Archive for September, 2014
Bonding marathon
Acer Liquid Smartphones
Click image to enter Peugeot Brunei’s website
Click image to enter Citroën Brunei
BIBD’s latest promotion
Top up tia. Click image to enter website.
Our podcast review of Summer Box Office with my co-host Del Goh
Click image to enter ICON Design Store website
Click image to find out more from Butra HeidelbergCement
Butra HeidelbergCement, best known for their resources of providing cement to the Sultanate, has done more than its reputation proceeds. ‘Building A Nation’ is their corporate social responsibility initiative focusing on developing various aspects and levels of the nation with the mutual goal to succeed as a country. A company centered on sourcing a build, made enough sense for them to help others build their hopes, dreams and ambitions.
A fraction of this movement is devoted towards ‘Building Hope’, efforts dedicated to helping the less-fortunate society by addressing and aiding their needs for sustainable living. Dated back to February 2014, Butra HeidelbergCement was on the search of giving hope to those in need by refurbishing the core of basic necessities; a sheltering home.
Butra HeidelbergCement invited those in need with a chance to have their homes restored and repaired, a kind gesture by the company with hopes of ensuring a blissful Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration. This venture was in collaboration with the Community Development Department (JAPEM) under the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and Radio Televisyen Brunei (RTB) in expanding the reach for the initiative and assisting those in dire need of help.
From February, the collaborating delegation began investigating the applicants’ homes up until May when they narrowed down the list to four candidates for the project, two living in Brunei-Muara District and another two in Tutong District. A month long process of reconstruction began simultaneously for all four homes and the team addressed any faults and troubles the candidates previously faced in their distressed homesteads. By June, the candidates were able to enjoy the comforts of their refreshed homes in time for the fasting month of Ramadhan as well as the preparations for the festive season.
The success of the project proved enough for its continued existence as Butra HeidelbergCement has set their sights on sequel venture in the future, holding on to the values and objectives of ‘Building A Nation’.
Building A Nation comprises of other initiatives diversifying its reach towards accomplishing various other goals
Building Champion centers the spotlight on Brunei’s very own Wushu team, sponsored for their achievements in winning gold for the South East Asia (SEA) Games.
Building Careers opens more opportunities for locals in exploring their potential while Building Sustainability channels its inner greenery by championing the needs of our environment for
future generations.
Brunei Darussalam’s future looks bright with Butra HeidelbergCement as they build the pillars to a nationwide success. Courtesy of BHC.
So do check out RTB 1 every Friday at 7:30pm on the program entitled “Membina Harapan”.
One of the homes before it was reconstructed
The owner of the home
With the faces of Butra HeidelbergCement that helped in the project
This is the newly looked home.
Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Datin Paduka Hjh Adina (front, 4th L) with authors of ‘Women of Brunei – Inspiring Life Stories’ Nicola Lynskey (3rd L) and Cecile Castilla (5th L), and the Bruneian women featured in the book. Images courtesy of Amanda Yap of The Brunei Times.
The book took a while to complete but the hurdle is over. Co-authors French Cécile Castilla & British Nicola Lynskey have invested their times with their interviews and writing up articles for the compilation of 21 women of Brunei entitled Women of Brunei. The purpose of this publication is to inspire the younger generation of Brunei women and even those challenging moments can be dealt with.
I caught up with Cécile Castilla over a book signing outside Best Eastern Times Square a few days ago. I’ve known her for quite a while and in those days, she was editor-in-chief for Dua Minggu and she was also in the mainstream media for 10 years back in France, focusing more into female magazine. Back in 2006, she was based in Balikpapan and she was involved with an expat magazine. You can see that she has this urge to write and share her findings to others and that is one great way of contribution.
To her, this is a her second book that relates to women. She finds many rewarding values in interviewing and writing her findings. The publication won’t be possible without the help of their sponsors. Her purpose of this project is to understand women in Brunei Darussalam and she can see the difference between the women in Brunei and the women in France. She found out that even the community in Brunei is friendly and family oriented despite being a tiny country.
