Archive for October, 2015
Be in the moment
Hjh Nurul Akmar Hj Mohd Jaafar BIBD’s head of consumer banking division and concurrent head of the bank’s CSR unit, Vivian Tie Suk Kee, Head of Rehabilitation Department at Jerudong Park Medical Centre, Wu Chun, director of Fitness Zone and Ak Danny, Marketing Officer of Jerudong Park Medical Centre during the press conference of the the musical broadway “Sebuah Perjalanan”
The Rehabilitation Department at Brunei Neuroscience, Stroke and Rehabilitation Centre (BNSRC) together with The Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) and supported by BIBD, will be organizing a musical broadway, “Sebuah Perjalanan” as part of the stroke and cancer patient’s therapeutic group activity programme. The musical is scheduled to be held tomorro, Sunday 1st November 2015, which coincides with the commemoration of World Stroke Day that is celebrated by countries around the world every year on 29th October.
The objective of the project is to create the best situation and environment, to help patients overcome their disabilities through meaningful rehabilitation that kindles sheer determination, states Vivian Tie Suk Kee, Head of Rehabilitation Department at JPMC. A total of 53 patients started practising to prepare for this event since 21 September 2015 which will last for 6 weeks, although about 20 will perform along with staff of the department. The whole process helps patients focus on a task for a good cause through rehabilitative strategies to help them recover their function and not on their disability. We hope to encourage and motivate the stroke patients to continue working hard towards further reducing their disabilities and achieving a more enriched life after a disabling stroke condition, she added.
With their previous TGA performances receiving positive feedback and positive clinical outcome, the department decided to take the next performance further by organizing a musical play, involving stroke patients and staff of BNSRC and JPMC. The story of the performance was written by a stroke patient based on real events together with staff of the Rehabilitation Department that aims to enhance the public’s awareness about stroke, the disability following stroke, its rehabilitation involved and the important elements for a successful recovery journey, stressing the importance of having fast medical attention.
Wu Chun urged the public to support the event
Vivian Tie whom I have so much respect for believing this project and she has so much passion and dedication to bring hope to stroke patients. Keep it up!!
The media of the partners and media
Wu Chun, Event Ambassador of “Sebuah Perjalanan” has previously shown his support by participating in preparations for the above event. “This Therapeutic Group Activity is very creative and helpful for patients, in working their brain and muscles. Through supporting this event, I can only do so much. We are here to create awareness and let the public know about how they can give a helping hand to those in need. Hopefully, they can spread the kind words and let others know more about this very sincere, yet meaningful event.”, stated Wu Chun previously. Live music will be supported by the amazing Uniq Band from Pusat Bahagia who are all visually impaired and also talented musicians from Expression Music Academy.
Meanwhile, Ak Danny Pg Tajuddin, Head of Marketing of JPMC stated, “The event will be held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) and is open to public with a ticket fee of BND25 (Balcony seats and free T-Shirt designed and autographed by Wu Chun), BND15 (Front row) and BND10 (Back row). All proceeds from this event will be donated to a charity organisation, BIBD ALAF. This initiative is fully supported by BNSRC’s Management. Stay tune to find out more about this event by following JPMC’s Facebook Page, The Jerudong Park Medical Centre, and Instagram Profile, @JPMCBrunei and @BNSRC_musical.” Tickets can be bought at JPMC, Energy Kitchen, Fitness Zone, Bake Culture and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Beribi).
Rehabilitation Department offers treatments available that includes Falls Prevention, Geriatric and Pediatric Rehabilitation, Back and Neck Pain, Stroke and Spinal Cord Injury, Orthopedics and Sports Injury. For more information, please visit their website at www.jpmc.cm.bn.
Wu Chun showing during the practice session and giving the stroke patients motivation for the upcoming musical event
Garage Sale tomorrow 1st November (Sunday)
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Be Right Back (again)
Flying off with my toastmasters buddies to Bali, Indonesia two nights ago
Sorry for the lack of updates. Getting a good wifi connection is challenging in Bali. The Seagrass Villa looks awesome and everyone is happy but the internet speed could have been improved. Hence, it’s difficult for me to upload pictures and post in on my blog. So do bear with me for the lack of updates until I get a stable connection.
I will be away for a few weeks for leisure, toastmasters and a leadership course and this is the longest I will be away from Brunei. I will be more frequent on instagram and Snapchat feed (ranoadidas) so catch me there.
I can’t believe that this is my fourth first visit to Bali but I would have love if I had the chance to travel to Lombok which is only 20 minutes (by flight). Lombok is one of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia and it’s a pity that not many Bruneians travel there.
Interestingly enough, I had a quick briefing with the representatives of the Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia and they shared how the Bruneians don’t really know about Indonesia but show great interests after being exposed to many places of interest in Indonesia alone during the recent Brunei Travel fair.
Sulaiman Shehdek, Country Manager from the Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia, was pleased to announced that there was an increase of 2.71% of Bruneians traveling to Indonesia as compared to last year and this number could simply grow if the locals are more aware of the tourism product that Indonesia can offer. They already made their presence felt during the Brunei Travel Fair, taking up a huge space and the responses were overwhelming.
Yesterday the Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia (for Brunei Market) upped the game by having business matching sessions with selected travel agents in Brunei to give more exposure and encourage more Bruneians to travel to Indonesia. With the Royal Brunei Airline flights to Surabaya, Jakarta and Bali, these shows that there is a huge potential in tourist arrivals from Brunei alone.
So to my readers, do make Indonesia a preferred choice for vacation. It was just a coincidence that the ministry invited me for a tourism briefing and I am here in Bali with my own agenda/plan and sharing my experiences in Bali once more.
Interviewing with representatives from Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia
The villa we are staying at for the past few nights
Amran doing a frog splash into the pool
We are simply too tired on the 2nd day
However the people in the other were more excited than us *lol*
Chilling at Tanah Lot
The beautiful sunset
Dining at one of the recommended places
Gary and Pranika enjoying their meals
Gerald with one of the fire dance performancers
Happy Birthday Seng Yee 😀
There is gonna be a colour run but this time it has a tag line of “Ikhlas Run with Colours” and it is organised by the Seameo Voctech (where we always have our Brunei Speakers’ Club meetings) with Heroes BN as their event partner. The event is also in conjunction with the SEAMEO’s Golden Jubilee and SEAMEO VOCTECH’s silver jubilee.
For your info, SEAMEO means Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organisation whereas VOCTECH means Vocational and Technical Education and Training.
So this will be the first that there will be a 3KM and 5KM colour run in Brunei Darussalam. The run will take place on 15th November at the Indoor Stadium Berakas. The online registration ends on 30th October which is pretty soon. So click here to register and have fun 😀
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New Song
New ministers and deputy ministers sworn in. Video by The Brunei Times.
Brunei’s new Cabinet ministers and deputy ministers were sworn in for a five-year term at Istana Nurul Iman this morning, October 26, 2015.
The swearing-in ceremony was held three days after His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalamm, announced the Cabinet reshuffle on state television.
A total of 21 office-bearers took their oaths before the Sultan during the hour-long ceremony, including His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister ‘s Office.
His Majesty retains the posts of prime minister, defence minister, finance minister and took over the foreign affairs and trade portfolio from His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah.
Five new faces are also included in the Cabinet line-up. Source: The Brunei Times.
