Posts Tagged ‘brunei’
Steady is fast
The linesman must have picked some poses from Ronaldo
The first loss has been forgotten. Last night, Brunei bagged another impressive win against Singapore 3-1. That makes it two impressive wins in a row. Previously they have beaten Indonesia with the same score line. The two wins combined with the first loss (to Cambodia) have put Brunei Darussalam U-21 in a potential semi-final berth. They will have to gain maximum points against Vietnam (Friday) and Malaysia (Monday) to make the top two in the Group B.
It was a heavy downpour and I was surprised that the match went as scheduled. Normally in this kind of weather, the match commissioner will safe approach to delay the match slightly until the pitch condition is playable. Of course, the rain made it more interesting and with the challenge of the rain, it could be anybody’s game. It’s how you go through that challenges will make you a stronger team.
Brunei U-21 team wasted no chance as they scored in the first minute of the match after some clumsy defending by the Singaporean U-21 team. Yes, Adi Said has been the focal point of the first two matches. However, this match belonged to his team mate Abdul Azim Abdul Rashid scored in the first minute and also in the 68th minute. Adi Said also earned his place in the score sheet as he crafted another wonderful goal late in the first half. He had plenty of chances but it was his finishing that led him down.
Brunei could have put the game beyond doubt if they had taken their chances on the spot. Singapore had a great opportunities and it would have made a difference if they had scored first.
The result means that Brunei will need to beat Vietnam and Malaysia and hope other results will go their way.
This was my first HBT football coverage and sadly, I won’t be able to watch the semis and the finals as I will be outstation once again.
Brunei will take on Vietnam this Friday at 8:15 (kick-off) at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium. The host nation will look into getting full points of Vietnam. This will be a tough match and it could be anybody’ game right now. Good luck, Brunei U-21 team.
The match steward braving the rain and also making sure that there won’t be any friction or riot especially emotional driven matches
It was such a turn out despite the heavy rain. Awesome!!
Can you imagine being soaked and drenched under the rain?
Fans will be fans and they are pretty sporting
The rain didn’t dampen their spirt after all
The hero of the night – Azim Rashid
Rain or shine, they made sure of their consideration
It’s never easy to take photos under the rain. My hats off to you guys out there.
Poor, Dean Kassim. His Canon EOS 5D Mark III couldn’t function and it must have been due to the train
The manager and head coach were in humour mode despite the loss
The management of Brunei U-21 was impressed with the outing last night and team manager was in high confidence and he hopes for more points in the next two matches
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Make that choice
Check out the latest podcast review of The Hercules (starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson) with special guest Seng Yee
The opening hours of petrol stations during Hari Raya. Click image to enlarge.
“We believe in giving to our customers during this blessed month before the celebration as a way to give back to our customers with hopes that they will have a more enjoyable Hari Raya”, said Chan Key Hong Executive Director of Maju Motors Sdn Bhd, when asked about the draw held last Friday.
The winner of the three-month Hari Raya promotion which ended just a day before the draw was announced during Volkswagen’s Hari Raya draw event held at the showroom, witnessed by over 200 customers, families and friends. Maju Motors have been experiencing great sales this year and they are continuing to make waves in Brunei. Chan shared that they will open a workshop to cater for after sales service somewhere in Sengkurong and he stressed that customer service is very important and that’s their primary objective – customer satisfaction.
Rosnita Hj Bangkol, was the grand prize winner, walked away with $5,000. Second and third prize winners were also equally happy when their names were announced as they walked away with $3,000 and $2,000 respectively. Dk Aidi Noorintan Pg Hj Md Zinin was the second prize winner and Dk Nurafifah Hanisah Pg Hj Ismail the third.
On top of all these grand prizes, Maju Motors also gave away $500 cash to five consolation winners (Ahmad Firdaus, Hjh Ervy Sufitriana, Pg Hj Ibrahim, Mohammad Noor Faisal) and five one time service and one time polish package to another five consolation winners.
The Hari Raya promotion was held from May to July and the customers who bought a Volkswagen (except for the GTI and Scirocco) instantly walked away with the latest Philips LED TV.
The top three winners with other consolation winners of the Maju Motors lucky draw last Friday
Dk Aidi Noorintan Pg Hj Md Zinin, was the second place winner, walked away with $3,000 and presented by Dk Fauziah P D P Hj Yunos
Dk Nurafifah Hanisah Pg Hj Ismail was the third winner, walked away with $2,000 and presented by Chan Key Hong Executive Director of Maju Motors Sdn Bhd
It was almost a packed house at Maju Motors
Chan Key Hong introducing his strong team and appreciating all their contribution for Maju Motors
Participants waiting for the draw
Chan Key Hong thanking all the customers for their support and he promises for better things
A few familiar faces attended the draw event
One of the consolation winners
One of the $500 winners
Thank you, Maju Motors for the invite
I feel blessed.. Thank you to @huahosports (Hua Ho Manggis) and @netcombrunei for the Hari Raya hamper, @shaunhoon for the goodies, @jpmcbrunei for the cookies personally baked by the patients, Audi Brunei (T.C.Y. Motors) for the @coffeebean_brunei voucher, @officialwcopabrunei for the souvenir from Japan, @baiduribank and SCB for the Hari Raya envelopes and my aunties for the yearly goodies.
Total E&P Borneo B.V. (TEPB) management visited one of the local communities at Kg Lumut recently
As part of their Ramadhan activities, Total E&P Borneo B.V. (TEPB) organized their fifth annual Ramadhan Charity, which provided in-kind assistance to the local communities where Total operates, namely Kg Lumut 1 in Mukim Liang (where the Total Onshore Processing Plant is located) and Kg Sabun in Mukim Serasa (where Total Logistic Base is located). Total also planned two more series of donations to DANA Pengiran Muda Al-Muhtadee Billah National Fund for Orphans and also two orphans of Total’s former staff.
During their Charity visits to the local community, 18 volunteers from Total staff, which included two Heads of Departments split into two teams to handover the respective donations to the community in Kg Lumut 1 and Kg Sabun. The donations were in the form of kitchen staples such as rice, mineral water, sugar, cooking oil and hampers as well as prepaid utilities cards. There were also additional personal contributions by Total staff members. The donations were to help the underprivileged individuals in both villages to better celebrate the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
The Total volunteers in Kg Lumut 1 was led by Muhammad Rasimoon Hj Adinin, Head of HR, Corporate Communications and CSR. In addition, the group was also accompanied by several representatives from the Lumut 1 Village Consultative Council (MPK Lumut 1) led by its Secretary, Awg Ismail bin Mohammad. While the team in Kg Sabun was led by Zulhilmi Rambli, Corporate Communications & CSR Executive. Present to assist the Total group of volunteers were several representatives from the Village Consultative Council of Masjid Lama, Pekan Muara, Sabun, and Pelumpong. The MPK was led by its Head of Village, Pengiran Haji Mohamed bin Pengiran Haji Osman @ Othman.
Overall, the donations were handed accordingly to five recipients in Kg Lumut 1, and four from Kg Sabun, which were selected from the list of underprivileged individuals living in the village provided by Community Development Department (JAPEM).
One of the recipients in Kg Lumut 1, Dyg Jelimah bte Abdullah, 38 is a single mother with a four year old daughter. She is currently unemployed and live with her seventy four year old mother. The family relies on the Old Age Pension received by the mother and proceeds from selling hand-woven traditional baskets.
Dyg Afshah bte Abdullah from Kg Sabun is 73 year old lady receiving Old Age Pension. She suffers multiple health issues including high blood pressure, cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease. She lives with her daughter, Dyg Norazizah bte Abdullah, who assists her to operate a food stall to earn a living on top of some financial aid provided by JAPEM.
The management making their rounds
Another house they visited
Some of the conditions of the home
Another group photo
Handing over gifts
The management enjoying their trip
Adi Daini, Eden Chiam, Elizabeth Sim, Bridget Ang, Ruby Chong, Shian Li Esther Chiam and Norhidayat Hj Ahim arriving from Singapore last Friday
A very historic moment for Brunei. Yasmine making headlines on the front page recently, for its North America release this year. DPMM FC recently brought back another trophy from Singapore which was the Singapore League Cup. The other thing was our Brunei Team who competed in Los Angeles for the World Championship of Performing Arts which is also branded as the Olympics for artists.
