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A very nice cupcake version of World Sight Day created by Handara (+673861 0656). Today marks World Sight Day and Standard Chartered Bank’s new commitment to “Seeing is Believing” is to raise a total of USD $100 million by 2020.

Two years ago, I covered their first store at Berakas (near London Kebab). Yes, they still have good business but after relocating their shop at Times Square last week, their responses have doubled or tripled and they even have foreigners who compliment that the prices are reasonably cheaper and FES-Retro carries original football merchandise (Liverpool and Manchester United).

Now the company is expanding their product lines by bringing in other clubs such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Barcelona and many more. Why? Because of the great demand. What made FES-Retro different from other vendors? Well, they are so far the only authorized distributor of original football jerseys in Brunei and they also do original name and number printing, EPL and Champions League badges to name a few.

FES-Retro will be bringing football boots by Adidas and Nike and this will create more buzz among the local football players. You can also place your order if you have a particular boots that you are eyeing and let FES-Retro do the rest. I remember when I was so active in football in my teen years, I used to own at least 10 pairs of football boots *lol* That time has passed though 😀

They have a $10 and $20 section as they want to clear the old stock to make way for new arrivals. Did you know that FES-Retro also have customers from South Africa, Holland, US and the UK? Cool, aye?

FES-Retro’s new location is at Times Square, 1st Floor. It’s open daily from 10am to 10pm and you can call 233 6227.

FES-Retro store now looks spacious than before. This is a great move for SME.

Wide range of football products and merchandise and they are original too

This area is for the upcoming football boot rack. The waiting begins….

Other football jersey from famous clubs are also available for the first time

FES-Retro is the authorised vendor to print original EPL letters and numbers

This is how the numbers are done

Now this is a limited edition Liverpool top

Now you can play golf using Man Utd golf tees

Ok, this is interesting. They even sell seeds that matches the ground at Anfield

Tons of Manchester United merchandise at FES-Retro

This huge frame is for sale – $180

Now this looks cute for your baby and once worn, he or she will be a Red for life 😉

Three complete strangers made it a day to remember when they joined forces to win the team category at the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Invitational Golf tournament yesterday.

Scotland’s Angus Gow, Ireland’s Mike McDermott and Canada’s Tyler Watkins teamed up to clinch the event which was held for the first time ever, with the Empire Hotel & Country Club playing host to the one-day tournament.

“We’ve never met each other before!,” exclaimed Gow when asked if the trio play together often. These younger guys (McDermott and Watkins) were out-driving me by miles so I just wanted to concentrate on the chipping and putting,” said Gow.

Coming in from Labuan just for the event, McDermott didn’t regret the trip. “This is my third time here and the course is just immaculate,” he said of the par-72 Jack Nicklaus design. Text by Jason Thomas of The Brunei Times.

Over 100 golfers from SPE participated in the invitational tournament

Only 8 ladies played in the half day tournament

I heard she’s from Venezuela. Am I right? LOL

In the press release, Petroleum Engineers (SPE), Brunei Section organized the 2011 Invitational Golf Tournament, held at the Empire Hotel Golf and Country Club on the 8th of October 2011. The tournament consisted of over 130 participants from several leading oil and gas companies in Brunei, namely Brunei Shell Petroleum, Sdn. Bhd., Halliburton, Amrtur, Maersk Drilling, Seadrill, Schlumberger, Ensco, Total, Petronas, Brunei Shell Marketing, GE Oil & Gas, Petrokon Utama Sdn. Bhd., Velosi, QESS, Sumitomo Corporation Asia, Megalift Sdn. Bhd., Baker Hughes, Cameron and Champion Technologies.

The objective of this tournament is to provide a conducive atmosphere for the participants from the oil and gas companies and the service providers from across Brunei as well as the regulators to network, interact and strengthen the relationship and help build a stronger energy business community to serve Negara Brunei Darussalam better.

A prize giving ceremony was held in the afternoon to mark the successful completion of the event and to present prizes to the winners of the tournament. A lucky draw was also held (Samsung SII as top prize), with gifts sponsored by the participating companies and the Empire Hotel and Country Club. Certificates of appreciation were also presented to participants as well as the organising committee.
The SPE is a non-profit organisatio

The lucky draw session before the prize presentation of the Top 3 winners

3rd place winners

2nd place winners

Champions of the SPE Invitational Golf 2011

The singers under the guidance of Expression Music and they had a good reception from the crowd

Grace of Potzz and Petalz Florist had a busy weekend during the fair and the responses have been great and of course, the most talked about “Chariot” was the highlight of the wedding deco

The crowd watching some performance at the Musical Garden Wedding Fair 2011

Lots of people witnessed the lucky draw as well as the Most Photogenic Couple Contest

It’s good to see the family to come and support them

A photo opportunity with the organiser and the emcee of MGW Fair 2011 and Emelda of Media Permata

There was some drawings at Jo Art Gallery booth

Victor Yap and Stephanie Koh had the most votes as they won the ‘Most Photogenic Couple’ in the Musical Garden Wedding Fair 2011. So what did they win? 1) a Premium Pre-Wedding photo shoot package worth BND 980 by Devin Kho Photography 2) an 18″ x 12″ framed photo 3) a Wedding Venue Decoration Package by Potzz and Petalz Florist worth B$500.

The auspicious couple reputed to be the most “likeable” amongst voters as they received the most “likes” on Facebook, making them the Brand Ambassador for the upcoming Musical Garden Wedding Fair cover page. Woohoo!!! Apparently, Victor was teased at his workplace after their photo came out in Borneo Bulletin last Monday. During the interview, he didn’t expect that many votes and the couple are looking forward to their wedding day next year. Congrats on winning to both of you. Well deserved!!!

