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07
Sep

The fine line

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News


Zero Far on MASwings


Promotion at Tasek Brasserie



Alan Inspiration




Edifier now at Concepts Computer


Jonson Lim of Timetech Computer Trading Company, Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer and Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer (right) with the staff showcasing Edifier products

What is a desktop (multimedia) computer without speakers? These sound gadgets do spice up whatever you do with the computer. I’ve always overlooked this area when it comes to sound. My iMac speakers have lost its mojo for the past year or so. Anyway, this morning, I had a quick visit to Concepts Computer as they finally have new range of speakers from Edifier Technology and as Zul Abdul Rahman (Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer) said that the Edifier models range from high end ones to portable ones to wireless ones and of course to speakers that we normally use in our daily lives.

Speakers from Concepts Computer:

Edifier M1250 $19
Edifier R18USB $29
Edifier R600USB $39
Edifer M1360 $49

Mid-range speakers
Edifier M1386 $89
Edifer M3200 $89
Edifier P3060 $89
Edifier X330 $89

Portable Speakers/Blue-tooth
Edifier TickTock Dock $129
Edifier BreatheBT $439

High end speakers
Edifier Studio 7 $299
Edifier S730 $569
Edifier S550 $669

Zul Abdul Rahman said that Concepts Computer doesn’t only emphasise on computers such as Acer notebooks but also on customers satisfaction from the entertainment side. For more information, you can visit their showroom at Kiulap or call 223 3551/2/3 or 244 8102/3


More affordable range of speakers


They even have one ideal for iPhones or iPads


The mother of all speakers. The price includes another box of Edifier speakers


Great design on the speakers and this costs around $89


Now… doesn’t the speakers suit my theme then? *lol*


Ernest So performing next week

Critics have hailed Ernest So as a performer who exerts a “phenomenon presence on stage” and who “evokes the romanticism and technical brilliance of a 19th century pianist”. Mr. So’s earlymanifestation as concert pianist brought prizes such as the Best Performer Award in Singapore and later the Beethoven Trophy. His years at the Juilliard School were spent under the artistic influence and instruction of renowned Beethoven scholar Jacob Lateiner (1928 – 2010); other teachers include Solomon Mikowsky, the late Constance Keene, and Jonathan Feldman.

Besides active concertizing in the United States, Europe and Asia, Mr. So is equally devoted to musical education, founding Atelier des Artistes in New York (2000) and then PerformNow in Hong Kong (2005), thus contributing vastly to the artistic scenes in both cities. Mr. So is well-known for his wide repertoire, including not only standard concert works by composers such as Mozart, Beethoven and Chopin, but also masterworks by Scriabin, Godowsky, Medtner, Antheil, Poulenc, Ibert, Bortkiewicz, Catoire, Guastavino, Kapustin, Stanchinsky, Mompou, Viñes, and many other lesser known composers. In 2008, Mr. So was invited to perform for over 20,000 spectators at the celebration of Guangxi University’s 80th Anniversary.

Mr. So has also given masterclasses and lectures on Beethoven, and is the author of numerous essays on music. He additionally uses his expertise to advise as a professional consultant on piano manufacture and restoration techniques, working for various leading piano builders and restorers; he is currently the Chief Technical Consultant for Asia Piano Japan. A personal friend of Paolo Fazioli and Luigi Borgato, two of the greatest piano builders of our time, Mr. So performs regularly on Fazioli pianos and had been invited to perform on a 2007 Borgato piano in Italy.


Openings at SCB


Canon Photomarathon 2012

It’s happening this Sunday and there are more than 200 registered participants. I believe there are still slots for walk-in registration this Sunday. So do make your way this Sunday to Radisson Hotel at 8:30am to register yourself. I think this is open to all photo enthusiasts out there. Good luck!!! I will be there to do some quick coverage and hopefully cover the prize presentation.


This was the event taken last year for the 1st Canon event


Vincent Goh of Interhouse Company with Saifulizam, one of the winners last year

Cooltones Road Show


Limited goodies from Cooltones for existing and new subscribers


Check out their roadshow at Times Square


Their official t-shirt for the event


There will be live performances Saturday and Sunday


It’ easy to subscribe to Cooltones but only exclusive to b•mobile customers

06
Sep

You Don't Say..

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News


Images from STGCC 2012: Part II

04
Sep

Legoland Malaysia mid-September

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News


Alan Inspiration


Strange incident at Manggis Hua Ho Mall


The basement car park area of Manggis Hua Ho Mall was partly closed for police investigation. Apparently, from sources, a security officer of the basement found a couple dead in a car parked at the basement. I’m not too sure how it happened but this story will be covered in tomorrow’s newspaper. Image courtesy of @wbellefleur


Countdown to Travelmania 2012

Vacancy for social media


Legoland Malaysia coming soon!


Are you ready for Legoland Malaysia? Image courtesy of @SuperAdrianMe

Legomaniacs out there… Behold…. as Legoland #lego will make its debut in Malaysia next week. This will probably be one of the driving factors in boosting their tourism industry to Malaysia. For your info, Legoland Malaysia is located in Medini North, Nusajaya, the heart of leisure and tourism of Iskandar Malaysia at Johor Baru. Recently my buddies @superadrianme and Dennis were there for the media coverage of Legoland before its opening.