You can find the book “Women of Brunei – Inspiring Life Stories”, a 140-page coffee-table book and it is published by local visual and graphic design firm Pentagram Sdn Bhd. It is selling for $30 at all Best Eastern book stores throughout the country, as well as the Crimson Square at the Empire Hotel & Country Club in Jerudong.
Twenty per cent of all sales will be donated to charity while 10 per cent will go to the Council of Women Brunei Darussalam.
Another 10 per cent will also be donated to ALAF (Advocating Life-long Learning for an Aspiring Future), the charitable project under the book’s gold sponsor, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD).
Cécile Castilla explaining to the lady on the newly launched book
The book signing happened last weekend outside Best Eastern Times Square and it’s selling for BND 30
Liyana also bought herself a copy
Available now at Best Eastern
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4 points unlocked
Acer Liquid Smartphones
Click image to enter Peugeot Brunei’s website
Click image to enter Citroën Brunei
BIBD’s latest promotion
Top up tia. Click image to enter website.
His Majesty attends the 9th National Youth Day
His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday called upon the youth to understand and to know how to conduct themselves in a manner that safeguards the nation’s dignity especially in the face of challenges presented in this era of globalisation.
The call was made at the ninth National Youth Day celebration held yesterday at the Indoor Stadium where His Majesty advised youths to take heed of the challenges of the 21st century laid out before them in the form of opportunities for change.
His Majesty said that the youth, whose numbers make up almost 50 per cent of the population, are ‘Agents of Change’ and in fact they constitute the group having the most potential to shape the nation in any form they choose.
“On the subject of change, all of us, especially the youth, must be cautious and wise in evaluating and choosing our options. Because not all change is good, in fact there are even some that we need to avoid, such as those changes that bring about a negative impact or ones that contrast our national aspirations.”
Before bringing about or creating change, the character of our youth must be clear, solid and forthright with an excellent foundation which is filled (immersed) with religious and cultural values so that later on, the changes that are decided on will not be overwhelmed by undesirable elements, said His Majesty.
“If pretence is evident in a certain change, then this change is not welcomed, because its presence will not bring about any good but instead will invite harm.”
His Majesty pointed out that this is typical, in the name of change, “If it is destructive in nature, then the society that receives it will suffer because of it.”
“We in Brunei, need to be careful in this type of situation. Seek and plan for change that is constructive, not destructive. Do not study or take example from lessons that are counterproductive, but study from those and they that are worthy of being modeled.”
“This is the ideal way of conducting one self. It is important that the youth understand this. Conducting oneself also means having the ability to take command of a situation when needed.”
This is where the youth must not take lightly any challenge that is presented before them, but instead embrace the call of this year’s National Youth Day theme which is: Bersatu Menghadapi Cabaran Abad ke 21.
This century is filled with many challenges, pointed out His Majesty. “There can be no escaping from these challenges, whether constructive or destructive. If constructive, it is only right that we welcome it with passion, however, if it is destructive, then it is necessary that we successfully reject and avoid it.”
“If we are successful in rejecting this sort of challenge, then we are our own saviours; protecting ourselves; and guarding our people and our country.”
The youth must step up and rise to become this guardian. Transform the situation with the best of interests. Let it be forever peaceful and pleasant, entwined with unity, harmony and understanding.
His Majesty also expressed his heartiest congratulations to the Brunei Young Wasps for their performance during the recent Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy.
His Majesty revealed that, “this championship was also recognised by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) as the greatest youth football championship in the region. Undeniably this is a great achievement in the World’s Sports for Peace and Development agenda.” Text courtesy of Nadzri Zailani and Amanda Yap of The Brunei Times. Images courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.
The Youth Day ceremony taking place at Indoor Stadium
His Majesty the Sultan touring the booths
His Majesty talking to a youth
Three individuals and a youth association were honoured with the annual youth awards during the Ninth National Youth Day celebrations yesterday.
This year’s awards included the “Youth Leader Award for Distinguished Service”, “Youth Service Award”, “Excellent Youth Award” and the “Youth Association Award”.
The “Youth Leader Award for Distinguished Service” was bagged by Mohd Zefri Ariff Mohd Zain Ariff.
The award is annually given to a candidate, contributing significantly to youth progress, and development. It is also awarded in recognition of efforts in shaping Bruneian youth to become competent, visionary and ethical.
