Tuan Ahmad Jefri sharing his insight on Internet Regulations. Pretty insightful

Students from Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) formerly known as MTSSR gained a valuable insight on the vital aspects of internet regulation held at Student Resource Centre, IBTE Sultan Saiful Rijal Campus earlier this morning.

The students had the privilege to listen to a keynote address by Tuan Ahmad Jefri, Acting Assistant Managing Director of Brunei Investment Agency and Member of Board of Governors, IBTE, on “Internet Regulation”.

The talk was attended by 60 students who are currently studying Diploma in Information and Library Science and HNTec in Information Technology, under the School of Information and Communication Technology along with staff members from the School of ICT.

Tuan Ahmad Jefri presented a talk entitled “Internet Regulation: Fact of Fantasy?” that discussed on the impact of internet in our daily lives and shared his thoughts on the law bound to the online environment within the confinements of Brunei Darussalam.

Adding to the hype of the discussion, students took the opportunity to ask questions with regards to the internet laws in the local context. The Principal Central, Dr. Sheikh Lukman, presented a token of appreciation.

 

A deep gratitude to all my sponsors, clients and most of all, RA followers for the past 14 years on my blog and social media. It has been an interesting journey 😀

 

U.S. Ambassador to Brunei, His Excellency Craig Allen in his opening remarks this morning at Brilliance Hall at Concepts Computer, Kiulap

It was a special occasion for both Concepts Technologies and Mircosoft (B) Sdn Bhd as the U.S. Ambassador to Brunei, His Excellency Craig Allen, was invited as a guest of honour in the event themed “Accelerating Competitiveness among SMEs with Technology”. The objective of this event is to boost up business productivity through technology targeting SMES in Brunei Darussalam.

His Excellency gave an opening remarks and joked how he wasn’t much of an IT person but praised the efforts Microsoft (Brunei) and Concepts Technologies for reaffirming the strengths between a local company and a US brand, Microsoft.

As you can see that Microsoft is the market leader in Brunei in terms of their operating system in computers. I’m pretty sure the same can be said for worldwide. I grew up using Microsoft and though for the past eights years that I’ve been using Appel computers, it didn’t stop me using Microsoft products on Apple.

Hence, I can see how Microsoft can empower SMEs to make improvements to the business of managing departments including managing infrastructure and services. So it was good of Concepts Technologies and Microsoft (B) to invite the local SMEs in attending this morning session as they are presented an added value session where it includes a time of sharing on Microsoft licensing solutions in assessing risk, optimizing productivity and cutting costs.

As a Microsoft distributor, one of their roles is to ensure SMEs are educated on the right track to adopt premium level technology. Just imagine business software like Office 365 equips organization in having the tools to overcome the challenges of executing on strategy every day and prospering in today’s economic down turn.

He hopes for more US collaboration with Brunei in regards to SMEs from different industries

A token of appreciation from Vincent Pao to the guest of honour

Haniza Zakariya, Managing Director of Microsoft (Brunei)

During the press conference

Also present were Vincent Pao, Group CEO of Concepts Group of Companies and Haniza Zakariya, Managing Director of Microsoft (B) Sdn Bhd.

Haniza shared in her speech about how Microsoft can empower businesses by making a technology a business advantage. With Microsoft, your business can increase in efficiency and annual revenue. You will have the capabilities to create jobs almost twice as fast as other small businesses. She shared that you need the technology that can grow right along with your business and the freedom to work the way you and your team work best.

His Excellency Craig Allen shared that Brunei has introduced a number of initiatives to demonstrate its commitment to local entrepreneurs and not to be reliant on hydrocarbon exports. He is full of praise on the Brunei Government’s initiative in launching a statutory body, DARe (Darussalam Enterprise) in supporting the local SMES. He even announced that there will be three representatives from Brunei who are invited to the Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) which will be hosted by President Obama in Silicon Valley in June 2016 (lucky them).

His Excellency also touched on Microsoft’s Intelligent Cloud and Windows 10 where it enables SMES to build a cloud-based IT ecosystem that enables employees to stay productive o matter where they are working from.

After the speech, His Excellency with Haniza and Vincent held a quick press conference for the media before heading for a quick tour of the premise of Concepts Computer.

His Excellency touring around Concepts Computer

Checking out the DXRacer chairs

Group photo with the On-Time associates

 

The star of the day – Black Pepper Long Chicken

BURGER KING ®’s realm does not just dominate the beefier regions of the map, It successfully colonized the land of chicken as well. Today Burger King has officially launched the new Black Pepper Long Chicken under its limited time only menu.

A great tasting sandwich with our very own black pepper sauce, topped with crisp lettuce and finished with creamy mayo on our Chicken Royale Patty. If you prefer to have cheese on your sandwich, you can also request an add-on American Cheese to your sandwich.

The Black Pepper Long Chicken is available at only $6.90 for the meal and $4.90 for the sandwich only.

