Kean staying put 

 

Steve Kean ain’t going anywhere and he is happy in Brunei

You may have heard about the ongoing rumours on goal.com where Steve Kean was rumoured to make a move to Thailand Premier League club but the news were all false and DPMM FC head coach has assured the management and fans of DPMM FC that he is staying put. In yesterday’s interview, he dismissed claim and he shared that these kinda of rumours or football news are pretty common during his reign in the English Premier League years.

Kean shared that he never been in contact with any other club and he believed that such news could be a deliberate act to disrupt the momentum of DPMM FC who are leading the pack with a 7 point cushion. However, that lead could be shortened to just four points as S•League chasers Warriors FC beat DPMM FC at Choa Chu Kang Stadium, Singapore. A win for DPMM FC will surge them 10 points ahead of the pack.

Steve Kean did mention that the four games (Albirex, Warriors, Home and Tampines) are the biggest matches within this two weeks. Victories in all these matches, according to Kean, will determine the course of their season. The return of Boris Raspudic is a major boost for DPMM FC but defender Aziz Tamit was ruled of tonight’s game through a minor ankle injury. The other worry for DPMM FC tonight is three of their import players Rodrigo Tosi, Roberto Alviz and Roy O’Donovan are one yellow card away from being suspended. So it’s important on the intensity of the match the players will play tonight.

Will the RT combo strike force of Roy and Tosi bring another crucial away points tonight and increase their winning streak to 8? We shall find out tonight when Warriors FC (2) takes on DPMM FC (1) at Choa Chu Kang Stadium, Singapore.

 

Warriors closes gap  

 

The highlights between Warriors FC and DPMM FC last night

 

At one stage, DPMM FC were 10 points ahead in the competition as they were on a hot streak with seven consecutive victories. Last night, Warriors FC handed DPMM FC their second loss of the season with a narrow 1-0 victory. The goal was courtesy of a set-piece in the first half through Hafiz Rahim. DPMM FC were missing Aziz Tamit who was nursing an ankle injury as Shahrul took his defensive duties with the return of Boris Raspudic in defence.

DPMM FC had an early chance to grab the lead. Perhaps it was the best chance of the game when Roy O’Donovan raced unchallenged with only the keeper to beat but Warriors FC keeper Hassan Sunny foiled his attempt. The keeper was up to the task to parry off Roberto Alviz’s free kick a minute later. Warriors FC had plenty of scoring opportunities as well but Wardun made many crucial saves.

A great job by Warriors FC defence led by captain Daniel Bennett who was partnered by Marin Vidosevic to keep a clean sheet against the highest scoring team in the league. The victory now puts Warriors FC four points away from league leaders DPMM FC. No wonder Steve Kean said the four big games (Albirex, Warriors, Home and Tampines) are vital.

DPMM FC head coach said, “Warriors played better in the first half. We were a little bit slow to push forward and Warriors won a lot of second balls.”

DPMM FC next game will be next weekend when they take on Global FC in the RHB Cup in Singapore before their crucial match against Home United FC on Friday 6th of June at Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.

Images below courtesy of Abel Khoo (Singapore).

DPMM FC line up last night 

DPMM FC in against Warriors FC 

Warriors celebrating Hafiz Rahim’s winning goal 

DPMM FC coming close in scoring the equalizing goal  

DPMM FC fans from Brunei Shell Marketing and The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (Brunei) 

Warriors FC with their supporters 

  

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Runaway leaders  

HRH Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office (R) and HRH Prince ‘Abdul Malik (L) and other members of the Royal Family during last night’s Singapore League match between DPMM FC and Albirex Nigata at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas. Image taken by Saiful Omar of The Brunei Times.

The game seemed familiar. When I covered the first match where DPMM FC took on Albirex Niigata (S) FC a few months ago in Singapore, the Japanese club was relentless with their possession and mounted series of attack on DPMM FC’s goal area. Last night was no different story. Albirex gave it their all last night and they gave DPMM FC fans a little scare as the visitors were more adventurous (in the first half). DPMM FC came back from a goal down to beat a resilient Japanese team 2-1 with goals courtesy of Roy O’Donovan and Rodrigo Tosi.