There was also consolation prizes for the top five couples as they will get a Wedding Venue Decorations Services Package worth BND 300 by Potzz and Petalz Florits, an 18″ x 12″ framed photo and a softcopy CD worth BND150 by Devin Kho photography. The rest of the consolation participants will get a Wedding Venue Decorations Services Package worth BND 200 by Potzz and Petalz Florits, an 18″ x 10″ framed photo and a softcopy CD worth BND80 by Devin Kho photography.

The poll system was opened for four days before the winners were announced

Victor Yap and Stephanie Koh were voted the “Most Photogenic Couple Contest” among the Top 5 couples at the Musical Garden Wedding Fair 2011

Hamzah Rahman & Rizah Mahmud were one of the consolation winners and they had a big cheer from the crowd too

Mohammad Azizul Jabbar bin Hj Basir and Nadzirah binti Musa were one of the Top 5 of the “Most Photogenic Couple Contest”

Group photo with the Top 5 finalists of the “Most Photogenic Couple Contest”

As for the lucky draw, Md Nazmi Hj Zakeria and Hjh Noraini Hj Momin, who won two return air tickets to Bali. A pair of Monster Solo HD headphones (black and white) was for the 1st runner-up while the 2nd and 3rd runner ups received a Monster Lady Gaga earpiece and two nights stay at the Rizqun International Hotel respectively. On hand to draw the lucky winners was Dickson Kho, Assistant Manager of PDCA Events Co. Organiser of the event, PDCA Events Co, also presented the prestigious Expression Music School, the official musical performances partner of the MGW to showcase their musical talents during the closing ceremony.

Dickson Kho of PDCA Events Co presented the mock prize to Hjh Noraini Hj Momin

The lucky draw contestants opening up the envelopes

Shiau Fang won a facial voucher as part of the lucky draw

Group photo with the 12 finalists and the sponsors of the lucky draw prizes

Call 224-4272 for reservations

Grilled Angus Pure Tenderloin, Roast Onion Tart, Horseradish Cream

Warm Smoked Duck, Fresh Mango, Toasted Pine Nut, Pomagranate Juice

Chiboust Cream, Almond Crumbs, Salt Caramel, Anise Star Poached Fruits

Ah.. This is a cool promo =)

Now this is cool… Having your iPod or iPad being laser-engraved and you can your personal messages or even logo or artwork engraved on your gadgets. If you want to have an artwork or logo engraved, it’s better to provide them a vector file rather than a PSD or JPEG file (for a better, sharper result).

Read the poster above the price range and you can find out more on their Facebook page and @ave_brunei (Twitter).

Now AV Electronics did this for me on the iPod Nano which I will be giving away on @ranoadidas Twitter. So check out my @ranoadidas Twitter and stand a chance to win this limited edition (well, the one and only) iPod Nano.

It’s just two weeks away before the 2nd TechXpo 2011 will be held. It’s at the same venue as last year – ICC – and it’s slated to be bigger than last year. For your info, the event is organised by Infocom Federation Brunei (IFB) and the event manager is Sunlit Advertising.

So what can you expect from the TechXpo 2011? Well, the usual 200 booths which compromised of vendors from Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore, China, Chinese Taipei and Japan. I’m not too sure what the foreign countries are showcasing during the expo. I was hoping more of Samsung giants to make their presence felt since they are more Samsung phone users here in Brunei. Oh well, perhaps the next TechXpo?

One of the highlights of the TechXpo 2011 is the IncrediWorld Amazement Park and it’s interactive with amazing facts such as optical illusions and a mirror maze to name a few.

For robot enthusiasts, there will be a workshop and seminars on “Robot Technology” and this is ideal for students. There will also be a showcase of different educational robotic kits like Lego Mindstorm, Robo-circle and Robo-Robo demonstrations courtesy of Step Centre of the Ministry of Education.

For enquiries, call 2453666 or fax over your queries to 2453777or email them totechxpobrunei@sunlitadvertising.com. For more information on the TechXpo you can go to the website at www.techxpobrunei.com.

Guests witnessing the signing ceremony between the partners and the organisers of TechXpo 2011

Guests witnessing the signing ceremony between the partners and the organisers of TechXpo 2011

Step Center from the Ministry of Education is one of the partners of the TechXpo 2011

Monica from The Brunei Times signed on behalf of the official media print for the TechXpo 2011

NR of TelBru signing on behalf of the official Telco for TechXpo 2011

Mr. RA will be updating posts on TechXpo 2011 from time to time

Arjuna Ranasignhe, GM of TechOneGlobal exchanging documents with Pengiran Abd Ghani Pg Hj Metusin, Chairman of IFB. TechOneGlobal and Microsoft will conduct free IT training sessions for the public. A state-of-the-art computer laboratory with 100 PCs will be available for hands-on training.

Group photo with the partners and the event organisers

The gorgeous ladies from Sunlit Advertising. They will be super busy during the event.

Gavin of Sunlit Advertising enjoying his refreshments

So one of the Taiwan companies that are participating is Sunstar Advance Corporation where they will be showcasing USB Pen.. well, more of a multi-purpose pen.

According to their website, they have a 2-in-1 USB Pen (up to 32GB), 3-in-1 USB Reader Pen (up to 32GB), 3-in-1 USB Laser pen, 4-in-1 UBS Laser/LED pen and many more.

So do check out the Chinese Taipei booths (nine of them) at the upcoming TechXpo 2011.

One of the pens that will be showcased at the TechXpo 2011

I missed this special event last Monday as the US Embassy has been relocated to its new embassy in Jalan Kebangsaan (Not far from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports). The official ceremony was attended by US Department of State Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Mr Kurt Champbell and the guest of honour was Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Awg Lim Jock Seng, Brunei Darussalam’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II. Also present was Mr Daniel L Shields III, the US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam and Mr Rodney A Evans, the Managing Director for the Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operation (OBO) Construction, Facility and Security Management Directorate.

