Summer movie predictions of 2016 with co-host Del Goh

 

The Cheesy Whopper & Tendergrill at BurgerKing *Slurrrpppp*

 

Two Mercedes C-Class Coupe being launched at Jati Transport Showroom last night, exclusive for Standard Chartered Bank’s Priority Banking clients

Alfred So, General Manager of Jati Transport Sdb Bhd, Rino Donosepoetro CEO of Standard Chartered Bank and Yang Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Jaafar ibni Al-marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammad Alam, Executive Chairman of Jati Transport Sdn Bhd during the exclusive launch of the Mercedes C-Class Coupe

Standard Chartered Bank treated their Priority Banking clients to an exclusive unveiling of the Mercedes C-Class Coupe at Jati Transport Sdn Bhd’s showroom in Gadong last evening.

The evening was attended by Yang Mulia Pengiran Anak Haji Jaafar ibni Al-marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohammad Alam, Executive Chairman of Jati Transport Sdn Berhad.

Rino Donosepoetro CEO of Standard Chartered Bank said “We are delighted to collaborate with Jati Transport on the exclusive launch of the new Mercedes C-Class coupe this evening, giving our valued clients a first look at the sporty new model from Mercedes. We believe that by spending valuable time with our clients we will get to understand them and their financial needs better.”

” We are pleased to host this event with Standard Chartered Bank. Events like this allow two international brands to leverage on their global branding power to bring elegant lifestyle befitting these segments,” said Alfred So, General Manager of Jati Transport.

Rino Donosepoetro giving his welcoming remarks

The new Mercedes C-Class Coupe

Checking out the interior of Mercedes C-Class Coupe

The Mercedes C-Class Coupe in black…. Grrrrr …

The back view of the Mercedes C-Class Coupe

The VIPs and invited the guests of the Standard Charted Priority Banking

 

The awesome cars – Mini Cooper, BMW or the Porsche – for the hole-in-one winners. Will anyone take home a car or two?

The first tee off of the Baiduri Masters this morning took place at 6.45am. The opening session saw 92 golfers take part for a chance to don the coveted Green Jacket and Challenge Trophy.

By the end of the afternoon session today, Idris Osman was in the lead with an even par of 71 followed closely by a trio of golfers comprising Ali Hj Rashid, defending champion Seruji Hj Setia and Zulhilmi Rosli with a gross score of 72. In fifth and sixth places, with a gross of 73, was Pg Hj Ahmad Zaki and Hj Norismadi Hj Tamid.

Coming in seventh place today was Baiduri Masters veteran, Hj Shaiful Rizal Pehin Dato Hj Ahmad with a gross score of 75. Close behind him was another trio made up of Mohammad Rijal Hj Kassim, Fa’ez Ahmad and Han Kiang Siew with a tied gross of 76.

Rounding off the top twelve were Hj Md Yussop Hj Abd Latip and Khalil Ariffin with a gross score of 79.

Zulhilmi Rosli finished with a 72 in the first day of the Baiduri Masters 2016

Some of the participants of the Baiduri Masters 2016

This was a reward for being an early bird registrant. Hj Osman Salleh won a whole new golf wardrobe from Under Armour Brunei

The challenge today is: Will Seruji finally walk away with the Challenge Trophy that has eluded him on multiple occasions and make him the first ever in Baiduri Masters history to do so? Or will the return of Khairul Kamis after a two-year hiatus break his win streak? Will 2016 see yet another hole-in-one?

The hole-in-one prizes for the Baiduri Masters 2016, with a combined value in excess of a quarter of a million dollars, comprise a Porsche Cayenne, a BMW 218 Active Tourer, a Mini Cooper and two BND20,000 cash prizes.

The Baiduri Masters tournament is divided into 4 divisions this year – Men’s, Group, Ladies and Juniors. The Men’s division will be further divided into Men’s Gross, Men’s Nett and Senior Golfers Nett. Players who are interested in participating and doing their part for charity can register at the RBA Golf Club.

The Baiduri Masters is an annual charity golf tournament organised by the Baiduri Bank Group which is scheduled to take place during the final two weekends of May 2016. The 21st edition of the Baiduri Masters will take place at the RBA Golf Club and is supported by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.

The Baiduri Masters is also supported by the QAF Group of Companies as well as Brunei Press as the exclusive print media partner.

The event will be from 20-22th May 2016 and the next weekend 27-29 May 2016. You can register as many times as you want and who knows your chances will increase in winning a car or cash prize. Call 244 9666 for info or you can click here to their website for registration and details of the Baiduri Masters 2016. Images courtesy of Baiduri Bank.

 

The Peugeot 308 GT Line will be launched pretty soon

The Peugeot 308 GT Line will be launched pretty soon

TCY Motors, sole distributor of Peugeot in Brunei is introducing to the local press the 308 GT Line. This 308 is the first Peugeot GT Line variant to be introduced in Brunei.

PEUGEOT 308 GT Line offers exclusive and dynamic versions aimed at motoring enthusiasts. To engage such customers, the strong personality of this version is achieved through assertive styling, remarkable performance and an enhanced driving experience.

On the inside, the 308 GT Line offers all the features you’d expect of a premium hatchback model. Specification includes front and rear parking aid, DAB digital radio, USB interface and reversing camera, all controlled from a 9.7″ multifunction colour touchscreen with the redline colour scheme on the touch screen continuing the sporting touch.

The interior of the GT Line reflects the premium trim – the luxurious trim sports seats with red stitching are comfortable and supportive, with driver and front passenger lumbar adjustment that includes a massage function. The interior also features a GT-style leather steering wheel with matching red stitching, GT style mats and inside door sills and pedals are finished in aluminium for a contemporary look.

The GT Line features full LED headlights, positioned alongside distinctive direction indicators and fog lights. With a comprehensive range of airbags, cruise control with speed limiter, the 308 GT Line has received a full five-star Euro NCAP rating for its excellent safety features.

On PEUGEOT 308 GT Line can be identified by:

–          Sporty wheels
–          Sporty stylish twin tailpipe
–          RedLine colour scheme for the touch screen
–          Full-LED headlamps
–          LED direction indicators
–          Their sporty and top of the range ambience through the association of black and red trim
–          GT Line badges applied to the body

You can drop by in Peugeot Kiarong Showroom or call 2426868 for further details. Follow us on Instagram at @PeugeotBrunei and like our Facebook fan page @ facebook.com/peugeotbrunei.

 

Click image to enter Facebook Page

The Red Bull Brunei is back once more for a special promotion. This time is special. You don’t need to buy a pack or so. Just purchase a can of Red Bull and walaaaaa, you are eligible for the draw where prizes are such as a 40” LED TV, an Auto washer and a 2-Door fridge.

Apart from that, there will be weekly prizes throughout the the contest period (1st April to 31st May) before proceeding to the actual final draw. Each weekly draw will reward 25 lucky winners with prizes such as shopping vouchers, Power Kad, Prepaid Top Up cards and a cluster pack of Red Bull bottle.

So after you buy a Red Bull can (Gold/Less Sugar) at the convenient stores or outlets, pull the ring tab and attached it to the contest form (also available at retail outlets) and drop into the contest boxes which are placed in participating outlets nationwide.

The Gold or the Less Sugar Red Bull? My preference the latter

Apparently Nuri loves Red Bull

The contest form and this is how you stick the Red Bull tab and stand a chance to win

 

The new generation 7-seater Audi Q7 available now in 2.0 and 3.0 TFSI at Audi showroom (Kiarong) #TheGreatQ

 

The first monthly draw at the Kingston Beverage & Creamery office

Kingston Beverage and Creamery is conducting the Pepsi Bonanza Draw 2016, 1st Monthly Pre-Draw. 10 lucky monthly winners will be drawn at its office today. The pre-draw will be officiated and drawn by members of press and witnessed by the management of Kingston Beverage and Creamery Sdn Bhd.

