Archive for May, 2014
#TheChoice
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Want to win a GoPro Hero 3+? Check out #kickItBrazil Peugeot Brunei competition. Competition starts 12th May. Click image to enter Facebook page for more details.
Sometimes it’s great to know how the power of social media when use appropriately and effectively, it can create the right buzz with some impact. Yesterday was a great example when a group of people involved in a community project organised a recycling campaign under the flagship of The Green Apeel.
The purpose of their project is to create awareness among the community on recycling and at the same time, they were also raising funds for YASKA (Yayasan Kanser Kanak-Kanak). I love the idea of them decorating some of the recycling bins to steal the attention of the community and educate them at the same time about recycling.
Yesterday they had a campaign drive for the public to bring in their recyclable goods so The Green Apeel can deliver these items for recycling and in exchange, they will raise some funds as the recycling monies will be donated to YASKA. There was quite a response as the group involved made use of social media to spread awareness and it paid off.
There was also an artistic impression on their Instagram posts (do check out @thegreenapeel and their hashtag #thegreenapeel) which made it trendy and catching the eyes of the social media users. This was a brilliant way of drawing the attention and most importantly, educating the users on means of recycling and its benefits.
The group would like to thank all the supporters for the event and the recycle bins will be out there until the 25th May at Times Square Shopping Centre and Yayasan Shopping Complex.
Below are images taken from @thegreenapeel instagram.
The teacher in charge of the program
The amount of recycling stuff they collected
You can find the bins at Times Square and Yayasan Shopping Complex until 25th May
They reached their 1,000 KG target yesterday
@anakbrunei showing his support and today is also his birthday 😀
Those who came yesterday
Those who came yesterday
They turned up twice with more recycled stuff. Awesome!!
Muscular, elegant and confident: these are some of the words that can describe the much anticipated Audi A3 Sedan.
The crowd cheered as the coupe-like sedan was finally unveiled during the official launching ceremony of the A3 Sedan held at the Indera Samudra Grand Hall, the Empire Hotel & Country Club on Saturday.
Among those present during the night were TCY Group of Companies Chairman Teng Ching Ying, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany Helmut Domas and customers and guests of TCY Motors.
Audi A3 launching last Saturday
Dave Sivanantham, TCY Motors General Manager giving his welcoming remarks
Dj Daffy was the host of the evening
The performers before the launch of the Audi A3 Sedan
“The new A3 Sedan is completely redesigned and shares not a single body panel with its sister models, the three-door A3 and five-door Sportback. It is a sedan instead of a wagon unlike its predecessor,” said Dave Sivanantham, TCY Motors general manager.
He further shared that the premium compact sporty sedan offers the latest in progressive technology, such as Audi’s Ultra Lightweight technology, which allegedly has made the new A3 Sedan lighter than its nearest competitor by over 60 kilogrammes and faster with 24hp more output.
He further stated that the A3 Sedan was recently declared the World Car of the Year 2014 by automotive journalists from 22 countries.
“Now, after much anticipation the all-new A3 Sedan is introduced to the Sultanate and is offered at a competitive price of $53,900 without compromising on luxury, design or performance,” said the general manager.
You can read more of the article here. Text courtesy of Adib Noor of The Brunei Times and images courtesy of Mantuka.com and you can also read their article here for more in-depth review in Malay.
The entrance of the Audi A3 Sedan
Man, the car looks pretty sleek
Dj Daffy driving the car to the delight of the crowd
Group photo with the guest of honour and management of TCY Motors
Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany Helmut Domas (left) checking out the Audi A3 Sedan
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#HuaHin
Check out our review of the current blockbuster Godzilla (2014). Click play to listen to our podcast with co-host Del Goh and special guest Seng Yee
Representatives from Royal Brunei Airlines travel agents and members of the local media and bloggers before heading off to Bangkok and Hua Hin, Thailand
Hello peeps!! I’m currently outstation once again (nothing surprising there). This time, it’s the trip sponsored by Royal Brunei Airlines @royalbruneiair and I’m traveling with local media, one blogger and representatives from travel agents of RB. I will be away for a few days and be back shortly before I stay put in Brunei for another ten days before I head off again. Yea, this year, it seems I’m a certified jet setter.
I won’t be posting much pictures just yet but I shall tease you with a few. The FAM (Familiarization) trip focuses on Hua Hin and Bangkok. Yea, we all are familiar with cities such as Phuket or Pattaya outside of Bangkok but not so much on Hua Hin. I went there once back in 2010 and stayed at the Six Sense Hua Hin which was such a great experience (and pricey too).
Hua Hin is quieter than Bangkok and Pattaya but it’s slowing developing into one of the tourist destination. The last I recalled my visit to Hua Hin, it was a pretty relaxed and chill city and there aren’t many shopping places either. Fast forward to 2014, the city has definitely changed in terms of development but not so much on entertainment.
I shall update on my journey in my next post. I’m out of here. Adios.
Always happy to bump into my sister who’s busy on duty at the Brunei International Airport
It was almost a full flight. Most of the passengers were from our group and another by Brunei Unicity group.
I managed to get a DTAC sim card for my data prepaid plan while in Thailand. Only costs me 299 baht for a week of data. That’s roughly BND 10 and it comes with the sim card as well. Service was efficient as I had my line activated and all that help in less than 3 minutes. Do find this counter at the arrival area of the airport.