In the first half, DPMM FC found it hard to settle down as the visitors had more possession and control in midfield. Wardun Yussof was the busiest goalkeeper of the two and he settled the nerves of the home supporters with his heroic saves. DPMM FC mustered a few scoring opportunities too but the Japanese keeper Kazuki Kishigami was up to the task, thwarting Roy O’Donovan twice from close range shots. DPMM FC could have stolen the lead as well when their set piece from a corner hit the frame of the post.

DPMM FC looked nervy at the back at times and they surely were missing the experience of Boris Raspudic who was suspended for this game. However, all that changed in the second half though it was the visitors that broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute through a defensive error and Itsuki Yamada gave a much deserved lead for the visitors to the disappointment of the home fans.

To be title contenders, you need to have character and guile. DPMM FC showed those qualities right after they conceded the goal. I noticed Steve Kean changed the formation to counter the possession game that Albirex were enjoying in the first half. It proved fruitful as Kean deployed Rosmin Khamis and Joe Gamble in midfield and pushed Roberto Alviz wider than his usual role.

One of the reasons for DPMM FC’s 32 goal tally was the club marquee player Roy O’Donovan who is perhaps one of the fastest S•League player and the first goal, the equalizer, was a result of his pace as he stole possession of Albirex’ scorer and raced from midfield before delivering a thunderous drive for a 1-1 score line.

O’Donovan was again instrumental in the winning goal as he was brought down in the box and referee had no choice but to point to the penalty spot which Rodrigo Tosi took the honours in the 72nd minute. DPMM FC began to search for another cushion goal but it never came as Steve Kean opted his players to slow down the game and maintain the slender lead.

The lads celebrated after the final whistle and it was indeed DPMM FC’s toughest test to date at their home ground. The match could have gone either way but Steve Kean’s tactics proved to be the winning formula for last night’s match. Now DPMM FC enjoy a 10 point cushion lead in the S•League with 32 goals scored and 6 goals conceded. This is the best run that DPMM FC have experienced ever since they join the S•League.

The next three games – Warriors FC (away 22nd May), Home United (home 6th June) and Tampines (away 10th June) will determine DPMM FC’s season if they are title contenders or title pretenders.

 

The winning goal celebration after Rodrigo Tosi scored from the penalty and he has scored 12 goals in the S•League campaign. Last night DPMM FC beat Albirex Niigata (S) FC 2-1 at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium. 

Steve Kean, DPMM FC head coach, was in jubilant mood after Tosi scored the winning goal 

The Yes Chants still going strong 

 

Tosi taking photo opportunity with fans 

Selfies from the crowd 

DPMM FC merchandise on sale at Gate 12/13

 

A Kean Start  

Another lucky draw for DPMM FC fans tomorrow

All eyes on Steve Kean as he caught everyone by surprise, leading DPMM FC to the summit and steamrolling past opponents, scoring 30 goals in just 11 games so far this season. Former Blackburn Rovers manager attributed the success of DPMM FC not just on the players but he was also truly grateful towards His Royal High the Crown Prince cum Chairman of DPMM FC and also DPMM FC’s management.

“Credit has to go way back to the management, the club and of course, the Crown Prince and the amazing foreign imports that have come in and obviously that I’ve given a lot of control and the players that I want to keep. But the organization behind in getting Rodrigo here and Boris and obviously I know Joe (Gamble) and Roy (O’Donovan), but credit has to go to management even from last season as soon as the last game was finished,” said Steve Kean.

Kean shared how the pre-season has made them a stronger team as well and the training schemes have been consistent from day one. The players have a good base fitness which can prove vital over the season and try to reduce the number of injuries over the course of the season.

“We have gotten stronger physically. Roberto was tackled badly in the last game but because his legs are so strong and we have done all the work (from the gym). The training sessions have been getting better and you can see the tempo and the intensity of the training have changed and the standard is really high and credit has to go to all the players as well.”

Kean is now very focus on the next four games (Albirex, Warriors, Home, Tampines) and he is aware that even though there is a gap, these next four games are massive. In between, DPMM FC will also have to talk on Global FC in the RHB Singapore Cup.

DPMM FC will take on Albirex Niigata FC tomorrow at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium and should they win, it will set a new benchmark of a 10 point gap at the summit. I have seen how Albirex fared against DPMM FC in the first game of the season and the Japanese club is pretty solid with great pace. They could have scored plenty of goals if it wasn’t for the heroics of Azman in goal. DPMM FC won the match through a Tosi penalty and I’m pretty sure Albirex will want some redemption for that defeat.