Legoland’s size is super huge.. You’re talking about a 76-acre area and it’s also a family theme park which has more than 40 family rides, shows and attractions. Another interesting information is that 50 million LEGO bricks were used to build all the models…

If you are looking for LEGO toys, this is also the best bet to shop with more than 500 LEGO sets and more than 1,5000 licensed LEGO products. Awesome stuff!!

For more pictures and article, please click here (courtesy of @superadrianme).


Image taken from @SuperAdrianMe


The LEGO Kingdom is one of the many areas to visit at Legoland Malaysia. Image taken from @SuperAdrianMe

LEGO Kingdom is where legends come to life in LEGO.
• The Dragon – A roller coaster that takes you into the royal castle on a journey into the Middle Ages. There are three fire-breathing dragons to ride. Not for the weak hearted. This ride is pretty heart dropping!! You’ll want to go for more rides on the Dragon.
• The Dragon’s Apprentice – For the younger riders, this is a much tamer version of The Dragon ride.
• The Forestman’s Hideout- A tree-top adventure in the multi-level playground for both children and their parents. Here you’ll find slides and ropes which are suitable for all.
• Merlin’s Challenge – A high speed carousel for parents and children that has 24 cars which can accommodate 48 visitors at a time.
• The Royal Joust – A classic medieval contest where puts you on one of the 20 LEGO horses.
• The Kings Market- An open-air marketplace located in the Castle’s Courtyard. Shop for special themed costumes. Text courtesy of @superadrianme


This is so majestic… The Masjid Putra of Putrajaya made of lego. Image by @nazrul (instagram)


Another lego masterpiece and this time it’s Angkor Wat. Image by @nazrul (instagram)


STGCC 2012


It’s smash time but I don’t feel defeated

It was my first visit to Singapore Games, Toy and Comics Convention 2012 held at the Sands Expo, Marina Bay Sands and I was quite impressed for a first timer. I know it would be hard to one in Brunei at this scale though I have to say that it’s not as huge as I thought it would be in Singapore but sufficient enough. According to Din, there are more traffic crowd this year. Apparently quite a few Bruneians also attended the convention. I only attended the 2nd day as I only realised after I saw it on my friend’s instagram.. Thanks Redzwan for the info.

I will definitely come back again next year to see this event. Probably next time I will be more prepared. It was a juggle between Universal Studios or STGCC 2012 as I only had one left to spare. Don’t worry, cuterabbit84.. There’s always a next time and thanks for understanding 😀

Below are pictures from the event. More pictures to follow in the next post.


Batman figurine was quite popular during SGTCC 2012


Gangnam… I mean Gundam in person


Stamp collection items from Marvel


Woww.. They also have figurines from LOST


Marvel is also a crowd favourite


Devastator of Transformers.. Am I right?


Ironman


Doesn’t she look cute? :p


The Dark Knight Rises


Is he Mark Brooks?


The Beast Brothers (twins)


Indiana Jones and Spider-man being outnumbered


Suiting up for the occasion


This vendor provides custom made costumes


Redzwan bought some posters at the convention


Any of you a Bane fan?


The author of the popular book “When I was a kid”


Graphic designers showing their talents

More pictures tomorrow

03
Sep

The 11th day

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News



The final hours

Yesss… The final hours before I take off for Brunei and it has been a great 11 days here in Singapore and spending time with the family as they spent their first two weeks of Hari Raya in Singapore. It was also a great time to catch a small break after a busy month with LoveFoodHateWaste (and it should be back to normal updates soon – sorry, peeps for the hiatus).

My weekend was very eventful because of the Singapore Toys, Games and Comic Convention (STGCC 2012) as well as COMEX 2012 which is Singapore’s biggest IT expo. My other plans of visiting Universal Studios and Garden by the Bay didn’t materialise but that will on my agenda list on my future visits.

Perhaps the highlight of my trip was to find out that I’m medically healthy after having a routine medical check-up in Singapore. My last check-up was back in 2009 and I always have this fear of going through this process because sometimes you just don’t want to know of any bad news if there’s any. Then I realized that I am responsible for my well-being and this is one way of loving and appreciating my well-being and I feel blessed that the results turned out quite good. The only bad news is that my cholesterol level is slightly high and the contributing factor is definitely my diet. Apart from that, I’m quite healthy Alhamdullillah.

Anyway more updates soon on COMEX and the STGCC 2012. For now, it’s time to do some last minute shopping and packing up. Thank you Singapore for the cool break I needed 😀


Guess what…. Gangnam style is also big in Singapore but I only noticed one shop selling their merchandise. Give it a few more weeks and Gangnamania will be translated into merchandise


I caught up with Saza who was shopping at Takashimaya. Catch up soon in Brunei and probably during DST Open House 😀


Another friend I caught up was Ai Lin where both of us have the same habit – shop as we walk. Catch up soon and keep the new hairstyle


Hmmmm I went to a recent wedding and I saw this outside the community hall. I didn’t know they will have such school or class as this but who knows if I feel bored one fine day and in need of a career change (to WWE *lol*), this could be a golden opportunity


I bought a few collectible stamps from Singapore Post and they had a special edition for Marvel Comics and Star Wars. Pretty cool stuff I must say.