Burger King Brunei would also like to introduce the new delicious Milo Float and Cheesy fries under our Starbuys menu, The items in our Starbuys menu range from as low as $1.60.

The Milo float is available at only $2.20 and you can also asked for a ‘change to‘ from your original meal drink to a milo float for additional $2.00.

Our Cheesy Fries is available at only $2.50 Regular and $3.00 Large. You can also asked for a ‘change to’ from your original meal fries to cheesy fries for an extra $1 only.

For further updates on Burger King® Brunei, visits our Instagram page @burgerkingbrunei and Facebook at www.facebook.com/bkbrunei.

The Milo Float

 

Don’t forget to pen this date on the upcoming Financial Funfair at Jerudong Park Colonnade on 22nd May next weekend as part of National Savings Day 2016

 

Download SnapFeed app on your smartphones and check out the latest deals in Brunei, their new loyalty program and also check out the new movie listings.

 

Team America

Having the luxury of the time to catch Captain America: Civil War three times, I have to admit that the replay value hasn’t bore me just yet. This is how I am amazed with the Marvel Cinematic Universe and how Disney has made it such a lovable franchise ever since they bought over the franchise.

The movie is slated to be a big box office machine. Having already raking in USD 75 million on Friday alone, it will reach in the region of USD 175 to USD 190 million tops. It’s unlikely to touch the USD 200 million region which many predicted it would be. Now the question is will it have the legs to break the USD 350 million mark in the months to come. The previous movie, Captain America: Winter Solider, made USD 259 million. It’s no surprise that Civil War will surpassed that in just two weeks. We shall wait and see.

Here’s just another short review of my version of Civil War.

First thing’s first. I love the movie. It’s quite a rare feat that I would watch a movie for the third time. Even a fourth viewing is a possibility. I’ve already caught it three times in a space of 9 days so no harm done for the next viewing, right?

Now, what I love about Civil War?

1) This is a movie that Batman V Superman wanted to be. The lame battle or war that the DC characters recently had was just simply $#%^@~#. The plot just got too tangled in the web and there was no way out of it. Purely messy. As for Civil War, the premise and the build up were solid from start to finish and furthermore, it was able to create a situation where you as the audience would have to choose between Team Cap or Team Ironman. As for Batman V Superman, the delivery of their rivalry lacked substance and desire for the audience to be involved in.

2) How do you handle so many characters in a two and a half hour movie? And none of the characters were not put to waste. That I have to salute the Russo brothers for pulling a great feat which Joss Whedan did for The Avengers. Some of the characters had shorter screen time but it was enough to make us feel interested in their characters. As for Doomsday or even Lex Luthor, not so much. Something Zack Synder lacked.

3) I have to applaud for their ingenuity of the action sequences in Civil War. The airport scene still leaves me mesmerized and I could just watch over and over again. My only problem is the less usage of Vision during the fight scenes *little spoiler alert* but other than that, the airport scene is perhaps the best superhero action scene of all time and many producers and directors will have a hard time to top this feat.

4) The introduction of Black Panther and Spider-Man. I had reservations on their characters when I watched the trailer. Why? Panther is a low key superhero in Marvel while we have gotten bored with many renditions of Spider-Man. However, these were not the cases for both Panther and Spider-Man. I won’t spoil much but man, they both will have a bright future in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

That are just the gist of what I thought of Civil War. There are many talking points for the final installment of Captain America. So who’s your favourite character? Mine’s definitely Spider-Man. Verdict: 8.5-9/10

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

Tom Holland as Spider-Man and he suits the role

My blogger friend from Singapore – Tiffany Yong gave it 5 stars. Read more of her review by clicking the image.

Caught the premiere show at The Mall Cineplex two Thursday ago

Both Farhan and Stuart read the wrong memo during the premiere of Captain America: Civil War

 

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, as personal representative of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, bestowed medals to 636 recipients yesterday at Istana Nurul Iman.

Six hundred and thirty-six individuals including government officials and staff, uniformed personnel and members of the private sector were awarded with state honorary medals yesterday in a ceremony held at Istana Nurul Iman.

By command of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, represented the monarch in conferring the medals. Text by Azlan Othman of Borneo Bulletin. Images by Azrol Azmi of Borneo Bulletin and Zaim Kasmat of The Brunei Times.

Congratulations to all the recipients. A well deserved accolade and thank you for your contribution to Brunei.

The cabinet ministers in attendance

Faustina Woo Wai Sii, Lieutenant Ade Roddiane bin Haji Mohd Rosdi, Frankie Ngu and Vivi Rohkininissmah binti Hj Mahmud

 

The winners of the 2nd round lucky draw of Red Bull Boost & Win at SKH Airport Mall

25 winners were feted for the 2nd round of lucky draw for the Red Bull Boost and Win contest. The event took place at Sim Kim Huat Department Store at Airport Mall. The prizes given were identical to that of the first round – 3 shopping vouchers, 5 PowerKad value of BND 30 each, 7 Prepaid Card worth BND each and 10 consolation prizes of Red Bull gift packs.

