Posts Tagged ‘aiti’
Dejected but hopeful
Tuan Ahmad Jefri sharing his insight on Internet Regulations. Pretty insightful
Students from Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) formerly known as MTSSR gained a valuable insight on the vital aspects of internet regulation held at Student Resource Centre, IBTE Sultan Saiful Rijal Campus earlier this morning.
The students had the privilege to listen to a keynote address by Tuan Ahmad Jefri, Acting Assistant Managing Director of Brunei Investment Agency and Member of Board of Governors, IBTE, on “Internet Regulation”.
The talk was attended by 60 students who are currently studying Diploma in Information and Library Science and HNTec in Information Technology, under the School of Information and Communication Technology along with staff members from the School of ICT.
Tuan Ahmad Jefri presented a talk entitled “Internet Regulation: Fact of Fantasy?” that discussed on the impact of internet in our daily lives and shared his thoughts on the law bound to the online environment within the confinements of Brunei Darussalam.
Adding to the hype of the discussion, students took the opportunity to ask questions with regards to the internet laws in the local context. The Principal Central, Dr. Sheikh Lukman, presented a token of appreciation.
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The Chandelier
Guest of honour Datin Paduka Hajah Suriyah Binti Haji Umar, Permanent Secretary (Administration and Finance), Ministry of Defence (center, sitting down) in the group photo at Media In-Service Centre (MiSC) yesterday.
The 2015 Girls in ICT Day event organised by the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) was held at the Media In-Service Centre (MiSC). The theme for Girls in ICT for 2015 is “Girls and Women and Innovation”. The audience was made up of Government CIOs, ICT industry representatives and students.
The Guest of Honour was Datin Paduka Hajah Suriyah Binti Haji Umar, Permanent Secretary (Administration and Finance), Ministry of Defence. The event was attended by Senior Government officers and female students from various educations institutions.
In the welcoming remarks by Assistant Chief Executive Corporate Communications, International & Legal of AITI, Tina Lim Keasberry highlighted the need to raise awareness in girls and young women about career possibilities in ICT and encourage them to consider a future in technology. Today’s world of ICT is more human oriented and requires the communication skills that girls and young women bring to the table. By nurturing an interest in ICT early on, we open the door wider to ICT study at the secondary and post-secondary levels and, ultimately, greater workforce participation by women.
Guest of honour delivering her speech
Tina Lim Keasberry, Assistant Chief Executive Corporate Communications, International & Legal of AITI, giving her opening remarks
Dk Siti Nor Bazilah Binti Pg Zulkipli, Asia Pacific ICT Awards 2013 winner for her mobile app call Autisay
Najwa binti Hj Majid, Senior Legal Counsel from Universiti Brunei Darussalam, moderating the session
A sharing session took place by Dk Siti Nor Bazilah Pg Zulkifli one of the team members who created Autisay. AutiSay is a mobile application created as a tool to assist children with autism to communicate with their parents, therapists and care givers. Dk Bazilah shared the journey that she and her team had to go through to develop the application which won at the Asia Pacific ICT Awards in 2013 and shared her thoughts on the benefits that girls and young women can gain by choosing the ICT as a career.
This was then followed with a panel discussion moderated by Najwa binti Hj Majid, Senior Legal Counsel from Universiti Brunei Darussalam. Panelists were Ikmalina Hakimah Hj Mohamad Yunos from Itsybytes, Siti Zurainah bte Zainalabidin from eGovernment National Centre, Hjh NurZurina Hj Assim Headmistress from Panaga School and Dk Siti Nor Bazilah Binti Pg Zulkipli, Asia Pacific ICT Awards 2013 winner. After the panel discussion, an open floor discussion centered on the theme of“Girls and Women and Innovation” between the students and the panelists took place.
Following the discussion, tokens of appreciation were then given to the speakers and the panelists of the day.
The attendees also had the opportunity to tour the MiSC centre and learn more of the many facilities that are provided.
In conjunction with Girls in ICT Day 2015, AITI will also be organizing a CodeUp Women on 8 May 2015 which will include discussions on the current situation for female programmers in Brunei Darussalam, the challenges, obstacles and opportunities followed by a hands on practical session on mobile apps.
The Girls in ICT Day event is an initiative backed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to create a global environment that empowers and encourages girls and young women to consider careers in the growing field of ICT. The event is celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of April. This year marked the third year that Girls in ICT Day is celebrated in Brunei Darussalam. Text and images courtesy of AITI.
A token of appreciation to the guest of honour
Lin Cheng-yi, president of the Chinese Taipei Football Association (CTFA) being accused of match fixing for the first match between Chinese Taipei and Brunei Darussalam where Brunei won 1-0. Image courtesy of Chinese Taipei Football Association.