Cosplay fever at STGCC 2012 yesterday at Marina Bay Sands and a few one candy ones. I’m definitely coming back here next year… with my costume.. *yea right*


Cuterabbit wants to be a superhero too after visiting STGCC 2012. Thanks for spending time with me and appreciate the food you got for me too 😀 This was taken at Toys”R”Us at Paragon.


If you wanna have a more realistic feel of being Spider-man, try out the web gadget. I wonder how it looks like.


I can’t believe how big COMEX 2012 is. It’s the biggest IT fair in Singapore and they just keep drawing thousands and thousands of people. Prices are super cheap I tell you but I refrained myself from shopping apart from one small gadget 😀


Another section of the crowd on Level 5 and 6.. Simple crazy crowd!! Nothing compare to our popular Consumer Fair


It’s the 11th day and I have to say that I’m over-Adidased 😀


Sorry Liverpool


Take from today’s New Papar (Singapore publication)

One point from three games and this was touted as Liverpool’s worst start to the season in decades. I remember Arsenal was in this situation early last season but they climbed up the ladder and finished an amazing third in the league. I have doubts that Liverpool can achieve that target with the squad they have right now.

Andy Carroll, the biggest expensive flop last season, has been loaned to West Ham, but now they don’t have depth in the front line – Suarez and Borini the only known strikers and I have to say the latter has been a disappointment. Rodgers, Liverpool manager, hasn’t delivered good business or perhaps he lacks the market/business knowledge when it comes to the transfer market. So what would happen if Suarez gets suspended or injured? What attacking options are they left with? This is the biggest worry for Liverpool.

Last night’s game against Arsenal was pretty obvious on how Liverpool lacked that killer instinct in goal. Borini hasn’t really proved his worth and reminded me how Carroll started his season for Liverpool and slowly became 2nd best. Borini was probably lucky to know that there are no quality strikers apart from him and Suarez and hence Borini will get the nod to play in the first XI.

I’m quite pleased how Joe Allen played and I see a bright future for Sterling who caused problems down the flanks but then, he’s still a kid (17 years old). Rodgers’ hands are tied and this season will surely be a long one for Liverpool. Will Liverpool season continue winless in the next fixture? Only time will tell.


Even captain Stevie G can’t save Liverpool’s recent downfall

01
Sep

Honouring the heroes

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News



HSBC – Home loan needs



Honouring the fallen heroes

I read this article online on Borneo Bulletin online and it was the first time that their pictures were made public in tribute to husbands and fathers: The fallen heroes. I’m still saddened by the tragic news and a few of them are people whom I was acquainted with or know of.

The article was written in the Weekend Bulletin at the Features section and for those who missed the article, here’s the article. Text and images are courtesy of Borneo Bulletin.

Six weeks have gone by since the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of men and women in uniform. The Bell 212 helicopter crash deep in the jungle of Kuala Belait that claimed 12 lives plunged the nation in sadness as Bruneians had never experienced a tragedy of that scale for a long time. Many across the nation wept as the news tugged at their heart strings.

The feeling of losing a loved one is something that one cannot explain. The void left behind can never be filled and recovering from this trauma is a journey that can’t be done alone.

The fog of this tragedy is slowly lifting and a semblance of normalcy returning and those who were physically and emotionally attached with the fallen heroes and heroines will continue to live on carrying with them cherished memories.

Below is a moving tribute paid by six brave women who, after the passing of their husbands, have found comfort in their strong albeit small circle as they look to Allah the Almighty for guidance. Their determination to face the world despite the tragedy is touching and commendable.

Six men on board the Bell 212 were husbands and fathers. Wives and children waited for them to come home on the afternoon of July 20, 2012 but instead had to learn and accept that they were never coming home. It all felt very real when we had to identify our husbands’ bodies, tell our toddlers and kids that their fathers have returned to our creator, Allah the Almighty. They were sons of good parents, the nation’s heroes, ones who have risked their lives to protect our country.

Until today, all six of us cannot find the right words that will tell you what it feels like to be in our shoes. Describing it is easy and it will make sense to everyone – that the ones who bear the world on their shoulders are expected to feel devastated and hurt. But after the tragedy, life goes on – friends and family have their lives to tend to. But ours have changed completely. We have lost the love of our lives, the fathers of our children, the leader of our family and the ones to wipe our tears away. We will never fall asleep and rise the same ever again.

They were great men. They worked very hard, and they died in the line of duty. These fathers were all strong, hard workers and strong-willed. As mothers, of course we had wished for our children to grow up knowing their fathers like how we had pictured it. We had wished that their fathers would be there to teach them about religion, life and other important things. We had wished that their fathers would be there to watch them grow and turn into wonderful adults and, as wives, to have them as our life partners until the end. Allah the Almighty loves them more and because we love our late husbands with every beat of our hearts, we have accepted their passing and returning to the Creator.