Don’t worry, there are still on going draw where the final draw will be after end of May. So keep buying Red Bull until the 31st May and who knows you will be enlisted to participate in the draw.

Present were SKH director Hou Leh Hui, Valentine Hon, general manager of Kingston Beverage & Creamery, and Kevin Robin Jon, sales and marketing manager of Kingston.

To join, just purchase a can of Red Bull Energy drink (gold or less sugar), attach the pull ring tab to the contest form and drop it in contest boxes 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’ or you can get the form from the participating outlets. For more updates, check out its Instagram @redbullbn

Kevin Robin Jon, sales and marketing manager of Kingston Beverage & Creamery (left) with Hou Leh Hui (2nd from right), SKH Director and Valentine Hon, general manager of Kingston Beverage & Creamery (right) and the winner of the SKH shopping voucher

 

Luminox Spec Ops Challenge 3053.SOC.SET

44mm, carbon reinforced polycarbonate case and case back, tempered scratch resistant mineral crystal, water resistant to 200 meters, signature black PU strap, and Luminox self-powered illumination. Swiss Made. Retail price: BND 743.65

I know there are many fans of Luminox from Brune Darussalam. You can get them at Chang Ein Hong watch dealer at The Mall (Gadong) and Yayasan Complex. Last year, Luminox made its presence felt in the Sultanate by having a Luminox “Space and Time Converge” Exhibition at The Mall and it was a great timing to showcase to the public what’s great about the Luminox brand.

For you info, Luminox has a strong relationship with the Navy SEAL team for over 25 years for the reason being that SEALS discovered the unique self-powered illumination technology found in Luminox watches and the rest was history. Luminox continued to enhance the technology and specs to meet the demanding requirements of the Navy SEALS.

To make it more interesting, Luminox created a special event for the journalists called the Luminox Spec Ops Challenge, a programme developed by Luminox with retired Navy SEALS to give a chance to civilians to train like a SEAL for a day. The event took place in Langkawi in September last year.

I know my friend Aziz Idris had the opportunity to part of the programme which lasted 6 hours which was trimmed from the a 24-week programme, dealing with basic underwater demolition. From this programme, the journalists will understand the experience the Navy SEALS have to go through and get a glimpse of the mental and physical challenge throughout the procedure.

Aziz Idris (2nd from right) of Borneo Bulletin participating in the Luminox Specs Ops Challenge in Langkawi last year

The 6 hour intense training conducted by retired Navy SEALS person

Hence this is where Luminox introduce the Luminox Spec Ops Challenge (L.S.O.C) watches, sold in two different sets.

One featuring the traditional 3050 Navy SEAL Colormark (3053.SOC.SET) design with its trademark “Colormark” bold numerals on the dial and bezel on a PC carbon dial and PU strap, and the other, on the 4220 Authorised for Navy Use (A.N.U.) (4223.SOC.SET) model which was a direct collaboration with the SEALS, refined to specifically address the needs of maritime commandos, featuring a stainless steel case, with screw crown and case back, sapphire crystal, multi-jewel Swiss quartz movement and 10 year lithium battery.

Do check out other Luminox models at Chang Ein Hong outlets in Brunei. Images provided by Luminox.

 

Liyana Yus addressing the media on her role as ambassador for Jollibee

Liyana Yus with team Jollibee during the launch

I’m a huge fan of jollibee because of their chocolate sundae and not-anymore-available Nasi Lemak (due to low demand). Of course, their Chicken Joy is still one of their best sellers and I would it rate it my top 3 fast food chicken in Brunei.

Last Friday, Jollibee unveiled their latest project where the Philippines fast food franchise appointed its first local brand ambassador Liyana Yus famously known for her role in Brunei’s first featured film “Yasmine”.

The event took place at Times Square Shopping Centre and it was a press launch event to officially introduce Liyana as the face of Jollibee in Brunei.

Liyana has been a huge fan of Jollibee since she was a kid and her favourite is still ChickenJoy. Did you know that Jollibee in Brunei was the first ever international outlet outside the Philippines? And yes, the first outlet is at Utama Bowling back in 1987. Amazing!!!

The signing ceremony between Liyana Yus and Jhing Perais, Country Head of Jollibee Brunei.

Jhing was very delighted to share the special moment for Jollibee

The ceremonial bite from Jollibee

Present during the launch were Jhing Perais, Country Head of Jollibee Brunei, Leony Rodriguez, Jollibee Head of Marketing and Din Kamaluddin, producer at Origin Artistic.

Jhing was excited to announce the new partnership with Liyana and he believes that the young talent of Liyana embodies Jollibee’s excellence in the fast food franchise.