Team Brunei achieved a higher medal count compared to last year with 38 medals overall. They collected 12 gold medals, 13 silver medals and 13 bronze medals. The biggest winner was Shian Li Esther Chiam who is just 15 years old. She won the Junior Grand World Champion Instrumental Award and also collecting 6 six gold medals along the way. Awesome indeed!!
She was over the moon when she received the prize during the finals and she gave a word of encouragement to all passionate singers and performers that we need to believe in ourselves and work hard towards that goal. She was grateful to be part of the Brunei Team and she also made new friends globally and the great thing about music is that it unites every walks of life, regardless of age and race. She shared that there are so many opportunities for us and they are untapped.
Her younger sister Eden Chiam earned an Industry Award and also earned one gold medal, two silver medals and two bronze medals and she only had weeks to prepare for the event. So that’s not pretty bad for an achievement. I have mentioned previously in my post how team Brunei has made it big at WCOPA finals in Los Angeles, considering they only sent 9 representatives as compared to the aplenty from different countries. Having 5 semi-finalists and 3 finalists are considered “over-achievements” as they are plenty of talents out there worldwide.
Maria Grace Koh and Joanna Kwan are still outstation and didn’t join the entourage upon arrival at the Brunei International Airport. Both are finalists for the WCOPA finals and I’m proud of their achievements.
Elizabeth Sim who dreamt of Hollywood was very happy of her achievements and enjoyed every moment. She won Senior Acting Drama category and also earned 5 medals along the way. Ruby Chong, earned herself two medals and an Industry Award while Bridget Ang earned two medals. Norhidayat Hj Ahim earned 5 medals while Adi Daini earned 3 medals.
They will be having a Brunei WCOPA showcase this coming August at the Jerudong Amphitheater and it will be on the 23rd August 2014. For updates, you can follow them @officialwcopabrunei on instagram for updates.
Shian Li and Eden Chiam with their family
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We need to diversify…. quickly
Abd Latif bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Hj Md Yusof, the guest of honour with Dato Dr Isham Jaafar, the Executive and Medical Director of JPMC, Dr. Burc Bassa, Deputy Head and Head Consultant of the Brunei Neuroscience Rehabilitation Centre (BNSRC) and Vivian Suk Kee Tie, the Head of Rehabilitation Department of JPMC with the management and the stroke and cancer patients of Jerudong Park Medical Centre. Click image to enlarge.
With Hari Raya around the corner, every walk of life can enjoy a festive season whether be it small or big. Sometimes we take things for granted that Hari Raya or in this case, pre-Hari Raya is just an excuse for the spirit of celebration and unity. But little do I know that even the smallest of celebration can bring the warmth and joyful feeling to others and I felt that yesterday during my visit at Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC).
My coverage was on JPMC’s Rehabilitation programme organised by JPMC’s Rehabilitation Department and after the 5-week programme, the patients were awarded with certificates of achievements and judging from the explanations by the occupational therapists, these aren’t easy feats. Stroke patients are bound to lose some of their movements or lose their ability to fee touch, pain or position. Hence the therapists come into the picture and educate and train the patients to regain back some of their body movements as well as coordination.
Apart from the presentation of certification, JPMC organised a short “ceramah” session for the invited guests and JPMC stroke and cancer patients. It was conducted by Ustaz Haji Haslan bin Hj Shabudin from the Isalamic Da’wah Center, Ministry of Religious Affairs and he was kinda of entertaining too and brought some laughter to the audience. He shared about the essence of fasting during Ramadhan and added some general info that we normally take for granted that we know all. It was a pretty interesting session indeed.
The guest of honour of the event was Abd Latif bin Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Setia Dato Paduka Hj Md Yusof, a member from Board of Directors of Jerudong Park Medical Centre. Also present were Dato Dr Isham Jaafar, the Executive and Medical Director of JPMC, Dr. Burc Bassa, Deputy Head and Head Consultant of the Brunei Neuroscience Rehabilitation Centre (BNSRC) and Vivian Suk Kee Tie, the Head of Rehabilitation Department of JPMC.
After the “ceramah”, Vivian shared a brief description on the Therapeutic Group Activity (TGA) and she was pleased to share that the 5-week program was a major success as the patients had improved ability to converse and sing and a progress in regaining their strengths, stamina and physical functions. She also thanked family members of the patients who contributed in the program by providing emotional and social support. I believe this is the most challenging aspect for stroke and cancer patients as they need consistent moral support.
The JPMC patients then performed a Selawat and Nasyid for the invited guests and it was heart warming to see them performing and feeling cheerful with the Raya spirit in them. According to Vivian, having a collective group of stroke patients singing together is challenging in terms of synchronizing with the music because stroke can also affect their speech. However, the task is not impossible and not many hospital in other countries practice this approach and I applaud the rehab team and the patients to show that this is achievable and it takes practice.
Ustaz Haji Haslan bin Hj Shabudin from the Isalamic Da’wah Center, Ministry of Religious Affairs conducted an insightful “ceramah” on fasting during Ramadhan
Guest of honour attending the event
Guests and the patients at JPMC
Guests and the patients at JPMC
Vivian Suk Kee Tie, the Head of Rehabilitation Department of JPMC, shared the progress of the patients and thankful to those involved and supporting the initiative
The patients performing Selawat and Nasyid for the audience
This was a very touching experience and I felt the happiness when they performed
The background music performers
The guests also witnessed the patients conduct demonstrations of their activities such as baking Hari Raya treats and building the replica of Kampong Ayer, which is made out of furnished wooden sticks. Kampong Ayer is one of the main tourist attractions in the Sultanate.
Since the year 2012, the Rehabilitation Department has been putting together intensive Therapeutic Group Activity Programs during the month of Ramadhan in preparation for the upcoming Hari Raya festivities and at year’s end in celebration of the holiday season. The Therapeutic Group Activity Program gives patients a goal to achieve in duration of five weeks and help the patients relearn skills that are lost when part of the brain is impaired. The patients together with their family members are taught new ways of performing tasks to compensate for any residual disabilities.
Among other activities conducted last year was the beautiful replica of the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien mosque built by the patients, which is currently displayed outside Outpatient Department. It’s really good to see JPMC creating such activities and these provide patients with a sense of belonging while improving their health and body condition.
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.
Guest of honour presenting certificate to patients for completing the program
A great achievement for the patients of JPMC and I’m glad there was a token of appreciation
Mr. Maidin bin Tinggal was given a special token for his passion and dedication in helping out during the program. He lives in KB and also recovered from stroke. He also borrowed the musical instruments for the purpose of the performance yesterday.
Another patient being awarded
A demonstration by some of the stroke patients and they also made cookies. Awesome!!
Vanessa, an occupational therapist at JPMC, explaining how her patients have improved on their movements and able to contribute in terms of preparation for baking
The guest of honour and guests were impressed with the progress
Another patient who contributed in building the Kg Ayer replica
The Kg Ayer replica being displayed at JPMC, created by the patients themselves
Guest of honour impressed with the creation
Mingling with the patients after the event at JPMC
Paul Hyde, the new CEO of Progesif Cellular Sdn Bhd (PCSB)
The vacancy was up for grabs for the past few months. It was tough to speculate who will be the chief executive officer of Progesif Cellular Sdn Bhd (PCSB) who acquired the business and operations of B-Mobile Communications. Finally, the chairman and board of directors of PCSB have appointed Paul Hyde. Image courtesy of PSCB.
Paul Hyde has more than 20 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, including in West Africa. In a statement, Hyde said that among his priorities would be to develop a customer-based organisation that delivers an innovative range of services.
Hyde, in a statement, said that among his key priorities would be to develop a customer-based organisation delivering an innovative range of services with high level of customer service. This is so as to build a strong, unique and reliable brand, he said.
“It is important that we carve a strong position for ourselves in a small market such as this that brings value to our customers,” said Hyde, adding it can be achieved with a strong and highly-competent workforce backed with a sound network infrastructure.