So what flavour are you?
It was great to see Richard To (in Superman tee) and his mother at Chatime last weekend. I do miss my Power Ranger days *lol*
The well known bubble tea franchise is here in the city. The first one was opened in Kuala Belait. Now the Taiwanese tea franchise, Chatime, opened its second branch in Citis Square. I only noticed of Chatime when I was traveling to Kuala Lumpur and apparently, it’s quite big in KL and to my surprise, a few of my friends kinda know of Chatime and they prefer the drinks from Chatime. The soft opening was last Saturday and the responses were great to begin with.
Grace Chen, the master franchise of Chatime for Brunei market, was happy that the second outlet was ready to serve the customers. The grand opening is slated soon and it will tie with some promotion as well. So what flavours are the popular ones? Do try the QQ Passion Fruit, the Maccha Red Bean or the Chocolate Milk Tea or the usual Pearl Milk Tea. My personal favourite is the blend mix of maccha and red bean.
Chatime can also cater to your sugar level and even ice level and you can enjoy a selection of 8 toppings.
Chatime in Citis Square is located not far from Burger King. Enjoy!!! You can follow on their IG @chatime_brunei
Sin Yi and Ming Rui enjoying their Chatime. However, Ming Rui is craving for the taro flavour which is not available just yet
The interior of Chatime at Citis Square outlet
It’s gonna be a busy month at Chatime
Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar, the Minister of Home Affairs was the guest of honour during the BIBD CE ALAF’s prize presentation last Sunday.
BIBD CE ALAF became another hit among the locals. Thousands showed up last Sunday for another edition of BIBD CE ALAF programme. It stands for Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Charity Expedition for Advocating Life-Long Learning for an Aspiring Future. The event took place at the usual Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.
The guest of honour was the Minister of Home Affairs, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong presented prizes to the winners.
It was also nice to see former Minister of MIPR at the cycling category. Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar cycled during the expedition accompanied by Javed Ahmad, BIBD’s Managing Director and both of them are cycling enthusiasts.
Javed was quick to point out the volunteers for their great contribution to the community. Did you know they have roughly 900 volunteers in helping out the BIBD event to be a success? Amazing feat.
Great job to the BIBD team especially to Hajah Nurul Akmar binti Haji Mohd Ja’afar , Head of BIBD’s Corporate Social Responsibility, in leading the team to greater heights and also making the event another success.
Below are the winners of the respective categories.
Stephen Mungathia Nikubitu 1st place, Charles Munya Njaki 2nd place and Bernard Muthoni 3rd place in the Men Open 21km
Sefli Ahar 1st place, Abdul Malik bin Hidup 2nd place and Mohammad Samsul Zamri bin Muhammad Samsul Zam 3rd place in the Brunei Male 21 KM category
Tarus Gladus Jep Kechei 1st, Cheptoeck Careen 2nd and Esther Wambui Karimi 3rd in the Open Female 21KM category
Jenny Tan Feng Ling 1st place, Marnie Ahmad 2nd place and Jalquirey Cheng Nee 3rd place in Brunei Women 21 KM
James Cikunga Karanja 1st , Charles Kipkorir Kipsang 2nd and Titus Kipngetich 3rd in the Male Open 10Km category
Mastani Yussof 1st, Razali Sabli 2nd and Mohd Shah Azahar bin Abdullah 3rd in the Brunei Male 10Km category
Isabelan Kigen 1st, Valentine Jepkemoi Serem 2nd and Sarah Powdrill 3rd in the Female Open 10Km category
Nice t-shirt
Nurul Amirah Kariml 1st, Nurizyenny Muslim 2nd and Liza Hamid 3rd in the Brunei Female 10K category
Nikmatul Fatinah Haji Ismail 1st, Shazana Hamiroldzam 2nd and Dawn Lovell 3rd in the Female 5Km category
Kamau Kamau 1st (amazing feat of almost 16 minutes in the 5km run), Muhd Qamarul Ariffin Hifn 2nd and Lim Wei Kuang 3rd in the Male 5Km category
The winners of the Brunei Travel Fair feted two weeks ago
Irene Soon, General Manager of Abacus Brunei thanked all the stakeholders involved in the Brunei Travel Fair and also their customers
Late post: Well done to all the 13 winners of the recent Brunei Travel Fair as they won from the lucky draws organised by Acabus (B) Sdn Bhd which was held at Royal Brunei Recreation Club. The prizes were sponsored by Abacus Brunei, Royal Brunei Airlines (RB), Nautilus Diving Bali, Holiday Inn Express, Pathumwan Princess and Tourism Authority of Thailand and the official bank, Baiduri Bank.
The biggest winner was Nor Liyana Naqibah Bahren as she won one return air ticket to London and it was an anti-climax moment when new born Siti Nurzafirah Abd Azim won two air tickets to Melbourne. Maggie Sim won four return economy air tickets to Ho Chi Minh City and the fourth prize went to Kok Ngean with three return tickets to Bali. All the prizes were sponsored by Royal Brunei Airlines.
Holiday Inn Express (Thailand) sponsored prizes as well. Both Mohammad Hajatul Nazri Roslan and Mastura Kalong won a two night stay at Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Sathorn and Siam while Morsidi Haji Damit won a three-day-two-night free accommodation at Pathumwan Princess Hotel.
My friend @marul69 had one in five chances to win the GoPro Hero 4 but the Abacus grand prize went to Tan Meng Gueh, who purchased a ticket from Freme Travel Services. Instead Marul and the other consolation winners won a handy power bank. This category prizes were sponsored by Abacus Brunei.
Abacus Brunei also awarded prizes to the top travel agencies who registered the highest incremental bookings during the Brunei Travel Fair. It was no surprise that Pan Bright Travel won first place (as they have a good marketing gimmick) and this was followed by Darussalam Holdings Sdn Bhd and Freme Travel Services Sdn Bhd.
Present during the prize presentation were the representatives from the organisers and partners. Handing the prizes were Joan Lim, Head of RB’s Commercial Service; Pengiran Azaleen bin Pengiran Dato Haji Mustapha, Head of Baiduri Bank Retail Banking and Branch Network; Irene Soon, General Manager of Abacus Brunei and Abd Halim Haji Abd Rahman, Senior Manager (Sales and Marketing) of Abacus Brunei.
According to Abacus Brunei, they have an increase of bookings compared to last year. This shows that the travel industry is a lucrative market because we love to go on holidays. I managed to buy tickets to Kota Kinabalu and Bali but unlucky not be shortlisted in the lucky draw. Maybe next time 😀
The winners of the flight to London, Melbourne, Ho Chi Minh City and Bali
The winners of the hotel accommodation in Thailand
Tan Meng Gueh won a GoPro Hero 4
The winners of the Abacus Brunei lucky draw
It was a packed occasion during the Brunei Travel Fair
The top three travel agents during the travel fair – Pan Bright Travel, Darussalam Holdings and Freme Travel
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Make or break
Representatives from Jerudong International School
FOBISIA is the Federation of British and International Schools in Asia. Jerudong International School is proud and honoured to be selected to host the FOBISIA Tennis Tournament. The visiting teams include the Bangkok Patana School, Marlborough College (Malaysia), Harrow International School (Bangkok), United World College of South East Asia, United World College of South East Asia-Dover Campus, The International School @ ParkCity, ACS Jakarta, St. Andrews, International School Bangkok, British School Manila, International School Brunei (ISB), Garden International School Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) and British School Jakarta.
