Archive for August, 2014
DPMM FC fought back for a point
The first team line-up for DPMM FC against Balestier Khalsa FC last night
BALESTIER KHALSA FC 3 (Kim Min Ho 3, Goran Ljubojevic 21, 70)
BRUNEI DPMM FC 3 (Adi Said 50, Rodrigo Tosi 65, 73)
Report by REDZWAN KAMARUDIN (Correspondent for rano360.com)
DPMM FC returned to action by coming back from two goals down to snatch a point in a thrilling 3-3 draw with Balestier Khalsa at the Toa Payoh Stadium last night.
The league leaders were clearly missing their captain Rosmin Kamis and marquee signing Roy O’Donovan through suspensions, as the team clearly lacked the hunger and bite in front of goal.
After the match, head coach Steve Kean said he was impressed by how hard his team fought to come back from behind, but admitted his defense could have done better.
He said, “We put too much pressure on ourselves, if we have to score four goals away from home, that’s not good.
“We were slow in the first half, and we conceded poor goals. The back four were quiet and we let ourselves get bullied in the air and in the box.
“When you miss your most experienced player like Bobby it’s difficult because you look to him for guidance and we really missed him tonight.
“We normally score goals, but we’ve got to stop leaking the goals. We’ll need to work on our defensive showing for the future games.”
The Tigers were up 2-0 at half time courtesy of goals from Kim Min Ho and Goran Ljubojevic, but like they’ve done so many times before, they stormed in the second half, and managed to score three goals.
Right after the second half whistle, DPMM came out of the blocks with all guns blazing, with Adi Said, who replaced Awangku Fakhrulrazi at half time, opened the scoring in the 47th minute and Rodrigo Tosi’s looping header in the 65th minute leveled the scores. For Adi, he has bagged 8 goals in 6 games where the last five matches were from his heroic performances in the recent Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy 2014 tournament.
Ljubojevic thought he had sealed all three points for his side after scoring Balestier’s third goal in the 70th minute, but Tosi again denied the home side as he rifled in his second goal of the night, and DPMM’s equalizer just three minutes later.
It was a pity that the game ended with a sending off of Syed Taha of Balestier and Joe Gamble of DPMM FC. This would mean a suspension for Joe Gamble in the next game.
While the result strengthened DPMM’s lead atop the Great-Eastern Yeo’s S.League with 40 points, title rivals and defending champions Tampines Rovers are only two points behind and have a game in hand. They could take over Steve Kean’s charges if they beat Tanjong Pagar tonight.
“I’m pleased that we changed our game from the very first minute of the second half. We could have won the game, but we need to improve our defending. We need to get those clean sheets again.” Kean added.
Photos taken by Alfie Lee of S•League.
Balestier keeper in action
A six goal thriller between Balestier and DPMM FC
Rodrigo Tosi, once again, proving to be a threat upfront for DPMM FC
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Go team Brunei
Our podcast review of Yasmine the movie with my special guest Seng Yee. Find out what is my best scene of the movie. Yasmine will be officially be released on 21st August 2014.
Register now!! Click image to enter.
In conjunction with Royal Brunei Airlines’ 40th Annivesary, Royal Brunei (RB) will be organizing a charity race for the public called the Great Race. The Great Race will take place on Sunday 19th October 2014.
RB has appointed Green Brunei and Brunei Paralympics to be the beneficiaries for the Great Race 2014. The proceeds from The Great Race 2014 will assist Green Brunei to move forward with the Mangrove Rehabilitation Project along the Sungai Damuna at Kg Bengkurong and likewise, Brunei Paralympics with their activities.
In a statement from Aji Puteh, RB Head of Corporate Services cum Chairman of RB: The Great Race, “RB is very pleased to organized the Great Race as an anchor event for RB’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. The appointment of Green Brunei and Brunei Paralympic as the beneficiaries from the proceeds of the Great Race is a way for the airline to give back to the community in terms of support for green and health sports initiatives. It is hoped that The Great Race will be a different experience from other marathons as it is a marathon that challenges and is tailored with an aviation concept.”
RB has appointed Armtrix Enterprise as the Event Manager for the Great Race. Interested participants are able to register RB: The Great Race at thegreatrace.com.bn from today onwards until 19th September 2014 at 11pm. Good luck, peeps and well done for RB for this initiative. This is something different coming from aviation.
Have you got your tickets?
Team Brunei achieved a higher medal count compared to last year with 38 medals overall. They collected 12 gold medals, 13 silver medals and 13 bronze medals. The biggest winner was Shian Li Esther Chiam who is just 15 years old. She won the Junior Grand World Champion Instrumental Award and also collecting 6 six gold medals along the way.
Her younger sister Eden Chiam earned an Industry Award and also earned one gold medal, two silver medals and two bronze medals and she only had weeks to prepare for the event. So that’s not pretty bad for an achievement. I have mentioned previously in my post how team Brunei has made it big at WCOPA finals in Los Angeles, considering they only sent 9 representatives as compared to the aplenty from different countries. Having 5 semi-finalists and 3 finalists are considered “over-achievements” as they are plenty of talents out there worldwide.
Maria Grace Koh and Joanna Kwan will also be the highlights of the night. Both were the finalists of the WCOPA event. Maria also known as Eia is no stranger in the music scene and she has vastly improved and it was no doubt she made to the finals where millions witnessed her performance. Joanna, a first timer in WCOPA, also impressed with her 1 minute performance in the finals and I’ve seen her acting before in local drama plays. Just even received a scholarship for acting in the States.