We had a quick lunch and this restaurant is pretty good indeed. It serves halal food and located nearby the airport. Ideal for groups and families and the restaurant is called Al-Hilal Restaurant
Pretending to drive the cart with everybody’s luggage upon arrival at Amari Hua Hin *huhu*
Loving the room at Amari Hua Hin. Not exactly sure of the price but it’s pretty reasonable I heard.
Always in my messy state after a day or so 😀
One of the night markets called Chatsila and things are pretty darn cheap
Yea, tons of fake stuff here. Sunnies selling as low as BND 2 to 3 each.
Looks like voodoo dolls to me
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#GODZILLArocks
Acer Liquid Smartphones
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Icon Design Store
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Royal Brunei Airlines
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Want to win a GoPro Hero 3+? Check out #kickItBrazil Peugeot Brunei competition. Competition starts 12th May. Click image to enter Facebook page for more details.
UBD Charity Carnival is just around the corner! Organized by FASS Community Outreach Programme, January 2014 and it will take place from Friday to Sunday, this weekend. Food, Entertainment, Clothing and also fun activities coming to you this weekend! They will be joined by RBTS, Gear FSC (Nerf), franchise as well as our local vendors!! Help them by showing your support to contribute ‘to the greater good’ by bringing your family & friends to our Charity Carnival!
HSBC home & Away is an existing global programme that offers exclusive year-round discounts to HSBC Credit Card customers at over 27,000 merchant outlets, in more than 160 countries and territories.
With the theme ‘Close Connections’, it provides opportunities for HSBC Credit Cardholders to reconnect with their families and friends through experience based offers across 13 markets including Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Taiwan, Vietnam, Philippines, Brunei, Sri Lanka, United Kingdom, Brazil and United Arab Emirates.
HSBC Credit Cardholders can now spend quality time with their friends or their loved ones, by looking no further than HSBC global home&Away privilege programme giving opportunities on local dining and shopping offers from Pastamania, Saffron café, Shinobu Shabu-Shabu, Sushi Tei, Firoz Jaya Silk house and Nueva Boutique. Furthermore, with its overseas privileges, HSBC Credit Cardholders can have fun at the Dreamland Aquapark in UAE, Wild Life Sydney Zoo, and Slope Infinity – Hong Kong’s indoor ski and snowboarding deck which is the largest of its kind in the world. There are also trips away, where customers can share experiences such as the Singapore Formula 1 Night Race or the Superstar Virgo package with Hong Kong’s Star Cruise. Finally, for the food lovers, there is a variety of group dining options at premium hotels including the Mandarin Oriental Jakarta and The Peninsula Manila.
Check out these offers and discount from Brunei more through your desktop / mobile device at www.homeandaway.hsbc.com
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Last night, a commotion took place at The Mall at the ground floor. According to a witness, the man was running around and even pushed one of the person who was on duty, setting up a booth at the atrium area of The Mall. The guy was eventually taken into the custody of the police and escorted outside the building which I saw right after our Godzilla movie outing. Click image to watch a short clip of the guy being escorted.
Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank and Mr. Ti Eng Hui, Deputy CEO with members of the media. Taken from BT website.
An event I miss due to my DPMM FC coverage commitment. So here is the text taken from BT. Melodious songs from the 50s rang through the Mutiara ballroom of the Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam as Baiduri Bank Group celebrated its prestigious award-winning achievements with members of the local media yesterday.
Over 150 guests from various media agencies in the Sultanate as well as personnel from various government sectors such as Information Department and designing companies further vivified the dinner.
Attendees were treated to an evening of food, fun and exciting games such as sausage-eating, sundae-making, song-guessing, ball-shooting and best dress awards for both males and females.
For the lucky draw round, Fayezuana, a radio presenter from Kristal FM (KFM) bagged herself a Baiduri saving account with $2000 along with three others who brought home two iPad Minis as well as a Polaroid camera.
The rest of the guests did not go back home empty-handed as they receive instant dips.
Present during the dinner was Pierre Imhof, general manager of Baiduri Bank Group who delivered a welcoming remark thanking the local print media and television in Brunei Darussalam for their vital roles in disseminating information about their products and services to the public. “On behalf of Baiduri Bank Group, I would like to acknowledge you, the media, as a very important part of society, and as our partner in disseminating information about us to the public via your various channels,” he added. Also present at the event were Ti Eng Hui, deputy chief executive officer, as well as Dorothy Newn, head of Corporate Communication and Marketing. Text by Ikhwan Salleh of The Brunei Times.
Pierre Imhof mingling with the media
Pierre Imhof giving his welcoming remarks and thanking the media
Games, games, games
The hula-hula
Hakim and Siti of Borneo Bulletin
Aliya and Siti
AJ and Hakim, best dress during the event
Aziz and Syafiq of Borneo Bulletin
Posing for the camera
Smiling way back in the 50s
One of the fun games for the media
This was taken at last year’s Baiduri Bank Media Night appreciation with the Safari theme
This was taken at last year’s Baiduri Bank Media Night appreciation with the Safari theme
Shop online on Malppy.com
Malppy.com – Brunei’s online Fashion and Lifestyle store announces a refresh of its website with a brand new look whilst offering an enhanced shopping experience.
From its humble beginnings as a start up just a year ago, the company has seen growth and looking to expand further said, Founder Simon Soo.
The founder went said “We (Malppy.com) aim to provide consumers with the best online shopping experience through the new look featuring a clean, sleek design aimed at a global audience”.