Mr. Campbell’s quote – “The relationship between Brunei and US is in the process of taking off to a larger scale. Over the course of last year, we have been involved in deep discussions on how the United States of America can work closely with Brunei. We have taken steps to expand our cultural relations, educational ties, strategic interactions and military cooperation.”

Mr. Shields’s quote – “This is a historic moment for the relationship between the United States and Brunei Darussalam. Since 1850, when the United States first signed a Treaty of Peace, Friendship, Commerce and Navigation with Brunei, our partnership has grown based on the shared beliefs of peace, free enterprise and cooperation.”

Mr Daniel L Shields III, the US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam (left), Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Awg Lim Jock Seng, Brunei Darussalam’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II (2nd left) with the US Department of State Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Mr Kurt Champbell (3rd left) and Mr Rodney A Evans, the Managing Director for the Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operation (OBO) Construction, Facility and Security Management Directorate during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Image by James Kon of Borneo Bulletin

Occupying a 5.3-acre site in the Diplomatic Enclave, the new embassy was officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by the launching of the plaque.

The new embassy replaces the old facility in Teck Guan Plaza building located in downtown Bandar Seri Begawan. The new building represents strong American values and the best in American architecture, engineering, technology, sustainability, art, culture and construction execution.

According to Mr Evans, the Managing Director for the Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operation (OBO) Construction, Facility and Security Management Directorate, “The new embassy is registered with the US Green Building Council and will be submitted for certification under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building rating system. The building uses advance irrigation system that utilises natural rainwater, waterless urinal as well as energy efficient lightings in the building.

“We are also currently constructing new embassies in Islamabad, Pakistan as well as Laos which have similar features to the US Embassy in Brunei. We aim to boost the rating for the new embassies under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building rating system.” Text by James Kon of Borneo Bulletin.

The new US Embassy at Jalan Kebangsaan. Cost of project is USD 28 million. RTKL of Washington DC designed the building, Contracting Consulting and Engineering LLC of Annapolis, Maryland constructed the building with United Engineers Sdn Bhd, Encore Sdn Bhd, Steelmark Sdn Bhd, HSE Engineering Sdn Bhd, Arkitek Ibrahim, Jurutera Perunding RCS Sdn Bhd, Berakas Power Management Company, LIF Trading Pea’s Company Sdn Bhd and Mr Jose Mariano Genciana. Image courtesy of US Embassy of Brunei.

Hush Puppies opened its first-ever store in Brunei and it’s located at Rizqun Hotel (1st floor). Brought in by Le Steadfast Lifestyle Company, the Brunei branch of the popular brand saw many customers who have waited long enough for the brand to break into the local market make a beeline to its store in Gadong.

The Hush Puppies store is conveniently connected to The Mall in Gadong and offers a wide range of footwear along with socks and accessories. From dress shoes to casual shoes and phylon sandals, Hush Puppies is set to cater to your needs for good-looking, comfortable shoes.

There is not enough choice for men’s footwear in Brunei, according to Hush Puppies representative Poh Na, therefore with the introduction of Hush Puppies here, men will have the chance to purchase comfortable as well as stylish footwear for themselves.

Poh Na said that the reception for Hush Puppies had been encouraging even before the launch, as many Bruneians are familiar with the brand. She also addressed the concern of the religious community regarding the acceptance of their shoes as being halal in terms of the leather component, as well as the issue of the basset hound logo.

“We want to ensure our customers that the shoes, even the lining, are made of cow leather and sheepskin leather, so there is no need to worry about it.” (You want to be more assured, you can click here).

Apart from footwear, Hush Puppies also carries a range of accessories such as handbags and shoe care products. The brand’s “bamboo socks”, which absorbs perspiration and odour, are also available at the store. Text by Zatty Joanda of The Brunei Times [Click here for more stories].

You can find this at Hush Puppies, The Rizqun Hotel (1st floor)

You can buy vouchers or even have a privilege card (admin fee $10) for one year and it’s valid for Brunei, Malaysia and Singapore. On non-sale period, you’re entitled to 10% discount

The Window of Opportunity. Check out HRD SMTS website. Click to enter

The wait is over!! HRD Services Management Training Solutions has unveiled their website for the public to access information on their services which have been gaining popularity among the local corporate companies.

In keeping in line with His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s vision to enhance human capital development in the country, HRD Services Management Training Solutions held a milestone event to launch its “Window of training oppurtunity” website.

HRD Services Management Training Solutions which was formed in October, 2010 with the realisation that the Sultanate’s focus on economic development, diversification and “Bruneinisation” will require knowledgeable people and expertise.

“Our ethos is on providing customised, contemporary and cost-effective solutions to our clients whilst ensuring quality standards are adhered to right from the marketing, selling to the deliverance of training,” Yasmeen Munir, the General Manger of HRD Services Management Training Solutions said.

“We engage trainers who are global practitioners in their field of expertise. Our eclectic pool of trainers come from the USA, UK, Singapore, Malaysia and Australia,” she said.

Hjh Rafiah Hj Momin the Managing Director of HRD Services Management Training Solution said that the company’s extensive customer base which comprises of a number of various government ministries, banks, local associations and private companies, have benefited greatly.

Visit their website www.hrds-training.com. Do try out their services and yes, human capital is the very in-thing now for business management. It can surely make a difference to your corporate culture and improve for the better. Furthermore, their testimonials have been favourable as well.

Yasmeen Munir, the General Manger of HRD Services Management Training Solutions and Hjh Rafiah Hj Momin the Managing Director of HRD Services Management Training Solution

Explaining to the local media on the website

The invited guests and the media during the website launch

Universiti Brunei Darussalam is pleased to announce that UBD will be celebrating the Grand Finale of the 25th Anniversary Celebration held in conjunction with the establishment of Universiti Brunei Darussalam. The event will take place on Saturday 15 October 2011 at the Chancellor Hall, UBD at 7:30am. UBD would like to invite its Alumni to join the Grand Finale to celebrate the 25 year journey and achievements. Alumni of the university include members who have attended a four-week course or more; as well as non-graduating students. The University looks forward to opening its doors once again to welcome its Alumni.