Another vocalist that caught my attention is Ruby Chong who earned herself two medals and an Industry Award. I have seen her singing at JIS Music Showcase and she’s just amazing!!! Another performer for this Saturday’s event is Bridget Ang who earned two medals. The other performers this weekend are Norhidayat Hj Ahim, a P2F winner, who earned 5 medals and Adi Daini who bagged 3 medals.
This is an impressive line up but sadly Elizabeth won’t be performing since she’s currently in KL for the Toastmasters International Convention 2014. Do follow @officialwcopabrunei on instagram for updates.
Brunei team brought it some medals from this year’s competition and the highest tally so far. Amazing!!!
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Toastmasters Convention today
Our podcast review of Yasmine the movie with my special guest Seng Yee. Find out what is my best scene of the movie. Yasmine will be officially be released on 21st August 2014.
Chris W.H. Woo, a member of Brunei Speakers’ Club, will represent Brunei in the World Championship of Public Speaking. Good luck, buddy!
Chris W.H. Woo, a Senior Lecturer at Universiti Brunei Darussalam will represent the Toastmaster’s District 87 (Brunei, Indonesia and East Malaysia) in the World Championship of Public Speaking. The competition will be held from 20th to 23rd August at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Chris Woo snatched the coveted trophy and title of District 87 International Speech Champion in Surabaya on the 11th May 2014.
When asked how he feels about the upcoming competition, Woo says, “It’s been a psychologically grueling few months for me. Never a week goes by that I don’t think about the competition. But I am very lucky to have so many supportive Toastmaster friends and, honestly, the Brunei Speaker’s Club has become a family to me. I don’t know what will happen at the World Championship. There are so many variables to the judging and success of a speech. But what I do know with certainty is that I will give it my absolute best.”
After emerging as Champion from The Brunei Speakers’ Club, and subsequently Area K6 (Brunei), Woo went on to defeat some of the best speakers in Brunei, East Malaysia and Indonesia. As a representative for District 87, Woo will be pitting his skills against the best speakers in the world.
“Chris is dedicated, he is committed, and he has now achieved so much. He inspires all our members in Brunei to realize our potential,” says Hazwan Kamarulzaman, President of The Brunei Speakers’ Club. His sentiments are shared by Ruey Chong-Narcis, the Area Governor of Area K6 (Brunei), “‘Since it’s inception by the grace of His Majesty 16 years ago, this is the first time that Brunei is representing the district in the World Championship of Public Speaking. We are extremely proud as it shows the quality and support that each Toastmaster gives their fellow members. Together with 14 other Toastmasters from Brunei, we will be there to proudly represent Brunei and cheering Chris as he takes his rightful place up on centre-stage.’
Some of the toastmasters from Brunei Speakers’ Club are currently in Kuala Lumpur for the convention and also to support Chris Woo. Last night we had the privilege to attend one of the toastmasters club in KL and we were at Maxis Toastmasters Club and met a number of toastmasters around the world. Awesome!!
We registered our names so we can get ourselves some goodies from the club
I volunteered myself to be the Timer for last evening’s meeting at Maxis Toastmaster Club. Great experience!
Distinguished Toastmaster Richard Cummins from Houston, Texas, Seng Yee, Zul (from Labuan) and our area-governor Ruey Narcis
Having a few words with the most passionate toastmaster from Brunei and an awesome role model for Brunei Speakers’ Club. His passion never dies.
Proud that Ling Ling won best table topics of the evening
Some of the books for sale at Toastmasters Convention at KLCC
The Word of the Day
It rained yesterday at Kuala Lumpur. It’s great to be back. I have been there since Sunday.
It’s that time of the year again as students will be scouting and sourcing for their respective courses and university of choice for their future studies in the UK. Twenty-eight universities and colleges from the United Kingdom will be participating in the third UK Education Fair on August 20 (today) at Members Grill & Lounge, The Empire Hotel and Country Club.
The event, which is organised by the British Universities Brunei Association (BUBA) and coordinated by the universities, will be held from 2pm to 7pm.
The institutions participating in the event include University of Aberdeen, University of Bradford, Cardiff University, University College London, University of East Anglia, University of Essex, University of Hull, University of Kent and Writtle College.
”The fair is aimed at students who are considering studying in the UK in September 2015 but also presents a final opportunity for any students still looking for a place for September 2014 entry to speak with university representatives,” said a statement issued by the British High Commission.
Students are also advised to bring copies of qualifications and transcript when they come to the fair, it added.
So do drop by the Members Grlll & Lounge from 2pm to 7pm later. Good luck in hunting for your future education. For more info, you can click here.
Butra Home Concept (BHC) Magazine is now under a new direction handled by Mixmediaworx
Butra Home Concept Magazine will now turn its pages under Mixmediaworx – the local based creative agency, retaining its focus on home improvement and lifestyle for Brunei. I remember this magazine being under the direction of Catalyst and now the creativity and publishing duties were given to Mixmediaworx.
Mixmediaworx promises to continue the magazine’s monthly tradition as part of Butra HeidelbergCement’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) in promoting local home lifestyle and industries.
Mixmediaworx’s executive director Azlan Ahmad shared that the magazine will still continue its current direction in line with Butra HeidelbergCement’s CSR aims with a few improvements and additions to the content and design of the two year old publication.
“We are very happy to continue this great initiative by Butra HeidelbergCement and will improve whatever needed for the magazine to stay relevant to the nation. We have outlined a few fresh ideas in promoting the magazine and created sustainable strategy to make sure it remains a preferred platform for the related industries.”
The BHC is part of Butra HeidelbergCement’s Building a Nation campaign, emphasizing on the contributions made towards the development of the nation. It invokes collaboration and cooperation amongst the Sultanate to inspire change, challenge convention and to make a difference: their unique approach towards nationwide progress while encouraging the sense of forward thinking to the community.