Allah the Almighty chose us six mothers to experience this most difficult period in our lives. And we take this opportunity to brace ourselves and pray for guidance and strength from the Creator. This hardship has tested and is testing us to our very core but hardships are also a blessing and a sign of Allah the Almighty’s love. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whenever Allah wills good for a person, He subjects him to adversity”. We have received our wake up call, we have cried humbly prostrating to Allah, we have felt the greatest pain in our hearts and our bodies have trembled as this tragedy serves as a reminder as to how small we are and how great Allah the Almighty is.

We have spent weeks together as widows and talking to each other every day. We find comfort knowing that we are not alone. We have also shared our stories of the most beautiful things and memories that we have gone through with our husbands. Our husbands had many great things in common and we have come to realise that all good men return to Allah the Almighty at their best. They were the kind of husbands that treated us right, showered us with love and care and absolutely adored their children.

The one thing that has given us much comfort in our hearts, most importantly, is knowing that not only did they die as Mujahiddiens – those who have passed for the name of Allah the Almighty – they were the kind of Muslim husbands, fathers and men who performed their duties to Allah the Almighty without hesitation and with the purest of hearts. With that, we are thankful to Allah as they did not leave us with the burden of worrying, Insyallah.

Forty days have passed. With patience and the beautiful gift of our children from Allah the Almighty, we have made major life changes. The loss of our husbands have thrown us so far out of our comfort zones that we have created new ones. Within these few weeks, there have been good and bad days with the hardest moments being those when we wish our husbands were around to help us raise our children. The learning process of being a single parent is not easy but we are slowly adapting. The best moments are definitely the times when we are close to Allah and when we have our children, to look them in the eyes and see a part of our husbands looking back at us. Our marriages were short but they were sweet. When we shed tears, we let them fall and believe that each drop is a memory. We all loved the life we had but after this tragedy we have a stronger relationship with Allah the Almighty. We look at this world in a different way and more than anything, we look forward to the hereafter.

We will forever miss them – we miss them now and we will miss them in the future. We will have good days and bad days but we will pull through with Allah the Almighty’s guidance. The sadness will eventually pass and our children will eventually understand. Please do not take us as weak. We carry the world on our shoulders only because we are strong women. Insyallah. Text courtesy of Borneo Bulletin.

MinDEF reveals report


Information taken from The Brunei Times

This has also been a talking point among the families concerned and the people of Brunei. What actually happened and caused Royal Brunei Armed Forces Bell 212 to crash? Of the 14 people onboard, only two survived. His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam made a surprise visit to Brunei International Airport’s Air Traffic Control tower and His Majesty consented a thorough investigation carried by Royal Brunei Air Force with the assistance of international investigators from the USA and Canada.

Apparently it was tweeted on @TheBruneiTimes Twitter account that the report is ready to be published in tomorrow’s The Brunei Times (Sunday edition) and this will dispel any inconsistency of stories that have been spreading unnecessarily among the community.

Below are the tweet feeds from @TheBruneiTimes from last evening. I hope the final report will put to rest all different version of stories. Let’s just continue to “sedekah” our prayers and move on from here.

The inquiry’s report

Taken from Borneo Bulletin (Sunday): “Human Error” was found to be the main factor contributing to the tragic Bell 212 helicopter accident that claimed the lives of 12 military personnel at Ulu Rampayoh in Mukim Labi in the Belait District in July, according to the Supreme Board of Inquiry (BOI) report compiled by the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) with support from international experts. Investigations revealed that the pilot of the helicopter contradicted flying procedures with “unauthorised low-level flying”, causing a “Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT)” accident.

The report also suggested that the Air Traffic Control Unit of the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) had failed to follow aviation control procedures to alert relevant parties when the Bell 212’s radio communication went off the ‘Brunei Radar’.

These findings were made public by the Supreme BOI upon conclusion of its five-week long investigation at a press conference held at the Ministry of Defence (MinDef) in Bolkiah Garrison yesterday.

The press conference was chaired by the Deputy Minister of Defence, Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat along with the Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin.

In his detailed report presentation, First Admiral Dato Seri Pahlawan Hj Abd Halim bin Hj Mohd Hanifah, Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy who is leading the BOI said illustrations obtained from the report of its findings suggested that that prior to the crash, the pilot of the helicopter made an “unauthorised low-level flying” at a speed of around 60-80 knots around the Wasai Wang Tebadak area (LP KB 195A) and subsequently made a “banking” of 45 degrees to trail the river’s route.

“The aircraft strayed and was reduced from its original altitude due to a G-force (a unit of force equal to the force exerted by gravity) factor,” he revealed.

He added that consequently, the aircraft hit the branches of a tree and did not follow the intended route after being in a straight and level position.

“At the very last minute, the aircraft attempted to raise its altitude but (it) was in vain and it subsequently crashed into two large trees,” he said.

The report added that the Bell 212 helicopter owned by the RBAF took off from the Royal Brunei Air Force Base in Kg Rimba at approximately 8.55am on the day of the incident, July 20, 2012. “The aircraft carried a total of 14 military personnel of whom three were aircraft crew, two trainers, one staff and eight Officer Cadets during an assignment of transporting back personnel who had just concluded military training from the landing base KB 404 to landing base KB 199. It was believed the aircraft crashed at around 10.15am”, said the report.

