Podcast review of Captain America: Civil War with regular co-host Del Goh

 

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah handing over a mock cheque to Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini binti Pengiran Dipa Negara Laila Diraja Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin, Executive Trustee of Pusat Ehsan. Image courtesy of Dean Kassim of Borneo Bulletin.

Group photo. Image courtesy of Dean Kassim.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah yesterday graced the handover of funds amounting to $53,122, that were raised during the recent Charity Polo Day 2016.

The handover was held at Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam (Pusat Ehsan) in Bengkurong.

Upon arrival at Pusat Ehsan, Their Royal Highnesses were welcomed by the centre’s Board of Trustees, and given a briefing on the new rehabilitation centre, which is shortly due for construction.

After the briefing, Their Royal Highnesses were ushered to the Multipurpose Hall, where they presented the mock cheques to Pengiran Datin Hajah Noraini binti Pengiran Dipa Negara Laila Diraja Pengiran Haji Abdul Momin, Executive Trustee of Pusat Ehsan who received the donations on behalf of the centre.

Charity Polo Day 2016 was recently organised by Cityneon Brunei to raise funds for the special needs students of Pusat Ehsan.

Currently, there are about 156 students registered at the centre’s Bengkurong branch, while another 53 special needs students are registered with the Kuala Belait branch.

Photo opportunity with members of the Royal Family

Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah lifting the Charity Polo Day 2016 trophy two Sundays ago

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah during the polo exhibition match

The project, which is under tender process and estimated to cost around three million dollars, will be built on a land plot opposite the current building that houses Pusat Ehsan.

The construction project will be carried out in stages as it is mostly dependent on the centre’s funding.

The new centre is expected to accommodate more students with special needs, as well as individuals requiring occupational therapy. Text courtesy of Rokiah Mahmud of Borneo Bulletin.

 

Today and tomorrow (Saturday) only

 

Too bad it was a short presence of the Audi Q7 but it definitely suits the theme for the action sequence. A pretty darn good car chase scene and Black Panther chase made cooler in the tunnel chase scene #TheGreatQ

 

Yang Berhormat Dato Paduka Awang Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah, BIBD Chariman and Minister of Development (Centre), handing over an award to Dayangku Noruldiana Shim binti Pengiran Hj Hashim (left), while BIBD Managing Director, Yang Mulia Mr Mubashar Khokhar (right) looks on

BIBD recently held an annual dinner to appreciate and acknowledge all the hard work and contribution of the BIBD family in the past year. These efforts have culminated into milestones and achievements, earmarked by Standard & Poor’s A- rating, its first ever Riba Symposium, chairmanship of the CAIBA (China-ASEAN Interbank Association), and the BIBD Headquarters re-launching. In 2015, the bank also managed to retain its international recognitions such as the Best Retail Bank in Brunei for the third year running (The Asian Banker), and the Best Bank in Brunei (Global Finance).

The event also saw the personal recognition of several bright BIBD talents as they have also contributed as ambassadors of BIBD and Brunei Darussalam. Dayangku Noruldiana Shim binti Pengiran Hj Hashim was commended for being conferred the Highest Achiever Award in the Islamic Financial Planner category in Kuala Lumpur. Also highlighted was Hjh Nurul Akmalina binti Hj Yahya’s recent achievement in the national finals of the Musabaqah Membaca Al-Quran competition.

The event started with a recitation of the Doa, which was then followed by welcoming remarks by BIBD Managing Director, Mr Mubashar Khokhar, where he shared significant milestones for the Bank, which included the fourth consecutive win in 2016’s Best Retail bank from The Asian Banker. “Alhamdulilah, all our efforts thus far have placed us on a solid foundation, prepared for the challenges and eager for the opportunities ahead”, said Mr Mubashar. He added that BIBD’s continued growth also increases its commitment to supporting Bruneian businesses through comprehensive banking solutions such as the BIBD SME 360, aligning the Bank closer towards His Majesty’s vision in developing a dynamic and sustainable economy.

Some of the BIBD associates in their costumes during the theme dinner annual event

The best female dress for the event

Mr Mubashar also highlighted BIBD’s successes also allows the Bank to raise its efforts to support the community, especially through its flagship CSR initiative, the ALAF (Advocating Life-long learning for an Aspiring Future) Programme. The programme, now in its third year with more than a hundred students, aims to Prepared by Corporate Communications, BIBD PRESS RELEASE MDO/PR/2015/016 bring more educational opportunities to underprivileged children, aligning BIBD further with another element of His Majesty’s vision, to develop well-educated and highly-skilled Bruneians.

Mr. Mubashar summed up his remarks with encouragement and inspiration for all BIBD staff to continue working together and delivering world-class banking products and services. “Ultimately, it is up to our unified efforts to ensure that BIBD cements its position as The First Choice for all our employees, customers and stakeholders”, concluded Mr. Mubashar. This was followed by presentations for Long Service Awards to employees.

The Guest of Honour at the event was Yang Berhormat Dato Paduka Awang Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah, Minister of Development and Chairman of the BIBD Board of Directors. Also in attendance was Yang Mulia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Aziz bin Orang Kaya Maharaja Lela Haji Yussof, Permanent Secretary at Ministry of Religious Affairs and Chairman of BIBD’s Shariah Advisory Body. Also present were members of the Board of Directors, members of the Shariah Advisory Body, along with some 800 BIBD personnel, and their spouses. The event was held at the Indera Samudra Grand Hall, The Empire Hotel and Country Club in Jerudong.

 

Interesting offers from Kia models

 

Louis Loo Kee Lee (left), founder of Plus+ Magazine and Kristy Lim (5th from left), founder of Piccolo Café with representatives from Jerudong Park Medical Centre and staff from Piccolo Café during the Save Life by Giving Blood campaign at Piccolo Café last week.

Late post. It was the fourth time that I have donated blood for a good cause. This was part of the Plus+ Magazine drive collaborating with Piccolo Café and Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC). There were a total of 36 donors though there were many that had to be rejected due to low blood pressure, cholesterol and low haemoglobin levels. Though I have to say kudos for their thoughts and efforts to show up at Piccolo Café to donate.

The event began at 10am and ended at 4pm. Kristy Lim, owner of Piccolo Café was quite overwhelmed with the responses from the public and it was also the first time such event was held at her establishment.

During the blood donation drive, donors were treated to light refreshments courtesy of Piccolo café.

They were also given three complimentary issues of Plus+ magazine as well as special goodies from JPMC. Perhaps another one next year, Kristy? 😀

By the way, Piccolo Café are treating their customers a free additional shot of espresso for all coffee beverages from today until 10 May! Such good news for those who love their extra shot in their cuppa.