Such a sad news to hear this that there was a match fixing involving Chinese Taipei and Brunei Darussalam. The alleged match was the first round of the Asian qualifiers of 2018 World Cup when Brunei beat Chinese Taipei 1-0 at their home turf. It was reported that Lin Cheng-yi, president of the Chinese Taipei Football Association (CTFA), has been accused of match fixing and he profited USD 1.29 million for that victory.
He instructed the Chinese Taipei’s head coach Chen Kuei-jen to leave out one of the top players, Turkish-born Chu En-le, who is now a naturalized Taiwanese citizen as reported in Next Magazine.
Chen has denied all the allegations and claimed that he didn’t give any instructions to keep Chu En-Le, their top player, out of the first match. The incident is still under investigation and let’s see where this will go from.
Playing under the name Chinese Taipei, the Taiwan team will meet Japan, South Korea and China in the second round of qualifiers that starts June 11, as they vie for a place in the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Chinese Taipei’s head coach Chen Kuei-jen (center) during the press conference in Brunei Darussalam
The night when Brunei Darussalam made history when they beat 1-0 against Chinese Taipei in the first round of Asian qualifiers of the 2018 World Cup.
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Hello March
I didn’t expect the long break from blogging but I’m back again. You can still stalk me on @ranoadidas instagram for updates though. I have been away and was in the Philippines for the weekend for a FitFlop event. Yes, you heard me right, a FitFlop occasion. I’m actually quite honoured to be part of the media list for FitFlop and it’s slowly to show its promise in Brunei Darussalam, after Hua Ho managed to bring in the brand to the Sultanate last year.
My mom is such a huge fan of FitFlop too especially when she shops at Metro in Paragon, Singapore. The only problem is that Fitflops are catered to females. Literally 98% of their collections are for the ladies. I was giving a few pairs courtesy of FitFlop Philippines during their recent SS15 media launch and I have to admit FitFlop are pretty comfortable sandals. For those who know me, I hardly were sandals for a “reason”. I shall be posting more stories on FitFlop SS15 latest collection in my future post.
I was in Bohol, the Philippines for the launch of the FitFlop SS15 Spring collection. More updates soon.
I missed two big events, well, one was bigger than the other which was the Regata Brunei Darussalam which took place yesterday at the Royal Wharf. It is a yearly event and I covered it for the past three years. It is always great to know His Majesty the Sultan is a regular participant of the Regata Brunei Darussalam. His Majesty was in the boat Rajawali which won the 500m special race, compromising of the Regata Brunei Darussalam Committee Team A.
Another event was DPMM FC’s opening seasoner game against Harimau Muda B where new import Rafael Ramazotti bagged a hat-trick with a 3-1 victory at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium. The new looked DPMM FC retained the services of foreign imports Joe Gamble and Boris Raspudic but it was Rafael (Rafa) that stole the limelight. It could have been a clean sheet for DPMM FC but there were unlucky with the deflection late in the game. Nonetheless a deserving victory for DPMM FC but it is still early days.
His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam (3rd L), followed by HRH Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel (2nd L) and HRH Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah (2nd R), walking with Sarawak’s Minister of Resource Planning Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah Ali Hasan (L) to the jetty during the Brunei Regatta yesterday. Image taken by Ridhwan Kamarulzaman of The Brunei Times.
Rafael “Rafa” Ramazotti points to the sky after scoring for DPMM FC. Image by PG Khairil Sapyri of S•League Facebook Page
This morning, I attended a press conference held by AITI and it was regards to the official announcement of the FREE incoming calls for both mobile operators – DST and Progresif Cellular. Before the announcement came, both the local mobile operators have taken quick steps to implement the new move of removing the charges for incoming calls. Awesome!! I shall go more into details in my next post. Finally after 20 years, DST has officially removed charges for incoming call and Progesif Cellular have also made it a win-win situation for their customers. This initiative was from AITI for your information to benefit the end users of mobile users in Brunei Darussalam.
My Chinese year celebration has been slightly muted and that’s how I wanted it to be anyway. I’ve been feeling the pinch in terms of my sleeping patterns but it should re-adjust to its usual timing …. in a few weeks’ time 😀 My apologies for those invitations that I wasn’t able to make it. There were simply too many invitations to entertain. I have a few more before the end of CNY which falls this Thursday. This year, I only managed to catch two lion dance performance. It must have been tough for the other associations with the newer laws on lion dance in Brunei.