I can’t wait for the RT (Roy-Tosi) connection once more and they have 21 goals between team with Tosi leading the scoring charts with 11 goals. It’s also no surprise to why Shahrazen Said has been benched since the first game but it’s a healthy competition nonetheless and this shows the depth that DPMM FC squad has.

So peeps, mark your dates tomorrow and let’s wish for another win and another clean sheet.

 

I’ve never such a huge smile from Steve Kean. Taken from yesterday’s training. 

All players are back to full fitness though Boris Raspudic will sit out of the game through suspension 

The tempo of the training has been tremendous. So much improvement from the start of the season. 

Can Wardun hold for another clean sheet? DPMM FC have only conceded 5 goals in 11 games. Great defensive record indeed 

  

 

Major boost for Roy  

 

How fortunate can a DPMM FC marquee player get? Roy O’Donovan has been enjoying a fantastic start to his DPMM FC career as he has netted 8 goals so far in this season S•League and his rich vein of form has made competition tougher for DPMM FC’s forward bench – the Said Brothers – to gain minutes on the pitch. The former Sunderland striker was given a free football boots courtesy of Ridah Sports (Kiulap) as a token of appreciation after Roy O’Donovan accepted a request from the management of Ridah Sports in signing on a DPMM FC home jersey which is being showcased at the sport store.

Balvinder Singh, Manager of Ridah Sports handed a pair of boots to Roy O’Donovan yesterday and hopefully his new boots will give more motivation to keep up his scoring momentum. Ridah Sports is also one of the sports store that sells DPMM FC home and away jersey kits. According to the marketing manager of Ridah, Amar, the jerseys have a hot seller and this can be attributed to DPMM FC’s current performance in the S•League and they are on top of the league with a 5 point cushion.

DPMM FC will take on Tanjong Pagar United FC which lies 3rd from bottom in the 12 club competition. A victory will put DPMM FC in a driving seat on the top of the league. So do catch DPMM FC match this Friday 9th May 2014 at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium.

 

Roy O’Donovan checking out his new pair of boots at Ridah Sports 

Roy O’Donovan officially receiving his new pair from Balvinder Singh, Manager of Ridah Sports 

You can get DPMM FC home and away jerseys at Ridah Sports (Kiulap) 

  

 

The Penal Code Order begins  

His Majesty’s titan during the announcement of the enforcement of Phase One of the Syariah Penal Code Order at ICC yesterday 

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam today announced the enforcement of Phase One of the Syariah Penal Code Order with effect from May 1, 2014 during a declaration ceremony at the International Convention Centre.

The first phase of the Order covers general offences set by the state, including disrespecting the month of Ramadhan and not performing Friday prayers. The general offences are punishable by fines, imprisonment or both.

Corporal punishment such as whipping and amputation of limbs for crimes such as theft will not be enforced until the second phase. The death penalty will come into force in the third phase.
The implementation comes into force six months after His Majesty announced the gazette of the Islamic criminal law last October.

For more of the titah, you can click here. Text courtesy of The Brunei Times.

 

Acer Liquid Smartphones

 

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BIBD Home Showcase 4

 
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Royal Brunei Airlines

 

 
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5 wins in a row  

It was another straightaway professional victory for DPMM FC. They ironed a 2-0 victory over Woodlands Wellington FC at the Woodlands Stadium. Tosi scored his 10th goal of the season while young starlet Azwan Ali showed why he’s one of the most promising players in the S•League as his rasping drive gave a comfortable 2-0 victory.

DPMM FC could have scored more as I was watching the highlights and Woodlands were at a disadvantage as they were a man down when Walid Lounis was given his marching orders after 12 minutes of play.

The win cement DPMM FC on the summit of the league. The only worry for Steve Kean is Azwan Ali who was substituted in the second half due to an injury and let’s hope it’s not that serious.

Well done, DPMM FC for the three points and the clean sheet 😀

Pictures are taken by Alson Ong of S•League.