As well as the competitors and their coaches, many of the visiting teams are accompanied by an entourage of very supportive parents. Mr Barnaby Sandow, JIS Principal said “It is wonderful to be able to have the opportunity to welcome our overseas guests to Brunei Darussalam and JIS – to be able to show them what a special place this is and what a fantastic school JIS is. “
I attended the afternoon session yesterday and I was quite impressed with the young talents and I know they can teach me a lesson or two on the court despite their small figures. I do hope one day that Brunei will have a youth academy system in place to groom the tennis enthusiasts at a very young age. I believe we have the talent but it has to start from an early age to unlock the potential.
Five BIBD customers had a shopping spree worth BND 500 yesterday as part of BIBD’s Swipe for Rewards campaign. The event took place at Giant Rimba yesterday.
Pg Suhardy bin Pg Hj Nordin, BIBD’s Head of Branches presented shopping voucher to a lucky winner
Five lucky BIBD customers were all smiles as they received Giant shopping vouchers worth BND500 each from BIBD’s final monthly “Swipe for Rewards” campaign.
Pg Suhardy bin Pg Hj Nordin, BIBD’s Head of Branches, presented the shopping vouchers to the winners, who took the opportunity to use their vouchers to fill several trolleys with groceries from Giant Supermarket.
The BIBD Swipe for Rewards campaign was open to any customers who spend a minimum of BND30 in a single receipt using either the BIBD Debit or Credit Cards at selected retailers, with the opportunity to win shopping vouchers worth BND500.00.
BIBD is also currently running its sixth Barakah campaign until the 30th of November, 2015. The campaign allows BIBD customers a chance to win a grand prize of a Honda Odyssey along with consolation prizes of Apple iPhones and iPads on top of its monthly prizes of electrical appliances. Registration is automatic and simple as all they need to do to join is sign up for any BIBD financing product or assign their salary to BIBD.
Another lucky recipient
It’s shopping time!!
Always love how they choose what they want
It’s always good to survey the supermarket the day before the shopping spree
Lt Col (rtd) Dato Hj Samid Hj Abd Aziz and his son, Hj Mohd Aminuddin receiving their first prize from Mr. Teng Chee Khiong, organising committee chairman of 6th Brunei edition of the Audi quattro Cup
The donation of BND 26,800 was handed to Pusat Ehsan
The rainy morning (last Sunday) didn’t dampen the spirits of the golfers during the 6th Brunei edition of the Audi quattro Cup amateur gold tournament at the Royal Brunei Golf Club in Jerudong. The tournament also celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Audi quattro cup worldwide.
Present at the event was Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hazair bin Haji Abdullah, who presented the trophies to the winning teams.
Over 130 teams took part this year with many sign-ups taking place on the day, marking the biggest turn-out to date. The enthusiasm for the event meant that BND 26,800.00 was collected from all the golfers entry fees, which benefited Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam. A mock check was presented during the prize presentation ceremony by Organizing Committee Chairman, Mr. Teng Chee Khiong to Hj Ahmad Bin Abd Rahman, the Policy & Planning Trustee for Pusat Ehsan.
Lt Col (rtd) Dato Hj Samid Hj Abd Aziz and his son, Hj Mohd Aminuddin won the tournament, carded a 45 on count back (ocb) and booked their place at the World’s Final at the Cabo del Sol Ocean Course in Mexico. Hj Osman Salleh and Hj Raya Dollah finished second after posting a 45, meanwhile Ang Kian Han and Simon Newn carded a 44 to settle for a third place.
From November 29th until December 3rd the winners of all national Audi quattro Cup qualifications will meet on the Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol to compete for the final victory and to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Audi quattro Cup golf tournament series. 55 countries, 750 tournaments, 100.000 players – after another exciting season around the globe the Audi quattro Cup will come to its crowning finish at the World Final in Los Cabos with 58 teams participating. Good luck to our Brunei representatives.
No one won the hole-in-one prize
Congratulations to the 3 winners of BIBD’s Agoda promotion who each won 100,000 Hadiah Points
Datin Paduka Hjh Adina with Pehin Onn Siew Siong and the management of The Escape Experience last Sunday
The Escape Experience, Brunei’s first fully fledged “escape the room” game, was officially opened during a small opening ceremony on last Sunday.
The guest of honour was Datin Paduka Hjh Adina Othman, the former Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, who participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony to officiate the opening with Pehin Onn Siew Siong, the President of the Kuala Belait Chinese Chamber of Commerce. After the ceremony, Datin Paduka Hjh Adina and her family had the opportunity to experience some of the rooms, led by one of the partners from The Escape Experience, On Hung Zheng.
The whole concept of the The Escape Experience” is unique adventure based games where players are locked into a room with objects, having to search for clues and solve puzzles against the clock.
There are five uniquely themed rooms at the Escape Experience, such as the Doraemon and Super Mario rooms, which is fun for adults and children while The Prison Break room is said to be thrilling with an intense atmosphere. The Escape Experience hopes to add more themes in the future with a rotating schedule to keep things fresh and keep players on their toes.
Each room can accommodate up to 6 players, but teams of 4-5 are recommended for each room, and children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. The experience is not just for families and friends, but can also be tailored for corporate events and team building activities.
They are open 7 days a week, with the first game slot at 1pm, except on Fridays, and are open until late. Booking for time slots is recommended, but walk-ins are welcomed. Prices start at $17 at off-peak times, with a $1 discount for customers who like their Facebook Page.
The Escape Experience is located at Unit F3 of the Setia Kenangan Two building behind Regent Square in Kampung Kiulap. Customers can WhatsApp +6738287778 to book slots or make enquiries.
Two weeks ago, we attempted the Prison Break and it took us more than an hour :p
Sisters Winnie and Elva needed to be rescued
How did we go in Prison Break? It could have been better.
Next up was Mario. We had a good run with team mates – Winnie, Alex and Rachel
The clues are pretty tricky. You will need to think outside the box but rewarding once you unlocked the clues.
We did better in Mario than Prison Break *lol*
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The only way is forward
His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam during his titah and announcement of the reshuffling and appointments of the Cabinet Ministers yesterday. His Majesty the Sultan holds four posts – as the Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Minister of Defence and now Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Image courtesy of Infofoto.
His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince, retains his position as Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office. Image courtesy of un.org
Who’s who? This has been the talking point for the past few months. The public was teased way back in May as it was supposedly the end of the 5 year term in their respective positions as Cabinet Ministers. The announcement didn’t happen then (in May) but there was a viral message that spread through social media. It was information on the leaked version of the proposed ministers. I remember receiving it as well but to my knowledge (if I could remember), the leaked list and the actual appointments of the Cabinet Ministers didn’t have many resemblance at all. So my point is don’t rely on viral or circulated news unless it’s made official.
I am glad the wait is over and I am happy that His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, has finally reshuffled and appointed the Cabinet Ministers. According to the titah, His Majesty the Sultan carries four posts – as the Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Minister of Defence and now Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, will retain his position as Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office.
Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Awg Abu Bakar Hj Apong has been appointed as the new Minister of Home Affairs, after previously holding the post of Education Minister for the past five years. He was also previously Minister of Communications. Now I do hope I can address the issue especially for permanent residents of Brunei Darussalam who doesn’t have a passport but instead a “Certificate of Identity” document.
