alcoa, the world’s leading producer of primary aluminium, ranked at 461 in the Fortune Global 500 with turnover of $5.2 billion USD;

•  Reliance Industries Ltd, Hazira from India. Ranked 264 in the Fortune Global 500;

•  Tata Auto Elxsi and VSNL Videsh Sanchar Nigam Ltd., part of the Tata Group, one of India’s largest and most respective business conglomerates;

•  Indian Oil Corp. Ltd., ranked 125 in the Fortune Global 500;

•  Khrunichev State Research and Production Space Center, which works for the Russian Space Agency;

•  Walmex, subsidiary of Walmart, largest global retailer and #1 on the Fortune 500;

•  King Fahd Industrial Port in Jubail, Saudi Arabia;

•  Al-Yamamah Press Est “Al-Riyadh Newspaper”, Saudi Arabia;

•  ICICI Bank Ltd, India

•  Istanbul Natural Gas Distribution Co Inc – Turkey

•  SAFCO and Saudi Iron & Steel Company (HADEED) – SABIC, ranked 293 in the Fortune Global 500

•  ANKOL, Poland

•  CBA Kereskedelmi KFT, Hungary

•  LUMERO, Angola

•  Alumina do Notre do Brasil S.A, Brazil

 

Pengiran Haji Mohd Suhaimi receiving awards from Jose E. Prieto, Executive President of BID accompanied by Craig Miller, President of QC100 

Pg Hj Mohd Suhaimi with other guests during the event 

Pg Hj Mohd Suhaimi with other guests during the event

In an interview, Pg Hj Mohd Suhaimi commented that Setia Motors Sdn Bhd is committed to continue this Quality Culture with employees, suppliers, clients and the community, supported by the QC100 Total Quality Management Model and the principles of which have been practised by delivering quality, a consequence of valuing customer satisfaction and obtaining positive business results.

Another commitment is maintain and meet the quality levels established in the company in accordance with the QC 100 Points of Quality by encouraging participation and teamwork for decision-making enabling to deliver clients and customer satisfaction and needs to meet their expectations.

This practice will continue to provide human resources, both technical and economics, to achieve continuous improvement and respect for the environment while simultaneously managing human resource in the company to achieve the maximum potential by creating awareness of the importance of concentration on the most profitable areas of activity, to achieve the best business results.

The achievement of these principles by Setia Motors Sdn Bhd will foster improvement for clients, employees, suppliers and all of the other persons who make up the company. Text and images courtesy of Setia Motors.

Congratulations Setia Motors on the milestone.

 

Pg Hj Mohd Suhaimi with Jose E. Prieto, Executive President of BID (Business Initiative Directions) 

Setia Motors winning an international award 

  

Legal Year 2014  

The guard of honour from the Royal Brunei Police Force after being inspected by Chief Justice  

Chief Justice Dato Seri Paduka Hj Kifrawi bin Dato Paduka Hj Kifli (3rd from right) 

Watching the guard of honour last weekend 

Heading into the High Court for the annual report by the speakers

Did you know that the Brunei legal system has the same birth as Brunei’s national day? March the 15 was the first existence of the Supreme Court building in the capital. I attended the Legal Year organised by the Judiciary. I didn’t stay long as I had other commitments but I managed to get most of the essence of the speeches shared by the Attorney General, Datin Seri Paduka Hjh Hayati binti Pehin Orang Kaya Shahbandar Dato Seri Paduka Hj Mohd Salleh, Chief Justice Dato Seri Paduka Hj Kifrawi bin Dato Paduka Hj Kifli and President of the Law Society of Brunei Darussalam, Haji Mohamad Rozaiman DSLJ Haji Abdul Rahman.

The speeches highlighted that electronic legal system has help to expedite and improve the legal systems though it will have some teething problems in the beginning. The courtrooms (Technology Courts) have computer systems in placed and even digital recording of oral testimonies. According to the Attorney General, it is at 70% in the implementation stage.

A proposed idea was introducing “E-Filing” concept as this can help reduce costs and fasten the process such reducing backlogs and delays in the administering of cases, and provide court users with a workable system all round.

Taken at the High Court  

One managed to caught me taking a shot 😀 

A photo opportunity before the report kicked off 

YAM Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammed Al-Mokhtar in attendance  

Chief justice (3rd from left) reading out his report for 2013 

Also present was the Police Dato Seri Pahlawan Bahrin Mohd Noor

The annual report was also presented as the Chief Justice shared the statistics of cases in limitation for both civil and criminal cases in Brunei Darussalam. Here are some quick statistics for your perusal.

Revenue collected – $5,430,245.55 in 2013 compared to $6,810,368.73 in 2012.

Bankruptcy cases – 338 recorded in 2013, 661 cases recorded in 2012 (huge drop)

Marriages – 89 in 2013, 184 in 2012

Divorces – 33 in 2013, 32 in 2012

Criminal cases (High Court) – 41 in 2013, 28 in 2012.

Civil cases (High Court) – 82 in 2013, 97 in 2012

Receiving orders – 919 in 2013, 661 in 2012

Adjudication orders – 67 in 2013, 49 in 2012

Criminal cases (Magistrate) – 574 in 2013, 852 in 2012

Civil cases (Magistrate) – 895 in 2013, 1,182 in 2012

Juvenile court – 23 in 2013, 24 in 2012

Ambassadors, High Commissioners and diplomats also attended Legal Year 2014 

Ambassadors, High Commissioners and diplomats also attended Legal Year 2014 

If I’m not mistaken, this is where the defendant will be situated during the hearing. I could be wrong  

RBAF Commander Pehin Major General Dato Mohd Tawih also present and the Chief Justice gave many praises on the Royal Brunei Armed Forces

Haji Mohamad Rozaiman DSLJ Haji Abdul Rahman raised concerns on the Power of Attorney, Equitable Ownership and Conversion on conditions of land from perpetuity to 60 years lease and these have been a sensitive issue for the past few years and I would say that it’s in the stage of being inconclusive especially it comes to the Land Code.

He pleaded for Government Link Companies to give recognition to the local law firms and practitioners especially those members of the Brunei Bar. This issue have been put to rest or have gone off the radar. Who knows that this will be another topic to be discussed in the ongoing LegCo (Legislative Council). We shall wait and see.

You also can view last year’s coverage here of the Legal Year 2013.

Placing the podium before the Attorney General read out her report 

The Attorney General highlighted about the new technology in placed to improve the efficiency and the effectiveness of the court procedures 

Representatives from the Royal Brunei Police Force 

Haji Mohamad Rozaiman DSLJ Haji Abdul Rahman, the President of the Law Society of Brunei Darussalam 

It was good to see some smiles after some light humourous pointers by Rozaiman 

The view of the High Court  

They also had law books for sale at the lobby area 

Hello Zubaidah 😀 

  

Photos from White Cane Charity Run  

This was the first run I did this year and I haven’t been running for quite some time. It does say a lot about my dedication to fitness and exercise *lol* Anyway, good job to the organisers and those involved in the recent White Cane Charity Run or also known as Larian Amal Tongkat Putih. More than 2,000 participated in the said event and it’s also the first competitive run event in 2014. The next run will be the National Day Run which is set for 30th March.

Below are some of the photos from the event and I will be posting more soon. This is the first time that the National Association of the Blind organised such event and this is a great awareness on the significance of the white car to the visually impaired. As you know the White Cane is the universal symbol of the access for the blind and visually impaired people. You can check out more pictures and updates on @larianamaltongkatputih on instagram and Facebook.