The screening process to see if you are eligible to donate or not

Refreshments for the donors that day

Thank you, Kristy, for the opportunity 😀

 

Check out the Predator series at Concepts Computer

 

 

Are you Team Ironman or Team Cap? I’m definitely team yellow and red

Yea… A whole bunch of us are gonna catch this at The Mall Cineplex

Oh yes… Finally it’s here. The premiere of the final instalment of Captain America called Civil War. This is a prelude to The Avengers 3 and some even called it Avengers 2.5 as it involved all the characters except for The Hulk and Thor. I’ve watched the trailer many times and I have no doubt that this will be an awesome show. For many reasons. One being directed by the Russo brothers who were responsible for Captain America: The Winter Soldier which I love a lot. The second reason being is that it’s a Marvel universe where D.C has fallen flat in the wars of the superhero universe.

There’s even a critic who wrote “Packed to bursting with the one ingredient “Batman V Superman” lacked: Joy”. I’m quite surprised that many critics gave this flick a thumbs up and so far it has scored 97% on Rotten Tomatoes as compared to Batman V Superman’s 28%. Judging from the critics, this could be the biggest superhero movie of 2016. Period. Now the question is, will it top Batman V Superman’s box office earnings of USD 860 million worldwide. I’m pretty sure that it will be able to since it garnered USD 715 million for Winter Soldier worldwide.

I’ll be catching Captain America: Civil War with my buddies tonight at The Mall Cineplex so do watch out for my reviews soon on my podcast.

The trailer TV Spot for The Jungle Book

Check out the reviews. Click to read more

 

Times Square Shopping Centre will be organizing its first-ever Counter Strike Global Offensive Gaming Tournament on the 29th April, Friday until 1st of May 2016, Sunday from 10:00am to 10:00pm. It is open to all ages with only 5 team members allowed in a team, with one substitute.

The event, which is co-organized by Netcom, will provide interested participants the opportunity to experience the battle of the Counter Strike Global Offensive live, and for the public to witness it at the atrium of Times Square. The competition will be a single-elimination tournament where only winners of the first round will be eligible to proceed to the next round. There will also be amazing prizes sponsored by Netcom to be won. Interested participants will need to attach a receipt of any amount from any branches of Netcom in Brunei Darussalam, along with the registration form which can be retrieved from the lucky draw counter at Times Square Shopping Centre.

Throughout this Counter Strike Global Offensive Gaming Tournament, there will also be a Razer Roadshow by Netcom where there will be amazing Razer products and Gaming equipment. Moreover, DxRacer chairs will also be used during the tournament to allow gamers to “Sit better. Work harder. Game longer.”

Times Square is also glad to announce that we will be holding our annual Ramadhan Fair on the 21st June until 5th July 2016. Interested vendors may contact Times Square Management Office at 2338208 or 2338006 during office hours. You may also find out about all the upcoming events by visiting tsqbrunei.com or simply following Times Square Shopping Centre’s pages on Facebook and Instagram.

 

Eric Tang, Epson Malaysia’s Sales Manager Retail Division (2nd from left) and Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer (2nd from right) with Concepts Computer associates during the launch of the new Epson printers, the Work Force edition.

Eric Tang giving a quick presentation on the strengths of the new Epson printers ideal for businesses

You have heard of the L series of Epson printers (popular among teachers and students), suitable for home use. Now comes the business segment from the latest edition of Epson inkjet printers.

So if you are looking for efficiency, speed and quality, then I highly recommend you the Epson Workforce models – Epson WF-5111 or the Epson WF-5261 or the Epson WF-100 (mobile printer).

The said printers were launched at Brilliance Hall at Concepts Computer with Eric Tang, Epson Malaysia’s Sales Manager Retail Division, giving a quick presentation on the new Epson printers.

What caught my eye is the Epson WF-100 model. Why? It’s very portable and plus it’s wifi ready too. Perhaps the most interesting thing is that it can be power up using your power bank.. Awesome!!! I like the light weight of the printer and weighs 1.6 kg so you can actually bring it around for emergency purposes. Surprisingly this printer givers the best print out resolution as compared to the bigger printers. It can produce up to 5,670 x 1,440 dpi on a photo paper. Impressive!!

The bigger models are the WF-5111 and WF-5261, both coming with wide range of connectivity and mobile printing solutions. You can make use of your smartphone and download the app for printing purposes too. The other plus signs for these models are that it will give you significant savings through minimal usage of electricity, unlike laser printers which relies a lot on heat.

The Epson WF-5111

The Epson WF-5261

The awesome portable Epson WorkForce WF-100

Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive shared that Concepts Computers will always move forward and strive to add the latest and best for our customers to choose from, which is why we’re bringing these 3 models into the Bruneian market.” Zul continued, “As can be expected from Epson and Concepts, these 3 models will be cost-effective and high in quality, printers that businesses can depend on day-in day-out.

Eric Tang said that “We at Epson believe that the Bruneian market is at a great position for expansion and with the growth of SMEs in Brunei Darussalam, these Epson WorkForce printers are perfect for that as well.“ Eric also added, “And with Concepts being our techinical service provider in Brunei, we are confident that Bruneians can put their trust in our products, building a solid foundation of ‘Peace of Mind’ to grow their productivity and businesses.”

Now for the price: The Epson WorkForce WF-5621 will be available at Concepts Computer for $468, the Epson WorkForce WF-5111 will be available for $268, while the mobile Epson WorkForce WF-100 will be available for only $218. Also note that Concepts Computer will be running trade-in offers for certain products and models.

Concepts will also have a month-end promo where every purchase of $30 and above will entitle a free $10 Concepts voucher. For more information regarding the month-end celebrations (on-going from 27th to 30th of every month) and the eligibility of receiving the give-away $10 vouchers, or the trade-in offers, or any other enquiries regarding Concepts Computer and their range of products, please call 2233551, 2233552 or 2233553, or visit your nearest Concepts Computer retail outlet.

Any purchase above $30 and you will be entitled to $10 voucher which is valid from 27th to 30th of every month). A better reason to buy the Epson printers

I got myself Easi cards from the $10 voucher 😀

 

BIBD and Tourism Malaysia announced Hj Muhd Mazran Haji Suhut as the lucky winner of the 1Malaysia Year-end Sale during the BIBD Home Showcase at The Mall, Gadong. The collaboration between BIBD and Tourism Malaysia automatically registered BIBD cardholders who made card transactions in Malaysia during the 1Malaysia GP Sale, which ended early this year, into a lucky draw.