Next up is Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Suyoi Hj Osman who is now appointed as the Minister of Education. He has been a minister for the past ten years and he has done tremendously well as the Minister of Health (2005-2010) and Minister of Development. I am aware that things were kinda sour between us and I took full responsibility for my actions. I do hope we can work closely and hand-in-hand in the near future and for the benefit of the country.
Another minister that has retained his position is Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Hj Abd Rahman Hj Ibrahim and he is still the Minister of Finance II and furthermore, he is also appointed as a Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office. He’s one of the ministers that I have yet to break the ice with for all these years.
Having being entrusted by His Majesty, Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Lim Jock Seng, will be running his third term as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II (since 2005) and he was also being appointed as a Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office. If you see the pattern, both Pehin Rahman and Pehin Lim Jock Seng have two ministerial posts.
Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Mohammad Yasmin Hj Umar maintained his ministerial role in Energy and Industry at the Prime Minister’s Office. If you notice now that the ministry name have changed and now it’s called Energy and Industry. Previously it was just Energy at the Prime Minister’s Office. Before he was a minister, he served as a Deputy Minister of Defence. He is perhaps one of the most active (hands-on) ministers that I have come across as he’s always mingling with the public while making his rounds on related events such as the Oil & Gas job fair.
Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Hj Awg Badaruddin Pengarah Dato Paduka Hj Awg Othman has been moved from the position of Minister of Home Affairs to the position of Minister of Religious Affairs. Again, he’s one of the ministers that I never had the chance to talk or interview.
Now next up are the promotions to ministerial levels. First up with have Dato Paduka Hj Bahrin Abdullah who is now our Minister of Development. He previous was the Deputy Minister of Finance. He is also the chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines.
Dato Paduka Hj Ali Hj Apong has been promoted as the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism after holding the Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office. Now this is interesting. This is the first time that I noticed the word tourism used for a ministerial position. Does this mean that Brunei will soon turn their attention to lure in more foreigners to Brunei? Hopefully there will be increased in budget for the Brunei Tourism Development. The previous ministerial post was called the Ministry of Primary Resources and Industry. Anyway, Dato Paduka Hj Ali Hj Apong is also the chairman of Brunei Economic Development Board.
Dato Paduka Hj Mustappa Hj Sirat was a former Deputy Defence Minister. He is now appointed as the Minister of Communications. Would that mean he will be automatically be the chairman of the BIT Council? Most likely he will be and this will give more opportunity for me to get to know hime better in person.
We also have a new minister for Culture, Youth and Sports and he is Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Hj Awg Halbi Hj Mohd Yusof. He previously hold the post as Deputy Minister of Home Affairs. With an army background, let’s see what changes can be made especially to our national athletes. Then again, budget is always the main issue.
One of the appointments that I was very grateful and overwhelmed was the new Minister of Health. He adds dynamism to the organisation and a well respected figure in University Brunei Darussalam where he still holds his post as the Vice-Chancellor. He is no other than Dato Paduka Dr Hj Zulkarnain Hj Hanafi. He previously held the position as the Permanent Secretary of Education. Of all the current appointments, he had the biggest jump of the lot.
Dato Paduka Hj Bahrin Abdullah who is now our Minister of Development and currently also holds the post as chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.
Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Hj Awg Halbi Hj Mohd Yusof, the new Minister for Culture, Youth and Sports. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.
Dato Paduka Dr Hj Zulkarnain Hj Hanafi, new Minister of Health cum Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Brunei Darussalam.
Dato Paduka Hj Mustappa Hj Sirat takes his new position as Minister of Communications. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.
All the previous Deputy Ministers are being replaced with familiar faces during their previous roles as permanent secretaries.
Dato Paduka Hj Hamdan Hj Abu Bakar was promoted from permanent secretary (security and enforcement) at the Prime Minister’s Office to Deputy Minister at the same ministry.
Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Roselan Hj Mohd Daud has also been promoted to a Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, after heading the PENGGERAK Unit as permanent secretary since 2014. I had a strong feeling that he will be promoted one day and he’s a very nice guy.
First Admiral Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz Hj Mohd Tamit is now the Deputy Minister of Defence. Previously he was the Deputy Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.
Dato Paduka Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah is now the Deputy Minister of Finance and also holds position as chairman of DST and Jerudong Park Medical Centre. He was previously a permanent secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources.
Also sharing the same position as Deputy Finance Minister is Dato Paduka Hj Hisham Hj Mohd Hanifah. He was previously the permanent secretary (policy and investment) at the Ministry of Finance.
Dato Paduka Hj Erywan Pehin Dato Pekerma Jaya Hj Mohd Yusof has been promoted to Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade where he was previously the permanent secretary. Mind you that there wasn’t any Deputy Minister for MOFAT for many, many years.
Pg Dato Paduka Hj Bahrom Pg Hj Bahar, has been moved from his post as Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, to become Deputy Minister of Education.
Dato Paduka Hj Abd Mokti Hj Daud is now Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs and he was previously Brunei Darussalam Ambassador to Saudi Arabia.
Dato Paduka Hj Suhaimi Hj Gapar has been promoted from his permanent secretary role to Deputy Minister of Development. This position has been vacant for many years so it’s good to see that there is a deputy role in this ministry.
The ministries that have vacant post in the “Deputy” level are Primary Resources and Tourism, Communications and Culture, Youth and Sports and Home Affairs.
Congratulations to all the Cabinet Ministers that were being appointed and it feels refreshing to see a new line-up of leaders taking new responsibilities to move the nation forward and also uphold His Majesty the Sultan and the country’s vision.
Dato Paduka Hj Hamdan Hj Abu Bakar, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office. Image courtesy of Borneo Bulletin.
Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Roselan Hj Mohd Daud, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.
Dato Paduka Hj Erywan Pehin Dato Pekerma Jaya Hj Mohd Yusof, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade. I only saw him during last year’s Asean Summit. Many positive vibes about him. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.
His Majesty urged the new government cabinet to work as a team and make the country prosperous.
“Although they are of different ministries, they are still members of a team having a common objective: to make the country prosperous. Working as a team, each one of them is expected to contribute or at least lend support to any idea or proposal for the good of other ministries and for the sake of the country,” the monarch said.
“It is my hope that the next line-up of leaders will not ignore the ethics of being fellow members in a team. They are expected to be wise in making decisions and weighing up any matter that has to do with the country and the government.”
“The question is will we be able to preserve and continue to enjoy these favours? It is here where the issue lies. Our religion has provided the guidance that such favours could be preserved, but it still all depends on our own attitude.”
“Justice is to be delivered on the people, not for oneself. Justice for self-interest is not justice but (a form of) cruelty. That’s why at times readiness to listen to good ideas from others below you, or listening to complaints or grievances from others could be deemed to have satisfied the need to be just.”
Of course, in every reshuffling and appointments, the public is always eager to see who will be the leaders in the respective cabinet of the Brunei Government. Change is always good and responses from the public have been encouraging and perhaps shocking to some. I’m certainly shocked of two non-appointments. First is the non-renewal of His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He was one of the longest serving Ministers in Brunei Darussalam. He was appointed as Foreign Minister ever since Brunei gained independence in year 1984. Thank you for your leadership for the past decades and Brunei has good bilateral relationship with regional countries and internationally and we are truly grateful for that.