The 10 monthly winners will be informed and invited to attend the monthly prize presentation on 15th April 2016 (Friday) 3pm at Freshco Supermarket at Seri Complex. The monthly prizes consist of an Ipad Mini 4, an Acer Aspire Laptop, and a LG 32″ LED Television and 7 consolation prizes. The Pepsi Bonanza Draw 2016 will have two (2) pre-draws before entering the Grand draw. Total prizes of various awesome gadgets worth of $40,000 is out to be won by the public. However, monthly prize winners are not eligible to enter the next pre-draw and Grand Draw.

Pepsi Bonanza Draw 2016 runs from March 15 till May 31, 2016. To enter, just purchase any 1.5L bottles (Pepsi, Pepsi Twist, 7up, 7up Revive, Mirinda Orange, Mirinda Strawberry, Mirinda Green Apple, or Mirinda Green Fruit) and attach two labels to the entry form or simply visit any of the participating fast food chain and cinema outlets and purchase the selected meals and combos to entitle an entry in the Pepsi Bonanza Draw 2016. If you would like to know more about Pepsi Bonanza Draw 2016, please follow Pepsi Brunei in its Facebook page..

The first monthly draw officiated by members of the press

The first monthly draw winners

The grand draw for the Pepsi Bonanza Draw 2016

 

Hao Zi and Ah Xiang of Super Taste from Taiwan being greeted by Wu Chun and representatives from Royal Brunei Airlines and Brunei Tourism Board upon their arrival at Brunei International Airport

Fans of Taiwan’s most popular lifestyle tv programme – ‘Super Taste’ flocked the Bake Culture bakery shop in Kiulap yesterday to catch a glimpse of their favourite stars up close.

The Taiwanese celebrities – Hao Zi and Ah Xiang are in the Sultanate for six days to film a special segment of the ‘Super Taste – Magic Brunei’ which will be aired on TVBS by end of May this year.

The reality show takes the duo around Taiwan and abroad, where they get to taste the local delicacies and goof around while exploring their featured destinations.

The ‘Super Taste’ reality show provides a perspective of Taiwanese palate and their appreciation of foreign food.

The location of the filming in Brunei includes popular tourist destinations and interesting places for food hunting such as Gadong night market and a Taiwan franchise bakery shop, Bake Culture. Text courtesy of Raghadah Agus of The Brunei Times.

The superstars with the Bake Culture Award winning chef

Image courtesy of Raghadah Agus of The Brunei Times

Image courtesy of Raghadah Agus of The Brunei Times

 

BIBD was conferred with IBFIM’s (Islamic Banking Finance Institute Malaysia) Islamic Finance Talent Development Champion Award in the International Category at the 3 rd Certifications Award Ceremony from the Islamic Banking Finance Institute Malaysia (IBFIM).

Also in the International Category, BIBD and Brunei’s very own Dayangku Noruldiana Shim Binti Pengiran Hj Hashim was conferred with Highest Achiever Award in the Islamic Financial Planner (IFP) Category. The event was held at the Mahkota Ballroom, Istana Hotel, Kuala Lumpur City Centre last weekend.

BIBD Deputy Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer, Hajah Noraini bti Haji Sulaiman mentioned in reference to BIBD’s recognition, “The program also allows BIBD to develop their capabilities to provide more robust Islamic financial and wealth management solutions for our customers. These efforts also reflect our continuing efforts to meet the growing demands of our customers along with innovations in Islamic financial products.”

Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad presented an award for IBFIM Islamic Finance Talent Development Champion Award to a BIBD representative

Dayangku Noruldiana Shim Binti Pengiran Hj Hashim of BIBD earned the Highest Achiever Award in the Islamic Financial Planner (IFP) Category

BIBD currently has a team of forty-two certified Islamic financial planners (IFP), four of whom are also Chartered Financial Consultants (ChFC), a number which is constantly growing as more and more BIBD personnel are enrolled into becoming certified financial planners.

The IFP program is a professional qualification developed in collaboration between IBFIM and Financial Planning Association of Malaysia (FPAM). The program aims to develop experts in financial planning and wealth management to cater to the increasing standards of competency and ethical practice of financial planning professionals.

The ceremony is recognition to holders of IBFIM’s certified qualifications along with recognition to organizations that had fervently supported IBFIM’s talent development initiatives by awarding them the prestigious Islamic Finance Talent Development Champion Award.

 

HMD FT’s dreams of going to Anfield to watch English Premier League team Liverpool were realised after winning the Standard Chartered Cup 2016 following a 3-0 victory over Plan C FT in the final at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex last weekend.

The family-oriented team which comprised four brothers raced to a 2-0 lead after goals from Khairun Nadzereen and an own goal from Md Shahin.

The tie was as good as over after Ahmad Muhazzib bundled home to all but send HMD to Anfield to watch Liverpool play Watford on May 7.

The Anfield dream has come for HMD FT

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, and HMD FT players posing with the mock cheque.

After a Plan C FT player was expelled from the pitch and HMD content to sit back, the latter’s goalkeeper produced an amazing fingertip save with the ball arrowing to the top corner.

The father of the four brothers Haji Mohd Daud bin Haji Abdul Kadir, whose team was formed under his name, had planned to join the tournament but pulled out due to injury.

Nevertheless, he was still grateful that his sons had made it to one of the iconic stadiums in the world especially after the quarterfinal heartbreak last year in the Standard Chartered Trophy.

Haji Mohd Daud was wary of the threat of Real Five FC which he considered as favourites prior to the final but agreed that his team’s chances was tightly balanced after Plan C scraped through the semi-final contest through penalties.

“We never imagined that we would go to Anfield because there are a lot of strong teams in the competition. We also have young players and the other teams also enlisted players who had experience in the national team,” said Haji Mohd Daud in an interview with the Bulletin after the final.

“The boys in the team (HMD) play in normal clubs and in schools”, he added.

There were individual prizes up for grabs as well as Mohd Fauzan of HMD won an autographed Liverpool Football Club Jersey for the most assist together with Md Abd Khaalid as the top scorer of the tournament. Meanwhile, Azamri Zainal of Brunei Shell Lions won a fully autographed football as the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper.

The guest of honour was Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, who presented the mock plaque to the winners.

During the closing ceremony, a mock cheque of $2,400 was be handed over to the Community Development Department on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports for the Welfare Home Complex Fund. Text and image courtesy of Fadhil Yunus of Borneo Bulletin.

 

Now this is your chance to head to Brazil for the upcoming Rio 2016 Olympic Games happening in August this year. Yes, all expenses paid trip for two courtesy of Visa.

It’s simple. All you have to do is have a Baiduri Visa Credit and Debit Card and for every BND 50 you spend (locally and overseas), you will earn 1 entry in the grand draw. The promotion ends in 31st May 2016.

Now you can sign up during the promotional period and enjoy a 3-year annual fee waiver. For more info, you can click here to learn more or call 244 9666.

Click image to learn more

 

As part of BIBD’s ongoing efforts to raise the benefits and awareness of better financial management, at the same time underscoring the importance of elevating the awareness of financial literacy in Brunei Darussalam, BIBD today held a financial literacy talk to almost fifty personnel from Setia Protective Security Services Sdn Bhd (SPSS). The talk was delivered by BIBD personnel Rozielawati Hj Jamil and Norliah Md Taib.

 

Download SnapFeed app on your smartphones and check out the latest deals in Brunei and also get rewarded from respective merchants such as BurgerKing, KFC and Sushi Tei to name a few and also check out the new movie listings as well.

 

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam (3rd R) speaking with Captain Sharifah Czarena Surainy Syed Hashim (L), as former Deputy Chairman of Royal Brunei Dermot Mannion (2nd L) and Deputy Chief Operating Officer Captain Khalidkhan Hj Asmakhan (2nd R) look. It was His Majesty’s visit to the newly refurbished Brunei International Airport last year. Image courtesy of Zaim Kasmat of The Brunei Times.