The website includes enhanced features such as faster web browsing and an improved user-friendly interface. Taking into consideration the average consumer behavior, the site has simplified all the steps a shopper has to go through from online registration to check out.
Shoppers are also able to share their comments and rate products, a recommendation feature that is important in most international shopping sites. In addition, shoppers can also share what they like via social media, which is integrated in Malppy.com.
Other improvements to the website also includes a wish list, optional registration when shopping, the ability to compare products and detailed product information with more images for better decision making. It has recently added a European fashion line in addition to its current popular Eastern range. A Children’s section is now available due to popular demand as well. Exciting new ideas in the pipeline include collaborations with local and regional designers to promote Muslim wear in the near future. New product categories will be added in the coming months so check out Malppy.com today. Your online shopping begins here.
Shop online on Malppy.com
In conjunction with their first Anniversary on April, Malppy.com celebrated by giving its customers Free iPhone cover for all customer who spend more then B$50 in one single recipe as advertised in the Borneo Bulletin back in April 2014.
Malppy.com continues to expand its offerings by keeping up with the latest trends to cater to the market’s changing needs.
One friend that I know of that doesn’t stop creating or recreating new ideas to reality is Keeran Janin. Our friendship goes all the way back to the era of the RA6 (a disbanded clique) in the mid 2000’s where he was under the employment of b-mobile communications.
If I look back at all the things he has done up to this very moment, I’m just truly amazed of the array of things that he was able to pull off even though some didn’t turn out be successful. He is a great iconic technoprenuer (IT entrepreneur) for the young ones as some of us don’t really like to deal with failure.
In my recent interview with Keeran Janin, he shared some of his successes and failures in his IT adventure including his recent trip to the Silicon Valley where Keeran stayed there for three weeks to meet up with the technopreneurs and angel investors.
I could tell that Keeran was high in energy during the interview and there was so much that he wanted to share on his US trip where he self-funded himself and took that leap of faith and just go all out to meet different walks of life at the Silicon Valley. Honestly, I love the vibrancy of the Silicon Valley and both Keeran and I traveled there once back in 2008 and it was a memorable one for us. This time, Keeran meant business and he is ready to swim with the big fish.
Three weeks in the US is not a cheap feat and Keeran was smart enough to use most of his resources such as air miles (for a subsidized flight) and cheaper means of accommodation so he could make most out of his Silicon Valley trip.
Keeran Janin on one of his tour during visit at San Francisco recently
Keeran Janin and his friend at Lombard Street
Now the question is why did he travel there again for such a longer period? Maybe, just maybe, Keeran kinda felt that he hit the jackpot with his new creation called Chrends (or #chrends) which actually means Chatrooms for trending topics. The IOS app was developed earlier this year under his new company Chrends Sdn Bhd and it is still in its beta platform but it has been garnering pace in terms of subscribers. So he felt it is time to meet the big shots in the US and see what road lies ahead of him.
If you remember the days of mIRC, #Chrends kinda falls in that category but in an app version with a sleek and modern feel to it. Basically you can create rooms or channels and chat with others anonymously without the need to sign up with your profiles. I’ve been using it for a month now and I follow the ongoing conversations on the main channel where people share their thoughts on local issues and so forth.
So Keeran’s trip in the US was to pitch his prototype (#chrends) idea to potential investors and angel investors. He traveled from one spot to another and ended up pitching to at least 30-40 investors. I kinda know how it works in the US. It’s totally different than Asia. Sometimes you could sell your idea in just matter of a minute or two and kabooom, you land yourself a jackpot and the investor will pump in money to fund your idea. In the US, things are much faster when it comes to decision making and sometimes the verbal agreements are on the spot before they get down to the formalities. Hence, it’s no surprise to why Keeran was taking a huge risk in his pitching adventure.
He was a bit tight-lipped about the outcome of his pitches but he hinted that he will reveal all pretty soon. But he did request for one thing is for us to download the #chrends app and do give feedback as that’s the most important ingredient for his app to tract more usage from subscribers.
Whether his trip was a success or not, the message here is that in life, everything is worth a shot. The experience itself will be self rewarding to say the least.
Infographics for #Chrends. Click image to enlarge.
Keeran’s visit to Yahoo at San Francisco in 2008
Keeran at the presentation at Red Herring event back in 2012 for his Chatworthy app
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The annual charity golf event, which is in its 19th edition, is widely recognised as the biggest and most prestigious golf competition in the Sultanate. The tournament is just less than two weeks away.
Three categories – men’s, ladies and juniors – will be contested over two weekends at the RBA Golf Club in Berakas.
The men’s category is divided into men’s open and senior categories while the junior division is open to golfers aged 13-18. The first week of competition will be held from May 30 – June 1 while the second will be played from June 6-8.
Registration fee is set for $120 for adults and $60 for juniors, inclusive of green fee, buggy, breakfast and lunch. Players can play as many times as they like to improve their chances of winning and they are able to enjoy a 10 per cent discount on registration fee on their second and subsequent round.
Interested parties can log onto www.baiduri.com for full details, where they can also download the application forms to register for the event.
The signing ceremony with partners for the Baiduri Masters 2014
QAF Group, Baiduri Masters 2014’s strategic partner represented by its CEO Albert Lau with Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank
Brunei Press, the exclusive media partner to the event represented by its General Manager Reggie See
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#10pointsAhead
HRH Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office (R) and HRH Prince ‘Abdul Malik (L) and other members of the Royal Family during last night’s Singapore League match between DPMM FC and Albirex Nigata at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas. Image taken by Saiful Omar of The Brunei Times.