According to his award citation, Md Zefri is actively involved in youth movements and has held senior positions with various associations in the country since 1996, including the post of Secretary-General of the Brunei Youth Council and group head of the Putra Seni Group (KPS).
He has also held positions outside the country, such as the Vice-President of the Asian Youth Council, and Treasurer of the Committee for ASEAN Youth Cooperation (CAYC). Md Zefri’s involvement in youth movements focuses mainly on arts, particularly in the field of theatre and drama, including writing scripts which see the participation of many youth. This year’s “Youth Service Award” went to Anwar Mohammad, founder and chairman of the Society for Community Outreach and Training (SCOT), a non-government organisation.
SCOT was first established in 2011, and while relatively new, the association has actively progressed through Anwar’s leadership, who has shown persistence, responsibility and commitment in promoting youth efforts in the country up to the international level. Based on his award citation, Anwar is also actively involved in the operation of community-based programmes which intend to create environmental awareness, and excels academically, having received numerous awards while studying at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD).
Speaking to The Brunei Times, the SCOT Chairman thanked the government of His Majesty for recognising the organisation’s contributions throughout these years.
“InsyaAllah, we will continue to contribute towards the nation-building, especially towards youth, through our projects at SCOT.
“Through our projects, we will help the underprivileged – any vulnerable groups within the community – so they can get out of the cycle of poverty,” Anwar said.The “Excellent Youth Award” went to national athlete Lee Ying Shi, well-known for being part of the wushu team, which brought home the country’s first gold medal for wushu at the 27th Southeast Asian Games in Myanmar last year.
This award is given to an active youth, contributing outstanding service as well as bringing honour to the country. It also recognises those who excel and put in hard work with determination.
Lee said that receiving the award was not a surprise to her. She said that she was a bit nervous and felt honoured while receiving the award from His Majesty, and intends to keep contributing to the country via wushu.
All the three recipients of the awards received plaques, certificates, woven fabric (kain tenunan) and $3,000 in cash.
Meanwhile, the “Youth Association Award” was given to the Putra Seni Group (KPS). KPS additionally received a plaque, a certificate and $5,000 in cash. Text courtesy of Nadzri Zailani and Amanda Yap of The Brunei Times. Images courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.
His Majesty at one of the booths
Good smart, Benny and Shavez
His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Malik Bolkiah
His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Mateen Bolkiah
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New arrivals at ICON Design Store
Volkswagen Brunei is currently holding a roadshow which began yesterday and goes on until Sunday, September 7. The roadshow is held at The Mall, Atrium, in Gadong, featuring three of Volkswagen’s latest models; The new Tiguan TSI, the affordable German-engineered Vento and the iconic Beetle.
Each of these model cater to different walks of life. The Tiguan TSI is a compact SUV capable of going through almost all terrains. After its recent launch, it has proven to become a favourite among those who are shopping for a reliable and quality SUV, especially because the Tiguan TSI is packed with features that should make the car cost a lot more than what it costs now.
The German-engineered Vento on the other hand, is the cheapest Volkswagen model to date. Powered by a 1.6-litre engine putting out about 105 horsepowers, this car is the best choice for anyone that wants to own a Volkswagen at a cheaper than normal price. This car was introduced into the Brunei market a few months back to help cater to everyone and to prove that there truly is a Volkswagen for everyone.
The iconic Beetle needs no introduction. The redesigned Beetle just portrays so much more than just a new Beetle. It portrays what a Beetle should look like and it brings back memories to some. With its low roof-line, the Beetle is also no longer a girl’s car, it is now a much sportier and more masculine car that can be driven by anyone. The Beetle which is available in Brunei now comes with leather seats giving the icon a much more luxurious look and feel.
So if any of these cars are in your wishlist, head on down to the roadshow at The Mall in Gadong and ask any of the knowledgeable sales executives to give you a quote on your new Volkswagen.
Another reason why you should visit the roadshow is that Volkswagen is giving away two (2) CBTL vouchers each day to the winner of the selfie contest. How do you do it? Check out the Volkswagen social media sites; Instagram @volkswagenbrunei and Facebook.com/volkswagenbrunei. See you at the Volkswagen roadshow.