The other non-renewal appointment was former Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Datin Paduka Hjh Adina Othman. There have been rumours that she could have been promoted but it wasn’t to be. Then again, she has served His Majesty’s government for more than 35 years and she has retired previously. She has served the country to her best and now she can retire on a high note.
There are other five ministers who were not being appointed – former Minister of Industry and Primary Resources Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Hj Yahya Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar; former Minister of Communications Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Abdullah Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar; former Minister of Health Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Adanan Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Hj Mohd Yusof; former Minister of Religious Affairs Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Pg Hj Abdul Rahman; and former Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Hj Hazair Hj Abdullah.
His Majesty the Sultan thanked all for their service and contribution to the nation.
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Updates this week
BIBD today announced new partners into the 2015 BIBD CE ALAF (Charity Expedition for Advocating Life-Long Learning for an Aspiring Future Programme). Fajr Capital (Dubai) and Silverlake (Malaysia) has come on board as Platinum Sponsors to the ALAF Programme, while Kristal FM and Radio Television Brunei have signed on as the Official Broadcaster Radio and Official Broadcaster Television partners to help raise awareness on CE ALAF as well as other efforts related to the event.
BIBD also welcomes new partners, Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd (PCSB) who has agreed to contribute a one year subscription plan and a Vivo Y22 as a lucky draw prize, along with a co-branded runner t-shirts for the first one hundred participants who have raised at least B$100. At the same time, PCSB will also be providing support via providing volunteers for the ALAF event.
Happening this Sunday. Are you ready?
The Brunei Neuroscience Stroke Rehabilitation Centre (BNSRC) together with the Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) are also on board as sound supporters of the programme whereby they will also be organizing the a Musical Broadway titled ‘Sebuah Perjalanan’ as part of the stroke and cancer patients’ Therapeutic Group Activity. Proceeds from tickets sales will be donated to the BIBD ALAF Program.
Meanwhile, as the Official Airline Partner, RB (Royal Brunei) will be providing a business class return ticket to Melbourne and Bangkok each for winners of the 21kM and 10km, Men and Women Bruneian category. BIBD also welcomes support from government agencies such as the Department of Electrical Services along with the Customs & Excise Department towards the Charity Expedition.
Yang Mulia Hajah Nurul Akmar binti Haji Mohd Ja’afar, in her capacity as Head of BIBD’s Corporate Social Responsibility commented “Alhamdulillah for the overwhelming support gained for not just the charity expedition, but also the ALAF programme. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved, from all partners, volunteers and supporters for their kind support for the programme.
This is it!!! I’m looking forward to this but I’m not too sure if I have the time just yet. It’s happening this coming Saturday. This is a FREE workshop (Adult Colouring Workshop) for customers who purchase “LOST OCEAN” colouring book from any Best Eastern store in Brunei.
The seats are limited so it’s a good idea to register. The workshop will be conducted by full-time artists at Jo-Art Gallery – Nabil, Fikri and Haronli.
This will be the first time a colouring workshop will be held. It will be a comprehensive workshop ranging from the materials of the colour pencil to the techniques of colouring (shading, rendering, colour scheme, blending and even discipline.
The venue will be at Mabohai Shopping Complex this Saturday 24th October and it’s co-organised by Best Eastern and Jo-Art Gallery.
Oh one more thing, don’t forget that there will be another colouring competition for adults on 1st November. Sadly I won’t be in the country then. Let’s hope for more participants in the second round. Good luck!!
Acer Aspire V Nitro. Another end to end stuff from Concepts Computer who are one of the biggest vendors at the TechXpo 2015 happening today at the ICC until this coming Sunday.
There will be having many good promotions and firstly is the Aspire V Nitro notebooks. There are two specs of the Aspire V Nitro on promotion but the one that caught my eye is the Aspire V Nitro the “17 inch one because it’s fast and it’s quiet too. The attention to detail is just spot on for this version and they have many ports available. Check out the posters below for more details.
When you purchase any of the Aspire V Nitro, it will come with 3 years warranty and especially if you buy now (during the TechXpo,) you can save up to BND 400 and even get FREE gifts worth BND 200.
Acer projector. Now if you are looking for projectors, look no further. The prices now become affordable and it’s the newly improved Acer projector. This is ideal for presentation and also perhaps for your in-house theatre screen.
It carries a 2 year warranty and the lamp also has a 1 year warranty or 1,000 hours whichever comes first. It’s powered with 3,200 ANSI Lumens with HDMI port and dual-VGA. This BND 398 deal is also offered at TechXpo today till Sunday. So look out for the Acer P1185 or just check the poster below for more details.
Epson printers. For all the heavy duty printer users out there especially students and teachers, this is one of the fastest selling brand in Brunei – Epson – because of you all. If you want to talk about efficiency and also cost savings, then target for the Epson printers. These printers have high recommendation even among our peers (my media friends) who are also active users of Epson printers.
Imagine with just four colour ink bottles that you will be able to print up to 6,500 colour pages. Now that’s a plenty and I like the new concept of having the ink cartridge being placed outside the printer so it will be convenient should you want to refill.
It’s no surprise that Epson have sold 2 million units alone in Southeast Asia and Brunei is one of the growing market leader in terms of growth per capita. So do check out their Super Deals at TechXpo today till Sunday.
In collaboration with UnionPay, the fastest growing card brand in the world, Baiduri Bank is currently having a 3-month campaign where Baiduri UnionPay Debit Cardholders will earn freebies and stand a chance to win shopping sprees when they use their cards at participating outlets each weekend till December.
Aptly named “Take me Shopping with Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card”, the promotion which started on 25 September 2015 will run every Friday to Sunday till 13 December 2015. During the promotion, Baiduri UnionPay debit cardholders will receive a free shopping bag when they spend a minimum of B$50 at participating supermarkets during the designated weekends, while stocks last.
The promotion will cover 14 different supermarket outlets, including supermarket chains Hua Ho, Soon Lee, Jaya Hypermart, Supa Save, Sim Kim Huat, Freshco, First Emporium and Utama Grand. Each weekend, a different outlet will be featured so that customers residing in the different districts will have a chance to participate.
Besides receiving shopping bags, shoppers also get a chance to win monthly shopping sprees worth B$150 each at selected supermarket throughout the campaign.
An Instagram competition is also being held back-to-back with the shopping campaign. Customers who post creative photos of themselves with the “Take Me Shopping with Baiduri Union Pay” shopping bag will get a chance to win shopping vouchers worth B$20 each week. Terms and conditions can be viewed on the Baiduri Bank website or through Baiduri Deals mobile app.
The “Take me Shopping with Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card” campaign was organized to create public awareness on the card’s user-friendliness and other benefits of owning a Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card.
Unlike conventional signature-based payment cards, the Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card requires a personalized identification number or PIN to be keyed in by the cardholder for any transactions to be approved, thus, giving cardholders a high level of protection from fraud or misuse of the card. This unique feature also allows cardholders to use the debit card as an ATM card too.
The Baiduri UnionPay Debit card is accepted at over 2,000 local merchants and more than 26 million UnionPay merchants in over 150 countries and allows withdrawals at all Baiduri ATMs, other local ATMs, and over 1.9 million ATMs worldwide.