The next BHC issue will continue to be distributed soon with the theme “A New Hope” highlighing some of the CSR initiatives carried out by Butra HeidelbergCement as well as contributions by the new editorial team by the magazines.
Mixmediaworx also announced that BHC will be available as digital copies on iOS via the App store , and android users can expect their integration for the magazine soon.
Stuart Lee, Project Director of BHC Magazine with Amir Noor, editor of BHC Magazine during the press conference at Radisson Hotel
Hamdi Metussin, Creative Director of Mixmediaworx
Amir Noor sharing a few things about BHC’s new direction
Mei asking some questions from the floor
So close yet so far. Brunei Darussalam just missed out by one goal to reach the semi-finals. Today is the line-up for today’s matches in the semi-finals of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy 2014. No tickets required and it’s free as well.
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Brunei miss the cut
Our podcast review of Yasmine the movie with my special guest Seng Yee. Find out what is my best scene of the movie.
The media and bloggers heading to Singapore for the test drive organised by Volkswagen Singapore earlier this month
That’s the beauty of driving Volkswagen. You will be spoilt for choices on what model to buy. A few months ago, I test drove the Volkswagen GTI and it is an awesome car indeed. Recently I test drive other models of Volkswagen (Golf Polo 1.2 and 1.4, Tiguan TSI and Golf R) in Singapore. Maybe the right word for that is “sakai” because it was my first experience driving on Singapore roads 😀 It seemed like an unexpected bucket list and I thank you Volkswagen Singapore for making that opportunity a reality.
Today I’m gonna share my experience of driving the new Volkswagen Tiguan TSI. If you know of the Touareg series, then Tiguan has similar design and features. Actually when I drove this particular car, I already have thoughts on replacing my 11-year old car 😀 The Tiguan TSI is almost a perfect SUV car for my liking and it’s also one practical car which is also ideal for my profession. I currently drive an SUV so it would make sense if my next car will be an SUV.
So what are the impressive factors about the Volkswagen Tiguan?
Firstly, the drawing factor for me is that the fact that it is an SUV. I actually don’t mind driving a saloon car but it’s always a bonus if I drive an SUV. Hence, among all the cars that I drove from Volkswagen, the new Tiguan caught my eye. The size is not as big as the Touareg and that’s how I preferred it to be. If you are opting for a mid-size range SUV, this is my recommendation.
Secondly, I’m always concerned about safety measures when it comes to driving. I know my close friends will find me annoying because I drive with caution sometimes. I’m not a fast driver per se but I still make sure that my car is in fine condition on the road. The plus points about the Tiguan is that safety level of this particular model. This Tiguan series have been named the SUV as its “Top Safety Pick” by New Car Assessment Program. For the record, this evaluation covers extensive measures in the areas of active and passive safety. There is so much that I can blabber on especially the multiple airbags and the seatbelt force limiters but I think you will get the gist of my hints about the safety.
Thirdly, the drive factor. Of course, I didn’t really drive full force like I did with the Golf R *lol* The latest Tiguan driving experience was simply worth the drive. It makes my current SUV feel so inferior but then again, it’s an 11-year old car. I drove this among the hills of Singapore and it was just amazing the power it has for the size of the car. It makes me want to test drive the Tiguan TSI once more in Brunei. The handling was also great during the curves of the hills and it felt that I was bonded with the Tiguan for such a long time, considering it was my first drive on the Tiguan.
Fourthly, the price of Volkswagen Tiguan TSI. I won’t reveal the price as yet but wow, I’m amazed how a quality European brand can make produce such an affordable price and I can guarantee you that this model will be a big hit in Brunei considering that it kinda caters to different markets such as the young crowd and also families. Of course, my category is the young one for sure :p
The Volkswagen Tiguan TSI will be launched this Friday so stay tune for updates on that. I highly recommend you to drop by Maju Motors showroom at Telanai this Friday and guess what? They will be having an open house also for the public on that day.
A few Volkswagen cars that I managed to test drive
The Tiguan TSI that I test drove in Singapore
My companions – Dionne of Volkswagen Singapore and Nasroul of The Brunei Times
This is an awesome car – Volkswagen Tiguan TSI
The other models that we had to test drive
Now available at Sin Hup Huat Company
Chairman and Co-Partner of the TEDxGadong team Abd Malik Omar (C), Shavez Cheema (L) one of the inspiring speakers and the rest of the team posing for a picture after the press conference recently. Image taken by Nadzri Zailani of The Brunei Times.
A group of youths have banded together to bring in the first TEDx conference in Brunei titled ‘TEDxGadong’ to help inspire youths of the nation in making a difference.
During a press conference at a Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf branch in the capital, the TEDxGadong team spoke to The Brunei Times about hosting the first ever TEDx in Brunei at the SEAMEO VOCTECH Building in Gadong on August 24, 2014.
With a team comprising mostly volunteer youths between ages 18 and 22, the chairman and co-partner of the group Abd Malik Omar said that they hope when other youths see them bring in the TEDx brand, they would be inspired.
“TEDx is about unearthing and exploring new ideas so it’s about time that we had our own TEDx conference. Despite us having the lack of resource and most of us being students, we still managed to do it. Showing that where there is a will there is a way,” said Abd Malik.
TED means Technology, Entertainment and Design, which is a non-profit organisation devoted to ideas worth spreading. TED has encompassed the corners of the world spreading ideas and bringing innovation leaders together to inspire the young and old, according to a statement by TEDxGadong.
