So I’m thinking of opening up a new segment for my blog and it’s called What Did I Find Out segment. Well, I still think it’s a little lame to my liking but then again, that’s what I usually do when people start sharing information and lately, I’ve been flooded with information related to my readers and friends even though I’m still stuck here in Bali. I found out that Royal Brunei Airlines had two flights that departed from Bali, one at 7am and the other an hour later to cater for the stranded passengers. Awesome stuff!!

I shall post more on my findings with pictures and illustrations. Have a great weekend and I’m beginning to enjoy my final day here in Bali. Just some alone time 😀

I found out that Seth Rollins will have to vacate his title which he won in April during Wrestlemania. Is this bad for business? Yes, unless someone like Brock Lesnar and maybe, the super face, John Cena holds the title. The roster has been looking pretty mediocre in WWE.

I found out that there’s a special promotion at Chatime Citis Square in conjunction with their grand opening this weekend. So grab that opportunity 😀

I found out that there’s another BurgerKing outlet in Seria

I found out that not only I enjoy the services of Uber but even Mika *lol* Guys, if you haven’t tried Uber especially in Bali, try it. You will save a lot of money on transport. A lot.. Trust me. My average spending is around $3-4 per trip or even lesser.

I found out that JPMC having another car boot sale after a successful one last year.

I found that there will be another company running a similar concept of an escape room and tonight my team will be checking it out.

I found that the beach in Bali is soothing and welcoming as compared to the other beaches I visited. I do want to try out that beach tennis one day. Looks fun and you don’t have to bounce the ball on the beach. Then again, balls won’t bounce on sand :p

I found out there’s an eatery in Bali run by a Bruneian. I shall give it a try if I have the time. Thanks Yaya for the heads up 😀

I found out how Zheng ran the most popular marathon in the world which is the New York marathon. There were about 50,000 runners and he is the only Bruneian to participate. Furthermore, the entry of the event is done through ballots and by luck, his name was drawn. Amazing!!! He also clocked his personal best of 3 hrs 40 secs in the full marathon event. It was nice to see the Brunei flag being hoisted despite only having one Bruneians in the list. Zheng shared that this is best marathon to date.

I found out that finally Brunei International Airport has wifi connection for the public. I’m not sure if it’s only available inside area for flying passengers or the whole of BIA. Thanks, Adiman for the heads up.

Have you caught Spectre yet? Last evening, they had two special treats, one at Times Cineplex of Sentral Shopping Centre (KBSentral) and Empire Cinema. I couldn’t make it to either since I’m still enjoying my extension stay in Bali for now.

Customers of BIBD Perdana Privilege Banking and Indera Motors were treated to a special occasion at Empire Cinema whereas British Army Brunei Garrison organised one at Times Cineplex.

It was nice to see the British Army Brunei Garrison dressing up for the occasion and they had the opportunity to walk on the red carpet with cool decorations to blend with with the James Bond theme.

So what do you think of the latest James Bond movie Spectre? Reviews have been mixed and it’s not high on Rottentomatoes (only below 63% for now). I will be catching it tonight on the comfort of a premier style concept at Beachwalk Bali cineplex. I still feel that Skyfall is the best bond movie for me.

British High Commissioner David Campbell (in black) on the red carpet with members of the British Army Brunei Garrison during the premiere of the James Bond movie ‘Spectre’ at KBSentral’s Times Cineplex last night. Image courtesy of Hafiizah Maideen of The Brunei Times.

Some of the attendees last night. Image courtesy of Hafiizah Maideen of The Brunei Times.

The Jaguar F-Type convertible on showcase at the movie premiere. Image courtesy of Azli Azney of The Brunei Times.

Ben Boddy, Deputy High British Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam (left) as the guest of honour. Image courtesy of Azli Azney of The Brunei Times.

I’ve used Seagate hard drives before and they are pretty stable and reliable. Now I’m very picky when it comes to hard drive because I would need a Thunderbolt socket for transferring purposes (at high speed). Thunderbolt is only for Apple computers for your info.

Recently Concepts Computer has collaborated with Seagate and bringing the reliable, high-performance hard disk spaces to Brunei Darussalam. Hence if you want to store your data and documents, I do recommend you Seagate hard disks.

Now for the technical aspects of Seagate hard portable hard drives.

First on offer is the Seagate Expansion portable drive, available in 500GB ($89) and 1TB ($109) storage sizes. The Seagate Expansion portable drive is the ideal companion for anyone with lots of videos, photos, music and files that they want to protect and take everywhere with them. It offers useful storage capacities in a small enclosure for great mobility, very fast transfer rates with USB 3.0 connectivity and very secure physical digital storage. Sounds good to you? Well, it does for me 😀

Seagate Expansion portable drive

Now let’s look at the other batches – the Seagate BackUp Plus Slim, available in 500GB, 1TB and 2TB storage sizes. The Seagate BackUp Plus Slim will be one of the ultimate solutions to storage on-the-go. With an ultra-sleek design, made for ultra portability and with the ability for one click backup solutions through the Seagate Mobile BackUp app. The Seagate BackUp Plus Slim combines all the best features of what a portable storage device solution should be.

Now here’s the interesting thing if you actually need it – With the inclusion of the Seagate Mobile BackUp app, all your photos, movies and video scan be backed-up Seagate Dashboard, including the ones you’ve shared on Facebook, Flickr and Youtube; easily enabling you to save your favourite on popular social media sites to be viewed anywhere.

Another interesting fact is if you buy the Seagate BackUp Plus Slim from Concepts Computer, they will provide free access to Microsoft OneDrive. Every purchase of the Seagate BackUp Plus Slim, will provide its users with a 2 years, 200GB access to Microsoft OneDrive worth over BND$130. It will be available from Concepts Computers for $100 for the 500GB capacity, $110 for 1TB capacity and $162 for the 2TB capacity. Now that’ is value for money.

Seagate BackUp Plus Slim

Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer with the management of Concepts Computer and resellers at the Brilliance Hall at Concepts Computer

Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer said, “This launch is the beginning of a great expansion for Concepts Computer on storage solutions, Concepts have noticed that storage solutions have become an important issue with our customers so we will work hard to provide a much larger range of great digital storage solutions at the best prices for the consumers of Brunei Darussalam.”

Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer added, ”We know how valuable digital data is to the modern world and this is our first step in providing exciting solutions for the local IT-market. And with the release of these Seagate external storage solutions, customers do not have to choose between reliability, high performance and affordability, it is all available from Seagate and Concepts Computer. ”

And for more information on the wide-selection and full-range of storage solutions available at Concepts Computer, please visit your nearest Concepts Computer showroom or call 2233551/2233552.

Concepts is also promoting their Acer projector

 

Launched on 19 October 2015, Baiduri Bank’s “Take Me Traveling” Promotion offers their Baiduri UnionPay Debit cardholders a 5% rebate on all transactions, including overseas ATM withdrawal fees and purchasing transactions at selected countries in Southeast Asia.

Baiduri Bank was the first bank to introduce the first UnionPay brand card in Brunei Darussalam back in April 2011. The Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card is also the first PIN-based international debit card in the country.

Unlike conventional signature-based payment cards, payments made with the Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card requires a personalized identification number (PIN) to be keyed in before payment is approved, giving cardholders an additional level of protection from fraud or misuse of the card.

Besides using the card for payment, the Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card can also be used as an ATM card for cash withdrawal. Vastly accepted in more than 150 countries around the world, Baiduri UnionPay Debit cardholders will have access to over 2,000 local retailers, over 26 million retailers and over 1.9 million ATMs globally.

Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card can also be used as an ATM card for cash withdrawal apart from payment

With such wide acceptance, it is no wonder that the Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card is an excellent choice for customers to bring along when traveling outside of Brunei. And with the exclusive “Take Me Travelling” promotion, Baiduri UnionPay Debit cardholders can enjoy more savings whilst on holiday in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines and Cambodia.

In addition to the 5% rebate, Baiduri UnionPay Debit cardholders are also entitled to the ongoing benefits at overseas destinations including Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. To name a few, UnionPay cardholders can enjoy offers and discounts at popular shopping destinations as well as hotel offers.

Benefits in Thailand include offers at Siam Paragon and Siam Centre Duration, Gourmet Market, Home Fresh Mart and Villa market, Ratchaprasong Shopping District, Central World and Thavorn Palm Beach Resort & Spa Phuket.

You can earn enjoy discounts in countries such as Singapore. For instance, earning discounts at TANGS. Image courtesy of TimeOut.

Or you can get benefits in Thailand such as at Siam Paragon. Image courtesy of The Continent Hotel.

