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Results last weekend

Results last weekend

Politeknik Brunei (PB) last weekend came back from a goal down to salvage a 1-1 draw against Curtin University in Group ‘A’ of the BIBD At-Tamwil University Cup 2015 at the Padang Kebajikan.

Curtin University, the only foreign team in the tournament, took the lead late in the first half as Tisalona Anak Joannes connected with a cross from Thad Bess Chia.

With a majority of the possession and numerous goal attempts, PB could not break the deadlock. Curtin goalkeeper, Jeremy Dom, was on impressive form to thwart PB’s front line of Mohammad Ikmal Hakim and Nur Adi Zulhusni.

The goalkeeper could only do so much when PB super substitute Mohd Hazim Hamzah’s flick header in the 74th minute curled into the goal. The goal was enough to earn PB a point in their last game of the tournament.

PB has now collected four points and sit in third position in Group ‘A’.

Meanwhile, Laksamana College of Business (LCB) beat Cosmopolitan College of Commerce and Technology 2-1, thanks to an injury time goal (90+2) from Muhammad Azizan Akmal Haji Mataii.

Curtin University will next play UNISSA on June 3 at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium at the Police Headquarters.

The next match for the BIBD At-Tamwil University Cup 2015 will see a top of the table clash between Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and Institut Teknologi Brunei (ITB) on June 2 at the Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium at the Police Headquarter. Kick off will be at 7.45pm. Text courtesy of James Kon of Borneo Bulletin and images courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

For more updates, you can follow their Facebook page or instagram @attamwil_universitycup

Match between IGS and LCB

Match between IGS and LCB

Match between IGS and LCB

Match between IGS and LCB

Match between IGS and LCB

 

Hj Mohd Maszaiwardy bin Hj Masri, Assistant General Manager of Sales, Takaful Brunei Keluarga, Hjh Mahana binti Hj Ajak, Deputy General Manager of Takaful Brunei Keluarga and Nooramal Fitriyah Abdul Rahim, Sales Executive Officer, Sales Department of Takaful Brunei Keluarga

The popular short term investment is back!! Takaful Brunei Keluarga (TBK) previously held this special promotion two years ago back in 2013 and it was a big hit. This time round, the stakes are way better. For those who are not aware of Nur Savings from TBK, it’s basically a short term investment (maximum two years) where you will be insured and also gain interest from the savings at a profit of 2% per annum for two years.

The single minimum payment os BND 2,000 and there is no cap for the payment. Previously it was capped at BND 50,000 but now interested parties can inject any amount they feel comfortable with. The 2% interest is a pretty high return as compared to the banks in Brunei. Hence not only you save and get protected, you also earn the extra 2% from your savings. So imagine yourself investing BND 500,000 or even BND 1 million. That would be a great returns in a space of two years only. Awesome deal!!!

This promotion is open to all residents of Brunei Darussalam which means as long as you have an IC (green, purple or yellow), you will be eligible. For those interested parties, you can call TBK’s Certified Financial Planners at 223 1100 during office hours.

The media asking questions during the press conference

Hjh Mahana explained to the media the benefits of Nur Savings

 

Be a member of Skin Food and enjoy the privileges

Be a member of Skin Food and enjoy the privileges

The once a year members’ day is back at Skin Food Brunei. From 31st May – 2nd June 2015, members are entitled to enjoy a 30% discount off the original price on all items. The event comes as a means of thanking Skin Food Brunei’s loyal customers.

For those of you non-members who are eager for the hefty discount, worry not, as Skin Food is giving the opportunity to sign up for membership with just a $10 transaction, generously reduced from the usual $40. New members will also receive a lovely welcoming gift. Benefits include 10% discount on purchases, birthday vouchers and exclusive members-only promotions.

Skin Food is also giving away lots of fun free gifts, such $5 vouchers for purchases up to $50, while purchases above $88 get a limited edition manicure set. Purchases above $108 will receive a highly collectable Black Sugar enamel pouch, suitable for travelling with your favourite products!

Skin Food is one of the top skin and body care brands, that is well known for their plant and fruit based products that incorporate natural ingredients to “feed the skin”. Among some of their latest product lines is the introduction of the Argan Oil Silk Hair Care Range, and their Premium Tomato whitening skin care range.

 

The winners of the AMBD Treasure Hunt – Team Victorious Secret. Image courtesy of Armtrix Enterprise.