TEDx is a programme for local and self-organised events, where the x stands for the independently organised TED events.
For the first TEDx conference in Brunei, there will only be 100 tickets for the event ranging from $5 to $20 which will be available for the public on Thursday August 21 at the Core, Universiti Brunei Darussalam Residential College.
Eight local speakers which includes Delwin Keasberry, Denny Ambuyart and Keeran Janin will be speaking about separate topics, and there will also be mystery speakers which will only be announced during the event itself.
“The speakers we chose have the ideas, energy and passion to be able to share their story with the audience. Their passionate about what they do and their contribution to the economy. For us it’s not a matter of age, it’s a matter of ideas,” added the Chairman.
According to the Chairman, helping to inspire the youth is a way for them to actively contribute to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s aim for Vision 2035 as they believe that the youths are the future.
The Chairman added that “through the TEDx event, we may not be able to change the world, but if we can make a one per cent difference to the society we live in, then we have to.” Text courtesy of Nadzri Zailani of The Brunei Times.
The official poster of TEDxGadong
Apparently the tickets are fully booked
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BMO
Our podcast review of Yasmine the movie with my special guest Seng Yee. Find out what is my best scene of the movie.
Acer Liquid Smartphones
Sales at Icon Design Store
Click image to enter Peugeot Brunei’s website
Click image to enter Citroën Brunei
Click image to learn more about SCB Facebook Scanvenger Hunt 2014
Hey guys, it’s the moment to reveal what I teased you about! Standard Chartered Bank Brunei are launching their first Facebook Scavenger Hunt! It’s a chance for you to take on a virtual adventure and win Apple products and other fun prizes! All you have to do is click on the link and it will direct you to all the information you would need to find out how to win! Good luck hunters!
Catch Brunei tonight against Malaysia and it looks like Brunei must win by 2 goals to go through to the semi-finals
It’s a tall order but I believe Brunei can do it. Adi Said and Hendra will be so important for this match against Malaysia tonight in the group stage of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy 2014. It’s the final game of the group stage and Brunei need at least to win by two goals to guarantee themselves in the semi-finals.
Adi Said and Hendra are both familiar with Malaysia as most of them represent Harimau Muda in the S•League and they know what it is like to face the Malaysia U-21 team. Brunei recently drew with Vietnam 2-2 last Friday and it could have been worst for Brunei if they didn’t earn any points at all against Vietnam. The hero that game was Adi Said who clawed Brunei back twice with two excellent goals.
It seems that Brunei will have to work their game play around Adi who is the game changer. It will be tough if Adi won’t be playing for Brunei and the head coach will have to come up with Plan B to gain maximum points against Malaysia tonight.
It’s a free entrance match with no tickets involved. So do come early to get the best seats in town. I’m pretty sure it will be a packed house because we want as many supporters as possible to give that needed much support for Brunei to beat Malaysia. To beat Malaysia is a tall order because they are undefeated and not only Brunei has to beat them but with a 2 goal cushion.
Brunei needs you – the 12th man
Want to catch another Mexican wave?
A familiar face among the fans during Brunei vs Vietnam match
A sea of yellow 😀
Merchandise from Arin’s Enterprise
HBT merchandise from Aewon
HBT merchandise from Armtrix Enterprise
Brunei toastmasters representatives from Brunei Speakers Club, Oil Town Talkers and Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club recently at a Toastmasters Leadership training at Kota Kinabalu. Image courtesy of Brunei Speakers Club.
Organised for Toastmasters clubs of District 87 which consists of Brunei Darussalam, East Malaysia, and Indonesia, the Bruneian delegates, comprising members from Brunei Speakers’ Club, Oil Town Talkers, and the Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club along with their Malaysian and Indonesian counterparts gained knowledge in leadership skills, and in identifying and achieving goals.
Toastmasters clubs are non-profit, educational organisations that provide opportunities for members to learn, develop, and enhance leadership and public speaking skills in encouraging and supportive environment.
Every club wants to offer the best quality environment for their members, so that everyone can learn and thrive. Through this session, members learned how to implement effective key performance indicators to enhance an organization’s performance. In addition, executive member from each club also shared experiences and perspectives on their organisation success plan.
Allen Ang, president of Oil Town Talkers said in the session, “We do not focus on membership growth in terms of numbers, we are more concerned with helping individual member grow and achieve their personal goals. That is why we cater tour individual members’ needs.”
He included nurturing successful individuals through productive mentor and mentee relationships are characteristics of a successful leader. Successful Toastmasters know that mentoring is a crucial element in developing skills through the Toastmasters program. In Brunei, different clubs work together to help each other to grow.
Last year, Stuart Lee from the Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club made history when he won the Toastmasters humorous speech contest in District 87. This year, Chris Woo from Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club, after winning the International Speech category in the division and district level, will also be the first to represent Brunei and District 87 to compete against the best speakers in the world at Toastmasters International Convention which will take place in August in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Today, members of the public can continue to learn and develop leadership and public speaking skills in Brunei Darussalam’s Toastmasters clubs. Further information can be found at www.bruneispeakersclub.com
Allen Ang, the President of Oil Town Talkers (Otters), at the Leadership Training
The faces of our own toastmasters from Brunei
Get your Logitech peripherals at Concepts Computer. Call 223 3551/2/3
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Be like Water
Nadiah Wahid, Siti Kamaluddin and Liyana Yus at the Gala Night Premiere of Yasmine at The Times Cineplex @ The Empire last night
What an interesting night!! For the first time in Brunei, I experienced what it is like to be in a movie premiere. Well, this is the Brunei version and I hope there will be more when we have more locally produced featured film from Brunei Darussalam. Of course, with the right sponsors and support, such gala night premiere will be easier to pull off. This is just the closest thing that we can experience to how other regional countries would do and even so more in Hollywood.