The report stated that the aircraft lost communication on the ‘Brunei Radar’ at 9.17am after taking off. “According to the aviation control procedure of the Air Traffic Control Unit of the DCA, all aircraft operating in the country’s airspace are obliged to make bps normal call’ communication every 30 minutes. But no communication was made thereafter and the Air Traffic Control Unit, DCA failed to make an INCERFA (uncertainty phase) alert and inform the RBAF to implement a ‘distress procedure’. This dragged on until a few hours later, causing an ‘alerting service’ that was not implemented according to procedures,” the report added.

Search and rescue operations only started after the aircraft was confirmed missing by the Royal Brunei Air Force at about 1.53pm. The mangled remains of the aircraft were found at nearby Wasai Wang Tebadak at approximately 3.55pm, the report said.

Dato Halim said the BOI also assessed other facts such as ‘environment’ and ‘material’ factors. “The weather at the time of incident was good and did not affect flight operations and the ‘airworthiness’ of the aircraft was at the proper level. No evidence was found that suggests the aircraft had any technical difficulties before it crashed. This has been verified by the three separate international investigation experts,” he said.

He revealed that the BOI was assisted by expert aircraft investigation teams from overseas, including Pratt & Whitney Canada, Bell Textron United States and United States Army Combat Readiness Center – Air Accident Investigation Team.

“MinDef and RBAF had established the Supreme BOI on July 25, 2012. The board had been tasked to conduct an inquiry into the helicopter crash and to find causes and facts related to it and forward recommendations that need to be taken to prevent such incident from happening again,” Dato Halim said. “A number of firm recommendations were put forward in our initial report dated August 6, 2012 and a few measures have been taken especially in reinforcing processes and procedures as well as safety aspects,” he said.

He added that the full report from the BOI will be put forward on September 16, 2012, including recommendations to ensure such incident will not happen again.

The Borneo Bulletin was told that a meeting was held with family members of the helicopter crash victims prior to the press conference to inform them of BOI’s findings. Written by Hakim Hayat and Siti Hajar of Borneo Bulletin.


Treasure Hunt at Charity Bazaar


It’s happening today (Sunday)

TREASURE WALK HUNT UPDATE – Sunday 2ND SEPTEMBER 2012 – 12:30PM TILL 4:30PM

AVAILABLE SLOTS – 20 empty slots left for 20 teams
REGISTER tonight and tomorrow morning by 10am at Jubilee Park beside the coupon counter
REGISTRATION FEE: FREE! simply attached 8 pcs the 1st
CASH PRIZES : $500
ENTITLEMENT to charity draw such as Air Ticket to Singapore, IPAD, Apple Mac book Pro, Samsung note, Samsung 55″ Smart TV and lots more!

-GOOD LUCK TO ALL & FIRST COME FIRST SERVE BASIS ONLY

Pictures of Cosplay at Charity Bazaar last night

01
Sep

Expand, don't implode

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News


AITI open house


Open house at AITI yesterday

The month of Syawal is in high spirits in Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI). An open office was held to celebrate Hari Raya with all of the stakeholders of AITI. The event took place at its premises at the AITI Building, in Anggerek Desa.

The Guest of Honour for the open office event Yang Mulia Dato Paduka Haji Awang Alaihuddin bin Pehin Orang Kaya Digadong Seri Lela Dato Seri Utama Haji Awang Mohamad Taha, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Communications and Chairman of AITI.

Also invited were Foreign Ambassadors residing in Brunei, Deputy Permanent Secretary from Ministry of Communications, Directors and staff under the umbrella of the Ministry of Communications, companies who are registered under AAB and ICTAB, TelCos representatives, ICT Industry Players, Amateur Radio clubs, Dealers, Media partners and other stakeholders of AITI.

This year the theme of the Hari Raya celebration is “AITI CERIA” which means “Cheerful AITI”. In relation to the theme, there were several carnival games where invited guests can take part and also a special comedy act by the infamous Keluarga 69 and also a karaoke session for the guests. This is one of AITIs way of saying Thank You to all stakeholders who has worked closely with AITI, and to media partners who helped to highlight AITI in any form of publications and organisations that has collaborated with AITI. Press release from AITI.

A few hours before Open House kicks off at AITI


The busy bunch preparing for the event


Good to see their passion into the preparation


They even have directions


The final touches of the decoration


*LOL* This is pretty new coming from AITI. Cool stuff!!


Grilled lamb was one of the most sought dishes during the open house


Hello ladies of AITI. Selamat Hari Raya!


Some joget performances for the guests


Photo opportunity for the invited guests with AITI associates


Logitech gadgets from Concepts

31
Aug

Pusat Ehsan Bazaar kicks off

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News



HSBC – Home loan needs




It’s happening today 😀


Pusat Ehsan Charity Bazaar 2012

Today’s the beginning of the Pusat Ehsan Charity Bazaar 2012 and it will be a three day weekend event with full of activities. They are tons of booths for the benefit of the public and it will be opened until 10pm… yes, the event will carry on until the evening.. So this will be the biggest Pusat Ehsan Charity Bazaar to date with a bigger venue, better location and longer hours.