The winner was entitled to an all-expenses includes a five-day and 4-night paid holiday in Kuala Lumpur and Johor inclusive of airfare, accommodation, return airport transfers and a twelve-hour chartered car exclusively for them to go shopping. To add to their great bundle, the winner is also entitled to 100,000 Hadiah Points, which can be used to pay for bills, make donations, among others.

Presenting on behalf of BIBD was Siti Rafeah Hj Jakir, Head of Card Products, and for Malaysia Tourism, was its Director, Zurina Abd Samad.

Hj Muhd Mazran Haji Suhut was the lucky 1Malaysia Year-End Sale. The prize was presented by Zurina Abd Samad, Director of Malaysia Tourism (Brunei) and Siti Rafael Hj Jakir, Head of Card Products.

On the other hand, the BIBD showcase highlights BIBD’s financing packages such as its Home Financing, Home Improvement Financing, Education Financing and its Personal Financing along with other BIBD’s products and services. The showcase will also include financial health checks performed by qualified BIBD certified Islamic financial planners. The showcase also provides a comprehensive platform for respective future homeowners to look at the exciting property and home improvement opportunities through BIBD’s collaboration with the stellar partners present.

Successful applicants will also stand the chance to win prizes such as iPad minis, shopping vouchers at Supasave and Hua Ho, BIBD Hadiah Points, among others. The eighth BIBD Home Showcase will be running for a period of ten days until May the 1st, open every day from 10am to 10pm. The opening time for Fridays will be from 2pm to 10pm.

For more information on any BIBD products, services and promotions, please follow the BIBD Instagram account at @BIBDBRUNEI; Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bibdbrunei; get in touch with BIBD Contact Centre at Prepared by Corporate Communications, BIBD PRESS RELEASE MDO/PR/2016/013 2238181 or visit the nearest BIBD Branch. Also, don’t forget to download the popular BIBD Mobile App to get the latest BIBD offers and promotions under “What’s New” feature.

 

Late post: Kids as young as 6 years old as well as under 18 youths recently took part in School Holiday Basketball Camps during the March break. The twice run 3-day camps were organized by Shooting Stars Brunei Basketball.

Ken Han, the founder of Shooting Stars Brunei Basketball and Head Coach Ryan Yusof, held the basketball camps to engage kids to provide an opportunity for them to spend their school holidays productively.

The 3-days camps took place on March 23-25 and 28-30 saw specially invited basketball Coach Tan Chee Wan from Malaysia tasking more than 70 Brunei’s aspiring basketballer through a comprehensive training regimen designed to challenge and train them.



Coach Tan was a player in the Malaysian team who took gold during the 1989 SEA Games. Coach Tan’s many years of experience in coaching kids and youth basketball, especially basic fundamentals drills and activities, had a great impact not only for the campers but also to the coaches in Shooting Stars Brunei.

The camp focuses on three themes – Serious Fun, Discipline and Safety.

During the 2 camps, we saw new teammates forge lasting friendships that endure beyond the court. We saw kids, who are new to basketball, at the camp join in with joy with regular kids and youths at SSBN.

This event would not have been possible without the support of  ‎our sponsors and volunteers. Special appreciation goes to Hua Ho, Rano Iskandar, EasyWay Bubble Tea, Ref Station, International School Berakas, ISB catering and canteen team, Baan Nucha Thai Restaurant and especially our SSBN coaches and volunteers.

For more information regarding regular basketball sessions for 4-17 years old at Shooting Stars Brunei, contact 7290011 or shootingstarsbn@gmail.com.

 

Check out the special promotion offer from Loft & Co at the BIBD Home Showcase at The Mall. Image by Adib Noor of The Brunei Times.

You can turn your dream home into a reality with Loft & Co, more so now as the furniture store is offering exclusive discounts on its high quality furniture and home related accessories.

The offer is available for a limited time and only for visitors to its booth at the 8th BIBD Home Showcase at The Mall, Gadong.

“All items that we have at our booth are offered at an exclusive discounted price and is only exclusive during the course of the showcase,” said Sales Manager of Loft & Co Janet L Parpa.

On display at its booth is the latest collection from Hong Kong-based Red Apple Furniture Co Ltd brand. The highlight is an innovative queen size bed, which is fitted with a special hinge that allows it to be lifted in order to access a compartment for storage. The unique bed is currently on offer at $799 and it has been a good response so far.

“Other items such as the Red Apple night stand, dresser with mirror, armchair, bedding and even table lamp are all offered at an attractive price,” the sales manager added.
The home showcase by BIBD is ongoing until May 1. It features the bank’s promotions on home financing such as waivers and discounts on fees and chances to win prizes for successful applicants.

To take a look at more furniture selections, head to Loft & Co’s main branch located at Unit 6 to 9, Ground Floor, Little Soho at Batu Bersurat.

For enquiries, please contact or WhatsApp 8908778. You can also check for updates on its Instagram,@loftandcobsb. Text courtesy of Adib Noor of The Brunei Times.

You can storage under the bed

Some of the furniture from the Red Apple line at Loft & Co at Batu Bersurat

 

Dr Hjh May Faezah Hj Ahmad Ariffin, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Economy and Finance) at the Prime Minister’s Office launching the BIBD Home Showcase

Mr Mubashar Khokhar, Managing Director of BIBD delivering his welcoming remark

BIBD launched its eighth Home Showcase at The Mall, Gadong. The showcase, themed Lifestyle, highlights BIBD financing packages such as its Home Financing, Home Improvement Financing, Education Financing and Personal Financing along with other BIBD products and services. The showcase also includes financial health checks performed by BIBD certified Islamic financial planners.

Throughout the event, customers can benefit from full fee waivers on processing fees for BIBD’s Home Improvement Financing and Consolidated Financing Scheme; discounts on processing fees for financing as well as fee waivers on services. There are also prizes to be won for successful applicants.

The event also includes showcases by BIBD’s partners such as real estate companies and household products retailers.

Present as the guest of honour was Dr Hjh May Faezah Hj Ahmad Ariffin, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Economy and Finance) at the Prime Minister’s Office. The showcase runs until May 1st, from 10am until 10pm except on Fridays when it is from 2pm until 10pm.

 

The first 25 lucky winners with Manager of Hua Ho Department Store, Manggis, Lau Soon Tiong; the General Manager of Kingston Beverage & Creamery Sdn Bhd, Valentine Hon; and Sales and Marketing Manager of Kingston, Kevin Robin Jon at basement of Hua Ho Manggis

Finally the first 25 lucky winners of Red Bull Boost and Win contest were feted at Hua Ho Manggis last Friday.