At Chin Wei’s open house last night
A quick catch up with Lily Chiam over her small CNY lunch invitation
Ok, about time for me to sign off first and blend into my social world of visiting friends (open house). I’m craving for maggi curry but I don’t want to burden our home chef 😀 I’ll just wait an extra hour before I eat at my friend’s open house tonight. Thank you for reading and thank you for your patience. You can always stalk my IG aka instagram for updates 😀 and Happy Birthday to my sister, Muji, and love you loads 😀
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So Nice
Shoppers, on your mark: It’s the Weekend again and Malppy has been coming up with different knock out deals each week. This weekend is no exception and this time it’s even better! Introducing their latest promotion program which they called it the 2ndBasket, otherwise commonly known as Purchase with Purchase in the departmental stores or supermarkets. Their second basket items vary from accessories like earrings to necklaces and bracelets which you can get it at a fraction of the original price. You will be entitled to purchase 3 of their price saving 2nd Basket item if you buy any one of their main item.
To find out more about their 2nd Basket Promotion program, please click here
LAST REMINDER: We have come to the last weekend of Movember in a blink of an eye. Don’t miss out the chance to grab your FREE Movember String Bag which worth $23.90 in their malppy store now. You just need to purchase $50 above in one transaction and the Movember String Bag is yours for FREE. 2 more days till the end of November. Head on to Malppy.com now!
Review of Penguins of Madagascar with co-host Del Goh. Was it a hit or miss? Do find out!!
The Energy Kitchen, Brunei’s first truly healthy restaurant is proud to present Jason Lew as its new Executive Chef. The addition of Chef Jason to our international team of both local and international chefs will further improve what is already one of Brunei’s Best Healthy Restaurants. Chef Jason has been in the food industry since he was 19, with professional training and very inspiring work experience in Australia. On top of that, he has previously worked for 5 star international hotel chain where he has the opportunity to pick up fine dining skills in the kitchen. Prior to joining The Energy Kitchen, he also made a name for himself as a home-based caterer under his brand The Fat Chef, cooking up creative feasts and hosting dinners for a wide variety of events and functions.
Inspired by The Energy Kitchen’s healthy vision and His Majesty’s titah, which is to build a healthier nation in the country, Chef Jason decided to embark on a transformational journey from “Fat Chef” to “Fit Chef”. He took up the challenge to do something truly different with food, that is to continue to create delicious food, but with a twist to make it truly healthy and exciting.
According to Wu Chun, “In addition to his new, healthier approach to food, Chef Jason’s newfound commitment to his health also involves undergoing rigorous fitness training and frequent brainstorming with the certified dietician at Fitness Zone. Together with The Energy Kitchen, Chef Jason is keen to show Brunei what ‘REAL FOOD’ is all about – fresh food, made from scratch with minimal processing, high nutritional value (Superfoods!) and lighter cooking methods (no deep frying!).”
Chef Jason added, “Their mission is to show Brunei that healthy food does not have to be bland, boring or plain. In fact, it is entirely possible to enjoy tasty, wholesome food daily, and continue to lead a healthy lifestyle.”
Wu Chun of Energy Kitchen, holding a new inspired dish, Grilled Chicken Satay Beehon, with Chef Jason of Energy Kitchen
In conjunction with the announcement, The Energy Kitchen is introducing a number of new healthy dishes that owner Wu Chun and Chef Jason have been working on. The new Grilled Chicken Satay Beehoon is a delicious combination of brown rice vermicelli tossed in signature Almond Satay Sauce, egg, blanched kangkong, and succulent cumin grilled lean chicken breast. The Beef Stew is slow cooked with root vegetables, served with refreshing herbed quinoa tossed with raisins and cucumber. The Energy Kitchen’s version of Gado-Gado, their Nihon Gyu (Japanese inspired) burger and few other new dishes will also be added to the menu.
The Energy Kitchen held its grand opening last month and it has been in operation for 6 months now. The response has been great, as the market for healthy food is growing fast and The Energy Kitchen couldn’t be more proud in helping to spearhead this trend. The Energy Kitchen will continue its quest to prove that you can go for a healthy makan that is good for your body and can be simple, innovative and always great tasting.
So why don’t you pop in and give The Energy Kitchen a try? Your body won’t regret it.
To know more, do visit The Energy Kitchen’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/theenergykitchen, follow them on Instagram @theenergykitchen. The Energy Kitchen’s operation hours are 7.30am til 10.30pm. Reservations can be made by calling 2233323. Text and image courtesy of Energy Kitchen.
Synopsis of Amas
A local drama education organisation – SEEDS – is ready to perform its own original production titled “Amas” for their annual year-end activity.
SEEDS have been producing their own versions of some of the famous musicals such as Oliver!, Willy Wonka, Into the Woods, Wicked and Lion King for the past five years. This year, the team took an exciting challenge of writing their own original show set in Brunei.