He also said the transformation cannot be done overnight and that much needs to be done before changes can be made.
“My goal is to turn Progresif Cellular into the operator of choice in Brunei, and while it takes time to achieve, I am confident that it is possible with the guidance and strategic direction from the chairman and board of directors,” he added.
Hj Abu Bakar Hj Ibrahim, the chairman of PCSB, in the statement said that Hyde’s experience and track record would have a positive effect on the operation of the organisation.
Hyde has more than 20 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, including in West Africa.
“I am confident that he will be able to inculcate an organisational culture that will realise our vision for PCSB,” said the chairman.
He added that Hyde is in a strong position to impart best global practices, management expertise and marketing strategies which would benefit the company.
For updates, you can follow their Facebook page and also on instagram @progresifcellular
What’s happening to our export on Crude Oil?
Well, it’s just my opinion and thoughts based on the information given, so don’t shoot the messenger :p One could be that the demand may not be as high as before and other parties could have chosen other suppliers. The other reason could be that Brunei might not be producing enough crude oil. Then again, I could be wrong as these are just assumptions based on the limited information given by JPKE.
Whatever it is, it’s not a good sign for Brunei if it exports on crude oil maintain the same as now or even lower on the next shipment. It’s about time we need to find other source of revenue and income to our economy.
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The medal haul
Click image to enter Citroën Brunei
The first customer of YMRM Serusop today
Guess what peeps? It’s finally open. Well, a soft one actually since the other floors are not ready. However, the ground floor is ready for business and now you can shop at Galleria YMRM Serusop at Unit B24-25 at Delima Jaya Complex and you can call 233 3743.
They will have a special sale tomorrow (Tuesday) 8pm to 12am only at Serusop Branch. Cara Melayu and Sinjang will go for $24 for 2 set. Moroccan cotton which is usually $12.90 will go for $3.90 per meter. The regular sale $1 meter is back again for your cara melayu. Tudong and door mat also going for $1. If you want cucul for Hari Raya, this is also the best place to buy.
I kinda like the new interior of YMRM Serusop and it feels refreshing and unique as well. This is a great way to entice their regular patrons and appreciate them for their continuous support. The upper floor will be opened after Hari Raya. For now, enjoy the freshness of YMRM at Serusop branch which went for 2-3 months of renovation.
The new interior at YMRM Serusop
Sinjang
For shirt making
Italian silk textiles
Exclusive textiles for the ladies
The stairs leading to the first floor but it’s not opened yet
Nice lighting
YMRM building at Serusop but it’s not fully completed
Guess the number of balls competition
Recently KIA Motors (Brunei) had the final count of the number of KIA-FIFA Footballs inside the KIA Sportage as part of the guessing competition in conjunction with the World Cup 2014. The management of Grand Motors with the assistance of the representatives of the local financial institution counted the number of balls.
After two rounds of counting, it was confirmed that the number of balls inside the KIA Sportage was 285. Present were the Managing Director of Grand Motors Frankie Ho and Executive Director of Grand Motors, Pg Hj Abdul Qahar PSD Major General (Rtd) Pg Hj Ibnu Basith,
The lucky winner was Hj Mohd Tusiw Momin who guessed it correctly among the four contestants. The contest of ‘How many Kia-FIFA Footballs are there in the Kia Sportage?’ started on March 1 and ended on July 14.
Recounting the balls inside the KIA Sportage
The Executive Director passing us a ball 😀
Jacquline also did some counting
The red and white KIA FIFA football
Sitting on a stream of the red and white
Hundreds participated in the draw
The eventual winner of the $500
The participants from Brunei Darussalam after the WCOPA finals in Los Angeles
Last year, only one made it the finals – Fakhrul Razi in the Senior Vocal category in the World Championship of Performing Arts 2013. This year, Brunei representatives went a step further. Three Bruneians made it to the finals – Joanna Kwan, Shian Li Esther Chiam and Maria Grace Koh also known as Eia. One Brunei won the Junior Grand Champion for instruments at the WCOPA 2014 edition.
Only 15, Shian Li, is no stranger in the Brunei music scene. With the guidance of her family especially her mother Lily Chiam who runs Expression Music, Shian Li have been getting praises for her talent and she has been performing for private functions and I ever hired her once for a birthday party and I was just amazed. I had no doubt that she will excel in what she does and after knowing that she will be representing Brunei in the WCOPA this year, I knew her time has come and all that hard work paid off.
Shian Li shared, “This week has been absolutely amazing and it went by so fast! Being here in Los Angeles, I just want to tell the talents out there if you believe you can do it and work towards it an and you are keen of performing arts, this is a great opportunity that many open many doors for you.”
Shian Li was the top of the crop as she won all gold medals in her respective category in Junior Instrumental – Classical, Contemporary, Jazz, Open and Original. She won her sixth gold for being in the finals of the WCOPA 2014.
Another finalist was Joanna Kwan who won gold for reaching the finals in the Senior Acting category. She also won four silvers in Classical, Contemporary, Open and Comedy and one bronze medal for Drama. Furthermore, she was the only Bruneian to be awarded with a BND 10,000 scholarship to the New York Film Academy and one industry award. I have seen her performed in Brunei and she’s just amazing. What a great choice to select her as a Brunei representative! Much deserved though Joanna was only aiming for the experience. Awesome!!
Starlet Maria has finally reached greater heights as compared to her previous outing last year in WCOPA 2013. This year she went two steps better by reaching the semi-finals and the grand finale. What’s best is that her original songs were recognized and made it to the finals. This really shows that we Bruneians have talents. Maria earned herself 4 gold medals including being a finalist. She also earned 1 Silver for Pop and 1 Bronze for Broadway in the Senior Vocal category. I’m proud of you, Eia 😀 I can imagine the sight of your parents when you touch down Brunei next week.
Other Brunei participants were Elizabeth Sim, Eden Chiam, Dayat, Ruby Chong, Bridget Ang and Adi Farhan which is a pretty good line up from Brunei Darussalam. Imagine this – we are one small nation and during the live coverage event, Brunei Darussalam was mentioned quite a few times on the event – firstly because of our participants for being in the finals, the announcement of the winner for Shian Li and two more mentions by Jeff the host because of our tweets from Brunei. Awesome!! Now I was wondering why Brunei Tourism only had a small involvement in this project as this show is watched by millions of people online. This would have been a superb opportunity to invest in this project hopefully for next year and to get that tiny percentage of the millions of people to be aware of Brunei alone is already considered a big achievement. Brunei Tourism managed to sponsor Bridget Ang’s ticket to Los Angeles. I do hope there will be more involvement from the relevant agency on this matter as it was proven that our talents can go that far and when they go that far, more names of Brunei Darussalam will be mentioned as it did during the finals of WCOPA 2014.
Enough of the small rant. But I’m happy to see local sponsors supporting the participants such as AEWON, Baiduri Bank, KFC and Laneige Brunei. The participants also managed to source their own sponsors such as Laily’s Bridal, Sab Five Five, Low family, Projecttunes, @brugraphic, Reyn’s Touch @ Bridal Collection, Mylol.info, Fitnesszone, @kingomar412, @haqimie267, Sri Maju Sawit and PL Sawit Sdn Bhd, Suci, Cedar Management Services and many more.
Those missed out on the finals still didn’t come empty handed. First timers Eden Chiam and Elizabeth Sim made it to the semi-finals. So overall, there were 5 Bruneians who made it to the semis. Eden won 5 medals – Original Works (Gold), Broadway and Pop (Silver) and Open and Soul, R&B and Jazz (Bronze) for the Junior Vocals. Elizabeth Sim competed in the Senior Acting Category and she earned Gold for Open and Drama and Bronze medals for Contemporary, Comedy and Open. She also won overall winner for the Drama category.
Dayat Hj Ahim competed in the Senior Vocals and he earned Silver for broadway, contemporary and World and Bronze for Open and R&B, Soul and Jazz category. Adi Daini earned one silver of Rock and Bronze for Open and R&B, Soul and Jazz for the Senior vocals with instrument.
Bridget Ang earned two Silvers for Open and Originals category in the Senior Vocals category while Ruby Chong earned two Bronze in Open and World category in the Senior Vocals category.