For Liyana, this is the first opportunity for her to be an ambassador of an international brand. I’m pretty sure this will open doors for more opportunities in the near future.

So far, there are 12 Jollibee outlets in Brunei and it will be growing from time to time.

I did highlight to Jhing on the defunct menu item, Nasi Lemak, but let’s see what happens. Let’s hope it might make a comeback even if it’s a just promotional offer. Don’t worry, we have our social media team + Liyana to push your product too 😀 Congratulations Liyana and Jollibee on the new milestone.

Now that’s a lot of Chickenjoy

Congratulations Liyana

Hi-tea-ing with the media

The Jollibee drive-thru at Kilanas

The new chocolate sundae with nuts. Apparently it’s the bomb!!

Thanks Lena for recommending the new sundae :p

As you know, Jollibee is all about product quality at an affordable price. What more can you ask for? It’s crispylicious, juicylicious inside out and anyone can afford it. The family oriented fast food chain has made it one of the most popular fast food chain in Brunei.

I wasn’t aware also of their latest drive thru at Kilanas which will be a big hit among the residents residing near Kilanas. For this commitment, you can see that Brunei remains a key market for Jollibee in its vision to become one of the biggest QSR brands globally.

I still remember the founder and chairman of Jollibee Foods Corporation (the Philippines), Tony Tan Caktiong, addressing a keynote speech at Asia Inc Forum event at The Empire Hotel & Country Club back in 2007. What an inspiring story and the legacy lives on!!

What makes Jollibee another success is the ability to localise the taste for Bruneians and now, with the Jollisavers, patrons can enjoy Spicy Chickenjoy and Crispy Chicken Burger with rice. You can follow @jollibeebrunei on Instagram for updates and competition.

 

Leicester City have just been crowned champions of the Premier League – and De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) staff and students are joining the celebrations.

The football club recently signed a new deal with De Montfort University (DMU) to become the Club’s Official Higher Education Partners.

The exciting new partnership, which builds on a fruitful four years of working together, will bring incredible opportunities for DMU students to get involved with a club whose name is known to millions around the world thanks to the success of Vardy, Mahrez, Ranieri and others.

It will include work placements for up to 100 students a year at the King Power Stadium covering all aspects of running a Premier League football club. DMU will also be looking at opportunities for students to work with King Power charities in Asia.

Brunei also enjoys a unique link with Leicester City Football Club which recently completed a transfer from Chelsea for winger Prince Faiq Jefri Bolkiah on a three-year professional deal that could see him making his way into the Foxes’ first team over the coming years.

De Montfort University student football trials will take place at the Club’s state-of-the-art facilities, while students will be treated to first team player appearances on campus during term time.


  
Academically, DMU offers expert English language support for the Club’s flourishing International Academy students. For example, Shinji Okazaki, the team’s Japanese international striker, recently completed an English course at the university.

Leicester City, the Premier League Champions

De Montfort University (DMU) has signed a new deal to become Leicester City FC’s Official Higher Education Partners. Click image to know more about DMU.

According to DMU’s press release, Leicester City Chief Executive Susan Whelan said: “We’re extremely proud of our growing partnership with DMU – a relationship that brings together two great Leicester institutions, proudly representing this city in front of a global audience.”



In the same release, Professor Dominic Shellard, Vice-Chancellor of DMU, said: “The benefits that this partnership will bring to DMU students are extraordinary, in terms of gaining vital industry experience, continuing DMU’s dedication to the public good with charitable and voluntary work, overseas travel through #DMUglobal, and cheering on Leicester City in the Premier League. I don’t think there will be another university in the country that can offer these sorts of opportunities in partnership with a Premier League football club.”

Findlay represents De Montfort University and provides students with free advice and guidance in all aspects of furthering their studies in the UK. For more information please telephone 2428658 or visit their office in Block E, Unit 2, 1st Floor, Abdul Razak Complex in Jalan Gadong.

 

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education as Deputy Chairman of AMBD’s Board of Directors (2nd from left), Yang Mulia Hajah Nurliati binti Haji Md Idris, Acting Managing Director of AMBD (center) with the associates from Baiduri Bank at the roadshow during the launch of National Savings Day 2016 at Lambak Kanan Primary School

Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the Employee Trust Fund (TAP) and related agencies, held the Launching Ceremony for National Savings Day 2016 at the Lambak Kanan Primary School on Thursday, 26th Rejab 1437H corresponding to 4th May 2016M.

The Guest of Honour for the event was Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education as Deputy Chairman of AMBD’s Board of Directors. Also present were Yang Arif Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Metussin bin Haji Baki, Syariah High​ Court Judge​; other members of AMBD Board of Directors; Permanent Secretaries; Senior Government Officers; Chief Executives of Financial Institutions in Brunei Darussalam and teachers and students of selected Primary Schools.