More information about Baiduri Bank’s current promotions can be obtained from the Bank’s website at www.baiduri.com, ‘Baiduri Deals’ mobile app or their Call Centre at 244 9666. To be in the know of Baiduri Bank current promotions and events, the public can also follow Baiduri Bank Group on Facebook or @baiduribank on Instagram and Twitter.
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A fun ride
New vacancies available at Concepts Computer
The operation team behind SBI (B) Sdn Bhd – Rafiuddin Ghazali, Vice President, Hariz Shaminan, Associate, Liza Shafiee, Assistant Vice-President and Michelle Chong, Office Administrator
I had an interesting session with the management and associates from SBI (B) Sdn Bhd, a private equity fund manager in Brunei Darussalam and it’s always interesting to know how does a private equity fund manager works in the country. I was aware of a few companies that have similar operations but currently, the active one I’m aware is SBI.
The history of company goes back to 2010 when it started its first Fund. And it’s a jointly ventured between the Ministry of Finance and SBI Holdings Inc, a Japanese leading multinational financial services company. The businesses they eye on and how they invest have to be Syariah-compliant too.
Speaking to Amran Mohamad, the CEO of SBI (B) Sdn Bhd, he shared that the company invests in Brunei as well as in other countries in the Asia Pacific region. He disclosed that they recently successfully sold off two companies profitably. One by IPO listing on the Singapore stock exchange, while the other was a technology company which SBI helped grow by acquisitions to as far as Rio de Janiero.
Rafiuddin Ghazali, Vice President of SBI (B) Sdn Bhd being interviewed and he showed me around the office
To assist with economic diversification, the company has brought in one international company to set up businesses and operations in Brunei Darussalam with a few more planned, due to economic stability, research grants, and a highly educated workforce. Amran highlighted that the company has been closely working with Brunei Economic Development Board in this process. Let’s hope that the international companies are able to successfully operate in the Sultanate as this will be a win-win situation for Brunei and its economy. Amran said that the company is now busy setting up a second Fund and needs to expand its human personnels to help the company manage more investments.
Don’t forget to hand in your application. There is still time.
According to Rafiuddin Ghazali, Vice-President of SBI (B) Sdn Bhd, shared that they have been receiving applicants for the past two weeks and he encouraged those who have a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or Finance or Economics or Engineering or Law (LLB) should apply for the allocated positions. Not to worry as they will be providing training locally and internationally after identifying your weak areas and groom you up so you will gain more knowledge and understand how to be a Private Equity fund manager.
I love the perks because you will have the privilege to travel here and there as part of the job scope. The working hours are also flexible and it’s not like a 9 to 5 job at all. So if you are a Brunei Citizen or Permanent Resident, give this application a shot.
Hariz Shaminan, Associate of SBI (B) Sdn Bhd receiving the application from interested parties during my visit
Those interested can send in their cover letter and detailed resumes with recent passport sized photograph and send to the following address: SBI (B) Sdn Bhd, Unit 1, Level 3, Dar Takaful Utama, Jalan Pemancha, Bandar Seri Begawan, or by email to admin@sbib.com.bn.
Congratulations Laneige (Brunei) for your 10th anniversary
Patricia Li (3rd from left) celebrating with their loyal customers and guests during the cake presentation
Congratulations to Patricia Li and her team on the 10th year anniversary of Laneige (Brunei). Wow!! It has been that long, aye? Well done and I’m really inspired by your growth and consistency of your company and able to serve the customers in Brunei Darussalam. Cosmetic is definitely a competitive market worldwide and the same goes to Brunei Darussalam. Of course, with a very competent and established brand, many Bruneians and the public trust Laneige’s products. For the record, Laneige has been around for 20 years.
Two Sunday ago, Laneige (Brunei) invited guests and also in attendance were the spouses of Diplomatic Corps and loyal customers. They were treated to goodie bags.
The welcoming remarks were made by General Manager of Laneige Brunei, Patricia Li, the lady behind the success of Laneige in Brunei. She’s very grateful to all the customers and the people that have crossed path with her and thanks them for believing in the international brand. Pat Li is not just the iconic figure of the brand for Brunei but she carries the passion on what she believes in and also focuses on customer service to give the best experience for their customers.
Laneige (Brunei) also had a special gimmick for all the attendees as they were treated to special discounts up to 20% depending on their purchases and for those big spenders, they will walk away with a Laneige luggage. There was also tutorial make up-artist from Laneige Malaysia Cameillia Choo. For your information, Laneige was founded in 1994 in South Korea, and devoted itself to the business of beauty and health as it strives to be the first and the best with outstanding products and superior marketing.
Keep up the great work, Patricia and your team and happy anniversary.
Cameillia Choo, Laneige Malaysia, Patricia Li, General Manager of Laneige Brunei and Sylvia, a loyal customer of Laneige
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Colourful Malaysia
As I have mentioned before, I’m currently in Kuala Lumpur for the Asean Media Bloggers Tourism Hunt 2015 and Citrawarna @ Kuala Lumpur. Yesterday the Brunei delegates attended the presentations from Tourism Malaysia and other stakeholders to showcase what Malaysia can offer to the foreigners.
Around 125 foreign travel agents and media under its Mega Fam programme attended the session. The Mega Fam participants are from Brunei, Cambodia, China, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Laos, Maruitius, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam.
I have to salute Dato’ Haji Azizan Noordin, Deputy Director General of Malaysia Tourism because of his deep knowledge on the statistics and findings on the attraction on Malaysia. He is like the google of Tourism Malaysia and he gave a very comprehensive presentation on Malaysia’s growth. His vision is to make sure that by year 2020 that Malaysia will have 36 million tourist with RM 128 billion. Last year, Malaysia earned RM 72 Billion in revenue from tourists.
The lunch was hosted by Dato’ Mizra Mohammad Taiyab, Director General of Tourism Malaysia at Sheraton Imperial Hotel KL. He thank all the media involved for their support and assistance in promoting Malaysia during Visit Malaysia Year 2014 and the current Malaysia Year of Festivals.
Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz, Minister of Tourism and Culture of Malaysia having a good time on stage while celebrity Amelia Henderson looks at the crowd
I have been to many FAM trips but this is the first that I attended a Citrawarna event. Now what would my experience be? Totally worth it. I couldnt’ believe it was a free event too. The crowd was aplenty but it could have been more since it was held at Dataran Merdeka.
There was so much hype for last night’s Citrawarna for one reason – the involvement of Puan Sri Tiara Jacquelina, an award-winning producer, actress, singer and art enthusiast. Her direction of Citrawarna brought a different kind of flavour to the public, mixing the old and the new and making it relatable to showcase what Malaysia has to offer.
MUD the musical was excellent and I really have to salute the cast and the crew involved in this huge project. There were hardly any breaks and the energy of each acts just continued with strong momentums.
Datuk Aznil Nawawi, Amelia Henderson and Altimet
Depicting the sports promotion in Malaysia
The acrobatic feat by the cheerleaders
Now after many years of being just the usual 3-hour parade, the producer of this year’s Citrawarna opted for a larger stage to showcase the mega event. As you know, the Ministry of Tourism and Culture is the main organizer and hence the involvement of foreign media from all over the world. This shows how much such event can be for tourists especially. I’m surprised that I didn’t come across any Bruneian apart from my counterpart media buddies.