Should you want information on the Grand Finale, contact 246-3001 ext 1188.

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Five years have passed and behold, he has finally able to unleash his debut album next weekend. I attended the press conference last Friday where Zul Faden announced his debut album and his new stage name. He was formerly known as Zul F and it will take some time before the public will be able to grasp on the Zul Faden’s stage name.

According to Zul Faden, renaming his stage name is warranted and it represents him more. He revealed that Faden is a combo of his middle and surname. For your info, Zul Faden is now what you call a “free agent” as he parted ways with Origin Artistic Management when his contract finished a few months ago. Zul feels more freedom now as he has complete creative control on his music and hence, the much anticipated album from Zul Faden himself.

He is probably famously known for his victory at P2F which shot him to stardom in the local music scene. His new album was co-produced by Zul Faden himself, Hans Anuar (PhuturePhase Studio) and Lily Chiam (Expression Music). I’m amazed that his album “Memori Cinta Zul Faden” was written by Zul Faden (well, 90% of the songs) and this is no easy task to be a composer/singer.

Zul Faden will be launching his debut album on Saturday 22nd October at the JPCC. Fans will be able to purchase his album at $12 during the launch. Otherwise, it will be available in music stores for $15. It’s also a possibility that the album will be available on digital as well as on iTunes.

There are a few partners involved in promoting Zul Faden’s latest album. Of course, there’s the collaboration with PhuturePhase Production and Expression Music to make the album possible. He is also the image ambassador for JPCC and that’s one reason why the launch will take place at JPCC next weekend.

You can follow @ZulFaden on Twitter and also his main official website [Click here] and you can email him at contactme(a)zulfaden.com.

At Zul Faden’s press conference of the much anticipated album “Memori Cinta Zul Faden”. Hans Anuar of PhuturePhase Production, Zul Faden the artist, Lily Chiam of Expression Music and Dea Roxas of Fratinis/RMS Group

Group photo with the celebrities and partners involved in the upcoming launch

Zul Faden working very closely with Hans Anuar and Lily Chiam who were instrumental to his debut album. Now Zul Faden has his creative control on his music and ready to shine much more in the local music scene

You can get the album for only $12 on the actual launch at JPCC on 22nd October

The press conference took place at the VIP Balcony of the JPCC Amphitheatre. Apparently you can book this place for functions as well. Quite cozy and intimate environment. Ideal for small gatherings or press conference.

Fratini’s is one of the partners for Zul Faden’s promotional branding on his new album. This is the balcony of the VIP area. This area actually overlooks the whole area of the Amphitheatre from above.

Great promotions from KFC and you can stand a chance to win Gundam, FF, Kamen Rider, Samurai Warriors and Anime fans!! All you have to do is answer the quizzes/questions on KFC Brunei Facebook Wall. Click image to enter Facebook page

This perhaps save the hassle of surfing on livescore.com on your phone and follow your favourite team or even players.. This is also ideal if you happen to have your favourite players on your Fantasy League and you can be updated on their performance. Check poster for more details

THEFACESHOP Brunei sent 3 of their top Make-up Artists, Ms May M Villamin (Training & Make-up Manager), Ms Noorleha & Dk Nurul Aikma (Make-up Artists), to attend the Annual Make-up Instructor Course at Seoul Arts College, Korea from the 8th to 11th August 2011.

The 4 day intensive course covers Basic Make-up, Trend Make-up, Fashion Make-up, Styling and Runway Show.The Make-up Instructor Course was conducted by Korea Top Make-up Instructors, Ms Mi Gyeong Jo, Ms Jung Eun Choi, Ms Seung Joo Lee, Mr Kung Sik Hahm, Ms Sung Ji Ahn, Mr Eugene, Ms Keum Joo Han and Ms Hee Jung Jin.

The TFS Brunei team were in Korea for Annual Make-Uo Instructor Course at Seoul Arts College, Korea

Learning some tips of make-up during the course

The TFS Brunei team with the instructors from Korea

Certificate presentation upon completion of the course

THEFACESOP Brunei Make-up Team led by Ms May, is now ready to impart their new skills to their customers at TheFaceShop, Fall / Winter Beauty Workshop. One of the latest techniques taught is the Base Make-up, also known as skin-expression makeup. In Korea, it is the most important part of makeup, accounting for almost 80% of whole makeup look. So it is crucial to choose both the right shade and formula, depending on skin type. By doing this, not only do you make the complexion look better, but you can also sculpt, cover and enhance any part you might not like.

Eyebrow Shaping Techniques can create various images of your face, depending on its shape, shade, density and length of eyebrow hair. Learn all these and more at THEFACESHOP Fall / Winter Beauty Workshop conducted at TFS Mall, weekly. Registration fee is B$12 for Members and B$14 for Non Members. Packages include Beauty Gift, Free Skin Analysis, Make-up Beauty Guide, Certificate & others.

Call them at 2424987(TFS Mall Shop) 2337372(Times Square Shop) 2233363(Yayasan Shop) for more details. Text and images courtesy of THEFACESHOP Brunei.

Now you can join the Beauty Workshop conducted by THEFACESHOP Brunei and see poster for details

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Business cards from the Oil & Gas companies. Now who will win the great lucky draw prizes such as the iPad2 and Samsung SII?