The game seemed familiar. When I covered the first match where DPMM FC took on Albirex Niigata (S) FC a few months ago in Singapore, the Japanese club was relentless with their possession and mounted series of attack on DPMM FC’s goal area. Last night was no different story. Albirex gave it their all last night and they gave DPMM FC fans a little scare as the visitors were more adventurous (in the first half). DPMM FC came back from a goal down to beat a resilient Japanese team 2-1 with goals courtesy of Roy O’Donovan and Rodrigo Tosi.
In the first half, DPMM FC found it hard to settle down as the visitors had more possession and control in midfield. Wardun Yussof was the busiest goalkeeper of the two and he settled the nerves of the home supporters with his heroic saves. DPMM FC mustered a few scoring opportunities too but the Japanese keeper Kazuki Kishigami was up to the task, thwarting Roy O’Donovan twice from close range shots. DPMM FC could have stolen the lead as well when their set piece from a corner hit the frame of the post.
DPMM FC looked nervy at the back at times and they surely were missing the experience of Boris Raspudic who was suspended for this game. However, all that changed in the second half though it was the visitors that broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute through a defensive error and Itsuki Yamada gave a much deserved lead for the visitors to the disappointment of the home fans.
To be title contenders, you need to have character and guile. DPMM FC showed those qualities right after they conceded the goal. I noticed Steve Kean changed the formation to counter the possession game that Albirex were enjoying in the first half. It proved fruitful as Kean deployed Rosmin Khamis and Joe Gamble in midfield and pushed Roberto Alviz wider than his usual role.
One of the reasons for DPMM FC’s 32 goal tally was the club marquee player Roy O’Donovan who is perhaps one of the fastest S•League player and the first goal, the equalizer, was a result of his pace as he stole possession of Albirex’ scorer and raced from midfield before delivering a thunderous drive for a 1-1 score line.
O’Donovan was again instrumental in the winning goal as he was brought down in the box and referee had no choice but to point to the penalty spot which Rodrigo Tosi took the honours in the 72nd minute. DPMM FC began to search for another cushion goal but it never came as Steve Kean opted his players to slow down the game and maintain the slender lead.
The lads celebrated after the final whistle and it was indeed DPMM FC’s toughest test to date at their home ground. The match could have gone either way but Steve Kean’s tactics proved to be the winning formula for last night’s match. Now DPMM FC enjoy a 10 point cushion lead in the S•League with 32 goals scored and 6 goals conceded. This is the best run that DPMM FC have experienced ever since they join the S•League.
The next three games – Warriors FC (away 22nd May), Home United (home 6th June) and Tampines (away 10th June) will determine DPMM FC’s season if they are title contenders or title pretenders.
The winning goal celebration after Rodrigo Tosi scored from the penalty and he has scored 12 goals in the S•League campaign. Last night DPMM FC beat Albirex Niigata (S) FC 2-1 at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.
Steve Kean, DPMM FC head coach, was in jubilant mood after Tosi scored the winning goal
The Yes Chants still going strong
Tosi taking photo opportunity with fans
Selfies from the crowd
DPMM FC merchandise on sale at Gate 12/13
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#AKeanStart
Another lucky draw for DPMM FC fans tomorrow
All eyes on Steve Kean as he caught everyone by surprise, leading DPMM FC to the summit and steamrolling past opponents, scoring 30 goals in just 11 games so far this season. Former Blackburn Rovers manager attributed the success of DPMM FC not just on the players but he was also truly grateful towards His Royal High the Crown Prince cum Chairman of DPMM FC and also DPMM FC’s management.
“Credit has to go way back to the management, the club and of course, the Crown Prince and the amazing foreign imports that have come in and obviously that I’ve given a lot of control and the players that I want to keep. But the organization behind in getting Rodrigo here and Boris and obviously I know Joe (Gamble) and Roy (O’Donovan), but credit has to go to management even from last season as soon as the last game was finished,” said Steve Kean.
Kean shared how the pre-season has made them a stronger team as well and the training schemes have been consistent from day one. The players have a good base fitness which can prove vital over the season and try to reduce the number of injuries over the course of the season.
“We have gotten stronger physically. Roberto was tackled badly in the last game but because his legs are so strong and we have done all the work (from the gym). The training sessions have been getting better and you can see the tempo and the intensity of the training have changed and the standard is really high and credit has to go to all the players as well.”
Kean is now very focus on the next four games (Albirex, Warriors, Home, Tampines) and he is aware that even though there is a gap, these next four games are massive. In between, DPMM FC will also have to talk on Global FC in the RHB Singapore Cup.
DPMM FC will take on Albirex Niigata FC tomorrow at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium and should they win, it will set a new benchmark of a 10 point gap at the summit. I have seen how Albirex fared against DPMM FC in the first game of the season and the Japanese club is pretty solid with great pace. They could have scored plenty of goals if it wasn’t for the heroics of Azman in goal. DPMM FC won the match through a Tosi penalty and I’m pretty sure Albirex will want some redemption for that defeat.
I can’t wait for the RT (Roy-Tosi) connection once more and they have 21 goals between team with Tosi leading the scoring charts with 11 goals. It’s also no surprise to why Shahrazen Said has been benched since the first game but it’s a healthy competition nonetheless and this shows the depth that DPMM FC squad has.