The launching ceremony began with the recital of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat, followed by Welcoming Remarks by Yang Mulia Hajah Nurliati binti Haji Md Idris, Acting Managing Director of AMBD. Yang Mulia Hajah Nurliati then proceeded to invite the Guest of Honour to launch the National Savings Day 2016.

Yang Berhormat Pehin had the opportunity to tour all booths by AMBD; TAP; and participating financial institutions, where these institutions showcased various interactive financial management games activities specially designed for primary school students.

AMBD in collaboration with MOE and TAP will continue with roadshows in all four districts namely Temburong District on Monday, 9th May 2016, followed by the Brunei-Muara District on Wednesday, 11th May 2016, then to the Belait District and Tutong District on the Monday, 16th May and Wednesday, 18th May respectively. In addition, other events planned for in conjunction with the National Savings Day 2016, are the Financial Planners’ Day organized by the Centre for Islamic Banking and Management (CIBFM), AMBD’s training arm, on Thursday, 26 May 2016, followed by a Financial Planners’ Showcase on Saturday, 28 May 2016.

For more information on National Savings Day 2016 please visit www.ambd.gov.bn or contact AMBD through email corpcomms@ambd.gov.bn Images courtesy of Baiduri Bank.

 

The clip that went viral on Facebook

Md A’aqiil Ahmad (L), Zainal Bostaman Hj Salleh Bostaman (C) and Md Faizul Faiq Mohemmad Ali, founders of Filterworks Production

The trios have been making waves. We have heard of @babusinur and @bruneivinesvideo and now a new and upcoming group, Filterworks Production. You can check out their work at their Facebook Page. Their videos are normally 3 to 4 minutes long hence it is not the whole deal when it comes to Instragram due to the time limit given.

It’s good that that our youth are taking initiatives in the creative industry. The trio – Md A’aqiil Ahmad, Zainal Bostaman Hj Salleh Bostaman and Md Faizul Faiq Mohemmad Ali – have been very active in creating humourous videos that are related to our society. You might be familiar with their faces from the recent musical production Belle.

I like their recent video on “Mau Indomie” which has been shared at least 1,000 times on Facebook. Because of their efforts, Syarikat Aliaa, the trading company that imports the Indomie brand, gave the founders of Filterworks Production some token of appreciation with Indomie boxes and hampers.

Filterworks Production feted by the management of Syarikat Aliaa

Zainal Bostaman won’t be hungry for at least 3 months 😀

The crew working on their latest video which is already up on their Facebook Page

 

Mothers Day celebration is just around the corner! What sweeter way to treat your mum than with cooking and designing your own beautiful pancakes for her!

Paddington House of Pancakes is hosting a cooking event to all. Our event is open to all who want to share their loves for mum and other loved ones through sweet and tasty pancakes.

“Unleash Your Baking Talent”!

They will provide and prepare all the necessary ingredients for you to make and decorate your own pancakes! Each design is $10 and you can be as creative as your heart desires with your designs. Bring friends, family, and loved ones to join our fun cooking and sharing activity!

They will have a cooking station prepared for you anytime from 9am to 9pm and you have today till Sunday, 8th of May! If you would like to book reservations or have any questions, please call our Berakas branch at 2331668.

 

Dayang Nur Syukrina binti Dato Mohd Roselan and Dayang Nurhuaida Fakhriah binti Damit, AMBD representatives during the media briefing.

Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD), following a press conference held on Monday, 2nd May 2015, announced that this year’s National Savings Day 2016 will be launched on today, Wednesday, 4 th May 2016.

The first National Savings Day was declared by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, as Chairman of AMBD on 28th May 2015.

The theme for this year’s National Savings Day- “Financially Literate Generation” was chosen to reflect the goal to raise a financially literate and independent generation. This will also contribute to the Wawasan Brunei 2035 objective towards a dynamic and sustainable economy, as well as highly-skilled population.

In collaboration with Tabung Amanah Perkerja (TAP) and the Ministry of Education (MOE) and other related agencies, AMBD will be organising a number of activities which include roadshows to primary schools at all four districts. The roadshows, amongst others, will include interactive games on financial management and introduction to currency by AMBD, TAP and relevant institutions and agencies, geared towards primary school students.

On Sunday, 22 May 2016, a Financial Fun Fair will be held at Jerudong Park Playground and will feature a host of family fun-filled interactive programs and activities also by AMBD, TAP and relevant institutions and agencies, geared towards the general public.

In addition, other events planned for in conjunction with the National Savings Day 2016, are the Financial Planners’ Day organized by the Centre for Islamic Banking and Management (CIBFM), AMBD’s training arm, on Thursday, 26 May 2016, followed by a Financial Planners’ Showcase on Saturday, 28 May 2016.