Golfers registering for this morning golf tournament. It was as early as 5:45am

Getting ready for 3 hours of golf

Buggies ready to go on the green

Group photo of players and working committee of SPE Golf Tournament. Click image to enlarge

Smile to the camera, guys :))

Volunteers from BSP as part of the committee

One caught me stealing a shot :p

He was rushing to hand over the golf bag to one of the players

Yves Grosjean of TOTAL also played. However, he said he still prefer sailing

The only ladies representing at the SPE Golf Tournament

The volunteers as part of the working committee for the tournament though some are not in the picture

Tons of activities and this is your one-stop wedding portal for the weekend at The Mall

Couples who are looking to tie the knot can now look at various wedding packages and items for their special day at the first ever Musical Garden Wedding Fair 2011, which was launched yesterday. Held at The Mall, the event saw a total of 27 companies, ranging from local to overseas, which will be participating in the fair this weekend.

On hand to launch the Musical Garden Wedding Fair 2011 was Datin Paduka Hjh Rokiah binti Hj Zakiah, the President of the Women’s Business Council. Also participating in the ribbon-cutting ceremony was Mr Dickson Kho, Manager Assistant of PDCA Event Co.

Datin Paduka Hjh Rokiah binti Hj Zakiah, in her remarks stressed, “Roadshows, exhibitions and fairs, such as the Musical Garden Wedding Fair, help develop and instil the spirit of camaraderie and entrepreneurship among members of our community in Brunei, especially to the younger generation.”

“The existence of local businesses in the area of wedding services is indeed a testament to the progress of local entrepreneurs in the Brunei Darussalam. It is indeed a lucrative business if you have the passion for such business,” she added. She then urged local entrepreneurs, saying, “There is so much to learn from the international exhibitors. Please take this opportunity to network with them and develop a business relationship with the international exhibitors.”

The view from the 2nd floor. Sunday is the last day of the fair

Guest of honour saying a few words about the event

PDCA Event PR describing of the event

Dickson of PDCA Events Co and Datin Paduka Hjh Rokiah officiated the event

One of the singers from Expression Music wooed Carol

This lady from Expression Music has a pretty cool vocal

Hui and Shane visited Mashamichi Studio booth

Datin visited Tony Moly booth

Have you these cute toys made out of socks??

White room studio is also exhibiting at the MGW Fair 2011

Grace of Potzz and Petalz, Denise of Deseo and Carol of Barely There came for the opening of the event

You can rent this structure and deco from Potzz and Petalz. This is quite costly but worth it because of its concept. This also requires at least 6-8 men to set up the chariot deco, hence the price is justifiable. I didn’t realise you can’t have a “Pelamin” outdoor so this concept can be done indoors and certain venues. 

A romantic set up for dining? Check out this booth at MGW Fair 2011

Organised by PDCA Event Co, the Musical Garden Wedding Fair features theme on creating a magical wedding for couples intending to get marry, their families and friends.

Looking at the ideal wedding cars, Boustead is showcasing its range of Nissan cars, while in terms of wedding cakes, Mr Baker’s Bakeshop (@mrbakerbakeshop) is displaying many wedding cake designs. In an interview with the owner of Mr Baker’s Bakeshop, Eric Pui, said, “On average, we make three wedding cakes every Sunday. There is still a lot of potential in terms of wedding cakes.” He also revealed that his cakes are of healthier choices because of minimum stabiliser and emulsifier used, and the designs are more creative. On the design, Mr Eric Pui said, “Nowadays people prefer simple designs.”

Other exhibitors include FM bridal, Masamichi Studio, Fortress Enterprise, Ageless Beauty, La Tulipe Cosmestiques, Lapulent Enterprise, Potzz and Petalz Enterprise, Tony Moly, AIA BR Kevin Pong, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, Takaful Brunei Keluarga, Fabrica Interior Design and Thomson Furnitures.

There are also JoArt Gallery, Primeland Estate Agency, Ath-Thara Wedding Gallery and Zaren Chocolate, Miscchade Gallery and Moments/White Room Studio. During the fair, there will be DIY Wedding craft tutorial by Miss Jojo Yim of JoArt Gallery, cake decoration by Mr Baker’s Bakeshop, as well as Live Musical Performance by Expression Musical today and Saturday.

The highlight of the fair on Sunday, will be the announcement of the Winner of the Most Photogenic Couple Contest, the next Wedding Garden Musical Fair Ambassador. The public can vote for their favourite photo and participate in the lucky draw by obtaining an entry form from the information desk upon presenting a proof of purchase from any exhibitors at the fair. [Text by James Kon of Borneo Bulletin].

Nissan also exhibiting their hot cars at MGW Fair 2011

The guys with the huge lens

Brunei Tweet and Edgar Leong sharing a smile or two

You can source wedding cakes at @mrbakerbakeshop booth at MGW Fair 2011

The Pizza Hut guys having a photo moment with Hello Kitty

Mr. RA attempting to be one but fail *lol*

Zul Faden making an appearance last night at Musical Garden Wedding Fair 2011

I see a familiar face :p

The audience catching some live performances on stage

Jowyne of PDCA Events successfully launched her baby project

Fabrica: Modern Living also exhibiting at the fair

Don’t forget to vote your Top 5 couples. Who will win the big prize?

For Nintendo 3DS users

Chef Ak Zaidi from RBC taught us how to make “Kembayau Soup”. Click image to see more

Guests from Media Permata were invited to witness the cooking class. Click image to see more. (Parut siapa tu, lai?)

Takaful Nur Savings and Takaful Retirement offer protection as well as a savings element which will aid in the participant’s financial future needs. Meanwhile, Takaful Aman provides annual protection to the participant and their loved ones against Death and Total Permanent Disablement. This will help to ease financial burden on the beneficiaries.

The main objective of Takaful Brunei Keluarga is to promote its products in a means of creating a public awareness and encouraging the public that it is crucial to be prepared at the early stage as to keep own selves in a high condition of security financially in some aspects especially when comes to financial problem and at the same time to fulfill His Majesty’s vision for everyone to practice the culture of saving.