Check out the Volkswagen Vento
Check out the Volkswagen iconic Beetle
Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer Zul Abdul Rahman with the staff of Concepts Computer showcasing the Epson L-Series promotion
The most trending printers in the country – the Epson L-series. Why? It’s economical and it fits just perfect especially for teachers and students when it comes to their assignments. So I’m not surprised that Concepts Computer are bringing in plenty of stocks due to great demand and recommendations from others. The L series, which come in four models — L210, L355, L550 and L1300 — utilise low cost consumables which in turn ensures low cost high volume printing. With two sets of bottled inks, a print yield of 8,000 pages A4 sized prints is expected.
Good thing about the Epson printers is their durability and the refillable inks. Of course, the most affordable one is the L210 series which is valued at $228 and you can print, scan and photocopy. The great deal if you buy from Concepts Computer, you will get another extra set of genuine Espon bottled inks (worth at least $40 while stock last). So every purchase of the selected models ( L210, L355, L550 and L1300), you will get two sets of bottled inks. Awesome deal!!
Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer Zul Abdul Rahman added that third party modifications of printers are one of the main concerns for printing solution providers as it affects print quality, machine durability and unfamiliar refillable inks can be toxic, therefore Epson is putting long term effort in its research and development to curb the problem. Hence, this is a great awareness program to spread the disadvantages of using third party inks. Concepts Computer will not honour the warranty should their customers resort to using third party inks. If you are uncertain about the third party or having doubts whether the bottled inks are legit, you can drop by the Concepts Computer showroom for clarification.
So do remember to claim your free set of original Epson bottled inks when you purchase the selected L-Series. This is definitely a great buy for teachers and students alike.
Buy any of the selected Epson L-Series and get an extra set of bottled inks
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The Scent
Head of student representatives Muhd Romulus bin Muhd Roland speaking on behalf of the scholars
Last year it was above 40. This year, Brunei Shell Joint Venture (BSJV) awarded 54 students for scholarship programs and it is also the first time that a few scholars will be sent to Germany in August to pursue Mechanical Engineering at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology.
The scholarship program has been one of the most sought program and they have been many applications as demands are increasing in these fields. In actual fact, around 234 people applied for this year’s program. Furthermore, there are many students who are taking such subjects and interests and it’s pretty evident on the increase numbers of intakes for this year’s edition. Forty students will be heading to the UK, two in the United States, two in Germany and ten in Brunei Darussalam.
Before being awarded, the scholars had to undergo a tough assessment set by BSJV. Did you know that BSJV have sent over 600 students and this is back dated from 1972. Amazing!! The scholars will also be given the opportunity to be placed for attachment during summer to gain more experience.
Present during the event were Azhar Hj Yahya, Commercial Director of Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) and the guest of honour Hjh Rosmawatty Hj Abd Mumin, Permanent Secretary (Upstream), Energy Department at the Prime Minister’s Office.
There was also tokens of appreciation to First Class Achievers and they are Lim Jong Hau, Han Wenxiu, Fiona Shim Siew Ying, Izzah Mardhiah Zulkipli and Farah Azyan binti Ali Umar Safri and they all received mini iPads :p
Congratulations to all the beneficiaries of the BSJV scholarship program and do make them proud and contribute back to the economy of Brunei 🙂
Azhar Hj Yahya, Commercial Director of Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) with the scholars
Students pursuing Masters
Students pursuing Masters
Fiona Shim receiving a token as a First Class Achiever
Lim Jong Hau receiving a token as a First Class Achiever
Han Wenxiu receiving a token as a First Class Achiever
Farah Azyan binti Ali Umar Safri receiving a token as a First Class Achiever
Izzah Mardhiah Zulkipli receiving a token as a First Class Achiever
Elizabeth Sim and her co-host Kevin Lo interviewing Chris Woo at Timeout with Liz last weekend
I missed the first show of Timeout with Liz and I didn’t realise it has been a year already. Good job on Elizabeth Sim to keep the show going despite the challenges that she has to go through over the period. Venue has always been a problem and it looks she has found a proper setting for her show. Last weekend she had two special guests – Chris Woo and Bridgette Ang as well as Joanna Kwan. There was also a food demo by Hip and Healthy during the 3rd segment of the show.