In Singapore, UnionPay cardholders can enjoy discounts and exclusive offers at bebe, Greg Norman, Sentosa Harbourfront, High Society Café, Lacoste boutiques, TANGS and several hotel offers. Offers in Malaysia include discounts and deals at Pavilion, Parkson, Grand Lexis Port Dickson and Suria KLCC Shopping Centre. And in Indonesia, UnionPay cardholders can shop at Kuta Beachwalk Shopping Centre to enjoy exclusive offers.

Terms and conditions of the promotion can be viewed on Baiduri Bank website at www.baiduri.com or Baiduri Bank mobile app – Baiduri Deals promotions section.

To be in the know of Baiduri Bank current promotions and events, the public can also follow Baiduri Bank Group on Facebook or @baiduribank on Instagram and Twitter.

 

Taken from Channel News Asia

I’m kinda glad that my toastmaster friends managed to catch their flight early in the morning yesterday. However, one of my friend today was kinda unfortunate that the flight got postponed because of the volcanic ashes due to the eruption inside the crater of Mount Rinjani in Lombok.

I’ve always wanted to visit Lombok and I heard so many awesome things about Lombok especially the scenery. One day.. One day perhaps.. As for the weather in Bali, it’s kind scorching hot today, the hottest I’ve been in since Day 1 of my Bali trip. Yes, I’m still in Bali and taking time off and spending quality time on my own and just chiiillllll….

So let’s hope for the rest of other friends to arrive Bali tomorrow evening as the Bali airport will only reopen by 8:45am. Let’s hope no delays or flight disruptions. Have a great week, peeps!! And I can’t believe that 2015 is almost over.

Currently enjoying the heat in Bali and loving the t-shirt from toastmasters and the RB cap

  

A Suzki Celerio A+ is now on display in front of Concepts Computer’s (Concepts) showroom. Image courtesy of Concepts Computer.

Lim Tze Yang, marketing executive (Suzuki) Boustead Sdn Bhd, Crystal Celine, customer relations officer, Boustead Sdn Bhd, Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer, Pao Jia Wan, Concepts Business Development Executive and Zul Abdul Rahman, Concepts marketing executive. Image courtesy of Concepts Computer.

A Suzki Celerio A+ is now on display in front of Concepts Computer’s (Concepts) showroom.

The display was proudly revealed yesterday by the IT store’s General Manager Vincent Pao accompanied by Concepts Business Development Executive Pao Jia Wan and Marketing Executive Zul Abdul Rahman. Meanwhile, the sole agent for Suzuki in the nation, Boustead Sdn Bhd, was represented by its marketing executive Lim Tze Yang and its customer relations officer, Crystal Celine.

The model of the Japanese auto marks the ongoing collaborative promotion where for every purchase of the compact car, the new car owner will receive an Acer Iconia Tab 8W.

The promotion first began last month and is ongoing until end of year. It is also a way to reward customers and to promote the corporate image of both companies.

“Now with the display, Concepts customers are not only able to get a hands-on look of the Acer Iconia Tab 8W when they stop by the store, they are able to take a closer look at the Celerio A+ without going all the way to our showroom in Beribi,” said Boustead’s Marketing Executive Lim Tze Yang.
It was shared that the Suzuki Celerio is the latest model in the brand’s line up, which features design, style and practicality in one package. It is designed with the concept of ‘small on the outside, big on the inside’, offering ample room and storage space that belies its appearance.

Fuel efficiency is yet another selling point as this car can go up to 21.27km with every litre of petrol. The car is equipped with a 1.0 litre engine and is available in two transmissions: Manual Transmission (MT) and Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Meanwhile, the new Acer Iconia Tab 8W is equipped with the Windows 8.1 and a one-year subscription to Office 365. This enables users to combine work and play with a single device that is multi-functional.

Concepts General Manager Vincent Pao told The Brunei Times that the collaboration is a win-win situation for both companies. He further enlightened that the two products are similar in a way that both offer value for money.

For more information about the attractive promotion, head over to Concepts in Kiulap or the Suzuki Showroom in Beribi. Text courtesy of Adib Noor of The Brunei Times.

 

Taking a sports coupe round a track with a professional driver, leisurely drives in the latest Audi vehicles, fun racing in a go-kart.. It was the kind of experience that some car aficionados can only dream about, but was brought to life by TCY Motors. For two days, TCY Motors Sdn Bhd took over the Jerudong Park Go-Kart Track and the “Pusing Lagi” car park to give customers, invited guests and members of the media a crack at the Second Audi Urban Driving Experience.

Based around safety and dynamic driving, the event allowed attendees to get behind the wheel of Audi vehicles and experience first hand the safety capabilities, and as well as give drivers some in-depth knowledge on safe but dynamic driving.

The programme featured instruction and demonstrations by professional driving instructors Nicolaas Smit from South Africa and Paul Morgan from Australia. Smit was a return instructor from last year’s inaugural event.

The day began with the Ride & Drive, featuring the Audi A5 Coupe, A7 Sportback A8L and the Q7. Participants took the vehicles for a leisurely drive on the road to experience the Audi Drive Select featured in all the high-end models and the feel of the handling differences of each car.

In the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) demo, drivers had to accelerate to 60Km/h and swerve to avoid obstacles. The demonstration taught drivers the effectiveness of the ESC system in an emergency maneuver.

The highlight of the day was the Track Experience on the main Go-Kart track where drivers where let loose in the all-new Audi TTS sports coupe, which boasts the latest in quattro all-wheel-drive technology and an output of 300 bhp.

TCY Motors hopes to make AUDE an annual event offering participants a unique unforgettable driving experience where they benefit from learning dynamic but safe driving and also get the first crack at the latest new models offered by the dealership.

 

The Second Colouring Competition for Adults organized by Mabohai Shopping Complex, in partnership with Best Eastern Bookstore and JoArt Gallery drew very talented participants on Sunday, 1st November 2015.

The competition, based on the new book “Lost Ocean” by Johanna Basford attracted 33 participants of a high level of technical and artistic capability, according to the team of judges. Targeted towards everyone above 18 years old, the competitors showed excellent colouring and blending skills.

Judges for the competition were Jojo Yim, Head of Jo Art Gallery, Nitisha Kashyap and Nabil Fikri Haronli, Art Instructors at Jo Art Gallery.

The following were the winners after a grueling round of judging by the panel of Judges provided by Jo Art Gallery.

1st Prize  – Wathiqah Khalidi won $200 worth of Gift Vouchers

2nd Prize  – Nur Liyana won $150 worth of Gift Vouchers

3rd Prize  – Robert John Mendoza $100 worth of Gift Vouchers

The winners of the Colouring Competition for Adults last Sunday

An additional 5 contestants were awarded consolation prizes of gift vouchers worth $50 each. All winners also received a copy of Millie Marotta’s ‘Tropical Paradise” colouring book and all prizes were sponsored by Best Eastern.

Ms Yee-Man Cheng, Manager of Mabohai Shopping Complex said:

“Congratulations to everyone who gave it their best and a special congratulations to the top winners of the competition for a job well done. We would like to thank Best Eastern & JoArt Gallery for partnering with Mabohai Shopping Complex in creating a challenging and rewarding event for all contestants. Special thanks go to Starbucks for keeping the contestants hydrated and refreshed with their newly launched beverages, the Duo Cocoa Mocha Frappuccino and Dark Caramel Frappuccino. We hope everyone had a wonderful afternoon of colouring and had a relaxing and enjoyable time with us.”

It’s happening again. The Korean Festival 2015 at Times Square Shopping Centre. from 6th 8th November 2015 and the problem is I won’t be there to witness the event since I will be away.

Basically this event is to promote the Korean culture and they will hold several key events, games, activities and performance group from Korea which are supported and co-organised by Embassy of the Republic of Korea, Korea Tourism Organisation and Times Square Shopping Centre.

For this upcoming festival, there will be a Korean Babbling Comedy, The Babbling Perfordian ONGALS’ and they will be coming to share contemporary Korea to Brunei. Awesome..

Even more, there will be Koren products – automobile showcase, Korean food and drinks and various cultural demonstrations during the festival. So book your date from 6th to 8th November.

You can also stand a chance to win two tickets to Seoul. Other prizes include electronic devices and vouchers from Korean restaurants. The lucky draw prize presentation will be held on the last day of the festival, November 8 at 8.30pm. For further information, call 2338208 or 2338006 during office hours. Good luck.

This Friday 8pm, Saturday 8pm and Sunday 8pm

 

I had a great time last week with my fellow toastmasters. The bond is different from before and it’s stronger. I may not look enthusiastic in this photo because I deliberately looked sad. I’m sandwiched by two dedicated toastmasters from UBD.

The organizing chairperson Shawn Cassidy Narcis and deputy organizing chair Liana Kwan for the District 87 Semi-Annual Conference. They and the team pulled off a great show. It was such a pity that not many locals turned up from the Indonesia division.