Origin Films the producers of Yasmine the movie have been creating major waves in Brunei Darussalam and outside Brunei. Yasmine recently won an award in Switzerland as it won the Best Asian Film in the Neuchatel International Fantastic Film Festival 2014. The crew have been busy promoting the movie through the local schools and also being featured in talk shows and on radio. Perhaps the viral effect of Yasmine the movie was the actual Yasmine Pose on social media which gave more branding awareness on Yasmine to the public.
I believe the marketing campaign struck the right chord and it was evident last night on the impact it created during the Gala Night or what we call the Premiere of Yasmine. Hundreds of people showed up during the event and it was a very much engaging crowd who showed much enthusiasm on our locally produced movie. The preview screenings for Yasmine today in both The Mall Cineplex and Times Cineplex are almost filled up and I’m pretty sure once it opens this Thursday, it will be a box office hit in Brunei.
I’m quite happy that Yasmine will also be screening in Indonesia and Singapore starting on the 21st of August. I’m not too sure about the other international release dates for now but whatever it is, the three markets mentioned show how much impact Yasmine has made, coming from Brunei alone. Indonesia is a huge market and that could potentially draw more box office revenue alone and hopefully recover the costs of the movie alone.
It was great to see other international celebrities who attended the Gala Night but the show belonged to the trio ladies – Siti Kamaluddin the director, Liyana Yus the main lead actor and Nadiah Wadih the supporting actress in Yasmine. Congratulations to Origin Films on making this into a reality and with the positive buzz that it has been receiving, Yasmine is a sure hit among the locals. More review on Yasmine the movie next week and of course, an episode of The Popcorn Panel (podcast).
The official trailer for Yasmine
Liyana looking gorgeous in her dress done by IKAT Indonesia @ikat_ind
Siti Kamaluddin expressed her thanks to the sponsors and supporters who believed in this project
Such a crowd last night
Waiting the arrival of the trio of the main event 😀
With the associates of BEDB and also those behind the BEDB LEAP grant which helped to fund some of Yasmine’s movie
Representing Kristal FM, the official radio for Yasmine
Coey, Ben and Wendy at the Gala Night
My regular special guest of The Popcorn Panel, Seng Yee
Happy to see my social media buddies at the Gala Night too
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Yasmine to take Brunei by storm
The talk of the town – Liyana Yus who plays the main lead as Yasmine
The hype is just getting bigger and bigger. It’s like a dream come true for many and I felt surreal that fact that Yasmine is a locally produced movie in Brunei but has that global feel. I was lucky enough to witness behind-the-scene moments of Yasmine during the 5 week production. I never knew that how much can involved by just doing a 10 second scene alone and hence it does make sense on whether the dollars and cents are really spent. If I’m not mistaken, the cost of the movie runs at roughly USD 2 million and that’s considered a great deal.
Yesterday I had the privilege to attend the media screening of Yasmine the movie and it was considered the first screening ever in Brunei for movie reviewers and the press. I won’t say share much in-depth review of the movie just yet as I will save it for The Popcorn Panel soon. So stay tune for that.
The press screening was held at Times Cineplex @ The Empire at Screen 1 and present were Datin Paduka Hjh Adina, the Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, the members of the media and social media, the Indonesian press, the cast and crew of Yasmine.
The Premier Gala Night will be held today at Times Cineplex @ The Empire but if you want to catch the first actual show, you can catch sneaks tomorrow (Sunday) at the Mall Cineplex at 3pm screening. The official launch date for Yasmine is 21st August 2014.
I am very happy for Siti Kamaluddin and her brother Din Kamaluddin, the producer, for giving a new breath into our creativity industry that we have the talents but we also have to take the first initiative and be proactive, rather than wait. The journey began years back when Siti Kamaluddin and Man Ching (action choreography director) met up and shared ideas on making a locally made movie. One thing led to another and of course, financing this project is not an easy task. Knocking on doors was one of the options and they landed a BEDB Grant to kick things off and from there, they were many stakeholders from the government agencies that came in to support.
I’m also quite happy for both local stars Liyana Yus and Nadiah Wahid as they both shined on screen. This is already considered a great first impression and both stars have such raw talent at a very young age. So peeps, do pen your date on the 21st August or if you want to catch the sneaks, it will be at 3pm Sunday, The Mall Cineplex. or you can catch at 3:30pm at Times Cineplex (Times Square). The prices will be at normal weekend prices. They just announced it and tickets are still available.
I can’t wait for the Gala Night tonight and this will be my second viewing. A full review on my post as well as on The Popcorn Panel. For now, I highly recommend you to catch Yasmine and see what our local talents are capable of pulling off in the creative and entertainment industry.
After the press screening of Yasmine yesterday at Times Cineplex @ The Empire
Another photo opportunity with the star of Yasmine
With the crew of Yasmine (from Origins Film)
Press conference with the cast and crew of Yasmine at Brunei Hotel
The seatings for Sunday screening of Yasmine at Times Cineplex (Times Square). Click image and select Sunday.
The seatings for Sunday screening of Yasmine at The Mall Cineplex. Click image and select Sunday.
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Wake me up
Listen on our podcast review of The Expendables 3 with special guest Tiffany Yong on the Popcorn Panel
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I can’t believe it that it’s now available in Burger King in Brunei 😀
BURGER KING® Brunei introduces the BK Rendang Deluxe and BK Crispy Chicken Rendang limited only to the Hari Raya season.