Overall the energy was great and so was the turn out. Great to see Zainal Bostaman and Joanne Tan to be involved in the show as well as Liz’ co-host Kevin Lo.I would like to congratulate Elizabeth on her one year anniversary of her show and things can only get better from here. I’m looking forward to your future shows this year and let’s start the 2nd year with a bang.
Chris Woo sharing his experience as a toastmaster and his world championship final experience
All of them have something in common. There are all WCOPA Brunei representatives
Joanna Kwan doing the Asian thing
Joanne Tan helping out with the show. Good to see you again.
Bridgette Ang, another WCOPA participant and I love her vocals
Zainal setting the tone of the evening
The ever charismatic Zainal
Such a great turn out last weekend
The couple behind Hip and Healthy
Liyana Yus and Nadiah posed with a fan last week at the DST event
As part of DST’s “Ihsan Kasih” community program, over 30 orphans accompanied by their parents and guardians from the Tutong District between the ages of 8 and 17 were treated to movie outing to watch Brunei’s local film “Yasmine: The Movie” as well as have the opportunity to meet and greet the stars from the local Brunei film “Yasmine”.
The outing began with a welcoming reception at Dewan Kemasyarkatan in Tutong town by DST’s “Ihsan Kasih” volunteers where the children accompanied by their guardians were provided bus shuttle return transportation to the cinema in Empire Hotel & Country Club in Jerudong. At the cinema, the orphans were greeted by DST “Ihsan Kasih” volunteers.
DST also treated the children with a free popcorn and drink before they were ushered to their seats in the cinema joined by the stars themselves.
According to Elixsurian Hj Busu, Manager of Group Corporate Communications on the Ihsan Kasih initiative with Orphans, “DST have been proactive in arranging activities for orphans from fun futsal tournaments in Brunei-Muara district, educational trips to places like the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre (OGDC) in Seria, Belait District, and now a movie outing to the cinema. We are glad that we have the means and opportunity to give the orphans in Tutong a movie outing as currently Tutong does not have its own resident cineplex. At the same time, DST have the opportunity to share the enjoyable experience with the children and get to know them better”.
He also adds his positive views on the chosen film for the outing, “Feedback from many local viewers have recommended Yasmine as a movie that is universal for all ages as it also comes with various life lessons that can be learned. Also, as the movie is produced by our own local talents, it is also a means to inspiring the orphan children to believe that anything they dream of can be possible. We are fortunate that the director and actresses have taken their personal time to meet the children and to get to know them during this short time.”
After the movie the children were given the opportunity to an exclusive surprise meet and greet photo session with the stars from “Yasmine: The Movie”- Liyana Yus, Nadia Wahid, the movie director from Origin films, Siti Kamaluddin. The visit ended with DST providing DST “Ihsan Kasih” goodies to the children before their departure back to Tutong.
Also invited to the movie outing were DST’s corporate and premium clients as a token of appreciation for their loyalty and support to DST’s products and services throughout the years.
“Ihsan Kasih” is DST’s community program aimed to gather DSTians for voluntary work and to do beautiful things out of love, to help the less fortunate Bruneian, orphans and special needs community.
A great turn out from the DST event last Friday
Radin Sufri of DST with the crew of Origin Films and the stars of Yasmine
Photo opportunity with the stars
Siti Kamaluddin appreciating DST and the audience
The screening of Yasmine
A great turn out last Friday
Gotcha Liyana :p
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Walking fingers
Acer Liquid Smartphones
Sales at Icon Design Store
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BIBD’s latest promotion
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His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel during the Hari Raya celebration at ISB. Image courtesy of Dean Kassim of Borneo Bulletin.
Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah during the Hari Raya celebration at ISB
In attendance were members of the Royal Family, His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel, Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah, His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Muntaqim, Her Royal Highness Princess Muneerah Madhul Bolkiah and YAM Pengiran Anak ‘Abdul Haseeb.
It was amazing to see kids performing while their parents attended to support the Hari Raya celebration and it was entertaining too. It’s never easy to be on stage to perform but they did quite well nonetheless.