Mr. Dermot Mannion have served in Royal Brunei Airlines for 5 years and he has definitely shifted the play field of Royal Brunei Airlines through restructuring and rebranding. It’s sad to know that he won’t be continuing his journey in Royal Brunei Airlines. Image courtesy of breakingnewstravel.com

After five years of service as Deputy Chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines (RB), Mr. Dermot Mannion has announced he will shortly depart from Brunei, on completion of his term of office. The Board of RB has expressed gratitude to Mr. Mannion for his service and in particular, has commended the successful completion of the restructuring and rebranding of RB in recent years.

Mr. Mannion will now be succeeded in the capacity of CEO by Mr. Karam Chand who was previously Chief Commercial and Planning Officer at RB. Mr. Chand holds an MSc in Air Transport Management from Cranfield University and has over twenty years’ experience at various flag carrier airlines and Virgin Australia.

Stated Mr. Mannion: ‘I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Board and to our staff for their loyalty and support during my tenure at RB. I would also like to congratulate Karam on his appointment and I extend my sincere best wishes to him and to RB for the future.’

Mr Chand stated “I am honoured and humbled by the appointment and for the trust and faith the Board has placed in me. We have tremendous opportunities ahead of us and with the strong legacy left by Dermot we are in a good position to fly the flag higher. I am grateful to Dermot for his support and guidance over the last three and half years. We wish him well in whatever he chooses as his next challenge”. Text courtesy of Royal Brunei Airlines.

Dermot with the winners of the talent competition for the in-house employees of RB last December. A very much loved leader in the company.

Dermot congratulating Sabre (formerly known as Abacus) for their 25 years in service last September. He even sang a number for the audience.

Dermot with the chairman of Royal Brunei Airlines, YB Dato Paduka Hj Bahrin bin Abdullah, during the signing agreement for the new Airbus A320neo aircraft. The signing took place in May 2014.

What I feel: It’s truly sad to know that a capable leader such as Mr. Dermot is leaving Brunei and our national air carrier Royal Brunei Airlines. So far he is the longest service leader compared to the past few CEOs of Royal Brunei Airlines. I have had a few dialogues with him and I am amazed by his humble character. I’m pretty sure that the senior management and the associates of the company will miss his company. He has turned RB into one of the strong brands in the country and guess what? Even their online presence is strong on social media as they were being recognized last year for being in the social trend.

I remember when Royal Brunei had to restructure which involved cutting cost here and there. It was a pretty challenging period for RB then and I was thinking to myself if RB will have the resilience to climb back up. Slowly it did and thanks to Dermot and his team as well as the chairmanship of YB Dato Paduka Hj Bahrin. It’s a great reminder for those who doesn’t have a vision, do follow those who have and Dermot is one of them. Thank you for your contribution to the Brunei economy and the community. I wish you the best in your future journey.

Dermot at the launching of the rebranded Royal Skies in September 2014.

The launching of the Dreamliner B787 back in October 2013. It suddenly became a reality that the Dreamliner is physically in Brunei Darussalam.

Dermot launching the Dreamliner service to Kuala Lumpur at Vistana Hotel back in May 2013

Dermot played an important role in rebranding the image and corporate culture of Royal Brunei Airlines. One of them is the logo.

He also saw a potential in signing superstar Wu Chun as the brand ambassador for Royal Brunei Airlines. The dividends have surely paid off.

One of the core values that Royal Brunei Airlines incorporated in their rebranding process – “Happyness”

The new uniforms of the cabin crew of Royal Brunei Airlines.

 

Standard Chartered Bank Brunei officially announced the launch of the Standard Chartered Cup 2016 indoor football tournament yesterday at a press conference at their Priority Banking Centre in Gadong. The Standard Chartered Cup 2016 in a local 5 aside indoor football tournament (futsal) and the tournament is planned to kick off in early April.

Marilyn Graeme, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand & Marketing said:

“Standard Chartered Bank has been the main sponsor for Liverpool FC since 2009 and together the partnership has greatly benefitted both parties. The SC Cup tournament will give teams the opportunity of a once-in-a-lifetime experience to win a trip to Anfield to watch a home game in executive box seats as well as receive a coaching session with an LFC Legend at the LFC Academy.

The SC Cup aims not only to engage the large football loving community here as well as Liverpool FC fans in Brunei, we also look forward to contributing towards a charitable cause through 100 percent donation of the registration fees that will be collected. We would like to thank our generous partners, Royal Brunei as well as the Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sports and the National Football Association for their kind support.”

Last year, Standard Chartered hosted SC Trophy which saw winning team, Matahari FC, winning the local tournament to represent Brunei in the regional stage against Malaysia and Thailand. Press release from SCB Brunei.

NFABD Futsal standing committee chairman Rosdin Hj Abd Aziz, SCB Brunei Head of Corporate Affairs Marilyn Graeme and NFABD Fustal standing committee deputy chairman Bujang Hj Japar during the press conference at the SCB’s Priority Banking Centre in Gadong yesterday

Marilyn delivering some exciting news for football fans

The local media during the press conference

Matahari FC team members – winners of the Standard Chartered Trophy 2015 local tournament in February 2015 – received their kits from CEO of SCB. Rino Donosepoetro. They represented Brunei in the regional tournament but failed to win the tournament. The winner then won the trip to Anfield. This time round the winners of the Standard Chartered Cup 2016 indoor football tournament in Brunei will guarantee a passage straight to Anfield. Awesome news!!! Image courtesy of SCB Facebook Page.

SC Cup 2016 Local tournament

The local tournament will see 24 teams participating. It will kick off on 4 April with the finals taking place on 9 April. Teams can register for a place by visiting Standard Chartered’s Brunei’s website at www.sc.com/bn. Participants must be Brunei citizens or permanent residents, be over 18 years of age and not be professional or semi-professional players. Each registered team cannot have more than two (2) players who are also participating in the 2015/2016 national futsal leagues.

The grand prize

All seven (7) team members of the winning team from the Tournament will receive flights (return economy class) to and from Brunei Darussalam to the United Kingdom, transfers during the itinerary, accommodation for the duration of the trip, tickets to a Liverpool FC match at Anfield, training session at the Liverpool FC Academy (itinerary subject to change depending on final confirmation of flights and activities and availability). Participants should be able to travel to the United Kingdom between 4 May to 9 May 2016 in order to receive the grand prize.

The closing date for registrations is 25 March. To find out more about the Standard Chartered Cup, visit www.sc.com/bn or follow the bank’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/StandardCharteredBN. Press release from SCB Brunei.

What I think:  This is an awesome opportunity whether you are not a Liverpool supporter or not. Just to be sponsored all the way to the UK and experience a Premier League club are chances of a lifetime. Thanks to Standard Chartered Bank and Royal Brunei Airlines with the support of the MCYS and NFABD, this is made possible for the residents of Brunei Darussalam. The other great news is that the winners of the futsal team don’t have to play other winning countries to get that passage to Anfield. Just as long as you win the Standard Chartered Cup 2016 indoor football tournament, seven of you will earn the right to fly to the UK. Should the winning team couldn’t fly, then the runners-up will be given the opportunity.

 

I came across this advertisement on Standard Chartered recently and what caught my eye is the difference in repayments for your loans. This is interesting indeed. How can that be possible to lower the repayment amount by as much as BND400 on a monthly basis? This was from the illustration of the poster that I saw on their website recently.

So imagine that you have a few loans that you have such as personal loans, credit card payments or your other loans. You will pay the normal dues respectively to the bank as part of your commitment. The thing that struck me me was the savings that you can enjoy when you consolidate all the loan commitments into one and enjoy a lower repayment scheme as a whole.

In other words, if I were to pay individually for the loans that I have even from other banks and the total loan amounts to a total of BND 75,000, every month I would have to fork out BND 1,093. Now with Standard Chartered’s new financial package, you would only pay BND 653 as a whole. That’s like a savings of BND 400ish. Now that’s a great deal.