The final three winners won themselves a Hua Ho shopping voucher worth of $50 each, while five received a power card worth of $30 each. The first seven won themselves Prepaid Top Up card worth of $20 Consolation prizes in the form of Red Bull bottle gift packets were also given to 10 participants.

Present during the draw were Manager of Hua Ho Department Store, Manggis, Lau Soon Tiong; the General Manager of Kingston Beverage & Creamery Sdn Bhd, Valentine Hon; and Sales and Marketing Manager of Kingston, Kevin Robin Jon. They also draw the 25 winners last Friday.

Members of the public still have a chance to take home prizes in the second Red Bull Boost and Win draw as the contest is still ongoing until May 31.

To join, just purchase any one can of Red Bull Energy drink (gold or less sugar), attach the pull ring tab for each contest form and drop the form into the contest boxes which are placed in participating outlets nationwide.

Participants can obtain the contest form at over 200 retail outlets in the sultanate, or download the form from its Facebook page at ‘Red Bull Brunei’. For more updates, check out its Instagram @redbullbrunei

 

Mr Joel Loo, a licensed Senior Dealer at Baiduri Capital, delivering his presentation on the prospects from Baiduri Capital

The attendees during the presentation

The Baiduri Smart Executive Programme hosted an introduction to securities trading today for their members. The event, a collaboration with Baiduri Bank’s subsidiary, Baiduri Capital, was held at Starbucks Beribi.

According to Ng Yick Wei, the Head of Group Marketing in Baiduri Bank, “The Smart Executive Programme, or SEP, is a unique programme that is specifically designed for busy working professionals who are well educated, and always looking for smart banking and saving solutions to diversify their portfolios.

“By leveraging on the capabilities of Baiduri Capital, our subsidiary company, we hope to offer insights and information to help our SEP members plan their wealth journey as they advance in their professional lives.”

Baiduri Capital has received a lot of interest from the public, especially among young professionals eager to try their hands in securities trading. Baiduri Capital offers an online securities trading portal which is a secure, web based securities trading platform that can be accessed from an internet browser, on any laptop, tablet, or even smart phone, depending on the customer’s preference. The investor-focused design is feature-rich, allowing customers to research prices, as well as look up market information to assist decision making when trading online.

Smart Executive members were shown an introduction to securities trading by Mr Joel Loo, a licensed Senior Dealer at Baiduri Capital. Since their official launch in 2015, customers are able to trade in Singapore (SGX), Hong Kong (HKEx) and Malaysia (BURSA) stock markets. Recently, US stock markets were introduced, allowing customers to trade in the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), NASDAQ Stock Exchange as well as the NYSE MKT LLC (AMEX).

Also present at the event were Smart Executive Relationship Officers and staff of Baiduri Bank, as well as licensed dealers and financial planners from Baiduri Capital.

More information on the Smart Executive Programme is available on www.baiduri.com or from the Baiduri Deals mobile app.

 

His Majesty the Sultan graced ISB Campus at Sungai Haching last week.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam consented to officially open the recently completed new International School Brunei (ISB) 22 acre campus in Sungai Hanching last week. His Majesty attended as Guest of Honour, consented to perform the ribbon cutting ceremony and toured the school and the new 180 bed International Boarding facility. Among the pupils were His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel, Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah, and Yang Teramat Mulia Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Muntaqim.

For ISB, the momentous occasion was a source of much pride, and was the culmination of decades of hard work and perseverance. The school, which started with three students in 1964, has developed to become the longest established international school in Brunei and one of the premier international schools in Asia, now educating 1450 students from 39 different countries. Its academic credentials were highlighted to His Majesty; with 90% of all ‘O’ Level and IGCSE examination results at higher level grades A* to C. His Majesty was also introduced to its International Baccalaureate students, most of whom spoke of their enthusiasm for the new teaching, learning and living facilities.

The history of the institution began in 1964 when it was founded as a home school by Datin Glass, wife of a senior government official. The school grew rapidly, and by 1970 had moved to a bigger site provided by government at Tapak Kuda. Even more student growth necessitated a relocation to a bigger campus, and government provided the land at Jalan Dato Haji Ahmad, Berakas in 1985. The school was officially opened by Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Puteri Hajah Masna binti Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien on 9th March 1986, eight years after securing the lease. Over the next 30 years, ISB would become a household name, renowned for the provision of excellent academic, cultural and sporting achievements, while maintaining its inclusive academic philosophy. However, having outgrown the Berakas campus, plans for a move were formulated in 2002, culminating to the move to the Sungai Hanching campus in 2016.

Upon arrival at the new ISB campus, his majesty was met by ISB Board Chairman Mr Ahmad Isa and Executive Principal Dr Steven Geraghty, as well as Minister of Education Yang Behormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Development Yang Mulia Dato Paduka Haji Bahrin bin Abdullah, Minister of Home Affairs Yang Behormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong and other representatives from ministry. His Majesty then attended a reception in the school’s 350 seater theatre where the ISB primary school choir and ISB band played the Brunei National Anthem. ISB Board Chairman, Ahmad bin Isa, gave a welcome speech, thanking His Majesty for gracing the opening and expressing his joy and thanks to all those involved in bringing the idea of the new campus to life. Ahmad Isa also thanked the “students, parents and teachers whose support has been an integral part to the school’s longevity”.

In closing, he expressed his belief that ISB will be able to face the future confidently, strengthening its world class teaching and learning through new and flexible 21st Century learning spaces, which will continue to provide the future generations of Bruneian and international students with outstanding education for many years to come.

His Majesty undertook a tour of the school grounds, taking time out to watch a drama performance by some year 10 students, then seeing the 25m FINA international competition swimming pool and multipurpose sports hall. Following the sports complex, His Majesty the Sultan consented to tour new international residence, where he met some of the boarders who proudly showed him their rooms and living areas. His Majesty affirmed the merits of ISB seeking to attract international boarding students from around Asia, both as a way to attract foreign investment in Brunei, but also as a means to raise the profile of Brunei as an educational destination internationally.

Subsequently, the His Majesty visited the outdoor social area, where he consented to take a picture with the primary school students. He was joined in the photo by HRH Prince Wakeel, HRH Princess Ameerah, and HRH Prince Muntaqim. After the photo, Dr Steven Geraghty gave a speech thanking his Majesty for gracing the ceremony, and stated how having seen and worked in international schools all over the world, ISB was easily his favourite, in terms of the student and staff personnel, the spirit of the school, as well as the actual campus.

His Majesty signed a plaque commemorating his visit to ISB, before cutting the ribbon to declare ISB officially opened.