1st runner-up of the AMBD Treasure Hunt – Team A Square who won themselves two iPad Mini. Image courtesy of Armtrix Enterprise.

2nd runner-up of the AMBD Treasure Hunt – Blackjack who won two Garmin F15 watches. Image courtesy of Armtrix Enterprise.

We have winners from AMBD Treasure Hunt last weekend. The response was overwhelming and the organizers had to turn down others because it was only limited to 30 teams of two. The treasure hunt went on for two hours and there were given tasks to complete and the top 5 winners will be awarded. The first prize was a pair of tickets to Kuala Lumpur and it was won by team Victorious Secret where they also earned a trophy and a Good Life coin bank.

AMBD Day 2015 had been a successful event, spanning over 3 days and it was showcased at the ICC to create awareness on savings among the community. There has been many queries to the new notices and directives from the AMBD but then it’s all for the benefit of the community and also educating them on the importance of savings.

On 28th May 2015, they have released five notices – Total Debt Service Ratio, Unsecured Personal Credit Facility, Unsecured Personal Financing Facility, Consolidation Loan Scheme and Service Fee/Charges. You can read more of the notices here, taken from the AMBD website.

The Total Debt Service Ratio may be taken in the wrong context but if you look deeply, the positive aspect is that it will ease the burden of the borrower and also allow the borrower to have a better and sufficient disposable income. The other good point is that now the applicant can get a loan up to 18 times its net salary as compared to the previous one by 12 times. The maximum repayment period remains unchanged at six years.

These new directives may not be favourable for the banks in terms of gains but it will be a win-win situation for both the financial institution and consumers in a long run. Ok, enough on my rant on loan caps. Congratulations to the winners of the AMBD Treasure Hunt.

Group photo with the treasure hunters. Image courtesy of Armtrix Enterprise.

Participants hunting for crew

Participants hunting for crew

Participants hunting for crew

Participants hunting for crew

Piccolo Cafe enjoying brisk business during AMBD 2015 event and I had a photo with the founder of the cafe

 

There’s a clearance sale at Harajuku Boutique until 15th June. The boutique is located near Thien-Thien Gadong.

The owner of Harajuku Boutique is also looking for a buyer for the shop.

 

UNISSA vs Politeknik Brunei

UNISSA vs Politeknik Brunei. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

UNISSA vs Politeknik Brunei. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

UNISSA vs Politeknik Brunei. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

UNISSA vs Politeknik Brunei. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

Laksamana College of Business vs Kollege IGS

The crowd during Laksamana College of Business vs Kollege IGS. Image courtesy of BIBD At-tamwil Unicup 2015 Facebook Page. Click image for updates.

Warming up. Image courtesy of BIBD At-tamwil Unicup 2015 Facebook Page. Click image for updates.

The crowd during Laksamana College of Business vs Kollege IGS. Image courtesy of BIBD At-tamwil Unicup 2015 Facebook Page. Click image for updates.

The volunteers at Laksamana College of Business vs Kollege IGS. Image courtesy of BIBD At-tamwil Unicup 2015 Facebook Page. Click image for updates.

The volunteers at Laksamana College of Business vs Kollege IGS. Image courtesy of BIBD At-tamwil Unicup 2015 Facebook Page. Click image for updates.

One of the lucky winners during one of the matches

CCCT (Cosmopolitan) vs Micronet

CCCT (Cosmopolitan) vs Micronet. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

CCCT (Cosmopolitan) vs Micronet. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

CCCT (Cosmopolitan) vs Micronet. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

CCCT (Cosmopolitan) vs Micronet. Image courtesy of Fazizul Haqimie.

 

Annison, Sales Manager of SsangYong (T.C.Y. Motors) and Alvin Caro, PR and Advertising Executive of SsangYong (T.C.Y. Motors) unveiling the new SsangYong’s Tivoli at their Kiarong showroom

Check out the Tivoli on Youtube

When I saw the images sent by T.C.Y. Motors during the sneak preview of the Tivoli, I was like pretty impressed by the overall design. The first thing that came to my mind is that it doesn’t feel or look like a European car. This is the latest edition to the SsangYong family line, the Tivoli. Yes, even the name sounds European in a way. The official launch of this particular model will be in June 2015 but there have been many pre-bookings from the public already even before its release. The media had the privilege to have a close look at the Tivoli – the low spec and the high spec at the SsangYong Kiarong Showroom.