Better still, you only pay a flat interest rate of 3.79% (6.5% effective) per annum for 15 years tenor.

I don’t have a personal loan or car loan from a bank but this may be relevant to those who have existing multiple bank loans. I understand however, there are qualifying criteria so not everyone is eligible. If you are keen to find out more, you can reach them at 265 8000 or click on the link.

Joanna Kwan with the WCOPA contests from Brunei at the airport yesterday

It’s good to know that we are not stopping to send Bruneians to Hollywood to showcase their talents in singing, dancing, playing instruments or acting. Remember WCOPA? They are back but with a slightly lower bang. I remember for the past two years that they had a good hype leading to the event.

Not all that qualified for WCOPA will be flying to the California, US. This is due to the budget constraint as all participants will have to seek for sponsorship for their travels and they were given some months to reach their targeted sponsorship. It’s never an easy journey as an artist especially in Brunei. Financial support has always been tough for local artists. Despite the setbacks, there are always ways and means to reach their goals and for this case, to fly to Los Angeles and participated in the WCOPA competition.

By the way, WCOPA stands for World Championship of Performing Arts. Brunei did fairly well last year with Shian Li, Eia and Joanna reached the finals. Shian Li won the top accolade in her category while Joanna was given an acting scholarship. Eia was offered something of a bigger scale – to host the upcoming WCOPA 2015. That itself is an amazing opportunity for a Bruneian to host a world championship event.

Zainal Bostaman, founder of Bruhaha, pumped up for the event

Zainal with his family at the Brunei International Airport

The family huddle before boarding

This shot taken early in the year. How time has flown off so fast.

Yesterday most of the participants flew off for the US for their three week journey in Los Angeles. Zainal Bostaman (Senior Acting), Nadya Halim, Ak Muhd Yazakka Pg Hj Mohd Yamin known as “Yazakka”, Kala Kawarnamurthi and Erwan Mugit, part of Ellewan duo (all to compete in the Senior Vocal category) whereas Amy Cheong, Ainul Marzuki, Mardi Hedus and Shannon Osman the team of Relentless Entertainment will compete in the Senior Dance Group.

The ones missing were Michele Tan of Ellewan, Sarah Jane of Relentless and Hill Zaini as they couldn’t make it for the competition.

Joanna Kwan, previous WCOPA participant, flew off with the delegates and she will be managing the Brunei team during the course of the competition.

Jeffrey E. Cadayong, WCOPA Brunei Darussalam’s National Director, will be welcoming the delegates in the US.

Do follow their instagram @officialwcopabrunei for updates and let’s hope for mode success for the participants. The competition will be from 10th to 19th July at Long Beach, California.

The team of Relentless flew off earlier yesterday

Relentless have been raising funds for their trip to the US. They have done an excellent job in doing so. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.

Taken some time ago when Brunei bagged many awards and medals.

 

It was the first time that I dined at a fast food joint for breaking my fast this year and that is at Burger King 😀 Currently Burger King have a special promotion dubbed the Ramadhan Family Deal and it comes in four different sets – Crispy and Tender, Flame-Grilled, Mixed and Whopper. So which one will suit you best? Surprisingly the mixed set has been selling well

Now why should you go for the set meals? One thing for sure is that you will save from $12 to $14 if you buy in a set. Very ideal if you come with your friends and families and you can enjoy the privilege. Furthermore, you will get a free gift from Burger King – BK mug and a coca-cola plate.

The Crispy and Tender set includes two chicken royals and one chicken grill whilst the Flame-Grilled set consists of two Whopper Juniors and a single Texas beef.

Both, priced at $19.90, also consist of chicken tempura nuggets along with large drinks and fries for three people.

On the other hand, the Mixed set contains two double mushroom Swiss and two chicken tender grill and the Whopper set has two Whoppers and two Western Whopper Juniors.

At a price of $27.90, both sets too have large drinks and fries that are enough four people.

For those who ordered any of the sets can also add $1 for a Taro Turnover, limited to five pieces a set. Furthermore, if one finishes a drink, just refill the cups with a top-up of $1.50.

For those who are interested, visit its nearest branch or call 2220215 or check out its Facebook Page and Instagram @burgerkingbrunei.

Buy a set and you will get a Burger King mug and Coca-Cola plate

Rara was in full of joy that night

Members of the media dining at Burger King

Customers dining at BK for Sungkai

Add $1 for a taro turnover 😀 Yummm!!! My favourite

 

My brother has been active in the news as of late. Keep it up!! Recently he handed over donation to KACA (Centre for Children with Special Needs). YAM Pg Anak Abdul Mun’im, Managing Director of PAR Corporaton Sdn Bhd handed over to KACA Managing Director, Hj Abdul Alim Hj Othman. Later today my brother will officiate the opening of Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at Mata-Mata this afternoon. Image courtesy of Norliha Din of The Brunei Times.

 

Be more alert in school premises nowadays for the sake of your children

News have been circulating about the perpetrator who had the intention to cause a stir in the local community. He was apprehended by the Royal Brunei Police Force and being charged for molesting an 11-year girl on the premises of St. Andrew’s School. Man, that’s my former school during my primary and second years.

I’m glad the police managed to apprehend 28 year old Pg Shahirul Hamadi Pg Hj Jaya. Apparently it’s not the first time he has been involved in similar incidents.

According to the report, a St Andrew’s School teacher filed a police report describing how an unknown man tried to force a female student into his car. The girl managed to get away from the man and immediately informed a teacher who tried to give chase. The teacher also reported that the suspect touched the girl on her chest and tried to coerce another student into his vehicle.

He is now on trial and being charged. He could be facing up to five years in prison with whipping if convicted of outraging the modesty of the female student. His next hearing will be on 9th of July. Let’s hope justice is served.

CEO of the bank, Rino (Donny) Donosepoetro, CEO of SCB (center seated) with the associates of Standard Chartered Brunei at Tardinak D’ Polo recently. Image courtesy of SCB.

More than 100 staff from Standard Chartered Bank broke fast together at Tarindak D’Polo, Jerudong Park Polo & Riding Club last Wednesday.

The sungkai gathering was organised by the bank through its Recreation Club, which regularly organises staff engagement activities and feature a wide range of activities to cater to various lifestyles of their employees from active sports to leisure activities. Some recent activities included movie outing, regular yoga, badminton and basketball sessions as well as mini bowling tournament.

CEO of the bank, Rino (Donny) Donosepoetro, said: “This being my first Ramadhan here in Brunei, I am delighted to have sungkai together with our staff members outside of work as well as get to know more of the local culture around this season. We believe staff engagement initiatives such as these would encourage more open communications and strengthen team dynamics when staff get to know each other better thereby reflecting the values we hold as being trustworthy, responsive and international.”

To find out more about Standard Chartered Bank and its career opportunities, visit www.sc.com/en/careers.

Get your hair serviced at Camellia Hair & Beauty

People are now busy with Hari Raya shopping for fabrics, decks and food. Let’s not forget that we need to groom ourselves to before Hari Raya which means pampering yourself at the salon.

There’s a new salon for your info and it’s located at Serusop area. It’s called Camellia Hair & Beauty and the prices are pretty reasonable if you ask me. The salon is only cater for female. There are able to provide the usual services (cut, trim, was, blow) and also other services such as waxing, facial, foot spa, mani and pedicure.

Currently they are having a special promotion with a 50% discount on straightening, digital perming, normal perming and coloring as well. On top of this, they will also give free treatment. Good deal indeed.

The salon is located on 1st floor, Unit 2, Simpang 94 at Delima. For appointments, you can reach Betty Goh (872 3396) or Annabelle (865 5316). Grab this opportunity while you can and pamper yourself. I think all the ladies will love the head massage while shampooing. Well, my friends did.