The participants from Brunei Darussalam after the WCOPA finals in Los Angeles
The finalists that made an impact for Brunei at the big stage – Joanna Kwan, Maria Grace and Shian Li
1 Grand World Champion for Jr Instrumentalist
3 Grand Finalists
2 Industry Award
Recipient of 10,000USD Scholarships from New York Film Academy
12 Gold Medals
13 Gold Medals
13 Silver Medals
This is considered another great achievement and milestone for Brunei considering we are a small nation but with a big heart and voice. I’m still amazed that we have 3 Bruneians featured in the finals alone and we are competing against a number of talents around the world. I also want to applaud Jeffery of Prismworks for making this possible for all the participants for another attempt at WCOPA. It’s never easy to organise and the logistics and all. I do hope I can plan for next year’s WCOPA for coverage purposes (Didn’t I say that last year? haha).
Overall, I’m just truly amazed that we can make a difference and by them just being there, it’s simply unbelievable to represent Brunei. I do hope one day that performing arts will have more recognition in Brunei and this will help to bring in more support not just the private sponsors but also the relevant government agencies in Brunei Darussalam.
For more updates, you can follow them on instagram @officialwcopabrunei
Shian Li’s reaction after being announced the winner for the Grand World Champion for the Junior Instrumental
Shian Li receiving her award
Shian Li and Jeffery (of Prismworks) the man who made Brunei possible in WCOPA events
James Kon of Borneo Bulletin interviewing one of the parents at KFC Yayasan last Saturday
Yes, guys, even kids and children still can get cancer at a young age and it can happen whether you are young or old. It was such a heart warming sight to see the kids play along during the games and being present at that very moment as if they are enjoying and cherishing that moment. It’s good to see KFC being involved with YASKA and not many attention has been given to the children, judging from the press releases in the media.
At the event, the kids were also given a meal so that they can break fast with. “Fasting is not compulsory for children and especially for the children with cancer. Though the children are undergoing treatment, the paediatric oncology ward is often decorated to celebrate for this festive season so they would not have to feel left out or often home leave is given whereby possible,” Tsara’ Nawwarah Abdullah Chen, Senior Occupational Therapist, RIPAS Hospital\Treasurer of YASKA.
YASKA’s mission is to provide information and support for children with cancer and their families, when we got to know them, we were touched by what this organization is doing and make it a point to promote them so that others in Brunei can reach out to them,” says Jonathan Bong, Senior Marketing Manager, KFC (B) Sdn Bhd.
Everyday the children are made to feel special especially during the treatment and at home and parents are often very aware of how precious these children are and the environment in the paediatric oncology ward has been filled with generous donations of educational toys and books and DVDs( often requested by the children for the latest cartoons and children movies) so the children are “entertained” and kept busy and distracted with activities. These are only possible through the various amounts of donations and activities carried by the occupational therapy staff and non-governmental agencies, added Tsara.
YASKA kids playing games at KFC Yayasan
Playing passing parcel
Passing the parcel activity
Musical chair time
Group photo with YASKA kids and KFC team
Edwin Khew will be in Brunei in August to share his idea on Eco-Smart City in the 7th National Environmental Conference. Image courtesy of CTI PFAN website.
In a session entitled “Bandar Seri Begawan as a Model Eco-Smart City”, guest speaker Edwin Khew, will share best practices on Singapore’s journey towards becoming a sustainable city; the challenges to anticipate, and strategies to overcome obstacles.
Edwin Khew is the the Chairman of Sustainable Energy Association of Singapore (SEAS), a non-profit organization that assists the growth and development of cleantech businesses in Singapore and the region. He is also Managing Director of Anaergia Pte Ltd, a global environmental waste to energy technology and management company with its headquarters for Asia based in Singapore.
“Being smaller than Singapore and having more resources”, Khew said that Brunei has an advantage over Singapore to become an Eco-Smart state, and remarked that there can be areas of possible collaboration between the two countries to develop and implement green technologies. Brunei can excel and surpass Singapore in developing and implementing these new technologies and can start working with Singapore at test bedding these technologies as Singapore is just starting to test bed them now.”
Asked how a small country such as Brunei can make a difference, Khew remarked that the future for all urban cities is to be sustainable, and turning its capital city into an Eco-Smart City “will ensure sustainability, where energy, waste and water will be a nexus for which an Eco-Smart City must consider and achieve”.
Khew has 35 years of experience in the industries of water and waste treatment, energy and cleantech. In the last 15 years, he began to focus on waste management, after becoming concerned about the challenges of growing volumes of rubbish and the lack of landfills in a highly consumerist and disposable economy.
In the conference, Khew will share ideas with local industry experts from the government and private sector on effective strategies to create a sustainable city with topics ranging from waste management, urban planning, and green buildings.
Now on its 7th year, the National Environment Conference will discuss pertinent issues, revolving around the theme “Brunei’s Green Future: Ideas, Strategies, Possibilities.” The conference is open to all members of the public, and will be particularly worthwhile for overnment leaders, corporate and business leaders, environmental practitioners, eco-conscious consumers and students, among others.
The Conference is organized by Asia Inc Forum in partnership with Total E&P Borneo B.V., Butra Heidelberg Cement, Baiduri Bank and Brunei Press, with the support of the Ministry of Development and Ministry of Education.
For more information, please contact Low Leng May at may.low@asiaincforum.com, or call 2226555 ext 10. Press release by Asia Inc Forum.
National Environment Conference. Click image to find out more.
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#HBT2014inAugust
Acer Liquid Smartphones
Sales at Icon Design Store
Click image to enter Peugeot Brunei’s website
Click image to enter Citroën Brunei
Late posting: Back dated 9th July on the issue of the top-up cards from Progresif Cellular.
Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer, with associates of Concepts Computer showcasing the IT bundle promotion
Awesome deals now available at Concepts Computer and you purchase the items with their IT bundles in a form of hampers so this make it very ideal for gifts and all. This is the first time also the Concepts Computer are having such bundled promotions for the likes of their customers.
You can enjoy bundles from $18 to $1,118 and you can get items ranging from Epson and Acer from Concepts Computer.
Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer, shared this is ideal for consumers who have trouble choosing the right products because of the variety of choices. Hence Concepts Computer made it simpler by putting a few items together with an affordable price.
For more information on the IT bundles, visit the nearest Concepts Computer showroom or call 2233551 and 2233552.
Will Brunei retain the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy this August? Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.
Perhaps the highlight earlier this year was when the management were conducting trials for the Brunei U-21 team back in January as they were preparing for the supposedly tournament earlier in April 2014. The plan didn’t materialised in terms of hosting the event in April and it was postponed till further notice. However, this is still great news because this will give ample time for Brunei to prepare for the HBT tournament. They were already many question marks as why the trials were only planned three months before the actual tournament then as it’s never easy to gel new players in the time span given. I’m not pretty sure how the preparations have been since beginning of the year but I’m sure that manager Hj Feisal Hj Eusoff and coach Kwon Oh-Son have sorted this out.
Last weekend was the draw for the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy 2014 and Brunei is now placed in Group B with the likes of Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam. In Group A are Timor-Leste, Laos, the Philippines, Myanmar and Thailand. The only one missing here is Indonesia as they won’t be able to compete due to the clashes with the ongoing Indonesian football league.
Well, I still find that a bit odd since Indonesia has a population of 200 million and yet they can’t field a squad of 24 to represent Indonesia U-21. I kinda find that reason to be … ah, no comment. For your info, Indonesia was runner-up in the previous tournament and it was a very heated match, not for the players on the field but for the supporters out there as there were commotions happening prior to the match and during the match. Sometimes when you are too passionate about your country and the ego get the better of you, things are easier to escalate to an uglier scene.
As for a vote of uncertainty, team manager Hj Feisal Hj Eusoff shared that Brunei is not ready for next month’s 5th Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy as he said they are far from being prepared for the August 9-23 regional Under-21 tournament. He said that the players’ are not at the level they should be and further more, they haven’t selected their first eleven, let alone choosing the final 18 squad.