We had a quick test drive on the red colour Tivoli but we haven’t fully tested it. So far it was a good ride and I was even considering this for my next car because I’m more of an SUV person and though it’s smaller than an SUV, it has its sporty feel. There are so many things to love about the Tivoli and I assure you that the Tivoli will be a big hit in Brunei.

One of its strength is the D-cut Steering Wheel. It has a steering wheel with “sporty d-cut” design, highlighting a sporty look with its horizontal bottom line and this will enhance the driving experience with optimal grip. If you go for the hi spec, then you will get a premium leather finish on the steering wheel too.

The seats have been awarded for being “Ergonomic” in Korea. Consisting of dual density pads and Pullmaflex spring system, bonded together to create an award-winning seat. It has earned the Tivoli a reputation for optimal comfort and convenience.

There’s also a Multi Audio System with a 7” inch touchscreen display (hi-spec). You can sync your smartphones via Bluetooth or HDMI.

When it comes to safety, Tivoli ensures passengers’ safety by applying the latest technology and high strength material and it also provides outstanding inner equipment space for outdoor activities. The material of the Tivoli has AHSS (Advanced high strength steel). For your info, AHSS is used for about 40% on the body and “hot press forming” process is used on 10 major areas.

T.C.Y. Motors SsangYong is even giving one special prize – Samsung S6 Edge. All you have to do is register your interest for the Tivoli through their website tivoli.ssangyong-brunei.com or their Facebook Page.

The price tag for the Tivoli is reasonably competitive  and this is the reason why I’m confident this model, Tivoli, will be a big hit in Brunei. Thank you, Annison and Alvin for hosting us yesterday.

The nice leather finished steering wheel of the Tivoli (hi-spec)

The award winning ergonomic seats

The engine and other components inside the Tivoli

This is the hi-spec Tivoli. Awesome!!

Stand a chance to win a Samsung S6 Edge

This is the low spec Tivoli and you can see how much difference exterior and interior compared to the hi-spec

The test drive Tivoli

Vincent Hong test drove the Tivoli around the area

The most sought two-toned colour Tivoli among Bruneians

 

New milestones for Brunei toastmasters – Rano Iskandar, Organizing Chair for Semi-Annual Conference 2016, Allen Ang, Area K6 Director for Brunei Darussalam, Reuben Chin, Division K Director and Shawn Cassidy-Narcis, District Club Growth Director and organizing chair for Semi-Annual Conference 2015, Bali

We were recently in Kuching for the recent Toastmasters Annual Conference 2015 and it was an awesome conference which carries the theme “Conference with a difference”. I’ve learnt so many things and wow, I’m glad that I went for the annual conference in Kuching, Sarawak. Not just learning as an individual or as a leader but I had a great time bonding with my toastmaster buddies.

Toastmasters Brunei is perhaps the most connected family among the District Level (Brunei, East Malaysia and Indonesia). We have four toastmasters clubs in Brunei but we don’t actually compete against one another. Instead we help one another and that’s how Brunei toastmasters grow from time to time. I would say that the momentum is quite high and vibrant and it’s no accident that Brunei toastmasters have high tier leaders, namely Shawn Cassidy-Narcis (Club Director Growth for District), Reuben Chin (Division K Director) and Allen Ang (Area Director for Brunei).

My biggest feat was when I successfully pitched for the Semi-Annual Conference 2016 to be held in Brunei Darussalam and yes, we will be hosting a big one next year in Brunei and I will be your organizing chair for the event. So to the sponsors, I shall be approaching you some time this year 😀 A big shout out to Shawn, our beloved toastmasters ambassador, for believing and guiding me to greater heights. I know I have a purpose. The purpose to grow and to help others. I shall remind to help myself first before I can help others. Have a great week ahead!!

Group photo with the Brunei toastmasters and this is to acknowledged that Brunei Speakers’ Club had achieved President’s Distinguished Club for 2014-2015. Awesome!! Two years in a row!!!

 

The co-host ITB showed once again why they are the dominant force in BIBD At-tamwil University Cup 2015. They won their opening match 6-1 in the opening match last weekend. Last night ITB scored another big win and they are close to reaching the semi-finals of the tournament. They beat Curtin University 5-2 with goals coming from Mui’zuddin, AK Md Amirul and a hat trick from Naasiruddeen Abd Wahab. In the other match, Kolej IGS beat KUPU 1-0.