His Royal Highness Prince Sufri attended the game last night at Woodlands Stadium 

DPMM FC line up last night 

DPMM FC bench 

Woodlands Wellington FC 

Tosi on hot scoring form 

Azwan Ali scored a goal but a minor scare after being taken off in second half for an injury 

Subhi challenging for the ball 

Steve Kean was all smiles 

Woodlands’ mascot.. Maybe DPMM FC should have I too 😀

The highlights from last night’s match between Woodlands Wellington FC and DPMM FC

 

Logitech new launch 

Logitech today unveiled the Logitech X100 Mobile Speaker featuring go-anywhere portability and best-in-class sound, designed for people with active lifestyles.

With a head-turning design, the Logitech X100 Mobile Speaker delivers crystal-clear sound for its small size. Wherever you use it, the Logitech X100 suits your needs with Bluetooth connectivity, a five-hour battery life and a built-in mic for hands-free phone calls.

“We engineered the Logitech X100 Mobile Speaker to deliver an intuitive connect-and-play experience,” said Prasenjit Sarkar, Regional Director for Southeast Asia at Logitech. “Its compact design lets you take it anywhere you go and it’s easy to wirelessly stream music from your Bluetooth-enabled device. It’s a perfect travel companion.”

The Logitech X100 Mobile Speaker comes in four bold colors that show off its eye-catching style, including grey, orange, yellow and green. Plus, its convenient micro-USB cable makes it easy to recharge the built-in lithium-ion battery so it’s ready to rock on your next adventure. Press release issued by Logitech (Malaysia).

 

The Logitech X100 Mobile Speaker 

Logitech Country Business Manager for Malaysia and Brunei KP Sim with General Manager of Concepts Computer Vincent Pao at the launch of Logitech X100 Mobile Speaker and Logitech mouses 

The media attending the product presentation

Now these products from Logitech are made available at Concepts Computer.

With the importance of IT mobility and the ability to access our IT tech anywhere and everywhere we need it, there rise a need for a highly reliable and comfortable wireless speaker that give you the sound quality that you need while also being robust enough to make it a perfect travel companion.

This is why Logitech, with the help of Concepts Computer, is proud to unveil the LOGITECH X100 Mobile Speaker featuring go-anywhere portability and best-in-class sound, and designed for people with active lifestyles. With a head-turning design, the LOGITECH X100 Mobile Speaker delivers crystal-clear sound for its small size. Wherever you use it, the Logitech X100 suits your needs with Bluetooth connectivity, a 5 hour battery life and a built-in mic for hands-free phone calls.

Talking to the media, Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer said, “Logitech is a world leader in products that connect people to digital experiences they care about and also spans multiple computing, communication and entertainment platforms, this makes it the perfect partner for Concepts Computer to provide better services and products to Bruneian consumers. The introduction of the LOGITECH X100 Mobile Speaker is a small step in this partnership.”

Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive of Concepts Computer, added, ”The Logitech X100 Mobile Speaker delivers an intuitive connect-and-play experience and with its compact design, you can take it anywhere and stream music wirelessly from your Bluetooth-enabled device. Plus, its convenient Micro-USB cable makes it easy to recharge the built-in lithium-ion battery so it’s ready to use on your next adventure, making it a perfect travel companion.”

The Logitech X100 Mobile Speaker will be available, in four bold colours (Black/Grey, Purple/Yellow, Blue/Orange and Cyan/Green) that show off its eye-catching style, from Concepts Computer for $68 and will come with 1 (One) year warranty. For more information, please visit your nearest Concepts Computer showroom or call 2233551/2233552.

Mingling with the media 

James Kon and Vincent Hong checking out the new line from Logitech 

 

DPMM FC takes on Woodlands  

Steve Kean speaking to ranoadidas on tonight’s match against WoodslandSteve Kean is confident that DPMM FC can gain all three points against Woodlands tonight. DPMM FC is one of the highest scoring team in the S•League and they already have scored 24 goals in 9 games while Woodlands only have netted 10 goals and lie in 8th place, 10 points behind DPMM FC.

The odds will favour DPMM FC who travel to the Woodlands’ den tonight and Woodlands will be wary of the attack of Rodrigo Tosi (9 goals) and Roy O’Donovan (8 goals). However, Rosmin Kamis is likely to bench again with Sairol for precaution measures as both are still healing to 100% fitness.