So peeps, mark your dates tomorrow and let’s wish for another win and another clean sheet.
I’ve never such a huge smile from Steve Kean. Taken from yesterday’s training.
All players are back to full fitness though Boris Raspudic will sit out of the game through suspension
The tempo of the training has been tremendous. So much improvement from the start of the season.
Can Wardun hold for another clean sheet? DPMM FC have only conceded 5 goals in 11 games. Great defensive record indeed
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#awayandaway
Acer Liquid Smartphones
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Icon Design Store
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Royal Brunei Airlines
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Check out our podcast review of The Amazing Spider-Man 2. Was it a hit or a miss?
Want to win a GoPro Hero 3+? Check out #kickItBrazil Peugeot Brunei competition. Competition starts 12th May. Click image to enter Facebook page for more details.
Don’t forget tonight’s match between DPMM FC vs Albirex Niigata FC at Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium
Steve Kean has turned the club around after a dismal outing last season under Vjeran Simunic. Kean shared that their opponents tonight, Albirex is a very technical side, more into possession and control as they are the team that passes the most in the league. He urges his players to be step up in this match or this could be a major slip up despite the 7 point lead.
Check out DPMM FC merchandise on sale at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium tonight
The DPMM FC supporters hat costs $10
Captain “Bobby” Rosmin proudly sporting a DPMM FC supporter’s hat
The DPMM FC management and the players with the merchandises
Okay, it has been a while since I posted some personal thoughts on my blog and sorry, if my blog have been lacking substance (and some feel) over the last few days or so or even weeks. I just came back from my recent trips from Seoul (amaaaazzing) and Singapore for work and leisure. It has been a very busy month so far and I haven’t really spend time in taking care of myself in terms of rest. Yesterday I had a great afternoon nap just to recover this aging body of mine *lol* Yes, I ain’t getting younger any more and the big question mark has been (especially from my mom) – “When I’m gonna get married?” I only responded in silence 😀
Just to recap on my recent trips. Firstly, I was just from Seoul two weeks ago for my first coverage of Harley-Davidson and it was also my first ever trip to Seoul, Korea. Awesome city and I am definitely coming back to Seoul hopefully sometime again this year. A big shout out to Sri Sentosa Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of Harley-Davidson in Brunei and thank you to the Asia Emerging Markets of Harley-Davidson for choosing me to represent the social media from Brunei Darussalam. I had the privilege to meet other social medias from different countries and of course, to visit the Harley-Davidson of Korea HQ which has such an incredible facility.
As for Seoul, it was really worth the trip and I was fortunate enough to be hosted at Ritz-Carlton Seoul and it has one of the best services I’ve ever experienced. A big thanks to Alison, the exchange student from UBD, who is currently in Seoul until June and she thought me some tips and guidance and things to do in Seoul. I have to say even 5 days ain’t enough to be in Seoul but I managed to make the most of it.
One place that I didn’t miss out was the Adidas store outlet at Myeondong which has the biggest store in Seoul if I’m not mistaken. The collections are different to that in Singapore but sadly, I couldn’t find any FX FLUX edition there. I’m gonna post some more pictures from my Seoul trip.
The Harley-Davidson of Korea where I had the privilege to cover the event of the Dark Custom event and also the sneaks of the Street 750
The Adidas store at Myeondong which has four floors
One of the gems that Alison introduced me to – a baseball drive pit and it only costs USD 1 for 20 hits and I was addicted to it and had another round
Now this is something interesting. A fresh octopus that after being sliced into pieces, the tentacles were still moving here and there. So it’s meant to be chewed until it stop moving.
Met new friends from Singapore – Yumiko, Shirley and Shalyn – who were in Seoul that time and they enjoyed the octopus experience 😀
Of all places, I bumped into one of my followers on instagram at the Myeondong Station and we chit chat for a bit. They were in Seoul for a holiday and trying out different places of interest. It’s good to know that we can be adventurous people too.
Now this is a whole new experience for cinema. Chairs vibrating, air mists blowing from seats, light strobes and many more. I watched The Amazing Spider-Man 2 and I kinda enjoyed the experience but maybe, just maybe it was too long for that experience alone.
This was my worn out map that help me during my Seoul adventure. People were asking me to download the app for directions but I opted for the conventional type.
Hello Anisah Han from the Brunei Embassy in Korea for the quick meet up two Sundays ago. Thank you for the hand book as well as your time to meet up
Some areas of Seoul can be very crowded
The friends I met along the way and it was a cool, chilly evening
Such a beautiful atmosphere to see all the lanterns being lit
My Singapore trip is my 6th trip this year. This time, my trip is sponsored by Indera Motors Sdn Bhd, the official and sole agent of Jaguar and Land Rover (British Brand) in Brunei Darussalam and they invited myself, Hakim Hayat (Borneo Bulletin), Joana Tan (The Brunei Times) and Adibah (Bruneimotors) for the coverage on the recently launched Jaguar F-Type Coupé at the Red Dot Museum, Singapore. It was noted that Brunei will have be launching the Jaguar F-Type Coupé sometime in July or August 2014 and also in conjunction of their new showroom for Jaguar Land Rover.