The conference is over. The goodbyes were tough but we as toastmasters know that it’s a never ending journey with conferences in different cities every now and then. I realised that it’s a pretty hefty investment if I were to calculate the number of conferences I attend (such as in Sabah, Labuan and cities of Indonesia) like the current one in Bali. Luckily for me, I never questioned it because I know the values that I can get out of toastmasters – priceless – and I’m pleased to officially announced that Brunei Darussalam will be hosting a big toastmasters conference slated for November 2016 and the planning has begun.

This is also one reason why I haven’t been active updating my blog. I still have tons of articles pending from my previous coverages in Brunei and also my recent Malaysia Tourism Hunt 2015 adventure. I shall be updating that pretty soon as I have so much ample now in Bali before my next workshop in Ubud, Bali in a few days’ time. For now, I’m gonna do some reviews of the recent Bali in Paradise conference 2015.

What a wunderbar experience!! The venue was ideal as we had both the convention and the accommodation at the same hotel (Harris Hotel & Residence on Sunset Road). I shared a suite room with four musketeers – Superman Amran, the computer geek Dalton, go-with-the-flow Jack and the actual Superman Nur Iskandar. If I were to travel again, I don’t mind tagging along with them or vice-versa. Just have to make sure that you don’t use the kitchen sink because Dalton will use his luggage to cover it *lol*

We had seven educational speakers and I enjoyed all of them except for one. I was amazed how thorough Dinesh’s speech on how to deliver a winning speech and it was analytical and clear. I have learnt that I lacked clarity in delivering my points in my speech and even getting the message across. Another speaker was Miranda (from Bali) who reminded me the power of listening and I’m still practicing that skill and breaking the bad habit. The International Director Patrick Oei showed me the courage to take leap of faith and don’t be the “Elephant being tied to a stick” because that one little step can make a difference.

Golden voice Ariff stole the show of the supposedly absent Guest of Honour and he shared the different types of personalities in us – I found out that I’m an extrovert with feelings and intuition *lol* I’m not sure that’s a suitable trait to guide me as the organizing chair for next year’s convention but it can be fruitful indeed because we already have an amazing team.

We are so honoured to have two finalists in World Public Speaking Championship and one of them is Mohammed Qahtani the current World Champion of Public Speaking 2015 (thank you, Lorraine for hooking him up with Shawn). He started with a slight sign of nervousness but he picked up the tempo and lifted the crowd with his enthusiastic energy. What was missing is the Qahtani (rubber) band that I wanted to have, to remind me should I have negative thoughts in my head. My room mate Amran was lucky to be given one. Well, the idea of the rubber band is to sport it on your wrist, and whenever you say something negative or have negative thoughts, then you snap the rubber band. This can be a good habit especially when you are about to give a negative comment and you snap the band and from there you start giving positive comments. Hopefully one day it will make me give automated positive statements.

Lastly, the speaker that I was looking forward to was Kwong Yue Yang who now resides and working in Australia. His “Fortune Cookie” speech is my most viewed contest speech because it’s originality, humour and the message he delivered. I highly recommend you watch that speech which I thought should have won that year in 2011. He had two sessions during the Bali conference and I learnt a thing or two on how to inject humour into your script and yes, humour is a skill. Let’s not forget that. It was good to see his girlfriend tagging along and apparently she is his mentor. Keep up the great synergy and I do hope you make again to the finals next year. He is a true inspiration for all toastmasters and such a humble guy in person. What more can you ask for?

World Champion of Public Speaking 2015 Mohammed Qahtani delivering his talk and he had the biggest cheer of the day

I admire Kwong Yue Yang, another competent speaker who believes that humour is a skill, not just talent. Very useful tips he shared with us.

I kinda enjoyed Dinesh Viswani’s deconstruction of a humourous speech. Very detailed, clear and leaves a lasting impression.

I was happy to introduce our speaker Miranda Suryadjaja from Bali and she shared her tips on listening (everyone’s weakness)

Kwan, Hazwan, Laurence and Amran chilling after a long Gala dinner but we all had fun behind the scenes. Thank you, Kwan and Laurence for helping out last weekend.

The contest.

Of course, we were rooting for our Division K representatives Kamaliah (humourous) and Aaron (evaluation). It was also the first time that I attended a District level convention for these particular categories. Both speakers were drawn to deliver first in their respective categories (Man, what are the chances?) and I would have to say that they set the standard for the rest of the competition. For those in toastmasters, District Level and Division Level are a different ball game. In order to get to District, you must win Division level first.

In the evaluation speech contest, our first international delegate Alicia Curtis for next year’s convention in Brunei, was the test speaker and she shared her journey with Abby, her dog. My prediction was spot on for the podium finish. Aaron did his very best and squeezed in 2nd runner up while Ricky from Medan had an awesome delivery but perhaps lacking in content and ended up 1st runner-up. The District Champion for evaluation belonged to Rebecca Chieng of Kuching and she deserved it with her crisp, clear-cut analysis on Alicia’s speech.

During the contest, I could see my neighbour Laurence Dumling who kept jotting down points on her phone as she herself was once a finalist in District but missed out this year as she came second in Division Level. She would have given a good run for the money should she had competed last weekend because I know she’s very capable when I first saw her evaluation last year and wow, I finally found my role model to learn more on delivery and be more discipline in training myself to be a great evaluator.

As for the main event (humourous contest), it left me wondering if I was actually witnessing an Area level contest or a District Contest. The finalists failed to live the expectations and I felt embarrassed that our invited guest Kwong had to  endure the agony of listening to all the low quality of speeches with a few exceptions. Of course, for me the top two speakers Rebecca Chieng and winner Kamalia were awesome when on stage. The rest of the contestants weren’t up to District Level and it’s just maybe …. just maybe one of those years that the other divisions struggled to bring the best out of their toastmasters journey.

Kamalia kicked off the show and it was a never-ending episodes of entertainment and laughters. She was the only one that had clapping ovations and in the end, she was rewarded with a standing moments from section of the audience. It was already an amazing beginning to the contest and I was already worried if the rest could maintained it. It was not to be and not meant to be either.

The second speaker literally killed my enthusiasm when he showed deliberate signs of stereotyping and it was simply too offensive to my liking. This is something the his Division should address to the matter. I could go on and on for the rest of the contestants but I shall not humiliate further (Ok, I just snap the rubber band on my wrist).

Seng Yee preparing for the Gala dinner. A big appreciation for her for helping with the registration from Brunei and all the way to Bali and also willing to help with the minor things to make the event go smoothly. A good team player.

Our champions in Division K and they excelled in District Level. Kamalia won in Humourous Contest while Aaron came 2nd runner up in Speech Evaluation. Rebecca Chieng from Kuching was the best performer for winning the Speech Evaluation and coming 2nd in Humourous.

Once again, our club managed to achieve President’s Distinguished Club for 2014-2015. Posing behind is our Immediate Past President Hazwan Kamarulzaman.

Shawn can really rock the crowd as he showed during the welcoming dinner at Harris Hotel’s garden area

The choo-choo train…

Shawn again…

and yes… Shawn again…

Kwong Yue Yang documenting the welcoming dinner

The Strongest Division.

So what I have learnt from this contest is that our Division K (Brunei, Sabah and Labuan) is pretty, pretty strong and I am proud of it because it’s also a testament on how Division K work so hard collectively as a unit from time to time. Reuben Chin has a been a great ambassador as our Division K Director and he has been flying in and out to visit different clubs in Sabah and maintain that strong bond within the Division.

New friends, newer bonds.

I believe that’s the intention – to foster and empower individuals and that can made possible through having special bonds between one another. I created new bonds with friends from Indonesia, Sabah and even from down under (Australia & New Zealand). These small gestures made a huge difference for a successful conference and not just attending educational sessions or witnessing the contests. It’s deeper than that and the reward will be much more fulfilling.

I’ve never received many business cards until last weekend. Well, I was pitching and encouraging toastmasters from different parts of the world to visit Brunei and be part of next’s convention in November 2016 which means I had to carry out a bit of homework and laying the foundation first. The responses have been quite encouraging and I truly hope that the event next year will be a blast because I believe the team can turn it into a memorable and magical moment.

Pranika never looked happier *inside joke*

An interesting welcoming dinner concept

All eyes on the World Champion of Public Speaking 2015

Sandy taking a photo pop with the Mohammed Qahtani

I’m impressed with Stuart Lee being the contest chair for the Humourous Contest and he’s also one of the sponsors for the event.

I had a great connection with my role model whom is an awesome speech evaluator. I will definitely see you and the gang when I visit Sabah next time.

It’s good to see Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club receiving an award

Before the big Gala dinner, we all had Burger King. I forgot to pay you Hazwan or are you “belanja-ing” us? 😀

The theme for the Gala dinner was Red and Black. This is the powerpoint and media table for the slides and music. It may looked easy but it wasn’t. You really have to focus and be alert. Well done, Nina and Seng Yee.