On the plus points, Kean was happy with how Hendra and Azwan Salleh have done well in their respective positions in the absence of the two key players. Hendra’s game has improved and showed maturity on the pitch in the last home game drubbing 4-1 against Balestier Khalsa FC. He also relish the prospect of Rosmin and Hendra to link up in the near future should Roberto Alviz gets suspended for collecting a handful of yellows.

Steve Kean did agree that the league has its unpredictability as other teams such as Warriors FC are also in the title hunt only two points behind league leaders DPMM FC. He did say that the number of matches played by defending champions Tampines Rovers FC play a part in Tampines’ dropping points.

DPMM FC coach is aiming for a win but he’s confident that his defenders have learnt from the lessons of conceding a late goal against Balestier as they were close to reach a run of 3 consecutive clean sheets.

He is wary of Woodlands’ gameplay and they are definitely no pushovers as they surprised everyone when they caused an upset against Tampines Rovers FC few weeks ago. Kean have seen how Woodlands play their game but the coach turn his attention in DPMM FC’s gameplay.

The partnership of Tosi and O’Donovan will be Woodlands’ biggest worry but home side do have a talented midfielder, Taufiq Ghani who was influential in the victory over Tampines Rovers. Will Woodlands pull another scalp or will DPMM FC continue their rich vein of form in the S•League?

The match will be played tonight at Woodsland Stadium 7:30pm

Roy O’Donovan and Joe Gamble chilling at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf prior to boarding on their flight to Singapore 

DPMM FC players checking in, bound for Singapore yesterday morning 

  

Seoul bound  

The main reason why I’m heading to Seoul

Yeeehaaa… This is it!!! My first ever trip to Seoul. Well, I’ve been there technically but only means of transit. So this is a different scenario as I will be in Seoul, South Korea, for my first ever coverage on bikes specially Harley-Davidson. So it’s a very much privilege and truly honoured that Asia-Pacific Harley-Davidson chose me to attend the event this week at Seoul.

As you know, Harley-Davidson in Brunei is pretty good in terms of demand and the sole dealership for Harley-Davidson in Brunei is Sri Sentosa Sdn Bhd which is also a major sponsor for DPMM FC’s 2014 season. They have a showroom at the Berakas industrial area and they even sell clothes, merchandise and most important of all, the Harley-Davidson’s accessories.

I will talk more about the Harley-Davidson event soon and do catch my instant updates on my instagram handle @ranoadidas. Thank you, once again, Sri Sentosa and Harley-Davidson for this opportunity and of course, I shall be documenting my adventures in Seoul.

Thank you, Sri Sentosa for the t-shirt 😀 

Even their bags have logo 

I never knew how thick the catalogue can be for Harley-Davidson’s accessories 

Check out the Harley-Davidson bikes at Sri Sentosa showroom 

Check out the Harley-Davidson bikes at Sri Sentosa showroom 

They even have clothes for children 

They have wide range of clothes and merchandise 

 

Accessories also sold at Sri Sentosa 

The Tri-Glide Ultra is here 😀 

Ah, the disadvantage of being a PR 

  

 

Gunning for 3 points  

Catch DPMM FC vs Balestier Khalsa FC this Friday at Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium 

Can DPMM FC’s Azwan Ali head for another victory tonight?

DPMM FC is aiming for their fourth win in a row after overcoming the likes of Courts Young Lions, Harimau Muda and Hougang United FC in their last three outings. Scoring a healthy 14 goals in the three games, DPMM FC host another tricky opponent Balestier Khalsa FC at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium tonight. Yea, it has been a mini break for DPMM FC after their last game but DPMM FC head coach Steve Kean believes that they can carry the momentum forward.

With DPMM FC on the second of the S•League, Kean was not surprised that previous league Tampines Rovers dropped points. “No, not at all. I think the schedules have taken a lot for Tampines as they have to more games (in AFC) and a lot of traveling involved. We even know what traveling is like even on a short haul flight. And when you start traveling around the world, traveling can catch with you and I told the boys to keep getting the points and Tampines will surely drop some points.”

However, the surprised package of the season has to be Warriors FC who are now on the top of the S•League by one point though DPMM FC can leapfrog to first if they draw or beat Balestier Khalsa FC tonight. Warriors FC and DPMM FC are the only team to have lost once this season.

All key players should be back for this match tonight. Sairol Sahari and Rosmin Kamis who missed the previous game will be featured tonight and this is a major boost for DPMM FC to claim all three points. Kean is also targeting another clean sheet and he stresses how defence is the key to victory.