I believe there is still hope for Brunei. They did it two years ago with great difficulty and yet they prevail. Brunei is the defending champion and I believe they can excel to greater heights.
The manager conveyed his thanks to DPMM FC for allowing to use some of their players – Adi Said, Najib and Hendra and also thanked National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) for their never ending support and also to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.
I shall update you the progress of the Brunei U-21 team. For now, good luck for the preparations.
Team manager Hj Feisal Hj Eusoff during the draw last weekend. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.
Malaysian High Commissioner Datuk Hj Ag Sahak making the draw for Malaysia team. Image courtesy of Borneo Bulletin
This is the crowd that we are gonna miss – the Indonesian fans
Najib from DPMM FC will be representing Brunei U-21 team
Hendra will be in Brunei colours once again this August
The actual draw for this year’s HBT 2014
Let’s hope that the crowd can be controlled especially when it comes to ticket distribution. Do you think there should be a small value given for the tickets? Image courtesy of @iam_nashar
Wu Chun with Giorgio Armani at Fashion Week in France
As glamorous haute couture creations takes the runway in paris, media from around the globe gather at Paris for the pre-fall and winter collection Fashion Week in the months of July. Not only that, fashion enthusiasts from around the world fly in to Paris during this month to enjoy the great summer sales and at the same time, trying to get a glimpse of all the world renowned designers and celebrities at all the famous museum which are used as the venue for most of the fashion show for the top designers in the fashion industry.
Wu Chun who has been recognised as a fashion figure in the showbiz partly because of his well-built physical appearance has a close relationship with some of the top fashion designer brands in the world and has attended numerous fashion shows or invited as the spokesperson for the opening ceremony for the designer stores.
Christian Dior’s couture show in Paris on Monday was the fashion equivalent of a concept album.The show was held at Musée Rodin’s gardens in a circular tent decorated with thousands of white orchids and displayed the latest confections by Belgian designer Raf Simons.
Extended over six segments, models dressed in everything from full-skirted ballgowns to full-length fur coats, chiffon slips and embroidered parachute silk boilersuits walked around a circular white room wrapped in chrome and covered – floor to ceiling – in white orchids. It even had a soundtrack of alpha experimentalists Sonic Youth.
This year, Wu Chun was invited to experience the Fashion week in Paris where he had the chance to sit in the front row with some of the top celebrities such as Jennifer Lawrence who fame has shot up during the last few years with her blockbuster hit, The Hunger game. Wu Chun was also joined by the Harry Potter female lead actress, Emma Watson,Charlize Theron and Sean Penn at the Christian Dior Fashion Show. Put together, it was a dizzying expression of creative director Raf Simons’ vision for this revered Parisian house: futuristic, red carpet friendly and art-house all at once.
In the show notes, Simons said the Dior collection was about bringing “the attitude of contemporary reality to something very historical” and finding something modern as the result. This concept collection – assured, new but rich with varied reference – suggests he might have done just that.
The Simons effect at Dior sent couture sales soaring by 14% to £601m in the last six months of 2013. This, in turn, has boosted the ready-to-wear side of the business. Asia and the US are emerging as the markets where Dior does particularly well. Monday’s couture outing will only boost a house on the up.
According to Wu Chun,” The things that excite me this time is i am attending the Haute Couture collection fashion shows which is very much difference from the Ready-to-wear collection. Couture collection are all the limited edition pieces and i was amazed by all the creativities and workmanship of the highest level in the world of fashion.Of course, being alongside all the hollywood A-lists was a blast experience for me as well.”
 
Woohoo. I see Jennifer Lawrence and Emma Watson
Wu Chun at the Fashion week
Wu Chun posing for the camera
Quotes from Wu Chun – “”Its great to be back to Paris again, the city of ‘Fashion’ and feel honoured to be invited to Chanel, Christian Dior and Giorgio Armani Fashion shows during my 4 days trip. Its such a pleasure to wear the suit personally selected by My Giorgio Armani, a very down to earth icon who had his autograph on a baby Armani Suit for my 9 months old baby boy.”
“Today, fashion is really about sensuality-how a person feels on the inside. In the ’80s women used suits with exaggerated shoulders and waists to make a strong impression. Women are now more comfortable with themselves and their bodies-they no longer feel the need to hide behind their clothes. Fashion is not only about the clothes. Its about your body shape, your personality and the confident you have to express what you wear.”
Wu Chun at the Fashion week
Wu Chun selfie-ing with fans
Wu Chun having fun in Paris
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#WorldCupFever
Check out the debut podcast of Dugout Treble which is dedicated to World Cup highlights, news and opinions starring Rano Iskandar and co-host Jason Rumpun and special guest Cyril in the first episode.
Check out our podcast review of this popular sequel
Now.. something just doesn’t add up here. I was disappointed with their performance yesterday and furthermore, the audio was pretty bad. I still prefer Shakira’s song or even Ricky Martin’s. The opening ceremony didn’t raise any goosebumps for me. A bit of a letdown.
I kinda like these costumes at least during the opening ceremony
Finally after four years, the World Cup is back!! But am I hyped up as before? Hmmmm hard to say but apparently not that fired up. I didn’t even know that the opening ceremony was last night until 8 hours before the opening ceremony, thinking it will fall today. Anyway, what are my thoughts of the opening ceremony? Not really much to shout about but the costumes were interesting enough and it was good to see children and kids participating. Other than that, it’s kinda disappointing really.
Few of my friends from Brunei were there for the opening ceremony and the first match of the World Cup 2014 between host Brazil and Croatia. Awesome!!! One of my bucket lists was to actually travel across the world to catch a World Cup match one day. That day will come but not Brazil. So a probable chance in Russia in 2018 or Qatar 2022 that I would travel there. My friends will be flying off to another destination to catch Uruguay vs Costa Rica and if I’m not mistaken, they will be catching a total of 5 to 6 matches in Brazil. Oh man, I’m so jealous 🙁
We just recently started a podcast on World Cup news called the Dugout Treble and there will be more episodes coming soon. I have also create a McDonald’s FIFA World Cup Fantasy League. You can join my league by clicking here. Good luck!!!
Neymar scored from the penalty spot and it was a tough fight for the host nation
The crowd at the stadium yesterday. Image by Sim Yuan.
Brunei represent… Image by Sim Yuan.
They caught the opening ceremony yesterday. Image by Sim Yuan.
Check out the debut podcast of Dugout Treble which is dedicated to World Cup highlights, news and opinions starring Rano Iskandar and co-host Jason Rumpun and special guest Cyril in the first episode.
Audi Q7 S Line Sport Edition
Inside the Audi Q7, there are 27 possible seating combinations and ample room to take equipment for recreational or outdoor sports. When the seatbacks in the second row are folded down, the cargo capacity increases from a volume of 775 litres (27.37 cubic feet) to 2035 litres (71.87 cubic ft).
The engine line-up for the Audi Q7 maintains a six-cylinder diesel engine supercharged V6 unit 3.0 TDI quattro with 180 kW (245hp) with an impressive 550Nm (405.65 lb-ft) of torque.
A power tailgate comes as standard for the Audi Q7, and a rail-based load securing set for baggage is available for sports, recreation and vacation travel. Audi offers the assistance system Audi side assist for safer lane changes. A top of the infotainment line-up is MMI combined with the BOSE Surround Sound and the large panorama roof is also included.
Earn more miles
Today, 13 June: Earn 10 Royal Skies miles for every BND10 spent when you shop.
From 07:00pm:
The First 50 customers will stand a chance to win 5000 miles, prizes and enjoy our exciting activities.
From 14 June to 13 July 2014:
Earn double miles with a minimum spending of BND15 in a single receipt.
See you and Lets shop at Freshco, Plaza Abdul Razak, Seri Batu 1.
Green bankers rolled up their sleeves yesterday to contribute to an important cause: blood donation. The event, hosted every year, was held at the Learning & Development Centre at Baiduri Bank Head Office.
This year’s blood donation drive was organized with the theme “Everyone has a Type” aimed to help replenish the low blood supplies faced by the National Blood Bank at the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital.
Senior Manager of Baiduri Bank’s Human Resources and Finance Division and member of the Baiduri Bank Management Committee, Ms Veronica Chong, said that blood donating is a good practice, and she has been doing it every year during the drive.