Pranika was one of the most popular toastmaster because she was always being picked on *lol* Then again, she had the best seat in the educational session where she given the opportunity to see right in front of Mohammed Qahtani. Pranika also made an impact as many spoke highly of her during the convention. Definitely an asset to our Area K6 and also to the organizing committee for next year’s convention

My appreciations.

Before I end, I would like to give a big shout out to Shawn Narcis and his wing-person Ruey Narcis on the amazing job in making our journey to Bali possible and also taking care of us despite your busy schedules. To me, Shawn has been a great ambassador for toastmasters in our Division and also to the District. If I were to choose, he will be our Toastmaster of the Year. A shoutout also to Rozana Yunos who pulled off a great Gala Dinner and we even had impromptu emcees to ease Hawzan’s role during the award ceremony. A job well done also to Shawn’s co-organising chair Liana Kwan in making the convention in Bali a success.

Most of all, I would like to appreciate the Brunei toastmasters for making it this far to Bali. It does mean a lot when you travel all the way from Brunei to attend a conference. It’s the small things that matter and you all have make a difference. Hence, the tagline for my convention in Brunei is “Making a Difference”. I look forward for next year’s conference in Sandakan hopefully if my travel plans permit.

Thank you once again for a memorable and magical convention. If you be in those moment, you will truly enjoy and I did. Peace out 😀

Quote from Shawn for the Brunei toastmaster group: “I miss all of you. Now only since I am back in Brunei, thinking of how great the event went, without each and everyone of you, the success would never have happened. I would like to apologize if I did anything wrong to hurt any of you. If I did, I didn’t do it on purpose.”

“The experience, the journey and the learning are only because we all are toastmasters from one District. That is why what we do, what we say, helped the members in our District. We will surely be stronger (as members of toastmasters). We all have wanted to learn what is toastmasters and now you know what toastmasters have given you. They have given you a new family who is willing to support your growth. So again, from the bottom of my heart , I love you, my toastmaster family.”

Dalton was the young hero of the weekend. A little gesture but it means a lot to Datin and she treats Dalton as her grandson. Awwwww.. Good job, Dalton.

Nur Iskandar and Allen trying to hold their laughs during the humourous speech contest.

My photo opportunity with Kwong. Let’s hope your fortune is brighter in the next competition.

International Director Patrick Oei with the toastmasters delegates

Truly had a good time with the committee. Truly proud of what we achieved even though it was in a foreign land.

One of the toughest job and that is finance. Allen Ang is in charge and it’s never an easy task to carry out.

 

Hjh Nurul Akmar Hj Mohd Jaafar BIBD’s head of consumer banking division and concurrent head of the bank’s CSR unit, Vivian Tie Suk Kee, Head of Rehabilitation Department at Jerudong Park Medical Centre, Wu Chun, director of Fitness Zone and Ak Danny, Marketing Officer of Jerudong Park Medical Centre during the press conference of the the musical broadway “Sebuah Perjalanan”

The Rehabilitation Department at Brunei Neuroscience, Stroke and Rehabilitation Centre (BNSRC) together with The Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) and supported by BIBD, will be organizing a musical broadway, “Sebuah Perjalanan” as part of the stroke and cancer patient’s therapeutic group activity programme. The musical is scheduled to be held tomorro, Sunday 1st November 2015, which coincides with the commemoration of World Stroke Day that is celebrated by countries around the world every year on 29th October.

The objective of the project is to create the best situation and environment, to help patients overcome their disabilities through meaningful rehabilitation that kindles sheer determination, states Vivian Tie Suk Kee, Head of Rehabilitation Department at JPMC. A total of 53 patients started practising to prepare for this event since 21 September 2015 which will last for 6 weeks, although about 20 will perform along with staff of the department. The whole process helps patients focus on a task for a good cause through rehabilitative strategies to help them recover their function and not on their disability. We hope to encourage and motivate the stroke patients to continue working hard towards further reducing their disabilities and achieving a more enriched life after a disabling stroke condition, she added.

With their previous TGA performances receiving positive feedback and positive clinical outcome, the department decided to take the next performance further by organizing a musical play, involving stroke patients and staff of BNSRC and JPMC. The story of the performance was written by a stroke patient based on real events together with staff of the Rehabilitation Department that aims to enhance the public’s awareness about stroke, the disability following stroke, its rehabilitation involved and the important elements for a successful recovery journey, stressing the importance of having fast medical attention.

Wu Chun urged the public to support the event

Vivian Tie whom I have so much respect for believing this project and she has so much passion and dedication to bring hope to stroke patients. Keep it up!!

The media of the partners and media

Wu Chun, Event Ambassador of “Sebuah Perjalanan” has previously shown his support by participating in preparations for the above event. “This Therapeutic Group Activity is very creative and helpful for patients, in working their brain and muscles. Through supporting this event, I can only do so much. We are here to create awareness and let the public know about how they can give a helping hand to those in need. Hopefully, they can spread the kind words and let others know more about this very sincere, yet meaningful event.”, stated Wu Chun previously. Live music will be supported by the amazing Uniq Band from Pusat Bahagia who are all visually impaired and also talented musicians from Expression Music Academy.

Meanwhile, Ak Danny Pg Tajuddin, Head of Marketing of JPMC stated, “The event will be held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) and is open to public with a ticket fee of BND25 (Balcony seats and free T-Shirt designed and autographed by Wu Chun), BND15 (Front row) and BND10 (Back row). All proceeds from this event will be donated to a charity organisation, BIBD ALAF. This initiative is fully supported by BNSRC’s Management. Stay tune to find out more about this event by following JPMC’s Facebook Page, The Jerudong Park Medical Centre, and Instagram Profile, @JPMCBrunei and @BNSRC_musical.” Tickets can be bought at JPMC, Energy Kitchen, Fitness Zone, Bake Culture and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Beribi).

Rehabilitation Department offers treatments available that includes Falls Prevention, Geriatric and Pediatric Rehabilitation, Back and Neck Pain, Stroke and Spinal Cord Injury, Orthopedics and Sports Injury. For more information, please visit their website at www.jpmc.cm.bn.

Wu Chun showing during the practice session and giving the stroke patients motivation for the upcoming musical event

Garage Sale tomorrow 1st November (Sunday)

 

Flying off with my toastmasters buddies to Bali, Indonesia two nights ago

Sorry for the lack of updates. Getting a good wifi connection is challenging in Bali. The Seagrass Villa looks awesome and everyone is happy but the internet speed could have been improved. Hence, it’s difficult for me to upload pictures and post in on my blog. So do bear with me for the lack of updates until I get a stable connection.

I will be away for a few weeks for leisure, toastmasters and a leadership course and this is the longest I will be away from Brunei. I will be more frequent on instagram and Snapchat feed (ranoadidas) so catch me there.

I can’t believe that this is my fourth first visit to Bali but I would have love if I had the chance to travel to Lombok which is only 20 minutes (by flight). Lombok is one of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia and it’s a pity that not many Bruneians travel there.

Interestingly enough, I had a quick briefing with the representatives of the Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia and they shared how the Bruneians don’t really know about Indonesia but show great interests after being exposed to many places of interest in Indonesia alone during the recent Brunei Travel fair.

Sulaiman Shehdek, Country Manager from the Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia, was pleased to announced that there was an increase of 2.71% of Bruneians traveling to Indonesia as compared to last year and this number could simply grow if the locals are more aware of the tourism product that Indonesia can offer. They already made their presence felt during the Brunei Travel Fair, taking up a huge space and the responses were overwhelming.

Yesterday the Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia (for Brunei Market) upped the game by having business matching sessions with selected travel agents in Brunei to give more exposure and encourage more Bruneians to travel to Indonesia. With the Royal Brunei Airline flights to Surabaya, Jakarta and Bali, these shows that there is a huge potential in tourist arrivals from Brunei alone.

So to my readers, do make Indonesia a preferred choice for vacation. It was just a coincidence that the ministry invited me for a tourism briefing and I am here in Bali with my own agenda/plan and sharing my experiences in Bali once more.

Interviewing with representatives from Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia

The villa we are staying at for the past few nights

Amran doing a frog splash into the pool

We are simply too tired on the 2nd day

However the people in the other were more excited than us *lol*

Chilling at Tanah Lot

The beautiful sunset

Dining at one of the recommended places

Gary and Pranika enjoying their meals

Gerald with one of the fire dance performancers

Happy Birthday Seng Yee 😀

 

There is gonna be a colour run but this time it has a tag line of “Ikhlas Run with Colours” and it is organised by the Seameo Voctech (where we always have our Brunei Speakers’ Club meetings) with Heroes BN as their event partner. The event is also in conjunction with the SEAMEO’s Golden Jubilee and SEAMEO VOCTECH’s silver jubilee.