For your information, Citrawarna 2015 was delivered in 3 acts promoting different segments of tourism products, following the theme of Culture, Nature and Future. I love all the segments but personally the final one stood out for me. It was nice to see involvements of some celebrities such as Datuk Aznil Nawawi, Amelia Henderson, Altimet and Kamrul Bahri Hussin.
The showcase itself was already dazzling enough as they masterfully teased the audience with their lighting and sound powered by massive LED screens. The performances were continuous from one act to another and it ended with a display of fireworks.
Such celebration is necessary not only to promote Malaysia as a tourism destination but also calm the negative vibe that has been spreading and in turn, lift the spirit of Malaysians.
The guest of honour was Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz, Minister of Tourism and Culture of Malaysia. Thank you, Tourism Malaysia for hosting us for this colourful, vibrant event. You can browse your Instragram and check out the hashtag #citrawarna for more images and videos.
The first half of the show I was viewing from here
The guy who started the selfie on stage before others followed suit
The fireworks display to end the show
The lady behind this year’s Citrawarna showcase – Puan Sri Tiara Jacquelina, CEO of Enfiniti Vision Media and Enfiniti Academy. She’s quite well known for producing movies such as Puteri Gunung Ledang. Good job on a spectacular show last night.
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Lay down on me
Ak Aziz Idris of Borneo Bulletin, Ak Md Fairol of Media Permata, Pg Hj Noorezamy Pg Hj Othman, Marketing Officer of Tourism Malaysia Brunei Darussalam, Cik Zurina And Samad, Director of Tourism Malaysia Brunei Darussalam, Faiq Airudin of The Brunei Times and myself before heading off to Kuala Lumpur for the Asean Media Bloggers Tourism Hunt 2015 yesterday
Yay!!! I believe this is my first Malaysia FAM trip of the year. FAM means familiarization trip but the same time, I’m gonna do something quite different because it will involved treasure hunt.. or perhaps in my view, their version of Amazing Race since it involves driving to different states such as Malacca and Negri Sembilan. This trip is also to mark the launch the yearly event which is the Citrawarna in Kuala Lumpur.
I will be focused on the treasure hunt which is named the ASEAN Media Bloggers Tourism Hunt 2015 which is hosted by Tourism Malaysia. The flag off will be tomorrow Sunday, 18th October in Kuala Lumpur and it will be a 3-day tourism hunt. I heard the prizes are fantastic and there are many delegates including Brunei Darussalam in the participation list. The Tourism Hunt will require use to drive around and yes, they will be providing us cars to roam around and we will be driving a Proton sedan car.
Representing Brunei Darussalam will be Aziz Idris (Borneo Bulletin), Ak Fairol (Media Permata), Faiq Airudin (The Brunei Times) and myself. I’m not sure what the stakes are but I believe this will be a fun, challenging activity but also testing out physical and mental strength throughout the 3 day tourism hunt.
A big thank you to Tourism Malaysia (Brunei) for another opportunity to be part of this event. Let’s see how my team will fare. You can follow me on Snapchat and instagram @ranoadidas for updates on my journey.
The usual spot to buy or top up our 3G line – Digi. The Maxis and other telcos seemed quieter.
The Awangkus taking the opportunity to take with the logo of Avenue K, located next to Corus Hotel.
Sight seeing around KLCC yesterday and the haze level isn’t as bad as previous weeks
Mr. Fairol and Mr. Faiq having a moment during lunch at Dondang Sayang Coffeehouse at Corus Hotel. Great lunch buffet. Love it.
My room at Corus Hotel. I would recommend you to check this hotel out. Spacious and it’s also convenient to walk over to KLCC Suria. Only a minor setback is the slow wifi.
Faiq trying out the Virtual reality game in the Spectre promotion roadshow at KLCC
The welcoming dinner for the Asean delegates hosted by Yang Berbahagia Dato’ Haji Azizan Noordin, Deputy-Director of General Tourism Malaysia and he can sing too (Black Magic Women)
I was given the chance to showcase my skills on the stage last night
I don’t know how I fared but I managed to get the loudest cheers especially from the Philippines *lol*
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Still hope
Podcast review of Bridge of Spies with special guest Thedoric
Hjh Nurul Akmar Hj Mohd Jaafar BIBD’s head of consumer banking division and concurrent head of the bank’s CSR unit, Vivian Tie Suk Kee, Head of Rehabilitation Department at Jerudong Park Medical Centre, Wu Chun, director of Fitness Zone and Ak Danny, Marketing Officer of Jerudong Park Medical Centre during the press conference of the the musical broadway “Sebuah Perjalanan”
The Rehabilitation Department at Brunei Neuroscience, Stroke and Rehabilitation Centre (BNSRC) together with The Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) and supported by BIBD, will be organizing a musical broadway, “Sebuah Perjalanan” as part of the stroke and cancer patient’s therapeutic group activity programme. The musical is scheduled to be held on 1st November 2015, which coincides with the commemoration of World Stroke Day that is celebrated by countries around the world every year on 29th October.
The objective of the project is to create the best situation and environment, to help patients overcome their disabilities through meaningful rehabilitation that kindles sheer determination, states Vivian Tie Suk Kee, Head of Rehabilitation Department at JPMC. A total of 53 patients started practising to prepare for this event since 21 September 2015 which will last for 6 weeks, although about 20 will perform along with staff of the department. The whole process helps patients focus on a task for a good cause through rehabilitative strategies to help them recover their function and not on their disability. We hope to encourage and motivate the stroke patients to continue working hard towards further reducing their disabilities and achieving a more enriched life after a disabling stroke condition, she added.
With their previous TGA performances receiving positive feedback and positive clinical outcome, the department decided to take the next performance further by organizing a musical play, involving stroke patients and staff of BNSRC and JPMC. The story of the performance was written by a stroke patient based on real events together with staff of the Rehabilitation Department that aims to enhance the public’s awareness about stroke, the disability following stroke, its rehabilitation involved and the important elements for a successful recovery journey, stressing the importance of having fast medical attention.
Wu Chun urged the public to support the event
Vivian Tie whom I have so much respect for believing this project and she has so much passion and dedication to bring hope to stroke patients. Keep it up!!
The media of the partners and media
Wu Chun, Event Ambassador of “Sebuah Perjalanan” has previously shown his support by participating in preparations for the above event. “This Therapeutic Group Activity is very creative and helpful for patients, in working their brain and muscles. Through supporting this event, I can only do so much. We are here to create awareness and let the public know about how they can give a helping hand to those in need. Hopefully, they can spread the kind words and let others know more about this very sincere, yet meaningful event.”, stated Wu Chun previously. Live music will be supported by the amazing Uniq Band from Pusat Bahagia who are all visually impaired and also talented musicians from Expression Music Academy.
Meanwhile, Ak Danny Pg Tajuddin, Head of Marketing of JPMC stated, “The event will be held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) and is open to public with a ticket fee of BND25 (Balcony seats and free T-Shirt designed and autographed by Wu Chun), BND15 (Front row) and BND10 (Back row). All proceeds from this event will be donated to a charity organisation, BIBD ALAF. This initiative is fully supported by BNSRC’s Management. Stay tune to find out more about this event by following JPMC’s Facebook Page, The Jerudong Park Medical Centre, and Instagram Profile, @JPMCBrunei and @BNSRC_musical.”