Betty is a certified hairstylist

Their best part of the service – shampooing

Both sisters loved it :p

A small unit area

The services available and even a 50% on selected services

 

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The monthly winners of the Multi Tier Savings Account – Get Rewarded from Your Savings promotion at Baiduri Bank. Image courtesy of Baiduri Bank.

To encourage customers to save more, Baiduri Finance launched a savings promotion in January with attractive cash prizes to be won monthly.

At a prize presentation event held at the company’s head office in Sumbangsih Bahagia, Beribi this afternoon, four lucky customers were elated after being picked as winners in the second monthly draw.

The Multi Tier Savings Account – Get Rewarded from Your Savings promotion offers customers who deposited fresh funds of B$5,000 into their new or existing Multi Tier Savings Account (MTSA) a chance to win monthly cash prizes and be in the running to win the grand prize of B$50,000.

Md Shahidullah bin Md Mafizuddin, Jong Boon Nee, Cheong Huat Joo and Wu Siew Poh were rewarded with B$4,000, B$3,000, B$2,000 and B$1,000 respectively. These amounts will be credited into the winners’ existing MTSA as part of the promotion’s objective to further grow customers’ savings. They are the second batch of winners to receive cash savings from the Multi Tier Savings Account Deposit Promotion.

On hand to present the prizes to the winners was Hj Mohd Rayme bin Hj Bakri, Marketing Manager at Baiduri Finance Berhad. “We are now in the third month of the promotion,” he said, adding, “This promo will end in June, so there’s still time to get lucky and win big in our upcoming draws”.

Baiduri Finance’s MTSA is intended to provide accountholders with worthy interest gains within a short period of time. Requiring only B$50 for account creation, savers can earn interest rates of up to 0.65% flat rate per annum, and ease of managing their accounts through Baiduri Personal i-Banking, and all Baiduri Bank branches. MTSA customers will receive Baiduri VISA Debit cards upon account opening and can perform banking transactions via all Baiduri ATMs and CDMs nationwide.

Information on the MTSA promotion is available on www.baiduri.com or customers can contact the Baiduri Call Centre at 2449666.

 

Pre game photo of Matahari FC against TOT United. Image courtesy of Standard Chartered Brunei.

TOT United of Malaysia emerged as the winners of the Standard Chartered Trophy Regional Tournament held in Kuala Lumpur held last Saturday 28 March 2015. The winners managed to best their counterparts, PTT GC of Thailand and Matahari FC of Brunei Darussalam and will go on to compete in the Standard Chartered Trophy Finals Tournament, held in Liverpool Football Club’s Homeground, Anfield this coming May.

Marilyn Graeme, Head of Corporate Affairs said:

“We’re extremely delighted to have been able to leverage on our partnership with Liverpool FC to give our local talents and rising futsal stars an opportunity like this to gain exposure outside of Brunei to push themselves and test their skills on a regional amateur level. Well done to Matahari FC and we hope they will continue to shine on in their future futsal challenges.”

The Standard Chartered Trophy Brunei Local Tournament was held on 16, 17, 20 and 21 of February. The tournament saw 24 teams compete for the chance to represent Brunei in the upcoming regional tournament. During the closing ceremony of the tournament, a mock cheque of BND2400 was handed over to JAPEM on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports for the Humanitarian Fund of the Malaysian Flood Disaster. The funds were raised from registration fees collected from the participating teams, 100% of which was donated.

19 countries have been globally selected to run the local qualifying tournaments and select winning teams. The winning teams will then advance to the regional stages to compete against other countries. The winning teams from the regional stage of the SC Trophy will then go on to the finals, held at Anfield Stadium in the United Kingdom. This is the fourth year that the Standard Chartered Trophy tournament has been organised and this season sees Vietnam defending their title from last season.

The Standard Chartered Trophy Brunei 2015 was supported by The Ministry of Culture Youth & Sports and endorsed by the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam.

To find out more about the Standard Chartered Trophy follow the bank’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/StandardCharteredBN.

Pre game photo of Matahari FC against PTT GC. Image courtesy of Standard Chartered Brunei.

CEO Standard Chartered Malaysia giving out tokens to the players. Image courtesy of Standard Chartered Brunei.

Group photo of the Bruneian, Thai and Malaysian Teams at the post-tournament dinner. Image courtesy of Standard Chartered Brunei.

 

I can’t find a proper mask. But not to worry, the air quality is still considered good according to today’s paper.

This is one of the hottest times in Brunei and it’s no surprise that forest fire will happen. However, I didn’t expect it to create such a nuisance because of the haze factor. We all keep hoping for rain to reduce the density of the haze. I also would like to salute our brave fire fighters who are doing their best to get rid of the fire. It’s never an easy task especially in the forest as it is difficult for the fire brigades to access the source of the fire in the middle of the forest.

So do take extra measures or even wear a mask if possible. Frankly speaking, I hardly see people wearing mask. Maybe the level of haze is still considered low (the PSI reading has ok so far) but sometimes precaution is much better approach. I can still smell the scent of smoke once I stepped out of my home. I live in Beribi but the source of the fire that I know is either near UBD area and Jerudong. So you can tell how damaging a forest fire can do.

Keep up the good work especially those in the Fire and Rescue Department.

Keep up the good job, firefighters. Image courtesy of The Brunei Times.

The smoke last week around KB area. Image courtesy of @marul69

 

Standard Chartered Bank Brunei presented the kits for the winners of the recent Standard Chartered Trophy Brunei 2015 Tournament yesterday afternoon at the bank’s Priority Banking Centre premises in Gadong. On hand to present the kits to the team was Rino “Donny” Donosepoetro, Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bank Brunei.

Matahari FC, which emerged as the winners of the Standard Chartered Trophy Brunei Tournament held earlier in February this year, will go on to represent Brunei in the second phase of the tournament in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia this coming 28 March.

Team Matahari FC, the winner of the Standard Chartered Trophy Brunei, with Rino “Donny” Donosepoetro, Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bank Brunei (center) with Pengiran Aki Ismasufian bin Pengiran Haji Ibrahim, Head of Corporate Strategic Initiatives (5th from left), Marilyn Graeme, Head of Corporate Affairs (right) and Ng Yick Wei, Head of Brand and Marketing (left) during the handover ceremony and briefing before the team departs to Kuala Lumpur. Image courtesy of Standard Chartered Brunei.

Ng Yick Wei, Head of Brand and Marketing said:

“The partnership between Standard Chartered Bank and Liverpool Football Club has enabled us to provide such a unique experience for the markets that we are in. This is the first time that Brunei Darussalam is participating in the Standard Chartered Trophy five-a-side football tournament, which brings people from all over the world together with a common passion: football. The Standard Chartered Trophy provides a great platform for our local players to showcase their talents on an international stage and we would like to wish Matahari FC the best of luck for the upcoming regional tournament.”

The Standard Chartered Trophy Brunei Tournament was held on 16, 17, 20 and 21 of February. The tournament saw 24 teams compete for the chance to represent Brunei in the upcoming regional tournament. During the closing ceremony of the tournament, a mock cheque of BND2400 was handed over to JAPEM on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports for the Humanitarian Fund of the Malaysian Flood Disaster. The funds were raised from registration fees collected from the participating teams, 100% of which was donated.

19 countries have been globally selected to run the local qualifying tournaments and select winning teams. The winning teams will then advance to the regional stages to compete against other countries. The winning teams from the regional stage of the SC Trophy will then go on to the finals, held at Anfield Stadium in the United Kingdom. This is the fourth year that the Standard Chartered Trophy tournament has been organised and this season sees Vietnam defending their title from last season.

Rino “Donny” Donosepoetro, Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bank Brunei handing over the football kit to the Hj Mohamad Bahrin bin Hj Tuah, Captain of Matahari FC. Image courtesy of Standard Chartered Brunei.

Marilyn Graeme, Head of Corporate Affairs briefing to the team of Matahari FC. Image courtesy of Standard Chartered Brunei.