“There is an overall feeling of goodness and satisfaction when donating blood,” she said. “A lot of people are fearful of donating blood because of the needle but it’s not painful, and donating only one pint of blood can save up to three lives.”
“One advice I have for them is to stay relaxed. If you are scared of needles, look away, or better yet, talk with your colleagues, I’m sure they’ll also appreciate the distraction.”
The event was organised as part of the Group’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. It is an annual event held to aid patients in need of specific types of blood urgently.
The Baiduri Bank Group is also an active supporter and major sponsor of the annual World Blood Donor Day.
Baiduri Bank Group has also just wrapped up their yearly charity golf event, The Baiduri Masters – an initiative that regularly provides financial support for child development programmes in Brunei such as Pusat Ehsan, Child Development Centre (CDC), SMARTER and the Learning Ladders Society. Press release and images courtesy of Baiduri Bank.
Rachel, Manager of Fitness Zone, Wu Chun owner of Fitness Zone with Kee Lee Loo of Nexploit Services
On 12th June 2014, Fitness Zone and Nexploit Services co-hosted the signing and officiating ceremony of Plus magazine. A health and lifestyle related magazine that made its debut earlier this month.
With only a week of their soft debut on the 4th of June, Plus magazine made quite a numbers of impacts within the current community. The magazine readership rate is adopting and increasing at a steady pace due to the current demand of health related articles.
Plus works closely with the Ministry of Health in delivering contents that would greatly benefits the public. Fitness Zone on the other hand is into health and wellbeing’s through fitness. Both companies have the same goal aligned, and that is to stir up the interest of the public to implement a healthy change and divert the public into adopting a healthier lifestyle.
Plus Magazine uses physical copies and digital contents integration to reach out to the public with health and lifestyle related articles and contents that are beneficial and interesting to read. Fitness Zone offers wide range of services for both genders and also programs that caters for each individual’s needs.
To celebrate the signing and officiating ceremony, Plus and Fitness Zone will be co-organizing an Instagram and Newsletter Subscription contest. 10 lucky winners will get to walk away with prizes and one grand winner will be awarded with signed copies of Wu Chun’s biography book and diary planner.
For more information please visit Plus Facebook Page and Fitness Zone Facebook Page.
The signing ceremony yesterday
Get a copy of Plus magazine
Catch this match on Saturday, 14th June
In conjunction of this event, Malppy.com is welcoming everyone to join celebrating the first ever Hua Ho Football Fiesta held at Hua Ho Department Store (Manggis Branch) from the 14th till 22nd June 2014. We’ll be selling range of 2014 World Cup Merchandise! So footie fans in Brunei, what’re you waiting for? Shop and cheer with malppy.com. See you there!
It’s happening now at Hua Ho Manggis Mall
Continuing the Football action, a KFC organized foosball competition is available at the Hua Ho fiesta that is taking place from 10th to 22nd June 2014 at Hua Ho Manggis Mall in conjunction with the World Cup that is taking place in Brazil. Called the KFC 11 Foosball Challenge, participants will get a chance to test their skills at the table where top 32 contestants will be selected to play in the qualifying rounds representing the 32 countries that is currently competing at Brazil.
1st prize is worth B$450 consists of a Golden Boot Champion trophy, the Adidas Brazuca – the official football to be used during this year’s World Cup’s final match, Hua Ho Sports Voucher, KFC Merchandise, KFC Food Voucher, and Revive Drink. 2nd prize is worth B$200 and consist of Adidas Brazuca Top Glider Match Ball Replica, Hua Ho Sports Voucher, KFC Merchandise, KFC Food Voucher, and Revive Drink. 3rd prize is worth B$150, consisting of Adidas Brazuca Top Glider Match Ball Replica, Hua Ho Sports Voucher, KFC Merchandise, KFC Food Voucher, and Revive Drink. 4th place is worth B$130 and consist of Adidas Brazuca Top Gilder Match Ball Replica, Hua Ho Sports Voucher, and Revive drink. Contestants interested to get the popular Limited Edition KFC Ronaldo Merchandise stand a chance to get it free.
By qualifying to the top 32 stage, participants will receive the Ronaldo Merchandise each and then each time they qualifies again to the top 16, top 8 and then to the top 4 stage, they will again receive the sought after merchandise. Other prizes to be won during the individual qualifying category includes a foosball table set available for the Top scorer category, and a Hat Trick Bonus prize for scoring 3 goals and more. For a registration fee of only B$2 where contestants will receive 2 Revive can drinks (330ml), contestants are sure to get their money worth..
“The competition is called KFC 11 Foosball Challenge because the number 11 resonates closely to KFC (11 secret herbs & spices used for the original KFC recipe) and to football (11 number of players playing on a team in any football matches). We hope that football fans will grab this opportunity to join in the football fever that we have made especially for them and have fun and have the chance to win some great prizes along with it, says Jonathan Bong, Senior Marketing Manager, KFC (B) Sdn Bhd.
Try out the foosball competition and win fantastic prizes
Check out the rules and regulations
Happening this Sunday
The Brunei Medical Association will organise a Family Fun Day event that will take place at the Brunei Agro-Technology Park, Kg Tungku, Mukim Gadong on Sunday, 15th June from 6:30 am-11am.
Among the activities to be held include Tai Chi, Walkathon, Kid’s Treasure Race, Bouncers, Colouring Contest, Face painting, Tug-of-war, SNAG and other more exciting activities. Food vendors such as W Brownies, Food Remix, Baking Manics, Wings & Drumettes and Leeya Cookies will also be present.
The event is open to all healthcare professionals and their family members as well as the public. The Brunei Medical Associaiton (BMA) is a non-governmental organization representing the voice of doctors and the medical profession in Brunei Darussalam.
The BMA’s main objective is to support and protect the interest of its members, namely the medical professionals of Brunei Darussalam. Other objectives include: voicing the views of the medical profession in matters relating to the health and wellbeing of the Bruneian community; promote social, cultural, charitable and professional activities among members; supporting a high standard of medical ethics and conduct; and to enlighten the public on health issues.
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#VivaLaFrance
Acer Liquid Smartphones
Check out Acer Liquid smartphones
HSBC Personal Internet Banking
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BIBD – Let’s Go Mobile!
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Icon Design Store
Click to enter website
His Majesty speaking to Dyg Siti Saffawana Hj Suhaili, Brunei Shell Petroleum’s first female pilot
His Majesty touring the Shell Eco-Marathon area. All these cars are built by students.
The Minister of Energy, Pehin Datu Singamanteri Col (Rtd) Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Awg Hj Mohammad Yasmin bin Hj Umar, has always been very involved with the ongoing current Energy Week 2014 at BRIDEX. I haven’t seen such an involved and hand-ons minister. Pehin and his team has invested a lot of effort and contribution in creating opportunities for the community. So I’m very honoured to see your high involvement, Pehin, in making this event not just bigger but a successful one and hopes the momentum doesn’t just end there.
With the current rate of local unemployment on the increase during the past few years, relatively coinciding with the rapid hike in the number of graduates of higher education, the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam continues to provide more job opportunities to accommodate local job seekers.
Over 1,000 job vacancies have been made available at the Oil and Gas Career and Job Fair of the Energy Week 2014, which was launched last Monday by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam at the Bridex International Convention Centre in Jerudong. Held annually since 2011, the fair aims to encourage locals to dive into a career in the oil and gas industry in Brunei Darussalam.
Fifty five companies will be present throughout the Energy Week, readied with a total of 1,130 technical and non-technical positions up for grabs.
Classified into 14 job categories, the fair has 320 vacancies in the field of engineering; 255 in construction; 194 in health, security, safety and environment; 133 in operations; 91 in marine; 40 in business/finance; 32 in IT; 27 in administration; 18 in logistics; 10 in hospitality/catering; five in legal; two in aviation; two in human resources and one in the supply chain.