For more information on National Savings Day 2016 please visit www.ambd.gov.bn or email  at corpcomms@ambd.gov.bn

Nurhuaida briefing to the press

 

Awfa Nawawi, Heidi Rahman, Rahman Tarsat, Chris Woo, Jordan Yau, Gerald Goh, Rano Iskandar and Aziman Nasir

New Executive Committee members of the Brunei Speakers’ Club (BSC) for the term 2016-2017 were elected at the SEAMEO VOCTECH, Gadong last night.

The meeting saw the election of Jordan Yau as President of Brunei Speakers’ Club. Meanwhile, Gerald Goh, Rano Iskandar, Rahmat Tarsat, Heidi Rahman, Aziman Nasir and Awfa Nawawi were elected as Vice President Education, Vice President Membership, Vice President Public Relations, Secretary, Treasurer and Sergeant at arms of BSC, respectively.

Congratulations to the newly elected Executive Committee and their term will being on 1st July 2016. You can view more pictures on the Brunei Speakers’ Club website.

Newly elect President, Jordan Yau, giving his remarks

26 active members of BSC turned up last night for the Annual General Meeting

It was fun to listen to all the speeches by the nominees. The highlights of the night.

 

During the Berbedak ceremony

During the Berbedak ceremony

During the Berbedak ceremony

During the Bersanding event

During the Bersanding event. Click image to enlarge.

Late post. The images of the wedding between Haji Mohammed Nazlee bin Pehin Orang Kaya Lela Pahlawan Mejar Jeneral (B) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Mohd Jaafar and Noor Cahaya. The event took place two weeks ago at three venues – Masjid Al Ameerah Al Hajah Mariam, Indera Samudra Hall at The Empire Hotel & Country Club and the groom’s residence.

Nazlee was born on 25th August 1983 while Cahaya was born on 19th August 1990 in Kelantan, Malaysia.

It was great to be part of the wedding team and I praised the SF team for making the wedding livelier as well as working as a solid team. Even the foreign photographers loved our energy during the wedding events. All the best to both of you, Nazlee and Cahaya and it was an honour to be part of the SF entourage. A big thank you also to Pehin Jaafar and Datin Salbiah on your hospitality and it always feel like our second home. You can check out more pictures on IG with the hashtag #nazleecahaya

Click image to enlarge

Click image to enlarge

Click image to enlarge

 

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

 

Unleash your creativity. We have so many opportunities to showcase our talents and show the country what our youths are capable of. There have been creativity programs and competitions to spur individuals to take participate. Recently The Crown Prince CIPTA Award 2017 was launched at University Teknologi Brunei (UTB which was previously known as ITB) and this has been an ongoing competition with many local participation over the years.

A big thank you to UTB and also their core sponsor, Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd for making the CIPTA possible.

Gracing the event was Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education. Also present at the ceremony were Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Bahrom bin Pengiran Haji Bahar, Deputy Minister of Education; Awang Mohamad bin Haji Awang Damit, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd, who is also the Co-Chairperson of CIPTA 2017 Executive Committee, Dr. Haji Junaidi bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) and Chairperson of the CIPTA 2017 Executive Committee, Associate Professor Dr Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman, the Vice-Chancellor of UTB.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Education gracing the event

So what’s the theme for this year’s APICTA? It will be on “Innovation for Sustainable Economy”. The competition is open to all schools, technical and tertiary academic institutions, government and private organizations and the general public.

There are three main competitions: Category 1, 2 and 3 for local participants; the Smart Junior Competition; and the ASEAN Category. The prizes by Category are as follows:

CATEGORY 1, 2 AND 3 (LOCAL COMPETITION)

Category 1: Creating New Product, Process or Technology
1st Prize – B$ 6000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
2nd Prize – B$ 4000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
3rd Prize – B$ 2000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
2 Consolation Prizes – B$ 500.00 cash and certificates

Category 2: Modifying Existing Product, Process or Technology

1st Prize – B$ 6000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
2nd Prize – B$ 4000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
3rd Prize – B$ 2000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
2 Consolation Prizes – B$ 500.00 cash and certificates

Category 3: Creating New or Modifying Existing Product, Process or Technology by Young Inventors

1st  Prize  – B$ 3000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
2nd Prize      – B$ 2000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
3rd Prize      – B$ 1000.00 cash, a trophy & certificate
2 Consolation Prizes – B$ 250.00 cash and certificates

THE SMART JUNIOR COMPETITION

1st  Prize     – B$ 1000.00 cash & certificate
2nd Prize     – B$ 800.00 cash & certificate
3rd Prize     – B$ 500.00 cash & certificate
2 Consolation Prizes – B$ 200.00 cash and certificates

ASEAN CATEGORY

New Invention & Innovation Category
Best Invention & Innovator – B$ 6000.00 cash & Trophy

Young Inventor Category

Best Young Inventor          – B$ 3000.00 cash & Trophy

Guest of honour touring the exhibition after the launch

Winner from the ASEAN New Invention & Innovation Category will be eligible to compete with winners from Categories 1 and 2 in the Local Competition for the Crown Prince Special Award to win the grand prize of B$ 8000 and the CIPTA Trophy. In CIPTA 2015, the coveted grand prize was awarded to a group of researchers from the Institute of Bio-Engineering and Nanotechnology Singapore for their winning project ‘Green Tea Nanocarriers to Fight Cancer’.