A big thumbs up to the organising team as well as the volunteers involved. I’m sorry that I couldn’t be present for the event as I’m still outstation. There are plenty of prizes to win such as tickets to Universal Studio Singapore with air tickets included, a Macbook Pro, Samsung Galaxy Tab, iPad and many more.

There’s also a treasure hunt competition which begins on 2nd September (Sunday) and the costly competition will happen on Saturday 1st September from 6pm to 8pm. So make your way to Jubilee Park in town to enjoy what the bazaar has to offer. Have a great weekend, peeps!!


Pusat Ehsan lucky draw box


Do make sure you buy your coupons


Baiduri Bank setting up their booth for the event


Get your BB copy here too


One of the big supporters for many years – British High Commission

The British High Commission is giving everyone a chance to pit themselves against Brunei’s Paralympian in a Wheelchair Challenge. Put the shot, seated in a wheelchair, and see how you shape up against the record set by Hj Shari, currently representing Brunei (in the Javelin event) at the London Paralympic Games. Win great prizes!

Entrants to the High Com Raffle stand to win a huge variety of prizes, from meals and delux accommodation donated by the Empire Hotel, to original works of art on Olympic themes (donated by members of the Brunei Art Forum who took part in the British High Commission’s “Spirit of the Games” competition), to an official Olympic back-pack signed by Brunei’s first female Olympian, Maziah.

Hundreds of second hand articles for sale at bargain basement prices: books, clothes, electrical goods, and more.

Come and see Team GB’s salute to the Paralympic Games in Jubilee Park and be part of London 2012. The party isn’t over. Go Shari!


Getting ready for the launch this afternoon


The handicrafts done by kids from Pusat Ehsan


Oasis Mutiara will be selling their Rude Health products!!


CE run t-shirts *woohoo*

This is the official t-shirt for the upcoming BIBD Charity Expedition Run. Just an announcement that BIBD will have their booth at the Pusat Ehsan Charity Bazaar No. B028 where you can also register and collect your donation card. And for those in KB, you can visit BIBD branch in KB from 8.45am to 11.45am to get your donation cards there.

So have you registered yourself at http://www.bibdcharityexpedition.com for the run? There’s still space for registration.


The sneak preview of the t-shirts for the run


The sneak preview of the t-shirts for the run


The sneak preview of the t-shirts for the run


Platinum Movie Suites


You can catch Platinum Movie Suites at Cathay and the nearest MRT is at Dhoby Ghaut

It was the first time that I experienced the Platinum Movie Suites at The Cathay. It was also the first time that I tried such experience in Singapore. I’ve tried the ones at Golden Village Cinemas in KL. I kinda prefer this one at Cathay. They have a premium lounge before you can watch your movie. But it doesn’t make sense for me unless I have a group of people to come along with me. I was watching the movie alone yesterday and furthermore I was 10 minutes late for my movie (which is very rare hahaha).

It costs me $28 a week day ticket but for a weekend it will be at $38 per seat (Friday to Sunday). It’s not a bad fare but if I was to catch a movie at Platinum Movie Suites, then I would have to predict that it will be an awesome movie and of course, I will have to get my prediction meter on Rottentomatoes before I made my choice.

Unfortunately the only movies showing were Expendables 2 (which I have caught) and Step Up Revolution (which I didn’t have high expectations). So of course, I chose Step Up Revolution as it’s not showing yet in Brunei and I’m also a fan of dance movies.

Step Up Revolution. Hmmmm… I was already late for the movie but the great thing was I didn’t miss much and plus I was more looking forward to experience the comfort at Platinum Movie Suites rather than the flick itself. I love the fact that dance is about competition and the fourth edition of Step Up had a change format – convincing one to change their minds through the essence of dance. It just sounds to cliche and the dance sequences were nothing to shout about. It was a step down for me. Sorry folks. Verdict: 6/10 and 9/10 for Platinum Movie Suites.


Hmmm I was disappointed that there was only one counter that was active. I had a mini long queue and I was pretty late for my movie. Furthermore, I thought there will be privilege for those who booked online too #fail


How it looks from the entrance of Platinum Movie Suites. Image from Indez Design


Awesome seats I must say…. Me likes!!! Image from Indez Design


You can even have the lights on and call for assistance if you want to order some refreshments


Ahh… such a disappointment Step Up Revolution…


They have blankets as well and good thing I didn’t fall asleep


Bunbun and Bumbum kinda snuck in to catch the movie too


The lounge outside the cinema. Image from Indez Design


I only realised that there’s also a counter booth at the ground floor of Cathay *doink*

30
Aug

Who owns the elephant?

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News


An elephant in Brunei??


Both Liana and Anne saw the elephant roaming in Jerudong

I saw this on my friend’s instagram and of course, I was pretty “sakai” myself that an elephant is roaming around in a particular area in Jerudong and this animal was witnessed by two of my friends Liana Radzak and Anne Puasa who dubbed the elephant “Jumbo”. The first question I asked myself how did the elephant get to Brunei in the first place? There must be a story behind it.