For your info, SEAMEO means Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organisation whereas VOCTECH means Vocational and Technical Education and Training.

So this will be the first that there will be a 3KM and 5KM colour run in Brunei Darussalam. The run will take place on 15th November at the Indoor Stadium Berakas. The online registration ends on 30th October which is pretty soon. So click here to register and have fun 😀

 

New ministers and deputy ministers sworn in. Video by The Brunei Times.

Brunei’s new Cabinet ministers and deputy ministers were sworn in for a five-year term at Istana Nurul Iman this morning, October 26, 2015.

The swearing-in ceremony was held three days after His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalamm, announced the Cabinet reshuffle on state television.

A total of 21 office-bearers took their oaths before the Sultan during the hour-long ceremony, including His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister ‘s Office.

His Majesty retains the posts of prime minister, defence minister, finance minister and took over the foreign affairs and trade portfolio from His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah.

Five new faces are also included in the Cabinet line-up. Source: The Brunei Times.

So what flavour are you?

It was great to see Richard To (in Superman tee) and his mother at Chatime last weekend. I do miss my Power Ranger days *lol*

The well known bubble tea franchise is here in the city. The first one was opened in Kuala Belait. Now the Taiwanese tea franchise, Chatime, opened its second branch in Citis Square. I only noticed of Chatime when I was traveling to Kuala Lumpur and apparently, it’s quite big in KL and to my surprise, a few of my friends kinda know of Chatime and they prefer the drinks from Chatime. The soft opening was last Saturday and the responses were great to begin with.

Grace Chen, the master franchise of Chatime for Brunei market, was happy that the second outlet was ready to serve the customers. The grand opening is slated soon and it will tie with some promotion as well. So what flavours are the popular ones? Do try the QQ Passion Fruit, the Maccha Red Bean or the Chocolate Milk Tea or the usual Pearl Milk Tea. My personal favourite is the blend mix of maccha and red bean.

Chatime can also cater to your sugar level and even ice level and you can enjoy a selection of 8 toppings.

Chatime in Citis Square is located not far from Burger King. Enjoy!!! You can follow on their IG @chatime_brunei

Sin Yi and Ming Rui enjoying their Chatime. However, Ming Rui is craving for the taro flavour which is not available just yet

The interior of Chatime at Citis Square outlet

It’s gonna be a busy month at Chatime

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar, the Minister of Home Affairs was the guest of honour during the BIBD CE ALAF’s prize presentation last Sunday.

BIBD CE ALAF became another hit among the locals. Thousands showed up last Sunday for another edition of BIBD CE ALAF programme. It stands for Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Charity Expedition for Advocating Life-Long Learning for an Aspiring Future. The event took place at the usual Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.

The guest of honour was the Minister of Home Affairs, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong presented prizes to the winners.

It was also nice to see former Minister of MIPR at the cycling category. Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar cycled during the expedition accompanied by Javed Ahmad, BIBD’s Managing Director and both of them are cycling enthusiasts.

Javed was quick to point out the volunteers for their great contribution to the community. Did you know they have roughly 900 volunteers in helping out the BIBD event to be a success? Amazing feat.

Great job to the BIBD team especially to Hajah Nurul Akmar binti Haji Mohd Ja’afar , Head of BIBD’s Corporate Social Responsibility, in leading the team to greater heights and also making the event another success.

Below are the winners of the respective categories.

Stephen Mungathia Nikubitu 1st place, Charles Munya Njaki 2nd place and Bernard Muthoni 3rd place in the Men Open 21km

Sefli Ahar 1st place, Abdul Malik bin Hidup 2nd place and Mohammad Samsul Zamri bin Muhammad Samsul Zam 3rd place in the Brunei Male 21 KM category

Tarus Gladus Jep Kechei 1st, Cheptoeck Careen 2nd and Esther Wambui Karimi 3rd in the Open Female 21KM category

Jenny Tan Feng Ling 1st place, Marnie Ahmad 2nd place and Jalquirey Cheng Nee 3rd place in Brunei Women 21 KM

James Cikunga Karanja 1st , Charles Kipkorir Kipsang 2nd and Titus Kipngetich 3rd in the Male Open 10Km category

Mastani Yussof 1st, Razali Sabli 2nd and Mohd Shah Azahar bin Abdullah 3rd in the Brunei Male 10Km category

Isabelan Kigen 1st, Valentine Jepkemoi Serem 2nd and Sarah Powdrill 3rd in the Female Open 10Km category

Nice t-shirt

Nurul Amirah Kariml 1st, Nurizyenny Muslim 2nd and Liza Hamid 3rd in the Brunei Female 10K category

Nikmatul Fatinah Haji Ismail 1st, Shazana Hamiroldzam 2nd and Dawn Lovell 3rd in the Female 5Km category

Kamau Kamau 1st (amazing feat of almost 16 minutes in the 5km run), Muhd Qamarul Ariffin Hifn 2nd and Lim Wei Kuang 3rd in the Male 5Km category

The winners of the Brunei Travel Fair feted two weeks ago

Irene Soon, General Manager of Abacus Brunei thanked all the stakeholders involved in the Brunei Travel Fair and also their customers

Late post: Well done to all the 13 winners of the recent Brunei Travel Fair as they won from the lucky draws organised by Acabus (B) Sdn Bhd which was held at Royal Brunei Recreation Club. The prizes were sponsored by Abacus Brunei, Royal Brunei Airlines (RB), Nautilus Diving Bali, Holiday Inn Express, Pathumwan Princess and Tourism Authority of Thailand and the official bank, Baiduri Bank.

The biggest winner was Nor Liyana Naqibah Bahren as she won one return air ticket to London and it was an anti-climax moment when new born Siti Nurzafirah Abd Azim won two air tickets to Melbourne. Maggie Sim won four return economy air tickets to Ho Chi Minh City and the fourth prize went to Kok Ngean with three return tickets to Bali. All the prizes were sponsored by Royal Brunei Airlines.

Holiday Inn Express (Thailand) sponsored prizes as well. Both Mohammad Hajatul Nazri Roslan and Mastura Kalong won a two night stay at Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Sathorn and Siam while Morsidi Haji Damit won a three-day-two-night free accommodation at Pathumwan Princess Hotel.

My friend @marul69 had one in five chances to win the GoPro Hero 4 but the Abacus grand prize went to Tan Meng Gueh, who purchased a ticket from Freme Travel Services. Instead Marul and the other consolation winners won a handy power bank. This category prizes were sponsored by Abacus Brunei.

Abacus Brunei also awarded prizes to the top travel agencies who registered the highest incremental bookings during the Brunei Travel Fair. It was no surprise that Pan Bright Travel won first place (as they have a good marketing gimmick) and this was followed by Darussalam Holdings Sdn Bhd and Freme Travel Services Sdn Bhd.

Present during the prize presentation were the representatives from the organisers and partners. Handing the prizes were Joan Lim, Head of RB’s Commercial Service; Pengiran Azaleen bin Pengiran Dato Haji Mustapha, Head of Baiduri Bank Retail Banking and Branch Network; Irene Soon, General Manager of Abacus Brunei and Abd Halim Haji Abd Rahman, Senior Manager (Sales and Marketing) of Abacus Brunei.

According to Abacus Brunei, they have an increase of bookings compared to last year. This shows that the travel industry is a lucrative market because we love to go on holidays. I managed to buy tickets to Kota Kinabalu and Bali but unlucky not be shortlisted in the lucky draw. Maybe next time 😀

The winners of the flight to London, Melbourne, Ho Chi Minh City and Bali

The winners of the hotel accommodation in Thailand

Tan Meng Gueh won a GoPro Hero 4

The winners of the Abacus Brunei lucky draw

It was a packed occasion during the Brunei Travel Fair

The top three travel agents during the travel fair – Pan Bright Travel, Darussalam Holdings and Freme Travel

Representatives from Jerudong International School

FOBISIA is the Federation of British and International Schools in Asia. Jerudong International School is proud and honoured to be selected to host the FOBISIA Tennis Tournament. The visiting teams include the Bangkok Patana School, Marlborough College (Malaysia), Harrow International School (Bangkok), United World College of South East Asia, United World College of South East Asia-Dover Campus, The International School @ ParkCity, ACS Jakarta, St. Andrews, International School Bangkok, British School Manila, International School Brunei (ISB), Garden International School Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) and British School Jakarta.