Each entry will be judged based on their novelty and creativity; deployment of end product; social, economic and sustainable design considerations; and the project report and presentation. Assessment of submitted projects will be conducted in two stages starting with the Preliminary Assessment. Only qualified entries will be allowed to proceed to the Final Assessment.

With the official launching of CIPTA 2017, participation into all the categories is now open. The deadline for participating in CIPTA 2017 is on 31 October 2016. More information can be obtained from www.utb.edu.bn/cipta.

 

The highly anticipated annual golf tournament, the Baiduri Masters Charity Golf Tournament is set to tee off in a month’s time spanning 2 weekends, 20 to 22 May and 27 to 29 May 2016. This year marks the 21st edition of the Baiduri Masters organized by Baiduri Bank Group.

Thanks to the support of strategic partner – the QAF Group of Companies, the much awaited hole-in-one prizes for Baiduri Masters 2015 was confirmed this morning at the Partnership Signing Ceremony held at the QAF Centre. Besides these three luxurious cars, players will also stand a chance to win two cash prizes plus numerous other tournament prizes at the Baiduri Masters 2016.

The hole-in-one prizes for this year are as follows: Porsche Cayenne for Hole 2; Mini Cooper for Hole 5; BMW 218 Active Tourer for Hole 14; and $20,000 cash prize for Holes 12 and 16.

You could be a winner of this awesome car 😀

The upcoming golf tournament is divided into four divisions: Men’s, Ladies, Juniors and Team. The Men’s division will be further divided into Men’s Open and Senior Golfers categories. The Junior Golfers category is open to golfers aged 13 to 18 years old.

Registration commences from 20 April 2016 and the registration fee remains at BND120 for adults and BND60 for juniors. The registration 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.

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 and subsequent rounds. The best score of any round played will be taken.

For more information, please contact the Baiduri Call Centre at 244 9666 or log onto www.baiduri.com, where they can also download the registration form.

Kahar Hj Abu Bakar (2nd from R) is the fourth golfer ever to hit the hole-in-one at the Baiduri Masters in its 20 years’ history. This was taken last year and he won the BND 20,000 cash prize then.

Click image to download PDF registration form

 

19-year old Ahmad Ridhauddin Hj Suhaimin, winner of the Proton Satria Neo R3 1.6L Manual with his mother during the Second Lucky Draw campaign of Sentral Shopping Centre (KB Sentral) yesterday

Abby Lim, General Manager of Sentral Shopping Centre, with the winner

Sentral Shopping Centre has just completed the first series of its Second Lucky Draw Campaign on Sunday, 1st May 2016 at 2.00 pm yesterday. With about 1,900 short-listed coupon holders since the beginning of the campaign, November 2015, Sentral Shopping Centre was filled with a huge crowd of hopeful winners. The prizes range from household appliances to meal voucher to one night stay at Garden Sentral Hotel as well as a car for the grand prize.

The Guest of Honor for the Grand Lucky Draw was Madam Suraya Binti Hj Mohd Salleh. A total of 17 prizes were given away yesterday. The event commenced with a welcoming speech by the General Manager, Abby Lim. After that Ms. Norazizah Awang Damit, proceeded to draw the first 5 winners. It was then preceded by Penghulu of Mukim Kuala Belait, Mr. Haji Pungut Bin Ali, to draw another 5 winners. Ms Abby Lim proceeded to draw another 3 lucky winners. In between the draws, quiz questions were asked to the audience and the prizes to these quiz questions were sponsored by SugarBun Brunei and Ochado Brunei.

The Guest of Honor then proceeded to draw the top 4 lucky winners including the grand prize. The 4th prize, a 32” LED TV, went to Hjh Rohaya Hj Abu Bakar while Jufri Bin Hj Abd Hamid won a 2-door refrigerator as the 3rd prize winner. The 2nd prize of a fully automated washing machine was won by Sharon Chin Shiao Hui. The Grand Prize Winner of Sentral Shopping Centre Grand Lucky Draw, the first series, a white Proton Satria Neo R3 1.6L Manual, was 19-year old Ahmad Ridhauddin Hj Suhaimin.

Lucky Draw coupon holders were reminded to be present at the Grand Lucky Draw presentation, along with their Identity Cards (IC) as proof of identity and their Lucky Draw coupons. Representatives were allowed, but they must bring along their own ICs, as well as the photocopy IC of the winner along with the original coupon.

Do follow them on their Facebook and Instagram @kbsentral for all the latest updates on their upcoming event activities!