Rehabilitation Department offers treatments available that includes Falls Prevention, Geriatric and Pediatric Rehabilitation, Back and Neck Pain, Stroke and Spinal Cord Injury, Orthopedics and Sports Injury. For more information, please visit their website at www.jpmc.cm.bn.
Wu Chun showing during the practice session and giving the stroke patients motivation for the upcoming musical event
Wu Chun with Michael Jordan and other celebrities in Shanghai
Wu Chun’s a big fan of MJ
As the host city for a lavish celebration of the 30th anniversary of Air Jordan, Shanghai went all out, even going so far as to adjust the city’s skyline with bright emerald lights. Highlights from the festivities included a conversation with Michael Jordan and Tinker Hatfield, as well as visits from Roger Federer, Hiroshi Fujiwara, Liu Xiang, Li Na, and Jordan signature athletes Chris Paul and Blake Griffin. The Jordan House of Flight space also showcased experiences like the Last Shot of MJ, which allows 12 specially chosen TEAM 23 which consist of sports star such as Li Na and Liu Xiang together with super stars from the entertainment industry such as Wu Chun, Will Pan,etc to choose one of MJ’s breathtaking game-winning shots, complete with scene reproduction through LED screens that simulate defensive players and the expectant fans watching in the stands.
Although it’s hard to believe, it’s been three long decades since a young, high-flying, gold chain wearing Michael Jordan first entered the NBA as a member of the Chicago Bulls in 1985. His inaugural season with the team, which happened to end with Rookie of the Year honors, set in motion all that we know today. And by that we refer to Jordan Brand – the groundbreaking company that has revolutionized footwear both on and off the court. A cultural staple as important as any with a 30 year history, celebrates its pearl anniversary with one of its more celebrated components in mind – its fans.
Jordan‘s 30th anniversary festivities in Shanghai kicked off with a bang, highlighted the unveiling of the amazing Jordan House of Flight. The coda wasn’t shabby either, as Michael Jordan himself — along with Nike design legend Tinker Hatfield in tow — sat down with Ahmad Rashad for a free-flowing conversation. Making his first appearance in China after an 11-year absence, MJ reflected on the evolution of his game during his playing career, as well as the collaborative nature of his partnership with Tinker.
Michael Jordan at the Air Jordan 30th anniversary celebration in Shanghai
With Tinker Hatfield, Nike Design Legend
With Liu Xiang and Li Na
Wu Chun with Liu Xiang
The Air Jordan showroom
So how did Wu Chun feel after meeting his idol?
Wu Chun: I actually flew to USA 12 years ago to watch his last few games in his NBA career. I even waited outside his restaurant for hours and managed to take pic with him but this meeting is different because it was such a privilege to be selected as a member in the Team 23 in this Air Jordan 30th anniversary and it’s one of the best birthday gift for me this year! It’s a dream come true and my next dream is hoping to have the opportunity to play one on one with him. I know it might sound impossible but miracles do happen and like what MJ said, ” Never say never because limits like fear, are often just an illusion.”
So what were they (Wu Chun and MJ) conversing about?
Wu Chun: After the event, we went to a michelin-starred restaurant to have a 4-hour dinner. To me, it’s once in a lifetime opportunity to get up-close and personal with MJ so i really took out the courage to intro myself to him. Ironically I was so surprised to know that he actually screened through the list of TEAM 23 and he knew who I was. I shared my excitement that I am such a big fan of him and how much he had inspired me since the day I became his fan 25 years ago!”
How MJ inspired his life?
Wu Chun: If you read my book – Ignite Courage or if you are a member of Fitness Zone, you will notice how much admiration I have for this super legend. I admire him so much not because of how well he had played the game of basketball but it’s more towards his unbelievable work ethic, charismatic leadership skills, philanthropic responsibility and the strong desire to make his weaknesses into his strength. I thanked him for coming into my life as a great role model and hope I can follow his footsteps to be a good role model for others as well.”
Wu Chun attending one of the exhibition matches from NBA
The Brunei Toastmasters with Datin during the Division K contest at Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Reuben Chin, Division Director of Division K, Rozana Yunos runner-up in Humourous, Kamalia Kamaruzaman Division K champion in Humourous, Aaron Division K champion in evaluation and second runner up in humourous, Laurence Dumling, runner up in evaluation, Pranika Lama, second runner up in evaluation, Arthur, Contest Chair of the contest and Suzana the Chief Judge of the contest
Two weeks ago, I was in Kota Kinabalu with my fellow toastmasters buddies to support our representatives from Brunei Darussalam (Area K6) in the Humourous Speech and Evaluation Speech Contest in Division K (Brunei, Sabah, Labuan). The representatives were Rozana Dato Paduka Hj Yunos for Humurous Speech and Pranika Lama for Speech Evaluation.
The competition was pretty tough as it could have been anyone’s game especially the top three. Rozana’s idea of the F word caught us with laughters while Aaron shared his experience with the dentist and survived to share in the Humourous Speech contest. However, both couldn’t earned enough points as the judges chose Kamilia’s journey as a single lady. Yes, she was by far the most animated lady and she deserved the prize for her humourous delivery. Last year, she just missed out the first spot as Allen Ang (from Brunei) was the champion. This year, she came back stronger and she will now represent Division K in the Semi-Annual District which will happen in Bali, Indonesia at the end of October. Congratulations Kamilia Kamaruzaman.
As for the Evaluation Speech Contest, when I saw the line-up, I was only aware of three speakers and I knew it will be among them three – Pranika Lama, Laurence Dumling and Aaron. When Laurence was competing last year in Kota Kinabalu, I was already captivated by her presentation. She was just phenomenal and owned the stage then and she was the defending champion in Division K for evaluation. This year, it was a different story.
Aaron who has such a humourous personality, showed his flair and analysed the “how to collect your debts” speech where others have missed out on specific points. Pranika Lama did her very best as she struggled with the audio which distracted her flow of delivery but she still managed to come third. Laurence had another good run but she admitted that she wasn’t at her best that day but I really thought she did quite well and placed as runner-up. The winner was Aaron who was previously the Contest Chair last year. He is the only person to be placed in both categories – Winner in Humourous Speech and second runner-up in Speech Evaluation Contest.
The results mean that Kamalia and Aaron will represent our Division K in the final competition to be held in Bali, Indonesia. Nonetheless, I’m still proud of Rozana’s and Pranika’s journey in the competition and both have inspired me in many ways.
I also enjoyed the educational sessions in the morning though we only had a few hours of sleep *lol* Even those in attendance were very pleased that the sessions weren’t dry and quite engaging. So well done to the speakers (Reuben, Allen, Shane and Ruey) and also to the organising committee for the successful event overall. Now I can’t wait to fly to Bali and support both Aaron and Kamilia. Though my KK trip was less than 48 hours, I had a blast and mostly thanks to the people around me.
I love this token 😀
Shawn Cassidy-Narcis the District 87’s Club Growth Director saying a few words
Reuben Chin in his opening delivery to start off the educational sessions
The university students are full of passion for toastmasters 😀
Representing toastmasters from Sabah
Our flight to KK
Our first pitstop before shopping
It was Pranika’s first time at Nando’s :p
The biggest story after our toastmasters convention – the opening of Uniqlo in KK
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