The ladies saw the elephant helping to some carrots which would mean that someone is actually taking care of the elephant. Now my friends are interested to know if the elephant is a pgymy which is a type of elephant historically from Java. If she’s likely to be one, then she could be in the list of endangered species. The other question is who does the elephant belongs to?

Below are more pictures taken by the ladies. They will be hoping to get a glimpse of the elephant again. I just hope the elephant is won’t be running loose on the road. But rumours has it that the elephant has been around for quite some time. So I’m not so sure if this story is valid or not. But rest assure that this elephant is here in our home soil.


I wonder who’s been taking care of “Jumbo”


My friend’s reaction to the existence of the elephant on instagram


This was the instagram that took me by surprise and I’m sure also for the rest :p



The happenings


Could this be the new minifigs craze for me? Bought this at Toys’R’Us Singapore. Not sure if this will be available in Brunei’s store.


Yay… The new updates for Whatsapp users.. So please download the latest update.


Congratulations to Dato Dr Zulkurnain who was appointed as the Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) of Ministry of Education. He will still be in the capacity as the Vice-Chancellor of University of Brunei Darussalam.


I spent my dinner with the birthday celebrant Kern who turns 29 yesterday. Next to him is his other half Priscilla.


This post had more than 500 likes on my instagram though Samsung owners (my friends) didn’t like the photo *haha* A clever, witty way to describe what’s happening in real life among the phone giants. I’m sure Samsung will be back with a bang. Image courtesy of www.lolwall.co and sorry Samsung (and Nokia) fans, it’s Apple’s time 😀

29
Aug

Pusat Ehsan Bazaar this weekend

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News


Another cause for celebration


Click image to enter website




HSBC – Home loan needs




Pazzion promotion at The Mall


Click image to enter website


Alan Inspiration Special Promotion


click image to see more details


Awesome Slava’s Snow Show


I highly recommend you to catch this

I managed to catch the premiere of the much talked about Slava’s Snow Show at the Sands Theater, Marina Bay Sands and woww, I was pretty blown away. I came to this performance without doing any research or even any clue what to expect but the sneaks from Superadrianme got me sold and I was fortunate to get good seats on a last minute basis.

Created in 1993 by renowned Russian clown from Cirque De Soleil’s Alegria, Slava Polunin, Slava’s Snow Show has travelled the world and wowed millions of theatric fans with a show that’s totally unique and a class of its own.

If you love clowns, you will probably enjoy to the fullest. Well, they are not fully clothed as a clown but most of their gestures portrays that of a clown and their body gestures even little ones were quite entertaining. Switch off your stress moments or forget about work or assignment and just enjoy the show as if you are still a kid..

The best seats in the house is definitely the front row because the show is pretty interactive and you will surely have fun. We were seated somewhere in the middle, still premium seats and yes, we still got some interaction with the performers. All in all, this is something different I experienced from a theater performance and it’s better you get the premium seats to get most out of the show. Sadly the show is only for 11 days and one show per night. This was way better than Annie the Musical (sorry). Verdict: 8.5/10


The main star of the show. Click image to see more of SuperAdrianMe’s review


It was almost full house on the first night


I was fortunate enough to part of the web effect *awesome*


The finale was awesome!!! Oh yeah, great choice of music too 😀


The fake snow making a comeback


Click image to see the sneak preview of Flava’s Snow Show


Oh yeah this was also near the end and I felt like a kid again


Cuterabbit84 had fun too


The crowd enjoying the “balls” atmosphere


A word of complaint to the Sistic management at ION orchard. The service was kinda slow because it only has one counter for those purchasing tickets and the process is kinda tedious as well. I waited for half an hour before being served.

Have you registered for BIBD run?

I’ve witnessed many charity drives and initiatives through marathon/run/cycling events but I have to salute Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam for coming up with such an awesome initiative through their Corporate Social Responsibility programme and that is “Charity Expedition for ALAF” or CE-ALAF which aims at helping underprivileged students in their educational progress.

This year, BIBD is organising the CE-ALAF which consists of running, cycling and a charity bazaar. The date of the event is slated for 14th October 2012 and the venue will be at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.

You can check out the details of the run from the diagram below and BIBD has create two categories for Open and Brunei. I like the idea that the winners for the Bruneian category will be rewarded with marathon packages to selected destinations such as Melbourne, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu. Now that’s such a great incentive for us locals to take up jogging and also promoting a healthier lifestyle.


Janice Yong, Business Development and Marketing Manger of AdXpert Marketing, Hazizah Osman, Deputy General Manager of Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, Hjh Nurul Akmar bte Hj Mohd Jaafar, Deputy Head of Consumer Banking and Head of CSR of BIBD, Md Nur Muizz’ Azmi Hj Hasnani, Creative Director of DSignku Enterprise, Chen Cheong Keng, Senior Account Executive of Active Network and Mr. Javed Ahmad, Managing Director of BIBD during the launch of the charity run few weeks ago


The prices at stake but then again, it’s not about winning but contributing :))

The first 400 online registrants will be entitled to free limited edition merchandise and also an option to purchase an exclusive sweatband and they have already been snapped up in the first few days.