TBK will continually travel through popular shopping locations in the country and aims to build awareness with hopes that the public will understand about the importance of having Family Takaful products (Life insurance).

You can visit them at their booth participating at the Musical Garden Wedding Fair 2011 and learn more about Takaful and their amazing products. For more info, you can [click here]

Datin Paduka Hjh Rokiah visiting Takaful booth at The Mall

Their booth is located near Pizza Hut, The Mall

Cool Tones’ “Invite Friends” promo has a winner. This 2nd “Invite Friends” promo, which meant he or she had to promote wap.cooltones.net, began in late August & ended on September 30th 2011. Invite Friends works by allowing Cooltones subscribers to invite their friends to Cooltones. He or she can invite as many of his or her friends as he/she likes and the one who manages to get the most number of invitees to subscribe to Cooltones will be declared the winner.

The winner of Invite Friends promo, Siti Nurqamanera bte Abdullah won a B-Mobile’s Pure smart phone as well as a cash voucher from Tony Moly store. Cooltones is also currently having it’s Win a Car promo, which began in July and will end in March 2012.

For the Win A Car grand draw entitles lucky subscribers of both Buzz and CoolTones Unlimited to stand a chance to win a Ford Fiesta. Other prizes to be won include an Apple iPhone, iMac, LED Plasma TV, Sony PS3 and more. Every month mobile numbers of subscribers who subscribed to both services will be entered into the draw box to be drawn for the GRAND DRAW.

Cooltones is also having a “Brunei Artists Month” this whole October, as a way of promoting our local artists. Cooltones is also showing B-Mobile’s Who’s Got Talent Top 50 contestants rankings, which are updated daily.

For more info on the Win a Car and these others , you can visit Cool Tones official website at www.3g.com.bn or via mobile browser at wap.3g.com.bn.

The winner of the CoolTones “Invite Friends” promotion

The products specialize in problematic skins especially pigmentation and acne scarring. Highly recommend the V10 Plus series which have received many rave reviews. You can stand a chance to win an iPhone4 and two skincare hampers and tons of consolation prizes

Datin Paduka Hjh Rokiah visited Ageless Beauty booth

There’s a skin analysis for your face too

Looking for wedding souvenirs?? Now you can get special offers if you buy certain quantities of wedding souvenirs such as glassware, jewellery box, candle holder to name a few. Come and visit the fair to find out more

Their booth is located at the ground floor near Giordano

A few samples of wedding souvenirs or for corporate gift aways

The Concept A-Class

Visit Mercedes-Benz facebook fan page above and find out how you could win an iPad. Click image above to participate

New menu at Bunker Bistro. Click image to find out more.

After a few rounds of golf, the tummy needs some calories. Click image to see dishes of Bunker Bistro

You catch the World Cup Rugby Quarter-Finals at Bunker Bistro. There will be a huge screens with multiple TVs too

The most popular portray of Steve Jobs on the Social Media. Not sure who created this.

The moment you have been waiting for. Congratulations, buddy!! Launching on 22nd October.

Taken from Razzles Dazzles

A bit shocked about the news but it was only a matter of time. He died of pancreatic cancer and he had been battling it for a few years. A visionary who co-founded Apple in a Silicon Valley garage will be sorely missed. His best creation?? iPod, iPhone, iPad… the list goes on… Thank you for the innovation and I’ve been an Apple fan since 2008 thanks to you. RIP. Image taken from Apple.com

Trending topic on Twitter this morning

Trending topic on Twitter this morning

Trending topic on Twitter this morning

Trending topic on Twitter this morning

Trending topic on Twitter this morning

Trending topic on Twitter this morning

Comments from people on the late Steve Jobs

Mark Zuckerberg – Steve, thank you for being a mentor and a friend. Thanks for showing that what you build can change the world. I will miss you.
Clovis Lai – Steve Jobs, a visionary who has touched all our lives, has definitely left the world a better place than he found it. How are you choosing to live your life? You don’t have to be Steve Jobs, you just have to be the best you. I love you all for being in my life for the friendship and time that we had together, even if only for one short moment. Hugs.
Chris Ng – Does anyone feel that a little bit of Steve’s is in every apple product we own? Countless people are learning Steve Jobs died on devices that would not exist without his vision. That’s a legacy.
Sophia Siu – Steve Jobs, the man who puts a dent in the world…
Redzwan Kamarudin – I’ll miss your turtlenecks and your showmanship, Steve.
Farha Hanina Maidi – RIP Steve Jobs. It kinda puts the whole iPhone 4S anticlimax into perspective.
Nurul Zainal – He was the Willy Wonka of gadgets. Just a whisper of something new from his labs and it would get the whole world buzzing.. Thank you Mr Jobs.. Rest in peace you genius you.
Shaf Said – Apple eversince i was born,from a colourful apple logo to a minimal one,all the best innovations came from you..rest in peace Steve”Apple Grandmaster” Jobs 🙂
TigerLim – I love you Steve Jobs and I keep my promise and always support you Apple.God Bless You and R.I.P

Curtin University Sarawak

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Tons of activities and this is your one-stop wedding portal for the weekend at The Mall

The event kicks off today until Sunday and it’s happening at The Mall. The wait is over!! The Musical Garden Wedding Fair is here and there will be ton of activities and places to visit during the MGW Fair hosted by PDCA Events. The opening ceremony will kick off later at 2pm.

There are more than 20 exhibitors participating in this year’s MGW Fair and the set up looks pretty good so far. Last night, the team were busy setting up for the wedding fair. Good luck to the organisers.