The original production features “Amas” who is a 115 year old lady dreaming of the past. The audience will be taken back in time to her childhood years in Kampong Ayer, when exciting and challenging developments were afoot in Brunei.
With the background of life on the water village and relationships with her parents and family friends, Amas recalls a time when she was a mischievous 10-year-old during the beginning of schools and formal education, as well as later when she was 20 and training to be a teacher, and a discovery of oil that promised prosperity for all.
The play will surely take the audience on a memorable journey back in time, reminiscing the sights and sounds, traditions and music of old Kampong Ayer. Text courtesy of Hafiizah Maideen of The Brunei Times.
Tickets are still available at a priced of $15 each selling outside the Multi-Purpose Hall, Universiti Brunei Darussalan (UBD) and are available from 2-5pm and 7-10pm (excluding Thursday) until show time!. For more information and changes on time, don’t hesitate to contact SEEDS at their social media accounts Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/seedsbrunei or Twitter @seedsbrunei.
The casts and crew of Amas during their preview night a few nights ago. Sorry, I couldn’t make it.
Images courtesy of SEEDS Brunei
One of the scenes from Amas
Grab your tickets now and support our local talents
The APICTA is an international awards program which aims to increase ICT awareness in the community and bridge the digital divide. By providing networking and product benchmarking opportunities to ICT innovators and entrepreneurs in the region, the program is designed to stimulate ICT innovation and creativity, promote economic and trade relations, facilitate technology transfer, and offer business matching opportunities through exposure to venture capitalists and investors.
Participants of the awards program comprise of members of the APICTA Alliance. APICTA’s 17 member-economies include Australia, Brunei, China, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Korea, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam.
The delegation is led by Hj Yahkup bin Haji Menudin, Chief Executive of the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI), who is also the Chairman of the BICTA 2014 working committee.
Brunei’s executive member representatives at APICTA committee are Hj Yahkup bin Hj Menudin, Chief Executive of AITI and Wallace Koh, Advisor of AITI, who will be attending the APICTA 2014 event and annual APICTA General Meeting.
Brunei also sends 5 representatives as APICTA 2014 Judges who will be judging the competition in different categories. These judges are Hj Osman bin Hj Ladis and Wallace Koh Hoe Aik from AITI, Pg Sarimah bte Pg Abd Latiff from IFB, Jennifer Voon from Institut Teknologi Brunei (ITB) and Jeremy Chua from iCentre.
Brunei delegation led by Hj Yahkup bin Haji Menudin, Chief Executive of the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) with the Brunei teams competing for this year’s APICTA 2014 in Jakarta. Taken at Brunei International Airport.
These six teams competing are:
Chung Hwa Middle School, BSB with “Heritage of South East Asia”;
Kolej International Graduate Studies (IGS) with “Virtual Watch Fitting”;
Sekolah Vokasional Nakhoda Ragam with the product “SVNR Staff Network”;
Institut Teknologi Brunei (ITB) with “The Sulu Princess”;
Teleconsult Sdn Bhd with “Teleconsult SkyEye”; and
PHMD Publishing Company with the project “Salam Halal”.
Participation in APICTA is a continuous initiative by the Ministry of Communications to develop the country’s ICT industry by allowing ICT product developers to compete on an international level. Brunei Darussalam teams who win at APICTA will be given a grant of $50,000 by AITI to further develop and enhance their product to become a marketable product. The 2nd prize or Merit Award winners will be given a grant of $25,000.
At APICTA 2013, Brunei Darussalam won two Merit awards by Chung Hwa Middle School, KB with the product “Higher Education Guidance System (Hedges)“ and Institut Teknologi of Brunei (ITB) with the product “AutiSay”. Press release and image courtesy of AITI.
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Serenity
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BIBD, via its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, showed its full support for Asari Rashid to become the first Bruneian to participate in the Polar Circle Marathon. BIBD’s support for Asari was aimed to create and raise awareness for developing a community that cares, whilst playing its role as an integral and strong partner of the community. This partnership is developed to encourage a positive influence and inspire other members of the community to support similar awareness raising efforts.
Asari is an epileptic PhD student from Newcastle University, UK and a lecturer in Institut Teknologi Brunei. He is also the 1st Bruneian to run the Polar Circle Marathon, participating in the Polar Bear Challenge, which tested his ability to run both the marathon and a half-run within the two days of the competition.
Earlier before the Polar Circle Marathon, Asari mentioned, “I’ve had a lot of people telling me it’s difficult but this is something I really want to try.” Asari, clearly unfazed by the idea of the run, continued, “I was diagnosed with epilepsy in 2009 with tendency of having seizures but it has never stopped me from doing what I love. I am also very thankful to BIBD for providing me with the opportunity to embark on my dream, as together we are able to show the world that everyone has the ability to succeed, regardless of their drawbacks.