 

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah (R), the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha (L) during the Majlis Bersanding of Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hajah Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah binti Almarhum Pengiran Sura Negara Pengiran Anak Haji Bey Muntassir and Mohammad Bazli Azhar Hj Md Yussof at Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Jefriah’s residence, Baitul Athirah in Kg Beribi

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah (L), the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha (R) in a group photo with the newlyweds Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hajah Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah binti Almarhum Pengiran Sura Negara Pengiran Anak Haji Bey Muntassir (2nd R) and Mohammad Bazli Azhar Hj Md Yussof (2nd L) at Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Amal Jefriah’s residence, Baitul Athirah in Kg Beribi.

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hjh Saleha recently attended the Majlis Bersanding (sitting-in-state ceremony) of their niece, Yang Amat Mulia Pg Anak Hjh Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah.

The bride, who is the eldest daughter of HRH Princess Hjh Amal Jefriah, married Mohamad Bazli Azhar Hj Mohd Yussof.

YAM Pg Anak Hjh Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah works at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade while Mohd Bazli Azhar is with the Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE).

The couple had their solemnisation ceremony last Friday. Also present at the sitting-in-state ceremony were HRH Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, HRH Pg Anak Isteri Pg Anak Sarah and other members of the Royal Family.
The ceremony started with the lighting of the dian empat, or four ceremonial candles by ‘Awang-Awang’, followed by the placing of a two-piece cushion, kasur namat, between the candles. The bride, dressed in a green songket (brocade) bridal gown, first entered the hall for the sitting-in-state ceremony.

YAM Pg Anak Hjh Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah bowed to Their Majesties before taking her seat at the dais. She was accompanied by an entourage of 25 ‘Dayang-Dayang’, with nine carrying royal ornaments and 16 carried the dian enam belas or sixteen ceremonial candles.
The groom then entered the hall accompanied by Imam of Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Hj Mustafa Hj Murat and proceeded to the dais.

Pehin Dato Hj Mustafa then placed the groom’s right hand on the head of YAM Pg Anak Hjh Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah for a menapak tangan ceremony to signify their matrimony before leading the groom to his seat on the dais.

State Mufti Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Hj Awang Abdul Aziz Juned then recited the doa (supplication) to bless the couple. The ceremony took place at HRH Princess Hjh Amal Jefriah’s residence, Baitul Athirah, in Kg Beribi. Text courtesy of Rasidah HAB and images courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah (seated L), the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, Her Royal Highness Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah (2nd L), His Royal Highness Prince Jefri Bolkiah (3rd L) and other members of the Royal Family during the Majlis Bersanding

HRH Princess Hajah Amal Jefriah(3rd R), YAM Pengiran Anak Hajah Nurul Amal Munjiatul Athirah (2nd R), YAM Pengiran Anak Muhammad Abdul Razaaq (R), YAM Pengiran Anak Muhammad Abdul Haffiz (2nd L), YAM Pengiran Anak Muhammad Abdul Qayyum (L) in a group photo with the newlyweds, YAM Pengiran Anak Hajah Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah binti Almarhum Pengiran Sura Negara Pengiran Anak Haji Bey Muntassir (4th R) and Mohammad Bazli Azhar Hj Md Yussof (3rd L)

The bride with her husband and her in-laws

YAM Pengiran Anak Hajah Nurul Amal Ni’matullah Athirah binti Almarhum Pengiran Sura Negara Pengiran Anak Haji Bey Muntassir

Mohammad Bazli Azhar Hj Md Yussof

The newly weds. Click image to zoom.

 

Wanna win cool merchandise from Jati Transport, sole distributor of Mercedes-Benz? There is either the cool power bank or the stylus pen or the solid USB pen drive. It’s simple.. Simply repost the image that was posted on my Instagram account and tag @mercedesbenzbrunei and include the hashtag #mercedesbenzbrunei

The winners will be announced this Saturday. Good luck 😀

The image that have been reposted on Instagram. Do find this picture on my IG or @mercedesbenzbrunei

I kinda like this Mercedes power bank

The luxurious merchandise that you can win through reposting on IG

Some of the images that have been reposted on Instagram. Keep them coming 😀

 

Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank Group holding the Baiduri Masters Trophy with Albert Lau, CEO of QAF Brunei

It’s back once more. The much highly anticipated annual golf tournament hosted by Baiduri Bank called the Baiduri Masters Charity Golf Tournament. Why is this golfing event popular? Because of many things – 1) The Green Jacket 2) It’s all for charity and numbers are always overwhelming 3) a chance to win fantastic cars

So yesterday was the official announcement of the event which will take place in two weekends of May 2016 (20th to 22nd and 27th to 29th). Yesterday was also the signing ceremony with the partners of the Baiduri Masters 2016.

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the organiser, Baiduri Bank Group, and partners of the event: RBA Golf Club, QAF Group of Companies and Brunei Press. CEO of QAF Brunei Albert Lau, General Manager of Brunei Press Reggie See and General Manager of RBA Golf Club Asmadi Hj Alimustapha signed on behalf of their respective organisations  while Chief Executive Officer of Baiduri Bank Pierre Imhof signed on behalf of Baiduri Bank Group.

“The Baiduri Masters has always been centred towards supporting our community and making a difference, whether big or small. Last year, we were able to raise $80,000 for charity. The Baiduri Masters made history by being the first-ever golf tournament to have three hole-in-one in one tournament. The previous and first-ever hole-in-one during the Baiduri Masters was in 2008” said Imhof.

The Junior Golfers category is open to youth aged 13 to 18 years old.

Registration fee is $120 per adult and $60 for juniors. The fee is inclusive of green fee, buggy, goodie bag as well as buffet breakfast and lunch. Players are invited to the prize presentation dinner at the end of the tournament.

It was shared that players may play more than once to improve their chances of winning. Adult players will enjoy a discount on the registration fee on their second subsequent rounds and that the best score of any round played will be taken.

Signing of MOU with QAF Brunei and Baiduri Bank Group

Signing of MOU with Brunei Press and Baiduri Bank Group

Signing of MOU with RBA Golf Club and Baiduri Bank Group

The Porsche Cayenne for Hole 2

Mini Cooper for Hole 5

BMW 218 Active Tourer for Hole 14

 

LOL, sometimes it is really hard to predict what the message a lady is conveying.

 

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Checking out the 1,000 entries for the Red Bull Boost & Win promotion

This Friday will be the first weekly draw for the 25 lucky winners of the Red Bull Boost & Win promotion. The winners will win either a shopping voucher, Power Kad, Prepaid Top Up cards or a cluster pack of Red Bull bottle.