The launch, last week, was pretty riveting to say the least. The overall atmosphere was just appropriate for such a prestigious luxury car. I love the fact Jaguar uses its DNA – innovation, Design and Performance – and Jaguar Singapore chose three of their iconic celebrities – Andre Chiang (chef), Eric Khoo (film producer) and Min Lee (violinist) as Jaguar brand friends. So perhaps, the Brunei launch will see a similar launch in a way as this is the requirement of Jaguar to have a similar set up and launching of Jaguar model. I do have to admit that the entrance while unveiling of the Jaguar F-Type Coupé made me feel some goosebumps. Amazing!! And a big shout out to Mercury Singapore for creating such a memorable event for Jaguar Singapore.
I shall be talking more of the specs of the Jaguar F-Type Coupé this week. All I can say now is that the car is super sexy. And so is the price 😀
Outside the Red Dot Museum for the launch of the Jaguar F-Type Coupé and it’s such a cool place to host the said event
Joana Tan (The Brunei Times), Adibah (Bruneimotors). Hakim Hayat (Borneo Bulletin), Luqman Hakim (Sales Consultant, Indera Motors), YAM Pg Anak Ghaffar (General Manager, Indera Motors), Mr. Ong (After Sales Manager, Indera Motors), Yusra Abdullah (Marketing Manager, Indera Motors) and Amirol (Graphics Designer, Indera Motors) outside the Red Dot Museum
The launch of the Jaguar F-Type Coupé
Jaguar F-Type Coupé – this car look awesome indeed
Andre Chiang (chef), Min Lee (violinist) and Eric Khoo (film producer) – the Jaguar brand friends during the launch
The crowd last week during the launch
Extended trip for Mother’s Day. Initially, I was scheduled to be back in Brunei from Singapore last Friday but extended to Monday so I could spend time with my mother on Mother’s Day in Singapore. I have never really organised or take my mom out for lunch or dinner to commemorate Mother’s Day so I thought why not now and she truly deserved this and it’s that level of gratitude that I do have for my mom who has been my influential role model ever since I was a teenager.
It wasn’t tough to arrange the flowers, cake and dinner but I was more worried about how my mom would take it since we hardly do any celebrations prior to this. The most I have given is a Mother’s Day card and that’s it. Funnily enough my mom thought that I won some big project or some sort since I wanted to treat her dinner with the rest of the entourage that followed my mom to Singapore. I believe it’s the gesture and the thoughts that count and my mom began to understand why we all did this in the first place.
The cake cutting scene was perhaps the highlight of them all. This was because I could see the level of happiness my mom was at and to me, that’s a priceless moment. Thank you, Mom, for everything, really. From the bottom of my heart, I love you and it was worth the extended trip to spend more time with you.
My brother and I spent Mother’s Day with Mom in Singapore last Sunday
My brother and I spent Mother’s Day with Mom in Singapore last Sunday
Flowers for Mom
Our Mother’s Day dinner treat at Bali Thai, Novena Square. I love the Tom Yum soup here and yes, I recommend you to dine here as well
Our Mother’s Day dinner treat at Bali Thai, Novena Square
Power banks now sale at Concepts Computers. Recharge on the Go!
The Second Blood Donation Drive organized by Mabohai Shopping Complex with the Blood Donation Centre of RIPAS held on 13th May 2014 received a very good response from the public.
The program, which began at 9:00 am received 17 donors from members of the public as well as staff working in the Mabohai Shopping Complex. 11 first time donors participated and expressed the wish to donate again in the future.
The blood donation drive is part of Mabohai Shopping Complex community service projects which it organizes with the valuable help of the Blood Donation Centre of RIPAS.
The Management of Mabohai Shopping Complex said:
“We are delighted to work alongside the RIPAS blood donation centre to organise this activity to increase stock in their blood bank. We are honoured that the blood donated today can help save lives. For those who have been pondering on donating, please take heart in the fact that there were 11 new blood donors today. Some were slightly hesitant at first, but overcame their apprehension with the idea of being able to help others. We aim to organise another donation in 3 months’ time.“
Should you wish to book the Event Stage of the Mabohai Shopping Complex for your events and activities, please call us on 8111623 or 8653762. Or find them on Facebook, Instagram @mabohaibrunei and Twitter.
Images taken from Mabohai Shopping Complex Facebook.
Representatives from the Blood Donation Centre of RIPAS
PROLiNK has officially released its first new smartphone accessory – the PROLiNK Foto Onyx (Model: PCR1001) to Brunei market through Netcom Computer House, the Exclusive Distributor in Brunei.
The coin-sized device is a smartphone camera remote that connects to your smartphone or tablets via Bluetooth 4.0 technology, and allows the user to take pictures from a distance of up to 30m away and with up to 8 devices at the same time.
This means a group of friends can now put their smartphones on a table or tripod, and pose for all their smartphones and tablets together without having to go through the hassle of taking turns to take pictures, or having to take a single shot at a time. Battery life can last up to 5 years. This also means that landscape or scenery shots with the user in the photos is now made possible without having to lug around a large camera or setting a timer.
The best thing about the device is how simple it is to use. The user only needs to download the free application “mFotoGem” from the Google Playstore or App Store, and once you turn on the application, it prompts you to pair your smartphones or tablets with the Foto Onyx device. Once paired, you can go ahead to take your photos easily, just by pressing the button on the top of the Foto Onyx device.
The Foto Onyx (PCR1001) is extremely portable, and comes with a free audio jack lanyard that makes it easy for you to attach it to your smartphone as an accessory, or to wear it as a pendant.
This new device is available today at all the Netcom 6 retail outlets nationwide with a selling price of B$29 only.