“I was inspired to take the feat in order to raise awareness of the needs of people with diseases and show that we are both resilient and determined not to let it become an obstacle in pursuing our dreams including achieving better education. Everyone needs education and it will start from their adolescence, children need to be given as much opportunity in life as possible.”
Asari is no stranger to long distance running, having trained with the Tyne Bridge Harriers running club, had already competed in numerous challenges including completed a Aviva Singapore Ironman 70.3, three marathons, and an Ultramarathon “The Wall” from Carlisle to Newcastle Gateshead, which saw him running 110km miles in an impressive 15hrs and 55mins. The Polar Circle Marathon included a classic 42.195km marathon and a half marathon. The Marathon was held in the worst running conditions of under – 20°C in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland for two consecutive days.
Starting at Kangerlussuaq, the run passes the endless ice and arctic tundra of Greenland, which makes up the glacial deposit landscapes and soundless arctic desert. Part of the route takes place on the 100,000-year-old ice sheet but the main part of the race is run on roads, mostly covered in snow that connects to the inland ice just north of the Polar Circle.
Asari Rashid, an epileptic PhD student from Newcastle University, UK and a lecturer in Institut Teknologi Brunei became the first Bruneian to run the Polar Circle Marathon. Image courtesy of Asari Rashid.
Asari Rashid with new found buddies at the Polar Circle Marathon
A similar effort for awareness, BIBD’s ALAF Programme (Advocating Life-Long Learning for An Aspiring Future), provides a similar avenue for all members of the public to support and provide assistance to underprivileged and orphaned students, through sponsorships of basic needs, educational items and welfare, as well as mentoring and counselling, so that the students can stay focused on their education and maximise their potential. Through ALAF, BIBD hopes to lend its support to His Majesty’s 2035 vision of achieving a 100 per cent level of education and over time, reduce poverty in Brunei.
To further support the aspiration of this program and to enable the deserving students to pursue their education and dreams, members of the public are welcome to provide contributions with a minimum of B$1.01 via the bank’s e-banking channels, BIBD Online, BIBD Mobile, or use any BIBD ATM machines. The public can also use the standing instruction function in their accounts to provide a continuous donation stream into the ALAF account at 1018181811.
The Book of Life
Fury
Netcom 19th Anniversary and you can stand a chance to win a notebook. So far there have been hundreds of shares and likes on Netcom Computer House Facebook page. So keep them coming. Click image to find out more.
Are you always in a rush? Simply throw on one of your favorite pair of jeans, a white tee, and one of our selections of scarves this weekend! We have chosen quite a few great designs that will elevate a simple outfit in one easy step. This weekend, you can layer yourself in this craze and shop gauzy, pretty prints of scarves for only B$11.90 instead of the usual B$19.90 exclusively for REGISTERED MEMBERS ONLY! Hence if you are not registered with Malppy yet, register right NOW. Let its refined look dress up a casual top, or make it even more chic by offsetting its slightly slouchy shape with your structured overcoats for this rainy season.
Weekend Members Special is only valid for 3 days from Friday till Sunday, so be fast before the price is back to original again. For your information, Malppy Weekend Sale will now be exclusively for REGISTERED MEMBERS only hence to enjoy this great deal coming from Malppy every weekend, you need to be registered as a Malppy user.
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Starbucks gift vouchers to be given first 50 customers of BIBD customers
Happening this Sunday – Charity Car Boot Sale organised by Jerudong Park Medical Centre
The Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) has opened another window for applications to its “GRANT for the Development of Local ICT and Digital Media Industries” from 1 November 2014 to 31 December 2014.
The AITI GRANT offers partial funding opportunities for local businesses as well as foreign companies with local partners from the ICT and digital media fields to acquire enhancement, ownership and marketing assistance for their existing “Brunei-Made” product or prototype that has significant commercial viability. There are three (3) grant types available, namely:
a) Enhancement Grant – for improving and upgrading existing products;
b) Ownership Grant – for obtaining certification and quality management systems such as trademarks, patent, and IPR; and
c) Marketing Grant – for marketing and improving existing branding, packaging, design or labeling.
The grant amount varies depending on the type of grant applied and the classification of the businesses. Each applicant is allowed to apply for more than one grant type for the same product with a maximum cap of B$300,000 per category within eighteen (18) months project duration.
To be eligible for the AITI GRANT, an applicant must have valid AITI Accredited Business (AAB) Status and has financial capability to inject an initial amount of self-funding prior to the start of the GRANT project. The applicant must also have developed an existing product or prototype and wishes to obtain the grant to improve and enhance the technological aspects of the product, to improve marketing strategies, as well as to acquire a wider coverage of Intellectual Property Rights protection for their product.