The new Rendang sauce, unique to Burger King® comes with a spicy flavor that is in-tune with the festive season. Operations Manager, Saiful Zamhor noted that the selection of Rendang burgers will only be available for a limited time only.
“The Rendang sauce will blend well with local taste-buds as it is a flavour that can be easily accepted by Bruneians. We also offer in both proteins, chicken and beef, hopefully to cater to everyone,” said Saiful.
To cool off after a spicy Rendang meal, Burger King® Brunei is also now offering two dessert options, which is the Sundae Cone for a great value of $1.00 only. Should customers want something with more flavours and textures, the Hershey’s ® Sundae Pie, a product exclusive to Burger King worldwide is also made available and have been receiving great feedback from patron
“The Hershey’s ® Sundae Pie is really a unique product. As mentioned, Burger King® is the only brand in the world that has these pies, and they are a great addition to our snack and dessert’s selection where customers can enjoy at any time of the day,” said Saiful.
As for the Sundae Cups with Strawberry, Chocolate and Caramel toppings, those will be available in the coming weeks, whilst the Taro Pie, another unique product will be available in September.
“This will also be tied in with the launch of our extended range of coffee selection, making us the only Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) in Brunei that offers bean-to-cup coffee,” said Saiful.
All this will be in conjunction with Burger King® Brunei’s second outlet, located at the arrival hall of Brunei International Airport.
“We were looking at an opening in Q2 2014, but due to some unforeseen circumstances, we have pushed back the opening to Q3 2014, so customers can expect the opening to be somewhere in September,” said Saiful. He added: “We are working closely with authorities from the Department of Civil Aviation and we think it is the beginning of a great working relationship between the airport and ourselves.”
The response to Burger King has been extremely positive, which has prompted the brand to quickly expand with two more branches, with the third being in the Belait district with a target opening date in the fourth quarter of 2014.
Burger King – Hershey’s Sundae Pie
Burger King – $1 Ice-cream sundae cone
Ms Nancy Ferriman, L’Occitane General Manager for South East Asia for L’Occitane, Ms Sally Lam, CEO of Livewelle Ventures, owner of the Brunei Franchise for L’Occitane and Mr Pierre Imhof, President of the French Brunei Business Association and also CEO of Baiduri Bank. Image courtesy of Mabohai Shopping Complex.
L’Occitane, the latest international brand to be launched in Brunei Darussalam, held its Grand Opening ceremony on 11th August 2014 at the Mabohai Shopping Complex.
The Chief Guest was the President of the French Brunei Business Association and also CEO of Baiduri Bank, Mr Pierre Imhof. Mr Imhof delivered a warm speech welcoming L’Occitane into the business scene. Mr. Imhof launched his speech by admiring the colour and floral and herbal scents which radiated from the L’Occitane store. He congratulated L’Occitane for their opening and wished them success in their endeavours.
Ms Sally Lam, CEO of Livewelle Ventures, owner of the Brunei Franchise for L’Occitane took the guests on a journey of how L’Occitane originated in 1976 from the vision and passion of Olivier Baussan, founder of the company which grew into a world renowned establishment through their natural, traceable and active ingredients and products. Ms Lam expressed her delight in bringing the brand to Brunei Darussalam and thanked the guests for attending today’s Grand Opening ceremony.
Attending on behalf of L’Occitane is their General Manager for South East Asia, Ms Nancy Ferriman, who said how delighted L’Occitane is to bring a little piece of the sunshine and beauty of the Provence region to Brunei through their Brunei store. She encouraged the guests to try L’Occitane’s beautiful products and mentioned that a special men’s range is also available under their Verdon, L’Occitan and Verbena products using organic peppermint essential oil, lavender mixed with a peppery and nutmeggy wood scent, and organic verbena & lemony oils.
After the ribbon cutting ceremony, guests and the public were invited to tour the shop to view, test and buy L’Occitane’s wonderful products. Several guests enjoyed taking photographs with their friends and of themselves against a large photo backdrop depicting a lavender field in full bloom in the South of France. There was also a product sampling booth where guests were invited to try L’Occitane’s Best Sellers; Immortelle Divine Cream and Almond Milk Concentrate.
In conjunction with their Grand Opening, L’Occitane in partnership with Baiduri Bank Bhd, is offering Baiduri Bank’s Infinite and Platinum Card holders a B$10 Cash Voucher & a VIP Card with minimum purchase of B$100 nett. This limited offer is valid until 10th September 2014.
L’OCCITANE offers a variety of personal care products, including face, body and hair care, and fragrances using ingredients gathered in the south of France and around the Mediterranean. Renowned for its high-quality, effective and natural beauty products, L’OCCITANE is anchored in Provence, France, where the fragrant fields of Lavender are a constant reminder of the natural richness of this region.
The first L’OCCITANE store opened in 1981, in Provence. In 2013, L’OCCITANE had a presence in over 90 countries, with over 2,200 stores.
The Complex Manager of Mabohai Shopping Complex, Ms Yee-Man Cheng said:
“With the debut of L’Occitane in Brunei Darussalam at the Mabohai Shopping Complex, we are delighted to welcome them as our newest tenant, occupying a prime unit on the first floor of the complex. L’Occitane’s products are renowned internationally for their high quality beauty products and fragrances, developed following the principles of phytotherapy and aromatherapy. We are especially proud that L’Occitane has decided to open their first store with us and we wish them success in their business venture.”