The top 17 winners feted yesterday. It was such a packed event.

Hjh Rohaya Hj Abu Bakar receiving the 32” LED TV

Jufri Bin Hj Abd Hamid won a 2-door refrigerator

Abby Lim running the draw

Sharon Chin Shiao Hui won a a fully automated washing machine

This lady won two prizes out of the 17 prizes drawn. A very lucky person indeed.

Almost 2,000 in attendance yesterday

The winner posing with his new car

Group photo with the guest of honour and general manager of KB sentral

Vendors of @KBsentral would be happy with the responses yesterday

Three more grand draws. So do spend at KB Sentral

 

Review of a DXRacer chair

DXRacer computer gaming accessories have now landed in Brunei and are available from Concepts Computer. DXRacer computer gaming chairs and tables are made with very exacting standards, and the level of comfort and refinement which they offer is unrivalled amongst other computer gaming chairs and tables. These accessories which were originally conceived to heighten computer gaming experience, will also be the equipment of choice for comfort and ease when working at the office, relaxing at home while a watching a movie or getting into a game, as you’ve never experienced in front of a computer before.

Unlike most computer chairs available in Brunei, the DXRacer chair has a much higher backrest, that allows it to support your entire spinal column from your pelvis right to the neck. DXRacer chairs offers a very stable metal star base that is adjustable via a gas spring that allows the user to adjust it for varying heights of office or computer desks. It also includes a tilt mechanism with lock function so the back can be lowered down from 135 degrees to 180 degrees and set to lock at any angle. In addition, functions include multi-position adjustable armrests covered with a soft pad for comfort, so the user is protected from a shoulder slant or kyphosis as a result of prolonged fatigue of the shoulder and wrist. And DXRacer chairs also comes with a headrest cushion as well as a lumbar cushion that is height adjustable as desired, for added spinal column support.

Jonathan Chong, Senior Manager with DXRacer Brunei, while speaking to media, said, “We’re very pleased to be working alongside Concepts Computer, especially with the large range of products they offer for Bruneian IT consumers. We are always looking to provide to customers top of the range and high quality computer gaming chairs and desks so with the help of Concepts Computer, we are now one important step closer.” He also added, “Now that computer gaming is also a big part of the Bruneian IT scene, Bruneian gamers who require long hours of practice in order to maintain their top tier skills will now have the ability to choose the proper chair that is crucial in helping them perform at their very best by using DXRacer computer gaming chairs and tables which are available from Concepts Computer. And not to worry for all the arden gamers out there, we will be expecting a new shipment of chairs and tables in early May, a large volume to cater to Bruneian gamers.”

Jonathan Chong, Senior Manager with DXRacer Brunei with Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive for Concepts Computer at Times Square Shopping Centre

The gamers during the counter strike tournament at Times Square Shopping Centre last weekend

Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive for Concepts Computer, also added, “We are extremely pleased to be working with DXRacer Brunei because they are providing a huge range of quality products at very diverse prices which can fit the purchasing power of different subsets of customers, from $475 to $799, each product will fulfill the specific needs of each customer.” Zul also added, “The support provided by DXRacer Brunei in terms of warranty issues are also top-notch, especially with the 2 years warranty coverage provided for each chair, which reassures both us as resellers and customers as end-users. We are looking forward to growing this section of the Bruneian IT market.”

DXRacer computer gaming chairs and desks will be available at Concepts Computer, where demo units are on stand-by for customers to try. Prices will range from $475 to $799, according to the model and needs of each costumer. For more information regarding DXRacer computer gaming chairs and desks, 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.

 

Irwan Lamit, General Manager of BIBD At-Tamwil with James Chin, General Manager of Setia Motors Sdn Bhd checking out the new Hyundai Elantra

The new Hyundai Elantra

Late post: Did you know that the Elantra is Hyundai Motor’s best-selling model and now it has evolved with innovative design. The award-winning compact sedan inspires driver’s confidence with enhanced performance and stable handling.

The new Elantra dubbed “Avante” in Korea is now available on Brunei road and you can visit Setia Motors showroom in Beribi to check it out. The Elantra model is in its 6th generation. So what’s the upgrade? It has a more dynamic and sleek appearance. The grille is also different parted with slim and sporty headlights for an energetic look. The body structure has been designed to boost durability and rigidity, incorporating 32% more advanced high-strength steel compared to the original Elantra.

The all-new Elantra’s premium-sound Harman audio system delivers delightful sound quality with eight speakers accompanying an amplifier. There is also a pair of door-mounted tweeters located in every door to give that acoustic ambience.

All in all, the new Elantra is a a 1.6 litre engine compact-size sedan with class defining interior and exterior features which refined style elements reflect Hyundai Motor’s evolving philosophy.

So do check out the new Elantra at Setia Motors showroom at Beribi.

James Chin addressing to the public