I just registered my participation through the website http://www.bibdcharityexpedition.com and follow the instructions and you will be registered within minutes. Do look at the procedure I had to go through for online registration and it’s pretty secured and safe too.

For those who wants the physical forms, you can visit BIBD Bandar, Kiulap, Manggis, Temburong, Tutong and Kuala Belait but the forms are limited to 2,000 copies only. Scanned and copied forms will not be entertained. The final registration will be on the 15th September 2012.


This is the opening page of the Charity Expedition Run. Click image to enter website


Yea right.. I don’t think I’m able to run the half marathon just yet… but here are the choices available for you


A few details to fill in and they are quite necessary as well


They will provide a summary cart before you proceed for checkout/payment


Ooopps one of my cards didn’t pull through so I had to use another


Yea… Finally I successfully registered myself online and I did it from Singapore. So yea, you can be any part of the world and still be eligible to register online :))


I received the notification email a minute after my registration. Coolies!!

Great deals from Sin Hup Huat Co


Wholesale price until 9th September


Pusat Ehsan Bazaar this weekend


Pauline Chew (R), Co-Chairperson of the Pusat Ehsan Charity Bazaar speaking to media at the press conference held at Pusat Ehsan yesterday. Also in the picture is Hung Ah Hing, Managing Director of Daikyo Environmental Recycling Sdn Bhd. Picture: BT/Nurhamiza Hj Roslan

PUSAT Ehsan are aiming to raise more than $90,000 at their three-day charity bazaar which will be held from August 31 to September 2, 2012, at the Jubilee Park, Bandar Seri Begawan.

Pauline Chew, co-chairperson of the charity bazaar, told a press conference at Pusat Ehsan headquarters yesterday that it raised $90,000 in last year’s bazaar. “This year we aim to raise more,” she said.

Chew explained that this year’s bazaar would be the seventh of its kind ever held by Pusat Ehsan and it will be held at Jubilee Park instead of the Pusat Ehsan center itself.

Previous charity bazaars were held at the Pusat Ehsan compound, and this year it would be the first time the bazaar to held outside, she said.

Chew said that there would be around 100 booths to be set up at the bazaar. Various family fun activities will also be held during the event for members of the public to join in. Source taken from The Brunei Times. Click here to read more.


The official poster of charity bazaar. It’s happening this Friday to Sunday


There’s even a treasure hunt peeps!!


For all Cosplayers out there

28
Aug

Sssshhhh….

Written by Rano Iskandar. Posted in RA News


Another cause for celebration


Click image to enter website




HSBC – Home loan needs




Pazzion promotion at The Mall


Click image to enter website


Alan Inspiration Special Promotion


click image to see more details


Night Safari in Singapore

It was my first time to the Night Safari in Singapore and I’m quite impressed by what they have to offer and thanks to my siblings for making this trip possible. I just landed in Singapore last Friday and the same evening I went straight to join my family there. If you happen to be in Singapore, do spare one evening to experience the Night Safari.

The price of admission is $32 per adult but there is a package price if you go in numbers. For more info, you can check out their website.


The entrance of the Night Safari and the souvenir shop


My mom and my siblings at the souvenir shop


Don’t they look adorable?


Fatin choosing her souvenirs


Creature of the Night Show


I really have respect for the animals. All are well trained to entertain the crowd.


This was part of the show to create panic and my siblings ended up crying.. awwww


….and they found Maggie the snake at one of the crates


….and I was the unfortunate one to be called to the front to carry Maggie


We went on the tram to see the different kinds of animals


😀


It was tough to take photos using wide angle with no flash


Relight my fire…


RBA student check-in


Good news for students flying back to the UK and thanks to Royal Brunei Airlines. You can get an extra 5 kilo baggage allowance

The happenings in Singapore


Hmmm this contemplating to catch this which might just waste one whole day in Singapore *lol*


How the MRT can be so dead quiet just as it hits midnight


Hmmm something’s wrong with my S100


@cuterabbit84 and I were playing some arcade game and surprise, surprise she lasted more than I did (by a few seconds)


My mother’s latest craze – the green tea KIt Kat.. we bought this at Fair Price and apparently this can run out of stock pretty fast


Finally I got myself a bean bag and for your info, this particular bean bag I bought has a patent for its design and feature. Interesting!!


Ayam Penyet from Wong Solo Ayam Bakar at Far East Plaza. I didn’t finish it because it was too spicy… I gave up after eating 3/4 of it.


I caught up with Steve Lai who now is a regular newsreader on Channel News Asia. It was a great catch up session and thanks for the lunch treat buddy 😀


Ok, I won’t give a full review of Magic Mike but it was surely a good popcorn movie. Maybe my female buddies will appreciate this more than me *haha* and this definitely won’t be released in Brunei. Verdict: 7/10


Samsung lost the battle in the patent war and their stock plunged 7% after U.S court ruling that Samsung has to pay $1 billion to Apple for patent rights. Ouch!!!

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