However, the team selection has been causing some headaches to Kean because the bench players have also been performing while deputising for the first team players who were injured. This shows the maturity of the squad of DPMM FC. Kean praised one individual, Azwan Ali, as he’s learning new things and adapting them during the competitive matches. Kean said Azwan has great strength in his legs and that made the difference when he scored for a leaping header against Hougang United FC for the winner.

You can read more about Azwan’s interview in today’s The Brunei Times and he has been instrumental in DPMM FC’s attacking formation. Even Kean praised that Azwan Ali can play in any team in the world. Let’s hope Azwan Ali can repeat the same performance that he has delivered in the past few games.

So guys, do catch DPMM FC tonight at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium and you can also stand a chance to win a flight to KL or JKT (sponsored by Royal Brunei Airlines) and the winners will be announced by half-time.

Wardun in training. Let’s hope for another clean sheet and of course, it’s a team effort too. 

Steve Kean has been instrumental in guiding the team – mentally and physically – on and off the pitch

 

Transcendence Podcast 

 

Podcast: Episode 37 on the review of Johnny Depp’s Transcendence. Hit or miss? Do listen with my co-host Del Goh

 

 

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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DPMM FC’s next match  

Catch DPMM FC vs Balestier Khalsa FC this Friday at Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium 

DPMM FC players in training yesterday at Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium 

  

Megat wins XF  

Megat Muhd Taufiq bin Hj Md Jaafar the grand winner of BIBD Barakah 5 with the Jaguar XF

Late post: Megat Muhd Taufiq bin Hj Md Jaafar was the lucky winner of A brand new Jaguar XF as he had to go through a series of mini games among 20 top finalists of the BIBD Barakah 5 lucky draw held at The Mall Atrium, Gadong last Friday.

I believe there were like 2 to 3 gimmicks that the participants had to go through before the final hurdle of unlocking the grand prize – Jaguar XF. Consolation prizes ranged from iPhone 5s and iPad minis to the consolation winners. On hand to present the prizes was the BIBD Chief Financial Officer, Hjh Noraini binti Hj Sulaiman.

The BIBD Barakah 5 Campaign was opened to all new and existing BIBD customers who signed up for BIBD’s financing and deposit products including Home Financing, Home Improvement Financing, Education Financing, Naqad facilities, Wakalah General, tiered and foreign currency accounts (current accounts and saving accounts). Customers who had assigned their salaries to BIBD during the promotion period were also eligible to join the campaign.

Aside from the amazing grand prize from Indera Motors Sdn Bhd, the official Jaguar importer and distributor in Brunei, participants also stood a chance to win Apple products, as well as other exciting ones such as Samsung gadgets, a 60” LED TV, and 300,000 Royal Skies Miles. The BIBD Barakah 5 campaign ended on March 31.

To find out more on any of BIBD’s products, services and promotions, please visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bibdbrunei or www.bibd.com.bn or their instagram @bibdbrunei.

 

Group photo with the Top 20 winners and BIBD Chief Financial Officer, Hjh Noraini binti Hj Sulaiman 

The grand winner of BIBD Barakah 5 

The 1st runner-up of BIBD Barakah 5 

The 2nd runner-up of BIBD Barakah 5 

The 4th place of BIBD Barakah 5 

The 5th place of BIBD Barakah 5 

The consolation winners 

One of the few tasks to be done to determine the last 5 

One of the few tasks to be done to determine the last 5 

The Jaguar key 

This is to be launched this Friday – BIBD Home Showcase 4 

 Moyes term ended  

In less than a season, David Moyes was 3 games shy of completing a full season with Manchester United. According to the news, he left the club but only to be headlined with the keyword “sacked”. A very mixed responses from MU fans but the neutrals thought it was a wise decision by the board. Anyway, good luck to you, Moyes and while it’s still a hot topic, here are some of the meme for Moyes. No hard feelings, MU 🙂 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 SuperHero Weekend  

The activities last weekend at Times Square Shopping Centre

Rewind: On 19th-20th April 2014, Times Square Shopping Centre hosted the Superhero Weekend which was held in conjunction with the movies that are currently playing at Times Cineplex, namely Captain America: Winter Soldier and upcoming The Amazing Spiderman 2.