As well as the competitors and their coaches, many of the visiting teams are accompanied by an entourage of very supportive parents. Mr Barnaby Sandow, JIS Principal said “It is wonderful to be able to have the opportunity to welcome our overseas guests to Brunei Darussalam and JIS – to be able to show them what a special place this is and what a fantastic school JIS is. “

I attended the afternoon session yesterday and I was quite impressed with the young talents and I know they can teach me a lesson or two on the court despite their small figures. I do hope one day that Brunei will have a youth academy system in place to groom the tennis enthusiasts at a very young age. I believe we have the talent but it has to start from an early age to unlock the potential.

Five BIBD customers had a shopping spree worth BND 500 yesterday as part of BIBD’s Swipe for Rewards campaign. The event took place at Giant Rimba yesterday.

Pg Suhardy bin Pg Hj Nordin, BIBD’s Head of Branches presented shopping voucher to a lucky winner

Five lucky BIBD customers were all smiles as they received Giant shopping vouchers worth BND500 each from BIBD’s final monthly “Swipe for Rewards” campaign.

Pg Suhardy bin Pg Hj Nordin, BIBD’s Head of Branches, presented the shopping vouchers to the winners, who took the opportunity to use their vouchers to fill several  trolleys with groceries from Giant Supermarket.

The BIBD Swipe for Rewards campaign was open to any customers who spend a minimum of BND30 in a single receipt using either the BIBD Debit or Credit Cards at selected retailers, with the opportunity to win shopping vouchers worth BND500.00.

BIBD is also currently running its sixth Barakah campaign until the 30th of November, 2015. The campaign allows BIBD customers a chance to win a grand prize of a Honda Odyssey along with consolation prizes of Apple iPhones and iPads on top of its monthly prizes of electrical appliances. Registration is automatic and simple as all they need to do to join is sign up for any BIBD financing product or assign their salary to BIBD.

Another lucky recipient

It’s shopping time!!

Always love how they choose what they want

It’s always good to survey the supermarket the day before the shopping spree

Lt Col (rtd) Dato Hj Samid Hj Abd Aziz and his son, Hj Mohd Aminuddin receiving their first prize from Mr. Teng Chee Khiong, organising committee chairman of 6th Brunei edition of the Audi quattro Cup

The donation of BND 26,800 was handed to Pusat Ehsan

The rainy morning (last Sunday) didn’t dampen the spirits of the golfers during the 6th Brunei edition of the Audi quattro Cup amateur gold tournament at the Royal Brunei Golf Club in Jerudong. The tournament also celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Audi quattro cup worldwide.

Present at the event was Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hazair bin Haji Abdullah, who presented the trophies to the winning teams.

Over 130 teams took part this year with many sign-ups taking place on the day, marking the biggest turn-out to date. The enthusiasm for the event meant that BND 26,800.00 was collected from all the golfers entry fees, which benefited Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam. A mock check was presented during the prize presentation ceremony by Organizing Committee Chairman, Mr. Teng Chee Khiong to Hj Ahmad Bin Abd Rahman, the Policy & Planning Trustee for Pusat Ehsan.

Lt Col (rtd) Dato Hj Samid Hj Abd Aziz and his son, Hj Mohd Aminuddin won the tournament, carded a 45 on count back (ocb) and booked their place at the World’s Final at the Cabo del Sol Ocean Course in Mexico. Hj Osman Salleh and Hj Raya Dollah finished second after posting a 45, meanwhile Ang Kian Han and Simon Newn carded a 44 to settle for a third place.

From November 29th until December 3rd the winners of all national Audi quattro Cup qualifications will meet on the Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol to compete for the final victory and to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Audi quattro Cup golf tournament series. 55 countries, 750 tournaments, 100.000 players – after another exciting season around the globe the Audi quattro Cup will come to its crowning finish at the World Final in Los Cabos with 58 teams participating. Good luck to our Brunei representatives.

No one won the hole-in-one prize

Congratulations to the 3 winners of BIBD’s Agoda promotion who each won 100,000 Hadiah Points

Datin Paduka Hjh Adina with Pehin Onn Siew Siong and the management of The Escape Experience last Sunday

The Escape Experience, Brunei’s first fully fledged “escape the room” game, was officially opened during a small opening ceremony on last Sunday.

The guest of honour was Datin Paduka Hjh Adina Othman, the former Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, who participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony to officiate the opening with Pehin Onn Siew Siong, the President of the Kuala Belait Chinese Chamber of Commerce. After the ceremony, Datin Paduka Hjh Adina and her family had the opportunity to experience some of the rooms, led by one of the partners from The Escape Experience, On Hung Zheng.

The whole concept of the The Escape Experience” is unique adventure based games where players are locked into a room with objects, having to search for clues and solve puzzles against the clock.
There are five uniquely themed rooms at the Escape Experience, such as the Doraemon and Super Mario rooms, which is fun for adults and children while The Prison Break room is said to be thrilling with an intense atmosphere. The Escape Experience hopes to add more themes in the future with a rotating schedule to keep things fresh and keep players on their toes.

Each room can accommodate up to 6 players, but teams of 4-5 are recommended for each room, and children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. The experience is not just for families and friends, but can also be tailored for corporate events and team building activities.

They are open 7 days a week, with the first game slot at 1pm, except on Fridays, and are open until late. Booking for time slots is recommended, but walk-ins are welcomed. Prices start at $17 at off-peak times, with a $1 discount for customers who like their Facebook Page.

The Escape Experience is located at Unit F3 of the Setia Kenangan Two building behind Regent Square in Kampung Kiulap. Customers can WhatsApp +6738287778 to book slots or make enquiries.

Two weeks ago, we attempted the Prison Break and it took us more than an hour :p

Sisters Winnie and Elva needed to be rescued

How did we go in Prison Break? It could have been better.

Next up was Mario. We had a good run with team mates – Winnie, Alex and Rachel

The clues are pretty tricky. You will need to think outside the box but rewarding once you unlocked the clues.

We did better in Mario than Prison Break *lol*

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam during his titah and announcement of the reshuffling and appointments of the Cabinet Ministers yesterday. His Majesty the Sultan holds four posts – as the Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Minister of Defence and now Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Image courtesy of Infofoto.

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince, retains his position as Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office. Image courtesy of un.org

Who’s who? This has been the talking point for the past few months. The public was teased way back in May as it was supposedly the end of the 5 year term in their respective positions as Cabinet Ministers. The announcement didn’t happen then (in May) but there was a viral message that spread through social media. It was information on the leaked version of the proposed ministers. I remember receiving it as well but to my knowledge (if I could remember), the leaked list and the actual appointments of the Cabinet Ministers didn’t have many resemblance at all. So my point is don’t rely on viral or circulated news unless it’s made official.

I am glad the wait is over and I am happy that His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, has finally reshuffled and appointed the Cabinet Ministers. According to the titah, His Majesty the Sultan carries four posts – as the Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, Minister of Defence and now Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, will retain his position as Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office.

Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Awg Abu Bakar Hj Apong has been appointed as the new Minister of Home Affairs, after previously holding the post of Education Minister for the past five years. He was also previously Minister of Communications. Now I do hope I can address the issue especially for permanent residents of Brunei Darussalam who doesn’t have a passport but instead a “Certificate of Identity” document.

Next up is Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Suyoi Hj Osman who is now appointed as the Minister of Education. He has been a minister for the past ten years and he has done tremendously well as the Minister of Health (2005-2010) and Minister of Development. I am aware that things were kinda sour between us and I took full responsibility for my actions. I do hope we can work closely and hand-in-hand in the near future and for the benefit of the country.

Another minister that has retained his position is Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Hj Abd Rahman Hj Ibrahim and he is still the Minister of Finance II and furthermore, he is also appointed as a Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office. He’s one of the ministers that I have yet to break the ice with for all these years.

Having being entrusted by His Majesty, Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Dewa Dato Seri Setia Lim Jock Seng, will be running his third term as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade II (since 2005) and he was also being appointed as a Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office. If you see the pattern, both Pehin Rahman and Pehin Lim Jock Seng have two ministerial posts.

Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Hj Mohammad Yasmin Hj Umar maintained his ministerial role in Energy and Industry at the Prime Minister’s Office. If you notice now that the ministry name have changed and now it’s called Energy and Industry. Previously it was just Energy at the Prime Minister’s Office. Before he was a minister, he served as a Deputy Minister of Defence. He is perhaps one of the most active (hands-on) ministers that I have come across as he’s always mingling with the public while making his rounds on related events such as the Oil & Gas job fair.

Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Hj Awg Badaruddin Pengarah Dato Paduka Hj Awg Othman has been moved from the position of Minister of Home Affairs to the position of Minister of Religious Affairs. Again, he’s one of the ministers that I never had the chance to talk or interview.

Now next up are the promotions to ministerial levels. First up with have Dato Paduka Hj Bahrin Abdullah who is now our Minister of Development. He previous was the Deputy Minister of Finance. He is also the chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines.