Mr Pierre Imhof, President of the French Brunei Business Association and also CEO of Baiduri Bank delivering his welcoming remarks
Ms Sally Lam, CEO of Livewelle Ventures, owner of the Brunei Franchise for L’Occitane delivering her welcoming remarks
Guest trying out the products
Check out L’Occitane’s products
Guest trying out the products
L’Occitane is located on 1st floor of Mabohai Shopping Complex
Listen on our podcast review of The Expendables 3 with special guest Tiffany Yong on the Popcorn Panel
Wu Chun, owner of Fitness Zone and Claudio Abitante, Managing Director of Foodpanda Brunei exchanging documents for an interesting partnership between the two companies.
Last week, Foodpanda, the first food delivery service in Brunei, is now bringing healthy eating and convenience to households in Brunei with their new tie up with The Energy Kitchen & Fitness Zone. After a very successful launch, Foodpanda is very keen to add new restaurants and to expand to more areas in Brunei.
“We are constantly looking to bring greater variety of food to customers and healthy eating is definitely the upcoming trend everywhere around the world nowadays.” says Claudio Abitante, MD foodpanda.com.bn. “We hope of having healthy food and incorporating healthy living to Brunei. ” he adds.
The Energy Kitchen hopes to bring the concept of healthy eating to Bruneians, by encouraging them to “Join the EAT SMART Revolution” and “Enjoy Real Food”. They aim to prove that healthy food can taste good with flavorsome dishes like Baked Sweet Potato Wedges, Superfood Salad, The Energy Burger, Salmon Soba, etc, making it easier for Bruneians to get a healthy meal.
“We have always envisioned people having healthier alternatives to whatever that is available out there – now working with foodpanda – healthy meals are much more easily accessible to everyone out there and everyone should try to eat a balance diet and have an active lifestyle in order to achieve a good quality of life!” says Wu Chun, Owner of The Energy Kitchen & Fitness Zone. “We think this will be a very meaningful partnership between Finess Zone, The Energy Kitchen and Foodpanda”.
Established less than a month ago, Foodpanda Brunei is fast becoming a household name in Brunei as a new way to order and enjoy food. Currently with more than 20 restaurants, foodpanda is not charging a delivery fee for most restaurants to enable Bruneians to try out their service.
“I think this would really suit a busy person such as myself who sometimes finds it very difficult to find healthy food – sometimes I even miss my meals due to my busy schedule! Well, not any more with foodpanda and The Energy Kitchen. Now, i can really nourish my body with superfood with the help of The Energy Kitchen ” says Jamillah, a local health enthusiast.Fitness Zone, the biggest health club in Brunei will come in as the official health partner with Food panda.
Order a minimum of $15 from food panda and customers will receive a 1 week membership to this international standard health club. According to Wu Chun, ” This collaboration is in line with Fitness Zone CSR project to encourage Bruneians to stay an active lifestyle and enjoy the many good things life can bring to you when you are fit and healthy!”
From the overwhelming response to their launch, foodpanda.com.bn are now looking to aggressively grow by expanding to other parts of Brunei and adding in more restaurants to their list. Besides delivery, foodpanda.com.bn also offers take-away and pre-order options. Customers can skip queues and order food on the go or pre-order meals from their favorite restaurants. Currently delivery orders are taken via their website and mobile application on iOS, Google Play and Windows
Store.
For more information, please call Fitness Zone at 2233338 and The Energy Kitchen at 2233323 or visit our website www.fitnesszone.com.bn or facebook – FitnesszoneBrunei.
The cute Foodpanda balls
One of the healthy dishes from Energy Kitchen
The signing ceremony between Wu Chun and Claudio Abitante
Wu Chun with the Brunei team of Foodpanda
Now isn’t this an awesome deal? They just received additional fundings and this time, in the figure of USD 60 million in a new financing from a group of investors including existing backer Rocket Internet AG.
Did you know that Foodpanda is only two years old? It’s amazing how they have created such a phenomena in the past years or so. Amazing indeed! They are quite big in other countries and Brunei just launched the Foodpanda services a few weeks ago and the orders have steadily increased, considering its smaller market size as compared to other countries.
The additional funds will help Foodpanda to penetrate to other markets in Asian, Africa, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Latin America.
According to the news online, there are other major players such as GrubHub, Just-Eat and Delivery Hero that also provide similar services. For your info, Brunei also have their own home-grown food delivery service app and it’s called Food Fuel created by a start-up company DotRoot Technologies.
Screenshot taken on Reuters’ news on Foodpanda. Click to read more.
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Steady is fast
The linesman must have picked some poses from Ronaldo
The first loss has been forgotten. Last night, Brunei bagged another impressive win against Singapore 3-1. That makes it two impressive wins in a row. Previously they have beaten Indonesia with the same score line. The two wins combined with the first loss (to Cambodia) have put Brunei Darussalam U-21 in a potential semi-final berth. They will have to gain maximum points against Vietnam (Friday) and Malaysia (Monday) to make the top two in the Group B.
It was a heavy downpour and I was surprised that the match went as scheduled. Normally in this kind of weather, the match commissioner will safe approach to delay the match slightly until the pitch condition is playable. Of course, the rain made it more interesting and with the challenge of the rain, it could be anybody’s game. It’s how you go through that challenges will make you a stronger team.
Brunei U-21 team wasted no chance as they scored in the first minute of the match after some clumsy defending by the Singaporean U-21 team. Yes, Adi Said has been the focal point of the first two matches. However, this match belonged to his team mate Abdul Azim Abdul Rashid scored in the first minute and also in the 68th minute. Adi Said also earned his place in the score sheet as he crafted another wonderful goal late in the first half. He had plenty of chances but it was his finishing that led him down.
Brunei could have put the game beyond doubt if they had taken their chances on the spot. Singapore had a great opportunities and it would have made a difference if they had scored first.