The draw will be held at Hua Ho Manggis Mall. Good luck to all the contestants. Don’t worry since it’s still an ongoing promotion, you can still be eligible for the next weekly lucky draw. All you have to do is buy a Red Bull can (Gold/Less Sugar) at the convenient store and fill in the entry forms and drop it at the contest box.

Drawing out 25 winners for the Weekly Lucky winners

Ivy making sure the draw runs smoothly

 

The Gavaliers and guests during the first demo inaugural Brunei Gavel Club meeting at Universiti Brunei Darussalam last Sunday

One of the guests giving comments after the meeting

Finally it has happened. A great start for the Brunei Gavel Club (national level) and it applies the same platform as Toastmasters International. The only difference is that the BGC applies to teenagers (14 yrs to 18 yrs).

I have paid a visit to in-house Gavel clubs in Maktab Sains and Chung Hwa Middle School and they have been encouraging. However, it’s only part of their curriculum activity and only happens on a temporary basis. With the BGC, it will open doors to all the youths aged 14-18 to be part of a club affiliated with Toastmasters International.

The attendance last Sunday, 17th April was overwhelming. It was actually more than the usual toastmasters meetings and furthermore, I was impressed with the quality delivered by the students from their respective schools.

The appointed club president is Mohd Farhan Jafar Ali and he had a short presentation to the audience on the objectives of the BGC. He has been a seasoned toastmasters for two years and prior to that, he has been a perpetual guest in toastmasters as he hasn’t turned 18 just yet. Four years later, he has taken a bigger role as the President for the Brunei Gavel Club.

His task now with the help of his executive committee will be to find new members before the national gavel club can be officially chartered. The required number is 20 members in the club and I’m pretty sure that’s achievable.

I do hope many corporate companies and government agencies will see the benefit in this non-profit club as the youth organisation will need some support to sustain the bi-weekly meetings and other gavel related things. I also do hope parents or guardians can also attend the gavel meetings to see the valuable learning experience from the youths in improving their communication and leadership skills.

As for now, it’s a definitely great start.

Nico (left) braved the Table Topics session and shared about his yummy ice-cream

Another confident speaker

Nabil has a great sense of humour

Jackie won her first table topics even as a first time visitor to a gavel meeting

Ahmad delivered his first speech at the Brunei Gavel Club meeting

Farhan the appointed President for Brunei Gavel Club and I am full of admiration on his growth as an individual

Iskandar giving out his evaluation on the Table Topic speakers

Toastmasters members giving support to the Gavaliers 

The Gavaliers had so much fun. The next meeting will be on 1st May 2016 at 10am at UBD

 

Register yourself now! “Save Life By Giving Blood”

Date: 21.04.2016
Time: 10 am to 4 pm
Venue: @piccolocafebn

Every Donor will be entitled to:
1) 3 months magazine subscription from @plusbrunei
2) Refreshments from @piccolocafebn
3) Goodies from @jpmcbrunei
4) Cash Vouchers from @nailsnwaxbrunei
5) 3 days complimentary gym pass from @fitnesszonebrunei

Limited slots available. Please RSVP now by emailing us at Julie@plusbrunei.com / info@piccolocafe.co or head over to Piccolo Cafe in Bandar and register yourself at the counter.

 

The Audi Q7 will have a critical role in a major action scene in the upcoming blockbuster due to open locally end of the month #TheGreatQ

 

Team Flintstone (orange), Team Ninja Turtles (green) and Team Simpsons (yellow) with the patron of Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Mariam during the prize presentation of the Charity Polo Match 2016 held at the Royal Brunei Polo & Riding Club, Field II.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen with His Royal Highness Prince Jefri Bolkiah

Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah with her brother His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen

The sportsmanship gesture between siblings.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen in action for Team Ninja Turtles

It was a close match between Team Ninja Turtles and Team SImpsons

Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah with YAM Pg Anak Hj Abdul Ali Yil-Kabier

YAM Pg Muda Bahar for Team Simpsons

Team Ninja Turtles and Team Simpsons

Abdul Azeez for Team Simpsons

Farid Abdullah of Team Ninja Turtles

Puan Hjh Mariam, the patron of Pusat Ehsan, handing out the prizes to the players

HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen receiving a token from his mother

HRH Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah receiving a token from her mother

HRH Prince Jefri Bolkiah for Team Flintstone

HRH Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah receiving the trophy

HRH Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah lifts the trophy after Team Simpsons scored the most

The umpire receiving a token from Puan Hjh Mariam

The group photo with the polo players and the umpire

Our first time watching a polo match. Actually I did watch polo when I was like 10 years old.

It was such a great turn out. Kudos to the organiser for creating such a successful and meaningful event

During the prize presentation

HRH Prince ‘Abdul Mateen had coffee from Piccolo Cafe booth

Sugar and Spice was one of the busiest booth

The grand prize of the lucky draw of the Charity Polo Match 2016. There were around 20 lucky draw prizes.

He is one entertaining emcee who gave such a colour commentary during all the matches

One of the invited guests

Even the kids were waiting for their numbers to be called out

… and finally one of them won something 😀

I had free cookies and even a drink.. Thank you 😀

 

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen was recently featured in GQ Thailand magazine. Catch HRH tomorrow during the Charity Polo Day 2016 at Royal Brunei Polo & Riding Club, Field II.

It’s happening tomorrow at Royal Brunei Polo & Riding Club, Field II where you will get to witness the Brunei Polo Team in the Charity Polo Day 2016. The highlight of the event will be the Royal participants including His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen who is an avid polo player.

The event will be held tomorrow Sunday, 17th April 2016. The carnival starts from 2pm to 8pm. The polo match will be from 4pm to 6pm.

There are still tickets available for the BND 5 and BND 2 for adult and child respectively. Furthermore, you will be able to enjoy some of the food vendors during the charity event. If you want to enquire about the tickets, you can call 243 1204 for more details.

His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen playing polo. Image taken from @tmski

 

Patrons enjoying the Kashmiri Night @ Bombay Place Batu Bersurat.

The menu list for Kashmiri Night

Have you tried Bombay Palace? It’s one of the popular Indian restaurant in the Sultanate. The first branch is located at Batu Bersurat and recently they just finished their buffet promotion for the patrons to try out the dishes from their new chef from Raddison, India.

Now the former Radisson, India chef will be busy preparing the menu for the Kashmiri Night (buffet) at Bombay Palace’s second outlet at Kuala Belait. Yes, there’s a branch at Kuala Belait where it will be priced at $13 adults and $7.90 for kids below 6 years. The buffet will be from 6pm to 10pm. Do look at the poster below for the full menu.