The products specialize in problematic skins especially pigmentation and acne scarring. Highly recommend the V10 Plus series which have received many rave reviews. You can stand a chance to win an iPhone4 and two skincare hampers and tons of consolation prizes

Looking for wedding souvenirs?? Now you can get special offers if you buy certain quantities of wedding souvenirs such as glassware, jewellery box, candle holder to name a few. Come and visit the fair to find out more

The top five couples with the most “likes” from Facebook voting will displayed at the Musical Garden Wedding (MGW) Fair in The Mall for the final round of voting. Customers who make any purchases during the exhibition from any of the booths from 6th – 9th October 2011 at the MGW Fair are entitled to take part in both the final round of voting for the Most Photogenic Couple Contest and the MGW lucky draw.

Customers can obtain entry forms at the Information Desk and submit them along with the receipt/s of their purchase/s. One receipt entitles one customer to one entry form. Multiple entries are allowed. Customers can list down the number associated with their favorite photo in the entry form to vote.

The consolation prizes for the top five couples who manage to get into the final round is a Wedding Venue Decorations Services Package worth BND300 by Potzz and Petalz Florist, an 18” x 12” framed photo and a softcopy CD worth BND150 by Devin Kho Photography.

The winners of the Most Photogenic Couple Contest will be awarded with the grand prize of a Wedding Venue Decoration Services Package worth BND500 by Potzz and Petalz Florist, a Premium Pre-Wedding Photo-shoot Package worth BND880, an 18” x 12” framed photo and a softcopy CD worth BND120 by Devin Kho Photography. They will also be the Brand Ambassadors for the next Musical Garden Wedding Fair cover page and other promotional materials.

The five entries who did not make it into the final round of voting will receive a consolation prize, inclusive of a Wedding Venue Decoration Services Package worth BND200 by Potzz and Petalz Florist, an 8” x 10” framed photo and a softcopy CD worth BND80 by Devin Kho Photography.

PDCA Events Co. is an events management company that applies the PLAN, DO, CHECK and ACTION cycle in every task undertaken so that each project is handled professionally with utmost attention to detail in order to ensure that every event is a success. PDCA Events Co. began in 2009 with events such as the Indonesia Quake Fund (IQF) in Brunei. Their business tag line is “The Lighter Way to Enjoy Quality”.

Top 5 finalists: Victor Yap Kah Fong & Stephanie Koh Chein

Top 5 finalists: Mohammad Azizul Jabbar bin Hj Basir & Nadzirah Binti Musa

Top 5 finalists: Mohamad Nazmi Hj Zakeria & Hjh Noraini Hj Momin

Top 5 finalists: Chiaw Ching Seng & Liue Gee Joo

Top 5 finalists: Hamizah Rahman & Rizah Mahmud

Wanna try out as Legal Counsel or a Geophysicist or an Administrative Assistant or a General Services Assistance?

Sapto Djojokartiko was born in Solo, a city of aristocracy antiquity; a city that glorifies the mixture of the Mataram Kingdom in Java and Dutch Feudalism. Sapto puts together Solo’s tradition, folktales, dance, music and architecture into his designs, therefore creating his art.

Drawing is his endowed talent. He began designing in 1997 when he decided to study Fashion Design & Pattern Making at L’Ecole Superieur des Art et Technique de la Mode. After immersing himself in a plethora of fashion projects, in 2007 the brand Sapto Djojokartiko was born.

His cultural background influences his artistic designs, which lead him to his success. His combination of his culture and others have translated into his art. You will be able to see his passion and vision in his intricate designs and attention to details. Many fashion designers have claimed to have a great attention to details but his, has been proven by a number of satisfied actresses, socialites and fashion lovers that are a true Sapto-fan.

Bold, modern, edgy with a touch of classic will always be his signature creation. His work has earned him a 2011 ELLE Style Award’s Fashion Designer of the Year. And, this is just the beginning for Sapto. Please contact his team in Brunei: WEDDDINGKOO Email: handaraisman@gmail.com or phone: +673 8610656

Designed by Sapto Djojokartiko

Designed by Sapto Djojokartiko

Designed by Sapto Djojokartiko

Oh yeah, this is open for foreigners too

Curtin University Sarawak

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Golden Churn days have been numbered. MoRA has banned the sale of Golden Churn in Brunei until it gets the hahal certificate. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times

This is the third time that the relevant authorities have put a stop to the popular Golden Churn Pure Creamery Butter in the Sultanate. Why? Because the product is now deemed “syubhah” (of doubtful halal nature) and hence must be avoided by Muslims.

The Brunei Islamic Religious Council (Muib) has passed on the law – “Based on the fatwa Mufti Kerajaan Siri Fatwa Bil: (30/2011) dated 25 Syawal 1432 corresponding to 24 September 2011, and based on new information and current development of the issue regarding the butter product Golden Churn Pure Creamery Butter, manufactured by Ballantyne Food Pty Ltd, New Zealand, therefore the Brunei Islamic Religious Council has agreed to determine that the product is in the position of syubhah according to Syara’ (Islamic laws)” – as read by the Minister of Religious Affairs.

So now the product is no longer allowed to be imported to Brunei until it obtains the Brunei Halal Certificate and Permit.

Back in 8th August, MoRA advised Muslims to avoid Golden Churn only to be announced on 12th August that all Golden Churn products are deemed halal. Today’s press release made a u-turn that Golden Churn Pure Creamery Butter is not be sold because of its doubtfulness.

I’m quite bemused by the ongoing saga of Golden Churn and this have perhaps bring a lot of disappointments from the clients, consumers and most of all, the suppliers. If there was such doubt, why allowed it to be deemed halal in the first place?

Should Golden Churn gets the green light, the damage has already been done as the value of trust is in doubt as well. This is definitely one of the disappointing news in Brunei apart from the announcement of the iPhone 4s last night. For more info, you can [click here]. 

A bit disappointed that no announcement of iPhone 5 but the iPhone 4s stlll pack the punch

So much fuss about the iPhone announcement and I’m quite surprised a few of us (even Androids users) were up to catch the liveblog updates on the next iPhone gen. Though many would have predicted, an iPhone 4s, some were left disappointed thinking the iPhone 5 would have been unveiled.