The pupils were from Year 2 to Year 5 of ISB. The event conducted with a fashion show featuring primary students donned in “Malay costumes” and the distribution of Malay cookies to the pupils.
His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel and Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah during the Hari Raya celebration at ISB. Image courtesy of Dean Kassim of Borneo Bulletin.
His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Muntaqim. Image courtesy of ISB Facebook Page.
This performer was quite entertaining. Image courtesy of ISB Facebook Page.
After 10 years, Mariah Carey is back to Malaysia brings us more hit songs to share not only with her Malaysian fans but also fans from all over the world! Mariah Carey “The Elusive Chanteuse” Tour In Malaysia 2014 is organized by IME Productions and supported by Malaysia Major Events, an agency under the Ministry of Tourism & Culture, Malaysia will be kicking off on 22nd October 2014 at 8pm at Stadium Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur.
“We are excited to have Mariah Carey to perform here in Malaysia in October. Mariah’s live concert in Malaysia 2014 is a wonderful way to bring people together and we are very proud to be able to support it. Such event will further complement arrivals for Visit Malaysia Year, especially from the fans from the region and it also complements Malaysia’s position as a favourite destination for live entertainment in South East Asia. This event is expected to bring in approximately 3,000 fans from across the region with an estimated tourist spend of over RM15 million. Malaysia Major Events is glad to reward fans with this priceless opportunity to meet their favourite idol and hear to her sing their favourite songs.” said Tony Nagamaiah, General Manager, Malaysia Major Events.
It’s good to see her back in the music scene
Mariah’s concert in Kuala Lumpur is expected to draw a huge international attention. Wherever fans are, they are very welcome to catch her in Kuala Lumpur and grab an opportunity visiting attractions of Malaysia while staying in the country. The ticket prices are categorised into VVIP RM680 (number seat), RM580 (number seat), RM480 (number seat), RM380 (number seat), RM280 (free seating) and RM120 (free seating). Online tickets purchase are through official ticketing agency website www.ticketcharge.com.my or call for TicketCharge hotline +603 92228811 or IME Productions hotline +603 21666166 for ticket and concert information. I shall be running quizzes on my instagram @ranoadidas pretty soon so stay tune for that.
An iconic artiste that needs no introduction, Mariah Carey is the best-selling female artiste of all time with more than 250 million albums sold to date and eighteen Billboard #1 singles (seventeen self-penned) including ‘Fantasy’, ‘Always Be My Baby’, ‘Hero’, ‘Touch My Body’, ‘One Sweet Day’, ‘Without You’, ‘We Belong Together’ and the global smash hit Christmas single ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You’, more than any solo artiste in history. With her distinct five-octave vocal range, prolific song writing, and producing talent, Mariah has defined the modern pop performance. As a singer, songwriter and producer, she has been recognized with five Grammy Awards, nine American Music Awards, Billboard’s “Artist of the Decade” Award, the World Music Award for “World’s Best Selling Female Artiste of the Millennium,” and BMI’s “Icon Award” to name a few.
Fans can prepare themselves for some mesmerising great time as the unparalleled American songstress showers her love, greatest hits and remarkable new singles to millions of people who have adored her widely acclaimed songs. For more information, please log on to IME Facebook http://www.facebook.com/imepmy or TicketCharge website www.ticketcharge.com.my
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Oh yeah… The Singapore Toy, Game and Comic Convention is back again. This will be the third year running that I will be attending the event. However, this convention won’t be Marvel driven as compared to last year. There will be a dozen of pop culture personalities that will take the stage this weekend in Singapore. I shall be flying to Singapore for this trip and it will be a short one.
My co-host of The Popcorn Panel @delgoh will be flying as well and we shall be updating you guys on my website and do wait for our experience that we will be sharing on our podcast for The Popcorn Panel.
My focus probably will be more on the cosplay people and the exhibitors. I’m not quite familiar with the comic artists or writers as I’ve been so outdated when it comes to comics. Will STGCC be more interesting than last year? We shall wait and see. My bucket list one day is to attend the Comic-Con in the States. For now, the minor Asia version of Comic-Con will do.
You can check out the line up here for more details.