Superhero Weekend featured several unique activities such as Superhero charades, an arm wrestling competition and a barbell curl strength challenge. The event also featured a Random Superhero Challenge where contestants had to survive various games in order to win.

There was also a mini obstacle race where contestants registered to run through the course as fast as possible. The event was complete with a superhero dress-up competition that was open to three categories including a category for ages 2-6, category for ages 7-13 and last but not least, for contestants 14 years old and above.

This small event was also made merrier by the Brunei Cosplay Group. Times Square Property Management would like to congratulate all the winners from the past weekend once again and extend our appreciation to those customers who were there to make the small event a successful one.

Times Square is also glad to announce that we will be holding more events in the future. Registration forms are already available for the annual Baby Weekend that will be held during Family Day on 2nd-4th May 2014. You may also find out about all upcoming events by visiting www.tsqbrunei.com or simply following Times Square Shopping Centre’s pages on Facebook and Instagram. Images courtesy of Times Square Shopping Centre.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Skechers now opens 

at Seria  

Catching up with the owner of GL Extra Enterprise, the sole distributor of Skechers, over dinner at iLotus. Thanks for hosting us 😀 Image courtesy of Ikhwan Salleh of The Brunei Times. 

The management of Skechers Brunei with the local mediaThank you to Mr. Lim Kwee, the owner of Skechers Brunei for hosting us media for dinner the other night. He’s also the owner of GL Extra Enterprise that handles the leading outdoor camping store in Brunei Darussalam. Our dinner was held at a iLotus Restaurant and Mr. Lim’s intention was to simply appreciate the media for their contribution in spreading awareness on Skechers shoes and products.

Mr. Lim was happy to unveil the second outlet of Skechers at Plaza Seria in Seria which was opened to business since yesterday. The third branch will be somewhere in Kuala Belait.

The new store in Seria aims to target the niche market for the occupational industry shoes, owing to the large population of oil and gas workers living in Belait. This is a strategic area since many customers are from KB and Seria.

Since its opening in the final quarter of 2013, Skechers Brunei have been doing exceptional well because it’s a well known brand and also people have been commenting on its comfort.

Skechers ranges from casual to sports type so do check their GOwalk, GOrun and GObionic range. It’s good to see Skechers spreading its foothold in Brunei and the response has been favourable.

Skechers has a new outlet at Plaza Seria 

The wide range of Skechers available 

Hui Chiet trying out a pair at Skechers Kiulap branch last year 

Love the colours of Skechers 

Nice casual wear for the ladies 

Glow in the dark Skechers 

  

RB flies to Bali 😀  

The news that caught people’s attention 

Flying four times a week. Not bad, not bad 😀

Wow, after a long, long hiatus, this is very good news for Brunei travelers. Royal Brunei Airlines, Brunei’s national air carrier, will resume its direct flights to Bali, Indonesia, by 26th July 2014. This is indeed a very positive move and the comments on social media have been favourable. Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) has been going through major changes ever since its rebranding programme and I remember the Dermot Mannion, Deputy Chairman of RB, hinted of more routes as part of their strategic expansion as well as meeting demands of customers.

So how many times they will fly? I believe it stated that it will fly four times a week. The flights will operate by an Airbus A319.

The flights from BSB to Bali, BI757 departs at 8.55 pm and will arrive at 11.20 pm on Tuesday,Wednesday,Saturday and Sunday. Flights from Bali to BSB, BI758 departs at 7.10 am and arrives 9.40 am on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. For now, you can’t book on flybruneiair.com but you can inquire on your preferred travel agents. I’m pretty sure RB will have special promotions for this new route.

Royal Brunei Airlines was established in 1974 and is wholly owned by the government of Brunei. RB started with an initial fleet of two aircraft, serving Singapore, Hong Kong, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching. Royal Brunei Airlines now operates a fleet of 10 aircraft to 14 destinations in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Australia. RB is the Boeing 787 Dreamliner’s launch airline in Southeast Asia and with the recent deliveries of Dreamliners, Royal Brunei will have the distinction of operating the youngest long haul fleet in the world.

Royal Brunei Airlines won ‘Best Foreign Airline’ award in the category “Award For Best Airlines” at the Sabah Tourism Awards 2011. Last year, Brunei’s flag carrier won the Metro Time Shanghai Award for their Reader’s Airline of Choice and The Best Airline Provider from The European Asia.