Today will be a rest day for the tournament and it will continue tomorrow (Friday). The matches for tomorrow ill be Unissa vs Politeknek Brunei (4pm at RBRC Football Field) and UBD vs Curtin University (8pm at RBRC Football Field). The big match will be between ITB and defending champion UBD which is dated on 2nd June 2015 at the RBRC Football Field.

The crowd attendance have been excellence and the organizers are also running lucky draws for the attendees. There is no entrance fee for your info. All are welcome to catch the tournament. Do look at the schedules here. Images below are courtesy of At-tamwil University Cup Facebook page.

Some of the winners of the lucky draw last night

Some section of the crowd last night between ITB and Curtin University

ITB getting ready for the match last night

A huge victory for ITB last night

 

Click image to enter website

 

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.

 

 

Coming soon near you. Recognise the logo?

I have been out of the local news for quite some time and recently I’ve been catching up with what I’ve been missing since my 10 days of hiatus from the Brunei scene. It seems there are many things happening though I claimed that it’s gonna be a slow month. This month of May is swamped with events and more food reviews. BHC Magazine will be turning 3 years now and there will be a huge event known as the KL International Hijab event at ICC starting Friday. I’m also excited about the new car which will be unveiled to the press from Ssyangyong which is a compact SUV Tivoli.

Rebranding

I always like when a corporate company goes to a rebranding process. Past two years, it was been Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) where the national carrier gradually change their overall look and appeal, bring a new level of hospitality as well as replacing some older planes with the Dreamliner 787. The same goes to another local Telco in Brunei formerly known as b•mobile communications. With the new name Progresif Cellular, they have been taking Brunei by storm in recent weeks with their aggressive marketing campaign.

Last weekend, Progresif Cellular opened up their new flagship store at Tanjung Bunut which was unveiled by the Minister of Communications. The Telco revealed their new logo and colour brand to have a refreshing appeal to the eyes of the public. Progresif Cellular have been gaining traction after announcing amazing offers such as FREE annual fee forever (now that’s a first) and now they introduce their handset and credit deals with Vivo and Huawei phones. I have strong believe that Progresif Cellular is heading the right direction and listening to the needs of the customers. Just don’t expect all the miracles at one time. They are indeed progressing step by step rather than not progressing at all.

Thumbs up to the stakeholders and the decision makers on Progresif Cecullar’s direction. You have certainly had me sold. Time to invest in a secondary smart phone.

The new look of Progresif Cellular at the new flagship store at Tanjung Bunut. Image courtesy of Azli Azney of The Brunei Times.

Check out the new deals from Progresif Cellular. Click image to enter their Facebook Page.

Donations pouring

One thing great about our community, we have a sense of contribution especially when there are mishaps locally and internationally. We all are very familiar with the recent earthquake at Nepal which has taken thousands of lives and the country is still in mourning and in shock of the catastrophe. Many NGOs and individuals have taken steps to raise funds and also donating necessary items for the victims of the Nepal earthquake.

Last Monday, Raddison Hotel and Fitness Zone joined forces to donate items and handed over the donations to a representative from Nepal, James Shakya who is the manager of the Gurkha Palace Restaurant and Catering. He was overwhelmed with the kindness from the local community and they have managed to raise more than 10,000 kg of aid. As for now, they are in need more of medical aid and supplies. Those who can assist in this matter, you can donate to Fitness Zone.

Manager of Gurkha Palace Restaurant, James Shakya (left) and Managing Director of Fitness Zone Wu Chun (R) receiving donations from the General Manager of Radisson Hotel, Van Helden at Fitness Zone, Kiulap. Image courtesy of Azli Azney of The Brunei Times.

KLIHF this weekend

KLIHF stands for Kuala Lumpur International Hijab Fair and it’s happening this weekend starting Friday. This will be the second event of its kind and it is being dubbed the biggest Muslimah Fashion Trade Fair and it will make its way at ICC. So what can you expect? It will feature more than a hundred booths from various countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore and Turkey, will gather local and international designers, brands, retailers and wholesalers, including textile, fabric and accessories suppliers related to Muslimah fashion.

There will be popular Malaysian Muslimah fashion brands such as Mona Din of Hajaba, Farrah Adeeba of Najjah and Madeena by Mizz Nina. I hope to see Nina as I knew her personally from the days of Teh Tarik Crew. I shall be updating more stories on this event pretty soon.