Associates from Netcom Computer House holding PROLink Foto Onyx
PROLink Foto Onyx
PROLink Foto Onyx now available at Netcom Computer House
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#JaguarF-Type
The launch of the Jaguar F-Type Coupé at Red Dot Museum in Singapore last week
Last week, I had the privilege to be witness the launch of Jaguar F-Type Coupé at the Red Dot Museum, Singapore and I would like to the thank Indera Motors for the special invite and flying me to Singapore for the exclusive coverage.
For your info, Indera Motors is the official and sole agent for Jaguar and Land Rover (British brand) in Brunei Darussalam and last year, they launched their showroom at Lambak Kanan Industrial area. This year, it will be an exciting year for Indera Motors as they will be unveiling a new showroom to showcase the British car brands and I shall keep you posted and updates on their progress.
In Brunei, the Jaguar XF seems to be the hot seller and the other models are just picking up pace and this shows that the locals are aware and appreciating the new version of the Jaguar flagship vehicles.
Last week, the much anticipated launch of Jaguar F-Type Coupé has brought many interests from Jaguar lovers and motor car fans worldwide and it made a special appearance at the SuperBowl commercial earlier this year and this shows Jaguar’s vision and brand positioning in the market and I actually find their campaign interesting with the hashtag #goodtobebad Do check out the commercial video below as it features popular British actors as the Jaguar brand friends.
Below are some of the snippets of the launch and also the much anticipated Jaguar F-Type Coupé pictures. I shall post more of the stories and images in my later post. Thank you once again to Indera Motors for giving me this opportunity.
YAM Pg Anak Ghaffar, General Manager of Indera Motors, (right) with the senior management of Indera Motors at the launch
YAM Pg Anak Ghaffar mingling with invited guests at the event
With the GM of Indera Motors. Thank you for inviting me 😀
Russell Anderson, Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover Asia-Pacific Importer Markets, giving his welcoming remarks. More of his interview later on
One of the Jaguar brand friends performing before unveiling the Jaguar F-Type
Ain’t this car just look pure solid?
YAM Pg Anak Ghaffar checking out the Jaguar F-Type
A great crowd response during the launch
Elegant door handle of the Jaguar F-Type
With the models
The popular model of the Jaguar XF which is a hit in Brunei Darussalam
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#DPMMFCcrushedTanjongPagar
It was predicted to be a straightforward win. The RT (Roy and Tosi) connection continues to torment defence of any club that takes on DPMM FC and last night, Tanjong Pagar United FC was the latest victim.
I predicted for a 3-0 victory but I was just seconds away from a perfect prediction until Shahrazen scored virtually the final kick of the match for DPMM FC’s 4-0 victory over Tanjong Pagar United FC last night at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.
The victory puts DPMM FC seven points clear at the summit of the S•League and this is the most healthy lead that DPMM FC has been enjoying in many seasons. DPMM FC is also the current leading scoring team in the league with 30 goals under their belt. Awesome, aye? And that milestone is done in only 11 games.
Perhaps the highlight of the night was DPMM FC’s prolific scorer Shahrazen Said who finally scored his first goal of the season to the delight of the DPMM FC crowd. The only worry now is the injuries to Alberto Alviz and Rodrigo Tosi, where both have been instrumental to DPMM FC’s rich vein of form.
DPMM FC marquee signing Roy O’Donovan was on top form with two goals and two assists. Ridah Sports must be very happy because they gave O’Donovan the boots as part of an appreciation a few days ago before the match and he returned the favour by getting involved in all the goals for DPMM FC. And of course, he sports a new hairstyle with a crew cut look and it does prove him to be a menace upfront with his striking partner Tosi. Image courtesy of @ahmad_ajeeb
DPMM FC first team line up
Tanjong Pagar United FC first team line up
TP keeper clears the danger
Roy O’Donovan celebrates with his team mate
Shahrazen thanking Roy for the assist after he scoring his first goal of the season
The media and the fans don’t mind being soaked in the rain last night
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#BackInForm
To celebrate the one year anniversary of the introduction of Concepts Computer membership pendrives, Concepts Computer will be doing weekly specials and offer great deals for Concepts Computer members exclusively. These exclusive weekly promotions will include up to ten items from Acer, Epson, Logitech, SteelSeries, Western Digital, Adata, Starius, Sensonic, APC and many, many more. These weekly promotions will begin on the 12th of May and run through til the end of June.
Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer, addressing a short speech about the Concepts Computer membership pen drives last Wednesday. Image courtesy of Concepts Computer.
Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer, speaking to the media said, “We first introduced the Concepts Computer membership pendrives in early 2013 and it’s been a huge success with thousands registering during the initial one year period.” He continued, “And to thank our faithful and long-standing customers, what better than to offer big savings in our great weekly deals for some of our more popular name-brand products.”
Zul also noted that to participate in these weekly specials is simple, all any of our customers have to do is to visit Concepts Computer’s showroom in Kiulap and find out what the exclusive weekly ten items on offer are, and to take part in the special deals, customers are to show their Concepts Computer membership pendrives as ID and proof of membership when they are about to make their purchase, just as simple as that.
Zul continued, ”And not to worry, for our customers who did not register for their Concepts Computer membership pendrives when the registration period was open, this is their chance. We will be opening membership registration again during this special period.” He also added, “The Concepts Computer membership pendrive will have dual roles, as a 4GB pendrive that’s able to hold many documents, and as a membership ID, making it much more useful compared to regular member cards.”