The result means that Brunei will need to beat Vietnam and Malaysia and hope other results will go their way.
This was my first HBT football coverage and sadly, I won’t be able to watch the semis and the finals as I will be outstation once again.
Brunei will take on Vietnam this Friday at 8:15 (kick-off) at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium. The host nation will look into getting full points of Vietnam. This will be a tough match and it could be anybody’ game right now. Good luck, Brunei U-21 team.
The match steward braving the rain and also making sure that there won’t be any friction or riot especially emotional driven matches
It was such a turn out despite the heavy rain. Awesome!!
Can you imagine being soaked and drenched under the rain?
Fans will be fans and they are pretty sporting
The rain didn’t dampen their spirt after all
The hero of the night – Azim Rashid
Rain or shine, they made sure of their consideration
It’s never easy to take photos under the rain. My hats off to you guys out there.
Poor, Dean Kassim. His Canon EOS 5D Mark III couldn’t function and it must have been due to the train
The manager and head coach were in humour mode despite the loss
The management of Brunei U-21 was impressed with the outing last night and team manager was in high confidence and he hopes for more points in the next two matches
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The Ice Breaker
His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam joining the crowd during the match between Indonesia and Brunei at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium last night. Picture: BT/Faiq Airudin
It’s good to know that His Majesty the Sultan walked section of the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium from the VVIP area and it was a great reception from the sections of the crowd as they sang birthday songs to His Majesty. I have hardly seen His Majesty walking through different sections of the stadium and I wasn’t fortunate enough to be witness it. So the pictures that I’m posting are from @faiqairudin who had nice momentary shots of our Monarch.
The match between Brunei and Indonesia lived up to its expectation and it was a much needed win for Brunei as they lost their first match against Cambodia on the opening night. It was such a brilliant effort by Adi Said who scored a hat trick two nights ago and he just keeps on improving from time to time. Though he is listed as over-aged player, he seems to be an instrumental player for Brunei U-21 team. I’m just afraid that the U-21 team will rely too much on Adi Said’s services. That makes it 5 goals in 3 matches for Adi Said if you count the previous goals he scored for DPMM FC a week ago. There was an injury scare for Adi prior to the tournament but he managed to recover in time for the tournament.
Brunei will next play Singapore (Wednesday) and Vietnam (Friday). So do come in throngs and support Brunei and hope for a place in the semi-finals of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy 2014. I shall be back for official duty coverage for the next two games before I head off flying again.
His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam (C) and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah (L), the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at Prime Minister’s Office accompanied by HRH Prince `Abdul Malik (R centre) personally greeted the crowd during the match between Indonesia and Brunei at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, yesterday. Picture:BT/Faiq Airudin
Listen to my take on the late Robin Williams on The Popcorn Panel as a bonus episode
One of the best scenes from Good Will Hunting starring Robin Williams and Matt Damon
Do drop by Sin Hup Huat for more inquiries and I have been using Michelin brand for many years too. Follow them on instagram @sinhuphuat or Facebook SHHCO for more updates.
Royal Brunei Airlines (RB)’s new ambassador Wu Chun and Dermot Mannion, Deputy Chairman of RB during the press conference.
Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) held a press conference on 8th August 2014 to announce Wu Chun as the national carrier’s new international brand ambassador.
“Wu Chun’s celebrity status in our regional markets, together with his renowned images as a family man makes him the ideal choice to represent the RB brand. His popularity will serve to better introduce RB and destination Brunei in the all-important China market and across Asia. RB is looking forward to a year of strategic marketing activities and exploring more collaboration in the future with Wu Chun in his ambassadorial role,” said Dermot Mannion, Deputy Chairman of RB.
According to Wu Chun. “I was introduced to RB’s brand attributes: authentic, gracious, delightful and optimistic; which I find fitting for my image as a family man, entrepreneur and a celebrity. As a Bruneian, to say that I am delighted to be linked to the RB brand is an understatement.”
He begins his tenure as RB’s international brand ambassador with an official signing ceremony to be held on 21st August 2014 in Shanghai to kick-start the campaign and activities.
Azaraimy of Borneo Bulletin asking a question
Dermot Mannion and Wu Chun carrying an RB model aircraft scale
Group photo with RB’s associates
Check out RB’s Facebook Page. Click image.
By the way, awesome deals to Singapore via RB
Hj Sulaiman the winner of the Grand Prize of KIA’s Hari Raya promotion
KIA car owner Hj Sulaiman Abdul Rahman walked away with $10,000 as the Grand Prize winner of Kia’s Hari Raya Promotion draw. This was part of the Korean Brand’s Hari Raya promotions, and Open House celebration.
Meanwhile, second and third prize winners, Alinayati Hj Perudin and Hj Amit Omar, received $5,000 and $3,000 respectively while another 15 lucky individuals went home with $500 each.
A total of 50 shortlisted customers out of the 800 who had purchased Kia cars between May 1 to July 31 were invited to the double celebration event, which saw representatives of various financial institutions, including Baiduri Finance and BIBD At-Tamwil Berhad draw names of winners.
Also present at the event were Grand Motors Managing Director, Frankie Ho, Grand Motors Executive Director, Hj Shaiful Rizal Pehin Dato Dr Hj Ahmad, Kia Sales Manager, Jacqueline Koh as well as the representatives from Baiduri Finance and BIBD At-Tamwil Berhad.
Alinayati Hj Perudin the runner up of KIA’s Hari Raya promotion
Hj Amit Omar the 2nd-runner up of KIA’s Hari Raya promotion
The crowd waiting for the KIA Hari Raya promotion draw last week
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