Phase 2 – Regional tournament

The winning team from the Brunei tournament will go on to compete in the regional tournament which will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on 28 March against representatives from Malaysia and Thailand. Standard Chartered Bank will be sponsoring all expenses for the trip.

Phase 3 – Finals

Winners from the regional tournaments will advance for the final prize – a once in a lifetime experience – of playing the SC Trophy finals in Anfield competing and representing their countries for their final prize of the trophy. In addition to the tournament, participants can also look forward to a training session at the Liverpool FC Academy with the club’s coaches and LFC Legends.

The Standard Chartered Trophy Brunei 2015 was supported by The Ministry of Culture Youth & Sports and endorsed by the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam.

To find out more about the Standard Chartered Trophy and follow live feed updates of the tournament, follow the bank’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/StandardCharteredBN.

The Minister of Youth, Culture and Sports with Rino “Donny” Donosepoetro, Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bank Brunei and Matahari FC. Image courtesy of Standard Chartered Brunei Facebook Page.

 

Something new is being introduced at KFC Brunei. Now for those who something light but with a meal combo, KFC has finally introduced a pocket saver combo meal and it’s only BND 3.50 – you get yourself a chicken (spicy or original), a rice, a mushroom sauce and a drink of your choice. Now that’s really a great deal from KFC.

So drop by KFC and enjoy KFC’s Pocket Savers Combo for only BND 3.50. The deal is available in all outlets of KFC. So good…..!!!

I can fit all in one plate 😀

 

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His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office graced the DPMM FC / S League Football Fanfare 2015 at the Jerudong Mini Stadium last Sunday.
His Royal Highness, who is also the Chairman of DPMM FC, joined the junior participants and the new import players for a group picture.

Among those participating was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Muntaqim, who joined more than 100 junior participants in the technical training session during the DPMM FC / S League Football Fanfare 2015.

HRH Prince ‘Abdul Muntaqim also received a certificate of participation for the completion of the training session, which was conducted by DPMM FC’s head coach Steve Kean.

Also participating in the training session were the grandsons of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, YAM Pengiran Anak ‘Abdul Raqiib bin Pengiran Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Rahim and YAM Pengiran Anak ‘Abdul Haseeb bin Pengiran Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Rahim.

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office greeting the young players during DPMM FC / S League Football Fanfare 2015 at the Jerudong Mini Stadium. Image courtesy of Khairil Hassan of Borneo Bulletin.

HRH Prince ‘Abdul Muntaqim also received a certificate of participation for the completion of the training session. Image courtesy of @WSRBrunei (White Room Studio)

HRH Prince ‘Abdul Muntaqim in the group photo. Image courtesy of @WSRBrunei (White Room Studio)

YAM Pengiran Anak ‘Abdul Raqiib bin Pengiran Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Rahim also in attendance. Image courtesy of @WSRBrunei (White Room Studio)

Fresh from completing the foreign quota with the arrival of new imports Craig Fagan, Brian McLean and Rafael Ramazzoti, the club is in its final week of preparation ahead of their first home game this season against Harimau Muda this Sunday, March 1.

The open training session attracted the participation of more than 100 junior footballers the majority of whom were from various schools and clubs that encourage youth development and promotion with the likes of Sports School and International School Brunei (ISB).

Kean revealed that he sees the young participants as potential players in the future adding that it only takes few hours to identify talent.

“We see these children today as potential players for us in the future. It was always nice for them to spend some time with the current players. We had a good response last year and this year was even better,” Kean said. “Certainly, in the few hours, you can identify some players that has potential to be professional players. It doesn’t take long to see the ones that got something special and we’ve seen lots of them today.”

The S League ‘Coach of the Year’ 2014 nominee was fairly impressed with the conduct and attitude shown by the junior players adding that the participants would return after a water break to learn about the other components linked with the technical aspects of the game.

“It was very warm today and the players asked that if they can have a little water break and after 10 minutes again they want to go back out and do something else. They were asking how this warm up, how we should warm down, and what type of stretching you should do. We mentioned a lot of injury prevention and they were asking if we can show them something. We showed that in the end and hopefully they can learn something”.

“It is about participation. If the young players can get enthusiasm and excitement today and wants to play football, it is not just about watching on TV. Hopefully they get what I would call the bug to play and that excitement never leaves you. If they can get a ball and practice at school, practice with a friend at school, after school, when they get a break at the weekends and as much contact with the ball and keep their skill level up, I’m sure they are some of those players who are here today that in the years to come would say that was the first time I decided to be a professional player”.

The objective of the training was to further comprehend the technical elements of the game for instance by controlling the ball not just by the stronger foot but also to work on a weaker foot. You’d never stop learning. Even the senior players like Joe Gamble, Craig Fagan and Bobby our captain, they’re learning and improving everyday”, added the head coach.

Meanwhile, Lim Chin, the Chief Executive Officer of S League commended DPMM FC’s initiative of building a fan base and encouraging active community participation and education through football.
“It is like a family concept and this is where we should build a fan base for each club through the children. The children can get to see up close and personal with the stars and besides just shaking hands and getting autographs, they are playing with the football stars”, Lim said.

“I think it is great to build up a fan and player relationship and DPMM FC did the right thing to hold a football fun fair on a beautiful Sunday morning”.

“I know the training is very short but I think what the children would remember that they learn the art of heading from this Brazilian player or he learnt dribbling from Azwan Ali. So when they see these players in action he remembers the half and hour sessions with them on that particular day. And maybe in time they (the club) can do more of this to engage with the fans”, Lim concluded.

Shortly after a certificate presentation to the participants, a souvenir was presented to the CEO of S League, Lim Chin as a token of appreciation by YAM Pengiran Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Rahim bin Pengiran Indera Mahkota Pengiran Anak Dr. Kemaluddin Al Haj, the Vice Chairman of DPMM FC. Text courtesy of Fadhil Yunus of Borneo Bulletin.

 

Image courtesy of @haqimie267 (Fazizul Haqimie Photography)

Image courtesy of @haqimie267 (Fazizul Haqimie Photography)

Image courtesy of @haqimie267 (Fazizul Haqimie Photography)

Image courtesy of @haqimie267 (Fazizul Haqimie Photography)

Image courtesy of @haqimie267 (Fazizul Haqimie Photography)

Image courtesy of @haqimie267 (Fazizul Haqimie Photography)

Image courtesy of @haqimie267 (Fazizul Haqimie Photography)

Image courtesy of @haqimie267 (Fazizul Haqimie Photography)

Image courtesy of @haqimie267 (Fazizul Haqimie Photography)

 

This will be another interesting contest. I remember last year I covering the Area Contest of Brunei Toastmasters where Chris Woo, a member of Brunei Speakers’ Club and Brunei Advanced Speakers’ Club, made a name for our local club when he came top 9 in the International Speech Contest amongst 30,000 competitors. It was a huge milestone for Brunei Speakers’ Club. Reaching the world’s finals meant that he had to win in all six contests to reach to the finals – at club level, at Area level (to determine who will the Brunei representative), at Division Level, At District Level, then the semi-finals before they chose the top nine to the finals. So Chris Woo experienced to all those stages last year and it was something he didn’t expect.

Now the contest is back. However, Chris Woo decided not to contest but opted to mentor and guide other members especially for members in the newly chartered toastmaster club, UBD Toastmasters Club.

Tonight there will be an International Speech and Table Topics Contest for members of Brunei Speakers’ Club. The top two of each category will proceed to Area Level to be held at Multipurpose Hall, UBD on 8th of March.

I will be competing in both categories tonight and it’s one of the those nights where I normally get butterflies because I want to improve as a public speaker. I learnt so much from toastmasters as a speaker and as a leader and I am abided by their vision. Toastmasters gave me the perfect platform for my contribution to the community. I wish to all the contestants best of luck and the most important is let’s have fun and support one another. That’s the beauty of the contest.