Thank you RB for making this possible and it’s perhaps the best highlight moment after yesterday’s derailing topic that went viral (not RB related but I think you guys know what I mean). Below are just some of the images from my previous Bali trip back in 2012 and 2013. I will be heading again to Bali scheduled for November 2014. Who knows I might make another early trip before then.

 

My last trip last year August 2013 with my #superfriends buddies 

This was at Potato Head. Highly recommended place to chill. 

This was taken at the temple area. This was back in November 2012. 

One of the activities I enjoyed was water rafting. Pure fun but it was quite a fair ride. 

I managed to borrow this sign 

I didn’t give a good impression since I thought it was easy to ride a scooter. I was struggling indeed and it’s super darn cheap to rent a bike there too. It was like $5 for 3 days but I only needed half an hour just to get a feel of it. Scary but scary fun 😀 

My buddies whom I flew with back in 2012. We stayed at Maya Ubud and I truly love the place there. Quite remote and loads of green. 

The villa rooms are quite common in Bali and the prices are quite reasonable as well.  

  

Malppy Turns 1  

Click image to enter websiteIn the month of April, Malppy.com turned ONE! Malppy.com is very grateful to all their customers who have been supporting them thus far. As a thank you, Malppy.com is holding a few events online.

In celebration, Malppy.com is having a sale! In addition, as a thank you for your support, any purchase B$50 and above will receive a free gift from Malppy.com. The gift is a phone casing for iPhone 4/4S and iPhone 5/5S. Offer is valid while stock lasts.

  

3 in a trot  

 

 

The highlights of last night’s game between Hougang United FC and DPMM FC

 

 

Hougang United FC 0 

DPMM FC 3 

Steve Kean wasn’t happy with the performance despite the three points. He felt DPMM FC didn’t play well in the first half and judging from the video I watched, DPMM FC could have been down by at least two goals if it wasn’t for the poor finishing of Hougang United FC. The home side were putting crosses and causing DPMM FC problems in the first half and Kean admitted that they were quite fortunate to go into the break with a clean sheet.

He did give a good point that championship team sometimes don’t play to their maximum but they still get the three points and last night’s game was a great example.

DPMM FC had a better second half and they could have scored a few more too. It was good to see new faces from the bench getting time on the pitch especially Najib Tarif and Helmi Zambin. Perhaps the highlight of the game was Azwan Ali’s rare header that brought all the three points courtesy of a wonderful cross by substitute Najib in the 77th minute.

The match was already delayed at Hougang United FC due to heavy rain prior to the match and it would be a nightmare for defenders especially goalkeepers due to the wet conditions. A big shout out again to DPMM FC defence and Wardun in goal for salvaging the important clean sheet.

DPMM FC’s top scorer Rodrigo Tosi was unfortunate not to score late in the first half with a cheeky lob but his effort just missed wide of the open goal. Roy O’Donovan’s effort were being saved by Nazri Sabri in goal.

The home side Hougang United FC have themselves to blame for not taking their chances. DPMM FC now have leapfrogged Tampines Rovers FC by a point though the defending champions have one game in hand.

DPMM FC were missing two key players – Captain Rosmin Kamis who is being rested for calf injury while Sairol Sahari had to rest after a hip strain and both should be back in next week’s home game. It is not a good run for Hougang United FC who just came off a loss against Geylang International FC after conceding three late goals. Hougang United FC have proved to be a threat in the league with their new signings and I won’t be surprised if Hougang United end up in the top three this season.

Great job to the lads as well as the head coach and the team management in rebuilding DPMM FC from last season. It’s always a great feeling to be on top. Keep it up!! Some of the images below are courtesy of Alson Ong.

 

DPMM FC first team line up last night 

Azwan Ali scored the winning goal with a great header in the 77th minute 

Tosi lobbed an effort but it went just wide of the goal, late in the first half 

Wardun Yussof holding off a challenge from Hougang’s Geison Moura 

Students from Sekolah Menengah Rimba II supporting DPMM FC last night. They are in Singapore until Saturday for a student exchange program. 

Free curry puffs for spectators last night (while stock lasts) 

It was heavy pouring a few hours before the match. Good thing the match wasn’t called off.