Instead it was just an upgrade of the iPhone 4 to the iPhone 4s which has better features than the current iPhone 4. What are the new features? Well, for one, they have an application call “Siri” which is like a voice assistant to your needs. So you can ask for the weather forecast or make a calendar appointment or do a search on Wikipedia (oo, oo, AskRobin…) I’m not quite sure if Siri is part of the iOS5 or is it an apps featured only in iPhone 4s.

One of the most impressive features is the camera. It is now 8 megapixels and it has advance optics too. The iPhone 4s also has iOS5 and iCloud integrated into the phone. It also has a dual-core A5 Chip which makes this the fatest iPhone to date and you can see the difference between the iPhone 4s and the current iPhone 4.

A few of my friends were pretty disappointed that the design and overall feel hasn’t change at all. So basically, you can still use the same casing for iPhone4 on iPhone 4s. I have to say I’m quite impressed with the battery life.

Will I be getting myself one? It remains to be seen. But I’m already in love with the camera :))

Apple’s iPhone timeline

July 2007 – iPhone was released
Juy 2008 – iPhone 3G was released
June 2009 – iPhone 3Gs was released
July 2010 – iPhone 4 was released
October 2011 – iPhone 4s was announced

It was mentioned that Singapore will have their stock by 28th October. So I wonder how much will Brunei charge (according to their market price + demand)? We shall wait and see :))

The iOS5 will be available for download by 12th October 2011.

Oh yeah, they also unveilved the new iPod in white and they will come with iOS5 too

Tons of activities and this is your one-stop wedding portal for the weekend at The Mall. More news on this later

Jade and Mandy were there

The ladies from BAG Networks

Caroline (left) won a lucky draw then.. Lucky you

I’m loving the set up and the ambience. The best Hari Raya Open House by far this year

Managing Director of Home Suite Home won one night stay at The Empire Hotel too

Ambassador of Laos (2nd left) was also there

The vain guys from BB *kidding.. lol*

Gavin (right) missed out on the one night stay becuase he left early

BAG Networks making their presence felt and they already have QR codes on their business cards.. Awesome!!

Siew Yi also won a one-night stay at The Empire

Mingling with them after the prize presentation of the lucky draw

The guys from RBTS

The guys helping with the ushering and gifts from RBTS

Curtin University Sarawak

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The fourth annual technology & entrepreneurship forum in Brunei THiNKBIG Innovate 2011 co-organised by iCentre and Asia Inc Forum, will take place at the Empire Hotel & Country Club on October 20, 2011. The forum is expected to bring together 250 delegates from the ICT industry, government, business community, educational institutions, students and aspiring entrepreneurs.

The forum themed “Innovation…Inspiring and Driving Change” will explore how innovation driven technology has inspired change and how entrepreneurs have used these innovations to bring value to businesses and society.

So what can you expect from the event this month?

1) Multi-track sessions
2) a TED style presentation (interesting)
3) networking lunch

Who are the invited speakers?

Derek Sivers, Founder of CDBABY – largers seller of independent music on the web.
Ann Burgraff, Mentor Advisor at NUS Enterprise & Former VP of Corporate Marketing at Salesforce – 15 years experience of marketing innovative software andr marketing services
Hew Joon Yeng, Co- founder of PigeonLab Pte Ltd – a Singapore based company which designs and develops conference question and answer tools on the mobile web.

This year’s THiNK BIG Innovate 2011 boasts a fresh outlook and it is hoped the rebranding will encourage people who are less tech-savvy to attend and benefit from the forum. Hadi Shafie of the iCentre said that “we had in mind to spur the development entrepreneurship in Brunei when we crafted the programme. This year, we have rebranded the event as Innovate 2011 as this is NOT just another technology forum, this is a platform for inspiration, for learning and for ideas in building better businesses, markets, a stronger industry, a firmer framework for encouraging entrepreneurship, and understanding how the world is moving towards different emerging technologies.”

This is a highly recommended event for students, innovators, enterpreneurs, and perhaps those who are participating in the Think Big Ignite competition.. well, you will definitely learn something from this forum and I shall be covering this event as well.

For more information visit asisincforum.com or contact Asia Inc Forum at 222 6555 or you can follow @icentre_brunei for updates of the THINK BIG Innovate 2011 and even win seats or get a discount on the seats for the forum.

The promotional poster for ThinkBig Innovate

The invited speakers for THINKBIG Innovate speakers

Hadie Shafie briefing the local press for the upcoming event

THE government will be carrying out research on lung and breast cancers to focus on causes, prevention and survival trends of Bruneian patients.

Dr Hj Mohd Syafiq Abdullah, head of the National Cancer Centre (NCC), yesterday said the NCC is working closely with the Universiti Brunei Darussalam as part of a UBD research cluster group to look into two types of cancer: lung and breast.

“We want to look at the epidemiology of lung cancer, what causes lung cancer in Brunei and the risk factors(involved) and the survival rates of lung cancer in Brunei,” he said during the launch of the Cancer Awareness Day 2011 at the Mall. He added they would be looking at the causes of cancer in Brunei and what can be done about it.

“In terms of breast cancer, we want to look at the genetics of it. We know that ten per cent of cancer can be created through genetics. UBD has set up a lab for us so hopefully we can do our study there. The funding of the research is not automatic, he said, adding that it is based on “competitive funding. We had to compete with other research as well, so Alhamdulillah both breast and lung cancer research has been approved so now we are just finalising everything,” he said.

You can read more [click here]. Text by Hana Roslan of The Brunei Times.

The mini roadshow at The Mall last weekend

The mini roadshow at The Mall last weekend

The mini roadshow at The Mall last weekend

The mini roadshow at The Mall last weekend