Last Sunday, we witnessed great quality speakers especially from UBD students during the UBD Toastmasters Club’s International Speech and Tables Topics Contest. I am so used to young adults (generation) from Brunei Speakers’ Club but now because a new club has been chartered, what makes it more interesting and refreshing is that it’s a university club. This would mean young and energetic speakers and they had the most participants among all the clubs in Brunei Darussalam. Simply amazing!!

I applaud the president and founder of UBD Toastmasters Club, Reuben Chin, for his great leadership and aspiring the members to take the initiative to join the contest even though the club is not even a year old. All in all, they had 24 registered entries for both International Speech and Table Topics. Simply amazing!!

So peeps, let’s come support the contestants today for the Brunei Speakers’ Club contest, happening tonight at Seameo Voctech, Gadong and it starts at 7:30pm.

Gary Goh 3rd place, Pranika Lama 1st place and Reuben Chin 2nd place with Allen Ang the prize presenter for the International Speech Contest in the UBD Toastmasters Club Contest at Inspiring Hall, UBD Student Centre last Sunday

Reuben Chin 1st place, Rayhan Ibrahim 3rd place and Julius 2nd place in Table Topics Contest in the UBD Toastmasters Club Contest

Interviewing the contestants from UBD Toastmasters by the contest chair Ching

 

Matahari FC emerged as champions of the Standard Chartered Trophy 2015 Brunei local tournament and moved a step closer towards realising the dream of going to Anfield, the home ground of Liverpool FC in the United Kingdom.

Matahari will proceed to the regional tournament in Kuala Lumpur as a Brunei representative where only representatives from Malaysia and Thailand now stand in their path to qualification to Anfield, one of the most popular and historic stadiums in the world.

The winners ended Syah Kampong’s brave resistance with a 2-0 win in the final at the Indoor Stadium last weekend.

The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hazair bin Haji Abdullah presented the champions mock cheque and the individual prizes.

The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hazair bin Haji Abdullah and Rino Donosepoetro, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Brunei presenting the prize to the winner of the Standard Chartered Trophy 2015, Matahari FC. Image courtesy of Standard Chartered Brunei Facebook Page.

Some of the participants of the Standard Chartered Trophy 2015. Image courtesy of Standard Chartered Brunei Facebook Page.

The Matahari’s pair of Iswandi bin Wahid and Md Zainul Hazmin bin Md Saifuddin collected the Most Assists and Top Scorer prizes respectively. Iswandi walked away with a signed Liverpool Football Club jersey by goalkeeper Brad Jones while Md Zainul received a signed LFC jersey by midfielder Joe Allen.

Mohd Asyramisyanie Kamis of Syah Kampong FC was awarded the Best Goalkeeper.

During the closing ceremony, a mock cheque of BND$2,400 was handed over to the Community Development Department (JAPEM) on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports for the Humanitarian Fund of the Malaysian Flood Disaster. The funds was raised from registration fees collected from the participating teams, 100 per cent of which were donated.

Earlier, the quarterfinals of the Standard Chartered Trophy Brunei qualifying were contested with all group winners from the preliminary round in contention.

SLHM/Easyway, Syah Kampong, AMBD FC and Matahari FC all qualified to the last four while the quartet of HMD, Royal Origin FT, GG FT and OLSCB were eliminated. Mohd Asyramisyanie saved a penalty in the shoot-out to send his team to the final while Matahari’s solitary goal in the second semi-final was enough to confirm their place.

The Standard Chartered Trophy Brunei 2015 is supported by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports and endorsed by the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam. Text courtesy of Fadhil Yunus of Borneo Bulletin.

 

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DPMM FC vice-chairman YAM Pg Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pg Anak Haji Abdul Rahim Pg Indera Mahkota Pg Anak (Dr) Kemaludin Al-Haj receiving token of appreciation from DPMM FC Club Manager yesterday.

Let’s forget about last season. It was the closest DPMM FC ever go to winning the S • League title. Close but no cigar. The only highlight to remember was DPMM FC’s League Cup title. This season they can take a step further this season. Their jinx team has always been Tampines Rovers but let’s hope history will not repeat itself.

DPMM FC will take on Harimau Muda on 1st March 2015 at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium. After that they will have two away matches Albirex Niigata FC (S) at the Jurong East Stadium on 7th March and Young Lions (Singaporean national Under-23 team) at Jalan Besar Stadium on March 11.

Yesterday was the signing ceremony for DPMM FC’s sponsors and also signing of the DPMM FC squad for 2015 season. Missing from the squad so far that I know of are Shahrazen Said and Subhi Abdillah.

Present during the signing ceremony was the guest of honour DPMM FC vice-chairman YAM Pg Maharaja Setia Laila Diraja Sahibul Irshad Pg Anak Haji Abdul Rahim Pg Indera Mahkota Pg Anak (Dr) Kemaludin Al-Haj. Images courtesy of Khairil Hassan.

Katherine Hii of You•C1000 continuing the sponsorship for DPMM FC

DST becomes recurring sponsor for DPMM FC

Another regular sponsor for DPMM FC, Brunei Shell Marketing

Maju Motors, another sponsor for DPMM FC

Signing with the DPMM FC players

Signing with the DPMM FC players

Guest of honour with the DPMM FC club manager and sponsors of DPMM FC

The registered squad players of DPMM FC

The imports of DPMM FC – Northern Ireland defender Brian McLean, English forward Craig Fagan, Bosnian defender Boris Raspudic, Brazilian striker Rafael Ramazotti and Irish midfielder Joe Gamble.

 

Rino Donosepoetro, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Brunei and Hj Abdul Malik Hj Mohammad, Director of the Department of Youth and Sports at the opening night of Standard Chartered Bank Trophy 2015

The tournament has begun. It was the first time that Standard Chartered Bank Brunei held a futsal competition known as Standard Chartered Bank Trophy 2015. The winner of the 24 team tournament will fly to Malaysia to represent Brunei and once they beat Malaysia and Thailand, they will sent to the UK to where the finals will take place at Anfield. Awesome, right?

The 24 teams include a team from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Telbru and the media team (Media United) to name a few.

The biggest winners were OLSCB who scored 4-0 over HBS F.I.T in Group H. The tournament continues tonight at Indoor Stadium. Public is more than welcome to catch the matches.

Present were Rino Donosepoetro, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Brunei and Hj Abdul Malik Hj Mohammad, Director of the Department of Youth and Sports.

Rino Donosepoetro said, “We are extremely delighted that Brunei will be represented among the 19 participating markets who are also vying for a chance to advance to Anfield and I am extremely hopeful that we will be one of those countries who will make it through.”

This event is made possible by SCB Brunei and they are very grateful with the support by Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and endorsed by the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) in assisting SCB Brunei with the upcoming event. Images courtesy of Khairil Hassan.

With team SHLM/EasyWay

With Media United

A token of appreciation

Futsal players in action

Guest of honour greeting the players

The captains of the teams

The results last night

 

Pg Sarimah Pg Hj Abd Latiff, mentor and founding member of TEDxGadong, Edward Findlay, US Embassy Public Affairs Officer and Abdul Malik Omar, Chairman and Co-Partner of TEDxGadong at the iCentre last Sunday.

Great job by Abdul Malik Omar and his team for the recent TEDxYouth@Gadong event that took place at the iCentre last Sunday. I only managed to catch two of the final speakers as I had prior commitments to begin with. Nonetheless it was my first presence at this event and I would like to congratulate Abdul Malik Omar to pull off another great session.

This time round, the speakers are not even seasoned speakers. They represent the youth and all the speakers are in the their teen years. What an excellent platform for them to speak in public and share their messages from their experiences and furthermore inspire the audience.

The speakers were as follow:

• Sidharth Raj and Osama bin Tariq on ” Negative Effects of Technology”

• Seyrence on “Bullying”

• Ruby Lim on”Forestry Management”

• Eric Ngu on “Don’t ask “why, ask why not?””