Let’s see if they are any interesting cosplay this year
Some of the pictures taken from last year’s edition
Let’s see if they are any interesting cosplay this year
Let’s see if they are any interesting cosplay this year
Taking the new C-Class for a test drive last Sunday. Verdict: I love it. Click image to read more of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The new C-Class is pretty awesome!!! I recently did a test drive and it’s one of the best cars I’ve driven this year *hands down* Even the royal blue colour that I test drove was excellent. My old car was a C180 back then but that was history. Fast forward 15 years later, the C180 now is much more transformed car.
The all-new C-Class is 100 kilos lighter and provides better aerodynamic and new economical engine. Of course, safety has been the priority of Mercedes-Benz and they are of high standard.
I kinda enjoyed the suspension while giving it a quick drive along the bump stretched road and the car does speak for itself. It’s also one of the most innovative luxury car to date.
In terms of appearance the new C-Class adopts a progressive approach with its clear yet emotional design and its high-class interior.
To me, it’s the best C-Class design from previous models. It’s very striking with a dynamic design Those who own this car will have an emotional feel to it and you will be impressed with the technology and its engineering.
It’s quite spacious as well and the interior feels luxurious and sporty at the same time. There have been quite a few interested parties as well for this car and I won’t be surprised that this model will sell quite well in Brunei.
You want to read the new C-Class in full details, you can click here. You can also drop by Jati Transport in Beribi to find out more about the C-Class (standard, AMG and the 250).
Driving like a bawse
A great ride indeed.. I can’t wait to further test drive the car
Love the colour of the C-Class
This is the C-Class 250 which was sold already. My brother was too late :p
Public viewing at Jati Transport
The public getting a sneak peak of the new C-Class
Taking a photo opportunity with the new General Manager of Jati Transport, Alfred So and of course, my brother who is eyeing on the Mercedes-Benz GLA
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Chris puts Brunei on the map
Chris Woo being interviewed after the finals of Toastmasters International Speech in Kuala Lumpur two Saturdays ago
Recently, close to two thousand Toastmasters from around the world met at the prestigious Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. For the first time in its history, Toastmasters International had organised its annual International Convention outside North America. Toastmasters International is a non-profit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through practical hands-on experiences.
More than 30,000 people from 126 countries compete each year in the prestigious and soul-stirring World Championship of Public Speaking. Chris Woo has reached this milestone by reaching the finals of the World Championship of Public Speaking. He is the first Toastmaster from Brunei Darussalam as well as from Toastmasters’ district 87 (which consists of Brunei Darussalam, East Malaysia and Indonesia) to reach the semi-finals of the contest. His speech entitled, ‘Listen’ took the stage and Chris Woo prevailed in one of nine semi-final rounds and competed as a finalist in the World Championship of Public Speaking. Criteria used in judging includes speech content, originality, organization, voice quality and body language.
Chris Woo, representing Brunei Darussalam and Toastmasters’ district 87 received standing ovations for his heart-felt speech in the finals. After several months of elimination process through club, area, district and semi-final competitions, Chris Woo is the first Toastmaster in Brunei Darussalam and District 87 to compete in the World Championship of Public Speaking.
Toastmasters from Brunei Darussalam have also participated in the convention to learn from world class public speakers, and network with like-minded people. One of the keynote speakers, Robin Sieger, a former Head of Development at BBC Television and the author of the best-selling book ‘Natural Born Winners’, shared with everyone how people can create true success in life. Other prestigious international speakers were Jana Barnhill, Mark Brown, Douglas Kruger, Lance Miller, Florian Mueck and Rory Vaden, who have all established well-renowned careers in leading and inspiring people.
The annual Toastmasters International Convention in Kuala Lumpur have inspired all who attended to become better public speakers and leaders in today’s world. For further information on Toastmasters in Brunei Darussalam, please visit www.bruneispeakersclub.com. Press courtesy of Brunei Speakers Club.
My experience: It was such a great exposure for me even as a spectator, to see people expressing their thoughts and sharing meaningful stories with conviction and enthusiasm. I’ve learnt so much about public speaking and we just don’t simply say it, we have to deliver in an impactful way to get the message across. I always thought that I can speak quite well in public but I realised that there is so much to learn and I’m still far behind on being a proficient speaker. This can be learned and it takes practice, practice and more practice.