When you cycle, you create energy and this is one way to create energy conservatively. Currently BSP Pavilion is having a mini competition to those who can bring the most energy/watts in one minute span. This student from ITB was the highest scorer then but lost his energy level after realising he didn’t have any meals since breakfast. Hope you are better now 🙂
I only managed to produce half of what the ITB student did
Another student creating energy through cycling
Marul in his coveralls
There is also quizzes to try out at BSP Pavilion at Energy Week 2014
On top of the 55 job vacancy booths, the fair also features career development paths for certain jobs skill pool in the industry, as well as a CV writing clinic which should be able to aid job applicants to get a better idea of how best to structure their curriculum vitae in respect to the fields they intend to pursue.
Like in previous job fairs, this year’s participating companies will also be conducting walk-in interviews and live demonstrations.
The Energy Department at the Prime Minister’s Office (EDPMO) will continue to work closely with oil and gas industry players to achieve the goal of creating at least 50,000 employment opportunities and producing 5,000 professional locals and 35,000 skilled and semi-skilled workers in the energy sector in line with the nation’s Vision 2035. Text courtesy of Khal Baharulalam of Borneo Bulletin.
One of first steps if you want to be involved in Oil and Gas is to sign up and register. Procedure is simple and more than 1,000 applicants have already registered
I learnt some new about “marker fitter” and it is a very specialized technique of welding. The more advanced you are in qualifications, the more pay you will get and entry level is at zero knowledge. Why not give this a shot?
Faizal gave me some insight of his job scope and he seems to be a hardworking individual who never wants to stop learning and gain experience. We need more youth like him.
It’s nice to see our locals knowing technical stuff and explaining on how the pressure gauge works.
Do you know that scaffolding pays good money when you go up the rank? This is another avenue for the youth to be involved with and trust me, you will enjoy this and you will surprised how much the pay is once you go through different levels and experiences as a scaffolder. Thanks Jeffrin for the information.
His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam visiting Hengyi Industries Sdn Bhd’s pavilion at the 2014 Energy Week Exhibition
According to the information displayed at their booth, phase one is expected to begin operation in 2017.
Phase one will produce petroleum products such as gasoline, diesel, Jet A-1 fuel and petrochemical products such as paraxylene and benzene, said the company in a press statement. It also noted that the construction for phase one is scheduled to begin as soon as “once all conditions have been satisfied”.
According to one of Hengyi’s technicians, William Kwok who was at their pavilion at the Energy Week exhibition, work in clearing the land has been completed and they are at the moment, reclaiming areas of sea that will eventually be used to dock tankers.
He assured that they have been keeping in line with the Environmental Impact Assessment that has been done prior to the start of the project, and will continue to follow it when they begin operations.
For example, they have deployed monitoring devices for the reclamation process so that debris and other ground matter that had been disturbed would not spread too far from the construction site, contaminating its surroundings. “The devices measure the turbidity of the water, so if it gets too high, we stop construction and let it settle first,” he said.
He also noted that there are a number of heritage sites, usually old cemeteries, had been fenced off and expected to be left undisturbed.
Kwok also explained a number of technologies that they plan to use once the plant has been built, including a heat reclaimation system that hoped to reduce emissions as well as a “mulit-feed distillation system” which distills sea-water to fresh water for use by the refinery which uses relatively low energy compared to other systems.
His Majesty signs a plaque at Hengyi Industries
The force behind Hengyi Industries.
Phase two, an expansion of the petrochemical production, is expected to push the total project cost to USD$6 billion, from the USD$4 billion invested into phase one. Another 700 or more jobs are expected to be added once phase two begins operation, according to the company’s information at the Energy Week 2014 exhibition.
The total area the refinery and aromatics production plant is expected to occupy is about 280 hectares.
Hengyi Industries were among one of the companies that showcased an interactive booth displays representing company profile, local business development activities, Universiti Brunei Darussalam & Zhejiang University scholarship programme and products display amongst others.
Hengyi Industries also took part in the Job Fair & LBD Forum that showcased the various educational schemes, employment opportunities and business development initiatives undertaken to increase the ‘local content’ of locally registered companies.
According to previous reports, The phase one complex will be able to produce 1.5 million tonnes a year of diesel; 400,000 tonnes a year of gasoline; one million tonnes per year of jet kerosene; 1.5 million tonnes per year of naphtha, 1.5 million tonnes per year of paraxylene (PX) and 500,000 tonnes per year of benzene. Source: The Brunei Times.
His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei mingling with representatives of Earth Hour Brunei at Energy Week 2014 at BRIDEX. There will be there until Saturday.
It’s happening soon. Earth Hour that is. It’s an awareness about energy conservation and it’s no surprise that Brunei is joining again this year. So basically it’s switching off non-essential lights for an hour (normally from 8:30pm) and this year, our Minister of Development will lead the symbolic “lights-off” initiative at Yayasan Sultan Hj Hassanal Bolkiah this Saturday 29th March.
Apparently there will be ongoing activities to keep the spirit and the momentum of Earth Hour celebration in Brunei. There will be a fun run and cycle ride and even a night walk around Bandar. Of course, the best form of spreading such news is on social media and I urged all of you to share this moment on instagram with the hashtag #EHBN and you can follow them too @earthhourbn for more details and updates.
Did you know this year’s global ambassador for Earth Hour is Spider-Man with a simple message to inspire individuals to become “superheroes for the planet”. Nice!! I shall be covering that event organised by WWF-Singapore where there will be a special appearance by the casts of The Amazing Spider-Man 2 at the Marina Bay Skyline.
As for Brunei, the other landmarks will be Kampung Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery, Royal Wharf, and Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque. For more information, you can visit their website.
Join the instagram bandwagon and spread the awareness of Earth Hour
Glow wristbands and bracelets now available at Armtrix Enteprise (instagram @armtrix)
You can also order merchandise. Click image to order.
Spider-Man Earth Hour 2014 Superhero Ambassador
His Excellency Jean Yves Berthault, French Ambassador in Brunei Darussalam hosting dinner for the media and bloggers at his residence two nights ago
Thank you, Your Excellency Jean Yves Berthault for hosting the media and bloggers two nights ago at his residence. Jean Yves Berthault is the current French Ambassador in Brunei Darussalam. I really love the residence which has an awesome view of the river from the top of the hill along Kota Batu area. Furthermore, we all were well fed by the excellent cuisine and we were treated to various kinds of cheese as well 😀
The reason for the dinner invitation was to officially announce by the French Ambassador of the upcoming event organised by the French Embassy in Brunei Darussalam, a French Exhibition – A Showcase of Everything French. The event will take place on Saturday 5th April 2014 at the Times Square Shopping Centre.
His Excellency said that this is the first time that the French Embassy organised such event and the aim is to give the community of Brunei Darussalam a taste of what France as to offer. There will be activities such as the French Cuisine Showcase, basic French Language tutorial by Alliance Francaise, education opportunities with Campus France, car showcase by Peugeot and showcase of welding expertise from Institut de Soudure.
His Excellency shared that these showcases will also reinforce bilateral businesses between Brunei and France as well as the trust they place in the vibrant future of Brunei Darussalam.
France is also in support to Brunei’s VISION 2035 by encouraging the development of cooperation in vocational studies. In this case, Institut de Soudure is to set up a high-end vocational study with Mechanical Training Centre so that our locals will be given a high quality training for welding to match the demands especially in the Oil and Gas sector. I personally went to see the booth of Syarikat Pakar Tenaga Bersatu at the Energy Week 2014 at BRIDEX to learn more on how they are involved in the training program for welders. You will be surprised how much welders can earn as they rise up the ranks and qualifications.
Also present during the dinner was Pierre Imhof, the President of the French Brunei Business Association and he plays an important role in the synergies of French brands, companies and organisations with Brunei Darussalam.
So do come to the French showcase on the Saturday 5th April 2014 at the Times Square Shopping Centre and you can also stand a chance to win two airplane tickets to France as part of the lucky draw sponsored by Air France.
The event is supported by Total, French Brunei Business Association, Amundi Asset Management, Air France, Institut de Soudure, Peugeot, Michelin, Alliance Francaise and Campus France.