• Awangku Naim on “Youth Leadership”

• Brandon Chin on “The Silent Youth”

• Hee Sang Hong on ” The Ridiculousness of Comparing Yourself to Others”

I kinda enjoyed Hee Sang Hong’s presentation and I believe it relates to all of us whether we like it or not. For someone to pick this awareness up at a very young age, I salute you because this is not an easy thing to share and many of us tend not to acknowledge it due to our high ego.

To the TEDxYouth@Gadong, keep it up and you can follow them on social media @tedxgadong on instagram or check out their Facebook page. Images courtesy of TEDxGadong.

Some of the youth speakers and the attendees

Networking during the break

Hee Sang Hong’s interesting take on comparison. Nicely presented.

Iskandar, didn’t know you were there too :p

Izzah of Brunei Economic Development Board talking about entrepreneurship

 

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Pengiran Mohd Nasir Pengiran Anak Ja’afar made our country proud by winning gold in the bronze category of the Competition Showjumping International (CSI) 2-Star International Event in Oliva, Spain

I knew he will make it to the summit one day. With more support and encouragement, Pengiran Mohd Nasir Pengiran Anak Ja’afar will make a name for Brunei over and over again. He bagged a gold medal in the bronze category of the Competition Showjumping International (CSI) 2-Star International Event in Oliva, Spain.

The name of his horse is Rudolf Z and he beat his nearest challenger Christiane Boos of Germany and Stephanie Bichsel of Switzerland.

Of course, the highlight moment was when Brunei’s national anthem was echoed during the prize presentation.

The victory propelled to his argument for being excluded from the ASIAN games 2014 as he is confident that he can compete among the best in Europe and that surely can be a good bench mark to be part of the ASIAN games. Pg Nasir has bigger dreams and he is focusing for the upcoming Olympics 2016. He will need full support from the people and also from the relevant authorities to make his dream possible and make our country proud. Images courtesy of @pg_nasir

Pg Nasir with his horse Rudolf Z

Nice saddle, bro

Pg Nasir being featured in Borneo Bulletin. Click here to read more.

 

Click image to register and find out more

Just a reminder. Today is the final day of registration. For the first time ever, Bruneians will have a chance to get a ticket to Anfield (Liverpool’s home ground) and play against the best of the best in the world in the Standard Chartered Trophy 2015. It’s a futsal tournament format and it will be a 5 a-side format.

This is made possible by Standard Chartered Bank (Brunei) and this tournament opened to everyone even if you are not a Liverpool fan. For your info, SCB is the official sponsor for Liverpool FC club. The announcement was made yesterday at SCB’s Priority Banking Centre.

So do check out Brunei’s time line for the event below and the winners of the Brunei contingent will be sent to Kuala Lumpur for the regional competition in late March. If your team managed to beat both Malaysia and Thailand, your team will be given the green light to Anfield. By the way, all these trips will be all expenses paid by SCB.

The qualifiers are open to Brunei citizens and permanent residents (phew, I have a chance). They must be over 18 years old and are neither professional/semi-professional players. SCB Brunei has allocated 14 berths to their key stakeholders and 10 more slots are up for grabs.

Each team shall consist of seven players, and those selected will have to pay a registration fee of $100 – which will go to the Humanitarian Fund of the Malaysian Flood Disaster. So this means that if they are more than 24 slots, SCB Brunei organising team will go through the selection process and based the selection on the short essay on why you want to be part of this event. Once you are selected, the $100 registration will be come into play. So if you are registering online, you won’t be charged $100 straight away. Good luck in registering your team.

You can click here for the registration. The closing date is (today) 10th February 2015 and do it by midnight 😀

This event is made possible by SCB Brunei and they are very grateful with the support by Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and endorsed by the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) in assisting SCB Brunei with the upcoming event.

Ng Yick Wei, Head of Brand and Marketing at SCB Brunei, Marilyn Graeme, Head of Corporate Affairs at SCB, Hj Mohd Noor Hj Hamid, Department of Youth and Sports official, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and also a NFABD committee, Hj Aslan Hj Tengah, Supervisor Sport Organisation, Sports Department, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports during the announcement of Standard Chartered Trophy 2015 at SCB’s Priority Banking recently

Yay, we were given Liverpool goodies from SCB Brunei

 

Mr. Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank (left) at “Bruneian Art for Charity” at the JIS Arts Centre, Jerudong last week

Baiduri Bank successfully hosted their very first art auction, “Bruneian Art for Charity” at the JIS Arts Centre, Jerudong. The auction was attended by prominent Bruneians, ambassadors, embassy officials, art enthusiasts, charity supporters and Baiduri customers.

Mr. Pierre Imhof, CEO of Baiduri Bank, in his welcoming address said, “We hope that tonight’s event will help provide much needed exposure to our artists and the arts scene, to raise and grow interest in their market and provide encouragement and motivation for other artists to pursue their passion.”

He further went on to state that all the proceeds raised during the event goes straight to the artist and the charities. “At Baiduri Bank, giving back to our community, whether it is through our own resources or as a collective effort with our friends and loyal customers, is one of the key components of our social responsibility. 100% of the money collected will go to the charities that have been chosen by the bidders after deducting the amount to be paid to the artists for their art pieces.”

With the minimum bid amount ranging from B$500 to B$18,000, the special evening and silent auction of contemporary artwork by local visual artists such as Hj Osman Hj Mohammad, Lizzan Lingat (Ejan), Pg Khamarul Zaman Pg Hj Tajuddin, Suhaili Omar, Sam Siren and Pg Timbang Pg Hj Tuah.

An art piece that was successfully bid upon include Teraja by Pg Khamarul Zaman, a large monochromatic work of organic forms and energetic strokes where silhouettes of pitcher plants, plant stems, leaves, branches and calligraphic shapes can be identified. Another art piece that was sold during the auction was Water Taxi by Lizzan Lingat. A theme central to Lizzan’s work are everyday scenes in Brunei. Water Taxi depicts a scene of faceless men waiting for their water taxis on steps that disappear into the river.

The event began with a contemporary dance by Relentless Entertainment, a local dance troupe, who performed their interpretation of Alice in Wonderland. Throughout the night, guests were entertained with live performances by local singers and songstresses and a live art demo by Wilson Mc Lau.

At the end of the night, the art auction was able to raise more than B$36,000. The charities supported by the art auction were SMARTER Brunei, KACA Brunei, YASKA, Learning Ladders Society and the Child Development Centre.

The art auction will be followed by an art exhibition at Kaleidoscope Studio at Shaikirin Complex, Kiulap. Members of the public can view and purchase pieces still available after the auction at Kaleidoscope Studio starting today until the end of the month. Proceeds from the sales during the exhibition will also go towards the artist and the charities.

 

Wan Zainal Abidin Shazali, founder of SCION (4th from left), Pauline Chan, managing editor of SCION (5th from left) with the team behind SCION at Mutiara Ballroom, Radisson Hotel last week

Pauline Chan, managing editor of SCION, with her welcoming remarks

Ever heard of SCION magazine? It’s a premium luxury lifestyle magazine and you can’t simply find them at any cafe. The magazine has a niche targeted readers and SCION is distributed to Standard Chartered Priority Banking, Perdana Banking at BIBD and it is sold at Best Eastern, Nollybooks as well as newsstands at Malaysia.

For your info, the first magazine was published in July 2013 which was made available to guests at The Empire Hotel & Country Club, nine exquisite partner hotels in Singapore and Malaysia as well as first and business class lounges of Brunei International Airport.

Last week, I missed the celebration of SCION’s first anniversary as I was in Kota Kinalabu to cover Wu Chun’s meet the fan session.

Greeting the invited guests was Pauline Chan, managing editor of SCION. She was pleased how the magazine connects with the readers to the wonderful world of refined living by bringing them on an exploration of luxury possibilities. Just like BIG magazine, SCION is published quarterly and it is successful in reaching its targeted audience.

SCION is founded by Wan Zainal Abidin Shazali (CHMP Media as the publisher). Images courtesy of SCION.