The Toastmasters International Convention 2014 meet in KL was definitely worth the trip and I doubt it will make to Asia again as it is usually held in North America. And of course, most of the toastmasters from Brunei came to support our very own toastmaster Chris Woo whom I look up to as a role model for public speaking. His spontaneity and vocal variety, to me, are his strength and whenever he speaks, he is able to to draw the audience to his attention.
Of course, the other great part about the trip was the closer bond that we had among Brunei toastmasters from Brunei Speakers’ Club, Otters Club (Seria) and Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club. Around 17 of us traveled to Kuala Lumpur to attend the convention. Thank you, peeps, for everything and this experience lists in my top ten of 2014. Awesome!!!
District 87 where our country Brunei is part of it. Other countries sharing the same district are Indonesia and East Malaysia.
Ladies represent
I’m proud of you dude for making to the semi-finals but for you to win the semi-finals was simply amazing!!
Seng Yee and I supporting Chris Woo during the finals of the International Speech Contest
Will I be up here one day? *lol* Keep dreaming, Rano
One of the speakers, Rory Vadan that made a huge impact with three words – Take the Stairs
Representing District 87 and it was nice to see you again, Fern
Zainal, Hazwan and I had fun during the Toastmasters International Convention 2014
I was honoured to play the timer role at Maxis Toastmasters Club
Tons of Toastmasters International goodies and merchandise on sale at Kuala Lumpur
Hmmmm… I realised how easy it was to buy the pin badges of Toastmasters
Girl bonding in Kuala Lumpur
The backbone of Toastmasters from Brunei and Brunei Speakers’ Club
Chris Woo as a special guest at Elizabeth’s Timeout with Liz 1st anniversary show last Saturday
Now you might be wondering how to be part of toastmasters – an avenue where you enrich your speaking skills and building up the confidence in you. I was a former member of Brunei Speakers’ Club back in 2011 and I only lasted a few months before disappearing and this year, I have made a comeback and one reason is to contribute, to contribute my knowledge and experience to other members and guests and also to learn from the members and guests during our weekly meetings at Seameo Voctech (Tuesday evenings).
Brunei Speakers’ Club is a great avenue to learn all these tools of being a public speaker and it’s the best place to start because the community is quite allowing and welcoming. There are no judgment (only positive criticism) and we are able to grow faster through encouragement and experience. I have always have concerned about showing my weaknesses as a speaker because I don’t like to be analysed or being advised on what I should improve. Well, that was my ego speaking for a long time and it’s never easy to break that wall. Now I’ve embraced my weakness and I can only go upwards from here. A big thanks for Seng Yee for that minor push and also to the other members of BSC. My vision is here to contribute in any possible means (doesn’t have to be monetary) to make a difference and this is one channel where I believe you can benefit as well.
If you want to know more about toastmasters, you can drop me a message here or you can email me directly if you shy to ask them ranoadidas(8)gmail and of course, you can check out their Facebook Page and also their main website which have updates on weekly meetings so you will be able to get that feel. I can guarantee you that you will have a great time during the meetings and I have also invited a few of my friends to show up for the meeting. You are more than welcome to come as a guest and it starts every Tuesday from 7:30pm to 9:30pm at Seameo Voctech (Gadong). I shall be there tomorrow evening too 😀
Last Tuesday’s meeting at Seameo Voctech for Brunei Speakers’ Club. You are more than welcomed to be part as a guest to learn observe and learn 😀
Chris Woo and Shawn Narcis having a laugh
I finally did my second prepared speech and it was about my journey as a toastmasters 😀
Ching is a great supporter of our club and he is an executive committee for Otters Club
It’s not just about learning but we also can have some fun along the way
Gary (in blue) given a task during Table Topics
A great environment to be at
Clovis Lai, the man that made it possible for Brunei Speakers’ Club
Stuart Lee, the President of Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club, contributing continuously to BSC
Seng Yee playing the role as General Evaluator
Standing ovation for Chris from the members and guests on his achievements at Toastmasters International Speech Contest in Kuala Lumpur recently
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