Dato Paduka Hj Ali Hj Apong has been promoted as the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism after holding the Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office. Now this is interesting. This is the first time that I noticed the word tourism used for a ministerial position. Does this mean that Brunei will soon turn their attention to lure in more foreigners to Brunei? Hopefully there will be increased in budget for the Brunei Tourism Development. The previous ministerial post was called the Ministry of Primary Resources and Industry. Anyway, Dato Paduka Hj Ali Hj Apong is also the chairman of Brunei Economic Development Board.

Dato Paduka Hj Mustappa Hj Sirat was a former Deputy Defence Minister. He is now appointed as the Minister of Communications. Would that mean he will be automatically be the chairman of the BIT Council? Most likely he will be and this will give more opportunity for me to get to know hime better in person.

We also have a new minister for Culture, Youth and Sports and he is Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Hj Awg Halbi Hj Mohd Yusof. He previously hold the post as Deputy Minister of Home Affairs. With an army background, let’s see what changes can be made especially to our national athletes. Then again, budget is always the main issue.

One of the appointments that I was very grateful and overwhelmed was the new Minister of Health. He adds dynamism to the organisation and a well respected figure in University Brunei Darussalam where he still holds his post as the Vice-Chancellor. He is no other than Dato Paduka Dr Hj Zulkarnain Hj Hanafi. He previously held the position as the Permanent Secretary of Education. Of all the current appointments, he had the biggest jump of the lot.

Dato Paduka Hj Bahrin Abdullah who is now our Minister of Development and currently also holds the post as chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.

Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Hj Awg Halbi Hj Mohd Yusof, the new Minister for Culture, Youth and Sports. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.

Dato Paduka Dr Hj Zulkarnain Hj Hanafi, new Minister of Health cum Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Brunei Darussalam.

Dato Paduka Hj Mustappa Hj Sirat takes his new position as Minister of Communications. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.

All the previous Deputy Ministers are being replaced with familiar faces during their previous roles as permanent secretaries.

Dato Paduka Hj Hamdan Hj Abu Bakar was promoted from permanent secretary (security and enforcement) at the Prime Minister’s Office to Deputy Minister at the same ministry.

Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Roselan Hj Mohd Daud has also been promoted to a Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, after heading the PENGGERAK Unit as permanent secretary since 2014. I had a strong feeling that he will be promoted one day and he’s a very nice guy.

First Admiral Dato Seri Pahlawan Abdul Aziz Hj Mohd Tamit is now the Deputy Minister of Defence. Previously he was the Deputy Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

Dato Paduka Dr Hj Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah is now the Deputy Minister of Finance and also holds position as chairman of DST and Jerudong Park Medical Centre. He was previously a permanent secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources.

Also sharing the same position as Deputy Finance Minister is Dato Paduka Hj Hisham Hj Mohd Hanifah. He was previously the permanent secretary (policy and investment) at the Ministry of Finance.

Dato Paduka Hj Erywan Pehin Dato Pekerma Jaya Hj Mohd Yusof has been promoted to Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade where he was previously the permanent secretary. Mind you that there wasn’t any Deputy Minister for MOFAT for many, many years.

Pg Dato Paduka Hj Bahrom Pg Hj Bahar, has been moved from his post as Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, to become Deputy Minister of Education.

Dato Paduka Hj Abd Mokti Hj Daud is now Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs and he was previously Brunei Darussalam Ambassador to Saudi Arabia.

Dato Paduka Hj Suhaimi Hj Gapar has been promoted from his permanent secretary role to Deputy Minister of Development. This position has been vacant for many years so it’s good to see that there is a deputy role in this ministry.

The ministries that have vacant post in the “Deputy” level are Primary Resources and Tourism, Communications and Culture, Youth and Sports and Home Affairs.

Congratulations to all the Cabinet Ministers that were being appointed and it feels refreshing to see a new line-up of leaders taking new responsibilities to move the nation forward and also uphold His Majesty the Sultan and the country’s vision.

Dato Paduka Hj Hamdan Hj Abu Bakar, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office. Image courtesy of Borneo Bulletin.

Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Roselan Hj Mohd Daud, Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.

Dato Paduka Hj Erywan Pehin Dato Pekerma Jaya Hj Mohd Yusof, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade. I only saw him during last year’s Asean Summit. Many positive vibes about him. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.

His Majesty urged the new government cabinet to work as a team and make the country prosperous.

“Although they are of different ministries, they are still members of a team having a common objective: to make the country prosperous. Working as a team, each one of them is expected to contribute or at least lend support to any idea or proposal for the good of other ministries and for the sake of the country,” the monarch said.

“It is my hope that the next line-up of leaders will not ignore the ethics of being fellow members in a team. They are expected to be wise in making decisions and weighing up any matter that has to do with the country and the government.”

“The question is will we be able to preserve and continue to enjoy these favours? It is here where the issue lies. Our religion has provided the guidance that such favours could be preserved, but it still all depends on our own attitude.”

“Justice is to be delivered on the people, not for oneself. Justice for self-interest is not justice but (a form of) cruelty. That’s why at times readiness to listen to good ideas from others below you, or listening to complaints or grievances from others could be deemed to have satisfied the need to be just.”

Of course, in every reshuffling and appointments, the public is always eager to see who will be the leaders in the respective cabinet of the Brunei Government. Change is always good and responses from the public have been encouraging and perhaps shocking to some. I’m certainly shocked of two non-appointments. First is the non-renewal of His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He was one of the longest serving Ministers in Brunei Darussalam. He was appointed as Foreign Minister ever since Brunei gained independence in year 1984. Thank you for your leadership for the past decades and Brunei has good bilateral relationship with regional countries and internationally and we are truly grateful for that.

The other non-renewal appointment was former Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Datin Paduka Hjh Adina Othman. There have been rumours that she could have been promoted but it wasn’t to be. Then again, she has served His Majesty’s government for more than 35 years and she has retired previously. She has served the country to her best and now she can retire on a high note.

There are other five ministers who were not being appointed – former Minister of Industry and Primary Resources Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Hj Yahya Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar; former Minister of Communications Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Abdullah Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar; former Minister of Health Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Adanan Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Hj Mohd Yusof; former Minister of Religious Affairs Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Pg Hj Abdul Rahman; and former Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Hj Hazair Hj Abdullah.

His Majesty the Sultan thanked all for their service and contribution to the nation.

BIBD today announced new partners into the 2015 BIBD CE ALAF (Charity Expedition for Advocating Life-Long Learning for an Aspiring Future Programme). Fajr Capital (Dubai) and Silverlake (Malaysia) has come on board as Platinum Sponsors to the ALAF Programme, while Kristal FM and Radio Television Brunei have signed on as the Official Broadcaster Radio and Official Broadcaster Television partners to help raise awareness on CE ALAF as well as other efforts related to the event.

BIBD also welcomes new partners, Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd (PCSB) who has agreed to contribute a one year subscription plan and a Vivo Y22 as a lucky draw prize, along with a co-branded runner t-shirts for the first one hundred participants who have raised at least B$100. At the same time, PCSB will also be providing support via providing volunteers for the ALAF event.

Happening this Sunday. Are you ready?

The Brunei Neuroscience Stroke Rehabilitation Centre (BNSRC) together with the Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) are also on board as sound supporters of the programme whereby they will also be organizing the a Musical Broadway titled ‘Sebuah Perjalanan’ as part of the stroke and cancer patients’ Therapeutic Group Activity. Proceeds from tickets sales will be donated to the BIBD ALAF Program.

Meanwhile, as the Official Airline Partner, RB (Royal Brunei) will be providing a business class return ticket to Melbourne and Bangkok each for winners of the 21kM and 10km, Men and Women Bruneian category. BIBD also welcomes support from government agencies such as the Department of Electrical Services along with the Customs & Excise Department towards the Charity Expedition.

Yang Mulia Hajah Nurul Akmar binti Haji Mohd Ja’afar, in her capacity as Head of BIBD’s Corporate Social Responsibility commented “Alhamdulillah for the overwhelming support gained for not just the charity expedition, but also the ALAF programme. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved, from all partners, volunteers and supporters for their kind support for the programme.

This is it!!! I’m looking forward to this but I’m not too sure if I have the time just yet. It’s happening this coming Saturday. This is a FREE workshop (Adult Colouring Workshop) for customers who purchase “LOST OCEAN” colouring book from any Best Eastern store in Brunei.

The seats are limited so it’s a good idea to register. The workshop will be conducted by full-time artists at Jo-Art Gallery – Nabil, Fikri and Haronli.

This will be the first time a colouring workshop will be held. It will be a comprehensive workshop ranging from the materials of the colour pencil to the techniques of colouring (shading, rendering, colour scheme, blending and even discipline.

The venue will be at Mabohai Shopping Complex this Saturday 24th October and it’s co-organised by Best Eastern and Jo-Art Gallery.