Applications will be evaluated based on four main criteria: technical merits, commercial potential, financial resources, and project plan and capacity to deliver. Further evaluation will also emphasize on Brunei-Made elements of the proposed product as well as the relevancy to any of the following areas: application tools and platforms, communication, e-learning, financial industry application, government and public sectors, health and wellbeing, social inclusion and community, industrial application, media and entertainment technology, ICT research and development, retail and supply chain management, security, and sustainability and environment technology.
AITI Grant Scheme
AITI’s GRANT was initiated to assist the local ICT companies to further develop their ICT and digital media related products and encourage R&D activities and capabilities in producing local innovative Brunei Made products with commercial potential through Government funding.
Since its inception in 2010, AITI has awarded grant to fourteen local ICT and digital media related businesses with an overall amount of B$1.9 million funded under the National Development Plan. To date, ten recipients have already completed their grant projects where some of these products have been now made readily available in the market. The first GRANT recipient, MARS Enterprise, has successfully developed their Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution and has penetrated the overseas market within this region.
Two recipients, John Harith Technology Sdn Bhd and ZimacSilicon Technologies Sdn Bhd, have successfully run their pilot projects on Halal Food Traceability System and iCLID, respectively with the Ministry of Religious Affairs, and the Customs and Immigration Department. Other grant recipients include Crescent Sdn Bhd, Alif Technologies Sdn Bhd, BruGPS Technologies Sdn Bhd, Syarikat Indah Sejahtera Development and Services Sdn Bhd, Ambuyart Animations Company, Cinematicpro Services, Mediahikmah, PHMD Publishing Company, SocialBuzz Advertising, MeSixty Sdn Bhd and Giftbox Enterprise Sdn Bhd.
AITI is pleased to invite all eligible ICT and digital media businesses to apply for the AITI GRANT before the closing on Wednesday, 31 December 2014 by 4.30pm. For more information and guidelines on the AITI GRANT, please visit AITI’s website, www.aiti.gov.bn/AITIGRANT. Individual consultation sessions are also provided. For further enquiries, interested applicants can contact Farihah or Tajul Ariffin of Industry Development Group at 2366659/ 2366681 / 2323232 ext. 6681 (during office hours) or
via email at farihah.said@aiti.gov.bn / ariffin.hassan@aiti.gov.bn.
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70 days
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The Ministry of Communications and Multimedia Malaysia with the support of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) invited Brunei Darussalam to attend KL Converge! to showcase our nation’s creative industry on a platform which provides maximum exposure to global content buyers and digital lifestyle businesses. The opening ceremony today was graced by the presence of the Guest of Honour, Deputy Prime Minister, Yang Amat Berhormat, Tan Sri Dato Hj Muhyiddin bin Hj Mohd Yassin and was followed by a Ministerial tour of the exhibition.
After the opening ceremony and Ministerial tour of the exhibition, Yang Mulia Awg Haji Riza bin Haji Yunos, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Communications and officials from the Ministry of Communications was introduced to the showcase participants in the Brunei Darussalam Pavilion by Hj Yahkup bin Hj Menudin, Chief Executive of AITI.
The Brunei Darussalam Pavilion organised by the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) plays host to showcases by Origin Films Sdn Bhd, Regal Blue Productions, Itsybytes Company, Ambuyart Animations and MegaBond Productions together with trade visitors from the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB), Kristal Media Sdn Bhd, Progressif Cellular Sdn Bhd, Institut Teknologi Brunei (ITB) and Shazana’s Production House. This furthers AITI’s mandate of growing the local creative industry through exposure at global platforms.
Yang Mulia Awg Haji Riza bin Haji Yunos, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Communications and officials from the Ministry of Communications (center) with Hj Yahkup bin Hj Menudin, Chief Executive of AITI
The Brunei representatives at the Brunei Pavilion at KL Converge!
The Ministerial program for KL Converge! also saw the Ministers and Ministerial representatives attending a GSMA Asia Policy Forum this morning themed “A more connected and vibrant mobile ecosystem in Asia”. The Forum recognised that mobile broadband networks and applications forms the backbone of the internet economy and discussed challenges related to deployment of mobile broadband networks, strategies to creating an open competitive environment as a basis for innovation. Speakers and panelists at the Forum observed that collaboration between Governments, the private sector and citizens is key to the success of these strategies.
KL Converge! is the result of Malaysia’s commitment under the ASEAN ICT Master Plan 2015 where an ASEAN Digital Content Exchange was envisioned to be a key platform to promote and facilitate the exchange of content for ASEAN and other regional players. KL Converge! is being held from 17-19 September 2014 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center (KLCC), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Text and images courtesy of AITI.