He also noted that, unlike membership cards, the Concepts Computer Pendrive does not have any expiry dates and has lifetime validity with no renewal fees. The Concepts Computer membership pendrives are also small and sleek, water-proof and shock-proof, works easily as a plug-and-play device, and great as gifts for friends and family.
Members of media taking photos of the Concepts Computer membership pen drives
The media having a closer look of the pen drive
The associates of Concepts Computer posing with the membership pen drives
These exclusive Concepts Computer membership weekly deals would begin on the 12th of May and run through til the end of June. And please note that Concepts Computer membership pen drive registration will be open for all members of the public and can be done at Concepts Computer’s showroom in Kiulap, registration will include a membership processing fee of $8 only and the Concepts Computer Pendrive themselves will have a one year warranty. For more information on the Concepts Computer membership ID registration or on exclusive Concepts Computer membership weekly deals mentioned, visit your nearest Concepts Computer showroom or call 2233551/233552/2233553.
Malppy.com great weekend sale. Click image to enter website.
TGIF! Here’s another round of special promotions for you. This Friday and Saturday, Malppy.com promise to stand you out from the crowd with this affordable Digital Fashion accessories. Yes, Malppy will bring you a weekend of watches for both men and women. These digital watches or rather suites more as a fashion accessories feature a variety of different styles to catch attention. And the cool part is, all actually features a father different or creative ways of reading time, unique styles to the watch. Best of all its made available from B$18.90 Just for this 2 Days (Friday and Saturday)! So Hurry.
Click image to order
Click image to order
Click image to order
Click image to order
Click image to order
Free cover to give away from Malppy.com
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#HelloSingapore
Acer Liquid Smartphones
Check out Acer Liquid smartphones
Icon Design Store
Click to enter website
Royal Brunei Airlines
Click to enter website
There you go… I’m here again in Singapore for another assignment. I was just fresh from Seoul, Korea, for a special coverage on Harley-Davidson and it was a memorable experience for many reasons – riding a Harley, meeting celebrities from the region and most of all, being in Seoul for the first time *sakai* I will post my last batch of photos and coverage on H-D soon.
Yesterday I flew off to Singapore with the management of Indera Motors, dealership for Jaguar and Land Rover in Brunei Darussalam and representatives from the media and bloggers. My overseas assignment will be the coverage of the sneaks for Jaguar F-Type Coupe which will be unveiled later tonight in Singapore. Hence, the regional dealers in South East Asia will be present during the preview launch together with the local and international media.
So this is another great honour to be part of an international event and May has already been a super busy month for me. So thank you to Indera Motors for this wonderful opportunity and choosing and entrusting me for the coverage of the Jaguar F-Type in Singapore.
As time goes by, I’m beginning to learn new things in the automotive industry (Harley-Davidson and now Jaguar). So what’s next? Bring it on….
Below are pictures from yesterday’s outing. I won’t be posting much stories today. Enjoy 😀
Heading to Singapore again via @royalbruneiair and I ask myself, why haven’t I signed up for Royal Skies?? *fail*
My media buddies – Joana Tan and Hakim Hayat complementing each other by reading each other’s stories :p
YAM Pg Anak Ghaffar, General Manager of Indera Motors (2nd from left) with the management and the members of the media upon arrival at Changi Airport. This is my 7th touchdown in Singapore this year alone *likes*
One of the few hotels I’ve wanted to try but never got the chance was Marina Mandarin and Grand Park Orchard and finally, we were given the privilege to check in at the Grand Park Orchard. Awesome hotel and hands down, the best location for a hotel in the heart of Orchard
The first thing that caught my eye is the artwork in the room. I kinda like the room and I even fell asleep after lying down for a minute or two. I heard the room rate is around SG $300+ which is kinda worth it since it’s at the heart of Orchard. I won’t mind staying here actually.
It’s awesome that the hotel provides a smart phone for their patrons with unlimited local calls and international ones too. Not that I need one as I’m entrusted to my own personal one but this is a great facility offer by the hotel and this gets another plus point for me.
Last month, many Singaporeans were complaining about lack of rain and this time round, rain is getting common and there was a short burst of heavy rain in the afternoon yesterday.
Of all places, I bumped into an old friend Vinod at Minang House at Lucky Plaza and it was great catching up and sharing experiences
The food is always great here at Minang House. Even after lunch hours, the queue is pretty long.
My first attempt of Cold Stone and I prefer the Baskin & Robbins anytime. I do actually love how they prepare the ice-cream.
I thought they have completed the renovation but they are on it again at Royal Plaza on Scotts. I shall be staying here after my stay at Grand Park Orchard
Our dinner last night at Straits Kitchen at Grand Hyatt
Mr. Ong, After Sales Manager of Indera Motors and YAM Pg Anak Ghaffar, GM of Indera Motors at Straits Kitchen last night
Yusra and Lukman, Marketing of Indera Motors
My media friend Hakim Hayat of Borneo Bulletin
Adibah of Bruneimotors.com
Group photo with Indera Motors and the media. Thank you, Pg Anak Ghaffar for hosting us dinner last night
Get to meet one of my good friends Jessie Tey who’s currently working in Singapore. I see you tomorrow 😀
My random activity early this morning. I call this the window-shopping jog, training for my half marathon for Sundown
Thank you Joana for documenting this lame activity
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