Oh one more thing, don’t forget that there will be another colouring competition for adults on 1st November. Sadly I won’t be in the country then. Let’s hope for more participants in the second round. Good luck!!

Acer Aspire V Nitro. Another end to end stuff from Concepts Computer who are one of the biggest vendors at the TechXpo 2015 happening today at the ICC until this coming Sunday.

There will be having many good promotions and firstly is the Aspire V Nitro notebooks. There are two specs of the Aspire V Nitro on promotion but the one that caught my eye is the Aspire V Nitro the “17 inch one because it’s fast and it’s quiet too. The attention to detail is just spot on for this version and they have many ports available. Check out the posters below for more details.

When you purchase any of the Aspire V Nitro, it will come with 3 years warranty and especially if you buy now (during the TechXpo,) you can save up to BND 400 and even get FREE gifts worth BND 200.

Acer projector. Now if you are looking for projectors, look no further. The prices now become affordable and it’s the newly improved Acer projector. This is ideal for presentation and also perhaps for your in-house theatre screen.

It carries a 2 year warranty and the lamp also has a 1 year warranty or 1,000 hours whichever comes first. It’s powered with 3,200 ANSI Lumens with HDMI port and dual-VGA. This BND 398 deal is also offered at TechXpo today till Sunday. So look out for the Acer P1185 or just check the poster below for more details.

Epson printers. For all the heavy duty printer users out there especially students and teachers, this is one of the fastest selling brand in Brunei – Epson – because of you all. If you want to talk about efficiency and also cost savings, then target for the Epson printers. These printers have high recommendation even among our peers (my media friends) who are also active users of Epson printers.

Imagine with just four colour ink bottles that you will be able to print up to 6,500 colour pages. Now that’s a plenty and I like the new concept of having the ink cartridge being placed outside the printer so it will be convenient should you want to refill.

It’s no surprise that Epson have sold 2 million units alone in Southeast Asia and Brunei is one of the growing market leader in terms of growth per capita. So do check out their Super Deals at TechXpo today till Sunday.

In collaboration with UnionPay, the fastest growing card brand in the world, Baiduri Bank is currently having a 3-month campaign where Baiduri UnionPay Debit Cardholders will earn freebies and stand a chance to win shopping sprees when they use their cards at participating outlets each weekend till December.

Aptly named “Take me Shopping with Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card”, the promotion which started on 25 September 2015 will run every Friday to Sunday till 13 December 2015. During the promotion, Baiduri UnionPay debit cardholders will receive a free shopping bag when they spend a minimum of B$50 at participating supermarkets during the designated weekends, while stocks last.

The promotion will cover 14 different supermarket outlets, including supermarket chains Hua Ho, Soon Lee, Jaya Hypermart, Supa Save, Sim Kim Huat, Freshco, First Emporium and Utama Grand. Each weekend, a different outlet will be featured so that customers residing in the different districts will have a chance to participate.

Besides receiving shopping bags, shoppers also get a chance to win monthly shopping sprees worth B$150 each at selected supermarket throughout the campaign.

An Instagram competition is also being held back-to-back with the shopping campaign. Customers who post creative photos of themselves with the “Take Me Shopping with Baiduri Union Pay” shopping bag will get a chance to win shopping vouchers worth B$20 each week. Terms and conditions can be viewed on the Baiduri Bank website or through Baiduri Deals mobile app.

The “Take me Shopping with Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card” campaign was organized to create public awareness on the card’s user-friendliness and other benefits of owning a Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card.

Unlike conventional signature-based payment cards, the Baiduri UnionPay Debit Card requires a personalized identification number or PIN to be keyed in by the cardholder for any transactions to be approved, thus, giving cardholders a high level of protection from fraud or misuse of the card. This unique feature also allows cardholders to use the debit card as an ATM card too.

The Baiduri UnionPay Debit card is accepted at over 2,000 local merchants and more than 26 million UnionPay merchants in over 150 countries and allows withdrawals at all Baiduri ATMs, other local ATMs, and over 1.9 million ATMs worldwide.

More information about Baiduri Bank’s current promotions can be obtained from the Bank’s website at www.baiduri.com, ‘Baiduri Deals’ mobile app or their Call Centre at 244 9666. To be in the know of Baiduri Bank current promotions and events, the public can also follow Baiduri Bank Group on Facebook or @baiduribank on Instagram and Twitter.

New vacancies available at Concepts Computer

 

The operation team behind SBI (B) Sdn Bhd – Rafiuddin Ghazali, Vice President, Hariz Shaminan, Associate, Liza Shafiee, Assistant Vice-President and Michelle Chong, Office Administrator

I had an interesting session with the management and associates from SBI (B) Sdn Bhd, a private equity fund manager in Brunei Darussalam and it’s always interesting to know how does a private equity fund manager works in the country. I was aware of a few companies that have similar operations but currently, the active one I’m aware is SBI.

The history of company goes back to 2010 when it started its first Fund. And it’s a jointly ventured between the Ministry of Finance and SBI Holdings Inc, a Japanese leading multinational financial services company. The businesses they eye on and how they invest have to be Syariah-compliant too.

Speaking to Amran Mohamad, the CEO of SBI (B) Sdn Bhd, he shared that the company invests in Brunei as well as in other countries in the Asia Pacific region. He disclosed that they recently successfully sold off two companies profitably. One by IPO listing on the Singapore stock exchange, while the other was a technology company which SBI helped grow by acquisitions to as far as Rio de Janiero.

Rafiuddin Ghazali, Vice President of SBI (B) Sdn Bhd being interviewed and he showed me around the office

To assist with economic diversification, the company has brought in one international company to set up businesses and operations in Brunei Darussalam with a few more planned, due to economic stability, research grants, and a highly educated workforce. Amran highlighted that the company has been closely working with Brunei Economic Development Board in this process. Let’s hope that the international companies are able to successfully operate in the Sultanate as this will be a win-win situation for Brunei and its economy. Amran said that the company is now busy setting up a second Fund and needs to expand its human personnels to help the company manage more investments.

Don’t forget to hand in your application. There is still time.

According to Rafiuddin Ghazali, Vice-President of SBI (B) Sdn Bhd, shared that they have been receiving applicants for the past two weeks and he encouraged those who have a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or Finance or Economics or Engineering or Law (LLB) should apply for the allocated positions. Not to worry as they will be providing training locally and internationally after identifying your weak areas and groom you up so you will gain more knowledge and understand how to be a Private Equity fund manager.

I love the perks because you will have the privilege to travel here and there as part of the job scope. The working hours are also flexible and it’s not like a 9 to 5 job at all. So if you are a Brunei Citizen or Permanent Resident, give this application a shot.

Hariz Shaminan, Associate of SBI (B) Sdn Bhd receiving the application from interested parties during my visit

Those interested can send in their cover letter and detailed resumes with recent passport sized photograph and send to the following address: SBI (B) Sdn Bhd, Unit 1, Level 3, Dar Takaful Utama, Jalan Pemancha, Bandar Seri Begawan, or by email to admin@sbib.com.bn.

 

Congratulations Laneige (Brunei) for your 10th anniversary

Patricia Li (3rd from left) celebrating with their loyal customers and guests during the cake presentation

Congratulations to Patricia Li and her team on the 10th year anniversary of Laneige (Brunei). Wow!! It has been that long, aye? Well done and I’m really inspired by your growth and consistency of your company and able to serve the customers in Brunei Darussalam. Cosmetic is definitely a competitive market worldwide and the same goes to Brunei Darussalam. Of course, with a very competent and established brand, many Bruneians and the public trust Laneige’s products. For the record, Laneige has been around for 20 years.

Two Sunday ago, Laneige (Brunei) invited guests and also in attendance were the spouses of Diplomatic Corps and loyal customers. They were treated to goodie bags.

The welcoming remarks were made by General Manager of Laneige Brunei, Patricia Li, the lady behind the success of Laneige in Brunei. She’s very grateful to all the customers and the people that have crossed path with her and thanks them for believing in the international brand. Pat Li is not just the iconic figure of the brand for Brunei but she carries the passion on what she believes in and also focuses on customer service to give the best experience for their customers.

Laneige (Brunei) also had a special gimmick for all the attendees as they were treated to special discounts up to 20% depending on their purchases and for those big spenders, they will walk away with a Laneige luggage. There was also tutorial make up-artist from Laneige Malaysia Cameillia Choo. For your information, Laneige was founded in 1994 in South Korea, and devoted itself to the business of beauty and health as it strives to be the first and the best with outstanding products and superior marketing.

Keep up the great work, Patricia and your team and happy anniversary.

Cameillia Choo, Laneige Malaysia, Patricia Li, General Manager of Laneige Brunei and Sylvia, a loyal customer of Laneige