US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, Daniel Shields, (4th from the left) with Elías Díaz Sesé, the President of BK AsiaPac Pte. Ltd (4th from the left) and Director of Transport under the Ministry of Communications Hjh Airah Hj Abdullah (3rd from the right) at the Burger King outlet at Brunei International Airport
It took BURGER KING® a decade or so to enter the Brunei market. Rumours kept on escalating on when will BURGER KING® come to the Sultanate and I know of a few mutual friends who have shown interest in bringing the U.S franchise to Brunei because of its ever growing popularity. Fast forward to 2014, now Brunei has two outlets in a space of seven months with the third on the way in the Belait District. This is made possible by Sinofood Express with the guidance and support of BK AsiaPac Pte. Ltd.
Elías Díaz Sesé, the President of BK AsiaPac Pte. Ltd, was present during the official launch and he was impressed with Brunei’s business growth, considering it’s still new in the market and he ranked Brunei Darussalam as one of the most successful market entrants in the region. He shared that it was not easy to choose the right partner and with the different approach by BURGER KING® in the past years, this vision opened doors for the Brunei market and I’m happy that BURGER KING® will be having its third outlet by end of the year.
The second outlet is located at the arrival hall of the Brunei International Airport. The first outlet is located at the heart of town at Wisma Raya, Jalan Sultan. Its competitor have yet to make an impact in terms of presence as it still relies on one outlet for the past two decades.
Sesé revealed that they haven’t been doing a great job in BURGER KING® Asia Pacific the past few years. In 2012, BK restructured their system with a different direction – ownership growth mentality. That approach seemed to pay off and it made the entry to Brunei market more possible as the BURGER KING® Asia Pacific was looking new markets and Brunei was identified as one. Sesé enjoys a good business relationship with Nelky Goh and Pg Hashim, the directors of Sinofood Express, which brought the BURGER KING® brand to Brunei.
US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, Daniel Shields, also shared the same sentiments and he was happy to know more American brands are making an impact in the Brunei economy and this also strengthening the relationship ties and trade between Brunei Darussalam and USA. The other point Shields shared was the job opportunity it can create for the Brunei economy. Shields’ favourite is the WHOPPER® when asked.
The second outlet’s opening also saw an introduction of their new item in the menu – Rock It Fries and it’s only a promotional item (for a limited time only). The new product is a playful take on the regular French Fries where customers mix in Burger King’s Spicy Honey and Piquante Spice to their fries and shake it up to get an explosion of flavours when they take the first bite. The order will come with Burger King’s signature Rock It dome-cup to make the experience more unique.
For more updates, you can follow their instagram @burgerkingbrunei or Facebook page www.facebook.com/bkbrunei
Cutting ribbon to officiate the opening of the second outlet
Nelky Goh, Kai Wei, Pg Hashim, Elías Díaz Sesé, Daniel Shields and Hjh Airah
A souvenir to the guest of honour
A souvenir for Hjh Airah
The young blood at the front line
Daniel Shields introduced to the BK employees
Daniel Shields spoke to the media and pleased with US ties with Brunei in economic terms
Elías Díaz Sesé emphasized more on the ownership mentality of the franchisor to move forward and penetrate into existing and new markets
Check out the new outlet of Burger King
Baiduri Bank Group has taken home its unprecedented sixth consecutive Best Banking Group Award win since 2009, as awarded by the World Finance Magazine in London. World Finance is a leading financial magazine, produced every two months by World News Media from its Headquarters in London.
Chief Executive Officer of Baiduri Bank, Mr Pierre Imhof received the award in the form of a crystal obelisk from Jenny Hammond, producer/presenter at the London Stock Exchange Media Centre. The award presentation was followed by an interview on the challenges faced by Baiduri Bank Group and its developments throughout the year.
Mr Imhof had quoted, “The Group’s strategy is built on being the best bank for our customers and creating value by investing where we can make a real difference for them. Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, be it in our branches, our brand or our staff. Our strategy reflects our customers’ needs for product simplicity, access through multiple channels, value for money in our products and services and the importance of managing customer relationships.”
Additionally, in July 2014, Baiduri Bank was also awarded the Domestic Retail Bank of the Year Brunei 2014 by The Asian Banking & Finance Magazine at an awards ceremony held at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.