James Kon of Borneo Bulletin, Reeda Malik of Anakbrunei.org, Shaun Hoon of Catalyst and Pierre Imhof, President of French Brunei Business Association
The iconic Eiffel Tower in France
The lovely dinner I enjoyed very much. Thank you, Your Excellency 😀
I met a new friend, Hijab, His Excellency’s 11 year old cat brought from Pakistan. She’s such a manja cat.
French Exhibition happening on Saturday 5th April 2014
Muhd Syazli Haji Domeng (LOBO) recently won first prize in the Grand Prix Tamiya Standard Original category in the 1st ASEAN Tamiya Mini4wd, Jakarta
Late post: Just some updates on Tamiya Mini 4WD. Though this was two weeks ago but still newsworthy. One Bruneian managed to bag first place in the Grand Prix Tamiya Standard Original category in the 1st ASEAN Tamiya Mini4wd, Jakarta. There were more than 160 participants with 10 representatives from Brunei. First place went to Muhd Syazli Haji Domeng (LOBO) and another Bruneian Haji Asri finished 5th in the same category. The event is organised by Corner Hobby Shop Indonesia.
The event took place on 8th and 9th March and this is a lead up to the World Championship which will be held in November in Japan. Well done to the Bruneians who made it to Top 5 in a pool of 160 participants. A great effort indeed. Images courtesy of the participants.
The participants from Brunei in the recent competition
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#SerasaBeachReopens
Catch DPMM FC this Sunday as they take on Tampines Rovers. Both have perfect records but DPMM FC has yet to concede a goal.
His Royal Highness The Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah with the Ministers, Deputy Ministers and Permanent Secretaries and senior officers at the launch of the upgraded Serasa Beach yesterday. Click image to enlarge. Image courtesy of Dean Kassim.
Once you enter Serasa Beach, it won’t be the same as before and this is a very much efficient project that have made praises from the public and mind you, this was just six weeks ago before the beach went through a major facelift.
The launching ceremony took place yesterday, officiated by His Royal Highness The Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah. The tour was led by the Minister of Development Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Suyoi Hj Osman.
Also present were the Minister of Finance II, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Setia Dato Seri Setia Hj Abdul Rahman Hj Ibrahim, the Minister of Industry and Primary Resources Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Hj Yahya Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Hj Bakar and the Minister of Home Affairs Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Hj Awang Badaruddin Pengarah Dato Paduka Hj Othman.
There were accompanied by the Deputy Ministers and Permanent Secretaries from the relevant ministries.
His Royal Highness The Crown Prince at the official launch
His Royal Highness The Crown Prince upon arrival at the Serasa Beach
His Royal Highness The Crown Prince signing the plaque
His Royal Highness The Crown Prince touring the retail vendors
His Royal Highness The Crown Prince touring the retail vendors
One of the local vendors selling fabrics and clothes
One of the vendors talking to the Crown Prince
Photo opportunity with the Crown Prince
One of the vendors displaying antiques
Six weeks ago, Permanent Secretary (Administration and Finance) at the Ministry of Development Awang Haji Muhd Lutfi bin Haji Abdullah as the personal representative of Minister of Development in an interview said the project aimed to further enhance the area which is prone to flooding during heavy rains and high tide. The said project is under the direction of The Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation, Ministry of Development.
The project’s scope of work includes building a car park, a cycling track, a playground, gazebos, sports facilities, toilet/shower facilities, surau and landscaping. The beach now has an entrance for vehicles along with a separate pathway for pedestrians.
There are also some water recreational sports activities such as parasailing, banana boat and sailing to name a few.
Now let’s hope that the beach can be maintained and be taken care of and we, the community, have the responsibility of taking care of what is being provided and not take things for granted. Let’s not put to waste what the government has offered and delivered.
One thing that worries me is the mindset of the beach goers (well, not all) who are bound to litter at will which will spoil the image of the newly revamped Serasa Recreational Beach.
The Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation, Ministry of Development, has already installed a signboard with a warning to the culprits. You can be fined BND 1,000 for the first offense and BND 3,000 for the subsequent charges and imprisonment not more than 3 months. So let’s hope the enforcers play their part also to create this awareness for the public.
Congratulations to the Ministry of Development and the relevant stakeholders involved in this project and I will definitely have my visit one of these weekends.
So peeps, the Serasa Beach is officially open to the public and this is such a timely manner because of the current school holidays. Images courtesy of Dean Kassim and Hock Sim.
Check out the video made by Rudolf Portillo of The Brunei Times
A great facelift on this area. I can’t seem to picture how the old area looked like.
The new look for the retail vendors
A surau at the Serasa Beach
A good time to visit Serasa beach during school holidays
The kids playground area
Some of the F&B retailer vendor
Sailing anyone?
I never tried this before
I know many people will love parasailing
The overview of the facelift on Serasa Beach. Click image to enlarge.
Let’s hope the enforcement will change the mindset and educate the public especially when it comes to littering
Check out Acer Liquid smartphones
Jeffrey Lai, Product Manager, Acer Sales and Services (Kuala Lumpur), Ting Meng Hung, Regional Manager, Acer Sales and Services (Sarawak Region), Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer and Richard Soo, Branch Manager from Acer Sales and Services showcasing the complete family of the Acer Liquid series
It was good to see Acer representatives from Malaysia, flying in to Brunei to showcase the features of the Acer Liquid smartphones at the Rizqun International Hotel. The size of the Acer Z5 is pretty handy – 5.7 inches wide and it’s pretty light too (150g). This is an ideal phone as a secondary phone and especially when I fly abroad.
You can slot up to 32GB on your microSD. The camera is only 5MP but uses an LED flash. It’s powered by Android Jelly Bean with a dual core processor.
Battery wise, it packs a 2,000mAh battery and it’s not interchangeable like other Acer smartphones. However, you might be impressed with the price – it only costs BND 238. Not bad, right, for a smart phone.
I guess the great thing I saw during the presentation was the Float Apps where you can do multitasking (from 3 to 5 apps) and the Float Caller where your running app won’t be closed when an incoming call is made. The screen will be split and giving you to the option to call or reject the incoming call while your app or game is still running simultaneously. Genius!!
So now you can get them at Concepts Computer (Acer distributor in Brunei) and other authorized resellers such as AV Audio & Video, Boulevard IT, DeeJay, QQ eStore and Yappe Enterprise.
I won’t be talking much about the other high end Acer Liquid S series but you can check out the Acer Liquid S1 and the Acer Liquid S2 on GSM Arena website for their specs and they have good ratings too.
Jeffrey Lai showing the features of Acer Liquid Z5 and the Acer Liquid S2 and also the features of the Acer technology in the smartphones
Members of the media and resellers were invited for the product presentation. Zee Yursi of Borneo Bulletin taking down notes and you should read her article today at Borneo Bulletin.
Guess what? Each of us were given an Acer Liquid Z5 smartphone 😀
Lai, you don’t have to win a lucky draw this time :p
Representative from QQ eStore receiving one as well
The Acer Liquid Z3s smartphone is a dual-core smartphone that is ultra-affordable for everyone’s everyday use.
Weighing in at 115g with a 3.5-inch HVGA (320 x 480) screen, the Acer Liquid Z3s packs a whopping 5MP camera. It is the perfect, unobtrusive but efficient companion that allows users to snap away anywhere, anytime without burning a hole in their pocket!
It also comes with the Acer Active Flip that sees quick access to its home screen once the cover is flipped open and automatically turns off the screen when the cover is closed.
The Acer Liquid Z3s comes with Acer Quick Modes with different UI (User Interface) that works to suit its users – Basic Mode, Senior Mode, Classic Mode and Keypad Mode.
The Acer Liquid Z3s maintains most of the features of its predecessor, the Acer Liquid Z3 that was introduced last year. The size, weight, dual-sim support and other well-loved functionalities are retained in the Acer Liquid Z3s.
Priced at BND158, this compact yet powerful entry smartphone is suitable for people of all ages.
Representatives from Acer (Malaysia) with General Manager of Concepts Computer and authorized resellers
Group photo with the media as well
The Acer Liquid Z3s, The Acer Liquid Z5, The Acer Liquid E2, The Acer Liquid S1 and The Acer Liquid S2. Take your pick!!
Some of the batteries of the phones are interchangeable
My unboxed Acer Liquid Z5
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