For me, I love the Fish Kashmiri and Chicken Nawabi Roll. The garlic naan is also quite tasty. Good thing the owner of Bombay Palace scouted a good chef from India. For bookings, call 334 2513 or 869 4840 at their KB outlet. It’s located at Lot 6176, Jalan Masjid, KB Town.

What I had during the Kashmiri Night food promotion

The setting at KB branch of Bombay Palace

call 334 2513 or 869 4840 for bookings

 

Check out the KFC Crispy Tenders.. Yummy

KFC introduced its all new Crispy Tenders range that comes in a variety of combos offering fans its succulent KFC chicken without the bones.

Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, the KFC Crispy Tenders are made of 100% whole boneless chicken fillet fried to perfection. For a limited time only, it is available with all time favourite jalapeno cheese sauce dip to complement the Crispy Tenders, adding to the enjoyment, from as low as BND 2.50 ala carte.

“We want customers to have a hassle-free way of enjoying their favourite KFC chicken minus the bones. It’s convenient, has all the meat in every bite and has the same great KFC Hot & Spicy satisfaction. KFC Crispy Tenders is also available in a variety of combos including the Bucket Sensasi that gives you even more value,” said Jaymee Lau from the Marketing Department of KFC Brunei.

The KFC Bucket Sensasi includes KFC’s new Crispy Tenders with jalapeno cheese sauce dip, KFC’s signature fried chicken, coleslaw, mashed potato and Pepsi at a value deal of only BND 23.90!

The KFC Crispy Tenders and Bucket Sensasi are available nationwide at all KFC restaurants while stocks last. Relish in your KFC chicken with or without bones with this limited time offer!

We were hungry during high tea 😀

Thanks Jaymee for your hospitality

 

Check the interview by Aljazeera’s The Stream on the Royal Brunei’s women pilot.

Captain Shari’ah Czarena, Senior First Officer Dk Nadiah and Senior First Officer Sariana being featured on Aljazeera’s The Stream two nights ago

What a milestone for our female pilots from Royal Brunei Airlines! They have already made headlines through social media and worldwide news after the viral picture of the Captain Shari’ah Czarena, Senior First Officer Dk Nadiah and Senior First Officer Sariana in the flight deck operating a Royal Brunei flight from Brunei to Jeddah during the Brunei National Day.

The image itself have reach to the masses and the millions because it’s such as a rare feat in other countries to have women pilots. The irony also came when the female pilots flew to Jeddah where the country doesn’t permit women to drive on the road.

The comments have been very positive and this is a good image and reputation for Royal Brunei Airlines to be acknowledged and also making an impact globally that yes, women should be given the opportunity to take the role as pilots.

According to statistics, the female commercial pilots are only made up of 5% worldwide. That’s pretty low.

It was awesome to know that the Brunei female pilots were given the platform at Aljeezra’s The Stream to share their experiences and also inspire others that there are opportunities to be like them.

I set my alarm for the 2am segment but it was delayed until 3:30am but it was worth the wake. It must be a surreal feeling for all of them to be featured on an international news on The Stream #AJStream and the comments have been commendable and positive.

Good job also to the hosts of the segment from The Stream – Femi Oke and Malika Bilal. Let’s not forget to mention Azhani Abu Daniel, Head of Corporate Communications of Royal Brunei, who made the shot featured on the Royal Brunei’s Facebook page and also currently in London, organizing the interview sessions for the trio.

Girl power

Captain Czarena

Some of her personal shots being featured

The other female pilots being interviewed

Loving the host for The Stream

Azhani Abu Daniel (2nd from right) with the famous trio

 

Students from KB being educated on activities during the Science Week at KBSentral

Something to look forward to Sentral Shopping Centre (KBSentral) as they are having science week which features mini interactive exhibits from the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre such as Finger Tingler, Link and Unlink, T or Tree, Balancing Nails, Jacobs Ladder and Einstein Head.

There will be some science demonstration as well today at KBSentral. It’s good to see so many activities happening at KBSentral. Keep it up!! You can follow their Facebook for updates.

It was also good to know that all eight of KBSentral eateries have been given Grade A for their cleanliness. The award was given last week from the Kuala Belait and Seria Municipal Board. I have to say that it’s never an easy feat to achieve Grade A status. Kudos to the eateries and also to the management of KBSentral for maintaining the cleanliness and standards.

Many reasons to shop at KBSentral. 3 cars and 1 house to be won.

 

Click image to enter Facebook Page

The Red Bull Brunei is back once more for a special promotion. This time is special. You don’t need to buy a pack or so. Just purchase a can of Red Bull and walaaaaa, you are eligible for the draw where prizes are such as a 40” LED TV, an Auto washer and a 2-Door fridge.

Apart from that, there will be weekly prizes throughout the the contest period (1st April to 31st May) before proceeding to the actual final draw. Each weekly draw will reward 25 lucky winners with prizes such as shopping vouchers, Power Kad, Prepaid Top Up cards and a cluster pack of Red Bull bottle.

So after you buy a Red Bull can (Gold/Less Sugar) at the convenient stores or outlets, pull the ring tab and attached it to the contest form (also available at retail outlets) and drop into the contest boxes which are placed in participating outlets nationwide.

The Gold or the Less Sugar Red Bull? My preference the latter

Apparently Nuri loves Red Bull

The contest form and this is how you stick the Red Bull tab and stand a chance to win

 

The new generation 7-seater Audi Q7 available now in 2.0 and 3.0 TFSI at Audi showroom (Kiarong) #TheGreatQ

 

The first monthly draw at the Kingston Beverage & Creamery office

Kingston Beverage and Creamery is conducting the Pepsi Bonanza Draw 2016, 1st Monthly Pre-Draw. 10 lucky monthly winners will be drawn at its office today. The pre-draw will be officiated and drawn by members of press and witnessed by the management of Kingston Beverage and Creamery Sdn Bhd.

The 10 monthly winners will be informed and invited to attend the monthly prize presentation on 15th April 2016 (Friday) 3pm at Freshco Supermarket at Seri Complex. The monthly prizes consist of an Ipad Mini 4, an Acer Aspire Laptop, and a LG 32″ LED Television and 7 consolation prizes. The Pepsi Bonanza Draw 2016 will have two (2) pre-draws before entering the Grand draw. Total prizes of various awesome gadgets worth of $40,000 is out to be won by the public. However, monthly prize winners are not eligible to enter the next pre-draw and Grand Draw.