Excerpts of the award presentation and interview can be viewed on www.worldfinance.com and Baiduri Bank’s website www.baiduri.com
Chief Executive Officer of Baiduri Bank, Mr Pierre Imhof received the award in the form of a crystal obelisk from Jenny Hammond, producer/presenter at the London Stock Exchange Media Centre
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Well, my body seem to be doing great because it seems a while since I actually organised a FIFA gaming tournament. This kinda of tournaments will take up most of my day (and my energy) but I will totally dedicate my time to make sure the tournament runs smoothly. Yesterday was the first day of the Hua Ho FIFA 14 tournament and around 90 participants took part in the event yesterday in the World Cup and Knock out category.
Today the tournament continues and we see the likes of Hanif Hamzah, a former champion in my tournament, who bowed out in the last 32 after a thrilling 4-3 defeat to Izzul. However, Hanif will rejoining today through re-entry and try his luck. There are new faces that are making headlines at the FIFA 14 tournament. Tomorrow will be the last 16 for both World Cup and Knockout category.
There are still slots for the Knock-Out category if you are interested. Good luck to all and thank you to @huahosports for collaborating with me on running this tournament. Also a big thanks to the volunteers as well. I’m truly honoured with your support and contribution.
So do drop by later today at Hua Ho Manggis Mall to check out the Football Fiesta and you can also get your face painted too with your favourite World Cup team.
Click image to enter Peugeot Brunei’s website
Check out the ladies’ jerseys
The World Cup has been the talk of town! Brunei is not missing out with Hua Ho Manggis launching the first ever Hua Ho Football Fiesta in their Manggis branch. Come join in the fun with lots of exciting games and activities hosted by several sponsors. You can also find interesting World Cup merchandise from our Malppy’s first ever pop up store too.
As usual, we are back with our Weekend sales. This week, in conjunction with the World Cup fever, we let the ladies to keep up with the game with our beautiful Ladies World Cup Jersey. For this Friday and Saturday only, you can get this range at B$22.90 instead of B$29.90. So don’t miss out! Have a great weekend and may your favorite team win!
For the sixth consecutive year, the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry (AITI) leads participation in CommunicAsia, and this year AITI has included eleven home grown ICT businesses in the Brunei Pavilion. On the first day, Brunei’s Minister of Communications, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Abdullah bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar, visited the Brunei Darussalam Pavilion. He witnessed two signing ceremonies and officiated the launching of two “Made in Brunei” applications. Also present to witness the signing ceremonies was Minister for Information, Communications and Arts of the Republic of Singapore, Dr. Yaacob Ibrahim.
On the same afternoon, the two (2) Ministers witnessed the signing of the agreement for consultancy services to develop an ICT Manpower Masterplan and training for the development of an ICT Industry Competency Framework between AITI and IDA International Pte Ltd. Signing on behalf of AITI was its Chief Executive, Haji Yahkup bin Haji Menudin while IDA International Pte Ltd was represented by Chief Executive Officer Mr. Vincent Wong Wah Kit. This partnership aims to analyse challenges and provide solutions to Human Resources Development (HRD), ICT manpower demand and skill needs and also build ICT human resources to meet national needs.
The second signing was a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalise cooperation between Halbase Company and Islamic Singapore Networks to promote “Made in Brunei” Islamic applications in Singapore. Signing on behalf of Halbase Company was Mr. Rushdi Dato Ibrahim and ISGN was represented by Mr. Fadzuli Wahab.
Both Ministers toured the Brunei Darussalam Pavilion and were introduced to the exhibitors before the Brunei Darussalam’s Minister of Communications consented to launch new products by PHMD Publishing Company and SocialBuzz Advertising.
Brunei’s Minister of Communications, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Abdullah bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar and Minister for Information, Communications and Arts of the Republic of Singapore, Dr. Yaacob Ibrahim witnessed the MoU between AITI and IDA International Pte Ltd
Rushdi Dato Ibrahim of Halbase Company signing with Fadzuli Wahab of ISGN while the two ministers witnessed
PHMD Publishing Company (www.phmdpublishing.com) launched MindPlus, a mobile learning application which provides accurate and validated information or educators, parents and students. The MindPlus platform itself is flexible enough to adapt to different types and methods of education such as professional training and academic knowledge. To prove the concept, MindPlus currently focuses on Islamic Knowledge to tap on the global Muslim market.
SocialBuzz Advertising (www.thegigland.com) launched The Gigland (beta). This is a global geo-location based micro-tasking marketplace. The platform gives users’ unique location a whole new meaning and a way to capitalise on new ways to perform specific micro tasks and monetise their skills.
AITI brings Brunei businesses to CommunicAsia to extend their global reach and provide an opportunity to keep up with technology trends. This allows our home grown businesses to benchmark themselves against international innovators and further develop their businesses.
For more information please visit the business websites, www.aiti.gov.bn or email info@aiti.gov.bn
SocialBuzz Advertising launching beta version of The Gigland
PHMD Publishing Company launching MindPlus
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