Pepsi Bonanza Draw 2016 runs from March 15 till May 31, 2016. To enter, just purchase any 1.5L bottles (Pepsi, Pepsi Twist, 7up, 7up Revive, Mirinda Orange, Mirinda Strawberry, Mirinda Green Apple, or Mirinda Green Fruit) and attach two labels to the entry form or simply visit any of the participating fast food chain and cinema outlets and purchase the selected meals and combos to entitle an entry in the Pepsi Bonanza Draw 2016. If you would like to know more about Pepsi Bonanza Draw 2016, please follow Pepsi Brunei in its Facebook page..

The first monthly draw officiated by members of the press

The first monthly draw winners

The grand draw for the Pepsi Bonanza Draw 2016

 

Hao Zi and Ah Xiang of Super Taste from Taiwan being greeted by Wu Chun and representatives from Royal Brunei Airlines and Brunei Tourism Board upon their arrival at Brunei International Airport

Fans of Taiwan’s most popular lifestyle tv programme – ‘Super Taste’ flocked the Bake Culture bakery shop in Kiulap yesterday to catch a glimpse of their favourite stars up close.

The Taiwanese celebrities – Hao Zi and Ah Xiang are in the Sultanate for six days to film a special segment of the ‘Super Taste – Magic Brunei’ which will be aired on TVBS by end of May this year.

The reality show takes the duo around Taiwan and abroad, where they get to taste the local delicacies and goof around while exploring their featured destinations.

The ‘Super Taste’ reality show provides a perspective of Taiwanese palate and their appreciation of foreign food.

The location of the filming in Brunei includes popular tourist destinations and interesting places for food hunting such as Gadong night market and a Taiwan franchise bakery shop, Bake Culture. Text courtesy of Raghadah Agus of The Brunei Times.

The superstars with the Bake Culture Award winning chef

Image courtesy of Raghadah Agus of The Brunei Times

Image courtesy of Raghadah Agus of The Brunei Times

 

BIBD was conferred with IBFIM’s (Islamic Banking Finance Institute Malaysia) Islamic Finance Talent Development Champion Award in the International Category at the 3 rd Certifications Award Ceremony from the Islamic Banking Finance Institute Malaysia (IBFIM).

Also in the International Category, BIBD and Brunei’s very own Dayangku Noruldiana Shim Binti Pengiran Hj Hashim was conferred with Highest Achiever Award in the Islamic Financial Planner (IFP) Category. The event was held at the Mahkota Ballroom, Istana Hotel, Kuala Lumpur City Centre last weekend.

BIBD Deputy Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer, Hajah Noraini bti Haji Sulaiman mentioned in reference to BIBD’s recognition, “The program also allows BIBD to develop their capabilities to provide more robust Islamic financial and wealth management solutions for our customers. These efforts also reflect our continuing efforts to meet the growing demands of our customers along with innovations in Islamic financial products.”

Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad presented an award for IBFIM Islamic Finance Talent Development Champion Award to a BIBD representative

Dayangku Noruldiana Shim Binti Pengiran Hj Hashim of BIBD earned the Highest Achiever Award in the Islamic Financial Planner (IFP) Category

BIBD currently has a team of forty-two certified Islamic financial planners (IFP), four of whom are also Chartered Financial Consultants (ChFC), a number which is constantly growing as more and more BIBD personnel are enrolled into becoming certified financial planners.

The IFP program is a professional qualification developed in collaboration between IBFIM and Financial Planning Association of Malaysia (FPAM). The program aims to develop experts in financial planning and wealth management to cater to the increasing standards of competency and ethical practice of financial planning professionals.

The ceremony is recognition to holders of IBFIM’s certified qualifications along with recognition to organizations that had fervently supported IBFIM’s talent development initiatives by awarding them the prestigious Islamic Finance Talent Development Champion Award.

 

HMD FT’s dreams of going to Anfield to watch English Premier League team Liverpool were realised after winning the Standard Chartered Cup 2016 following a 3-0 victory over Plan C FT in the final at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex last weekend.

The family-oriented team which comprised four brothers raced to a 2-0 lead after goals from Khairun Nadzereen and an own goal from Md Shahin.

The tie was as good as over after Ahmad Muhazzib bundled home to all but send HMD to Anfield to watch Liverpool play Watford on May 7.

The Anfield dream has come for HMD FT

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, and HMD FT players posing with the mock cheque.

After a Plan C FT player was expelled from the pitch and HMD content to sit back, the latter’s goalkeeper produced an amazing fingertip save with the ball arrowing to the top corner.

The father of the four brothers Haji Mohd Daud bin Haji Abdul Kadir, whose team was formed under his name, had planned to join the tournament but pulled out due to injury.

Nevertheless, he was still grateful that his sons had made it to one of the iconic stadiums in the world especially after the quarterfinal heartbreak last year in the Standard Chartered Trophy.

Haji Mohd Daud was wary of the threat of Real Five FC which he considered as favourites prior to the final but agreed that his team’s chances was tightly balanced after Plan C scraped through the semi-final contest through penalties.

“We never imagined that we would go to Anfield because there are a lot of strong teams in the competition. We also have young players and the other teams also enlisted players who had experience in the national team,” said Haji Mohd Daud in an interview with the Bulletin after the final.

“The boys in the team (HMD) play in normal clubs and in schools”, he added.

There were individual prizes up for grabs as well as Mohd Fauzan of HMD won an autographed Liverpool Football Club Jersey for the most assist together with Md Abd Khaalid as the top scorer of the tournament. Meanwhile, Azamri Zainal of Brunei Shell Lions won a fully autographed football as the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper.

The guest of honour was Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, who presented the mock plaque to the winners.

During the closing ceremony, a mock cheque of $2,400 was be handed over to the Community Development Department on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports for the Welfare Home Complex Fund. Text and image courtesy of Fadhil Yunus of Borneo Bulletin.

 

Now this is your chance to head to Brazil for the upcoming Rio 2016 Olympic Games happening in August this year. Yes, all expenses paid trip for two courtesy of Visa.

It’s simple. All you have to do is have a Baiduri Visa Credit and Debit Card and for every BND 50 you spend (locally and overseas), you will earn 1 entry in the grand draw. The promotion ends in 31st May 2016.

Now you can sign up during the promotional period and enjoy a 3-year annual fee waiver. For more info, you can click here to learn more or call 244 9666.

Click image to learn more

 

As part of BIBD’s ongoing efforts to raise the benefits and awareness of better financial management, at the same time underscoring the importance of elevating the awareness of financial literacy in Brunei Darussalam, BIBD today held a financial literacy talk to almost fifty personnel from Setia Protective Security Services Sdn Bhd (SPSS). The talk was delivered by BIBD personnel Rozielawati Hj Jamil and Norliah Md Taib.